St. Joseph County Seeks Community Input on Visionary New Development Plan

Photo byHabitat for Humanity

SAINT JOSEPH COUNTY, IN – St. Joseph County is inviting its residents to actively shape their community’s future through two upcoming open houses, set for Wednesday, August 28. These events will showcase the draft of the SJC Comprehensive Plan, a pivotal 171-page document designed to steer the county's development over the next two decades.

The open houses will serve as the launchpad for a 30-day public comment period, running until September 27. The first session will take place at the Centre Township Branch Library from 12 to 2 p.m., followed by the second at the Francis Branch Library from 5 to 7 p.m. For those unable to attend, the draft plan is already available for review online.

Councilwoman Amy Drake emphasized the importance of public participation in this process. “These open houses are an opportunity for us all to align our vision and ensure that we’ve considered every community perspective before finalizing the draft,” Drake explained. “We want to ensure that our final vote reflects the voices and needs of all our residents.”

The Plan SJC, which has evolved through four phases—discovery, visioning, framework, and action—has now entered its final phase. This comprehensive plan outlines eight strategic pillars focused on key areas of growth: Economic Development, Housing & Neighborhoods, Quality of Life & Place, Environmental Stewardship, Farmland Preservation, Government & Policy, Transportation, and Utilities.

Drake noted that while the current comprehensive plan is outdated, the new plan represents a crucial step forward, serving as a strategic guide for the county council's priorities. Although the plan itself is not legally binding, it will play a significant role in shaping future policies and initiatives. The final vote on adopting the plan will occur after the action phase concludes, with a specific date yet to be determined.