(1) The purpose of this rule is to establish minimum criteria and a uniform format for strategic regional policy plans. Strategic Regional Policy Plans, required by Florida Statutes § 186.507, means a long range guide for physical, economic, and social development of a comprehensive planning district which identifies regional goals and policies. These plans shall be developed through a collaborative process that emphasizes consensus and coordination between local governments, regional entities, state and federal agencies, other appropriate organizations, and the public. Thus, the plan is a plan for the region, not merely for the regional planning council. Regional goals and policies shall be used to develop a coordinated program of regional actions directed at resolving identified problems and needs. These plans shall contain regional goals and policies that address affordable housing, economic development, emergency preparedness, natural resources of regional significance, and regional transportation, and other regional goals and policies as deemed appropriate by the council. The plans shall identify and address significant regional resources and facilities. Strategic Regional Policy Plans shall be strategic rather than comprehensive in nature and need not address all goals and policies in the State Comprehensive Plan. However, goals and policies included in a Strategic Regional Policy Plan shall be consistent with and further the State Comprehensive Plan.
    (2) For the purposes of the State and Regional Planning Act of 1984, as amended by Chapter 93-206, Laws of Florida, the Strategic Regional Policy Plan, upon its adoption, shall replace the comprehensive regional policy plan. However, the regional planning council may engage in activities not addressed by the plan so long as the council is not otherwise prohibited from such activities.
    (3) The Strategic Regional Policy Plan shall not establish binding level of service standards for public facilities and services provided or regulated by local governments.
    (4) Strategic Regional Policy Plans shall serve as a basis to review the resources and facilities found in local government comprehensive plans.
    (5) Other uses and applications of Strategic Regional Policy Plans are identified in Fl. Admin. Code R. 27E-5.003, of this rule.
Rulemaking Authority Florida Statutes § 186.507(2). Law Implemented 186.002, 186.502, 186.507, 163.3184(5) FS. History-New 7-6-94.