Consequently, a realistic policy is one that is adopted by local legislators who are mindful of a general plan's implementation. For a policy to be useful as a guide to action it must be clear and unambiguous. The practice of adopting broadly drawn and vague policies is unacceptable. Clear policies are particularly important when it comes to judging whether or not zoning decisions, subdivisions, public works projects, etc., are consistent with a general plan. It is better to adopt no policy than to adopt a policy with no backbone.
Solid policy is based on solid information.
If projected community conditions are not in line with a general plan's goals and objectives, local legislative bodies may adopt policies that will help bring about a more desirable future. The city shall not approve a parking ordinance variance unless the variance pertains to the rebuilding of an unintentionally destroyed non-conforming use. The city shall not approve plans for the downtown shopping center until an independently conducted market study indicates that the center would be economically feasible.