A general plan represents the community’s desire for its future; it is a blueprint for the preservation, growth, and development of a community. City councils and planning commissions use the general plan to guide land use decisions for the community.

The general plan is considered “comprehensive” because it covers the entire area within a city’s boundaries and areas outside the city under its purview. It is also comprehensive in the issues it addresses – land use, housing, traffic, natural resources, open space, safety, public facilities, and many other services.

The general plan is also considered “long-term” since it looks 20 years or further into the future, and reflects the long-term vision of the community and supporting goals and policies.