Executive Summary of Joint
Statement
regarding Housing, Development and the Environment
Representing a collaborative effort of
Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group
Sonoma County Conservation Action
North Bay Greenbelt Alliance
Sierra Club Redwood Chapter
This agreement is presented in response to three urgent
problems facing Sonoma County: (1) The growing shortage of
available housing for low and very low income residents and
residents with special needs; (2) Continued pressure to
convert agricultural and natural resource lands for
development, and (3)Increased demand on the natural systems
of the region.
We agree to work together in support of the objectives
listed below. Although this agreement defines a shared
strategy, it does not preclude our individual organizations
from advocating policies or projects that are consistent
with each organization's unique objectives.
Goals:
- Steer public and private investment toward existing
developed areas.
- Provide for increased economic and housing
opportunities and social justice.
- Conserve Sonoma County's valuable agricultural and
natural lands, and minimize the environmental impacts of
new development.
Summary of Principles:
1. Revitalize and sustain existing communities
in Sonoma County by targeting public and private
investment toward existing communities and opposing
policies that facilitate sprawl.
2. Provide a clear edge between urban and non-urban
land uses throughout Sonoma County.
3. Create livable communities throughout Sonoma
County.
4. Make housing more available and affordable to
families and individuals of average, low and very low
income.
5. Ensure the long-term viability of the County's
agricultural economy and agriculture related
industry.
6. Promote economic prosperity based on reinvestment
and revitalization.
7. Protect environmental quality, natural resources
and human health by preserving ecological communities,
conserving natural resources, and protecting the air,
land, and water from pollution and degradation.
8. Reform the state/local land use planning and
finance systems to encourage better planning and land use
decisions.
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