Sumner seeks local voices in planning for the future

The city of Sumner’s Comprehensive Plan is what details social, economic, environmental and development goals for the city, in the form of both short and long-term goals.

The city of Sumner’s Comprehensive Plan is what details social, economic, environmental and development goals for the city, in the form of both short and long-term goals. It also provides maps and resources which reflect existing policies. The last update to the plan was made circa 2004 and 2005. In preparation for the next update, the city invites residents to partake in a survey, which will allow their voices to be reflected in the new plan.

Refined planning will take place over an extended period of time, said Planning Manager Ryan Windish, but the survey is an opportunity for local residents to dictate what they think should be included. For example, Windish said he thinks updating the parks plan will be a popular topic, in an attempt to make up for the green space lost by selling the golf course.

Previous surveys have directed Sumner to acquire a community center, maintain a small-town atmosphere and provide plenty of sidewalks and trails.

“The comprehensive plan is a roadmap to the city for the next 20 years. It shapes what we hope Sumner will be in the next 10 to 20 years. The survey is a chance to take the temperature and touch base with the community. We can look at what we hear and go from there,” said Planning Manager Ryan Windish.

The current plan can be read in entirety online.

To participate in the survey, please visit and click on the “Begin Now” link by Feb. 15. Approximately five to 10 minutes should be set aside to thoroughly complete the survey.