Jefferson County comprehensive plan, ag plan meetings set

JEFFERSON — Jefferson County has two more public-input sessions scheduled as it embarks on updating its Comprehensive Plan and Agricultural Preservation and Land-Use Plan.

Attendees will be introduced to the comprehensive plan process and provide input that will be used to develop a plan for the next 20 years. A presentation will be given at 6 p.m. followed by engagement activities.

Upcoming meetings will take place Wednesday, July 10, at the Dwight Foster Public Library, 209 Merchants Ave., Fort Atkinson; and Thursday, July 11, at the Lake Mills Municipal Building, 200 N. Water St., Lake Mills.

 Representatives from Jefferson County and SRF Consulting Group will be on hand to answer questions and discuss concerns.

The county, with input from residents and stakeholders, is updating two of its long-range planning documents that outline strategies for growth and preservation of the county’s assets and resources. The plans will cover the topics of land use; agricultural, natural, and cultural resources; transportation; housing; economic development; community facilities; and intergovernmental cooperation.

The Comprehensive Plan defines a vision, goals and policies that will guide decisionmaking regarding growth and investments throughout Jefferson County. Input will help shape the plan’s vision, ultimately helping to shape a vibrant future for the county. 

Beyond a vision for Jefferson County, the Comprehensive Plan will review the existing conditions of the community, identifying opportunities and challenges for the future. Additionally, policies and future actions will be explored related to land use, economic development, housing, transportation, and natural resources. These will be included in the complementary Agricultural Preservation and Land-Use Plan.

The county also is seeking input through a community survey, which will take just over 15 minutes to complete. The survey also may be be filled out at local public libraries. The survey is accessible at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/jeffersoncounty2040.

Hard copies of the survey are available at local libraries and the Jefferson County Courthouse, 311 S. Center Ave, Room 201, Jefferson, WI, 53549. Completed surveys should be returned by July 19 to local libraries or the Jefferson County Planning and Zoning Department.