STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) — Meade County residents are being asked to weigh in on the development of the county’s next comprehensive plan.

Last night in Piedmont was the first of four community meetings being held for citizens to get information about the comprehensive plan, which covers the future growth and development of Meade County.

Black Hills Council of Local Governments is coordinating and hosting the meetings, and will use information gathered from the meetings to write the new report.

Jerry Derr, Meade County Commission Assistant says the county has needed to update the old plan which was adopted by the Meade County Commission by resolution in January of 2010.

Derr says the new plan will help shape how the county will look and develop over the next 20 to 30 years.

He says It analyzes current conditions and sets future goals and policies in such areas as land use, housing, transportation, water supply and use, natural resources, and economic development.

Derr says the board will have the final approval of the new plan once it is completed.

The next public meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 24, at the North Haines Fire Hall. The next meeting is Thursday, May 26, at the Central Meade School in Union Center and the final meeting is Thursday, June 2, at the Faith Community Center. All three meetings begin at 6:00 p.m.