CLEVELAND, Tenn. -- A comprehensive study to look into Bradley County's future started Monday.
Greg Dale, founder of McBride Dale Clarion Consultants, a national consulting firm, met with both the Bradley County Commission and Cleveland City Council.
He told both that the study will take at least six months and will include schools, transportation and many other areas of concern.
"One thing I think we all agree on is that change is coming, growth is coming as a result of some very exciting things that are happening. The overall intent is to prepare this region for that growth in such a way you are able to capture all the positive benefits and minimize or mitigation any negative impacts," Mr. Dale told the County Commission.
The strategic growth plan is a joint project of the county, Cleveland, Charleston, Cleveland Utilities, Volunteer Energy and the Cleveland/Bradley Chamber of Commerce.
County Mayor D. Gary Davis said in a written statement, "As new development and industries such as Volkswagen and Wacker move into our region, new demands are being placed on our roads, utilities, schools and other services. It's important that we work together on a growth plan to keep the city and county from being overwhelmed by sprawl."
Commissioner Lisa Stanbery said local government officials should be kept informed as the study progresses.
Mr. Dale suggested some joint city and county briefings.
Cleveland Mayor Tom Rowland said the study's objective is to manage long-term growth and "determine where we want to be in 20 years and how to get there."
Mr. Dale said the growth plan also will serve as a guide to managing the cost of growth.
Both Cleveland and Bradley County are making appointments to a community task force.
All of the participating groups already have budgeted their part of the $221,000 total cost of the study.
Mr. Dale said Monday it is important that all the entities work together on the study. But he said each group may continue its own specific planning, too.