Judy Janda

The Almena Township Master Plan provides a comprehensive framework to guide the Township's growth and change over the next 20 years, beginning in 2026. It aims to protect the rural character, natural resources, and quality of life by balancing thoughtful growth with preservation. The plan outlines goals and actions across key areas including housing choices, local businesses, public services, farmland, and open space, ensuring the Township remains rooted in its landscape, supportive of its residents, and prepared to grow with care.

This document provides an overview of the Almena Township 2026 Master Plan, detailing the final review and approval process. It highlights key revisions made based on public feedback, specifically concerning the extension of the Paw Paw River North Branch Environmental Conservation Area designation on the Future Land Use Map and adjustments to Action 5.3 regarding large-scale battery energy storage systems. The document outlines the steps for the Board's final approval and subsequent notification to external agencies.

This Master Plan provides a thoughtful framework for Almena Township's growth and change over the next 20 years, prioritizing the preservation of its rural character, natural resources, and quality of life. The plan focuses on strategic pillars including guiding housing development to align with rural character and infrastructure, protecting natural landscapes and agricultural heritage, maintaining and enhancing community facilities and public services, and fostering a locally-oriented economy with compatible small-scale businesses. It aims to ensure careful land use decisions that protect sensitive areas while supporting residents and future generations.

The Almena Township Master Plan provides a comprehensive framework for guiding growth and change while preserving the Township's rural character, natural resources, and quality of life. It outlines goals and actions across several key areas, including housing and neighborhoods, environmental protection, infrastructure and services, businesses and the economy, and land use. The plan aims to support thoughtful development, maintain essential services, protect agricultural heritage and natural landscapes, and foster a strong, connected community for future generations.

This document is the second draft of the Almena Township Master Plan Update, presented for review and consideration by the Planning Commission. Key changes include a revised Future Land Use Map, a detailed explanation of the relationship between various land use tools, and the integration of new chapters on Implementation and Appendix. The update outlines a realistic and achievable work plan, and subsequent steps involve final formatting and potential submission to the Township Board of Trustees for statutory review.