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City Reviews Vision Plan

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By GEORGE WILKENS

The Tampa Tribune

Published: June 18, 2008

PLANT CITY - Sensible annexation and attracting industries that pay decent wages are keys to the city's continued success, Plant City commissioners agreed during a workshop to update their vision statement.

The June 9 session included not only discussion of goals, but also of modifications to update the statement, which is designed to help guide the city. The vision statement was adopted in early 2004.

"The vision is really your vision, the vision of the city commission," City Manager David Sollenberger said at the start of the 90-minute workshop. "Is it still valid or needs to be tweaked?"

Discussion about industry was kicked off by Commissioner Dan Raulerson, who suggested the vision include plans for recruiting "the right kind of industrial development."

Participating in his first workshop since his April 8 election, Commissioner Mike Sparkman said high-paying jobs - such as those in the technology field - are superior to those at warehouses and distribution centers.

"I want to continue to strive to get industries better than warehousing," Sparkman said. The city, however, must help provide a local work force necessary to meet the needs of such companies, he added.

Mayor Rick Lott suggested that goal might be accomplished by working closely with area universities.

Regarding a policy on expanding city limits, Sparkman said requests for voluntary annexation should be considered on a case-by-case basis, as it provides the only means to grow.

"Development should be appropriate but compact." Commissioner Bill Dodson said.

Because Plant City remains attractive to young families, Lott said, "We keep parks and recreation very affordable. But as we grow, funding that parks and recreation department is going to be a challenge."

Citing the great success Walt Disney World has achieved hosting youth soccer tournaments and similar competitions, Lott suggested Plant City can benefit from its Interstate 4 location and "become a tournament city."

"We have the facilities; we have the location," he said.

Tournaments would provide an economic stimulus for the community and help fund the city's recreation and parks department budget, Lott suggested.
Sollenberger said a draft of the revised vision plan will be reviewed at a future workshop, possibly in August, for eventual adoption.

Reporter George Wilkens can be reached at (813) 865-4433 or gwilkens@tampatrib.com.

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