Agenda - 10-12-1995 - Item B (no abstract)

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Completion Schedule Also provided as an attachment is a Proposed Completion Schedule for the Commissioners' goals. The schedule includes three fiscal years and highlights "points" at which the Commissioners' involvement for direction and/or a decision will be sought. Public hearings have been scheduled in accordance with quarterly cycles; e.g., February, May, August, and November. The schedule is viewed as a "guide" in that requests for additional information and extended discussion on adopted goals, new issues, and day-to- day activities frequently cause delays in completing objectives on time. Staff Resources Beginning with FY 1995-96, the Planning Staff began keeping records of the amount of time spent on each of the Commissioners' goals and objectives. Monthly and year-to-date reports are provided as part of the Planning Board agenda. A sample report for the month is July is provided as an attachment. Static vs. Dynamic Plans A question was raised at the Commissioners' September 20 meeting as to whether a goal such as the "Shaping Orange County's Future" initiative would result in requests to hold up other goals and objectives until completed. A very basic reason for avoiding such delays relates to the nature of the Comprehensive Plan. It is not a "static" plan but is "dynamic" in that it is constantly changing. External factors such as the State's watershed protection act cause it to be amended, and internal initiatives such as the Economic Development Strategic Plan contribute to change through the designation of prezoned areas for commercial/industrial purposes. In addition, the completion of natural areas and historic site inventories lead to plan elements for preserving such resources. Technical reports such as the University Lake Watershed Study and area plans such as that being prepared for the Stoney Creek Basin lead to further amendments. As elements, technical reports, and area plans are prepared, they must be consistent with others. For example, open space design strategies can contribute to the preservation of farmland, historic sites, and natural areas. As these elements are prepared, open space design options must be considered in developing appropriate preservation strategies. Likewise, a Natural Areas Element may be prepared, only to be amended with the completion of the Wildlife Habitat Study. Furthermore,the Land Use Element may require amendment in both instances. The same would hold true for the "Shaping Orange County's Future"initiative. It must consider current policies and plans, but it may result in recommendations which cause one or more elements of the Comprehensive Plan to be amended. It should not hold up the process but be handled like any other element.