Agenda - 11-03-1986 - Laserfiche WebLink

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1J PAGE 7 ' • 161, overall design of a subdivision in light of the suitability of the land for development. Land suitability includes an investigation of historic sites and unique natural areas . Although, informa- tion has been available through a variety of local and State agencies, it has never been compiled in one source, making it difficult for the Planning Department and the Planning Board to adequately , • assess the impact of subdivision proposals on such resources . Furthermore, similar mandates are not • present in the Zoning Ordinance , In May of 1986, an Inventory of cultural , histori- cal , recreational , biological end geological significance was completed. Incorporation of the document into the Land Use Plan represents an important first step in insuring the protection and/or preservation of significant natural and cultural resources . If approved, specific mocha nisms such as incentive zoning, density tranfers and cluster development can be developed and/or utilized through which to achieve this goal . ' In addition, public and private agencies and organi- . zations can be contacted for assistance in main- taining and managing significant areas . As development pressures mount in Orange County, protection of sensitive areas becomes even more critical than In the past . A stable and varied natural environment, along with an appreciation of historical , cultural , and community resources are essential to a healthy society. Current develop- ment patterns in the triangle suggest that the natural environment is part of the high quality of life which attracts new development and residents. The County has already stated some commitment to the protection of significant natural resources through policy statements and the identification of some natural areas in the Land Use Plan, Floodway and Strearnway Building Regulations, and. Public Interest District Zoning . In the face of rapid growth, however, commitment to protection, and the potential levels of protection need to be expanded. Current definitions of sites significant to the natural and 'physical environment, along with rationales for protection, are deficient when confronted by a doubling of the County 's pcpula- tion in the next 20-30 years . Additronally no comprehensive data base of sites important to the natural and physical environment exists. . This proposed • ext amendment and accompenying .appendix are designed to remedy that situalIon . Currently, the Land Use Plan speaks primarily to the protection of large public and quasi-public