OUR GOALS

Since the founding of the SDCA in the spring of 2007, our short-term focus has been on the goals outlined below in Phase I, particularly on protecting and preserving the Saugatuck Dunes. In the longer term—as we broaden our base and build our capacity as an organization—the SDCA will begin to focus on Phase II goals as well.

PHASE I GOALS

Protect and preserve the Saugatuck Dunes and adjacent open space.

Protect and preserve the natural geography, historical heritage, and rural character of the Saugatuck Dunes coastal region including the Kalamazoo River.

Encourage and assist city, township, county, state, and federal governmental bodies to work together to develop a collaborative approach in planning and zoning that follows the ten tenets of wise land use as detailed in The Michigan Land Use Council’s 2003 Final Report and the Tri-Community Comprehensive Plan.

TEN TENETS OF WISE LAND USE from The Michigan Land Use Council’s 2003 Final Report & the Tri-Community Plan

1. Create a range of housing opportunities and choices.
2. Create walkable neighborhoods.
3. Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration.
4. Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place.
5. Make development decisions predictable, fair, and cost-effective.
6. Mix land uses.
7. Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty, and critical environmental areas.
8. Provide a variety of transportation choices.
9. Strengthen and direct development towards existing communities.
10. Take advantage of compact development design.

PHASE II GOALS

Establish the Saugatuck Dunes coastal region as a recognized leader in community development and land use practices that conserve energy, land, historical, and natural resources.

Promote local, sustainable food networks through small family farms.

Conserve open space in Laketown, Saugatuck, Ganges, Manlius, and Casco Townships by ensuring the diversity and sustainability of small family farms.

Enhance the places where we live and do business.