Agenda - 01-16-1997 - 6 - Laserfiche WebLink

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4 Re: Farmland Preservation Program: Goals for 1997'98 Fiscal Year November 27' 1S8G Page Two ° Develop a Transfer of Development Rights (TOR) program for Orange County based on a market- driven system that is equitable for rural landholders. While the parameters for sending areas (from which rights are transferred) can be determined by factors such as prime farmland ooi|a' distance from urban areas, etc., must consider mixed residential, nonnnorcio|' and industrial uses, as well ao mass transit capabilities. Designation of receiving areas isazoning function. We request that the Bound of Commissioners establish a receiving area(s) for the purpose of initiating a TDR program. (Continuing into Fy97-98.) During the coming fiscal year, the Agricultural Districts Advisory Board will continue working toward o farmland preservation program based on voluntary measures and incentives for landowners. To this and' the Agricultural Districts Advisory Board seeks your support as we pursue the following goals and objectives for the 1997-S8 fiscal year: • Establish a 'pay-as-you-go- Purchase of Development Nghts program. This program would be funded through deferred use-value tax payments or by earmarking one-half cent on the tax rote for this purpose. These funds would be eligible for a matching grant of easement acquisition money available through the federal Farmland Protection Program. • Establish an Orange County land conservancy that would accept voluntary oaummnonto and gifts of agricultural and conservation lands. • Conduct additional public forums on the potential benefits of conservation eoawrnento in estate ^ planning. We appreciate the opportunity to communicate our goals and pdohboa in advance of your retreat on December 7' and we look fnrvvomd to your continued support during the next fiscal year. /db _ '