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HomeMy WebLinkAboutEnfield-Comp-Plan-Sections-Draft-For-MeetingMARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan March 2017 TOWN ​Of ​ ​ENFIELD, NY COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Sections Only Unedited, unformatted Sections Only 1 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan INTRODUCTION A comprehensive plan serves the community by giving residents a voice in the long-range community planning and decision-making process, recognizing the needs of current and future generations. As a working document, the Comprehensive Plan enables the Town to apply for county, state, and federal funding to achieve community-defined goals and objectives. It also facilitates cooperation between Town and other governmental agencies in the planning and implementation of capital projects. This comprehensive plan is the product of The Town of Enfield Town Board, Planning Board, and Enfield residents, who came together in a community effort to define the needs and desires of the Town of Enfield. All Enfield residents were invited to participate in this process. The Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan is to be used by all members of the community, as well as any other person or organization interested in the future of the Town. The many citizens and officials who have prepared the Plan hope it is a useful, easy-to-read document for all who use it. Working Groups were organized for each area of interest. Building on The Town of Enfield Comprehensive Plan 2001, the following topics have been determined by the participants: ●Historic preservation ●Municipal Services ●Agriculture ●Land Use ●Environmental and natural resources ●Community facilities and programs ●Built Environment: Public utilities, Infrastructure, Transportation ●Housing ●Economic development) The ​Survey of Residents​ was created for all Town of Enfield residents asking for their opinions on a variety of topics to inform this update of the Comprehensive Plan and gather fundamental demographic information. This survey was distributed to approximately 950 households as an insert to the community newsletter. All members of each household were invited to complete the survey. The survey was made available for completion online. 182 surveys were returned. The survey data informed many areas of the Comprehensive Plan. A draft Plan was developed in 2013 for Town Board comment. In 2014, a Comprehensive Plan committee was developed to build on that document and bring a full plan to completion. This Plan is the product of the entire process. The Enfield community treasures the rural qualities of the Town, including its historic buildings, beautiful natural areas, agricultural foundation, and peaceful way of life. Through this Plan, it is 2 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan our hope to maintain our best features and enhance and improve those areas where these features are lacking. How To Read This Document Vision Statement:​ In this Plan, each section will begin with a Vision Statement. Each Vision Statement will express what we hope the conditions in the Town of Enfield will be in the future after following the Goals and Actions set forth in this plan. The current conditions are described in each Introduction. Each section will conclude with a set of Goals and Actions recommended to achieve the Vision Statements. Goals and Actions are described as follows: Goal:​ A general end towards which the Town will direct effort. Action:​ A program, activity, or strategy carried out in response to an adopted policy to achieve a specific goal or objective. Comments: ​All comments quoted were taken from resident comments offered in the Comprehensive Plan Survey. (COMMENTS ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THIS DRAFT) The Enfield Comprehensive Plan is designed to serve as a road map to the future for our Town. It was created with a common vision in mind. A vision is not a binding goal, and may not be achievable in the lifetime of those who have participated in drafting this Comprehensive Plan, or even the next generation. However, the long-term thinking embodied in this plan is a hopeful look at how Enfield can grow into the future while maintaining all of the characteristics the Community treasures. The Comprehensive Plan may be implemented through the actions of the Enfield Town Board, Planning Board, and other boards and councils, as well as community members. Implementation may occur through adoption and revision of ordinances and regulations, annual budgeting and capital improvement, and empowerment of community groups. While it is important to work toward the vision in this Plan, it is intended to be a living document and may grow and change as local conditions change. This Plan may, at times, be amended as circumstances change. Amendments are subject to Public Hearings and assessments of impacts of changes. In addition, it is recommended that periodic evaluation of the Plan be conducted involving the Enfield Town and Planning boards, as well as the greater community. Through continued reference and evaluation, the vision set forth here may be realized for the betterment of our future as a community. 