It's all about choices

Carroll County Area Plan Commission is hosting a Comprehensive Land Use Development Plan meeting to gather input Thursday night in Flora. The public meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the 4-H Community Building.

Who should attend?

Everyone who is concerned about Carroll County's future is strongly urged to attend.

Why should you attend?

A smart county anticipates and plans for growth.

•Do you want prime farmland developed?

•How should rural growth and development be addressed?

•Do you want commercial development limited to certain areas?

•How should the Hoosier Heartland Highway be addressed?

•What importance do you place on an individual's property rights vs. economic development?

These are just a few of the questions that need to be answered before an effective plan can be put together.

The county hired Ground Rules, Inc. to develop a plan with input from residents. Senior Planner/ Project Manager Brad Johnson said the plan will be based on the community's values and expectations. The only way for him to know and understand what those are is for the public to participate in this process.

Flora has its own plan. Delphi is working with Ground Rules to develop a plan for the county seat. But just because you live in one of those communities, does not mean that the county plan will not affect you. It will. Residents of these communities should participate; don't forget your tax dollars support the county as a whole.

Take a little time out of your evening Thursday and attend. Someone will decide how land is going to be used in this county. Either you help decide or someone will do it for you. It's your choice.