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2 - 1 THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR THE CITY OF STAR
13 - 1March 4, 2008 Resolution No. 08-05 Text revisions by Resolution No. 2018-04
13 - 1 13 - 1ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
13 - 1STAR CITY COUNCIL Nathan Mitchell – Mayor 2 - 1Chad Bell – Council President 2 - 1Dustin Christopherson 2 - 1Tammy McDaniel 2 - 1Tom Erlebach 2 - 1 13 - 1 STAR CITY STAFF Cathy Ward-City Clerk/Treasurer Justin Walker- City Engineer, Keller and Associates Shelly Johnson- Building Clerk Kathleen Hutton – Deputy Clerk Mary Shaw Taylor, PZ Director, Present 13 - 1 CONSULTANT
M. Jerome Mapp, WRG Design, Inc., Planning Project Manger
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Kari Rosti Richard Tinsley Brenda Weaver Bob Lenigan Darrel M. Gazzola Tony O’Neil
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City of Star Comprehensive Plan
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER PAGE Table of Contents
City Officials 0-1 List of Tables 0-7 List of Maps and Figures 0-8
Forward and Introduction
Vision Statement 0-6 Introduction & Purpose of the Plan 0-10 Goals, Objectives and Implementation/Policies 0-11 Elements of the Comprehensive Plan 0-11 Format for the Comprehensive Plan 0-14 The Planning Area in Perspective 0-14 History of Star 0-14
SECTION 1 - PROPERTY RIGHTS
Chapter One - PROPERTY RIGHTS Federal Standards 1-1 State Requirements 1-1 Office of the Attorney General Checklist 1-4 Goals, Objectives and Policies 1-7
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SECTION 2 – GROWTH MANAGEMENT
Chapter Two - POPULATION AND GROWTH Population History 2-1 Population Projection 2-2 Household Size and Age Distribution 2-4 Minority Population Distribution 2-5 Summary 2-6 Goals, Objectives and Policies 2-7
Chapter Three - HOUSING Existing Conditions 3-1 Housing Characteristics 3-2 Goals, Objectives and Policies 3-12
Chapter Four - ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Goals, Objectives and Policies 4-10
SECTION 3 – BUILT ENVIRONMENT
Chapter Five - LAND USE Current Land Use Patterns 5-2 Land Use Component 5-5 Area of City Impact 5-5 Goals, Objectives and Policies 5-15
Chapter Six - TRANSPORTATION Transportation Cycle 6-1 Functional Classification 6-3 Alternative Modes of Transportation 6-11 Valley Regional Transit 6-17 Senior Bus 6-18 Goals, Objectives and Policies 6-21
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Chapter Seven - PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES Existing Services and Conditions 7-1 Administration 7-1 Public Safety 7-1 Public Works 7-2 Library 7-6 Other Public Services 7-6 Goals, Objectives and Policies 7-11
SECTION 4 – COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Chapter Eight - COMMUNITY DESIGN Goals, Objectives and Policies 8-8
Chapter Nine - SCHOOL FACILITIES AND TRANSPORTATION School District 9-1 Goals, Objectives and Policies 9-7
Chapter Ten - PARKS AND RECREATION Existing Parks 10-3 Other Regional Activities 10-7 Goals, Objectives and Policies 10-12
Chapter Eleven - CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL SITES Historic Sites 11-1 Goals, Objectives and Policies 11-7
SECTION 5 – ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Chapter Twelve - NATURAL RESOURCES Climate, Precipitation and Temperatures 12-1 Hydrology 12-2 Geology 12-3 Soils and Slopes 12-4 Wildlife 12-7 Vegetation 12-7
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Chapter Thirteen - HAZARDOUS AREA Land Characteristics 13-1 Flood Hazards and Snow Loads 13-4 Air Quality and Noise 13-5 Goals, Objectives and Policies 13-10
SECTION 6 – IMPLEMENTATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Chapter Fourteen – IMPLEMENTATION………………………………………………………………. 13-12
Glossary
Comprehensive Plan Map
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VISION STATEMENT
The City of Star is a wholesome, friendly and growing community with a lifestyle that will meet the needs of everyone.
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LIST OF TABLES
TABLES TITLES PAGE 1 Population History ………………………………………………………………………………………... 2-1 2 Populations Percent Change …………………………………………………………...... 2-2 3 Population Projects, 1990 – 2030 ……………………………………………………...... 2-2 4 Population by Age Group 2000 ………………………………………………………………………….. 2-3 5 Households and Household Size, 2000 …………………………………………………………………… 2-4 6 Demographic Component Changes – Median Age, Population Age 85 and Over 2000 ………………. 2-4 7 Minority Status in Ada County and City of Star 2000 …………………………………………………… 2-5 8 Detailed Housing Characteristics – Type of Structures …………………………………………………... 3-2 9 Detailed Housing Characteristics – Housing Stock ………………………………………………………. 3-3 10 Housing Tenure 2000 (1) ……………………………………………………………………………….. 3-4 11 Housing Tenure 2000 (2) ……………………………………………………………………………….. 3-4 12 Building Permits 1998 – 2006 ……………………………………………………………………………. 3-5 13 Cost as a Percent of Household Income 1999 ………………………………………………………….. 3-6 14 City of Star’s Major Employers …………………………………………………………………..……… 4-3 15 Employment Status ……………………………………………………………………...... 4-4 16 Wage Information Income 1999 …………………………………………………………………………. 4-6 17 Percent of Land Use Within the City of Star and Area of City Impact …………………………………... 5-4 18 Street Classification ……………………………………………………………………………………… 6-6 19 Meridian West Ada Joint School District No. 2 Population Growth 9-3 ………………………………………………… 20 School Enrollment, Student Ratio and Capacity …………………………………………………………. 9-4 21 Regional Park and Recreation Facilities ………………………………………………………………….. 10-8 22 Active Recreation …………………………………………………………………………………………. 10-9 23 Passive Recreation ……………………………………………………………………...... 10-10 24 Future Park and Facilities …………………………………………………………………………………. 10-11 25 Star Reconnaissance Survey – Historic Sites ……………………………………………………………... 11-4 26 Ada County Historic Preservation Council Sites …………………………………………………………. 11-5 27 Monthly Climate Summary Report ……………………………………………………………………….. 12-2 28 Slopes and Soils …………………………………………………………………………………………... 13-1 0-7
LIST OF MAPS
MAP TITLES PAGE 1 Vicinity Map ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 0-13 2 City of Star Area Impact Map …………………………………………………………...... 5-7 3 Functional Classification ………………………………………………………………………………... 6-5 4 Comprehensive Plan Map 6-8 5 Star Fire District …………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-3 6 Star Sewer District………………………………………………………………………………………… 7-4 7 Star Water District………………………………………………………………………...... 7-5 8 Idaho Power Existing and Future Transmission Lines …………..………………………………………... 7-8 9 Idaho Power Existing and Future Facilities 7-9 10 West Ada Joint School District No. 2 Boundary Map 9-5 ………………………………………………………………... 11 Green Space Map ………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10-5 12 Idaho Soil Survey – Star Area ………………………………………...…………………………………… 12-4 13 Idaho Nonattainment Areas …………………………………………………………………………….…. 12-6 14 Geographic Map of Star Area….…………………………………………………………………………... 13-2 15 Geologic Survey Seismic Shaking Hazard of Idaho ………………………………………………... 13-7
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FIGURES
FIGURES TITLES PAGE 1 Traffic Congestion …………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-9 2 Shared Lanes ………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6-11 3 Shoulder Bikeway ………………………………………………………………………...... 6-12 4 Bicycle Lanes ……………………………………………………………………………………………… 6-13 5 Separated Multiple-Use Path ……………………………………………………………………………… 6-14
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FOREWORD
Local economic development councils have their forums in order focus direction on economic development, employment and growth issues. Community leaders have schedule retreats for their organizations to focus on the bottom line. Mayors have state of the City addresses, but the Comprehensive Plan can provide an avenue to take various forms of information and place them in one concise comprehensive document.
The Local Land Use Planning Act (LLUPA), which was first adopted in 1975, described the purpose of the Act and mandated that all cites and counties develop a Comprehensive Plan and described the chapters that should be placed in the plan. The Act did not tell local government how the plan should be developed, where they should get their information and documentation or how the plan should be assembled. That would be the responsibility of the each jurisdiction. The fourteen chapters of the Comprehensive Plan work as one, but in order for the reader to focus on similar subject matter subsections were established. Subsection is developing to focus on subjects that interact more with each other.
This Comprehensive Plan has fourteen chapters and is divided into five subsections as shown below:
Property Rights Property Rights
Growth Management Population Housing Economic Development
Built Environment Land Use Transportation Public Services and Facilities
Community Resources Community Design Parks and Recreation School Facilities and Transportation Cultural and Historical Sites
Environment Natural Resources Hazardous Areas
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INTRODUCTION
The act of Comprehensive Planning is an involved process, which is designed to reflect the needs and desires of the community it is to benefit. A plan should give the public, businesses and government agencies a clear understanding of the City’s intentions and desires regarding its future development, which will lead to greater cooperation and minimize potential conflicts. The plan is intended to be a set of positive, rather than restrictive statements concerning what the City of Star wishes to be and to accomplish. The goal of the plan is to introduce long-range consideration into the determination of short-range actions.
Although the year 2026 is used as a planning reference date in the plan, it is related more to circumstances than to a specific future date. Because of the incremental, gradual and often unpredictable nature of community development, no fixed date can apply to all the goals, policies and proposals expressed in a plan.
Planning is a continuous process. As conditions change and new information becomes available, objectives and properties of the City may change and goals, objectives and policies may be modified. This Plan is intended to be the public growth policy of the City of Star and as such, must be responsive to change, forward-looking and publicly supported. It should be regularly reviewed and revised if necessary, to reflect the community’s changing attitudes and desires.
The Comprehensive Plan should not be viewed as a final statement of the City’s vision with time the population will change, the goals may be redefined and the physical environment in which its residents live and work will be altered. This Plan simply represents a consensus at a particular time on planning issues and policies. As a result, it is recommended that the Plan be periodically revised to respond to and reflect changing conditions.
The Comprehensive Plan contains a narrative representing seventeen planning components each, where applicable, with goal(s), objectives and policies and implementation statements and a graphic element of plan maps depicting land use and vehicular circulation. This plan is intended to facilitate the land use decision making process by covering the major categories of physical development in relation to the needs of the citizens. Each Comprehensive Plan element contains the following subsections:
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The Goals, Objectives and Implementation (Policies) Strategies
GOALS: Goals usually are stated in broad terms to reflect community wide values. The ultimate purpose of a goal is stated in a way that is general in nature and immeasurable. They provide the community a direction in which to travel, not a location to reach.
OBJECTIVES: The objectives statement defines the meaning of the goal; describes how to accomplish the goal, and suggests a method of accomplishing it. It advances a specific purpose, aim, ambition or element of a goal. It can describe the end state of the goal, its purpose, or a course of action necessary to achieve the goal.
IMPLEMENTATION (POLICIES) STRATEGIES: Policies are specific statements that guide actions, imply clear commitment and express the manner in which future actions will be taken. They are however, flexible rules that can adapt to different situations and circumstances.
THIRTEEN ELEMENTS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN (NOTE – COMP PLAN REVISED BY RESOLUTION ADOPTED BY COUNCIL AUGUST 7, 2018 TO ADDRESS 17 COMPONENTS OF CURRENT IDAHO CODE SECTION 67-6508 – SEE STATE STATUTE FOR CURRENT LANGUAGE):
IDAHO CODE SECTION 67-6508. PLANNING DUTIES. It shall be the duty of the planning department or planning and zoning commission to conduct a comprehensive planning process designed to prepare, implement, and review and update a comprehensive plan, hereafter referred to as the plan. The plan shall include all land within the jurisdiction of the governing board. The plan shall consider previous and existing conditions, trends, desirable goals and objectives, or desirable future situations for each planning component. The plan with maps, charts, and reports shall be based on the following components as they may apply to land use regulations and actions unless the plan specifies reasons why a particular component is unneeded. (a) Property Rights -- An analysis of provisions which may be necessary to insure that land use policies, restrictions, conditions and fees do not violate private property rights, adversely impact property values or create unnecessary technical limitations on the use of property and analysis as prescribed under the declarations of purpose in chapter 80, title 67, Idaho Code. (b) Population -- A population analysis of past, present, and future trends in population including such characteristics as total population, age, sex, and income. (c) School Facilities and Transportation -- An analysis of public school capacity and transportation considerations associated with future development. (d) Economic Development -- An analysis of the economic base of the area including employment, industries, economies, jobs, and income levels. (e) Land Use -- An analysis of natural land types, existing land covers and uses, and the intrinsic suitability of lands for uses such as agriculture, forestry, mineral exploration and extraction, preservation, recreation, housing, commerce, industry, and public facilities. A map shall be prepared indicating suitable projected land uses for the jurisdiction. (f) Natural Resource -- An analysis of the uses of rivers and other waters, forests, range, soils, harbors, fisheries, wildlife, minerals, thermal waters, beaches, watersheds, and shorelines. 0-12
(g) Hazardous Areas -- An analysis of known hazards as may result from susceptibility to surface ruptures from faulting, ground shaking, ground failure, landslides or mudslides; avalanche hazards resulting from development in the known or probable path of snowslides and avalanches, and floodplain hazards. (h) Public Services, Facilities, and Utilities -- An analysis showing general plans for sewage, drainage, power plant sites, utility transmission corridors, water supply, fire stations and fire fighting equipment, health and welfare facilities, libraries, solid waste disposal sites, schools, public safety facilities and related services. The plan may also show locations of civic centers and public buildings. (i) Transportation -- An analysis, prepared in coordination with the local jurisdiction(s) having authority over the public highways and streets, showing the general locations and widths of a system of major traffic thoroughfares and other traffic ways, and of streets and the recommended treatment thereof. This component may also make recommendations on building line setbacks, control of access, street naming and numbering, and a proposed system of public or other transit lines and related facilities including rights-of-way, terminals, future corridors, viaducts and grade separations. The component may also include port, harbor, aviation, and other related transportation facilities. (j) Recreation -- An analysis showing a system of recreation areas, including parks, parkways, trailways, river bank greenbelts, beaches, playgrounds, and other recreation areas and programs. (k) Special Areas or Sites -- An analysis of areas, sites, or structures of historical, archeological, architectural, ecological, wildlife, or scenic significance. (l) Housing -- An analysis of housing conditions and needs; plans for improvement of housing standards; and plans for the provision of safe, sanitary, and adequate housing, including the provision for low-cost conventional housing, the siting of manufactured housing and mobile homes in subdivisions and parks and on individual lots which are sufficient to maintain a competitive market for each of those housing types and to address the needs of the community. (m) Community Design -- An analysis of needs for governing landscaping, building design, tree planting, signs, and suggested patterns and standards for community design, development, and beautification. (n) Implementation -- An analysis to determine actions, programs, budgets, ordinances, or other methods including scheduling of public expenditures to provide for the timely execution of the various components of the plan.
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MAP 1 – Vicinity Map
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Format for the Comprehensive Plan
The 2007 updated Star Comprehensive Plan is printed in a landscape format for easy reading. The goals are bold and underlined and the objectives are italic, while the policies/implementations are plain text. For convenience, each of the elements are outlined as chapters with the glossary of terms provided as an Appendix in the back of this Comprehensive Plan. The Planning Area in Perspective
The City of Star is primarily a residential community located on Highway.44. The base economy of the City is agricultural. Residential development within the City has grown at a remarkably fast pace in the past decade, which has been driven by changes in the regional growth pattern around the Treasure Valley. As growth continues to grow in the west side of the valley, the community is aware that the City of Star is experiencing growing pains. With this in mind, the City desires to prepare for the future, by the City taking a proactive approach to planning for growth; rather than being reactive. Many of the residents commute to Boise and the citizens of Star wish to create a tight knit community as the City continues to grow and develop. History of Star
The first location of the village of Star is approximately one mile to the east of the present City of Star; approximately halfway between the present town of Star and Star-Emmett junction. The first schoolhouse was built there in the 1870's on land donated by B.F. Swalley. When the settlers finished building the schoolhouse, they could not decide on a name for the building. One of the men carved out a star and nailed it to the front door; pounding nails all around the edge of the star. This became an important landmark for miles around and was a guide for travelers and miners. When the visitors came to the schoolhouse with the star on the door, they could travel west one mile and find board and lodging for the night. So in time, the town became known as Star. In 1905, Star incorporated and established City limits reaching four miles in all directions. During the early part of the 20th century the town flourished with places growing rapidly and merchants doing good business. The town had a mayor, marshal, constable, and justice of the peace. The jail was a frame building located just east of the Odd fellows Lodge Hall. By the time the new interurban arrived, at least twenty new buildings had been erected. Rapid growth came with the confidence of the Boise Interurban Railway. Growth continued in 1909 with at least 30 new buildings erected. In the early 1900s, Main Street periodically served as a race track. Horse races were a big event with most everyone and often followed by a baseball game. Impromptu races down Main Street were not limited to specific holidays but could arise from on-the-spot challenges.
Other activities included a weekly debating society where issues of the day such as railroads, Sunday laws, and women's rights were discussed. Also, there was a literary society, Star School sporting events, and skating rink. An evening outing for a party of young people included chartering a trolley excursion to Boise and back. Star Trading Days were stock sales held every third Saturday of each month.
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Star's growth declined with the closure of the Boise Interurban in 1928, while another setback came in 1929 when the town was dis- incorporated. Today the City of Star is going through a transition. The City is located 16-miles northwest of Boise, 6-miles west of Eagle, 7-miles east of Middleton, 9-miles north of Nampa and 16-miles south of Emmett. Star is historically, a small rural community of 500. The City was re- incorporated in 1998 with a population of 648. As the Treasure Valley has grown over the last 9-years, so has the City Star’s population. Star remains the trading center of a working community which earns its living for the most part from the soil, but the City of Star is growing and will continue to grow. The ongoing challenge is how the City should manage the growth.
City of Star Statement of Purpose
Based upon the Local Land Use Planning Act, Idaho Code 67-6508, the purpose of the Star Comprehensive Plan is to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the people of the City of Star and its Impact Area as follows:
To protect property rights while making accommodations for other necessary types of development such as low-cost housing and mobile home parks. To ensure that adequate public facilities and services are provided to the people at reasonable cost. To ensure that the economy of the state and localities is protected. To ensure that the important environmental features of the state and localities are protected. To encourage the protection of prime agricultural, forestry, and mining lands for production of food, fiber, and minerals. To encourage urban and urban-type development within incorporated cities. To avoid undue concentration of population and overcrowding of land. To ensure that the development on land is commensurate with the physical characteristics of the land. To protect life and property in areas subject to natural hazards and disasters. To protect fish, wildlife, and recreation resources. To avoid undue water and air pollution. To allow local school districts to participate in the community planning and development process so as to address public school needs and impacts on an ongoing basis.
The City of Star Comprehensive Plan is divided into chapters that generally correspond to the requirements of the Local Planning Act.
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City of Star Comprehensive Plan
CHAPTER ONE – PROPERTY RIGHTS
A land use regulation or action must not be unduly restrictive so that it causes a “taking” of landowner’s property without just compensation. The Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution states “nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.” In the land-use control context, the argument is that if the land-use ordinance, regulation or decision is so restrictive as to deprive the owner of economically viable use of the property, then the property has for all practical purposes been taken by “inverse condemnation.”
1.1 Federal Standards
Whether or not a land use decision should be prohibited by the Fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution has been a difficult task for the courts, including the Supreme Court, to resolve. Determining when a government action amounts to a taking, requiring either compensation or invalidation of the action for violation of due process, is not a simple undertaking. The Supreme Court itself has candidly admitted that it has never been able to develop a “set formula” to determine when “justice and fairness” require that economic injuries caused by public action be compensated by the government, rather than remain disproportionately concentrated on a few persons.” (Penn Central Transportation Co.v. New York City, 436 U. S. 104 124 [1978]). Instead, the high court has observed “whether a particular restriction will be rendered invalid by the government’s failure to pay for any losses proximately caused by it depends largely upon the particular circumstances [in that] case” (id. at 488). The question of whether a regulation has gone too far and a taking has occurred has been an ad hoc, factual inquiry (id.).
1.2 State Requirements
In 1994, the Idaho State Legislature amended Section 67-6508 of the Idaho Code to include “an analysis of provisions which may be necessary to insure that land-use policies, restrictions, conditions and fees do not violate private property rights, adversely impact values or create unnecessary technical limitations on the use of property.” [67-6508 (a)]. Although a comprehensive plan that contains such language does not provide an absolute defense to a taking claim, some courts give weight to comprehensive plans when they consider taking problems. They are impressed by a municipality’s efforts to plan and the usual planning process that strives to comprehensively balance land use opportunities throughout a given community.
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1.3 Changes to Taking Issues in response to Kelo v. City of New London
The following is an abstract of this United States Supreme Court case: 0 - 1 Kelo v. City of New London 545 U.S. (June 23, 2005) Docket Number: 04-108 Abstract
Facts of the Case New London, a City in Connecticut, used its eminent domain authority to seize private property to sell to private developers. The City said developing the land would create jobs and increase tax revenues. Kelo Susette and others whose property was seized sued New London in state court. The property owners argued the City violated the Fifth Amendment's takings clause, which guaranteed the government will not take private property for public use without just compensation. Specifically the property owners argued taking private property to sell to private developers was not public use. The Connecticut Supreme Court ruled for New London.
Question Presented Does a City violate the Fifth Amendment's takings clause if the City takes private property and sells it for private development, with the hopes the development will help the City's bad economy?
Conclusion No. In a 5-4 opinion delivered by United States Justice John Paul Stevens, the majority held that the City's taking of private property to sell for private development qualified as a "public use" within the meaning of the takings clause. The City was not taking the land simply to benefit a certain group of private individuals, but was following an economic development plan. Such justifications for land takings, the majority argued, should be given deference. The takings here qualified as "public use" despite the fact that the land was not going to be used by the public. The Fifth Amendment did not require "literal" public use, the majority said, but the "broader and more natural interpretation of public use as 'public purpose.'" Spurred by the recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling the State of Idaho, 2006 Idaho Legislature responded with 4 bills:
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1.4 New Legislation from the 2006 Legislature
House Bill No: 555 was passed in the 2006 Idaho Legislature which stated that:
7-701A LIMITATION ON EMINENT DOMAIN FOR PRIVATE PARTIES, URBAN RENEWAL OR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PURPOSES.
(1) This section limits and restricts the state of Idaho, its instrumentalities, political subdivisions, public agencies, or bodies corporate and politic of the state to condemn any interest in property in order to convey the condemned interest to a private interest to person as provided herein. (2) Eminent domain shall not be used to acquire private property: (a) For any alleged public use which is merely a pretext for the transfer of the condemned property or any interest in that property to a private party; or (b) For the purpose of promoting or effectuating economic development; provided however, that nothing herein shall affect the exercise of eminent domain: (i) Pursuant to Chapter 15, Title 70, Idaho Code, and Title 42, Idaho Code; or (ii) Pursuant to Chapters 19, 20 or 29, Title 50, Idaho Code, except that no private property shall be taken through exercise of eminent domain within the area of operation of a housing authority or within an urban renewal area or within a deteriorated or deteriorating area or within a competitively disadvantaged border community area unless the specific property to be condemned is proven by clear and convincing evidence to be in such condition that it meets all of the requirements: 1. The property, due to general dilapidation, compromised structural integrity, or failed mechanical systems, endangers life or endangers property by fire or by other perils that pose an actual identifiable threat to building occupants; and 2. The property contains specifically identifiable conditions that pose an actual risk to human health, transmission of disease, juvenile delinquency or criminal content; and 3. The property presents an actual risk of harm to the public health, safety, morals or general welfare; or (iii) For those public and private uses for which eminent domain is expressly provided in the constitution of the state of Idaho. (3) This section shall not affect the authority of a governmental entity to condemn a leasehold estate on property owned by the governmental entity. (4) The rationale for condemnation by the governmental entity proposing to condemn property shall be freely reviewable in the course of judicial proceedings involving exercise of the power of eminent domain.
In addition, the 3 additional bills, SB1243, SB 1247 and SB1429 were passed in 2006. These bills are described below:
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SB1243 - Requires condemners to clearly set forth in the complaint a description of the property and property rights to be acquired.
SB 1247 - Permits a "quick take" procedure to be used by condemning authorities to take possession of private property prior to trial. Also, all condemning authorities may now use this process, not just the state.
SB1429 - Requires condemners to stand by their last pre-litigation offer and set that amount as a floor for just compensation.
1.5 Office of the Attorney General Checklist
The Attorney General’s office updates their Takings Checklist in October of each year. Since the passing of the above bills, the checklist has not been update. The next update is expected in October 2007. It would be advisable for the Property Rights element of the comprehensive plan be updated with any new information. The following is the current checklist:
In an effort to provide guidance with regards to “takings,” the Office of the Attorney General of the State of Idaho has prepared the following checklist in reviewing the potential impact of regulatory or administrative actions upon specific property. http://www2.state.id.us/ag/manuals/regulatorytaking
1. Does the Regulation or Action Result in a Permanent/Temporary Physical Occupation or Private Property?
Regulation or action resulting in a permanent or temporary physical occupation of all or a portion of private property will generally constitute a “taking.” For example, a regulation that required landlords to allow the installation of cable television boxes in their apartments was found to constitute a “taking” (see Loretto v. Teleprompter Manhattan CATV Corp., 458 U.S. [1982]).
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2. Does the Regulation or Action Require a Property Owner to Dedicate a Portion of Property or to Grant an Easement?
Carefully review all regulations requiring the dedication of property or granting of an easement. The dedication of property must be reasonably and specifically designed to prevent or compensate, for adverse impacts of the proposed development. Likewise, the magnitude of the burden placed on the proposed development should be reasonably related to the adverse impacts created by the development. The court will also consider whether the action in question substantially advances a legitimate state interest.
For example, the United States Supreme Court determined in Nollan v. California Coastal Commission 483 U.S. 825 (1987) that compelling an owner of waterfront property to grant a public easement across his property that does not substantially advance the public’s interest in beach access, constitutes a “taking.” Likewise, the United States Supreme Court held that compelling a property owner to leave a public green way, as opposed to a private one, did not substantially advance protection of a floodplain and was a “taking.” Dolan v. City Tigard, 114 U.S. 2309 [June 24, 1994]).
3. Does the Regulation Deprive the Owner of All Economically Viable Uses of the Property?
If a regulation prohibits all economically viable or beneficial uses of the land, it will likely constitute a “taking.” In this section, the agency can avoid liability for just compensation only if it can demonstrate that the proposed uses are prohibited by the laws of nuisances or other pre-existing limitation on the use of the property. See Lucus v. South Carolina Coastal Council, 505 U.S. 1003, 112 S. Ct. 2886 (1992).
Unlike 1 and 2 above, it is important to analyze the regulation’s impact on the property as a whole, and not just the impact on a portion of the property. It is also important to assess whether there is any profitable use of the remaining property available. See Florida Rock Industries, Inc. v United States, 18 F. 3d 1560 [Fed. Cir. 1994]. The remaining use does not necessarily have to be the owner’s planned use, a prior use, or the highest and best use of the property. One factor in this assessment is the degree to which the regulatory action interferes with a property owner’s reasonable investment-backed expectations.
Carefully review regulations requiring that the entire particular parcel of land be left substantially in its natural state. A prohibition of all economically viable uses of the property is vulnerable to a takings challenge. In some situations, however, there may be pre-existing limitations on the use of property that could insulate the government from takings liability.
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4. Does the Regulation have a Significant Impact on the Landowner’s Economic Interest?
Carefully review regulations that have a significant impact on the owner’s economic interest. Courts will often compare the value of property before and after the impact of challenged regulations. Although a reduction in property value alone may not be a “taking,” a severe reduction in property value often indicates a reduction or elimination of reasonably profitable uses. Another economic factor courts will consider is the degree to which the challenged regulation impacts any development rights of the owner. These economic factors are normally applied to the property as a whole.
A moratorium as a planning tool may be used pursuant to Idaho Code §67-6523 – Emergency Ordinances and Moratoriums (written findings of imminent peril to public health, safety or welfare; may not be longer than 120-days); and Idaho Code §67- 6524 – Interim Ordinances and Moratoriums; (written findings of imminent peril to public health, safety or welfare; the ordinance must state a definite period of time for the moratorium). Absence of the written findings may prove fatal to a determination of the reasonableness of the government action.
The Idaho moratorium provisions appear to be consistent with the United States Supreme Court’s interpretation of moratorium as a planning tool as well. In Tahoe-Sierra Preservation Council, Inc et al. v. Tahoe Regional Planning Agency et al., (Slip Opinion No.00-1167, April 23, 2002); the Court held that planning moratoriums may be effective land use planning tools. Generally, moratoriums in excess of one year should be reviewed with skepticism, but should be considered as one factor in the determination of whether a taking has occurred. An essential element pursuant to Idaho law is the issuance of written findings in conjunction with the issuance of moratoriums. See Idaho Code §§67-6523 -6524.
5. Does the Regulation Deny a Fundamental Attribute of Ownership?
Regulations that deny the landowner a fundamental attribute of ownership - including the right to possess, exclude others and dispose of all or a portion of the property - are potential takings.
The United States Supreme Court recently held that requiring a public easement for recreation purposes where the harm to be prevented was to floodplain was a “taking.” In finding this to be a “taking,” the Court stated:
The City never demonstrated why a public greenway, as opposed to a private one, was required in the interest of flood control. The difference to the petitioner, of course, is the loss of her ability to exclude others.... [T]his right to exclude others is “one of the most essential sticks in the bundle of rights that are commonly characterized as property.” Dolan v, City of Tigard, 512 U.S. 374, 114 S. Ct.2309 (1994). The United States Supreme Court has also held that barring an inheritance (an essential attribute of ownership) of certain interests in land held by individual by members of an Indian tribe constituted a “taking.”
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Hodel v. Irving, 481 U.S. 704, S. Ct. 2076 (1987).
