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ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE PREPARED FOR ELBERT COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION PREPARED BY DESIGN WORKSHOP APRIL 1, 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- i I ---PAGE BREAK--- TABLE OF CONTENTS I. INTRODUCTION PURPOSE OF THE PLAN 1 LEGAL AUTHORITY OF THE 2 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN THE PLANNING PROCESS 3 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 4 I ii II. EXISTING CONDITIONS REGIONAL CONTEXT 7 GROWTH TRENDS 11 ECONOMIC CONDITIONS 21 ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS 31 COMMUNITY RESOURCES 35 ECONOMIC TRENDS 45 III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES VISION STATEMENT 53 GOALS & POLICIES 54 IV. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES 69 V. REFERENCE DOCUMENTS ELBERT COUNTY MASTER PLAN, HOUSING, MAY 2009 WEST ELBERT COUNTY TRANSPORTATION MASTER PLAN, SEPTEMBER 2008 2016 ELBERT COUNTY MULTI-HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE 2018 ELBERT COUNTY WATER SUPPLY STUDY 2018 ELBERT COUNTY ANNUAL FIRE OPERATING PLAN ELBERT COUNTY MASTER PLAN, NOVEMBER 2016 STAKEHOLDER/COMMUNITY MEETING RESULTS ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- I. INTRODUCTION ---PAGE BREAK--- PURPOSE OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A Comprehensive Plan is an extremely important document for a forward-thinking county such as Elbert County. A county that wants to “move ahead” must know where it is headed and what it wants to become. If private developers, public regulatory agencies and individual citizens are moving in different directions, it is unlikely that the county’s goals will ever be realized. The term Comprehensive Plan is synonymous with Master Plan and may be used interchangeably. The purpose this Comprehensive Plan is to bring the county together to identify broad-based development goals and devise a coordinated program of public and private actions necessary to achieve those goals. Once adopted, the Comprehensive Plan is intended to guide development by evaluating physical elements such as housing, transportation, open space, recreation, tourism, infrastructure and public facilities, along with socio-economic development, based on input from County residents. For each element, the County should use the Comprehensive Plan to assess its existing conditions and project future needs in order to determine the best strategy for implementation. The Comprehensive Plan is not a regulatory document. The purpose of the plan is to establish a vision for the County that describes the ideal future of the County. Regulatory documents - including codes, technical plans, mapping and other legislative tools – should be developed and maintained to support the Comprehensive Plan but are not couched in this Plan. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 1 I ---PAGE BREAK--- LEGAL AUTHORITY OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN A Comprehensive Plan is an official public document adopted by a County’s Planning Commission that outlines how the County should develop. In the State of Colorado, it is the duty of the County Planning Commission to make and adopt a “Master Plan” for the unincorporated territory of the County (Section 30-28- 106(1), Pursuant to Section 30-28-106(1), C.R.S., a County “Master Plan” shall be made with the general purpose of guiding and accomplishing a coordinated, adjusted and harmonious development of the County or region in accordance with present and future needs and resources. It will best promote the health, safety, values, order, convenience, prosperity or general welfare of the inhabitants, as well as efficiency and economy in the process of development, including distribution of population and uses of land for trade, industry, habitation, recreation, tourism, agriculture, economic development, forestry and other purposes. Also, it will tend to create conditions favorable to health, safety, energy conservation, transportation, prosperity, civic activities, recreation, education and cultural opportunities. It will tend to reduce the wastes of physical, financial or human resources which result from either excessive congestion or excessive scattering of population. This will facilitate efficient economic utilization and conservation of resources, both natural and man-made. Pursuant to Section 30-28-108, C.R.S., a Planning Commission may amend, extend or add to the plan or carry out any part of it into greater detail from time to time. Once adopted, the Plan should be used by public and private agencies as the basis for the formulation or amendment of local land use regulation, the coordination of public facility and infrastructure development, and the coordination of private development decisions with community development objectives. The adoption of the Comprehensive Plan leads to a review of the community’s land use regulations, including zoning regulations and maps, subdivision regulations, building codes and other public improvement programs. These regulations should be consistent with the goals and policies outlined in the Comprehensive Plan and should be considered as tools of implementation. I. INTRODUCTION I 2 ---PAGE BREAK--- THE PLANNING PROCESS The development of the Comprehensive Plan for Elbert County has been formulated as a result of numerous discussions between the County Commissioners, Planning Commission, County Planning Department, a Citizen Task Force, stakeholder focus groups, consultants and interested citizens to reassess the development policies of the County. The charge to these parties was to examine issues, goals and opportunities, and to develop a living Vision Statement for the County. From the Vision Statement, more detailed Goals, Policies and Implementation Strategies were identified to establish principles, by consensus, to guide future development in the County. As part of the planning process, two public meetings and one informational open house were held to inform the community of the process, assess the vision of participating residents for the future of the County, and gather feedback on Goals and Policies to achieve that vision. Over time, Elbert County’s needs will change as it develops. As a result, a Comprehensive Plan should be flexible enough to accommodate changes in public attitude, technology, new approaches to land use planning, economics and legislative policy. As these changes occur, updates to the existing Plan are necessary in order to accurately reflect the needs of the County. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 3 I ---PAGE BREAK--- ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The following groups and individuals played key roles in outreach, input and leadership in the development of the Comprehensive Plan. Elbert County Commissioners Chris Richardson – District 1 Danny Willcox – District 2 Grant Thayer – District 3 Elbert County Planning Commission District 1 Brian Harris Justin Klassen Robert Lewis Daniel Michalak District 2 Daniel Rosales (Chairperson) Ronald Turner (Vice-Chair) Paula Wilderman District 3 James Keen Kipp Parker Linda Krausert Citizen Task Force Elaine Cain Stephanie Denne John Dorman Gregory Hinds Chris Richardson Shelly Rodie Soquel Ross John Spracklen Wendy Walp (Chairperson) Christine Ware Paula Wilderman Scott Wills Elbert County Staff Samuel Albrecht, County Manager Tracy Aaron, Community & Development Services Kyle Fenner, Community & Development Services Director (former) Stakeholder Focus Groups Samuel Albrecht Lee Benjamin Kali Benson Douglas Bissonette David Brills Clay Brown Gabrielle Cheatham Timothy Craft Grace Erickson Jeffery Franken Rory Hale Gregory Hinds John Meade Julia Plevnia, DDS John Prestwich Hank Smith Ward Van Mike Waid Scott Wills Michael Devol Rachel White Megan Vasquez Photo Credits Kyle Fenner Ron Turner Consultant Team Design Workshop Kurt Culbertson Chris Geddes Kristofer Johnson Carly Klein Brianna Woolliscroft Becky Zimmerman Felsburg Holt & Ullevig Kelly Leadbetter Elliot Sulsky Wilson & Company Jim Godwin Steven Voehringer Pero Designs Nino Pero I. INTRODUCTION I 4 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- CHAPTER HEADER II. EXISTING CONDITIONS ---PAGE BREAK--- Elbert County, Colorado possesses a quintessential Western landscape with long-distance views of the Front Range and working agricultural lands. This area marks the end of the Front Range and the beginning of high plains grasslands. The western portion of the County is characterized by rolling hills with large stands of ponderosa pine woodlands and outcropping rock formations. Toward the east, the land flattens and transitions to farmlands and grasslands. The County is located in eastern Colorado, approximately 41 miles southeast of Denver and 91 miles west of the Kansas-Colorado border. However, the County is bordered by the fast-growing Front Range Counties of Arapahoe to the north, Douglas to the west and El Paso to the south. The major towns and community growth in the western portion of the County are roughly a 25-minute drive from nearby Castle Rock and less than an hour commute to the Denver, Aurora, and Colorado Springs areas. REGIONAL CONTEXT ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 7 I ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-1 I Regional Context I 8 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Growth Trends ---PAGE BREAK--- HISTORY Elbert County was established in 1874 from eastern portions of Douglas County and the dissolved Greenwood County. Its original extent included land reaching eastward to the Kansas state line. In 1889, Elbert County was reduced to its current size. Within 1,851 square miles resides a county rich in history that signifies the American West. Native Americans have inhabited Elbert County and the surrounding plains going back at least 1,200 years. The Apache entered the area in the beginning of the 1500s and dominated the high plains until the region saw the arrival of the Arapaho and Cheyenne around 1800. