The Town of Red River is inviting residents and stakeholders to play a key role in shaping the community’s future at a public hearing scheduled for Monday, May 19, 2025. The meeting, which will take place at the Red River Conference Center from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m., marks the third in a series of gatherings focused on updating the town’s Comprehensive Plan—a guiding document that will serve as the blueprint for Red River’s growth and development over the next two decades.

At the center of this public meeting is the presentation of the Draft Comprehensive Plan by Consensus Planning, the firm hired by the town to lead the update. The draft plan represents months of research, stakeholder engagement, and community feedback. It aims to provide a strategic and sustainable framework for addressing everything from housing and economic development to infrastructure and community services.

“This is a major opportunity for residents to weigh in on what they want Red River to look like in the years to come,” said Jackie Fishman of Consensus Planning, who is overseeing the update. “Whether it’s about preserving the town’s character, enhancing our infrastructure, or making Red River more resilient to future challenges, the plan covers a broad spectrum of issues that affect everyone.

The Comprehensive Plan outlines key areas critical to the town’s long-term success, including:

• Community Profile and Character: An overview of Red River’s identity and values, and how they influence planning.
• Land Use and Neighborhoods: Guidelines for future development that maintain the charm of existing neighborhoods while accommodating growth.
• Housing: Strategies to address affordability and availability of homes.
• Economic Development: Plans to support local businesses and attract new investment.
• Transportation and Infrastructure: Improvements to mobility, roads, and essential services.
• Sustainability and Hazard Mitigation: Initiatives for environmental stewardship and preparing for risks like wildfires or flooding.
• Implementation Plan: Concrete steps for turning ideas into action over the next 20 years.
• The town encourages everyone—residents, business owners, seasonal visitors, and young people alike—to attend and provide input. The feedback gathered will be used to refine the draft before it is finalized and adopted by town officials.

Those unable to attend in person can still stay involved by visiting the project’s website at https://redrivercomprehensiveplan.com, where the draft plan and updates are available. Questions can also be directed to Fishman at fishman@consensusplanning.com.

As Red River looks ahead to the next 20 years, this public hearing offers a vital opportunity for the community to come together, reflect on what makes the town special, and lay the foundation for a thriving, sustainable future.