PPC initially evaluated demographic and economic trends influencing the community.  Small business owners, public agency representatives, landowners and other community leaders were interviewed by PPC to gain the insights of the community concerning constraints toward future land use expansion, potential economic development opportunities, and other community issues.

Subsequently, PPC analyzed land use trends and land use needs to determine the demand for future land use expansion.  The land use analysis also addressed the question:  Where can future land use needs be accommodated in the community?  This evaluation included, PPC’s evaluation of soil suitability, the location of 100-year flood plain boundaries, the location of wetlands, seasonal wildlife ranges, and the proximity of developable areas to municipal water and wastewater systems.  These considerations led to the determination of potential land areas for future land use expansion within the municipal boundary, as well as within a one-mile radius outside of the municipal boundary.

PPC also evaluated the capability of existing roads, municipal water and wastewater systems, electrical distribution system, and telecommunications systems to support future land use expansion during the next decade.  This analysis also recommended system improvements to ensure that these systems would not pose a constraint to future private and public investments and related land use expansion.

PPC prepared a community land use plan and transportation plan that outlined a community vision for the type and location of future land uses in the community, a future vehicular road network, and community pathway system for pedestrians, bicycles and cross-country skiers.

PPC outlined a series of community development objectives and recommended strategies for addressing constraints to and potential opportunities for future land use expansion.  These objectives and strategies were refined through discussions with the Thayne Town Council.  The Town Council also determined the priorities for each community development objective via a decision-making process facilitated by PPC.