Minutes 05-12-2015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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lanes. He said there were concerns about fire and safety, which were addressed by the placement of regular pull out areas; allowing drivers room to pull over to let emergency vehicles pass. He said the idea of protecting rural character included making sure that roads were not overdesigned. Commissioner Jacobs said there was a great deal of work done to encourage people to work within the existing landscape, as opposed to changing it. He said he would like the BOCC to consider that there may be other possibilities. He said he understands the issues of safety but he would like to pursue the idea of preserving rural character. He said as most of the jurisdiction is rural, those would be exceptions, not the rule. Commissioner Jacobs said the Department of Transportation's standards are not universal, but rather they are North Carolina standards; and he argued that there may be some middle ground in exceptional cases. Commissioner Jacobs said there should be differentiation between natural areas and parks. He said he would like to see some sensitivity to the natural environment; all the while knowing that Emergency Services and Fire Departments know what is in their jurisdictions, and will respond accordingly. Commissioner Rich said she is interested in seeing the old rural character study. She said she is concerned that the burden is being put on the landowner or developer, and it is expensive. She said the great cost of the roads and driveways may be passed to homeowners. Commissioner Dorosin said there is competing interests: cost for home owners or developers, versus the obligation to help constituents during emergencies. He asked if homeowners with unacceptably small driveways or tree limbs, that bar access, could be reported to their insurance carrier; as they have an obligation to make the roads function for public safety. Chair McKee asked John Roberts if County services could refuse to approach an emergency due to inaccessibility. John Roberts said Emergency Services would have to find a way to get down the driveway. He said he does not know a solution to the problem but there is a reasonable expectation among citizens that the fire department, funded by their tax dollars, will reach their house in a time of crisis. Commissioner Rich asked if there is an emergency and the roads are inaccessible how does Emergency Services currently respond. Jason Shepherd said each situation is unique and is addressed one case at a time. He said each response is created in the moment, often sacrificing precious time that would be better used fighting the fire. Commissioner Dorosin asked if property owners and realtors are required to disclose the fact that a fire truck cannot get down the driveway. Jason Shepherd said no, there is no type of disclosure requirement. He said in regards to insurance providers, policy writers should create policies in the field after seeing a property rather than at their desks. Jim Groves said some of the stakeholders are worried about their vehicles, and potential damage they may incur on unsafe or unstable roadways and bridges. Commissioner Dorosin said if people knew of the hazards, like low hanging branches; they may be more receptive to making the safety changes. He said many people may be unaware of their property's inaccessibility, until it is too late. Commissioner Price said firefighters are being put at risk, not just the vehicles. She said it is not fair to come up with policies for nice country roads, and not consider the people doing the work. She said she will side with the recommendations of the Sheriff, Emergency Services and the Fire Departments.