Thursday is shaping up to be an important day.

The U.S. House of Representatives is scheduled to reconvene and, Americans hope, offer forth some sort of resolution to the looming financial crisis.

Vice-presidential nominees Sarah Palin and Joe Biden are set to square off in their first televised debate, a high-stakes litmus test for both candidates that could send a campaign spiraling, if performances are lacking.

And, here in Troy, the public will get the first chance to hear a proposal for the city’s new comprehensive plan.

While the public meeting may pale in urgency to a spiraling economy or a presidential vote less than a month away, it is important to our long-term future here in Troy, and certainly worthy of note.

The plan is our city’s roadmap for maximizing growth and development. A cross-section of volunteers, from community leaders to elected officials, have worked for more than a year with the help of a facilitator to draft this plan. It addresses everything from planned growth – particularly how to manage and balance the growth of rental properties – to how the city should invest future tax dollars in facilities and services that will best meet the needs of its residents.

The draft plan will be offered for review during a public hearing from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the Troy Recreational Complex. During that time any interested or concerned citizen can attend the meeting and learn first-hand about the details of the plan. It’s a chance to ask questions, make notes and, if you agree or disagree, speak up.

While the plan isn’t legislation, it should set forth the guidelines city leaders will use in creating ordinances and laws moving forward. Getting the plan right – from the beginning – will help ensure Troy continues to grow on the right path.

So make a note on your Thursday to-do list and take the time to learn about Troy’s comprehensive plan. It’s a wise investment of our time.