Norwich — The Southeastern Connecticut Council of Governments is holding a workshop to hear residents’ thoughts on the future of southeastern Connecticut, as the public agency plans to update its long-range strategy for conservation and development in the region.

The council is seeking input on matters including business and housing development, transportation, natural resources and many other issues facing the region.

The workshop will be held at 7 p.m. June 24 at Montville Town Hall, Council Chambers, at 310 Norwich-New London Turnpike (Route 320) in Montville.

The workshop will serve as the first step in collecting ideas from the public as the council, a public agency with representatives from 20 towns, cities and boroughs, updates the plan over the next 16 to 18 months.

State law requires that regional planning agencies prepare an advisory plan that recommends development and preservation priorities. The first plan for the region was adopted in 1961 and the most recent plan was adopted in 2007.

“Our 2007 plan served us well, helping to set the stage for the current study of regional bus service and tackling multi-town water supply issues” said William Ballinger, first selectman of Bozrah and chairman of the council, in a statement. “We invite residents to help us determine key issues we need to address in the next 10years.”

“Since our last plan was created in 2007, Windham and Lebanon have joined our region,” said James Butler, the council's executive director, in a statement. “This workshop gives us a chance to hear from people throughout the region, including residents from our new member communities.”

More information about the council and the 2007 plan are available at www.seccog.org.