6. (a) Does the Regulation Serve the Same Purpose that Would be Served by Directly Prohibiting the Use or Action; and (b) Does the Condition Imposed Substantially Advance that Purpose?
A regulation may go too far and may result in a takings claim where it does not substantially advance a legitimate governmental purpose. Nollan v. California Coastal Commission, 483 U.S. 825,107 S Ct. 3141 (1987); Dolan v. City of Tigard, 512 U.S. 374, 114 S. Ct. 2309 (1994).
In Nollan, the United States Supreme Court held that it was an unconstitutional “taking” to condition the insurance of a permit to landowners on the grant of an easement to the public to use their beach. The Court found that since there was no indication that the Nollan’s house plans interfered in any way with the public’s ability to walk up and down the beach, there was no “nexus” between any public interest that might be harmed by the construction of the house, and the permit condition. Lacking this connection, the required easement was just as unconstitutional as it would be if imposed outside the permit context.
Similarly, regulatory actions that closely resemble, or have effects of a physical invasion or occupation of property, are more likely to be found to be takings. Deprivation of use causes the likelihood that a “taking” will occur.
GOALS: Preserve and protect private property rights as required per the provision of Idaho Code §67-6508A and Idaho Code §67-8003(2), as well as HB 555, SB1429, SB1243 and SB1247.
OBJECTIVES: Ensure that all land use regulations and review procedures pertain to the protection of health, safety and welfare and do not constitute a violation of due process of law and Chapter.
POLICIES: 1. The City should conduct a periodic review of all applicable land use regulations. 2. Ensure that the review of all land use proposals are in accordance with the Attorney General’s Idaho Regulatory Takings Act Checklist.
3. The City shall utilize the Idaho Regulatory Takings Analysis as requested by the public.
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CHAPTER TWO – POPULATION AND GROWTH 2.1 Population History
The planning process for the City of Star should promote policies to complement the desirable features of the community. The community most desires a stable population with a slow growth factor would be the ideal characteristic that in areas of larger growth patterns the most important factor regarding growth in a City is a managed growth pattern.
A managed growth pattern would help to ensure the consistency of the essential city services such as water, sewer, ambulance, police and fire protection, expanding potential for business and job creation, establishing a balance of housing for homeownership and housing rentals, preparing for educational needs and the development of quality of sport and recreation opportunities.
The normal factors which affect populations are births, death, and migration, where migration is defined as a movement into or out of a community. Large changes in population over a short time span (up to five years) can and will create many problems. This is why the land use plan should provide for the possibility of greater changes or fluctuations than would normally be expected.
TABLE 1 – Population History
Population History
1990 2000 2002* 2003* 2004* 2005*
Star 648 (1998) 1,795 2,116 2,243 2,552 3,335
Ada County 205,775 300,904 323,161 333,809 346,212 361,484 State of Idaho 1,006,734 1,293,953 1,366,332 n/a n/a n/a 1990-2000 are based on Census data * COMPASS
The City of Star was not incorporated until 1997 with a population of 648; but according to historic numbers the population has maintained a population of about 500. Not much changed in the years prior to incorporation. Since incorporation, the population of Star has increased from 648 to 1,795 or has grown by 277-percent.
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TABLE 2 – Population - Percent Change
0 - 1Population Percent Change 1970-1980 1980-1990 1990-2000 Star n/a n/a 277* Ada County 54.3 18.9 46.2 State of Idaho 32.4 6.6 28.6 Source: Idaho Department of Commerce, U. S. Census Bureau 2000, Star - From: 1997 (incorporation) to 2000 (census)*
No census data has been collected on percent migration for the City of Star because the City was not incorporated until 1997.
TABLE 3 - Population Projections, 1990 – 2030
Population Projections
Star Star Star Ada County
1990 648* 648* 648* 205,755* 2000 1,795* 1,795* 2,875**** 300,904* 2005 3,336** 3,336* 5,623**** 361,484** 2010 5,229** 8,956*** 8,800**** 403,501** 2015 6,513** 11,244*** 15,400**** 457,907** 2020 8,479** 12,701*** 26,900**** 507,719** 2025 10,198** 13,943*** 47,000**** 547,026** 2030 11,388** 24,009*** 82,300**** 503,711** *U.S. Census for years 1990 and 2000 **COMPASS ***Based upon annexations and future platted subdivisions and projected building permits as of February 2007 **** 2000 to 2030 Extrapolate based on 6-year growth rate of 11.8 % Source: COMPASS, Idaho Department of Commerce, U. S. Census Bureau 2000 and City of Star
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The projection of future population can be a challenging task. Many factors such as subdivision platting, building lots purchased, homes construction in and out migration, births and deaths will determine the growth in the City of Star. With this in mind, Table 4 was divided into 3 categories; estimates from COMPASS, the local Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), building permits and subdivisions planned or platted in 2006 and projections of the growth rate between 2000-2006, which is 11.8 percent.
The next federal census will be conducted in April 2010 which would be the appropriate time to review these estimates below. The state of the economy will determine if the City will continue its current 11.8-percent growth rate. The following estimates for 2006 to 2030.
TABLE 4 - Population by Age Groups, 2000
Population by Age Groups, 2000 Age Star Percent Ada County Percent State of Idaho Percent
Under five years 227 12.6 23,042 7.7 97,643 7.5 5-9 165 9.2 22,873 7.6 100,756 7.8 10-14 139 7.7 22,551 7.5 104,608 8.1 15-19 102 5.7 22,237 7.4 110,858 8.6 20-24 140 7.8 22,254 7.4 73,54 7.3 25-34 357 19.9 47,810 15.9 169,33 13.1 35-44 296 16.5 50,119 16.7 192,68 14.9 45-54 158 8.8 41,059 13.6 170,48 13.2 55-59 62 3.5 12,705 4.2 60,024 4.6 60-64 46 2.6 8,953 3.0 47,505 3.7 65-74 59 3.3 13,813 4.6 75,970 5.9 75-84 33 1.8 10,020 3.3 51,289 4.0 85 years and over 11 0.6 3,468 1.2 18,057 1.4 Total 1,795 100 300,904 100 1,293,953 100 Source: Idaho Department of Commerce, U. S. Census Bureau 2000
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TABLE 5 - Households and Household Size, 2000
Households and Household Size, 2000 Number of Households Persons per Households Star 631 2.82 Ada County 6,298 2.89 State of Idaho n/a 2.59 Source: Idaho Department of Commerce, U. S. Census Bureau 2000
TABLE 6 - Demographic Component Changes - Median Age, Population Under 18 years, Population 18-64, Population Age 65 and Over, 2000 Demographic Component Changes Median Age, Population Under 18 years, Population 18-64, Population Age 65 and Over, 2000 Median Age Under 18 years 18-64 65+ Star 28.4 36.2 58.1 5.7 Ada County 32.8 27.3 63.7 9.1 State of Idaho 33.2 28.5 60.2 11.3 Source: Idaho Department of Commerce, U. S. Census Bureau 2000
Race Race and Ethnicity are broken out separately. The Ethnicity breakout is separate because Hispanics can be of any race. The largest number of residents is “White” (95.3%), while the second largest group is “Some other race” (4.7%).
Ethnicity A little over four percent (4.3%) of the population is Hispanic or Latino (of any race). Of Hispanic or Latino people, the largest number is “Some other race” ( % of the Hispanic population). In addition, of the Hispanic or Latino people, the second largest number is “White Alone” (90.5% of the Hispanic population).
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TABLE 7 – Minority Population
Minority Status in City of Star and Ada County, 2000 Star Percent Ada County Percent One race 1,710 95.3 294,150 97.8 White 1,667 92.9 279,427 92.9 Black or African American 5 0.3 1,942 0.6 Asian 4 0.2 5,223 1.7 Asian Indian 0 0 744 0.2 Chinese 0 0 972 0.3 Filipino 2 0.1 531 0.2 Japanese 1 0.1 728 0.2 Korean 1 0.1 514 0.2 Vietnamese 0 0 894 0.3 Other Asian 0 0 840 0.3 American Indian, Alaska Native 17 0.9 2,085 0.7 Native Hawaiian and Other 0 0 448 0.1 Pacific Islander Native Hawaiian 0 0 129 - Guamanian or Chamorro 0 0 134 - Samoan 0 0 82 - Other Pacific Islander 2 0 0 103 - Some other race 16 0.9 5,025 1.7 Two or more races 85 4.7 6,754 2.2
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Continued - Minority Status in City of Star and Ada County, 2000 Race alone or in combination with one or more other race two or more races (3) White 1,751 97.5 285,704 94.9 Black or African American 5 0.3 2,886 1.0 American Indian, Alaska Native 54 3.0 4,103 1.4 Asian 23 1.3 7,166 2.4 Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 1 0.1 927 0.3 Some other race 54 3.0 7,304 2.4 Hispanic or Latino and Race Total population 1,795 100 300,904 100.0 Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 77 4.3 13,467 4.5 Mexican 64 3.6 9,080 3.0 Puerto Rican 0 0 405 0.1 Cuban 0 0 136 - Other Hispanic or Latino 13 0.7 3,846 1.3 Not Hispanic or Latino 1,718 95.7 287,437 95.5 White Alone 1,624 90.5 272,569 90.6
1. Other Asian alone, or two or more Asian categories 2. Other Pacific Islander alone, or two or more Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander categories. 3. In combination with one or more of the other races listed. The six numbers may add to more than the total population and its percentages may add to more than 100 percent, because individuals may report more than one race. n/a Not available
2.1.2 Summary
Population forecasting is not an exact science. Economic conditions influence population levels. It is recommended that the demographic data be revised every 2-years. Based on population forecasts, significant additional infrastructure and community facilities and services will be required to maintain quality of life standards in the community.
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GOALS: Manage population growth, consistent with community goals and objectives as expressed in the comprehensive plan. Enhance the quality and character of the community while providing and improving amenities and services.
OBJECTIVES: 1. The City of Star should coordinate with Ada County in establishing and revising the Area of City Impact to determine future growth patterns, while supporting the Star Comprehensive Plan.
2. Review growth patterns within the City limits and the Area of City Impact in order to curtail urban sprawl and protect existing agriculture lands from unnecessary encroachment.
POLICIES:
1. Population forecasts from Compass, the Idaho Department of Commerce, which is based upon the US Census, should be one of the tools to guide the development of service needs. Other tools, which are available are: Census Tracts, Census Block Group and Traffic Analysis Zones.
2. Monitor changes in population demographics by regularly reviewing relevant indicators (building permits, census data) and providing a biannual report in order to determine future impact to City services.
3. Maintain adequate fire protection facilities and fire protection service personnel by periodically evaluating population growth, level of service (response time and staffing) and fire hazards.
4. Maintain phasing and funding standards based on population, specific time projections and percentage build out.
5. Continue to utilize both operational and facility alternatives to ensure that fire and Emergency Medical Service standards are met, including but not limited to use of portable stations, relocation of existing facilities and other means to meet the needs of the population.
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CHAPTER THREE - HOUSING 3.1 Background
The City of Star is nestled in the north central portion of the Treasure Valley. The small community has been greatly impacted by growth pressures over the last decade, primarily within the past five years. More than 1,500 residential lots have been approved for, or are in the process of, development. Once a rural farming community, the city has become a destination point for some travelers. The 2000 census records indicate that there were 688 residents in Star and in 2005, the population increased to 3,336.
The basic human need for shelter is satisfied by adequate housing. Home ownership encourages personal pride and a bond with the local community. The provision of housing is closely related to the local economy. The lack of diverse housing can lead to negative behavior and diminished opportunity in life that is unacceptable to the community. Stress, due to excessive housing costs, can cause social, economic and health-related problems.
The City of Star’s land use pattern will include diverse residential options. All housing units will be developed through the City Ordinances and subdivision process. It is important that housing is designed to the standards set by the community through its Zoning and Development Ordinances. Planning and Zoning Ordinances shall be designed, adopted, and updated to insure public safety, and maintain the current livability of City of Star. The ordinances should also allow flexibility for creative solutions. Code enforcement is an essential tool in establishing specific community standards. Adopted Ordinances will ensure ample provision of fire and police protection, as well as ease of installation and maintenance of utilities.
The average house value in the City of Star has increased by 25%, since 1990. The average assessed value has increased by 14%, during the same time period. The Ada County Assessor’s Office records indicate the City market value increased 25.38% and the taxable value increased 30.94%, from 2003 to 2004. Local realtors estimate that since 1990, lot costs have increased as much as 4- times in value and within the last 5-years, the City has seen an influx of home buyers. The homebuyers may purchase a property and re-sell to move to a larger home.
The following information is a description of Star’s housing stock in 2000.
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TABLE 8 - Detailed Housing Characteristics- Types of Structures 2000
Units in Structure Type of Structure City of Star Ada County Number of Units Percent Number of Units Percent 1-unit detached 535 77.8 83,257 70.2 1-unit attached 15 2.2 5,285 4.5 2 units 18 2.6 3,601 3.0 3-4 units 0 0 5,569 4.7 5-9 units 8 1.2 3,539 3.0 10-19 units 15 2.2 3,520 3.0 20 or more units 0 0 6,102 5.1 Mobile/ Manufactured 97 14.1 7,438 6.3 Homes Boat, RV, van, etc. 0 0 205 0.2 Total 688 100 118,516 100 Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, 2000 Census
As noted above, 77-percent of the homes in the City of Star are single-family detached dwelling units. Multi-family units consist of 6- percent of the housing stock. Some of these units, identified as townhouses, exist as owner-occupied, but it is hard to determine the number of units. Table 12 describes building permits issued from 1998 – 2006.
As shown in Table 9, 55-housing units or 3.5 percent of the homes in Star were built before 1939. Some of these units may be considered as historic in nature; due to the age of these structures. Some could be lacking necessary resources such as; direct heat, electricity or plumbing and some may be in disrepair. It should be noted there is the possibility that these units very well may be some of the only affordable housing in the City of Star. If these units are still vital housing units, it is suggested that it would be important to relocate or rehabilitate these housing units instead of razing them for new development.
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TABLE 9 - Detailed Housing Characteristics - Housing Stock, 2006
Housing Stock Year Structure Built City of Star Ada County Number Percent Number Percent
April 2000 to 2005 873 55.9 n/a n/a 1999 to March 2000 108 7.0 5,460 4.6 1995 to 1999 287 18.4 18,194 15.4 1990 to 1994 26 1.7 16,964 14.3 1980 to 1989 36 2.3 16,648 14.0 1970 to 1979 79 5.0 29,834 25.2 1960 to 1969 37 2.4 9,648 8.1 1940 to 1959 60 3.8 14,336 12.1 1939 or earlier 55 3.5 7,432 6.3 Total 1,561 100 118,516 100 Sources: U.S. Department of Commerce, 2000 Census of Housing and the Idaho Department of Labor and Commerce, 2006
Vacancy Rates
In the year 2000, the vacancy rate in the City of Star for homeownership is 4.8-percent, while the vacancy rate for rentals were 10.7- percent. In November 2006 the vacancy rate in the City of Star for homeownership is 9-percent and the vacancy rate for rentals was 5-percent.
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TABLE 10 - Housing Tenure, 2000 Occupancy
Occupancy Number of Units Total Occupied Person’s Per Household Housing Occupancy 631 100% n/a Owner-Occupied housing units 498 78.9% 2.89 Renter-Occupied housing units 133 21.1% 2.55 Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, 2000 Census
TABLE 11 - Housing Occupancy, 2000
Type of Units Number of units Percent of Units Total housing units occupied 631 92.7% Vacant units 50 7.3% Seasonal, recreation, or occasional use 1 0.01% Total 681 100% Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, 2000 Census
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3.2.5 Manufactured Homes and Manufactured Homes Communities
Manufactured housing can be one source for affordable housing in a community. During a development public hearing, people testified that they would not have any concerns regarding the proposed development if only the subject development would only have “stick built” housing, in other words: no manufactured housing units.
Idaho Code 67-6502 states the purpose of the Local Planning Act. It states the purpose of this “act shall be to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the people of the State of Idaho as follows: (a) To protect property rights while making accommodations for other necessary types of development such as low-cost housing and mobile home parks.”
Idaho Code 67-6509B states that a City or a county shall not adopt or enforce zoning, community development or subdivision ordinance provisions which disallow the plans and specifications of a manufactured housing community solely because the housing within the community will be manufactured housing. Applications for development of manufactured home communities shall be treated the same as those for site-built homes. "Manufactured housing community" means any site, lot or tract of land upon which ten (10) or more manufactured homes may be sited. The manufactured housing community may feature either fee simple land sales or land leased or rented by the homeowner.
The City considers manufactured homes that meet certain construction and siting criteria as allowed by the State, to be the same as a single stick built family home and allowed in all areas where single-family housing is allowed. There is one established manufactured home park with 19-homes within the City Morning Star Mobile Manor has individually owned units. In addition, there are a few single mobile homes scattered throughout the community, mostly within the City core.
The following table provides a view of housing building permits from 1998-2006:
TABLE 12 - Building Permits, 1998-2006
Year Permit Issued Single-Family Permits Manufactured Homes Multi-Family Dwelling Units Total Permits 1998 46 4 0 50 1999 104 7 0 111 2000 71 6 0 77
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Year Permit Issued Single-Family Permits Manufactured Homes Multi-Family Dwelling Units Total Permits 2001 43 1 0 44 2002 41 4 0 45 2003 108 2 0 110 2004 146 1 0 147 2005 546 0 0 546 2006 274 0 8 282 Source: City of Star, January 2007 (This information is from calendar year January-December, not a fiscal year.)
TABLE 13 - Cost as a Percentage of Household Income in 1999
Selected Monthly Owners Cost as a Percentage of City of Star Ada County Household Income in 1999 Number Percent Number Percent Less than 15.0 percent 89 20.6 23,196 33.6 15.0 to 19.9 percent 72 16.7 13,687 19.8 20.0 to 24.9 percent 76 17.6 10,751 15.6 25.0 to 29.9 percent 69 16.0 7,619 11.0 30.0 to 34.9 percent 27 6.3 4,119 6.1 35.0 percent or more 99 22.9 9,240 13.4 Not computed 307 0.4 Gross Rent as a Percentage of Household Income in 1999 Less than 15.0 percent 26 22.8 5,071 15.3 15.0 to 19.9 percent 13 11.4 4,981 15.0 20.0 to 24.9 percent 17 14.9 4,862 14.7 25.0 to 29.9 percent 16 14.0 3,765 11.4 30.0 to 34.9 percent 11 9.6 2,645 8.0 35.0 percent or more 24 21.1 10,493 31.7 Not computed 7 6.1 Source: U.S. Department of Commerce, 2000 Census of Housing, Detailed Housing Characteristic
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3.2.6 Rural/Urban Interface As a rural community begins to grow, they begin to take on characteristics of an urban area. Farmable or non-farmable land is purchased, subdivided and single-family dwelling units are constructed. In many cases conflict begins with the traditional agricultural community, whereby the new residents complain about agricultural sounds after midnight, rural smells, aerial spraying and other seemingly public nuisances. As more homes are built, traffic and speeds increase. New residents demand that the roadways be improved to meet the need. Agricultural vehicles try to maneuver the road system, while new residents have issues with the farm equipment moving too slow for the current traffic and speeds. They believe that farmers should use some other road system. As more homes are being developed, the remaining farming community feels pinned in and soon they decide that they are not able to continue to farm because the encroachment. Those that remain want to see “right to farm” legislation enacted and begin to feel resentment because they are not able to use their properties as they once did where they ride horses, raise live stock and crops and conduct other agricultural activities. 3.2.7 Subdivisions
A subdivision is described as the division of a single-lot, tract or parcel of land into two or more lots, tracts, parcels or other divisions of land for sale, development or lease. The subdivision review regulations control how land is divided into smaller parcels: the key factor in the overall future growth and development of a community. While the simple division of land may not appear to be important, that action may spur development, trigger the need for additional municipal infrastructure, or possibly produce demands for rezoning of an area. At a minimum, most subdivision regulations are intended to ensure that when development occurs the street, lots, infrastructure and open space are properly and safely designed. Subdivision regulations should focus on the land use objectives of the Comprehensive Plan.
Subdivision regulations can be used to promote a community’s land development pattern that encourages preservation of open space, discourages strip development along roadways, encourages an interconnected street network and support an efficient provision of public services.
Cities may require the location of park sites and school district may request school sites. Subdivisions may be surrounded with general shopping, strip and/or commercial centers.
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3.2.8 Planned Unit Development
Planned Unit Developments (PUD’s) are a form of development that may include a mixture of housing types and nonresidential uses in one unified site design. PUD’s may include provisions to encourage clustering of buildings, designation of common open space, and incorporation of a variety of building types and land uses.
PUD’s can encourage development that is creative in site design and a mix of uses by incorporating flexibility into the zoning and subdivision ordinances; with regard to use, setbacks and minimum lot sizes. PUD’s can help developers build projects that would otherwise fail to meet traditional zoning standards, while giving local governments valuable design oversight.
3.2.9 Planned Communities
A Planned Community should be a mixed-use land development project, with a typical build out timeline of 10 to 30-years. Planned Communities should be required to develop an economic analysis of their future development to determine if the project is feasible. Planned communities are required to have a number of amenities and conveniences such as; lakes, golf courses, expansive parks, bike paths, jogging trails and office uses, commercial development and a variety of residential units from rental units to homeownership. All of the amenities are planned and are included in the initial planning stages by the City and developers. The overall development areas will have 600 or more acres and the developer is required along with the placement of all infrastructure on the site. The developer may be encouraged to donate lands for schools and parks as part of the development.
Planned Communities are typically of one ownership. These projects are usually too large for one builder or developer to build out. Usually a group of individual builders/developers will join together and develop 'localized' sections of the master planned community. One very important benefit of this 'multi-developers' concept is there is a wide variety of building styles, house floorplans, lot sizes, landscaping styles and pricing options throughout the community. In addition, each 'section' that is developed by individual builders or a group of builders will have its own unique Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R's) that maintain the quality and overall standards of the community.
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3.2.10 Affordable Housing
As a general rule the total annual sum for rent and other housing payments (including utilities) should not exceed 30% of gross household income. Lending institutions use a slightly different definition to determine whether housing is affordable for a prospective homeowner; that is, the total annual payment (principal, interest, taxes, and insurance) should not exceed 26-28% of the homeowner's gross annual income. Lending institutions also consider the homeowner's total indebtedness, determining that housing costs plus all other indebtedness should not exceed 33-36% of the homeowner's income. There are many people who pay more that the 36% monthly income as rent, but they can not meet the minimum requirements for home ownership.
As shown in Table 17, 29% of the City of Star households that own a home pay more than 30% or more of their income for housing, while over 30% of City of Star households pay more that 30% for the rental housing units.
One way to provide for diversity and affordability in housing is to engage in regional planning and cooperative agreements. In order to serve the local population, it is important to look at housing needs, especially those of low- and moderate-income residents on a broad-scale to ensure that a wide array of housing options are available throughout a municipality. Planning is a way to address the potential costs to localities of providing affordable housing and to work toward equitable distribution of the costs of providing necessary services to the residents of a community.
In recent years, new design techniques and tools have been developed to address the issue of adding density to neighborhoods composed of single family homes. These techniques strive to maintain the character of a neighborhood while using land efficiently and keeping housing affordable. Communities can enact laws that promote these new housing forms. For instance, owners of existing houses can be encouraged to add a second living space, but only permit a single front entrance to help maintain the appearance of a single family dwelling.
Another strategy for increasing density is to allow accessory apartments, or "granny flats," which can be either attached or detached from the primary residential unit on a single-family plot. Not only does this technique increase housing options, but it potentially makes it more affordable for homeowners to live there, as rental income can serve as a source of supplementary income. The City is to incorporate 67-6508 (L) guidance into land use decisions.
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3.2.11 Workforce Housing
Hard-working families struggle to find homes and apartments within their budgets. They are often forced to commute long distances, live in sub-standard housing, or live in over-crowed conditions due to exclusionary, discriminatory, and /or unnecessary regulations that drive up costs that are eventually passed on to the consumer.
If a family intending to buy a home must drive to qualify, meaning that they will become commuters in order to find a housing unit, will have to spend more money for an auto, auto maintenance, gasoline and time.
Over the years, some communities have found that out-of-date building codes, duplicative or time-consuming design review or approval processes, burdensome rehabilitation codes, restrictive or exclusionary zoning ordinances, unnecessary or excessive fees and taxes, extreme environmental restrictions and excessive land development standards all contribute to housing cost and productions delays.
For middle-income individuals such as teachers, firefighters, police officers, nurses, service sector employees and others, barrier removal is an integral component of meeting their housing needs. By reducing development cost by as much as 35% through the removal of affordable housing barriers families would be able to buy or rent suitable housing that they otherwise could not afford.
3.2.12 Housing Density
Many cities seem to focus on density to determine the right housing mix in a community. As identified above, land can be developed through 3 processes in the City; a subdivision, a planned unit development or a planned community. What each have in common is the overall design concepts. Will the development consist of single family residential, townhouses or condominiums? Will the developer construct mansion style housing, zero-lot line patio homes, single family dwelling units or apartments? Is there adequate open space? What amenities does the developer have for the residents? Where will the office and commercial development be located? What public services will they provide and how does this development fit in the overall comprehensive plan of the City? These questions need to be answered. As how many units per acres are important, these other questions equally have similar impacts to the community.
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3.2.12.1 Zero-Lot Lines
Zero-lot line development is a similar strategy that increases density in a single family detached housing development. Zero-lot line developments allow homes to be constructed without a side yard setback from the edge of the property line of one side of the lot. This strategy increases the number of housing units per acre without appearing overcrowded. Communities may also create provisions for building 2 single-family dwellings on a single lot.
3.2.12.2 Patio Homes
Patio homes can be 1-story or 2-story homes that share at least one side wall and have a back patio but not necessarily a backyard. Patio homes can be only one unit or developed in clusters.
3.2.12.3 Townhomes
A townhome is a one-family dwelling unit, with a private entrance, which is part of a structure whose dwelling units are typically attached horizontally in a linear arrangement. The typical townhome has an exposed front and rear wall to be used for access, light and ventilation. Many town homes are in a series of units and in mid-western and eastern cities, they may be called “brownstones”. Some designs include balconies and front porches. In some instances, garages are rear alley-loaded. Typically, the resident owns the housing unit and the land it sits on, but they have common walls.
3.2.12.4 Condominiums
The ownership of individual dwelling units located on a lot or lots which are owned in common by individual unit owners, or any division of the interest in real property. Real estate, or portions of, which are designated for separate ownership and the remainder of which is designated for common ownership solely by the owners of those portions. Real estate is not a condominium unless the undivided interests in the common elements are vested in the unit owners. Some of the advantages of condominiums are the owners size of unit can depend on their particular needs, such as lofts to penthouses. A condominium is a building, or group of buildings, in which dwelling units, offices or floor area are owned individually and structure, common areas and facilities are owned by all the owners on a proportional, undivided basis. The maintenance and improvements of the property are paid by the all condominium owners. It should be noted that commercial developments can be developed as condominiums.
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3.2.12.5 Mixed-Use
Properties in which various uses such as office, commercial, institutional and/or residential are combined in a single building or on a single site in a integrated development with significant functional inter-relationships and a coherent physical design. A "single site" may include contiguous properties. The purpose of mixed-use development allow for diverse use that in theory allows more “walkability” between uses and to reduce automobile traffic and impacts. Summary
Star is a City that has aged gracefully, only 10% of the housing stock or 152 housing units where built prior to 1970.
GOALS: Encourage diverse developments that provide a mix of housing types and products and where possible, an assortment of amenities within walking distance of residential development.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Provide opportunity for a wide diversity of housing types that offer a choice between ownership and rental dwelling units and encourage the development of housing for all income groups.
2. Housing should be affordable and appealing to all residents, regardless of their income or whether they rent or own their homes.
3. Housing will be in compliance with local building codes.
4. Encourage and maintain pride of homeownership
5. Preserve existing housing stock
6. Preserve/Maintain existing rural housing/development in the increasing urban environment.
7. Support diversity of housing types to enable citizens from a wide range of economic levels and age groups live in housing of their choice.
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8. Enhance the quality of communities by improving the character of the built environment, including visually appealing architectural elements and streetscapes that encourage pedestrian travel, facilitate community interaction and promote public safety.
9. Encourage the development of housing for all income groups.
POLICIES: 1. Provide housing for seniors either in existing neighborhoods and/or senior housing projects.
2. Support the development of multi-family housing as a transition between single-family housing and adjacent commercial and limited office districts.
3. Support the development of high-density housing for all income groups that is close to transportation, employment, shopping and recreation areas.
4. To create an environment for housing and its growth that allows for adequate and acceptable shelter to all segments of the population without regard or prejudice to age, handicap, familial status, race, color, religion, sex or national origin and income level.
5. Encourage infill housing development to reduce urban sprawl.
6. Encourage the development of a wider variety of housing types.
7. Enact an inclusionary zoning ordinance for housing development.
8. Adopt rehabilitation building codes to regulate the renovation of existing structures.
9. Develop design standards to mitigate impacts of different land uses.
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4 - 1CHAPTER FOUR – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
When the City of Star was incorporated in 1997, its population was 648. Economic development has changed since then. The city has grown to an estimated population of over 5,000 residents in 2007. The once agriculture-dominated community has slowly been transformed into a community where suburban and rural land uses co-exist. Economic development plays an important role in creating and maintaining the living standards within a community. A strong economy provides economic opportunities to all citizens through the creation of jobs and business opportunities. Economic opportunities create a tax base that supports schools, police, fire protection, parks and other community facilities, services and amenities. Economic development results from a partnership between business and government whereby a nurturing, supportive environment is created that stimulates growth and retention of existing businesses and facilitates the start-up and recruitment of new ones. In a city the size of Star, a positive impact can best be made by focusing economic development efforts on the enhancement of the business climate for entrepreneurs and small businesses. An additional economic impact can be made by increasing the number of home-based businesses and telecommuting opportunities. Thus far, citizens from in and around Star have expressed an aversion to urban sprawl and a desire to maintain rural, small-town charm; yet economic growth and prosperity are universally desired.
