Most residents of Borden-Carleton live here because of their preference for the area, their familial connection with the community, and because they like the setting or lifestyle or some other feature. Their attachment to the community is demonstrated in their length of residency, in many cases stemming several generations, and their commitment to the community in the face of adversity.

Like residents of other areas, the residents place a value on their community. Naturally they are concerned about its future, and they may ask questions such as: Will there be an apartment building on the vacant land down the street? Can the school accommodate our children? Will there be enough playgrounds and recreational areas? Will the roads become speedways?

The concerns raised by the residents also apply to other groups. Farmers worry about the urban and suburban influences and the viability of their farm in the face of ever increasing land use conflicts with non-resource dwellers.  Business people wish to locate in the area or want to continue to expand their operations. Long time residents see changes such as industrial uses which while bringing employment opportunities to the communities, may take away from the landscape to which they have become accustomed. Young families desire new subdivisions which provide more modern housing styles to choose.

It is only natural that these questions and concerns are raised, for people are looking for stability and assurance that the lifestyle that they have invested in will continue. All of the questions reflect the need to give those who have an interest in the community an opportunity to have a say about its future, and to incorporate this vision into a document that has certainty, authority and commitment. This is really the purpose of the Plan, for it is intended to provide goals and policies for the community, and establishes a strategy for future conditions.