HORIZON 2025
The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan 2008-2025
Volume I: Goals, Objectives & Policies
June, 2009
Horizon 2025 The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan 2008-2025
Prepared for the Baldwin County Commission
Prepared by:
in coordination with: Strategic Planning Group and Dial Cordy & Associates, Inc.
This Comprehensive Plan is funded by the Coastal Impact Assistance Program, Minerals Management Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. This Comprehensive Plan was funded in part with qualified outer continental shelf oil and gas revenues by the Coastal Impact Assistance Program, Minerals Management Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the opinions or policies of the U.S. Government. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by the U.S. Government.
Funding for this project is provided by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, State Lands Division, Coastal Section, in part, by a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, Award # NA07NOS4190175 HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN TABLE OF CONTENTS MAY, 2009
Chapter 1: Introduction
Chapter 2: Future Land Use Element
Chapter 3: Housing Element
Chapter 4: Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space Element
Chapter 5: Coastal Management Element
Chapter 6: Parks and Recreation Element
Chapter 7: Reserved
Chapter 8: Historic Resources Element
Chapter 9: Community Design Element
Chapter 10: Intergovernmental Coordination Element
Chapter 11: Implementation Program
Chapter 12: Definitions
TABLE OF CONTENTS 2009
HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION JUNE, 2009
Horizon 2025, the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan, was prepared to assist elected and appointed officials, planners and citizens in their efforts to guide the timing and quality of future development. The plan is intended to be used as a guide in undertaking initiatives and decisions related to future development based on key aspects of local resources, opportunities and issues. On August 8, 1991, the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Act (Act No. 91-719), Code of Alabama §45-2-261 was passed by the Alabama State Legislature. This legislation, and its subsequent amendments, provide the basic framework for the County’s growth management activities and required the development and maintenance of a “master plan” [or comprehensive plan] for the use and development of unincorporated Baldwin County.
The Horizon 2025 consists of two volumes: Volume I contains the Goals, Objectives and Policies, and Volume II contains the Data, Inventory and Analysis on which Volume I is based. Together, these two volumes address the following topics: Future Land Use; Housing; Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space; Coastal Management; Parks and Recreation; Historic Resources; Community Design; Intergovernmental Coordination; and Implementation.
Comprehensive planning is not new to Baldwin County and its leaders. Through the combined efforts of the Baldwin County Commission, the Planning Commission, County Department administrators, Baldwin County United, the citizens of Baldwin County, and the South Alabama Regional Planning Commission (SARPC), the “Baldwin County Long Range Development and Management Plan: Situation Analysis (“1993 Plan”) was prepared in 1993 to promote the orderly development of the County and to provide the County leaders with a management tool. The document summarizes the major problems identified by the citizens; the major issues identified by the Officials, and the major findings identified by the County Planners.
In 2005, the Baldwin County Commission initiated a planning process that involved citizens, elected officials, department directors and other staff, which resulted in the Baldwin County Strategic Plan: 2006-2016 (herein referred to as the 2006 Plan). The 2006 Plan identifies the following Strategic Objectives for the County: Managing Growth; Public Safety; Environment; Revenue Sources; Infrastructure; Economic Development and Workforce; and Governance. As stated in the Mission and Vision statements of the 2006 Plan, the County’s strengths include an excellent quality of life, southern hospitality, unique heritage, natural resources and family friendly community. The 2006 Plan also includes strategic objectives which form the basis for the new Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan, Horizon 2025. All objectives of the 2006 Plan are hereby incorporated into this Plan by reference.
The creation of Horizon 2025 also began with a planning process including public input from the citizens, elected officials, planning commission, and other boards, agencies, and organizations in September 2007 to define the key issues of the County that would guide the future growth of Baldwin County. This plan is intended to provide guidance for a planning horizon through 2025. This plan further is intended as a replacement of the “1993 Plan,” and to comply with master and comprehensive plan requirements as may be a part of Baldwin County’s various statutory enabling authorities over planning, growth and development in unincorporated areas of the
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County, including, without limitation, Code of Alabama §45-2-261 (Act No. 91-719), as amended (providing for Baldwin County planning and zoning authority and Planning and Zoning Commission), Code of Alabama §11-24-1, et seq., as amended (Regulation of Subdivisions), and Code of Alabama §11-19-1, et seq. (Comprehensive Land Use Management in Flood Prone Areas).
Severability
If any one or more of the provisions contained herein shall, for any reason, be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, then such provision or provisions shall be deemed severable from the remaining provisions hereof, and such invalidity, illegality or unenforceability shall not affect any other provision hereof. This Plan shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal or unenforceable provision had never been contained herein.
Managing the Plan
To be a useful and influential tool in guiding growth and development in the future, and in ultimately realizing Baldwin County’s vision for the future, the Plan must be kept current. Over time, changes will occur in the county that may not have been anticipated and over which the County may have no control—changing lifestyles, national or regional economic shifts, the impact of telecommuting or internet access on working and shopping patterns, etc. Monitoring these shifts against progress in Plan implementation may lead to the need for amendments to the Plan.
Consistency of Zoning Ordinances and Other Land use Regulatory Tools
Baldwin County should consider the merger of the County’s zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations and other land use regulatory controls into a Unified Development Code (UDC) at such time as county-wide zoning is in effect. The UDC combines and consolidates all phases of the land development process from the zoning of a piece of property to the actual development of this property. Like its predecessor (the zoning ordinance), the UDC will continue to regulate the use of the lot, lot size, building bulk and height, and setbacks. In addition, it will regulate the manner in which land may be subdivided to ensure that each subdivision meets standards as to minimum block and lot sizes, streets, relationship to existing streets, and provisions for open space, schools, and other public facilities and the protection of natural resources. The UDC is a valuable tool for the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan and for the creation of quality developments within Baldwin County.
Incentives
The County can implement incentives to encourage certain types of private development that will contribute significantly to the public good. Several development options that promote good
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design and protection of natural resources and an overall streamlining of the regulatory process should be evaluated for inclusion into a UDC.
Goals and Strategies
The following goals reflect the assessment of existing conditions and desired future results discussed in the various chapters of this Plan, coupled with the advice and guidance generated through the public participation program. The underlying principle of the goals is to reach the vision of Baldwin County as addressed in the Introduction Chapter of this Comprehensive Plan.
Administration and Interpretation
This Plan shall be administered and interpreted by the Baldwin County Commission, the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Commission, and other County bodies as applicable, all with the assistance of the Baldwin County Planning Department. This Plan shall be administered and interpreted in a manner consistent with its intent. This Plan shall be construed broadly to accomplish its purpose and its intent. Terms not otherwise defined in the glossary shall be interpreted by reference to generally accepted planning, engineering or other professional terminology if technical in nature; and otherwise, according to common usage unless the content clearly indicates otherwise.
Conflicting Policies
Although care has been taken to avoid inconsistencies among goals, objectives, and policies, circumstances may arise in which the application of two or more statements result in a conflict or uncertainty as to which statement most appropriately applies. The problem may be resolved by County staff using the following methods in order of priority: 1. The more specific statement shall have preference over the more general. 2. The more stringent statement from the County’s perspective shall have preference over the less stringent.
Where the goals, objectives, or policies of any element conflict with those of another element, the problem may be resolved by County staff as follows:
Irrespective of the Element in which a goal, objective, or policy appears, preference shall be given to statements whose subject matter pertains to the following listed in priority order: public health, public safety, expenditures, level of service, and administration.
Applying the Plan
This plan was prepared as an overall guide to facilitate positive and constructive future development in Baldwin County. As such, flexibility is as important as clarity in setting out goals, objectives and policies towards implementation of the plan. Accordingly, the language
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used in this plan is expressly intended to be precatory and not mandatory. The use of such words as “shall’ or “should” or “may” or “can” and other such language, wherever it appears in this plan, is intended as a guideline, not a stricture, unless otherwise specified in the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance, or the Subdivision Regulations or the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
Only development located in those Planning Districts within Baldwin County that have elected to come under the planning and zoning authority of the Baldwin County Commission fall within the scope of this document.
The following operations or uses shall not be taken for the purpose of this Plan to involve development as defined herein: work by a highway or road agency or railroad company for the construction, maintenance or improvement of a road or railroad; work by any utility and other persons engaged in the distribution or transmission of gas or water for the purpose of inspecting, repairing, renewing, or constructing on established rights-of-way any sewers, mains, pipes, utility tunnels, power lines, towers, poles, tracks, or the like; the use of any structure or land devoted to dwelling uses for any purpose customarily incidental to enjoyment of the dwelling; the use of any land for the purpose of growing plants, crops, trees, and other agricultural or forestry products, raising livestock, or for other agricultural purposes; a change in use of land or structure from a use within a class specified in an ordinance or rule to another use in the same class; a change in the ownership or form of ownership of any parcel or structure; or the creation or termination of rights of access, riparian rights, easements, covenants concerning development of land, or other rights of land.
All Goals, Objectives and Policies described herein, are written with the implied understanding that all development, work programs, etc…shall comply with any and all applicable federal, state and local regulations and guidelines.
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CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
The purpose of the Future Land Use Element is to examine the existing land uses and to determine present and future land use needs for future growth in the County. This element is an important part of the Comprehensive Plan because it deals with factors influencing future growth and development, and contains a basic strategy and physical plan to guide the location, timing, density and intensity of land development to ensure compatibility with existing development, future population and economic development trends, community infrastructure and natural and cultural resources. The County’s current Land Use Cover Map was the base data used to create the Future Land Use categories following the Smart Growth America and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, “Smart Growth” guidelines. Smart Growth America is a coalition of national, state and local organizations working to improve the ways we plan and build the towns, cities and metro areas we call home. The coalition includes many of the best- known national organizations advocating on behalf of historic preservation, the environment, farmland and open space preservation, neighborhood revitalization and more. This element focuses on the spatial growth of the County and how the mix of uses will expand and work together.
On August 8, 1991, the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Act (Act No. 91-719) was passed by the Alabama State Legislature. This legislation and its subsequent amendments provide the basic framework for the County’s growth management activities. Specifically, the Act:
• Authorized the development of the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Commission and Boards of Adjustment; • Allowed the County Commission to create planning districts within the unincorporated areas of the County; • Allowed zoning within planning districts that vote their desire to come under County planning and zoning authority; • Required the development and maintenance of a “master plan” [or comprehensive plan] for the use and development of unincorporated Baldwin County.
In accordance with the Act, the unincorporated areas of Baldwin County are divided into thirty (30) Planning Districts, with more than half of the districts containing zoning. In order to properly manage County growth, it is imperative to establish County-wide zoning and future land use designations/districts, and this element addresses this need.
Interpretation
The plan is developed with the concept that the Future Land Use Plan map and the text are to be used as an integrated whole, with the map being a graphic representation of the text. Interpretation of the Future Land Use Plan map is a process, which rests on the goals and policies expressed in the text. The land use designations on the map, both in terms of overall definition and intensity of land use types, require that policies and intent statements regulating the
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development and location of each land use type be evaluated and applied in the process of plan implementation.
Plan implementation is carried out through projects and programs outlined in Horizon 2025: The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan 2008-2025 and through the application of regulations such as the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance. According to enabling legislation, this plan is administered by the Baldwin County Planning Commission with input from Planning staff. The procedure, once the plan is adopted, will involve checks for plan and ordinance consistency as part of the review for issuance of subdivision approvals and developments within the scope of the Comprehensive Plan.
If a zoning change or development project is proposed for an area but is not consistent with the designated use or density on the Future Land Use Plan map, it should not be approved. The initial contact for plan interpretation begins with the Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department. It is at this point that the proposal is evaluated for its conformity and compliance with the Comprehensive Plan and functional plans. In the event a use or development proposal is inconsistent with the Future Land Use map or Comprehensive Plan policies, an applicant may file for a Comprehensive Plan Amendment in accordance with the amendment procedures contained in the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinances.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
GOAL 2.1: To effectively manage growth and development in Baldwin County by designating areas of anticipated future development which satisfy demand where feasible, in a cost-efficient and environmentally acceptable manner; to ensure the County continues to provide an excellent quality of life and family-friendly communities; to ensure the needs of the elderly are met; to preserve and protect natural resources; and to preserve its unique heritage and Southern hospitality.
Objective 2.1.1: Establish future land use designations/districts as part of the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 2.1.1.1: The following future land use designations/districts and associated requirements are hereby established for the unincorporated areas of the County:
a. Conservation District (CD) – The Conservation District consists of lands unsuitable for development due to topography, hydrology, vegetation, or wildlife habitat. This designation protects environmentally sensitive areas, natural water bodies, and other unique or sensitive natural resources. Such resources include groundwater, floodplains, wetlands, streams, steep slopes, woodlands, wildlife habitats, beach dune areas, certain agricultural and forest lands, and areas depicted in the State Wildlife Action Plan. Uses allowed in this designation include natural preserves, reserves, recreation and camping areas; and structures limited to utility infrastructure and camp buildings. Single family residential dwellings will be allowed in the Conservation
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District by special exception. The maximum density for residential uses shall be one (1) unit per five (5) acres. As needed, some upland areas are included in this District to establish significant greenways and wildlife corridors to connect environmentally sensitive areas. Such greenways and corridors shall have a minimum width of four hundred feet (400’).
b. Rural District (RD) – The Rural District consists of lands which are in an open or cultivated state or are sparsely settled. This designation is designed to protect agricultural activities and the rural character of the County while providing for some development activities. Uses allowed in this designation include very low density residential developments, including single family dwellings; agricultural and farming activities; mining and resource extraction; borrow pits; industrial; utilities; recreation and camping areas including marine recreation; local commercial; limited general commercial; professional service and office; lodging (such as a bed and breakfast establishment), limited institutional and civic; and accessory structures. Civic spaces in this District include parks and playgrounds. The maximum density for residential uses shall be one (1) unit per five (5) acres. The maximum intensity for non-residential uses shall be 0.20 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 0.12 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive.
Examples:
ISR: 43,560 sq. ft. impervious surface area* = 0.20 ISR 5 acres (217,800 sq. ft.)
FAR: 26,136 sq. ft. gross floor area = 0.12 FAR 5 acres (217,800 sq. ft.)
ISR: 8,712 sq. ft. impervious surface area* = 0.20 ISR 1 acre (43,560 s.f.)
FAR: 5,227 sq. ft. impervious surface area: = 0.12 FAR 1 acre (43,560 sq. ft.)
* building footprints, sidewalks, parking areas, etc
The preferred development in the Rural District will occur in the form of rural hamlets and clustering through the use of a rural stewardship land (RSL) program or transfer of development rights (TDR) program (see Policy 4.1 and 4.2 of this element). For the purposes of this category, a “rural hamlet” is an existing or proposed future residential and residential support services development clustered within a rural area that is not served by public sanitary sewer. A rural hamlet is typically found as free standing in the countryside, being composed of civic service and commercial uses of modest size which support a large surrounding low density population. The hamlet typically has a weak center, frequently containing only a crossroad and intersection or a church yard. The first preference for the location of a Rural Hamlet shall be at the intersection of two roadways, classified as “collector” or higher. The second preference for locating a Rural Hamlet shall be on a public road that is classified or functions as a collector roadway in the area. If these locational criteria cannot be met, a Rural Hamlet may be located in an area determined to
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be acceptable by the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Commission. Rural Hamlets shall be no closer than two (2) miles from another Rural Hamlet, or Urban future land use district, or Neighborhood future land use district. The collective size of a Rural Hamlet shall not exceed fifty (50) acres. (Refer to Policies 1.3 and 1.4 for additional information)
c. Coastal Zone District (CZD) – The Coastal Zone District includes environmentally sensitive lands along scenic coastal corridors near the beaches and bays. The purpose of the district is to allow for a low to moderate level of single family, two-family, and multiple-family residential dwelling units. Other compatible non-residential development, including public boat ramps, municipal piers, golf courses, and public utilities shall be allowed, while assuring that the scenic coastal corridors retain their scenic landscapes. The intention is that development be designed to fit into the existing character that includes views of the water. The maximum density for residential uses shall be three (3) dwelling units per acre. The maximum intensity for non- residential uses shall be 0.60 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 0.45 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive.
d. Neighborhood District (ND) – The Neighborhood District consists predominantly of low- density residential development, including single family dwellings. Other uses allowed in this designation include accessory structures; home occupations; limited public and institutional uses; limited retail and office uses; and utilities. Civic spaces in this District include parks, greens, and playgrounds. Retail and office uses should be at a neighborhood scale, meaning acceptable uses that will have a limited impact on adjacent residential areas especially in terms of lighting, signage, traffic, odor, noise, and hours of operation. Acceptable uses should be compatible with surrounding development in terms of scale/building size, building design, materials, and color, and located at the intersection of road facilities classified as “collectors” or higher. The maximum density for residential uses shall be four (4) units per acre. The maximum intensity for non-residential uses shall be 0.60 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 0.45 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive. The preferred development in this District will occur in the form of neighborhoods, defined in general terms as an urban sector that is mixed use, mixed income, and limited in area by walking distance typically defined as a 10 minute/1.5 mile walk. The neighborhood is conceived to fulfill most ordinary human needs, including those of transportation. The neighborhood is served by a network of thoroughfares variously detailed for character and capacity, creating a public realm suitable to the pedestrian as well as the vehicle.
e. Urban/Low Intensity District (ULD) – The Urban/Low Intensity District allows a variety of residential and non-residential uses. This District consists of medium density residential development; nonresidential development such as retail, office, institutional/public; light industrial uses; and civic spaces. Civic spaces in this District include greens, squares, and playgrounds. Residential uses shall be in the form of single family detached units, single family attached units, duplexes, townhouses, multi-family buildings, and apartments; nonresidential uses shall be allowed at a scale to serve the residents of the neighborhood and surrounding area. Other uses allowed in this designation include utilities and accessory structures. The maximum density for residential uses shall be eight (8) units per acre. The maximum intensity for non-
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residential uses shall be 0.95 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 1.0 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive. The preferred development in this District will occur in the form of corridors, Traditional Neighborhood Developments (TNDs), Neighborhood Village Centers and Town Centers.
New development in this District shall provide for a range of non-residential building square footage between 500 square feet minimum to 1,000 square feet maximum for every residential dwelling unit. Non-residential uses shall include any mix of uses allowed by the zoning designation. In cases where the development is rezoned to Planned Development Districts, phases of single use residential or non-residential buildings may be constructed independently at any time provided the overall approved site plan designates future building pad sites, meeting the required mixture of residential and non-residential land uses. Residential uses may occur on any floor within any building type. In order to encourage elderly housing within the Urban/Low Intensity District, assisted living or nursing home dwelling units are not counted as residential dwellings or considered non-residential uses. In cases where a proposed development does not include such a mix of uses, the developer shall successfully demonstrate to the Planning Department that this requirement has already been met by surrounding development.
f. Urban/High Intensity District (UHD) – The Urban/High Intensity District allows a variety of residential and non-residential uses. This District consists of high density residential development; nonresidential development such as retail, office, institutional/public; light industrial uses; and civic spaces. Civic spaces in this District include greens, squares, plazas, and playgrounds. Residential uses shall be in the form of attached units, such as townhouses, and apartments; nonresidential uses shall be allowed at a scale to serve the residents of the County. Other uses allowed in this designation include utilities and accessory structures. The maximum density for residential uses shall be twelve (12) units per acre. The maximum intensity for non-residential uses shall be 0.95 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 2.50 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive. The preferred development in this District will occur in the form of urban-scale mixed use projects, traditional neighborhood developments (TNDs), neighborhood village centers and town centers.
New development in this District shall provide for a range of non-residential building square footage between 500 square feet minimum to 1,500 square feet maximum for every residential dwelling unit. Non-residential uses shall include any mix of uses allowed by the zoning designation. In cases where the development is rezoned to Planned Unit Development (PUD), phases of single use residential or non-residential buildings may be constructed independently at any time provided the overall approved site plan designates future building pad sites, meeting the required mixture of residential and non-residential land uses. Residential uses may occur on any floor within any building type. In order to encourage elderly housing within the Urban/High Intensity District, assisted living or nursing home dwelling units are not counted as residential dwellings or considered non-residential uses. In cases where a proposed development does not include such a mix of uses, the developer shall successfully demonstrate to the Planning Department that this requirement has already been met by surrounding development.
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g. Special District (SD) – The Special District is designed for unique uses and/or developments that, because of their character, economic development opportunities, magnitude, location, or function, do not conform to the other future land use designations\districts. Examples of such uses include large-scale planned developments such as a “new town”; developments that would have a substantial effect upon the health, safety or welfare of citizens of more than one county such as a regional airport, regional shopping center, or regional hospital; a port facility; or industrial development. Alternatively, a community or populated area may elect to create a more detailed planning program to address the unique character and mix of uses within a defined boundary and/or overlay district (such as the various overlay districts in the Zoning Code). Such defined areas may receive the Special District category. Refer to the Community Design Element for the Goals, Objectives and Policies for a Community Planning Area.
This district shall be applied on a case-by-case basis with a minimum area of approximately 200 acres. For each individual property that is assigned within this Special District future land use designation, site-specific policies will be adopted to establish and govern the density, intensity, and types of uses allowed on that property. Required civic spaces in this district shall be determined on a case-by-case basis dependent on the type of development proposed.
Policy 2.1.1.2: The following tables shall serve as a guide in determining appropriate building functions and uses allowed in each future land use district. This information is based on the SmartCode Version 9.0, and provides customization of this code for applicability to Baldwin County.
(SEE NEXT PAGE)
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Use CD RD CZD ND ULD UHD SD Residential Mixed Use Block + * * + Flex Building + * * + Apartment Building + * * + Live/Work Unit * * * * + Row House + * * + Duplex House + * * + Courtyard House * * * + Sideyard House * * * * + Cottage * * * + House + * * * * + Villa * * + Accessory Unit + * * * * * + Lodging Hotel + * + Inn + + * * + Bed & Breakfast + + * * * + SRO (single room occupancy) Hostel + + + + School Dormitory + + Office Office Building * * * + Live-Work Unit * * * * + Retail Open-Market Building * + * * * + Retail Building + * * * + Display Gallery + * * + Restaurant + * * * + Kiosk + * * + Push Cart + + + Liquor Selling + * + + Establishment Civic Bus Shelter * * * * * Convention Center + Conference Center + + Exhibition Center + Fountain or Public Art * * * * * + Library * * * * + Live Theater * * + Movie Theater * * + Museum + + + + Outdoor Auditorium + + * * * + Parking Structure + + * + Passenger Terminal + + + + Playground * * * * * * + Sports Stadium + + + +
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Use CD RD CZD ND ULD UHD SD Surface Parking Lot + * * + Religious Assembly * * * * * * Other: Agriculture Grain Storage * * * + Livestock Pen * + + Greenhouse * * + + + Stable * * + + + Kennel * * + + + + + Other: Automotive Gasoline * * * * + Automobile Service + * * + Truck Maintenance + Drive-Through Facility + * * + Rest Stop * * + Roadside Stand * * * + Shopping Center + * * + Shopping Mall + Other: Civil Support Fire Station * * * * * * Police Station * * * * * Cemetery * + + + Funeral Home + * * * Hospital + + * Medical Clinic + + * * Other: Education College + + High School + + + Trade School + + Elementary School + * * * Childcare Center * * * * + Other: Industrial Heavy Industrial Facility + + Light Industrial Facility + + Truck Depot + + Laboratory Facility + * * * Water Supply Facility + + + + * Sewer and Waste Facility + + + + * Electric Substation + + + + + + * Wireless Transmitter + + + + + * Cremation Facility + + + + Warehouse + + + + Produce Storage * + + + Mini Storage + + + + * Permitted by right + Permitted by conditional use or special exception
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Policy 2.1.1.3: Rural Hamlets shall be configured in such a way that the length of road frontage does not exceed two times the depth of the development area. No individual building shall exceed twenty thousand (20,000) square feet of gross leasable area. Buildings within a Rural Hamlet shall be designed so that all facades are compatible with the rural setting, and all development shall address, at a minimum, the following design aspects: roof type, overhang, eaves, building mass, porches, and building base.
Policy 2.1.1.4: The Rural Hamlet designation shall be assigned to existing commercial areas that expand, infill, or redevelop, based on market activity, in accordance with the criteria established in the Comprehensive Plan. Existing isolated commercial areas that do not meet the Rural Hamlet design or locational criteria shall be allowed to continue as legal non-conforming uses.
Policy 2.1.1.5: The County shall endorse a legislative amendment to the Local Planning Enabling Act to allow for the regulation of natural resource extraction while providing exemptions for the clearing, and replanting or reestablishment of vegetation for bona fide agricultural and forestry purposes for silvicultural activities.
Policy 2.1.1.6: For school projection purposes, a maximum scenario of needed schools, based upon build out of residential uses and associated population within the Future Land Use Map adopted with this comprehensive plan, has been estimated and is provided in Volume II, Data, Inventory and Analysis. As of the date of the adoption of this plan, the Baldwin County Board of Education has tracked an approximate 2% annual growth rate. The actual location of future school sites is to be coordinated with the Baldwin County Board of Education, as also described in the Intergovernmental Element.
Objective 2.1.2: Adopt and maintain land development regulations and procedures that are consistent with and support the policies of the Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 2.1.2.1: In addition to all other applicable Plan policies and requirements, the use, density and intensity of development shall also be controlled through the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations, and any further land development regulations the County may prepare. Nothing shall be construed to guarantee the achievement of the maximum development potential established in each future land use designation.
Policy 2.1.2.2: The County shall encourage the use of innovative land development regulations including planned development districts and other development techniques. Such regulations shall include design standards that establish the character, or theme of the development.
Policy 2.1.2.3: The County shall coordinate with its municipalities in addressing zoning issues, including the review of rezoning applications for properties within the Extra Territorial Planning Jurisdictions (ETJs) and/or the Police Jurisdictions.
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Policy 2.1.2.4: The Baldwin County Sign Regulations shall be reviewed and revised as needed to require public safety signage.
Policy 2.1.2.5: The County’s land development regulations (i.e. Zoning Ordinance and/or Subdivision Regulations, or any other form of regulations) and building codes shall be reviewed and revised, as needed, to eliminate or otherwise appropriately dispose of abandoned buildings, unlawful junkyards, and other hazardous conditions.
Policy 2.1.2.6: The County shall be responsible for maintaining and enforcing land development regulations and procedures for activities occurring in all areas of unincorporated Baldwin County. The County shall coordinate, with each affected municipality in the County, enforcement of land development regulations that apply within the ETJ and/or police jurisdiction of that municipality.
Policy 2.1.2.7: Incorporate all development regulations and review processes into a single, unified development review system, consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 2.1.2.8: Create a Development Review Committee (DRC) to review and comment on development proposals. At a minimum, the DRC should be composed of representatives of the following departments: Planning & Zoning, Highway and the Building Department. The DRC should coordinate with the appropriate County departments when development proposals are likely to relate substantially to matters within their areas of responsibility.
Objective 2.1.3: Establish and maintain Planning Districts in Baldwin County.
Policy 2.1.3.1: Established and future Planning Districts shall serve as incremental master plans for uses and development in unincorporated Baldwin County, with each Planning District representing a unique and/or distinct vision for the geographic area.
Policy 2.1.3.2: Adjacent land uses within Planning Districts and at their boundaries shall be compatible and/or appropriately buffered.
Objective 2.1.4: Preserve and maintain essential rural, agricultural and environmentally sensitive areas.
Policy 2.1.4.1: The County shall establish and implement a Rural Land Stewardship (RLS) program that protects the County’s ecosystems, promotes more efficient use of the land, prevents the encroachment of urban sprawl into rural and agricultural areas, ensures opportunities for viable agricultural economy and working lands, and promotes vital rural communities. The RLS program shall provide economic incentives to owners of property located in the Conservation and Rural future land use districts to direct and concentrate future growth in a way that is
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compatible with the rural character and economy. The RLS program is explained further in Volume II (Data, Inventory and Analysis) in the Future Land Use section.
Policy 2.1.4.2: The County shall establish and implement a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program in order to preserve rural, agricultural and environmentally sensitive areas in the Conservation Districts (CD) and Rural Districts (RD). The TDR program may or may not be used in conjunction with the above-mentioned RLS program. TDR receiving zones shall be allowed in the following future land use districts: Neighborhood, Urban/Low Intensity, Urban/High Intensity, and Special District. The TDR program will allow rural property owners to sell the transferable development rights to their property while retaining ownership of the land itself. The TDR program is explained further in Volume II (Data, Inventory and Analysis) in the Future Land Use section.
Policy 2.1.4.3: The County shall encourage other innovative ways to manage growth and preserve the environment through land use tools that promote sustainable growth. Such tools may include the use of Conservation Easements or Conservation Developments, allowing the clustering of development and preserving greenspace, rural and agricultural land, and environmentally sensitive areas.
Objective 2.1.5: Coordinate future land uses with the appropriate topography and soil conditions, and the availability of facilities and services.
Policy 2.1.5.1: Maximum densities and intensities permitted on a given parcel of land shall be based upon the suitability of topography and soil types for septic drainfield systems, potable water wells, and the ability to physically support buildings and improvements, as determined by County and state agencies in the review of proposed development projects.
Policy 2.1.5.2: Future land use proposals shall not be approved unless and until infrastructural elements (such as water, sewer, electrical power, telephone, schools, firefighting and police, etc.) as applicable and essential to serve the proposed development, are either available or planned to be available, on or about the date the proposed development (or applicable phase of development) is scheduled to be completed. Direct and thorough coordination by developers with the applicable utilities and other service providers, to this end, is encouraged.
Policy 2.1.5.3: The County shall adopt regulations that prohibit new development from degrading water quality.
Objective 2.1.6: Protect natural resources, environmental lands, and coastal resources through identification, classification, planning and management.
Policy 2.1.6.1: The County shall coordinate with its municipalities in addressing pollution and stormwater runoff in waterways shared by incorporated and unincorporated areas.
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Policy 2.1.6.2: The County shall consider environmental factors, such as the presence of wetlands or flood zone areas location within a special flood hazard area, at the time that zoning is applied within Planning Districts.
Policy 2.1.6.3: The County shall establish and enforce appropriate buffers from wetland areas and other environmental resources.
Objective 2.1.7: Protect and enhance the County’s shoreline and coastal areas, in order to improve quality of life, ensure continued function of the environmental systems and enhance the County’s economic development efforts.
Policy 2.1.7.1: Establish specific guidelines and standards for shoreline and coastal area development that will, at a minimum: a. Promote visual access to waterways and their related vistas; b. Promote recreational uses of shoreline and related areas; and c. Provide strict performance standards for any industrial uses located adjacent to any waterbody.
Policy 2.1.7.2: Marinas and boat ramps shall be located in areas where they create a minimum adverse impact to water quality and existing marine habitat.
Policy 2.1.7.3: Marinas that cater to live-aboard craft shall be equipped with sewage pump-out and collection systems for vessels.
Policy 2.1.7.4: Waterfront developments shall be designed to ensure that stormwater runoff and erosion do not adversely affect water quality of adjacent waters in accordance with the regulations of the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM).
Policy 2.1.7.5: The County should promote the protection and enhancement of land-based ecosystems along the shoreline, including coastal dune/beach and maritime forest/scrub ecosystems.
Objective 2.1.8: Ensure the provision of public recreation land.
Policy 2.1.8.1: The County shall identify additional available park land, and establish an acquisition and capital improvement budget and priority ranking based on estimated uses.
Objective 2.1.9: Coordinate the Future Land Use Element with the Major Roadway Plan.
Policy 2.1.9.1: The Future Land Use Element and Map Series shall be coordinated with the Major Roadway Plan. The Major Roadway Plan shall identify needed east-west and north-south corridors based on current and future land uses and development trends. Facilities and routes shall correspond with land uses, trip generators, and areas of greatest demand. An inventory and
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assessment of major road facilities and routes shall be addressed in the Major Roadway Plan. meet the long range transportation needs of the County; encourage and accommodate traffic on interstate, arterial and collector routes while discouraging traffic on local and neighborhood streets; provide access and evacuation routes among all developed areas of Baldwin County; improve overall accessibility to employment, education, public facilities, and other major activity centers; provide for an orderly improvement and expansion of the roadway system at minimum cost as the need for improvement arises; and minimize disruptions of existing and planned developments and established community patterns.
Policy 2.1.9.2: By 2010, the County shall prepare a Countywide Transit Plan, and coordinate with its municipalities and other agencies to address existing public transit studies that have been prepared or are underway to ensure consistency with those plans of the County.
Policy 2.1.9.3: The County shall increase the availability of alternative transportation modes such as public transit and a park-and-ride program. An inventory and assessment of such facilities and programs shall be addressed in a future Transit Plan.
Objective 2.1.10: Coordinate the Future Land Use Element with Other Plan Elements.
Policy 2.1.10.1: The Future Land Use Element and Future Land Use Map shall be coordinated with the Community Design Element to ensure that facilities and services needed to support the growing population are supported by appropriate future land uses and policies.
Policy 2.1.10.2: The Future Land Use Element and Future Land Use Map shall be coordinated with the County’s capital budget to ensure that capital improvements needed to support the growing population are supported by appropriate future land uses and policies.
Policy 2.1.10.3: The Future Land Use Element and Future Land Use Map shall be coordinated with the Housing Element to ensure that housing needed to support the growing population is supported by appropriate future land uses and policies.
Objective 2.1.11: Coordinate the Future Land Use Element and land development with other local governments, agencies, and entities.
Policy 2.1.11.1: Facilitate growth management activities and improve department efficiencies by coordinating permitting activities among the County’s Planning, Building, Highway and Health departments, as well as local, state, and federal agencies.
Policy 2.1.11.2: For those municipalities that have not yet adopted comprehensive plans, the County shall encourage the coordination of such future plans with the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan.
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Policy 2.1.11.3: The County shall encourage its municipalities to adopt and implement consistent regulations for environmental and natural resource protection to ensure consistency in protection and enforcement.
Objective 2.1.12: Develop and maintain an accurate mapping system to support the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 2.1.12.1: The County shall maintain a GIS database of all land use features, including but not limited to subdivisions, park land, and emergency shelters. Baldwin County should work with other entities to have shared access to other GIS information, including school locations.
Policy 2.1.12.2: The County shall coordinate with and encourage its municipalities, the Board of Education, police, fire, and other state and local agencies to use the County’s GIS database to ensure consistency and accuracy in mapping activities.
Policy 2.1.12.3: The County should identify existing or develop new GIS databases of all land use features and ensure a maintenance plan is in place for each to ensure accurate information is accessible.
GOAL 2.2: Promote opportunities for well-planned industrial development to address needs at suitable locations within the county.
Objective 2.2.1: Encourage economic development for the County through industrial uses, as industrial development plays an important role in strengthening the County’s economic base and will become increasingly important as the county grows in size and urban complexity. To a great extent, these are the areas to which Baldwin County must look for expanded job opportunities, investments and production opportunities, and a balanced and sufficient tax base.
Policy 2.2.1.1: Promote opportunities for well-planned industrial development at suitable locations within the county.
Policy 2.2.1.2: The Special District (SD) will accommodate industrial development as well as selective land use mixtures such as the combined uses of industrial, manufacturing, research and office complexes (if specifically related to adjoining industrial uses) that constitute a growing part of Alabama’s economic development sector.
Policy 2.2.1.3: Industrial growth patterns shall be contiguous and compact, promoted through the rezoning process to contain urban sprawl; minimize energy costs; conserve land, water and natural resources; minimize the cost of services; and prevent development patterns where large tracts of land are by-passed in favor of development more distant from services and existing communities.
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Policy 2.2.1.4: Development approval for industrial land uses must be consistent with the following criteria: a. The development must comply with local, state and federal air, water and noise pollution standards. b. When located next to residential areas, industry must not generate noise levels incompatible with the residential development or inconsistent with established noise ordinances or adopted standards. c. Bulk storage or production of toxic, explosive or hazardous materials will not be permitted within 2,000 feet of residential areas. d. Contamination of ground or surface water will not be permitted. e. Applications for industrial development will be reviewed and evaluated as to: 1. Air emission; 2. Impact and effect on environmental and natural resources; 3. Effect on neighbors and surrounding land use; 4. Impacts on water quality and water needs; 5. Drainage system; 6. Employment characteristics; 7. Fire and safety; 8. Noise and odors; 9. Buffering and screening; 10. Impacts on transportation facilities and access points; 11. Access to rail, major thoroughfares, air and, if applicable, water 12. Utility needs; and 13. Sewage collection and treatment
Policy 2.2.1.5: Heavy industrial developments requiring rezoning must be developed as Planned Industrial Developments (PIDs) designed to arrange uses as an integrated and cohesive unit in order to: a. Promote compatibility and screening; b. Reduce dependence on the automobile; c. Promote pedestrian movement within the development d. Utilize joint parking, access and loading facilities; e. Avoid negative impacts on surrounding land uses and traffic circulation; f. Protect natural resources; and g. Provide necessary facilities and service where they are inadequate to serve the proposed use.
Policy 2.2.1.6: Industrial land uses must be located in areas appropriate to their special needs and constraints, including but not limited to, consideration of: a. Topography; b. Choice and flexibility in site selection; c. Access by truck, air, deep water and rail; d. Commuter access from home-to-work trips;
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e. Utilities; f. Greenbelt and other amenities; g. Air and water quality consideration; h. Proximity to supportive and related land uses; and i. Compatibility with neighboring uses.
Policy 2.2.1.7: The County should identify strategic locations for industrial development utilizing criteria found in Policy 16.4 and, if needed, rezone properties to meet immediate industrial development needs so as to have sites available and ready for development. However, existing vacant space should be utilized before expansion of other industrial land use.
Policy 2.2.1.8: The timing and location of industrial development will be permitted only with the availability and adequacy of existing or planned services and facilities.
Policy 2.2.1.9: Land that is located outside of the Special District areas may be developed for light industrial purposes so long as adequate services and facilities are available, the use will not adversely impact surrounding land uses, natural resources are protected, and if one of the following conditions are met: a. The parcel is located in the ULD, UHD or Rural District, was zoned M-1 or M-2 prior to the adoption of the 2008-2025 Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan, and does not exceed 50 acres in size (unless it is adjacent to other existing or designated industrial lands). b. The parcel is located in the ULD, UHD or Rural District and is zoned as a Planned Industrial Development.
Policy 2.2.1.10: Permit agriculturally-related industrial uses that directly serve the rural and agricultural community in areas indicated on the Future Land Use map as Rural, provided they have adequate fire protection, transportation, and wastewater treatment and water supply, and have no adverse effect on surrounding land uses and natural resources. These determinations will be made during the rezoning process.
Policy 2.2.1.11: Land development regulations will require that industrial uses be adequately buffered and screened from adjacent existing or proposed residential areas so as to prevent visual blight and noise pollution.
Policy 2.2.1.12: Industrial development will not be permitted if it allows industrial traffic to travel through predominantly residential areas.
Policy 2.2.1.13: Industrial uses should be located in established industrial parks whenever possible.
Policy 2.2.1.14: All county action relative to industrial land uses must be consistent with the goals, objective and policies of the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan.
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Objective 2.2.2: Encourage commercial infill development where existing commercial development would make a residential use clearly inappropriate.
Policy 2.2.2.1: Commercial infill development may be allowed: a. Where existing infill areas have 300 feet or less frontage on arterial or collector roads; and b. Are comprised of twenty (20) acres or fewer; and c. Lie between commercially zoned parcels on the same side of the road so that commercial use of the property(ies) is the most logical land use.
The depth of such infill commercial development shall be commensurate with the depth of existing commercial zoning on the proximate parcels which define the infill area.
Policy 2.2.2.2: Consideration of infill rezonings should include, but not necessarily be limited to, the evaluation of the following factors: a. Traffic impacts to affected roadways. b. Suitability of property due to setbacks. c. Lot frontage widths. d. Parking. e. Drainage. f. Access management. g. Environmental constraints. h. Need for additional commercial development to serve proximate populations. i. Other issues identified.
Goal 2.3: Achieve long term viability of agricultural operations in Baldwin County.
Objective 2.3.1: Support preservation of agricultural lands by channeling new growth to areas already committed to development.
Policy 2.3.1.1: Lands designated by the NRCS as “prime” farmland and lands containing active farms should zoned RA Rural Agriculture on the Baldwin County Zoning Maps.
Policy 2.3.1.2: Land may be developed in prime agriculture areas only when the viability of agricultural uses is limited by conflicts with urban uses, and the continued or renewed agricultural use is impaired.
Policy 2.3.1.3: Development expansion of the following uses into agriculture areas may be considered based on the following criteria: a. Urban area or community, provided that: 1. The designated areas do not have sufficient land to accommodate their projected growth. 2. There are no reasonable alternatives which avoid prime agricultural areas; and
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3. There are no reasonable alternatives with lower priority agricultural lands in the prime agricultural area. b. Limited non-residential uses, provided that: 1. There is a demonstrated need for additional land to be designated to accommodate the proposed use; 2. There is no reasonable alternative locations which avoid prime agriculture area; and 3. There are no reasonable alternative locations in prime agricultural area with lower priority agriculture lands.
* Prime and other Important Farmland designations were derived using U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resource Conservation Service Soil Survey for Baldwin County, AL. More information on Prime and other Important Farmlands can be found in Volume II: Data, Inventory and Analysis.
Policy 2.3.1.4: When residential subdivisions are proposed to be located in agricultural areas, promote the use of clustering, through conservation subdivisions, if it would: a. Achieve greater permanent protection of agricultural land. b. Protect the most valuable farmland from non-agricultural uses. c. Avoid land use conflicts between dwellings and adjacent agricultural land. d. Be served by adequate infrastructure and services.
Objective 2.3.2: To conserve and stabilize agricultural land uses in order to protect agricultural lands from encroachment and conversion to non-agricultural uses, to minimize future potential conflicts between agricultural and non-agricultural land uses and to protect the public health safety and general welfare, all new non-agricultural development adjacent to designated agricultural land shall be required to provide an agricultural buffer.
Policy 2.3.2.1: Any new non-agricultural use on property abutting agricultural land shall provide an agricultural buffer with a minimum width of 150 feet along all property lines abutting agricultural land. Where the tract abuts a public road, the width of the right-of-way may be deducted from the required buffer width.
Policy 2.3.2.2: If the buffer is not landscaped, no less than fifty (50) feet of the buffer measured from the property line must be left undisturbed.
Policy 2.3.2.3: The required buffer shall be exclusive of the minimum lot size requirement.
Policy 2.3.2.4: Existing trees, hedgerows and vegetation shall be considered in determining the appropriate width of the agricultural buffer. The removal of trees within the buffer shall only be permitted when a landscaping plan showing adequate replacement planting is provided.
Policy 2.3.2.5: All required agricultural buffers shall consist of natural undisturbed areas to the extent that native plants, tress or hedge rows exist, provided that the existing vegetation will be
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preserved and/or supplemented where sparsely vegetated so that they provide a more or less opaque screen between the non-agricultural land and the agricultural land.
Policy 2.3.2.6: If the buffer area contains screening planting, the buffer width may be reduced to 100 feet. If a landscaped berm is provided averaging five feet in height and intensively planted with coniferous and deciduous plant to create an effective visual and dust barrier, the buffer width may be reduced to 75 feet.
Policy 2.3.2.7: The only structures permitted within the agricultural buffer are fences, walls and accessory structures. Structural and nonstructural stormwater management facilities may be located within the agricultural buffer only if the Planning Commission determines that the facilities do not detract from the effectiveness of the buffer.
Policy 2.3.2.8: If a non-agricultural property which abuts an agricultural land is proposed for subdivision, the developer shall be required to designate all land within 150 feet of a property line of an agricultural land as an agricultural buffer on the subdivision plat.
Policy 2.3.2.9: The setback distance shall be reviewed for unusual circumstances that may result in an adjustment in the setback distance. The setback distance may be adjusted under consideration by the Planning Commission. Consideration of adjustment shall be based upon an evaluation of the following criteria provided that such adjustment would not result in a modification to adjacent agricultural practices: a. Parcel size and shape b. Density of Development c. Intended Type of Land Use. d. Location and Configuration of dwellings. e. Infrastructure and other existing uses f. Natural physical features and topography g. Other circumstances not specified above.
Policy 2.3.2.10: Commercial and industrial uses will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Developments which include dwellings or schools may need larger buffers than businesses where the presence of people may be limited, while proposed industrial uses adjacent to agricultural areas may present significant land use conflict.
Policy 2.3.2.11: The Planning Commission may waive the requirement for an agricultural buffer for a minor subdivision or site plan if the application would enhance agricultural purposes or if the developer will provide sufficient perimeter landscaping to screen any residential use.
Policy 2.3.2.12: Buffering for agricultural lands may be abandoned and re-used when agricultural uses have permanently ceased within a 150-foot radius of adjacent parcels.
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Objective 2.3.3: Support agricultural tourism by permitting compatible visitor-serving and recreational activities in agricultural areas.
Policy 2.3.3.1: Allow the marketing and sale of agricultural products grown on the premises in agricultural areas.
Policy 2.3.3.2: Allow recreational uses within agricultural areas that are compatible and do not adversely impact the long-term productivity of the agricultural use on-site and on adjacent lands.
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CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
One of society’s most basic needs is shelter. How we as a society preserve our housing stock and how we plan to accommodate our future housing needs reflect upon the quality of life we enjoy or want to enjoy in the future. The issue is not just creating affordable housing, it also includes preserving existing affordable housing stock, rental housing, and older neighborhoods where a diversity of housing is in close proximity to public transit and human services.
The goals, objectives, and policies of this element are intended to provide County officials and the general public with the implementation strategies necessary to guide housing growth in the direction which best addresses the desires of not only Baldwin County’s existing and anticipated residents, but those with special needs as well.
The goals, objectives, and policies should be followed by decision-makers involved in residential development in Baldwin County. These decision-makers include government officials charged with the review and approval of residential plans as well as the developers and builders who submit such plans and provide housing through the private market system. The objectives and policies are intended to serve as a guide for both public and private decisions, as well as provide a basis for new land development regulations.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES
GOAL 3.1: Provide for the creation and preservation of adequate, safe, sanitary and affordable housing for all Baldwin County residents, particularly low and low-moderate- income households.
Objective 3.1.1: Provide affordable housing opportunities for low and low-moderate- income households throughout the County.
Policy 3.1.1.1: Baldwin County shall encourage the equitable distribution of affordable- workforce housing throughout unincorporated Baldwin County and its incorporated municipalities.
Policy 3.1.1.2: Partnerships are encouraged between private developers, non-profit entities, local governments and other interested parties to ensure the development of housing that meets the needs of Baldwin County residents.
Policy 3.1.1.3: Baldwin County shall evaluate methods to facilitate the development of necessary affordable-workforce housing through programs including credits or deferrals of impact fees which may be otherwise imposed.
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Policy 3.1.1.4: Baldwin County should conduct a comprehensive housing survey by the end of 2012 for the purpose of creating an inventory of affordable housing (rental and ownership).
Policy 3.1.1.5: Baldwin County shall continue to encourage residential infill development on vacant land within established subdivisions where supporting infrastructures such as water and sewer lines and transportation systems are already in place, subject to compliance with the goals, objectives and policies of this Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 3.1.1.6: Baldwin County shall explore new alternatives to create affordable housing and “aging in place” opportunities, outside the Coastal Hazard Area, and allow accessory dwellings in appropriate districts.
Policy 3.1.1.7: Baldwin County shall review the land development code and building regulations, as necessary, to identify potential actions or programs that may be established to reduce the cost of compliance for affordable housing providers.
Policy 3.1.1.8: Baldwin County shall continue to streamline the housing development and permitting process in order to minimize costs and delays in the provision of affordable housing by: a. Disseminating clear and concise information on affordable housing programs. b. Providing flexible and efficient development regulations and administrative procedures. c. Ensuring adequate staff for technical and administrative support. d. Expediting the review and permitting process for affordable housing proposals.
Policy 3.1.1.9: Baldwin County shall encourage affordable housing to be located in residential areas, taking into account the following criteria: a. Adequate public facilities are present. b. Adequate public services are present. c. The site is proximate to employment opportunities. d. The site is proximate to schools and recreation. e. The site is proximate to emergency medical facilities. f. The site is proximate to public transportation routes. g. The site is outside the outside the Coastal High Hazard Area.
Policy 3.1.1.10: Explore a program for housing bonus density through land development regulations, to stimulate the construction of affordable housing in Baldwin County.
Policy 3.1.1.11: Encourage a mix of residential types and designs on a countywide basis by providing for a wide variety of allowable housing densities and types through the planned development process.
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Objective 3.1.2: Baldwin County shall continue to promote the preservation of historically significant housing and encourage its utility for residential use.
Policy 3.1.2.1: Encourage the conservation, maintenance and rehabilitation of historically significant structures through the use of facade easements or other creative preservation methods.
Policy 3.1.2.2: Land development regulations should be reviewed for their effectiveness in protecting historic structures in the land development process.
Policy 3.1.2.3: The Baldwin County Planning Department shall coordinate with the Baldwin County Historical Commission, and any other historical society or board that may become active, to identify historically significant housing.
Policy 3.1.2.4: The County shall adopt incentives for developers to protect and preserve historically significant housing in the County.
Objective 3.1.3: Baldwin County shall provide appropriate land use categories and land development regulations to allow for a variety of housing types and values to meet the needs of the existing and anticipated residents.
Policy 3.1.3.1: The County shall create, review and amend as necessary land development regulations, including subdivision regulations, zoning ordinance, building code ordinances and the like in order to identify and eliminate unnecessary requirements which may add to the cost of the housing delivery process.
Measure: Include in the development review procedures section of the County’s land development regulation provisions for one or more of the following: a. A “fast-track” or “one-stop” permitting process b. A maximum time limit for the review of proposals c. A reduction or waiver of processing fees for affordable housing projects. d. Concurrent review of multiple permit applications.
Policy 3.1.3.2 The County shall review all proposed developments to ensure compatible buffering between single-family neighborhoods and higher density development including commercial and industrial and multi-family development.
Policy 3.1.3.3: Notwithstanding Policy 3.1.1.10, the County shall promote mixed-use developments within urban fringe areas that have or can support the required infrastructure.
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Policy 3.1.3.4: The County shall utilize locational criteria for residential, commercial and industrial developments in the land development regulations in order to avoid problems associated with “spot zonings” and incompatibilities between future land uses.
Policy 3.1.3.5: Baldwin County should consider establishing and implementing a housing code.
Policy 3.1.3.6: The County shall initiate neighborhood upgrading projects by assisting property owners in prioritizing neighborhood level capital improvement projects in neighborhoods lacking such facilities as paved streets, and sidewalks
Policy 3.1.3.7: The County shall cause a separate zoning category or overlay zone to be created to address necessary flexibility in the unique housing areas that have developed as independent communities historically. In order to avoid displacement and hardships, flexibility is needed from existing or standard density or dimensional regulations. Any flexibility created must still meet the spirit and intent of the ordinance.
Objective 3.1.4: The County shall cooperate with the private sector, to promote adequate and affordable housing to meet the housing needs of the County’s very low, low and moderate income households.
Policy 3.1.4.1: A survey of housing units shall be conducted of all the unincorporated area to establish an inventory of affordable housing units. This inventory will be updated every three years.
Policy 3.1.4.2: The County shall maintain an inventory of vacant or underutilized public lands and real property to determine which land can be deemed surplus, and make appropriate surplus land available to stimulate the development of affordable housing.
Policy 3.1.4.3: The Baldwin Housing Alliance or other agency shall monitor affordable projects and advise the County government with respect to procedures and regulations affecting the development of affordable housing.
Policy 3.1.4.4: The County shall promote community-based organizations dedicated to the provision of affordable housing for very low and low income households by donating publicly owned land and or buildings identified in the public land survey, when deemed appropriate to such organizations.
Policy 3.1.4.5: The Baldwin Housing Alliance in coordination with the Alabama Housing Finance Authority or other appropriate agency, shall identify and promote local, state and federal funding sources and implementation programs to aid in the provision of affordable housing and
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relocation housing for lower and moderate income households and make such information available to the public, residential developers and interested organizations on an annual basis.
Policy 3.1.4.6: A maximum density of 15 units per acre shall be permitted on no more than 100 acres within the Urban/High Intensity District of the Future Land Use Map for the provision of housing for the elderly, or handicapped and housing for very low, low and moderate income households. Location shall be based on need and criteria, assessing proximity to the following: employment, mass transit, health care, parks, commercial services and central utility services.
All proposed developments for very low, low and moderate income housing or elderly or handicapped housing shall be reviewed, taking the following into account: a. Need for the type and amount of housing proposed b. Mandatory provision of water and sewer services c. Compatibility with adjacent land uses d. Evaluation using the weighted points system described below.
The low and moderate income categories to be served by the proposed development shall be defined by HUD standards.
Policy 3.1.4.7: Weighted Point System: Low and Moderate Income Housing Housing developments for very low, low and moderate income occupants will be evaluated for the appropriateness of increased density based upon their proximity to the following: employment, commercial services, mass transit, parks and schools. Location relative to commercial and industrial centers will be considered an indication of proximity to employment.
a. Proximity to commercial and industrial services and employment. Proximity shall be determined by the proposed development’s location relative to boundaries drawn within one and one half (1 ½) mile radii from the nearest existing (active) commercial or industrial use within a municipal boundary, the Urban/Low Intensity District (ULD), or Urban/High Intensity District (UHD) shown on the Future Land Use Map.
Allow a maximum of 20 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest commercial or industrial use. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to 1 mile or transportation provided by development (20 points): 1 to 1.5 miles (10 points).
b. Proximity to mass transit routes (such as BRATS). Proximity shall be determined by the proposed development’s location relative to boundaries drawn with one and one half mile radii from the nearest mass transit stop.
Allow a maximum of 20 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest mass transit
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stop. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to 1 mile or transportation provided by development (20) points: 1.1 to 1.5 miles (10 points).
c. Proximity to parks. Proximity shall be determined by the proposed development’s location relative to boundaries drawn by neighborhood or community park.
Allow a maximum of 10 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest neighborhood or community park. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to .5 miles or park provided on site (10) points: .6 to 1 mile (5 points).
d. Location within walking distance of a public school, as indicated by a radius drawn from the nearest public school. Baldwin County School Board standards for walking distance will be used for the radii (1.5 miles for grades K-6: two miles for grades 7-12). Where the School Board has modified the standard due to hazardous conditions, such modifications will prevail.
Allow a maximum of 10 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest public school. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to 1.5 miles to an elementary school or zero to two miles to a junior high school (10 points). No points for location outside the walking distance. Developments for very low and low income occupants which also incorporate at least 25 percent of total housing units for elderly or handicapped occupants shall be evaluated based on the criteria described for the provision of elderly and handicapped housing. In order to proceed with development of increased density housing for very low – low and moderate income households in the ULD and UHD districts of the Future Land Use Map, the development must achieve a minimum of 30 out of a possible 60 points available as set forth in the Weighted Point System for Low and Moderate Income Housing above.
Policy 3.1.4.8: Weighted Point System: Elderly and Handicapped Housing Developments which incorporate at least 25 percent of total housing units for the use of elderly and or handicapped occupants will be evaluated for the appropriateness of increased density based upon their proximity to the following: commercial services, mass transit, park and health care.
a. Proximity to commercial services. Proximity shall be determined by the proposed development’s location relative to boundaries with one-half and one-mile radii from the nearest existing (active) commercial use within a municipal boundary, the Urban/Low Intensity District (ULD), or the Urban/High Intensity District (UHD) shown on the Future Land Use Map.
Allow a maximum of 20 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest existing
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commercial use. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to 5 miles or transportation provided by development (20 points): 0.6 to 1 mile (10 points).
b. Proximity to mass transit routes. Proximity shall be determined by the proposed development’s location relative to boundaries drawn with one and one half mile radii from the nearest mass transit stop.
Allow a maximum of 20 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest transit stop. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to 0.5 mile or transportation provided by development (20) points: .6 to 1 mile (10 points).
c. Proximity to parks. Proximity shall be determined by the proposed development’s location relative to boundaries drawn with one half and one mile radii from the nearest neighborhood or community park.
Allow a maximum of 10 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest neighborhood or community park. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to .5 miles or park provided on site (10) points: 0.6 to 1 mile (5 points).
d. Proximity to hospital facilities. Proximity shall be determined by the proposed development’s location relative to boundaries drawn with three and six mile radii from the nearest hospital.
Allow a maximum of 20 points based on the distance in miles to the nearest hospital. Points will be awarded as follows: 0 to 3 miles to health care facility and health care staff provided on site (20 points). 3.1 to 6 miles (10 points). In order to proceed with development of increased density housing for elderly and handicapped persons in the Urban/Low Intensity District (ULD) or the Urban/High Intensity District (UHD) of the Future Land Use Map, the development must achieve a minimum of 35 out of a possible 70 points available as set forth in the Weighted Point System for Elderly and Handicapped above.
Objective 3.1.5: The County shall facilitate adequate sites and infrastructure for single family homes, group homes, foster care facilities, the elderly, handicapped and rural farm workers households in order to meet the needs of persons requiring this type of housing.
Policy 3.1.5.1: The County shall review and amend, as appropriate, its land development regulations to provide the means for integrating group living and foster care facilities into appropriate residential areas to provide for a variety of rural and urban locations and to allow deinstitutionalization and foster non-discrimination.
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Objective 3.1.6: Baldwin County shall cooperate with private and non-profit participants involved in housing production to promote the dwelling units to meet the projected 2025 housing need for the population by: a. The designation of adequate areas for new residential development on the Future Land Use Map Series. b. The establishment of location and development criteria applicable to residential development, including rural and farm-worker housing, low-income housing, and mobile homes, and c. The improvement of the local development review process.
Policy 3.1.6.1: Farm-worker housing shall be allowed in rural areas when in conformance with applicable rules and regulations, and upon approval of a special exception by the County.
Policy 3.1.6.2: Baldwin County shall establish, through its land development regulations, criteria for locating publicly assisted housing for low-income households to locate such units in areas other than where there may now be a disproportionate concentration. Criteria shall include, but not be limited to: accessibility to shopping, services, and employment.
Policy 3.1.6.3: Baldwin County shall review, and amend its development review and approval process, as necessary, for the purposes of increasing efficiency and eliminating unnecessary requirements in order to increase private sector participation in meeting the identified housing needs while continuing to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of residents. Improvements to this process shall include, but not be limited to, the following: a. Improving communication between developers and County agencies through printed guidelines for development review and pre-application meetings. b. Coordinating development review by County agencies through the County’s Development Review Committee. c. Establishing a maximum time limit for review of development proposals, and d. Eliminating unnecessary public hearings.
