Westerly - State of Rhode Island: Division of Planning

The Westerly Comprehensive Plan1.4 Using the PlanThe adoption of the Comprehensive Plan is a commitment to a coordinated and inspirational visionfor the future of Westerly. The Plan’s success will be measured through the committed use byelected officials, appointed boards and commissions, the town’s municipal staff, residents andbusinesses.• Elected officials will use the Plan to align their priorities with the community’s vision of thefuture as described in the Plan and adopt local codes and ordinances that support the Plan’sgoals. The Plan provides both background information and leverage as elected officials fulfilltheir legislative responsibilities and dedicate financial and administrative support forimplementing the specific actions identified in the Plan.• Local boards and commissions will assess the desirability of development applications bytheir conformity to the Plan; adopt policies and procedures that actively assist thoseinitiatives that further the Plan’s goals; and develop budgets and investment alternatives thatare consistent with those described in the Plan.• Municipal staff will use the Plan when interpreting legislative mandates and regulations,making administrative decisions, enforcing development-related codes and establishingpriorities for work efforts. The Plan provides an overarching framework for developingindividual and team objectives and a context for the many daily decisions that are made inproviding services to the citizens of Westerly.• Finally, local residents and businesses will use the plan as a reference when makingresidential or commercial location choices, supporting programs to preserve our cultural andnatural resources, appealing for financial or legislative support, and evaluating theeffectiveness of local government and elected officials.1.5 A Final WordThe Comprehensive Plan represents the collaborative effort of professional and volunteer citizenplanners, municipal staff, the town’s planning consultant, and the citizens of Westerly. Guided bythe Comprehensive Plan Citizens Advisory Committee, the process has required an extraordinarycommitment over time to complete a plan for Westerly that is both practical and visionary. Thecontributions of all involved – and their efforts, passion and thoughtfulness – are reflected incountless ways throughout the Plan and are very much appreciated.Westerly, Rhode Island 5