3 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan C​ommunity ​V​ision ​S​tatement The Enfield Comprehensive Plan is a community effort to retain the unique qualities of the Town of Enfield, plan for its future growth and improvement, and manage change. The Town of Enfield preserves its open rural environment and recreational assets, as well as the historical character of its architectural structures, grange hall, main thoroughfares, and buildings on outlying roads. The quality of Enfield’s water supply and natural resources are protected for sustainable growth in a wholesome, small-town atmosphere. Responsible development oversight in our township has preserved the rural character of our town. We preserve the welcoming, socially diverse nature of our community, and strive to strengthen ties among community groups. Residents collaborate and cooperate to improve health, safety, and access to care. Safe, affordable housing stock, including housing for seniors is abundant. Quality of life of our youth through a balance of community group programs and social and economic development is a priority. 4 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Town of Enfield Strengths and Weaknesses This table should be in landscape Strengths & Opportunities Weaknesses or Threats Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats ●Quality of life ●Small town atmosphere ●Ban on gas activities ●New home growth ●Natural features and recreational areas ●Oldest existing Grange ●Strong community activism ●Revitalized spirit of new ideas for maintaining our way of life ●Local Fire Department ●Our own school ●Many small businesses ●Great farmland ●Strong appreciation for Agriculture ●Compatible renewable development potential ●Tourism ●Capitalization of small-town atmosphere for new resident attraction ●Increased interest in Agriculture movement in our Ag friendly environment ●Utilization of Upper Treman Park ●Develop more community recreation areas for sports/play ●Define proper town center and build focus of future enhancement and development in that area ●Offer affordable or senior housing opportunities ●Support a community center that will engage residents in regular activities, learning, community development ●Capitalize on town history ●Provide signage drawing visitors to a well defined town center ●Poverty Level ●Disheveled properties and rental areas, abandoned buildings ●Dangerous roads ●No Road Use Agreement ●Limited housing opportunities ●No public water/sewer for business and housing development ●Aging low income population unable to maintain homes ●Viability of agriculture in our large Agricultural District ●Spread out residents make community connection difficult ●Transportation ●Junk problem ●Treman swimming area is at the other end of the park outside of our township ●Poor municipal buildings and properties ●Environmental hazards from Industrial farming ●Dangerous traffic ●Low income rates ●Low local job opportunities ●Not many planning projections ●Dangerous properties ●Crime ●Decline in agricultural economic viability ●Pollution ●Heavy Industrial Development 5 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Heritage and Historic Preservation Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement Awareness and education about Enfield’s history, resources, and preservation are an important part of community life. Residents are encouraged to share their own personal and family history as it relates to community. ​Historic recognition and preservation help us to understand and remember where we have been and how to plan our future. Heritage and Historic preservation may include buildings, memorials, and landscapes along with the cultural practices, oral traditions and knowledge of the community. Towns consist of neighborhoods, which have historical importance not only because of the buildings, but also because of the use of the buildings there to create a community. Enfield Center and Enfield Falls Communities fall within this historical importance. Many buildings, now private homes, within the town were once used as stores, churches, and schools. This helps preserve the building and makes it important to share and remind the residents of the original usage of these buildings and share the history of residents who were involved. It is also important to recognize the heritage of the farms within the community. Recognition not only for the farm structures but for the way of family farm life. Cemeteries are an important feature of Enfield’s diverse heritage. In addition to marking the final resting places of our ancestors, they yield information about our state's social, religious, artistic, and cultural heritage. They also contain genealogical information that cannot be found anywhere else. The only buildings in Enfield with the formal designation “historic” are those in Upper Robert H. Treman State Park, which are administered by the federal government’s National Register of Historic Places and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historical Preservation. There are no historic preservation ordinances currently administered by the Town of Enfield. Historic Preservation Goals and Actions Goal 1​: Support the continued yearly appointment of the Town Historian and Deputy Town Historian. 6 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Goal 2​: Support the Town Clerk who serves as Records Management Officer for all town records. Action 1:​ Work cooperatively with the Records Management Officer, to protect Town government records and Town Historian's Collection utilizing the services of the Enfield Town Historian, Deputy Town Historian, and the programs and grants available through the New York State Archives program. Goal 3​: Encourage efforts that promote the history, culture, and heritage of the town. Action 1​: Increase public education about and appreciation for local history by utilizing the knowledge of the Town Historian and Deputy Town Historian along with various Historical organizations within the Tompkins County area. Action 2:​ Work to become aware of community groups within the town to help protect their heritage specifically the Enfield Valley Grange, Enfield Community Council, and Friends of Robert H. Treman State Park. Action 3​: Work specifically