Orange County NC Website
239 <br /> County staff has reviewed and determined no significant environmental impact is expected <br /> from this project based on existing conditions. The applicant has identified environmental <br /> features into consideration in its design and construction commitments to minimize <br /> negative impacts. Environmentally sensitive features have been preserved in dedicated <br /> open space and or committed landscaping. The applicant provided an Environmental <br /> Assessment as part of the application package. <br /> The applicant requested utilities from the Town of Hillsborough and was denied their <br /> service. In turn, they developed the proposed zoning application and site plan to support <br /> the Conservation Cluster subdivision presented, which will be independent of any utility <br /> service using conventional septic systems and a community well, which will also provide <br /> adequate fire flows. The deliberate dialogue with the adjacent utility providers at the Town, <br /> including their participation in the review process, reflect the "careful consideration of the <br /> costs and benefits of expansion" required of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan's Planning <br /> Principle 1. <br /> c. The amendment is consistent with applicable plans because it supports the following: <br /> 2030 Comprehensive Plan <br /> ■ Planning Principle 1. Efficient and Fiscally Responsible Provision of Public Facilities <br /> and Services: Orange County's public facilities and services should be delivered in a <br /> manner that efficiently uses existing capacity. Expansions of facilities and services <br /> should be made only after careful consideration of the costs and benefits of <br /> expansion. <br /> ■ Planning Principle 2. Sustainable Growth and Development: Growth and development <br /> within the county should occur in a pattern, location, and density that is sustainable <br /> over the long-term. <br /> ■ Planning Principle 4. Natural Area Resource Protection: Protection of the County's <br /> natural areas, including forests, wildlife habitat, and other important open spaces <br /> should be a priority. The County should work with regional and local organizations, <br /> the towns, and private landowners to promote and achieve preservation of the <br /> County's important natural resources. <br /> ■ Planning Principle 5. Preservation of Rural Land Use Pattern: The County's rural <br /> areas are a cherished component of the County's character. Future development <br /> should preserve and enhance the county's rural landscape. <br /> ■ Planning Principle 6. Water Resources Preservation: The County has finite water <br /> resources to provide to future populations. The protection and management of the <br /> County's water resources should be a high priority. <br /> ■ Planning Principle 8. Preservation of Community Character: Future growth and <br /> development should occur in a manner that preserves and enhances the existing <br />