Bret Keast of Kendig Keast addressed a joint meeting of the Plymouth City Council and Planning Commission Wednesday night about the city's general plan. Photo by: Kelly Enos

The Plymouth City Council and the planning commission held a joint public hearing Wednesday to review the land use element of the city's general plan and set codes that will protect the character of the city despite the projected growth.

Bret Keast of Kendig Keast Collaborative gave a PowerPoint presentation on what the land use element entailed and how the city could maintain a small town feel with agricultural and open spaces set aside in advance of development.

"Plymouth will develop in a sensitive manner so the city can have control of its growth," he said. "The goal is 'preserve and keep,' to retain Plymouth's special character."

Through the course of community meetings, residents of Plymouth and the surrounding areas cited the small town feel, views of ridgeline, the openness within the city and the attractiveness of the natural setting in the foothills as priorities they want to see protected, Keast explained.

"The county's master plan shows residential development all around Plymouth," he added. "It's time for you to coordinate with them so they know what you want here."

At least one resident envisions a Plymouth community that distinguishes between rural and urban development, and that protects the ridgeline from encroaching development.

"I don't mind seeing Plymouth become a larger city with more to offer, but I do mind seeing the natural landscapes and downtown area destroyed," said resident Art Shaw after the meeting. "I think the planning commission has a good start on what the community wants so let's hope they're not blowing snow."

The preparation of the land use element included an examination of the community's historic growth, the existing pattern and character of development and pending developments such as Zinfandel, Shenandoah Ridge, Cottage Knoll and Arroyo Woods.

With the input of residents, a future land use plan was developed that serves as a basis for Plymouth's sphere of influence. According to several input meetings with residents of Plymouth, most were in favor of sustaining and enhancing the attractiveness of the city, which is how Kendig Keast developed the land use element.

"Our goal is to see how we want to use the land, the overall openness of the city," Keast said.

The meeting gave council members and planning commissioners an opportunity to discuss any changes or alterations they feel are necessary before making a final decision on the recommendations contained in the proposal. The planning commission will vote prior to bringing the matter back to council for a resolution.