and cooperatively with the Tompkins County Municipal Historians group and Tompkins County Historian​. Goal 4:​ Identify and encourage preservation of significant historical and cultural lands, sites, and structures that contribute to community identity and character. Action 1:​ Preserve the Town’s character and the history of the area by taking advantage of county and state programs. Action 2:​ Collect and preserve the “historical” heritage of homes and farms, including family history of property owners. This specifically includes the buildings now privately owned and once used as stores, churches and schools. Action 3: ​Support and encourage the preservation and maintenance of cemeteries within the town. Action 4:​ Work cooperatively with historical organizations such as Historic Ithaca; NY State Historic Preservation Office; Tompkins County History Center; and Ulysses and Newfield Historical Societies, to identify, record, and protect community features with historical or archaeological significance. Action 5: ​Encourage interested residents to partner with the current Town Historian and Deputy Town Historian, to learn the documentation and preservation process to encourage continued preservation for future generations. 7 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Municipal Services Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement The Town of Enfield strives to maintain a positive civic image. The town cooperates with neighboring communities to provide efficient and prudent services to the residents of Enfield. The governing board appoints and assigns responsibilities to designated boards and committees, as well as collaborates with local residents, businesses and elected or appointed individuals to address the issues facing the residents of Enfield in a timely fashion. The protection of the health, safety, welfare and property of town residents serves as a guidepost for all development decisions that may impact the rural landscape and quality of life they enjoy. The municipality functions in a transparent, inclusive, and participatory manner to build community among its residents. Enfield provides services to residents as cost effectively as possible, without sacrificing quality. Enfield seeks opportunities to invest in the future security of the municipality and its residents by exploring innovative methods for providing excellent service efficiently and economically. New York State encourages municipalities to identify the goals, objectives, principles, guidelines, policies, standards, devices and instruments for their immediate and long-range protection, enhancement, growth and development(General City Law section 28a(3)(a); Town Law section 272-a(2)(a). Local government plays an integral part in the success of our municipality, as it is charged with carrying out the work of the electorate and all residents who are impacted by the efficiency of its operation. Providing services that benefit all residents in a rural community, while keeping the tax burden manageable for the population, is challenging for municipalities. The Enfield community has little in the way of infrastructure, including sewer and water systems, that would make business or housing development more attractive, and thus depends upon its rural residential and agricultural residents to bear the bulk of the expense needed to finance the operations of the Town. 8 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Results of the 2013 Residents Survey ​(REFERENCE)​ have indicated that residents feel Town government in Enfield has become more responsive in recent years, welcoming public input and assistance. The Enfield community has benefited from public participation, open process, and working together to achieve long-term goals. A shared vision, projected goals, and community participation provide a path forward for a municipality that has long struggled to grow and provide quality services, while building community. However, the town still struggles to capture resident involvement in the municipal process. Connecting and communicating with residents has proved challenging with little telecommunications infrastructure or physical spaces where community members can gather socially. The Town has had a website for several years, maintained by the Deputy Clerk. In 2013, a new website was built that provides more tools for communicating with residents and easy access to many resources. These resources include tax bill payment services, decades of archived minutes, current minutes, town laws, updates for residents, and much more. Among comparable municipalities in New York State, Enfield provides impressive electronic services. The Town Clerk also offers digital sound copies of Town Board meetings upon request. Municipal facilities in Enfield, with exception of the new Highway Department, completed in 2011, are aging and inefficient, adding to the cost of operations through high energy bills, maintenance, and repair. Development of a building to house all of the town’s municipal services would provide savings to residents and ease confusion regarding location of each service such as town court, town clerk, and code enforcement offices. This is a high priority in order to provide cost effective services to residents. Efficient governing is a challenge due to the short terms of service in several positions. Town Supervisor, Highway Superintendent, and Town Clerk serve for terms of two years. Each position has a steep learning curve, even when transition between office holders is amicable. Much time, often more than a year, is spent learning the law and the obligations of each job. The Town of Enfield municipality is organized as follows: Enfield Town Council The Enfield Town Council (Town