Sequim City Council took the first step toward a new downtown look Monday night.

Members unanimously approved that city staff advertise for proposals or submissions from consultants

on a new downtown plan.

The project had been budgeted at $15,000, but councilors increased the limit to $75,000 if needed.

The project is set to start July 19 with a completion date of Jan. 31, 2011, following this timetable:

August-October 2010:

_ Research/investigate other successful plans

_ Define geographic scope

_ Council approval of geographic scope/update

_ Develop study area map/graphics

_ Review existing city drafts from 2002 and 2008

August-December 2010:

_ Establish plan framework, policies, standards and recommendations

August-January 2011:

_ Community outreach through open houses and workshops

_ Planning Commission review sessions

_ Council review sessions

_ Community organization presentations