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 11 I The Pike’s Peak Gold Rush brought “Fifty-Niners” west to mine gold in Colorado and with this brought white settlers to the areas historically inhabited by Native Americans. Most settlement in the County began as saw mill camps along the banks of streams. As these prairie camps became more established, economic activity grew to include logging, farming, cattle ranching and dairy farming. To this day, the County remains rooted in its Western heritage evidenced by a primarily agricultural economy, long-distance views, open lands and rural character of the communities. ---PAGE BREAK--- Elbert County’s proximity and access to the Denver, Aurora, and Colorado Springs metropolitan areas have brought increasing growth, particularly to the western portions of the County. In 2016 alone, the state of Colorado added 101,000 people to its population and more than 80% of these newcomers settled along the Front Range. The surge of people in this concentrated zone makes areas like Elbert County, with low cost of living and access to economic centers, very attractive. As a result, population growth has manifested in the development of numerous rural subdivisions. Colorado’s population was estimated at 5.456 million as of July 2015, an increase of 1.9% from the previous year. This percentage increase ranked 2nd in the U.S. behind North Dakota, while total population change ranked 7th in the country. While this level of growth was very common for Colorado in the 1990’s, 2015 marked the first time since 2001 that the state had grown by over100,000. This growth didn’t take place evenly across the state, however. The Front Range saw 96% of Colorado’s population growth between 2010 and 2015, with 68% of the total in the Denver Metro Area. Elsewhere in the state, 23 counties recorded population loss during the same period. Twenty- nine counties experienced net out-migration, and 15 counties had natural decline. Figure II-2 shows which counties saw the largest population changes, both increases and decreases. (Source: State Demographers Office) POPULATION TRENDS II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-2 I Colorado Total Population Change, 2010 - 2015 (Colorado State Demography Office) I 12 ---PAGE BREAK--- Forecast population by the State Demographer indicates that the largest population growth by county will continue to be along the Front Range. Between 2015 and 2050, the state is forecast to increase by nearly 3,200,000 people. Seventy-nine percent (79%) of that growth, or 2,500,000, is forecast for the Front Range and, of that, 1,265,000 is forecast for the Denver Metro Area. Elbert County is forecast to increase by over 40,000 people by 2050. The 2015 estimated population in the County totaled 24,694, marking a 6.9 percent total increase from 2010. By 2020, the population is projected to increase to 32,968. Annually, Elbert County is experiencing a 1.5% annual rate of population growth, which is greater than the statewide annual rate of population growth of 1.3%. State demographers predict Elbert County will be one of the fastest growing counties over the next five years and experience higher annual rates of population change, growing from a population of 24,694 in 2015 to 48,026 by 2030. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-3 I Projected Statewide Population Change, 2015 - 2050 (Colorado State Demography Office) Figure II-4 I Projected Elbert County Population Change, 2015 - 2040 (Colorado State Demography Office) 13 I County 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 Change in Growth 2015-2040 Annual Avg. Growth 2015-2020 Annual Avg. Growth 2020-2025 Annual Avg. Growth 2025-2030 Arapahoe 630,564 693,797 757,130 820,662 884,964 948,339 317,775 1.9% 1.8% 1.6% El Paso 677,022 732,993 791,904 851,955 911,290 970,825 293,803 1.6% 1.6% 1.5% Adams 490,829 548,267 604,088 661,937 720,377 777,948 287,119 2.2% 2.0% 1.8% Douglas 322,017 353,698 387,352 420,641 449,766 475,185 153,168 1.9% 1.8% 1.7% Denver 683,096 737,391 762,972 781,470 797,782 812,052 128,956 1.5% 0.7% 0.5% Jefferson 565,230 596,329 625,899 652,540 674,139 685,641 120,411 1.1% 1.0% 0.8% Boulder 319,177 339,449 361,029 380,385 399,164 416,553 97,376 1.2% 1.2% 1.0% Elbert 24,694 32,968 41,349 48,026 53,654 58,856 34,162 5.9% 4.6% 3.0% Broomfield 64,788 75,250 85,013 94,494 96,577 97,835 33,047 3.0% 2.5% 2.1% ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS I 14 The majority of Elbert County is rural in nature, consisting of large tracts of farming and ranching lands. While agriculture and grazing were historically the backbone of the local landscape and economy, changes in long-standing development patterns began with the first subdivisions appearing in the 1970s. Large land parcels, particularly in the northwest corner of the County, have been converted into smaller acreage subdivisions as growth from the Denver Metro area spreads. Suburban development will likely continue to move south and east of Denver toward the western portions of Elbert County. The subdivision of lands on this side of the County will reduce the number parcels of land under a single ownership. Figure II-6 shows the extent of developed areas within the County in 2015. The majority of the County’s residents live in rural subdivisions in areas surrounding the communities of Elizabeth, Kiowa and Simla. Smaller historic communities include Agate, Elbert, Fondis, Matheson and Ponderosa Park. The town of Kiowa is the County seat. The western portion’s proximity to Denver and Colorado Springs, lower cost of living and high quality of life has supported increased population growth, while the eastern portion of the county has retained much of its working agricultural lands and slower population growth rates. DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS ---PAGE BREAK--- PREVIOUS PLANNING EFFORTS ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-5 I Existing Development Map - 2015 15 I The Elbert County Housing Plan, completed in 2009, was developed as a guide to be used by the County to evaluate residential land use proposals. This Plan is intended to balance the demands of growth with citizens’ desire to preserve the rural character and environmental quality of the County. The goal of the Housing Plan is “to provide a variety of housing options that are compatible with the rural environment, and that comply with the Elbert County Master Plan (1996) and the Elbert County Site Design Standards for Residential Development.” ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS I 16 GROWTH TRENDS Growth trends will undoubtedly affect where priorities for future land use planning should be placed as the County continues to grow and develop. It is expected that the majority of the western portion of the County will continue to experience further subdivision of lands as population growth continues to shift more people from the Denver Metro into outlying areas where more land is available and costs are relatively affordable. While clustered development is encouraged in the County, typical land subdivision results in large- lot subdivisions between 10 and 35 acres in size. Densities of subdivisions are limited by the type of water and sanitary sewer systems allowed by regulation, the amount of open lands and amenities provided, and the type of development proposed. The three towns within the County have the potential to support further development as these areas provide minimum public services and basic supply requirements for residents and business owners and are located along major transportation corridors. Figure II-6 highlights areas of Elbert County projected to experience the greatest degree of population growth and development, energy development or increased interest in recreation opportunities. Figure II-6 I Projected Growth Pressures ---PAGE BREAK--- HAZARD MITIGATION AND FUTURE CONDITIONS ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 17 I As Elbert County continues to experience growth in the face of potentially uncertain climate conditions, it will become increasingly important to reduce risk through integrated hazard mitigation, land use planning and decision making. Elbert County has presently updated the Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan in 2016. The purpose of hazard mitigation planning is to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural hazards. Elbert County and participating jurisdictions developed this Multi- Hazard Mitigation Plan update to prepare strategies to reduce future losses to the County and its communities resulting from natural hazards. The 2016 Elbert County Multi- Hazard Mitigation Plan update was prepared pursuant to the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 to achieve eligibility for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) hazard mitigation grant programs. ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS I 18 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Economic Conditions ---PAGE BREAK--- Households in Elbert County have a higher median household income than most other counties along the Front Range, with the exception being adjacent Douglas County. Statewide median household income ranges between $43,000 and $73,000 according to 2015 data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau. In Elbert County, the median income increases to $83,205. Income levels across the County are not evenly distributed, however. The median household income is greatest in the western portion of the County, with income levels ranging between $76,000 to $106,000. East of Kiowa, the median household income ranges between $46,000 to $71,000. HOUSING & HOUSEHOLD INCOME ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 21 I ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-7 I Housing Profile (ESRI) I 22 ---PAGE BREAK--- EMPLOYMENT AND COMMUTING As population has been increasing employment opportunities have not kept pace. The vast majority of working residents in Elbert County must leave the County for employment opportunities, goods and services. As of 2013, about 89% of the County’s resident workforce worked outside of the County. Illustrated in Figure II-9 are the three major components---Wage and Salary Employment, Nonfarm Proprietors’ Employment and Farm Proprietors’ Employment as a percent of total employment. The share of Elbert County’s employment reported as Nonfarm Proprietors’ Employment (39.9%) is 12.8% above the share nationally The share of Elbert County’s employment reported as Farm Proprietors’ Employment (13.8%) is well above the share nationally In combination, Nonfarm Proprietors’ Employment and Farm Proprietors’ Employment amounted to 53.7% (39.9% + 13.8%) of Elbert County’s employment in 2015. Wage and Salary Employment made up the balance (46.4%) of employment, which amounted to a substantially smaller share than the corresponding 77.6% for Wage and Salary Employment nationwide. Nationwide in 2015, there were just over one (1.10) Nonfarm self-employed jobs for every four Wage and Salary jobs. For Elbert County, there are just under one (0.86) Nonfarm self-employed jobs for every one Wage and Salary jobs. (Source: Regional Economic Analysis Project) ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-8 I Estimated Commuting Patterns (Colorado State Demography Office) Figure II-9 I Employment Composition (Regional Economic Analysis Project) 23 I ---PAGE BREAK--- ECONOMY Elbert, Colorado United States Unemployment Rate 3.20% 5.20% Recent Job Growth 2.88% 1.59% Future Job Growth 42.56% 37.98% Sales Taxes 3.90% 6.00% Income Taxes 4.63% 4.60% Income per Capita $36,421 $28,555 Household Income $82,154 $53,482 Family Median Income $91,010 $65,443 Sperling’s Best Places reports that the unemployment rate in Elbert County is 3.20%, 2% lower than that of the United States as a whole. Job growth in the County is also expected to outpace national averages, 2.88% compared to 1.59% respectively. Future job growth in the County over the next ten years is predicted to be 42.56%, and income per capita (which includes all adults and children) is anticipated to be $36,421, or almost $8,000 more than the national average. POPULATION BY OCCUPATION Management, Business, Finance 16.06% 14.54% Engineering, Computers, Science 7.97% 5.34% Community, Social Services 1.97% 1.67% Legal 0.81% 1.16% Education, Library 6.37% 6.13% Arts, Design, Media, Sports, Entertainment 2.08% 1.91% Healthcare Practitioners and Technology 5.01% 5.67% Healthcare Support 2.81% 2.51% Firefighters, Law Enforcement 2.48% 2.23% Food Preparation, Serving 6.24% 5.76% Building Maintenance 3.43% 4.01% Personal Care 3.68% 3.65% Sales, Office, Administrative Support 24.07% 24.36% Farming, Fishing, Forestry 0.16% 0.73% Construction, Extraction, Maintenance/repair 8.31% 8.24% Production, Transportation, Material Moving 8.58% 12.09% II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-10 I Source: http://www.bestplaces.net/economy/county/colorado/elbert I 24 ---PAGE BREAK--- Economic conditions in Elbert County reflect those of many rural Colorado counties. There are few manufacturing or industrial enterprises and the vast majority of businesses that do exist are owned and operated by local residents. The scope of businesses is limited, providing basic needs such as grocery stores, restaurants, banks, limited medical and dental facilities, limited retail clothing stores, convenience stores, and farm and ranching supplies. As a result, Elbert County has an annual potential retail leakage on goods and services of over $328M to businesses outside of the County. COMMERCIAL SURPLUS & LEAKAGE ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-11 I Retail Surplus and Leakage Patterns (ESRI) 25 I ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-12 I Retail Surplus and Leakage Patterns (ESRI) I 26 ---PAGE BREAK--- The following are budget elements that may be impacted by future land use decisions. While assessed valuation increased by $51,706,130 from 2017 to 2018, nearly 75% of that value increase was from residential land uses, representing an increase of property tax revenue in the amount of $1,439,389 for all funds. See the following web link for more information: http://www.elbertcounty-co.gov/4%20-%20 Budget%20&%20Financial/11-6-17%20-%20 2018%20Budget%20-%20Version%20III%20-%20 Dated%2010-30-17.pdf Elbert County Budget ELBERT COUNTY FINANCIALS 2016 2017 2017 2018 169,079,120 201,659,570 201,659,570 240,049,610 22,728,990 25,528,980 25,528,980 27,530,880 19,197,320 19,770,150 19,770,150 21,656,800 15,349,960 13,739,540 13,739,540 20,764,280 State Assessed 30,326,900 39,364,300 39,364,300 42,347,100 5,966,580 4,168,350 4,168,350 3,588,380 262,648,870 304,230,890 304,230,890 355,937,050 16.314 16.314 16.314 16.314 9.500 9.500 9.500 9.500 1.500 1.500 1.500 1.500 0.703 0.703 0.703 0.703 0.192 0.048 0.048 0.015 28.209 28.065 28.065 28.032 4,284,854 4,963,223 4,963,223 5,806,757 2,495,164 2,890,193 2,890,193 3,381,402 393,973 456,346 456,346 533,906 184,642 213,874 213,874 250,224 50,429 14,603 14,603 5,339 7,409,062 8,538,239 8,538,239 9,977,628 7,409,062 $ 8,538,239 $ 8,538,239 $ 9,977,628 $ ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-13 I 2018 County Budget 27 I ---PAGE BREAK--- 2017 2017 2018 2,449,187 $ 919,486 $ 1,559,857 $ 2,031,449 $ 1,113,348 1,020,000 1,369,997 1,400,000 1,227,125 1,080,000 1,157,612 1,160,000 2,340,473 2,100,000 2,527,609 2,560,000 2,340,473 2,100,000 2,527,609 2,560,000 4,789,660 3,019,486 4,087,466 4,591,449 70,447 65,000 75,680 76,500 Roads 2,748,356 1,925,000 1,037,134 1,320,000 46,000 338,500 943,203 1,457,000 2,864,803 2,328,500 2,056,017 2,853,500 365,000 325,000 450,000 365,000 325,000 450,000 3,229,803 2,653,500 2,056,017 3,303,500 1,559,857 $ 365,986 $ 2,031,449 $ 1,287,949 $ 2016 2017 2017 2018 1,657,848 $ 1,879,092 $ 2,270,496 $ 2,606,263 $ 2,980,905 3,030,193 3,035,157 3,539,502 2,972,721 3,426,706 3,349,197 2,800,000 167,527 109,000 194,788 205,000 6,711 1,000 2,869 2,500 12,571 9,661 10,000 17,378 26,929 30,000 11,512 4,070 6,169,324 6,566,899 6,622,671 6,587,002 21,167 21,167 325,000 325,000 450,000 325,000 325,000 450,000 6,494,324 6,913,066 6,622,671 7,037,002 8,152,173 8,792,158 8,893,167 9,643,265 164,688 266,414 263,740 309,153 4,863,836 5,518,239 5,120,317 5,725,726 853,153 1,060,100 902,847 987,497 5,881,677 6,844,753 6,286,905 7,022,376 5,881,677 6,844,753 6,286,905 7,022,376 2,270,496 $ 1,947,405 $ 2,606,263 $ 2,620,888 $ 1,000,000 2,270,496 $ 1,947,405 $ 2,606,263 $ 1,620,888 $ II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-14 I Road and Bridge Fund