**Hawai'i County General Plan Update**
The Hawai'i County General Plan is reviewed every ten years. The County's existing General Plan was adopted in 2005, and a lot has happened on Hawai'i Island since then. Everything that has transpired, including population growth, natural disasters, technological advancements, and sustainability efforts, is being considered in the General Plan. The Planning D
irector is responsible for leading the review process and recommending amendments to the Plan.
**General Plan Review Process Timetable**
Reviewing the General Plan is a comprehensive process that takes three years to complete; the current review process kicked-off in February 2015. The Planning Director anticipates sending recommended amendments tot he Planning Commission in August 2017, after which it will be reviewed and adopted by the County Council.
**CDPs with Respect to the General Plan**
During the General Plan review process, Community Development Plans (CDPs) will be assessed for consistency with the overarching Plan. While many CDP recommendations will likely be included in the General Plan, any differences will need to be reconciled. The General Plan provides the island-wide vision, so CDPs can stay focused on local policies that achieve the overall vision for Hawai'i County. The General Plan likely also will provide further guidance on the future of CDPs.
**Participating in the General Plan Review Process**
The community can participate in the General Plan review by making suggestions to the CDP Action and Steering Committees, the Planning Director or the Council. In addition, there will be public workshops in which participants will be asked for input on which long-term direction of the island should be advanced in the General Plan.
