Public Invited to Help Revise Sanford Comprehensive Plan

Photo: City of Sanford

The City of Sanford is looking for public participation as it starts revising its comprehensive plan, a framework guiding development, policy formation, conservation efforts, municipal services and more.

Sanford’s current comprehensive plan, initially drafted in 2002 and amended in 2005, has been out of alignment with the State of Maine’s Growth Management Act for several years, according to City Planner Erin Moriarty. Ensuring alignment with state legislation is crucial for the community as it determines eligibility for various state and federal funding opportunities. It also gives the city a way to update zoning regulations, impact fee structures, and ordinances governing the rate of growth. Also, compliance with state guidelines is essential for issuing certain permits and effectively guiding development in designated growth areas.

The revision process is estimated to take about one year. A steering committee will meet monthly – from 6 to 7:30 pm on the fourth Wednesday of the month – to deliberate on the insights garnered and the objectives set forth during the planning process. This committee will also evaluate community engagement strategies and provide feedback on the draft plan as it progresses.

City staff is encouraging residents and business owners interested in the community’s future to consider participating in the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. Interested individuals are invited to reach out to Moriarty at emmoriarty@sanfordmaine.org for further information.