Are you new to “Comp Plan land”?
We’ve got you covered!
What is the Comp Plan, and Why Does It Matter?
The San Juan County Comprehensive Plan is like a roadmap for our community’s future. It’s designed to manage growth and keep the islands a healthy place to live by setting long-term goals to protect our environment, support local agriculture, and preserve forests. These goals turn into actions, laws, and guidelines that shape daily life in the islands.
Why Does the Comp Plan Need Updating (again)?
By state law, counties must update their Comp Plans regularly to reflect new challenges, like rising housing needs or climate change impacts. This update process gives the community a chance to add priorities, including a brand-new Climate Element that focuses on making our islands more resilient.
This isn’t just about policies—it’s a chance to ensure our shared values and local knowledge guide decisions that affect all of us.
Get Involved with the Comp Plan Action Team!
Friends of the San Juans is gathering a Comp Plan Action Team to help the community’s voice shape this update. As a team member, you’ll dive into updates, add your ideas, and help advocate for policies that will keep San Juan County livable, sustainable, and resilient. You can write letters, speak at County hearings, and work with other islanders to bring positive, climate-focused changes to the plan. Join us if you want to make a real difference in our islands’ future!
What Might Be Changing in the Comp Plan?
This update will review several key areas (called “elements”) that guide the County’s priorities to see if changes are needed. Elements that might be updated include:
- Vision and Introduction: Big-picture goals for the islands’ future.
- Land Use & Rural: Policies about using and preserving land, especially for agriculture and forests.
- Housing: Addressing our community’s growing need for affordable homes.
- Transportation and Water Resources: Protecting essential water sources and considering how people get around.
- Capital Facilities and Utilities: Keeping up with infrastructure needs as the community grows.
- Historic Preservation & Economic Development: Honoring local heritage and strengthening local businesses.
- New Climate Element: A dedicated plan for addressing climate change in our islands.
The County is also reviewing land use maps that guide development, affecting where homes, farms, and natural areas are located.
How Can You Get Involved?
San Juan County wants input from residents at every step of the Comp Plan process, and it’s easier than you might think to get involved:
- Stay Informed on the Update Process
For background info, schedules, and updates, check out San Juan County’s 2025 Comp Plan Update page. This page has a straightforward overview of what’s happening and how to participate. - Review Friends of the San Juans’ recent Protector Platform to explore the priorities, challenges, and opportunities Friends of the San Juans advocates for on a county level.
- Comment on Upcoming Plan Changes
The Planning Commission and County Council host public meetings where residents can share their thoughts. We’ll keep you posted on these dates through our Action Alerts, so you can attend and be heard. - Join the Comp Plan Action Team!
Our Action Team is open to everyone who wants a voice in this process. You’ll get updates on what’s happening, meet others working to keep our islands sustainable and help ensure the community’s vision is reflected in the Comp Plan. - Follow Friends of the San Juans
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or our new TikTok channel to stay updated on ways to engage and get reminders for public input opportunities.
Let Us Be Your Guide!
Friends of the San Juans is here to make it easy for you to participate in shaping the islands’ future. Sign up for Friends’ Action Alerts to stay informed and get support on issues like housing, climate, and local land use. Together, we can help make San Juan County a place that thrives for generations to come.
