Agenda - 03-03-2009 - 7a - Laserfiche WebLink

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helped develop the "Orange Turning Green" program. The program was established to begin implemention of BOCC environmental policies. The recommendations advocate for better water use and sustainable landscaping standards, which are ecologically supportable and more energy efficient. BOCC Policy. The BOCC first adopted two objectives under its Environmental Responsibility Goal on December 5, 2005. The first objective was to develop a countywide environmental leadership policy and institute a standing Environmental Action Committee. The second was to continue, expand, and formally adopt the use of green building standards; construct new facilities and deconstruct outdated facilities in a way that iseco-friendly, utilizes energy conserving measures, and minimizes impacts on the environment. On April 12, 2007 the BOCC adopted five priorities to enhance the implementation of the • second objective of its Environmental Responsibility Goal. One of five priorities is to adopt`smart growth' principles of land development and site planning including 'low impact design' guidelines in planning and erosion control regulations by the end of 2008. Comprehensive Plan. The text below summarizes the planning principles, goals and objectives found in Phase ll of the Comprehensive Plan Update, approved on November 18, 2008,which provide direction to sustainable landscaping concepts. As the amendment comes forward, specific references will be made to the objectives of the Comprehensive Plan. • The overarching planning principle put forth in the Comprehensive Plan is to "Encourage energy efficiency, lower energy consumption and the use of non- polluting renewable energy resources while promoting both air quality protection and the development of an effective transportation system.' Within this planning principle are several goals statements as follows: 1. Fiscally and environmentally responsible, sustainable growth, consistent with the provision of adequate services and facilities and a high quality of life. 2. Land uses that are appropriate to on-site environmental conditions and features, and that protect natural resources, cultural resources, and community character. 3, Energy conservation, sustainable use of non-polluting renewable energy resources, efficient use of non-renewable energy resources and clean air. 4. Water Resource Preservation. 5. Land uses that are appropriate to on-site environmental conditions and features, and that protect natural resources, cultural resources, and community character. 6. A balanced and healthy diversity of native plant and animal populations. 7. Networks of protected natural, cultural, and agricultural lands. 8. Adequate, safe, and healthy groundwater withdrawal and wastewater disposal systems with minimum impacts upon water and land resources. 9. Efficient and effective drainage, stormwater,floodplain management, and erosion control systems: