With a consultant on board and its advisory committee in place, Jersey Village has begun the process of drafting a new comprehensive plan.

Consulting firm Freese and Nichols hosted a community roundtable July 10 and have been gathering input from the public through an online survey.

Public input has zeroed in on several areas of concern, including community signage and the need for an image branding marketing campaign.

"That's what's going to attract your businesses and families here," resident Rene Chavez said. "It's a win-win for the city because it improves the atmosphere and brings in tax revenue."

Council's top priorities include improving the city's image and attracting retail, restaurants and entertainment. Top issues of concern center on Hwy. 290 and the loss of commercial base following a wave of business relocations.

Opportunities identified for the city range from expanding extraterritorial jurisdiction, providing better access to transit, enhancing property maintenance codes, redeveloping the freeway frontage road area and redeveloping the golf course. Planning will continue with another public meeting in February. Consultants target May 2015 for plan adoption. Residents can provide input through the survey on the city's website at www.jerseyvillage.info through July 31.