BETHEL — The Town of Bethel is entering the final stages of its “Bethel Moving Forward” Comprehensive Plan update, marking the first major revision of the town’s guiding vision since 2006. 

This planning initiative is made possible by grant funds awarded to the Town of Bethel in 2023 by the New York State Department of State Environmental Protection Fund Smart Growth Community Planning Program.

Two upcoming public sessions are planned and represent the culmination of an extensive community-led process to update the town’s roadmap, led by the Comprehensive Plan Committee, alongside lead consultant Nan Stolzenburg of Community Planning & Environmental Associates (CP&EA).

Public sessions include: a Public Presentation of Draft Plan and Public Hearing on Wednesday, May 20, at 6:30 p.m., and a Town Board Public Hearing on Wednesday, July 29 at 6:30 p.m.

To view the full draft plan and supporting documents, visit the Town of Bethel website at www.townofbethelny.gov.

Both sessions will be held at Dr. Duggan School in the Town Board Meeting Room, located at 3460 State Route 55, White Lake, NY 12786. Members of the public are invited to attend in person or via Zoom.

The May 20th session will feature a presentation by CP&EA, detailing highlights of the plan and its data-driven strategies for environmental safeguards and smart growth tailored to Bethel’s unique landscape. 

Following the presentation, the Bethel Comprehensive Plan Committee will conduct a public hearing on the draft plan. The July 29th Public Hearing serves as the official hearing for the Town Board to receive comments before the plan moves toward final adoption.

“This plan is the foundation for Bethel’s future,” said Dan Sturm, Town Supervisor. “It balances the need for economic opportunity with the preservation of our rural character and natural resources. We strongly encourage every resident to participate in these final sessions.”

Residents who cannot attend in person or online are encouraged to submit written correspondence to the Town Clerk’s Office. Email townclerk@townofbethelny.gov or mail to Town of Bethel, Town Clerk, P.O. Box 300, White Lake, NY 12786.