Summary Figure II-15 I Sales and Use Tax Fund Summary I 28 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Environmental Conditions ---PAGE BREAK--- HYDROLOGY & FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT Elbert County receives around 12 to 18 inches of precipitation each year combined in both rain and snowfall. This is average for the State of Colorado, which gets around 16 inches of precipitation a year. Eighty percent of the State’s population lives on the Eastern Slope. It is also noted that 80% of the State’s water is used for agriculture. On average, 10,434,000 acre/feet of water (one acre-foot is equal to 325,851 gallons of water) leaves the State each year. Streams in Elbert County flow into the South Platte and Arkansas Rivers. The major drainage routes flowing into the South Platte River include the north-oriented streams Running Creek, Kiowa Creek, Bijou Creek, West Bijou Creek, Middle Bijou Creek and East Bijou Creek. Big Sandy Creek and Horse Creek trend more easterly and flow into the Arkansas River. These waterways are prone to flash flooding and have a history of significant flood events, most recently occurring in 1997 and 1999. Waterways in the County contain over 110 flood control dams, although none are categorized as “high-risk.” The 100-year floodplains of these waterways are key areas for open lands since they handle runoff and floodwaters, contain wetland and riparian zones, and provide important corridors for wildlife migration and habitat. The floodplain management programs of Elbert County, the Town of Kiowa, and those recently adopted in the Town of Elizabeth, if properly enforced, should minimize the risk of flooding to future development. Underground aquifers are the sole water source throughout Elbert County. The designated groundwater basins of the Denver Basin Aquifer System contained within the county include Kiowa Bijou and Upper Big Sandy. The amount of water the County draws from the Denver Basin is about 4% of the annual water that the basin supplies. The surrounding counties in the Metro Area are drawing water from the remaining 96%. The natural vegetation occurring within Elbert County consists mainly of high plains drought resistant grasses such as blue grama buffalo grass, wheatgrass and fescue, with large stands of ponderosa pine forest lands in the western portion of the County. Cottonwoods and willows line the riparian corridors, which provide important habitat for wildlife species including black bear, mule deer, pronghorn, white-tailed deer and elk. In the winter, riparian corridors also support the winter range of bald eagles, elk and wild turkey. The diversity of wildlife species found in the County includes Abert’s Squirrel, Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse, swift fox, massasauga, mountain lion, burrowing owl and black-tailed prairie dogs. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 31 I WILDLIFE HABITAT ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-16 I Hydrology I 32 SCENIC RESOURCES High elevations and ridgelines in Elbert County offer views to the scenic Front Range and iconic peaks such as Pikes Peak, Rampart Range, Mount Evans and Longs Peak. On a clear day, these mountain views are particularly visible from areas in the western portion of the County and Ridge Road, which runs north-south near the center of the County. The mountain backdrop is enhanced by ponderosa pine forests and the overall rural visual character in the foreground. Areas in the county where scenic resources stand out include Ridge Road, Peaceful Valley, Elbert Road, and the forested areas along State Highway 86. ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Community Resources ---PAGE BREAK--- SCHOOLS There are ten school districts that serve Elbert County residents and thirteen public schools within the county. With the exception of schools in the Elizabeth School District, which have shown steady if decreasing enrollments over the past 5 years, most schools have seen a 5-year trend of student population loss ranging from 12% to 35%. FIRE PROTECTION There are ten fire protection districts that cover portions of Elbert County, including Rattlesnake Fire Protection District, Elizabeth Fire Protection District, Elbert Fire Protection District, Kiowa Fire District, Calhan Fire Protection District, North Central Fire Protection District, Deer Trail Rural Fire Protection District, Agate Fire Protection District, Big Sandy Fire Protection District, and Limon Area Fire Protection District. These fire districts serve the majority of the populated areas of Elbert County. Given the largely-rural nature of the County, wildfires are an on-going threat to the County’s range and crop lands, air quality and economic stability. Strong fire protection and mitigation in the face of these threats may help mitigate the consequences of wildfire. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 35 I LAW ENFORCEMENT The Elbert County Sheriff’s Department serves approximately 1,851 square miles and a 2015 population of 24,694 citizens. The headquarters and detention facilities for the Sheriff’s Office are in the Justice Center in Kiowa. Elizabeth, Kiowa and Simla have their own police departments who work closely with the County Sheriff’s Department. ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-17 I Fire District Map I 36 ---PAGE BREAK--- TRANSPORTATION The Elbert County transportation system evolved to serve rural and regional roadway needs based on typical low-density rural development and long distances between population centers. Increased growth and development in the County is changing the demands upon the County’s aging transportation system. Elbert County’s transportation system endeavors to provide for the safe, efficient, and convenient mobility of the current and growing population. A transportation network functions best when it accommodates a wide range of users with diverse needs: those with agriculture and ranching equipment, and those without access to automobiles such as the aging population. PREVIOUS PLANNING EFFORTS The West Elbert County Transportation Master Plan, completed in 2008, recommends policy, funding, roadway development, and multimodal strategies for West Elbert County through 2030. The 2008 Transportation Master Plan focused only on the western portion of the County because of the rapid development experienced along Elbert County’s northwestern border. The issues and limitations facing the western half of the County are much different from those of the eastern half. The Plan identified 138 miles of additional roads to be paved. WATER & SEWER All of the Elbert County water supply comes from wells that are drilled into four of the aquifers that are below the surface. These acquifers are descrbed in the 2018 Elbert County Water Supply Study. Aquifers are areas that can hold water in the different layers of sand and void spaces between the rocks hundreds and thousands of feet below the earth’s surface. Large and small wells are drilled into these areas and the water is pumped to the surface for its use. These aquifers, the Dawson, Denver, Arapahoe and the Laramie-Fox Hills, are part of the Denver Basin that provides domestic water to most of the Denver Metro area and the surrounding Counties. Elbert County has 26 special metropolitan districts in addition to the four small towns that provide water and sewer for domestic and irrigation use. Special Districts are responsible for the pumping of raw water from the underground aquifers, treating the water to meet the EPA requirements, and distributing the water to the properties connected to the water mains. The Special Districts are also responsible for the collection of wastewater from properties connected to the sanitary sewer system and its treatment before it is discharged back into the ground. The age of these Districts varies from 10 to 25 years old. There are approximately 2,800 residences on water and sewer from the Special Districts, and 370 residences that have water service while the sanitary sewer is on septic systems. Elizabeth, Kiowa, Simla, and Elbert serve about 1,300 properties with both water and sewer, and have room for future expansion. The remaining Elbert County properties are on well and septic systems for water and sewer. These systems draw the water directly from the ground, with little to no chlorination or treatment of the water, and then allow the wastewater to seep back into the ground with very limited treatment through residential septic systems. Residential exempt wells are generally for lots that are 10 acres or more and are limited to a 15 gallons-per-minute pumping rate. Most commercial and irrigation exempt wells are larger and can pump up to 108,600 gallons of water per year. Non-exempt wells for large farms and utility systems are regulated by the State Engineer and monitored annually. There are 9,400 active