The body's central nervous system processes information about the surroundings and causes
reactions in other parts of the body. The central nervous system is constantly assessing the
environment and adapting to the conditions. How well is your community system reacting? Much like the body's central nervous system, a community system must keep in touch with the environment to keep the community functioning properly. From emergency services and fire protection to stormwater management and public transportation to community centers and recreation, community public services are directly related to the physical development of the community and the well-being of the citizens. Is your community connected? SSM can work with you to establish community goals to ensure that your community is healthy, connected, and functioning properly.



Communities with a healthy central nervous system develop at a higher density, in a more compact and efficient pattern, while maintaining economic well-being. These communities have the ability to meet the challenge of providing necessary services while protecting the character and health of the community. Comprehensive planning for the provision of adequate facilities and services allows communities to address the needs of the community while balancing the limited resources in an economic and efficient manner.
The availability and adequacy of sewage disposal and public water supply is a critical factor when determining potential future growth. Limited water and sewer capacity affects the economic health of a community by limiting the number of dwellings that can be built and can limit necessary expansion of other community facilities, such as schools and day care facilities.

Economic development also requires adequate facilities depending on the intensity of the development. However, these facilities may also attract development to areas such as farmland and sensitive open space that are not appropriate for such high-intensity uses.

Determination of which community facilities and public services are most needed in a community is dependent on the residents' needs, financial resources, and availability of the services currently offered in the community. The cost of these services is dependent on population, tax base, traffic circulation, and location of available services. Financing may be provided through resident user fees, tax revenue, state or federal funding, or contracts with private entities.

Using the comprehensive planning process allows municipal governments to assess the needs of the community, evaluate the cost of the facilities and services, and develop an approach for providing them. Healthy communities are constantly assessing the environment and adapting to the conditions. SSM can work with you to make certain that your community is healthy, connected, and functioning properly.

For more information
Bob Schellhamer, AICP- bob.schellhamer@ssmgroup.com