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4.1 LAND USE AND PLANNING POLICY <br /> The proposed plan is oriented to retain open space, riparian woodland and the existing lakes. A PD <br /> development plan allows parcel sizes less than the minimum required by existing zoning(40 acres) and <br /> a more flexible parcel layout. <br /> The project site consists of 870 acres. Under existing zoning, (AG-40), residential development is <br /> allowed and the property could be subdivided into 22 40-acre parcels. The applicant proposes to rezone <br /> the project site to Planned Development (PD). All Planned Districts may exceed the General Plan <br /> maximum density for dwelling units by 15 percent (Section 9-2324 b). This could increase the on-site <br /> density to 25 units. An additional 10 percent bonus may be granted by the Planning Commission <br /> provided one of the following criteria is met: <br /> 1) A publicly valuable item is provided,preserved or enhanced which would otherwise require the <br /> expenditure of public monies; <br /> 2) A public or quasi-public item is provided above and beyond normal expectations; <br /> 3) An amenity, convenience or excellence is provided above and beyond normal expectations. <br /> Given that the applicant proposes to dedicate part of the site as natural area, the additional 10 percent / <br /> bonus could apply. Therefore, at least 26 units could be permitted on-site and the proposed residential <br /> density is consistent with zoning requirements. <br /> Compatibility of On-Site Uses <br /> Impact <br /> 4.1-1 Placement of residential lots and golf course fairways undermine the integrity of the <br /> forest and degrade a unique biological feature. Additionally, human activities in <br /> close proximity to Tracy Lakes would compromise the worth of the lake as a <br /> wintering waterfowl habitat and nesting area. <br /> The most environmentally sensitive area of the site following development would be the riparian forest <br /> and Tracy Lakes. Lots 2,3, and 4 are very close to the forest but are separated from it by the access <br /> road. Lots 10, 11 and 12 are actually placed in the fringes of the forest. Project plans and aerial <br /> photographs show that long fairways have been cut through the woods destroying the continuity of the <br /> natural area. Human intrusion into this area, that would be designated a natural area, should be <br /> minimized. Lots fronting the lakes would bring intrusive human activity close to nesting waterfowl, <br /> degrading the habitat value of the lake. <br /> 4.1-12 <br />