As of January 13, 2005

Development

Comprehensive Plan -We support the Village of Winfield's current Comprehensive Plan. This long-term strategic plan was thoughtfully developed and should only be altered if factors have changed which make it obsolete. Frequent changes to the plan can adversely affect stakeholders such as residents, property owners, and businesses that currently operate in and around Winfield. Only after careful consideration and input from stakeholders should the Planning Commission recommend and the Village Board approve amending the Comprehensive Plan.

Town Center -We strongly support a vital and improved downtown. Establishing strict guidelines for architecture, use of extensive traffic studies to predict and resolve potential problems, diversity in the retail and commercial establishments, provisions for ample parking, and pedestrian-friendly areas are vital to the success of our Town Center. We believe it is also important that the development plan highlight the unique characteristics of Winfield to help differentiate our Village from other surrounding communities.

Zoning -We support strict adherence to all Village ordinances. The granting of a variance or exception should be a rare occurrence rather than the normal course of business. In addition, any deviation from the Village Code should only be approved when it is truly in the best interest of the Village and neighborhood involved. We endorse highly selective use of PUD's as an alternative in addressing unique development issues, but not as a way of avoiding Village Code Requirements. We seek to preserve the beauty and unique character of Winfield, while at the same time promoting high quality housing. We will accomplish this by following the sections of the Village Code enacted to regulate development in the village.

Government

Open Government -We believe in open government and keeping all residents informed about issues brought forth to the Village Board. Agendas for public Village Board and Commission meetings should be posted on the public television channel as well as on the Village website at least three days prior to any meeting. Official minutes of the meetings should be completed and released to the public within 30 days of the meeting. All Village Board meetings should be videotaped and made available for broadcast or distribution to interested residents. Our philosophy is that village government is most successful when all residents are able to participate. We endeavor to encourage and promote participation.

Conflict of Interest -Board members and other Village commission members should abstain from commenting and voting on matters related to individuals and/or companies that have provided financial contributions or other election support. We believe that Board members should fully disclose any potential conflicts regarding any businesses and development property in or around Winfield, and any relationship or association with developers and/or contractors.

Community

Diversity in the Village -Neighborhood diversity is a valuable asset to a community. Winfield offers a variety of townhouses and condos, an upscale golf course community and a broad range of suburban neighborhoods from small to 1+ acre lots. We should strive to maintain the uniqueness of Winfield, not homogenize it.

Community Spirit -We believe in active participation. Residents should be involved in community projects, keep abreast of local government issues, express their opinions to elected officials and thereby make a positive contribution to the town in which they live. Our objective is to encourage and achieve increased participation.

Our objective is to encourage and achieve increased participation.

Issues for Discussion & Feedback