WL Mayor seeks public input for ‘strategic plan’ to help dictate the next decade

Two days after the West Lafayette City Council passed an ordinance to install parking meters throughout Purdue’s campus, Mayor Erin Easter is asking the community for input into the city’s “strategic plan,” which will help dictate plans for the next five to ten years.

The city is seeking feedback on housing, childcare, sustainability, economic development and riverfront redevelopment, said Michelle Brantley, West Lafayette’s director of communications.

"If you haven't noticed, we have 53,000 new residents this morning," West Lafayette Mayor Erin Easter jokingly said in reference to the beginning of fall 2024 semester at Purdue. "As a reminder, campus and our community is going to feel a little busy over the next few weeks," Easter said, also in reference to students moving into the city.

The public is invited to fill out a survey to provide feedback, and several of the questions focus on housing and the Wabash River because “they directly affect the liveability and vibrancy of our community,” Brantley said.

“Which of the following describes your personal experience with housing in West Lafayette?” one question on the survey said.

“Which of the following Wabash River enhancements would have the greatest impact on your quality of life?” another said.

"We value the input of our residents as we look ahead to the next five to ten years," Easter said in a press release. "We want to hear your priorities, concerns, and thoughts on how West Lafayette can continue to be successful in the years and decades ahead."

It’s the first time in 14 years that the city has looked into a “strategic plan.”

“While (the old) plan has guided many of the city’s efforts over the past decade, we are now in the process of developing a new plan that reflects the city’s current needs and future goals,” Brantley said. “This new plan is still in its early stages, and we are actively seeking community input to ensure that it addresses the evolving priorities of our residents and prepares West Lafayette for the next five to ten years.”

The city will also be hosting a booth at Globalfest Sept. 21 so “residents can learn more about the strategic plan and engage with staff.”