In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the integration of various community development plans into the 2024 comprehensive plan adoption, with a focus on funding opportunities for future phases of the Bethel project. The city aims to secure funding in 2026 or 2028 to advance the development of Bethel, with plans already in place for several designated centers, including Ruby Creek, Bethel Sedgwick, and Bethel Lund.

Currently, only downtown is officially recognized as a designated center, but candidate centers are receiving bonus points to encourage planning efforts. The city is also working on a plan for Mile Hill, although its status remains uncertain due to limited transportation needs and funding constraints.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing updates to the Port Orchard comprehensive plan, which began in 2022. A public participation program was established, and a consulting team has been engaged to assist with public outreach and data gathering. An initial conditions report was published in August 2023, summarizing changes since the last update in 2016.

The comprehensive plan has been refined to include a new climate chapter and emphasizes community connections, reflecting residents' desires for improved communication and connectivity within Port Orchard. The introduction chapter outlines targeted outcomes and growth data, while the land use element has been updated with the latest demographic information and zoning map changes.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to community development and strategic planning, with a focus on enhancing infrastructure and fostering interconnectedness among residents.