Planning today helps shape Weld County’s tomorrow

Published on October 01, 2026

The Weld County Board of Commissioners recognized October as National Community Planning Month during its Sept. 30 meeting. The proclamation recognizes the important work of staff, Planning Commission volunteers, and residents who take part in planning decisions.

“Planning affects the places where people live, work, travel and do business every day,” said Planning Services Director David Eisenbraun. “Our job is to help guide growth while protecting what makes Weld County special.”

Planning helps shape decisions about land use, transportation, housing, infrastructure, businesses and the use of natural resources. It also helps the county balance growth with the needs of existing communities and Weld County’s rural character.

One of the department’s biggest projects in 2026 is creating a new Comprehensive Plan. The plan will help guide land use and development decisions in unincorporated Weld County over the next 10 years and beyond. A draft of the plan is expected to be available for residents to review later this fall.

“The decisions we make today can shape Weld County for generations,” said Commissioner Lynette Peppler. “The Comprehensive Plan gives us an opportunity to look ahead, listen to our communities and make thoughtful choices about where we are going.”

The county also plans to update its Zoning Code in 2027. The Zoning Code provides rules for how land in unincorporated areas can be used and developed. The new Comprehensive Plan will provide direction for the 2027 Zoning Code update.

Commissioner Scott James noted that good planning takes everyone working together.

“National Community Planning Month is a chance to recognize the people who help shape Weld County’s future,” James said. “Planning is about more than maps and regulations. It is about the places we call home and the communities we want to build for the next generation.”

Learn more at www.weld.gov. Search ‘Planning and Development Services’.