The Town of New Canaan is actively soliciting community feedback through an online survey, focusing on the proposed Action Steps for the town’s forthcoming Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD). This survey, open until Monday, June 3, represents a pivotal opportunity for residents to shape the town’s strategic direction for the next decade.
The POCD, currently in its final formation stages, outlines a comprehensive vision for New Canaan’s future. It addresses key areas such as preserving the town’s small-town charm, promoting balanced development, embracing sustainability, and enhancing community infrastructure. The Action Steps, subject to public review, will form the core of the POCD, ensuring that the plan reflects the community’s values and priorities.
Residents can access the survey via the Town’s POCD update page on the Community Workshop #2 section under Goals and Strategies. This follows an in-person workshop held on May 20, where draft Action Steps were discussed. Town Planner Sarah Carey emphasized the importance of this feedback phase, noting that it allows the community to directly influence the final content of the POCD.
“The involvement of our residents is crucial,” said Carey. “Their input will help us ensure that the POCD not only aligns with New Canaan’s current needs but also anticipates future challenges and opportunities.”
The survey seeks opinions on the draft Goals and Strategies, which include:
Preserve New Canaan’s Welcoming, Small-Town Identity: Strategies to maintain the town’s unique character and community spirit.
Promote Creative, Balanced Development: Encouraging development that balances growth with the town’s historical and environmental contexts.
Embrace Sustainability & Resiliency: Initiatives to enhance environmental sustainability and community resilience against climate change and other challenges.
Enhance Community Infrastructure & Facilities: Plans to improve local infrastructure and community facilities, ensuring they meet future demands.
The development of the new 10-year POCD is being overseen by the Town of New Canaan Plan of Conservation & Development Sub-Committee, in collaboration with planning consultant SLR and Town Planner Sarah Carey. The comprehensive planning process aims to produce a complete draft POCD available for public review by the end of June.
For more information, residents can contact Town Planner Sarah Carey at sarah.carey@newcanaanct.gov or 203-594-3042. The town encourages all residents to participate in the survey and contribute to shaping the future of New Canaan.
To reach the survey go to: https://www.newcanaan.info/_T8_R517.php and follow the links provided.
