Ordinance 3454-15 with Exhibits A- C

EVERETT COMPREHENSIVE PLAN D. Uncertainty of Assumptions -- Changes Beyond Our Control All comprehensive plans are based upon a set of assumptions about trends and development patterns that are likely to occur. Everett's growth concept is based upon assumptions described on the preceding pages, including unprecedented and sustained rates of housing development within already developed parts of the City. However, we cannot predict the future; we can only adopt growth strategies based upon our best understanding of likely growth trends and the consequences of implementing a particular strategy. Even the most reliable predictive models that have accurately forecasted growth at the regional level have difficulty in accurately predicting the level and rate of growth for smaller geographic areas the size of Everett's planning area. Unforeseen events can affect the amount, rate, composition and location of future job growth, demand for housing, vehicle trip generation, and land development. For example, the decision of a major employer to move into or out of the region could significantly affect the assumptions of Everett's growth concept. Construction of a regional high capacity transportation system, Federal government decisions about the Navy Homeport in Everett, national and global economic conditions, changes in lifestyles, and technological advancements are events beyond the control of the city that could substantially alter the assumptions used to develop Everett's growth concept. The growth concepts are based upon the presumption that the growth guidance of the Vision 2040 RGS for Everett will significantly bend the trend for residential development that has been more typical in Everett in the past two decades. The growth levels of this plan update are based upon the land use designations, regional transportation investments, local infrastructure improvements, and possible outcome of twenty years of growth. Unforeseen events and changes to growth trends will cause Everett and other jurisdictions to reevaluate their comprehensive plans. Such a plan amendment process is anticipated to occur periodically. III. Use of Policies in All Elements of the Comprehensive Plan Each element of the comprehensive plan includes policies and potential actions or implementation measures that the City should consider to attain the community's goals, as stated in the plan. While each policy is important, and each potential implementation measure may help advance the overall vision for Everett's future, the prioritization, timing and financial feasibility of each policy action or implementation measure must be carefully weighed by the City. It is not possible to implement all policies, actions or potential implementation measures called for by the comprehensive plan. Therefore, City government collectively, which includes the city council, city administration, individual departments, commissions and boards, will use the policies and implementation measures in the plan to guide work programs, budgets, capital improvement programs, and action programs. Over time, the comprehensive plan policies, actions and implementation measures will be implemented as priorities dictate and resources will INTRODUCTION 12