Brunswick County begins process of developing new strategic vision

BOLIVIA,  N.C. — Brunswick County is beginning the process of formulating a new long-term strategic vision to guide county officials as they chart a course for the future.

The planning and visioning process will include extensive public input, both in the form of public meetings and an online survey. Chris May, executive director of the Cape Fear Council of Governments, will facilitate the public meetings. Once citizens have provided their input, the committee will develop strategic goals that will form the foundation of the county’s long-term plan.

“Brunswick County has experienced rapid growth, undergone tremendous demographic changes and experienced dramatic economic shifts in the eleven years since the county’s most recent visioning process,” said Commissioner Frank Williams, who is chairing the strategic planning committee. “We live in a great county that is well-positioned to be the driving force in southeastern North Carolina over the next 25 years, and we must develop a thoughtful strategic vision to take ensure that we capitalize on the opportunities available to us. It is critical that we hear from our citizens during this process. I invite everyone who lives, works or owns property in Brunswick County to complete our survey and attend one of our public meetings. We need to hear from you.”

Commissioner Randy Thompson is serving as co-chair of the strategic planning committee.

Citizens can learn more about the strategic planning process, complete the survey and find out about public meetings in their area by visiting http://www.brunswickvision.com.

“I am pleased the Commissioners chose to go through this process, and that we have this opportunity for valuable and needed public input to help the County chart its vision for the future,” said County Manager Ann Hardy. “This input will be essential in helping ensure that Brunswick County meets not only the needs but also the priorities of its residents.”

Brunswick County last completed a strategic planning process in 2004, with the publication of Brunswick Tomorrow. A copy of that plan is also available at http://www.brunswickvision.com.