Master plan topic at CVIC open house

Residents will get a peek at proposed revisions for Douglas County's master plan at a special open house, conducted by consulting firm Design Workshop on Wednesday, from 4-7 p.m. at Minden's CVIC Hall.

In addition to that preview, the meeting will provide a chance for residents to make final comments concerning the direction Douglas County is taking with respect to everything from open space and growth, to preservation of agriculture and economic stability.

"This is the final information-gathering session before draft changes are made," said Lisa Granahan, assistant county manager.

The draft is due and should be submitted by Sept. 21, Granahan said.

Approved in 1996, the master plan is a comprehensive document that addresses these issues and more. It is flexible and these periodic revisions are designed to include public input through workshops, surveys, interviews and meetings to gauge public opinion concerning the future of Douglas County.

Douglas County commissioners and planning commissioners will address the topic again at 6 p.m. Thursday when consultants from Design Workshop talk about the status of the project, including direction on changes to the plan.

The company has been involved with a variety of projects, from secluded sanctuaries to residential, golf course, ski resort and campus work. Their current portfolio includes the redevelopment of several former industrial sites to create large transit-oriented, mixed-use projects and the creation of sustainable new communities with significant public spaces.

The firm is made up of 140 designers and support staff in 10 offices in North and South America.

Their work has been recognized with more than 70 awards from numerous organizations, including the American Society of Landscape Architects, the American Planning Association and the Urban Land Institute.

Susie Vasquez can be reached at svasquez@recordcourier.com or 782-5121, ext. 211.

What: Open House concerning Douglas County's master plan

When: 4-7 p.m. Wednesday

Where: CIVC Hall,1604 Esmeralda Ave. in Minden

BREAKOUT

The open house will be followed by a special meeting of the Douglas County Commissioners and Planning Commission to discuss the master plan at 6 p.m. Thursday in the Douglas County Administration Building's old courtroom, 1616 Eighth St. in Minden.

To help facilitate the 10-year update process and define any changes, staff is providing the annual report prior to the scheduled hearings in November and December.