The RCS CBA Board of Directors, several area business owners and residents attended the joint Town of Coeymans and Village of Ravena meeting on economic development on Thursday, January 17. Leading the discussion was Lisa Nagle, principal of Saratoga Springs-based Elan Planning, Design, and Landscape Architecture PLLC.
Ms. Nagle presented on the creation of a joint comprehensive plan that would guide economic development in the town and village for years to come. She talked about the importance of thinking regionally when developing a plan and aligning goals with grant funders. Ms. Nagle also stressed updating zoning regulations for the desired outcomes
among other points.
The cost of a comprehensive plan could run as much as $125,000, but 75% of the cost could be covered through grants, said Ms. Nagle.
When asked by an RCS CBA Board Member whether the Town of Coeymans and Village of Ravena were prepared to move forward on a joint comprehensive plan, officials from both municipalities indicated they were.
Ms. Nagle was pleased to see the community had a business association and said organizations like ours can be real drivers to bring comprehensive plans to reality. She said business associations can also apply for grants that assist with aspects of comprehensive planning.
No further meetings on a comprehensive plan were scheduled, but the RCS CBA will be sure to pursue the topic at upcoming Town and Village meetings.