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123 <br /> Issue #3: Mandatory Versus Optional Open Space <br /> Collins stated that there has been some staff <br /> training workshops on the use of conservation <br /> easements. One topic of discussion has to do <br /> with voluntary set aside of open space. There are <br /> tax benefits at the Federal and State level for <br /> the voluntary conservation easements. Thus, a <br /> great disadvantage for a mandatory system would <br /> be the lose of those tax benefits. He noted also <br /> that Triangle Land Conservancy will be continuing <br /> work to complete the Wildlife Corridor Study. <br /> Collins continued that he agreed with Brown and <br /> other Board members that perhaps there should be <br /> some variation of mandatory. A possibility would <br /> be to allow only where the residents support it <br /> such as small area plans or where there was no <br /> other reasonable option to preserve significant <br /> natural area/habitat or historic site. <br /> Collins stated that the advantage to using an <br /> optional approach would have educational value. <br /> It would not be forcing landowners to provide <br /> open space, but, to have them design out an open <br /> space plan which would allow them to see the <br /> benefits. Arendt's plan - to try, monitor and <br /> evaluate could then be implemented. <br /> Howie stated that she felt mandatory with <br /> guidelines was an excellent approach. However, <br /> she expressed concern that, another item is being <br /> added (small area plans) the amount of time <br /> before the Triangle Land Conservancy study is <br /> completed and something in place would be <br /> increased greatly. Collins responded that it <br /> would be at least a year before the Wildlife <br /> Corridor Study is complete. He continued that an <br /> option such as a small area plan where residents <br /> are in favor of an open space plan could be put <br /> into place fairly quickly. Citizen generated <br /> small area plans are the best. <br /> Price expressed concern with mixing two areas <br /> such as natural areas and historic sites. She <br /> felt these were different categories and should <br /> be preserved in ways other than through open <br /> space. Collins responded that would have to do <br /> with the reason for the preservation, and whether <br /> it was to be open space available to the public <br /> or open space controlled by a homeowners' <br /> association. <br /> Jobsis stated that all open space plans should be <br />