Policy 3.1.6.4: Baldwin County shall discourage the use of recreational vehicles as year round permanent housing by prohibiting permanent additions to recreational vehicles.
Objective 3.1.7: Baldwin County shall implement the objectives and policies of the Housing Element through appropriate techniques and mechanisms. Baldwin County shall implement adopted objectives and policies by: designating responsible County agencies or departments to execute appropriate strategies and programs; adopting and enforcing applicable development regulations; evaluating all development proposals for conformance to policies and compliance with regulations; and considering all objectives and policies when making growth management decisions.
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Policy 3.1.7.1: Baldwin County shall adopt development regulations that implement the objectives and policies of the Housing Element.
Policy 3.1.7.2: Information regarding temporary housing assistance shall be made available at the Planning Department offices.
Policy 3.1.7.3: The Baldwin County Commission shall cooperate with the “Baldwin Housing Alliance” in its assessment of low-income housing needs.
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HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CHAPTER 4: CONSERVATION, NATURAL RESOURCES & OPEN SPACE ELEMENT GOALS, OBJECTIVES & POLICIES JUNE, 2009
CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
The Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space Element provides the framework for the preservation, protection and wise use of the County’s natural resources. The intent of this element is to provide a basis for effective decision-making regarding the appropriate use of natural resources when faced by increasing growth and urban development, in addition to the identification and preservation of important ecological systems.
Despite the rapid growth experienced in the County over the last two decades, there remains an abundance of natural resources. However, as growth pressures increase, so does the need for protection and management of these resources. This element undertakes a responsible approach to stewardship of natural resources by recognizing the contribution of these resources to Baldwin County’s quality of life.
The goals, objectives, and policies concerning natural resources have been divided into the following categories: environment, waterways, natural open space and wetlands acquisition, waste management, development and environmental protection, resource protection, wetlands management, wildlife protection, stormwater management, groundwater protection, air quality, water quality, and citizen participation.
The environment needs to be examined to ensure stability of the natural resources within Baldwin County. Addressing the issue of protection of waterways within Baldwin County will be discussed. The preservation of the natural open space and wetlands habitats shall be initiated by a strategic plan to acquire environmentally sensitive areas. The management of hazardous waste is a growing concern statewide and nationally. Proposals are included to address the County’s progressive role in preventing damage to the environment from the inadequate storage and disposal of these wastes.
Controlling and balancing the rate of development with the intrusion to the environment will have to be closely monitored and examined. Because of the chance of flooding in low-lying and coastal areas, stormwater management standards need to be implemented to protect communities from natural disasters and major flooding events.
Air quality is not considered to be a major problem at the present. However, measures are included to prevent substantial degradation of the County’s air quality as growth continues.
Preventing further harm to the water quality of the County’s lakes, rivers, and groundwater is high on the agenda of this element. A program to implement comprehensive monitoring and protection of County waters is proposed, along with methods to ensure the continuing natural functions of waterbodies, wetlands and floodplains.
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Protection measures are proposed to conserve important areas of native vegetation through a range of techniques. Perhaps the best protective technique of all will be through the designation of land uses in the Future Land Use Element of the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan. The best examples of diverse ecological communities are found in undeveloped areas. Once such communities are identified, they can best be protected by directing urban growth away from them. A program of identification will be undertaken, and growth into those areas will be regulated. Wildlife protection is accomplished by preserving habitat critical to the survival of wildlife species.
Future land use designation of areas appropriate for the extraction of mineral resources will serve to protect the economic value of these areas by preventing encroachment of other types of development. At the same time, measures to minimize environmental degradation from the adverse impacts of mining activities are proposed.
These policies are derived from an analysis of the existing conditions within the natural environment of the County, as well as an examination of the other elements of the Growth Management Plan.
The following goals, objectives, and policies have been developed for the use of local policy makers in guiding and directing the decision making process regarding the conservation of natural resources. For purposes of definition, the included goals are a generalized statement of a desired end state toward which objectives and policies are directed. The objectives provide the attainable and measurable ends toward which Baldwin County directs specific efforts. The policies provided are the specific recommended actions that the County will follow in order achieve the identified objectives.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
ENVIRONMENT
GOAL 4.1: Baldwin County shall continue to plan for the protection, conservation, management, and appropriate use of the natural resources found in Baldwin County.
Objective 4.1.1 : Baldwin County will continue to develop and implement a comprehensive environmental management and conservation program, which will ensure that the natural resources in Baldwin County, including state and federally listed animal and plant species are properly, appropriately and effectively identified, managed, and protected.
Policy 4.1.1.1: Baldwin County shall continue to support established environmental policies by maintaining an appropriately administered and professionally staffed governmental unit capable
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of developing, administering, and providing long-term direction for the protection and management of the County’s environmental resources.
Policy 4.1.1.2: The appropriate County agencies shall continue cooperation with private natural resource conservation and management organizations, as well as regional, state, and federal environmental agencies.
Policy 4.1.1.3: The appropriate County agencies will work with adjacent and surrounding local governments and state/federal agencies to identify and manage shared natural resources.
Policy 4.1.1.4: Utilize the Environmental Advisory Board of Baldwin County, affected state and federal agencies, and environmental volunteer organizations as guidance to help steer decision- making on high priority environmental issues.
Policy 4.1.1.5: The provisions of the proposed Major Roadway Plan of the County shall minimize impacts upon wetlands and protect the environment, at a minimum, in accordance with state and federal regulations.
Objective 4.1.2: Maintain a framework for an integrated, computer based environmental resources GIS and non-GIS data storage, analysis, and graphics system. Annually update the GIS and non-GIS databases based on the previous year’s analytical data in order to monitor the status of the County’s natural resources and propose potential protection measures when appropriate.
Policy 4.1.2.1: Collected and compiled GIS and non-GIS data will be organized by established watershed and sub-basin units in the County.
Policy 4.1.2.2: With the appropriate Memorandum of Understanding, County environmental resources GIS and non-GIS data may be made available to both public and private entities in order to promote and improve local environmental resource planning and management.
Policy 4.1.2.3: Baldwin County’s computerized environmental resources GIS and non-GIS data storage, analysis, and graphics system shall share information and resources with other regional and local agencies. The County shall cooperate with these other entities when updating its system in order that the benefits of the updated system may be shared with all appropriate agencies and organizations.
WATERWAYS
GOAL 4.2: Baldwin County shall address the issue of protecting its natural waterways.
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Objective 4.2.1: Specific initiatives shall be in place to prevent degradation of Baldwin County waterbodies.
Policy 4.2.1.1: The County shall require that any surface water body designated as an “impaired waterbody” by EPA or ADEM be subject to additional land development regulation criteria for all land in drainage basins that is both existing and new development.
Policy 4.2.1.2: Baldwin County shall introduce a chemical and biological assessment monitoring program that includes temperature, phosphates, nitrates, acidity of water, turbidity, enterococcus and dissolved oxygen levels for all impaired waterbodies.
Objective 4.2.2: Protect the natural functions of the 100-year floodplain—flood mitigation, water purification, water supply, and wildlife habitat and movement corridors – consistent with the policies contained herein, so that the flood carrying and flood storage capacity is maintained and public health and safety concerns related to the natural ecosystem are protected.
Policy 4.2.2.1: A comprehensive watershed management program should be established to identify and map the 100-year floodplains in Baldwin County, evaluate the flood-handling capacities of natural drainage systems, maintain and enhance water quality, protect natural ecosystems, develop floodplain management guidelines, and incorporate watershed information into a database system.
Policy 4.2.2.2: Development shall not be allowed in areas of special flood hazard (100-year) flood areas unless the development can demonstrate affirmatively that at a minimum: a. It will not adversely affect the water quality and flood-carrying capacity and/or flood storage capacity of the area of special flood hazard; b. It is designed to withstand special flood hazards by elevating the finished floor elevation to a minimum of one foot above the 100-year flood elevation; c. It does not alter the hydroperiod of natural ecosystems; d. It does not pose a threat to public health, safety, and welfare; e. It is consistent with the policies contained in the Future Land Use Element.
Policy 4.2.2.3: The County hereby designates those lands within the County’s jurisdiction lying within the 100-year floodplain of any waterway as environmentally sensitive lands as defined in the Data Inventory & Analysis Section Volume II of the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan. In addition to any applicable federal, state or other regulations, the following provisions shall apply: a. The County’s Zoning Ordinance shall require an undisturbed natural buffer along the property lines of public lands within the 100-year floodplain of any waterway for the purposes of visual screening, stormwater treatment and erosion control, public safety, and
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buffering potentially incompatible land uses. Disturbance does not include the control or removal of non-native exotic invasive species. b. The County shall participate in the acquisition planning process of state and regional agencies for lands and unique natural areas located within the 100-year floodplain of the identified river systems within Baldwin County. c. The County shall annually monitor the use of County-owned facilities on or within the 100-year floodplain of any waterway to ensure that the public use of these facilities does not threaten the facility or adjacent natural resources. d. The County shall require a minimum undisturbed, vegetated buffer of 30 feet measured from the generally recognized riverbank of any waterway. e. The County shall provide for the evaluation of properties for unique natural areas within the 100-year floodplain of any waterway.
Objective 4.2.3: Baldwin County shall protect the natural functions of floodplains and flood zone areas to maintain flood-carrying and flood-storage capacities, to protect life and property, and to continue to maintain the County’s eligibility in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Policy 4.2.3.1: Baldwin County shall require compensatory storage for encroachment in floodplains, prohibiting encroachment in floodways a No Rise Certification for any development located in a floodplain.
Policy 4.2.3.2: Baldwin County shall strengthen floodplain protection requirements for riverine systems by adopting regulations prohibiting floodplain encroachment without compensating storage.
Policy 4.2.3.3: Baldwin County shall identify and prioritize floodplain areas in need of corrective measures.
NATURAL OPEN SPACE & WETLANDS ACQUISITION
GOAL 4.3: Baldwin County shall preserve and protect its natural open space and wetlands habitats by land acquisition and the creation of a greenway system to maintain the unique and irreplaceable values, functions, diversity, and benefit of the natural resources within the unincorporated area.
Objective 4.3.1: Baldwin County shall implement a strategic plan to acquire environmentally sensitive lands and regulations to protect these lands.
Policy 4.3.1.1: Invest in protection of the Long Leaf Pine forestry areas to preserve their existence as a habitat.
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Policy 4.3.1.2: Coordinate with adjacent municipalities to protect ecologic systems in the County.
Objective 4.3.2: Consider a network of greenways, blueways, bikeway trails, and pedestrian trails within Baldwin County.
Policy 4.3.2.1: By 2015, institute a countywide greenway program that would involve coordination with municipalities, state, and federal agencies within Baldwin County.
Policy 4.3.2.2: Recommend to the Baldwin County Commission a Greenways Committee within the County to administer an acquisition program for right-of-way, greenway corridors, open space areas, and similar type linear connection.
Policy 4.3.2.3: Baldwin County shall identify upland areas needed to establish significant greenway and wildlife corridors to connect environmentally sensitive areas. These greenways shall have a minimum width of four hundred (400) feet.
Policy 4.3.2.4: It is the intent of greenways to provide active and passive recreation and non- motorized access.
Objective 4.3.3: Consider environmental credits to purchase development rights of new and existing development.
Policy 4.3.3.1: Baldwin County shall establish a system for issuing credits to new and existing developments during the permitting process in exchange for preservation of the environment.
Policy 4.3.3.2: Baldwin County shall encourage new development to enter into conservation agreements with responsible agencies to protect endangered and threatened plant and animal species.
Objective 4.3.4: Consider the linkage between noted watersheds in the County, in particular, the Mobile Delta and Perdido River Corridor.
Policy 4.3.4.1: Acquire 30% more environmentally sensitive areas, waterfront property, and greenspace for public ownership for linkage between the County’s watersheds such as the Mobile Delta and Perdido River Corridor.
Policy 4.3.4.2: Implement buffers along all waterbodies, so that wildlife corridors, water quality and channel stability can be protected along watersheds in the County.
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Policy 4.3.4.3: Consider strategies in implementing land donation and conservation easements in the County.
Policy 4.3.4.3.1: Baldwin County shall encourage voluntary land donations in order to preserve critical open space areas.
Policy 4.3.4.3.2: Baldwin County shall utilize conservation easements for the purpose of protecting significant natural communities and rare plant or animal sites on privately owned property.
Objective 4.3.5: Baldwin County will coordinate with local municipalities in the County, adjacent counties, and other agencies to ensure stable, compatible, and contiguous ecologic systems.
Policy 4.3.5.1: Baldwin County will work with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Interior and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to support their conservation efforts for potential tracts of land.
Objective 4.3.6: Consider other, non-wetland natural areas for open space protection and conservation.
Policy 4.3.6.1: The County shall apply stricter enforcement regulations for lands designated as Conservation District as shown on the Future Land Use Maps.
Policy 4.3.6.2: The County shall establish development standards for property owned by the County that has been designated specifically for conservation purposes.
Policy 4.3.6.3: The County shall protect appropriate natural areas for the public benefit and restore degraded floodplain areas by methods including, but not limited to, land acquisition or conservation easement acquisition.
Policy 4.3.6.4: The County shall protect natural areas by appropriate setbacks, buffer zones, designated wildlife corridors, low density zoning, performance-based standards, and open space requirements.
Policy 4.3.6.5: The County shall help protect privately-owned natural areas by the use of incentives, tax benefits, and transfer of development rights.
Objective 4.3.7: Consider protection of uplands adjacent to wetlands and the cumulative effects as growth occurs.
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Policy 4.3.7.1: Baldwin County should consider upland buffer systems through such means as requiring the maintenance of natural vegetation in an upland buffer system.
Policy 4.3.7.2: Through the comprehensive planning process, the Conservation District future land use designation of undeveloped upland areas should be considered when County decision- makers are selecting appropriate land uses for unprotected open space areas.
Objective 4.3.8: Review existing watershed management plans and other studies by the Alabama Department of Environmental Management and Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Policy 4.3.8.1: The County shall review such studies as “Alabama’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy”, “Alabama Nonpoint Source Management Program Plan”, “Alabama Handbook for Erosion Control, Sediment Control, and Stormwater Management”, “Section 319 Watershed Management Plan”, and “Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan for the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program”.
Policy 4.3.8.2: Work with the Coastal Alabama Clean Water Partnership, ADEM and other appropriate agencies and organizations, to prepare basin management action plans for impaired waterbodies to improve water quality.
Objective 4.3.9: Protect the quality and quantity of all public waters, recognize the ongoing study efforts, and ensure that the current water quality in the County is improved.
Policy 4.3.9.1: Encourage alternatives to shoreline hardening practices. Where practical, shoreline planting and enhancement projects shall be encouraged for developments proposing shoreline hardening. Require effective vegetative buffer zones for all new construction adjacent to watercourses, wetlands, and bays.
Policy 4.3.9.2: Support the efforts and consider recommendations from intergovernmental organizations concerning Baldwin County’s watersheds.
WASTE MANAGEMENT
GOAL 4.4: Baldwin County will focus on the need to develop and enforce regulations in regards to waste management.
Objective 4.4.1: Baldwin County shall implement regulations and standards to prevent illegal dumping.
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Policy 4.4.1.1: Encourage County inspectors to fine cited offenders of illegal dumping.
Policy 4.4.1.2: The County should consider the expansion of, or addition to its existing inventory of recycling programs.
Policy 4.4.1.3: A waste recycling standard should be in place for Baldwin County. The standards should include: a. Construction waste from a building site must be taken to a recycling facility approved by the county or state. b. Construction waste reduction and reuse plan must be written and followed by builder. c. Builders should be encouraged to donate unwanted building materials to non-profit building organization. d. Provide a built-in recycle center option for homebuyers. e. Provide a composting system option in yards for homebuyers.
DEVELOPMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
GOAL 4.5: The County shall place more emphasis on environmental protection in Baldwin County.
Objective 4.5.1: The County shall introduce programs that protect the environment.
Policy 4.5.1.1: By 2010, institute a monitoring program for all land and commercial developments, to protect Baldwin County’s environment from the adverse effects of new and existing development. The following sub-policies are provided for this monitoring program:
Policy 4.5.1.1.1: Incorporate the improvement of the natural environment into the County’s planning efforts and capital development projects.
Policy 4.5.1.1.2: Control noise, odor, light, junk cars, trash, and refuse in order to protect human health and the livability of the urban environment and adjacent natural environment.
Policy 4.5.1.1.3: Work with private and public sector partners to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from private and public sources to limit the impacts on the County’s water supply, electrical energy supply, ecosystems, public health, air quality and economy.
Policy 4.5.1.1.4: In the operations of County government, strive to reduce the use of non- renewable resources and toxins, prevent pollution, reuse existing resources such as historic structures, control waste, and protect natural areas and biodiversity.
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Policy 4.5.1.1.5: To improve the County’s environmental performance, set targets, use innovative approaches, encourage employees to control wastes and find uses for waste products, and coordinate with other governmental entities.
Policy 4.5.1.1.6: In order to assess the County’s success in moving toward a sustainable urban environment, the County should identify and establish goals for key indicators of such factors as human health, economy, population, energy use, sprawl, natural systems, and pollution.
Policy 4.5.1.2: The County shall acquire environmentally sensitive areas (as defined in the definitions of the Data Inventory and Analysis Section), waterfront property, and green space for public ownership.
Policy 4.5.1.3: The County shall research options and incentives for land donation and environmental easements.
Policy 4.5.1.4: The County shall strengthen environmental regulatory controls, especially for wetland and watershed protection.
Policy 4.5.1.5: By 2012, the County shall examine the waterbodies of impaired watersheds within the County. The following criteria should be applied to identify, evaluate, and remediate these watersheds: a. Location of steep slopes. b. Location of streams, wetlands, and their buffers. c. Location in 100-year Floodplain. d. Location of threatened or endangered species. e. Location of agricultural and forest land intended for resource protection or conservation. f. Location of other areas in need of special protection.
Policy 4.5.1.6: The County shall encourage the use of slow-release nitrogen and phosphorus agents in fertilizer use.
Objective 4.5.2: Baldwin County shall examine methods to minimize wetland impacts and mitigation within watersheds.
Policy 4.5.2.1: Consider environmental credits for wetland mitigation (i.e., transfer of development rights).
Policy 4.5.2.2: Examine the potential of wetland mitigation banking for other parts of Baldwin County.
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Policy 4.5.2.3: Implement a program sponsored by the County to create mitigation banks in the local areas of Baldwin County.
Policy 4.5.2.4: When conducting mitigation banking, ensure that the credits stay within the County, and not be reallocated to other local governments or adjacent counties.
Policy 4.5.2.5: The County should consider protection and restoration of isolated wetlands, including grady ponds, where present.
Policy 4.5.2.6: The County should institute riparian buffer zones along critically identified watersheds. These vegetated zones are adjacent to streams and wetlands that represent a best management practice for controlling pollutants entering water bodies. Riparian buffers should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive watershed management plan that includes control and reduction of point and non-point sources of pollution from atmospheric, terrestrial, and aquatic inputs.
Objective 4.5.3: Baldwin County shall protect identified wetland areas by implementing the following policy:
Policy 4.5.3.1: Baldwin County shall continue to adopt regulations which protect and conserve wetlands. The Baldwin County Wetland Conservation Plan shall be a model for the adoption of the wetland regulations. Such regulations shall include criteria for identifying the significance of wetlands. The current Wetland Protection Overlay District within the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance shall be used as a model for wetlands protection in the County.
Objective 4.5.4: Baldwin County shall protect environmentally sensitive lands by the use of land use designations on the Future Land Use Map and described within the Future Land Use Element.
Policy 4.5.4.1: Baldwin County shall designate conservation and open space lands with the Conservation District future land use designation.
Policy 4.5.4.2: The Conservation District designation will consist of lands unsuitable for development due to topography, hydrology, vegetation, or wildlife habitat.
Policy 4.5.4.3: The Conservation District designation protects environmentally sensitive lands, natural water bodies, and other unique or sensitive natural resources.
Policy 4.5.4.4: Unique or sensitive natural resources will include, but not be limited to, floodplains, wetlands, streams, steep slopes, sensitive wildlife habitats, beach dune areas, and areas depicted in the State Wildlife Action Plan.
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Policy 4.5.4.5: Uses in the Conservation District will include, but not be limited to, natural preserves, reserves, upland areas, and recreation and camping areas. Single family dwellings will be allowed by special exception.
RESOURCE PROTECTION
GOAL 4.6: To manage the wetland and upland ecosystems located in Baldwin County so as to maintain and enhance native habitats, diversity of floral and faunal species, water quality, and natural surface water characteristics.
Objective 4.6.1: The County will continue to implement a resource management program that ensures the long-term protection and enhancement of the natural upland and wetland habitats through the retention of interconnected, functioning, and maintainable hydroecological systems where the remaining wetlands and uplands function as a productive unit resembling the original landscape.
Policy 4.6.1.1: The Baldwin County Natural Resource Management Program will be responsible for the following: a. Identifying upland and wetland habitats and systems most suitable for protection, enhancement, reclamation, or conservation. b. Recommending standards to the Baldwin County Commission for approval of development and conservation that will protect and integrate wetlands and significant areas of rare and unique habitat. c. Preparing standards for wetland mitigation and rare and unique upland mitigation. d. Explore a Sensitive Lands Acquisition Program. 1. A comprehensive inventory of environmentally sensitive lands will be maintained and expanded as new data becomes available. 2. Environmentally sensitive lands will include: A. Wetlands. B. Important plant communities. C. Critical habitat for listed wildlife species. D. Environmentally sensitive coastal planning area. E. Natural waterways. F. Important water resources. G. Storm and flood hazard areas. H. Rare and unique uplands. e. Compiling, maintaining, and updating the County’s mapping of: 1. Plant communities. 2. Listed species habitat and verified sightings or locations.
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3. Water resources including: watersheds, floodplains, wetlands, aquifers, and surface water features. f. Provide a progress report to the Baldwin County Commission on the Resource Management Program at least every three years. The report should address the adequacy of the program and include land development regulations to protect and enhance these natural systems. g. Providing on an as-needed basis, a report to the Baldwin County Commission on the status of wetlands and rare and unique uplands.
Policy 4.6.1.2: Perform water resource planning Coordinate with and support existing water utility providers in Baldwin County to identify the surface water and ground water requirements in freshwater and saltwater habitats for agricultural uses, potable water demands, water demand processes, and surface water for energy generation based upon the adopted future land use for the designated area of the County.
WETLANDS MANAGEMENT
GOAL 4.7: To maintain and enforce a management program for development in wetlands that is cost-effective; complements federal and state permitting processes; and protects the fragile ecological characteristics of wetland systems.
Objective 4.7.1: The natural functions of wetlands and wetland systems will be protected and conserved through the enforcement of the County’s wetland protection regulations and goals, objectives, and policies in this Comprehensive Plan. “Wetlands” shall include all of those lands, whether shown on the Future Land Use Map or not, that are identified as wetlands in accordance with the Baldwin County’s Wetland Conservation Plan (BCWCP).
Policy 4.7.1.1: Development in or adjacent to wetlands should be limited to low density residential uses and uses of a recreational, open space, or conservation nature that are compatible with wetland functions. The maximum density allowed within identified wetlands is one dwelling unit per 5 acres, except that lots of record will be allowed one single-family residence irrespective of zoning.
Policy 4.7.1.2: The County’s Wetland Protection Program will be consistent with the following: a. Baldwin County will not permit development within identified wetlands without the appropriate federal, state, county or other local agency permit or authorization. b. Baldwin County will identify violations of state regulations and permit conditions through its code enforcement procedures. c. Every reasonable effort will be required to avoid or minimize adverse impacts on wetlands through the clustering of development and other site planning techniques.
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d. Where sufficient uplands exist for a development, the fill of wetlands will be strongly discouraged.
Policy 4.7.1.3: The County’s Natural Resource Division will review and update as necessary, the Baldwin County wetland protection regulations.
Objective 4.7.2: Baldwin County will maintain and routinely update an inventory of natural plant communities and will protect at various suitable locations remnant tracts of all important and representative natural plant communities occurring within Baldwin County.
Policy 4.7.2.1: Baldwin County shall coordinate with state and regional agencies to exchange updated natural resource information.
Policy 4.7.2.2: The County shall continue to provide regulations and incentives to prevent incompatible development in and around environmentally sensitive lands.
Policy 4.7.2.3: The County will prevent water management and development projects, such as retention/detention ponds, from altering or disrupting the natural function of significant natural systems.
Policy 4.7.2.4: The County will encourage the protection of viable tracts of sensitive or high- quality natural plant communities within developments.
Policy 4.7.2.5: Avoid needless destruction of upland plant communities through consideration during the site plan review process of alternative layouts of permitted uses.
Policy 4.7.2.6: Promote the long-term maintenance of natural systems through such instruments as conservation easements, transfer of development rights, restrictive zoning, or land acquisition.
Policy 4.7.2.7: Development adjacent to aquatic and other nature preserves, wildlife refuges or recreation areas must protect the natural character and public benefit of these areas including, but not limited to, scenic values for the benefit of future generations.
Policy 4.7.2.8: Prohibit the planting of invasive exotic plants through landscaping requirements for land development projects. Prohibited invasive exotic plant species shall be specified in the County’s land development regulations.
Policy 4.7.2.9 : The County should encourage the control and removal of non-native exotic invasive species through methods such as public awareness campaigns or incentives.
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WILDLIFE PROTECTION
GOAL 4.8: To protect critical and endangered species located within Baldwin County.
Objective 4.8.1: To foster more education and protection rules on the wildlife-to-man interface relationship within Baldwin County.
Policy 4.8.1.2: Baldwin County shall utilize the findings of any applicable reports, such as Alabama’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy, as a guideline to protect state and federally listed species and species of concern located within Baldwin County.
Policy 4.8.1.3: Baldwin County shall identify, classify, and designate sensitive wildlife habitat and institute land development regulations to help protect these areas.
Objective 4.8.2: Maintain and enhance the fish and wildlife diversity and distribution within Baldwin County for the benefit of a balanced ecological system.
Policy 4.8.2.1: Encourage upland preservation in and around preserved wetlands to provide habitat diversity, enhance wildlife edge effect, and promote wildlife conservation.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Goal 4.9: To implement stormwater management standards.
Objective 4.9.1: By 2013, implement a stormwater management system for Baldwin County.
Policy 4.9.1.1: Baldwin County should coordinate the land clearing process between existing wetlands and the velocity of water flows along watersheds in the County. The following sub- policies are provided for the land clearing process:
Policy 4.9.1.1.1: No land clearing should be allowed for construction before the installation of sediment control facilities onsite.
Policy 4.9.1.1.2: Erosion and sedimentation controls shall be provided on all development to prevent, to the maximum extent possible, the transport of the sediment from the project site.
Policy 4.9.1.1.3: The design of an adequate sediment pond or sediment trap shall be provided prior to stormwater discharge from the site.
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Policy 4.9.1.2: The County should require adequate methods of sufficient grading when new development occurs so as to control and configure correct water flows to Baldwin County’s Stormwater Management System.
GROUNDWATER PROTECTION
GOAL 4.10: Baldwin County shall preserve and protect the groundwater from contamination and foreign infiltration.
Objective 4.10.1: The County shall look at strategies to protect and conserve surface and groundwater resources.
Policy 4.10.1.1: Land use development activities in important groundwater recharge areas shall be consistent with water resource protection.
Policy 4.10.1.2: Baldwin County will coordinate with other governmental and private entities to protect groundwater resources.
Policy 4.10.1.3: The County will work with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, local municipalities, state and federal agencies, and other entities to protect the quality of Little Lagoon, Shelby Lakes, Middle Lake, Oyster Bay, Bon Secour Bay, Weeks Bay, Bon Secour River, Intracoastal Waterway, Byrnes Lake, Mobile Bay, Perdido River, Mobile River, Tensaw River, Wolf Bay, Fish River, and other notable waterbodies designated by the County.
Objective 4.10.2: Protect groundwater resources and potable water supplies in Baldwin County.
Policy 4.10.2.1: Protect groundwater resources consistent, at a minimum, with federal and state standards in effect at the time of adoption of the Comprehensive Plan so that the quality of groundwater is not degraded through human influence such that the health, safety, and welfare of the public is threatened, or such that the viability and functional values of other natural resources are threatened.
Policy 4.10.2.2: Adopt growth management policies to safeguard the quality and quantity of potable water supplies in Baldwin County, including surficial, intermediate, and aquifer systems, of which are used in some areas of Baldwin County for potable water supply.
Policy 4.10.2.3: The County, in cooperation with the adjacent local governments, shall discourage incompatible land uses and activities to protect current and future public water supply needs from potential adverse effects.
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Policy 4.10.2.4: Disposal of effluents of wastewater treatment processes shall be accomplished by environmentally sound procedures consistent with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) regulations which may include land applications, deep well injection, reuse, or wetlands disposal.
Policy 4.10.2.5: The County shall look at alternatives for irrigation purposes. Reclaimed water from wastewater treatment plants should be considered as an alternative to the typical methods of irrigation.
AIR QUALITY
Goal 4.11: Baldwin County shall conserve, protect, and enhance the County’s air quality to ensure that this resource is preserved for the benefit of present and future generations.
Objective 4.11.1: Baldwin County shall continue to implement State and Federal mandated programs to maintain or improve air quality, continue to monitor and protect air quality, and ensure that the County continues to meet all applicable local, state, and federal air quality standards.
Policy 4.11.1.1: Baldwin County shall cooperate with ADEM to monitor air quality and follow the air quality standards of the ADEM and the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Policy 4.11.1.2: Baldwin County shall promote and educate the public, through public seminars, dissemination of information and media presentations, about mass transit, car-pooling, bikeways, park-and-ride lots, and other alternative transportation modes in order to reduce automobile emission pollution.
Policy 4.11.1.3: Baldwin County shall enforce regulations, and manage practices which have an adverse impact on air quality in Baldwin County.
Policy 4.11.1.4: Baldwin County shall investigate and promote, through incentives and education, the use of alternatives to open burning such as mulching, composting, leaving the existing vegetation where possible, air curtain incinerators, and best available control technology to curtail the amount of potential pollutants to the County’s air quality.
Objective 4.11.2: Baldwin County shall conserve energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Policy 4.11.2.1: The County shall encourage developers through incentives to incorporate “Smart Growth” strategies in new development and redevelopment projects in order to reduce
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greenhouse gas emissions. At a minimum, new development projects shall expand transportation choices, conserve green spaces, and be designed to place less demand on energy production and infrastructure.
Policy 4.11.2.2: During the planning period, Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) in the County shall be reduced. The County shall implement a combination of land use policies that encourage increased density, clustering development in transit corridors, and alternative methods of transportation (such as bicycle, pedestrian, and mass transit) to reduce VMT in the County.
Policy 4.11.2.3: Baldwin County will identify organizations that provide marketing incentives for energy efficient construction and design practices.
WATER QUALITY
GOAL 4.12: Baldwin County shall address the need to protect the water quality from pollution and contamination.
Objective 4.12.1: Baldwin County shall begin to identify major sources of surface water pollution in Baldwin County and coordinate the development and implementation of pollution abatement methods and programs with local governments, State, and Federal agencies.
Policy 4.12.1.1: Baldwin County shall strive to maintain acceptable water quality standards for surface water bodies, ensuring an aquatic environment that meets or exceeds State and Federal Standards.
Policy 4.12.1.2: Baldwin County will begin to improve design standards, monitoring, construction, and maintenance requirements for stormwater retention/detention systems, and shall ensure compliance of these requirements to prevent degradation of the receiving surface water bodies. Baldwin County should continue to evaluate and incorporate all best management practices design standards for monitoring, construction and maintenance of storm water retention/detention systems and update regulations as needed.
Policy 4.12.1.3: Baldwin County shall, through the analysis of specific water quality parameters on an ongoing basis, identify and prioritize lakes and rivers that are in need of improvement.
Policy 4.12.1.4: Baldwin County will regulate the location of petroleum businesses so as to minimize their effect on the quality of surface waters and groundwater.
Policy 4.12.1.5: The County shall control non-native (exotic) invasive aquatic plants in its waterways.
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Policy 4.12.1.6: Baldwin County should institute water conservation standards that include: a. Drought tolerant landscaping. b. Provide information in model homes about xeriscaping benefits and water conservation practices. c. Mulching areas were existing bedding exists.
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HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CHAPTER 5: COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT GOALS, OBJECTIVES & POLICIES JUNE, 2009
CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
With its abundance of scenic resources, recreational opportunities, waterways and beaches, and natural habitat, coastal Baldwin County and its municipalities will continue to experience rapid growth from migration and natural increases. The historical development pattern has resulted in the destruction of critical wildlife habitat and native vegetation, the lowering of water quality, and the degradation or removal of beach and dune systems. If these resources are to be conserved in the future, development must be carefully and deliberately orchestrated.
The Coastal Management Element is one of the critical parts of the overall Comprehensive Plan that each municipality and the County should prepare for policy rulemaking consistent with State laws and regulations. The purpose of the Element is to plan for, and where appropriate, restrict development activities where such activities would damage or destroy coastal resources, and protect human life and limit public expenditures in areas that are subject to destruction by natural disaster.
Within the context of the Comprehensive Plan, the Coastal Management Element has a special status. Although it must be integrated into and be consistent with all the other elements of the Plan, the Coastal Management Element not only addresses the protection of coastal resources, it also addresses other related issues of conservation/open space, land use, traffic circulation, public access, and public services, facilities, and infrastructure.
Baldwin County and the coastal municipalities have cooperated in the preparation of this Element. Early on, the County and coastal communities recognized that coastal issues and resources should be coordinated with a systems approach. Environmental systems such as estuaries, watershed, or wildlife habitat, and man-made systems like traffic circulation or drainage structures, do not start or stop at political boundaries.
Although the Coastal Management Element is included in the County’s Comprehensive Plan, the inventory, analysis, and the goals, objectives and policies (GOPs) have been structured to be broad based so that each community can choose to adopt all or part of the Element into their individual Comprehensive Plans. Individual municipalities can prepare their goals, objectives, and policies to suit their particular need.
The central concept of the Element is to promote consensus among and between coastal communities so that common problems can be identified and common solutions proposed and implemented. The intent is to emphasize cooperation in implementing and achieving the goals, objectives, and policies. It is not the intent of the County to mandate certain requirements through this element beyond its statutory authority. Rather, the approach taken is to stress intergovernmental coordination and mutual cooperation through the use of interlocal agreements.
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The Coastal Management Element provides an analysis and recommendations for protecting and managing resources within the coastal areas of the County. The element will address natural resource protection, cultural resource protection, shoreline management, hurricane evacuation, public waterway system, natural ecosystem, infrastructure, corridor management, and public involvement.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND POLICIES
NATURAL RESOURCE PROTECTION
GOAL 5.1: To address the conservation, use, and protection of natural resources in Baldwin County, including water resources, submerged lands, submerged aquatic vegetation, air resources, shoreline resources, beach and dune systems, banks and bluffs, coastal area wetlands, and living resources (wildlife).
Objective 5.1.1: Water resources should be managed to ensure that sufficient quantities of clean, safe water are available for this generation and future generations.
Policy 5.1.1.1: Discourage any activity that violates the state’s water quality standards of waters in the coastal area of Baldwin County.
Policy 5.1.1.2: Discourage the extraction of surface water that impairs the public’s use of the water in Baldwin County’s watersheds.
Objective 5.1.2: Baldwin County should support future groundwater withdrawal that will not result in saltwater intrusion, significantly lower the existing water table, or decrease the base flow of adjacent surface water resources.
Policy 5.1.2.1: Baldwin County should encourage giving higher priority to drinking water consumption uses over non-essential uses.
Policy 5.1.2.2: Baldwin County should discourage the extraction of groundwater that impairs the public’s use of the water supply.
Objective 5.1.3: Baldwin County should encourage the protection of submerged lands to maintain or increase the vital role they play in the coastal ecosystem and the coastal quality of life.
Policy 5.1.3.1: Baldwin County should encourage the increased control of submerged lands in the coastal zones by all appropriate agencies.
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Policy 5.1.3.2: Baldwin County should discourage all uses that exclude public access on publicly owned lands and waters bordering the Gulf of Mexico.
Policy 5.1.3.3: The County shall discourage activities and structures that diminish the public’s use of submerged lands or inhibit navigation, including placement of unattended structures on submerged lands within the coastal zone.
Policy 5.1.3.4: The County should encourage the use of Best Management Practices to manage upland and water-based activities that could result in erosion or increased turbidity that would adversely affect submerged aquatic vegetation.
Objective 5.1.4: Baldwin County should address the issues of shoreline erosion, man-made development, and shoreline public access.
Policy 5.1.4.1: Baldwin County should encourage the maintenance and stability of the County’s natural shoreline and shoreline resources and minimize erosion by assuring compatibility of shoreline uses.
Policy 5.1.4.2: Baldwin County should encourage the use of non-structural alternatives to shoreline stabilization and discourage human activities that accelerate the natural erosion process.
Policy 5.1.4.3: The County should consider increased shoreline public access to the coastal waters for commercial and recreational users.
Objective 5.1.5: Protection and preservation of beach and dune systems is vital to the Baldwin County coastline. Measures should be in place to control the loss of beach and dune systems, with special consideration to the Alabama beach mouse habitat.
Policy 5.1.5.1: The County should encourage the maintenance of the natural attributes of beach and dune systems in the County coastal area and assure public access.
Policy 5.1.5.2: The County shall encourage the protection of the existing natural character of beach and dune systems in a manner that prevents the disruption of long shore and onshore beach processes or the creation of erosion or flooding hazard.
Policy 5.1.5.3: The County should discourage the use of hard shore protection structures in beach and dune areas having a history of shoreline instability.
Policy 5.1.5.4: The County shall encourage dune creation and expansion and the removal of fixed structures that contribute to shoreline erosion.
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Policy 5.1.5.5: The County should discourage those activities that influence or affect the displacement of beach quality sands.
Policy 5.1.5.6: The County should preserve, protect, and enhance the public access to beaches.
Policy 5.1.5.7 The County shall encourage the acquisition of beach and dune areas for additional public access.
Objective 5.1.6: Baldwin County should address the issues of coastal bluff and banks and determine whether development is compatible on these sites.
Policy 5.1.6.1: The County should discourage development activities that will adversely affect the condition of banks and bluffs.
Objective 5.1.7: Baldwin County should address the issue of preserving coastal area wetlands for the benefits of habitat preservation, water quality improvement, recreational opportunities, and stormwater runoff.
Policy 5.1.7.1 Baldwin County should encourage efforts that reduce the rate of loss or function of wetlands in the coastal area and to preserve, restore, enhance, and create wetlands.
Policy 5.1.7.2: Baldwin County should discourage and prevent activities that directly destroy, disrupt, or lessen the function of coastal wetlands.
Policy 5.1.7.3: The County shall discourage activities that result in significant or permanent alteration to natural wetlands.
Policy 5.1.7.4: The County shall encourage mitigation of wetlands only in the event that it can be documented that no reasonable alternative exists to avoid impacts to wetlands or if the use is of regional benefit.
Objective 5.1.8: Baldwin County should preserve the aquatic, and terrestrial wildlife and native plant communities.
Policy 5.1.8.1: The County should encourage the maintenance of the quality and quantity of the wildlife resource base for this generation and future generations.
Policy 5.1.8.2: The County should discourage activity that would result in adverse impacts to the shellfish and finfish habitats, as well as those that are economically valuable species.
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Policy 5.1.8.3: The County should discourage activities that would be harmful to the habitats that are necessary for the continued survival of threatened and endangered species.
Policy 5.1.8.4: The County shall encourage the maintenance of the natural habitat to support wildlife in the coastal areas and to enhance and restore habitat for all coastal living resources.
CULTURAL RESOURCE PROTECTION
GOAL 5.2: To protect and preserve Baldwin County’s cultural resources that have historical, architectural, archaeological, and heritage values along the coastal area.
Objective 5.2.1: Historical, archaeological, cultural, and heritage landmarks and sites need to be examined for preservation and stability within the coastal communities of Baldwin County.
Policy 5.2.1.1: Promote the national-level preservation of designated sites such as Fort Morgan which have historical significance.
Policy 5.2.1.2: Baldwin County shall promote the preservation of cultural resources and ensure that the knowledge of the County’s history and pre-history is not lost.
Policy 5.2.1.3: The County shall encourage protection of all cultural resources on or eligible for local, state, and national registers of historic places both on submerged and dry lands.
Policy 5.2.1.4: Baldwin County shall provide assistance in the preservation, promotion, and documentation of cultural resources in the coastal area.
SHORELINE MANAGEMENT
GOAL 5.3: Baldwin County shall encourage the maintenance and development of water- dependent shoreline uses and avoid their displacement by or conversion to non-water- dependent uses.
Objective 5.3.1: The County will continue to monitor and implement a program through land development regulations to enhance and protect commercial and industrial water- dependent uses.
Policy 5.3.1.1: Commercial water-dependent facilities will be reclassified by the County to the appropriate commercial zoning categories to protect their rights to rebuild or expand and to prevent their conversion to non-water-dependent uses without a public hearing.
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Policy 5.3.1.2: Industrial water-dependent facilities will be reclassified by the County to industrial zoning categories to protect their rights to rebuild and expand and to prevent their conversion to non-water-dependent uses without a public hearing.
Objective 5.3.2: The County will give priority to new and substantially expanded shoreline land uses as indicated in the following policies.
Policy 5.3.2.1: In all other non-wetland shoreline areas of the County, water-dependent land uses will have priority over water-related uses.
Policy 5.3.2.2: Water-related land uses of the County that provide some form of water access to the public will be encouraged, particularly when the site has previously provided water access to the public.
Policy 5.3.2.3: Baldwin County will develop, adopt, and implement performance standards for all shoreline developments.
Objective 5.3.3: The County will consider the following criteria in evaluating requests for new and expanded marinas, other wet-slip facilities, dry-slip facilities with launches, and boat ramps in order to make efficient use of limited shoreline locations and to minimize environmental impacts.
Policy 5.3.3.1: In Baldwin County, cumulative effects of several boat access facilities in a small area will be considered in the review of proposed projects.
Policy 5.3.3.2: Boat access facilities in the County must be consistent with the following recommendations: a. Priority shall be given to the expansion of existing facilities, if environmentally sound, over new facilities. b. Marinas will be encouraged to locate in previously disturbed areas and in areas that have historically been used for marina-related activities. c. Marinas shall be encouraged to locate as close as possible to boating demand. d. Marinas shall be encouraged where adequate uplands are available to develop related support activities and to allow for possible future expansion. e. Location of marinas in highly productive marine habitats shall be discouraged. f. Location of marinas in or near well-flushed, deep-water areas shall be encouraged.
Policy 5.3.3.3: Boat access facilities in the County, including multi-slip docking facilities and boat ramps which would disturb or destroy wetlands or grassbeds must demonstrate a pressing need for the proposed facility and must provide for continued use by the general public.
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Policy 5.3.3.4: Boat access facilities in the County shall be encouraged to locate in areas of maximum physical advantage (e.g., adequate water depth). Adequate existing water depths between the proposed facility and any navigational channel, inlet, or deep water, are preferred, as new dredging is discouraged.
Policy 5.3.3.5: Boat access facility locations in the County should minimize natural shoreline disruption.
Policy 5.3.3.6: Boat access facility construction in dead-end canals of the County are discouraged due to potential water-quality degradation.
Policy 5.3.3.7: Proposed boat access facilities in the County must demonstrate that the site has adequate uplands to provide support facilities for all activities proposed on site without damaging or removing wetlands.
Policy 5.3.3.8: Rezoning and development applications in the County for boat access facilities will be evaluated in the context of cumulative impacts on marine resources.
Policy 5.3.3.9: When reviewing rezoning or development applications, the County will encourage the maximum use of dry storage by multi-slip docking facilities.
Policy 5.3.3.10: The County will maintain an inventory of all multi-slip docking facilities, including the name, location, and parcel identification number of the facility, and, as feasible, the number of wet and dry storage spaces, boat ramp lanes, and other services provided. This inventory will be updated as needed.
Policy 5.3.3.11: The County will maintain an inventory of all industrial water-dependent facilities, including the name, location, and parcel identification number of the facility. This inventory will be updated as needed.
Objective 5.3.4: The County will utilize the following criteria in evaluating the design of new marinas, or the expansion of wet-slip facilities at existing marinas, in order to minimize negative impacts; detailed regulations on these subjects may be contained in the County’s regulations.
Policy 5.3.4.1: Boat maintenance activities in new or expanded marina sites in the County must be located as far as possible from open water bodies in order to reduce contamination of water bodies by toxic substances common to boat maintenance. Runoff from boat maintenance activities must be collected and treated prior to discharge in accordance with state law.
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Policy 5.3.4.2: Open wet slips will be preferred to covered wet slips in marina design to reduce shading of water bodies which results in lowered biological productivity.
Policy 5.3.4.3: Fuel or oil containment facilities or contingency plans are required at all new marina sites and in marina expansion proposals in the County.
Policy 5.3.4.4: All marinas in the County serving the general public or live-onboards must provide pump-out facilities if sanitary sewer service is available.
Policy 5.3.4.5: All parking, dry storage, and non-water-dependent facilities must be built on existing uplands of the County.
Policy 5.3.4.6: Marinas and multi-slip docking facilities must prepare hurricane plans that describe measures to be taken to minimize damage to marina sites, neighboring properties and the environment.
Policy 5.3.4.7: Fueling facilities associated with marinas in the County must be designed to preclude spills and must be prepared to contain any spills which reach the water.
Policy 5.3.4.8: To minimize habitat destruction, piling construction and other non-dredge-and-fill techniques shall be utilized where possible in the County.
Policy 5.3.4.9: Dry storage of small boats shall be encouraged in the County, with dry storage structures located out of the flood zone if possible or as far inland on the property as feasible.
Policy 5.3.4.10: Marina designs in the County shall not cause or contribute to a decrease in water quality in adjacent water bodies.
Policy 5.3.4.11: Where possible in the County, existing navigational channels will be used to access new marina sites.
Policy 5.3.4.12: To reduce dredging in the County, the expansion of dry storage capabilities will be strongly encouraged.
HURRICANE EVACUATION
GOAL 5.4: Baldwin County shall address the need for hurricane evacuation measures for public safety concerns.
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Objective 5.4.1: Baldwin County shall create evacuation zones for the evacuation of residents and occupants in Baldwin County before a state-ordered evacuation or local hurricane advisory time.
Policy 5.4.1.1: By 2010, Baldwin County shall update the Hurricane Evacuation Plan. A Final Report of the Baldwin County Hurricane Evacuation Route Analysis was completed in March of 2008. That report is incorporated into Horizon 2025 by reference. Major new corridors recommended for roadway improvements in Baldwin County north of the Intracoastal Waterway include: 1. CR 83 extension and tie in to I-10-Improvements to make CR 83 a four lane continuous facility from the Foley Beach Express to I-10. 2. CR 83 extension from I-10 to I-65-An extension of an improved and continuous CR 83 to I-65.
Policy 5.4.1.2: Baldwin County shall maintain a multi-agency coordination system that would incorporate evacuation routes, intergovernmental coordination, information dispatching, and agency delegation of duties and responsibilities.
Policy 5.4.1.3: Baldwin County shall ensure the provision of adequate emergency shelter space to serve the general population. Designated shelters shall comply with storm standards and emergency preparedness requirements.
Policy 5.4.1.4: By 2016, the County shall amend its zoning regulations to require that all new or the expansion of existing mobile home/RV communities and multi-family developments in excess of 15 dwelling units have on-site emergency shelters. In no case shall a shelter be constructed within a flood hazard area.
Policy 5.4.1.5: On-site shelters will be required to meet standards established by the county, including provision of adequate shelter space, elevation above Category 3 hurricane storm surge flooding levels, adequate wind proofing, glass protection, emergency power where needed, water supplies and other basic needs.
Policy 5.4.1.6: On-site shelters for the general public must not be built in coastal areas.
Policy 5.4.1.7: The County will not permit new or expanding mobile home or recreational vehicle development in V-Zones as defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Policy 5.4.1.8: Critical roadway links causing congestion on evacuation routes for Category 1 through 3 hurricanes will be considered to receive high priority for capital improvement expenditures.
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Policy 5.4.1.9: New or replacement bridges on evacuation routes spanning major or marked navigable waterways will be designed, constructed and operated to adequately accommodate the safe and timely evacuation needs of both motor vehicle and marine traffic.
Policy 5.4.1.10: Facilitate proper evacuation measures are in place when flooding occurs with waterfront and beachfront property owners and occupants.
PUBLIC WATERWAY SYSTEM
GOAL 5.5: To develop and implement a public water access program in Baldwin County.
Objective 5.5.1: Baldwin County will develop and implement a Scenic Waterways Program in order to enhance the opportunities for physical and visual access to the water.
Policy 5.5.1.1: Baldwin County will establish and implement marine development guidelines to prevent erosion of natural shoreline; establish additional wetland habitat; and, enhance the coastal scenery by the establishment of vegetated buffer zones along designated waterways instead of indiscriminate clearing of vegetation. These buffer zones will be evaluated during all phases of the development review and approval process.
Objective 5.5.2: Baldwin County will encourage new development to maintain existing public waterway access.
Policy 5.5.2.1: Existing waterway access for the public shall be maintained by new development in Baldwin County. The existing access shall be shown on the site plans for the new developments and the proposed development shall either continue the existing access way, relocate it on the site, or donate it to the County.
Policy 5.5.2.2: Developments that provide public access to beaches, shores, or waterways may be eligible for incentives.
Policy 5.5.2.3: All public boat launch and park facilities in the County shall include parking facilities and sufficient roadway access for egress and ingress traffic movements, where feasible.
Policy 5.5.2.4: The County shall accept donations of shoreline lands suitable for use as public access facilities.
Policy 5.5.2.5: The County shall coordinate with state and federal agencies regarding use of and access to federal and state-owned properties in the coastal area for public use.
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Objective 5.5.3: Develop techniques to encourage development and expansion of water- dependent recreational uses on Baldwin County waterways and discourage any displacement or conversion of existing water-dependent uses to non-water-dependent uses.
Policy 5.5.3.1: The County shall identify areas suitable for water-dependent or water-related recreational uses and activities, such as canoe launch areas, boardwalks, jogging paths, fishing platforms, and waterside parks.
NATURAL ECOSYSTEM
GOAL 5.6: Baldwin County should address issues of the natural ecosystem along the Baldwin County coastline.
Objective 5.6.1: The County shall look at measures to protect the fisheries in the area.
Policy 5.6.1.1: The County shall promote public awareness of the issues dealing with mercury and other potential contaminants to the fishery population.
Objective 5.6.2: The County shall address the need for protection of the environment by development and adjacent local governments.
Policy 5.6.2.1: The County shall work with developers to ensure that coastal areas are not paved beyond the minimum right-of-way and roadway width standards set by the Alabama DOT and the County to allow for protection of the coastal habitats within the County.
Policy 5.6.2.2: The County shall encourage its municipalities to adopt and implement consistent regulations for environmental and natural resource protection to ensure consistency in protection and enforcement.
INFRASTRUCTURE
GOAL 5.7: Infrastructure is ever present and ever changing in our world today. Baldwin County needs to examine the levels of service standards for roadways, potable water, sanitary sewer, solid waste, stormwater, parks and recreation, and emergency services in the coastal areas of the County.
Objective 5.7.1: Because of the insurgence of new populations, new access to waterways should be examined.
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Policy 5.7.1.1: By 2012, a new set of public boat ramps should be targeted to ensure that there are adequate access points for boating needs based on the established level of service standards to be set by Baldwin County.
CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT
GOAL 5.8: Baldwin County shall develop and implement resource protection, maintenance, preservation, and enhancement initiatives within the Coastal Connection Scenic Byway as identified in the Coastal Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan produced by the Alabama Association of Regional Councils.
Objective 5.8.1: The County shall enhance and protect vistas and viewsheds featuring the Gulf of Mexico, Mobile Bay, other significant waterbodies, and notable vegetation areas.
Policy 5.8.1.1: The County will help develop a model for Compatible Development Guidelines of new development for use by jurisdictions in the review and approval process to discourage the blocking of view sheds.
Policy 5.8.1.2: The County will encourage underground infrastructure improvements, where feasible, to enhance corridor views.
Policy 5.8.1.3: The County will identify land acquisition and conservation easement strategies.
Objective 5.8.2: The County will develop provisions for safe and aesthetically compatible public facilities that protect resources while enhancing the visitor’s experience.
Policy 5.8.2.1: The County will evaluate potential scenic pull-off locations on the Coastal Scenic Byway Corridor.
Policy 5.8.2.2: The County will identify potential locations for kiosks, bike rest stops, water fountains, trash receptacles, and informational signage along the Coastal Scenic Byway Corridor.
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
GOAL 5.9: Baldwin County shall the address the issues of coastal management by promotion and education to the general public and volunteer action groups.
Objective 5.9.1: Baldwin County shall coordinate with environmental groups to promote citizen involvement and consistency with information dissemination.
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Policy 5.9.1.1: The County shall work with the Alabama Coastal Foundation, Mobile Bay National Estuary Program (MBNEP), and other local watershed groups in order to ensure coordination and consistency with environmental goals.
Policy 5.9.1.2: The County shall promote water quality and coastal cleanup volunteer activities to preserve the aesthetics of the Baldwin County coastline.
Policy 5.9.1.3: The County shall make a concerted effort to coordinate findings from the County Environmental Advisory Board with all affected state and federal agencies in order to promote consistency and accuracy among all levels of government.
Policy 5.9.1.4: The County will support and participate in the Alabama Scenic Byway’s efforts to promote and increase public knowledge of the unique facets of the Coastal Scenic Byway Corridor.
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CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
The Parks and Recreation Element is intended to guide public decision making while providing for a comprehensive system of recreation sites available to the public. Recreation is required to maintain a healthy balance in life, and has a direct effect on the general quality of life in Baldwin County.
The County Planning and Zoning Department staff prepared a document entitled Baldwin County Parks and Public Access Inventory and Assessment, dated July 2000, which provides an inventory of county, state, municipal and private resources available to the residents of Baldwin County. This report provided much of the data needed for the Park and Recreation Element Data, Inventory and Analysis. It is important for this inventory to be updated to include the acreage of each County park, in order to determine if the current population is provided with adequate recreational public facilities. The document states that all existing Baldwin County parks are for self-directed or passive recreation, and there are no organized sports fields that are maintained by the County. Many of the existing parks provide swimming, waterway access, and beach/shore access.
Adequate public recreational facility standards, or concurrency requirements, must be established to meet the recreational demands of the County as it grows. This is typically handled through the establishment of Levels of Service standards for public facilities that are impacted by new development, and is closely coordinated with population projections. The National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) was used as a guide to establish the levels of service standards (LOS) in this element. Each proposed new development must be evaluated for the likely impact upon the LOS. The Parks and Public Access Inventory and Assessment also notes the importance of a future Recreation Master Plan for the County, which would be very beneficial to properly prepare for the future growth of the County and provide adequate recreational facilities.
Park Classifications Parks can be classified in a number of ways and serve a variety of functions, from providing open space in urban areas to large athletic complexes, and everything in between. The size of the park, the population served, service radii and the types of programming within the park generally determine park classifications.
• Resource-based recreation facilities are those places where recreation is driven by the natural landscape, such as a river, forest or lake; or cultural resources such as historical and archeological sites. Resource-based recreation can be passive such as walking along an interpretive trail or active such as mountain biking.
• Activity-based parks provide facilities for playing a specific sport or game such as basketball, baseball and soccer. These facilities are geared toward team sports and are managed for frequent use. Such facilities are frequently located in neighborhood,
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community and special use parks, and are sometimes located within large resource-based parks as well.
Activity and resource-based parks can further be classified by park type. Parks are typically designated as mini parks, neighborhood parks, community parks, district parks and regional parks. Counties tend to focus on providing more resource-based parks and large-scale facilities.
Mini Parks The mini park (also described as a “pocket park”) serves as the local park within neighborhoods or as small urban green spaces that provide a park-like atmosphere. These small areas are either natural or landscaped areas located within built-up areas. Urban open spaces may fall into this category. These parks can be small areas nestled within common areas of development or perhaps integrated into intersection or roadway designs on the periphery. Facilities may include walks, benches, gardens or memorials. No planned recreational programming occurs here. Most pocket parks are provided through developer agreements and the land development process with very little responsibility on the part of counties or cities. The ideal community would have these scattered across urban/suburban areas within easy walking distance to many people. The following are typical characteristics of mini parks:
• Less than 5 acres in size • ½ acre per 1,000 population • ¼ mile service area radius • Takes advantage of unique opportunity (locality, resource, view) • Accessible by low-volume streets and trails • Can be located in high-density areas, including commercially developed areas.
