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DRAFT 3 REPORT OF THE STONEY CREEK SMALL AREA PLAN VISION SUBCOMIVIITTEE The process of defining a "vision" is in many ways like trying to define beauty; it is largely in the eye of the beholder. The beginning stages reveal a variety of individual visions, each equally valid, but often in conflict with one another. However, any vision if zealously pursued to the extreme will preclude the possibility for other equally valid visions to be incorporated in the final plan. Therefore, we have defined our collective vision as a result of significant compromise, creativity, flexibility, and fairness with all who will have a hand in shaping the future of the Stoney Creek Basin. Development of a "vision" for the Stoney Creek Small Area Plan has considered the natural, cultural, visual, and economic resources of the area in the context of diverse viewpoints expressed during the planning process. Two key themes have been prominent and seem central to development of the plan. These are, first, that it is important to retain elements of the present rural character for the area and second, that property owners should receive fair value for their land should they choose to sell or develop it in some way. Existing land use patterns in the Stoney Creek area reflect the nature of its rural heritage. Expanses of agricultural (active and inactive) and forest land are interspersed with residential development of varying scales, most of which occurs on lots exceeding one acre in size and served by single wells and septic systems. An expanding municipality on the area's periphery and its location between two interstate highways enhance its- attractiveness for development and contribute to pressures for change. The Stoney Creek Small Area Plan should serve to guide future changes in the Stoney Creek Basin area while recognizing its rural heritage, cultural, historical, and natural resources, and the rights of individual property owners. In this regard, the goals of the Orange County Rural Character Study seem particularly relevant in defining the vision for the area. Specifically, they focus on balancing development with agricultural preservation, protection of natural, cultural, and visual resources, and managed growth, while maintaining flexibility for landowners. Elements of the plan should address the following: • Development of mechanisms which will encourage preservation of rural landscapes such as active farms, forests, and visual openness. • Continued identification, evaluation and inventory of significant cultural and historical features and the development of criteria and incentives for encouraging their preservation.