As Montrose County approaches the 5th anniversary of the Planning Commission’s adoption of the county Master Plan (25 Oct. 2001), it may be instructive to review some of its basic concepts.
The document appropriately begins with a Vision Statement which emphasizes maintaining and strengthening “those qualities that make Montrose County a special place to live and work.” It further elaborates by stating that “the rural character and hometown atmosphere of Montrose County will be maintained.” It then proceeds to explain its purpose: “putting hopes, dreams, and goals a community holds for itself into printed form,” so that citizens can “guide decisions, development, and growth in the place where they live.”
While the Master Plan acknowledges that it is an advisory document, it emphatically asserts that it should be used to provide “a strong foundation upon which decisions are based” and “a framework that supports informed and consistent decision-making.” Perhaps, most importantly, it “embodies policy determinations and guiding principles; while zoning resolutions, subdivision regulations, and capital improvement programs provide the detailed means of giving effect to those principles.” Furthermore, it recognizes that “agricultural land supports a wide variety of crops and livestock, and not only is a strong component of the area’s economy, but is part of the scenic beauty that is cherished by residents of the county.”
The master plan continues on to describe the planning process, and its organization. It addresses demographics, natural and human resources, transportation, utilities, and services- as well as the implementation of its principles. The recurring theme that pervades the document can be summarized in its statement, under the section on PLANNING POLICIES- STRENGTHEN & ENHANCE AGRICULTURE: “The natural beauty and agricultural character of Montrose County are attracting many new residents, and development is beginning to threaten the qualities that originally attract people to the area. The community has expressed a desire that new development RESPECT & COMPLEMENT THE RURAL CHARACTER (emphasis ours) that is so appealing. Maintaining and supporting the agricultural industry that defines Montrose County is a priority among area residents.”
The clear and implied expectation is that our county zoning and subdivision regulations be derived from these guiding principles, so that the Master Plan’s VISION can be realized, and our quality of life maintained for our grandchildren.
We encourage all concerned citizens to become more familiar with this important document (available at the county land use office and at its Web site), and participate in the current updating process.
Montrose Citizens for Responsible Growth
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