Neighborhood Parks Neighborhood parks are significantly larger than pocket parks and could include practice areas or green spaces/playing courts for drop-in games of all types. Neighborhood parks could be located adjacent to an elementary school site. They are not designed for extensive programmed activities and are generally used by the immediate community they serve. In more urbanized areas, these parks should ideally be accessible on foot or on bicycle. Within suburban areas, they should be accessible by bicycle or a short drive by car. The following are secondary characteristics of neighborhood parks:
• 5-19 acres • 2 acres per 1,000 population • ¼ to ½ mile service area radius • Located within or adjacent to neighborhoods • Takes on the character of surrounding areas • Accessible by walking, bike riding or short drive by car • Casual play with very little programming, if any at all
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• Provides a compatible balance of activities and resource-based recreation • Facilities may include playgrounds, multipurpose courts/fields, tennis courts, landscape areas, benches, recreation buildings, picnic areas and walkways
Community Parks Recreational facilities in community parks should be designed for flexibility along with specific uses allowing the recreation provider to respond to changing programming trends. Community parks could be located adjacent to schools (elementary, middle or high school). The primary function of such parks is for providing places where typical recreation programming occurs. Community parks serve broader community areas and provide for a wide range of athletic or team sport opportunities as well as cultural and artistic programs and services. The following are secondary characteristics of community parks:
• 20-50 acres • 5 acres per 1,000 population • Up to a 3-mile service area radius for urban areas • Up to a 6-mile service area radius for rural areas • Access by walking or biking, but more often by car • Usually located near major collector streets or arterial roads • Serves needs of several neighborhoods • More intensely developed than neighborhood parks • Are primarily activity-based recreation sites, but can be resource-based • Can include such facilities as athletic fields, swimming pools, multi-purpose fields and recreation centers • Natural areas should be incorporated to provide biking, fitness, picnicking and open space activities • Other community services (i.e., libraries, law enforcement substations, or fire/emergency services) may be located within a community park
District Parks District parks are usually resource-based and located contiguous to or encompassing natural resources. Activities and facilities may include picnicking, boating, swimming, hiking, camping and play areas. These parks are usually ‘drive to’ parks and can be a 30-40 minute drive away, although they should be connected to a community’s trail system as well. In some cases, district parks can be multi-purpose, large-scale activity-based parks that serve several communities. Such parks would be very appropriate in outlying areas of the County or in areas with a high concentration of unincorporated residents adjacent to cities. The service area for a district park is generally countywide, however given the geography and transportation network of Baldwin County, district parks should serve several communities. The following are secondary characteristics of district parks:
• 75+ acres (minimum of 50 acres)
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• 5 acres per 1,000 population • 30-40 minute drive time • Access by car, bikeways or trails
Regional Parks Regional parks are almost always resource-based and are usually located in areas of diverse natural resources such as lakes, rivers, flora, fauna or topography. These are usually very large tracts of land and provide camping, equestrian activities, canoeing, boating, fishing and other resource-based activities. Such parks often serve to protect environmentally sensitive lands with facilities limited to resource-based activities. Care should be taken not to over use the land or allow activities that tax the stability of the resources contained within or adjacent to the park. The service area of a regional park could be multi-county. The following are secondary characteristics of regional parks:
• 250+ acres • 20 acres per 1,000 population • Offers the same type of activities as district parks, but on a larger scale • Up to 60 minute driving time • Access by car, bikeways or trails
Greenways and Trails A “greenway” is described as a linear open space established along either a natural corridor, such as a riverfront or ridge-line; over land along a railroad right-of-way converted to recreational use, a canal, a scenic road, or other route; any natural or landscaped course for pedestrian or bicycle passage; an open space connector linking parks, natural reserves, cultural features, or historic sites with each other and populated areas; or a local strip or linear park designated as a parkway or greenbelt.
Trails are defined as linear corridors and any adjacent support parcels on land or water providing public access for recreation or authorized alternative modes of transportation. Trails are a common recreational component of greenways.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
GOAL 6.1: To provide and maintain an adequate and diverse park, recreational and open space system that provides equitable access and distribution to all residents and visitors of Baldwin County.
Objective 6.1.1: Prepare a countywide master plan for parks, recreation facilities and open space based on adopted level of service (LOS) standards that will meet the demands of the existing and future population of Baldwin County.
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Policy 6.1.1.1: Baldwin County shall strive to implement the level of service standards for parks, recreation and open space as shown in the table below. Table standards are advisory in application and provide a level of service that Baldwin County desires to achieve for parks and recreation.
Park Facility Level of Service Standards Park Type Acres per 1000 Persons Minimum Acreage per Park Mini/Pocket Park ½ acre Less than 5 acres Neighborhood Park 2 acres 5 acres Community Park 5 acres 20 acres District Park 5 acres 50 acres Regional Park 20 acres 250 acres Trails 1 mile N/A
Policy 6.1.1.2: By 2012, the County Planning Department, in conjunction with the Parks Department shall develop a countywide plan for the recreational development of parks and open space contemplated by this comprehensive plan. The plan shall include at a minimum: a. An assessment of the current and projected demand for county recreation facilities and open space. b. Standards for developing the various categories of county park sites. c. An analysis of the long term effectiveness of current parks and open space levels of service standards for meeting the needs the population. d. Provisions for joint and co-located recreation facilities for use by both the county and the Board of Education. e. An assessment of the suitability of undeveloped park sites throughout the county with plans for their development or role as open space and identification of the appropriate entity(ies) for maintaining each site.
Objective 6.1.2: The County shall maintain and expand its current park and recreation facilities inventory to meet the needs of the population through 2025. These facilities shall be designed to meet the needs of the residents and be appropriately located.
Policy 6.1.2.1: By 2010, Baldwin County shall evaluate the need for new or expanded special use recreational facilities, including handicap accessibility. Existing publicly owned facilities shall be modified to permit handicap access.
Policy 6.1.2.2: Parks and recreation facilities shall continue to be maintained in a safe and aesthetically pleasing manner. Safety precautions shall include the provision of adequate lighting and waste receptacles, improved access for the elderly and handicapped, and the regular maintenance of landscaping, pavement and buildings.
Policy 6.1.2.3: Baldwin County shall promote the development of private neighborhood parks by allowing density bonuses in appropriate zoning districts included in the Land Development
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Regulations. The promotion of private neighborhood parks does not require Baldwin County to own, operate, or maintain these facilities.
Policy 6.1.2.4: The specific design for community parks will be tailored to meet the needs of the community to be served while recognizing the particular attributes of the park site. Typical facilities at a community park may include ball fields, tennis courts, play areas, picnic areas, multipurpose courts, recreation buildings and sports fields. Community parks should be designed and developed to allow for passive uses as well.
Policy 6.1.2.5: Neighborhood parks shall emphasize pedestrian access, with vehicular accessibility given less emphasis.
Policy 6.1.2.6: To the extent possible, parks will be designed with buffers to minimize conflicts between different recreational uses and between recreational and adjacent uses.
Policy 6.1.2.7: To the extent possible, parks should be linked to bike paths, trails and greenways, and other parks.
Policy 6.1.2.8: Due to the nature of countywide parks and the limit on the availability of appropriate sites, countywide park facilities will be distributed throughout the entire county, based on actual and projected population distribution.
Objective 6.1.3: The County shall maintain and expand its current trail system and bike path inventory to meet the needs of the population through 2025. These facilities shall be designed to meet the needs of the residents and be appropriately located.
Policy 6.1.3.1: Baldwin County shall prioritize the acquisition and development of segments needed to complete planned trails based on land availability, projected trail usage, and opportunities through the development review process. The County shall develop these planned trails incrementally through the planning period, to adequately serve Baldwin County’s growing population.
Policy 6.1.3.2: Trails shall be located so as not to unduly interfere with the privacy of residents.
Policy 6.1.3.3: Trail access shall be an integral part of the planning and construction of parks and recreation facilities.
Policy 6.1.3.4: Baldwin County shall coordinate trail planning with the municipalities’ designated bicycle route system and other existing and planned bicycle and pedestrian facilities in the street right-of-way with a focus on acquiring funding and right-of-way.
Policy 6.1.3.5: Baldwin County shall appropriately sign all trails. Signage may include interpretive and historical information.
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Policy 6.1.3.6: Baldwin County should identify trail connections through municipalities and adjacent counties and coordinate with those jurisdictions to promote development of a regional trail network.
Policy 6.1.3.7: Baldwin County shall strive to interconnect existing and future dedicated open space areas, pedestrian and bicycle trails, hiking trails, equestrian trails, canoe runs, and where appropriate, utility corridors, into the greenways network.
Policy 6.1.3.8: Baldwin County shall consider incentives to private landowners to encourage their participation in the creation of the greenways network.
Policy 6.1.3.9: The planning, design and construction of all trails and greenways will be supervised and monitored by the appropriate county agencies.
Policy 6.1.3.10: The feasibility of converting railroad and power line easements and rights-of-way into linear parks, trails and greenways will be explored by County staff.
Policy 6.1.3.11: By 2012, develop a comprehensive Bikeways, Trails, and Greenways Master Plan to guide the development of such facilities throughout the planning period. This plan should be closely coordinated with municipalities, and the Baldwin County Trailblazers and other community groups organized and interested in trails.
Policy 6.1.3.12: The County shall consider bike trails and pedestrian paths adjacent to wetland corridors as complimentary uses. To minimize wetland impacts, those trails and paths should be constructed of pervious substances and vegetation clearing should be kept to a minimum.
Policy 6.1.3.13: Coordinate trails and greenway planning and construction efforts with private landowners to identify, protect, develop and manage linear open space connectors for recreation and conservation greenway corridors, and encourage private landowners to dedicate greenway facilities for public recreational use through incentives.
Objective 6.1.4: To improve access to public beaches and other bodies of water; and to provide a share of the boat ramps needed to allow county residents and visitors inexpensive access to public waterways to meet anticipated demand.
Policy 6.1.4.1: Baldwin County will develop and/or provide maintenance to at least 1 water access per year; and will acquire additional water accesses whenever and wherever economically feasible.
Policy 6.1.4.2: The proposed development of the County’s public water accesses should be evaluated on an individual basis to determine the allowable level of development for each site.
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Policy 6.1.4.3: The County will continue to pursue grants and other initiatives as funding sources for additional water accesses.
Policy 6.1.4.4: Baldwin County will continue to research and maintain available data to identify any additional publicly owned water accesses to be listed with the current inventories.
Policy 6.1.4.5: Baldwin County will seek to reclaim any public County water accesses that are subject to wrongful encroachments or adverse claims. This reclamation process will include working with those persons or entities responsible for such encroachments or claims.
Policy 6.1.4.6: Baldwin County will provide one boat ramp lane with adequate parking per 40,000 population of the entire county.
Policy 6.1.4.7: Boat ramp construction and expansion shall be directed to active boating areas including, but not limited to, Lillian, Fort Morgan, and the Eastern Shore and North Baldwin rivers.
Policy 6.1.4.8: The placement of public and private boat ramps and marinas, both freshwater and saltwater, shall be done in a manner which minimizes negative environmental and safety impacts.
Policy 6.1.4.9: A minimum of 1 acre of usable space should be allocated for each publicly owned boat ramp facility to provide for ample parking of trailers and automobiles, and the provision of other facilities such as restrooms, potable water, docks and lighting.
Policy 6.1.4.10: The County will establish a maintenance program/schedule for boat launch facilities.
Policy 6.1.4.11: Baldwin County will maintain a classification system for boat ramps which addresses location guidelines, types of boat ramp facilities for different areas, and needs and standards for parking for the different types of facilities.
Objective 6.1.5: Preserve a portion of the County’s natural environment for resource-based recreational activities in order to preserve natural habitats, protect the water supply, and preserve the natural heritage. These natural resources shall be available to the general public for resource-based recreational activities, enjoyment of nature, and educational enrichment, and may include lands to augment that which is set aside by the State of Alabama and the federal government.
Policy 6.1.5.1: Countywide parks will be resource-based facilities that preserve natural amenities. Baldwin County will avoid locating incompatible uses in regional parks.
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Policy 6.1.5.2: To protect sensitive ecosystems and wildlife corridors, park and recreation facilities shall be located and designed in an environmentally sensitive manner.
GOAL 6.2: To seek funding alternatives for the acquisition of additional recreation lands and for the maintenance of existing park and recreation sites.
Objective 6.2.1: Investigate alternative funding sources to be used for the acquisition of parks and open space, facility development, and the maintenance of existing and future park and recreation sites.
Policy 6.2.1.1: The County shall continue to monitor existing recreational opportunities and seek funding sources to prevent recreational deficiencies during the planning period.
Policy 6.2.1.2: The County shall identify and evaluate specific State of Alabama and Federal Government programs to determine applicability to certain County projects and goals. If determined feasible, application should be made.
GOAL 6.3: Ensure park planning documents are updated and revised as necessary on a regular basis.
Objective 6.3.1: The County will maintain inventories, surveys, and records essential to the park planning process, and will periodically update park planning documents and inventories.
Policy 6.3.1.1: The County shall continue to update and maintain the existing inventory of County-owned parks and recreation sites, and include regional and state parks available to County residents. The inventory will include total acreage of each park and recreational site.
Policy 6.3.1.2: The County should utilize a systematic approach to survey users of park facilities and residents of Baldwin County as to their needs, desires, preferences and evaluations of park and recreation facilities and programs.
Policy 6.3.1.3: The County should establish facilities based on interest and need by using the experience and knowledge of community groups and professionals and by using data garnered from surveys and public hearings.
GOAL 6.4: Coordinate park planning with local governments, government agencies, and other applicable agencies.
Objective 6.4.1: Communicate with municipalities, the Baldwin County Board of Education, State of Alabama and County residents to prevent overlapping of recreational programs and facilities in adjacent areas and to maximize efficient use of facilities.
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Policy 6.4.1.1: Baldwin County shall coordinate with the Baldwin County Board of Education for the co-location and joint use of parks.
Policy 6.4.1.2: Baldwin County shall coordinate and communicate with municipalities and the State of Alabama regarding parks and recreational plans of each entity.
Policy 6.4.1.3: Baldwin County shall assist any non-profit land trust that is established in Baldwin County for the purpose of receiving and managing public park and recreation lands through the provision of information and technical assistance.
Policy 6.4.1.4: The County shall market the parks and recreation system using available media such as, the internet, radio, television, signage and literature to enhance public awareness of the County’s diverse parks and recreation system.
Policy 6.4.1.5: Neighborhood parks shall be addressed through County coordination with the municipalities, Baldwin County Board of Education, and the County’s regulations. Neighborhood or community parks (as appropriate for the neighborhood and school size) should be located within one-half mile of schools, and, if practical, should be developed as adjoining or joint-use facilities.
GOAL 6.5: To encourage new development to provide adequate recreation and open space for improved aesthetic appearance, visual relief, environmental quality, preservation of existing native trees and plant communities, and the planting of vegetation.
Objective 6.5.1: Development regulations should address open space in new residential developments to meet the needs of their residents, and new non-residential developments should provide sufficient open space for the benefit of their patrons and the general public.
Policy 6.5.1.1: The County will review the open space requirements of the regulations to determine if these requirements should be modified in any way to best meet the open space requirements of new residential and non-residential developments.
Policy 6.5.1.2: The County shall encourage the connectivity of recreation areas and residential uses by using bike trails, pedestrian paths, waterways, and other open space corridors.
Policy 6.5.1.3: The County shall encourage, in the design of non-residential retail developments, pedestrian and bikeway connections to and from nearby residential uses, so as to facilitate access by means other than the use of motor vehicles and reduce motor vehicle traffic and related harmful emissions.
Objective 6.5.2: New developments must use innovative site planning to define open space designed to protect and preserve existing native vegetation and provide visual relief. This objective and subsequent policies are to be implemented through the County’s regulations.
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Policy 6.5.2.1: Any new development with existing indigenous vegetation is encouraged to preserve at least half of the required open space as existing native plant communities. Any new development with existing native trees is encouraged to preserve at least half of the required open space with areas containing existing native trees. The planting of native shrub species within native tree protection areas is encouraged.
Policy 6.5.2.2: Open space areas must be designed to preserve and allow the continued growth and viability of existing native trees.
Policy 6.5.2.3: The County shall adopt open space land development regulations to define standards for a variety of open spaces for each land use category.
Policy 6.5.2.4: The County encourages new developments to incorporate existing native plant communities and/or native trees along proposed and/or existing rights-of-way.
Policy 6.5.2.5: The County encourages new developments to incorporate large, contiguous open space areas in the development design.
Policy 6.5.2.6: Proposed planned developments must submit an open space design plan with an assessment of the existing native plant communities and native trees. The open space design plan must delineate the indigenous preserves and/or native tree preservation areas.
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RESERVED
Reserved 2009 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES Page 7.1
HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 8: HISTORIC RESOURCES ELEMENT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
Baldwin County is the third oldest county in Alabama, and was created in 1809 while still part of the Mississippi Territory. The County is named for Abraham Baldwin (1754-1807), founder of the University of Georgia, delegate to the Constitutional Convention, and member of Congress. The County seat is located in the City of Bay Minette.
The Baldwin County Commission has taken several steps to promote and protect the County’s historic resources. Act No. 80-497 as amended by Act No. 89-960 of the Legislature of Alabama authorizes Baldwin County to protect the historical architectural character of the County. The County Commission may designate a historic/preservation district in any section of the County containing buildings designated by the Historic American Buildings Survey. The Commission may also designate a historic/preservation district to preserve the distinctive architectural character of the County by recognizing neighborhoods that continue to grow and develop over the course of years and possess a unique character that merits recognition and protection.
As a result of the Act, the County established the Historic Resource Overlay District, as specified in the County’s Zoning Ordinance. The purpose of this district is to ensure enforcement of the rules and ordinances adopted pursuant to the above referenced Act’s. The overlay district does not replace the requirements of the underlying zoning district, but provides additional development requirements and standards which must be met by any development within the district. There are currently three historic/preservation districts designated by the County Commission, which are: Magnolia Springs Historic/Preservation District; Montrose Historic/Preservation District; and Battle’s Wharf/Point Clear Historic/Preservation District. These areas are subject to the requirements of the Baldwin County Architectural and Preservation Review Board (ARB).
The various boards, commissions, and departments relating to historic issues of the County are provided below:
Architectural and Preservation Review Board (ARB) The Baldwin County Architectural and Preservation Review Board (ARB) was created under the authority established by Section 45-2-221.11 of the Alabama Code 1975. The ARB’s responsibilities are to approve or disapprove plans and landscaping for buildings to be erected or renovated which are located, or are to be located, within historic/preservation districts. The ARB authority shall extend only to the exterior of any structure.
Baldwin Historic Development Commission The Baldwin County Historic Development Commission was created by the Baldwin County Commission under the authority established by Section 45-2-221.10 of the Alabama Code 1975. The Historic Development Commission’s responsibilities include:
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• The preservation and protection of buildings of historic and architectural value in the historic districts (as defined in Section 45-2-221.01, Alabama Code 1975), and the maintenance of the distinctive character of such districts; • The fostering and encouraging of the preservation, restoration, and utilization of buildings of historic and architectural value in the historic districts; and • The development and promotion of historic districts, as major tourist attractions of historic and economic value.
In addition, under Section 45-2-221.10(d) of the Alabama Code, the Historic Development Commission shall have the power and authority to: • To purchase, sell, contract to purchase, contract to sell, own, encumber, lease, mortgage, and insure real and personal property of all kinds and descriptions; • To request, solicit, and accept gifts, donations, pledges, fees, bequests, devises, loans, or appropriations from any source whatsoever; • To set up depositories within Baldwin County, as it may select, a "Revolving Fund for Historic Development" which shall be composed of the monies which may come into its hands, and used for the furtherance of its objectives and purposes; and • Employ personnel as may be necessary for carrying out the Historic Development Commission’s purposes.
Furthermore, under Section 45-2-221 of the Alabama Code, 1975, “the County Commission of Baldwin County may adopt ordinances to protect the historic architectural character of the county in the manner prescribed by the Code.”
Baldwin County Department of Archives and History The Baldwin County Department of Archives and History was created in 1998 by Act No. 98- 579. The mission of this Department is: • To collect, organize, describe, preserve, and make available Baldwin County, Alabama government records of permanent administrative, legal, fiscal, and historical value; • To collect, organize, describe, preserve, and make available records of historical significance in the founding and continuing history of Baldwin County, Alabama including, but not limited to manuscripts, correspondence, photos, books, and personal memorabilia; • To provide facilities for the retention, preservation, servicing, and research use of such records; • To serve in a public relations capacity by promoting knowledge and understanding of the origins and continuing history of Baldwin County, Alabama, its government and residents; • To facilitate the efficient management of the recorded information produced by the Baldwin County government offices.
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GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
GOAL 8.1: Identify, protect and enhance the important historical and cultural resources of Baldwin County.
Objective 8.1.1: Maintain existing programs to identify the historic and archaeological resources of Baldwin County; develop new identification programs including, but not limited to, a program to identify Baldwin County resources listed on the National Register of Historic Places; and make information available to the public and other public agencies.
Policy 8.1.1.1: By 2012, the Planning Department, in conjunction with the Baldwin County Archives and History Department, shall complete a Historic Inventory for all existing historic sites in unincorporated Baldwin County. The inventory shall be maintained in a database with an annual update to include additions of previously unidentified historic structures or sites.
Policy 8.1.1.2: By 2015, the Baldwin County Archives and History Department shall complete a Historic Survey of all of unincorporated Baldwin County, to be completed by region, which would be researched with formal reports issued as to whether a site was located or not located. The survey shall review the current status of all previously identified historical structures and sites, including archaeological sites, within unincorporated Baldwin County and shall make recommendations as to which of these sites or structures should be nominated to the Baldwin County Historic Development Commission, the Alabama Historical Commission and the National Register of Historic Places. The survey shall also review and make similar recommendations regarding any previously unidentified historic structures or sites.
Policy 8.1.1.3: The County should require all applications for development approval, including but not limited to rezoning, conditional use and subdivision applications, to identify the location and status of historic resources, including archaeological sites.
Policy 8.1.1.4: Maintain an automated data system regarding historically significant properties through the Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department GIS system using parcel information.
Objective 8.1.2: Continue to evaluate the historic and archaeological resources of Baldwin County according to adopted criteria for significance.
Policy 8.1.2.1: Evaluate the historic resources of Baldwin County for eligibility for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places and a local register of historic places.
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Policy 8.1.2.2: Develop a public improvement program for each National Register Historic District that would include specific plans to enhance the public rights-of-way in each district through underground utilities, streetscape improvements, landscaping and other improvements. This should be interfaced with an aggressive public awareness program to engage grass-roots involvement.
Policy 8.1.2.3: Explore with the Baldwin County Historical Development Commission and Chambers of Commerce, the development of a local heritage tourism program that highlights historic resources in areas that are open and accessible to the public. To contribute to the protection of historic neighborhoods and private property, brochures, signage and other materials shall indicate when the resources are in private ownership. Tourism planning shall include consideration of potential adverse impacts due to increased traffic, noise and air pollution, litter and trespassing in order to minimize these impacts on historic neighborhoods and districts.
Objective 8.1.3: Recognize and protect historically significant sites and structures.
Policy 8.1.3.1: Encourage the placement of historical landmarks, photographs, markers, or plaques of historical interest or value.
Policy 8.1.3.2: Work cooperatively with property owners to avoid development impacts to historic and cultural resources. Where impacts cannot be entirely avoided, these should be mitigated whenever possible by the use of methods including, but not limited to: a. Incorporating historic structures or sites into new development, including the planning and design of trails, parks and open areas. b. Designing new development to be consistent with the historical architectural themes. c. Preserving historic structures and sites in their existing location when possible and practical. Whenever it is not practical to retain historic structures in their original location, relocation should occur to another site within the development or within the area.
Policy 8.1.3.3: In cases where the use of a historic structure or site no longer serves the original purpose, the County shall work with the property owner and community for creative adaptive reuses that will maintain the integrity of the structure or site.
Policy 8.1.3.4: The County should establish regulations through the Zoning Ordinance to address protection and retention of historic structures.
Policy 8.1.3.5: The regulations should provide for variances that would allow for the preservation of historic resources.
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Policy 8.1.3.6: When historic buildings are to be relocated by government action, the County shall study the impact and appropriateness of the move according to the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation.
Policy 8.1.3.7: The existence of significant historic resources and the mitigation of development impact will be factors considered by the Planning Commission and County Commission when reviewing a project for rezoning or subdivision development.
Policy 8.1.3.8: To strengthen Baldwin County’s historic preservation efforts, the County shall achieve Certified Local Government status with the State of Alabama and the United States Department of the Interior by 2011.
Policy 8.1.3.9: Establish a public information program that provides information to owners of historic resources on available sources of tax relief.
Objective 8.1.4: Encourage and facilitate the creation of historic districts and preservation districts in areas of the County having an architectural or historic designation.
Policy 8.1.4.1: For the creation of historic and preservation districts, the County should encourage the use of Alabama Local Act 80-497, codified as §45-2-221, Local Laws, Code of Alabama 1975.
Policy 8.1.4.2: New construction and renovation in historic and preservation districts created pursuant Act 80-497, shall continue to be evaluated by the Architectural Review Board using the Standards for Architectural Review and Development in Baldwin County Historic Districts. Architectural standards should be reviewed for effectiveness and applicability, at a minimum of every four (4) years. In addition to general standards, more specific standards should be considered to reflect each historic and preservation district’s unique character and development type.
Policy 8.1.4.3: Land use planning should give special attention to preserving the historic and preservation districts from disruptive change.
Objective 8.1.5: Enhance the Historic Districts with improvements to historic district entrance points.
Policy 8.1.5.1: Consider special signage and landscape improvements to areas that may serve as formal entrances to a historic district.
Policy 8.1.5.2: Consider special street signs within historic district that will distinguish areas within the district from those without.
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Policy 8.1.5.3: Utility providers are encouraged to place underground utilities in historic districts to protect the aesthetic character of the resources.
Objective 8.1.6: Baldwin County shall recognize and support the Alabama Scenic Byway Program. Currently, this program includes recommendations for Alabama’s Coastal Connection: the “Coastal Connection Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan.” The Tensaw Trail is a second Baldwin County byway proposed for inclusion in the Program.
Policy 8.1.6.1: Inform new development and businesses within the corridor of Alabama’s Coastal Connection of the Corridor Vision, and encourage businesses to build on the area’s historic and cultural character.
Policy 8.1.6.2: Develop and implement resource protection, maintenance, preservation and enhancement initiatives for historic areas within the corridor of Alabama’s Coastal Connection.
Policy 8.1.6.3: Work with and support the efforts of the Chambers of Commerce to produce a marketing plan for Alabama’s Coastal Connection that highlights historic and cultural features.
Policy 8.1.6.4: Work with and support the efforts of the Baldwin County Archives and History Department, the Alabama Scenic Byways Program, and the Alabama Association of Regional Councils in designating the Tensaw Trail as an Alabama Scenic Byway. Encourage this designation to be in place by the end of 2009 to correspond with the Bicentennial Celebration. The goal of this designation shall be to highlight the historical, natural, and cultural sites along the trail in an effort to bring more attention statewide for the attractions offered along this stretch of highway.
Policy 8.1.6.5: The County Planning Department and the Archives Department, in conjunction with the Historic Development Commission, shall identify scenic rural roads that are not currently designated as Scenic Byways, and develop proposals to preserve native and natural vegetation and discourage invasive species along those roads.
Policy 8.1.6.6: Through the zoning ordinance, protect Baldwin County’s Scenic Byways and scenic vistas through viewshed protection measures, such as expanded rural frontage setback requirements.
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HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 9: COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
The Community Design Element is intended to provide policies to be used as a guide for livability and improving physical form of development through subdivision design, neighborhood development, commercial development, and design of open space locations. Sustainable community design seeks to preserve natural resources and open space, as well as generate optimum land uses of urban centers and neighborhoods. Development on undisturbed sites destabilizes natural systems and translates into losing valuable agricultural or forest land. This is because access to the new development requires more roads, trips and necessary infrastructure extensions. In other words, more natural resources are used, and more pollution and unnecessary costs to the government, developers, and surrounding communities are created.
The intent of the Community Design Element is to promote high-quality development design. A secondary intent is the incorporation of mixed use commercial development with residential neighborhoods, in the unincorporated areas of Baldwin County (as defined and depicted in the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Element). Where applicable, these elements serve as flexible guidance for the design of elements throughout a development, and promote consistency and quality in materials and form in all aspects of new development. In particular, this element promotes better design compatibility between different uses, especially where incompatible uses are located adjacent to one another.
Optimal use of developed land, balancing of developed and undeveloped areas, integration of functional open space with development, and the creation of clearly defined communities are all fundamental tenets of sustainable community design.
The Community Design Element is complementary to the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance, and development applications are encouraged to consider the guidelines discussed in this document. However, the goals, objectives and policies stated herein are applicable only to PRD applications, Conditional Use applications, Special Exception applications and Architectural Review Board applications. All guidelines included in this chapter are subject to the regulations of any applicable utility provider.
To assist in the County’s review, a project description is required for each submittal which discusses how the development proposal meets or varies from the design guidelines, and describes the benefits the proposed development may have to the community. The intent of these guidelines is to be specific enough to guide development, but not to preclude creative design solutions.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
GOAL 9.1: Create and maintain a well-designed built environment for unincorporated Baldwin County that will contribute to the county’s economic vitality and enhance the quality of life for its residents.
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Objective 9.1.1: Consider the relationship of each development to its setting.
Policy 9.1.1.1: The relationship of a development to its setting should be considered for varying times and conditions, including daytime and nighttime hours, changing seasons, and anticipated changes in development conditions over the life of the project, to ensure the development’s compatibility to its setting over time.
Policy 9.1.1.2: Each development should reflect and be integrated with the character and design of the surrounding area, including the consideration of design elements such as: a. Size b. Shape c. Building Mass d. Setbacks e. Orientation f. Architecture and g. Landscaping
Policy 9.1.1.3: The relationship of the building site to the street for each development should be compatible with the type and intensity of development, as well as adjacent properties.
Policy 9.1.1.4: Site design should be integrated with established infrastructure systems of the surrounding area, including street patterns, trails and open space, drainage and utility systems.
DEVELOPMENT PATTERN ______
Development pattern is how buildings, parking, pedestrian and automobile circulation, landscaping and open space is arranged on the ground. A good site design organizes and integrates all of these elements while creating a functional and visually attractive environment. Site plans can be reviewed based on how well the functional elements accommodate the intended use and how well the design is refined to create an attractive and compatible environment. For example, uses that generate a high degree of pedestrian traffic should incorporate design elements that accommodate pedestrian circulation in a convenient and safe manner and provide amenities that cater to pedestrian comfort.
GOAL 9.2: Developments that are well integrated with the external environment, enhance the natural features of the site, designed to be compatible with the surrounding features of the built environment, and transition smoothly from the public roadway to private properties as well as between properties.
Objective 9.2.1 Development should be designed to encourage and facilitate interaction of people and neighborhoods, rather than to create barriers between them.
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Policy 9.2.1.1: Site design should create a sense of order by orienting buildings and site features based on the geometry of adjacent streets and other significant site features; in general, buildings should be parallel to the street(s) they face.
Policy 9.2.1.2: Development designs should create places for people to gather and interact.
Objective 9.2.2: Create an attractive environment for living, working and shopping, through adequate screening of equipment, utilities, loading and trash collection areas.
Policy 9.2.2.1: In residential developments, utility lines should be placed underground, utility boxes or other ground-mounted equipment such as satellite dishes, should be placed in inconspicuous locations and screened from adjacent rights-of-way with landscaping or fencing. Any roof-mounted equipment must be screened from the public right-of-way.
Policy 9.2.2.3: Trash enclosures shall be provided to screen refuse collection areas, and should be integrated into the site design using the same materials and architectural details. Enclosure design should include a gated opening used for trash collection, which should be provided with metal gates fastened to pipes embedded in concrete. In addition, a pedestrian access opening should be provided. Trash enclosures should be placed behind the main buildings and screened by landscaping, where appropriate. Where trash enclosures are highly visible, as from an adjacent elevated roadway, a lattice-type roof treatment may be required to screen views of the enclosure. In addition, the following screening and undergrounding requirements apply to these areas.
Policy 9.2.2.4: Loading areas and facilities should be located behind the main structure, so as to be screened from public view by building placement. For buildings abutting the roadway, loading areas should be located on the side of the building away from oncoming traffic on adjacent travel lanes. Loading areas should be screened by the building’s architecture or by use of screen walls which are architecturally integrated into the main structure. Landscaping should be provided where appropriate to soften the height and mass of screen walls.
Policy 9.2.2.5: Utility devices such as backflow preventers, irrigation equipment and utility boxes should be screened; such screening should be shown on the landscape or site plans and may include walls, landscaping or other approved methods. All equipment attached to buildings, such as drainage spouts, roof access ladders and utility meters, should be screened, camouflaged or placed inside the building.
Policy 9.2.2.6: In industrial and public/institutional uses compatible with industrial zones, areas used for outdoor storage, loading, equipment, trash collection and recycling should be screened from arterial streets, freeways and less-intensive land use districts. Within interior portions of industrial areas, flexibility should be used by the reviewing authority to ensure that screening requirements will reasonably mitigate impacts to adjacent industrial properties and local or collector streets, while considering the special operational requirements of industrial users.
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Policy 9.2.2.7: Where lower density residential development faces higher densities across a street, lot widths and frontages on both sides of the street should be compatible to the extent feasible; wider lot widths on the smaller lots may be required to maintain continuity along the street frontage.
Policy 9.2.2.8: Front building setbacks should be varied three (3) to five (5) feet between all dwellings within a block to provide visual relief. Greater setback variation of fifteen (15) to twenty (20) feet should be provided on larger lots (1/2 acre or greater).
Policy 9.2.2.9: For subdivision lots of less than 20,000 square feet, the following design guidelines shall be considered: a. Use of open yards or split rail fencing to minimize side and rear yard privacy fencing. b. Rear loaded garages accessed via alley/easement of at least 20 feet. c. A minimum of 400 square foot useable back yard. d. Varied front yard setbacks of at least 4 feet. e. “Build to” lines between 10 feet to 20 feet. f. Front yard landscaping will be provided prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. g. Install street trees in all neighborhoods.
Policy 9.2.2.10: Schools shall be sized and located to enable the neighborhood’s children and older students to walk or bicycle to them.
Objective 9.2.3: Subdivision design should ensure a functional and safe living environment for residents.
Policy 9.2.3.1: To provide adequate buffering from arterial streets and more intensive uses, lots which back onto these streets or uses shall have increased lot depths and rear setbacks.
Policy 9.2.3.2: Corner lots shall be wider than interior lots to accommodate the reduced amount of useable space due to increased setbacks.
Policy 9.2.3.3: Where curvilinear street alignments are used on residential streets, resulting lot sizes and frontages shall be generally uniform.
Policy 9.2.3.4: To provide buffering from adjacent non-residential uses, such as commercial or institutional uses, lots abutting these uses shall have increased building setbacks and yard areas.
Policy 9.2.3.5: Rear yards containing manufactured slopes shall be designed to avoid adverse impacts on residents, through the following means: a. Rear yards shall be of adequate depth to provide usable yard area and adequate room for accessory structures, exclusive of slope area.
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b. Grading, plotting and architectural means to limit rear yard slope heights shall be encouraged.
Policy 9.2.3.6: Rear and interior side yard property lines shall be located at the top of manufactured slopes so as to provide for ease of maintenance.
Policy 9.2.3.7: Subdivision design shall minimize land use conflicts with adjacent uses through placement of streets, parkways, open spaces, greenbelts, landscaping and trails, rather than through creation of tall perimeter walls.
Policy 9.2.3.8: Residential driveways shall be located as far as practical from street intersections.
Policy 9.2.3.9: Parking areas, pedestrian walkways, and common areas shall be illuminated by lighting fixtures of a human scale at a level adequate to ensure the safety of users. Where stairs or changes in grade occur, these areas shall be directly lighted.
Objective 9.2.4: Design of multi-family developments shall enrich the lives of residents by providing a variety of activities, places to socialize, visual interest in the surroundings, and screening of unsightly uses.
Policy 9.2.4.1: Dwelling units shall be oriented to focus on natural features such as, waterways, common areas, parks, wetland areas or other naturally-occurring features.
GOAL 9.3: Commercial and retail development in the County shall enhance the community’s economic vitality by providing a high quality environment for shopping and working.
Objective 9.3.1: In addition to the general guidelines featured in the mixed use section, the following list of design elements should be considered to be incorporated into retail and commercial developments:
Policy 9.3.1.1: Commercial pad sites should not be sited to completely obstruct the view of the anchor stores.
Policy 9.3.1.2: Drive-through windows are not recommended to face the adjacent public street. If facing adjacent public streets, appropriate screening is required. Sufficient stacking should be provided for each drive through lane to prevent spill over into major circulation aisles. In addition, ordering systems should not negatively impact any adjacent residential uses.
Policy 9.3.1.3: For nonresidential developments, the maximum gross building square footage shall be the sum of the nonresidential development acreage multiplied by the maximum FAR permitted by the applicable land use classification.
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Policy 9.3.1.4: Outdoor lighting fixtures should have full oblique shielding so that a properties light source do not directly illuminate another adjacent property.
Policy 9.3.1.5: Lighting shall not impair the vision of and interfere with safe driving. A light source shall have shields to prevent it from glaring into the eyes of drivers where drivers need to see structures, signs, other vehicles, and overhead clearances to a height of sixteen (16) feet. Affected driving areas include streets, driveways, parking lots, and other vehicle use areas on- site or off-site.
Objective 9.3.2: Site planning for retail and office commercial development shall be integrated with adjacent properties and provide for optimum use of the site.
Policy 9.3.2.1: Street setbacks on adjacent properties should be considered in the site design, so that the street functions at its designed capacity.
Policy 9.3.2.2: Building and parking layout should be varied to avoid a "strip commercial" appearance, in which buildings are plotted in a straight row with parking along the entire street frontage; building placement should be varied to avoid parking areas which dominate the streetscape.
Policy 9.3.2.3: Where a commercial site adjoins residential development, site design should provide a transition of use and scale. Increased setbacks, one story massing at the interface area, and dense landscaping are preferred techniques.
Objective 9.3.3: Ensure that building placement, orientation and design create an attractive business environment in commercial areas.
Policy 9.3.3.1: Ensure that building orientation and arrangement on the site is compatible with adjacent uses and development, through the following measures: a. Building orientation should be compatible with the orientation of surrounding streets and buildings. In general, buildings should be parallel to the streets they face. b. Building height, bulk and area should provide a transition of scale with respect to adjacent lots. Stair-stepping may be used to break up the mass of large buildings - large buildings should be made less imposing by physically stepping them back from the street level. c. Buildings should be designed to fit the context of their surroundings with respect to architectural style, massing, proportion, and other characteristics. d. Buildings adjacent to historic structures should be compatible with, but not necessarily mimic, historic architectural styles. e. Building entrances should be easily identifiable and accessible from sidewalks, parking lots and public transit facilities.
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MIXED USE MULTI-FAMILY SINGLE FAMILY * CHICHER DENSITY) \ SINGLE FAMILY \ CLOWER DENSITY) 4 PARK / OPEN SPACE - -1 HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 9: COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
Objective 9.3.4: Parking lot design and orientation should function well for site users and present an attractive appearance to enhance the business environment.
Policy 9.3.4.1: Consideration should be given to the types of users desired and providing sufficient parking for future users, rather than trying to maximize building floor area.
Goal 9.4: Ensure compatible transitions between land uses.
Objective 9.4.1: The relationship of land uses should reflect the consideration of existing development, environmental conditions, and service and access needs.
Policy 9.4.1.1: Appropriate transition methods should be considered where the development or expansion of either more or less intensive land uses abut. In general, transitions between different types of intensities of land use should be made gradually, particularly where man-made buffers are not available. Where appropriate, streets may be used as boundaries between different intensities of land uses.
Policy 9.4.1.2: Site design should be oriented so that less compatible uses such as support facilities are located in the interior of the development and not adjacent or in close proximity residential neighborhoods.
Policy 9.4.1.3: Site access should be off of collector or thoroughfare streets.
Policy 9.4.1.4: The siting of buildings should consider the following criteria: a. When multi-family developments abut uses of higher or lower intensity, buildings should be sited with a perpendicular orientation or additional setbacks provided to minimize any negative impacts. b. Medium-density residential uses should not have lesser setbacks than abutting low-density residential uses. c. The height and bulk of a medium-density residential buildings and accessory structures should be oriented away from low-density residential neighborhoods to avoid creating a negative visual effect. d. Encourage the location of smaller buildings or one-story end units to transition to adjacent low-density residential areas.
Policy 9.4.1.5: Promote the retention of existing land features such as stands of trees, natural vegetation, wetlands, stream corridors, and environmentally sensitive areas as natural buffers to separate residential development from other more or less intensive land uses. Where possible, use existing differences in topography to naturally separate developments and other more or less intensive land uses.
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Policy 9.4.1.6: Encourage the creative and extensive use of landscaping and berming techniques for effective buffering between differing intensities of land uses and to increase neighborhood privacy and security.
Policy 9.4.1.7: Surface parking lots should be designed to minimize the impacts of large paved areas on adjacent properties and rights of way, and to provide for ease of use, through the following measures: a. Parking should be evenly distributed throughout the site and compatible with anticipated parking demands. b. Parking areas should be screened from public view with mounding, landscaping, low walls, grade differentials, building orientation, or a combination of these techniques. Automobiles should not be visible from the right-of-way below the average height of the headlights (three feet). c. Joint use of parking areas should be encouraged, to reduce impervious surface area. d. Parking should be designed for safety and ease of use, in conformance with applicable standards.
Policy 9.4.1.8: Parking lot landscape design should provide shading for parked vehicles and screening to break up and soften the appearance of large expanses of hard paved surfaces.
Policy 9.4.1.9: Parking structures shall be designed to be convenient, safe and efficient, through the following measures: a. Lighting shall be provided within and adjacent to structures to provide for public safety while avoiding glare onto adjacent properties. b. Vehicle stacking shall be provided within the parking structure; no vehicle stacking shall be permitted on public streets. c. Visibility shall be provided at pedestrian crossings at entrance and exit points, for purposes of general public safety and welfare. d. Where a parking structure is located adjacent to public streets and sidewalks, street-level space should be occupied by pedestrian oriented retail uses, arcades, or other similar uses to create interest and activity at the street.
CONNECTIVITY & CIRCULATION ______
Connectivity can be defined as a system of streets with multiple routes and connections serving the same origins or destinations; it relates not only to the number of intersections along a segment of street, but also to how an entire area is connected by the street and pedestrian path system. A traditional rectilinear street grid pattern provides relatively direct connections and multiple routes creating high connectivity. In contrast, the curvilinear networks dominated by cul-de-sacs that are typical of suburban subdivisions in Baldwin County, provide relatively indirect connections and few routes, thus having low connectivity.
Connectivity provides a variety of benefits to communities:
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• Multiple routes of travel over short distances while preventing the use of arterial roads for short distances reduces congestion. • More direct travel reduces vehicle miles traveled, decreases travel time and increases accessibility. • Local travel stays on smaller local roads at reduced speeds instead of arterial roads, which are designed to carry large volumes of traffic at higher speeds, over longer distances. • Transit stops are more accessible from neighborhoods. • Greater connectivity of street and pedestrian paths better accommodate town center development rather than strip development. • Drivers and pedestrians are provided better opportunities for walking and bicycling to local destinations such as shops, school and other homes.
Goal 9.5: Developments that provide greater connectivity in relation to its surroundings and better accommodate pedestrian, non-motorized, transit and vehicular traffic.
Objective 9.5.1: Community design should create an environment which is easy to understand and convenient for users.
Policy 9.5.1.1: Site designs should function well for site users, including both pedestrian and vehicular traffic, as well as bypassing traffic.
Policy 9.5.1.2: In order to facilitate better connectivity for local streets, the County should develop connectivity indexes and standards utilizing link (street segments) and nodes (intersections) ratios for new development.
Policy 9.5.1.3: In order to facilitate pedestrian crossing, discourage through traffic c, and reduce speeds, local streets shall not be excessive in width. However, public local streets must have sufficient width to allow for emergency access and provide parking on at least one side.
Policy 9.5.1.4: All developments intended for use by the general public should provide direct public access to the adjacent public sidewalk to provide connections to schools, parks, shopping, jobs and between neighborhoods.
Policy 9.5.1.5: Pedestrian walkways should be provided to connect uses within and adjacent to each development.
Policy 9.5.1.6: Site design shall comply with handicapped access requirements and provide a convenient circulation system for people with disabilities.
Policy 9.5.1.7 New streets, pedestrian and bike paths and trails should be made, where reasonable, to residential neighborhoods, retail centers and open space systems so as to provide alternative transportation routes for residents within the area.
Community Design Element 2009 GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES Page 9.9 RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION GONNEGTIVITY
CONNECTION TO ADJACENT COMMUNITY A
CONNEGTION CONNECTION TO ADJACENT TO ADJACENT COMMUNITY COMMUNITY
LOCAL ROADWAY HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 9: COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
Policy 9.5.1.8: The use of barriers such as fences, walls or dead ends, within and between developments should be avoided in favor of interconnected access points.
Policy 9.5.1.9: Designs shall incorporate pathways between and among uses or neighborhoods to the extent feasible.
Objective 9.5.2: Residential neighborhoods shall be integrated with interconnected networks linking parks, schools, services and other neighborhoods.
Policy 9.5.2.1: Subdivision design shall provide connectivity within and between neighborhoods, rather than creating isolation through street design.
Policy 9.5.2.2: Reasonable crossing paths shall be provided through residential neighborhoods.
Policy 9.5.2.3: New development should consider existing travel routes through the property, and incorporate alternative routes where feasible to provide necessary connections to community facilities.
Policy 9.5.2.4: Developments adjacent to trail systems shall provide a means of public access from residential lots to the trail system.
Policy 9.5.2.5: Incorporate connectivity to open spaces, parks, playgrounds and nearby schools, as well as connectivity between neighborhoods. This includes such things as jogging trails, greenways, bicycle paths, and other land development measures that provide an alternative transportation route for residents within the same and/or adjacent neighborhoods.
Policy 9.5.2.6: Neighborhood streets and rights-of-way should be designed to include more room for sidewalks and bike lanes.
Policy 9.5.2.7: Any fencing, retaining walls, slopes, landscaping and other features shall be located in a manner which provides adequate driver sight distance at intersections and driveways.
Policy 9.5.2.8: Streets shall strive to terminate at other streets, forming a thoroughfare network. Internal streets shall connect wherever possible to those on adjacent sites. Cul-de-sac streets detract from connectivity and may be approved to accommodate specific site conditions only.
Policy 9.5.2.9: Connections shall be made from multi-family developments to trails, parks, schools and other community facilities.
Objective 9.5.3: Create a safe and convenient circulation system for vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle traffic in multi-family developments.
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Policy 9.5.3.1: A minimum of two means of ingress and egress shall be provided and consideration shall be given to sharing access with other adjacent developments, where feasible. Driveway entrances shall be enhanced with paving and landscaping to emphasize the entryway; building entrances shall be enhanced with landscaping, lighting and architectural treatment for ease of identification.
Policy 9.5.3.2: Pedestrian circulation pathways shall be safe and efficient, and shall not route pedestrians through parking areas, across vehicular travel paths, or through landscape planters to reach destination points.
Policy 9.5.3.3: Pedestrian routes to transit stops shall be provided.
Policy 9.5.3.4: The overall circulation system in developments shall avoid circuitous or confusing travel paths and dead ends.
Policy 9.5.3.5: Drive aisles shall be treated like an internal streetscape, with curvilinear or flex grid alignments and parkway trees and landscaping.
Policy 9.5.3.6: Freestanding structures should be oriented with their major entry toward the street where access is provided; the major facade should be parallel to the street.
Objective 9.5.4: Achieve effective access and circulation for commercial site users, and minimize traffic impacts to adjacent properties, through site design.
Policy 9.5.4.1: Development patterns which route traffic to or from retail or commercial destinations through residential neighborhoods on local or collector streets shall not be allowed.
Policy 9.5.4.2: The location and design of structures, parking areas, access points and on-site circulation routes should facilitate effective circulation for pedestrians, passenger vehicles, and service vehicles; conflict points between these users should be avoided.
Policy 9.5.4.3: Except as otherwise approved, a minimum of two means of ingress and egress shall be provided to each site.
Policy 9.5.4.4: Access points shall be consistent with state and local policies for access controls and should be aligned with existing driveways, intersections, and median openings. In order to limit curb cuts and provide greater efficiency of on-site circulation, consideration should be given to sharing access between adjoining properties.
Policy 9.5.4.5: Textured pavement should be provided to emphasize development entrances. The property owners will bear the expense for maintenance and repair.
Policy 9.5.4.6: Adequate vehicle stacking shall be provided at development entrances and exits.
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Policy 9.5.4.7: On-site pedestrian walkways should be clearly delineated with special pavement, landscaping and lighting. Each development shall contain at least one clearly designated route for pedestrians connecting the street, the parking area, and the main entrance(s).
Policy 9.5.4.8: Pedestrian walkways should provide logical links to the public sidewalk, transit facilities, and to adjacent properties.
Policy 9.5.4.9: Where transit stops are provided adjacent to or within a development, they should be located near access ways or activity centers rather than in isolated locations; bus shelter design shall be similar to and compatible with the main structure(s) and site design, using similar architectural features and materials.
Policy 9.5.4.10: Pedestrian and bicycle access between the commercial portion of the development and adjacent off-site residential neighborhoods shall be provided in the site design.
Policy 9.5.4.11: The County shall promote the connection of new developments to adjacent uses and neighborhoods, via biking, walking or driving to integrate new developments into the existing community. This will make it easier for residents to circulate throughout the neighborhoods. The edges of a neighborhood should be formed by features shared with adjacent neighborhoods such as major streets, changes in street pattern, greenways or natural features such as streams and major drainage or riparian corridors.
RESIDENTIAL ______
Single Family Residential
GOAL 9.6: Recognize and maintain the rural character of large-lot residential development within the County, through application of rural development standards appropriate for these areas.
Objective 9.6.1: Maintain an open, spacious development pattern in rural areas.
Policy 9.6.1.1: Houses should be plotted on lots so as to maintain a reasonable opportunity for the keeping of horses and other animals, unless codes, covenants and restrictions prohibit the keeping of equestrian or farming animals on the lot.
GOAL 9.7: Promote safe, functional, attractive single family residential neighborhoods, integrated with the surrounding community, and easily accessible by multiple transportation modes.
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Objective 9.7.1: In residential subdivisions, promote diversity within the context of an overall design theme, to provide a visually attractive neighborhood which relates well with its surroundings.
Policy 9.7.1.1: Residential lots should be designed to accommodate parking of recreational vehicles on the owner's property, screened from public view.
Policy 9.7.1.2 Accessory structures in residential areas should be located to maximize yard usage.
Policy 9.7.1.3: Residential accessory dwelling units may be: a. Integrated within the main residence or over the garage. b. A separate structure within a rear yard.
Policy 9.7.1.4: Residential accessory dwelling units must provide an on-site parking space for each habitable accessory unit.
Policy 9.7.1.5: Temporary and seasonal outdoor uses, such as farmer’s markets, outdoor nursery displays, and sidewalk sales are permitted, subject to the regulations of the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance.
Objective 9.7.2: Ensure that manufactured housing communities meet the County’s residential design goals.
Policy 9.7.2.1: Require that the applicable residential design goals, objectives and policies be addressed in the design of manufactured home parks and subdivisions, in addition to the following design criteria: a. Utilize greenbelts/walkways to separate rows of manufactured homes, provide pedestrian access, and maintain aesthetically pleasing open space areas. b. Provide recreational amenities that are conveniently located and accessible via pedestrian pathways, with facilities for all age groups utilizing the park. c. Create unit privacy and individuality by use of varied unit footprints. d. Provide at least two means of public access to manufactured home communities , where feasible. e. Provide sidewalks on at least one side of private drives and streets, and ensure that the internal pedestrian walkway system connects logically to off-site walkways to provide convenient access to schools, parks, and commercial areas. f. Provide an enclosed garage to each unit, with an adequate setback to allow tandem parking in front of the garage. g. Provide trash enclosure areas, properly screened, throughout the park within a reasonable distance from each unit.
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h. Provide adequate setbacks between the park and adjacent residential designations, with adequate screening through a combination of landscaping, walls, landscaped berms, trails, or other means. i. Provide functional and accessible common open space. j. Provide functional and defined private yard space to each manufactured home unit. k. Utilize flexible grid pattern streets, curvilinear streets, short street segments, or a combination thereof as opposed to long, narrow alley-like drives. l. Incorporate landscape islands and street trees on private interior streets and drives. m. Vary garage and unit setbacks. n. Provide guest parking, distributed throughout the development. o. Screen recreational vehicle storage and buffer those areas from adjacent residential uses.
Policy 9.7.2.2: Ensure that adequate provision is made for ongoing maintenance of manufactured home parks.
Multi-Family Residential
GOAL 9.8: Multiple family housing shall provide a safe and pleasant living environment for residents and shall be integrated with surrounding neighborhoods so as to enhance the sense of community, through implementation of the following objectives and policies. (Exceptions may be granted for smaller developments of six units or less, or where these measures can be shown to be inappropriate).
Objective 9.8.1: Site designs for multiple family developments shall relate to surrounding properties with respect to building locations, orientation, massing and setbacks.
Policy 9.8.1.1: The street frontage created by multi-family developments shall function effectively with existing development in the vicinity, through the following means: a. Setbacks should be consistent with those used on adjacent properties. b. Height and massing shall be compatible with adjacent development; for example, if the project faces single-story residential development, massing adjacent to the street should be single-story. c. Landscape type and placement should be compatible with that currently in use on the street. d. Building orientations can be skewed to create a variety of view orientations on site and create visual interest on the streetscape.
Policy 9.8.1.2: Where parking areas are placed adjacent to perimeter street, vehicles shall be screened to a height of at least three feet by means of landscaping, low profile walls, or a lowering in grade of the parking area relative to the street.
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Policy 9.8.1.3 : Discourage the use of fencing around the perimeter of multi-family developments. Where fencing may be necessary, it should be used in combination with landscaping and berming.
MIXED USE ______
Since the first American cities were founded in the 17th century, mixed-use development has always been part of the American urban landscape. It was not until after World War II that a movement toward complete segregation of land uses dominated the new American landscape. This movement, which actually began in the 1920’s, reached its peak in the 1950s and 1960s. During the 1980s, the New Urbanist movement renewed interest in mixed-use development in certain areas of the country. As the principles spawned by this development trend have slowly gained acceptance, mixed-use development is being constructed in numerous communities throughout the country.
Mixed-use development combines residential uses with one or more other uses such as office, retail, civic, entertainment, or even manufacturing and there are a large number of terms used when discussing any type of non-conventional residential development : Mixed-Use, Neo- Traditional Development, Traditional Neighborhood Design (TND) and New Urbanism. Mixed- use can be either “vertical” (mixing uses within a single structure) or “horizontal” (mixing uses on a large site, with each use confined to a separate building or set of buildings). Mixing uses will often require changes to the zoning ordinance or planned unit development (PUD) regulations.
To encourage housing, a community can allow residential uses in commercial areas and other non-residential zones, especially downtowns, thereby creating multi-use areas, or, the community can set up a mixed-use zoning district. Mixed use developments support retail uses by locating residences in close proximity to shopping; reduce residential development costs by sharing amenities and parking with other uses; and reduce automobile traffic as people can live, work and shop in the same area. When properly designed, residential and non-residential uses within the same development can also provide a sense of place.
GOAL 9.9: Encourage mixed use centers within appropriate land use districts (as specified in the Future Land Use Element).
Objective 9.9.1: Mixed use centers should provide a variety of uses serving the local area, which are connected by a strong structure of streets, buildings and open spaces. These uses should generally transition in intensity from commercial center to surrounding lower intensity residential neighborhoods.
Policy 9.9.1.1: The County encourages mixed use areas with a variety of locally serving businesses and other commercial establishments integrated with a variety of residential housing types and densities as described below. Organization of these areas should allow appropriate
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integration, while protecting more sensitive low-intensity residential neighborhoods and allowing easy cross-neighborhood access. a. Non-residential land uses are appropriate to the mixed use area including transit or park and ride stops; neighborhood retail uses, small businesses with low traffic generation such as service businesses, small scale offices and clinics; civic uses, daycares, places of worship and assembly; parks and other recreation areas and schools. b. A variety of housing types can fit into higher activity areas including: residential units above retail shops or work places, multi-family housing, townhomes or duplexes, and small lot single family homes with accessory dwelling units. c. Horizontally mixed land uses unified by a pattern of streets and blocks with buildings fronting streets are desirable. This is one way to integrate commercial uses and housing in a mixed use area. Compatible uses may share a street. More intense uses may share a block and an alley while fronting on separate streets. d. Vertically mixed land uses are desirable, particularly on primary pedestrian streets. Streets lined with shops, which have offices and residences above, provide added activity and informal surveillance of the street life.
Policy 9.9.1.2: Mixed use areas should contain a combination of uses including residential, retail, offices, services, civic uses, parks and open space. Uses located on the ground floor that stimulate pedestrian activity are an example. Automobile-related uses (automobile repair and supply, etc.) should be secondary uses and located at less prominent locations. Large retail uses should incorporate the small scale pedestrian pattern of the mixed use area.
Policy 9.9.1.3: A mixed use area should maintain a functionally linked and connected pattern of street layout, site design, building scale and character. Street and block patterns, pedestrian and bicycle connections should extend through the mixed use commercial center.
Policy 9.9.1.4: Access to mixed-use developments should be encouraged by both cars and non- vehicular means through multiple connections, sidewalks, etc. Mixed-use developments may provide housing and non-housing within the same district, or may provide only non-residential uses, if well connected to adjacent residential uses. Also, retail within mixed use must have good visibility from high volume thoroughfares as well as plentiful parking in order to be financially successful.
Policy 9.9.1.5: Mixed use areas should be located to maximize pedestrian access by the greatest number of residents as well as the surrounding community.
Policy 9.9.1.6: The proposed building orientation should be compatible the orientation of surrounding buildings, existing pedestrian paths/sidewalks, and the orientation of surrounding streets. Rows of buildings, which create a monotonous, “cookie-cutter” design, are discouraged. Non-residential buildings should be oriented to allow for the use of common driveways, especially along arterial streets, where a reduction in the number of curb openings would enhance the streetscape and promote traffic safety. Buildings should orient so that the entrances
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are clearly identifiable and directly accessible from sidewalks. Buildings should be accessible for pedestrian and public transit users, not just customers driving private automobiles. On commercial sites, especially large retail centers, a portion of the total building area should be located near the street perimeter. Such siting reinforces the streetscape and helps to provide additional screening or larger parking areas.
Policy 9.9.1.7: The structures of mixed use areas will vary. For example, one type may incorporate concentric nodal centers generally focused on a civic space such as a square, plaza, village green or commons. Another type may be a linear elongated mixed use area which generally may feature “main streets,” mixed use retail streets sometimes ending in a civic space, such as a park or plaza.
Policy 9.9.1.8: Mixed use centers are a focus for the surrounding neighborhood as a place to live, shop and work. These areas include denser attached and detached housing around a neighborhood commercial center or a commercial area with secondary uses near primary retail establishments. The surrounding neighborhoods contain moderate densities which form a transition and link between lower density residential neighborhoods and heavier intensity commercial or light industrial/employment areas.
Policy 9.9.1.9: Non-residential uses, larger buildings and attached multifamily housing should be encouraged to locate near commercial centers, with a transition to smaller buildings closer to low density neighborhoods.
Objective 9.9.2: Access to and within mixed use developments should provide for public safety and convenience and minimize impacts on adjacent roadways.
Policy 9.9.2.1: Mixed use developments should be located adjacent to an arterial street, to provide for access to the commercial portions of the development.
Policy 9.9.2.2: Separate vehicular access shall be provided from the street to the commercial and residential components of the development; however, vehicular connections between the residential and commercial portions of the development should be provided.
