Community interest in Southern Pines’ upcoming long-range plan update process appears remarkably strong, if the number of citizens volunteering for the plan’s advisory committee is any indication. More than 110 names were submitted.

According to Town Manager Reagan Parsons, the Town Council will now begin the difficult task of narrowing the field to 20 or fewer members, representing a broad cross-section of demographic, geographic and philosophical interests. Committee members are expected to aid in public outreach, offer feedback to consultants on the plan’s schedule and approach, comment on draft policy work, and review input from other citizens gathered throughout the process.

It’s hoped that the entire volunteer list will take an active role in shaping the plan - whether or not they’re ultimately asked to serve on the committee. As Mr. Parsons put it in a letter published in the September 14th issue of The Pilot:

”...we hope every individual will take time to participate. There will be multiple opportunities to attend meetings, answer surveys and questionnaires, or simply stop by the drop-in center that will soon open. Only through involvement by a significant portion of our population can a truly representative plan be created."

To view a copy of Mr. Parsons’ letter, click here, or view an archived copy using the link below.

Parsons Letter (56 Kb, Acrobat® file)