An important element in any District's management is their Service Plan--a required document the community helps prepare. That plan is updated based on public meetings and completely re-created on a schedule established by the legislature. Often a plan is prepared for a five-year period and updated or "tweaked" annually as a basis for the District's annual budget.

Cities and Counties typically prepare and follow a Capital Improvement Program (CIP). A District's Service Plan includes capital projects but identifies needs and services beyond physical installations.