Policy 9.9.2.3: Access between the residential and commercial portions of the development should be provided for pedestrians and bicycles, with bicycle parking areas and pedestrian amenities located throughout the development.
Policy 9.9.2.4: Pedestrian walkways connecting residential and commercial portions of the development should be clearly delineated, lighted, provided with shade by landscaping or architectural means, and at least six (6) feet in width, except that where building walls abut the walkway on both sides, the minimum width shall be twenty (20) feet.
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Policy 9.9.2.5: At least one pedestrian-oriented amenity area shall be provided within each mixed-use development, which may include outdoor seating for restaurants, courtyards, parks, playgrounds, and similar uses. Such open areas shall conform to the following standards: a. The open space area shall be located adjacent to main access ways connecting the residential and commercial uses, and adjacent to the most active commercial uses. b. The minimum dimension of any open space area shall be not less than 7,000 square feet. c. The open space area shall be bounded on at least one side by buildings which contain commercial uses characterized by high volumes of activity on the ground floor. d. Pedestrian seating shall be provided and may include benches, planters, stairs, restaurant or cafe seating. e. A minimum of 25% of open space shall be shaded.
Policy 9.9.2.6: Implement design standards to provide for on-street parking so as to reduce the need for large parking lots in mixed-use areas, providing a barrier between sidewalks and the street itself for a pedestrian-friendly environment.
Objective 9.9.3: Ensure that uses within mixed-use developments interact with and support each other, so that each component of the development derives benefit from the other.
Policy 9.9.3.1: Mixed-use development design plans should consider the following: a. Where housing is proposed within a mixed-use development, residential units shall be conveniently located with respect to services and amenities within the development. b. Where commercial or office uses are proposed within a mixed-use development, such uses should be compatible with and provide services for residents of the development. c. Residential and commercial uses within mixed-use developments should each have an identifiable design character; however, certain design elements should be carried throughout the development to create a sense of unity.
Policy 9.9.3.2: Design of mixed use developments should provide for attractive transitions between uses, rather than abrupt barriers or separations. Transition areas may be horizontal or vertical on the site.
Policy 9.9.3.3: Common use facilities should be shared by different users throughout the development; joint use of parking, recreational facilities and open space amenities are encouraged.
Policy 9.9.3.4: Mixed-use developments should strongly emphasize creation of a high-activity pedestrian-oriented environment during both daytime and nighttime hours.
Policy 9.9.3.5: Loading, service areas and trash enclosures for commercial uses shall be fully screened and separated from residential uses.
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Objective 9.9.4: Ensure that the intensity of use within both residential and commercial portions of a mixed-use development is compatible with the development, the surrounding neighborhood, and the community.
Policy 9.9.4.1: Except as permitted by the Future Land Use Map designations, a mixed use residential development shall provide a minimum net lot area of 2,500 square feet per dwelling unit; for purposes of calculating maximum density, only the portions of the development area to be used for residential uses, parking and amenities may be used.
Policy 9.9.4.2: The nature of commercial uses permitted within a mixed use development shall complement the residential portion of the development, so as to form a community or neighborhood environment. Commercial uses which draw primarily from a market area outside of the development, or which are of an intensity not compatible with adjacent residential uses, shall be discouraged.
Policy 9.9.4.3: Design and development standards for all uses within a mixed use development shall conform to applicable policies and standards within the Comprehensive Plan and County ordinances and regulations.
Policy 9.9.4.4: In keeping with the intent of the mixed-use policies, the County encourages land use mix and activity generators. A balanced land-use mix is important in terms of safety and the perception of safety. A primary means of creating actual and perceived safety is through a mix of land uses, which increases and sustains legitimate use. Activity generators are facilities that attract people, create lawful, customary activities, and increase casual surveillance within a space. This reduces opportunities for criminal activities and increases the perception of safety.
ARCHITECTURE & DESIGN ______
Architectural forms are dominant visual elements in the built environment, and as such, play a major role in establishing the image and identity of the community. Retaining a level of high aesthetic architectural quality and cohesion is essential to creating a well-designed, visually superior environment. It is important that buildings be designed in a manner appropriate to their “context” – taking into account their surroundings and not trying to vie for exclusive attention by trying to stand out to the detriment of other buildings. Buildings that are intentionally designed to draw exclusive attention are appropriate only in a very limited number of circumstances, such as gateways or major activity areas.
In addition to being in context with and compatible with their surroundings, buildings should possess a high degree of design “quality.” The quality quotient can be expressed in a number of ways, including the use of appropriate materials and colors, building walls that include variations in the depth of the building plane which breaks up monotonous flat walls with patterns of light and shadow, and variations in roof height and pitch to create interesting forms.
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Goal 9.10: Developments that maintain and enhance the community’s character and identity.
Objective 9.10.1: New development should contribute to the community’s character through distinctive design and quality workmanship.
Policy 9.10.1.1: Developments should project an identifiable character in keeping with the established community, through the following means: a. Use of unique architectural or site design features appropriate for Baldwin County and the community; b. Use of recognizable design elements from the surrounding neighborhood or vicinity which create continuity of design for the area; c. Orientation to a focal point on site or within the vicinity; and d. Avoidance of the use of corporate architecture prototypes where such designs conflict with established neighborhood character.
Policy 9.10.1.2: Developments should maintain and enhance long-term value for the community through quality of design, workmanship, materials, and the use of classic styles and colors that will not become quickly out-dated. In this context, the term “value” may include a social, economic, environmental, aesthetic, or other long-term benefit.
Objective 9.10.2: The built environment should provide a visually interesting and stimulating setting by using varied physical forms and details which contribute to Baldwin County and its unincorporated communities’ sense of place.
Policy 9.10.2.1: Site and building designs should incorporate a blend of various forms, materials, and architectural details which are compatible with Baldwin County’s setting, history, form and community.
Policy 9.10.2.2: Design elements should be incorporated into the architecture of the building, rather than added onto the building’s facade as trim.
Policy 9.10.2.3: Architectural treatment should be included on all sides of buildings, rather than on the front or street side only.
Objective 9.10.3: All developments should relate to human scale.
Policy 9.10.3.1: Design elements should be used near the ground to provide visual reference points for distance and height which can be easily seen from the street or sidewalk. These elements may include windows, doors, changes in color or material, decorative hardware, awnings, porches, or other similar features.
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Policy 9.10.3.2: Promote use of architectural elements on long or tall building facades, in order to avoid long or tall blank walls.
Policy 9.10.3.3: Shadow patterns created by architectural elements such as overhangs, reveals and recesses should be used to contribute character to the buildings and aid in climate control.
Policy 9.10.3.4: Neighborhoods should be designed to ensure that garages do not dominate the residential streetscape through use of design techniques, including but not limited to the following: a. A variety of garage treatments should be used, such as side entry, detached, semi-detached, or rear entry. b. To achieve a visually interesting appearance, a varied number of elevations in the neighborhood should set the garage at least five feet behind the setback for the dwelling unit. c. Elevations should provide architectural emphasis for the front door through use of porches or other details, and should visually downplay the garage door as an architectural feature. d. For those developments utilizing alleyways, the garage should be set behind or to the rear of the principal structure and provide alleyway access.
Policy 9.10.3.5: Accessory structures, such as attached or detached garages, sheds, etc., shall be integrated with single family homes to be architecturally consistent with and functional, and meet setback requirements of the zoning and subdivision code.
Policy 9.10.3.6: Architectural treatment of buildings shall use variation in roof lines, massing, height, relief and wall planes to break up the building bulk and create visual interest. Architectural treatments shall be included on all sides of structures.
Policy 9.10.3.7: Each building facade is encouraged to have a repeating theme, such as: color change, texture changes, material changes, and/or offsets, reveals, or projecting ribs.
Policy 9.10.3.8: Pedestrian oriented design features are encouraged, for example: ground floor facades that face public streets should have arcades, display windows, entry areas, awnings, or other such features.
Policy 9.10.3.9: For planned developments, architectural design should reflect the following measures: a. Architectural treatment shall be provided on all sides of structures, and rear elevations should be designed to be visually attractive. Articulation shall be provided to the building plane, and vertical variation of the roof line shall be provided. b. Building articulation should be provided to create a sense of human scale at ground level; expanses of blank wall, devoid of articulation or embellishment, should be avoided. c. The roof should be varied through the use of vertical separations, varying the roof structure, parapet line or ridge line.
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d. Storefront designs for shopping centers should complement the architectural style, and provide visual interest and variation. e. Architectural focal points should be provided to create strong entry statements and provide a sense of place; towers, domes, massing, color, trellises, fountains, plazas, public art or other similar means are encouraged for this purpose. f. Architectural styles should reflect a classic or timeless quality, rather than using trendy designs that may become quickly dated. Building designs should not solely reflect corporate identity, or function as advertising devices, but should be compatible with the surrounding district.
SIGNS ______
Commercial signage is a highly visible part of a community’s environment. Signs affect the visual quality of the roadways and the impression visitors have when passing through. Because signs are intended to communicate visually, they have the potential to conflict with goals for achieving visual and aesthetic quality in the environment. Effective sign regulations should ensure that signs are attractive, easy to read, compatible with the district in which they are located and not distracting to motorists. Signage also serves to establish neighborhood and community identity. The use of low-profile monument signs at neighborhood entryways can serve as both a gateway and landmark for local residents.
Goal 9.11: An aesthetically pleasing environment that balances the need for effective advertising to support the local businesses and the economy.
Objective 9.11.1: Signs should be designed as an integral part of the architecture for commercial/industrial development, in order to create a unique image for each development while contributing to the overall character of the area.
Policy 9.11.1.1: Commercial/Industrial sign design should consider the following criteria: a. Sign location and design should be integrated into the building architecture and site layout. b. Individual signs on a building facade should reinforce the character of the building and the effect of sign placement on adjacent parcels should be considered. c. Sign colors and materials should be compatible with and complement the building architecture. d. Sign size and dimensions should be proportional to the scale of the building and the surface to which they are affixed; the sign area should be visually balanced with the building mass and height, rather than designed to meet the maximum standards.
Policy 9.11.1.2: Sign design, construction and installation should allow for a sign to be replaced, removed or modified without structural damage to the building.
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Policy 9.11.1.3: Signs should serve primarily as business identification, rather than as a form of advertisement. They should be located for maximum readability; simple messages, layout and color schemes make signs easier to read. Colors should be selected for good visibility during both daytime and nighttime hours.
Policy 9.11.1.4: Where multiple tenants share a development, a consistent or uniform sign program should be used to provide a coordinated development theme of uniform design elements, including color, lettering style, and placement.
Objective 9.11.2: Establish design guidelines for mixed use developments in which commercial retail, office and residential uses coexist, to ensure that such developments are attractive and functional while minimizing conflicts between uses of different intensity.
Policy 9.11.2.1: Facades of non-residential buildings that face residential uses or pedestrian walkways shall be separated by architectural elements designed to provide variety and visual interest. Additionally, facades of non-residential uses that face pedestrian walkways shall contain a minimum of twenty-five percent openings (including windows or glass doors) in order to provide for visual interest and safety of pedestrians.
PUBLIC & OPEN SPACE ______
Public and open spaces are special areas where people can share a sense of belonging within a community. They are essential to the social cohesion of a community and provide a context where people of all ages can participate together. Typically, outdoor public places are found in parks, plazas and courtyards around public buildings and pedestrian enclaves.
Goal 9.12: Functional public and open space that is supportive to the needs of site users while still providing elements conducive to social interaction.
Objective 9.12.1: Functional public spaces should be created within developments.
Policy 9.12.1.1: The relationship between buildings and spaces within a development should be evaluated to ensure that space is usable and not devoid of purpose; space should be organized to create a setting which is functional and supportive to the needs of pedestrians and/or vehicles, and dead spaces should be avoided.
Policy 9.12.1.2: Open public spaces should be easily accessible, permit circulation connectivity throughout the site, and foster the interaction of site users.
Policy 9.12.1.3: Pedestrian spaces at a human scale should be provided where appropriate and furnished with comfortable seating (movable if appropriate), weather protection and landscape or architectural features. In this context, human scale means a distance at which faces are distinguishable from one side of the open space to the other.
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Policy 9.12.1.4: Promote the use of smaller, interconnected open space areas, which are effective in encouraging outdoor use.
Policy 9.12.1.5: Create public spaces which can be used for multiple purposes, in order to encourage social interaction within neighborhoods and districts.
Policy 9.12.1.6: Adequate open space shall be provided in usable locations and configurations to provide appropriate recreation facilities for residents, including but not limited to tot lots, picnic areas, play courts and large lawn areas. Adequate seating shall be provided in these areas in a configuration conducive to conversation.
Policy 9.12.1.7: Private open spaces provided for individual units shall be contiguous to the units they serve and screened from public view.
Policy 9.12.1.8: Building and parking placement should create pedestrian spaces such as plazas; outdoor spaces should have clearly defined shapes.
Objective 9.12.2: Pedestrian elements and open space areas within commercial developments shall be designed to meet the needs of site users and enhance the development.
Policy 9.12.2.1: Open space and pedestrian oriented areas within commercial development shall be accessible and provide for comfort of users, through the following measures: a. Open space areas shall be designed to human scale; a series of smaller areas with features encouraging interaction and activity where people feel more secure is preferable to large, expansive spaces. b. Any building additions or alterations proposed within a development should not eliminate existing pedestrian amenities or walkways without providing alternatives within the site plan. c. Open spaces shall be provided with attractive features, comfortable seating areas, shading, and easy access. Comfortable, attractive street furniture and fixtures should be provided, including seats and tables, trash receptacles, information kiosks, drinking fountains, lighting, and other similar features. d. Walkways should be provided with overhangs or canopies to provide shade.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT ______
Building development has always raised environmental concerns. Energy, water and land are needed in the development and operation of buildings and infrastructure. The built environment in turn becomes a part of our communities, living environment and living conditions. It is important to encourage environmentally and economically sound design and development techniques in order for new construction to be sustainable, healthy, energy efficient and
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affordable. This will not only lead to a healthy environment for the community but also reduce costs for owners, which creates favorable economic impacts on the community.
Goal 9.13: Encourage development that supports building sustainability.
Objective 9.13.1: Integrate the built environment into the natural environment. Landscape design should improve the environment within and adjacent to new developments by reducing heat, glare and noise, and by promoting ground water recharge, retardation of storm water runoff, and improvement of air quality.
Policy 9.13.1.1: Encourage drought-tolerant native vegetation and water-conserving irrigation systems within landscaping themes for new development.
Policy 9.13.1.2: Promote incorporation of native vegetation within landscape areas.
Policy 9.13.1.3: Design of new developments should provide buffering and screening between natural and built environments.
Policy 9.13.1.4: Landscape and grading plans for new development should consider the following criteria: a. Site grading should match slopes and topographic features of the adjacent area. b. Landscape plans should preserve viable mature trees and provide for replacement of a sufficient number of trees to safeguard the ecological and aesthetic environment.
Policy 9.13.1.5: In the design of County buildings, the County shall evaluate the incorporation of environmentally responsible building practices through compliance with LEED™ (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
Policy 9.13.1.6: The Environmental Advisory Board shall identify and encourage recognition of private sector examples of high performance design such as compliance with LEED™ (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design).
Objective 9.13.2: Emphasize and preserve the natural amenities and cultural features within Baldwin County that contribute to each community's identity.
Policy 9.13.2.1: Identify and preserve unique cultural and historic buildings and features in order to enhance community character.
Policy 9.13.2.2: Protect and enhance Baldwin County’s significant vistas and panoramas of surrounding bays, rivers, open space areas, and special landmarks.
Policy 9.13.2.3: Protect views of scenic areas from development, through the following means:
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a. Open view fencing (such as wrought iron with pilasters, or a low masonry wall, not to exceed 2 feet in height with masonry columns no closer that 20 feet on center with wrought iron on center) will be required instead of solid masonry walls where subdivision perimeter walls abut scenic roadways. b. Prohibit new billboards. c. Ensure that new developments highly visible from scenic roadways maintain a high quality of design and construction.
Policy 9.13.2.4: Development design should maximize opportunities for passive cooling and solar heating, by use of the following measures: a. Avoidance of large west-facing windows; b. Use of recessed windows; c. Use of eaves and overhangs; d. Planting of deciduous trees along the south and west-facing elevations, to provide shade in the summer and heat in the winter. e. Maximizing use of south-facing windows; f. Giving living areas of the structure maximum exposure to sunlight.
Policy 9.13.2.5: Where feasible, significant trees, areas of vegetation or other natural features shall be preserved within the site design.
Policy 9.13.2.6: Soft outdoor lighting at a human scale, in conformance with the lighting standards in the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance, is encouraged. Overflow lighting should be minimized, and all lighting should be shielded for glare.
SENSE OF PLACE ______
Defining sense of place is difficult because of its intangible nature. It has more to do with perception, memory, associations and recollections – all of which we receive through our senses – than with images, styles, or hard fact. A community’s sense of place is its identity and character – how a person recognizes a place as being distinct from other locations.
Creating a sense of place makes a distinction between style and design. It’s not about giving something motif, using a certain color pallet or building in a specific genre. A local sense of place emerges when designers take their cues from the climate, the weather, the environment, and the human culture of a place.
A sense of place is connected to design in the way we create environments over time. While both natural and man-made environments are manipulated to serve the needs of the community, the natural and man-made conditions peculiar to a specific region or community can be emphasized, sublimated, or eliminated by design. Consider your perception of the local franchise outlet architecture, versus architecture of a building adapted to the local climate.
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There are three contexts that must be considered when designing to achieve a unique sense of place- the environment (climate and land), the transportation systems, and the community (history, culture, people). Tie the three contexts together, and the built environment will take on a much stronger identity and sense of place.
GOAL 9.14: Enhance a “sense of place” by emphasizing the County’s environmental setting, natural amenities, history and human resources.
Objective 9.14.1: Create major focal points for community and civic activities that are centrally located; and minor focal points located within neighborhoods and unincorporated communities throughout the County that are easily accessible, attractive, and promote community interaction.
Policy 9.14.1.1: Utilize existing and planned facilities throughout the County to create neighborhood focal points, including parks, schools, community centers, historic sites, or other similar features.
Objective 9.14.2: Create a sense of arrival at the major entrance points of unincorporated communities, and enhance major focal points at designated locations throughout the County to create a unified sense of place.
Policy 9.14.2.1: Identify major entry points to the unincorporated communities which may be enhanced to create distinctive “gateways.”
Policy 9.14.2.2: Identify Baldwin County’s major intersections in conjunction with the Future Land Use Element and Map that are or will be significant focal points for the communities in which they are located.
Policy 9.14.2.3: Utilize design features to promote a sense of identity for Baldwin County and its unincorporated communities at major gateways and focal points, including but not limited to the following: a. Distinctive and identifiable welcome or identification signs for the County and its communities; b. Thematic landscape treatment, including both hardscape and plant materials; c. Creation of view corridors through landscaping and site design on adjacent properties; d. Lighting; e. Streetscape design features, including medians, parkways, and landscape easements; f. Enhanced paving.
GOAL 9.15: Enhance the quality of life and livability of areas of unincorporated communities of Baldwin County through Community Planning Areas.
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Objective 9.15.1: The purpose of Community Planning Areas is to enhance the quality of life and livability of areas of unincorporated Baldwin County where, due to historical development patterns, the density of population or proposed development requires a more specific, community-based vision and land use planning process.
A Community Plan is a policy document developed to guide future growth and development and serve as a guide for elected officials in making land use and zoning decisions in unincorporated communities of Baldwin County. It builds upon the policy direction of the comprehensive plan. It is meant to articulate a vision for a community based on existing County policy and input from residents, businesses and developers throughout the planning process. It is intended that a Community Plan should help develop a community to reach its full potential while maintaining their unique character.
The plan examines the current conditions of the area, develops a future vision of what residents want their community to become and then formulates specific goals, objectives, and policies that will help implement that vision.
The Future Land Use Element describes the Special District category, which is for unique uses and/or developments that, because of their character, economic development opportunities, magnitude, location, or function, do not conform to the other future land use designations\districts. A Community Planning Area is considered a Special District as depicted on the Future Land Use Map.
Policy 9.15.1.1: A Community Planning Area shall be considered an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan and may be done in conjunction with the implementation of a Community Heritage District. A Community Plan may be amended from time to time as necessary.
Policy 9.15.1.2: A community plan may be initiated by the Baldwin County Commission or Planning Commission, but should have citizen support.
Policy 9.15.1.3: The boundaries of a community plan should encompass a contiguous area with at least 100 persons that forms a homogeneous settlement or community or, due to proposed or anticipated development in an area, community plans encompassing non-contiguous areas of less than 100 persons may be warranted. The boundaries should be compact but also large enough to encourage future growth inside its boundaries.
Policy 9.15.1.4: At a minimum, a Community Plan should include the following elements: a. Land Use and Community Design b. Housing and Neighborhoods c. Transportation d. Community Facilities e. Environment f. Economic Development
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Policy 9.15.1.5: Implement a streetscape program that creates a visually attractive, safe and comfortable street and gives scale and definition to the public realm.
Policy 9.15.1.6: The County shall encourage public amenities such as planters, lighting, trash receptacles, bicycle racks, sheltered bus stops and information kiosks that are functional and aesthetically integrated into the streetscape for pedestrian comfort, convenience and safety.
Policy 9.15.1.7: A Community Planning Area shall have clearly defined boundaries to distinguish between developed areas and the surrounding rural and agricultural areas.
Policy 9.15.1.8: Encourage building design and architecture that create visual interest and public open space along roads, maintain an attractive rural environment, and promote the Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies.
Policy 9.15.1.9: Develop standards that prevent new buildings from dominating the community’s historic structures.
Policy 9.15.1.10: Develop design criteria to unify the community and create a strong “sense of place”.
Policy 9.15.1.11: Promote pedestrian circulation through the area by providing opportunities for community residents, visitors and employees to safely circulate about the district without total reliance on automobiles.
Policy 9.15.1.12: Establish standards and locations for walking paths.
Policy 9.15.1.13: Preserve valuable natural and scenic features, such as oak trees, waterways and canopy roads and require landscaping and shade trees.
Policy 9.15.1.14: Develop design criteria for road crossings, signage, buildings and building placement that requires new buildings to respect the character of the community.
Policy 9.15.1.15: Enhance entryways to the community with appropriate signage.
Policy 9.15.1.16: Identify ways to build upon the history of the community area and identify sites for historic markers.
Policy 9.15.1.17: Define standards for attractive and adequate parking facilities.
Policy 9.15.1.18: Define appropriate heights and design of lighting along pedestrian walkways and roads, and adjacent to residential uses.
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Policy 9.15.1.19: Permit commercial uses at a scale and intensity that maintains compatibility with residential uses.
Policy 9.15.1.20: Place location limitations and design standards on the development of multi- family uses.
Policy 9.15.1.21: Allocate land for commercial development that is closely related to the amount needed by the community.
Policy 9.15.1.22: Reduce speed limits, increase enforcement, and provide appropriate signage.
Policy 9.15.1.23: Allow accessory dwelling units.
Policy 9.15.1.24: Provide aesthetically pleasing sheltered bus stops.
CRIME PREVENTION THROUGH ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN (CPTED) ______
The application of CPTED in the built environment can reduce opportunity for and the likelihood of crime. The development and redevelopment of sites allows the opportunity to incorporate CPTED principles into the design and development. Basic elements of CPTED include: a. Casual surveillance - Maximizing casual surveillance increases a sense of safety and can deter criminal activity and involves the location and design of development to maximize visibility of the sites. b. Sightlines - the ability to see what is ahead along a route, or in space, provides opportunity for casual surveillance. A clear sight distance provides an individual with both a perception of safety and adequate space to react to possible threats. While CPTED elements outlined in this policy can be applied to all forms of development, these policies are particularly aimed at development that includes publicly accessible areas and high activity generators, such as: a. Mixed use residential/commercial development b. Medium and high density residential development c. Newly developed subdivisions d. Parks and opens spaces or publicly accessible community areas e. Sport, recreation and entertainment areas It is also recognized that the implementation of CPTED policies must be balanced against other design objectives contained in the Comprehensive Plan. These policies should be considered and evaluated for implementation for the targeted developments listed above.
GOAL 9.16: Promote safe development within the County.
Objective 9.16.1: Ensure that community safety issues and crime prevention are appropriately considered in land use, development and redevelopment planning and
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integrate safety and security concerns throughout development design process for all private and public development. Encourage new construction that uses design standards that aid in the reduction of crime.
Policy 9.16.1.1: Ensure the consideration of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) strategies in site design through integration of CPTED principles in the zoning and subdivision ordinances.
Policy 9.16.1.2: The County encourages new development to incorporate natural access control to limit access and increase natural surveillance to restrict criminal intrusion, especially into areas where they will not be easily observed. Access control methods include the use of sidewalks, pavement, gates, lighting and landscaping to clearly guide the public to and from entrances and exits; as well as the use of gates, fences, walls, landscaping and lighting to prevent or discourage public access to or from dark or unmonitored areas.
Policy 9.16.1.3: Locate development to overlook open space and/or adjacent development.
Policy 9.16.1.4: Create building frontages that include a sense of activity.
Policy 9.16.1.5: Maximize the visibility of high risk areas such as parking areas.
Policy 9.16.1.6: Design site layout so that pedestrian corridors and destination points are easily identifiable, and have generous sightlines.
Policy 9.16.1.7: Avoid strict separation of compatible land uses that may result in the isolation of some buildings or spaces.
Policy 9.16.1.8: Locate activity generators or seating around active edges or fringes of a space to create casual surveillance of a space within.
Policy 9.16.1.9: Encourage pedestrian passage through or activity in areas, at grade level, to promote casual surveillance.
Policy 9.16.1.10: In keeping with the intent of the mixed-use policies, the County encourages land use mix and activity generators. A balanced land-use mix is important in terms of safety and the perception of safety. A primary means of creating actual and perceived safety is through a mix of land uses, which increases and sustains legitimate use. Activity generators are facilities that attract people, create lawful, customary activities, and increase casual surveillance within a space. This reduces opportunities for criminal activities and increases the perception of safety.
Policy 9.16.1.11: By reducing opportunities for entrapment, concealment and vandalism, the following exterior design and building treatment principles should be taken into account in development design to reduce crime:
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a. Ensure that entrances to buildings are oriented to face open or “active” spaces. b. Minimize blank walls overlooking parks, parking lots and other areas. c. Design entrances and other features to limit opportunities for concealment. d. Clearly distinguish the area around the entrance from public walkways. e. Minimize features or structures (such as storage areas, staggered balconies and awnings) that can be used as “natural ladders” to gain access to higher levels of the building, or windows and doors. f. Maximize the variety of building design and landscaping to create interesting built environments. g. Provide clear sight lines from within the building at the entry point so that occupants can see out into a space before exiting. h. Provide opportunities for users of the building to see inside the foyer/reception before they enter. i. Ensure that landscaping design will not provide concealment or entrapment areas.
Policy 9.16.1.12: The following principles should be taken into account in development design to promote suitable lighting to increase the perception of safety and deter crime: a. Maximize the opportunities for penetration of natural light into spaces. b. Use of multiple lights rather than single fittings to provide consistent lighting levels and to reduce contrast between shadow and light. c. Ensure all inset spaces, access routes and signage are well-lit. d. Avoid lighting areas not intended for night time use. e. Ensure that lighting illuminates pathways and potential entrapment spaces rather than windows and roads. f. Place lighting in a position that will not be blocked by mature vegetation. g. Identify and light 'safe routes'. h. Avoid placement of unshielded lighting at eye level. i. Install lighting fixtures which are high mounted, vandal resistant and deflect light downwards.
Policy 9.16.1.13: Way-finding is the use of symbols, cues and signage to help navigate through areas. Symbols, cues and signage guide appropriate use of this space, and make inappropriate use obvious to others. Public use of an area can be readily guided by symbolic and literal means. Barriers, such as fences and lines of vegetation, can clearly identify boundaries, while passive measures, such as a change in surface textures and colors can indicate a change in ownership or conditions. The following principles should be taken into account in development design to improve way-finding and signage outcomes: a. Signage should identify where assistance and key areas can be located e.g. telephones, toilets, security offices and bus stops. b. Signage should be visible, concise and easily maintained.
Policy 9.16.1.14: Site entry points and accessways should be emphasized to guide people to their destinations.
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Objective 9.16.2: Multi-family developments shall create a safe environment for residents.
Policy 9.16.2.1: Common open space areas shall be placed so as to be visible from building entrances, windows of adjacent residences, and public streets to the extent feasible, in order to increase visibility for safety purposes.
Policy 9.16.2.2: Long, unbroken parking drives or large, undivided parking lots are discouraged in multi-family residential developments in favor of dispersed parking courts placed near the units they serve. Parking spaces shall be visible from and conveniently located near the units which use them, but should not be placed so that headlights shine into windows.
Policy 9.16.2.3: Common use areas shall be located for residents' safety and convenience; for example, laundry areas should be located near children's play areas, to provide for visibility by caretakers.
Policy 9.16.2.4: Pedestrian walkways and seating areas should be visible from structures or public rights of way to provide surveillance of these areas by other users for safety purposes.
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LOCAL ROADWAY STREET TREE^ HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 10: INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION ELEMENT GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
The Intergovernmental Coordination Element establishes coordination mechanisms between Baldwin County and its municipalities, governmental units within the County, adjacent counties, and state, regional and federal agencies. The policy framework outlined in this Element provides the principles and guidelines necessary to implement the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
GOAL 10.1: Baldwin County (the “County”) seeks to improve governmental efficiency and effectiveness as well as resolve conflicts and incompatibilities through cooperation, communication and flexible relationships between Baldwin County and all other forms of government which have issues that affect Baldwin County. Through this Intergovernmental Element, the County seeks to effectively provide coordination of this Comprehensive Plan with the local governments located within and surrounding Baldwin County’s area of concern and other entities providing services in the unincorporated areas of Baldwin County.
Note: The area of concern for Baldwin County is the adjacent areas of Escambia, Monroe, Clarke, Washington, and Mobile counties, as well as the municipalities of: • Bay Minette • Daphne • Elberta • Fairhope • Foley • Gulf Shores • Loxley • Magnolia Springs • Orange Beach • Perdido Beach • Robertsdale • Silverhill • Spanish Fort • Summerdale
Objective 10.1.1: Coordinate and communicate the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan and its related impacts to relevant local and private sectors, as well as the above listed municipalities and counties.
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Policy 10.1.1.1: Baldwin County shall provide a copy of the County’s adopted Comprehensive Plan to each municipality within the County. Furthermore, Baldwin County shall submit copies of future Comprehensive Plan Updates and proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendments to the municipalities for review and comment.
Policy 10.1.1.2: Baldwin County shall provide a copy of the County’s adopted Comprehensive Plan to each adjacent county: Clarke County (AL), Escambia County (AL), Mobile County (AL), Monroe County (AL), and Washington County (AL), and Escambia County (FL). Furthermore, the County shall submit copies of future Comprehensive Plan Updates and proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendments to the adjacent counties for review and comment.
Policy 10.1.1.3: Baldwin County shall provide a copy of the County’s adopted Comprehensive Plan to the Baldwin County Board of Education. Furthermore, Baldwin County shall submit copies of future Comprehensive Plan Updates and proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendments to the Baldwin County Board of Education to the Board for review and comment.
Objective 10.1.2: Baldwin County will participate in and develop new committees or informal coordination mechanisms which will both further intergovernmental coordination, and the Goals, Objectives, and Policies of the County’s Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 10.1.2.1: By 2012, Baldwin County Commission shall conduct an intergovernmental coordination collaborative workshop wherein all city councils, mayors, city managers, Baldwin County Board of Education members and constitutional officers shall be invited. The workshop will be designed to enhance intergovernmental coordination among all entities in Baldwin County.
Policy 10.1.2.2: By 2010, Baldwin County shall facilitate a Planners’ Forum to meet on a regular basis to coordinate planning efforts and exchange information throughout the County. Baldwin County shall invite and encourage participation in the Planners’ Forum from the Baldwin County Board of Education, South Alabama Regional Planning Council, Transportation Planning Organization and municipalities.
Policy 10.1.2.3: Baldwin County shall maintain and coordinate local government services through forming one or several Intergovernmental Committee(s) (the “Committee”). The voluntary Committee(s) should include, but are not limited to, representatives from the following local governments, agencies, organizations, and private sectors:
• The Baldwin County Board of Education (BCBE) • The Baldwin County Commission and Planning Commission • Central Baldwin Chamber of Commerce • North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce
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• Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce • South Baldwin Chamber of Commerce • Alabama Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce • Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance • Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) • Alabama Department of Conservation & Natural Resources (DCNR) • A representative from each of the County’s municipalities (mentioned above) • A representative from each of the counties surrounding Baldwin (i.e., Monroe, Clarke, Mobile, Escambia, and Washington counties) • Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM) • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) • Mobile Bay National Estuary Program • Southern Alabama Regional Planning Commission (SARPC) • Historical Commission • Baldwin County Trail Blazers • Sanitary sewer and water providers located wholly or partially within the county • Private and/or Public providers of Natural Gas services (e.g., Clark Mobil Gas) • Baldwin Rural Transportation System (BRATS) • Baldwin County Utility Advisory Board, Baldwin County Water & Sewer District • Governmental Utility Services Corporation • Environmental Advisory Board • U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) • Baldwin Housing Alliance • Baldwin County Sheriff’s Department • Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance (EDA)
Policy 10.1.2.4: The Committee shall meet at least annually, beginning in 2011, to discuss major areas in need of cooperative efforts between the local governing authorities of the County region. These areas of need should involve governmental duties and services that impact the public at large as well as future regional growth including, but not limited to:
• Wetland and Habitat Conservation Plan • Maintenance of good water qualities • Minimum stormwater rules • Public Beach Access • Public or Mass transit systems and Transportation infrastructure to support growth • Effective use of waterways • Wastewater management • Local Power and Natural Gas systems
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• Protection of drinking water • Access to qualified health care workforce, urgent care facilities and insurance programming • School facilities and efficiency in operations (e.g., overcrowding issues, staffing, proposed nearby developments, etc.) • Disaster relief • Emergency Assistance Operations Response Times/EMS services and Police aid • Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funds available from FEMA • Tourism and Economic Development Services • Fire Protection and Emergency Medical Services • Sanitary Sewer Systems/Sewer Services • Water Reclamation Systems • Drainage Systems • Solid Waste Disposal/Waste management (collection & hauling) and recycling • Landfill/Borrow Pit operations • Uniformity in Building Inspections and/or Processing times for building permits (e.g. 5 day period for permitting approvals) • Uniform Procedures in Land Use Applications/Approvals • Recreation programs • Animal control programs and shelters • Marine patrol services • Housing
Policy 10.1.2.5: Each Intergovernmental Committee shall conduct a comprehensive, local need assessment taken from those needs listed above. If abovementioned comprehensive assessment identifies local needs that cannot be met, or are only partially met, other participating jurisdictions, organizations, or entities may have the resources available, and may therefore satisfy those needs. Relevant Committee(s) shall determine if an inter-local arrangement or agreement will best meet those relevant needs addressed and identified. Baldwin County shall also coordinate with its municipalities, adjacent counties, adjacent municipalities, and other concerned public agencies to establish a joint review Committee(s) for the establishment of facilities with multi-jurisdictional impacts including locally unwanted land uses.
Policy 10.1.2.6: Through consultation with counsel, the intergovernmental committee should determine if the jurisdiction, agency, or organization willing to enter into an inter-local arrangement has authorization under state or local law to provide the subject government service. So long as such statutory authorization is in place, the involved jurisdictional or organizational agents should arrange special meetings to begin drafting the proposed inter-local agreement(s).
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Policy 10.1.2.7: Once special meetings dates are in place, the intergovernmental committee should establish working groups and key staff that will be responsible for and involved in drafting the inter-local agreement or arrangement. The intergovernmental committee should involve those individuals who have the authority and interest to enter into an agreement for that jurisdiction or organization.
Policy 10.1.2.8: The intergovernmental committee should conduct special meetings and discussions to get input on the agreement so that representatives of the various jurisdictions impacted can identify any concerns or problems.
Policy 10.1.2.9: The County will draft a memorandum of understanding to be signed by all involved parties. The agreement should be submitted to the respective legal counsel for review and comment. The final version of the inter-local agreement shall be adopted by the Baldwin County Commission and will be binding upon the conditions given therein.
Policy 10.1.2.10: Any resulting inter-local agreement(s) shall address the following elements: (1) duration; (2) organization or composition and the nature of its separate legal or administrative entity, if one is created (and, if a separate entity is created, the powers delegated by the parties to that entity); (3) purpose or purposes; (4) the manner by which the undertaking will be financed, and how its budget will be established and maintained; (5) the method by which the agreement may be terminated and its property disposed of; and (6) any other necessary and proper matters.
Policy 10.1.2.11: The County should promote formal or informal dispute resolution mechanisms when necessary to deal with issues of intergovernmental coordination.
Policy 10.1.2.12: The County will cooperate with existing intergovernmental coordination committees and expand some of the functions of these committees to address problem areas identified in the County’s Comprehensive Plan.
Objective 10.1.3: The County shall ensure that impacts of development and element implementation proposed in the County Comprehensive Plan are coordinated with adjacent municipalities, counties and other relevant local governments, agencies, organizations, and private businesses.
Policy 10.1.3.1: The County shall establish a regular exchange between the Baldwin County Planning Commission/Planning Department and the Baldwin County School Board agendas for the purpose of providing information to each entity regarding certain issues with potential intergovernmental impacts.
Policy 10.1.3.2: By 2011, the County shall establish a consistent and coordinated management system in relation to certain bays, estuaries, and harbors located within its multiple jurisdiction
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through forming an inter-governmental committee to address such issues. This Committee shall develop a natural resource management system which shall be incorporated by amendment into the County’s Comprehensive Plan subsequent to its review and comment period.
Policy 10.1.3.3: Coordinate and communicate the County’s Comprehensive Plan and its related impacts with the South Alabama Regional Planning Commission (SARPC). The County shall provide a copy of the adopted Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan to SARPC and subsequent copies of future Comprehensive Plan Updates and proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendments that could potentially impact the SARPC and its constituents for review and comment.
Policy 10.1.3.4: The County shall meet with the area convention and visitors bureaus, chambers of commerce and other tourism development agencies at least annually to discuss areas having the ability to boost the County’s economic development through tourism and/or areas within the County that warrant special capital improvement(s) so as to boost such economic development.
Policy 10.1.3.5: The County shall annually review the master plans of the County School Board, other units of local government, the SARPC, and the State in the comprehensive planning process and shall advise the respective bodies concerning inconsistencies.
Policy 10.1.3.6: The County shall communicate with utility providers to ensure that service capacity is in place to serve new development.
Policy 10.1.3.7: Baldwin County shall coordinate with the Baldwin County Board of Education (BCBE) to improve the County's education system.
Policy 10.1.3.8: Baldwin County shall coordinate with the BCBE to ensure sufficient land is available for new and expanded school facilities.
Policy 10.1.3.9: For school projection purposes, a maximum scenario, based upon build out of residential uses within the Future Land Use Map adopted with this comprehensive plan has been estimated and is provided in Volume II, Data, Inventory and Analysis. As of the date of the adoption of this plan, the Baldwin County School Board of Education has tracked an approximate 2% annual growth rate. The County should coordinate with the Baldwin County Board of Education to locate future school sites as also described in the Future Land Use Element.
Objective 10.1.4: Coordinate the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan, and its related impacts with the plans and goals of the State’s regulatory agencies, including but not limited to: Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT), Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), and Alabama Historical Commission (AHC).
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Policy 10.1.4.1: Baldwin County shall provide a copy of the County’s adopted Comprehensive Plan to applicable state agencies, including those listed above. Furthermore, Baldwin County shall submit copies of future Comprehensive Plan Updates and proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendments that could potentially impact state agencies to the affected agency for review and comment.
Policy 10.1.4.2: Baldwin County shall promote regional partnerships with state agencies to address growth and other related issues in connection to efficient public transportation and roadway planning.
Policy 10.1.4.3: The County Planning Department, in conjunction with the Archives and History Department, shall enact regulations that designate specific road rights-of-way or portions thereof as scenic routes and control the placement of signs along them.
Objective 10.1.5: Ensure coordination and uniformity in establishing level of service standards for public services and facilities with any state, regional or local entity having operational and maintenance responsibility for such facilities.
Policy 10.1.5.1: The County will continue to participate in the Florida/Alabama Transportation Planning Organization (TPO), the Technical Advisory Committee, and subcommittees of the TPO Board, to ensure coordination regarding transportation issues affecting Baldwin County.
Objective 10.1.6: Coordinate land development regulations/activities and departmental responsibilities with other local governments, agencies, and entities.
Policy 10.1.6.1: Ensure the coordination of land use activities with the availability of facilities and services to serve development. Such facilities and services include (but are not limited to) those provided by water, sewer and fire protection authorities.
Policy 10.1.6.2: Continue to share land development plans, regulations and related information with other relevant governmental entities including, but not limited to information regarding: building permits; zoning cases; engineering plans; planned annexation; the comprehensive plan and amendments; Geographic Information System information; demographics; socio-economic information; utility service areas and capacity; and other concurrency related data.
Policy 10.1.6.3: When feasible, incorporate all development regulations and review processes into a single, unified development review system, consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the Comprehensive Plan.
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Policy 10.1.6.4: Create a Development Review Committee (DRC) to review and comment on development proposals. At a minimum, the DRC should be composed of representatives of the following departments: Planning & Zoning, Highway and the Building Department. Other departments should be consulted when development proposals necessitate their involvement.
Objective 10.1.7: Baldwin County shall continue to coordinate with appropriate government entities, all municipalities within the county, adjacent counties and adjacent municipalities to maintain and improve intergovernmental coordination and collaborative planning.
Policy 10.1.7.1: Baldwin County shall retain copies of all formal agreements.
Policy 10.1.7.2: In order to keep current all inter-local agreements, as well as track each respective renewal and/or expiration date, Baldwin County shall continue to maintain and update accordingly its database of all relevant inter-local agreements.
Policy 10.1.7.3: Baldwin County will continue to work with its municipalities and other governmental entities to identify potential opportunities for joint planning areas to thereby implement inter-local agreements in connection to: a. Future annexations – the County Planning Department will be responsible for the coordination and timely exchange of information concerning annexed properties between the County and the affected municipality. b. Infrastructure service areas for all franchised, municipal, and County-owned or maintained potable water treatment systems and sanitary sewer treatment systems. c. Coordination for the provision of the following services: 1. Fire protection 2. Law enforcement 3. Emergency medical 4. Animal control 5. Emergency management 6. Libraries d. Collection and mitigation of hazardous and solid waste. e. Development within, and maintenance of, stormwater drainage systems. f. Water quality and quantity studies. g. Coordination for the provision of establishing and maintaining transportation systems. h. Recreational and open space efforts including: 1. Location and maintenance of new facilities 2. Provision of services. 3. Establishing greenway systems.
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Policy 10.1.7.4: The County shall cooperate with municipalities and areas considering municipal incorporation within its boundaries to meet with County officials prior to annexation or incorporation to discuss joint planning issues regarding pertinent services relating to: a. Land-uses b. Impacts on infrastructure systems c. Permitting
Policy 10.1.7.5: Where relevant, Baldwin County will seek to execute intergovernmental agreements within two years of the adoption of the Intergovernmental Coordination Element of the Comprehensive Plan.
Policy 10.1.7.6: The County Planning Department shall identify and implement all planning activities mandated in this Comprehensive Plan that affect County agencies and other governmental entities.
Objective 10.1.8: Baldwin County shall establish and implement mechanisms to ensure uniform and timely coordination of planning and development issues with municipalities within the County, adjacent counties, the Board of Education, independent special districts and other governmental entities.
Policy 10.1.8.1: The County will identify and describe joint processes for collaborative planning on population projections, school sites, facilities with countywide significance, opportunities for sharing facilities, unwanted land uses and other issues of mutual concern.
Policy 10.1.8.2: The County should consider the appointment of a representative from the intergovernmental committee onto the Planning Commission for planning coordination.
Policy 10.1.8.3: Baldwin County shall forward copies of applications for Comprehensive Plan Amendments or major development applications that fall within a municipality’s planning area to the affected community to allow the municipality time to review and comment on proposed changes with regards to consistency with their comprehensive plan.
Policy 10.1.8.4: The staff report for zoning change requests and other development applications shall include a section for other entities’ comments including: the Baldwin County Board of Education; affected municipalities within Baldwin County; and other entities which provide services but do not have regulatory authority relating to the use of the land.
Policy 10.1.8.5: Baldwin County will coordinate with the Board of Education and municipalities within the County to develop countywide demographics including population projections and expected growth for both incorporated and unincorporated areas. The County shall forward population projections and other pertinent information used in the Comprehensive Plan to the
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Board of Education so they can consider projected growth and development as it relates to the future need for schools in the Board of Education’s facility plans.
Policy 10.1.8.6: Baldwin County shall coordinate with the plans of the Baldwin County Board of Education to address issues pertaining to the siting and development of schools and school facilities. Furthermore, the County shall coordinate with the Board of Education to determine the feasibility of co-locating public facilities such as parks, recreation opportunities and others with existing or new school facilities.
Policy 10.1.8.7: Neighborhood parks shall be addressed through County coordination with the municipalities, Baldwin County Board of Education, and Baldwin County Zoning Ordinances. Neighborhood or community parks (as appropriate for the neighborhood and school size) should be located within one-half mile of schools, and, if practical, should be developed as adjoining or joint-use facilities.
Objective 10.1.9: Baldwin County shall coordinate with the local municipalities in the County, adjacent counties, and other agencies to ensure stable, compatible, and contiguous ecologic systems.
Policy 10.1.9.1: Baldwin County shall coordinate with the Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Department of Interior, Geologic Survey of Alabama, and the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers to acquire potential tracts of land of ecological value.
GOAL 10.2: Baldwin County shall work effectively with and coordinate with local governments to ensure a comprehensive approach to planning is achieved in Baldwin County.
Objective 10.2.1: Baldwin County shall strive to create joint planning areas outside of municipal limits where land use may have influence on city planning or development.
Policy 10.2.1.1: Baldwin County shall initiate discussion with municipalities and identify issues with local governments in joint planning areas.
Policy 10.2.1.2: When both the County and a municipality wish to coordinate activities within a joint planning area, a joint planning agreement must be utilized to effectuate procedures, rules and regulations which will be implemented within the joint planning area.
Policy 10.2.1.3: Joint planning area agreements shall establish boundaries, land use plans, densities and intensities of land use.
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Policy 10.2.1.4: Joint planning agreements shall include a mechanism for formal exchange of information and data, including comprehensive plan amendments, rezoning requests, demographic projections and regulatory changes.
Policy 10.2.1.5: Joint planning area agreements shall indentify service and facility providers for development within the joint planning area.
Policy 10.2.1.6: Baldwin County shall attempt to establish wetland and environmental regulations which would be utilized throughout each municipality and the county through the use of joint planning agreements.
Policy 10.2.1.7: Joint planning agreements shall establish mechanisms to resolve conflicts resulting from multi-jurisdictional land development regulations.
Policy 10.2.1.8: As joint planning agreements are adopted, maps depicting the joint planning agreement area boundaries shall be incorporated into this comprehensive plan.
Policy 10.2.1.9: Joint Planning agreements may be amended as necessary to carry out the intent and purposes of this objective.
GOAL 10.3: To adequately provide facilities, utilities and services available to the public, including administration buildings, libraries, public school buildings, fire protection and emergency services facilities, art centers, community or recreation centers, and environmental and cultural resources; and to ensure County departments have appropriate office space, equipment, staff, and staff training to provide quality service to Baldwin County residents.
Objective 10.3.1: Population increases and development are expected to continue during the planning period with an estimated population increase to 143,519 by 2025 in the unincorporated area of the County. The County shall be prepared to meet the challenges presented by continued and rapid growth.
Policy 10.3.1.1: Baldwin County shall coordinate with the Baldwin County Board of Education (BCBE) to improve the County's education system, and to ensure sufficient land is available for new and expanded school facilities.
Policy 10.3.1.2: Minimize crime to the lowest rate attainable, maintaining, as a minimum standard, the reported crime rate at or below the national average.
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Objective 10.3.2: Baldwin County shall provide necessary public services such as the construction and maintenance of roads, safe and accessible public buildings, trash collection and recycling, and public transportation.
Policy 10.3.2.1: Services provided by the County shall be supported by technology through investment in fiber optics, networks, and other hardware/ software needed to support cost effective government.
Policy 10.3.2.2: Where necessary, the County shall modify and/or expand existing community centers to serve as educational centers for classes such as computer training. Special focus shall be given to serving the needs of the senior population.
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HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 11: IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
CHAPTER INTRODUCTION
Horizon 2025: The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan should be used in three ways. First, the Future Land Use Maps should be referenced in making rezoning development and capital investment decisions. It provides a representation of a County vision and indicates areas where various types of land uses should be permitted. It takes into consideration the land use patterns indicated in the Generalized Land Use Map Baldwin County, Alabama 2010, the current zoning map, topographic characteristics, natural resource sensitivity, the availability of existing and proposed infrastructure, and the needs of anticipated population and employment growth.
Second, the plan provides policies that will help guide day-to-day decisions. These policies are a reflection of community values and are in keeping with the basic goals of the plan. They, too, will be used as guidelines in the analysis of rezoning and development decisions.
Third, the plan will help direct public investment and private initiative and investment. Plan implementation is carried out through the applications of regulations such as zoning and development codes and through projects creating a work program. This plan outlines recommended changes in land use regulations and codes to be consistent with the vision highlighted in this plan. It should be noted that a Comprehensive Plan is a living document and should be updated regularly to reflect changing conditions and shifts in public policy.
GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
GOAL 11.1: To provide for the timely and efficient provision of public facilities through the use of sound fiscal policies.
Objective 11.1.1: Seek alternative funding sources in order to maintain sound financial management and build the fiscal strength to support needed services.
Policy 11.1.1.1: Seek alternative funding sources (independent of County resources) for highway infrastructure and public safety facilities and services.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENTS AND PROCEDURES
Horizon 2025: The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan is a document which guides the nature and intensity of development in the zoned, unincorporated areas of Baldwin County. An amendment to the plan is a mechanism by which the County may periodically modify its land use, development, or growth policies to reinforce the role of the Comprehensive Plan in guiding growth in Baldwin County.
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The following policies will set the requirements for continuous and periodic review of the plan, and outlines amendment procedures.
GOAL 11.2: Ensure the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan is an effective, timely and accurate vision of development in Baldwin County.
Objective 11.2.1: Ensure that the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan is kept current through regular updates, and that amendments to the Comprehensive Plan may only be approved with appropriate justification.
Policy 11.2.1.1: The County shall consider updating and amending the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan no less than once every four (4) years, beginning in 2012.
Policy 11.2.1.2: After two (2) years of implementation, an analysis of the consistency of County action versus Plan policies shall be undertaken.
Policy 11.2.1.3: This document and its accompanying maps may be amended annually. A complete review of the Comprehensive Plan will be undertaken every four years, in accordance with the plan, to ensure that the plan accurately reflects any change in circumstances and continues to meet the vision of Baldwin County.
Policy 11.2.1.4: All amendments adopted since the previous four-year review cycle shall be identified to the Planning Commission during its current four-year review of the Comprehensive Plan. At the time, the adoption of each shall be confirmed and included in the review resolution of the plan amendment.
Policy 11.2.1.5: Comprehensive Plan Amendments are decisions made by the Baldwin County Commission subsequent to a recommendation from the Planning Commission. Comprehensive Plan amendments include public notice and Planning Commission public hearing requirements. The amendment process is divided into two subsections: one for major map amendments, and one for minor text amendments and corrections.
Policy 11.2.1.6: A map amendment can be either a large-scale map amendment or a small-scale map amendment. A major large-scale map amendment will consist of large-scale or general changes to the Comprehensive Plan maps or text and that would cause a substantive change in policy such that the type or pattern of development depicted on any official map adopted as part of the comprehensive plan would be substantially changed. MajorLarge-scale map amendments will be accepted at any time during the year. The planning commission may set a public hearing and proceed with a recommendation to the Baldwin County Commission of each such amendment, or consider all such amendments collectively during the annual review of the plan.
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Policy 11.2.1.7: Horizon 2025: The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan shall be reviewed and amended by the Planning Commission, as necessary. During these annual or major amendment proceedings, the Planning Commission should: a. Receive, review and discuss the impact of new information reported to the Planning Commission addressing at least: 1. Census updates and projections. 2. Completion of major projects such as roads, utilities, schools, and developments. 3. New plans of the federal government, state government, adjacent counties, Baldwin County municipalities and other necessary boards, commissions and authorities. 4. Proposed amendments of the zoning ordinance, particularly those not in accord with the Comprehensive Plan. 5. Building permits issued and trends identified. 6. Minor amendments made to the Comprehensive Plan during the past year or since the plan was most recently amended. b. Receive, review and discuss reports from county departments, boards, authorities and commissions submitted to the Planning Commission for their input on the Comprehensive Plan. c. Receive, review and discuss major amendments submitted or suggested since the most recent plan amendment. e. Analyze all new information, plans and proposed amendments to the comprehensive plan; hold a public hearing; and, adopt the comprehensive plan with all approved amendments. f. Report all actions and recommend the amended plan to the Baldwin County Commission for its consideration and adoption.
Policy 11.2.1.8: A minor small-scale map amendment will consist of site-specific proposals or small, routine or technical updates/revisions that would cause no substantial change in policy, or the application of policy, to proposed development types or patterns depicted on official maps adopted as part of the comprehensive plan. Such minor amendments may be made at any time during the year by a vote of and the Planning Commission at any regular meeting. The planning commission may proceed with a recommendation to the Baldwin County Commission of each such amendment.
Policy 11.2.1.9: The Planning Commission should consider the following criteria when reviewing minor plan small-scale map amendments: a. Conditions in the vicinity of the proposal have markedly changed since the subject property was designated, and under those changed conditions, a plan amendment is within the public interest. b. The proposal is correcting an inconsistency within the plan or is a clarification of the plan.
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c. The public interest is served by dealing with the proposal at the present time rather than later. d. The proposal bears substantial relation to the promotion and preservation of public health, safety and welfare. e. The proposal will result in long-term benefits to the County as a whole and is in the best interest of the County.
Policy 11.2.1.10: Any person or entity may initiate a general amendment to the plan, i.e. a proposal to change plan text language. Property owners or their authorized agents may initiate a site-specific map amendment to the plan. Applicants are encouraged to meet with Comprehensive Planning Staff before submitting their application.
Policy 11.2.1.11: The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan may be corrected for errors and omissions, edited, expanded and interpreted or explained at any time by the formal action of the Planning Commission at any regular meeting, so long as such changes do not alter the intent of any adopted provision of the plan. When errors, omissions, or misunderstandings are noted, notification, either written or oral, which identifies the problem, should be given to the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission should have the problem investigated, along with the implications of proposed corrections and alternatives for resolving the problem. The Planning Commission should then adopt, by a majority of those present voting in favor, such minor amendments as may be necessary. or small, routine or technical updates/revisions that would cause no substantial change in policy, or the application of policy, to proposed development types or patterns depicted on official maps adopted as part of the comprehensive plan.
Policy 11.2.1.12: Future land use designations indicate the intended use and development density for a particular area, while zoning districts specifically define allowable uses and contain the design and development guidelines for those intended uses. The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan may allow (but not guarantee) various zoning districts within a given future land use designation. Any owner who desires to use or develop property in a manner inconsistent with the future land use designation, must apply for a future land use amendment, which may accompany an application for rezoning. Any application submitted for a rezoning, conditional use, variance, special exception, or PRD site plan approval, which is inconsistent with the future land use designation, must be accompanied by an application for a future land use map amendment.
Policy 11.2.1.13: Applicants initiating a site-specific plan map amendment may wish to combine it with a Concurrent Rezoning, which provides the opportunity to shorten the overall review time for the amendment and rezoning of a specific site. However, the rezoning application will be reviewed sequentially after the amendment adoption, and the rezoning application will be cancelled denied if the amendment is not adopted.
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Policy 11.2.1.14: An applicant should demonstrate that the proposed future land use map amendment is consistent with the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan. Future land use map amendments are recommended by the Baldwin County Planning Commission to the Baldwin County Commission (BCC) for a decision. Some applications may require a rezoning, which can be processed in conjunction with a future land use amendment request.
Policy 11.2.1.15: Requests for Comprehensive Plan Amendments that affect the Future Land Use Map or policies related to the Future Land Use Element land use districts shall provide justification that addresses each of the following: a. The extent to which population growth, development trends, and market demands warrant an amendment; b. The extent to which the proposed amendment will impact natural resources; c. The extent to which the proposed amendment will conduce to a compact, contiguous development pattern; d. The extent to which adequate infrastructure to accommodate the proposed amendment exists, or is programmed and funded through the County’s capital budget, or will be privately financed, or will otherwise be provided at the time of development impacts; e. The extent to which the proposed amendment will result in an efficient use of public funds needed for the provision of new infrastructure and services related to it; f. The extent to which the proposed amendment will result in a sustainable development pattern through a balance of land uses that is internally interrelated; demonstrates an efficient use of land; ensures compatible characteristics; provides interconnectivity of roadways; supports the use of non-automobile modes of transportation; and appropriately addresses the infrastructure needs of the community; and g. When applicable, the extent to which the proposed amendment provides non- residential uses at a size and scale compatible with the surrounding area and without adverse impacts to the surrounding properties or the natural environment.
Objective 11.2.2: Baldwin County shall establish and implement mechanisms to ensure uniform and timely coordination of planning and development issues with municipalities within the County, adjacent counties, the Board of Education, independent special districts and other governmental entities.
Policy 11.2.2.1: The County will identify and describe joint processes for collaborative planning on population projections, school sites, facilities with countywide significance, opportunities for sharing facilities, unwanted land uses and other issues of mutual concern.
Policy 11.2.2.2: Baldwin County shall forward copies of applications for Comprehensive Plan Amendments or major development applications that fall within a municipality’s planning area
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HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 11: IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
to the affected community to allow the municipality time to review and comment on proposed changes with regards to consistency with their comprehensive plan.