water wells in Elbert County. Seventy-one percent of these wells serve residential properties and the remaining wells are for irrigation and farming. Elbert County has approximately 1,400 farms that average around 780 acres in size and produce Crop Sales and Livestock Sales ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 37 I ---PAGE BREAK--- EXISTING ROADWAY NETWORK Elbert County’s roadway network comprises approximately 1,260 miles of road and the following types of roadway facilities: freeways, principal arterials, minor arterials, collectors, and local roads. Figure II-19 shows the County’s roadway network. The transportation system includes approximately 30 miles of freeway (I-70), approximately 75 miles of principal arterials (including US 24 and SH 86), approximately 350 miles of minor arterials and collectors, and more than 800 miles of local roads. Each roadway type is designed to operate with certain characteristics based on the adjacent land uses and connectivity to other roads. The road’s functional classification (Figure II-18) describes these characteristics, although all roadways and roadway segments may not meet all the characteristics described by their defined functions. Characteristics Freeway Principal Arterials Minor Arterials Collectors Local Functional Priority Mobility is primary; limited access Mobility is primary; access is secondary Balanced mobility and access Access is primary; mobility is secondary Access is primary; limited mobility Continuity Continuous regional connections Interconnected and continuous regional connections Interconnected and continuous between communities Interconnected and continuous between communities Limited continuity and connections Trip Between states and major cities Between counties and communities Between and within communities Between and within neighborhoods Within neighborhoods PAVEMENT There are 276 miles of paved road in the County, 168 miles of which are County maintained and 108 miles of state and federal highway. Figure II-20 shows the paved and unpaved roads in the County. BRIDGES Elbert County’s transportation system includes 34 bridges over 20’ in length, a significant number of which are aging and need repair. Many of these bridges are located on the state highway system. II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-18 I Roadway Characteristics I 38 ---PAGE BREAK--- ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-19 I Road Network and Average Daily Traffic Counts 39 I ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS Figure II-20 I Roadway Network Paving Type I 40 ---PAGE BREAK--- ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-21 I Bridges 41 I ---PAGE BREAK--- TRANSIT The County’s sparse population and large geographic area make it challenging and infeasible to support scheduled transit service. However, the Outback Express, a division of the East Central Council of Local Governments (ECCOG), provides a coordinated public transit system serving Elbert County, as well as Cheyenne, Kit Carson, and Lincoln counties, with the mission to assist individuals in maintaining their independence, health, and quality of life in their own homes for as long as possible. While their service primarily supports older individuals and persons with disabilities, anyone who needs transportation is eligible for service. BUDGET The West Elbert County Transportation Master Plan (2008) determined that maintenance and infrastruc ture improvements are not currently keeping pace with the County’s increasing traffic demands. 11. EXISTING CONDITIONS I 42 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- Economic Trends ---PAGE BREAK--- RURAL COMMUNITIES Elbert County’s economic base was historically rooted in cattle ranching and farming. Soils containing characteristics of prime farmland and farmland of state and local significance are found throughout the County, most notably in proximity to stream corridors and in the County’s southeastern corner. The 2015 survey conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture indicates the County contains an inventory of ~37,000 head of cattle, ~41,000 acres of planted winter wheat and ~2,900 acres of planted corn. These numbers indicate Elbert County raises approximately 1.5% of the State of Colorado’s cattle and 2% of the State’s winter wheat. Working agricultural lands in the County represent a significant source of revenue. The production of winter wheat alone generated $6,750,650. Elbert County also has a long equestrian history. The County is ranked seventh statewide in total number of horse farms. A recent study showed the equine industry in Elbert and neighboring Douglas County contributed an estimated $100-135 million in total economic impact. Linking residents to the diverse outdoor recreation opportunities from the peaks to the plains through trail development has become a priority to continue to support Colorado’s outdoor lifestyle and Elbert County’s equine activities. Elbert County is included in the nearly one-third of Colorado counties that are either economically dependent on the cattle industry or have the cattle industry serve an important role in their economies. In comparison to statewide cattle inventories, Elbert County’s contribution falls just short of ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 45 I ---PAGE BREAK--- the top 10 counties in Colorado. Additionally, the equine industry is a significant revenue generator. Components of this industry include equine associations, horse shows and activities, 4-H Clubs and therapeutic riding programs. All these components contribute to a vibrant equine economy in the County through fees and labor. While it is difficult to calculate the direct contribution, a 2007 Census of Agriculture indicates the County had equine sales totaling $1.31 million, ranking Elbert County seventh overall in Colorado. II. EXISTING CONDITIONS I 46 EXTRACTIVE & RENEWABLE ENERGIES Oil and gas development in Elbert County grew in the 1960s and 70s, then idled until about 2010 when drilling activity began to rapidly increase in nearby Weld County. In 2017, 75 producing oil and gas wells were located in the county. Renewable energy investments in wind and solar, among other renewable energy resources, are a growing potential in the County. Wind energy made up 13% of the total electricity generated in Colorado in 2014, accounting for the largest percent of renewable energy generation in Colorado. Innovations in technology and reductions in manufacturing costs have positioned both wind and solar resources to be one of the most prolific and cost competitive renewable resources in the market. Wind energy potential on the eastern portion of the county ranges from fair to good, and turbines have begun to emerge in the Cedar Point Wind Site, with additional turbines located just over the County line in the Limon Wind Site. The Rush Creek project establishes the largest wind farm within the state. When completed it will include 300-400 turbines with a maximum height of 440 feet to the tip of the blade and 90 miles of transmission lines. Solar energy potential is also high. In most locations across the County, 100,000 square feet of solar panel surface area could generate over 530 watt-hours per square foot, per day - or enough energy to meet the needs of over 1,300 homes. This addition to the statewide electricity portfolio provides substantial benefits for the County, including economic development and job growth. It also brings, however, impacts to wildlife communities and the visual landscape. Elbert County is located along the oil and gas rich Niobrara shale formation, which runs from southeast Wyoming down the Front Range and into Elbert County and parts of Kansas and Nebraska. Elbert County began exploring oil and gas drilling in their jurisdiction around 2011. According to initial estimates, the Niobrara formation in Colorado could yield as much as $250 billion in oil and gas. While the County has not experienced the level of oil and gas activity seen in other parts of Colorado, interest in the economic potential of drilling continues. ---PAGE BREAK--- ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Figure II-22 I Agricultural Energy Conditions 47 I ---PAGE BREAK--- TOURISM AGRITOURISM Agritourism may be defined as activities, events and services related to agriculture that take place on or off the farm or ranch, and connect consumers with the heritage, natural resources or culinary experiences they value. There are three general classifications of agritourism activities: on-farm/ ranch, food-based, and heritage activities. Farmers and ranchers provide these recreational and educational activities which evoke our western American heritage. These leisure activities are attractive to consumers and provide extra income to the agricultural community. In 2006, more than 13 million visitors experienced agritourism