Board) consists of five elected officials, including four Councilpersons and one Supervisor. The Town Board serves as the executive, administrative and legislative body of the town. The Town Board has shown an interest in transparency as well as community input and assistance. The tone of public meetings is one of respect and professionalism. A commitment to a common vision for the growth and benefit of the Town of Enfield has guided recent boards and 9 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan created an environment where many projects directed at providing quality services responsibly to residents is the priority. These include: ●Increasing public transportation opportunities by cooperating with TCAT to extend the route into the Town center and constructing a new Park n Ride lot ●Providing Clean Up days to manage waste and collection of debris and junk ●Encouraging programs, such as Solar Tompkins, Heat Smart, and Button Up Enfield for reducing consumption and increasing the use of renewable energy ●Providing efficient municipal facilities and maintaining them responsibly ●Providing quality infrastructure maintenance and development for a growing community Enfield’s growth in housing, as well as renewable energy development (Wind and Solar), building needs, and equipment replacement for road maintenance have dominated the work of Enfield’s municipal government in recent years. All of these expenses and more present challenges to keeping tax rates low while providing expected services. Efforts to consolidate services with neighboring municipalities as well as Tompkins County have become increasingly necessary, as mandated programs and other costs increase and funding from New York State decreases. Enfield Town Clerk Services Enfield Town Clerk is an elected official who serves as manager of all town records and serves as recording secretary of all Town Board meetings and Public Hearings. The Clerk provides licensing for marriage, hunting, dogs, fishing, and handicap parking. The Town Clerk also serves as the town Tax Collector. The Town of Enfield employs a Deputy Clerk who assists the Town Clerk. The Deputy provides additional recording of minutes for the Planning Board and other groups as needed. Maintenance of the Town website is currently done by the Deputy Clerk. The Clerk’s duties are affected by several other positions in Town Government. Multiple facilities for each service creates challenges and confusion for the community and Clerk alike. Outdated and inefficient spaces do not project a professional or welcoming image to the public. Attempts have been made to maintain the current spaces, however maintaining or renovating such old buildings continues to be an inefficient use of Town funds. Assessment The Tompkins County Assessment Office determines the Fair Market Value of all taxable property within the Town of Enfield so that school, county, town, and special district taxes can be apportioned among the property owners. The office is responsible for the production and 10 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan maintenance of records of property ownership, description, mailing addresses, exemptions, and assessment. Tompkins County handles all assessment grievances. The Enfield Town Clerk’s Office provides public access to all property via a link on the town website. Enfield Code Enforcement The Enfield Office of Code Enforcement provides guidance, inspection, and permitting for land use such as building, signage, junkyards, mobile home parks, communication towers, wind energy facilities, parcel sub-division, solar installations and facilities, and more. The Enfield Code Enforcement office enforces the New York State Building and Fire Code as adopted by the Enfield Town Board. Code enforcement is enhanced through the Town of Enfield ​Site Plan Review Law, Wind Facilities Law, Subdivision Regulations, and Prohibition of Gas and Petroleum Exploration, Extraction, Storage, Disposal, and Production Waste Activities Law, and Solar installation permitting. Communicating information and educating the public regarding building and property maintenance codes remains a challenge for the Code Enforcement office. Maintenance and repair may be financially out of range for many residents, making enforcement difficult. However, consolidation of Code Enforcement positions and expansion of office hours has improved the ability of the Code Enforcement Officer to engage with the community for fire and safety inspections. Town Clean-Up Days, a service administered by the Town Board, has become a popular and much needed offering that provides residents a way to get rid of collected junk. This compliments Code Enforcement efforts to keep properties safely maintained and free of unsightly material, debris, and collected junk. Wind and solar activity in the Town of Enfield is on the rise in recent years, with 23 residential solar installations and one solar farm in 2015, and another farm in development for early 2016. The increase in renewable energy development requires more training and work for the Code Enforcement office due to permitting and inspection needs. Continued growth in renewable energy development may necessitate increased hours for this office. Enfield Highway Department The Enfield Highway Department maintains Enfield town roads and some State and County roads as agreed upon by each entity. Maintenance includes snow and brush removal, road drainage, repair and construction of town roadways and bridges. 