Policy 11.2.2.3: County Planning Department shall implement procedures for the review of comprehensive plan amendments. Reviews shall include: a. Identifying intergovernmental issues and conflicts. b. Identifying the impacts on capital projects. c. Determining the relationship of development proposed within the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan to development proposed in the comprehensive plans or comprehensive plan amendments of the following entities: 1. Municipalities within Baldwin County. 2. Adjacent counties. 3. Adjacent municipalities 4. Baldwin County Board of Education 5. Special districts
Policy 11.2.2.4: The staff report for zoning change requests and other development applications shall include a section for other entities’ comments including: the Baldwin County Board of Education; affected municipalities within Baldwin County; and other entities which provide services but do not have regulatory authority relating to the use of the land.
Objective 11.2.3: The County should develop incentives within the County’s land development regulations in order to facilitate and encourage the implementation of this plan.
Policy 11.2.3.1: Within the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinances, the County will establish density bonuses of up to 12 dwelling units per acre in the Urban High Intensity District, up to 8 dwelling units per acre in the Urban Low Intensity District, up to 4 dwelling units per acre in the Neighborhood District and up to 14 dwelling units per acre in the Special District for the applicable zoning districts.
Policy 11.2.3.2: The County will establish incentives through flexible dimensional requirements in the following areas: reduced lot areas, reduced building setbacks, flexible building height, reduced parking requirements and narrower street width.
Policy 11.2.3.3 All developments desiring the use of incentives must submit through the Planned Development process. The Planned Development application submission must identify the desired incentive and how their design meets the goals of this plan.
Policy 11.2.3.4: Development incentives may not be used in flood zones and Coastal Hazard Areas.
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HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 11: IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES JUNE, 2009
Policy 11.2.3.5: The County shall regulate land use activities within the Future Land Use Categories illustrated on the Future Land Use Map and described within the Comprehensive Plan through the implementation of zoning districts. Zoning Districts shall be defined within the Zoning Ordinances, and a map produced that depicts the demarcation of each zoning district. A Future Land Use Map amendment shall be required in order to amend the boundary of a Future Land Use Category when: a. A proposed use exceeds the allowable density or intensity for the Future Land Use Category, or; b. A proposed use is not within a zoning district that corresponds with the existing future land use category.
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HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 12: DEFINITIONS JUNE, 2009
100-Year Flood Event: A flood having a 1% chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. This is a catastrophic flood event that is not expected to occur more than one time in any 100-year period. The volume of water used to calculate the 100-year flood is different for each community, because it is based upon historical rainfall data for that specific community. Also referred to as a “Base Flood.”
Accommodate: The ability of the community to adapt to the changes that occur, particularly the ability of the community to meet the needs of the future population.
Access: The provision for immediate ingress and egress of vehicles from an abutting property to an adjacent street or indirect ingress/egress that is shared by two or more properties or is channeled by some means indirectly to the adjacent street.
Access Control: A CPTED concept directed primarily at decreasing criminal accessibility. The provision of natural access control limits access and increases natural surveillance to restrict criminal intrusion, especially intrusion into areas which are not readily or routinely observed.
Adjacent Wetlands: Those wetland areas bordering, contiguous, neighboring, or hydrologically contiguous to state waters and/or wetland ecosystems.
Adverse Impact: A negative consequence for the physical, social or economic environment resulting from an action or project.
Affordable Housing: Housing units for which the household pays less than 30 percents of its annual income.
Agency: Any unit, department, or office of federal, state, or local government, meaning any subdivisions thereof.
Agricultural Uses: Activities within land areas which are predominantly used for the cultivation of crops and livestock, including, but not limited to, cropland, pastureland, orchards, vineyards, nurseries, ornamental horticulture areas, groves, confined feeding operations, specialty farms, and silviculture areas.
Air Curtain Incinerator: An incinerator that operates by forcefully projecting a curtain of air across an open chamber or pit in which burning occurs.
Aquifer: A saturated, permeable geologic unit that can transmit significant quantities of water under ordinary hydraulic gradients.
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Architectural Treatment: A part, portion or projection that contributes to the appearance or aesthetics of a building or structure, exclusive of signs, that is not necessary for the structural integrity of the building or structure to make it habitable.
Beach: A sandy shoreline area characterized by low relief, generally of gentle slope, and some vegetation. The beach extends from the waterline to a change in physiographic form such as a dune or bluff, a change in sediment type, such as clay from sand, and/or a change in vegetation type. Gulf beaches are those sand beaches of the mainland and islands in Alabama which are subjected to the direct wave action of the Gulf of Mexico.
Best Management Practices (BMPs): - Structural or non-structural measures, practices, techniques or devices employed to avoid or minimize soil, sediment or pollutants carried in runoff to waters of the state.
Biodiesel: A clean burning alternative fuel, produced from domestic, renewable resources. Biodiesel contains no petroleum, but it can be blended at any level with petroleum diesel to create a biodiesel blend. It can be used in compression-ignition (diesel) engines with little or no modifications. Biodiesel is simple to use, biodegradable, nontoxic, and essentially free of sulfur and aromatics.
Blueway: A water-based trail.
Boat Launch/Ramp: A facility for the launching and retrieval of boats.
Boathouse: A structure, constructed over water, designed or intended to be used for the purpose of docking, storing, and/or protecting one or more watercraft.
Borrow Pit: An area of excavation from which material such as gravel, sand, clay, or stone is removed for uses including, but not limited to, road construction and development fill material.
Buffer: Land which is maintained in either a natural or landscaped state and is used to screen and/or mitigate the impacts of development on surrounding areas, properties or rights-of-way.
Buffer, Vegetated: An area extending landward from a lake, stream and/or the edge of a wetland that provides native vegetation for stormwater filtration and wildlife habitat.
Build-To Line: A line established inside of a development parcel to which a structure must be built, from a point in the Buildable Area of the development parcel to, but not beyond, the said line.
Buildable Area: That portion of the established development parcel which can be devoted to buildings and structures. Generally, this area is bounded by any applicable building restriction
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lines, right-of-way lines and development parcel lines. It shall be the buildable area of a development parcel rather than ‘‘lot,’’ as it is established in the Baldwin Zoning Regulations, that will be utilized to establish the maximum gross floor area of a development within specified portions of the Development Area.
Canal: An excavated waterway for the purpose of navigation whose bottom elevation is below mean low water.
Clustering: The practice of grouping residential uses close together rather than distributing them evenly throughout a site while remaining below the applicable gross density ceiling of the future land use district.
Coastal Area: The waters (and the lands therein and thereunder) and the adjacent shorelands (including the waters therein and thereunder) lying seaward of the continuous 10 foot contour extending seaward to the outer limit of the United States territorial sea. The inland boundaries of the coastal area are described as follows within Baldwin County from the Baldwin County line in the Mobile River to the west and north lines of Baldwin County in the Mobile and Alabama Rivers to the intersection of the westernmost point of Baldwin County where the land surface altitude reaches 10 feet above mean sea level; then, a 10-foot contour in a southwesterly and southern direction along the Alabama River, the Mobile River Delta and the east shore of Mobile Bay to the proximity of Bon Secour; then continuing along the 10-foot contour in an easterly and northeasterly direction to the Alabama-Florida state line.
Coastal Hazard Area: The Coastal Hazard Area shall include any areas defined as a flood zone by the FEMA and any area subject to inundation from storm surge during a Category 1 Hurricane as indicated on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers SLOSH models. Additionally, in the interest of public safety regarding ingress and egress from and through said hazard areas, any “islands” which are not located in either the flood zone or Category 1 storm surge areas, but are completely surrounded by such hazard areas, will be considered as part of the Coastal Hazard Area.
Coastal Resources: Natural, cultural, or historical assets within the Coastal Area, such as water quality, air quality, wetlands, and submersed grassbeds, beaches and dunes, wildlife habitats, biological resources, and water resources.
Coastal Waters: Those waters, adjacent to the shoreline, which contain a measurable, quantity or percentage of sea water, including but not limited to, sounds, bays, lagoons, bayous, ponds, and estuaries.
Commercial Uses: Activities within land areas, which are predominantly connected with the sale, rental, and distribution of products, or performance of services.
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Community: A sustainable human habitat which is complete and compact. Its smallest theoretical manifestation is the neighborhood. In ecology, an assemblage of populations of different species within a specified location and time.
Community Heritage District: A method of preserving and maintaining an unincorporated community's quality of life, character, identity and independence so that the community’s residents and businesses may rely on the logical growth of local government affecting them, or to allow the community's incorporation if desired. For the purposes of this definition, community shall be defined as: A locality in which a body of people resides in more or less proximity having common interests which bind together the people of the area, and where the people are acquainted and mingled in business, social or recreational activities. It often incorporates development in a more compact form that might otherwise occur in scattered clusters. A community typically has a recognizable center, discrete physical boundaries, and a pedestrian scale and orientation. This term does not refer to the form of incorporation of a municipality and a Community Heritage District may be smaller than a municipality.
Community Planning Area: An area where the citizenry desires a more tailored plan of a community with more detailed provisions than those found in the Comprehensive Plan. Community plans establish a clear vision of the kind of place the community wants to be in the future balanced with sound planning principles to accommodate growth. Community Plans provides a course of action to build the community that the stakeholders envision. They include land use policy, which guides future decisions on zoning and subdivisions, and infrastructure recommendations such as the placement of roads, sidewalks, parks, etc.
Compatible: The ability of different uses to exist in reasonable harmony with each other. “Making uses compatible with each other” implies site development standards that regulate the impact of one use on another.
Compatibility: The recognition of existing development patterns and characteristics, and responsiveness in new building design that respects these established patterns.
Compensatory Storage: New excavated storage volume equivalent to any flood storage which is eliminated by filling or grading within the floodplain. For the purposes of this definition, equivalent flood storage capacity is that which is replaced by an equal volume as measured between corresponding one (1) foot contour intervals which are hydraulically connected to the floodway.
Conservation Easement: A right or interest in real property, which is appropriate to retaining land or water areas predominantly in their natural state.
Conservation Uses: Activities within land areas designated for the purpose of conserving or protecting natural resources or environmental quality; and includes areas designated for such
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purposes as flood control, protection of quality or quantity of groundwater or surface water, floodplain management, fisheries management, or protection of vegetative communities, or wildlife habitats.
Construction Control Line (CCL): A line of demarcation that controls where construction can occur along the coastal areas of Alabama. Also known as the Coastal Construction Line.
Cooperate: Two or more persons or entities working together toward a common end.
Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED): A design method with the goal of preventing crime through designing a physical environment that positively influences human behavior based on the following four strategies: natural surveillance, territorial reinforcement, natural access control and target hardening.
Critical Habitat: Refers to geographic locations which are vital to the survival of a Threatened and Endangered species as defined in the Endangered Species Act. A specific geographic area(s) that is essential for the conservation of a threatened or endangered species and that may require special management and protection. Critical habitat may include an area that is not currently occupied by the species, but that will be needed for its recovery.
Cultural Resource: Any district, building, site, object, or other material in American history, architecture, archaeology, or culture which is of national, state, or local significance.
Density: The number of residential dwelling units per gross acre, exclusive of non-developable lands such as wetlands, easements, rights-of-way.
Development: The construction, reconstruction, repair, demolition, conversion, structural alteration, relocation, removal, or enlargement of any building or structure; any extension of utilities; any construction of streets; any construction of drainage structures; any mine, excavation, land fill, or land disturbance; and/or any change in use, or alteration or extension of the use, of land.
Discharge: Addition, introduction, leakage, spillage, or emitting of any sewer, industrial wastes, pollutant, or other wastes into waters of the state.
Discourage: To dissuade or advise against, but without prohibiting.
Ditch: An excavation designed for the purpose of stormwater drainage whose bottom elevation is at or above zero National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD).
Dredging: Excavation of any materials from lands underlying coastal waters or wetlands.
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Dune: A landform characterized by an accumulation of wind-blown sand, often vegetated, in ridges or mounds that lie landward of the beach and usually parallel to the shoreline.
Ecology: The interrelationship of living things to one another and their environment; the study of such interrelationships.
Effluent: Sewage, water or other liquid, partially or completely treated or in its natural state, flowing out of any component of an individual sewage disposal system or flowing over the ground’s surface or beneath the ground in groundwater.
Endangered Species: Any species, including subspecies and varieties, which are in danger of extinction as determined by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife, throughout all or a significant portion of its range.
Environmental Degradation: The deterioration of the environment through the depletion or damage of natural resources, including without limitation, air, water soil, ecosystems and wildlife.
Environmentally Sensitive Lands: Areas of land or water which are determined necessary by the local government, based on locally determined criteria, to conserve or protect natural habitats and ecological systems.
Estuary: That part of a river or stream or other body of water having unimpaired connection with the open sea, where the sea water is measurably diluted with fresh water derived from land drainage.
Existing Structure: A structure that was constructed prior to October 9, 1985, and for which all required state, local, and federal authorizations were obtained prior to October 9, 1985. Secondary definition: When referring to an existing structure having non-conformity or being grand-fathered, this refers to structures that are in existence prior to the Zoning Ordinance being implemented in a particular Planning District.
Fill: Any solids, dredged material, sludge, or other material, the placement of which has the effect or purpose of raising the elevation of wetlands or lands underlying coastal waters.
Floodplains: Those areas defined by the U.S. Geological Survey or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as subject to flooding once in 100 years, based on topography.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR): A measure of non-residential intensity whereby the total gross floor area (including multiple stories) is divided by the total site. Example: At a maximum FAR of 0.12, a 5-acre site could accommodate 26,136 square feet of gross floor area: 5 acres (217,800 sq. ft.) x 0.12 FAR = 26,136 sq. ft.
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Footprint: The outline of the total area of a lot or site under the horizontal projection of a roof including conditioned and non-conditioned areas such as garages and living areas. Attached decks and similar structures shall also be considered as part of the building footprint.
Functional Classification: The functional classification of a road is the class or group of roads that the road belongs to. There are three main functional classes as defined by the United States Federal Highway Administration: arterial, collector, and local. The determination of the Functional Classification of roadways in Baldwin County shall be determined by the Baldwin County Highway Department’s Functional Classification Map.
Functional Value: A wetland’s ability or potential to provide one or more of the following: stormwater retention and storage; nutrient export and primary productivity; purification and filtration of water; shoreline protection and erosion control; wildlife or fisheries habitat; and/or groundwater recharge.
Gateways: A point along a roadway conveying a sense of entrance into or boundary of a community, through such things as signs, monuments, landscaping, a change in development character or a natural feature. Gateways can be located at significant points of entry into a community to help shape the identity and provide a clear sense of a community’s boundaries.
Geographic Information System (GIS): A computer system used to visualize, query, analyze and map information that is spatial in nature.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere. Some greenhouse gases occur naturally and are emitted to the atmosphere through natural processes and human activities while other greenhouse gases are created and emitted solely through human activities.
Greenway: A corridor of protected open space that is managed for conservation and/or recreation.
Groundwater: Water that occurs below the Earth’s surface. It is either passing through or standing in the soil and underlying strata, and is free to move under the influence of gravity. Most groundwater is derived from surface sources.
Habitable Structure: Any structure which by virtue of its design, size, or appurtenances, is suitable for occupation as a residence on a temporary or permanent basis, or any similar structure used for commercial purposes.
Hazardous Waste: Waste, which may cause, or significantly contribute to, an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible or incapacitating illness or may pose a substantial
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present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly transported, disposed of, stored, treated or otherwise managed.
Heavy Industrial: Industrial, manufacturing, processing, warehousing or research testing uses that, due to the employment of heavy equipment or machinery or to the nature of the materials and processes employed, require special location and development safeguards to prevent pollution of the environment by noise, vibration, odors or other factors, and may also require extensive sites for storage and parking, may require extensive community facilities or generate heavy motor traffic.
Historic Resources: All areas, districts, or sites containing properties listed on the Alabama Master Site File, the National Register of Historic Places, or designated by a local government as historically, architecturally, or archaeologically significant.
Hydrologically Contiguous: Ordinarily or intermittently connected to state waters by other surface water or drainage as evidenced by water marks on land or vegetation, channels, or water eroded paths, including areas separated from state surface waters by a berm, causeway, or similar feature and which have a surface elevation at or below the normal high water line of the adjacent water body.
Hydrology: The science dealing with the properties, distribution, and circulation of water.
HUD Definitions − 81-120 percent of the area median income. Defined as moderate income by the U.S. Housing Act. − 80 percent of area median income. Defined as lower income by the U.S. Housing Act and used for many rental and homeownership programs. − 60 percent of area median income. Used as low income for the low-income housing tax credit and HOME programs. − 50 percent of area median income. Defined as very low income by the U.S. Housing Act and used for many rental programs. − 30 percent of area median income. Defined as extremely low income in the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act of 1998 (QHWRA), which for each rental housing assistance program requires that at least a minimum share of entrants have extremely low incomes.
Impervious Surface Area (ISR): A measure of non-residential intensity whereby the total impervious surface area (such as buildings, sidewalks, parking areas, etc.) is divided by the total site. Example: At a maximum ISR of 0.20, a 5-acre site could accommodate 43,560 square feet of impervious surface area: 5 acres (217,800 sq. ft.) x 0.20 ISR = 43,560 sq. ft.
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Industrial Uses: The activities within land areas predominantly connected with manufacturing, assembly, processing, or storage of products.
Infill Development: Development on vacant land surrounded by developed land. Infill development in general pertains to a vacant site that is seamlessly developed within the existing built environment, balancing, completing, and/or repairing the surrounding areas.
Infiltration: The downward movement or seepage of water from the surface to the subsoil and/or groundwater.
Infrastructure: Those man-made structures which serve the common needs of the population, such as: sewage disposal systems, potable water systems, potable water wells serving a system, solid waste disposal sites or detention areas, storm water systems, utilities, piers, docks, wharves, breakwaters, bulkheads, seawalls, bulwarks, revetments, causeways, marinas, navigation channels, bridges, and roadways.
Intensity: A measure of land use activity based on density, use, mass, size and external impact.
Invasive Exotic Plant Species: Any species, including its seeds, spores, or other biological material capable of propagating that species, that is not native to that ecosystem; and whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.
Jurisdictional Wetland: A wetland area that falls under the authority of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Joint Planning Areas: Comprehensive multi-jurisdictional planning efforts between the County and local governments wishing to participate, and culminating in a Joint Planning Agreement between the parties which defines the boundaries, procedures and rules and regulations regarding development inside the joint planning areas.
Landmarks: Places, structures, or natural features that provide identity or orientation in a community. Landmarks could be historic places and structures, places that provide a visual reference point, e.g. vistas, overlooks and parks. Defined as prominent buildings which create a focus of community identity.
Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED): A third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED promotes a whole-building approach to sustainability by recognizing performance in five key areas of human and environmental health: sustainable site development, water savings, energy efficiency, materials selection and indoor environmental quality.
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Leapfrog Development: An urbanizing growth pattern which occurs when new land development is sited away from an existing urban area, bypassing vacant parcels located in or closer to the urban area that are suitable for development. This typically results in scattered, discontinous growth patterns in rural areas.
Level of Service (LOS): An indicator of the extent or degree provided by, or proposed to be provided by, a facility based on and related to the operational characteristics of the facility. Level of service shall indicate the capacity per unit of demand for each public facility.
Marina: Any commercial facility which is capable of offering permanent or transient docking or mooring space for 10 or more boats and is capable of providing one or more of the following services: dry boat storage, boat fueling facilities, haulout facilities, repair services, nautical supplies, or any facility which is capable of providing mooring space for 20 or more boats ancillary to developments such as apartments, condominiums, hotels, or other planned unit developments.
Marine: Of or relating to the sea or its navigation or commerce.
Major Subdivision: A subdivision not classified as a minor subdivision, including, but not limited to subdivisions of 5 or more lots, or any size subdivision requiring any new street or drainage improvements.
Minor Subdivision: A subdivision containing not more than 4 lots, fronting on an existing publicly maintained street and not involving any new street or drainage improvements.
Mitigation: The compensation for reduction or loss of wetland functions due to filling activities through wetland restoration, enhancement, and/or creation activities.
Mitigation Bank: The creation, restoration, or enhancement of an area of functioning wetland in advance of anticipated impacts within the same region.
Native vegetation: Plants that occur naturally in a particular habitat, ecosystem, or region of the United States and its territories or possessions, without direct or indirect human actions.
Neighborhood: An urban sector that is mixed use, mixed income, and limited in area by walking distance but not by density. The neighborhood is conceived to fulfill most ordinary human needs, including those of transportation. The neighborhood is served by a network of thoroughfares variously detailed for character and capacity, creating a public realm suitable to the pedestrian as well as the vehicle.
Neighborhood Village Center: May also be referred to as Town Center. This type of center generally provides for the sale of convenience goods and personal services for the day-to-day
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needs of the immediate neighborhood, with a grocery or supermarket typically as a main tenant. Typical gross leasable areas for a center will range from 30,000 to 100,000 square feet.
Non-point Source (NPS) Pollution: Water pollution affecting a water body from diffuse sources, such as roadways, farmland or driveways, rather than a point source which discharges to a water body from a specific source such as a sewage treatment plant or industrial facility.
Objective: A specific, measurable, intermediate end that is achievable and marks progress toward a goal.
Open Spaces: Undeveloped lands suitable for environmental, scenic, recreation or conservation uses.
Pad, Retail or Commercial: A building pad located at the perimeter of a commercial site, adjacent to a street.
Performance Standards: A minimum requirement or maximum allowable limit on the effects or characteristics of a use, usually written in the form of regulatory language.
Point Source Pollution: Any source of water pollution that constitutes a discernible, confined, and discrete conveyance, including but not limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding operation, vessel, or other floating craft from which pollutants are or may be discharged.
Policy: The way in which programs and activities are conducted to achieve an identified goal.
Potable: Water that is satisfactory for direct human consumption, human contact or in the preparation of foods that meets current drinking water standards.
Precatory: Expressing a wish.
Preserve: To prevent loss, decay or deconstruction; with regard to resource, it permits no consumptive loss.
Provide: To sustain with funding, technical support, equipment, or coordination of personnel (county staff or volunteers), to the extent that the Baldwin County Commission deems appropriate and adequate funding is available.
Renewable: Relating to or being a commodity or resource, such as solar energy or firewood, which is inexhaustible or replaceable by new growth.
Riparian: Of, on, or relating to the banks of a natural course of water.
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Riverine: One of five wetland classifications described in the HGM classification. These wetlands occur in floodplains and riparian corridors in association with stream channels. Dominant water sources are overbank flow from the channel or subsurface hydrologic connections between the river channel and adjacent wetlands.
Rural Hamlet: A defined area containing residential and residential support services clustered within a rural area that is not served by public sanitary sewer. Rural Hamlets shall be located at the intersection of two collector roadways, no closer than 2 miles from another Rural Hamlet, or Urban land use district, or Neighborhood district. The collective size of a Rural Hamlet shall not exceed 50 acres in size.
Saltwater Intrusion: The occurrence of unsuitable levels of salt within local aquifer supplies which are usually used for domestic purposes such as drinking, bathing, or irrigating. Causes include over-pumping of coastal aquifers and the lowering or destruction of coastal dunes and wetlands (which serve as aquifer recharge areas) through development activities.
Shore or Shoreline: The interface of land and water.
Shoreline Hardening: Hard shoreline stabilization techniques that include structures such as seawalls, bulkheads and riprap, that can disrupt natural shoreline processes, destroy shoreline habitats and nursery grounds such as wetlands, seagrass beds and intertidal beaches, and can lead to increased erosion along coastal areas near the hard structure.
Should: Preferred, but not obliged to.
Smart Growth: Planning, regulatory and developmental practices and techniques that promote compact, mixed-use development that offers a high-quality living and working environment and encourages a choice of travel modes, e.g., walking, cycling and transit, while protecting environmental features and resources.
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA): The land in the floodplain within a community subject to a 1% or greater chance of flooding in any given year. In the absence of official designation by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) special flood hazard areas (SFHA) shall be those designated by the local community and referenced by the Baldwin County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
Sprawl: Haphazard growth or outward extension of a community resulting from unplanned, uncontrolled and uncoordinated single-use development that does not provide for an attractive and functional mix of uses and/or is not functionally related to surrounding land uses. There are several elements that characterize sprawl: Residences far removed from stores, parks and other activity centers; scattered or “leapfrog” development that leaves large tracts of undeveloped land
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between developments; commercial strip development along major streets; large expanses of low-density or single-use development, such a s commercial centers with no office or residential uses or residential areas with no nearby commercial center; the major form of transportation is the automobile; requires a very high ratio of road surface to development served; and walled residential subdivisions that do not connect to adjacent residential development.
Stormwater: The flow water which results from a rainfall event.
Streetscape: A view from the road which, in conjunction with gateways, provide community image. Streetscape elements typically include trees, landscaping, parkways, plantings in the median, lighting and improvements along the right-of-way.
Stricture: Something that closely restrains or limits.
Sub-basin: A watershed area that is smaller in scale than a river basin.
Submersed Grassbeds: Areas within the coastal area which support rooted vegetation that are not normally emerged even at low tide but remain covered within coastal waters.
Support: To advocate and/or enhance with funding, personnel, or equipment to the extent that the Baldwin County Commission deems appropriate and adequate funding is available.
Topography: The physical features of a surface area including relative elevations and the position of natural and man-made features.
Town Center: See Neighborhood Village Center.
Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): Development of land along the lines of a traditional neighborhood, adapting the urban conventions which were customary in the U.S. from colonial times until the approximate 1940’s. General characteristics: neighborhoods can be traversed in a 10-15 minute walk; provides a mix of housing densities and types; retail, workplace and civic uses are included or within close proximity; well defined interconnected streets; physically defined open spaces in the form a plazas, squares and parks; strong neighborhood identity in the form of civic buildings for social and cultural activities.
Trails: Linear corridors and any adjacent support parcels on land or water providing public access for recreation or authorized alternative modes of transportation.
Transfer Of Development Rights: A program that can relocate potential development from areas where proposed land use or environmental impacts are considered undesirable (the “donor” site) to other areas (the “receiver” site) chosen on the basis of ability to accommodate additional units
DEFINITIONS 2009 Page 12.13 HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 12: DEFINITIONS JUNE, 2009
of development beyond that for which it was zoned, with minimal environmental, social, and aesthetic impacts.
Tree, Street: Trees strategically planted – usually in parkway strips, medians or along streets – to enhance the visual quality of a street.
Understory: The group of small trees, shrubs and vines that grow under the taller trees. These plants can grow in the shade of the taller trees.
Uplands: Areas of land that do not qualify as wetland.
Viewshed: A defined panorama which, for aesthetic or cultural reasons, is to remain free of noncontributing visual elements.
Water-Dependent Use: Those uses which must, under normal operating conditions, be located on or immediately adjacent to a waterbody in order to be physically and economically practicable.
Water-Related Use: A use or portion of a use that is not intrinsically dependent on a waterfront location, but whose economic viability is dependent upon a waterfront location, and whose location on the waterfront adds to the public use and enjoyment of the water’s edge. Water- enhanced uses are primarily recreational, cultural, retail, or entertainment uses.
Water Table: The surface on which the fluid pressure in the pores of a porous medium is exactly atmospheric; the level below which the ground is completely saturated with water.
Watershed: A geographic area from which a surface watercourse or groundwater system derives its water; the area of land where all precipitation drains to a common sink.
Waterbody: Any body of water, including any creek, canal, river, lake or bay, or any other body of water, natural or artificial, with a discernible shoreline which ordinarily or intermittently contains water, with the exception of a swimming pool or ornamental pool.
Waterbody, Impaired: A water body that has been determined under state and federal law as not meeting water quality standards.
Wellhead Protection Area: A protected surface and subsurface zone surrounding a well or well field supplying a public water system to keep contaminants from reaching the well water.
Wetlands: Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency or duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
DEFINITIONS 2009 Page 12.14 HORIZON 2025 THE BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 CHAPTER 12: DEFINITIONS JUNE, 2009
Wildlife Corridor: A strip of habitat connecting wildlife populations or significant habitat areas separated by human activities (such as roads, development, or logging). This allows an exchange of individuals between populations, lowering inbreeding within populations, increasing effective population size, and facilitating re-establishment of populations that have been decimated or eliminated due to random events.
Xeriscape: Creative landscaping for water and energy efficiency, and lower maintenance. The seven xeriscape principles are: good planning and design; practical lawn areas; efficient irrigation; soil improvement; use of mulches; low water demand plants; good maintenance.
DEFINITIONS 2009 Page 12.15 HORIZON 2025
The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan 2008-2025
Volume II: Data, Inventory & Analysis
June, 2009
Horizon 2025 The Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan 2008-2025 Data, Inventory & Analysis
Prepared for the Baldwin County Commission
Prepared by:
in coordination with: Strategic Planning Group and Dial Cordy & Associates, Inc.
This Comprehensive Plan is funded by the Coastal Impact Assistance Program, Minerals Management Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.
Funding for this project is provided by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, State Lands Division, Coastal Section, in part, by a grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management, Award # NA07NOS4190175 BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Table of Contents
Section 1: Demographic Data
Section 2: Future Land Use
Section 3: Housing
Section 4: Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space
Section 5: Coastal Management
Section 6: Parks and Recreation
Section 7: Reserved
Section 8: Historic Resources
Section 9: Community Design
Section 10: Intergovernmental Coordination
Section 11: Implementation Program
Section 12: Maps
Table of Contents 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
DEMOGRAPHICS Baldwin County is the largest county in geographic area (1,596 square miles) within the State of Alabama. The County lies between the two large Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs) of Mobile MSA, Alabama to the west and Pensacola MSA, Florida.
Figure 1. Relative Location of Baldwin County
Source: Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department, 2006.
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.1
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Baldwin County lies on the east shore of Mobile Bay and is home to most of the State’s ocean/gulf coast resorts.
Figure 2. Baldwin County
Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.2
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
The County has experienced a significant and constant growth since 1980 as shown below:
Figure 3. Baldwin County Population Trends, 1980-2006
Baldwin County Population Trends 1980-2006
190,000 170,000 150,000 130,000 110,000
Population 90,000 70,000 50,000 1980 1990 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006
Source: University of Alabama BEBR, 2007; Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
As shown in Table 1, Baldwin County experienced the second largest population growth in Alabama since the 2000 Census, both in terms of absolute growth and percentage growth. The County is estimated to have gained 28,747 new residents since 2000, which represents a 20% growth.
Table 1. Top Growing Counties in Alabama, 2000-2006
Population Census Geographic Area Estimates Number Percent July 1, 2006 April 1, 2000 Change Change Alabama 4,599,030 4,447,100 151,930 3% Ranked by Number Change 1 .Shelby County 178,182 143,293 34,889 24% 2 .Baldwin County 169,162 140,415 28,747 20% 3 .Madison County 304,307 276,700 27,607 10% 4 .Lee County 125,781 115,092 10,689 9% 5 .St. Clair County 75,232 64,742 10,490 16% 6 .Elmore County 75,688 65,874 9,814 15% 7 .Houston County 95,660 88,787 6,873 8% 8 .Limestone County 72,446 65,676 6,770 10% 9 .Tuscaloosa County 171,159 164,875 6,284 4% 10 .Autauga County 49,730 43,671 6,059 14% Suggested Citation: pp,y 1, 2006 (CO-EST2006-01-01) Release Date: March 20, 2007. Source: U.S. Census Report, 2007.
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.3
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Baldwin County has 14 municipalities, of which only Bay Minette was estimated to have lost population since 2000. The unincorporated area accounts for approximately 50% of the County’s total population, as of 2006, down slightly since 2000 when it was estimated to account for 53% of the County’s resident population.
Table 2. Baldwin County City Growth, 2000-2006
Annual Estimates of the Population for Places of Alabama As of April 1, 2000: Estimates for July 1: Estimates Census Base Change 2000 2000* 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2000-2006 Annual Baldwin County 140,415 140,415 141,423 145,013 148,184 151,714 156,902 162,749 169,162 27,739 4,623 Bay Minette city 7,820 7,853 7,858 7,824 7,832 7,840 7,822 7,807 7,697 -161 -27 Daphne city 16,581 16,614 16,686 16,896 17,234 17,636 18,141 18,595 18,996 2,310 385 Elberta town 552 552 554 558 563 568 576 584 586 32 5 Fairhope city 12,480 12,576 12,690 13,093 13,518 14,130 14,654 15,401 16,164 3,474 579 Foley city 7,590 8,410 8,534 8,994 9,439 9,829 10,579 11,437 12,712 4,178 696 Gulf Shores city 5,044 5,305 5,354 5,524 5,615 5,820 6,302 7,267 8,814 3,460 577 Loxley town 1,348 1,348 1,354 1,373 1,387 1,403 1,405 1,435 1,555 201 34 Orange Beach city 3,784 3,789 3,862 4,158 4,333 4,437 4,780 5,179 5,519 1,657 276 Robertsdale city 3,782 3,782 3,822 3,971 4,222 4,347 4,499 4,682 4,814 992 165 Silverhill town 616 616 621 636 654 677 686 696 693 72 12 Spanish Fort city 5,423 5,459 5,474 5,509 5,552 5,553 5,615 5,643 5,601 127 21 Summerdale town 655 655 656 657 661 668 671 674 695 39 7 Unincorporated Baldwin County 74,740 73,456 73,958 75,820 77,174 78,806 81,172 83,349 85,316 11,358 1,893
* The April 1, 2000 Population Estimates base reflects changes to the Census population that resulted from the County Question Resolution program and geographic program revisions. Source: U.S. Census Report, 2007.
Note: Magnolia Springs and Perdido Beach are not included – newly incorporated and 2000 data not available)
Figure 4, shows the relative population density within the County. As one would expect, the population density is the greatest within the County’s urban areas. One note of caution regarding Figure 4, the density depicted in the figure is resident population. If seasonal population had been included, the highest densities would be along the Gulf of Mexico.
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.4
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Figure 4. Population Densities
Source: Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Department, 2007
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.5
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
As shown in Table 3, the County has a significant seasonal population, which in 2000 was estimated to be 29,655 people or slightly over 20% of the County’s resident population. The largest seasonal population occurs in the southern part of the County, with the municipality of Orange Beach accounting for 11,694 seasonal residents.
Table 3. Baldwin County’s Functional Population, 2000
Permanent Seasonal Actual 2000 Functional Pop. Pop. (incorporated) Pop. Baldwin County 138,340 29,655 140,415 167,995 Bay Minette 6,902 35 7,820 6,937 Daphne 16,604 185 16,581 16,789 Elberta 540 7 552 547 Fairhope 13,511 851 12,480 14,362 Foley 7,377 80 7,590 7,457 Gulf Shores 5,040 5,934 5,044 10,974 Loxley 1,309 7 1,348 1,316 Orange Beach 3,843 11,694 3,784 15,536 Robertsdale 3,899 24 3,782 3,923 Silverhill 617 3 616 620 Spanish Fort 5,210 23 5,423 5,233 Summerdale 655 18 655 673 Unincorporated 72,833 10,794 74,740 83,628 Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000
Figure 5. Baldwin County’s Functional Population, 2000
Functional Population 2000 90,000
80,000
70,000 60,000 Permanent Population Sesonal Population 50,000 Functional Population 40,000 30,000
20,000
10,000 0 l e a l t e t e t e y s y h le i r l d t h e n r p le e le c a o a t e h e o r a r d o o x d e F a n p b h e r r i l r F h o s v h e a i B t l o M E L r i s a S i m p D e e S r y F lf n g b m o a u o a c n p u B G a R n r S S i n O U
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.6
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Source: Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Department, 2007; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
Figure 6, shows the relative components of population change: births, deaths and migration. According to the 2000 Census, Baldwin County has experienced a higher net population growth than its immediate neighbors; largely due to the County’s high migration.
Figure 6. Components of Population Change: Baldwin, Mobile and Escambia Counties, 2000
Cumulative Components of Population Change for counties: Baldwin, Mobile, and Escambia from 1990-1999 59,505 60,000 total births deaths 50,000 international mig domestic mig
40,000 37,958 37,790 33,340 33,653
30,000 23,005 21,919
20,000 16,972 14,356
10,149 10,000
2,419 1,632 243 387 0 Baldwin Mobile Escambia, FL Source: U.S. Census Bureau 2000, Population Division -6,352 -10,000
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.7
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Race The County’s ethnicity is predominately white (86%) with African-Americans accounting for almost 10% of the resident population, as of 2006.
Table 4. Ethnicity of Baldwin County, 2006
Baldwin County, Alabama Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 169,162 ***** White alone 146,276 86.47% +/-676 Black or African American alone 16,213 9.58% +/-782 American Indian and Alaska Native alone 651 0.38% +/-365 Asian alone 778 0.46% +/-173 Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander alone 0 0.00% +/-265 Some other race alone 3,035 1.79% +/-865 Two or more races: 2,209 1.31% +/-1,020 Two races including Some other race 292 0.17% +/-291
Two races excluding Some other race, and three or more races 1,917 1.13% +/-857 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.8
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Age Cohorts Figure 7 shows the estimated changes in the County’s age cohorts from 2000 to 2005. The State estimates a more aging population largely due to an increase in older households migrating into the County.
Figure 7. Comparative Population Estimates/Projections
90.00%
80.00%
70.00%
60.00% 2000 Census 2005 State Estimates Population 50.00%
40.00%
30.00%
20.00%
10.00%
0.00% Under Ages 5- Ages 14- Ages 18- Ages 16 Ages 18 Ages 15- Ages 45- Ages 65 Ages 85 Median Age 5 13 17 24 plus plus 44 64 plus plus Age
Source: Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Department, 2006; Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.9
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Figure 8, on the following page, shows the estimated age cohort distribution for 2006. It is interesting to note, the lower numbers of 18-25 year olds; due in part to leaving the area to either attend college or find jobs. Likewise, the figure also shows the relatively high number of residents over 60 years of age.
Figure 8. Age Cohort Distribution, 2006
Age Cohort-2006 Estimate
14,000
12,000
10,000
Population 8,000
6,000
4,000
2,000
0 Under 10 to 18 21 25 to 35 to 45 to 55 to 62 to 67 to 75 to 85 5 14 and years 29 39 49 59 64 69 79 years years years 19 years years years years years years years and years over
Source: Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Department, 2007; Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.10
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Current and Projected Population Estimates Trying to estimate population growth in fast growing areas is extremely difficult. The Department of Census estimates the population of the United States every ten years; which is the basis for most planning efforts. In turn, the Census also attempts to estimate yearly (current year) estimates for use in Federal Grants allocations. Most states also attempt to estimate population projections annually.
The State of Alabama prepares population projections for planning purposes. The State projects that the County will number 248,436 permanent residents by 2025.
Table 5. Baldwin County Population Projections Year Number 2000 140,415 2005 162,314 2010 184,375 2015 206,251 2020 227,727 2025 248,436
Source: University of Alabama BEBR, 2007
Baldwin County retained TischlerBise to prepare an impact fee study for the County1. As part of that study, detailed population and housing projections were prepared for 2020. Because these projections are part of the County’s proposed impact fee process; SPG felt that those population projections should be used as a basis for the long range land use plan. To project the population out to 2025; SPG used the 2006-2020 growth rate and extended that rate out to 2025 as shown in Table 6 and Figure 9.
Table 6. Population Projections, 2007-2025
Projection Year Year 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2017 2020 2025 Countywide Total 174,031 179,609 185,187 190,765 196,343 201,922 229,812 246,546 279,315 Unincorporated Total 89,385 92,252 95,120 97,988 100,856 103,724 118,064 126,668 143,519 Source: TishlerBise 2007; Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
1 Impact Fee Study, TischlerBise, 2007
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.11
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Figure 9. Population Projections, 2007-2025
Population Projections
Countywide Unincorporated
300,000
250,000
200,000
150,000 Number 100,000
50,000
0 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2017 2020 2025
Source: Strategic Planning Group, 2007.
Utilizing the data TischlerBise/SPG projections, SPG then developed the population projection by the planning areas shown below.
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.12
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Figure 10. Baldwin County Planning Areas
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.13
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Source: Genesis Group, Inc. 2007
Table 7. Population Projections, 1990-2025
Planning Areas 1990 2000 2006 2025 1 21,625 26,038 28,717 42,838 2 35,466 49,684 57,981 94,914 3 14,161 22,949 27,303 46,056 4 27,028 41,744 52,724 96,477 Total 98,280 140,415 166,725 280,284 Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
Figure 11. Planning Area Population 1990-2025
Planning Area Population 1990-2025
100,000
90,000
80,000
70,000
60,000
50,000
Population 40,000
30,000
20,000
10,000
0 1990 2000 2006 2025
Planning Area 1 Planning Area 2 Planning Area 3 Planning Area 4
Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
As a final step, SPG then delineated the unincorporated population for each of the Planning Areas. It should be noted that the unincorporated estimates shown below correspond to each city’s municipal boundaries as of 2006 and do not take into account police or fire service areas.
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.14
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
The State of Alabama estimated that as of 2006, the unincorporated areas of Planning Area 1 accounted for 68% of the Planning Area’s population. Using this same percentage figure, SPG estimated that in 2025, Planning Area 1 would have a population of 29,036 representing a growth of 9,571 residents since 2006.
Table 8. Unincorporated Population, Planning Area 1
Planning Area 1 2006 68% 2025 Unincorp. Change Population 28,717 19,465 42,838 29,036 9,571
Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
The State of Alabama estimated that as of 2006, the unincorporated areas of Planning Area 2 accounted for 30% of the Planning Area’s population. Using this same percentage figure, SPG estimated that in 2025, Planning Area 2 would have a population of 28,189 representing a growth of 10,969 residents since 2006.
Table 9. Unincorporated Population, Planning Area 2
Planning Area 2 2006 30% 2020 Unincorp. Change Population 57,981 17,220 94,914 28,189 10,969
Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
The State of Alabama estimated that as of 2006, the unincorporated areas of Planning Area 3 accounted for 77% of the Planning Area’s population. Using this same percentage figure, SPG estimated that in 2025, Planning Area 3 would have a population of 35,594 representing a growth of 14,493 residents since 2006.
Table 10. Unincorporated Population, Planning Area 3
Planning Area 3 2006 77% 2025 Unincorp. Change Population 27,303 21,101 46,056 35,594 14,493 Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
The State of Alabama estimated that as of 2006, the unincorporated areas of Planning Area 4 accounted for 85% of the Planning Area’s population. Using this same percentage figure, SPG estimated that in 2025, Planning Area 4 would have a population of 81,636 representing a growth of 37,022 residents since 2006.
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.15
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 DEMOGRAPHIC DATA DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Table 11. Unincorporated Population, Planning Area 4
Planning Area 4 2006 85% 2025 Unincorp. Change Population 52,724 44,614 96,477 81,636 37,022 Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
Alabama County Population 65 and Over in 2000 and Projections 2005-2025
Change 2000-2025 County 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 Number Percent Alabama 579,907 609,135 660,343 757,211 871,646 999,769 419,862 72.40% Autauga 4,451 5,348 6,493 7,905 9,594 11,983 7,532 169.22% Baldwin 21,703 26,031 31,887 39,712 49,231 60,687 38,984 179.62%
Source: Univ. of AL BEBR estimates, 2005 rep
Demographic Data 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1.16
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
FUTURE LAND USE The Future Land Use Element is a key component to the Comprehensive Plan. The future land use pattern is predicated on natural resources and environmental constraints, the existing residential character, population projections, and the need for services to adequately serve the current and future population. The Land Use Element has been developed to maintain and enhance the character of present and future land use and development within the County.
The County’s existing Land Use Cover Map was the base data used to create the Future Land Use Map. First, the existing Land Use Cover Map was condensed into the following uses: Agricultural Forested Undeveloped; Commercial; Parks/Recreation; Community Facilities; Residential; Industrial; Education; Water Bodies; and Wetlands. Then, following the Smart Growth America and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency “Smart Growth” Guidelines, the land use categories listed below were created for the County. Smart Growth America is a coalition of national, state and local organizations working to improve the ways we plan and build the towns, cities and metro areas we call home. The coalition includes many of the best- known national organizations advocating on behalf of historic preservation, the environment, farmland and open space preservation, neighborhood revitalization and more.
Future Land Use Categories:
a. Conservation District (CD) – The Conservation District consists of lands unsuitable for development due to topography, hydrology, vegetation, or wildlife habitat. This designation protects environmentally sensitive areas, natural water bodies, and other unique or sensitive natural resources. Such resources include groundwater, floodplains, wetlands, streams, steep slopes, woodlands, wildlife habitats, beach dune areas, certain agricultural and forest lands, and areas depicted in the State Wildlife Action Plan. Uses allowed in this designation include natural preserves, reserves, recreation and camping areas; and structures limited to utility infrastructure and camp buildings. Single family residential dwellings will be allowed in the Conservation District by special exception. The maximum density for residential uses shall be one (1) unit per five (5) acres. As needed, some upland areas are included in this District to establish significant greenways and wildlife corridors to connect environmentally sensitive areas. Such greenways and corridors shall have a minimum width of four hundred feet (400’).
b. Rural District (RD) – The Rural District consists of lands which are in an open or cultivated state or are sparsely settled. This designation is designed to protect agricultural activities and the rural character of the County while providing for some development activities. Uses allowed in this designation include very low density residential developments, including single family dwellings; agricultural and farming activities; mining and resource extraction; borrow pits; industrial; utilities; recreation and camping areas including marine recreation; local commercial; limited general commercial; professional service and office; lodging (such as a bed and breakfast establishment), limited institutional and civic; and accessory structures. Civic spaces in this District include parks and playgrounds. The maximum density for residential uses shall be one
Future Land Use Element 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 2.1
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
(1) unit per five (5) acres. The maximum intensity for non-residential uses shall be 0.20 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 0.12 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive.
Examples:
ISR: 43,560 sq. ft. impervious surface area* = 0.20 ISR 5 acres (217,800 sq. ft.)
FAR: 26,136 sq. ft. gross floor area = 0.12 FAR 5 acres (217,800 sq. ft.)
ISR: 8,712 sq. ft. impervious surface area* = 0.20 ISR 1 acre (43,560 s.f.)
FAR: 5,227 sq. ft. impervious surface area: = 0.12 FAR 1 acre (43,560 sq. ft.)
* building footprints, sidewalks, parking areas, etc
The preferred development in the Rural District will occur in the form of rural hamlets and clustering through the use of a rural stewardship land (RSL) program or transfer of development rights (TDR) program (see Policy 4.1 and 4.2 of this element). For the purposes of this category, a “rural hamlet” is an existing or proposed future residential and residential support services development clustered within a rural area that is not served by public sanitary sewer. A rural hamlet is typically found as free standing in the countryside, being composed of civic service and commercial uses of modest size which support a large surrounding low density population. The hamlet typically has a weak center, frequently containing only a crossroad and intersection or a church yard. The first preference for the location of a Rural Hamlet shall be at the intersection of two roadways, classified as “collector” or higher. The second preference for locating a Rural Hamlet shall be on a public road that is classified or functions as a collector roadway in the area. If these locational criteria cannot be met, a Rural Hamlet may be located in an area determined to be acceptable by the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Commission. Rural Hamlets shall be no closer than two (2) miles from another Rural Hamlet, or Urban future land use district, or Neighborhood future land use district. The collective size of a Rural Hamlet shall not exceed fifty (50) acres. (Refer to Policies 1.3 and 1.4 for additional information)
c. Coastal Zone District (CZD) – The Coastal Zone District includes environmentally sensitive lands along scenic coastal corridors near the beaches and bays. The purpose of the district is to allow for a low to moderate level of single family, two-family, and multiple-family residential dwelling units. Other compatible non-residential development, including public boat ramps, municipal piers, golf courses, and public utilities shall be allowed, while assuring that the scenic coastal corridors retain their scenic landscapes. The intention is that development be designed to fit into the existing character that includes views of the water. The maximum density for residential uses shall be three (3) dwelling units per acre. The maximum intensity for non-
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 FUTURE LAND USE ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
residential uses shall be 0.60 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 0.45 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive.
d. Neighborhood District (ND) – The Neighborhood District consists predominantly of low- density residential development, including single family dwellings. Other uses allowed in this designation include accessory structures; home occupations; limited public and institutional uses; limited retail and office uses; and utilities. Civic spaces in this District include parks, greens, and playgrounds. Retail and office uses should be at a neighborhood scale, meaning acceptable uses that will have a limited impact on adjacent residential areas especially in terms of lighting, signage, traffic, odor, noise, and hours of operation. Acceptable uses should be compatible with surrounding development in terms of scale/building size, building design, materials, and color, and located at the intersection of road facilities classified as “collectors” or higher. The maximum density for residential uses shall be four (4) units per acre. The maximum intensity for non-residential uses shall be 0.60 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 0.45 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive. The preferred development in this District will occur in the form of neighborhoods, defined in general terms as an urban sector that is mixed use, mixed income, and limited in area by walking distance typically defined as a 10 minute/1.5 mile walk. The neighborhood is conceived to fulfill most ordinary human needs, including those of transportation. The neighborhood is served by a network of thoroughfares variously detailed for character and capacity, creating a public realm suitable to the pedestrian as well as the vehicle.
e. Urban/Low Intensity District (ULD) – The Urban/Low Intensity District allows a variety of residential and non-residential uses. This District consists of medium density residential development; nonresidential development such as retail, office, institutional/public; light industrial uses; and civic spaces. Civic spaces in this District include greens, squares, and playgrounds. Residential uses shall be in the form of single family detached units, single family attached units, duplexes, townhouses, multi-family buildings, and apartments; nonresidential uses shall be allowed at a scale to serve the residents of the neighborhood and surrounding area. Other uses allowed in this designation include utilities and accessory structures. The maximum density for residential uses shall be eight (8) units per acre. The maximum intensity for non- residential uses shall be 0.95 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 1.0 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive. The preferred development in this District will occur in the form of corridors, Traditional Neighborhood Developments (TNDs), Neighborhood Village Centers and Town Centers.
New development in this District shall provide for a range of non-residential building square footage between 500 square feet minimum to 1,000 square feet maximum for every residential dwelling unit. Non-residential uses shall include any mix of uses allowed by the zoning designation. In cases where the development is rezoned to Planned Development Districts, phases of single use residential or non-residential buildings may be constructed independently at any time provided the overall approved site plan designates future building pad sites, meeting the required mixture of residential and non-residential land uses. Residential uses may occur on any floor within any building type. In order to encourage elderly housing within the Urban/Low
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Intensity District, assisted living or nursing home dwelling units are not counted as residential dwellings or considered non-residential uses. In cases where a proposed development does not include such a mix of uses, the developer shall successfully demonstrate to the Planning Department that this requirement has already been met by surrounding development.
f. Urban/High Intensity District (UHD) – The Urban/High Intensity District allows a variety of residential and non-residential uses. This District consists of high density residential development; nonresidential development such as retail, office, institutional/public; light industrial uses; and civic spaces. Civic spaces in this District include greens, squares, plazas, and playgrounds. Residential uses shall be in the form of attached units, such as townhouses, and apartments; nonresidential uses shall be allowed at a scale to serve the residents of the County. Other uses allowed in this designation include utilities and accessory structures. The maximum density for residential uses shall be twelve (12) units per acre. The maximum intensity for non-residential uses shall be 0.95 Impervious Surface Ratio (ISR) or 2.50 Floor Area Ratio (FAR), whichever is more restrictive. The preferred development in this District will occur in the form of urban-scale mixed use projects, traditional neighborhood developments (TNDs), neighborhood village centers and town centers.
New development in this District shall provide for a range of non-residential building square footage between 500 square feet minimum to 1,500 square feet maximum for every residential dwelling unit. Non-residential uses shall include any mix of uses allowed by the zoning designation. In cases where the development is rezoned to Planned Unit Development (PUD), phases of single use residential or non-residential buildings may be constructed independently at any time provided the overall approved site plan designates future building pad sites, meeting the required mixture of residential and non-residential land uses. Residential uses may occur on any floor within any building type. In order to encourage elderly housing within the Urban/High Intensity District, assisted living or nursing home dwelling units are not counted as residential dwellings or considered non-residential uses. In cases where a proposed development does not include such a mix of uses, the developer shall successfully demonstrate to the Planning Department that this requirement has already been met by surrounding development.
g. Special District (SD) – The Special District is designed for unique uses and/or developments that, because of their character, economic development opportunities, magnitude, location, or function, do not conform to the other future land use designations\districts. Examples of such uses include large-scale planned developments such as a “new town”; developments that would have a substantial effect upon the health, safety or welfare of citizens of more than one county such as a regional airport, regional shopping center, or regional hospital; a port facility; or industrial development. Alternatively, a community or populated area may elect to create a more detailed planning program to address the unique character and mix of uses within a defined boundary and/or overlay district (such as the various overlay districts in the Zoning Code). Such defined areas may receive the Special District category. Refer to the Community Design Element for the Goals, Objectives and Policies for a Community Planning Area.
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This district shall be applied on a case-by-case basis with a minimum area of approximately 200 acres. For each individual property that is assigned within this Special District future land use designation, site-specific policies will be adopted to establish and govern the density, intensity, and types of uses allowed on that property. Required civic spaces in this district shall be determined on a case-by-case basis dependent on the type of development proposed.
Study Areas: For data collection purposes, the County was divided into four (4) Study Areas, which are based on Census Tract boundaries, and follow, to some extent, the existing County Commission District boundaries.
Study Area 1 covers the northern portion of the County, north of I-10, and contains approximately 559,782 acres. This area includes Census Tracts 010100, 010200, 010300, 010400, 010500, and 010600. As shown on the current land cover map, the percentage breakdown of the existing uses in this Study Area is: 58.6% Forested; 34.0% Wetlands; 4.3% Agricultural; 1.3% Undeveloped; 0.8% Water Bodies; 0.7% Community Facilities; 0.2% Commercial; 0.1% Public Recreation & Open Space; 0.05% Educational; 0.04% Industrial; and 0.01% Residential.
Study Area 2 covers the southwestern portion of the County, adjacent to Mobile Bay, and contains approximately 96,591 acres. This area includes Census Tracts 010701, 010703, 010704, 010705, 010800, 011100, 011201, 011202, and 011300. As shown on the current land cover map, the percentage breakdown of the existing uses is: 36.0% Wetlands; 27.0% Forested; 24.0% Agricultural; 4.1% Undeveloped; 2.8% Water Bodies; 2.2% Commercial; 1.5% Public Recreation & Open Space; 1.5% Community Facilities; 0.4% Educational; 0.4% Residential; and 0.2% Industrial.
Study Area 3 covers the south-central portion of the County, and contains approximately 130,502 acres. This area includes Census Tracts 010901, 010902, and 011000. As shown on the current land cover map, the percentage breakdown of the existing uses is: 43.1% Agricultural; 27.1% Forested; 19.9% Wetlands; 4.8%Undeveloped; 1.9% Community Facilities; 1.4% Water Bodies; 0.8% Commercial; 0.6% Industrial; 0.2% Educational; 0.1% Public Recreation & Open Space; and 0.06% Residential.
Study Area 4 covers the southern portion of the County, adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico, and contains approximately 164,997 acres. This area includes Census Tracts 011401, 011403, 011,404, 011500, and 011600. As shown on the current land cover map, the percentage breakdown of the existing uses is: 35.9% Agricultural; 22.5% Wetlands; 22.2% Forested; 6.6% Water Bodies; 5.6% Undeveloped; 2.4% Public Recreation & Open Space; 2.2% Commercial; 1.2% Community Facilities; 0.6% Residential; 0.5% Industrial; 0.2% Educational; and 0.1% Historic.
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All Areas Countywide, the percentage breakdown of the existing uses is as follows: 44.4% Forested; 30.2% Wetlands; 17.4% Agricultural; 2.9% Undeveloped; 2.1% Water Bodies; 1.0% Community Facilities; 0.8% Commercial; 0.7% Public Recreation & Open Space; 0.2% Industrial; 0.2% Residential; 0.1% Educational; and 0.02% Historic.
Study Area 1 Study Area 2 Study Area 3 Study Area 4 Total Land Acres % Acres % Acres % Acres % Acres % Cover Agricultural 23,035.77 4.26% 22,967.33 24.02% 55,950.73 43.14% 60,725.22 35.94% 162,679.05 17.39% Forested 316,975.25 58.58% 25,757.02 26.93% 35,215.33 27.15% 37,485.85 22.19% 415,433.45 44.41% Undeveloped 7,309.36 1.35% 3,913.02 4.09% 6,228.78 4.80% 9,458.45 5.60% 26,909.61 2.88% Educational 293.66 0.05% 398.32 0.42% 220.82 0.17% 295.41 0.17% 1,208.21 0.13% Commercial 804.52 0.15% 2,145.90 2.24% 1,037.91 0.80% 3,669.66 2.17% 7,657.99 0.82% Industrial 213.67 0.04% 184.42 0.19% 715.88 0.55% 810.49 0.48% 1,924.46 0.21% Residential 79.08 0.01% 377.96 0.40% 80.45 0.06% 1,049.68 0.62% 1,587.17 0.17% Public 514.68 0.10% 1,451.66 1.52% 158.34 4,018.39 2.38% 6,143.07 0.66% Recreation/ 0.12% Open Space Community 3,575.98 0.66% 1,401.55 1.47% 2,499.94 1.93% 2,089.86 1.24% 9,567.33 1.02% Facilities Historic 0.00 0.00% 0.00 0.00% 0.00 0.00% 147.94 0.09% 147.94 0.02% Water 4,332.79 0.80% 2,628.79 2.75% 1,813.77 1.40% 11,117.56 6.58% 19,892.91 2.13% Bodies Wetlands 184,000.95 34.00% 34,402.29 35.98% 25,765.07 19.87% 38,092.39 22.55% 282,260.70 30.18% Total 541,135.71 100% 95,628.26 100% 129,687.02 100% 168,960.90 100% 935,411.89 100%
Transfer of Development Rights: The Future Land Use Element provides policies relating to Transfer of Development Rights (TDR). TDR programs have been established in jurisdictions throughout the country. Examples include: Fulton County, GA (www.chathill.org), King County, WA, Montgomery County, MD, Chisago County, MN, and Mesa County, CO. The following provides a brief description of the concept of Transferable Development Rights and similar alternatives.
Definition: A TDR is a growth management tool in which the development potential from sensitive lands is transferred to non-sensitive lands through private market transactions. More specifically, typical zoning and land use regulations often create uneven impacts on landowners. Landowners in areas where higher intensity development is encouraged economically benefit, while landowners in areas where land is protected from development are hurt.
By requiring landowners of non-sensitive land to buy development rights from the owner of sensitive land, the government is forcing developers to “internalize” the costs associated with land development. That is under typical zoning, local governments must either buy sensitive
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land or regulate it heavily and risk a takings challenge. The Supreme Court has stated that TDRs should only be considered as a means of payment and not considered when determining whether there is a taking.
