Over the past 12 months, members of the DuPage County Board have collaborated to develop a strategic plan that will guide legislation for the remainder of the decade. On Tuesday, the plan was approved, highlighting the shared goals and priorities of both the board and the community for the future of DuPage.
Led by board member Sadia Covert, the Strategic Planning Committee focused on community services and economic development as their primary objectives. Goals include supporting local businesses, workforce development, and creating outreach programs for families, the elderly, and people with disabilities. County Board Chair Deborah Conroy emphasized the importance of this strategic plan in keeping DuPage County thriving and prosperous.
While specific language in the plan was subject to debate within the board until the last minute, compromises were made to address different perspectives. The goals emphasize priorities such as community well-being, fiscal responsibility, a thriving economy, a safe community, environmental stewardship, and mobility.
The smaller objectives outlined in the plan include reducing DuPage County’s landfill presence through composting and recycling as well as expanding bike and pedestrian pathways. Recent plans like Solid Waste Management Plan and DuPage County Trails Plan are already paving way for these improvements.
Community engagement was critical in shaping this plan’s priorities with forums, interviews and over 1000 survey responses being used to gather input from members of the community. Board member Cindy Cahill expressed gratitude for this input recognizing its role in ensuring that this strategic plan reflects shared values and visions for DuPage County’s future.
