As the County’s population continues to grow, and demand for services increase, FREM requires a theoretic roadmap to guide the department’s efforts for the future, both immediate and longer term.  While the department has been successful in many ways and through the development, implementation, and management of numerous initiatives over the years, it has lacked a formalized long-term plan that assures the entire organization is on the same track moving forward. This strategic plan, under development since January 2017, provides that necessary guidance for budgeting and resource allocation, providing a listing of specific goals and objectives, with estimated timelines for the tasks associated with them for resource planning purposes.  As with any plan, it is recognized that an element of fluidity must be maintained to adjust both timelines and objectives to meet the specific needs that may develop or change beyond what has been anticipated during the planning process.

Consequences include the lack of a formalized plan to drive the departmental mission and efforts associated with it.