Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 04/20/2015 - Joint with Planning Comm

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RELEVANT LINKS: Lenz v. Coon Creek Watershed, Dist., 278 Minn. 1, 153 NW 2d 209 (1967). Township Bd. Of Lake Valley Township v Lewis, 305 Minn. 488, 234 N.W. 2d 815 (1975). Minn. Stat. § 462.351. Minn. Stat. § 462.352, subd 5. See MN Planning "Under Construction: Tools and Techniques for Local Planning. " Sample: Bethel Comprehensive Plan, City Population 502. Sample: Chisago City Comprehensive Plan, City Population 4,307. Sample: Minnetonka Comprehensive Plan, City Population 51,519. Particularly, conflicts where it is obvious that the potential appointee's own personal interest is so distinct from the public interest that the member cannot be expected to represent the public interest fairly in deciding the matter. G. Removal of planning commission members State statute does not dictate a process for removal of planning commission members before the expiration of their term. Local ordinance or commission policy should establish both criteria for removal and a process for removal. III. Powers and duties of the planning commission State statutes vest the planning commission with certain mandatory duties. In addition, state statute allows the city council to prescribe additional duties in local ordinance. In most instances, unless noted in statute or ordinance, the planning commission serves in an advisory capacity. A. Preparing and recommending a comprehensive plan The primary duty of a newly created planning agency is advising the city council on the preparation and adoption of a comprehensive plan for the city. 1. Purpose of comprehensive planning In essence, a comprehensive plan is an expression of the community's vision for the future and a strategic map to reach that vision. Comprehensive planning is not mandatory in cities outside the seven- county metropolitan area. However, comprehensive planning is an important tool for cities to guide future development of land to ensure a safe, pleasant, and economical environment for residential, commercial, industrial, and public activities. In addition, planning can help: • Preserve important natural resources, agricultural, and other open lands. • Create the opportunity for residents to participate in guiding a community's future. • Identify issues, stay ahead of trends, and accommodate change. • Ensure that growth makes the community better, not just bigger. • Foster sustainable economic development. League of Minnesota Cities Information Memo: 1/20/2015 Planning Commission Guide Page 6