Agenda - 05-21-1991 - Laserfiche WebLink

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1. 2. 3. K REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENTS CURRENT PRACTICE Environmental Assessments (EA) are reviewed by the Environmental Planner to determine if there are significant impacts which warrant the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Assessment is sent to other local or State agencies for comments. Within 14 days of submittal of the EA, either a Finding of No Significant Impact ( FONSI) is issued or preparation of an EIS is required. If an EIS is required for a development project which requires permit approval, it will be presented to the Board of Commissioners at a public hearing prior to any action to approve or deny the development application. If no development permit is required, then the EIS alone will be presented to the Board of Commissioners at a special public hearing. REASONS FOR CURRENT PRACTICE The requirements of the Environmental Impact Ordinance were developed with the input of a Committee formed at the direction of the Board of Commissioners. The Committee included members of the Ordinance Review Committee, a County Commissioner, the County Manager, County Attorney, County Engineer, representatives from EDC, and several citizens who offered expertise in areas of environmental concern. The Committee met on numerous occasions during over a period of about 1 -1/2 year to develop ordinance provisions which adequately address environmental concerns. The criteria for requiring an EA were very specific so that the decision to issue a FONSI or require an EIS could be made quickly at the staff level. If an EIS were required, there would be an opportunity for full review of more detailed information by the Board of Commissioners as well as the public. ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY When the Planning Staff receives an EA, a copy can be distributed to each Commissioner at the same time that it is sent to the State Clearinghouse and other agencies for review.