in Colorado and the economic impact was $2.2 billion. This included visits to farms, shopping at farmer’s markets, winery tours, etc. The last USDA Agriculture Census (2012) indicated that 864 Colorado farms offered agritourism and recreation services, totaling nearly $30 million in farm income. (Source: colorado.gov) ELIZABETH STAMPEDE With a long history going back to the early 1900’s, the Elizabeth Stampede is an award-winning rodeo event for amateurs and professionals. Besides the exciting rodeo competitions, there are concerts, local vendors, and activities for all ages. This annual extravaganza brings thousands of people to Elbert County every year from across the county and around the world to experience the parade, pay tribute to veterans, and enjoy the barrel racing, mutton busting, bull riding and star-studded concerts. COUNTY FAIR The County Fair and Rodeo, operated in the fall, allows the county to exhibit the agricultural aspect of Elbert County. The fair has been operating for over 80 years. This event is family oriented and draws people from the entire region. II. EXISTING CONDITIONS I 48 ---PAGE BREAK--- PEACEFUL VALLEY SCOUT RANCH Located close to unincorporated Elbert, Peaceful Valley Scout Ranch is one of the gems of the Boy Scouts of America Denver Area Council. With over 3,300 acres of land, the ability for adventures at Peaceful Valley Scout Ranch is endless for Scouts of all ages. This regional camp includes a swimming pool, two lakes, Olympic shotgun shooting range (along with world-class rifle and archery ranges), one of Colorado’s premier mountain biking courses, natural rock climbing areas, trading post, dining hall, two themed outpost camps and much more. In addition to the thousands of camping nights logged by youth from across the Denver metro area and states across the country, Peaceful Valley Scout Ranch can also accommodate corporate retreats and weddings. SHOOTING SPORTS Elbert County has a wide spectrum of shooting sports available. Shooting ranges are within easy driving distances of the major population centers. These ranges provide the opportunity to shoot sporting clays, pistol targets, and rifle targets. The rifle ranges have multiple distance availability which includes long range targets. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 49 I CURRENT TOURIST ATTRACTIONS ---PAGE BREAK--- II. EXISTING CONDITIONS I 50 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES ---PAGE BREAK--- VISION STATEMENT The vision, goals and policies of Elbert County are derived from the concerns of County residents. These vision, goals and policies directly reflect those issues deemed most important by local citizens and officials for this Comprehensive Plan. The section provides an overall framework from which more detailed goals and policies are derived. This framework is established by the County’s Vision Statement, which sets the tone for future development. The Vision Statement describes the ideal future of the County, and includes the values that are important to County residents and statements about quality of life and character. The Elbert County Vision Statement is as follows: Elbert County, being rich in heritage, has a vision where property rights are respected and agriculture, commerce, industry and residential growth are encouraged, thereby creating a path to economic prosperity. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 53 I ---PAGE BREAK--- GOALS & POLICIES Based on the overall values of Elbert County outlined in the Vision Statement, specific goals and policies were developed. These goals and policies are divided into five topic areas that provide a framework for the Plan, and include the following: • Land Use • Community Resources • Natural Resources • Economic Development • Recreation & Tourism GOALS The goals are written to describe the ways in which the County strives to achieve the Vision Statement. Goals are not prescriptive; instead, they provide a roadmap for decision making. POLICIES Policies are more deliberate statements about what the County should do in order to achieve the stated goals. Policies are meant to encourage desirable development and dissuade actions or activities that may negatively impact public health and safety. The goals and policies were developed through a series of public meetings, a review of the goals and policies from the 1996 Master Plan, and workshops with the Planning Commission, Planning Department, Citizen Task Force, stakeholder focus groups and concerned citizens of Elbert County. III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES I 54 ---PAGE BREAK--- LAND USE GOALS POLICIES Elbert County supports residential development by: encouraging a range of lot sizes and residential densities associated with available roads and infrastructure; and by encouraging the designation of open space and the preservation of areas of visual, historic and natural consequence. RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (RD) New residential development should cover all costs of on- and off-site roads and utilities required to meet the associated demands of that development. To preserve open space and preserve the rural character of Elbert County, clustered residential development patterns are encouraged on lands within one-mile of paved roads and existing utility corridors where they exist and within the three-mile service and/or influence areas of County towns. The County should consider incentives that encourage new residential development to provide a diverse range of housing options. Residential developments may negotiate with referral agencies to mitigate development impacts or strains on public facilities, including land for school sites, parks and open space, and other public uses. Where appropriate the County may allow cash in-lieu of land to meet these requirements. The County should require that public land dedications include adequate access, water and sewer service, and other utilities to serve the intended use. RD1 RD2 RD3 RD4 RD5 Elbert County supports growth of commercial uses to provide residents with goods, services and employment. COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT (CD) The County should create economic development overlay zoning to identify potential centers of commercial activity and services. Commercial development should be encouraged where arterial road access, water and sewer service, and suitable topography exist or are included as part of an overall development plan. Commercial development should be integrated with the open space from adjacent residential development. CD1 CD2 CD3 Elbert County strongly supports private property rights that encourage agricultural land uses. AGRICULTURE (AG) The County supports right-to-farm protections for working farms and ranching operations. AG1 ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 55 I ---PAGE BREAK--- LAND USE (continued) GOALS POLICIES Elbert County supports the growth of industrial enterprises. INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT (ID) The County should create an economic development overlay to identify potential centers of industrial activity and services. The County should identify employment centers that utilize existing transportation facilities and infrastructure and are located where traffic, noise, and air pollution conflicts with residential, commercial and agricultural uses can be mitigated. The County should encourage the development of industrial uses in eastern Elbert County, particularly along the I-70 and railroad corridors. Elbert County should encourage nodal-type development. ID1 ID2 ID3 ID4 III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES I 56 Elbert County supports plans and policies to reduce the impacts of natural hazards to the people, property and environment of the County. HAZARD MITIGATION (HM) The County should improve education and awareness of hazards and risk reduction measures. The County should protect facilities, infrastructure and other community assets from hazards. The County should incorporate hazard mitigation into future development plans and policies. The County should enhance local mitigation capabilities, including human, technical, financial and regulatory capabilities. The County should improve communication and coordination of mitigation activities between federal, state and local governments and with private and non-profit organization. The County should maintain and update the Elbert County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan as development occurs. HM1 HM2 HM3 HM4 HM5 HM6 ---PAGE BREAK--- COMMUNITY RESOURCES GOALS POLICIES GENERAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES (CR) Elbert County strives to provide public and community resources, services and facilities to all County residents. To the extent that new development necessitates capital public improvements as a result of impacts