The last time Warsaw completed a comprehensive plan that would help guide city leaders to future development was in 1998. Calling it “the bible” of the city’s future, the Warsaw Plan Commission discussed updating the plan.

City planner Jeremy Skinner presented to the WPC Monday night a lengthy proposal on what the comprehensive plan will consist of when it is completed by March 1, 2014. With the help of a consulting firm – which should be selected in the next few weeks – the city will begin identifying goals and objectives for future growth, researching current land uses and future trends, studying transportation modes and looking at ways to keep neighborhoods revitalized.

Mayor Joe Thallemer, who served on the WPC in the late 1990s when the last comprehensive plan was written, said, “This is really the bible for trying to look at how the community wanted to grow, but as time when on it became less and less valid. I’m pleased we’re moving toward updating it.”

Of creating a comprehensive plan Skinner added, “This is the most important thing a plan commission does.”

The city has allocated $50,000 to fund the comprehensive plan and is currently in the process of selecting a consulting firm to work with. Those proposals are due by April 12.

After a consulting firm is selected, the city will host public meetings to get input from the community on future development. “Public participation will guide us,” said Thallemer.

The WPC will meet again at 7 p.m. Monday, May 13, in the city hall.