Master Plan Update Project

Master Land Use Planning is a type of urban planning that pertains to the long-term, physical development of a community, usually covering a time frame of 10 – 15 years. The Master Land Use Plan provides the framework for future growth.

The Charter Township of Emmett Master Land Use Plan was adopted in September 1994, and the most recent review/map update was in 2017. A review of the Master Land Use Plan was initiated in 2022 with input from some 500 residents/business owners. Following staff turnover, the project experienced delays. On May 9, 2024, the Board of Trustees approved the request to contract with Beckett & Raeder to update the Township Master Land Use Plan. This is a detailed process taking up to 12 months to complete.

The focus of a Master Land Use Plan is to preserve the unique character of the Township, ensure diversity, support investment, promote desired change, and enhance a community’s livability.

A Master Land Use Plan allows the Township to identify and unite short-term and long-term vision for land uses. This attracts private sector investment by providing investors with the plan and direction for the Township and how they might fit in. The Master Land Use Plan is a reference point enabling clear and consistent decision-making for various Township boards and committees. Everyone is working from the same set of “rules” and allows development to happen in a predictable and orderly manner.

Citizens play an important role in the development of a Master Land Use Plan. People who participate are more likely to support projects and will also have a better understanding of the challenges the Township faces. Community engagement allows residents and business owners to envision what they want the Township to be, providing insight into what’s important to them and how they see their area’s identity.

Residents and business owners are strongly encouraged to participate in one of the Community Visioning Sessions to be scheduled at a future date and time during the update process.