Strategic Plan

About Manatee County’s Strategic Plan

The Manatee County Government Strategic Plan is the County's first comprehensive roadmap for how we grow, invest and deliver services in a clear and accountable way. It establishes a countywide vision and mission focused on service, transparency and responsible growth and organizes our work into six high-level goals.

Together, these goals provide a shared framework for the Board, staff and residents to understand where we are heading as one organization. The plan is structured from top to bottom: a unifying vision and mission, six goals, measurable objectives under each goal and specific department actions that describe how the work will be carried out.

With this plan as a guide, staff will align timelines, performance measures and regular progress reporting so the public can see how priorities are being implemented over time. The plan is designed as a living document that can be updated as conditions, resources and Board direction evolve, while still preserving a clear, countywide framework for decision-making and accountability.

VISION

Manatee County is a thriving community where beaches, cities, and rural areas come together. Our vision is to continue to make Manatee County the premier place to live, work, and play.

MISSION

Our mission is to serve our residents, visitors, and businesses by protecting our diverse landscapes while making balanced, transparent decisions and providing exceptional county services. We value innovative solutions, fiscal responsibility, and an informed and involved public.

GOALS

Goal 1 - Land Management & Development Policy: Make our rules and our work more up to date, and push our top legislative goals so we’re ready for the future.

Goal 2 - Transportation & Infrastructure: Improve our transportation and infrastructure, reduce flooding and build more multimodal trails so people can get around safely and easily.

Goal 3 - Government Efficiency, Transparency & Fiscal Stewardship: Make our government work better by using technology to be more efficient, save money and stay open with the public.

Goal 4 - Public Safety & Environmental Protection: Protect our community by strengthening public safety and taking care of our environment in smart, responsible ways.

Goal 5 - Economic & Tourism Development: Grow our economy by bringing in key industries, supporting tourism, creating jobs and working better with our regional partners.

Goal 6 - Veterans and Public Services: Improve life for veterans and our community by making essential services easier to access, building strong partnerships and supporting programs that put people first.

PROPOSED BOARD PRIORITIES

1. Code Modernization and Simplification

Implement form-based code
LDC updates
Move forward with elements of the Comp Plan and LDA changes that can be enacted with SB180
Improve mixed-use and affordable housing incentives
Adjust density and height changes for key corridors

2. Regulatory Flexibility and Barriers Removal