The Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Comprehensive Plan

The Town of Howey-in-the-Hills Comprehensive Plan The Comprehensive Plan is the foundational document that guides the future growth and development of the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills. Adopted in accordance with the State of Florida's Local Government Comprehensive Planning and Land Development Regulation Act (Chapter 163, Florida Statutes), the Plan reflects the Town's vision and policies for sustainable land use, resource conservation, infrastructure investment, and community development. Purpose of the Comprehensive Plan The Comprehensive Plan serves as a blueprint for maintaining and enhancing the Town's distinctive character while managing growth responsibly. Its goals include: - Promoting orderly development that protects the public health, safety, and welfare. - Preserving the Town's natural resources, open spaces, and small-town charm. - Coordinating the location and timing of public infrastructure and services. - Supporting economic vitality and a high quality of life for residents and businesses. Structure of the Plan The Comprehensive Plan is divided into several chapters, each addressing a key area of concern such as land use, transportation, housing, conservation, recreation, and capital improvements. These chapters, known as "Elements," are guided by data analysis, planning best practices, and extensive public input. Updating the Comprehensive Plan Florida law requires local governments to periodically review and update their Comprehensive Plans to reflect changing conditions, growth patterns, and community priorities. Amendments may be made through a formal public process that includes review by the Planning and Zoning Board, adoption by the Town Council, and, in some cases, review by the Florida Department of Commerce (formerly the Department of Economic Opportunity). Recent updates include: - Chapter 1 – Future Land Use Element was most recently updated on August 12, 2024, to incorporate revised land use designations and planning strategies that support sustainable development. - Chapter 8 – Capital Improvements Element was updated on May 27, 2025, to revise the Town's 5-Year Estimated Schedule of Capital Improvements, ensuring that infrastructure planning aligns with growth and fiscal responsibility. Access the Comprehensive Plan Residents, developers, and other interested parties are encouraged to review the Comprehensive Plan and associated maps to understand current policies and future directions. Each element of the Plan and supporting maps can be accessed below: Comprehensive Plan Title Page, 01 Future Land Use, 02 Transportation, 03 Housing, 04 Public Facilities, 05 Conservation, 06 Recreation and Open Spaces, 07 Intergovernmental Coordination, 08 Capital Improvements, 09 Concurrency Management, 10 Public Participation, 11 Public School Facilities, Chapter 11 - Appendix A - School Attendance Zones, Howey Existing Land Use 34x46 - October 2020, Howey Existing Streets - June 2023, Howey Existing Transportation Map - June 2023, Howey Future Land Use 34x46 - June 2023, Howey Vacant Land Map - April 2020, and 2035 Howey Future Roads.