A comprehensive plan creates a long-term vision for how a community will grow and change over the next 20 years. The comprehensive plan typically includes a set of policies, goals, and strategies to guide growth and investments in facilities and services to achieve the long-term vision.
Minnesota law requires that all cities, counties, and townships within the seven-county metropolitan region update their comprehensive plan every ten years. In addition, the Metropolitan Council is required to prepare a regional development plan and related systems plans for transportation, water resources, and parks and open space. In 2015, the Metropolitan Council also prepared a policy plan for housing and water supply. The purpose of this process is to ensure the orderly and efficient growth and development within the seven-county metropolitan area.