The Real Problem with Planning in the Upstate

     Contrary to popular belief, we actually do a good job in planning for growth in the Upstate. Our great failing is that we do a lousy job implementing the plans.

It’s like the climber who spends time and money planning an expedition to a mountain summit. He has researched the trip, gathered the necessary food and gear, and assembled the team. Everything is ready. But then, he doesn’t go.

And so it is with land use planning in our region. We have prepared inspiring land use plans, with beautiful maps and photographs and all the right words. But then we don’t do anything with them. Go by any planning department in our region and you will find hundreds of these plans, sitting on the shelves and collecting dust.

You will see, for example, that the comprehensive land use plans for both Greenville and Spartanburg Counties provide that the northern parts of the counties are to retain their rural character. But if we are really serious about that, we need to implement strong and effective policies, such as transfer of development rights, purchase of development rights, zoning, controls on where schools are built, limits on where water and sewer lines are installed, and so forth.

See our Land Trust section for new conservation agreements and tax incentives for 2007!

South Carolina law requires that local governments evaluate and revise their comprehensive plans at least every ten years. In several jurisdictions in the Upstate, notably Greenville and Spartanburg Counties, that process is now underway. Maps are being prepared, questionnaires are being written, and public meetings are being organized. Of course, all of this needs to be done because active public participation is essential.

But this time, let’s do it differently. First, let’s not take over a year to get the plans done – we should be able to evaluate and revise the plans in less than six months. Then, after the plans are finished, let’s not pat ourselves on the back. Let’s recognize that the easy part is over and now the hard work begins. Let’s focus on the most important and heretofore ignored step in the process – IMPLEMENTATION.

Implementation is where the rubber meets the road. It means specific policies, rules, and ordinances. It means actually having to climb the mountain.