Star’s growth has created an opportunity to expand the City’s economy by mobilizing human, physical, natural and capital resources to produce marketable goods and services. As the city continues to expand, demands on vital infrastructure components increase, and the sustainability of economic progress becomes more challenging. Specific challenges include:
Defining future locations for commercial, office and light industrial or high-tech locations;
Establishing a location for a proposed community college;
Balancing the location and construction of commercial and residential development;
Connecting I-84 to Highway 20-26 (Chinden Blvd.), Highway 44 (State Street) and highway 16 to manage traffic movement;
Identifying the boundaries of the Central Business District;
Siting and construction of a special events center;
Keeping pace with basic infrastructure technology (e.g. broadband internet technology).
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To address these challenges, Star’s city ordinances provide for the appointment of a volunteer Economic Development Committee (EDC). The EDC meets monthly to plan for the city’s economic development, to identify projects that address the city’s economic development needs, and to assign sub-committees and individuals responsible for carrying out those projects. The Star EDC has identified a number of projects designed to enhance the economic opportunities for the community. Among these are:
The publication of the Star Economic Development Strategic Plan.
The coalition of all available state, county, regional, and local economic development resources.
The design and location of gateway entry signs for the City of Star.
The establishment of a community college in Star.
The attraction of an appropriate grocery and drug store.
The creation of marketing materials to be used to attract and recruit efforts.
Star has been an active Gem Community. Created in 1988, the Idaho Gem Community Program provides training and technical assistance for rural communities interested in pursuing economic and community development. The program's primary goal is to help communities build local capacity and resources to meet the challenges confronting Idaho’s rural communities. The Star EDC has begun the process of re-establishing the City’s Gem Community status.
Diversification and strengthening of Star’s economic base continues to be a high priority. The City has established a precedence to improve the overall community structure to strengthen its position in the Treasure Valley by embracing cultural diversity in the areas of education, commercial and industrial expansion. Economic development must also be viewed in a broad context to include the creation of opportunities for segments of the population who are disadvantaged or have special interests or needs so that all can benefit from prosperity.
Immediate and long-term prospects for Star’s local economy are excellent. Development both inside and outside the City’s current corporate limits will provide many opportunities. Star’s competitive advantages include a location in close proximity to Boise; quality elementary and charter schools; capacity for additional demographic and economic growth; a balanced, debt-free city budget; and a proven track record of creating enhanced opportunities for its citizens and businesses. Star’s economy will be enhanced by building on the important community assets, such as a highly skilled and educated workforce, entrepreneurial sprit and abundant investment capital.
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4.1 Existing Conditions
Historically, farming and other agricultural activities were the basis of the Star economy. However in 2000, farming-related agricultural activity accounted for only 15-employees, which is only 1.7-percent of the City’s entire labor force. The largest job category was identified as management, professional and professional related occupations. While it is both culturally and economically important for Star to continue to support and grow the agriculture-based businesses in its area, a greater emphasis should be placed on the development of high-value professional and technical businesses and occupations that will supply the community’s residents with greater paying employment opportunities.
TABLE 14 – City of Star’s Major Employers
Major Employers Number of Employees Star Merc / Star Café 50 Star Depot / Moxie Java 10 Subway 12 West Ada Joint School District No. 2, Star 39 Elementary Idaho Independent Bank 7 Pizza Hut 11 *Seasonal employment numbers change
According to the 2000 census, 81% or 690 of Star’s residents commuted daily to their place of employment. It is also reported that it took approximately 27.6-minutes for a Star resident to commute to work. This was the average driving time to Boise or Caldwell on non-congested streets at that time. 114 or 13.4% of those residents drove single occupancy vehicles. In addition, only 24 residents worked at home in 2000. Obviously, with the increase in Star’s population, it can be assumed that the sheer number of commuters and vehicles has increased dramatically since 2000. The Star EDC estimates that average driving time for commuters has risen to approximately 40-minutes each way. Simultaneously, the cost of transportation fuels has risen significantly without an appreciable improvement in vehicle fuel economy. This suggests an average, daily expenditure of nearly $5.00 per day, per worker (or $750/yr) for transportation to and from work. Using 2007’s population estimate, this translates to $3,645,000.00 flowing out of Star’s economy annually, minus the percentage of fuel sold by Star’s only gas station.
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TABLE 15 - Employment Status
Profile of Selected Economic Star Ada County Characteristics EMPLOYMENT STATUS Number Percent Number Percent Population 16 yrs and over 1,249 100 227,917 100 In labor force 920 73.7 163,955 71.9 Civilian labor force 918 73.5 163,045 71.5 Employed 861 68.9 156,634 68.7 Unemployed 57 4.6 6,411 2.8 Percent of civilian labor force 6.2 X 3.9 X Armed Forces 2 0.2 910 0.4 Not in labor force 329 26.3 63,962 28.1 Females 16 yrs and over 641 100 114,573 100 In labor force 424 66.1 75,032 65.5 Civilian labor force 424 66.1 74,848 65.3 Employed 402 62.7 72,082 62.9 Own children under 6 yrs 252 100 26,466 100 All parents in family in labor force 154 61.1 15,466 58.7 COMMUTING TO WORK 850 100 155,666 100 Workers 16 yrs and over 690 81.2 125,987 80.9 Car, truck, van –drove alone 114 13.4 15,909 10.2 Car, truck van – carpooled 5 0.6 1,291 0.8 Public transportation 10 1.2 2,938 1.9 Walked 7 0.8 2,914 1.9 Worked at home 24 2.8 6,627 4.3 Mean travel time to work 27.6 X 19.3 X Management, professional, and related 232 26.9 59,822 38.2 occupations Employed civilian population 16 yrs 861 100 156,634 100 and over Service occupations 122 14.2 22,188 14.2 Sales and office occupations 256 29.7 44,133 28.2 Farming, fishing, and forestry occupations 15 1.7 732 0.5 Construction, extraction, and maintenance 127 14.8 13,766 8.8 occupations
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Production, transportation, and material 109 12.7 15,983 10.2 moving occupation INDUSTRY Agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting, 18 2.1 1,696 1.1 and mining Construction 101 11.7 11,839 7.6 Manufacturing 114 13.2 22,467 14.3 Wholesale trade 25 2.9 6,505 4.2 Retail trade 107 12.4 19,948 12.7 Transportation and warehousing, and 33 3.8 6,462 4.1 utilities Information 24 2.8 4,853 3.1 Finance, insurance, real estate, and rental 63 7.3 11,208 7.2 and leasing Professional, scientific, management, 92 10.7 14,913 9.5 administrative, and waste management services Educational, health, and social services 149 17.3 27,227 17.4 Arts, entertainment, recreation, 53 6.2 12,602 8.0 accommodation, and food services Other service (except public admin.) 48 5.6 7,068 4.5 Public administration 34 3.9 9,846 6.3 Source: US Census, 2000
The annual unemployment rate in Ada County was 3.1 percent in 2005, 3.8% in 2004, 4.6% in 2003, 4.6% in 2002, 3.7% in 2001 and 3.3% in 2000. The total work force in the county in 2005 was 188,608, while the total number of unemployed persons in the county was 6,162. This is a 3.3% unemployment rate. The unemployment rate in December of 2006 is estimated for the State of Idaho at 3.3%. See Table 15 above.
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TABLE 16 – Wage Information - Income 1999
Number Percent Income in 1999 Households 623 100 Less than $10,000 44 7.1 $10,000 to $14,999 29 4.7 $15,000 to $24,999 82 13.2 $25,000 to $34,999 93 14.9 $35,000 to $49,999 143 23.0 $50,000 to $74,999 150 24.1 $75,000 to $99,999 44 7.1 $100,000 to $149,999 30 4.8 $150,000 to $199,999 6 1.0 $200,000 or more 2 0.3 Median household income 42,337 X
Families 460 100 Less than $10,000 15 3.3 $10,000 to $14,999 18 3.9 $15,000 to $24,999 44 9.6 $25,000 to $34,999 67 14.6 $35,000 to $49,999 116 25.2 $50,000 to $74,999 129 28.0 $75,000 to $99,999 38 8.3 $100,000 to $149,999 25 5.4 $150,000 to $199,999 6 1.3 $200,000 or more 2 0.4 Median household income 46,458 X
Per Capita income 15,864 X Median earnings: Male full-time, year round workers 31,028 X Female full-time, year round 22,625 X workers
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4.2 Star Trade Area
Consumers tend to travel to Boise, Nampa and Caldwell for their larger shopping needs. Star shops offer basic amenities such a groceries, food and smaller goods. The Star Trade Area extends north to Emmett, east to Eagle, and south to Meridian, and west to Middleton, which is an estimated total of 34,600-acres in Ada County alone.
Potential sales are lost (shrinkage) due to customers going outside of the Star Trade Area or to larger metropolitan areas, such as Boise to make purchases. The majority of products sold in Star are priced the same or slightly higher than those sold in other nearby communities. Some residents believe that they save money by buying less expensive products elsewhere. However, they must also drive a minimum of 6-miles to find a major, discount retailer. More upscale retailers and department stores are more distant. As gas prices fluctuate it may or may not be economical to buy essential goods outside of Star. Merchants must encourage Star residents to purchase local products. 4.3 Business Retention, Expansion and Recruitment
The economic development strategy for the City of Star, Idaho is based on three (3) distinct activities—Business Retention/Expansion, Business Start-up, and Business Attraction. The successful development of a strong economy in Star will depend on the successful creation of a business environment that:
a) Supports the businesses that are already in and around Star;
b) Encourages entrepreneurship and the start-up of new businesses in and around Star and
c) Showcase the workforce and the infrastructure that will attract businesses from outside of Star.
The City will strive to establish partnerships with various funding institutions and business development agencies, such as the Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Development Center (SBDC), Chamber of Commerce, Idaho Department of Commerce and Labor and area banks to develop workshops on funding opportunities and other aspects of business development. 4.3.1 Business Retention/Expansion
The primary economic development activity of the City of Star should be supporting the retention and expansion of companies that currently do business in and around the City of Star. Businesses will never be encouraged to start in or relocate to Star if
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there is no City support for them once they are here. The EDC and its meetings should be a sounding board where existing business owners and managers can voice their concerns or ideas and participate in establishing business policies for the City which are supportive of sustaining and growing any appropriate business.
Profitability is the primary determining factor in the success of any business. Efforts which help businesses to maximize revenues and minimize costs, from a global, community-wide perspective, should be undertaken. A focus of business retention is to understand local business needs and continuing market conditions. If deficiencies or needs are identified in which the City can affect positive change, the City is willing to work with partnering agencies to evaluate and affect needed changes. 4.3.2 Business Start-Up
The City of Star is an attractive and rapidly expanding community. The City presents a lucrative opportunity for entrepreneurs to launch new businesses. The City of Star and the Star EDC should establish policies that establish and support an entrepreneurial environment that promotes the creation of start-up businesses in and around Star. Areas of specific focus that will enhance start-up opportunities include: Improving access to start-up investment or debt capital; improving availability, reliability, and affordability of broadband communications infrastructure; creation or support of business incubation facilities and/or the establishment/attraction of a start-up business consulting organization. 4.3.3 Business Attraction
As the overall business climate in Star improves, a simultaneous effort will be made to attract and recruit additional businesses to Star. Priority should be given to businesses that will provide an appropriate selection of products and an appropriate level of service to the citizens of the greater Star community. Incentive policies will be established that make the location of a business in Star an attractive proposition. These incentives should be based on the number of jobs created, employee benefits package, and overall benefit to the community. The City of Star and the EDC will strive to establish and maintain a balanced portfolio of business interests in the community while permitting free market forces to determine the specific composition of the business base. 4.4 Central Business District (CBD)
The Central Business District (CBD) is the heart of the City and in many cases the condition of the CBD will set the tone of the economic vitality of the City. The CBD is very poorly defined. Absentee ownership of downtown property may be a concern. It
4-8 City of Star Comprehensive Plan seems that there may be issues regarding identifying or the preserving historic structures. The Economic Development Committee and ad hoc committees established by the City Council should look at what can be done to help the CBD.
Currently, the majority of Star’s commercial community is located along State Highway 44 (State Street) which serves local resident needs and includes grocery and restaurant facilities, service businesses (such as hair care, auto parts and service) and other small businesses. Other businesses serve travelers using the state highway which intersects the community. Also along the highway are the Star Fire District Station, City Hall, Star Sewer and Water District offices, light industry/manufacturing, building supply, public storage, child care/education, professional office, medical facilities, and the library. In addition, many of these businesses are composed of small, family-operated businesses. Housing is interspersed among the commercial developments; some of these structures are of a historical nature.
As the community grows, other retail centers may be established, but it is important for the community to remain focused on the vitality of the central core.
4.5 Post-Secondary Education
The City of Star recognizes the irrefutable value of post-secondary education opportunities for our children and for our citizens in general. Institutions of higher learning also present a compelling economic development opportunity because they produce a skilled and knowledgeable workforce while simultaneously producing education jobs, tuition revenues, and residual economy from their specific operations. The City and the EDC will continually strive to improve our citizens’ access to post-secondary education up to and including the establishment of a post-secondary educational institution within the Star community.
4.6 Tourism
The City of Star and the EDC will partner with the Star Chamber of Commerce, the Idaho Division of Tourism, and other stakeholder groups to promote Star as a tourist destination, especially as reflected in the development and promotion of showcase events such as Star Mule Days.
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GOALS: Enhance and develop City of Star’s economy which will build a stronger community.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Recognize the important role played by local institutions of higher education in attracting residents and creating jobs in the City. 2. Support recruitment of environmentally sound and economically viable economic development that helps to diversify and strengthen the local economy. 3. Provide a climate where businesses, particularly locally-owned ones, can flourish by enhancing the City's natural resources, arts and culture, lively urban core, and vital neighborhoods. 4. Improve regulatory certainty, consistency and efficiency. 5. Provide appropriate locations for an industrial/high-technical park. 6. Support workforce training that will facilitate desirable economy development that helps to diversify or strengthen local economic. 7. Work with the Economic Development Committee (EDC) to obtain technical assistance and/or funding for the expansion or establishment of economic viable development. 8. Develop a mixture of commercial, service and residential developments that encourages walking. 9. Develop a walkable Central Business District (CBD). 10. Develop a WiFi wireless program downtown Star. 11. Recognize that tourism is vital economic tool for the City of Star. 12. Support economic development that provides quality employment opportunities to local residents, good wages, benefits and affordable goods. 13. Develop a medical urgent care facility. 14. Provide on street parking in the CBD. 15. Provide sidewalks throughout the CBD 16. Support existing community agricultural businesses.
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POLICIES:
1. Concentrate appropriate commercial and office development onto relatively small amounts of land, in close proximity to housing and consumers. 2. Support economic development that employs local workers, provides family-supporting wages and benefits and offers affordable goods and services. 3. Support tourism in the area by encouraging local institutions, businesses, and facilities to better plan, coordinate, and expand tourism-related activities. 4. Coordinate economic development efforts with other jurisdictions, Star Economic Development Committee, Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce. 5. Consider lands along Highways 16 and 20-26 as the location of a mix-used of residential, commercial and an industrial/high-technical park. 6. Define the boundaries for the City’s central business district/main street area 7. Develop a Downtown Revitalization Plan. 8. Strengthen the appearance and commercial development with the City’s central business district/main street area. 9. Develop a Post Secondary education program within Star’s City limits. 10. Continue to stream line the development process. 11. Encourage the community, local institutions and businesses to plan, coordinate and expand tourism related activities locally and regionally. 12. Encourage the procurement of goods and services from local farmers, business and service providers. 13. Create a public market. 14. Work with Idaho Transportation Department of the development of Highway 44, which divides the CBD in order to determine the locations of sidewalk, trees, planters and outdoor seating. 15. Partner with the local agricultural community to ensure a place for agricultural business in the City of Star.
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4 - 1CHAPTER FIVE - LAND USE
Land use issues are intertwined with other Chapters of the plan, such as transportation, economic development and community design. Managing growth and channeling it into an orderly community development pattern is a key element of land use planning. Unplanned growth results in undesirable and incomplete land use. For example, policies call for consistency between the land use and the regional transportation system. Master plans of major transportation facilities such as airports: state highways, railroads and major freight terminals, are to be included to ensure that they are reasonably accommodated and compatible with surrounding land uses. Arterials should have limited access and should be free of excessive curb-cuts and multiple access points. Development opportunities along corridors that support public transportation services would be important to a growing community.
Background
The City of Star traditionally served as a community center to the rural surrounding area, serving agricultural uses and rural residents. Commercial uses were found mainly along State Highway 44, which bisected the City. In addition, residential uses were found along the highway interspersed among commercial uses. For several blocks, both north and south of the Highway, residential development was found.
Since incorporation in 1997, the City of Star has been transforming from a rural to a small urban community. New residential development has grown to the east, west, south and north of the original townsite. The predominant land uses are residential. Most of this residential land involves low to medium density single family housing, although some multi-family properties do exist. The actual percentage of land zoned as commercial and industrial land is small when compared to residential land uses. Commercial properties in Star tend to follow the two main City arterials, State Street and Star Road. There are no industrial land uses within the Star City limits, but gravel pits and existing agricultural lands exist in the surrounding areas.
As development continues to occur in nearby communities, considerable discussions will continue regarding the location of each City’s future growth boundaries or Area of City Impact (ACI). Future Concerns
Effective land use planning is essential because it:
Provides for the location and expansion for a diversity of residential land uses;
Provides a location of public spaces, such as schools, parks, open spaces, libraries, public facilities and other civic areas;
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Reserves areas well suited for types of business or industry that may require special access;
Allows for large areas or special site conditions and
Provides efficient movement of goods, services and people among interdependent land uses (e.g., employees to work, product to businesses and children to school).
As development applications occur, the review of this chapter as well as other chapters of the Comprehensive Plan will create a balance of land use decisions. Incompatible land use will be reduced by reviewing goals, objectives and polices of the Comprehensive Plan. A community with a balance of land uses has a long-term economic stability. Residents need to have employment opportunities as well as a diverse choice of housing and retail services to maintain the City as a vital community. The City of Star aims to ensure that an adequate inventory of land is available so that the City is able to recruit new businesses and provide space for locally expanding companies. 5.1 Current Land Use Patterns 5.1.1 Residential Land Uses
Rural-Urban Interface Issues – Citizens of the Treasure Valley and beyond have been moving to the City of Star and surrounding area. Land, which was part of the Area of City Impact of Star, has been purchased and entitlements have been received for residential development. There are concerns of the farming and the former farming community that they are losing the quaint small rural City. It is recognized that the City of Star is going through a transition, where the rural community is interfacing the urban community.
Existing Residential Development – Residential land use patterns in the City limits include existing parcels of 1 to 5- acres, single family subdivisions, Planned Unit Development and Master Planned Communities. Housing types include, attached and detached single family dwelling units, patio homes and multi-family dwelling units. 5.1.2 Civic Land Uses
The City of Star is constructing a new City hall located, just south of their existing facility. The new City hall will house all City offices. The Star Library, which is managed by the Ada County Library District, the Star Water and Sewer District and the Star Fire District Station are located in the Central Business District on Highway 44. The Star Senior Center is located at 102 Main Street.
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5.1.3 Open Spaces
The most important amenity is the Boise River which is located one mile south of Highway 44. It is available for fishing, hiking and viewing of wildlife. Currently, a greenbelt does not exist, but the City has approximately 20-acres along the river for recreation development. Blake Haven Park is located on Star Road across from Star Elementary School. Some of the new subdivisions have developed open space for their residents, but they are not public facilities. 5.1.4 Commercial
Commercial land uses are generally located along Highway 44 and Star Road. A range of professional offices, retail, restaurant and other services are located along these corridors. There are a number of home occupations in Star, but the actual numbers have not been identified. 5.1.5 Industrial and High Technical Land Uses
Industrial manufacturing or high-tech land uses are currently absent in Star. 5.1.7 Agriculture
The City acknowledges Idaho’s Right to Farm Act, and the need to protect the role of agriculture in Star with the understanding that the area within its comprehensive plan is transitioning to urban development. Development shall not be allowed to disrupt or destroy irrigation canals, ditches, laterals, drains and associated irrigation works and rights-of-way. Existing conditions are such that current Agricultural uses will be protected with Idaho’s Right to Farm Act and that the trend is that agricultural uses are transitioning to urban development within the City’s Comprehensive Plan boundary. Compatibility of land uses are to be assured through development proposals. The goals and objectives, or desirable future situations for the Agricultural uses within the City are to protect such uses but to allow development to replace agricultural uses as the City grows.
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TABLE 17
Table 17 below identifies a breakdown of the existing land uses within the City limits and the Area of City Impact.
Percent of Land Use Within the City of Star and the Area of City Impact Category City Limits Area of City Impact Acreage Percentage Acreage Percentage Agricultural 0 0 Unknown 70 Residential 618.0 30 Unknown 30 Commercial 33.9 1.6 0 0 Industrial 0 0 0 0 Public 14.4 1.8 0 0 Parks/open space 36.7 1.9 0 0 Vacant* 1288 64.7 0 0 Total 1991 100.00 N/A 100.00 Source: The existing City Zoning Ordinance and Area of City Impact Map, 6/8/06
*Not built up on 5.2 Land Use Regulations
Land use zoning regulations generally state that no building or structure shall be erected or structurally altered or used, unless the uses meet the local ordinance.
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5.3 Land Use Component
The Mayor, City Council, citizens, and developers are involved in discussions regarding of physical development. During City Council meetings, development decisions are made concerning annexation, rezoning, subdivision development, conditional use permits, and variances. Due to this responsibility, it is necessary for the City to adopt ordinances, policies and guidelines, which provide a framework for making these decisions. It is the comprehensive plan that provides this framework.
The Comprehensive Plan represents the future of Star. While the land use component may represent a combination of other components within this plan, it is only one of the components to be considered when determining whether a particular proposal is consistent with the comprehensive plan. When determining what the comprehensive plan requires or permits, each component must be considered before a decision can be made.
The policies of the Comprehensive Plan establish the framework for zoning and subdivision ordinances and the zoning map. Idaho State law requires that all zoning districts be in accordance with the adopted Comprehensive Plan. Existing zoning classifications may be able to adequately implement some components of the Comprehensive Plan. New zoning classifications may need to be considered in areas where the City's existing zoning is inadequate. The ordinances establish the conditions under which land may be used and future land use development patterns for the City of Star. Existing uses of land and buildings are permitted to continue, even if they are not in conformance with the plan policies and the associated land use ordinances. 5.4 Area of City Impact
Pursuant to Idaho Code Section 67-6526, Area of City Impact - Negotiation Procedures: “a separate ordinance providing for application of plans and ordinances of the Area of City Impact shall be adopted. Subject to the provisions of Section 50-222, Idaho Code, an Area of City Impact must be established before a City may annex adjacent territory.” Annexations outside of the Area of City Impact may be permitted as otherwise provided for within Idaho Code. In defining an Area of City Impact, the following factors should be considered:
a. Trade Areas;
b. Geographic factors;
c. Areas that can reasonably be expected to be annexed to the City in the future.
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The City of Star should work toward an agreement with Ada and Canyon Counties for land use decisions in pre-defined impact areas surrounding the City. The boundaries of the Area of City Impact are contingent upon negotiations with Ada and Canyon Counties. All parties, in a timely fashion, on all matters regarding the public good, should reach consensus.
In some cases, as requested by a land owner, the City has annexed outside its area of City Impact. The City of Star recognizes that growth issues affect both the City and county. Effective growth management will require a coordinated effort involving City and county land use regulations. Some of the more specific growth-related issues include:
a. Potential for growth in the areas outside of the City and within the Area of City Impact;
b. Modifications to the Area of City Impact and possible annexation;
c. Expansion of City services only in areas within the City limits of Star;
d. Based upon the Blaha case, the City recognizes that they can only make recommendations on land use issues in the ACI;
e. Impacts of growth can affect the efficiency of existing and future transportations and transportation corridors.
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MAP 2 – City of Star Area of Impact
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Land use designations serve as a planning tool that assist the City in sustaining reasonable growth and development patterns and to identify land use patterns which remain consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the City of Star.
5.5 Future Land Use Patterns
The City of Star held two community workshops on March 14, 2007 and April 25, 2007 at Star Elementary School. The purpose of the workshop was to receive input regarding the types and location various land uses within the City limits and the Area of City Impact. The March 14, 2007 meeting focused on office, commercial, high-tech and industrial land use. This workshop asked the participants to identify locations for neighborhood, general and highway commercial, high-tech and light and heavy industrial land uses. These land uses were described as:
Neighborhoods Commercial - such as; corner markets, hair stylist, coffee shops and dry cleaners; General Commercial – such as; retail, restaurant and other types of commercial; Office – such as; medical and professional services, insurance and real estate sales offices; Highway Commercial - such as; high volume commercial such as a grocery store, “big-box” store, hotel, auto dealership, traffic-oriented business; High-Tech – such as; spin-off business from companies such as Micron, Hewlett Packard Company, Pro- Clarity; Light Industrial – such as; manufacturing, food processing, wholesaling, warehousing storage & distribution, storage units and Heavy Industrial – such as; land uses that have a potential to affect the public health and safety due to sound, odors, vibrations, i.e. include rendering plant, gravel extraction and junk yard.
Mixed-Used development was added to describe a mixed-used of land uses along one of three corridors (Highways 16, 20/26 and 44)
Mixed –Use – such as; General and Highway Commercial, High-Tech and Medium to High Density Residential land uses. Residential could be located on the second floor and plans should consider Transit Oriented Development (TOD). Access to these sites would be from frontage roads and secondary access and collectors from the rear of the site. A master plan would need to a part of the development plan.
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The April 25, 2007 workshop focused on residential land uses. The goal of this workshop was to identify residential land use, which would provide an opportunity for a wide diversity of housing types that offer a choice between ownership and rental dwelling units for all income groups. The residential land use categories and densities included:
Low – 1-2 units per acre Medium – Low – 3-4 units per acre Medium – 5-7 units per acre Medium – High – 8-10 units per acre High – > 10 units per acre
5.5.1 Residential Land Uses
Rural Residential – Rural residential would include existing lands in the City or future residential development which may have lots of 3 to 5-acres or more. Existing development should be impacted by future development, but the City does not encourage new development with this size of lots. As the City annexes lands in the Area of City Impact, and new development occurs, the City would encourages that applications for single family residential development with more density multi-family residential developments, commercial, mixed-use, high-tech and industrial development to seek annexation, rezoning and provide buffers or provide transitional lot sizes adjacent to existing acreages.
Some citizens who have large acreages and livestock on their properties have had concerns regarding future use of their land. Under Idaho State Code, existing agricultural land uses will be allowed to continue. The City should adopt an animal transition plan/ordinance for farm animals. The use of land as it exists at the time the Comprehensive Plan is adopted should not impede any existing functions on these rural residential properties.
All ponds/water amenities, gravel extraction and rock-crushing land uses shall require conditional use or planned unit development approval from the City Council to ensure a controlled timeframe and provisions for a harmonious, compatible, developable area upon the expiration of the subject use.
Urban Residential – Urban residential allows a full range of housing types in areas where urban services are provided. Uses may include residential development at densities higher than 1 dwelling unit per acre. The City should consider low, medium and high density development categories, which with special consideration will allow a diversity of building types and size to accommodate a diverse population. Service commercial and public uses may be considered
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as an allowed use to encourage mixed-use development near the downtown core or by special use permit under special circumstances and when it is compatible with existing and potential residential uses.
Issues which are important include:
Create innovative in design and placement of housing units so that all developments do not look the same and
Usable open space and pathways;
Residential land uses to consider include:
Single Family Detached Residential (Low Density) 1 - 2 units per acre Generally located in areas near foothill trail access, existing and former farms and foothill regions around the City, these areas will offer the preservation and development of rural neighborhoods. Modified street sections and a reduction in light pollution (by reducing adjacent nighttime) may be offered to allow for less urban environment conducive to the pastoral setting residents desire. No new wells or septic tanks. Land owners pay additional for hookup fees cost for laying new utility lines. o Single Family Detached Residences o Manufactured Homes
Single Family Detached Residential (Low Density) 3- 4 units per acre o Single Family Detached Residences o Attached and Detached Residences o Single Family Attached Residential o Manufactured Homes
Single Family Detached/Attached Residential (Medium) 5-7 units per acre o Attached and Detached Residences o Single Family Attached Residential o Manufactured Homes o Cluster Housing o Duplexes o Condominiums o Apartments
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o Other Multi-Family Residential Units
Single Family Detached/Attached Residential (Medium-High) 8-10 units per acre o Attached and Detached Residences o Single Family Attached Residential o Manufactured Homes o Cluster Housing o Duplexes o Condominiums o Apartments o Other Multi-Family Residential Units
High Density Uses (greater than 10 units per acre) o Attached and Detached Residences o Cluster Housing o Duplexes o Condominiums o Apartments o Other Multi-Family Residents
Master Planned Communities and Planned Unit Developments o Dependent on the final development agreement, these developments should be designed with the idea and projects that are modern and innovative, following the best planning practices available.
Note: This is not an exclusive list, other housing types may exist.
5.5.2 Civic Land Uses
Civic land uses include a full range of municipal and public structures and facilities such as City hall, schools, sewer and water facilities, roads, police and fire departments to name a few. Some of these services are not directly provided by the City, but the City has and will continue to partner with local jurisdictions to provide the most convent and cost-effective services. As
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the City continues to grow the fire district will need additional fire stations, sewer and water services will need to be expanded and roads and highways will be maintained and expanded.
5.5.3 Open Spaces
Open spaces should be developed to preserve and protect existing municipal, state and federal lands for area residents and visitors. These areas can consist of parks, waterways, plazas and outdoor public meeting places. The Boise River is located approximately one mile south of Highway 44. As opportunities become available, the City should work with property owners to maintain and enhance the Boise River corridor as an amenity for residents and visitors. Uses which complement this activity include trails and interpretive signage would be permitted. The City should also develop public and private partnerships to acquire additional lands for public use and develop maintenance provisions. 5.5.4 Public Spaces
Public spaces include the City of Star City Hall, the Library, Star Fire Station, Star Elementary School and the Star Water and Sewer District. These facilities provide governmental services for the citizens of Star. As the City continues to grow Ada County may place satellite offices in the City.
