Residents in the Twin Cities region can expect a flurry of planning activity as the Metropolitan Council amps up its support for local governments working on updating their comprehensive plans. By law, these updates are due every ten years, and the Met Council is not only providing 2050 System Statements and the Local Planning Handbook, but also hands-on technical assistance from their planning staff.
Angela Torres, senior manager of Local Planning Assistance at the Met Council, was quoted in a recent publication, saying, “The regional vision, values, and goals in Imagine 2050 reflect what we heard from our local government partners, advocates, and residents across the region.” She added that the framework aims to support communities in creating localized plans that align with broader regional objectives. This month, the Met Council is ready to issue tailored Statements for each of the 181 cities, townships, and seven counties involved. These statements to serve as a customized roadmap that predict growth in terms of population, households, and jobs, while also detailing expected developments and regional system impacts on communities.
Alongside these System Statements, the Local Planning Handbook, critically acclaimed and user-approved since its web-based inception in 2015, is providing local planners with a plethora of resources. As described in the Met Council's announcement, the Handbook includes community-specific forecasts, housing needs, and a plethora of tools designed to support and even exceed planning requirements. Planners have access to natural systems planning tools, a new housing data toolkit, updated emissions reduction resources, and a climate action toolkit.
In preparation for the upcoming planning cycle, the Met Council is also set to roll out the 2050 PlanIt Program next year. Planners can look forward to a diverse array of educational opportunities designed to deepen their grasp on local planning issues through webinars, workshops, and even a conference.
The Met Council continues to function as a key facilitator in the region’s orderly and economical growth, efficient infrastructure investment, and the protection of natural systems. As the deadline for updated plans draws closer, set for December 31, 2028, local governments can rely on the Met Council’s sector representatives to provide expert guidance throughout the process.
