TAVARES — State Rep. D. Alan Hays (R-Umatilla) made a surprise visit Thursday to a Local Planning Agency workshop designed to give staff direction about drafting the new Lake County Comprehensive Plan.

"I would like to thank you so much for what you are doing," Hays said to the members on the agency. "It means a world to us in Tallahassee.

"It is so important we manage this growth in a proper way. I appreciate the concern that you have and encourage you to keep doing what you are doing."

At its workshop, the Local Planning Agency began the task of reviewing data collected and initial objectives set for the new Lake County Comprehensive Plan. Beginning next week, the Lake County Comprehensive Planning Division will begin writing the new plan.

Hays also spoke to the citizen advisory agency about new Senate Bill 360 that is awaiting the governor's approval. The legislation aims to make all local government comprehensive plans financially feasible and include schools as infrastructure needs.

Required by state law, the comprehensive plan is the foundation for local planning as it acts as an outline of the community's vision and priorities.

The task of drafting the new comprehensive plan will be a partnership between Lake County citizens, municipalities, county government and other local and regional entities. Upon completion, the new plan titled "Planning Horizon 2025" will provide flexible guidelines for policymakers, land managers and land users about how to conserve, rehabilitate or develop an area.

Planning Horizon 2025 will stipulate the ultimate goals of efficient transportation, adequate employment, affordable housing, needed capital improvements and access to clean air, water and open space for the next 20 years.

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Contact information:
Christopher Patton
Communications Coordinator
Office: (352) 343-9609; Cell: (352) 455-0445
cpatton@co.lake.fl.us