The Berrien County Board of Commissioners will soon consider approving the county’s next five-year master plan. Berrien County Community Development Director Dan Fette told them this week the plan will guide development and the use of resources in the coming years. A survey to gauge the public’s thoughts was included.
“What do you think is the most important to the quality of life in Berrien County? You see affordable housing, security and safety, job opportunities. Obviously, a lot of this makes perfect sense. We also asked them in relation to the questions of about housing, which is on everyone’s mind right now, what kind of housing should be encouraged? You see the majority are looking for single family houses, multi-family condos and apartments, and so on.”
Fette said the master plan has four central components. They are housing, economic development, natural features and land use, and community facilities. He was asked if the 88 page document contains any ambitious goals.
“I think one of the most ambitious things that the county is doing right now consistent with the goals of that plan is trying to provide broadband services to the entire county.”
Fette said goals within the housing category are to develop livable, affordable housing. For economic development, goals include revitalizing distressed communities and supporting agriculture. For natural features, goals include reducing sprawl and preserving natural resources. The document represents 16 months of work after it was initially delayed by COVID. The county commission will consider approval of the master plan in two weeks. You can see the master plan right here.
