[Press Release] City Announces Comprehensive Plan 2040

Osawatomie, KS ­(December 22, 2023) The City of Osawatomie is proud to announce the commencement of the Comprehensive Plan 2040, a visionary road map that will guide the future development and growth of our beloved city. This initiative aims to engage the community in shaping a vibrant, sustainable future while at the same time preserving our community's historic past.

Since its founding in 1854, Osawatomie has played a crucial role in our nation's history. As we look toward the future, it is essential to preserve our city's unique heritage while embracing the opportunities and challenges of the 21st century. The Comprehensive Plan 2040 will be a vital tool in achieving this balance, ensuring that Osawatomie remains a thriving, progressive community within a rich historical tapestry.

Key components of the Comprehensive Plan 2040 include:

1. Community Engagement: We invite all residents, businesses, and stakeholders to actively participate in the planning process. Your insights, experiences, and aspirations will be instrumental in shaping the future of Osawatomie. Our first phase of engagement for the Comprehensive Plan 2040 launches today with a public survey, available online now. Your voice matters, and together we can create a shared vision for our city.
2. Manageable Development: The Comprehensive Plan 2040 will focus on practices that promote stewardship of our community assets, economic resilience, and building a community that will last another 150 years. By embracing responsible and strategic growth, we aim to create a city that thrives while respecting our natural resources and supporting a high quality of life for all residents.
3. Preserving Our Heritage: Osawatomie's historic significance is deeply rooted in its landmarks, culture, and stories. The Comprehensive Plan 2040 will emphasize the importance of preserving and celebrating our heritage, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the unique character of our city.

Mayor Nick Hampson remarked, "The Comprehensive Plan 2040 is an important step forward for Osawatomie. It’s not just a document; it’s a collective vision that reflects the hopes of our community. By involving our residents and businesses, we are ensuring that Osawatomie continues to evolve while remaining true to its historical roots."

To participate in the survey and contribute to the Comprehensive Plan 2040, please visit us online at osawatomieks.org/2040survey. Your input is invaluable in shaping the future of Osawatomie.

For more information about the Comprehensive Plan 2040 and upcoming community engagement events, please visit osawatomieks.org/2040 or contact City Manager Bret Glendening at (913) 755-2146 x101.

About Osawatomie, Kansas: Incorporated in 1883, Osawatomie is rooted in American history from its foundations as a free-state settlement and the headquarters of infamous abolitionist John Brown to its landmark visits by two U.S. Presidents: Teddy Roosevelt in 1910 and Barack Obama in 2011. Osawatomie is the home of seven sites on the National Register of Historic Places and John Brown Memorial Park, where the preserved John Brown/Adair Cabin still stands today atop the pre-Civil War Battle of Osawatomie battlefield.

Today, Osawatomie remains a hardworking rural community with plentiful opportunities for recreation, new development, and family living. Just 55 miles southwest of downtown Kansas City along US-169 HWY, Osawatomie boasts small town comforts with easy access to the hustle and bustle of the KC Metro area.