Dunn County considers new comprehensive plan focused on rural character, housing and smart growth

The Dunn County Board of Supervisors is considering a new 20-year comprehensive plan that would establish a long-term framework to guide future development, farmland preservation, housing, transportation and natural resource protection over the next two decades.  

Supervisors gave the 2027-2047 Dunn County Comprehensive Plan its first reading Wednesday night, with a final vote scheduled for Nov. 10. 

“We wanted a plan that reflects Dunn County today and provides useful direction for the next five, 10 and 20 years,” said Tamara Traxler, Dunn County Zoning and Planning Administrator. “That meant updating our information, understanding what communities value and identifying needs or opportunities for change.” 

The updated plan was developed through a countywide public engagement effort that included surveys, public meetings, focus groups and discussions with local governments, farmers, businesses and community organizations.  

"Dunn County residents care deeply about the future of their communities," Traxler said. "Throughout this process, we heard a consistent desire to protect our rural character, support agriculture, create housing opportunities and ensure that growth occurs in a way that benefits both current and future residents."  

Officials said the plan will guide future growth, adding the most significant change is an emphasis on directing new housing, businesses and higher-density development toward cities, villages, hamlets and areas already served by infrastructure. County leaders say that approach can reduce development costs, preserve farmland and protect rural landscapes.  

“We want to protect productive agricultural lands and natural resources, maintain the community character people value, and provide opportunities for housing, businesses, and a healthy local economy,” Traxler said.  

The plan also addresses the county's housing shortage and changing demographics by encouraging communities to consider additional housing options, including duplexes, town homes, accessory dwelling units, modular homes and housing that allows older residents to remain in their homes.  

Traxler said agriculture remains a central focus in the document: An updated Farmland Preservation Plan included in the comprehensive plan calls for protecting productive farmland while supporting the agricultural economy that remains a cornerstone of Dunn County. Future growth is expected to be steered away from key agricultural areas whenever possible to limit fragmentation, officials said. 

Water quality and natural resource protection also play a larger role, with recommendations including expanded groundwater monitoring, well-testing opportunities, improved septic oversight and continued protection of lakes, rivers, wetlands and floodplains. 

Residents repeatedly identified the county's rural character as one of its greatest strengths, Traxler said, and the plan emphasizes preserving open spaces, working farms and a small-town identity while accommodating appropriate growth. 

"This plan is intended to be a practical guide rather than a document that sits on a shelf," Traxler said. 

County officials emphasized that the comprehensive plan does not change zoning regulations or create new land-use rules. Instead, it serves as a policy guide for future decisions involving land use, infrastructure, housing, economic development, and natural resource management.  

“Adopting the plan does not change a property’s zoning or create new development regulations,” Traxler said. “Its legal role is to guide certain land use ordinances, including county zoning and local subdivision ordinances, which Wisconsin law requires to be consistent with the applicable comprehensive plan when enacted or amended.” 

Media release.