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Dr. Donald Willhoit <br /> December 2, 1985 • <br /> Page Two <br /> firr: <br /> 6 B. <br /> Zoning Ordinance, Article 6 (Dimensional Requirements):, <br /> We understand the intent of the proposal to allow impervious surface limits to <br /> be met through off-site measures. However, provisions should be made to assure <br /> that a proper balance be maintained throughout all areas of the watershed. It <br /> would not be appropriate to allow more intense development in one sub-basin <br /> while receiving all "trade-offs" from another sub-basin, as this could lead to <br /> water quality degradation. <br /> Consideration should be given to limiting "transfer" opportunities only to <br /> } existing developments. Also, off-site transfers should be required to be within <br /> the same sub-basin and preferably from an adjoining property. It must be <br /> clearly•stated that the trade-off property must be permanently maintained with <br /> an established vegetative cover for enhancement of stormwater absorption and <br /> that the easement to this effect must be recorded prior to issuance of the <br /> building permit. <br /> • <br /> Zoning Ordinance, Article 8: <br /> fA The adoption of the "off-site" impervious surface limit transfer proposal could <br /> eliminate the need to allow variances from the impervious surface limitations <br /> through the special use •permit process. If the special use permit approach is <br /> taken, adequate measures for plan review, inspection and monitoring of on-site <br /> water quality protection measures must be in place. <br /> There is concern that the cumulative effect of the recently approved impervious <br /> surface limits and these proposed revisions under consideration may be to lessen <br /> the overall strength and effectiveness of Orange County's water supply <br /> x„y protection program, which has been cited as a model for the State of North <br /> Carolina. Relaxation of these development standards may set a precedent for <br /> similar revisions in the future. It is hoped that the adoption of measures <br /> which effectively increase development potential within these environmentally <br /> sensitive watersheds will be counter-balanced with the adoption of additional <br /> water supply protection measures. <br /> Thank you very much for your consideration of these comments. The Orange County <br /> Board of Commissioners' continuing concern for protection of public drinking <br /> water supply sources is appreciated. <br /> ve ly yours, <br /> . <br /> Everett Billingsley <br /> Executive Director <br /> wp <br /> cc: OWASA Board of Directors <br /> Mr. Kenneth T$ompson, Manager, Orange County <br /> Mr. Marvin Collins, Director, Orange County Planning Department <br />