3 - Comprehensive Plan Discussion

Home Browse Search

COMMUNITY CHARACTER POLICIES The following policies are proposed to guide all future growth and development and local government action in Pequot Lakes: Protect and enhance landmarks, historic and archeological sites,social gathering places,and natural features in Pequot Lakes.The City of Pequot Lakes wants its community character—including the small town feel, natural features, social gathering places and events, and recreational opportunities-to serve as the foundation for economic vitality and quality of life.An increasingly large number of studies support this philosophy,with findings indicating that communities taking steps to actively protect their distinct community assets clearly enhance their economic potential, putting them at an advantage over other communities that don't identify and preserve the components contributing to their community character. Proposed Strategies for Implementation: • Create a distinguishing gateway to Pequot Lakes. • Commission local artists to create public art throughout the town. Budget money annually for this effort. • A distinguishable gateway: build an archway of Paul Bunyan's fishing poles over CSAH 11 at the entrance to town. • WEST SIDE PEQUOT: Designate downtown area west of current highway as "Old Town" (the Bobber area) Pequot historical stuff. Revamp building facades to circa 1906. Thurlows, old bank etc. Historical walking tour with signage. Maybe leading to the Cole building historical center. Mural on side of any building that works. Add real train engine/passenger car/caboose. Old machinery. Tractors. • Create a unique, but consistent, signage program within the Downtown Business District that will direct customers around town but be subtle and fun to see. Support traditions,festivals and events that bring the community together and celebrate Pequot Lakes' heritage.The City should continue to sponsor and assist with organizing festivals and events that unite Pequot Lakes and build on its unique history and local culture. Proposed Strategies for Implementation: • Events and festivals will put a community on the map, and a great way build community pride. Preserve and maintain forested gateways leading into Pequot Lakes. Planning participants expressed concern that forested gateways into the City could be lost. Residents need to work hard to preserve their community's natural and scenic areas. Proposed Strategies for Implementation: