The Metropolitan Council sets the basic requirements for what must be included in comprehensive plans. Hopkins' comprehensive plan update must address six plan elements including land use, transportation, water resources, parks, housing, and implementation. The Metropolitan Council also recommends, but does not requiring, local governments address economic competitiveness and resilience. For more information on comprehensive planning requirements check out the Metropolitan Council's Local Planning Handbook.
By law, Hopkins' comprehensive plans must be consistent with Thrive MSP 2040, the Metropolitan Council's policy document that guides development in the metropolitan region over the next 30 years. Comprehensive plans must also align with the Metropolitan Council's regional system and policy plans. The system plans outline regional policy regarding transportation, water resources, parks and open space, and housing. The system plans are updated after each decennial census to address projected growth in population, households and jobs in the metro area.