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Guiding Principles

The Envision Lakewood 2040 Guiding Principles expand on the Vision Statement by outlining five core values that will guide all decisions related to implementing the Plan.

The Guiding Principles (GPs) embody the values of the community. They provide formal statements that commit the Comprehensive Plan and its implementation to furthering these values, promoting that every decision and action be taken with them in mind.

The Guiding Principles are:

  • Civic Participation
  • Community Wellness and Vitality
  • Equity
  • Opportunity and Mobility
  • Sustainability and Climate Action

These five guiding principles are listed in alphabetical order and they are all equally important. They were initially developed based on themes from a citywide Vision and Values survey and then further refined based on input from Advisory Group members, the community, Planning Commission, City Council, staff, and consultants.

The Guiding Principles set the tone and priorities for all of the elements within Envision Lakewood 2040. They expand on the Vision Statement and are reflected in more detail across the Goals and Strategies. While some Goals have a more explicit link to the Guiding Principles, such as Equity and Civic Participation, all Goals were designed to further at least one of the Guiding Principles. Thus, the Goals— and their associated Strategies—are tools that outline how the City will work to fulfill its commitment to the Guiding Principles’ values and aspirations.