Agenda - 05-27-2014 - C1 - Laserfiche WebLink

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7 6. The project has been submitted to the State Clearinghouse for review with no concerns being addressed. Based on these comments, staff has determined a formal Environmental Impact Statement is not required. Please refer to Attachment 3 for additional detail. Analysis: As required under Section 2.7.4 of the UDO, the Planning Director is required to: `cause an analysis to be made of the application' and pass that analysis on to the reviewing body. In analyzing this request, the Planning Director offers the following- 1 . The application has been deemed complete in accordance with the requirements of Section 2.7 of the UDO. 2. The project is classified as a `utility' per Section 5.2 Table of Permitted Uses of the UDO and is a permitted use within the RB zoning district subject to the issuance of a Class A Special Use Permit. 3. Staff has determined that the property is of sufficient size to allow for the development of the project. 4. The proposal is not expected to have a negative impact on existing development in the area. 5. The proposal appears consistent with the various goals outlined within the Comprehensive Plan, including: a. Natural and Cultural Systems Goal 1: Energy conservation, sustainable use of non - polluting renewable energy resources, efficient use of non - renewable energy resources and clean air. b. Objective AE -15: Foster participation in green energy programs such as installation incentives for solar hot water /solar generation /solar tempering in residential or commercial construction. The County should develop programs that will link citizens and businesses with options for alternative and sustainable energy sources. c. Objective AG -8: Encourage the use and production of natural fuel alternatives to petroleum based products and pursue new types of energy sources. 6. The proposal appears consistent with the various goals outlined within the Joint Planning Land Use Plan (hereafter `the Plan'). As previously indicated this operation is classified as a utility land use providing an essential public service, specifically power. More importantly this project will result in the generation of power through environmentally responsible means, which is a major goal of the County. While some could argue there are `commercial' elements to the project, stringently regulated by the aforementioned Plan, the proposed array functions as any other similar utility project providing an essential public service. Such land uses, which have already been developed throughout the area, are not precluded by the Plan. JPA Review: In accordance with the Joint Planning Area Agreement, this project was sent to the Town of Chapel Hill for review and comment. As of this date staff has not received any comments.