How TDRs Work: Planning agencies identify areas to protect and those most suitable for development under a number of environmental and social factors (e.g., wetland preservation/ erosion control/ endangered plant or animal species/ etc.). TDR programs then delineate sending (most sensitive) and receiving (least sensitive) zones. Generally, sending area property owners are required to record a covenant running with the land permanently removing certain development rights. Some TDR systems will accept a twenty-five (25) to thirty (30) year conservation time frame. The regulating agency should prepare a list of residual uses of the land after the TDRs have been sold in order to protect against a takings claim and in determining the non-development value of the land (e.g., agriculture, beekeeping, bird watching, primitive camping, and other recreational uses).
Analysis: Ideally, to maintain a market for the TDRs from the sending zone, receiving zones must be growing areas with a market demand for increased density. Thus, if it costs less to go through the administrative process for a rezoning, the TDR market will flounder. Additionally, if receiving areas are already “over zoned,” marginal increases in land development intensity will have no economic value and so also will TDRs have no economic value. Administratively, zoning approvals in receiving areas can occur without increasing density until the applicant obtains sufficient development rights from sending areas.
Rural Land Stewardship (RLS) a TDR Alternative:
The Future Land Use Element provides policies relating to Rural Land Stewardship. Baldwin County, especially the northern portion, is predominantly rural/ agricultural in nature. Because growth is expected, it will be important to reserve, protect, and/or set aside a percentage of these essential acres for the future rural economy. The County would benefit from a Rural Land Stewardship program similar to those successfully established in the State of Florida (such as Collier County and St. Lucie County). The RLS essentially works like a TDR program by transferring development rights, but in the form of development credits rather than actual densities. Unlike TDR programs, RSL gives the highest sender credits to sensitive lands rather than the lowest densities to sensitive lands. Thus, transfers provide more credits to the receiving area than typically received under the traditional TDR systems. Typically, a minimum amount of acres are required for development to be designated under RLS programming. For instance, under Florida law 10,000 acres must be included in the RLS area. However, the 10,000 acres are not required to be under single ownership. RLS essentially follows a three-step process:
1. Identify receiver sites where development will occur 2. Identify sender sites and assign credit values to the sender sites based on their relative sensitivity/productivity; and 3. Define how many sender credits are required to develop at a receiver site.
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Analysis: The main advantage of the RLS is that the scope of required comprehensive plan amendments is very limited. That is, RLS is applied as an overlay in the comprehensive plan. The underlying future land use category would remain unchanged. Therefore, in relevant jurisdictions, the RLS comprehensive plan amendment would define the RLS overlay boundary, adopt receiver site criteria and policy guidelines to demonstrate that the RLS would discourage urban sprawl, provide compatible mixed uses, address affordable housing needs, and ensure development occurs on suitable lands.
Background information on Rural Land Stewardship can be found in: • “Working to Sustain Florida’s Rural and Natural Lands: A Call to Action”, a report prepared by the 1000 Friends of Florida organization, 2007. • “The Rural Land Stewardship Program: Opportunities and Challenges”, a presentation prepared by staff of the Florida Department of Community Affairs (DCA), 2007
Conclusion: Overall, the value of a TDR/RLS system is made available to the County by having the private sector participate in funding the growth and conservation goals in a balanced manner. Land entitled for development on an incremental basis becomes linked to rural stewardship and natural resource conservation that has regional support, but requires implementation on a parcel- by-parcel scale.
Analysis of School Projections (based upon maximum build out scenario)
STUDY AREA 1
Current Inventory: 2006 Population: 28,717 Existing Schools: 4 elementary; 7 middle; 1 high
Future Land Use Districts: (acreage figures exclude water bodies and municipalities) Conservation District: 271,283 acres Rural District: 228,080 acres Neighborhood District: 57,745 acres Urban Low Intensity District: 2,263 acres Urban High Intensity District: 0 acres Special District: 1,313 acres Coastal Zone District: 0 acres
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STUDY AREA 1 Urban Conservation Rural Neighborhood Low Special Coastal Totals Acres 271,283 228,080 57,745 2,263 1,313 0 560,684
Maximum 1 unit/5 1 unit/5 8 4 Density acres acres 4 units/acre units/acre units/acre* 3 units/acre Total Units 54,257 45,616 230,980 18,104 5,252 0 354,209 Projected Population 129,131 108,566 549,732 43,088 12,500 0 843,017 Projected Elementary School Students 8,781 7,382 37,382 2,930 850 0 57,325 Elementary Schools Needed 18 15 75 6 2 0 116 Projected Middle School Students 7,490 6,297 31,884 2,499 725 0 48,895 Middle Schools Needed 12 10 49 4 1 0 76 Projected High School Students 8,135 6,840 34,663 2,715 788 0 53,141 High Schools Needed 7 6 29 2 1 0 45 *This district does not specify a maximum du/ac and is to be developed on a case-by-case basis. For the purposes of this analysis, the same density as the Neighborhood District was used.
STUDY AREA 2 Current Inventory: 2006 Population: 57,981 Existing Schools: 5 elementary; 5 middle; 6 high
Future Land Use Districts: (acreage figures exclude water bodies and municipalities) Conservation District: 46,833 acres Rural District: 26,821 acres Neighborhood District: 19,345 acres Urban Low Intensity District: 1,940 acres Urban High Intensity District: 0 acres Special District: 485 acres Coastal Zone District: 930 acres
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STUDY AREA 2 Urban Conservation Rural Neighborhood Low Special Coastal Totals Acres 46,833 26,821 19,345 1,940 485 930 96,354
Maximum 1 unit/5 8 4 3 Density acres 1 unit/5 acres 4 units/acre units/acre units/acre* units/acre Total Units 9,367 5,364 77,380 15,520 1,940 2,790 112,361 Projected Population 22,293 12,767 184,164 636,938 4,617 6,640 867,419 Projected Elementary School Students 1,516 868 12,523 2,511 314 452 18,184 Elementary Schools Needed 3 2 25 5 1 1 37 Projected Middle School Students 1,293 740 10,681 2,142 268 385 15,509 Middle Schools Needed 2 1 16 3 0 1 23 Projected High School Students 1,404 804 11,602 2,327 291 418 16,846 High Schools Needed 1 1 10 2 0 0 14 *This district does not specify a maximum du/ac and is to be developed on a case-by-case basis. For the purposes of this analysis, the same density as the Neighborhood District was used.
STUDY AREA 3
Current Inventory: 2006 Population: 27,303 Existing Schools: 6 elementary; 3 middle; 2 high
Future Land Use Districts: (acreage figures exclude water bodies and municipalities) Conservation District: 48,206 acres Rural District: 62,101 acres Neighborhood District: 18,696 acres Urban Low Intensity District: 372 acres Urban High Intensity District: 0 acres Special District: 789 acres Coastal Zone District: 0 acres
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STUDY AREA 3 Urban Conservation Rural Neighborhood Low Special Coastal Totals Acres 48,206 62,101 18,696 372 789 0 130,164
Maximum 1 unit/5 1 unit/5 8 4 3 Density acres acres 4 units/acre units/acre units/acre* units/acre Total Units 9,641 12,420 74,784 2,976 3,156 0 102,977 Projected Population 22,946 29,560 177,986 7,083 7,511 0 245,086 Projected Elementary School Students 1,560 2,010 12,103 482 512 0 1,667 Elementary Schools Needed 3 4 24 1 1 0 33
Projected Middle School Students 1,330 1,714 10,323 411 436 0 14,214 Middle Schools Needed 2 3 16 1 1 0 23 Projected High School Students 1,446 1,862 11,213 446 473 0 15,440 High Schools Needed 1 2 9 0 0 0 12 *This district does not specify a maximum du/ac and is to be developed on a case-by-case basis. For the purposes of this analysis, the same density as the Neighborhood District was used.
STUDY AREA 4
Current Inventory: 2006 Population: 52,724 Existing Schools: 7 elementary; 2 middle; 2 high
Future Land Use Districts: (acreage figures exclude water bodies and municipalities) Conservation District: 64,771 acres Rural District: 58,926 acres Neighborhood District: 18,358 acres Urban Low Intensity District: 1,275 acres Urban High Intensity District: 0 acres Special District: 2,047 acres Coastal Zone District: 5,096 acres
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STUDY AREA 4 Urban Conservation Rural Neighborhood Low Special Coastal Totals Acres 64,771 58,926 18,358 1,275 2,047 5,096 147,473
Maximum 1 unit/5 8 4 3 Density 1 unit/5 acres acres 4 units/acre units/acre units/acre* units/acre Total Units 12,954 11,785 73,432 10,200 8,188 15,288 131,847 Projected Population 30,831 28,049 174,768 25,276 19,487 36,385 314,796 Projected Elementary School Students 2,097 1,907 11,884 1,654 1,325 2,474 21,341 Elementary Schools Needed 4 4 24 9 3 5 49 Projected Middle School Students 1,788 1,627 10,137 1,408 1,130 2,110 18,200 Middle Schools Needed 3 3 16 2 2 3 29 Projected High School Students 1,942 1,767 11,010 1,529 1,228 2,292 19,768 High Schools Needed 2 1 9 1 1 2 16 *This district does not specify a maximum du/ac and is to be developed on a case-by-case basis. For the purposes of this analysis, the same density as the Neighborhood District was used.
Notes for all charts above: • Average Household Size: 2.38 (2006 US Census) • School capacity estimates are based on 500 students/elementary school; 650 students/middle school; and 1200 students/high school. These figures are averages from actual school enrollment found on the Baldwin County Board of Education website (www.bcbe.org) • Per US Census for Baldwin County, 6.8% of population is age 5-9 (elementary); 5.8% of population is age 10–14 (middle); 6.3% of population is age 15-19 (high)
Public Input:
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Citizens who attended the two Public Workshops (Sept. 25th and 26th, 2007) ranked their list of County issues and comments by order of importance at the end of each evening. Below are the results for this element, listed in order of importance:
Future Land Use Element: 1. Implement Smart Growth Plan (i.e., mixed-use communities) to Discourage Sprawl and Decrease Transportation and Housing Costs 2. Recognition of Wetlands Significance within Future Land Use Map 3. Establish Zoning throughout entire County 4. Transportation element: Transit and Multi-Mode Options – Park-n-Ride 5. Strengthen land regulations for environmental features; provide wetland buffers 6. Respect Existing residents’ lifestyles 7. Mobile Homes and Trailers: Controls 8. Preservation of Agricultural lands and heritage 9. Transferable Development Rights 10. Subdivisions and Commercial Development Haphazard 11. Limited Self-Governance Act 12. Should Commission Adopt Zoning? 13. Extend Roads Where Needed// Bridges and Long Range Transportation 14. Avoid Urban Sprawl 15. Acquisition of Private Lands a. Process b. Incentives c. Easements d. Development Rights
Future Land Use Categories and Comparable Existing Zoning Districts
Land Use District Zoning District Conservation District (CD) No comparable district currently exists.
Rural District (RD) CR, RA, RR
Coastal Zone District (C ZD) RR, RA, ER, R-1a, R-1b, R-2a, R-2b, R-3 R-4 (sf), R-4, CR
Neighborhood District (ND) RR, RA, ER, R-1a, R-1b, R-2a, R-2b, R-3 R-4 (sf), R-4, CR
Urban/Low Density District (ULD) All districts listed for ND, plus R-6 (sf), R-6 (tf), R-6, CR
Urban/High Density
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District (UHD) R-6 (sf), R-6 (tf), R-6, B-1, B-2, B-3
Special District B-4, MR, OR, TR, M-1, M-2
The following pages are provided for the guide/tables in Policy 1.2. The definition of terms are also provided as a guide in assisting the County with the uses specified. These pages are from the SmartCode v. 9.0 and The Lexicon of the New Urbanism, Duany Plater-Zyberk & Co. Version 3.1.
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 HOUSING ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
HOUSING The “American Dream” for every family is to have a comfortable home to rent or buy in a safe neighborhood that is available, within the family budget and that is reasonably close to the wage earner’s place of employment. Unfortunately, for many families throughout Southern Alabama, it is not currently possible to fulfill that dream, because they are unable to find adequate housing that they can afford even given the historically low mortgage interest rates.
Influenced by a number of factors including changes in demographic trends, income growth, availability of developable land and housing construction costs, the need for housing has reached what some feel is a crisis proportion. The steepest decline in home ownership nationwide has been in the 25-34 year old age cohort. The members of this group are the most likely to be first time homebuyers. The fact that home ownership is not only tenure; it is a way of life. Community stability and a sense of neighborhood are corollaries of home ownership that are important both for individuals and for Baldwin County.
Nationwide major demographic changes continue to result in more households, smaller households, an increased elderly population, and other changes to household composition. The new, dominant configurations of household growth are divided in the following way: 1.) 25 percent married families, and 2.) 75 percent single parent families and non-family households. The housing needs of these different groups, many of who account for a large share of low and moderate-income households, are currently not being met by the private sector. Also, the normal filtration process, in which existing housing filters down to households at a lower economic level or to the poor, has been greatly constrained by the increasing number of smaller households that have formed as well as competition from the baby-boom generation.1
Baldwin County Housing Inventory- 2000
Baldwin County had 74,285 housing units in 2000 of which 75% are occupied. Of the occupied units roughly 80% are owner occupied while 20% are renter occupied, as shown in Table 1.
Table 1. Housing Occupancy, 2000 2000 2000 Number Percent Total Housing Units 74,285 100.0% Occupied Housing Units 55,336 74.5% Owner Occupied Units 44,016 79.5% Renter Occupied Units 11,320 20.5% Vacant Housing Units 18,949 25.5% Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
1 George Sternlieb and James W. Hughes, “Private Market Provision of Low Income Housing: Historical Perspective and Future Prospects,” Housing Policy Debate 2:2 (1991):123-156.
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There were almost 19,000 vacant residential units in the County in 2000. Of the vacant units 17% were for rent and 8% for sale. Sixty-three percent (63%) were seasonal units reflecting the County’s strong visitor market. Table 2. Vacancy Characteristics, 2000 Baldwin County 2000 Units Total: 18,949 100.0% For rent 3,244 17.1% For sale only 1,488 7.9% Rented or sold, not occu 516 2.7% For seasonal, recreationa 11,862 62.6% For migrant workers 30 0.2% Other vacant 1,809 9.5%
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
According to the 2000 Census, Baldwin County had 74,285 residential units of which 61% were single family detached units. The County had 13,127 mobile homes (18%) and 7,882 apartments of 20 or more units (11%).
Table 3. Baldwin County Total Housing Units by Structure Number Percent Total housing units 74,285 100 UNITS IN STRUCTURE 1-unit, detached 44,984 60.6 1-unit, attached 1,451 2 2 units 1,006 1.4 3 or 4 units 1,834 2.5 5 to 9 units 1,998 2.7 10 to 19 units 1,315 1.8 20 or more units 7,882 10.6 Mobile home 13,127 17.7 Boat, RV, van, etc. 688 0.9 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
The County’s housing inventory is relatively new, with only 20% being built prior to 1970. The 1980s accounted for 23% of the housing stock, while the 1990s accounted for 40% as shown in Figure 1 and Table 34.
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Figure 1. Year Housing Built, as of 2000 Year Housing Built-Baldwin County
30,000 25,000 20,000 15,000 10,000 5,000 Housing Units 0 2005 or 2000 to 19 9 0 t o 19 8 0 t o 19 7 0 t o 19 6 0 t o 19 4 0 t o 19 3 9 or Later 2004 19 9 9 19 8 9 19 7 9 19 6 9 19 5 9 earlier
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000
Table 4. Baldwin County – Year Structure Built, 2000
YEAR STRUCTURE BUILT Number Percent 1999 to March 2000 4,271 5.7 1995 to 1998 14,397 19.4 1990 to 1994 11,152 15 1980 to 1989 17,250 23.2 1970 to 1979 12,393 16.7 1960 to 1969 5,972 8 1940 to 1959 5,963 8 1939 or earlier 2,887 3.9 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
Baldwin County’s housing had a median of 5.3 rooms as shown in Table 5.
Table 5. Baldwin County – by Number of Rooms, 2000 ROOMS Number Percent 1 room 819 1.1 2 rooms 1,962 2.6 3 rooms 5,008 6.7 4 rooms 14,375 19.4 5 rooms 19,253 25.9 6 rooms 14,869 20 7 rooms 8,704 11.7 8 rooms 5,118 6.9 9 or more rooms 4,177 5.6 Median (rooms) 5.3 (X) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
As of the 2000 Census, 21% of the households moved in from January 1, 1999 to March 2000. Another 32% lived in the same household since 1995.
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Table 6. Baldwin County by Household Occupancy Year, 2000 YEAR HOUSEHOLDER MOVED INTO UNIT Number Percent 1999 to March 2000 11,805 21.3 1995 to 1998 17,672 31.9 1990 to 1994 10,146 18.3 1980 to 1989 7,373 13.3 1970 to 1979 4,548 8.2 1969 or earlier 3,792 6.9 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
The median household size for the County was 2.5 persons per household. With 23% comprising 1 person households and 38% comprising 2 person households as shown in Table 7.
Table 7. Baldwin County Household Size, 2000 Baldwin County 2000 Number Total Households 55,336 100.0% 1-person household 12,914 23.3% 2-person household 20,955 37.9% 3-person household 9,287 16.8% 4-person household 7,616 13.8% 5-person household 3,148 5.7%
6-person household 971 1.8% 7+ person household 445 0.8%
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
The median value of owner occupied housing was $122,500 in 2000. Approximately 37% of the County’s housing had a value of under $100,000.
Table 8. Baldwin County by Owner Occupancy, 2000 Specified owner- occupied units Number Percent VALUE 31,082 100 Less than $50,000 1,974 6.4 $50,000 to $99,999 9,412 30.3 $100,000 to $149,999 8,615 27.7 $150,000 to $199,999 4,668 15 $200,000 to $299,999 3,573 11.5 $300,000 to $499,999 2,039 6.6 $500,000 to $999,999 613 2 $1,000,000 or more 188 0.6 Median (dollars) 122,500 (X) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
One indicator of affordability is the number of households spending less than 30% of their income on housing. In 2000, 20% of homeowners paid more than 30% of their income on
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housing; while 14% spent more than 35%, as shown in Table 9.
Table 9. Baldwin County by Owner Costs as a Percentage of Household Income, 1999
SELECTED MONTHLY OWNER COSTS AS A PERCENTAGE OF HOUSEHOLD INCOME IN 1999 Number Percent Less than 15 percent 13,089 42.1 15 to 19 percent 5,173 16.6 20 to 24 percent 3,887 12.5 25 to 29 percent 2,557 8.2 30 to 34 percent 1,755 5.6 35 percent or more 4,387 14.1 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
The median rent of rental housing in Baldwin County in 2000 was $566, with 10% of the rental housing renting for less than $300.
Table 10. Baldwin County by Specified Renter-Occupied Units, 2000
Specified renter-occupied units Number Percent GROSS RENT 11,065 100 Less than $200 525 4.7 $200 to $299 541 4.9 $300 to $499 2,709 24.5 $500 to $749 3,707 33.5 $750 to $999 1,607 14.5 $1,000 to $1,499 584 5.3 $1,500 or more 184 1.7 No cash rent 1,208 10.9 Median (dollars) 566 (X) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
Rental affordability is shown in Table 11. Approximately 33% of the County’s rental households paid more than 30% of their household income on housing; while 26% paid more than 35%.
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Table 11. Baldwin County by Gross Rent-Household Income, 1999 GROSS RENT AS A PERCENTAGE OF HOUSEHOLD INCOME IN 1999 Number Percent Less than 15 percent 2,127 19.2 15 to 19 percent 1,411 12.8 20 to 24 percent 1,448 13.1 25 to 29 percent 968 8.7 30 to 34 percent 806 7.3 35 percent or more 2,898 26.2 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
Most of the County’s housing is standard. Substandard housing is usually measured by overcrowding (more than 1 person per room) or lack of plumbing facilities. As shown in Table 12, 1,333 units had occupancies exceeding 1 person per room; while 264 units had inadequate plumbing.
Table 12. Baldwin County by Selected Characteristics, 2000 SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS Number Percent Lacking complete plumbing facilities 264 0.5 Lacking complete kitchen facilities 286 0.5 No telephone service 1,802 3.3
OCCUPANTS PER ROOM Occupied housing units 55,336 100 1.00 or less 54,003 97.6 1.01 to 1.50 911 1.6 1.51 or more 422 0.8 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000.
Housing Change 2000-2005
Between the 2000 Census and the 2005 American Community Survey, Baldwin County housing increased from 74,285 units to 89,900 units, a gain of 15,615 residential units. At the same time, it gained approximately 3% more rental occupancy, and 1% more vacancy.
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Table 13. Housing Occupancy Characteristics, Baldwin County 2000 2000 2005 2005 Number Percent Number Percent Total Housing Units 74,285 100.0% 89,900 100.0% Occupied Housing Units 55,336 74.5% 66,080 73.5% Owner Occupied Units 44,016 79.5% 50,877 77.0% Renter Occupied Units 11,320 20.5% 15,203 23.0% Vacant Housing Units 18,949 25.5% 23,820 26.5%
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
Between 2000 and 2005, the largest gain in housing was single family detached housing and duplexes. The County also lost 1,763 mobile homes (which could be a sampling error).
Table 14. Units in Structure, Baldwin County 2000 Census 2005 Estimate Units In Structure Number Percent Number Percent 1-unit, detached 44,984 60.6% 59,018 65.6% 1-unit, attached 1,451 2.0% 1,091 1.2% 2 units 1,006 1.4% 1,980 2.2% 3 or 4 units 1,834 2.5% 2,870 3.2% 5 to 9 units 1,998 2.7% 3,214 3.6% 10 to 19 units 1,315 1.8% 1,322 1.5% 20 or more units 7,882 10.6% 8,791 9.8% Mobile home 13,127 17.7% 11,364 12.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 688 0.9% 250 0.3% Total Housing Units 74,285 100.0% 89,900 100.0%
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
Approximately 17% of the County’s housing stock has been built since 2000 (through 2005), as shown in Table 15 and Figure 2.
Table 15. Year Structure Built, Baldwin County
2000 2000 2005 2005 Number Percent Number Percent
2005 or Later - - - - 811 0.9% 2000 to 2004 - - - - 14,323 15.9% 1990 to 1999 29,820 40.1% 28,692 31.9% 1980 to 1989 17,250 23.2% 15,972 17.8% 1970 to 1979 12,393 16.7% 12,637 14.1% 1960 to 1969 5,972 8.0% 6,917 7.7% 1940 to 1959 5,963 8.0% 7,589 8.4% 1939 or earlier 2,887 3.9% 2,959 3.3% Total 74,285 100.0% 89,900 100.0% Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
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Figure 2. Year Structure Built, Baldwin County
Year Housing Built-Baldwin County
Housing Units
30,000 25,000
20,000
15,000 10,000 5,000
0 2005 or 2000 to 1990 to 1980 to 1970 to 1960 to 1940 to 1939 or Later 2004 1999 1989 1979 1969 1959 earlier
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
Following national trends, the size of households has been declining in Baldwin County as shown in Table 16. As of 2005, the average size of the County’s household was 2.43 persons, while family size was 2.89 persons.
Table 16. Average Household and Family Size, 2000-2005 Baldwin County 2000 2005 Change Ave. Household Size 2.50 2.43 -0.07 Average Family Size 2.94 2.89 -0.05
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
Median value of owner occupied housing increased to $146,400 in 2005. It is interesting to note that housing valued at less than $50,000 increased by 2,499 units, between 2000 and 2006.
Table 17. Value of Owner Occupied Housing Units, 2000-2005
2000 2000 2005 2005
Number Percent Number Percent Less than $50,000 1,974 6.4% 4,473 8.8% $50,000 to $99,999 9,412 30.3% 10,286 20.2% $100,000 to $149,999 8,615 27.7% 11,510 22.6% $150,000 to $199,999 4,668 15.0% 8,596 16.9% $200,000 to $299,999 3,573 11.5% 6,639 13.0% $300,000 to $499,999 2,039 6.6% 5,179 10.2% $500,000 to $999,999 613 2.0% 2,947 5.8% $1,000,000 or more 188 0.6% 1,247 2.5% Total Units 31,082 100.0% 50,877 100.0% Median (dollars) $122,500 - - $146,400 - - Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
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Figure 3. Value of Owner Occupied Housing Units-Baldwin County
14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 Number of Units 2,000 0
0 e 0 9 9 9 9 9 9 r 0 9 9 9 9 9 9 o , 9 9 9 9 9 9 0 , , , , , , m
5 9 9 9 9 9 9 r $ 9 4 9 9 9 9 $ 1 1 2 4 9 o n o $ $ $ $ $ 0 a t 0 h o o o o o t t t t t t 0 0 , s 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 s ,0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2000 e 0 0 0 0 0 0 L 0 , , , , , , 5 0 0 0 0 0 1 $ 0 5 0 0 0 $ 1 1 2 3 5 2005 $ $ $ $ $ Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
Between 2000 and 2005 median rent increased from $566 to $662 as of 2005.
Table 18. Baldwin County Rent Levels, 2000-2005 2000 Census 2005 Estimate Total Rental Units 11065 100.0% 15,203 100.0% Less than $200 525 4.7% 336 2.2% $200 to $299 541 4.9% 454 3.0% $300 to $499 2,709 24.5% 748 4.9% $500 to $749 3,707 33.5% 7,613 50.1% $750 to $999 1,607 14.5% 2,409 15.8% $1,000 to $1,499 584 5.3% 1,429 9.4% $1,500 or more 184 1.7% 582 3.8% No cash rent 1,208 10.9% 1,632 10.7% Median (dollars) $566 (X) $662 (X)
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey; Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007.
Housing 2006
The United States Department of Commerce recently released the findings of the 2006 American Community Survey. The results of the 2006 ACS provide up-to-date statistics for Baldwin County. The Census estimates that the County had a 2006 population of 169,162 residents as of July 1, 2006. At the same time the number of housing units increased to 93,400 units, an increase of 3,500 units over 2005.
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Table 19. Population and Housing Changes, 1990-2006 Year 1990 2000 2005 2006 Amt. Chg Percent Population 98,280 140,415 162,749 169,162 70,882 72.1% HH Pop. 97,144 138,141 160,354 166,762 69,618 71.7% Households 37,044 55,336 66,080 68,910 31,866 86.0% Persons/HH 2.62 2.50 2.43 2.42 -0.20 -7.7% Housing Units 50,933 74,285 89,900 93,400 42,467 83.4%
Source: US Census 2000 and 2005 American Community Survey, 2006 Census and Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
Of the County’s estimated 96,349 total housing units, 73% are occupied and 27% are vacant, as of 2006.
Table 20. Housing Occupancy, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 96,349 +/-140 Occupied 70,427 73.10% +/-2,608 Vacant 25,922 26.90% +/-2,686 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
Owner occupied housing represents 74% of the County’s occupied housing and renters occupied 26% of the occupied housing.
Table 21. Occupied Housing Tenure, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 70,427 +/-2,608 Owner occupied 52,418 74.43% +/-2,703 Renter occupied 18,009 25.57% +/-2,762 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
Most of the County’s vacant housing is held for seasonal use as well as for rent as shown in Table 22.
Table 22. Type of Vacant Housing, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 25,922 +/-2,686 For rent 5,434 20.96% +/-1,440 Rented, not occupied 1,967 7.59% +/-1,012 For sale only 977 3.77% +/-672 Sold, not occupied 1,327 5.12% +/-780 For seasonal, recreational, or occasional use 11,124 42.91% +/-1,887 For migrant workers 185 0.71% +/-300 Other vacant 4,908 18.93% +/-1,613 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
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As shown in Table 23, the age of householder differs in owner occupied housing as compared to renters. Owner occupied householders tend to be older, with only 14% of householders being less than 35 years old or older. Renters tend to be younger with 46% of the renters being less than 35 years of age.
Table 23. Age Characteristics of Occupied Households, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 70,427 +/-2,608 Owner occupied: 52,418 74.43% +/-2,703 Householder 15 to 24 years 1,103 2.10% +/-834 Householder 25 to 34 years 6,348 12.11% +/-1,223 Householder 35 to 44 years 9,166 17.49% +/-1,376 Householder 45 to 54 years 10,776 20.56% +/-1,058 Householder 55 to 59 years 5,030 9.60% +/-822 Householder 60 to 64 years 5,111 9.75% +/-887 Householder 65 to 74 years 7,355 14.03% +/-833 Householder 75 to 84 years 6,007 11.46% +/-962 Householder 85 years and over 1,522 2.90% +/-596 Renter occupied: 18,009 25.57% +/-2,762 Householder 15 to 24 years 3,225 17.91% +/-1,270 Householder 25 to 34 years 5,119 28.42% +/-1,432 Householder 35 to 44 years 3,134 17.40% +/-960 Householder 45 to 54 years 2,762 15.34% +/-883 Householder 55 to 59 years 340 1.89% +/-324 Householder 60 to 64 years 761 4.23% +/-398 Householder 65 to 74 years 1,215 6.75% +/-564 Householder 75 to 84 years 1,095 6.08% +/-553 Householder 85 years and over 358 1.99% +/-279 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
The majority of the County’s housing stock is single family detached housing (59%). Mobile homes account for almost 18%. Apartments of 50+ units accounted for 8% of the County’s housing.
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Table 24. Structure of Housing, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 96,349 +/-140 1, detached 57,081 59.24% +/-2,784 1, attached 1,954 2.03% +/-949 2 950 0.99% +/-557 3 or 4 1,875 1.95% +/-858 5 to 9 4,478 4.65% +/-1,610 10 to 19 2,226 2.31% +/-1,022 20 to 49 2,990 3.10% +/-896 50 or more 7,403 7.68% +/-1,544 Mobile home 17,032 17.68% +/-2,417 Boat, RV, van, etc. 360 0.37% +/-267 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
Occupancy per room is one of the measures of substandard housing. As shown in Table 25, 651 owner occupied homes had greater than 1.01 persons per room; while rentals having 1.01 persons or greater accounted for 664 units.
Table 25. Occupancy Characteristics of Housing, 2006
Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 70,427 +/-2,608 Owner occupied: 52,418 74.43% +/-2,703 0.50 or less occupants per room 37,910 72.32% +/-2,200 0.51 to 1.00 occupants per room 13,857 26.44% +/-1,933 1.01 to 1.50 occupants per room 588 1.12% +/-477 1.51 to 2.00 occupants per room 63 0.12% +/-104 2.01 or more occupants per room 0 0.00% +/-265 Renter occupied: 18,009 25.57% +/-2,762 0.50 or less occupants per room 10,143 56.32% +/-2,118 0.51 to 1.00 occupants per room 7,202 39.99% +/-1,545 1.01 to 1.50 occupants per room 455 2.53% +/-463 1.51 to 2.00 occupants per room 209 1.16% +/-218 2.01 or more occupants per room 0 0.00% +/-265
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
The County’s housing stock is relatively young. Only 14% of the County’s housing stock was built before 1970 and 23% has been built since 2000, as shown in Table 26.
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Table 26. Age of Housing, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 96,349 +/-140 Built 2005 or later 2,281 2.37% +/-805 Built 2000 to 2004 19,489 20.23% +/-2,012 Built 1990 to 1999 30,225 31.37% +/-2,738 Built 1980 to 1989 18,723 19.43% +/-2,246 Built 1970 to 1979 11,969 12.42% +/-1,923 Built 1960 to 1969 5,485 5.69% +/-1,349 Built 1950 to 1959 4,003 4.15% +/-991 Built 1940 to 1949 1,852 1.92% +/-623 Built 1939 or earlier 2,322 2.41% +/-811 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
Another measure of substandard housing is lack of plumbing facilities. In 2006, it is estimated that 2% or 1,720 units lack complete plumbing facilities, as shown in Table 27.
Table 27. Total Housing that Lack Complete Plumbing Facilities, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 96,349 +/-140 Complete plumbing facilities 94,629 98.21% +/-891 Lacking complete plumbing facilities 1,720 1.79% +/-903 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
Of the County’s occupied housing, only 124 residential units lack complete plumbing facilities as shown in Table 28.
Table 28. Occupied Housing Lacking Complete Plumbing Facilities, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 70,427 +/-2,608 Complete plumbing facilities 70,303 99.82% +/-2,603 Lacking complete plumbing facilities 124 0.18% +/-153 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
The County has over 12,000 (23%) owner occupied housing with a value of less than $100,000.
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Table 29. Value of Owner Occupied Housing, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 52,418 +/-2,703 Less than $10,000 399 0.76% +/-301 $10,000 to $14,999 979 1.87% +/-602 $15,000 to $19,999 140 0.27% +/-134 $20,000 to $24,999 563 1.07% +/-429 $25,000 to $29,999 955 1.82% +/-423 $30,000 to $34,999 307 0.59% +/-245 $35,000 to $39,999 475 0.91% +/-383 $40,000 to $49,999 507 0.97% +/-401 $50,000 to $59,999 1,775 3.39% +/-641 $60,000 to $69,999 550 1.05% +/-303 $70,000 to $79,999 1,517 2.89% +/-693 $80,000 to $89,999 1,599 3.05% +/-688 $90,000 to $99,999 2,300 4.39% +/-702 $100,000 to $124,999 5,754 10.98% +/-1,445 $125,000 to $149,999 4,567 8.71% +/-1,043 $150,000 to $174,999 5,548 10.58% +/-1,396 $175,000 to $199,999 3,198 6.10% +/-737 $200,000 to $249,999 7,297 13.92% +/-1,447 $250,000 to $299,999 2,599 4.96% +/-865 $300,000 to $399,999 4,662 8.89% +/-811 $400,000 to $499,999 2,893 5.52% +/-844 $500,000 to $749,999 2,267 4.32% +/-642 $750,000 to $999,999 836 1.59% +/-355 $1,000,000 or more 731 1.39% +/-360 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
According to the 2006 ACS, Baldwin County had 4,660 rental units with rents less than $500 per month. Table 30 shows the general distribution of rents as of 2006.
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Table 30. Rental Rates, 2006 Margin of Number Percent Error Total: 18,009 +/-2,762 With cash rent: 15,526 +/-2,602 Less than $100 240 1.55% +/-288 $100 to $149 205 1.32% +/-192 $150 to $199 143 0.92% +/-142 $200 to $249 280 1.80% +/-417 $250 to $299 331 2.13% +/-237 $300 to $349 1,180 7.60% +/-888 $350 to $399 536 3.45% +/-551 $400 to $449 1,186 7.64% +/-586 $450 to $499 559 3.60% +/-408 $500 to $549 1,095 7.05% +/-581 $550 to $599 1,125 7.25% +/-439 $600 to $649 1,080 6.96% +/-998 $650 to $699 1,541 9.93% +/-653 $700 to $749 718 4.62% +/-491 $750 to $799 65 0.42% +/-104 $800 to $899 1,644 10.59% +/-879 $900 to $999 938 6.04% +/-609 $1,000 to $1,249 1,493 9.62% +/-931 $1,250 to $1,499 199 1.28% +/-311 $1,500 to $1,999 508 3.27% +/-414 $2,000 or more 460 2.96% +/-308 No cash rent 2,483 +/-1,011 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey
Building Permit Data
Local building permit data is also used to estimate changes from the decennial census and reflect current housing construction. As shown in Table 31, apartments and condominiums represent the highest number of housing permits issued in 2006. This represents developers utilizing Federal Katrina Housing grants. Single family permits were almost equal to apartments.
Table 31. Building Permits, 2006 2006 Estimates with Imputation Item Buildings Units Construction Cost Single Family 2,776 2,776 478,261,795 Two Family 11 22 3,151,565 Three and Four Family 8 31 4,348,361 Five or More Family 128 2,857 635,130,916 Total 2,923 5,686 1,120,892,637 Source: US Census Bureau, 2007; Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
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Over the 2001-2006 periods, single family permits doubled versus apartments/condos as shown in Table 32.
Table 32. Building Permits, 2001-2006 2001-2006 Estimates with Imputation Item Buildings Units Construction Cost Single Family 17,039 17,039 2,285,833,596 Two Family 86 172 17,504,413 Three and Four Family 33 130 13,828,111 Five or More Family 243 8,030 1,469,930,873 Total 17,401 25,371 3,787,096,993 Source: US Census Bureau, 2007; Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
Table 33 provides current housing statistics for Baldwin County. Sales average 215 homes while listings averaged 5,999 homes, reflecting the current weakness in the local market. At current rates it will take over two years to absorb the existing inventory of homes within the County (assuming no new construction). It should be noted that October did exhibit a small improvement in sales and reduction of inventory from a month earlier. Using annual statistics; however, the 2007 year to date sales would indicate an absorption of less than one year.
Table 33. Current Housing Statistics, October 2007 Total Homes Total Homes Average Average Days Sold Listed Selling Price on the Market Current Month-October-07 222 5,908 274,533 190 Last Month - September-07 210 6,090 281,043 168 % Difference 5.71% -2.99% -2.32% 13.10% Last Year - October 06 245 6,041 309,794 132 % Difference -9.39% -2.20% -11.38% 43.94% YTD October-07 2,633 63,240 282,416 162 YTD October-06 2,781 59,254 294,720 146 % Difference -5.32% 6.73% -4.17% 11.47% Source: Alabama Center for Real Estate, 2007
HUD produces affordability indices annually. Table 34 shows the income distribution by deciles. The fifth decile shows the County’s median family income at $52,000. Most federal and state housing programs are oriented to households earning 30%, 50% or 80% of the County’s median family income.
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Table 34. HUD Family Income Distribution, 2007 Year 2007 1999 1st $17,400 $15,739 2nd $27,900 $25,180 3rd $35,900 $32,436 4th $43,800 $39,636 5th $52,000 $47,030 6th $61,700 $55,794 7th $73,200 $66,179 8th $88,700 $80,170 9th $119,100 $107,652 9.5th $161,100 $145,623 Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2007
Affordability is also analyzed by size of households, with larger households having higher income qualifications, as shown in Table 35.
Table 35. Affordable Housing Limits by HUD standards, 2007 Very Low Low- 30% Income Inome 1 Person $12,200 $20,350 $32,550 2 Person $13,950 $23,250 $37,200 3 Person $15,700 $26,150 $41,850 4 Person $17,450 $29,050 $46,500 5 Person $18,850 $31,350 $50,200 6 Person $20,250 $33,700 $53,950 7 Person $21,650 $36,000 $57,650 8 Person $23,050 $38,350 $61,400 Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2007
Prior to the recent housing market bust and sub-prime mortgage crises, the majority of state and federal housing assistance was oriented to ownership housing. However, due largely to the sub- prime mortgage collapse, there is now a renewed interest in rental housing construction. The corollary to this is that not everyone is prepared for home ownership.
Based on Federal HUD data, the fair market rent for a two bedroom apartment within Baldwin County is $636 per month.
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Table 36. Fair Market Rents, FY 2008 Final FY 2008 FMRs by Unit Bedrooms Final FY 2008 FMR Efficiency $480 One Bedroom $577 Two Bedroom $686 Three Bedroom $910 Four Bedroom $1,041 Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 2007
This section addresses the issue of affordability of housing within Baldwin County.
Affordability
Affordable Housing has been a major national issue since the passage of the national Housing Act of 1949. Most of the national and state interest in affordable housing as been in what FHUD refers to as those households earning 80% or less than the local average median income (AMI). Since the housing boom which started in 2002-3, the cost of housing escalated to the point that those families earning 80% to 120% of the AMI could not afford housing. At the point when teachers, police and firemen, and other municipal and county staff could not afford housing nor could new job holders, workforce housing became a national issue.
The National Low Income Housing Coalition published articles on housing affordability nationally at the county level. The following data from NLIHC’s Out of Reach, 2006, presents affordability statistics for Baldwin County. Table 36 shows the 2006 median income for Alabama and Baldwin County. Note that Baldwin County’s 2006 median income is substantially higher than HUD’s 2007 estimates (Table 33). This is due to a change in methodology. This change has come under criticism and most studies are continuing to use 2006 as a base point.
The significance of Table 37 with respect to affordability is the 30% of AMI figure. This is the figure that HUD and most other governmental agencies use to determine affordability, i.e. no household should spend more than 30% of its income on housing.
Table 37. Median Income, 2006 2006 Area Median Income1 Baldwin Alabama County Annual $51,784 $58,100 Monthly $4,315 $4,842 2 30% of AMI $15,535 $17,430 Source: NLIHC Our of Reach, 2007
Table 38 shows the affordable housing cost for households earning 30% to 100% of the County’s AMI. Families earning 80% of the median family income should not spend more than $1,162 on
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housing while those earning the median income should not expend more than $1,453 for housing.
Table 38. Affordable Monthly Housing Cost, 2006 Maximum Affordable 3 Monthly Housing Cost by % of Family AMI Baldwin Alabama County 30% $388 $436 50% $647 $726 80% $1,036 $1,162 100% $1,295 $1,453 Source: NLIHC Our of Reach, 2007
Based on Federal HUD data, the average or fair market rent for a two bedroom rental in Baldwin County is $644 which is affordable to households with incomes of 50% or more of the County median family income.
Table 39. Fair Market Rents, 2007 2007 Fair Market Rent (FMR)4 Baldwin Alabama County Zero-Bedroom $423 $450 One-Bedroom $472 $542 Two-Bedroom $549 $644 Three-Bedroom $715 $854 Four-Bedroom $804 $978 Source: NLIHC Our of Reach, 2007
It takes a household with an income of $25,760 to afford a two bedroom house or $39,120 for a four bedroom house, as shown in Table 40.
Table 40. Household Income to Support Baldwin County’s FMR Annual Income Needed to Afford FMR Baldwin Alabama County Zero-Bedroom $16,919 $18,000 One-Bedroom $18,893 $21,680 Two-Bedroom $21,946 $25,760 Three-Bedroom $28,614 $34,160 Four-Bedroom $32,177 $39,120 Source: NLIHC Our of Reach, 2007
Rental households usually have less income than owner occupied households. One reason is that homeowners tend to have more than one wage earner and they tend to be older and thus having higher earning potential. For renters, the estimated median income is $32,713 versus the countywide median of $58,100. The median affordable rent is $818 which accounts for 59% of the renter; but conversely 41% of the renters are unable to afford the FMR.
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Table 41. Renter Affordability, 2006 2006 Renter Household Income Baldwin Alabama County Estimated Median5 $24,640 $32,713 Percent Needed to Afford 2 BR FMR 89% 79% Rent Affordable at Median $616 $818 2 6 % Renters Unable to Afford BR FMR 45% 41% Source: NLIHC Our of Reach, 2007
Another measure of affordability is what is referred to as the Housing Wage. In 2007, the housing wage for a two-bedroom home was $12.38 or $25,750. This housing wage does not necessarily translate to job wage as most households have more than one wage earner.
Table 42. Housing Wage, 2007 Housing Wage Baldwin Alabama County Zero-Bedroom $8.13 $8.65 One-Bedroom $9.08 $10.42 Two-Bedroom $10.55 $12.38 Three-Bedroom $13.76 $16.42 Four-Bedroom $15.47 $18.81 Source: NLIHC Our of Reach, 2007
Based on FHUD’s 2007 Median Income of only $52,000, a median household can not afford the median price of a home for sale in the County. In order to purchase a $219,400 home, it would require a household income of $54,551, which represents an affordability index of 95.3 – a drop since Second Quarter 2007, as shown in Table 43.
Table 43. Alabama Housing Affordability Index, 2007
Alabama Housing Affordability Index - 3rd Q 2007 & 2nd Q 2007 Metro Area Median Income $52,000 Median Sales Price $219,400 L/V 80% $175,520 Monthly Payment 6.73% $1,136 Annual Payment $13,638 Required Income $54,551 AHA Index 3Q 2007 95.3 AHA Index 2Q 2007 98.8 % Difference -3.54% Source: The Alabama Center for Real Estate, 2007
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Housing Projections
Based on the TischlerBise Impact Fee Study, and the population figures already presented, SPG prepared a housing forecast through 2025 as shown in Table 44. SPG projected that the unincorporated parts of the County should contain 73,146 permanent housing units of which 58,471 are single family detached. It assumes that an additional 25,936 single family units will be built over this time period, without factoring in rising housing or transportation costs. Should these cost continue to rise as has been the case over the last 24 months, then one should expect fewer single family detached housing and more attached housing including Townhomes, condos, and mixed use developments.
Table 44. Housing Projections, 2007-2025 Projection Year Base Year 1 2 3 4 5 10 13 18 Year 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2017 2020 2025 Countywide Single Family Detached 75,212 77,655 80,098 82,541 84,984 87,427 99,643 106,972 121,349 All Other Housing Units 20,934 21,614 22,294 22,974 23,654 24,334 27,733 29,773 33,774 Total 96,146 99,269 102,392 105,515 108,638 111,761 127,376 136,745 155,123 Unincorporated Single Family Detached 42,535 43,909 45,282 46,656 48,030 49,403 56,272 60,393 68,471 All Other Housing Units 2,905 2,998 3,092 3,186 3,280 3,374 3,843 4,124 4,675 Total 45,440 46,907 48,374 49,842 51,310 52,777 60,115 64,517 73,146 Source: TishlerBise 2007; Strategic Planning Group, Inc. 2007
Figure 4 shows graphically the projected growth in housing within the County. It shows countywide totals and unincorporated totals. The unincorporated totals are based on 2006 municipal boundaries and do not take into account extra jurisdictional municipal lands.
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Figure 4. Occupied Housing Projections, 2007-2025
Occupied Housing Projections
Countywide Unincorporated
160,000
140,000
120,000
100,000
80,000
60,000
40,000
Number of Occupied Housing Units Occupied Housing of Number 20,000
0 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2017 2020 2025
Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
Table 45. Population and Housing Projections for Study Area 1. Study Area 1 2006 68% 2020 Unincorp. Change Population 28,717 19,465 34,805 23,592 4,127 Housing 10,676 7,236 13,613 9,227 1,991 Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
Table 46. Population and Housing Projections for Study Area 2.
Study Area 2 2006 30% 2020 Unincorp. Change Population 37,631 11,176 77,116 22,903 11,727 Housing 15,736 4,673 32,204 9,564 4,891 Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
Table 47. Population and Housing Projections for Study Area 3.
Study Area 3 2006 77% 2020 Unincorp. Change Population 27,303 21,101 37,420 28,920 7,819
Housing 10,132 7,830 14,457 11,173 3,343 Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
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Table 48. Population and Housing Projections for Study Area 4.
Study Area 4 2006 85% 2020 Unincorp. Change
Population 52,724 44,614 78,386 66,328 21,715 Housing 23,093 19,541 36,041 30,497 10,956
Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
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APPENDIX
Table A1. Population and Housing Projections by Tract TAZ and Study Area, 1990-2025.
