TOWN OF BETHEL, NY — All Town of Bethel residents, landowners and business owners are invited to attend an open house between 12 noon and 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 2 at the Duggan School, to help the Town of Bethel update its comprehensive plan. 

In 2023, the New York State 2022-2023 Environmental Protection Fund Smart Growth Community Planning Program awarded grant funds to the town to update its comprehensive plan. The previous plan dates back to 2006.

The updated plan will aim to guide future sustainable growth, enhance local cultural identity, and protect local natural and cultural resources. 

The updated plan will be a blueprint to guide the physical growth, land use, recreation, infrastructure and community development for the next 10 to 15 years. 

The town board appointed members of the community to serve on a volunteer advisory committee of residents to help update the plan. This open house is the first public event—but over the next year, there will be additional ways for members of the public to offer input, including a town survey, small group meetings, other public workshops and hearings.

A crucial part of the update process is to partner with the people who know Bethel and are willing to share their opinions and insights. Public input is critical to ensuring the comprehensive plan reflects the vision and needs of everyone who lives, works and visits Bethel. Bethel residents, second-home owners, business owners, community leaders and families are encouraged to attend. Children are welcome and a play area for children will be provided, as will refreshments.

This open house will be a chance for Bethel residents and landowners to provide input on their thoughts, opinions, hopes and aspirations for the town in an informal setting. This open house will be an informal community gathering where attendees can visit several stations that will showcase different topics of importance to the town. 

Individually, participants can offer input on town strengths and challenges, see maps, and learn about the planning process in Bethel. 

All are welcome to drop by any time and stay as long as needed during open house hours. Everyone’s input is very important. The town wants to hear your ideas on issues, concerns, and vision you have. 

The Comprehensive Plan Committee urges all Bethel residents, landowners and business owners to participate and help us plan for Bethel’s future. Plan on attending on June 2 at the Duggan School, located at 3460 State Rte. 55 in White Lake. People can visit anytime between 12 noon and 3 p.m. 

Contributed by the Town of Bethel Comprehensive Plan Committee.