Public Involvement

Public involvement will be a cornerstone of this project. The City and other sponsors realize that a technical document is only as good as its implementation. The understanding and support of stakeholders is necessary for that implementation to occur. Therefore, numerous opportunities for public involvement are underway.

In August 2005, a survey was conducted by ETC Institute. More than 400 people responded to the survey, which found:

• 64 percent of the respondents are concerned about the quality of Hillsdale Lake water and other lakes and streams.
• 86 percent support limiting or restricting future development to control flooding and protect water quality.
• 90 percent believe additional outdoor recreation or wildlife habitat protection is important or very important.
• 31 percent responded that flooding was a problem on their property.
• While all property owners surveyed were in the watershed, only about one fourth were aware of that, indicating a need for additional public education.

Many citizens own property located inside or near the watershed or use the Hillsdale Lake, Spring Hill City Lake or streams in the Spring Hill area throughout the year. It is these stakeholders who must be heard throughout this process. Their questions, concerns and viewpoints are encouraged and welcome.

This website will be regularly updated to provide current information. As well, it provides another opportunity for interested parties to provide feedback on the process.

Finally, three public forums will be conducted. The goal of the first meeting will be to ensure that stakeholders understand the process and the goals of the project. Additionally, they will have an opportunity to share their knowledge and concerns about the area. At the second meeting, preliminary concept plans will be presented. Again, area residents, business and property owners will be asked to comment on the initial recommendations. At the third meeting, residents will be presented final recommendations.

Use this website to find out about upcoming meetings and to find out how to add your voice to the public process.

Meeting 1: 5:30 p.m., April 4 at the Spring Hill Community Center, 613 South Race

Meeting 2: August 23

Meeting 3: To be announced