Public input sought on ‘citizens’ document’

Goals include growth around city square

It has been 10 years since Chardon updated its Comprehensive Plan, and officials say it’s time for an update.

It has been 10 years since the city of Chardon updated its Comprehensive Plan for the community, and officials say it’s time for an update.

The public is invited to participate in that process by attending a public forum at 7 p.m., Oct. 29 at the Heritage House on Chardon Square. A joint meeting of City Council and the Planning Commission will take place at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers and is also open to the public.

The forum is designed to gather community input and guidance on aspects of the plan that have been discussed by city leaders and staff.

“The updated Comprehensive Plan will potentially increase the economic viability and the quality of life of the community by providing zoning and transportation changes,” City Manager Randy Sharpe said.

Those changes are intended to foster higher density in and around the square to support businesses, and to maintain the cost of services to residents by increasing commercial and residential development, he said.

In addition, the city seeks to enhance the identity and viability of the central business district.

“When people think of Chardon, they think of our historical, beautiful town square,” Sharpe said. “The city of Chardon is the county seat for Geauga County. The county courthouse is located on the town square. Being the governmental focal point of the county, there are many ancillary businesses (and) services that are dependent on the county government.

“Keeping the CBD healthy is of great importance to the city,” he added. “The implications of increasing the intensity of development and the mix of uses around the square will be considered.”

The Comprehensive Plan is designed and adopted as a guideline for future councils as to the direction of the city for the following: land use, built environment conditions, transportation, Chardon Square, recreation facilities, community facilities and public utilities.

“The Comprehensive Plan is the citizens’ document,” Planning and Zoning Administrator Steve Yaney said. “Council and Planning Commission are reviewing the information along with the consultants; however, the final document is a culmination of that information along with input from the citizens of Chardon. The consultants are there to guide the discussion and propose ideas.”

The goal is to have the plan ready for council’s consideration in December or early next year, Sharpe said.