A final public hearing on the draft document is scheduled for 10:30 am Thursday, Dec. 19, at the F.W. Gunburger County Office Building in Coudersport.
Initial research cited multiple public policy challenges posed by declining population, combined with steady increases in median age. Implications will be felt in terms of needed services, changes in the job market, economics and other areas. Approximately 1,000 Potter County residents have weighed in with input on a series of identified priorities, including:
- business attraction, workforce development and employment;
- infrastructure (including public works and high-speed internet);
- attractions for tourism and recreation;
- downtown amenities and community services;
- gaps in health care and drug addiction services
- agriculture (including the forest products industry);
- education;
- protection of air, water and natural places;
- transportation.
Since that time, consultants from the Michael Baker International firm have created a draft of the plan and posted it online for public input. The plan is now available under Planning/GIS Department on pottercountypa.net. The comprehensive plan is mandated by the state and must be updated every 10 years.
