WHEREAS, communities throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia continually experience change that can shape their growth, development, and future; and

 

WHEREAS, thoughtful community planning helps communities adapt to change, expand opportunities, and create vibrant places for people to live, work, and thrive; and

 

WHEREAS, community planning provides opportunities for residents to meaningfully participate in decisions that shape the future of their communities; and

 

WHEREAS, effective planning relies on informed public officials, engaged citizens, and dedicated professional planners working together to build strong communities and promote responsible growth; and

 

WHEREAS, October is recognized as National Community Planning Month, providing an opportunity to highlight the importance of planning and recognize the contributions of citizen and professional planners throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize October 2026 as NATIONAL COMMUNITY PLANNING MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.