5.5.5 Commercial Land Uses
Within this category, specific zones may be created to focus commercial activities unique to their location. These zones might include a neighborhood district focusing on specialized retail, restaurant, and service retail for surrounding residences; highway commercial focusing on service retail for travelers including restaurant, lodging, and convention facilities and office due to the access to transportation corridors. Standards for signs, screening, landscaping, parking, and access will need to be developed and implemented.
The Commercial land use categories may include the following subcategories:
Central Business District:
Central Business District (CBD) is recognized due to its historical and architectural significance. The CBD is depicted on the Comprehensive Plan Land Use Designation Map. Commercial, retail, civic, private offices with housing on the upper floors would be located within this zoning classification. This special area will require
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comprehensive and specific planning to ensure that any historical, cultural, and aesthetic concerns have been thoroughly addressed and incorporated into any future development plan per Star zoning ordinances. In addition, the City may wish to determine appropriate heights of structures in the CBD to better utilize land in the area.
Limited Office:
Establishment of uses in groupings of professional services to include but limited to: medical, research, executive, administrative, accounting, clerical, insurance and similar uses. Research shall not involve heavy testing operations of any kind. This land use is also designed to act as a buffer between other more intense non- residential uses and high-density residential uses. This could be considered as a transitional land use.
Neighborhood Commercial:
This classification would include neighborhood retail and services with low rise office space. Medical offices and similar land use which are found in the limited office zone would be included. Automobile traffic would be at a minimum.
General Commercial:
Development within this zone would include commercial development such as, banks, retail and restaurants with drive-up windows to name a few. General commercial uses would depend on additional automobile traffic. Star Road, Can-Ada, Beacon Light would accommodate this type of land use.
Highway Commercial:
Development within this zone would generate the most automobile traffic. Access to these developments would be limited to frontage roads or secondary access. Shopping centers, retail, offices, multi-family housing, big boxes and other heavy automobile businesses would be attracted this type of location. State Highways (Highways 44, 20/26 and 16) would accommodate this type of land use.
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5.5.6 Mixed Used
Mixed-use development areas are identified along three major transportation corridors in the City of Star. These corridors are identified as State Highways 16, 20/26 and 44. It is anticipated that the proposed mixed-use areas will consist of the development of lot tracts or parcels of land, building or structures with 2 or more different uses including but not limited to residential, office, retail, public uses, personal services or entertainment.
Identifying these areas for mixed-use development in the comprehensive plan has two objectives. The first objective is to give the City a better tool to manage the type of developments through the planned unit development process. The second objective is that this process will allow the development community to be more innovative in design and placement of structures. Development design guidelines should also be established to guide development within mixed-use areas. 5.5.7 High-Tech
The issue of High Technical development in Star has not yet surfaced in Star, but the potential for high-tech development and spin-off development is highly likely, due to its proximity to Boise. High-tech development is usually clean development and would be a boon for employment opportunities for Star residents. This could be a stand alone zone classification or it could be part of a mixed –use development. High-Tech development would be located along the major corridors in the City of Star, i.e. State Highways 44, 20/26 & 16. 5.5.8 Industrial
Research identifies to types of industrial development, light industrial development which would include manufacturing, food processing, wholesaling, warehousing, storage & distribution, storage units and heavy industrial which has the potential to affect the public due to sound, odors, vibrations, i.e. include rendering plant, gravel extraction and junk yards. Industrial land use allows for light industrial business to develop with sufficient urban services. Heavy industrial business should be developed away from residential development and designed where they will have minimum impact to surrounding land uses. These uses may be best suited along railroad, major highways or interstate corridors. Special permits may be required for users which prove incompatible with surrounding uses only when these uses can mitigate any adverse affects. In all cases, standards for screening, landscaping and adequate access should be developed and implemented.
5.5.9 Commercial Areas in Residential Land Use Designations
Commercial areas of 5 acres or less should be encouraged in residential land use designations with appropriate zoning to allow for commercial services for residential neighborhoods and to limit trip lengths. Such commercial areas should be submitted for approvals with a Conditional Use Permit or Development Agreement to assure that conditions are placed on any such use to provide for compatibility with existing or planned residential uses. These areas should front on a Collector or Arterial streets.
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GOALS: Encourage the development of a diverse community that provide a mix of land uses, housing types, and a variety of employment options, social and recreational opportunities and where possible provide an assortment of amenities within walking distance of residential development.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Encourage Mixed-Use land use development in order to have diverse and creative development projects and to minimize traffic and infrastructure impacts
2. Encourage the location of office uses in the City center and mixed use corridors. 3. Encourage public participation in the land use planning process.
4. Develop a variety of densities that support mixed-use land use.
5. Ensure that an adequate inventory of land is available so that the City is able to recruit new businesses and provide space for locally expanding companies.
6. Manage urban sprawl in order to protect outlying rural areas.
7. Maintain and develop convenient access and opportunities for shopping and employment activities.
8. Design development projects that will minimize impacts on existing adjacent neighborhoods.
9. Encourage land uses that are in harmony with existing resources, scenic areas, natural wildlife areas, and surrounding land uses.
10. Encourage development outside of the floodplain 11. Discourage the development of strip commercial areas and encourage the focus of planned neighborhood districts.
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POLICIES:
1. Provide land use guidance for rural areas which are annexed into the City. a. Develop an animal transition plan/ordinance. b. Consider to develop transitional lot sizes which are adjacent to lots of three acre or larger. c. Adopt an animal transition & livestock ordinance. d. When residential development is planned adjacent to rural residential lots of 1 acre and larger any such development should be designed with similar size lots adjacent thereto as long as the existing lots would not reasonably be feasible for future redevelopment. Additionally, larger setbacks should be required for rural lots and in rural areas streets should be designed such that lots on each side of the street are of similar size. e. The rural lifestyle within Star’s Comprehensive Planning boundary should be considered with regard to compatibility because the City’s goal is to preserve rural areas as part of its overall community design. 2. Develop a harmonious blend of opportunities for living, working, recreation, education, shopping and cultural activities. a. Buffer and transition development shall occur between conflicting types of land use. b. Support well-planned, pedestrian-friendly commercial development. c. Encourage flexibility in site design and innovative land uses. d. Encourage landscaping to enhance the appearance of structures and parking areas. e. Encourage adequate professional office space near residential development. f. Locate neighborhood services within walking distance to residential development. g. Review and evaluate application with respect to traffic impacts, visual impacts/landscaping/screening and buffering and adjacent land use. h. Develop an infill development policy. 3. Develop processes for public participation. a. Establish a Planning and Zoning and Design Review Commission. b. Develop materials that describe the development and public hearing process.
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4. Provide coordinated, efficient and cost effective public facilities and utility services, carefully managing both residential and non-residential development and design and proactively reinforcing downtown Star’s role as the urban core. a. Develop a Central Business zoning classification to accommodate existing /future growth.
5. Work with Ada County Highway District (ACHD), Canyon Highway District #4 (CHD#$), and Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) for better coordination of services. a. Development should have access to a public street or road. (either directly, or by use of a private road that meets standards for ingress and egress and emergency response) that meets Ada County Highway District (ACHD), Canyon Highway District #4 (CHD#4) or Idaho Transportation of Department (ITD) standards.
b. Encourage commercial facilities to locate on transportation corridors.
c. Promote “trip capture,” in new development.
6. The Star fire District shall respond to development applications by advising the City’s Planning Department of the impact that the proposed development will have, if approved, on the standard response time.. 7. Implement Impact Fees, where applicable, to provide funding for construction of Fire Stations and qualifying Capital expenditures. 8 Design review guidelines shall be established to guide development within the mixed-use areas. 9. Require land donation for Fire Station site, as part of conditions of approval, if a proposed development creates a need for additional fire protection, as determined by the NFPA Standards, ISRB and any other nationally recognized standard. 10. Continue to require all structures and facilities adhere to City, State and national regulatory standards such as the International Fire and Building Codes and any other applicable fire safety guidelines. 11. Update the Area of City Impact boundaries and land use maps, on a regular basis to direct future growth.
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12. Encourage the City and County(s) to meet on a regular basis to discuss common land use issues within the Area of City Impact.
13. Develop a future acquisition map.
14. Developments will be required to provide groundwater studies where needed to address possible impacts to existing wells or the aquifer.
15. Developments planned in the area where the Star Comprehensive Plan overlays the Middleton Comprehensive Plan are to be planned in a coordinated manner to limit conflicts between city jurisdictions.
16. With regard to land-use planning, property owners and residents within Star’s Comprehensive Planning area who live outside the city limits and are not entitled to vote in city elections are encouraged to provide public input for consideration by the City Council.
17. Clustering of housing is to be encouraged where needed to preserve hillsides, natural features and to avoid mass grading of land in areas determined to be preserved.
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CHAPTER SIX – TRANSPORTATION
Transportation In Star
Boise Interurban Railway
The growth of Star came with the confidence of the Boise Interurban Railway. In 1907, W.E. Pierce completed the electric railroad which ran from Boise to Caldwell, via Eagle, Star and Middleton, and back through Nampa and Meridian. The introduction of the Interurban also brought electricity to Star.
The Idaho Daily Statesman reported in 1907 that as a result of the completion of the Boise and Interurban line through Star, "this town has taken a wonderful activity and citizens here have awakened to the fact that Star in very liable to become a very important point before long. There's been a great deal of building of late and the population of the town has easily doubled since it was definitely known that the electric line would be built through here."
Completion of the Boise Interurban created radical growth with W.E. Pierce and Co. platting two new areas of land to the east of the original town site. These areas included Interurban Addition and the Pierce Addition. Lot sales, as reported in the Idaho Daily Statesman at that time, were brisk.
The handsome Star Interurban Depot with a freight office and passenger waiting room was built at Valley and Knox streets in 1907. The building was designed by Boise architects Tourtellotte and Hummel. Nearby was the transformer house. At the time the stage connected to Emmett. With the introduction of automobiles into the Treasure Valley, the Interurban was used less and less, eventually going out of business in 1928. The loss of this link to the valley meant a decline in activity for Star. The depot was moved to the east side of town in the 1950's.
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Existing Conditions
The form of the community, the design of individual subdivisions and the ability to travel to places of residence are all revolved around a network of roads and highways. When improvements are made such as, a turning lane or traffic signal is added, a street is widened, a bridge is replaced, theses improvements increase the accessibility of the area, thus generating a demand for more intense land use, which generates more traffic and starts the cycle again. The impact of one small subdivision on a City that never before had to plow the road may be just as dramatic as the impact of a shopping center on the fringe of a City, but a community’s transportation system is part of the framework in which its economy functions. The need for coordination in transportation planning will ensure that a safe, efficient transportation system is available to individual communities. Discussions among agencies will also help ensure that the components of the plan - transportation, land use, public facilities, utilities and others - effectively support one another.
The timing, location and expansion of the transportation system are important factors affecting urban development. A concern of the City of Star is that the transportation system is the need to maintain and improve the livability of the residential areas in the face of new population growth and transportation requirements.
Increases in population and related commercial and industrial expansion bring about demands for better transportation planning and implementation. Improvements required for the transportation network places a heavy burden on the City and ACHD’s budget as they attempt to meet these demands. Star’s major transportation challenge will be to work with the transportation agencies to plan for future growth in a way that will minimize traffic congestion and impacts.
Increasing traffic congestion, for example, may deter potential employers from locating in Star. Meanwhile, much of the transportation infrastructure developed over the past thirty years will require maintenance and rehabilitation. Ensuring adequate funding for maintenance of roads will be a critical issue.
Mobility, or the ease and methods which people and goods are able to carry out daily functions on safe and reliable transportation routes, are paramount to the City of Star. The current transportation system serves a large area heavily dependent on automobiles and trucks for transportation means.
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In recent years, citizens have taken a more of an active role in participating in the planning and development process of the local roadway system by attending workshops, open houses, focus groups and public hearings. In addition, ACHD has taken the lead to develop a web site which is customer friendly, www.achd.ada.id.us, in order to provide the information to the general public. Some concerns that citizens have regarding the existing road system includes the following:
a. Location of new local streets; b. Vehicle speeds; c. Pedestrian access; d. Increase traffic flows; e. Traffic through town; f. Truck routes; g. Bicycle lanes; h. Traffic signalization; i. Grid street patterns; j. A byway around State Street and; k. The function of State Street (Highway 44) and Chinden (Highway 20/26).
It should be noted that the authority of roadway management, maintenance and planning in the City of Star is either the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) (Highways 16/Emmett Road, 20- 26/Chinden Boulevard and Highway 44/State Streets) or ACHD (all roadways not under the jurisdiction of ITD are under ACHD or Canyon County Highway District #4 (CCHD #4) according to Idaho State Statues).
The North Star Area has already benefited from regional transportation planning efforts. The Idaho Transportation Department has existing or ongoing corridor studies for both SH-44 and SH-16. COMPASS has established an initial long range plan that identifies an extension of Purple Sage Road, the extension of Kingsbury Road and the realignment of Wing Road. http://www.compassidaho.org/documents/prodserv/CIM2040/FunClass_adacan2040_official.pdf
ACHD has a master Street Map that includes elevating the status of Edna / Chaparral to rural arterial status and creates several new north-south roadways south of Purple State Road. https://www.achdidaho.org/Documents/Projects/Master%20Street%20Map%202016.pdf
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6.1 Functional Classification
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) classifies roadways as: interstate, arterials, collectors, and local streets. Function determines the difference in the road classifications. 90% of our traffic is carried on the interstates and our arterial and collector streets. The City of Star has a street network of state highways under the jurisdiction of the State of Idaho and managed by their Region IV offices and major and minor arterials, collectors and local streets managed by the ACHD or CCHD #4 except for State Highways. As annexations occur into Canyon County, the City will also need to contact the Canyon County Highway District #4 regarding their development requirements.
The following are descriptions of these roadways:
6.1.1 State Highways
The City of Star is bisected by 2 state highways: State Highway 44 (State Street) and Highway 16. Highway 20-26 (Chinden Blvd.) is adjacent to the city Area of Impact to the South. There are future plans to connect State Highway 16 to Interstate 84.
The two state highways, SH-44 (State Street) and SH-16 (Emmett Highway) are both nearing their operating capacity. ITD has not assigned funding for any major system changes in either corridor, but ITD has completed a comprehensive corridor plan for SH-16 and is currently completing a similar corridor plan for SH-44. Funding for any needed system improvement is typically developed from the results of a corridor plan.
ITD has also completed a plan for the segment of SH-16 southward from the Star Area to Interstate 84. Funding has already been allocated for pre-engineering. The extension of SH-16 should improve regional accessibility within the Star urban area.
6.1.2 Arterial Streets
The ACHD Impact Fee Program may be available to partially fund arterial roadway construction or expansion within Ada County. Portions of the expanded street system will typically be funded by new developments.
Principal Arterial - A principal arterial is a street with moderate to fast speeds and high traffic volumes. Principal arterials provide access to the regional transportation network. They move traffic across the county and 6-4 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
serve through-traffic between important centers of activity in the City. These arterials are identified as Hwy 44 (State Street), Hwy 20-26 (Chinden Blvd.) and Highway 16. Principal arterials have right-of-way width of 90-120 feet and a paved width of 72-96 feet.
Minor Arterials - A minor arterial is a street with moderate speeds designed to collect or move traffic from one major part of the City to another or to move traffic to or from the minor arterial system. Minor arterials have a right-of- way way of 68-96 feet and a paved width of 50-72 feet. These minor arterials are identified as Purple Sage, Floating Feather, Beacon Light and Star Road south of State Street.
Edna Road, Chaparral Road, Blessinger Road, Can Ada Road and Lansing Lane are all existing corridors that can be extended or maintained to connect the new Purple Sage alignment to the Highway 44 corridor. These are all section line roads and anticipated to be future arterials, many are already identified in the COMPASS plan for the 2040 planning year.
Blessinger Road connects directly to the Edna Road/Chaparral Road corridor and is to form the backbone for the future transportation system in that planning area. Any development in that area should be analyzed for a Blessinger Road extension, to highway district standards, across its existing gap generally between Purple Sage Road and Foothills Road, to ultimately have a direct connection to State Highway 44.
6.1.3 Collector Streets - A collector is a secondary or intermediate street with moderate speeds and low to moderate volumes. Such streets would collect local traffic from neighborhoods and carry it to adjacent neighborhoods or transfer the traffic to the arterial system. A collector street has a right-of-way width of 56-70 feet and a paved width of 39-40 feet. Generally, they can accommodate two lanes of traffic and parking is discouraged. These collector streets are identified as: Munger Road, Can-Ada Road north of State Street, Floating Feather between Munger and Pollard Roads, Plummer Road, Palmer Road from State to Beacon Light and Star Road from State Street to Floating Feather. All section lines and quarter section lines are classified as Collector Roads in Canyon County.
6.1.4 Local Streets - Local streets are minor streets intended to serve individual sites, buildings or lots. Local streets feed into collectors or provide destination access off of collectors. The roadways are generally 2-lanes with parking and a right-of-way width of about 60-80 feet and a paved width of 24-35 feet. Through traffic is discouraged. The remaining streets in the City are local streets. These streets will carry various traffic volumes defined in the ACHD transportation plan.
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MAP 3 - Functional Classification
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TABLE 18 – Street Classifications
State Highways Principal Arterial Minor Arterial Collector Local Street Function Movement of . Major . Inter connect . Collect local . Access to people, goods connection the various access traffic individual and services to other parts of the and feed it into homes and from place to cities. City. arterials. other small place. Largely . Connects the . Connects . Access to land uses. function as region City to other schools, parks, . May provide principal and . Serve major cities. etc. off-street minor arterials. business . Transit . Transit routes. parking. areas. routes. . Truck and transit routes.
Access Limited Varies based on Access to major Access to limited Access to driveways. Control generally to the characteristics of subdivisions, driveways, local ½ mile and mile, roadway and area. localized access businesses and local with various generally prohibited. roadways. exceptions. Varies based on characteristics of roadway and area. Daily Varies, urban to Varies based on land Varies based on land Varies based on land Typically less than Volume rural based on uses within City and uses within City. uses within. Typically 2,000 vehicles per day. densities and external land uses. less than 5,000 transportation vehicles per day. demand. Number 2 to 5 + lanes 2-lanes to 7-lanes. 2-lanes to 5-lanes. 2-lanes to 3-lanes. 2-lanes. of Lanes generally Varies on based on Varies based on Varies based on depending on traffic volumes traffic volumes intensity and type of densities generated by the generated by the development fronting region’s land uses. City’s land uses. collector.
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State Highways Principal Arterial Minor Arterial Collector Local Street
Design Speed 35-55-mph 50-mph 45-mph 30 -mph 20 to 25-mph (national standards for 10-mph above posted speed limit) Minimum Varies Varies based on rural Varies based on rural Varies based on rural Varies based on rural Paved based on or urban cross- or urban cross- or urban cross-section. or urban cross-section. Widths rural or section. section. 24 feet urban cross section. Sidewalks Varies Included on urban Included on urban Included on urban Varies based on based on cross-sections, cross-section, cross-sections, residential density. rural or required inside City required inside City required inside City Required on lots less urban cross area of impact area of impact area of impact than 1-acre in size section.
Varies Typically not striped, Striped bike lanes. Typically striped bike No. May vary based on based on but should width lanes. Lower volume connectivity of local Bicycle rural or built to accommodate collectors do not street to bicycle traffic Lanes urban cross bicycles. necessitate land generators, traffic section. striping, but width volumes or proximity required to off-roadway pathways. accommodate cyclists. Source: Ada County Highway District (ACHD) 2007 Source: Idaho Department of Transportation - 2007
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6.2 Traffic Signalization
The current traffic signalization is on:
The intersection of Star Road and Street (Highway 44); The intersection of Star Road and Chinden Blvd. (Highway 20/26) and The intersection of State Street (Highway 44) and Highway 16.
A flashing light is located on Star Road adjacent to the Star Elementary School. There is community concern that additional traffic signalization, timing of traffic lights and traffic signs need to be expanded.
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6.3 Traffic Congestion
The local transportation system links the community together by providing access to different land uses and public facilities. The relationship between the transportation component and the land use component within the comprehensive plan is best explained as a cycle. The cycle begins when a change in land use generates more traffic. The transportation cycle is illustrated as follows:
FIGURE 1 – Traffic Congestion
Land use change
Land values raise Increased traffic
More traffic congestion
Accessibility increases Level of service deteriorates
Improvements are made
Source: Transportation in Your Local Comprehensive Plan, A Guide for Local Government Officials, Idaho Transportation Department
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Service deteriorates as traffic increases and citizens begin to complain to their elected officials about how long they had to wait to make a turn or cross the street. One solution to the congestion is to either expand existing roads or to build new roads. Another solution is to decrease use of roads by encouraging alternative routes and modes of travel. It is often difficult to construct new roads or widen existing roads within the City limits. Many of the current rights-of-way do not allow for expansion of many of the existing roads without acquisition of additional right-of-way width. 6.4 Downtown Parking
Downtown parking primarily exists in private parking lots. There are some off street parking spaces along most of State Street (Highway 44). 6.5 Movement of Goods and Services
The safe and efficient movement of goods by its road network is an important component of the City of Star’s economic strategy. 6.6 Alternative Modes of Transportation
6.7.1 Bicycle Paths and Lanes System
The ACHD plans for bicycle facilities as part of all of our road projects, a commitment that has led in part to the doubling of the miles of bikeways over the past decade. The District has more than 120-miles of bike lanes, recreational pathways and wide road lanes for motor vehicle and bicycle use. The mileage has doubled since the mid-1990s, when the tally was 57-miles. The District spends about $1.7-million a year on cycling facilities -- primarily in the form of lanes on new or expanded roads. ACHD is currently updating the bicycle lane master plan for Ada County. The plan should include a pathways system for walking, biking and multi-modes of transportation.
ITD has identified 4 types of bicycle facilities and design standards. The usages of these routes are based upon the age and the experience of the user. It should be noted that these routes are considered for state highway roadways.
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FIGURE 2 – Shared Lanes
Shared Lanes – Bicyclists and motorists share the same travel lanes. Shared facilities are common on City street systems and roads with limited right-of-way. It can be considered an acceptable solution when there is inadequate width to provide bike lanes or shoulder bikeways.
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FIGURE 3 – Shoulder Bikeway
Shoulder Bikeways – Smooth, paved roadway shoulders provide a suitable area for bicyclists with little conflict little with faster moving motor-vehicle traffic. The majority of rural bicycle travel on the state highway system is accommodated on shoulder bikeways. Even minimal width shoulders are an improvement over no shoulder at all.
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FIGURE 4 – Bicycle Lanes
Bicycle Lanes –Where bicycle travel and demand are substantial, a portion of the roadway is designated for preferential use by bicyclists. Bike lanes are common in urban areas. Bike lanes must always be well marked and signed to call attention to their preferential use by bicyclists.
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FIGURE 5 – Separated, Multiple-Use Path
Separated Multiple-Use Path –A multiple-use path is a bicycle facility that is physically separated from motor vehicle traffic by an open space or barrier, and it may be within the roadway or independent right-of-way. Separated paths are normally two-way facilities. They may be appropriate in corridors not served by other bikeways, if there are few intersecting roadways. Paths with two-way bicycle traffic should not be placed on or adjacent to roadways. Otherwise, a portion of the cyclists ride against the normal flow of motor vehicle traffic, which is contrary to the rules of the road.
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6.6.2 Public Sidewalks
The City of Star has advocated that they wanted to be known as a walkable community. Even though the automobile may continue to be the major source of transportation, public sidewalks are important to movement of its citizen. As the City continues to grow, the City will want to give its citizens options.
They may ride a bus, ride their bike or walk to their place of business rather than drive, but sidewalks should be safe and convenient for the public. Sidewalks along highways, arterials and collectors should have wider widths to accommodate two couples abreast. Sidewalks along local streets should accommodate one couple. Building entries should be interconnecting to parking lots, parks and transit stops. Sidewalk at entries of business should have a cover/canopy to get people out of the elements as they enter into a structure.
Public sidewalks are usually constructed as part of new development in the City. Once constructed, the sidewalks become the property of ACHD, but the property owner has the responsibility for maintenance and replacement. This would include repair or replacement as well as the removable of snow and debris.
ACHD has a sidewalk and a safe route to school program, which the City of Star strongly supports.
6.6.3 Safe Routes to School
The decline in walking and bicycling has had an adverse effect on traffic congestion and air quality around schools, as well as pedestrian and bicycle safety. In addition, a growing body of evidence has shown that children who lead sedentary lifestyles are at risk for a variety of health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Safety issues are a big concern for parents, who consistently cite traffic danger as a reason why their children are unable to bicycle or walk to school.
The purpose of the Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program is to address these issues head on. At its heart, the SRTS Program empowers communities to make walking and bicycling to school a safe and routine activity once again. The Program makes funding available for a wide variety of programs and projects, from building safer street crossings to establishing programs that encourage children and their parents to walk and bicycle safely to school.
The Safe Routes to Schools Program is a Federal-Aid program of the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The Program was created by Section 1404 of the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, And Efficient
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Transportation Equity Act: A Legacy for Users Act (SAFETEA-LU). The SRTS Program is funded at $612 million over 5 Federal fiscal years (FY 2005-2009) and is to be administered by State Departments of Transportation (DOTs).
The Program provides funds to the States to substantially improve the ability of primary and middle school students to walk and bicycle to school safely. The purposes of the program are:
1. To enable and encourage children, including those with disabilities, to walk and bicycle to school 2. To make bicycling and walking to school a safer and more appealing transportation alternative, thereby encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle from an early age; and 3. To facilitate the planning, development, and implementation of projects and activities that will improve safety and reduce traffic, fuel consumption, and air pollution in the vicinity (approximately 2-miles) of primary and middle schools (Grades K-8).
Each state administers its own program and develops its own procedures to solicit and select projects for funding. The program establishes two distinct types of funding opportunities: infrastructure projects (engineering improvements) and non- infrastructure related activities (such as education, enforcement and encouragement programs).
6.6.4 Public Transportation
The mobility of commerce and people cannot be met solely with highway and road systems. Motor vehicle congestion and impacts to air quality may adversely affect health and safety. In addition, there are needs of the elderly and the disable to be able to move about a community. In order for citizens, both able and disabled, commerce, industry to move throughout the community more freely, there is a need to improve public transportation. The use of transportation alternatives versus single occupancy motor vehicles and the development of partnerships among governmental entities in providing public transportation services are important to the needs, health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of the City of Star.
With this in mind, the City of Star is a supporter of regional transportation and has had a board member appointed to the Valley Regional Transit, the regional transportation authority. In a resolution to appoint a member to the Board of Directors the City Council agreed with Title 40, Chapter 21, Idaho Code, which states that the Regional Transportation Authority should “provide public transportation services, encourage private programs and coordinate both public and private transportation programs, services and support functions” for the region.
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The City is providing funding for Valley Regional Transit to schedule a new bus route to Star. The route, which will be run by Valley Regional Transit, will provide 2-trips a day from Middleton to Boise.
6.6.5 Commuter Van, Carpooling and Park and Ride
ACHD has an on-going commuter van and carpooling program. The City of Star has one park and ride lot on Star Road. According to the City and ACHD, additional park and ride will be established as need defines and funding is available.
6.6.6 Commercial Bus Service
Commercial bus services are provided by Greyhound Bus Company 25-miles east in Boise. 6.6.7 Senior Bus
The Star Senior Center has a meals-on-wheels program and provides bus services for the senior citizens of the City of Star. 6.7 Truck Routes
Trucks that move goods and services cross the corporate boundaries of the City of Star are important to the City of Star and its local business and agricultural community. It is important that truck routes are available bring these goods and services to the City and it is equally important to have truck routes to export agricultural based goods to market. Even though ACHD and ITD has jurisdiction, the City has the opportunity to identify truck routes for the safety of their community. 6.8 Railroad
The closet rail service is at Franklin Street and Star Road.
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6.9 Airport
There is no airport within the Star corporate boundaries. The nearest commercial, freight and corporate airport is Boise Municipal Airport which is approximately 25-miles east of the City. Other freight and corporate airports are in the cities Nampa and Caldwell, which are 9 and 12-miles to the west. There is no Public Airport planned within the Star Comprehensive Planning area and none is desired but there is a small private airport to the west of Star. 6.10 Others Transportation Services
There is also overnight mail service provided by Federal Express, DHL, UPS and the US Postal Service. The City has no auto rental and taxi services. These services can be found in surrounding cites. The demand for these services may not be known at this time. 6.11 Future Development and Transportation Needs
There is a strong relationship between transportation and land use. For example, encouraging neighborhood commercial areas within residential developments will support walking to nearby retail facilities and shorten and reduce vehicular trips. Likewise, emphasis on strong neighborhoods that integrate parks, schools and mixed-use will encourage walkability and reduce vehicular trips. Another example is supporting a more compact, mixed used urban form of land use along State Street and Star Road that will encourage more mixed-use and be able to support a higher level of transit service.
As the City expands, there is a need to coordinate roadway system and protect rights-of-way for future road and transportation system improvements. The City should partner with ACHD to develop a grid system that should be maintained and extended to give continuity and ease of circulation throughout the impact area. New development needs to protect street and road corridors so that they can mesh with this grid system to accommodate future transportation demands. New development and streets are to be designed to encourage walking and bicycling.
Large development proposals that are likely to generate significant traffic should be required to prepare a transportation study to assess their impact on the transportation system and surrounding land uses. In addition, the study should examine ways of encouraging all forms of transportation such as transit, walking and cycling.
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6.12 Communities in Motion Forecasts
Transportation planning for the roads servicing the City of Star are conducted by four agencies: Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho (COMPASS), Idaho Transportation Department (ITD), Ada County Highway District (ACHD), and Canyon County Highway District #4. Coordination of future land use and transportation decisions will be vital to sustain the recent economic activity realized in the City.
Understanding that land use and transportation are inseparable when it comes to planning considerations, the City of Star fully embraces the regional efforts underway attempting to ensure planned, sequential growth occurs in a manner that aims to balance demand for growth with adequate infrastructure. These plans include the Blueprint for Good Growth, COMPASS’ Communities in Motion, and ACHD’s Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan.
