The Comprehensive Plan is a general policy document. It reflects Chaska's value system and philosophy, and acts as an overall framework for the future. As a guiding tool, it provides a system for measuring progress, gives direction for both everyday and more complex decisions, and helps set financial priorities.
The Comprehensive Plan is intended to be responsive to changing conditions. It needs to be continually referenced, updated, and used as a guide. It functions as an overall course or path and is intended to provide direction, rather than dictating specific activities or precise decision-making. The plan helps city leaders in developing policies, programs, ordinances, capital improvement plans, and budgets. These more specific implementation tools will take into account current circumstances and financial priorities, along with the long-range outlook and goals of the Comprehensive Plan.