Bloomfield Township is thrilled to announce the approval of a transformative new strategic plan, the most ambitious township-wide initiative in nearly 20 years. Approved unanimously at the Board of Trustees Meeting on October 28, 2024, this wide-ranging plan will serve as a roadmap for the Township’s growth and development over the next five years, engaging the entire community in a shared vision of prosperity and innovation.
Developed with BerryDunn, the award-winning consulting firm recently recognized by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) for excellence in strategic planning, Bloomfield Township’s new strategic plan reflects an unprecedented level of community engagement. This collaborative effort brought together residents, businesses, employees, and other key stakeholders in a collective commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Bloomfield Township. The result is a strategic vision that prioritizes economic vitality, sustainability, community services, and accountability.
“This plan is not just a document; it’s a promise to our community,” said Township Supervisor Dani Walsh. “We are investing in a future that honors the needs and aspirations of our residents while positioning Bloomfield Township as a model of strategic growth and community resilience. The Township’s last major strategic initiative was the creation of our Township Campus nearly 20 years ago, and now this plan represents the next chapter. BerryDunn’s work, combined with extensive community input, has created a blueprint that will guide us toward a vibrant and sustainable future. Choosing the award-winning national leader in strategic planning, BerryDunn, to facilitate and guide this process was the best decision possible. They exceeded our expectations in using all of the input received to create a robust roadmap for enhancing the prosperity and beauty of Bloomfield Township into the future.”
BerryDunn’s team, led by Project Manager and Lead Facilitator, Michelle Kennedy, engaged Bloomfield Township residents and community members over six months to develop this plan. Through surveys, focus groups, and public forums, community input played a defining role in shaping the plan’s goals, ensuring it reflected the priorities of those who live, work, and invest in Bloomfield Township.
Kennedy, who presented the plan virtually at the October board meeting, noted, "The engagement from the community in this strategic planning process was really strong. Over 3,000 members of the Township were directly involved in this process, which is a much higher number than we see typically in much larger communities. The Township should be proud of the level of communication and engagement that led to so many people participating.”
Speaking more about the process, Kennedy added, “In evaluating all of the input we received, the priorities for strategic focus were very clear and consistent across all of the community input channels. The priorities address how to maintain Bloomfield Township as a welcoming place that residents love while evolving to meet the needs of new people, families, and businesses moving into the community and maintaining excellence in the programming and services the Township government provides. The result is an aspirational plan with concrete, actionable objectives that will allow the Township to make steady progress toward its vision, priorities, and long-term goals.”
The success of this strategic plan has already garnered national attention. The plan has been submitted by BerryDunn to the ICMA’s Local Government Reimagined Conference, where it may be showcased as a model for midsized communities striving for impactful, sustainable innovation. Supervisor Walsh has been invited to participate as a panelist, offering Bloomfield Township an opportunity to share its story with other municipalities across the country.
“This is more than just a plan; it’s Bloomfield Township setting the standard for reimagining local government,” Walsh emphasized. “We’re honored to potentially stand on a national stage, showing how a community-driven approach and expert partnership can drive success.”
As implementation begins, the Township is committed to maintaining the high level of community engagement that shaped the plan. Regular updates, public input opportunities, and performance metrics will ensure the plan remains transparent, inclusive, and adaptable over its five-year course.
The Township invites all residents to stay engaged and active in this journey. Community members can look forward to periodic check-ins, progress reports, and opportunities to provide input as Bloomfield Township brings this visionary plan to life. The Township’s efforts to involve its citizens at every step reinforce its commitment to a future shaped by and for the community.
Finally, Supervisor Walsh was very grateful for everyone in the community that played a role in this collaborative process. She stated, “Thank you to the thousands of residents, employees, business owners, service providers, and the community at large who engaged in the strategic planning process. Bloomfield Township is filled with intelligent, kind, diverse, and amazing people who come here to live, work, and play, and you all knocked this one out of the park! It was an honor to work with the strategic planning committee, community, employees, fellow board members, and BerryDunn on this project. Together, we made something truly extraordinary. Thank you!”
Founded in 1827, Bloomfield Township is the oldest charter township in Oakland County, Michigan, home to approximately 44,000 residents. Dedicated to providing exceptional services and fostering a high quality of life, Bloomfield Township is committed to supporting public infrastructure and preserving natural resources for the benefit of its residents and future generations.
Read the 2025-29 Strategic Plan here.