FOLEY — Residents will have a chance to take part in guiding Foley’s future growth by helping to develop the city’s strategic plan.

The city of Foley is working with the national consulting firm of BerryDunn to create a plan to prepare for the community’s development in upcoming years. As part of that process, Foley officials and consultants are seeking information from the public on the current state of the community and their vision for the city’s future.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said public participation is a vital part of the planning process.

"I believe it's important for our community to be involved and provide input for this effort,” Hellmich said. “ It shows where we are now and where we need to go together.”

Residents can comment on the plan and their ideas for Foley by going to https://berrydunn.mysocialpinpoint.com/foley-al/strategic-planning-project. The location includes a survey and spaces where participants can post ideas and comments about Foley and their wishes for and concerns about the community.

Plan organizers will also hold three public meetings in February to talk to residents. The meetings are tentatively scheduled for Feb. 6 through 8. Times and places for the discussions will be announced when plans are complete.

Additional meetings with elected officials and other stakeholders are also planned.

The information gathered from the meetings, surveys and other sources will be used to develop the city’s strategic plan.

The study will look at areas such as public safety, infrastructure, recreation, development, the economy and other factors. Once the plan is completed and adopted by the City Council, the plan will be used to help decide what priority to give to funding projects and what needs will have to be met in the future.

Foley is one of the fastest growing communities in Alabama. Between the census counts in 2010 and 2020, the city’s population increased from 14,618 to 20,336. The estimated population for 2022 is 23,577.