11 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan A responsible inventory replacement plan has not been in place due to financial restraints, thus putting the town in the position of having an aging and heavily burdened stock of machinery to complete the tasks of road and bridge maintenance. Coupled with multiple recent years of flooding that caused severe road damage, the Highway Department has struggled to keep pace with the demand of the Town’s requirements. In 2015 large equipment purchases were approved and completed, providing the Town with much needed equipment for its heaviest maintenance activity. Continued equipment replacement going forward will be necessary to provide continued quality road maintenance service for safety and financial benefit to residents. A small staff and an elected Superintendent, this group coordinates their many skills to complete much of the necessary equipment maintenance and repair, saving residents money and providing timely service. The Highway Department building that was completed in 2011 has presented many challenges due to poor construction. Financial constraints have limited the Town’s ability to take corrective action. Municipal Cooperation contributes significantly to the Highway Department’s ability to complete many important tasks in the town. Continued efforts to find ways to cooperate are necessary to provide safe and efficient Highway services to the residents of the Town of Enfield. Enfield Planning Board The Planning Board consists of five individuals appointed by the Enfield Town Council to serve five year terms (with 2 alternates). The regulatory power specifically delegated to the Planning Board is the power to review subdivisions and site plans meeting thresholds in the Site Plan Review Law. The Planning Board also has advisory power and offers advice on land use regulations, studies, maps and reports, budgets, Comprehensive Plans, area variance requests, and proposed actions by other boards. The Planning Board meets once monthly with annual rotating volunteer membership appointed by the Town Board. As development in Enfield grows, the responsibilities of the Planning Board will increase. Local Law # 2 of 2012, Site Plan Review Law, has offered the Planning Board a guide to advise development within the boundaries of the town, and residents a blueprint for standards in building and development. This law is enforced by the town Code Enforcement Officer. Town of Enfield Subdivision Regulations provides direction with regard to development as well. Public Safety 12 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Public safety in the Town of Enfield is provided by the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Department, New York State Police, and New York State Park Police. Fire Protection is provided by the Enfield Volunteer Fire Department through the Enfield Fire District. Services include, but are not limited to, response to fires and other emergencies as well as natural disasters. Once the Fire Department provides an annual budget to the Town, a tax levy is administered to cover the expenses of the district. The Town of Enfield Volunteer Fire Department is like many others in the State, in that their work-force is aging and there is decreasing volunteer support. ​STILL NO feedback FROM FIRE DEPT. Lack of communication and past disagreements have become impediments to community support. Membership and inter-community relations could be improved through better communication and oversight of town responsibilities with regard to the Fire Protection District and Fire Department therein. Enfield Town Court The Enfield Town Court consists of one Justice who ​hears both civil and criminal matters. Civil proceedings may not exceed $3000 and criminal proceedings include the prosecution of misdemeanors and violations that are committed within the town's geographic boundaries. ​The Town of Enfield currently has one justice position that handles all local court needs. Currently, the challenges presented to the Enfield Town Court include: 1.Inadequate office space 2.Security concerns with office location and public access to the building 3.Lack of conference space or appropriate space for jury trials and deliberation 4.Concerns about the ability to meet the continually changing court standards required by New York State Many of these challenges could be met with a new facility where all town services are provided efficiently and effectively with adequate space and security concerns addressed. The Enfield Town Court, like all town offices, are regularly faced with new, unfunded mandates that make providing services more and more challenging by the year. Community Facilities and Programs The Town of Enfield supports a number of long-standing community events and diverse programs for its residents. These include summer camps for children, a Fall Harvest Festival, youth recreational programs, a food pantry, a community council, public hearings and 13 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan fundraisers. At present there is no central location or facility that accommodates existing programs or future needs. Numerous constraints on currently used buildings prevent their expansion or renovation for community use. Municipal Services Goals and Actions: The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above. Goal 1:​ Decrease risk to appropriate management of Town resources. Action 1​: Explore a proposal for an increase in length of term for Highway Superintendent, Town Supervisor, Town Clerk. Action 2:​ Audit Town finances every five years as turnover increases risk of malfeasance. Action 3​: Update Town policies bi-annually to reflect new State laws and changes in municipal practice; including Site Plan Review, Road Use Agreement, Personnel Handbook, and others as they become necessary. Action 4:​ Promote and enhance transparency and documentation of Town business. Action 5:​ Increase training opportunities for governing board members. Action 6:​ Consider increasing the frequency of official Town Board meetings to accommodate the amount of new and existing business the board is responsible for. Goal 2:​ Increase Public Involvement in the Democratic Process Action 1:​ Communicate meeting times and topics of discussion in a more widespread and timely manner. Action 2:​ Provide documentation of board and committee work (minutes) in a timely manner. Action 3:​ Encourage community involvement through volunteer opportunities on long and short-term projects. Action 4:​ Provide efficient systems for residents to respond to safety and environmental concerns. Goal 3:​ Reduce mandated program costs for more control over the budget process. 