Blueprint for Good Growth is a partnership of governments in charge of local land use and roadway planning: Ada County, its cities, the Ada County Highway District, and the Idaho Transportation Department. The partners want to better coordinate land use and transportation planning to ensure that growth is orderly and beneficial for the community's continued prosperity and quality of life. Star supports this concept of promoting growth in a responsible fashion while attempting to limit congestion, air pollution, and sprawl.
Working in conjunction with the Blue Print for Good Growth is the long range transportation plan titled “Communities in Motion.” The thoroughly comprehensive plan addresses several corridors that affect the City of Star which are planned for needed capacity improvements. These identified locally and regionally significant corridors are as follows:
Linder Road- Improve to 4 or 5 lanes from Beacon Light Road to Kuna Mora Road. Purple Sage/ Beacon Light – Expansion to four to five lanes and the extension between Beacon Light and Purple Sage. Additionally, Purple Sage is recommended to be widened to four to five lanes from I-84 to the extension to help relieve State Highway 44. Robinson/Star Road- Recommended becoming a four or five lane arterial from Greenhurst Road north to Cherry Lane. This expansion is aimed to relieve the McDermott corridor and provide for a local road serving South Star and areas south. State Highway 16- A high-speed, limited access roadway connecting the existing SH 16 to I-84. State Highway 44 (State Street)- From Eagle west to I-84, the corridor is recommended to be a four-lane, limited access divided arterial.
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Highway 20/26- Recommended right or way preservation from I-84 in Canyon County to McDermott or Eagle Road for eventual expressway.
The Transportation and Land Use Integration Plan, is the implementation tool utilized by ACHD to fulfill the transportation goals of the Blue Print for Good Growth. The plan aims to improve the transportation network while seeking to reflect on the context of the adjacent land uses. The notion of the “Complete Street” is the ultimate goal for ACHD, but should also be the goal of the City of Star with respect to appropriate land uses which compliment the design of the street. The concept draws on various modes of transportation including pedestrian and bicyclists, transit, as well as single occupancy automobiles but requires the same careful planning from a land use perspective to accomplish the goal.
GOAL: Provide a safe, convenient, aesthetic and efficient movement of people, goods and services throughout the City, which would, includes pedestrians, bicycles, automobiles, trains, trucks and other modes of transportation.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Provide for the development sidewalks for pedestrian and bike lanes for bicyclists throughout the City. 2. Work with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD, to develop a functional street system. a. Design transportation systems to minimize congestion, encourage commerce and protect the safety and sense of community. b. Promote ease of mobility through all portions of the City. c. Coordinate land use and transportation so that higher impact developments are located near or adjacent to, arterial and collectors streets. d. As development occurs, adequate street improvements should be made. 3. Consider public transportation as an asset to the City. a. Promote various modes of alternative transportation, which will reduce air pollution, noise, fuel consumption and congestion. b. Provide the citizens of Star viable transportation choices.
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4. Require developers to provide sufficient space for off-street parking of both commercial and private vehicles. a. Develop and maintain parking requirements for vehicles that adequately meet the demand for parking yet discourage dependence on driving. b. Designs of parking areas should provide for snow storage and adequate means of handling runoff. 5. Major truck routes should be placed on highways and arterials. 6. Trucks carrying hazardous material thru the City should have designated routes.
POLICIES: 1. Interconnect building entries, parking lots, parks, transit stops and similar facilities with pedestrian routes. 2. Work and implement with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to develop an overall sidewalk master plan. 3. Ensure pedestrian safety by providing sidewalks, providing vehicles-safe, walkways from parking stalls to building entrances, with crosswalks at driving lanes, illuminating high-volume walkways and making pathways visible from people areas and buildings. 4. Encourage weather –protecting of building entries for pedestrian traffic. 5. Support Valley Regional Transit efforts to expand the Treasure Valley Regional Transit system. 6. Work and implement with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to develop local bike paths which integrate with the sidewalk master plan and connect to the greenbelt, the foothills and other recreational facilities. 7. Work with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to develop pedestrian walkways, sidewalks and bicycle pathways, that are separate from automobile vehicle road system, where possible. 8. Monitor speed limits along Highway 44 (downtown) and modify as needed. 9. Work with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to improve current road way system. 10. Develop on-street parking in the downtown business core along State Highway 44. 11. Develop State Street as a functional road system that meets the needs of pedestrians, bicycles and automobiles. 12. Develop Truck Routes thru the City of Star.
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13. Land development proposals that are likely to generate significant traffic should be required to prepare a transportation study. 14. Minimize traffic congestion by providing proper ingress and egress and by including provisions for internal traffic circulation and parking. 15. Work with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to develop a bridge crossing of the Boise River within the study area as shown on the North Ada County and Canyon County 2030 Functional Classification Map(s). 16. Work with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to develop frontage roads, secondary access points and collector“backage” roads to reduce direct access onto State Highway 44, Highway 16 and Highway 20-26. 17. Support the following transportation corridor: a. Improve Linder Road to 4 or 5 lanes from Beacon Light Road to Kuna Mora Road; b. Connect Beacon Light Road to Purple Sage Road; c. Connect Robinson Road to Star Road; d. Expansion of the Chinden Blvd. corridor and e. Connect Highway 16 to Interstate 84. 18. Work with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to develop an interconnected street and collector road network throughout the community. 19. Work with ACHD, CHD#4 and ITD to install traffic control devices at intersections where warranted. 20. Require applicants/developers to install or participate in traffic signal installation at intersections where warranted to mitigate the traffic impacts from the applicants/developers proposed (completed) project. 21. The City hereby adopts the guiding text herein and will work with roadway agencies and developers to implement the roadway plans with the understanding that topographic, and other constraints, may result in different alignments. The Plans are intended to be a guide and the spirit of the plans are to move traffic efficiently and, as such, shall be the chief implementation strategy, not the specific alignments. 22. Canyon Highway District No. 4, the Ada County Highway District, and the Idaho Transportation Department typically require a detailed traffic analysis for new developments. Developments within the area must follow that practice to ensure coordination between land use developments and the roadway system capacity.
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23. The City should work with area public transportation agencies to evaluate locations for bus routes, carpooling lots and other forms of public transportation facilities. 24. The COMPASS forecasts show that segments of both SH-44 and SH-16 will exceed capacity even without any increased traffic originating from the Comprehensive Planning area. The City should forward future Comprehensive Plan and Roadway Network Maps to COMPASS to help them with their regional traffic forecasts and to assist ITD with the corridor planning process. 25. Developments planned in the area where the Star Comprehensive Plan overlays the Middleton Comprehensive Plan are to be planned in a coordinated manner to limit conflicts between city jurisdictions. The City of Star should work with the City of Middleton to incorporate similar roadway and pathway designs.
4 - 1
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4 - 1CHAPTER SEVEN - PUBLIC SERVICES, FACILITIES AND UTILITIES 7.1 Existing Services and Conditions
7.1.1 Administration
The City of Star has been established with a mayor-council form of government. The administrative branch is the Mayor, while the City Council is the legislative branch. Both the Mayor and City Council serve as the judicial branch in City matters. There are 4 full time office staff consisting of a city clerk, city planner and building inspector at the City Hall, which is located at 10769 W. State Street.
Based on population growth projections, it is evident that public services in Star will be expanded to maintain the community’s growth. New residents are influencing greater service expectations. People relocating to Star are requesting increased service levels, whether it is the size of library collections, greater police protection or more recreation facilities. As the City continues to grow, the development of the City’s Capital Improvement Plan will take on greater importance.
7.1.2 Public Safety/Police
Demographic and economic conditions will have tremendous influence on the demand for police services. A growing population, additional recreation attractions and promotion, increased traffic volumes, expanded City limits, and new businesses all increase the importance of maintaining and supporting law enforcement services.
The police department is located at City Hall. Staffing includes 4 sworn officers provided by Ada County Sheriff’s Department, which pays a proportionate share of the cost of the relevant facilities. The City does not have detention facilities so any arrests are booked into the county jail. The current level of service provided by the Ada County Sheriff’s office is 1 deputy for every 465-homes, or approximately 1 deputy per 1,000-people.
7.1.3 Public Safety/Fire Protection
The Star Fire District has 1 fire station located adjacent to City Hall, at 10831 W. State Street. Staffing consists of 12 full-time firefighters. Equipment includes 2 engines; 1 light rescue; 1 water tender, 1 grass squad, 1 mobile air and 2 command vehicles. The City has earned an ISO Rating Class 4 (one is best). The immediate surrounding area has an ISO rating of 8, 9 and 10. 7-1 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
ISO is the insurance rating for the City. Rescue, vehicle extrication, and emergency medical service are provided within the district and the department is a participating organization in the Idaho State Home Land Security program. The Star Fire Department supports the North Star Land Use Map expansion. A portion of that land north of Oasis extended and west of Canada Road is in the Middleton Fire District. Star and Middleton are coordinating efforts with regard to fire protection between the two Districts. Any development will be required to obtain approval for the fire district having jurisdiction.
7.1.4 Emergency Medical Service
Four Star Fire District fire fighters, who are on shift every day 365 days a year, are certified EMTs and they respond on all emergency calls. When there is a need for advanced life support the Ada County Ambulance District responds with them. The Ambulance District has a station just east of Moyle Street at State Highway 44. They provide ambulance service everywhere in Ada County except Kuna. Kuna has its own fire-based ambulance.
7.1.5 Public Works Water and Sewer – Star Water and Sewer District
The Star Water and Sewer District, located at 100 S. Star Road, provides domestic water from 4 City wells. Current capacity for water production is approximately 5.6-million gallons per day; City water from the existing wells is approximately 4,000 cubic feet per minute. The City wastewater treatment plant, located on 1151 Tempe Court, has a capacity to manage and discharge effluent of approximately 2.2-million gallons per day; average daily treated discharge is around 400,000 gallons per day to the Lawrence-Kennedy Canal and eventually into the Boise River. Many outlying areas, including most of the Area of City Impact, are not provided with City water and sewer services. The District currently has approximately 59 miles of pipeline and includes 4 lift stations. Star Sewer District has the first of its kind in Idaho - Membrane Bioreator Wastewater treatment facility. The facility uses state of the art technology to ensure that the District’s wastewater meets or exceeds the standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency, even as the community continues to grow.
The Star Water and Sewer District supports the North Star Land Use Map expansion and prefers higher densities for efficient sewer service and to assure that urban fringe development pays for itself. A regional lift station is planned for Kingsbury and State Highway 44 and a smaller lift station is being considered at Canada Road near Foothill Road.
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MAP 4 - Star Fire District
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MAP 5 - Star Sewer District
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MAP 6 - Star Water District
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7.1.6 Library
The Star Library, part of the Ada Community Library District (ACLD), is located within the city limits and serves the citizens the City of Star, the area of city impact and Eagle. According to the ACLD Standards Star’s library qualifies as a service level of point C. It is currently located in a 6,100-square feet multi-use building at 10706 W. State Street, which is dedicated space for the library. They have a collection of 34,000 and 68,000 visitors in fiscal year 2006.
7.1.7 Streetlights
The City of Star has decorative street lighting along both State Street and Star Road. Decorative lighting is required for both these roads within city limits. The city lights have been there since October of 2002. In 2002, 8 decorative streetlights were put up since then the City has expanded the streetlight collection to 16. At this point all City owned streetlights are along State Street in Star. However, new subdivisions that are on either State Street or Star Road are required to put up and maintain the same decorative street lights as the City.
7.1.8 Other Services and Utilities
Gas
Natural gas is provided by Intermountain Gas Company for the City of Star. Intermountain Gas Company operates gas fuel distribution lines throughout the City and portions of the County.
National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors
The U.S. Department of Energy’s 2009 “National Electric Transmission Congestion Study” does not designate any national interest electric transmission corridors within the Star city limits. There are however existing high voltage transmission lines with a capacity of 115,000 volts or more supported by structures of forty (40) feet or more in height within the Star city limits.
Electricity
Electric power is available to all City residents through Idaho Power Company. Hydroelectric facilities along the Snake River owned by Idaho Power generate electricity at much lower than the national average cost; 4.7-cents per kilowatt 7-6 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
hour compared to over 8-cents nationally. Idaho Power provides electricity throughout the City and Area of Impact. The provision of electrical service by Idaho Power is subject to regulation by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (IPC) and electric facilities cannot be utilized to separate urban growth areas from rural areas.
Idaho Power will continue to offer services to all developed portions of the City and County, as needed. Despite regional growth trends, consumption of electrical power is actually declining due to enhanced technological efficiency in transmission and distribution. See Map 7 and Map 8.
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MAP 7 - Idaho Power Existing and Future Transmission Lines
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MAP 8 - Idaho Power Existing and Proposed Facilities
Solid Waste and Landfill 7-9 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
Domestic waste is transported by Allied Waste Services, under an annual contract with the City. Commercial and industrial wastes can be transported directly to the landfill located at 10300 Seaman’s Gulch, Boise. The current landfill is approaching its capacity and a new landfill is scheduled to be opened and begin use in the spring of 2007. The new landfill has an expected life of 100-years. There are two privately owned transfer stations available to the public for a fee. One is owned by Allied Waste Services the other is owned by Sanitary Services in Meridian. Recycling opportunities are available to all the county residents with curbside pickup through the contracting waste removal service. Wood recycling is offered directly through the County Landfill. Allied Waste Services provides recycling to Star residents, but it is not mandatory. As described the Hazardous Areas Chapter of this plan, hazardous household materials should be recycled rather than being dumped in the local land fill.
In response to the growth and popularity of the Ada County collection program, Ada County built a permanent household hazardous material collection facility at Ada County's landfill. The facility provides individuals and qualifying businesses an opportunity for proper hazardous material management. It also provides an opportunity to inform the public about their environment, hazardous materials and alternatives to using hazardous products
Some of the hazardous household materials that should be included, but are not limited to:
Household spray cans Medicines Batteries Computer monitors and other computer equipment Televisions Paint Solvents=
7.1.9 Telephone, Telecommunications and Cell Towers
Telecommunications services are provided by Qwest; lines generally coincide with major electrical transmission lines. Internet and other telecommunications are provided in the area by private business.
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7.1.10 Health Facilities
Star Medical Center is the City’s family care center. The medical center provides urgent care. Most major injuries are treated by a major hospital in one of the larger, nearby cities
GOAL: Coordinate with local agencies and providers to develop plans for energy services and public utility facilities for the long term energy and utility needs for the city of Star..
OBJECTIVES:
1. Maintain and improve emergency services. 2. Coordinate with public and private agencies to meet future needs of infrastructure services. 3. Provide adequate water and sewer services to City residents and City businesses. 4. Support the conservation of water within the City and Area of City Impact. 5. Protect the Community through a comprehensive fire and life safety program. 6. Maintain standards necessary to maintain an ISRB Class 4 rating, including response distance standards, apparatus, staffing levels, training, water delivery system and the communication /dispatch system. 7. Promote and require installation of traffic signal control devices. 8. Ensure built-in fire protection standards for all structures and create methods of reducing fire hazards as a means of saving lives and property.
9. Ensure that fire facilities and protective services are provided to the City as growth and development occurs.
POLICIES:
1. Continue to develop and modify the City’s Capital Improvement Plan. 2. Annex contiguous properties that request City services. 3. Work with the Star Fire District to conduct a fire station facility study.
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4. Review the City development fees schedule annually. 5. Work with the Star Sewer and Water District to: a. Maintain, expand and replace sewer and water lines. b. Develop an infrastructure capacity plan. c. Upgrade and improve water supply and wastewater facilities to support future growth d. Where appropriate, new development should provide pressurized irrigation water for landscape and water amenities. 6. Study the need and impact of impacts fees as a mechanism to pay a proportionate share of the cost of infrastructure improvement. 7. Comply with the street addressing program. 8. Encourage citizens to use the household hazardous material collection facility at Ada County's landfill for hazardous waste materials. 9. Partner with regional medical and emergency medical organizations to construct a larger medical facility in Star. 10. Support the expansion of City facilities and City staff based on projected growth. 11. The City will develop a disabilities community audit to the City facilities. a. The City shall undertake an evaluation of its programs, conducted in consultation with citizen groups and involving persons with disabilities, to enable them to exist and work with community groups to eliminate barriers to those with disabilities. b. All City facilities shall be accessible and all programs and activities shall be available to all qualified persons with physical disabilities. 12. Encourage increased response time for emergency services. 13. Provide fire station locations that comply with the 1.5 mile response distance standard and /or 4 minute response standard, as provided in the Star Fire District Master Siting Plan. Building fire sprinklers and other measures may be considered as an option, subject to approval by the Fire District. 14. Utilize existing fire stations and acquire new stations at locations consistent with the Fire District Master Siting Plan. 15. Plan and coordinate water delivery with Star Water & Sewer District and other providers where applicable. Require all new development to provide minimum fire flow requirements as prescribed in the International Fire Code. 16. Promote the development of energy services and public utility facilities to meet public needs. 17. Encourage the enhancement of the capacity and reliability of renewable energy resources. 18. Encourage the multiple use of utility corridors by utility providers. 19. Support conditional use permits to enable utilities to purchase sites well in advance of immediate need.
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20. Support siting of utility corridors within identified or designated transportation corridors. 21. Proposed roads, water supply systems, sewage disposal systems, storm drainage systems, irrigation systems and other improvements must be approved by the affected agencies before final development approval. 22. Work with service providers to designate locations of future utility corridors and update reference maps as necessary to reflect future National Interest electric Corridor designations. 23. Distribute available information and materials that promote energy conservation. 24. Adopt and implement guidelines and standards for energy conservation practices within City Facilities. 25. Incorporate energy conservation requirements as criteria for planned communities and planned unit developments. 26. Incorporate energy conservation approaches in planning processes.
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4 - 1CHAPTER EIGHT – COMMUNITY DESIGN
Community design is used to describe the image and character of a city’s natural and built environment. There are 2 distinct perspectives to the character of community design. Community design encompasses all of the physical elements that make up the City and its natural settings. On this scale community design deals with the visual qualities of the City as a whole, as well as its relationship to the surrounding countryside. Building design such as: height of structures and the type of exterior materials; public and private spaces such as, greenbelts, open space, trails and pathways; landscaping such as type and locations of landscaping and the control of noxious weeds; public access, location of sidewalks, protecting historic structures and public art are some of the issues considered as visual qualities of the City. One of the greatest concerns of a City is how the pieces of the urban environment fit together. The community design element addresses the “fit” and compatibility of development with the content of its surroundings environment both visually and functionally. The community design element is meant to be a guide in the discussion of such issues as height, bulk, landscape, signage, lighting, points of access, architectural elements.
Community should be designed so that housing, jobs, daily needs and other activities are within easy walking distance of each other. Transit development should be planned so that as many activities as possible are located within easy walking distance of transit stops. The location and character of the community should be consistent with larger transit network. Public spaces should be designed to encourage the attention and presence of people at all hours of the day and night 24/7. 8.1 Building Design
The overall size and shape of a new building(s) can have a huge impact on the surrounding neighborhood and on how a development is perceived by the community where it is located. The height of a new building is extremely important - too high and it can overwhelm neighbors; too low and it can create a gap in the physical "fabric" of a neighborhood. The overall scale and massing of a new building should also try to match that of the surrounding neighborhood. The overall form of a new building should incorporate as much variety as possible and avoid large expanses of flat wall or roof. Creating a building whose size and shape generally complement the size and shape of surrounding buildings will go a long way toward making a new development acceptable to its neighbors. At the same time it will reinforce the perception among residents that their housing is "just like everyone else's."
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8.2 Private Open Space
Private open space - individual outdoor areas where residents can enjoy sun and sky in relative privacy - is essential to quality of life for all of us. An affordable housing development should provide private outdoor space for all dwelling units. Patios, porches, decks, balconies and yards should also be of adequate size with easy access from each dwelling unit. Fencing should be considered wherever possible to provide added privacy and to indicate clear boundaries. Special care should be taken when designing balconies to successfully balance the need for light and view with safety considerations. Outdoor storage is often overlooked, yet it can be critical in making private open space work for residents - even a small amount can go a long way.
Well-designed, adequately-sized private open space will improve the quality of any affordable housing development and should be considered a necessity rather than an amenity. 8.3 Public Open Space
Public open space, defined as, shared outdoor areas intended for use by all residents, should be as thoughtfully designed as any other "space" in a development. It is helpful to think of open spaces as outdoor rooms and to design and furnish them with the same care you would any room in your home. Such rooms should be easy to access from any dwelling unit in a development. And they should have clear boundaries so that residents and visitors understand what is public and what is private. Surveillance is also important: as many units as possible should have visual access to open spaces, especially play areas. Finally, public open areas should be designed for use at night as well as during the day. Well designed nighttime lighting will help ensure that public spaces are attractive and safe after sundown. Sensitively designed public open space can turn a good development into a great one, providing a lasting amenity for residents and neighbors alike. 8.4 Landscaping
Landscaping - too often treated as a secondary consideration or eliminated altogether due to cost constraints - is, in fact, a critical component of any successful development project and should be considered an essential part of the design process. A rich variety of plantings should be provided and they should be selected so that they are appropriate for their intended use. Paved areas are necessary and should be designed as part of the landscape. Edges between paved and planted areas should be designed so the two realms work well individually and together. Paths and Outdoor seating should fit the overall landscape plan and take into account how and when residents will use them. As always the more storage, in this case for landscape maintenance equipment and materials, the better.
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Landscaping can make or break a project. Done well, it complements and enhances a development and its neighborhood. Done poorly - or not at all - and the quality of a development is diminished, no matter how well the buildings are designed. 8.5 Access
Provide direct access to open space from the dwelling units that the open space is intended to serve. When terraces or balconies are used as shared open space, consider locating them so that so they serve as extensions of indoor common areas. 8.6 Community Design for Residential, Multi-Family and Commercial
A neighborhood is a geographically localized community located within a larger city. Traditionally, a neighborhood is small enough that the neighbors are all able to know each other. However in practice, neighbors may not know one another very well at all. In order to manage future growth, the neighborhood structure can be used to determine the need for parks, sidewalks, school locations and other community amenities.
8.6.1 Residential, Multifamily Residential and Development
8.6.1.1 Image - Avoid creating a building that look strange or out of place in its neighborhood.
8.6.1.2 Visual Complexity - Consider providing as much visual and architectural complexity as possible to the building's appearance while maintaining a hierarchy of scale and a unified overall form. Consider breaking a large building into smaller units or clusters. Consider variations in height, color, setback, materials, texture, trim, and roof shape. Consider variations in the shape and placement of windows, balconies and other façade elements. Consider using landscape elements to add variety and differentiate units from each other.
8.6.1.3 Windows - Maximize window number and size (within budget constraints) to enhance views and make spaces feel larger and lighter. Use standard size windows, but consider varying where and how they are used. Consider ways to screen and physically separate ground floor windows from walkways - through screens or plantings - to provide privacy.
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8.6.2 Commercial Development
8.6.2.1 Building Scale - Use appropriate building scale. Buildings should not dominate the site.
8.6.2.2 Massing - Locate new buildings so they are compatible with the siting and massing of existing adjacent buildings and site development. Considerations should include setbacks, building heights, parking, arrangements and building shape and massing.
8.6.2.3 Entries - Locate buildings entries so they are easily identifiable from site entries and provide secondary entrances that are easily accessible and convenient to parking and delivery areas that serve buildings yet not dominate.
8.6.2.4 Location - In siting, orienting and developing new buildings and facilities, protect and enhance existing views and provide view corridors. This protection and enhancement of views is a design priority. Three general perspectives are critical to this criteria: a. Views to site from other areas b. Views to other areas from a site c. Views through a site from key locations within a development.
8.6.2.5 Commercial Design Guidelines Issues: a. Richness of surfaces and texture b. Use of durable, low maintenance materials c. Significant wall articulation (insets, canopies, wing-walls, trellises, porches, balconies). d. Pitched roofs and shed roofs e. Roof overhangs f. Traditional window rhythm g. Articulated mass and scale h. Significant landscape and hardscape elements i. Landscaped and screened parking j. Comprehensive and appealing monument signs k. Clear visibility of entrances and retail signage l. Clustering of buildings to provide pedestrian courtyards and common areas. m. Step-down of buildings scale along pedestrian routes and buildings entrances.
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8.7 Formation of a Central Business District
The Downtown or Central Business District (CBD) is the heart of any community. As the downtown goes, so does the city. Star Downtown has the potential to strengthen its market share of the valley. Star needs to create a compacted City center that functions well commercially and possesses a strong identity through its numerous historic buildings. Access to the downtown from Highway 44 is excellent. Additional strengths of the downtown include easy access to buildings, adequate parking for the current population, and decorative streetlights that help identify the district. An excellent opportunity exists to turn downtown Star into a viable and appealing shopping, civic, residential and entertainment area.
8.8 Revitalize Historic Buildings in the Downtown Core
The downtown contains a number of buildings and facades worthy of preservation and continued use. Since many of these structures have been unsympathetically remodeled, they could be rehabilitated to recapture the warmth and beauty they once had. In the 1950’s, many owners of downtown buildings across the nation wanted to modernize their buildings. To do this, many owners placed false facades on their buildings. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, these false facades were removed and underneath the original structure was left, often in good condition. Many buildings like this can be restored. Making old buildings more functional and keeping its historical significance is very important to a community, while new buildings can be designed to emulate historic structures. There are various options available to meet this task. Some include historic preservation tax credits for buildings as well as facades. One can also contact the Idaho State Library and review their historic photos to see the historic feature of the structure. The State of Idaho Historical Preservation Office is the agency which could assist.
8.9 Urban Renewal District
The purpose of the Urban Renewal Agency (URA) is to promote economic development opportunities and remedy blighted areas within their defined boundaries. Idaho code allows URA to use tax increment financing, to engineer, create, and/or redevelop infrastructure. Star may eventually consider a URA to help remedy worn down areas within the City’s core.
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8.10 Civic Center
Public buildings, such as the City library, Senior Citizen Center, City Hall and other public spaces bring the public downtown. In addition, having an established retail center provides opportunities to strengthen the City center. The City of Star is lacking a civic center focal point or gathering place. It is important that the City develop a plan to establish gathering places, like a clock tower, fountain, gazebo, public plazas or other amenities that creates a sense of place.
8.11 Public Art/Mural
The development of public art or murals will give the community the opportunity to create displays which depict scenes or events of natural, social, cultural or historic significance. These graphic displays could provide a means to unite the community. Cultural diversity of the City can be promoted by using murals and other forms of public art to encourage community togetherness, social interaction, and community programs.
8.12 Gateways
Gateway corridors are arterial roadways entering the community that introduce both visitors and residents to Star. City entries include Highway 44 (State Street), Highway 20/26 (Chinden Boulevard), Highway 16, Star Road, Can-Ada, Purple Sage and Beacon Light. These entrances would be enhanced by providing the planting of trees, street lights, landscaping, uniform commercial signage, establishing building character through design and location and placing new structures close to the sidewalk in the new urbanism style. These changes would provide the first, and often times the most lasting, impression of the entire community. As part of this gateway plan, the City should consider developing and placing “Welcome to Star” signs at entry ways to the City at all appropriate locations.
8.13 Landscape Plan/Ordinance
The City has a significant number of tall evergreen and deciduous trees. Many of these trees are more than 60-years old, suggesting that early residents planned for an oasis of greenery throughout the City. To continue as ell as expand this process, the City needs to develop a landscape and tree ordinance to guide the future development of landscaping amenities The
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landscape ordinance will guide the placement of plant materials on each future commercial and residential development throughout the City. This distinctive natural feature should be maintained through a tree planting program.
8.14 Public Sidewalk/ Sidewalk Improvement
The City of Star has some established sidewalks. The City should focus on creating more sidewalks in areas that are residential but do not already have sidewalk access. They should also concentrate efforts on making the existing sidewalks more appealing in the style of new urbanism.
8.15 Community Festivals
A festival is described as a time or day of feasting, celebration or performances. A festival or festivals can bring unity to a community. Farmers markets, county fairs, and other festivals and events can draw people together of very diverse backgrounds. Civic organizations and businesses should sponsor annual community festivals or events to bring the growing community closer together. The City should continue to have its annual festival “Mule Days”.
8.16 Boise River/Greenbelt
The Boise River runs from end to end of the City. The River is an important asset and should be utilized to create an aesthetically appealing environment for citizens and tourists to enjoy. The River also provides opportunities for recreational activities such as river rafting, hiking, and fishing. Hiking is an activity that almost everyone can enjoy regardless of fitness level. Star should consider creating a greenbelt along the river similar to the one in Boise. River rafting provides an opportunity for locals and tourists alike to view the local flora and fauna. Fishing from the mouth of the Boise River upstream to Star, low summer flows and poor water quality limit fishery production. This section of river supports a fair fishery for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and channel catfish. From Star upstream to Lucky Peak Dam, the river changes from warm water to a coldwater fishery. Mountain whitefish make up the bulk of the game fish biomass, with hatchery-reared rainbow trout, wild rainbow trout, and fingerling brown trout plants supporting the bulk of the fishing pressure.
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8.17 Visual impacts (Weed control), Storage (outdoor and trash)
Star currently has design standards as it relates to infrastructure, such as, street improvements, sidewalk, curb and gutter. In addition, paved off-street parking allows for the reduction of dust, which increases air quality and the removal of weeds enhances the community. There are areas of Star which residents using there front and rear yards as outdoor storage areas. These areas have become public eyesores. It is important to remove these items from these areas.
8.18 Signage
Signage is important to the success of most businesses. There are various types of signs, such as monument, pole, lighted, animated, temporary, special event signs as well as others. The location of each new sign, height and design can be based upon previously approved signage. Animated signs may be distracting to vehicle traffic, which becomes a safety issue. The City Code and the City Council will determine what types of signage are appropriate for the City of Star.
8.19 Dark Skies
The concept of dark skies is based upon light pollution, which is produced by City residents. The concern is the adverse effect of artificial light including sky glow, glare, light trespass, decreased visibility at night and energy waste. Some cities have adopted Dark Skies Ordinances to reduce the amount of light and the number of lumens that exterior lighting produces.