Cenus Tract TAZ Study Area 1990 2000 2006 2010 2020 2025 1990 Population Households Population Households Population Households Population Households Population Households Population Households Population 101 1 1 3,641 1,343 4,161 1,600 4,607 1,809 4,988 2,759 6,120 3,305 6,958 3,763 966 102 2 1 2,000 734 2,634 980 3,004 1,137 3,169 1,753 4,189 2,167 4,762 2,466 1,004 103 3 1 5,385 1,728 6,511 2,286 7,240 2,621 7,271 4,022 9,622 4,895 10,939 5,573 1,855 104 4 1 3,161 1,023 4,442 1,578 4,952 1,783 4,889 2,704 6,657 3,187 7,568 3,629 1,791 105 5 1 4,047 1,519 4,566 1,739 4,909 1,906 5,188 2,870 6,043 3,315 6,870 3,774 862 106 6 1 3,391 1,091 3,724 1,294 4,005 1,420 3,861 2,135 5,049 2,458 5,740 2,798 614 107.01 7 2 3,785 1,526 6,510 2,433 8,085 3,040 8,758 4,844 12,772 6,495 14,520 7,394 4,300 107.03 8 2 2,499 869 5,305 1,843 6,640 2,331 6,744 3,730 10,601 5,052 12,052 5,751 4,141 107.04 9 2 3,394 1,320 4,832 1,834 5,625 2,142 5,994 3,315 7,771 4,132 8,835 4,703 2,231 107.05 10 2 4,217 1,897 6,003 2,634 6,949 3,093 8,672 4,796 9,913 6,011 11,269 6,843 2,732 108 11 2 5,240 1,753 6,254 2,298 7,012 2,643 7,339 4,059 9,474 4,961 10,771 5,647 1,772 109.01 12 3 5,994 2,158 9,646 3,377 11,475 4,140 11,737 6,492 16,976 8,370 19,299 9,528 5,481 109.02 13 3 5,922 2,196 9,208 3,451 10,973 4,171 11,843 6,551 16,353 8,475 18,591 9,648 5,051 110 14 3 2,245 787 4,095 1,513 4,855 1,821 5,163 2,856 7,183 3,681 8,166 4,191 2,610 111 15 2 4,231 1,540 7,524 2,941 9,355 3,737 10,827 5,989 14,790 8,141 16,814 9,268 5,124 112.01 16 2 3,425 1,407 4,186 1,876 4,492 2,069 5,639 3,119 5,633 3,610 6,404 4,110 1,067 112.02 17 2 5,813 2,354 5,405 2,351 5,633 2,499 6,696 3,703 6,669 4,073 7,582 4,637 -180 113 18 2 2,862 1,096 3,665 1,458 4,190 1,695 4,735 2,619 5,866 3,247 6,668 3,696 1,328 114.01 19 4 4,566 1,638 6,911 2,675 8,432 3,317 9,518 5,264 13,006 6,990 14,785 7,957 3,866 114.03 20 4 2,580 1,079 4,260 1,853 5,706 2,539 7,572 4,188 9,914 6,075 11,270 6,916 3,126 114.04 21 4 6,024 2,710 9,947 4,651 13,486 6,450 19,170 10,603 23,386 15,263 26,586 17,375 7,462 115 22 4 7,517 2,726 10,153 4,159 12,271 5,151 14,777 8,173 18,668 10,850 21,223 12,352 4,754 116 23 4 6,341 2,632 10,473 4,512 12,829 5,636 16,216 8,969 19,890 11,993 22,612 13,653 6,488 98,280 37,126 140,415 55,336 166,725 67,150 190,765 105,515 246,546 136,745 280,284 155,671 68,445
Source: Strategic Planning Group, Inc., 2007
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DP-1: Profile of General Demographic Characteristics: 2000 Data Set: Census 2000 Summary File 2 (SF 2) 100-Percent Data Geographic Area: Baldwin County, Alabama Universe: Total population Subject Number Percent Subject Number Percent
Total population………………………………… 140,415 100 HOUSEHOLDS BY TYPE Households……………………………………… 55,336 100 SEX AND AGE Family households (families)……………………… 40,260 72.8 Male………………………………………………. 68,848 49 With own children under 18 years………………… 17,411 31.5 Female……………………………………………. 71,567 51 Married-couple family…………………………….. 32,839 59.3 With own children under 18 years………………… 13,266 24 Under 5 years……………………………………. 8,621 6.1 Female householder, no husband present…………. 5,670 10.2 5 to 9 years……………………………………….. 9,486 6.8 With own children under 18 years………………… 3,252 5.9 10 to 14 years…………………………………….. 10,144 7.2 Nonfamily households…………………………….. 15,076 27.2 15 to 19 years…………………………………… 9,463 6.7 Householder living alone………………………….. 12,914 23.3 20 to 24 years…………………………………….. 7,092 5.1 Householder 65 years and over…………………… 5,251 9.5 25 to 34 years…………………………………….. 17,020 12.1 35 to 44 years…………………………………….. 21,908 15.6 Households with individuals under 18 years………. 19,076 34.5 45 to 54 years…………………………………….. 19,609 14 Households with individuals 65 years and over…… 15,108 27.3 55 to 59 years…………………………………… 8,276 5.9 60 to 64 years…………………………………….. 7,093 5.1 Average household size………………………….. 2.5 (X) 65 to 74 years…………………………………….. 12,355 8.8 Average family size………………………………. 2.94 (X) 75 to 84 years…………………………………….. 7,184 5.1 85 years and over…………………………………. 2,164 1.5 HOUSING TENURE Occupied housing units………………………… 55,336 100 Median age (years)……………………………….. 39 (X) Owner-occupied housing units……………………. 44,016 79.5 Renter-occupied housing units……………………. 11,320 20.5 18 years and over…………...……………………. 106,095 75.6 Male………………………………………………. 51,170 36.4 Average household size of owner-occupied unit…. 2.55 (X) Female……………………………………………. 54,925 39.1 Average household size of renter-occupied unit… 2.29 (X) 21 years and over…………..……………….……. 101,183 72.1 62 years and over………………………...………. 25,887 18.4 65 years and over…………………..……………. 21,703 15.5 Male………………………………………………. 9,810 7 Female……………………………………………. 11,893 8.5
RELATIONSHIP Population……………………………………….. 140,415 100 In households…………………………………….. 138,141 98.4 Householder………………………………………. 55,336 39.4 Spouse…………………………………………….. 32,839 23.4 Child………………….…………………………… 39,571 28.2
Own child under 18 years………………………… 31,130 22.2 Other relatives……………………………………. 5,870 4.2 Under 18 years…………………………………. 2,621 1.9 Nonrelatives……………………………………… 4,525 3.2 Unmarried partner……………………………….. 2,036 1.4 In group quarters…………………………………. 2,274 1.6 Institutionalized population……………………….. 1,654 1.2 Noninstitutionalized population…………...………. 620 0.4 (X) Not applicable NOTE: For information on confidentiality protection, nonsampling error,
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Table DP-2: Profile of Selected Social Characteristics: 2000 Data Set: Census 2000 Summary File 3 (SF 3) - Sample Data Geographic Area: Baldwin County, Alabama Subject Number Percent Subject Number Percent SCHOOL ENROLLMENT NATIVITY AND PLACE OF BIRTH Population 3 years and over enrolled in school…….……….. 32,637 100 Total population…………………………………. 140,415 100 Nursery school, preschool………………………….…..………. 2,124 6.5 Native………………………………………………. 137,458 97.9 Kindergarten………………………………………………….…. 1,932 5.9 Born in United States……………………………… 136,346 97.1 Elementary school (grades 1-8)…………………………...……. 16,275 49.9 State of residence…………………………………. 81,709 58.2 High school (grades 9-12)………………………………………. 7,598 23.3 Different state…………………………………..… 54,637 38.9 College or graduate school………………………………...……. 4,708 14.4 Born outside United States…………..…………… 1,112 0.8 Foreign born……………………………………… 2,957 2.1 EDUCATIONAL ATTAINMENT Entered 1990 to March 2000………………..…… 1,559 1.1 Population 25 years and over………………………..….…….. 96,010 100 Naturalized citizen………………………………… 1,143 0.8 Less than 9th grade…………………………………....………… 4,197 4.4 Not a citizen……………………………………… 1,814 1.3 9th to 12th grade, no diploma…………………...……….……… 13,061 13.6 High school graduate (includes equivalency)……………...……. 28,428 29.6 REGION OF BIRTH OF FOREIGN BORN Some college, no degree……………………………...………… 22,456 23.4 Total (excluding born at sea)…………………….. 2,957 100 Associate degree………………………………………...………. 5,722 6 Europe………………………………….……….……. 1,049 35.5 Bachelor's degree…………………………………………...…… 14,225 14.8 Asia……………………………………………..…… 456 15.4 Graduate or professional degree…………………………...……. 7,921 8.3 Africa………………………………………………… 40 1.4 Oceania………………………….…………………… 45 1.5 Percent high school graduate or higher…………………..……… 82 (X) Latin America………………………….….……… 1,011 34.2 Percent bachelor's degree or higher………………..……………. 23.1 (X) Northern America……………..………...………… 356 12
MARITAL STATUS LANGUAGE SPOKEN AT HOME Population 15 years and over………………..…….….……… 112,144 100 Population 5 years and over…………………….. 131,862 100 Never married…………………………………..…..….………… 20,626 18.4 English only…………………………………..…… 126,636 96 Now married, except separated ……………………....…………. 69,752 62.2 Language other than English………………….....… 5,226 4 Separated…………………………………………...……………. 1,653 1.5 Speak English less than 'very well…………………. 1,724 1.3 Widowed………………………………………………...………. 7,741 6.9 Spanish………………………………………..…….. 2,989 2.3 Female…………………………………………………...………. 6,312 5.6 Speak English less than "very well"………………… 1,114 0.8 Divorced……………………………………………………...….. 12,372 11 Other Indo-European languages…………………… 1,816 1.4 Female………………………………………………...………….. 6,705 6 Speak English less than "very well"……...……….... 392 0.3 Asian and Pacific Island languages………………… 339 0.3 GRANDPARENTS AS CAREGIVERS Speak English less than "very well"………...……… 186 0.1 Grandparent living in household with one or more own grandchildren under 18 years……………………….……….. 2,360 100 Grandparent responsible for grandchildren……………..…...….. 1,291 54.7 ANCESTRY (single or multiple) Total population………………………………… 140,415 100 VETERAN STATUS Total ancestries reported …………...…….…..… 124,847 88.9 Civilian population 18 years and over………………………. 105,898 100 Arab…………………………………………………. 156 0.1 Civilian veterans………………………………………...……….. 18,823 17.8 Czech1………………………………………………. 1,236 0.9 Danish………………………………………………. 476 0.3 DISABILITY STATUS OF THE CIVILIAN Dutch……………………………………………….. 2,031 1.4 Population 5 to 20 years………………………………………. 30,495 100 English………………………………………………. 16,433 11.7 With a disability…………………………………………..……… 2,512 8.2 French (except Basque)1………………...……… 4,332 3.1 French Canadian1…………………………...…… 687 0.5 Population 21 to 64 years……………………………………… 78,496 100 German……………………………….……………. 15,713 11.2 With a disability…………………………………………………. 17,372 22.1 Greek……………………………………………….. 410 0.3 Percent employed……………………………………………….. 58.8 (X) Hungarian…………………………………………… 238 0.2 No disability…………………………………………………….. 61,124 77.9 Irish1……………………………………………….. 14,863 10.6 Percent employed……………………………………………….. 75.5 (X) Italian……………………………………………….. 3,789 2.7 Lithuanian…………………………………………… 121 0.1 Population 65 years and over………………………………….. 21,012 100 Norwegian………………………….….…………… 1,085 0.8 With a disability…………………………………………………. 8,809 41.9 Polish……………………………………………….. 1,569 1.1 Portuguese………………………………..………… 125 0.1 RESIDENCE IN 1995 Russian………………………….….………..……… 320 0.2 Population 5 years and over…………………………………. 131,862 100 Scotch-Irish…………………………………….… 4,984 3.5 Same house in 1995……………………………………………. 70,099 53.2 Scottish…………………………………………….. 3,192 2.3 Different house in the U.S. in 1995…………….……………… 60,109 45.6 Slovak………………………………………………. 90 0.1 Same county……………………………………………………. 28,868 21.9 Subsaharan African………………………………… 846 0.6 Different county……………………………………………….. 31,241 23.7 Swedish…………………………………………….. 1,480 1.1 Same state……………………………………….…….………. 12,467 9.5 Swiss……………………………………………….. 227 0.2 Different state…………………………………………………. 18,774 14.2 Ukrainian……………………………………………. 100 0.1 Elsewhere in 1995………………………………..……………. 1,654 1.3 United States or American………………………… 21,464 15.3 Welsh……………………………………………….. 723 0.5 West Indian (excluding Hispanic groups)……….. 32 0 Other ancestries…………………………………… 28,125 20
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Table DP-3: Profile of Selected Economic Characteristics: 2000 Data Set: Census 2000 Summary File 3 (SF 3) - Sample Data Geographic Area: Baldwin County, Alabama Subject Number Percent Subject Number Percent
EMPLOYMENT STATUS INCOME IN 1999 Population 16 years and over……………………………. 110,255 100 Households…………………………………….. 55,356 100 In labor force…………………………….………………… 65,960 59.8 Less than $10,000………………………………. 4,874 8.8 Civilian labor force…………………………………………. 65,751 59.6 $10,000 to $14,999…………………………… 3,834 6.9 Employed………………………………………………….. 62,938 57.1 $15,000 to $24,999…………………………….. 7,326 13.2 Unemployed……………………………………………….. 2,813 2.6 $25,000 to $34,999…………………………….. 7,588 13.7 Percent of civilian labor force………………………………. 4.3 (X) $35,000 to $49,999…………………………… 10,355 18.7 Armed Forces…………………….………………..……… 209 0.2 $50,000 to $74,999…………………………….. 10,908 19.7 Not in labor force…………………………….…….……… 44,295 40.2 $75,000 to $99,999…………………………….. 5,216 9.4 $100,000 to $149,999………………………….. 3,194 5.8 Females 16 years and over………………….…………… 57,207 100 $150,000 to $199,999………………………… 1,034 1.9 In labor force………………………………………………. 30,334 53 $200,000 or more………………………………. 1,027 1.9 Civilian labor force…………………………………………. 30,314 53 Median household income (dollars)……………… 40,250 (X) Employed………………………………………………….. 28,896 50.5 With earnings……………………………………. 42,201 76.2 Own children under 6 years……………………………… 9,927 100 Mean earnings (dollars)………………………….. 50,903 (X) All parents in family in labor force…………………………… 5,769 58.1 With Social Security income…………………….. 17,310 31.3 Mean Social Security income (dollars)……………. 11,526 (X) COMMUTING TO WORK With Supplemental Security Income……………… 2,457 4.4 Workers 16 years and over……………………………… 62,219 100 Mean Supplemental Security Income (dollars)….… 6,409 (X) Car, truck, or van -- drove alone…………………………… 51,544 82.8 With public assistance income……………………. 781 1.4 Car, truck, or van -- carpooled…………………..………… 6,921 11.1 Mean public assistance income (dollars)………….. 2,462 (X) Public transportation (including taxicab)…………………….. 172 0.3 With retirement income………………...………… 12,342 22.3 Walked……………………………………………………. 777 1.2 Mean retirement income (dollars)………………… 18,867 (X) Other means……………………………….……………… 624 1 Worked at home…………………………………………… 2,181 3.5 Families 40,531 100 Mean travel time to work (minutes)……………….…..……. 25.9 (X) Less than $10,000………………………………. 1,955 4.8 $10,000 to $14,999…………………………… 1,780 4.4 Employed civilian population 16 years and over……… 62,938 100 $15,000 to $24,999……………………………. 4,268 10.5 OCCUPATION $25,000 to $34,999……………………………. 5,467 13.5 Management, professional, and related occupations………. 18,562 29.5 $35,000 to $49,999…………………………… 8,174 20.2 Service occupations……………………………………….. 9,152 14.5 $50,000 to $74,999……………………………. 9,420 23.2 Sales and office occupations……………………………….. 17,304 27.5 $75,000 to $99,999……………………………. 4,676 11.5 Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations………………….. 622 1 $100,000 to $149,999…………………………. 2,899 7.2 Construction, extraction, and maintenance occupations…….. 8,701 13.8 $150,000 to $199,999………………………… 951 2.3 Production, transportation, and material moving occupations.. 8,597 13.7 $200,000 or more……………………………….. 941 2.3 Median family income (dollars)………………….. 47,028 (X) INDUSTRY Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and 1,166 1.9 Per capita income (dollars)………………………. 20,826 (X) Construction……………………………………………….. 6,742 10.7 Median earnings (dollars): Manufacturing……………………………………………… 7,895 12.5 Male full-time, year-round workers………………. 34,507 (X) Wholesale trade……………………………………………. 2,407 3.8 Female full-time, year-round workers…………….. 23,069 (X) Retail trade………………………………………………. 8,939 14.2 Transportation and warehousing, and utilities……………….. 3,276 5.2 POVERTY STATUS IN 1999 (below poverty Information………………………………………………… 1,472 2.3 Families…………………………………………. 3,082 (X) Finance, insurance, real estate, and rental and leasing………. 3,838 6.1 Percent below poverty level……………………. (X) 7.6 Professional, scientific, management, administrative, and 4,679 7.4 With related children under 18 years…………….. 2,193 (X) Educational, health and social services……………………. 10,802 17.2 Percent below poverty level……………………… (X) 11.5 Arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation and food services 5,723 9.1 With related children under 5 years………………. 1,006 (X) Other services (except public administration)……….……… 3,374 5.4 Percent below poverty level……………………. (X) 14.4 Public administration………………………………………. 2,625 4.2 Families with female householder, no husband 1,362 (X) CLASS OF WORKER Percent below poverty level…………………….. (X) 25 Private wage and salary workers…………………………… 48,763 77.5 With related children under 18 years…………… 1,204 (X) Government workers………………………………………. 8,684 13.8 Percent below poverty level……………………. (X) 32.9 Self-employed workers in own not incorporated business… 5,327 8.5 With related children under 5 years……………… 475 (X) Unpaid family workers…………………………………….. 164 0.3 Percent below poverty level……………………… (X) 43.3
Individuals……………………………………… 14,018 (X) Percent below poverty level……………………. (X) 10.1 18 years and over………………………………. 9,472 (X) Percent below poverty level……………………… (X) 9.1 65 years and over……………………………….. 1,870 (X) Percent below poverty level……………………… (X) 8.9 Related children under 18 years………………….. 4,403 (X) Percent below poverty level……………………… (X) 13.1 Related children 5 to 17 years……………………. 3,036 (X) Percent below poverty level……………………. (X) 12 Unrelated individuals 15 years and over………….. 4,203 (X) Housing Element P ercen t b e l ow poverty level……………………… (X) 22.1 2 009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 3.27 BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 HOUSING ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS MAY, 2009
Table DP-4: Profile of Selected Housing Characteristics: 2000 Data Set: Census 2000 Summary File 3 (SF 3) - Sample Data Geographic Area: Baldwin County, Alabama Subject Number Percent Subject Number Percent
Total housing units…………………………………….. 74,285 100 OCCUPANTS PER ROOM UNITS IN STRUCTURE Occupied housing units………………….. 55,336 100 1-unit, detached…………………………………………. 44,984 60.6 1.00 or less…………………………………. 54,003 97.6 1-unit, attached………………………………………….. 1,451 2 1.01 to 1.50…………………………………. 911 1.6 2 units……………………………………………………. 1,006 1.4 1.51 or more…………………………………. 422 0.8 3 or 4 units………………………………………………. 1,834 2.5 5 to 9 units………………………………………………. 1,998 2.7 Specified owner-occupied units……………. 31,082 100 10 to 19 units……………………………………………. 1,315 1.8 VALUE 20 or more units…………………………………………. 7,882 10.6 Less than $50,000…………………………… 1,974 6.4 Mobile home……………………………………………… 13,127 17.7 $50,000 to $99,999………………………….. 9,412 30.3 Boat, RV, van, etc……………………………………….. 688 0.9 $100,000 to $149,999……………………….. 8,615 27.7 $150,000 to $199,999……………………….. 4,668 15 YEAR STRUCTURE BUILT $200,000 to $299,999……………………….. 3,573 11.5 1999 to March 2000……………………………………... 4,271 5.7 $300,000 to $499,999…………….………… 2,039 6.6 1995 to 1998……………………………………………… 14,397 19.4 $500,000 to $999,999……………………….. 613 2 1990 to 1994……………………………………………… 11,152 15 $1,000,000 or more………………………….. 188 0.6 1980 to 1989……………………………………………… 17,250 23.2 Median (dollars)……………………………. 122,500 (X) 1970 to 1979……………………………………………… 12,393 16.7 1960 to 1969…………………………………………….. 5,972 8 MORTGAGE STATUS AND SELECTED 1940 to 1959…………………………………………….. 5,963 8 With a mortgage……………………………… 20,282 65.3 1939 or earlier…………………………………………….. 2,887 3.9 Less than $300……………………………….. 269 0.9 $300 to $499…………………………………. 1,481 4.8 ROOMS $500 to $699…………………………………. 3,304 10.6 1 room…………………………………………………… 819 1.1 $700 to $999…………………………………. 6,222 20 2 rooms………………………………………………….. 1,962 2.6 $1,000 to $1,499…………………………… 5,845 18.8 3 rooms…………………………………………………… 5,008 6.7 $1,500 to $1,999…………………………… 1,906 6.1 4 rooms…………………………..……………………… 14,375 19.4 $2,000 or more………………………………. 1,255 4 5 rooms…………………………………………………… 19,253 25.9 Median (dollars)…………………..………… 936 (X) 6 rooms…………………………………………………… 14,869 20 Not mortgaged……………………………….. 10,800 34.7 7 rooms…………………………………………………… 8,704 11.7 Median (dollars)……………………………… 243 (X) 8 rooms…………………………………………………… 5,118 6.9 9 or more rooms……………………………………….. 4,177 5.6 SELECTED MONTHLY OWNER COSTS AS Median (rooms)………………………………………….. 5.3 (X) Less than 15 percent………………………… 13,089 42.1 15 to 19 percent……………………………… 5,173 16.6 Occupied Housing Units……………………………….. 55,336 100 20 to 24 percent……………………………… 3,887 12.5 YEAR HOUSEHOLDER MOVED INTO UNIT 25 to 29 percent……………………………… 2,557 8.2 1999 to March 2000…………………………………….. 11,805 21.3 30 to 34 percent……………………………… 1,755 5.6 1995 to 1998…………………………………………….. 17,672 31.9 35 percent or more……………….………… 4,387 14.1 1990 to 1994…………………………………………….. 10,146 18.3 Not computed………………….…………… 234 0.8 1980 to 1989……………………………………………… 7,373 13.3 1970 to 1979…………………..………………………… 4,548 8.2 Specified renter-occupied units…………… 11,065 100 1969 or earlier……………………………………………. 3,792 6.9 GROSS RENT Less than $200……………………………….. 525 4.7 VEHICLES AVAILABLE $200 to $299…………………………………. 541 4.9 None……………………………………………………… 2,340 4.2 $300 to $499…………………………………. 2,709 24.5 1………………………………………………………….. 17,460 31.6 $500 to $749…………………………………. 3,707 33.5 2………………………………………………………….. 24,977 45.1 $750 to $999………………………………… 1,607 14.5 3 or more…………………………………………………. 10,559 19.1 $1,000 to $1,499…………………………….. 584 5.3 $1,500 or more………………………………. 184 1.7 HOUSE HEATING FUEL No cash rent…………………………………. 1,208 10.9 Utility gas…………………………………………………. 8,927 16.1 Median (dollars)……………………………. 566 (X) Bottled, tank, or LP gas………………………………….. 4,569 8.3 Electricity…………………………………………………. 40,881 73.9 GROSS RENT AS A PERCENTAGE OF Fuel oil, kerosene, etc……………………………………. 98 0.2 Less than 15 percent………………………… 2,127 19.2 Coal or coke……………………………………………. 0015 to 19 percent…………………………….. 1,411 12.8 Wood…………………………………………………….. 658 1.2 20 to 24 percent…………………………….. 1,448 13.1 Solar energy………………………………………………. 22 0 25 to 29 percent…………………………….. 968 8.7 Other fuel…………………………………………………. 40 0.1 30 to 34 percent……………………………… 806 7.3 No fuel used…………………………………………. 141 0.3 35 percent or more………………..………… 2,898 26.2 Not computed……………………………….. 1,407 12.7 SELECTED CHARACTERISTICS Lacking complete plumbing facilities…………………….. 264 0.5 Lacking complete kitchen facilities……..……………….. 286 0.5 No telephone service…………………………………… 1,802 3.3 (X) Not applicable. NOTE: Data based on a sample except in P3, P4, H3, and H4. For information
Housing Element 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 3.28 BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONSERVATION, NATURAL RESOURCES AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
CONSERVATION, NATURAL RESOURCES AND OPEN SPACE Baldwin County is one of the two coastal counties in the State, and is one of the largest counties east of the Mississippi River encompassing approximately 1,600 square miles. A majority of the County is entirely surrounded by water, except for a 17-mile stretch along the northeastern border. It is surrounded by Mobile Bay, the Tensaw River, and Mobile River to the west; Little River to the north; Perdido River and Perdido Bay to the east; and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. Some of the more prominent waterbodies internal to the county include: Bay Minette Creek, Styx River, Blackwater River, Fish River, Magnolia River, Weeks Bay, Bon Secour River, the Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Oyster Bay, Wolf Bay, Soldier’s Creek and Palmetto Creek. Approximately a third of the land in Baldwin County is considered wetland.
The cities along the western shore of the county: Spanish Fort, Daphne, and Fairhope and the coastal communities of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Foley are the most rapidly developing areas in Baldwin County. Conservation measures need to be examined in these high growth areas to preserve conservation corridors.
As a coastal county, it contains diverse upland and wetland habitats, such as bottomland hardwood swamps, longleaf pine forests, coastal scrub forest, maritime forest, sand dunes, salt marshes, and many others. According to the County’s existing Land Use Cover Map, which was prepared by Photo Science, Inc. in 2005, the percentage breakdown of the current land uses is: 44.4% Forested; 30.2% Wetlands; 17.4% Agricultural; 2.9% Undeveloped; 2.1% Water Bodies; 1.0% Community Facilities; 0.8% Commercial; 0.7% Public Recreation & Open Space; 0.2% Industrial; 0.2% Residential; 0.1% Educational; and 0.02% Historic. Approximately 21% of the land area in the county is owned by timber companies. There is very little change in elevation in the southern portion of Baldwin County where most of the streams and rivers have broad channels and low gently sloping banks.
Baldwin County lies within the East Gulf Coastal Plain physiographic setting. The majority of the land area of Baldwin County lies within the Southern Pine Hills District. The land area bordering the Mobile and Tensaw Rivers falls within the Alluvial-Deltaic Plain District and the coastal area of Baldwin County falls within the Coastal Lowlands District. The typical landform in the Coastal Lowlands District is flat to gently rolling plains, tidal streams, marshes, and wetlands. The Holocene and Pleistocene Series make up the upper 150 feet. Alluvium and coastal deposits are the geologic units. The Pliocene layer is dominated by the Citronelle Formation in the northern portion of the County. The Miocene Series is approximately 300 to 1000 feet thick. The major aquifer system for drinking water in Baldwin County is found in the Miocene and Pliocene series.
Baldwin County is located within the Lower Coastal Plain of Alabama. The county has 5 major regions that influence soil composition. The five regions are the river flood plains and terraces of the Tombigbee and Alabama Rivers, marine terraces, the Citronelle Geologic Formation, Hattiesburg Clays, and areas of recent marine deposits (beaches).
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Soils in the river floodplains mainly consist of silts and clays that have been transported and deposited by the river systems from areas to the north. The origins of these sediments can vary greatly from weathered materials of the Piedmont Region to materials transported from the Black Belt region of Alabama and Mississippi. Soils in this area are typically poorly drained to moderately well drained. The marine terraces of south Baldwin County are derived from overlaying the Citronelle Formation. These soils have sandy surfaces underlain by sandy loam to clayey subsurfaces.
The following sources were used in the preparation of the Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space Element: • Strategic Habitat Conservation and the Power of Partnerships. US Fish and Wildlife Service. Atlanta: 2007. • Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan of the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program. Mobile: 2002. • 2006 Alabama Section 303(d) List. Atlanta: 2007. • 2006-2016 Baldwin County Strategic Plan. Baldwin County: 2007. • Baldwin County Wetland Conservation Plan. Baldwin County: 2006. • Baldwin County Zoning Regulations. Baldwin County: 2007. • State Wildlife Action Plan, Alabama’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: 2007. • Orange County, Florida Conservation Element. Orange County: 2000. • Orange County, Florida Aquifer Recharge Element. Orange County: 2000. • Strategic Habitat Conservation and the Power of Partnerships. USFWS: 2007. • Model Native Plant Landscape Ordinance Handbook. • Lee County Conservation and Coastal Management Element. Lee County: 2004. • Coastal Connection Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan. Alabama Association of Regional Councils: 2008. • Non-Public Water Wells and Water Systems. Iowa Department of Natural Resources: 2007. • Year-Round Water Conservation Measures and Water Shortage Ordinance. Polk County: 2004. • Hendry County Water Restriction Ordinance. Hendry County: 2006. • Hillsborough County Wellhead Policy Revisions. Hillsborough County: 2003. • Local Government Involvement in Mitigation Banking. EPA: unknown year. • Stormwater Management Standards for Submission Checklist: Malaysia, unknown year. • Wetlands Mitigation Banking: Entering a New Era?. USACE: late 1990’s(?).
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Overview of Baldwin County 2006-2016 Strategic Plan: Several issues identified in the 2006-2016 Strategic Plan pertain to the Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space Element. Applicable excerpts from the Strategic Plan include:
Strategic Issue Statement: Failure to protect our natural resources would erode our way of life, and adversely impact our economy, water quality, inland coastal waterways, forests and green space, wetlands, and wildlife. Environment: Our most significant asset is our natural resources and waterways and the County will work in cooperation with all citizens to protect, preserve, and strengthen our environment. Waterways • Identify frequently flooding roadway sites by 2008 and reduce the number of roadway flooding sites by 40% by 2012. • By 2008, complete a comprehensive storm water plan so as to reduce flooding and maintain water quality. • By 2011, decrease the pollution and storm water runoff in the County waterways so as to improve water quality and maintain EPA and ADEM standards. Open Space and Wetlands • By 2012, increase and protect mandated green/wetlands space by 50%. (1,250 acres in 2006 and 625 acres added for a total of 1,875 acres) • Adopt regulations that require all new development to meet 100-year flood events. • Develop open space plan-specific component of the comprehensive plan. • By 2009, protect a minimum of 500 acres of habitat of species of greatest conservation need with an emphasis on priority areas depicted in the State Wildlife Action Plan. Citizen Participation • By 2011, create an alternate fuels program that will reduce the County’s dependency on fossil fuels by 2%. • By 2010, 70% of all graduating seniors in Baldwin County Public Schools will have participated in environmental programs and community projects. (Environmental Classes and Clubs) • By 2014, increase citizen awareness of environmental issues with 35% of citizens reporting they are better informed of environmental issues related to: Pollution, Littering, Recycling, Value of our environment, and Stormwater issues • County is recycling 30% of solid waste generated by County buildings by 2009. • County is recycling 30% of solid waste generated by residents of unincorporated areas of County by 2009. Enforcement • Design enforcement mechanism and fines/citations for illegal dumping and other environmental issues with inter-jurisdictional coordination by 2008. (pending legislation)
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• Adopt regulations that require all new development to meet 100 year flood events. • By 2010, oversight of sewer services and septic systems to include consumer protections and decrease spills by 33%. (pending legislative approval) Planning and Zoning • Ensure construction in flood zones are in compliance with federal regulations so that citizens and businesses can obtain low cost, affordable flood insurance within the County permitting jurisdiction. (ongoing) Key Measures Environment • 30% of material kept out of landfill through recycling and conversion to energy (11,500 tons). Planning and Zoning • Completion of comprehensive plan. Public Safety The County Commission and other elected officials in the County are committed to ensuring safe communities with effective programs and an efficient, integrated justice system for the citizens and visitors to the County. Emergency Preparedness • By 2016, implement a countywide/regional interoperable communication system that provides seamless communications between the multiple governmental agencies to support first responders. • By 2010, have incident level interoperable communications with an implementation plan to include updates and drills. • By 2020, the evacuation route north of I-10/65 will be extended (CR-83) in order to maintain an 18-24 hour staged evacuation, including vulnerable and immobile populations. • Maintain a minimum rate of 2% occupancy space for emergency shelters for the residents in the County and at a minimum rate of 10% in the most vulnerable areas. • Following a catastrophic event, the County will be prepared to open 100% of its distribution sites within 72 hours. • By 2016, ensure 80% of mobile home/RV communities and multi-family dwellings in excess of 25 units have access to a tornado/hurricane shelter within new developments. • By 2010, the County will complete an assessment of volunteer fire districts/search and rescue squads in order to ensure the adequacy of coverage and meet growth in the County.
Ecosystems of Baldwin County
Wet Pine Savanna and Flatwoods These open pine woodlands occupy sandy flatlands principally in the Gulf Coast Flatwoods of the Southeastern Plains. Though this habitat is subject to seasonally high water tables, fire frequency is high. Overstory vegetation is characterized by longleaf pine and slash pine. The understory ranges from dense shrubs to open and herbaceous-dominated, and is heavily
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influenced by fire history. This habitat shares many wildlife species with dry longleaf pine forest, but the Flatwoods Salamander is found only in this habitat.
Much of the habitat has been lost due to drainage, development, agriculture, conversion to pine plantations, and fire suppression. This habitat is a component of a broader longleaf pine forest and savanna ecosystem, considered one of the most endangered ecosystems in the county today. On some frequently burned federal lands, the habitat is in good condition. On the other hand, the habitat is in fair to poor condition on other public lands and most private/industrial lands. Without adequate controlled land burns, canopy closure will increase along with shrub dominance, grasses, forbs, and other finer-fuel components will decline, further altering the fire regime dynamics. Prescribed growing-season fire needs to increase dramatically in this habitat type.
There are 3 Priority 1 amphibious species associated with Wet Pine Savanna and Flatwoods: Flatwoods Salamander, Gopher Frog, and Dusky Gopher Frog. Priority 1 species are critically in peril, at risk of extinction/absence because of rarity, have restricted distribution, decreasing population trend/population viability problems, and specialized habitat needs/vulnerability due to natural/human-caused factors. Immediate research and/or conservation action are required. There are 3 reptiles that are classified as P1. They are the Eastern Indigo Snake, Southern Hognose Snake, and the Black Pine Snake. There are 2 birds that are classified as Priority 1. They are the Henslow’s Sparrow and the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker. There are no Priority 1 mammals, but there are 6 Priority 2 mammals. They are the Southeastern Pocket Gopher, the Northern Yellow Bat, the Long-tailed Weasel, the Southeastern Myotis, the Eastern Spotted Skunk, and the Marsh Rabbit. Of the reptile species, the most commonly known snakes, the Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake and the Eastern Coral Snake, are both Priority 2 species. Of the classified Priority 2 birds, the Short-eared owl is the most commonly known.
There are problems affecting the species/habitat in the Wet Pine Savanna and Flatwoods Eco- Region. They are as follows:
• Fire suppression and lack of fire. • Altered hydrology due to drainage ditches, raised floodbeds, fire plow lines, etc. • Conversion to other pine species. • Intensification of forestry practices (site preparation, heavy stocking densities) leading to closed canopy forests with little herbaceous groundcover. • Urban development and habitat fragmentation. • Lack of old growth characteristics • Habitat loss affecting species that rely on understory management and open pine ecosystems. • Exotic species. • Pine straw raking impacting understory habitat.
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• Current distribution and status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Erosion from mechanized vehicle trails and other activities near biologically significant sites. • Insufficient conservation-related educational outreach about biologically sensitive areas and species.
Floodplain Forests This habitat category is characterized by periodic flooding and flood-related environmental factors (wetness, scouring, deposition of material, and input of nutrients) affect vegetational composition and dynamics. The Mobile-Tensaw River Delta is found to be a high-quality site for this habitat, which is located in Baldwin and Mobile Counties. The Splinter Hill Bog area is also a priority area for conservation of this habitat. Forests of large floodplains and bottomlands often include depositional landforms such as levees, sloughs, ridges, terraces, and abandoned channel segments. Floodplain forests above the Fall line are generally quite distinct from those of the Southeastern Plains, because of the steeper river gradients and harder rocks. Bald Cypress and Tupelo Gum trees are common components below the Fall Line, but not above. Vegetation along the larger streams and rivers generally includes forests dominated by bottomland hardwood species and other trees tolerant of flooding.
There are 30 identified GCN (Greater Conservation Need) species in floodplain forests. The amphibians of Priority 1 concern are the Southern Dusky Salamander, River Frog, and One-toed Amphiuma. There are 5 reptiles of Priority 2 concern, but no Priority 1 rankings. They are the Coal Skink, Southeastern Five-lined Skink, Rainbow Snake, Eastern Kingsnake, and Speckled Kingsnake. There is one known extinct bird species, that being the Ivory-billed Woodpecker. There is one Priority 1 bird, which is the Cerulean Warbler. There are 4 Priority 1 mammals. They are the American Black Bear, the Rafinesque’s Big-eared Bat, Gray Myotis, and the Indiana Bat.
Much of this habitat has been lost due to impoundments. Power generation and regulation of water flow create unnatural flood regimes, affecting large areas downstream from dams. Extensive erosion of uplands, caused by poor agricultural practices dating back to colonial times, transported large amounts of sediment into floodplains. Large floodplains often have substantial areas in cultivation. Many exotic plant species have invaded floodplains, perhaps more than any other habitat type in Alabama. The problems affecting the floodplain habitat are as follows:
• Loss and fragmentation of higher quality habitats from impoundment and conversion to agriculture and/or intensive silviculture. • Change in vegetative structure and species composition due to alteration of the natural flood regime due to upstream dams, ditching and draining. • Invasive exotic plants (e.g., Chinese tallow tree, Japanese climbing fern, privet, cogon grass).
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• Scarcity of mature forest characteristics (cavities, snags, hollows) due to harvest rotations. • Current distribution and status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Insufficient conservation-related educational outreach about biologically sensitive areas. • Loss of native community structure and composition due to fire suppression.
Dry Longleaf Pine Forests Longleaf pine forests were historically widespread in Alabama, occurring above the Fall Line in the Ridge and Valley and Piedmont and below the Fall Line in the Southeastern Plains. Longleaf pine habitats range from moist to very well drained sites, including mesic pine flatwoods, pine/scrub oak sandhill, and xeric sandhill scrub. Frequent fire maintains a canopy dominated by longleaf pine, with wiregrass or other grass/herb ground cover. When fire is infrequent, scrub oaks, other hardwoods, and shrubs become common in the midstory and shade out native grasses and forbs. Embedded within longleaf pine habitats are fire-dependent herbaceous bogs and isolated wetlands that contribute much of the biodiversity of the region. Baldwin County is ranked 2nd in the Southeastern Plains in total natural and planted longleaf acreage.
Longleaf pine was once Alabama’s most abundant tree, but it has been greatly reduced in its extent, with much of its range now occupied by agriculture and/or forestry operations. Longleaf pine communities now exist in just 3% of their previous range throughout the Southeast. Longleaf pine forest and savanna is considered one of the most endangered habitats in the country today. On some frequently burned federal lands and some private hunting preserves, the habitat is in good condition. Habitat is in fair to poor condition on other public land and most private and industry lands.
Without the appropriate fire regime, canopy closure will increase along with shrub dominance, and grasses, forbs, and other finer-fuel components will decline, further altering the fire regime dynamics. Prescribed growing-season fire needs to increase dramatically in these systems as midstory reduction is essential.
Loss of quantity and quality of longleaf pine forest and the highly fragmented nature of remaining tracts has resulted in the corresponding decline of a large number of terrestrial vertebrates that can be considered longleaf specialists, which are found either primarily or exclusively in longleaf-dominated habitats. More Priority 1 species occurs in this habitat than any other habitat. There are problems affecting the species and Longleaf Pine Forest habitat. They are as follows:
• Fire suppression and lack of fire. • Intensification of forestry practices leading to closed canopy forests with little herbaceous groundcover.
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• Urban development and habitat fragmentation. • Lack of old growth characteristics. • Habitat loss affecting species that rely on understory management and open pine ecosystems • Exotic species, especially fire ants. • Pine straw raking impacting understory habitat. • Current distribution and status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Impacts from excessive soil disturbances from site preparation activities (fire plow lines). • Erosion from mechanized vehicle trails and other activities near biologically significant sites.
Swamps A representative high quality site for swamps is the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, which is located in Baldwin County. Swamps are regularly flooded forested areas dominated to varying degrees and composition by cypress, tupelo, and wetland oaks, often with substantial shrub or herbaceous vegetation. Many swamps develop in stream floodplains, where there is considerable overlap in this habitat and Floodplain Forests, but large peat-bottomed bay swamps of the Southeastern Plains are not associated with streams, and do not receive over-bank flooding. Floodplain swamps are often created by beaver dams. Coastal tidal swamps may be flooded twice daily. Swamps are prone to long-duration standing water, and are normally protected from fire except during extreme droughty periods.
Much of the swamp habitat has been drained for agricultural or siliviculture and inundated by reservoirs. Extensive erosion of uplands, caused by poor agricultural practices dating back to colonial times, transported large amounts of sediment into floodplains and associated swamps. Many exotic plant species have invaded swamps.
There are 25 GCN (either Priority 1 or 2) species located in this habitat. There are also 35 additional Priority 3 species that are considered to be of Moderate Conservation Concern. There is the Southern Dusty Salamander and River Frog that are Priority 1 amphibians. There is the Eastern Indigo Snake and Alabama Red-bellied Turtle that are Priority 1 reptiles. The Henslow’s Sparrow and Rafinesque’s Big-eared Bat are the respective Priority 1 bird and mammal species. There are problems associated with swamps. They are as follows:
• Loss and fragmentation of higher quality habitats from impoundment and conversion to agriculture and/or intensive silviculture. • Change in vegetative structure and species composition due to alteration of the natural flood regime due to upstream dams, ditching and draining. • Invasive exotic plants (e.g., Chinese tallow tree, Japanese climbing fern, privet, cogon grass).
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• Scarcity of mature forest characteristics (cavities, snags, hollows) due to harvest rotations. • Current distribution and status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Insufficient conservation-related educational outreach about biologically sensitive areas. • Fire suppression and lack of fire.
Maritime Forest and Coastal Scrub This mosaic of woody vegetation, often dominated by live oak, is present on barrier islands and near-coastal strands. Such areas include relatively stabilized coastal dunes, sometimes with a substantial shell component. Vegetation structure and composition are influenced by salt spray, coastal winds, and extreme disturbance events, especially hurricanes. The most heavily salt- influenced examples may appear pruned or sculpted. Fires are infrequent.
Although spring migrant birds typically expend energy to fly farther inland before making first landfall, these coastal forests are of critical importance to bird survival during the so-called fallout conditions, when weather is inclement and birds are near exhaustion. In Baldwin County, the habitat area is found south of the Intracoastal Waterway from Perdido Bay to Fort Morgan. High quality sites include portions of the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and the inland portion of Gulf State Park east of the golf course in Baldwin County.
The location of Alabama’s remaining maritime forest and coastal scrub habitats is fairly well known, and virtually all is highly fragmented. Most of the habitat has been lost entirely due to coastal developments or is interspersed with houses.
There are 21 GCN species located in this habitat. There are 2 amphibians, 9 reptiles, 4 birds, and 6 mammals. There are 2 amphibians of Priority 1 concern. They are the Gopher Frog and Dusky Gopher Frog. There are 2 Priority 1 reptiles and 3 Priority 1 mammals. They are the Eastern Indigo Snake, the Southern Hognose Snake, the Rafinesque’s Big-eared Bat, the Alabama Beach Mouse, and the Perdido Key Beach Mouse.
There are problems affecting the species and habitat of the maritime forest and coastal scrub community. They are as follows:
• Loss of habitat to development. • Fragmentation of habitat by roads, development, utilities, etc… • Predation by elevated urban populations of natural predators, especially raccoons. • Invasive exotic plants (cogongrass) and animals (fire ants). • Current distribution and status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species.
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• Insufficient conservation-related educational outreach about biologically sensitive areas.
Bogs and Seepage Communities Seepage bogs, non-boggy seeps, and streamhead seeps occur in the Piedmont and Southeastern Plains. In the Southwestern Appalachians and Ridge and Valley, patches of seepage forests occur on streamhead swales or on broad sandstone ridges where soils are sandy and saturated due to a combination of perched water table and seepage flow. These range in condition from open woodlands to forests.
These are all readily distinguished from adjacent upland habitats by the presence of wetland flora and soils, as well as seepage. They may be somewhat less clearly distinguished from adjacent floodplain habitats, but they are saturated without having standing water as floodplain pools do. These differences are reflected in the vegetation.
There are 15 GCN species that includes 1 crayfish, 2 amphibians, 6 birds, and 4 mammals. The only Priority 1 species is the Henslow’s Sparrow. The rest of the species in this habitat are classified as Priority 2.
Most of Alabama’s bog habitats have been degraded or lost due to drainage for agriculture and/or silviculture and succession to other forest types resulting from fire suppression. Many have been converted into ponds and others have been damaged by hogs and cattle. Of the original Gulf Coast pitcher plant habitats of the southeastern US, less than 3% remained as degraded habitat, and less than one percent remained as pristine habitat by the latter part of the twentieth century. Remnant bogs on private and public lands are often in need of prescribed burning. Many may also require mechanical removal of established woody species such as titi and red maple.
The problems associated with bogs and seepage communities are as follows:
• Loss of habitat due to draining and fire suppression. • Insufficient adjacent upland forested habitat left intact following timber harvest. • Lack of information on status, distribution and classification of this habitat type. • Invasive exotic plants (e.g., Chinese tallow tree, cogongrass). • Current distribution and status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Insufficient conservation-related educational outreach about biologically sensitive areas. • Change in vegetative structure and species composition due to absence of the natural fire regime. • Impacts from excessive soil disturbances from site preparation activities.
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• Erosion from mechanized vehicle trails and other activities near biologically significant sites.
Isolated Wetlands Wetlands surrounded by upland and not drained by streams may be found almost anywhere in Alabama, with somewhat higher densities in the Interior Plateau and Southeastern Plains regions. These are embedded habitats in that they may be surrounded by other habitats discussed in this document, such as Dry Longleaf Pine Forest, Mesic Forest, Maritime Forest and Coastal Scrub. These highly variable districts form in depressions where precipitation collects, on former floodplains no longer inundated by seasonal river flows, in swales between coastal dunes and in other seasonally wet sites. Water depth may vary greatly on a seasonal basis. Wetlands may become dry in the summer and not support fish, making them particularly valuable to certain pond-breeding amphibians. Depending on hydrology and soils, isolated wetlands may vary from open ponds to herb-wetlands, shrub-wetlands, or tree-dominated wetlands.
Isolated wetlands are vital habitats for numerous wildlife species, including endangered and threatened birds, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, and plants. Many thousands of isolated wetlands exist in Alabama, but they have not been inventoried, so the actual number is unknown. The loss or degradation of these wetlands negatively impacts native fauna, flora, soils, and water quality.
This habitat type also includes water bodies produced by human actions. Most are ponds built for a variety of reasons including aesthetic appreciation, livestock watering, irrigation, aquaculture, and storm water management. Other isolated wetlands have been created by fragmentation from development where they represent remnants of once larger wetland complexes.
Statewide, many isolated wetlands have been ditched, filled, deepened, or otherwise altered. At the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, the isolated wetlands are preserved so the statewide problem of this habitat is not prevalent at this location. This area becomes a very reliable study area for testing isolated wetlands and detecting the native plants and animals for this habitat. There are 13 identified GCN species and 44 Priority 3 species of Moderate Conservation Concern. Of the Priority 1 species, they are the Flatwoods Salamander, Gopher Frog, and Dusky Gopher Frog for amphibian distribution. Other Priority 1 rankings are the Eastern Indigo Snake for reptiles and Henslow’s Sparrow for birds.
The problems associated with this habitat are as follows:
• Loss of habitat due to draining and/or filling. • Lack of recognition (of some wetland types) and therefore protection by managers and regulatory agencies.
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• Insufficient upland habitat provided undisturbed for pond-dependant yet upland-dwelling wildlife following timber harvest, conversion to agriculture and development. • Introduction of game fish to naturally fishless ponds impacts amphibian populations. • Lack of information on status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Erosion from mechanized vehicle trails and other activities near biologically significant sites. • Failure to identify and protect critical and unique habitats embedded in a forest matrix. • Change in vegetative structure and species composition due to absence of the natural fire regime. • Impacts from erosion by mechanized vehicle trails uphill from biologically significant sites. • Insufficient conservation-related educational outreach about biologically significant areas and species.
Beach and Dunes Beach and dune complexes are dynamic systems of constantly changing habitats characterized by sandy soils, sparse, saltwater-adapted grasses and shrubs, and interdunal pools and swales. Winds, tides, salt spray and hurricanes impact these habitats as the sands and the vegetation that they support constantly ebb and flow in response.
Vegetated coastal dunes consist largely of herbaceous and embedded shrublands on barrier islands and other near-coastal areas where salt spray, saltwater overwash, and sand movement are important ecological forces. A number of diagnostic and endemic plant species characterize this habitat, including the Sandhill Rosemary, Woody Goldenrod, and the Gulf Rockrose. The outermost zone of vegetation extending seaward from foredunes is characterized by Sea Oats, Panic Grass, Beach Elder, Beach morning-glory and Gulf Bluestems. Wildlife species of beaches and dunes include the least terns, nesting plovers, the beach mouse, sea turtles and nesting and wintering shorebirds that are incapable of surviving in other habitats. Their welfare is tied to the welfare of this narrow coastal strip. Representative high-quality sites within Baldwin County are the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge and the Gulf State Park.
Alabama’s beach and dune systems are extremely attractive to tourists and vacationers. Prior to the landfall of Hurricane Frederick in 1979, development along the Alabama coastline was intermittent and slow. The development of beachfront property over the last 25 years has been dramatic and has driven land prices to extremely high levels. As a result, little undeveloped beachfront property exists in Alabama outside of state and federal ownership.
Because beach and dune complexes are both highly valued for development and also provide critically important habitat for a variety of unique plant and animal assemblages, conflicts have arisen between conservationists and developers regarding the future use of the remaining lands, and those private developments that currently impact the nearby public lands. For example, light
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pollution from nearby development is particularly disruptive to sea turtle nesting behavior, and free-ranging pets, such as house cats, impose direct mortality on imperiled forms.
There are 12 known GCN species that are located in beaches and dunes. There are 3 Priority 1 reptiles, the Loggerhead Sea Turtle and the Green Sea Turtle. The habitat’s 3 Priority 1 birds are the Snowy Plover, Piping Plover and Wilson’s Plover. The 2 Priority 1 mammals are the Alabama Beach Mouse and the Perdido Key Beach Mouse.
The problems associated with the beach and dunes habitat are as follows: • Loss of habitat to development. • Fragmentation of habitat by roads, development, utilities, etc… • Nest predation by elevated urban populations of natural predators, especially raccoons. • Predation (especially beach mice) by free ranging and/or feral cats. • Invasive exotic plants (cogongrass) and animals (fire ants). • Current distribution and status, as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Impacts from disturbance caused by foot and vehicle traffic through sensitive habitat features such as nesting sites. • Insufficient conservation-related educational outreach about biologically sensitive areas.
Estuarine and Marine Restricted to Alabama’s coastal communities of Baldwin and Mobile, this habitat includes salt and brackish tidal marshes and adjacent marine waters, including seagrass beds. Representative high-quality estuarine sites include Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, and Holland Wildlife Management Area within Baldwin County. High quality marine sites include offshore hardbottoms.
Salt marshes and adjacent shallow waters support many fish species of commercial interest, and are important to a number of other terrestrial and aquatic wildlife species. These habitats are typically associated with mud-bottomed bays behind barrier islands. Weeks Bay and Oyster Bay have brackish needlerush marsh areas.
Submerged aquatic vegetation (SAVs) communities are the most productive habitat in estuarine waters of the Gulf Coast. SAVs provide food for wintering waterfowl and important spawning and foraging habitat for commercially important finfish and shellfish. The SAV communities also support the endangered and threatened manatee species. SAVs are found in a patchy distribution behind protective barrier islands and in near-shore areas and occur in greater numbers in Perdido Bay.
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There are 11 GCN species identified within the estuarine and marine habitats. The Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Green Sea Turtle, Leatherback Sea Turtle, Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle, Mississippi Diamond-backed Terrapin, and the West Indian Manatee are all Priority 1 species.
Non-freshwater marshes surrounding Mobile Bay declined by more than 10,000 acres from 1955 to 1979, representing a loss of 35%, but that decline has slowed in recent years. Losses of SAV communities in the Northern Gulf of Mexico over the last 50 years have been extensive. Most estuaries have lost from 20% to 100% of their SAVs and it is estimated that 50% or more of Alabama’s SAVs were lost from the 1940’s to 1979. Coastal population growth and accompanying municipal, industrial, and agricultural development has been recognized as a contributing factor. The environmental quality of the habitat has deteriorated with increased turbidity and decreases in water quality resulting from dredging, boating activities, and other development pressures. Loss of SAV communities may signal water quality problems in Alabama’s coastal waters.
The problems associated with estuarine and marine areas are as follows: • Water quality degradation as a result of habitat degradation, nutrient encichment, pahtogens, and toxic chemicals. • Loss of estuarine habitat from sedimentation, hydrologic modifications, filling, trawling, dredging and invasive species. • Loss of wetland and shoreline habitat due to weak regulatory monitoring and enforcement, inadequate mitigation practices, and inadequate coastal engineering. • Mortality due to crab traps. • Lack of current information on status and distribution of this habitat type. • Current distribution and status as well as knowledge of various aspects of life history and biology are poorly known for most GCN species. • Impacts from disturbance by allowing foot traffic through sensitive nesting sites. • Insufficient conservation-related education about biologically significant areas and species. • Loss of and disturbance to marine habitat from marine construction projects, dredge material disposal and bottom tending fishing gear.
Overview of Baldwin County Wetland Conservation Plan • The objective of the Baldwin County Wetland Conservation Plan was to provide local decision-makers the best tools possible to make wise land use decisions regarding Baldwin County’s wetland resources. There were four major tasks of this project. First, the development of a Wetland Protection Overlay District (WPOD) was incorporated into the Baldwin County Zoning and Subdivision Regulations. Another task was the development of a GIS wetland data layer containing information on the location, type, and functional capacity of wetlands throughout Baldwin County. Third, this project implemented a wetland education/outreach program for area stakeholders. Finally, wetland restoration/construction projects were designed and implemented at selected sites throughout the County.
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• There are approximately 300,000 acres of wetlands in Baldwin County. Wetlands perform many natural functions such as: floodwater storage; sediment, toxicant, and nutrient removal; groundwater recharge; and habitat for fish and wildlife. • Wetland protection is accomplished successfully at the local level. The Baldwin County Subdivision Regulations prevents the platting of entire lots in areas that are considered wetland. Also the Baldwin County Zoning Regulations require an upland buffer between a jurisdictional wetland and land disturbance activity within a zoned area. • National Wetland Inventory (NWI) was acquired, merged, edge-matched and verified using color infrared photography. Baldwin County staff and United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) staff ground-truthed the wetland data through a rigorous wetland validation project. It was determined that the Baldwin County Digital Wetland Layer is 86% accurate in representing jurisdictional wetlands. • In order to assess the functions of each wetland area throughout the Country, a remote functional assessment model was developed using GIS software through the integration of other remotely sensed data layers such as flood zones, National Wetland Inventory data, and endangered species. The results provide watershed-based wetland restoration strategies for Baldwin County’s wetlands. • Education and outreach programs were implemented throughout the project period through speaking engagements and public meetings.
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Federal Listed Species in Baldwin County
• E - Alabama beach mouse Peromyscus polionotus ammobates • E - Perdido Key beach mouse Peromyscus polionotus trissylepsis • E - West Indian manatee Trichechus manatus • E - Red-cockaded woodpecker Picoides borealis • E - Least tern Sterna antillarum • T - Piping plover Charadrius melodus • BGEPA - Bald eagle Haliaeetus leucocephalus • E - Wood stork Mycteria Americana • E - Alabama red-bellied turtle Pseudemys alabamensis • T - Loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta • E - Kemp's ridley sea turtle Lepidochelys kempii • T - Green sea turtle Chelonia mydas (P) • T - Gulf sturgeon Acipenser oxyrinchus desotoi • E - Alabama sturgeon Scaphirhynchus suttkusi • E - Heavy pigtoe mussel Pleurobema taitianum • T - Inflated heelsplitter mussel Potamilus inflatus • E - American chaffseed Schwalbea Americana • T - Eastern indigo snake Drymarchon corais couperi (P) • T - Flatwoods salamander Ambystoma cingulatum (P)
E - Endangered T - Threatened C - Candidate Species (P) - Possible Occurrence BGEPA - Bald & Golden Eagle Protection Act
http://www.fws.gov/daphne/es/specieslst.html
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Section 303(d) Classified Waterbodies in Baldwin County Draft Assessment Waterbody River Date of Downstream / Type Rank County Uses Causes Sources Size TMDL Unit ID Name Basin Data Upstream Locations Date AL0316020 Bay Minette Metals R H Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife Unknown Source 2000 18.15 miles Bay Minette/Its source 2013 4-0503-102 Creek (mercury) Outstanding Junction of Tensaw AL0316020 Alabama Water Metals and Apalachee Rivers Tensaw River R H Mobile Baldwin Unknown Source 2002 21.73 miles 2013 4-0505-202 Swimming Fish (Mercury) / & Wildlife Junction of Briar Lake Siltation AL0316020 Land D'Olive Bay / D’Olive Creek R L Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife (habitat 2007 4.89 miles 2013 4-0505-500 Development Its source alteration) Siltation AL0316020 Land D'Olive Creek / Joes Branch R L Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife (habitat 2007 1.57 miles 2013 4-0505-800 Development Its source alteration) Siltation AL0316020 Land D'Olive Creek / Tiawasee Creek R L Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife (habitat 2007 3.54 miles 2013 4-0505-900 Development Its source alteration) Siltation AL0316020 UT to Tiawasee Land Tiawasee Creek / R L Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife (habitat 2007 1.87 miles 2013 4-0505-905 Creek Development Its source alteration) Siltation AL0316020 UT to D’Olive Land D'Olive Creek / R L Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife (habitat 2007 1.22 miles 2013 4-0505-505 Creek Development Its source alteration) Junction of Briar Lake Outstanding AL0316020 Metals / Tensaw River R H Mobile Baldwin Alabama Water Unknown Source 2002 2.93 miles 2013 4-0105-302 (Mercury) Junction of Tensaw Fish & Wildlife Lake AL0316020 Swimming Fish Metals Atmospheric Fish River / Polecat Creek R L Mobile Baldwin 2005 7.89 miles 2013 5-0306-200 & Wildlife (Mercury) Deposition Its source Organic AL0316020 enrichment Polecat Creek / Baker Branch R L Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife Pasture Grazing 2001 6.15 miles 2013 5-0306-500 (CBOD, Its source NBOD)
AL0316020 Swimming Fish Metals Atmospheric Fish River / Cowpen Creek R L Mobile Baldwin 2006 7.04 miles 2013 5-0307-700 & Wildlife (Mercury) Deposition Its source
Bon Secour Bay / AL0316020 Swimming Fish Metals Atmospheric One mile upstream Bon Secour River R L Mobile Baldwin 2005 9.12 miles 2013 5-0310-101 & Wildlife (Mercury) Deposition from first bridge above its mouth One mile upstream AL0316020 Swimming Fish Metals Atmospheric from first bridge Bon Secour River R L Mobile Baldwin 2005 4.38 miles 2013 5-0310-102 & Wildlife (Mercury) Deposition above its mouth / Its source Urban Baldwin County Road AL0316020 UT to Bon runoff/storm R H Mobile Baldwin Fish & Wildlife Pathogens 1995 1.64 miles 65 / 2008 5-0310-702 Secour River sewers Pasture Its source Grazing Shellfish AL0316020 2003- Oyster Bay E L Mobile Baldwin Harvesting Fish Pathogens Unknown Source 0.95 miles Oyster Bay 2013 5-0311-100 2005 & Wildlife
AL0314010 Perdido- Metals Hollinger Creek / Styx River R M Baldwin Fish & Wildlife Unknown Source 2002 22.72 miles 2016 6-0502-100 Escambia (Mercury) Its source
AL0314010 Perdido- Metals Perdido River / Styx River R M Baldwin Fish & Wildlife Unknown Source 2002 18.52 miles 2016 6-0506-100 Escambia (Mercury) Hollinger Creek
AL0314010 Perdido- Metals Perdido River / Blackwater River R L Baldwin Fish & Wildlife Unknown Source 2002 3.11 miles 2016 6-0603-101 Escambia (Mercury) Narrow Gap Creek
AL0314010 Perdido- Metals Atmospheric Perdido Bay / Perdido River R L Baldwin Fish & Wildlife 2005 21.93 miles 2016 6-0703-100 Escambia (Mercury) Deposition Jacks Branch
Urban Shellfish runoff/storm AL0314010 Perdido- 2001- 4.21 square Lillian Bridge / Perdido Bay E L Baldwin Harvesting Fish Pathogens sewers Onsite 2010 7-0103-100 Escambia 2002 miles Its source & Wildlife wastewater systems Shellfish Urban AL0314010 Perdido- 3.96 square Little Lagoon E L Baldwin Harvesting Fish Pathogens runoff/storm 2000 In its entirety 2010 7-0205-100 Escambia miles & Wildlife sewers
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Farm to Fuel Program: In 2006, the Farm to Fuel Initiative was statutorily created to enhance the market for and promote the production and distribution of renewable energy from Florida-grown crops, agricultural wastes and residues, and other biomass, and to enhance the value of agriculture products and expand agribusiness in the State (www.floridafarmtofuel.com). This type of program should also be considered in Baldwin County with its vast amount of farm acreage and its mild climate.
Reduced Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT): The Victoria Transport Policy Institute (www.vtpi.org) studied 40 U.S. and European metropolitan areas, and concluded that substantial “VMT reductions are achievable with reductions in emissions and fuel use roughly proportionate to the decrease in VMT, while supporting the same level of future job and housing growth.” Example data are: • Maricopa County, Arizona: 3% VMT reduction in 20 years • San Francisco Bay Area: 4.6% VMT reduction by 2020 • Baltimore Regional Transportation Board: 8.2% VMT reduction • Portland, Oregon: 8.8% VMT reduction in 20 years • Southern California Association of Governments: 10% VMT reduction in 25 years • Denver Regional Council of Governments: 12.5% VMT reduction in 25 years • Central Texas: 17% VMT reduction • Contra Costa County, California: 17.3% VMT reduction in 20 years
Glossary of Terms: (a) Agricultural Uses – Activities within land areas which are predominantly used for the cultivation of crops and livestock, including cropland, pastureland, orchards, vineyards, nurseries, ornamental horticulture areas, groves, confined feeding operations, specialty farms, and silviculture areas. (b) Aquifer – A saturated, permeable geologic unit that can transmit significant quantities of water under ordinary hydraulic gradients. (c) Commercial Uses – Activities within land areas, which are predominantly connected with the sale, rental, and distribution of products, or performance of services. (d) Conservation Easement – A right or interest in real property, which is appropriate to retaining land or water areas predominantly in their natural state. (e) Conservation Uses – Activities within land areas designated for the purpose of conserving or protecting natural resources or environmental quality; and includes areas designated for such purposes as flood control, protection of quality or quantity of groundwater or surface water, floodplain management, fisheries management, or protection of vegetative communities, or wildlife habitats. (f) Development – The construction, reconstruction, repair, demolition, conversion, structural alteration, relocation, removal, or enlargement of any building or structure; any extension of utilities; any construction of streets; any construction of drainage structures;
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any mine, excavation, land fill, or land disturbance; and/or any change in use, or alteration or extension of the use, of land. (g) Environmentally Sensitive Lands – Areas of land or water which are determined necessary by the local government, based on locally determined criteria, to conserve or protect natural habitats and ecological systems. (h) Floodplains – Areas inundated during a 100-year flood event or identified by the National Flood Insurance Program, as an “A” or a “V” (Velocity) Zone on Flood Insurance Rate Maps, or Flood Hazard Boundary Maps. The part of a river valley that is made of unconsolidated, river-borne sediment and is periodically flooded. It is built up of relatively coarse debris left behind as a stream channel migrates laterally and of relatively fine sediment deposit when bankful discharge is exceeded. (i) Function – Any ecological, hydrological, or other phenomenon that contributes to the self –maintenance of the wetland ecosystems; also, the normal or characteristic activities that take place in wetland ecosystems; or simply the things that wetlands do. (j) Groundwater – Water that occurs below the Earth’s surface. It is either passing through or standing in the soil and underlying strata, and is free to move under the influence of gravity. Most groundwater is derived from surface sources. (k) Historic Resources – All areas, districts, or sites containing properties listed on the Alabama Master Site File, the National Register of Historic Places, or designated by a local government as historically, architecturally, or archaeologically significant. (l) Industrial Uses – The activities within land areas predominantly connected with manufacturing, assembly, processing, or storage of products. (m) Infrastructure – Those man-made structures which serve the common needs of the population, such as: sewage disposal systems, potable water systems, potable water wells serving a system, solid waste disposal sites or detention areas, storm water systems, utilities, piers, docks, wharves, breakwaters, bulkheads, seawalls, bulwarks, revetments, causeways, marinas, navigation channels, bridges, and roadways. (n) Jurisdictional Wetland – A wetland area that falls under the authority of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. (o) Level of Service – An indicator of the extent or degree provided by, or proposed to be provided by, a facility based on and related to the operational characteristics of the facility. Level of service shall indicate the capacity per unit of demand for each public facility. (p) Marine – Of or relating to the sea or its navigation or commerce. (q) Mitigation Bank – The creation, restoration, or enhancement of an area of functioning wetland in advance of anticipated impacts within the same region. (r) Mitigation – The compensation for reduction or loss of wetland functions due to filling activities through wetland restoration, enhancement, and/or creation activities. (s) Objective – A specific, measureable, intermediate end that is achievable and marks progress toward a goal. (t) Open Spaces – Undeveloped lands suitable for passive recreation or conservation uses.
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(u) Policy – The way in which programs and activities are conducted to achieve an identified goal. (v) Pollution – The presence in the outdoor atmosphere, ground, or water of any substances, contaminants, noise, manmade or man-induced alteration of the chemical, physical, biological, or radiological integrity of air or water, in quantities or at levels which are, or may be, potentially harmful or injurious to human health or welfare, animal or plant life, or unreasonably interfere with the enjoyment of life or property. (w) Riparian – Of, on, or relating to the banks of a natural course of water. (x) Riparian Buffer Zone – A belt of trees, shrubs, and grasses located adjacent to and “up- slope” from a body of water. (y) Riparian Corridor Area – An area including both the stream bank, buffer area, and an extended area of protection to prevent unnatural intrusions. (z) Shore or Shoreline – The interface of land and water. (aa) Stormwater – The flow water which results from a rainfall event. (bb) Watershed – A geographic area from which a surface watercourse or groundwater system derives its water; the area of land where all precipitation drains to a common sink. (cc) Water Table – The surface on which the fluid pressure in the pores of a porous medium is exactly atmospheric; the level below which the ground is completely saturated with water. (dd) Wetland – Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency or duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
Public Input:
Citizens who attended the two Public Workshops (Sept. 25th and 26th, 2007) ranked their list of County issues and comments by order of importance at the end of the each evening. Below are the results for this element, listed in order of importance:
Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space 1. Strengthen environmental regulatory controls, especially for wetland and watershed protection 2. Greenways and Blueways 3. Waterway and Water Quality Protection 4. Wetland Impacts and Watershed Mitigation 5. Acquire environmentally sensitive areas, waterfront property, and green space for public ownership 6. Distinguish between Conservation and Preservation 7. Stormwater Management Standards 8. Carbon Credits – Environmental Credits to Purchase Development Rights 9. Research options for land donation and environmental easements
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN CONSERVATION, NATURAL RESOURCES AND OPEN SPACE ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
10. Place more emphasis on environmental protection 11. Aquifer Recharge 12. Prevent Dumping in Un-Incorporated Areas 13. Coordinate with Municipality Plans for Ecology Systems
Conservation, Natural Resources and Open Space Element 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 4.21
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
COASTAL MANAGEMENT With its abundance of scenic resources, recreational opportunities, waterways and beaches, and natural habitat, coastal Baldwin County and its 13 municipalities will continue to experience rapid growth from migration and natural increases. The historical development pattern has resulted in the destruction of critical wildlife habitat and native vegetation, the lowering of water quality, and the degradation or removal of beach and dune systems. If these resources are to be conserved in the future, development must be carefully and deliberately orchestrated.
The Coastal Management Element is one of the critical parts of the overall Comprehensive Plan that each municipality and the County should prepare for policy rulemaking consistent with State laws and regulations. The purpose of the Element is to plan for and where appropriate restrict development activities where such activities would damage or destroy coastal resources, and protect human life and limit public expenditures in areas that are subject to destruction by natural disaster.
Within the context of the Comprehensive Plan, the Coastal Management Element has a special status. Although it must be integrated into and consistent with all the other Elements of the Plan, the Coastal Management Element not only addresses the protection of coastal resources, it also addresses other related issues of land use, traffic circulation, public access, and public services, facilities, and infrastructure.
Baldwin County and the coastal municipalities have cooperated in the preparation of this Element. Early on, the County and coastal communities recognized that coastal issues and resources should be coordinated with a systems approach. Environmental systems such as estuaries, watershed, or wildlife habitat, and man-made systems like traffic circulation or drainage structures, do not start or stop at political boundaries.