created by that development, the County may require the developer to finance, in a timely fashion, construction of those capital improvements. The County should coordinate with the relevant special districts, authorities and municipalities to determine the need for such facilities. The County, towns, and agencies should work together on reviewing development proposals within designated service and/or influence areas. CR1 CR2 Elbert County strives to ensure that public safety services are sufficient to serve and protect the County. As development occurs, the County and developers should cooperate to provide funding for additional Sheriff’s Department facilities and resources to cover the service needs associated with new development. As development occurs, the County and developers should cooperate in providing funding to update existing facilities and construct additional fire protection facilities – especially in rural areas where fire equipment and protection may not be readily available. PUBLIC SAFETY (PS) PS1 PS2 Elbert County strives to ensure that residents have access to health care and social services within the County. As development occurs, the County should encourage private enterprise to provide adequate medical facilities to meet the needs of the growing population. HEALTH CARE & SOCIAL SERVICES (HS) HS1 ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 57 I ---PAGE BREAK--- COMMUNITY RESOURCES (continued) GOALS POLICIES TRANSPORTATION (TR) Elbert County strives to create and maintain a safe and functional transportation system. New development is encouraged to locate proximate to improved arterial roads or such roads should be provided by the developer. Proposed roadway systems should be planned to minimize negative impacts on the environment and to adjacent land uses. The County should coordinate planning and development review efforts with applicable referral agencies to ensure integration and continuity of the road system. The paving of major collectors in new and existing subdivision roads should be encouraged. The County and developers shall meet all current and applicable federal and state road standards. TR1 TR2 TR3 TR4 TR5 Elbert County encourages the formation of economically sustainable special districts to provide services that are not funded through County allocations. The County should encourage that a special district has realistic growth phasing in addition to an adequate economic base. The County should encourage cooperation and communication between special service districts. SPECIAL DISTRICTS (SD) SD1 SD2 III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES I 58 ---PAGE BREAK--- COMMUNITY RESOURCES (continued) GOALS POLICIES Elbert County strives to protect water resources to ensure that plentiful resources are available to current and future residents, businesses and agricultural operations. The County should encourage all new developments within an established district to receive services provided by the district. Infrastructure extensions and other necessary facilities should be planned and designed to meet the appropriate municipal and/or district’s standards. In areas where the water and/or sewer system is at capacity, new development should provide appropriate facility improvements to counteract the demand generated by that new development. New development shall conform to State laws covering domestic water supply and septic systems. The County should coordinate planning and development review efforts with towns and applicable referral agencies to ensure integration and continuity. WATER, SEWER & WASTE DISPOSAL (WS) Elbert County strives to designate park lands and open space that are accessible to the public and protected from future development. The County should consider establishing standards for parks and open space. PARKS & OPEN SPACE (PO) WS1 WS2 WS3 WS4 WS5 PO1 ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 59 I ---PAGE BREAK--- GOALS POLICIES NATURAL RESOURCES Elbert County strives to safely foster a balance between the natural and developed environment while supporting private property rights. All development, including residential, industrial, commercial and public utilities, should be designed and constructed in a manner that is respectful to the environment. New developments should minimize negative impacts to adjacent agricultural lands and designated open space. GENERAL ENVIRONMENT (EN) Elbert County strives to protect air quality for the health and safety of the citizens. Colorado Department of Health air quality standards applicable to the County shall be considered minimum standards. AIR QUALITY (AQ) EN1 EN2 AQ1 Elbert County strives to protect water quality for the health and safety of the citizens. The County encourages erosion control plans for any new developments in the County. Wastewater systems which recycle or reuse appropriatly treated effluent are encouraged for subdivisions. The County should encourage new development to connect to existing potable water and wastewater treatment systems where adequate capacity and infrastructure exists. WATER QUALITY (WQ) WQ1 WQ2 WQ3 III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES I 60 Elbert County will follow the state of Colorado noise abatement standards. New developments are responsible for mitigating noise from existing land uses. New developments or permitted uses are responsible for mitigating noise to neighboring properties. NOISE ABATEMENT (NA) NA1 NA2 ---PAGE BREAK--- NATURAL RESOURCES (continued) GOALS POLICIES Elbert County will strive to protect and enhance native vegetation to conserve water resources, protect soils and preserve natural habitat. FORESTRY & NOXIOUS WEED MANAGEMENT (FW) The County should encourage the preservation of significant vegetation through weed control, reseeding and other revegetation practices. Land disturbance and erosion should be minimized to help prevent air and water pollution and minimize noxious plant proliferation. The County should encourage stabilization and landscaping of final landforms and control of runoff at historic levels. Significant stands of trees and shrubs identified during the land review process should be preserved and maintained in concert with good forest management practices. Improvements should be located to minimize the removal of vegetation. Special attention should be given to unique or significant forms of vegetation in areas adjacent to bodies of water and in locations where the tree line forms the horizon line on ridges. Off-site disturbance by development is discouraged. When disturbance is unavoidable, stabilization and revegetation with native plants or landscaping should proceed immediately after construction. Existing vegetation should remain undisturbed, except in cases where it is prudent for public improvements, surveying, wildlife protection, agricultural cultivation, forest management or noxious plant control. The County and property owners should work together to reduce the proliferation of noxious plants in an environmentally sound manner in compliance with State laws, County regulations and recognized agricultural priorities. FW1 FW2 FW3 FW4 FW5 FW6 ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 61 I ---PAGE BREAK--- GOALS POLICIES NATURAL RESOURCES (continued) Elbert County values wildlife and the environments that support them and will strive to minimize disruption of their natural habitats and migratory corridors. WILDLIFE (WL) The County should continue to include Colorado Parks & Wildlife as a referring agency in appropriate land use applications. Stewardship of critical ecosystem components should be encouraged, including wetlands and other significant wildlife habitats. The County should evaluate the effect of proposed development upon wildlife, wildlife habitat and migration corridors. WL1 WL2 WL3 Elbert County respects its rich history and encourages preservation of the resources that have contributed to the character of the County. HISTORIC RESOURCES (HR) The County should encourage the preservation of historical sites and buildings as well as important archeological and paleontological sites. HR1 Elbert County supports the safe extraction of mineral resources. MINERALS (MI) The County supports mineral resource extraction activities while ensuring they are excavated with environmental sensitivity, minimizing potential hazards to county residents or adjacent lands, and do not interfere with individual property rights. Any mineral extraction or any accessory activities that may require special use permits should be consistent with State rules and regulations. The County should ensure new surface development preserves rights of access for owners of mineral rights. MI1 MI2 MI3 III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES I 62 ---PAGE BREAK--- NATURAL RESOURCES (continued) GOALS POLICIES WATER CONSERVATION (WA) Elbert County strives to ensure