Minutes - 19970529 - Laserfiche WebLink

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2. Possibilities of a County Land Trust/Revolving Fund Planning Director Marvin Collins said that the big issue in setting up a County Land Trust/Revolving Fund is whether the County does this with the Triangle Land Conservancy, or with the Soil and Water Conservation Board, or set up a separate non-profit corporation. He said that they have a plan and the Triangle Land Conservancy is interested in being a partner in this project. What has received a lot of support is the idea of having the Soil and Water Board handle this as it relates to agriculture. The question is who would enforce it -- the district, the county or someone else. They plan to talk about this with some of their advisory groups. Chris Hogan said that his biggest concern is the working relationship with the farmers. Don Cox noted that there is a fund being established for either purchasing in fee simple or easements for watershed protection around reservoirs. Mr. Collins expanded on this saying that this money could be applied to farmland protection or natural area protection. Property could be purchased and restrictive covenants could be placed on the property before it is resold. This would involve the County Attorney because it is a real estate transaction. Two of his advisory boards have suggested having the Triangle Land Conservancy and the Soil and Water Board work together on the project. This is something that could be defined in the agreement between the County and Soil and Water Conservation Board. 3. Proposal of an Environmental Affairs Commission Commissioner Gordon explained the purpose of this proposal. She asked if the Soil and Water Conservation Board of Directors would be interested in having a representative serve on this Commission if it is established. Don Cox said that they have all they can do at this time. He said that they are dealing with a lot of environmental issues handed down by the state and federal requirements. 4. Future Topics for Cooperation The agreement discussion needs to take place in August. Copies will be provided to the County Commissioners prior to the discussion. This agreement is necessary in order to establish a relationship with all of their cooperating partners. In implementing the programs they carry out in this County they may need to include other agencies and groups including the County. Commissioner Carey encouraged the members of the Board of Supervisors to keep an open mind on land preservation because the farmers would rather have a relationship with someone in Orange County rather than with someone outside Orange County. He asked to see the agreement they have with the State and with the Federal Government. ADJOURNMENT With no further items to come before the Board, Chair Crowther adjourned this meeting. The next regular meeting will be held this same evening at 7:30 in Superior Courtroom, Hillsborough. William L. Crowther, Chair Beverly A. Blythe, Clerk