14 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Action 1:​ Continue to seek opportunities for consolidation of services with other municipalities to decrease municipal liabilities. Action 2:​ Bolster relationships with other municipalities to communicate ideas for reduction of mandates at the State level. Goal 4:​ Encourage and responsibly manage renewable energy development in the Town of Enfield in a way that is compatible with our rural way of life. Action 1:​ Research development of renewable energy regulations that speak to the concerns residents have expressed with all forms of energy development. Action 2:​ Determine need for management of renewable development planning within the Town. Action 3:​ Insure that regulations are met and appropriate compensation to the Town of Enfield is negotiated for all development. Action 4:​ Update and improve laws and regulations as new information becomes available to protect the health, safety, welfare, and property of town residents. Goal 5:​ Encourage community organizations for increased resident participation in community events and concerns. Action 1:​ Increase the availability of programs for education, recreation, entertainment, literacy, life skills. ​Action 2:​ Encourage the development of a multi-use structure that can function as a meeting space, youth center, senior program space, recreational center, and community room. Action 3:​ Foster community feeling and connection. Action 4:​ Expand existing programs to include more residents and diverse offerings. Action 5 :​ Prepare a handbook of information for residents to include neighborhood and civic organizations and other topics such as annual events and services, emergency preparedness, agricultural and environmental issues, beautification, and communicating with municipal services. Action 6 :​ Encourage volunteering, including youth and seniors, to assist in providing community services. Recognize volunteers to show appreciation. 15 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Goal 6:​ Improve access to outdoor community areas Action1:​ Establish a town park to accommodate outdoor activities, playground space, community gardens, and a sports field. Action 2:​ Explore opportunities for bike paths to provide safe travel to community facilities. Action 3:​ Upgrade existing facilities to comply with building codes and accessibility standards. Goal 7:​ Commit to maintaining, restoring, or building municipal facilities to provide efficient and effective services to all residents of Enfield. Action 1:​ Pursue the development of a new municipal administrative facility that is accessible, energy efficient, and viable for future generations as the Town of Enfield grows. Action 2:​ Find suitable uses for unused municipal properties and restore or maintain them for community purpose. Action 3: ​Pursue solutions to Highway facility problems. Agriculture Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement The Town of Enfield is a welcoming community where Agriculture can thrive. Through sustainable farming practices, stewards of the land preserve the soil for future generations in order to continue as an Agricultural center and maintain the town’s rural character. The Town of Enfield is a vibrant rural community that encourages traditional agriculture as well as value-added agricultural businesses that support traditional farming operations. The community is informed of the advantages and challenges of living in a rural environment. Preserving farmland and creating an inviting environment for new and existing agriculture endeavors is a priority for the town and its residents. Since its founding in 1821, agriculture has been the predominant economic activity within the Town of Enfield. Presently, Enfield agriculture is experiencing a period of resurgence. Many of the established farmers are expanding their operations. Simultaneously, beginning farmers are establishing new farming operations within the Town. 16 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan The scope of agricultural production within the Town covers nursery/landscape, forages, small grains, beans, livestock (equine, bovine, ovine, porcine and camelids), produce, nurseries, silviculture and conservation plants. Conventional, all-natural and organic farming techniques are all utilized within the Town. Currently, over 40% of our land base ​is actively involved in production agriculture with 1 approximately 2,700 acres in agricultural woodlots. These woodlots improve groundwater 2 quality, enhance the scenery, provide a renewable source of biofuel/wood products and provide precious habitat for wildlife. ​THIS NEEDS CONFIRMATION. Eighty six percent (20,487 acres) of Enfield is designated as an Agricultural District by the NYS 3 Department of Agriculture and Markets. There are 9,733 acres receiving Agricultural assessment . ​ (GET 2016 NUMBERS)​ These acres are owned by both farmers and non-farming 4 landowners whose land is leased to economically viable farming entities. Additionally, there are numerous acres that belong