The plan sets out five strategic areas to guide City Council budgetary and policy decisions:
- Transportation
- Economic & Cultural Vitality
- Community Livability & Life-Long Learning
- Stewardship
- Safe & Environmentally Healthy Community
The Strategic Plan was first adopted by the City Council in February 2011, following a months-long citizen input process. Council approved an update to the plan in March 2013, adding new elements and more specific goals and strategies to the plan. In December 2019, Council adopted a revised plan that updated content while retaining the core vision and priorities.