As Cayuga County works to develop a new countywide strategic plan, residents have voiced their opinions through a survey and a series of meetings held by the planning and economic development department.
The first round of public meetings was held in Auburn, Ira, and Locke. They saw attendees share their thoughts, concerns, and hopes for the region through conversations and trivia.
“Our community’s voices are the cornerstone of this planning process,” said Kari Terwilliger, Director of the Cayuga County Department of Planning and Economic Development. “We appreciate the time, energy, and ideas shared by everyone who participated.”
Each meeting included a brief presentation about the strategic plan. This was followed by six interactive stations, such as a general comment table, a map of attendees’ favorite places, and a timeline of past planning efforts. Finally, there was a Jeopardy-style trivia game.
Through these efforts, the department gathered critical information on what participants valued, their concerns, and hopes for the future. These include:
Values:
- The rural charm and quiet beauty of the region
- Agricultural heritage, clean water, and scenic open spaces
- A deep sense of community, local identity, and affordability
Concerns:
- The conversion of farmland to solar and wind energy projects
- A lack of housing options, especially for seniors and young families
- Limited access to public transportation and reliable water infrastructure
- The need for transparent local governance and balanced development
Hopes for the Years Ahead:
- Expanded housing that’s both affordable and diverse
- Stronger investment in public transportation and infrastructure
- Protection of farmland, water quality, and natural resources
- Support for local businesses, youth programs, and civic pride
Due to the importance of public input in the planning process, the department is planning more engagement opportunities in the coming months.
“This process belongs to everyone in Cayuga County,” said Terwilliger. “Your voices are already shaping the direction of the Strategic Plan, and we can’t wait to build on this momentum together.”
The survey will remain open until August 12. A link to it can be found here. Paper copies can also be requested by contacting the Cayuga County Department of Planning & Economic Development at 315-253-1276 or [email protected].
The planning department describes the countywide strategic plan as “a collaborative initiative aimed at creating a unified, community-driven roadmap for Cayuga County’s future,” by supporting growth and preserving the county’s uniqueness.
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