permanent, renewable and reliable water supplies. The County should consider the requirement of development plans to include water conservation measures which prolong water supplies and the economic life of aquifers. The County should encourage the extension of centralized water resources to rural subdivisions and other development. ENERGY CONSERVATION (EN) Elbert County strives to ensure permanent, renewable and reliable energy supplies. The County should encourage energy conservation strategies, energy- efficient design and renewable energy resources to be incorporated at all levels of development. WA1 WA2 EN1 ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 63 I ---PAGE BREAK--- GOALS POLICIES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Elbert County promotes strong, diverse economic development. ECONOMIC GROWTH (EG) Elbert County should consider the creation of an economic development authority to recruit employers to locate within the County. Elbert County should encourage economic development that provides a balance between commercial and residential tax assessments. Elbert County should encourage the recruitment, expansion and diversification of the industrial economic base to achieve a well-balanced economy. Elbert County should support designated locations for economic development districts. The County should encourage economic development that minimizes impacts on surrounding lands. The County should support the development of agriculture, commerce, industry, education, health care, natural resources development, tourism and residential growth. The County should encourage public-private collaboration that provides opportunities for the workforce. EG1 EG2 EG3 EG4 EG5 EG6 EG7 III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES I 64 ---PAGE BREAK--- RECREATION & TOURISM GOALS POLICIES Elbert County strives to create an environment that encourages recreation and tourism opportunities. RECREATION & TOURISM (RT) The County should coordinate with schools, municipalities, and parks and recreation districts, to efficiently meet recreation needs. The County shall encourage the designation of publicly-accessible open space lands in new developments. The County should work with developers and special districts to identify and develop a public trails system. The County should encourage tourism in Elbert County. RT1 RT2 RT3 RT4 ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 65 I ---PAGE BREAK--- III. VISION, GOALS & POLICIES I 66 ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- IV. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ---PAGE BREAK--- IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES This section outlines the proposed actions needed to implement the Vision, Goals and Policies of this Comprehensive Plan. In order for a Comprehensive Plan to be effective, the County must recognize the ideas and concepts recommended by the Plan. In Elbert County, the process has emphasized the need to formulate creative but realistic planning and design concepts and expectations that are within the capacity of the County to implement. The Implementation Strategies are intended to be working tools for the county and should be incorporated into the process of carrying out its day-to-day business. It is not intended that all suggestions be accomplished within the immediate future or during a single planning year. Implementation Strategies include the specific policies of this Plan that would be addressed by the strategies. The County should initially channel its resources toward implementing those actions that are considered to have the highest priority, which may be weighted toward those Implementation Strategies that address the most policies. It should be understood that some of the Goals and Policies are already completed or in work. It will be a staff responsibility to update the Board of County Commissioners and the Planning Commission on the status of the Implementation Strategies on an annual basis, with new strategies added as needed. The County can use this review to assess to what extent the Comprehensive Plan is being implemented as well as use the program to determine what items should be addressed during the next budget year. ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 69 I Implementation Strategies are recommended regulations, plans and other resources that regulate and/or support specific elements of the Comprehensive Plan in order to reinforce the Vision, Goals and Policies of this Plan. Implementation Strategies may be adopted as addenda to the Comprehensive Plan and should be made available to the public along with the Comprehensive Plan. Implementation Strategies include the following types: • Regulations • Technical Plans • Mapping • Leadership ---PAGE BREAK--- IV. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES REGULATIONS 1. The County should maintain County-wide Zoning and Subdivision Regulations which should include reference to the Hazard Management Plan. 2. The County should maintain a Development Guide for Planned Unit Developments (PUD). 3. The County should maintain Site Design Standards (including hazards mitigation) for Residential Developments. 4. The County should develop and maintain Site Design Standards (including hazards mitigation) for Commercial and Industrial Developments. 5. The County should maintain referral agreements with agencies such as, but not limited to:municipalities, school districts, special districts, fire districts and the sheriff’s department. 6. The County should develop level-of-service standards with regard to public safety, health care and social services. 7. The County should develop level of service standards with regard to transportation networks, potable water, wastewater, utilities, and parks and open space. 8. The County should develop a Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) code and standards. POLICIES ADDRESSED I 70 RD3, EN1, EN3, AQ1, WQ1, WQ2, NA1, NA2, FW1, FW2, FW4, FW5, FW6, EG4, HM1, HM2, HM3, HM4 RD3, EN1, EN3, AQ1, WQ1, NA1, NA2, FW1, FW2, FW4, FW5, FW6, EG4 RD3, HM1, HM2, HM3, HM4, HM5, HM6 CD3, HM1, HM2, HM3, HM4, HM5, HM6 CR1, CR2, CR3, PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4, TR3, SD3, PO1, WL1, HM5 PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4, HS2 RD1, RD5, CR1, SD1, SD2, WS1, WS2, WS3, WS4 WL2, WL3 ---PAGE BREAK--- TECHNICAL PLANS 1. The County should maintain a County-wide Housing Master Plan, including required land dedications, water and sewer facilities, and street infrastructure. 2. The County may develop subarea plans to respond to specific local conditions. Subarea plans may be desired for economic development centers, lands with unique environmental constraints, etc. 3. The County should develop and maintain a County-wide Transportation Master Plan. 4. The County should develop and maintain a County-wide Parks, Trails and Open Space Plan. 5. The County should maintain and regularly update a Capital Improvements Program (CIP) to prioritize funding of community resource needs. 6. The County should maintain a County-wide Water Plan 7. The County should develop and maintain an Historic Resources Inventory and Plan. 8. The County should maintain a County-wide Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan. 9. The County should develop a County-Wide Wildfire Protection Plan. 10. The County should develop a county-wide drainage/erosion mitigation plan — coordinating objectives of various agencies to reduce future flood damage. POLICIES ADDRESSED ELBERT COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 71 I RD2, RD3, RD4, RD5 RD2, RD3 RD5, CD2, ID3, TR1, TR2, TR4, TR5 RT2, RT3, RT4 RD5, CD2, ID4, AG1, WA1, WA2 HR1 HM1, HM2, HM3, HM4, HM5, HM6 HM1, HM2, HM3, HM4, HM5, HM6 HM1, HM2, HM3, HM4, HM5, HM6 ---PAGE BREAK--- MAPPING POLICIES ADDRESSED 1. The County should maintain a County-wide Zoning Map. 2. The County should maintain and update, as necessary, County-wide mapping that shows existing roads, utilities and infrastructure. 3. The County should develop a future Land Use map, including identification of potential commercial and employment centers. 4. The County should maintain mapping that indicates significant environmental conditions, including: wetlands, flood plains, significant wildlife habitat, slopes greater than 20%, etc. 5. The County should maintain mapping of mineral resource areas, including all lands mapped by the County, State and Federal Agencies. 6. The County should develop and maintain a GIS strategic plan. LEADERSHIP 1. The County should create an Economic Development Authority. 2. The County should form and convene the Elbert County Hazard Mitigation Planning Committee. IV. IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES I 72 AG1 RD2, CS2, ID2, TR1, WQ3 CD1, ID1, ID4, EG3 TR2, FW3, WL2, WL3 MI2 RD5, CD2, ID1, ID2 ID3, HS1, EG1, EG2, EG4, EG5, EG6, EG7, EG8 HM1, HM2, HM3, HM4, HM5, HM6