Delano Strategic Plan

Mission

The mission of the City of Delano is to continue to provide the highest quality public services that effectively address changing citizen and community needs in a fiscally responsible and friendly manner.

Vision Statement

Delano is an inclusive community, rich in heritage and natural beauty while providing a safe and progressive environment in which to live, work and play. Its spirit of community and small town charm provides opportunities for an innovative and diverse population.

Values

• We value that the residents of Delano have the right to HIGH-QUALITY SERVICES delivered in a professional and cost-effective manner.
• We value citizen confidence in municipal government, and we believe that city officials have an obligation to be prudent stewards of public funds and act in a FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE MANNER.
• We value that all citizens are entitled to courtesy and respect. Accordingly, city, state and elected officials pledge to promote principals of EQUALITY and to act with a sense of JUSTICE in conducting government business, developing policy and providing municipal services.
• We value that strong communities are based on an OPEN AND HONEST COMMUNICATION system. Elected officials and elected commissioners strive to foster transparency and diligence in matters related to the rights of citizens.
• We value a community spirit that is built on COOPERATION AND TEAMWORK among citizens, state and elected officials. To ensure these values, all components of city operations will work collaboratively to serve the public good.
• We value continuous improvement of community structure and civic progress, based on a high level of PROFESSIONALISM and up-to-date policies, procedures and operations.
• We value that, as VISIONARY LEADERS, the city council and commissioners promote the stable and progressive growth of the community.
• We value that a city is best served when council members, commissioners and staff practice CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION in the fulfillment of their responsibilities.
• We value that Delano is stronger when EVERY CITIZEN has a safe and healthy environment in which they have the OPPORTUNITY TO THRIVE.

Provide comprehensive services to meet community needs

• Provide municipal services with a proactive focus
• Service Delivery - accessible, inclusive, reliable, innovative and high quality
• Facilitate and partner with other public entities, and community groups when practical

Maintain financial sustainability and fiscal stewardship

• Maintain fiscal responsibility and transparency to taxpayers
• Operate within budget and long-term financial plans
• Sustain adequate reserve funds

Conscientious asset/infrastructure management

• Efficiently operate, budget and maintain municipal infrastructure
• Strategic investment, and new and rehabilitated infrastructure systems
• Maximize lifespan by improving infrastructure systems and elements

Manage sustainable and planned growth

• Maintain and follow the City's Comprehensive Plan
• Keep Comprehensive Plan and policies current and accommodate community change
• Establish practices and policies for well-maintained, lifecycle housing options
• Balanced growth - residential, commercial, industrial and institutional

Foster engaged and informed community

• Support the development and operation of community groups/organizations
• Transparent and timely availability of information
• Develop community and neighborhood leaders, improve community resources
• Strengthen relationships with neighboring communities

Ensure a high-performing team of public servants

• Lead through the implementation of values, code of ethics, and strategic plan
• Continue team mindset amongst staff, City leadership, and community
• Cultivate strengths
• Maintain a qualified, well-trained, and productive workforce

Manage a safe and healthy community

• Encourage connections between community members (neighborhoods, community events, organizations, etc)
• Provide proactive and responsive public safety services
• Support broad and comprehensive community recreation opportunities
• Preserve and promote the quality of properties

Maintain and protect community strengths

• Maintain and expand natural spaces and amenities
• Continue to promote revitalization of the downtown district
• Promote community price by continuing to accommodate community events, such as the 4th of July Celebration, Old Fashioned Christmas, and others

Highest Priority

1. Establish and communicate service level expectations
2. Develop growth management plan, involve Franklin Township
3. Address transportation bottlenecks and mobility challenges
4. Continue Business Park development and expansion
5. Develop long-term financial planning model
6. Take steps to attract a variety of destination retail and business
7. Implement actions identified in the Emergency Services Study

Priority

1. Invest in and develop staff strengths, prepare for succession, and expand cross-training opportunities
2. Explore/develop plans for City facilities and other community amenities
3. Address additional water system storage needs
4. Promote trail/path connections between neighborhoods and across barriers within City
5. Finalize plan and obtain funding for Riverbank Stabilization project
6. Create efficiencies and automation for routine/redundant tasks