Agenda - 06-01-2021; 7-a - Buckhorn Area Study

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4 Land Use Map (FLUM) included in the adopted Orange County 2030 Comprehensive Plan. As indicated, Area "A" is located within an area currently identified on the FLUM as Economic Development Transition future land use. Land in these areas have been specifically targeted for non-residential land uses including light industrial, distribution, office, service/retail uses, and flex space since 1981 with compatible zoning on the property since 1994. The study included Area A to show its strength in economic development viability due to its location north of and adjacent to the interstate. In addition, this study accented its viability with partial supporting infrastructure, wherein the existing investment could be leveraged. Attachment 4 also shows that Area "B" is located within an area currently identified on the FLUM as Rural Residential future land use. Land in these areas have been specifically targeted for low intensity and low-density residential development. Upon the direction of the BOCC, County Planning staff could initiate a process to implement non-residential development in Area "B" through proposed changes to the FLUM and Orange County Zoning, which would require additional process consisting of public outreach, a Planning Board recommendation, a formal Public Hearing, and adoption by the BOCC. However, such a process could be somewhat misleading in the event that future development in Area B requires public water and/or sewer utilities owned by the City of Mebane, which as a matter of policy will likely require a voluntary annexation petition for utility connection. In cases of annexation, the development proposal would be submitted to the municipality (City of Mebane) for processing consistent with its plan, ordinances and standards rather than Orange County's plan, ordinances and standards. For this reason, Planning staff is suggesting additional public engagement and coordination, as outlined herein, rather than amendments to the County's FLUM and Zoning. This focused public engagement and coordination on Area B could help inform the City of Mebane on any future changes it may consider to its Comprehensive Land Development Plan, which currently excludes the majority of Area B. ORANGE COUNTY RESPONSE TO CITY OF MEBANE: The City of Mebane may be anticipating comments from Orange County with regard to any feedback it may have on the Buckhorn Area Study (a.k.a. Draft Buckhorn Area Plan to the City of Mebane), next steps, or closure. Tonight's meeting may be the last opportunity the Board has to discuss a letter of response and offer staff direction prior to the Board's summer meeting break. FINANCIAL IMPACT: The portion of the Study covered by Orange County has previously been budgeted and paid during FY 2019-20. Existing staff resources can fulfill further research and implementation, including changes to County plans or agreements. Monies could be budgeted for a `deeper dive' into all related implementation aspects of Areas A and B. SOCIAL JUSTICE IMPACT: The following Orange County Social Justice Goals are applicable to this item: • GOAL: ESTABLISH SUSTAINABLE AND EQUITABLE LAND-USE AND ENVIRONMENTAL POLICIES The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of people of all races, cultures, incomes and educational levels with respect to the development and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, policies, and decisions. Fair treatment means that no group of people should bear a disproportionate share of the negative environmental consequences resulting from industrial, governmental and commercial operations or policies. • GOAL: ENABLE FULL CIVIC PARTICIPATION Ensure that Orange County residents are able to engage government through voting and volunteering by eliminating disparities in participation and barriers to participation.