The City is launching a community-driven Strategic Plan update process to help chart our shared future. This plan will guide how we deliver services, set priorities, and invest resources over the coming years, with staff perspectives playing an important role alongside community input.
Why are we updating our strategic plan?
A lot is changing in our community, and we want to plan ahead with intention.
This work will help us:
- Create a clear vision for where we are headed.
- Understand what matters most to the community.
- Align City Council, staff, and departments around common goals.
- Support smart decision-making and responsible budgeting.
- Track our progress and show how your input shapes the work we do.
In short, we want to be proactive, thoughtful, and transparent. This plan helps us do just that.
What is the timeline?
|
Planning and Scoping
|
Council Workshop |
Engagement |
Plan Development |
|
Aug.-Sep. 2025 |
Sep.-Oct. 2025 |
Nov. 2025-Jan. 2026 |
Feb.-Apr. 2026 |
|
The project started by aligning the project team, reviewing past plans and data, organizing workshop details, and preparing for Council conversations. |
We met with the Council to hear their priorities, held the strategic planning workshop, and compiled the major themes that emerged. |
We are connecting with staff and community members through various engagement activities to understand their values, priorities, and insights to inform the plan update. |
We will use insights from staff and the community to draft the City’s mission, vision, goals, and values, guiding the development of the full strategic plan, which will be reviewed and finalized before Council adopts it as a roadmap for the City’s future. |
How can I share my thoughts and ideas for the strategic plan?
Question of the Week
We will be asking a series of seven questions in December-January through our “question of the week” campaign. You can answer the questions on our Facebook, Instagram, and Nextdoor pages, or through our weekly digital newsletter.
Community Survey
If you prefer to share all your insights at one time, you can complete our quick online survey at https://bit.ly/AlbanySP_Survey.
In-Person Events
We will gather input at various community events, including the Annual Holiday Luncheon at the Riverfront Community Center.
Questions or Comments?
Please reach out to Kayla Barber, Assistant City Manager, at
