This hearing was called to order by Mayor Richard Rogers at 7:00 p.m. in the Legion Hall of the Memorial Building. Roll call was taken with the following council members present: Sandy Knapp, Jim Hestad, Linda Stepheson, Vern Lewison and Jon Miles. Others present: Chuck Stenner, Bob Reynolds, Steve Napp, Tom and Sharon Richter, DPW Greg Lee, Linda Parrish, Amy Knox of Regional Planning and Clerk Margaret Sprague.

Amy Knox reported on a letter from the Dept. of Administration-Office of Land Information Services, which identified deficiencies in the City and Township Comprehensive Plan for the utilities and community facilities element, economic development element, land use element and implementation element. She explained how each item would be addressed in the final plan to correct the deficiency.

The School District, Grant County and neighboring townships have all received copies of the plan. No comments have been received. Amy also explained that the plan should be updated every 10 years, to reflect new census data. The plan can be amended at other times, but is not encouraged. A public hearing would be required in order to make any changes.

Steve Napp asked why the map on H-1 reflects future development in the township when the town board has not had the opportunity to give it's input. Council members present agreed that those references could be removed, to satisfy any concerns from township residents.

Tom and Sharon Richter, residents of Mt. Ida Township expressed concern that there weren't more residents at the hearing, since it affects so many aspects of our lives. Mayor Rogers explained that the good turnout at the Community Open House in June likely relieved most concerns residents had. The public was genuinely interested, but once they saw what was in the plan and the detailed information provided, they were satisfied. The Richters also questioned the history and philosophy of comprehensive planning. Amy and others present at the meeting did their best to address their concerns. Amy explained that doing a comprehensive plan, in accordance with state requirements, is a proactive effort to plan-it is a vision of the future, a guide.

Amy will make final updates in the plan and distribute them to the City and Township for final review. Action by both groups is expected at their October 13th meetings.

The hearing was adjourned at approx. 8 p.m.