What is Together Knox?
Together Knox is a process to create a comprehensive plan for Knox County, Mount Vernon, and all the communities in the county that will help guide how and where we grow and what is important to conserve. A large part of Together Knox is a community-driven effort. Your ideas and perspectives will shape the plan.
A comprehensive plan is the broadest public policy document a community can create for its future physical development considering the input of citizens, businesses, and other stakeholders. The plan is a tool to prepare for growth pressure and acts as a guidebook for decision-makers. The plan serves as a foundation for land development regulations, zoning ordinances, budgeting decisions, and more.
Why Should You Participate?
It’s your community. You are the expert.
If you live, work, learn, worship, or play in Knox County, we need your input! Your ideas and perspectives will ensure that this plan maintains our quality of life while bringing even more vibrancy to our communities.
It’s a unique moment for Knox County.
Knox County exists in one of the most dynamic regions in the country and the county is experiencing growth pressure as a result. An updated plan is needed to reflect current trends and priorities while being focused on the future. Regular planning represents good stewardship and establishes a foundation for well-supported policies to create the best possible future.
Process
There will be multiple opportunities for community input over the second half of 2024. The first opportunity will take place during July and August and will include small group meetings and interviews and an online survey. The second round of engagement will take place in the late fall.
Who’s Involved?
Steering Committee
Process Leadership
The Committee is a diverse group of community members that will meet regularly throughout the planning process for Together Knox. These community members will provide guidance on the process and substance of the Plan, will serve as community advocates, and may serve as stewards of the completed Plan.
Stakeholders
Targeted Input
Various stakeholder groups will be convened to inform specific aspects of the vision. These groups include higher education, K-12 education, agriculture, local government, conservation, infrastructure, services, non-profits, and business, among others.
Public
Input and Feedback
Widespread public involvement is vital to the success of Together Knox. Various in-person meetings will be held throughout the county and online tools will offer more ways for citizens to give input throughout the next 5 months. The first public events will be held in July 2024.
Staff
Coordination
Area Development Foundation staff will support and help to coordinate the work of all other groups with local knowledge and expertise.
Government Officials
Monitor
The Area Development Foundation in conjunction with the county, the County, the Regional Planning Commission, and the City of Mount Vernon will monitor the progress of Together Knox and the resulting vision and goals.
Consultants
Process Leadership and Expertise
Planning NEXT will facilitate the process and share experiences from other successful communities. Ninigret Partners and Burgess and Niple will provide expertise in economic development, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and other topics.