By Vivienne Leyva
PIO Riley County
(Riley County, KS – February 13, 2025) Riley County staff, in partnership with Stantec Consulting and a group of 39 community volunteers, are working to update the county’s Comprehensive Plan. At their February 5th meeting, committee members gathered virtually and in person to get an update from Adam Jones, Project Manager for Stantec. He discussed methodology for the plan, highlighted some of the identified challenges, and shared how the consulting firm will involve the public by incorporating the existing community outreach data and providing additional opportunities for feedback.
The group asked questions and helped identify additional stakeholders who should be included in the process.“Next, Stantec will prepare an existing conditions study that will be ready for review in April. This study will give a detailed picture of the current status – population demographics, land uses and capacities, industry, etc. This is important information, so officials know exactly where we’re starting from for this update.
They will also hold additional community engagement workshops starting in April. In the meantime, Stantec is doing background work to prepare for upcoming tasks,” explained Amanda Webb, Riley County Planning and Development Director.This planning process aims to ensure the new plan reflects the evolving needs of the community and establishes a framework for responsible growth and development over the next 15 years. The updated plan is expected to be finalized and presented to the Board of Riley County Commissioners this fall for approval.“The purpose of this update is to equip the county with clear guidance to shape policy decisions, programming, and regulations through 2040. By regularly revising the plan, we make sure we are working towards a safe, enjoyable, and economically sound environment for residential, agricultural, commercial, industrial, and public uses,” said Webb.
Riley County initiated the planning process in the fall of 2023 with the intention of completing the work in-house using existing personnel. However, recognizing the plan’s significance and the challenging scope of the work, Commissioners opted to bring in a consultant to assist. While this decision extended the timeline, it ensures a more thorough process and allows staff to continue moving forward with other projects. So far, staff have gathered input from the community by hosting a series of 11 public meetings, conducting a survey, and assembling an impressive committee of volunteers. The work they’ve done to this point will be used during the next steps in the process.
Additional opportunities for public input will be available in the coming months.“Public input is a crucial part of this process,” Webb emphasized. “The final plan needs to represent the voices of the people who live and work here, addressing their needs and aspirations for the future of Riley County.”For more information about the comprehensive planning process and opportunities to provide input, please visit www.rileycountyks.gov/plan and sign up for updates by emailing [email protected]