Governor's Growth Planning Council
On February 17, 2000 Governor Lincoln Almond signed an
Executive Order creating the Growth Planning Council to better balance
Rhode Island’s needs for economic and residential development with those
for environmental preservation.
The order noted that continued growth of Rhode Island will dramatically
change the face of the state in the future, and the integration of economic
development, environmental protection and preservation, and community
needs is essential to maintain and enhance the quality of life for future
generations.
The Council is comprised of representatives from state
agencies, local communities, the business community, and private non-profit
organizations.
This diverse membership is key in fostering partnerships to plan
for and implement sustainable growth.
The Council has been charged by the Governor to examine
the economic, environmental, and social impacts of current development
patterns in the state; inventory existing State programs, policies, and
expenditures to evaluate their effect on sustainable development and the
preservation and enhancement of environmental quality and resources; recommend
ways of encouraging growth in economically and environmentally sound locations;
serve in an advisory capacity to local communities in the development
of their land use plans; and recommend any changes in State and federal
law or regulations.
During its first year the Council produced 3 reports:
- an
inventory of State programs which impact development patterns
- a report on the impact of property
taxes on development patterns
- the first annual report to the
Governor.
Current
Projects
Currently the Council has two subcommittees.
The Priority Funding Area Subcommittee is working to refine
strategic investment policies to encourage development and redevelopment
in areas that minimize environmental harm and capitalize on existing infrastructure
investments.
The Compact Growth Subcommittee is examining water supply
and other infrastructure issues and policies relating to compact growth
development.
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Rhode Island Statewide
Planning Program One
Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908