— from Jim Jonassen —
While the update of the County’s Comprehensive Plan is underway one of the most needed and informative set of graphics is not yet available. That would be a set of GIS maps showing the current “build out”, and another showing the “build out” when all that is currently allowed/entitled is completed.
Only when we see that visual comparison can we have an understandable dialogue about what we mean by preserving the rural character of the islands and the choices that requires.
The County Department of Community Development is currently floating a (well crafted) draft methodology for creating relevant mapping and inventory tools which seem to include all of the data needed to accomplish these graphics.
We should push to see that they include these baseline graphics.
**If it wouldn’t cause you financial distress to take out a modestly-priced, voluntary subscription (HERE), you’d be doing a real service. If it would, then no worries, we’re happy to share with you.**
I second and heartily endorse Jim’s recommendation. Surely what he’s requesting is well within the capabilities of our county’s talented, technologically-savvy, and TAXPAYER-SUPPORTED GIS mapping staff.
Such illustrative mapping would graphically demonstrate where our beloved islands are headed if the present patterns of development continue…might even wake up the citizenry…
Jim and Fred
I agree that the County GIS staff can report the current build out information. I am curious as to how you would recommend they report the potential build out.
How do you account for those that will not sub-divide?
How do you account for those that will not sell?
Or do you assume that everyone sells and everyone sub-divides the maximum allowed?
Anything beyond what has happened to date is speculation. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t speculate but what assumptions do you want the modelers to make when reporting potential build out? Showing that isn’t a technical skill requirement but a set of assumptions about human behavior that must be made. What assumptions do you want to use?
Each Lot has a Maximum number designated as allowed to it. That should bring the whole Reality Home to those who don’t yet “get it”. \Spirit Eagle