GOAL: Create complete and integrated communities containing housing, shops, workplaces, schools, parks and civic facilities essential to the daily life of the residents.
OBJECTIVES:
1. The integration of historic structures should be encouraged within new developments.
2. The City shall set forth criteria for building design, landscaping, signage and other aesthetic standards.
3. Public and private facilities should be accessible to those with disabilities.
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4. To encourage the development of an aesthetically pleasing community.
5. Work with traffic engineer to determine impacts on building and street locations.
6. Adopt a dark skies ordinance.
POLICIES:
1. Materials and methods of construction should be specific to the region, exhibiting continuity of history and culture and compatibility with the climate to encourage the development of local character and community identity.
2. Develop a design review guidelines and ordinance for development of multi-family, commercial, office and industrial projects.
3. Develop buffer areas to separate incompatible land uses.
4. Develop a landscape ordinance for the City
5. Establish an urban forestry plan.
6. Parking: determine placement, numbers, and impacts of parking to the development of the project area and provide direction regarding modifications to existing ordinances.
7. Develop guidelines for development adjacent to larger lots.
8. Create complete and integrated communities containing housing, shops, workplaces, schools, parks and civic facilities essential to the daily life of the residents.
9. New residential, commercial and industrial development shall be required to meet minimum design standards as specified by City ordinances.
10. Review the existing landscape ordinance, assess current impacts, and determine if any modifications need to be made in the ordinance to meet any needs.
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11. Determine if certain criteria need to be established to manage the maximum size of a building and its location on the lot.
12. Development should satisfy community design standards.
13. Update the City of Star’s Subdivision Ordinance.
14. Update sign ordinance.
15. Establish Design Review Guidelines.
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4 - 1CHAPTER NINE - SCHOOL FACILITIES AND PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION 9.1 History
The 1870’s school with the original star was eventually moved to Star and later replaced by a brick schoolhouse on River Street in 1903. In 1912, a 4-year high school was started. A new school was built in 1937 from bricks salvaged from the school built in 1903. The Star elementary school was built in 1975, alongside the old school which was later demolished. Star maintained its own school district for a period, but is now part of the West Ada Joint School District No.2. West of Star on Highway 44 is the two-story brick Central School built in 1905 and now a private home and Arabian stable. 9.2 The District
Today, Star elementary school is within the West Ada Joint School District No.2, which is the largest school district in the State of Idaho with over 32,000 students. The existing Star elementary school was built in 1959. It is housed on 12-acres of land in NE Star. Star elementary has had continued growth for the last 25 years. The district’s mission statement is “Preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s challenges.”
City of Star students can attend elementary school in the City of Star, but must attend middle school and high school in the City of Eagle. The citizens for Star recognized that the City of Star is the only city in the Treasure Valley, who does not have a middle or high school in their City. Discussion with local school administrators indicate there are plans to located 1 additional elementary, 1 new middle school and 1 high school. 9.3 Transportation
Transportation to the school sites is provided by the West Ada West Ada Joint School District No 2 and Middleton School Districts, which also owns and maintains all vehicles. Based upon District policy, only students who live 1.5-miles or have to cross dangerous intersections or rail crossings may be bussed. Bus routes are reviewed annually and adjustments are made.
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9.4 Facility Improvements and Impacts
West Ada Joint School District No.2 states that land needed for an elementary school site is 10-acres with the a maximum capacity of 650-students. Likewise a middle school would need 30-acres for a maximum of 1,000-students, while the acreage increases between 50-60 acres for a high school with a maximum of 2,000-students. This acreage could be less based upon combining school sites or partnerships with the City for joint location of recreation facilities.
Impacts as seen today are basically transportation-related issues. Major impacts include school buses driving through neighborhoods to pick up children and the parents picking up and dropping off children to the facilities. Traffic at the middle schools would be similar to elementary school impacts. The location of any proposed high school would have the most impact to the transportation issues. West Ada Joint School District No.2 allows for open campuses. This means that students can freely move in and out of the campus without needing permission. The major impacts include in the mornings, lunch and afternoon. Additional impacts would consist of high school students attending or traveling to sporting events, such as football or basketball games, track meets and other extra-curricular activities.
9.4.1 Elementary Schools
Star Elementary School, 1 of 28 operating elementary schools in the District, is located at 700 N. Star Road in Star. The school currently has an enrollment of approximately 530-students. This structure is well maintained and has been periodically remodeled over the years to improve efficiency, safety and comfort. The District expects to have their second elementary school in Star by 2011/2012, depending on growth or if the District expands the elementary school by 2009/2010.
9.4.2 New Middle School
The District’s 7 middle schools serve as a bridge for pre-adolescents as they move from elementary to high school. A team approach is used in core classes at Grade 6 to ease the transition from the elementary classroom. Academic emphasis is placed on refinement of basic skills through instruction in traditional subjects such as language arts, social studies, mathematics, and science. The curriculum in middle school is expanded to include more opportunities to pursue the fine arts and other elective choices. The middle schools are committed to providing students with an educational experience that prepares them academically, physically, and socially for successful high school years. The District expects to acquire a site for a middle school in the future.
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9.4.3 New High School
Academic excellence is the focus at the District’s 6 high schools. All offer a full academic program with courses in basic skills and college-preparatory skills. Intensive instruction in the liberal arts and technical areas prepare high school students for the best colleges and universities as well as for today’s work force. Meridian Academy and Eagle Academy, the district’s alternative high schools, provide opportunities for at-risk students. Meridian, Centennial, Eagle and Mountain View High Schools are all 5-A classification for athletic competition and other competitive programs such as music, drama, and debate. They have a rich tradition of winning regional and state championships and are often recognized for outstanding achievement in music and the arts. Students develop leadership skills through a variety of clubs and extracurricular activities. The District expects acquire a site for a high school in the future. 9.5 Enrollment
In 2006 a total of 682-dwelling units were in the City of Star. West Ada Joint School District No. 2 plans for the student generation rate of 0.08 students per household. Table 19 describes the population growth from 1980 – 2006. The location of the school sites will be based upon the number of housing units and there location.
TABLE 19 - West Ada Joint School District #2 (Star) Population Growth
1980 1990 2000 2006 2110 2015 2020 Elementary 327 270 353 532 n/a n/a n/a Middle School n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a High School n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a
Source: West Ada Joint School District No. 2, n/a - not available
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TABLE 20 - School Enrollment, Student Ratio and Capacity
Star Elementary (PK-5) (2006) Enrollment Breakdown Teacher to Student Ratio 532 K - 96, 1st - 91, 2nd - 95, 3rd - 92, 4th - 75 and 5th - 83 21.45 to 1
Source: West Ada Joint School District No. 2 9.6 Public Safety Issues
Three major issues confront most school districts. The first is the establishment of safe school routes. This would include the location of safe walking routes (i.e. sidewalks) to and from school. Others concerns include routes along busy streets and the crossing of these streets. A second issue is the location of lighting at bus stops and the third are railroad crossings. In the City of Star, public sidewalks are lacking in many of the older neighborhoods. In order to provide safe school routes, adequate sidewalks are needed. The City does not have street lights and bus stops are not located at lighted areas. Better coordination will be needed with the school District.
9.7 Transportation
The school facilities and transportation element of the comprehensive plan is meant to coordinate efforts of cities and counties, when considering school capacities, facilities, and transportation needs. When new development and subdivisions are reviewed, it is important for the school district to consider the impact on area schools. Questions to be considered by school district, when reviewing new developments are:
Will a majority of the students have to be bussed? Is the area currently developed? Are there any special considerations for constructing in this location?
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MAP 8 - West Ada Joint School District No. 2 Boundary
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9.8 Partnership Development
The school facilities and transportation element of the comprehensive plan is meant to coordinate efforts of cities and school districts, when considering school capacities, facilities, and transportation needs. When new development and subdivisions are reviewed, it is important for the school district to consider the impact on area schools. The City of Star and the West Ada Joint School District No. 2 have worked concurrently for the development of new school construction sites. Continued partnerships could result in purchasing new park land adjacent to proposed school sites which would enhance additional open space. As additional facilities are planned, the following should be considered:
Are there adequate City services (streets, sewer, water and others) to accommodate this land use? Are there any special considerations needed for constructing at this site? Will the future school site be located in an area that is currently developed or in the direction of the City’s natural growth? Where is the best location for the new school to accommodate the most students? Will the City’s infrastructure (streets, sewer, and water) accommodate the school? Is the school located in an area of natural future growth? 9.9 The City and the West Ada Joint School District No. 2
Cities across this nation, especially small communities surround many local activities around the location school. From Saturday bazaars and carnivals to high school football and basketball games, Friday and Saturday nights are for all citizens of the City and families. As the City continues to grow, the City should, to the best of their ability, work with the District to preserve this tradition. Local schools can provide locations for YBA basketball, Girl and Boy Scout meetings and many other local events. Joint locations for parks and open space can be learning labs for students and be used as a ball field for the City. Strong communities are built around their education system. The placement of new schools in neighborhoods should possess their own place in the community, through attractive design of public places; proximity to schools, parks and other services; and community festivals and events, but schools should be at locations where City services currently exist or where access is accessible.
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GOAL: The Star community is dependent upon the quality of education for it citizens. The learning environment for each student shall be safe, functional and one that optimizes and enhances academic, social, emotional and physical development.
OBJECTIVES:
1. The partnership between the City of Star and the West Ada West Ada Joint School District No 2 and Middleton School Districts should: a. Continue with the emphasis of cooperation and communication. b. Develop a safe route program c. Continue to build relationships d. Continue to participate in the planning process. 2. Encourage schools to be sited within City limits in order to be cost-effective for City services. 3. Consider public safety issues. 4. Bus stops should be located where there are street lights. 5. Invite school participation in City events. 6. Urging support of local businesses for extracurricular academic and sports programs of the school. 7. Develop and expand fiber optics services for distance learning center at the high school. 8. Develop school signage which meets community and City needs
POLICIES:
1. The school district should coordinate with the City in choosing new school locations, which use existing or future City infrastructure. 2. Where appropriate, the City and West Ada West Ada Joint School District No 2 and Middleton School Districts should share facilities. a. Continue to develop and maintain a dialogue with the West Ada Joint School District No. 2 to arrange joint use of public facilities. West Ada West Ada Joint School District No 2 and Middleton School Districts b. Develop a cooperative program to expand the use of schools, land, and parks by the general public as well as students. c. Develop dual use of sites for parks. 3. Establish and implement a safe school route program. 4. School district should meet City signage requirements.
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5. City seeks to support a partnership with West Ada West Ada Joint School District No 2 and Middleton School Districts to develop adult education and training needs for the citizens of Star.
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12 - 1 CHAPTER TEN - PARKS AND RECREATION
The development of parks, open spaces and recreational activities is considered as an important part of the development of a City. National studies have suggested that the youth of our cities spend more time watching TV, playing computers games or doing other non-recreational activities in instead of going outside and playing. Providing recreation relaxation and enjoyment of natural features and landscaping and to promote activities either active or passive for the citizens of Star is important in the health of a community. The goals, objectives and policies regarding parks and recreation will greatly affect the character of Star’s area of influence and the future and will provide insight to the needs of the City of Star both present and future. Park Classifications
Parks are described in many ways and each has a different function and required acreage. The descriptions below will assist the City in determining the types of parks needed. This list should be used as a guide and not be determined mandatory:
Mini-Park (Pocket): A mini-park is the smallest park classification and is used to address limited or isolate recreational needs. Although in the past, mini-parks were often oriented toward active recreation; the new classification has a broader application that includes both active and passive uses. Examples include: picnic areas, arbors, and sitting areas.
Neighborhood Park: Neighborhood parks remain the basic unit of the park system and serve as the recreational and social focus of the neighborhood. They should be developed for both active and passive recreation activities geared specifically for those living within the service area. Accommodating a wide variety of age groups, including children, adults, and the elderly and special populations is important. Creating a sense of place by bringing together the unique character of the site with that of the neighborhood is vital to successful design.
School Park: By combining the resources of two public agencies, the school-park classification allows for expanding the recreation, social and educational opportunities available to the community in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Depending on the circumstances, school park sites often compliment other community open lands. The important outcome in the joint-use relationship is that both the school district and the park system benefit for shared use of facilities and land area. In some cases, school districts may now consider joint use of park facilities due to security issues.
Community Park: Community parks are larger in size and serve a broader purpose than neighborhood parks. Their focus is on meeting recreational needs of several neighborhoods or large sections of the community, as well as preserving unique landscapes and 10-1 City of Star Comprehensive Plan open spaces. They allow for group activities and other recreational opportunities not feasible-nor perhaps desirable- at the neighborhood level. They should be developed for both passive and active activities.
Natural Resource Areas: Natural resource areas are lands set aside for preservation of significant natural resources, remnant landscapes, open space, and visual aesthetics/buffering.
Greenways: Greenways tie park components together to form a cohesive park, recreation, and open space system. They also emphasize harmony with the natural environment. They allow for uninterrupted and safe pedestrian movement between parks throughout the community. They provide people with a resource based outdoor recreational opportunity and experience, and can enhance property values.
Regional Park (Sports Complex): Consolidates heavily programmed athletic fields and associated facilities at larger and fewer sites strategically located throughout the community. Sports complexes should be developed to accommodate the specific needs of user groups and athletic associations based on demands and program offerings. They are usually strategically located as a community-wide facility.
Special Use: This classification covers a broad range of parks and recreation facilities oriented toward single purpose use. Special use parks generally fall into three categories: 1) Historic/Cultural/Social Sites-unique local resources offering historical, educational, and cultural opportunities; 2) Recreation Facilities which are specialized or single purpose facilities and 3) Outdoor Recreation Facilities examples including tennis courts, softball complexes and sports stadiums.
Park Trails: Park trails are multi-purpose trail located within greenways, parks, and natural resource areas. Focus is on recreational value and harmony with the natural environment. They are the most desirable type of trail because they: 1) Emphasize harmony with the natural environment; 2) Allow for relatively uninterrupted pedestrian movement to and through the City’s park system and developed areas, including where possible through commercial and industrial parks and 3) Effectively tie the various parks and recreation areas together to form a comprehensive park and trail system, 4) protect users from urban development and associated vehicular traffic. Trails may vary in widths due to the function of the trail. These are described below: Type I: Single purpose hard-surfaced trail for pedestrians and cyclists. Type II: Multipurpose hard-surfaced trail for pedestrians and cyclists. Type III: Nature trails for pedestrians; hard or soft surface.
Connector Trail: Multi-purpose trails that emphasize safe travel for pedestrians to and from parks around the community. The focus is as much on transportation as recreation. The significant difference between connector and park trails lies largely in their location. Park trails emphasize a strong relationship with the natural environment with the park-like setting, while connector trails or recreation
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connector emphasize safe travel for pedestrians and bicyclists to and from parks and around the community. They are separate single purpose hard surfaced trails for pedestrians or cyclists typically located in rights-of-ways.
On-Street Bikeways: Bikeways are paved segments of roadways that serve to safely separate bicyclists from traffic. They come in the form of bike routes and bike lanes. The distinction between the two is a matter of exclusivity. While bike routes are essentially paved shoulders or segments of the roadway that serve to separate bicyclists from traffic, bike lanes are designated portions of the roadway for the preferential or exclusive use of bicyclists.
All-Terrain Bike Trail, Cross-Country Ski Trail and Equestrian Trails: These trails are similar to park trails in that they emphasize a strong relationship with the natural environment, although for somewhat different reasons. They are single-purpose loop trails usually located in larger parks and lateral resource areas. They are most often located within natural resource areas, greenways, community parks, and special use facilities, such as golf courses. Single-purpose loop trails usually located in larger parks and lateral resource areas. Loop trails are best with 7-10-miles the standard for ½-day outing and with 10-20-miles the standard for a full day’s outing. Since regional and state parks often develop and maintain these types of trails, the need for them at the local level is often limited.
10.1 Existing Conditions 10.1.1 Boise River
The Boise River is an asset to the City of Star. Located approximately 1-mile south of the Central Business District (CBD), the Boise River has been recognized as a gem of the Treasure Valley. The Cities of Boise, Garden City and Eagle have been working for years to establish greenbelts, restore riparian areas and to simply regenerate the River from its former undesirable conditions. Currently, there are not known of any undesirable conditions along the Star section of the Boise River. There is not a greenbelt along the Star section of the Boise River nor are there any current interconnectivity between the River and other parts of the City. The City does have the opportunity to develop partnerships to assist the creation of a master plan for the Boise River.
10.1.2 Exiting Facilities
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The City of Star has one park, which is Blake Haven. This park has 4.01 acres and is located at 11225 W. Blake Drive on the east side of N. Star Road. This sire is across the street from Star Elementary School. Blake Haven Park provides playing fields, picnic tables and a play structure.
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MAP 9 - Green Space
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10.1.3 Joint Public School District No. 2
The District offers recreational facilities for school and sports-related activities associate with the current school facilities. 10.1.4 Regional Parks
The City of Star has 2 state parks (Eagle Island and Lucky Peak) within 5 and 20-miles from the City of Star.
10.1.4.1 Regional State Parks
10.1.4.1.1 Eagle Island State Park: Eagle Island State park is a 545-acre day-use park east of the City of Star. It features a popular swimming beach, a grassy picnic area, a waterslide and more that five miles of equestrian trail. The State of Idaho is currently developing a Master Plan for the park. The full development of the Eagle Island State park would provide the north side of Treasure Valley 2 recreational anchors (Lucky Peak and Eagle Island State parks). Plans are to connect these 2 parks by a 40-mile greenbelt.
10.1.4.1. 2 Lucky Peak
Lucky Peak Reservoir is located in the foothills of southwestern Idaho on the Boise River approximately 10- miles southeast of the City of Boise. When full, the lake behind the dam is 12-miles long with 42-miles of shoreline and about 4,200-surface acres of public land. This family-oriented lake provides pleasant day use outings with ample water fun. Recreation opportunities include swimming, fishing, boating, water skiing or a relaxing picnic. Lucky Peak State Park, which includes the three units of Sandy Point, Discovery, and Spring Shores, provides for abundant day use water play and leisure. A marina and other amenities are located at Spring Shores. Nearby Boise provides full amenities with many interesting features and cultural activities to enjoy. State Highway 21, which runs alongside Lucky Peak, is a scenic drive and includes historic towns and other sites along its route. Desert and forested federal public lands close-by provide for a semi-primitive or primitive recreation experience. There are no formal, overnight camping facilities along the lake.
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10.1.4 Regional Recreational Sites
10.1.4.1 Firebird Raceway: Located in the foothills northwest of Boise, Firebird Raceway offers a wide-diversity spanning from early-April through October. The race facility continues to be one of the busiest in the northwest, with over four dozen individual dates and activities.
10.1.4.2 Boise National Forest The Boise National Forest is located north and east of the City of Boise. It is about 2,612,000-acres in size, ranging in elevation from 2,600 to 9,800-feet. The major rivers that run through it include the Boise, the Payette and the South and Middle forks of the Salmon River. Portions of the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness, the Sawtooth Wilderness, and Sawtooth National Recreation Area are within the forest.
Conifer forest covers most of the Boise National Forest. Tree species include Ponderosa Pine, Douglas-fir, Engelmann Spruce, Lodgepole Pine, Grand Fir, Subalpine Fir, Western Larch and Whitebark Pine. Shrubs and grasses grow in the non-forested areas. Wildflowers splash color in both forests and shrub-land.
The Forest contains large expanses of summer range for big game species like mule deer and Rocky Mountain elk. Trout are native to most streams and lakes.
Oceangoing salmon and steelhead inhabit tributaries of the Salmon River. Some of the recreational activities available are campgrounds, trails, hunting and fishing, water sports and winter recreation such as, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and ice fishing and Bogus Basin Ski Area
10.1.4.3 Bogus Basin Ski Area: Boise Basin located 16.5-miles north of Boise on Bogus Basin Road. It is open 7- days a week. There are 7 chair lifts. The ski able terrain has 2,600-acres with 900-acres groomed, 165-acres for night skiing and 37km groomed Nordic trails.
10.1.4.4 Lake Lowell: Lake Lowell, near the Cities of Nampa and Caldwell, is the site of 11,000-acre Deer Flat Wildlife Refuge. Lake Lowell is a great birding spot with over 200 recorded species. Spectacular concentrations of birds can be seen on the lake during peak migration periods. Shorebirds occur in large numbers in August when low water levels expose mudflats. Waterfowl occur in large numbers in fall and winter. The lake is closed to boating October 1 through April 14. The Snake River Islands contains about 800-acres on 101 islands from the Canyon-Ada County line in Idaho to Farewell Bend in Oregon. The islands are closed to public access from February through May to protect nesting habitat. Activities include boating, fishing, bird watching, canoeing and family activities.
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TABLE 21 - Regional Park and Recreation Facilities
The following is list of park and Recreation Facilities, which are within a 20-mile radius. This table is not being shown to reduce the commitment of the City of Star, but to identify regional uses.
Facility/Park Location Distance from the City of Star Open to the Public
Firebird Raceway Gem County 20-miles Yes, must pay admission
Eagle Island State Park Ada County 3-miles Yes, must pay state park fee
Lucky Peak State Park Ada County 20-miles Yes, must pay state park fee
Boise National Forest Ada County 25-miles Yes, depending on services
Bogus Basin Ski Resort Boise County 20-miles Yes, cost to ski
Lake Lowell Canyon County 15-miles Yes
10.5 Present and Future Needs
The City has approximately 5-acres of City owned park-land. One platted subdivision will dedicate a 7.5-acre development park within the next 6-years. Another recorded development agreement for a PUD, will dedicate approximately 65-acres of park land to the City for a regional park. Based on the descriptions below, the National Park Standards suggest a minimum system of parklands based upon the number of acres per population. Based upon the descriptions above and the National Park Standards suggest a minimum system of park-lands with 5-acres per 1,000-population.
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TABLE 22 - Active Reaction
Type of Park or Facility Acres Estimated Acres Needed Neighborhood Parks 2.0 acres/1,000 population 10acres Mini-Park (Pocket) 0.25 to 0.5 /acre To be determined Playground Site 2.75 acres/1,000 population 13.75 acres School-Park Site Variable – depends on function To be determined Community Parks 3.5 acres/1,000 population 17.5 acres Regional Parks (Sports Complex) 15 acres/1,000 population 75 acres Linear Parks (Greenbelt) 1.3 acres/1,000 population 6.5 acres Outdoor Swimming One Pool/25,000 population One pool Tennis – Outdoor Basketball – Other Court 1.0 acres /1,000 population 5 acres Sports Athletic Field 20 acres, 1/5,000-lighted accommodate 200 people /acre Partner with school district Basketball Courts 1 acre/5,000 population 1 acres Golfing 1-18 Hole Course (120 Acres) per 50,000 population One public course Football/Soccer Field 2 acres/1,000 population 10 acres Indoor Recreation Facility 1 acre/10,000 population One Natural Resource Area (Hiking, Camping 10 acres/10,000 people 5 acres or Nature Study) Park Trail: To be determined Partner with development community Connector Trail To be determined Partner with development community On-Street Bikeways To be determined Partner with ACHD Greenways To be determined Partner with property owners along river All Terrain Bike Trail, Cross-Country Ski To be determined Partner with development Trail, Equestrian Trails community Sources: National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), the Subdivision and Site Plan Handbook and Urban Planning and Design Criteria.
10-9 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
TABLE 22 CONT. – Active Reaction
Type of Park or Facility Acres Estimated Acres Needed Play Areas (Elementary School Ages) 0.5 acres/1,000 population 2.5 acres Dog Parks Minimum - 3 acres To be determined Desirable - 5 acres Maximum – over 5 aces Skate Board Park Plan for- 50% of participates are skateboarders To be determined 30% of participates are in-line skaters 20% of participates are bicyclists There are no current national standards or guidelines for Skate Board Parks Special Use Variable – depends on function To be determined Play Fields(Older Children and Young Adults) 1.5 acres/ 1,000 population 7.5 acres Baseball/ Softball Fields 1/3000 population 1.5 acres Sources: National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), the Subdivision and Site Plan Handbook and Urban Planning and Design Criteria
TABLE 23 - Passive Reaction
Type of Park or Facility Acres Estimated Acres Needed Passive Water Sports - Fishing/Rowing/Canoeing 1 Lake or Lagoon per 25,000 population one Picnicking 4 acres/ 1,0000 28,000 acres Sources: National Recreation and Parks Association (NRPA), the Subdivision and Site Plan Handbook and Urban Planning and Design Criteria
As new parks are added to the parks inventory, they should all have signage to identify and street address for wayfinding. Off-street parking should be required for each new park developed. All parks should have shelters and drinking fountains, while some parks may have visitor and amphitheater centers. Ponds stocked with fish and interpretive center for areas where one could view of wildlife have become popular. The City should also be aware of new recreational activities such as lacrosse, disc golf and rugby that may place demand upon facilities.
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10.5.1 Future Park and Facilities
The City has plans for the development of 5 future parks that are either being developed by the City or in partnership with the development community. Two parks are described below:
TABLE 24 - Future Park and Facilities
FUTURE PARK AND FACILITES Park Name Address Acres Use and Services Unknown Front portion of Collina Vista Subdivision - 7.57-acres Unknown 11474 W. New Hope Road Unknown Rear of Parkstone Subdivision - 9815 65-acres Unknown Highway 44, Between Plummer Road and Knox Street, south of State Street (borders the Boise River)
10.6 Summary
Planning for parks, playgrounds and open space should be based on conservation needs, recreation requirements and aesthetics of community. It is desirable to incorporate required open spaces into parks and playgrounds. Careful planning of open space will enhances public health, safety and welfare. The above guidelines can be used to plan future parks and recreation needs in the City of Star. It is recognized that these guidelines can be modified based upon the needs of the community. Where possible, encourage cooperation between the private and public sector toward meeting growing park and recreational needs.
GOAL: The City of Star will develop and manage its park system and develop partnerships to acquire enhance and protect a diverse system of parks, boulevards, parkways, golf courses and recreational, cultural, historical and open space areas for the enjoyment and enrichment of all citizens of Star.
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OBJECTIVES:
1. Encourage the development of the City parks and recreation areas for the enjoyment of all residents
2. Provide accessible recreational opportunities for the disabled and other segments of the community with special needs.
3. Involve volunteers and other support groups in coordinating and implementing recreational programming.
4. Create ample areas and facilities for our citizens’ diverse indoor and outdoor recreational interests.
5. Encourage the development of parks and recreational programs which meet the different community needs.
6. Encourage the preservation of existing trees and natural vegetation wherever practical.
7. Preserve and protect open space, unique natural areas, wetlands, water and woodland resources and scenic views.
POLICIES:
1. Develop a Parks and Recreation Master Plan, which will identify the number and type of parks, open space trails, pathways and recreational needs.
a. Acquire and develop a system of recreational areas, including parks, pathways, trailways, greenbelts, open spaces, playgrounds and other recreational areas and programs.
b. Utilize National Park Standards Guidelines to determine the number and location of recreation facilities.
c. Encourage the development of a parks and recreational programs, which meet the needs of different interests and age levels of the citizens of Star.
d. All facilities should comply to the American with Disabilities Act and/or have an accessible route. 10-12 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
2. Develop a greenbelt along the river and connect to the Greenbelt from Eagle Island State Park to a future City of Middleton connection.
3. Design parks that provide adequate green spaces and consider conservation of water in the design.
4. Develop a tree ordinance.
5. Coordination between the City and West Ada West Ada Joint School District No 2 and Middleton School Districts should be encouraged for best utilization of recreation facilities.
6. Consider the appointment of a Parks and Recreation Committee and Development.
7. The City shall establish a community forestry plan in accordance with the recreation open spaces component of this plan.
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CHAPTER ELEVEN - CULTURAL AND HISTORIC SITES (SPECIAL AREAS OR SITES) 11.1 Introduction
Cultural and historic sites identifies unique areas or sites for identification, conservation and/or protection. The Comprehensive Plan proposes to sustain those elements of the City’s heritage and culture, which contribute to the appeal of the City by both residents and visitors. A major task in preserving historic and cultural sites lies in identifying such sites.
Star has a number of buildings that may have some historic value. Three studies have been conducted to identify historic structure. A Star Historic District Feasibility Study was completed by Planmakers in 1991. The Star Historic District Reconnaissance (See Table 29) Study was completed by Kate O’ Brien Reed in August 1992. This study identifies structures in three categories; 1) Listed Properties 2) Eligible Properties and 3) Properties Eligible as part of a District (See Table 26).
The second study was conducted by the Ada County Historic Preservation Council (See Table 27). This study identifies properties as: 1) Eligible 2) Contributing and 3) Listed. There are no historic maps to identify the location of historic structures in the City of Star. Some structures are mentioned in both reports, while many are listed in only one source. In seems by the physical structure it seems some may be historic in nature and these buildings would enhance the historic integrity of the City and help make Star unique, but these structures should be officially designated as historic. These structures once identified would maintain a sense of historic continuity and link the community to the past. Unless historically significant buildings that lend to the character of the City of Star are protected, they may be subject to insensitive restoration or demolition.
Additional historic architectural structures have been identified in the Historic Star Walking Tour, published by the Ada County Historic Preservation Council in 2001 and updated 2005 for the Star Mule Days. 11.2 Background 11.2.1 Historical
The first inhabitants of the Star area were Native Americans. The Bannock and Nez Pierce tribes populated the land. Their way of life helped preserve much of the native beauty and wildlife still enjoyed. White settlers, in search of new homes made their way west on the Oregon Trail, which wound its way through the area. Early settlers inhabited the land surrounding the Boise River. The area is still home to many families of the early settlers.
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11.2.2 Architectural History
The Star area possesses 4 non-residential sites deemed of historical significance in historical surveys. An interurban railway depot, a roadhouse/tavern, a grange hall, and a church offer elements worthy of historical preservation. These areas could easily become interpretive learning centers, community gathering places, parks, or other valuable assets to the community, while serving as a reminder of our history.