Although the Coastal Management Element is included in the County’s Comprehensive Plan, the inventory, analysis, and the goals, objectives and policies (GOPs) have been structured to be broadbased so that each community can choose to adopt all or part of the Element into their individual Comprehensive Plans. Individual municipalities can prepare their goals, objectives, and policies to suit their particular need.
The central concept of the Element is to promote consensus among and between coastal communities so that common problems can be identified and common solutions proposed and implemented. The intent is to emphasize cooperation in implementing and achieving the goals, objectives, and policies. It is not the intent of the County to mandate certain requirements through this element beyond its statutory authority. Rather, the approach taken is to stress intergovernmental coordination and mutual cooperation through the use of interlocal agreements.
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Glossary of Terms:
(a) Adjacent Wetlands – Those wetland areas bordering, contiguous, neighboring, or hydrologically contiguous to state waters and/or wetland ecosystems. (b) Agency – Any unit, department, or office of federal, state, or local government, meaning any subdivisions thereof. (c) Alabama Scenic Byway – Any public road on the Alabama State Highway System that is so designated by the Alabama Scenic Byway Advisory Council and Designating Committee pursuant to Alabama SB438. These roadways offer travelers views of cultural, historical, archaeological, recreational, natural, or scenic resources, and provide a relaxed and educational experience. The intrinsic resources of the corridor must be considered of significant value by the surrounding communities. The corridor often includes vistas, rest areas, and other amenities in harmony with the scenic character of the road. (d) Beach – A sandy shoreline area characterized by low relief, generally of gentle slope, and some vegetation. The beach extends from the waterline to a change in physiographic form such as a dune or bluff, a change in sediment type, such as clay from sand, and/or a change in vegetation type. Gulf beaches are those sand beaches of the mainland and islands in Alabama which are subjected to the direct wave action of the Gulf of Mexico. (e) Canal – An excavated waterway for the purpose of navigation whose bottom elevation is below mean low water. (f) Coastal Area – The waters (and the lands therein and thereunder) and the adjacent shorelands (including the waters therein and thereunder) lying seaward of the continuous 10 foot contour extending seaward to the outer limit of the United States territorial sea. The inland boundaries of the coastal area are described as follows within Baldwin County from the Baldwin County line in the Mobile River to the west and north lines of Baldwin County in the Mobile and Alabama Rivers to the intersection of the westernmost point of Baldwin County where the land surface altitude reaches 10 feet above mean sea level; then, a 10 foot contour in a southwesterly and southern direction along the Alabama River, the Mobile River Delta and the east shore of Mobile Bay to the proximity of Bon Secour; then continuing along the 10-foot contour in an easterly and northeasterly direction to the Alabama-Florida state line. (g) Coastal Connection Scenic Byway – A corridor composed of 130 miles of roadway starting from the west in Grand Bay, Mobile County and ending in the east at Daphne, Baldwin County. The Byway runs through several historically and ecologically significant destinations along Alabama’s Gulf Coast. The roadway consists of SR 188, CR 59, SR 193, SR 180, SR 182, SR 161, Foley Beach Expressway, US 98, and SR 98. (h) Coastal Resources – Natural, cultural, or historical assets within the Coastal Area, such as water quality, air quality, wetlands, and submersed grassbeds, beaches and dunes, wildlife habitats, biological resources, and water resources.
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
(i) Coastal Waters – Those waters, adjacent to the shoreline, which contain a measurable, quantity or percentage of sea water, including but not limited to, sounds, bays, lagoons, bayous, ponds, and estuaries (j) Construction Control Line (CCL) – A line of demarcation that controls where construction can occur along the coastal areas of Alabama. (k) Cultural Resource – Any district, building, site, object, or other material in American history, architecture, archaeology, or culture which is of national, state, or local significance. (l) Discharge – Addition, introduction, leakage, spillage, or emitting of any sewer, industrial wastes, pollutant, or other wastes into waters of the state. (m) Ditch – An excavation designed for the purpose of stormwater drainage whose bottom elevation is at or above zero National Geodetic Vertical Datum. (n) Dredging – Excavation of any materials from lands underlying coastal waters or wetlands. (o) Endangered Species – Any species, including subspecies and varieties, that are in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their range in Alabama. (p) Estuary/Estuarine – That part of a river or stream or other body of water having unimpaired connection with the open sea, where the sea water is measurably diluted with fresh water derived from land drainage. (q) Fill – Any solids, dredged material, sludge, or other material the placement of which has the effect of purpose of raising the elevation of wetlands or lands underlying coastal waters. (r) Footprint – Ground area covered by a structure when viewed from the top or plan view. (s) Functional value – A wetland’s ability or potential to provide one or more of the following: stormwater retention and storage; nutrient export and primary productivity; purification and filtration of water; shoreline protection and erosion control; wildlife or fisheries habitat; and/or groundwater recharge. (t) Habitable structure – Any structure which by virtue of its design, size, or appurtenances, is suitable for occupation as a residence on a temporary or permanent basis, or any similar structure used for commercial purposes. (u) Hydrologically contiguous – Ordinarily or intermittently connected to state waters by other surface water or drainage as evidenced by water marks on land or vegetation, channels, or water eroded paths, including areas separated from state surface waters by a berm, causeway, or similar feature and which have a surface elevation at or below the normal high water line of the adjacent water body. (v) Marina – Any commercial facility which is capable of offering permanent or transient docking or mooring space for 10 or more boats and is capable of providing one or more of the following services: dry boat storage, boat fueling facilities, haulout facilities, repair services, nautical supplies, or any facility which is capable of providing mooring space for 20 or more boats ancillary to developments such as apartments, condominiums, hotels, or other planned unit developments.
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
(w) Special management area – Those specific areas within coastal Alabama that may require special management and regulatory emphasis due to their unique or special values, characteristics, or significance. (x) Submersed grassbeds – areas within the coastal area which support rooted vegetation that are not normally emerged even at low tide but remain covered within coastal waters. (y) Wetlands – Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency or duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, and similar areas.
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
List of Abbreviations:
Organization or Rule/Policy/Law/Code Abbreviations Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural ADCNR-MRD Resources—Marine Resources Division Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural ADCNR Resources—State Lands Division Coastal Section Alabama Department of Environmental Management ADEM Alabama Coastal Foundation ACF Alabama Forest Resource Center AFRC Alabama Gulf Coast Convention and Visitors Bureau AGCCVB Alabama Port Mitigation Bank APMB Alabama Power Company APC Baldwin County Commission BCC Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge BSNWR Clean Water Act of 1987 CWA Coastal and Estuarine Land Protection Program CELP Coastal Land Trust, Inc. CLT Dauphin Island Bird Sanctuaries, Inc. DIBS Emergency Operations Center EOC EPA Gulf of Mexico Program GOMP Geologic Survey of Alabama GSA Memorandum of Agreement MOA Memorandum of Understanding MOU Mississippi Alabama Sea Grant Consortium MASGC Mobile Bay Sierra Club MBSC Mobile Baywatch/Baykeeper MBB National Oceanic Aeronautics Administration NOAA National Coastal Wetlands Program NCWP National Environmental Policy Act NEPA National Fish and Wildlife Foundation NFWF National Resource Conservation Service NRCS North American Wetlands Conservation Act NAWCA Partners for Environmental Progress PEP South Alabama Regional Planning Commission SARPC Southeastern Natural Resources Incorporated SNRI The Nature Conservancy TNCAL Trust for Public Lands TPL US Fish and Wildlife Service USFWS Weeks Bay Foundation WBF Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve WBNERR Wetland Protection Overlay District WPOD Wetland Reserve Program WRP United States Army Corp of Engineers USACOE United States Fish and Wildlife Service USFWS
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
List of Sources:
• Conserving Alabama’s Coastal Habitats: Acquisition and Restoration Priorities of Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Mobile Bay National Estuary Program: 2006. • Alabama Coastal Area Management Plan. Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs: 1999. • 50 CFR Part 17. Department of the Interior: January 30, 2007. • Conservation/Coastal Management Element. City of Jacksonville: 2004. • Alabama Coastal Area Management Program Strategic Plan 2008-2011. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: 2007. • Alabama’s Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy. Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: 2007. • Alabama Inventory List. Alabama Natural Heritage Program: 2007. • Lee County Conservation and Coastal Management Element. Lee County: 2004. • Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve Management Plan. NOAA: 2007. • Alabama Department of Environmental Management. Coastal Area Management Plan Division 335-8. • Groundwater Discharge and Nitrate Flux to the Gulf of Mexico. Groundwater. Vol. 42, No. 3, pp. 401-417. • Baldwin County Hurricane Surge Atlas. Baldwin County Emergency Management Agency. • Coastal Connection Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan. Alabama Association of Regional Councils: 2008. • Baldwin County Hurricane Evacuation Route Analysis. Baldwin County: 2008.
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM)/ Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH)
Coastal Alabama Beach Monitoring Program Alabama’s coastal beaches are a major tourist attraction as well as a lifestyle staple for Alabama residents. Alabama has approximately 50 miles of Gulf Beach and an estimated 65 to 70 miles of bay beaches where the adjacent waters are classified for swimming under the State’s Water Use Classification System. Bacterial contamination in Alabama’s coastal recreational waters can originate from sources, including shoreline development, wastewater collection and treatment facilities, septic tanks, urban runoff, disposal of human waste from boats, bathers themselves, commercial and domestic animals and natural animal sources such as wildlife. People who swim and recreate in waters contaminated with such bacterial pollution are at an increased risk of becoming ill. Pathogens associated with this type of pollution can cause ear, eye, skin and respiratory infections, gastrointestinal illness, and more serious diseases such as meningitis and hepatitis.
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
In June 1999, Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM), in cooperation with the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), initiated a program to routinely monitor bacteria levels at five select swimming beaches on the Gulf Coast. The effort was later expanded to include six additional sites along the Gulf Coast and Mobile Bay. In October of 2000 the federal Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health (BEACH) Act was signed into law. This act mandates the monitoring and assessing of coastal recreational waters and the prompt notification of the public when applicable water quality standards are not being met. The act also authorizes EPA to award grants to help governments implement monitoring and notification programs consistent with published EPA guidance and criteria. The ADEM was designated as the State’s lead agency and was awarded grant money to carry out this program. Through the BEACH Act, the ADEM and the ADPH have greatly expanded and enhanced monitoring and notification efforts for Alabama’s public recreational waters. The goal of this program is to increase public awareness and provide valuable water quality information to help the public make more informed decisions concerning their recreational use of Alabama’s natural coastal waters.
This program now involves the routine collection of water samples from 25 high use and/or potentially high risk public recreational sites from Perdido Bay to Dauphin Island. The selection of sites and the frequency of sampling are determined using a risk based evaluation and ranking process. This process considers a number of factors for a given site, most importantly the amount of use and the amount of risk. Depending on the site, samples are collected twice per week, once per week or once every other week during the swimming season (June through September) and once per month during the cooler months. These samples are analyzed for the indicator bacteria Enterococci. Enterococci bacteria are endemic to the guts of warm blooded creatures. These bacteria, by themselves, are not considered harmful to humans but often occur in the presence of potential human pathogens. The indicator bacteria used and the threshold concentration, which triggers an advisory, are based on recommendations provided by the EPA in the documents Ambient Water Quality Criteria for Bacteria (1986) and Water Quality Standards Handbook, second addition (1983).
How this site works: The associated map of Coastal Alabama (Water Quality Summary) indicates the locations of the monitoring sites. Click on the location name of interest on either the map or the list of monitoring sites below for the most recent advisory status and bacteriological testing results. A three tiered color coded water quality status system is used to help the public make a more informed decision concerning water quality and risk of illness associated with swimming. A green status means that, based on the most recent test, water quality is acceptable. Enterococci levels were at or below the EPA threshold of 104 colonies per 100 ml of water. A yellow status means the most recent test results for a given site exceeded the EPA threshold of 104 Enterococci colonies per 100 ml of water. There may be an increased risk of illness associated with swimming in such water. Because elevated bacteria levels are often transient and usually fall quickly, these sites
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COASTAL MANAGEMENT ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
undergo immediate retesting. The yellow status will be revised to red or green based on the results of the retest. A red status means that repeat testing of a site has again revealed bacteria levels over the EPA threshold of 104 Enterococci colonies per 100 ml of water. There may be an increased risk of illness associated with swimming in such water. Because elevated bacteria levels have persisted, a public health advisory has been issued. Because bacteriological testing requires a 24 hour incubation period, it should be emphasized that even the most recent data (and thus the reported water quality status) are at least 24 hours old, and may not reflect current water quality conditions at these sites.
Coastal Scenic Byway Corridor Management Plan The purpose of this project is to develop a Corridor Management Plan for the Coastal Scenic Byway that is consistent with the requirements laid out in the Alabama Scenic Byway Program Manual. The Corridor Management Plan is key to the Designated Phase of the Scenic Byway and it focuses on “protecting, enhancing, and managing the resources identified in the eligibility application for both present and future conditions.” At the conclusion of the corridor phasing, the Alabama Scenic Advisory Council will determine whether or not the Corridor Management Plan provides a framework for adequate protection of intrinsic resources; identifies a sustainable Action Plan; and, documents broad based community support for the Byway. If the Plan meets these standards, along with others, it will be recommended for implementation. The goal of the Coastal Scenic Byway Program is to provide a guide for the preservation and enhancement of this roadway corridor and its intrinsic resources. This document was produced by the HNTB Corporation for the Alabama Association of Regional Councils in February of 2008.
Baldwin County Hurricane Evacuation Route Analysis A study was completed in January of 2008 to address evacuation operations and clearing time requirements for the existing 2007 roadway infrastructure and future year 2030 scenarios incorporating various combinations of proposed roadway improvements in Baldwin County. Post, Buckley, Schuh, and Jernigan, an international consulting firm, was retained to perform the necessary work by the Office of Emergency Management of Baldwin County.
Public Input:
Citizens who attended the two Public Workshops (Sept. 25th and 26th, 2007) ranked their list of County issues and comments by order of importance at the end of each evening. Below are the results for this element, listed in order of importance:
Coastal Element 1. Coastal Hazards Implementation System – e.g., Emergency Evacuation Routes 2. Coastal Fisheries Protection 3. Wolf Bay Watch Organization 4. Avoid Over-Pavement 5. Provide Public Ramps to waterways
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 PARKS AND RECREATION ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
PARKS AND RECREATION In 1999 and 2000, County Planning and Zoning Department staff prepared a document entitled Baldwin County Parks and Public Access Inventory and Assessment (dated July 2000). This report provides an inventory of county, state, municipal and private resources available to the residents of Baldwin County. County parks and access points are categorized into seven (7) groups: Group A Well Developed; Group B Developed; Group C Limited Use; Group D Unusable/ Dangerous; Group E Unsuitable; Group F Unmarked/ Location Unknown; and Group G Obstructed. Table 1 and 3 from the report are provided below:
Table 1: Categorical Parks and Access List
Group A: Well Developed Parks/Accesses Morgantown Park North Road Public Access Category 1 Well Maintained Oak Street Public Access Cliff’s Landing Mary Ann Nelson Park Mullet Point Park Orange Street Public Access Palmetto Creek Boat Ramp Pensacola Avenue Public Access
Category 2 Minor Improvements Needed Category 2 Minor Improvements Needed * Fort Mims (continued) Historic Marlow Ferry & Farragut’s Basin Public Boat Ramp #1 (Cock of the Walk) Perdido Bay Recreational Beach Public Boat Ramp #2 (Admiral Semmes Bridge) The Springs Sibley Street Public Access
Group B: Developed Parks/Accesses Category 3 Major Improvements Needed Bohemian Park Category 1 Well Maintained Josephine Park Inspiration Park Kee Avenue Public Access Category 4 Special Sites * Red Eagle’s Grave (requiring little parking, but are well maintained) * Lillian Recreation Center The Dipping Vat Propst Park Category 2 Minor Improvements Needed Red Hill Spring Barclay Street Public Access Battles Road Public Access Group C: Limited Use Parks/Accesses Bernard Court Public Access Burger Lane Public Access Category 1 Severely Limited Parking County Road 95 Public Access (but well maintained) Cypress Avenue Public Access Anderson Street Public Access Escambia Street Public Access Beach Boulevard Public Access Fish Trap Public Access Boykin Street Public Access Franklin Street Public Access Buchanan Road Public Access Honey Road Extension Mitigation Property Choctaw Road Public Access Indian Lane Public Access Cedar Street Public Access Laine Court Park Fish River Park Latham Park Mobile Avenue Public Access Mac Donald Avenue Public Access Montgomery Avenue Public Access
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Navy Cove Entrance Public Access Dickinson Lane Palmetto Avenue Public Access Dixie Highway Ponce de Leon Court East Public Access Feller's Lane Ponce de Leon Court West Public Access Gore Road Ponce de Leon Drive Public Access Government Road East Three Mile Road Public Access Government Road West Category 2 Improvements Needed Category 1: Unmarked Sites (continued) Baldwin Street Public Access Haupt Road Bay Avenue Public Access Holly Street East Holly Avenue Public Access Island Avenue Live Oak Public Access Isle of Pines North Rice Creek Boat Launch Isle of Pines South Rock Street Public Access Lafite Road Seminole Boat Launch Laurel Avenue Sunset Drive Public Access Lot 34 Fernwood Heights Yupon Avenue Public Access Lot 43 Fernwood Heights Zundall Lane Public Access Lot 51 Fernwood Heights Lot 35 Ponce de Leon Court Group D: Unusable Parks/Accesses Lot 50 Ponce de Leon Lot 51 Ponce de Leon Court Category 1 Dangerous Conditions Exist Magnolia Street Boone Lane Public Access Maple Lane Byrnes Landing Public Boat Launch Marjon Lane Marlow Ferry West Public Access Mullet Lane Myrtle State Category 2 Undeveloped Our Road Bay Avenue East Public Access Perdido Beach Park Cedar Street East Public Access Riverside Drive Holley Avenue Public Access Shell Banks Road Juniper Avenue Public Access Shore Drive 1 Keeney Drive East Mitigation Property Shore Drive 2 Rester Park Public Access Shore Drive 3 State Street West Public Access Todd Lane Carpenter Station Viola Road Worchester Road Group E: Other Facilities Wydell Street Public Access
Jill Hall Aerobic Trail Category 2: Sites Not Found 1st Avenue Group F: Unmarked Facilities 2nd Street Bay Front Road Category 1: Unmarked Sites Bay Shore Drive Angle Street Bay Side Drive Bay Street (Magnolia Springs) Bayou Drive Bay Street (Perdido Beach) Bluff Street Bell Street Bon Bay Drive Between Lots 18-19 Pamela Court Canal Street Between Lots 9-10 Pamela Court Cedar Drive Bobby Lane County Road 24 Cedar State Ferry Road Cherokee Road Fish River Acres Circle Chickasaw Road Fish River Parkway Choctaw Road North Jassamine Street Dell Street Keller Drive
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Magnolia Avenue Virginia Street Miflin Estates Wenzels Lane Murphy Lane White Lane Oak Street Peed Place Group G: Obstructed Accesses Pinewoods Avenue Category 2: Sites Not Found (continued) Boykin Court North Access Pineywoods Road Heritage Lane Access Red Barn Road Randolf Drive Access Reo Vista Drive Riverview Lane Park River Road Shore Drive/ Bay Road Access Riverwood Drive State Street East Access Roan Road Yupon Lane Access Rosala Avenue Seabright Avenue * Owned by others, maintenance by County for Seventh Street public use. Timney Drive
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The report also categorizes the facilities into four (4) park types: Connector Trail, Community Park, Special Use (other) and Special Use (water). For planning purposes, this classification system is useful in determining the County’s park and recreation needs.
The following list is a compilation of information shown in the report and received from County staff. Those sites identified as “Obstructed”, “Unmarked”, or “Unable to Find” in the report have not been included.
Name Anderson Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Baldwin Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Barclay Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Battles Road Access Special Use/ Water Access Bay Avenue Access Special Use/ Water Access Bay Avenue East Access Undeveloped Bay Minette Creek Not specified Beach Blvd. Access Special Use/ Water Access Bernard Court Access Special Use/ Water Access Bicentennial Park Not specified Bohemian Park Community Park Boone Lane Access Undeveloped Boykin Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Buchanan Road Access Special Use/ Water Access Burger Lane Access Special Use/ Water Access Byrne’s Lake Boat Launch Special Use/ Water Access Carpenter Station Special Use/ Other Cedar Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Cedar Street East Access Undeveloped Choctaw Road Access Special Use/ Water Access Cliff’s Landing Boat Launch Community Park County Road 95 Boat Launch Special Use/ Water Access Cypress Avenue Access Special Use/ Water Access Dipping Vat, The Special Use/ Other Escambia Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Fish River Park Special Use/ Water Access Fish Trap Boat Launch Special Use/ Water Access Fort Mims Special Use/ Other Franklin Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Fuller’s Park Undeveloped Historic Marlow Ferry & Farragut’s Basin Community Park Holly Avenue Access Special Use/ Water Access Honey Road Extension Access Special Use/ Water Access Indian Lane Access Special Use/ Water Access
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Inspiration Oak Park Special Use/ Other Jill Hall Aerobic Trail Connector Trail Josephine Park & Boat Launch Community Park Juniper Avenue Access Undeveloped Juniper Street Undeveloped Kee Avenue Park Special Use/ Water Access Keeney Drive East Access Undeveloped Laine Court Park Community Park Latham Park Community Park Lillian Recreation Center Community Park Live Oak Access Special Use/ Water Access Lots 34, 43, 51 - Fernwood Heights Undeveloped MacDonald Avenue Special Use/ Water Access Marlow Ferry West Access Special Use/ Water Access Mary Ann Nelson Park Community Park Mobile Avenue Access Special Use/ Water Access Montgomery Avenue Access Special Use/ Water Access Morgantown Park Special Use/ Water Access Mullet Point Park & Boat Launch Community Park Navy Cove Village Entrance Access Special Use/ Water Access North Road Special Use/ Water Access Oak Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Orange Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Palmetto Avenue Access Special Use/ Water Access Palmetto Creek Boat Launch Community Park Pensacola Avenue Access Special Use/ Water Access Perdido Bay Recreational Beach Community Park Ponce de Leon Court East Access Special Use/ Water Access Ponce de Leon Court West Access Special Use/ Water Access Ponce de Leon Drive Access Special Use/ Water Access Propst Park Special Use/ Other Public Boat Ramp #1 Special Use/ Water Access Public Boat Ramp #2 Special Use/ Water Access Red Eagle’s Grave Special Use/ Other Red Hill Spring Special Use/ Other Rester Park Special Use/ Water Access Rice Creek Boat Launch Special Use/ Water Access Rock Street Access Special Use/ Water Access Seminole Boat Launch Special Use/ Water Access Sibley Street-Stedman’s Landing Access Special Use/ Water Access The Springs Community Park State Street East Access Special Use/ Water Access State Street West Access Undeveloped
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Sunset Drive Access Special Use/ Water Access Three Mile Road Access Special Use/ Water Access View Point Boat Launch Not specified
Level of Service (LOS) Standards:
Volume I of the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan references a park classification system and level of service (LOS) standards provided by the Baldwin County Planning Department staff. These references are primarily based on standards established by the National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA) and a publication entitled “Planner’s Estimating Guide: Projecting Land-Use and Facility Needs.”
In addition to the County facilities listed above, County residents have access to the following state, municipal and private resources:
• Alabama Point Public Beach (www.gulfshores.com) • Bike Trail (www.gulfshores.com) • Biophilia Nature Center & Native Nursery (www.biophilia.net) • Blakely State Park (www.outdooralabama.com) • Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge & Beach (NWR) • Cotton Bayou Public Beach (www.gulfshores.com) • Department of Conservation’s Marine Resource Center • Garett Park • Gulf Shores Public Beach (www.gulfshores.com) • Gulf State Park/ Lake Shelby Recreation Area (www.gulfshores.com, www.alapark.com) • Gulf State Park & Nature Center (www.gulfshores.com) • Holiday Park • Knoll Park • Lagoon Pass Park • Meaher State Park (www.alapark.com, www.gulfshores.com) • Melvin Roberts Cedar Street Park and Walking Trail • Memorial Park • Minamac Wildflower Bog (www.gulfshores.com) • Perdido River Wildlife Management Area (WMA) (www.outdooralabama.com) • Pier Street Boat Ramp • Romar Public Beach (www.gulfshores.com) • Soldier’s Creek Golf Course at Woerner’s Preserve (www.soldierscreekgolf.com) • Timber Creek Golf Club (public) • Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (www.weeksbay.org) • Wehle Nature Center at Blakely (www.outdooralabama.com) • William L. Holland Wildlife Management Area (WMA)
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• City of Bay Minette Facilities: Blackburn Park, Brownwood Park, George B. Halliday Park, John White Park, Lee Smith Park/ Imagination Station, O.C. Tuffy Waters Park, Rex Park, Sye Davis Park, Vincent Ulmer Park • City of Daphne Facilities: Al Trione Sports Complex, Bayfront Park, Belrose Park, Centennial Park, Daphne Boys & Girls Club, D’Olive Boardwalk Park / Gator Alley, Joe Louis Patrick Park, McMillan Bluff Park, May Day Park & Boat Launch, Park City Park, S.B. Williams Park, Village Point Park, W.O. Lott Park • Town of Elberta Facilities: Elberta Town Park • City of Fairhope Facilities: Fairhope Municipal Pier, Founder’s Park, Quail Creek Municipal Golf Course, Stimpson Field, Volanta Park/ Fairhope Municipal Park • City of Foley Facilities: Aaronville Park, Beulah Heights Park, Evans Park, Foley Hike-Bike Trail, Foley Kids Park, Foley Soccer Park, John B. Foley Park, Heritage Park, Max Griffin Park, Melvin Roberts Park/ Cedar Street Park • City of Gulf Shores Facilities: David L. Bodenhamer Recreation Center, Gulf Shores Kids Park, Gulf Shores Sportsplex, Gulf Shores Wetlands Nature Park, Lagoon Pass Park, Meyer Park, New Skate Park, Sims Park, Wade Ward Nature Park • City of Orange Beach Facilities: Aquatic Center, Golf Center, Recreation Center, Sportsplex, Tennis Center, Waterfront Park
Needs Analysis:
The County has not established a level of service (LOS) standard for park and recreation facilities. This should be pursued in order to assess the adequacy of the amount and quality of park and recreation space. Typically, a LOS standard is measured in terms of park or recreation acres per population; therefore, this step will involve investigating how many acres of park or recreation acres currently exist, and whether or not this amount is considered adequate for Baldwin County residents.
The Baldwin County Parks and Public Access Inventory and Assessment provides the foundation for the above task. As stated in the Conclusion section of the document, next steps include continuing the process of identifying and maintaining the park and recreation site inventory, and completing a comprehensive Recreation Plan. This document does not identify any shortcomings in terms of acreage, but does describe needed improvements for existing sites.
The Baldwin County Strategic Plan: 2006-2016 identifies the following needs: develop an infrastructure assessment (concurrency standard) program/ system for parks; provide parks, camping and playground areas at public accesses on water frontage, improve public access to 2 beaches, improve 2 current boat ramps, acquire 1 new boat ramp, and build 3 boat ramps on currently owned property by 2016; establish Bicentennial Park and Village by 2009; and ensure the County has adequate resources to maintain all County facilities in an efficient and effective manner by 2011. These needs have been incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan.
Parks & Recreation Element 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 6.7 PARKS AND RECREATION ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS APRIL, 2009
Public Input:
Citizens who attended the two Public Workshops (Sept. 25th and 26th, 2007) ranked their list of County issues and comments by order of importance at the end of each evening. Below are the results for this element, listed in order of importance:
Parks and Recreation 1. Conserve Greenways for Bike Trails/ Environmental Paths – Trails outside of road corridors 2. Protect Open Space for Parks/ Boating/ Picnic Areas 3. Connectivity to Residential via Trails – Bike/ Pedestrians/ Boat / Transit 4. Public Access: Safety and Trash 5. Repair and maintain park facilities on a regular basis 6. Baldwin County Trail Blazer Plans 7. International Trail Program 8. Creative Approaches to Adding/Purchasing Greenspace for Bike Trails/ Greenways/ Parks.
Parks & Recreation Element 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 6.8 BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 RESERVED DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
RESERVED
Community and Cultural Facilities Element 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 7.1
BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN HISTORIC RESOURCES ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
HISTORIC RESOURCES County Resources: Baldwin County has established three (3) Historic Resource Overlay districts, which are listed below. Property in these districts is subject to the requirements of the Architectural & Preservation District Review Board, which has jurisdiction over new construction, renovation, relocation and demolition activities (Article 10 and Appendix B of the Baldwin County Zoning Ordinance).
• Magnolia Springs District • Montrose District • Point Clear District
Several historic churches are listed on the Baldwin County website (www.co.baldwin.al.us): • First Baptist Church of Bay Minette (1914) • Latham Methodist Church (1906) in Latham • Lebanon Chapel A.M.E. Church (1923) in Fairhope • Montgomery Hill Baptist Church (1853) in Tensaw • St. Mark’s Lutheran Church of Elberta (1927) • St. Paul’s Episcopal Church (1901) in Magnolia Springs • St. Raphael’s Roman Catholic Church (1924) now the Loxley Public Library in Loxley • Stockton Methodist Church (1929) • Swift Presbyterian Church (1907) in Miflin • Twin Beach A.M.E. Zion Church (1925) in Fairhope
The Baldwin County Archives and History Department has identified the Tensaw Parkway as a proposed Scenic Byway for the Alabama Scenic Byway Program. (See Section 12, List of Maps of Volume II Data, Inventory and Analysis)
State Resources: The Alabama Department of Archives and History (ADAH, www.archives.state.al.us) has identified the following historic resources in Baldwin County:
• The Mound Line (Ellicott Line) Mile Mound #216: Surveyed in 1799 to mark the 31° North Latitude, this line charted the first southern boundary of the United States, separating the U.S. from Spanish Florida. The line was marked at one-mile intervals by earthen mounds approximately fifteen-feet square and three-feet high with a charred lighter-pine post at the center, hence the name Mound Line. Jointly surveyed by Major Andrew Ellicott, U.S. Commissioner, and Esteban Minor, Spanish Commissioner, to determine boundaries as agreed in the Treaty of San Lorenzo in 1795. The line began at the Mississippi River, ran east along 31° North Latitude to the Chattahoochie River, thence eventually to the Atlantic
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Ocean. Stockton was divided by this line, with some residents living in the United States and some in Spanish Florida. Although Stockton became a "border town," U.S. law generally prevailed in the area.
• Fort Bowyer (built during War of 1812): 1803 United States claimed Mobile and the bay as part of Louisiana Purchase. 1813 On order of President Madison, this point seized from Spain by U.S. Regulars under Gen. James Wilkinson and militia under Col. John Bowyer. This act extended Mississippi Territory to Bay area. Fort Bowyer, a wooden fort, was built here. 1814 British with Indian allies attacked Fort by land and sea. After three days of fierce assault, the British ship Hermes was sunk; the enemy withdrew to friendly Spanish port of Pensacola. 1815 After Battle of New Orleans, British under Gen. Pakenham attacked here with 500 men from land and 38 war ships. Maj. Lawrence, U.S.A. surrendered with 360 men on the third day. Since peace treaty had already been signed, British retained Fort Bowyer only a few weeks. Americans again occupied the Fort. 1819 work begun on construction of brick fort. 1822 Fort greatly strengthened as urged by President James Monroe. Later renamed Fort Morgan.
• Fort Morgan (1833): This fort replaced Fort Bowyer. Built on the star-shaped design of Michelangelo, it is one of the finest examples of military architecture in the New World. 1861 Seized by Alabama troops on order of Governor Moore. 1861-1864 Strengthened and garrisoned by Confederates guarding the pass against Federal blockading fleet. Guns of fort protected blockade-runners in and out of Mobile Bay. 1864 Admiral Farragut, U.S.N., forcing passage into bay, landed 3000 men. After heavy bombardment by Federal fleet, the interior of Fort lay in smoldering ruins. The garrison surrendered next afternoon. 1865 General Canby U.S.A. landed nearby with 32,500 troops and supplies. He moved up east shore of bay to join 13,200 men from Pensacola and laid siege to defenses of Mobile. 1898 During War with Spain the Fort was strengthened and modernized. 1946 Congress deeded the Fort and 400 acres to Alabama for use as State Park.
• Fort Mims Massacre: Here in the Creek Indian War (1813-14) took place the most brutal massacre in American history. Indians took the fort with heavy losses, and then killed all but about 36 of some 550 in the fort. The Creeks had been armed by British at Pensacola in this phase of War of 1812. (located in northern Baldwin County)
• Kennedy Mill (circa 1811): Site of one of Alabama's first sawmills. In 1811, Joshua Kennedy engaged Jesse Ember to build two water-powered sawmills, convertible to grist mills, for a total of $1400. The mills were operated by Kennedy through 1820; were burned twice, once by Indians. The mill dam and site were later used by the Bryne Brothers, and then by Hastic & Silver Co. until 1906, when they were abandoned.
• Point Clear Confederate Rest Cemetery: The Grand Hotel and the Gunnison House served as a hospital for wounded Confederate soldiers from the Battle of Vicksberg during the Civil
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War. The Confederate Rest Cemetery commemorates more than 300 Confederate soldiers who died while in the hospital. The original tract of seven acres included markers erected to the Unknown Confederate Dead. The records of the soldiers were kept in the hotel until a fire in 1869, when the identities of those buried in Confederate Rest were lost.
• School of Organic Education: On this site, a significant educational experiment was launched by Marietta Johnson, who founded the School of Organic Education in 1907. Believing that children should be motivated by natural free development rather than by competition, she did away with examinations and concentrated on the growth of the whole person. In 1909, the Single Tax Corporation provided this 10-acre plot. John Dewey, whose progressive education principles were shared by Johnson, visited the school in 1913. The school reached its zenith during the 1920's. The City of Fairhope acquired the campus in 1987 and leased it to Faulkner State Junior College. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.
The Alabama Association of Regional Councils has identified the Alabama Coastal Connection as a designated Scenic Byway in Baldwin County as part of the Alabama Scenic Byways Program (http://www.alabamabyways.org). (Section 12, List of Maps of Volume II Data, Inventory and Analysis)
National Resources: The listings shown below are included in the National Register of Historic Places (www.nationalregisterofhistoricplaces.com). The National Register of Historic Places is the Nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. Authorized under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Register is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic and archeological resources. Properties listed in the Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture:
• Allen House (aka Marshall House) • Bank of Fairhope • Battles Wharf Historic District • Beckner House (aka Baker House) • Blakely Site (aka Fort Blakely Site) • Carl L. Bloxham Building (aka Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce) • Bottle Creek Indian Mounds (aka Mound Island) • Brodbeck-Zundel Historic District • Brunell House (aka Governor’s Club) • Cantonment Montpelier Site (aka McGillivray’s Cow Pens Plantation, Tate’s Cow Pens) • George W. Cullum House (aka Jones House, Caffey House) • Fairhope Bayfront District
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• Fairhope Downtown Historic District • First Baptist Church • Foley Downtown Historic District • Fort Mims • Fort Morgan • Gaston Building (aka Single-Tax Office) • Golf, Gun & Country Club (aka Manning House) • Hamner House (aka Roberts House) • Axil Johnson House • Killcreas House • Latham United Methodist Church • Lebanon Chapel AME Church • McMillan House (aka Captain O’Neal House, Nordmann House) • Methodist Episcopal Church (ala Old Daphne Methodist Church) • Mobile Point Light Station Keeper’s Quarters Building • Montgomery Hill Baptist Church • Montrose Historic District • Moore Store (aka Moore Brothers General Store) • Nelson House (aka Reynolds House) • Nicholson House (aka Nelson House) • Orrell House (aka Burnette House) • People’s Supply Company Building • Point Clear Historic District • School of Organic Education • St. Mark’s Lutheran Church • St. Patrick’s Catholic Church (aka Loxley Public Library) • St. Paul’s Episcopal Church • Lewis Stark House (aka Shonts House, Delaney House) • State Bank Silverhill • Stockton Methodist Church • Street House • Captain Adams House (aka Stone House) • Sunnyside Hotel (aka McLennan House) • Svea Land Company Office Building (aka Oscar Johnson Memorial Library) • Swift Presbyterian Church • The Texas Building (aka Dryer House, Brunell House) • White Avenue Historic District
The Baldwin County Strategic Plan: 2006-2016 identifies the following needs related to this element:
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Archives & History Department: (p. 35) • Ensure all County historic documents are physically located in Archives Building, catalogued and accessible to the public by 2011 • Preserve all County historic documents subject to the statewide records retention schedule by 2009, and maintain on an annual basis • Plan and implement a successful Bicentennial Celebration with a series of events and activities by 2009 • In conjunction with the County Administrator’s Office, complete a historical documentary on the heritage of Baldwin County by 2009 • Complete a minimum of 200 interviews concerning all aspects of the history of Baldwin County in order to develop oral history video recordings by 2011
Public Input:
Citizens who attended the two Public Workshops (Sept. 25th and 26th, 2007) ranked their list of County issues and comments by order of importance at the end of each evening. Below are the results for this element, listed in order of importance:
Historical Resources 1. Protect Fort Morgan 2. Enhance/ Protect County Museum 3. Protect Ferry System 4. Identify / Define Historic Districts and Sites 5. Preserve Historic Resources 6. Enhance Historic Areas and Cemeteries within GIS mapping
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
COMMUNITY DESIGN Community Design Guidelines: The following principles represent the driving forces behind the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan’s Community Design element: • Visual, Physical Design: A community that reflects a visually appealing and aesthetically planned orientation of development will thrive and evolve over time. In contrast, a developing community that appears disconnected and haphazardly planned will often degrade with time. • Regulatory Controls: A community design that has in place its regulatory control mechanisms (i.e., land use and zoning maps, permitting procedures, etc.) will avoid litigation pitfalls as well as controversy and chaos among present and future community residents and local authorities. • Safety & Security: Well planned community design elements incorporated into the local regulatory control mechanisms afford a sense of safety and security to present and future community residents. That is, with community design in place neighborhood families and residents need not worry that future development may adversely impact their communities. • Cultural & Entertainment: Well planned community design allows the community and its surrounding neighborhoods to evolve as they culturally develop into aesthetically distinct attractions and places for hosting local events and entertainment. • Human Resources: A connected community most effectively utilizes its human resources in forming and facilitating community groups and structured social occasions and events. A community’s human resources serve as the core in keeping neighborhood residents involved and informed. • Business Development: Connected communities support and enhance local businesses and generate greater economic development. • Natural Resources: Well planned, community development that provides for greater density functions as a means to protect and preserve the community’s natural resources. • Utilities and Infrastructure: Well planned communities avoid redundancy in infrastructure and thus avoid substantial costs that adversely impact local government economy. • Recreation Parks and Sports: Community designs should specifically preserve areas that serve as neighborhood parks and recreational open spaces. Such planning functions as a facilitator in generating quality neighborhood interactions among the community’s families, children, and residents. • Neighborhood Development: Well planned communities enhance neighborhoods, as well as prepare such neighborhoods for future growth. • Education: Community development takes into consideration the regulations that must be in place to ensure quality education and school facilities for the community’s children and student populations.
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Community Design Mechanisms to Slow Traffic and Enhance Community Livability – Provided by the Baldwin County Trail Blazers • Apply striping margins to lane widths and excess paving to establish well marked bike lanes. • Apply bold striping to establish conspicuous pedestrian cross-walks 30’ before and after major intersections. • Apply color coded crosswalks adjacent to school campuses to mark safe routes to school by the use of color. Furthermore, incorporate flashing lights automatically activated during school arrival and departure hours. • Control stop-and-go traffic by restricting curb cuts to 20’ wide in commercial and retail centers to thereby provide less interruption of sidewalks. • Apply bold paths with landscape paint to reduce confusion for cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists in areas found to be complex intersections having multiple entry points. • Urge transportation officials to install ample shoulders in all new road construction and in resurfacing projects to accommodate safe bike lanes on both sides of the road. Four total feet should be sufficient, and can be accomplished by narrowing lanes slightly and marking the boundary between roadway and bike lane by conspicuous striping. • Scored rumbled strips should be used with substantial discretion, taking into full consideration cyclist safety. • Create and continue to make bike lane conspicuous through striping the boundary between roadway and bike lane. • Urge planning officials to require developers to incorporate 5’ minimum width of sidewalks throughout the community’s neighborhoods. Developers should also be required to install sidewalks on the public right of way of streets that border and provide access to the subdivision with the minimum 5’ requirement so as to produce within the community a seamless continuous pedestrian facility. • Urge transportation designers and planning officials to take into consideration those who cannot or prefer to avoid using automobiles as their sole source of transportation (i.e., young children, elderly, and handicapped individuals). • Urge Community Officials to implement a zero tolerance policy for drunk and under-the- influence driving. This should include jail time if the violation results in serious pedestrian injury and/or a long term cancellation of the at-fault driver’s license.
Community Design Impact on Community Economy: According to the Florida Center for Community Design and Research, communities with lower densities become more auto- dependent, and transportation costs consume nearly 1/3 of the typical American household. See www.fccdr.usf.edu. Furthermore, a recent news report indicated that between twenty and thirty percent of all rush hour traffic is comprised of trips taking and picking up children from school. Channel 47 News online reports. Consequently, increasing residential or population density
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reduces the annual auto mileage per household by 20 to 30 percent. However, people often dislike density because of the traffic it brings. However, well planned communities can substantially decrease traffic and its inherently large costs if the ability to walk, bicycle, and/or use local transit to intended destinations is made available to its residents.
Therefore, implementing such community design standards serves to protect the environment, conservation of land, energy and natural resources, reduction in vehicular traffic congestion, more efficient use of public funds, health benefits of a pedestrian environment, historic preservation, education and recreation, reduction in sprawl development, and improvement of the built environment.
Public Input:
Citizens who attended the two Public Workshops (Sept. 25th and 26th, 2007) ranked their list of County issues and comments by order of importance at the end of each evening. Below are the results for this element, listed in order of importance:
Community Design Element 1. Protect natural/aesthetic beauty in future developments. 2. Create connectivity between regions, and create a network of urban trails throughout the County. 3. Address traffic problems and congestion in community design – e.g., traffic calming techniques 4. Prevent areas of dilapidation and abandoned buildings. 5. Implement Transferable Development Rights to Preserve Open Space and avoid Over- Development. 6. Incorporate Bi-Lingual Signs where needed. 7. Address Quality of Life and Environmental Issues in Community Design
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION ELEMENT DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Governmental coordination refers to coordination with and cooperation between agencies in a local government, and is essential in creating local mitigation strategies, establishing level of service standards, and expanding the capabilities of critical government services and responsibilities.
Baldwin County has and is continuing to see tremendous growth within its areas of concern. Spiked population growth patterns place extreme pressure on land development; and without proper government coordination in place, costly development coupled with deep impacting events and/or natural disasters may severely impair local economies. Moreover, unplanned growth causes major depletion and degradation to an area’s natural resources.
Intergovernmental coordination provides a regional approach for responding to and recovering from large-scale events such as floods, hurricanes, storm surge, etc. Coordinated intergovernmental efforts also provide a way to coordinate with local and regional governments to provide adequate and uniform standards of service to its citizens, as well as efficiently utilize limited resources.
Allowing local governments to cooperate with one another in the performance of tasks while at the same time, reduce duplication of efforts, generates substantial cost savings in addition to greater levels of service among partnering jurisdictions. Consequently, inter-local service arrangements enhance the level of service and service capabilities of smaller local governments by allowing them to offer more specialized services to their residents than they could otherwise afford.
Intergovernmental Coordination Statutory Authority: The following legislation provides the relevant authority necessary to implement the Intergovernmental Coordination element of the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan.
Section 11-102-1, et seq: Under the Alabama Code § 11-102-1, the Joint Powers Act, any two or more local governments can jointly provide any service that either can provide on its own. It is sufficient if each of the contracting entities has the authority to exercise or perform the power or service which is the subject of the contract regardless of the manner in which the power or service shall be exercised or performed, provided that at least one of the contracting parties has the authority to exercise the power or service in the manner agreed upon by the parties. The joint contract may provide for the power or service to be exercised by one or more entities on behalf of the others or jointly by the entities.
Municipal Powers Background Information: Legislature entrusts municipal councils with the duty and responsibility of exercising a wide variety of the sovereign powers of the state which vitally affect the life, liberty and property of citizens within their jurisdictions. Sections 11-43-2,
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11-43-40, and 11-43-43, Alabama Code 1975 provide that all legislative powers and other powers granted to municipalities shall be exercised by the council, and generally places municipal powers at the discretion of the municipal council. These powers are exercised by the adoption of an ordinance, resolution or motion.
Significantly, a municipal ordinance fixing no guide or rule for the exercise of administrative discretion, leaving the whole matter to be determined by the officer or governing authority, is an unwarranted delegation of legislative power. Such ordinances are unreasonable, arbitrary, or oppressive. When adopting ordinances, a council should provide standards and guides to be used by officers responsible for administration of the ordinances.
Relevant Case Law: Municipal authority is in no way affected by the fact that the police jurisdiction encompasses territory located in another county. White v. City of Decatur, 25 Ala. App. 274, 144 So. 872 (1932). An exception to this rule applies to Baldwin County where a municipality may not exercise police jurisdiction authority unless a part of its corporate limits also lies in the county.
Alabama courts follow the Dillon Rule which was initially recognized in the seminal case Mobile v. Moog, 53 Ala. 561 (1875). This case quoted Judge Dillon’s work on municipalities, which set forth that municipalities possess and exercise express powers, implied powers, and those powers “essential to the declared objects and purposes of the corporation –not simply convenient, but indispensable.” Id.
In other words, these municipal powers must be germane to the purpose for which the corporation was created and cannot be enlarged by construction. Such power must be related to some corporate purpose, or have a legitimate connection. Harris v. Livingston, 28 Ala. 577.
Analysis: Here for instance, the issuance of building permits has become a controversial topic between the County and its municipalities. Accordingly, a municipal council has the power to adopt building laws so long as they meet the aforementioned criteria: (l) legitimate connection to a public purpose; and (2) such ordinance(s) must establish objective guidelines and rules, leaving no room for authority discretion that could be found unreasonable, arbitrary, or oppressive. Furthermore, municipal actions that amount to an issuance of building permits that occur prior to, or without, formal adoption of building law ordinances are likely invalid and could thus be subject to litigation.
Conclusion: In sum, the Intergovernmental Coordination Element of the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan shall address those related issues that arise between local government entities. This element aims for the cooperation and coordination between the County and its municipal and regional governments to best meet the health, safety, and quality-of-life needs of its citizens.
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Summary of Existing Interlocal Agreements
1. Elberta • Rule: State law authorizes a municipality to exercise such planning jurisdiction up to 5 miles outside its corporate limits and not located in any other municipality. • Clause 2 of The Elberta Resolution agreement provides that the municipality of Elberta (and not the Baldwin County Commission), shall exercise review authority over all subdivision developments within the area indicated on the Planning Jurisdiction (“PJ”) Map • Elberta will submit a copy of each plat approved within its extraterritorial PJ to the County Engineer for his approval (as required in Section 11-52-30 of the Code of Alabama). • Where a proposed subdivision lies partly in the County’s PJ and partly in Elberta’s PJ, it shall be Elberta’s responsibility to review said subdivision. • The Elberta Resolution agreement expressly understands that it may be modified or amended by mutual action of the County and municipality whenever such is deemed necessary.
2. Loxley • The Baldwin County Commission shall have responsibility for the review of subdivision in the unincorporated areas of the County lying outside the municipality’s (here, Loxley) and not lying inside the PJ of any other municipality in Baldwin County. • The municipality will exercise review authority over all subdivision developments located inside its corporate limits and all land lying within its PJ (all land lying within 1.5 miles of its corporate limits and not located in any other municipality). • Loxley will submit a copy of each plat approved within its extraterritorial PJ to the County Engineer for his approval (as required in Section 11-52-30 of the Code of Alabama). The more stringent requirements, whether of municipality or of the County, must be complied with by the developer.
3. Foley • The Foley Resolution agreement provides that the municipality shall have particular responsibility for the review of subdivisions located inside its corporate limits and all land lying within its PJ. The municipality’s PJ shall include all land located inside its corporate limits and all land lying within 5 miles of its corporate limits and not located in any other municipality. • Clause 2 of the Resolution provides that if any part of a proposed subdivision lies within the municipality’s PJ (as described on the PJ Map), then the municipality,
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and not Baldwin County Commission, will have responsibility for review of said subdivision. • Foley will submit a copy of each plat approved within its extraterritorial PJ to the County Engineer for his approval (as required in Section 11-52-30 of the Code of Alabama). • Rule: State Law provides if there is a conflict between City Subdivision Regulation and County Subdivision Regulations, the more stringent regulations, whether of municipality or of the County, must be complied with by the developer. • The Resolution agreement expressly understands that it may be modified or amended by mutual action of the County and municipality whenever such modification/amendment is deemed necessary.
4. Fairhope • See above, Foley resolution agreement rules (same rules) in addition to: i. The municipality’s PJ shall include all land located inside its corporate limits and all land lying within 5 miles of its corporate limits West of Fish River and not located in any other municipality.
5. Daphne • See above, Foley resolution agreement rules (same rules).
6. Summerdale • See above, Foley resolution agreement rules (same rules).
7. Orange Beach • See above, Foley resolution agreement rules (same rules) in addition to the following: i. The opening of the bridge across the Intracoastal canal made accessible that portion of the city’s PJ within the Orange Beach Police jurisdiction in the unincorporated areas over which neither Foley nor Gulf Shores has jurisdiction. The Orange Beach asserts PJ and control over said area. ii. The County Commission agrees to notify Orange Beach of any effort or intent by any other municipality desiring to exercise jurisdiction and control over the territory north of the intracoastal waterway within the legal jurisdiction of Orange Beach pertaining to subdivision control.
8. Robertsdale • See above, Foley resolution agreement rules (same rules).
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9. Magnolia Springs • See above, Foley resolution agreement rules (same rules).
10. City of Gulf Shores • See above, Foley resolution agreement rules (same rules) given the following exceptions: i. The municipality’s (here City of Gulf Shores) PJ will not include any land located northerly or westerly of the Compromise Boundary established by the Circuit Court of Baldwin County in that certain Consent Order on Settlement entered in City of Gulf Shores v. Hold, et al., CV95-323, Oct. 31, 1996, whether or not such land is within the PJ of any other municipality.
DEFINITIONS For the purposes of this section and the Intergovernmental Coordination Element found within the Baldwin County Comprehensive Plan, the following terms shall hold the following meanings:
Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ): refers to the jurisdictional authority and power that a municipality may exercise outside its corporate limits. This jurisdiction shall extend to a maximum of 5 miles outside its corporate limits.
Extraterritorial Powers: refers to those powers a municipality may exercise outside its corporate limits and in accordance to the Alabama Code 1975.
Planning Jurisdiction: refers to the ETJ of a municipality in connection to having review authority over all planned subdivision developments that lie within a municipality’s ETJ. Such areas shall extend to a maximum of five miles outside a municipality’s corporate limits.
Police Jurisdiction: refers to the ETJ area where a municipality may enforce police or sanitary regulations, and prescribe fines and penalties for related violations. The police jurisdiction of cities and towns of less than 6,000 in population shall extend for a distance of 1-1/2 miles beyond the corporate limits. In cities of more than 6,000 in population, this jurisdiction extends for a distance of 3 miles beyond the corporate limits. The one exception to this rule provides that municipal police officers may not enforce speed limits outside their corporate limits. Section 32- 5A-171, Code of Alabama 1975.
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Public Input:
Citizens who attended the two Public Workshops (Sept. 25th and 26th, 2007) ranked their list of County issues and comments by order of importance at the end of each evening. Below are the results for this element, listed in order of importance:
Intergovernmental Coordination Element 1. Address Control Issues over zoning of County and Work with Municipalities 2. Address ETJ Issues 3. Establish Concurrency regulations for infrastructure 4. Expand public water and sewer service// Wastewater Management 5. Improve trash collection and recycling service 6. Investigate use of recycled water 7. Coordinate County land uses adjacent to city limits 8. Set Standards for Annexation 9. County and Municipalities Work With Non-Governmental Groups
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
IMPLEMENTATION The Baldwin County Strategic Plan: 2006-2016 identifies the following needs related to implementation:
Budget & Purchasing Department: (p. 41) • Increase total value of grants by 50% by 2009 • Identify systems and procedures necessary to make procurements required to support a budget ranging between $350 and $500 million while maintaining a response time at or below the current level of 24 hours • Ensure 50% of all sales taxes are filed electronically by 2008 • Ensure that 75% of all new businesses and construction projects are in compliance with local sales and use tax law by 2010 • Provide revenue and expense forecasting on five year basis that is efficient and fiscally responsible • Develop performance information systems and management tools to promote communication, improve efficiency and establish shared accountability throughout county government • Require a fiscal impact analysis and cost benefit analysis for all capital projects over $1 million
Tourist Development Council Information The Implementation Element of the County’s Comprehensive Plan includes the formation of a Tourist Development Council (“TDC”), primarily supported through a bed tax.1 A TDC would function to preserve the County’s cultural and natural resources, as well as promote Baldwin County as an attractive destination for international, out-of-state, and in-state visitors. The first step to forming and implementing a county-wide TDC is to cross reference this concept with all regulations of the Alabama State Code (“the Code”) and State Department of Revenue. This initial stage determines whether any relevant Act, Ordinance, or Clause expressly enables, prohibits and/or interferes with the establishment of this proposed, County TDC which would derive primary support from a local bed tax.
TDC Formation Summary: The Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel (“ABTT”) programming generally provides for the establishment of a local government committee (a.k.a., a TDC) to manage and oversee all related tourism programs, projects, and funding, see infra. Moreover, neither the Code nor the Department of Revenue’s regulations interfere with or
1 A bed tax may be defined as a levy imposed by a local government on hotel stays within its jurisdiction. A bed tax is a way for local governments to raise taxes without incurring the wrath of voters as those paying the tax are usually out-of-town visitors who do not vote in local elections.
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prohibit the formation of a TDC to be supported by a local bed tax. Therefore, such an establishment within Baldwin County’s Comprehensive Plan would likely be lawful and proper.
Relevant State/Statutory Authority: Nothing within the State Code expressly prohibits or limits any related conduct intended to form a TDC Committee for Baldwin County, Alabama. In fact, the Code may provide for the designation of such committees and/or councils. Furthermore, although the Alabama State Department of Revenue imposes a four percent (4%) lodging tax, many Alabama counties, other than Baldwin, impose an additional, county-wide lodging tax that directly supports the promotion of county tourism and travel.
Applicable Regulations: The following definitions and regulations provide the framework that will allow Baldwin County to form and implement a TDC:
Master Plan Authority: In 1991, the Baldwin County Planning and Zoning Act (Act No. 91- 719) was passed by the Alabama State Legislature which: (1) allowed the County Commission to create planning districts within the unincorporated areas of the County; (2) allowed zoning within planning districts that vote their desire to come under County planning and zoning authority; and (3) required the development and maintenance of a "master plan" for the use and development of unincorporated Baldwin County.
State Lodgings Tax: Section 40-26-1, Code of Alabama 1975, 810-6-5-.22 Lodgings Tax Returns. Alabama Department of Revenue collects a lodging tax for the State and Alabama Gulf Coast Visitors and Convention Bureau. The law had been applied to hotels and motels to collect a tax from transients, vacationers, and travelers, who stay overnight in Alabama. This tax is principally utilized to promote travel and tourism within the state. The State Lodgings tax is a privilege tax. This statewide lodging tax is charged on all hotel and motel rooms and campground sites, and applies to all charges for providing such accommodations. Here, although Baldwin does not currently impose a County Lodgings Tax, other Alabama counties impose a similar, county-specific lodgings tax that directly funds and promotes county tourism and travel. For instance, Shelby County, Alabama imposes a seven percent (7%) lodgings tax in addition to the State’s four percent (4%) lodgings tax.
Advisory Board: Section 41-7-3, Code of Alabama 1975, Advisory board. (a) There is established the Advisory Board to the Alabama Bureau of Tourism and Travel (“ABTT”) to advise and assist the director. Note: ABTT is funded by two sources. The first is by a General Fund appropriation from the state Legislature. The second is through a portion of the state lodging tax. … (g) The Advisory Board to the [ABTT] … shall perform the following duties: (1) Serve as a body to advise the director and private persons on the development and implementation of state policies and programs relating to tourism and recreation and to assist in the coordination of these activities. … (3) Advise and review marketing and annual
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 2008 - 2025 IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
advertising plans developed by the [Bureau] … [to] [accomplish] a. Maximizing the return on public and private investment and tourism. b. Encouraging longer stays by visitors to Alabama. c. Assisting local entities in attracting conferences and conventions. d. Reducing season fluctuations in travel and tourist related industries. e. Encouraging visitors to be destination oriented in this state…(h) Seek and review the views of all levels of government and the private sector with respect to state programs and policies for the promotion and assistance of tourism. (i) Cooperate and provide expertise for communities and tourism marketing associations in the development and promotion of their tourism attractions and businesses. (j) Establish working committees to advise the Bureau with specific areas of operation including marketing, advertising, regional issues, administration of grant and co-op programs, and product and service development. (Acts 1951, No. 712, p. 1250, §3; Acts 1957, No. 562, p. 780; Acts 1967, No. 267, p. 764; Act 2002-405, p. 1019, §1.)
Advisory Council: Section 23-1-294 Code of Alabama 1975, Advisory Council…The duties and responsibilities of the Advisory Council shall include the following: ... (4) Encouraging towns and municipalities to designate scenic byways within their jurisdictions… [F]ederal, state, or other funding … may be available. (Act 2000-589, p. 1076, §5.)
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BALDWIN COUNTY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN DATA, INVENTORY AND ANALYSIS JUNE, 2009
LIST OF MAPS
2009 Planning Districts Existing Fire Stations Existing Libraries Existing Schools Prime Agricultural Soils Industrial Sites Airports Coastal Hazard Areas Historic Districts Planning Jurisdiction Map Alabama’s Coastal Connection Scenic Byway Study Areas 1 through 4 Study Area 1 North – Current Land Cover Study Area 1 South – Current Land Cover Study Area 2 – Current Land Cover Study Area 3 – Current Land Cover Study Area 4 – Current Land Cover
Future Land Use Map (FLUM) Study Area 1 (North and South) Study Area 2 Study Area 3 Study Area 4
List of Maps 2009 DATA, INVENTORY & ANALYSIS Page 1 of 1