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maintaining these neighborhoods.Second,there is a need to improve tax base and the overall value of �... these neighborhoods. After much research, discussion and public input, part of what the Planning Commission identified was a need to lower expenses by reducing long-term street reconstruction costs and increase value (to attract additional private investment) by improving the quality of living in the neighborhoods of the downtown. For the latter, residents indicated that there was a need to make the neighborhoods more walkable and have them connected to the parks and businesses within walking distance. This is not a rejection of the automobile but an acknowledgement that there are a lot of financial benefits that will accrue to the city and the property owners of this neighborhood by increasing their options. It ties into other strategies, such as the need to reduce regulations for developing and utilizing properties throughout these neighborhoods. The Comprehensive Plan does not reduce the ability to drive around town but enhances the ability of people to also get around by other means. S. Plan is [contradictory], we want rural character but then put a highway through the rural area This is one view on the Highway 371 debate.While each Councilor has the right to keep the highway realignment debate going in the political realm, it does the city no good to stifle all forward progress on issues that require the approval of four out of five Council members over objections on the highway. If we remain frozen with a Comprehensive Plan and ordinance drafted in 2004—which was before the highway decision, before the housing correction and in a very different economic situation—we are only doing a disservice to this community. Some may object to the highway location that was given approval through the Municipal Consent process.The Planning Commission respects that, but there is an overriding need to prepare for the future of Pequot Lakes, as a well as a responsibility of public officials to do so. Hopefully there is a way that a philosophical difference can be acknowledged, but then set aside so as to develop the best plan for the future of the City. 6. We are making it less likely that people will come to town Again,this is another stance on the Highway 371 debate. Please review the following goals and strategies of the Comprehensive Plan. As you will see,each of them seeks to attract people and businesses to town and strengthen existing investments. • Protect and enhance landmarks, historic and archeological sites,social gathering places, and natural features in Pequot Lakes. (page 9) • Support traditions,festivals and events that bring the community together and celebrate Pequot Lakes' heritage. (page 9) • Ensure that new development adds to the character of the community and enhances the sense- of-place. (page 9) 3 WWW.COMMUNITYGROWTH.COM I WWW.STRONGTOWNS.ORG