Development News for Coldwater, Michigan

Draft Master Plan Update Presented to Planning Commission

The planning commission received an update on the draft Master Plan for Coldwater. The plan, which is required by state law and aligns with the zoning ordinance, looks forward 20 years and identifies existing conditions to promote cooperation towards common goals. The last master plan was adopted in 2017, and an update is needed due to new challenges and opportunities. Progressive Companies is the consultant assisting with the update. The process involves the planning commission, city council, city staff, a steering committee, and the consultant. The timeline indicates adoption is expected in October after a 63-day public comment period. The plan's foundation includes goals, objectives, and a future land use map, derived from resident engagement, data analysis, and benchmarking against peer communities. Key findings from engagement include strengths like a vibrant downtown and strong recreation facilities, and weaknesses such as the need for higher-paying jobs, more housing (especially affordable/attainable), downtown vacancies, and transportation/traffic issues. The draft plan compares existing conditions to the 2017 plan, noting that while demographics have changed, many issues like promoting the central business district, balancing historic preservation with growth, and the need for more housing remain relevant. The goals and objectives focus on downtown vibrancy, supporting housing needs, dynamic culture, a robust economy, safe mobility, abundant nature and recreation, and quality of life/safety, including climate resilience. Future land use categories include parks, single-family, mixed residential, multi-family campus residential, neighborhood mixed-use, downtown mixed-use, commercial, industrial, and institutional. The implementation section details action items, partners, and timelines. The next steps involve a review period for the commission, incorporation of feedback, a public comment period by the city council, and final adoption.