SHARON, Pa. - The City of Sharon is inviting its residents to participate in its Comprehensive Plan survey to provide input on the direction for the future of the city.

The Comprehensive Plan was last updated in 2007. The survey for the updated plan will focus on quality of life, commercial development, employment, housing and community, economic development and more.

City Manager, Bob Fiscus says the city values the input of its stakeholders and the city is looking for "best suggested actions or strategies to positively impact the city's current and future residents."

The plan was spearheaded by the city's Community Development Block Program manager Suzanne Kepple and will help the city be more competitive for grant funding and provide a strategic pathway into its next steps for growth and business expansions.

Kepple says the city hopes to create a "user-friendly document that can convey the intent, vision and plan recommendations that are easily understood by the general public and policymakers alike."

In addition to the survey, the process includes public meetings to help identify community concerns and priorities with the first component of the plan update, which is slated to be completed in the fall of 2024.

A second component that will be occurring concurrently is a comprehensive zoning ordinance and city map update. Kepple says this could include any administrative amendments, as well as other needs or recommended changes revealed during the planning process.

"The goal of the zoning ordinance and map update is to provide and easily understandable and accessible document for city staff, potential developers and the general public," Kepple said.

According to a news release, the city contracted with Pittsburgh-based company, Mackin Engineering and Consulting.

"While the project is in its early stages, we are already impressed with the City's resources and foresee tremendous potential for future growth and investment," said Mackin planner Dan Bowling.

Mackin has previously worked in the Shenango Valley with the City of Hermitage.

The survey is open from now until December 8, and can be accessed by clicking here.