This spring, the City of Cannon Falls launched an update to its Comprehensive Plan, marking the first major revision since 2003. The City partnered with CEDA to lead a community driven planning process that will help guide future investments, development, and priorities over the next 20 years.
After forming a steering committee and launching a community survey that has already received more than 400 responses, CEDA’s Planning Department organized an interactive open house for residents to learn about the Comprehensive Planning process and provide feedback on key topics. CEDA Planning staff Annie Nichols, Cameron Payne, and Sarah Schrauth organized the event with support from CEDA Vice President Hillary Tweed, Regional Manager and Cannon Falls CSP Representative Laura Qualey, and CEDA team member Meyer Beckner.
The meeting brought together city staff, steering committee members, stakeholders, and residents to discuss the future of Cannon Falls and identify priorities for growth and investment. More than 40 residents attended the meeting to provide feedback on housing, economic development, transportation, parks and natural resources, and community facilities. The discussion added valuable context to the planning process and will help guide future steering committee conversations, goal setting, and implementation strategies.
Community engagement is one of the most important components of a successful Comprehensive Plan. Public meetings like the one held in Cannon Falls give residents an opportunity to look beyond individual concerns and consider broader community needs, future growth, and new opportunities. Through guided discussion and community data, residents can explore ideas such as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), traffic calming measures, and other strategies that support long term community goals in a way that is clear and approachable.
Over the coming months, CEDA will continue working with the steering committee through workshops and goal setting sessions while gathering additional feedback through stakeholder interviews and focus groups. The final Comprehensive Plan is expected to be completed later this year.
