(COLDWATER) - Rising housing costs, limited housing construction and an aging population are among the challenges identified in a draft update to Coldwater's Master Plan.
The Coldwater Planning Commission received its first look at the proposed plan Monday night. The document is intended to help guide future development and priorities within the city.
Information used to develop the plan was gathered from more than 800 residents through an online survey, two public open houses and student surveys.
The draft found that housing construction did not keep pace with population growth or demand between 2013 and 2023. During that same period, median gross rent increased from $675 to $912 per month, while home values increased by nearly 56 percent, according to Zillow data.
The report also found median household income in Coldwater is lower than both Branch County and Michigan averages.
Coldwater's population is also getting older. The city's median age reached 40.2 years in 2023, while residents age 65 and older now make up 17.5 percent of the population.
Survey respondents identified downtown Coldwater, recreation opportunities, diversity, arts and culture among the community's strengths.
Goals outlined in the draft include supporting housing that meets community needs, maintaining a vibrant downtown, encouraging economic development and preserving access to natural and recreational opportunities.
Julie Tschirhart of Progressive Companies presented the draft Monday and said final adoption is expected in October. The Planning Commission will continue reviewing the document before forwarding it to the Coldwater City Council, which will determine when a required 63-day public comment period will begin.