In addition, the predominantly residential and agricultural history of Star has resulted in several residential structures and outbuildings, which exemplify the Folk and Nation design of the late 19th or early 20th century. Many structures, which exhibit the working-class roots of Star such as: the Gable, the Four Square, and the Craftsman styles are candidates for historic preservation. In addition a small number of homes, which display the High Style which is turn of the 20th century architecture warrant preservation consideration. A 1998 historical survey identified 64 residential structures that could contribute to a National Register of Historic Places in the Star area; 17 of these sites were eligible for listing on the National Register.
11.2.3 Archeological
In addition to the historical sites identified above, a religious revival meeting area known as the Quaker Revival Grounds are found in the Star area. The grounds exist in a park-like area. Remnants of the grounds indicate the area has potential archeological significance. Additional documentation and investigation may be required to ascertain the level of significance provided by this area.
11.2.4 Cultural Sites
11.2.4.1 Oregon Trail - One of the later branches of the Oregon Trail that crossed the river near Boise passed through what now is Star, just south of present-day Highway 44. Ezra Meeker, who spent his last years marking the course of the old Oregon Trail, visited Star on May 5, 1906. Portions of this early Oregon Trail corridor became the Old Valley Road connecting Boise to Caldwell. In the spring, travelers had to take the alternate foothills road to keep from getting stuck in the mud bogs. Starting in the 1860's, the stage from Boise City followed the Old Valley Road and arrived at Gray's Station east of Star, near the old Balm Mill, on what is now Moon Valley Road. Here the stage left the Valley Road and proceeded northwest through the sage brush to the willow creek stage Station, northwest of Star. The route continued on to the Payette Valley and eventually to Umatilla, Oregon and the Columbia River. Stage routes served the area through the 1880's when the lines with their big six-horse coaches were abandoned with the coming of the railroad through the 11-2 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
valley. This brought a decline to the area as the branch rail line came from Nampa to Boise bypassing star. Nevertheless, Star grew and boomed with the arrival of the Interurban in 1907.
In 1890, A. Fouch and his brother built the Star ferry south of Star at the Boise River. The crossing was located west of the present star Bridge. In 1904, the ferry was replaced by the star bridge. In 1929, the state paved Valley Road and it was again expanded in 1964 with Highway 44 connecting to I-84 west of Middleton.
11.2.4.2 Boise & Interurban Railway
Rapid growth of Star came with the confidence of the Boise Interurban Railway. In 1907, W.E. Pierce completed the electric railroad which ran from Boise to Caldwell, via Eagle, Star and Middleton, and back through Nampa and Meridian. The fare was 65-cents. The interurban also brought electricity to Star.
The Idaho Daily Statesman reported in 1907 that as a result of the completion of the Boise and Interurban line through Star, "this town has taken a wonderful activity and citizens here have awakened to the fact that Star in very liable to become a very important point before long. There's been a great deal of building of late and the population of the town has easily doubled since it was definitely known that the electric line would be built through here."
Completion of the Boise Interurban created radical growth with W.E. Pierce and Co. platting two new areas of land to the east of the original town site. These areas included Interurban Addition and the Pierce Addition. Lot sales, as reported in the Idaho Daily Statesman at that time, were brisk.
The handsome Star Interurban Depot with a freight office and passenger waiting room was built at Valley and Knox streets in 1907. The building was designed by Boise architects Tourtellotte and Hummel. Nearby was the transformer house. At the time the stage connected to Emmett. With the introduction of automobiles into the Treasure Valley, the Interurban was used less and less, eventually going out of business in 1928. The loss of this link to the valley meant a decline in activity for Star. The depot was moved to the east side of town in the 1950's.
TABLE 25 - Proposed Star Reconnaissance Survey Historic Sites
11-3 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
Listed Properties 159 7575 Moon Valley Road Queen Anne
Eligible Properties 8 11223 State Street National I House 144 2420 N. Munger Road National 163 10174 State Street Queen Anne type
Properties Eligible as Part of a District 9 11287 State Street National pyramidal 28 3251 Linder Rd. National hall and parlor 53 147 Main Street Prairie pyramidal 56 Main and 1st Street National 61 174 Knox Street National 62 84 Knox Street Craftsman massed plan 63 83 Knox Street Craftsman bungalow 87 11139 Frost Street National gable front and wing 88 767 Star Rd. Prairie four square 89 1050 Star Rd. National side gable 128 7825 Star Rd. National massed plan 129 7830 Star Rd. Craftsman elements, side gable 142 Can-Ada Rd. Hip on gable barn 147 3133 N. Wing Rd. National gable front and wing 148 2963 Pollard Lane National pyramidal 158 Rte. 1, Moon Valley Rd. National 160 State Street National Hip 165 10600 State Street National side gable 167 10717 State Street National T-plan 171 State Street Queen Anne 238 South of Star Canyon Canal Headworks S2 10415 State Street Front gable barn S3 10769 State Street Queen Anne type S7 11103 1st Street Craftsman S12 11321 1st Street National hall and parlor S18 11152 State Street Commercial 11-4 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
S19 11124 State Street Craftsman S27 211 Union Street National T-plan Source: Kate O’Brien Reed, Star Historic District Reconnaissance Study, August 1992
TABLE 26 - Historic Preservation Council Sites in Star
Site # XXXX Address XXXX City Status Parcel 002 83 North Knox Street Star Eligible R7073754310 008 North Main Street Star Contributing R7073754785 014 North River Street Star Contributing S0408336050 016 767 Star Road Star Contributing R5481120650 019 11049 Front Street Star Eligible R2941702235 025 11396 First Street Star Eligible R8108000230 025 11396 First Street Star Eligible R8108000230 029 11627 West State Street (Highway 44) Star Contributing S0418121030 033 11070 West State Street (Highway 44) Star Contributing R5579243490 035 2055 West State Street (Highway 44) Star ACI Eligible S0418131204 036 12080 West State Street (Highway 44) Star ACI Eligible S0407347000 037 2204 Munger Road Star ACI Contributing S0406427800 038 2205 Munger Road Star ACI Contributing S0406314810 039 2420 Munger Road Star ACI Eligible S0406131500
Site # XXXX Address XXXX City Status Parcel 040 2800 N Wing Road Star ACI Eligible R8108100100 041 3133 N Wing Road Star ACI Contributing S0405212400 043 2963 Pollard Road Star ACI Contributing S0404223000 045 1050 North Star Road Star ACI Contributing S0408233650 045 1050 North Star Road Star ACI Contributing S0408233650 046 10643 West State Street (Highway 44) Star ACI Contributing S0417212700 11-5 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
048 10600 West State Street (Highway 44) Star ACI Contributing S0408347001 050 10287 West State Street (Highway 44) Star ACI Eligible S0417120700 051 10174 West State Street (Highway 44) Star ACI Contributing S0408438760 061 10717 West State Street (Highway 44) Star Eligible S0417212550 063 7575 Moon Valley Road) Star ACI Listed R5506000100
Source: Ada County Historic Preservation Council; Date Unknown
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GOAL: Recognize, conserve and promote historic and cultural resources and to perpetuate their value and benefit to the community.
Objectives:
1. Promote heritage awareness.
2. Encourage and support plans and programs to conserve historic and cultural resources.
3. Make a continuous effort to identify special areas, which enhance the historical, archeological, ecological, wildlife, and scenic significance of the City of Star.
4. Cooperate with agencies and individuals whose efforts preserve or restore identified special areas.
5. Prevent adverse impact on special areas as a result to future use of the area, including review of proposed development projects to determine impacts, if any, on any unique or special areas. Encourage assistance in developing processes to avoid or minimize negative impacts to the sites.
6. Develop plan to participate in Boise River preservation activities.
POLICIES:
1. Encourage the development of existing, nonresidential sites, identified as historic, into parks, museums, or other appropriate public use.
2. Discourage development or use of nonresidential historical sites, which would destroy the unique aspects of the site.
3. Encourage the maintenance and restoration of existing residential structures to provide for national historical registry including providing information regarding assistance in obtaining registry for identified historical residences.
4. Encourage activities and events which preserve the heritage and historical significance of the Star area.
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5. Encourage awareness of the unique historic features of the area through public exhibitions and celebrations.
6. Encourage the conservation and efficient management of all special areas and sites.
7. Encourage and support the establishment of special zoning classifications or overlays as a means to help manage and preserve the qualities, resources and assets of special areas.
8. Determine which historic properties report that should be used to determine the historic structures in the City of Star.
9. Determine which structures that should be identified as Listed Properties, Eligible Properties and Properties Eligible as part of a Historic District or designation.
10. Explore cooperative efforts to include incentives for development to preserve the historical or cultural sites in the area.
11. Support participation with the Ada County Historic Preservation Council, Idaho State Historical Certified Local Government Program for preservation of historic sites, structures and place
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0 - 1CHAPTER TWELVE - NATURAL RESOURCES
The natural resources of the Star area includes the following: climate, natural environment of the arid foothills, the Boise River and other waterways, geology and soils of the area, natural vegetation, and the diverse wildlife.
A review of land that is in the City and the area of city impact should be used for the purpose for which it is best suited, as defined by a combination of its natural characteristics, location and the goals of the City. Within this context, environmental conservation and protection serves many purposes. Conservation can protect the natural and urban environment as well as the community.
One of the most important ongoing planning challenges, however, is to adequately conserve and balance the natural resources of the City of Star with population growth and the protection of the area, which makes the City an attractive place to live. Natural resources are an integral component when a community is approached with new development. The goals stated in this component are intended to establish a balance between development and the conservation of such natural resources. Natural resources are present, which exhibit both opportunities and limitations to human use. 12.1 Climate, Precipitation and Temperatures:
The City of Star is located approximately 2,467-feet above sea-level and enjoys a mild climate. Star has an annual average precipitation of 11.76-inches. Most of the precipitation occurs between the months of November to May. The average annual snowfall is 19.7-inches, with killing frosts as early as December and as late as February. There are approximately 212-frost free days in Star from December to March. This allows for a relatively long growing season.
Winters in Star, though cold, are generally not severe. Summer days are hot, while nights are relatively cool. The average maximum temperature is 62.9-degrees Celsius and the average minimum temperature is 39.5-degrees Celsius. Northwesterly winds prevail with intermittent southeasterly winds in winter and spring. The climate is favorable for many agricultural pursuits in the area. The current crops in the area vary widely from wheat, oats, corn, beans, mint, hay, pasture, alfalfa and clover seed, to sugar beets, potatoes, and many specialty seed crops. See Table 28 below.
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TABLE 27 - Monthly Climate Summary Report Period, 1/1/1940-12/31/2005
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Annual
Average Max 36.9 44.3 53.0 61.7 71.0 79.8 90.5 88.4 77.8 64.9 48.3 38.6 62.9 Temperature (F)
Average Min 22.2 27.3 31.9 37.3 44.5 51.7 58.4 57.3 48.9 39.9 30.5 24.0 39.5 Temperature (F)
Average Total 1.41 1.12 1.22 1.2 1.3 .85 .27 .29 .58 .78 1.34 1.4 11.76 Precipitation (in.)
Average Total 6.4 3.4 1.5 0.6 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 2.0 5.6 19.7 Snowfall (in.)
Average Snow 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 Depth (in.)
Source: Western Regional Climate Center, [email protected]
12.2 Hydrology:
Waterways, including the Boise River, Little Gulch Creek, Big Gulch Creek, and numerous irrigation canals and ditches are the most pronounced features of the area. These waterways provide homes to over 200-species of birds, 50-species of mammal, 7-species of amphibians, and 20-species of fish. The water also provides recreational opportunities for residents, including swimming, fishing, hunting, floating, and bird and wildlife viewing.
Groundwater in the area is generally quite shallow. The Star Sewer & Water District drinking water is obtained from groundwater wells located north of the City. Residents outside the Star Sewer & Water District rely upon shallow groundwater wells for domestic supply. Many of the domestic wells are artesian (flowing) wells with flow rates that fluctuate with the season high water table.
12 -2 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
12.3 Geology and Soils:
The major soil types in the area are Notus and Moulton. These soils are poorly drained alluvial terraces, which are common in the Boise River floodplain of Ada County, and adjacent lands. Typically the soil is used for irrigated crops and pastures. High water tables and relative wetness of the soil limit deep-root crop farming. Residential development in these soil types is generally limited due to the hazard of flooding and inability for soils to act as septic absorption fields.
Falk soils are found in a relatively small area near the boundaries of the Star City Limits. This soil is typically very deep and somewhat poorly drained. Permeability in this horizon is moderately rapid but the high season water limits its use as septic field absorption. The season high water table also hampers digging and trenching. Basements in homes are not practical, and in fact, crawl spaces under homes often become saturated during wet weather and peak irrigation season. The soil is most suited to irrigated crops, pastures, and urban development with sanitary sewer service. High quality grades of extractable gravel exist in a large percentage of the Area of City Impact and City limits.
The Boise River corridor is composed primarily of Riverwash and Bram soils. These soils consist of mixed alluvium adjacent to the Boise River or in old river channels. Gravel and sand deposits are abundant in theses soil types. Rocks, sand, salinity, alkalinity, and season water flows limit the primary uses to pastures and riverbanks. The vegetation generally consists of willows, rushes, sedges, and some water loving grasses. These soil types are most suitable for wildlife habitat and limited recreation.
North of the Foothills Ditch the primary soils are Pudham and Power. These soils are moderately deep and well drained. They are formed in loess or silty alluvium terraces. The soil is most suitable for irrigated crops, rangeland, and wildlife habitat. Relatively high permeability makes the soil suitable for septic tank absorption; however, the underlying alluvial hardpan often limits the downward movement of the effluent which must be offset by increasing the size of the absorption field. Digging and trenching are difficult due to the relatively shallow hardpan. The hardpan limits most residential home development to houses without basements. Soil erosion hazard is high in these soil units if vegetation is not maintained.
Feltham soils are found surrounding Little Gulch Creek. These soils are very deep and excessively drained. In most areas, this soil type is used for irrigated crops and pastures. The hazard of soil erosion is high and must be controlled by increasing organic matter and maintaining vegetative cover. Rapid permeability makes the Feltham soils suitable for residential sites with septic tank absorption fields. See Idaho Soil Survey Map 11.
12 -3 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
MAP 10 - Idaho Soil Survey - Star Area
Definitions and Soil Types
12.3.1 Bram Silt Loam - 12: The Bram series consists of moderately well drained, light-colored, medium-textured, calcareous soils. These soils formed in loessal and lacustrine alluvium derived from granitic, rhylotilic, and basaltic materials. They are on bottom lands, in old lake or river basins, and on very low terraces along the Boise and Snake Rivers and along drainage ways. Drainage is restricted on the low terraces. The vegetation in uncultivated areas is mainly saltgrass, cheatgrass, foxtail barley, greasewood, rabbitbrush, giant wildrye, and alkali weed. Bram soils are associated with Baldock and Garbutt soils. Bram silt loam is on alluvial fans, bottom lands, and in old lake or river basins.
12.3.2 Chance Fine Sandy Loam – 25: The Chance series consists of poorly drained and very poorly drained, moderately coarse textured soils that are moderately deep over gravel and sand. These soils formed in micaceous alluvium derived from acid igneous rock. Chance soils are in swales and in low areas on the floodplain of the Boise River. The vegetation is mainly cattails, rushes, sedges, redtop, and giant wildrye. Chance soils are associated with Moulton and Falk soils. Chance fine sandy loam occurs in swales and depressions on flood plains. Slopes are generally less than 1 percent.
12.3.3 Falk Fine Sandy Loam - 55: The Falk series consists of moderately well drained, moderately coarse textured, nearly level to very gently sloping soils. These soils formed in alluvium derived mainly from acid igneous rocks. Falk soils occur on high bottom lands and very low terraces, mostly near the Boise River. The native vegetation was mainly needlegrass and other bunchgrasses and big sagebrush. Falk soils are associated with Baldock, Moulton, and Chance soils. Falk fine sandy loam soil is on low terraces and bottom lands near the Boise River.
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12.3.4 Moulton Fine Sandy Loam - 111: The Moulton series consists of coarse-textured and moderately coarse textured, somewhat poorly drained, nearly level to gently sloping, noncalcareous soils. These soils formed in micaceous alluvium derived from granite, quartz monzonite, quartz diorite, or related intrusive acid igneous rocks. In places the alluvium contains small amounts of basaltic and rhyolitic materials. The Moulton soils occur on bottom lands, alluvial fans, and lake basins, and in area on very low terraces along the Boise and Snake Rivers and along drainage ways. On the terraces drainage is restricted. The vegetation in uncultivated areas in mainly Kentucky bluegrass, redtop, white clover, rushes, sedges, willows, big sagebrush, and herbaceous plants. Moulton soils are associated with Baldock, Falk, and Chance soils. Moulton fine sandy loam is on stream bottom lands, lake basins, alluvial fans, and very low terraces.
12.3.5 Notus Soils - 112: The Notus Series consists of level to very gently sloping somewhat poorly drained, moderately coarse textured soils that formed in recent alluvium washed from areas of granitic rocks and other intrusive acid igneous rocks. These soils are shallow over gravel and sand. They are on flood plains and very low terraces near the Boise River. The native vegetation was mainly big sagebrush, bluebunch wheatgrass, Sandberg bluegrass, and willow and cottonwood trees. Notus soils are associated with Moulton, Chance, and Falk soils. Notus soils are used for irrigated small grains, corn, clover, alfalfa, and improved pasture. These soils occur within larger areas of associated soils and are used for the same crops. Notus soils are on flood plains and very low terraces.
12.3.6 Riverwash -157: Riverwash consists of bars of mixed sand and gravel along streams or rivers that are flooded by runoff in spring. Weeds and willows grow along the streambanks. This land is suited to wildlife habitat. It is not suited to cultivation or grazing.
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12.3 Air Quality
Monitoring for CO in the Treasure Valley began in 1977. Violations MAP 11 – Idaho Nonattainment Areas of the health-based standard for CO occurred every winter from 1977 through 1985-86. As a result of these high levels of CO, northern Ada County was designated a CO nonattainment area by EPA. To address northern Ada County's nonattainment classification, DEQ developed a CO air quality improvement plan for northern Ada County. The plan includes a commitment to continue monitoring CO levels and assurances that existing measures to control CO emissions, such as the vehicle emissions testing program in Ada County, will remain in effect. The plan also includes contingency measures that will be activated if CO levels reach specified conditions. The plan was approved by EPA in December 2002, putting the area into attainment. No exceedness of CO have occurred since 1991. For additional information, please review (Idaho DEQ: http://www.deq.idaho.gov/air/data_reports/monitoring/bro.cfm).
See Map 12.
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12.5 Wildlife:
Various types of wildlife have been sighted in Star and area of City impact they include deer, fox, coyotes, raccoons, skunks, rabbits, squirrels, muskrats, beavers, mink, and many other mammals. The wide variety of songbirds, game birds, eagles, Great Blue Herons, and other waterfowl are notable features of the skyline. Although generally less adored than the furred or feathered creatures, the area is also home to many species of reptiles, amphibians, and fish.
Each individual species has specific habitat needs including the basic requirements of food, cover, shelter, and space. Loss of critical habitats or landscape diversity can lead to relocation to other less desirable habitats or extinction. Key habitats are the product of slope, soil type, physical features, and available water. Often, these key habitat areas are also desirable sites for human development and occupation. It is important that the development of the area be conducted in a manner that protects the wildlife while meeting the needs of the human populace. 12.6 Vegetation:
Vegetation in the area consists of cultivated fields, riparian forests, urban forests, and the native shrub-grass-forbe complex. Improperly planned developments can result in converting the very diverse plant communities in the area to more simple communities at the expense of the wildlife, soil, water and air quality, recreational and aesthetic value. Healthy native vegetation communities reduce the potential for wildlife conflict with people and agricultural pursuits.
Summary
Critical and sensitive areas regarding natural resources in the City of Star should to be identified. Currently, there is not any documentation regarding the types and locations of critical and sensitive areas In order to acquire this information the City may choose to have those in the development community provide this information as part of their application for zoning and conditional use applications or the City may choose to fund these request from the general fund.
GOAL: Recognize and protect the natural beauty and resources of the City and maintain a harmonious balance between human populations and nature by ensuring that resources are properly respected and protected. 12 -7 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
OBJECTIVES:
1. Preserve and protect open space, unique natural areas, wetlands, water and woodland resources, scenic views, areas of natural beauty.
2. Promote Natural Resource areas by creating, preserving, and enhancing parks, hiking trails, active and passive recreation facilities and by creating useable open space for the betterment of the community.
3. Provide a system of interconnecting greenways and ecological corridors that connect natural areas to open space.
4. Protect water quality and quantity in the streams and groundwater and consider the potential regional impacts on water supply and wastewater management for all proposed developments.
5. Preserve the natural beauty and habitat of the Boise River and land adjoining the river. POLICIES: 1. Implement appropriate goals and development requirements, including setbacks, densities, development standards, and open space requirements to minimize impact on natural resources. 2. Provide buffers to natural resources with transitional land uses. 3. Protect and preserve the natural beauty and habitat of the Boise River and land adjoining the river. 4. Avoid new development in floodway areas. 5. Provide wildlife habitats and corridors. 6. All developments should comply with all applicable water quality, air quality, species protection, and land use regulations and requirements. 7. Conduct a natural resource audit. 8. Encourage the preservation of open space, wildlife habitats and fish habitats. a. Locate development away from sensitive wildlife habitat areas.
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b. Adopt ordinances, site plan reviews, subdivision regulations, overlay zones and/or design review standards to address land issues in or near wildlife, water resources, scenic views, steep slopes and unique habitats. 9. Develop mitigating measures to offset or minimize the impact of development. 10. Encourage the development of a buffer, which ensures the unique habitat, existing wildlife, and scenic value of the Boise River ecosystem is preserved.
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CHAPTER THIRTEEN - HAZARDOUS AREAS
Hazardous areas are those areas with the potential to threaten human health, safety and property. It is important to identify these areas to prevent development in potentially hazardous areas. Hazardous areas can relate to the natural environment such as seismic hazards, slopes, erosion hazards and flood plains. In addition landfills, waste disposal areas, railroad crossings and tracks, grain elevators, brownfield sites, transportation of hazardous materials, and airport clear zones can be hazardous. Cities have police and fire departments to protect the health, safety, welfare and the cities have the responsibility to protect its citizens to the best of their ability. The City develops policies to assure that hazardous areas are managed correctly. 13.1 Existing Conditions
13.1.1 Soil Erosion
Exposed surface soil materials are prone to erosion by wind and water. Ground-disturbing activities such as construction, quarrying and tillage increase soil erosion. Soil erosion also occurs from runoff, irrigation and wind. Properties such as slope and climate affect erosion. The amount of vegetative cover also affects erosion. Soils in the City of Star are susceptible to both wind and water erosion. Surface irrigation is the largest contributor to erosion.
13.1.2 Soils and Slopes
Slopes in Star vary depending on soil types. Based on the Soil Survey data and definitions of soil types in the Star area; slopes in the City of Star range from 0 to 3-percent.
TABLE 28- Soils Type and Slope
Soil Type Slope Bram Silt Loam 0 to 1 percent slopes Chance Fine Sandy Loam 1 to 2 percent Falk Fine Sandy Loam 0 to 2 percent slopes Moulton Fine Sandy Loam 0 to 1 percent Notus Soils can range from 0 to 3 percent 13.1.3 Geology 13-1 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
MAP 12 – Geographic Map of Star Area
of Bonneville Flood upstream of Parma. Buries gravel of Boise terrace.
Gravel of Whitney Terrace- Sandy pebble and cobble gravel. Second terrace above floodplain. Thickness 5-24 meters (16-80 feet); thickest to the east. Mantled with 1-2 meters of loess.
Gravel of Deer Flat and Pre-Deer Flat Terraces, Undivided- Sandy pebble and cobble gravel. Alluvial fan deposits of the ancestral Willow Creek interfingering and mixing downstream with channel alluvium of the ancestral Boise River. Deposited on stream-cut surface of fourth and fifth terrace above floodplain. Tertiary sediments are exposed between terrace Sandy Alluvium of Side Stream Valleys and remnants. Mostly mantled with loess .5-1 meter (2-3 feet) thick. Gulches- Medium to coarse sand interbedded with silty fine sand and silt. Sediment mostly derived from weathered granite and reworked Tertiary sediments. Thickness variable. Minor pedogenic clay and calcium carbonate. Sandy Alluvium of Side Stream Valleys and Gulches-
Medium to coarse sand interbedded with silty fine sand and silt. Sediment mostly derived from weathered granite and reworked Tertiary sediments. Thickness variable. Minor pedogenic clay Clay of Bonneville Flood Slack Water- Light tan and calcium carbonate. silty clay 1-2 meter (3-7 feet) thick. Deposited by clack water
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13.1.4 Well-Head Protection
Groundwater is used throughout the county for domestic and public water supply. The protection of the public water supply and its sources from contamination has come under scrutiny from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has mandated that each state must prepare a well-head protection plan for public water supply. The Idaho Wellhead Protection Plan was recognized and approved by both the Idaho Legislature and the EPA, and laid the groundwork and provided guidance for developing individual public water system wellhead protection plans. Many communities throughout Idaho have subsequently pursued voluntary wellhead protection efforts under the guidance set forth within the state's plan. Idaho DEQ has done an evaluation of all drinking well sources in the state. According to the Idaho DEQ a detection above a drinking water standard MCL, any detection of a VOC or SOC, or a detection of total coliform bacteria or fecal coliform bacteria at the wellhead will automatically give a high susceptibility rating to a well despite the land use of the area because a pathway for contamination already exists. In terms of total susceptibility [in Star], Well #1 rates moderate for all categories and Well #2 rates low for all categories.
13.1.5 Brownfields:
Brownfield sites are defined as abandoned, idled or underused industrial and commercial facilities where expansion or redevelopment is complicated by real or perceived environmental contamination (USEPA, United Stated Environmental Protection Agency.) The City of Star currently has no brownfield sites on the Idaho DEQ list of brownfields.
13.1.6 Landfills:
Commercial and industrial wastes can be transported directly to the landfill located at 10300 Seaman’s Gulch, Boise. The current landfill is approaching its capacity and a new landfill is scheduled to be opened and begin use in the Spring of 2007. The new landfill has an expected life of 100 years.
13.1.7 Hazardous Material Transportation:
Hazardous materials incidents present the most likely technological hazard in the county. Hazardous materials, including agricultural chemicals, are commonly produced, stored, and used in Ada County. Hazardous chemicals are found in hundreds of facilities in the county; many facilities have at least one Extremely Hazardous Substance. Hazardous materials are also routinely transported over the county's 200 state and 1,500 local roadways, hundreds of railway and pipeline miles, and through the Boise Air Terminal. Over a dozen facilities in the county have radioactive materials licenses.
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In response to the growth and popularity of the collection program, Ada County built a permanent household hazardous material collection facility at Ada County's landfill. The Facility provides to individuals and qualifying businesses an opportunity for proper hazardous material management.
Collection of household hazardous material at a centralized location reduces pollution threats. It also provides an opportunity to inform the public about their environment, hazardous materials, and alternatives to using hazardous products. Safely Transporting Household Hazardous Materials:
Read all labels before transporting household hazardous materials. Pay close attention to the "Signal Words”. Do not mix products unless instructed by label directions. Mixing products can cause explosive or poisonous chemical reactions. Leave hazardous material in its original container. Have all containers labeled. Make certain lids and caps are tightly sealed. Be sure to have adequate ventilation in your vehicle. Transport materials in newspaper or plastic lined boxes to contain possible leaks.
13.1.8 Agricultural Uses:
The current crops in the area vary widely from wheat, oats, corn, beans, mint, hay, pasture, alfalfa and clover seed, to sugar beets, potatoes, and many specialty seed crops. Current agricultural practices contribute to potential water contamination. Nitrate infiltration threatens underground aquifers. Agricultural use is on the decline. Single family residential areas are becoming a primary land use in Star.
13.1.9 Snow Loads:
Snow can affect buildings, particularly roofs, in many ways. It can cause the collapse of roofs due to heavy snow accumulation; ice and ice dams can result in water leakage under shingles and over flashings; snow can slide from sloped roofs and skylights, endangering pedestrians; drifting around buildings, hindering access by people and vehicles; and wetting inside buildings from infiltration of wind-blown snow. Snow loads on roofs depend on climatic variables such as the amount and type of snowfall, wind, air temperature, amount of sunshine, and on roof variables such as shape, thermal properties, exposure and surrounding environment. Ground loads are the basis for the estimation of roof loads. The amount of normal snowfall that annually falls in Star doesn’t identify this as a hazard.
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13.1.10 Wastewater:
The City wastewater treatment plant, located on 1151 Tempe Ct, has a capacity to manage and discharge effluent of approximately 2- million gallons per day; average daily treated discharge is around 400,000-gallons per day to the Lawrence- Kennedy Canal. Many outlying areas, including most of the Area of City Impact, are not provided with city water and sewer services.
13.1.11 Noise:
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has developed criteria to assist noise levels and their degree of undesirability. The three components of noise are frequency, intensity and duration. For analysis purposes, HUD uses the day-night average sound level system which is denoted as LDN. The LDN is an average noise level of a 24-hour period and weighting it by the addition of 10 decibels for noises occurring between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Any area with noise levels below 65-LDN are considered acceptable. 13.1.12 Floodplain:
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency have classified the Boise River and its tributaries as a One-Hundred (100) Year Floodplain with a defined floodway. For the City and Area of Impact, the Boise River floodplain follows 2-channels of the Boise River at Linder Road and converges to one channel approximately 1-mile west of Linder Road. The type of flooding associated with this area is generally gradual and comes with sufficient warning to remove people and animals; however, destruction can be significant.
The last time the Boise River experienced the 100-year flood was 1943. Historically the Boise River reaches flood stage every year on the stream gage located at the Glenwood Bridge. This results in some minor inconvenience and damage each time it happens. Continued encroachment and development in the river floodway aggravates this situation. Future floods above 10,000-cfs will result in substantial additional expense to the community. Sewage movement and processing may be curtailed or completely stopped for sections of Boise and Garden City.
In addition to the Boise River floodplain, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has identified a special flood hazard area that is inundated by a one hundred (100) year flood along Little Gulch Creek, Big Gulch Creek, and a portion of Foothills Ditch. The flooding in this area is associated with flash floods that arrive with little or no warning. The steep slopes and large volumes of water associated with these floodways make these floods extremely dangerous.
