Allowing Selective Development
The amount of expansion in any area is often based on how much money it needs to continue a good lifestyle for the residents, and some towns might opt for allowing selective development. They could choose an area just outside the town, or they might allow some blocks in the center to be demolished and rebuilt. These are often harrowing questions for the local citizenry, and their fear is the close-knit community they enjoy will be overrun by strangers.
Making zoning decisions is never easy, and inviting developers into an area can be considered risky business by many town councils. They generally ask their citizens first what they want, and then they do their best to achieve the goals that have been set. If the voters want more expansion, then it is up to the council to figure out what will be appropriate before making changes to the local zoning laws.
Small developments can enhance a town that has seen many of its former residents move away, and they are generally looking for families to replace those who have been lost. They may be looking to court small businesses that will employ local workers, or they could simply be looking for more residents to move into the area. Attracting them often means giving companies a tax break for at least a few years, but the ability to attract new residents might depend upon local amenities. Tough decisions can be part of the process, and the ability to compromise is often a necessity.
Allowing a little development is not always the road to community destruction, and it can help revitalise an older community when it is planned thoroughly. Smaller towns often need a new influx of business and residents to keep them stable, so taking the time to find and attract the right mix of people and companies can result in a better place for everyone to live.