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The Boise River floodplain and Gulch Creek flood hazard areas pose important functional wildlife habitats, natural scenic resources, recreational uses, and other beneficial uses recognized under Idaho water laws. These areas require comprehensive and specific planning to ensure that topographical, hydrological, ecological, and environmental concerns have been thoroughly addressed and incorporated into any development and use plans. The latest FEMA map is dates 2003; FEMA is developing modifications to the Star area FEMA map and a completion date has not been established.
13.1.13 Landslides:
The Snake River Plain in southern Idaho is an arid to semiarid plain that separates the Rocky Mountains of central Idaho from the Basin and Range Area of the southern part of the State. Flat-lying Quaternary basalt, some only 2,000-years old, and thick loess deposits underlie the major part of the desert in the eastern plain, where landslides are almost unknown. A few landslides have formed along the canyons of the Snake River and its tributaries, where down cutting has activated sliding in the tuffaceous sedimentary rocks of Tertiary and Quaternary age and slumping in the interbedded basalt. Slides of this type have occurred along the bluffs of Salmon Falls Creek west of Buhl, Idaho (Malde and others, 1968), in the last four decades. Some landslides exist and more can be expected in the tuffaceous facies of the rhyolitic Tertiary volcanic rocks that form the south border of the Snake River Plain (Landslide Overview of the US, 1982). The City of Star has a low risk of landslides.
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13.1.14 Earthquakes/Seismic Activity: MAP 13 - Geologic Survey Seismic Shaking Hazard Map of Id
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has ranked Idaho as the 5th highest in the nation for earthquake risk after California, Alaska, Nevada and Utah. Idaho has experienced 2 of the largest earthquakes in the lower 48-states in the last 40- years. In 1959, Hebgen Lake experienced a quake that measured 7.5 on the Richter scale and in 1983 the Borah Peak quake measured 7.3. Since 1988 all buildings in Idaho have been required to conform to the Uniform Building Code (UBC). The UBC designates different earthquake hazard zones (Zones 0-4), and within each zone different building design and construction features are required to ensure earthquake resistance. UBC seismic zone ranking for Ada County is 2b - moderate. Some areas in Idaho are ranked 3 - high. See adjacent Map 13.
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13.1.15 Disaster Services
Ada County, located in the southwestern part of Idaho, is one of 44 counties in the state and home to almost one-quarter of the State's population. Ada County is approximately 1,055-square miles in area. The incorporated cities of Boise, Eagle, Garden City, Kuna, Meridian, and Star, occupy around 11% of the land area in the County.
Communities are at risk from certain hazards. This subsection contains information on the types of hazards that Ada County citizens may face. Hazards may also be ranked by frequency and magnitude.
13.1.15.1 Drought and Extreme Heat - Most croplands in Ada County are irrigated. Prolonged drought, two or more winters of below normal precipitation combined with extreme summer heat, may cause reduced irrigation quotas resulting in some crop loss. Range fires, which will be discussed in another section, pose the greatest danger from drought and extreme heat. According to the National Weather Service the average high temperature for Ada County during July and August is 91F.
13.1.15.2 Storms - Thunderstorms, Electrical Storms and Tornadoes - Thunderstorms, large quantities of rain, hail, lightning, high winds, and tornadoes are all events that occur in Ada County. In addition to their direct effects, these storms may also cause secondary problems such as loss of utilities, automobile accidents due to low visibility, and flash floods.
13.1.15.2.1 Thunderstorms - The large amount of water associated with thunderstorms may result in flash flooding along tributaries of the Boise River. Each year an average of two to five incidents of thunderstorm related damage is recorded in Ada County.
13.1.15.2.2 Electrical Storms - Power outages and other damage from lightning strikes occur annually. The inconvenience caused by power outages is usually confined to residents of the affected neighborhood.
13.1.15.2.3 Tornadoes - Along the Snake River Plain, from Idaho Falls to Weiser, an average of 1 or more tornadoes or funnel shaped clouds are reported each year.
13.1.15.3 Wildfires - Ada County is subject to range fires every year that destroy forage and ground cover. Most fires are confined to an area of less than 500-acres. Approximately half of these fires are caused by dry lightning storms, with the other half being human actions or undetermined causes. In 1992, 5 lightning fires combined to blacken 257,000-acres of rangeland in and around Ada County. Vulnerability is steadily increasing as more dwellings 13-8 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
are constructed in the foothills adjacent to range lands. On August 26, 1996 a human-caused wildfire was ignited in the Boise foothills. The temperature was 104-degrees and the winds reached 30-mph. On September 2, the fire was contained after burning 15,300-acres of land.
13.1.15.4 Winter Storms/ Freezing - A winter storm will have one or more of the following weather elements: blizzard conditions, heavy snow, accumulations of freezing rain/drizzle, and/or heavy sleet. A blizzard is a storm lasting about three hours or longer with winds of thirty-five mile per hour and considerable falling and/or blowing snow frequently reducing visibilities to less than 1/4 mile. The havoc caused by blizzards is generally on a smaller scale since roads are not universally closed, and winds involved usually subside more quickly than snow melts. Blizzards occur at an average of once every ten years in Ada County. Freezing is an expected winter weather event. Freezing is most hazardous when it is associated with a severe snowstorms, blizzards, or power outages. Prolonged freezes occur about once every 12 years.
13.1.15.5 Other Potential Risks - In addition to the hazards discussed above other potential hazards include: crop loss/damage, utility failure, explosions, civil disorder, and transportation accidents. These risks are not considered major threats to the Ada County area. The probability of these events occurring and affecting a large percentage of the population is less than the previously mentioned events. The City participates in the Ada County Emergency Response Plan that provides training for response to both natural and man-made disasters. This plan can be found on file at the Ada County offices.
The City participates in the Ada County Emergency Response Plan that provides training for response to both natural and man-made disasters. For additional information regarding hazards and risks contact Ada City-County Emergency Management at 577-4750.
13.1.16 Irrigation Canals:
Irrigation canals are located throughout the City and Area of City Impact. There have been concerns regarding children playing near ditches and swimming in ditches. These canals can have a potential impact to the community. There are various ways to mitigate this concern, which include tiling, fencing and using as an amenity for a proposed development.
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GOAL: Protect the public health, safety, welfare and persons from injuries by minimizing the levels of property damage, economic and social disruption and interruption of vital services resulting from geologic, seismic and food hazards.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Ensure that new structures and development sites are designed to minimize likelihood of damage resulting from geologic and seismic hazards.
2. Ensure that flood prevention and floodplain standards minimize financial loss and maximize protection of property in the event of flooding.
3. Control sources of pollutants from entering water resources.
4. Explore cost effective ways of developing a recycle program to reduce impacts on the landfill.
5. Identify transportation routes for the transportation of hazardous materials.
POLICIES:
1. Maintain and update public information regarding the nature and location of the flood hazards in the City and impact area.
2. Caution structural development within the floodways that would impede or alter the natural flow of floodwaters. Floodways shall not be altered in any way that would flood surrounding properties, either upstream or downstream.
3. Tributary floodways shall be used for open space and shall not be altered in any way that would increase flood damage of surrounding properties.
4. Setback and/or safety requirements shall be established along the periphery of floodways to protect structures from damage by lateral erosion.
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5. The City should study and consider for adoption a River and Stream System Management Ordinance to regulate and control floodway and floodway fringe development, wetland development, wildlife habitat encroachment, and provisions for greenbelt amenities.
6. Developers of any development within the 100-year floodplain shall be required to provide notification to prospective buyers that the property is within a floodplain or alluvial fan by deed restriction or other similar method.
7. To greatest degree possible the 100-year floodplain should be used for farmland, open space, and wildlife habitat.
8. Schools, hospitals, or other immediate care facilities should not be permitted to build within the floodplain.
9. The manufacture or storage of toxic, flammable, explosive, or radioactive materials should not be allowed in the floodplain. Bulk storage of other materials will be allowed only when in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local standards.
10. Protect the river and creek banks from erosion by enacting programs to plant and maintain streamside vegetation.
11. Industrial uses should not be permitted in any portion of the floodplain.
12. Encourage the prevention of threats of contamination to groundwater through land use planning and development guidelines.
13. Require, when necessary, proper studies to show that an area to be developed is not hazardous as defined in Idaho Code Section 67-6508(g).
14. Development should identify how they will mitigate the hazards of irrigation canals.
15. Contact Ada City-County Emergency Management regarding hazards and risks at 577-4750.
16. Determine if any noise regulations are needed in the City of Star.
17..Continue the fire inspection program as a means of identifying and remedying the potential fire hazards before fires occur.
18. Educate and inform the public on fire safety and hazardous materials to further protect the community and the environment from unnecessary hazards. 13-11 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
CHAPTER FOURTEEN - IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation is the phase of the planning process in which the goals, objectives, and policies that are presented in this Comprehensive Plan are implemented. There are several important planning tools which help implement this Comprehensive Plan such as Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances, the Zoning Map and review of new development proposals.
GOALS:
The Star Comprehensive Plan and related ordinances are to be working documents used by citizens and City leaders to shape the future of Star.
OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES:
1. The City should initiate an extensive update and review of the entire Comprehensive plan for future adoption thereof.
2. Update the Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances to be in conformance with the adopted Comprehensive Plan.
3. Community involvement is very important and the public should be aware and involved in the City’s planning decisions.
4. The City Council is responsible to review the status of the implementation actions and critique the relevance of the Comprehensive Plan, including proposing any amendments on an as-needed basis.
5. Clustering is useful when trying to protect sensitive natural resources, avoid hazardous areas or preserve natural sites. Clustering involves assessing the natural characteristics of a site and grouping the buildings or lots through the on-site transfer of density rather than distributing them evenly throughout the project as in a conventional subdivision.
6. Development Agreements allow the City to enter into a contract with a developer upon rezoning. The Development Agreement may provide the City and the developer with certain assurances regarding the proposed development upon rezoning.
7. A Planned Unit Development Ordinance (PUD) is one of many devices used to implement a comprehensive plan. A developer of a PUD may be allowed variations in development requirements, if it is in the City's interest to 13-12 City of Star Comprehensive Plan
encourage such a development. PUD regulations are intended to encourage innovations in land development techniques so that the growing demands of the community may be met with greater flexibility and variety in type, design, and layout of sites and buildings. PUD regulations also encourage the conservation and more efficient use of open spaces and other natural environmental features which enhance the quality of life.
8. Require any person applying for a Comprehensive Plan amendment to submit a justification letter for the amendment, which letter shall state why the change is in the best interest of the City.
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GLOSSARY
Absentee Owner – A property owner that doesn’t live in the jurisdiction where they own property.
Accommodate - The ability of the community to adapt to change; particularly the ability of the community to meet the needs of future populations.
Affordable Housing - A general rule for determining housing affordability is that the sum total annual rent and other housing payments (including utilities) should not exceed 30% of gross household income. Lending institutions use a slightly different definition to determine whether housing is affordable for a prospective homeowner; that is, the total annual payment (principal, interest, taxes, and insurance) should not exceed 26-28% of the homeowner's gross annual income. Lending institutions also consider the homeowner's total indebtedness, determining that housing costs plus all other indebtedness should not exceed 33-36% of the homeowner's income.
Agriculture Land - land primarily devoted to the commercial production of horticultural, viticultural, floricultural, dairy, apiary, vegetable, or animal products, or of berries, grain, hay, straw, turf, seed, or livestock and land that has long-term commercial significance for agricultural production.
Annexation - The incorporation of a land area into an existing City with a resulting change in the boundaries of that City.
Apartment unit – One or more rooms
Area of City Impact - Required by state law (§67-6526) requires cities to specify an area outside the City limits which it expects to annex or is part of its trade area. Land use authority for this area is negotiated between the City and county.
Bikeway - A facility designed to accommodate bicycle travel for recreation or commuting purposes. This is not G-1
always a separate facility but can be designed to be compatible with other travel modes.
Buffer - An area designed to provide attractive space or distance, obstruct undesirable views or generally reduce the impact of adjacent development.
Capital Improvement Program (CIP)- A proposed timetable or schedule of all future capital improvements to be carried out during a specific period and listed in order of priority, together with cost establishments and the anticipated means of financing each project.
Central Business District (CBD) - The major shopping center within a City usually containing, in addition to retail uses, governmental offices, service uses, professional, cultural, recreational and entertainment establishments and uses, residences, hotels and motels, appropriate industrial activities, and transportation facilities. This area is located within the Downtown area of the City.
Circulation - Systems, structures and physical improvements for the movement of people, goods, water, air, sewage, or power by such means as streets, highways, railways, waterways, towers, airways, pipes, and conduits, and the handling of people and goods by such means as terminals, stations, warehouses, and other storage buildings or transshipment points.
Commercial - The distribution, sale, or rental of goods and the provision of other services.
Community - Used interchangeably to speak of the total planning area (verses the City or urban fringe) or an attitude such as “... a sense of community...” which implies a common identification on an issue by a group of citizens.
Community Parks - Community parks are large and intended to provide facilities of general community interest. These parks should provide for active and passive recreation for all ages and for family and organized recreation. They should be centrally located and readily accessible with approximately 3.5-acres per 1,000-people.
Compatible Design – The visual relationship between adjacent and nearby buildings and the immediate streetscape, in term of a consistency of material, colors, building elements, building mass and other constructed elements of urban environments, such that abrupt or serve differences are avoided. G-2
Comprehensive Plan - A general policy statement of the City, including a general land use map which integrates all functions, natural systems and activities relating to the use of land, which is required by Idaho State Statue (§67-6508).
Community Character - The features that define the built and natural environment within the community help to create its character. These include historic buildings, natural stream corridors, woodlands, residential neighborhoods of different types, building density and orientation (auto- or pedestrian-oriented), and the scale and quantity of signage.
Community of Place – A dynamic, diverse, compact and efficient center that has evolved and maintained at a human scale, with an easily accessible central core of commercial and community services, residential units and recognizable natural and built landmarks and boundaries that provide a sense of place and orientation.
Condominium – A building or group of buildings, in which dwelling units, offices or floor area are owned individually and structure, common areas and facilities are owned by all the owners on a proportional, undivided basis.
Density – the overall average number of dwelling units located on the gross or new residential acreage (as applicable) contained within the development and calculated on a per-acre basis.
Density (Gross) – calculated by dividing the total number of units by the total acreage.
Density (Net) – calculated by dividing the [total number of units] by the [total acreage minus all publicly dedicated land].
Design Standards – the standards that set forth specific improvement requirements.
Development - Making a material change in the use or appearance of a structure or land, dividing land into two or more parcels, creating or terminating a right of access.
Development Agreement - The Local Land Use Planning Act allows cities and counties to use development agreements, which require an owner or developer to make a written commitment concerning the use or G-3
development of the subject parcel as a condition of rezoning. The agreements are binding and recorded so as to bind subsequent owners.
Diversity/Difference - Diversity implies the mixture of land use and /or densities within a given area.
Duplex - A building containing two single-family dwelling units separated from each other by an unpierced wall extending from basement to roof.
Dwelling – A building used exclusively for residential occupancy, including single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings and multi-family dwellings.
Dwelling, multi-family – A dwelling containing three (3) or more dwelling units, not including hotels, motels, fraternity or sorority houses and similar group accommodations.
Dwelling, single-family – A building designed exclusively for occupancy by one (1) family, but not including mobile homes, otherwise provided herein.
Dwelling, single-family attached – A residential building containing dwelling units, each of which has primary ground floor access to the outside and which are attached to each other by party walls without openings. The term is intended primarily for such dwelling types as townhouses and duplexes.
Dwelling, single-family detached – a single-family dwelling which is not attached to any other dwelling or building by any means, excluding mobile homes and manufactured housing situated on a permanent foundation.
Dwelling, two-family – A building occupied by two (2) families living independently of each other.
Dwelling unit – one (1) or more rooms and a single kitchen and at least one (1) bathroom, designed, occupied or intended for occupancy as separate quarters for the exclusive use of a single family for living, cooking and sanitary purposes, located in a single-family, two-family or multi-family dwelling or mixed-use building.
Easement – a right to land generally established in a real estate deed or on a recorded plat to permit the use of land by the public, a corporation or particular persons for specified uses.
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Economic Base - The production, distribution and consumption of goods and services within a planning area.
Comment: Economic base, as used in planning is commonly thought of as the sum of all activities that result in incomes for the area’s inhabitants. The definition, however, is significantly broad to include all geographic and functional elements, which may have an impact on the planning area, although not physically part of the area.
Economic Development - The addition of a new economic activity.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - EPA is the federal source agency of air and water quality control regulations affecting a community.
Established Areas - An area where the pattern of development has been fixed and where this pattern is anticipated to be valid over the planning period. Generally all developed areas within the City limits, which are considered to be established at this point in the planning process.
Exurban - Exurbia or the "exurbs" are a type of spatial pattern of settlement that differ from their suburban counterparts. Exurbs are located at greater distances from urban centers than suburban developments and are comprised of a different mix of land uses and population. Active farms are interspersed with different ages and types of very low density residential development, including roadside houses, new housing subdivisions, exclusive estates, and mobile homes. In addition, exurbia contains small, rural towns as well as newer edge-of-town retail, commercial, and industrial development. Exurbs are areas that are in transition from their traditional rural setting to something more urban. They are often transformed into suburbs or edge cities within a 20-30 year period. Farm Animals – animals commonly raised or kept in an agricultural, rather than an urban, environment, including but not limited to, chickens, pigs, sheep, goats, horses, cattle, llamas, emus, ostriches, donkeys and mules.
Floodplain - Lands, which are within the floodway and the floodway fringe.
Floodway - The channel of a river or other water course and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one foot.
Flood, 100 Year - A flood with a 1% chance of occurring in any given year. This is the flood most commonly G-5
used for regulatory purposes.
Freeway - A divided arterial highway designed for the unimpeded flow of large traffic volumes. Access to a freeway is strictly controlled and intersection grade separations are required.
Goal - A statement of intention expressing community values and attitudes intended to provide a guide for action by the community.
Greenway/Greenbelt - An open area which may be cultivated or maintained in a natural state surrounding development or used as a buffer between land uses or to mark the edge of an urban or developed area.
Group Home - “Group Home” means a small homelike facility staffed by qualified professionals, and designed to fit into the neighborhood. The purpose of the facility is to provide living quarters and services for people having a particular disability.
Home Occupation - An Occupation carried on in a dwelling unit by the resident thereof; provided that the use is limited in extent and incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling unit for residential purposes and does not change the character thereof.
Housing Units – Where a person lives/dwells.
Incompatible Land Uses - The location of a more-intensive land uses adjacent to less-intensive land uses.
Impact - The consequences of a course of action; the effect of a goal, guideline, plan, or decision.
Impact Fees - A fee, levied by local government on new development, so that the new development pays a proportionate share of the cost of the facilities needed to service that development.
Implementation Programs - Actions, procedures, or techniques that carry out the Comprehensive Plan policy through implementing a standard. Each policy is linked to a specific action-oriented implementing program.
Infill Development - See Odd-Lot Development.
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Infrastructure - Facilities and services needed to sustain industry, commercial and residential activities (e.g. water and sewer lines, streets, roads, fire stations, parks, etc.).
Land Development Regulations - Generally, all ordinances and other tools (policies) used by the City/county to manage land use.
Land Trust - They are nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is the preservation of undeveloped open land for conservation value to the community. Land trusts are concerned with all kinds of open space land, or they focus on specific resources, such as farmland, prairie, mountain ridges, watersheds, river corridors, lakes, parks, or community gardens. Land trusts can be rural, suburban, or urban, depending upon the geography they serve.
Land Use - A description of how land is occupied or utilized.
Land Use Map – A map showing the existing and proposed location extent and intensity of development of land to be used in the future for varying types of residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, recreational, educational and other public and private purposes or combination of purposes.
Livability - Those aspects of the community, perceived by residents, which make community a nice place to live.
Long Range - Refers to a time span of more than five years.
Maintain - Support, keep, or continue in an existing state or condition without decline.
Manufactured Home - A double wide structure with a Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) label certifying that it was constructed in accordance with the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974.
Master Plan - A comprehensive long-range plan intended to guide the growth and development of a community or region and one that includes analysis, recommendations and proposals for the community’s population, economy, housing, transportation, community facilities and land use.
Master Planned Community – A planned balanced, self-contained communities which includes a mixture of
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residential, commercial, retail, office and civic development and services.
Mixed Use – Properties on which various uses, such as office, commercial, institutional and residential, are combined in a single building or on a single site in an integrated development project with significant functional interrelationships and a coherent physical design. A “single site” may include contiguous properties.
Mobile Home - A single wide structure which is constructed for movement on the public highways that has sleeping, cooking, and plumbing facilities, intended for human occupancy, which was constructed between January 1, 1962 and June 15, 1976.
Multi-Use Building - A building containing two or more distinct uses.
Natural Hazard - A natural characteristic of the land or combination of characteristics which, when developed without proper safeguards, could endanger the public health, safety, or general welfare.
Neighborhood - A local area whose residents are generally conscious of its existence as an entity. In planning literature, a “neighborhood unit” is a planned residential area organized on the principle that elementary schools, parks, playgrounds, churches and shopping are within walking distance of each residence. Heavy traffic is routed around the neighborhood, not through it.
Neighborhood Parks - A neighborhood park is medium sized, containing facilities primarily of interest to the immediate neighborhood. Facilities for a variety of activities should be provided. They should be approximately 2-acres per 1,000 residents.
Objective - The objective statement defines the meaning of the goal; describes how to accomplish the goal, and suggests a method of accomplishing it. It advances a specific purpose, aim, ambition or element of a goal. It can describe the end state of the goal, its purpose, or a course of action necessary to achieve the goal.
Odd- Lot Development - The development of new housing or other buildings on scattered vacant sites in a built up area.
Off -Street Parking - A temporary storage area for motor vehicles, that is directly accessible to an access aisle
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and which is not located on a dedicated street right-of-way.
On-Street Parking - A temporary storage area for motor vehicles, which is located on a dedicated street right- of-way.
Open Space (Usable) – Any open land that is predominantly lacking in structural development. Open space includes natural areas, wetlands and open water, wildlife habitats, areas of managed production of resources such as farmlands and grazing areas, open areas requiring special management or regulation to protect public health and safety, and outdoor recreational areas. The term “open space”.
Pedestrian Walkway (Sidewalk) - A secured path for walking.
Planning Period - The period of time between 2005 and the year 2025 pertaining to the comprehensive plan.
Planned Unit Development (PUD) – A project of a single owner or a group of owners acting jointly, involving a related group of residences, businesses, or industries and associated uses. Planned as a single entity, the project is subject to development and regulations as one (1) land-use unit rather than as an aggregation of individual buildings located on separate lots. The planned unit development includes usable, functional open space for the mutual benefit of the entire tract; and is designed to provide variety and diversity through the variation of normal zoning and subdivision standards so that maximum long-range benefits can be gained, and the unique features of the development or site preserved and enhanced while still being in harmony with the surrounding neighborhood. Approval of a planned unit development does not eliminate the requirements of subdividing and recording a plat.
Policy - A decision-making guideline for actions to be taken in achieving goals. The policy is the official position of the City related to a given land use issue. Policies guide actions in recurring situations.
Public Land - Land owned by local, state, or federal government, used for purposes which benefit pubic health, safety, general welfare and other needs of society.
Public Participation -The active and meaningful involvement of the public in the development of the comprehensive plan.
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Public Facility and Utilities - Refers to key facilities, types and levels of the following: fire protection, police protection, schools, libraries, sanitary facilities, storm drainage facilities, government administrative services, energy and other services deemed necessary by the community for the enjoyment of urban life.
Quality of Life - Those aspects of the economic, social and physical environment that make a community a desirable place in which to live or do business. Quality of life factors include those such as climate and natural features, access to schools, housing, employment opportunities, medical facilities, cultural and recreational amenities, and public services.
Residential Area - A given area of the community in which the predominant character is residential. Uses, which support residential activity such as parks, churches, schools, fire stations, and utility substations, may also be permitted. In certain instances, existing lots of record and development patterns may exceed comprehensive plan densities.
Review - An inspection or examination for the purpose of evaluation and the rendering of an opinion or decision. Review by the City may involve public hearings, formal approval or denial of development proposals, etc., as provided for in City ordinances.
Ridgeline Development - Ridgeline development means a development on the crest of a hill that has the potential to create a silhouette or other substantially adverse impact when viewed from a common public viewing area.
Right-of-Way (ROW) - The lines that form the boundaries of a right-of-way.
Rural Character - The acknowledgment of the role of agriculture and the responsibility of those who use the land for that purpose. Rural areas include the mixture of agricultural uses, green fields, open space, range land, forest, high desert and other rural land characteristics with minimum residential development, unless it’s associated with agricultural land use. County land use ordinances, such as, subdivision, planned unit developments and planned communities, may not threaten rural character; however, ordinances should take in account these attributes. To minimize the impacts to rural character, buffer zones, open space or better landscaping guidelines should be considered.
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Rural Lands - All lands, which are not within an urban growth area and are not designated as natural resource lands having long-term commercial significance for production of agricultural products, timber, or the extraction of minerals.
Scenic Byway Program - Roadways that provide an enjoyable and relaxing experience or that offer cultural or historical enrichment to travelers are legislatively designated as part of a Scenic Byway System. Scenic byways are typically secondary roads having significant cultural, historic, scenic, geological, or natural features. They often include vistas, rest areas, and interpretive sites in harmony with the scenic characteristics of the road. The Federal- Aid Highway Program includes limited funding for such statewide systems.
Sense of Place – The characteristics of an area that makes it readily recognizable as being unique and different from its surroundings and having a special character and familiarity.
Sprawl - The process in which the spread of development across the landscape far outpaces population growth. The landscape sprawl creates has four dimensions: 1) a population that is widely dispersed in low-density development; 2) rigidly separated homes, shops, and workplaces; 3) a network of roads marked by huge blocks and poor access; and 4) a lack of well-defined, thriving activity centers, such as downtowns and town centers. Most of the other features usually associated with sprawl-the lack of transportation choices, relative uniformity of housing options, or the difficulty of walking-are a result of these conditions.
Street, Alley – a minor or secondary way which is used primarily for vehicular service access to the back of properties otherwise abutting on a street.
Street, Arterial - A street, which functions primarily to move large volumes of traffic and secondarily to provide access to abutting property. It is usually a continuous thoroughfare which connects major traffic generators. Curb cut, driveway and other regulations control access to adjacent properties.
Street, Collector - A street, which functions primarily to move traffic from local streets to the arterial street system. It secondarily supplies abutting properties with the same degree of service as a local street.
Street, Local - A street, which is intended solely for access to adjacent properties within local areas. G-11
Strip Commercial and Industrial - A development pattern characterized by lots in a continuous manner fronting on streets and resulting in numerous access points to the street.
Subdivision - The division of a lot, tract or parcel of land into two or more lots, tracts, parcels or other divisions of land for sale, development or lease.
Tax Increment - Additional tax revenues that result from increases in property values due to new development within a redevelopment area.
Telecommuting - An arrangement in which a worker is at home or in a location other than the primary place of work, and communicates with the workplace and conducts work via wireless or telephone lines, using modems, fax machines, or other electronic devices in conjunction with computers.
Transfer Development of Rights Program - The removal of the right to develop or build, expressed in dwelling units per acre, from land in one zoning district to land in another district where such transfer is permitted.
Comment: Transfer of development rights, or transfer of development credits, is a relatively new land development control tool used to preserve open space and farmland. Presently, the most common use of this method has been for historic preservation in urban areas.
Transit-Oriented Development – The concentration of development at nodes along public transit corridors, either light rail or bus routes.
Transitional Use – A permitted use or structure of an intermediate intensity of activity or scale and located between a more-intensive or less-intensive use.
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Trip Capture – A traffic percentage reduction that can be applies to the trip generation estimates for individual land uses to account for trips internal to the site. These internal trips are not made on the major street system but are made by either walking or by vehicles using internal roadways.
Urban – is all population and territory within the boundaries of urbanized areas and the urban portion of places outside of the urbanized area that have a decennial census population of 2,500 or more. (U.S Census Bureau)
Urban Area – A highly developed area that includes, or is appurtenant to, a central City or place and contains a variety of industrial, commercial, residential and cultural uses.
Urban Land - Land that is developed at urban densities or that has urban services.
Urban Service Boundary - That area that can be served economically and efficiently by City utilities.
Urbanization - Process of converting land from rural to urban.
Walkable – a distance of one-quarter (1/4) mile or within a five (5) to ten (10) minute walk.
Walkway – A) A right-of-way dedicated to public use that is not within a street right-of-way, to facilitate pedestrian access though a subdivision block by means of a hard surface path.
B) Any portion of a parking area restricted to the exclusive use of pedestrian travel.
Wireless Telecommunications Equipment – any equipment used to provide wireless telecommunication service, but which is not affixed to or contained within a wireless telecommunication facility, but is instead affixed to or mounted on an existing building or structure that is used for some other purpose. Wireless telecommunication equipment also includes a ground mounted base station used as an accessory structure that is connected to an antenna mounted on or affixed to an existing building.
Wireless Telecommunication Facility - any freestanding facility, building, pole, tower or structure used to provide only wireless telecommunication services, and which consists of, without limitation, antennae, equipment and storage and other accessory structures used to provide wireless telecommunication services. G-13
Wetlands - areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or ground water at a frequency and 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. Wetlands do not include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland sites, including, but not limited to, irrigation and drainage ditches, grass-lined swales, canals, detention facilities, wastewater treatment facilities, farm ponds, and landscape amenities. However, wetlands may include those artificial wetlands intentionally created from non-wetland areas created to mitigate conversion of wetlands, if permitted by the county or the City.
Zero-Lot Line – A detached single family unit distinguished by the location of one exterior wall on a side property line.
Zone - The smallest geographically designated area for analysis of land use activity. An area or region set apart from its surroundings by some characteristic.
Zoning Map - The maps, which are a part of the zoning ordinance, delineate the boundaries of zone districts.
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