to smaller-scale agricultural operations that do not quality for agricultural assessment as they may not meet the minimum economic threshold for program eligibility. A strong agricultural base benefits the town in many ways: ●Farmers provide land stewardship, maintaining the natural beauty of the rural countryside. ●Farmlands established through contour farming, no-till, grain-drill and other conservation cultivation practices provide vegetative buffer zones, hedgerows, wetlands, pasture and grasslands; improving our watershed and reducing stormwater runoff. Town farmers have worked with the County Soil and Water Conservation District to establish Best Management Practices (BMP’s) including replacement and/or installation of approximately four miles of livestock fence as well as buried water lines, frost free hydrants, wells in livestock pastures, pressure tanks, and watering tubs. ●Farmers ease the tax burden of non-farming landowners when their land is leased to viable farming operations This relationship provides eligibility for agricultural assessment for the landowner. ●Farmers keep land viable and available for agricultural use both now and in the future. ●Farmland may reduce a community’s tax burden; the most recent accounting of tax revenue published by NY State Department of Agriculture and Markets revealed that farmers receive $0.23 in services for every tax dollar paid as opposed to residential taxpayers who receive $1.32 in services for every tax dollar paid. ​NEED SOURCE DOCUMENT NAME.​ The 1995 Tompkins County Costs of Community Services Study found that Enfield agricultural and commercial property owners receive $.38 1 Source: Tompkins County Department of Assessment 2013 data 2 Source: Tompkins County Planning Department 3 Source: Diane Ayers, Data Manager, NYS Agricultural Districts Mapping Program, Cornell IRIS 4 Source: Tompkins County Department of Assessment 2013 data 17 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan for every dollar they pay in taxes while residential property owners receive $1.11. 5 (THIS EITHER NEEDS A CURRENT SOURCE OR BE REMOVED) ●Agricultural land may place little financial burden on the town as compared to residential acreage which requires many government-provided services. ●Road frontage along agricultural land does not require multiple driveways, drainage pipes, etc. thus, keeping the labor and material costs of the Highway Department down.​ IS THIS ACCURATE? THERE ARE HEDGEROWS SEPARATING FIELDS IN MANY AREAS. WHILE SOME ROADS ARE PRIMARILY FARMED, A ONE MILE ROAD CAN STILL HAVE MANY AREAS WHERE PIPES RUN FOR TRACTOR ACCESS, WHILE ONLY 1 or 2 FOR RESIDENTIAL ACCESS. (​ASK BUDDY FOR CULVERT INVENTORY DATA) Agricultural Concerns: ●Industrial farming operations contribute to low viability of smaller farming operations. ▪Small farms struggle to compete with the volume of large farm operations. ▪Large farming operations increase land holdings of higher quality soil areas ▪Containment and/or disposal of waste presents a risk to the environment ●Difficulty of maintaining farming operations ▪Working and safety conditions ▪Nuisance issues ▪Weather and climate changes ▪Regulations ▪Unpredictable economic climate ●Impact of farming changes on community ▪Less small farms often equates to less community support and connection ▪Resident farmers face challenges of continuing operations, as industrial sized farming operations dominate the market. ▪Studies show that as land holdings of independent farming operations become acquired by larger farming operations, less local spending and higher crime and poverty rates result​. (Putting Meat on the Table: Industrial Farm Animal Production In America, 2008) ​http://www.ncifap.org/_images/PCIFAPFin.pdf (page 49) 5 1996 Study of Tompkins County Agriculture, Phase 1 18 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Agriculture Goals and Actions Goal 1: Support the Town’s existing agricultural base: Action 1:Partner with the Enfield Grange and other local agricultural organizations to offer educational workshops and speakers on agricultural topics relevant to Town farmers and other residents. Action 2:Encourage the development of value-added agricultural enterprises that complement and build on traditional agricultural operations within the Town. Action 3:Ensure that Enfield is represented on County Advisory Boards such as the EMC (Environmental Management Committee) and WRC (Water Resources Council). Action 4:Appoint a Town Agricultural Advisory Board to provide comment on local proceedings and trends which may impact agriculture. Action 5:Develop a resource whereby the Town can disseminate program information from agricultural agencies to Town farmers. Action 6:Provide annual training opportunities for Town Official(s) in NYS Agricultural District Law to ensure that the Town adheres to NYS Agricultural District Law. Action 7:​Educate residents regarding the New York State Right to Farm Law, in particular as it pertains to Towns in designated NYS Agricultural Districts. Goal 2:Cultivate an Agriculture-Friendly community: Action 1: 1.)Educate the non-farming public about the realities of living in an agricultural community by: ●Upon issuance of new building permits, provide copies of: ●The NYS Agricultural Districts Law ●The NYS Right-to-Farm Law ●Relevant documents such as Cornell Cooperative Extension’s flyer Living in the Country​ (LINK?) ●Encourage Community/Farming relationships through public events 2)Publish in the Town newsletter and on the Town web page seasonal reminders about typical farming activities; how to support them and how to stay safe 3)Apply for NYS grant funding to develop a Town Ag & Farmland Protection Plan 19 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Goal 3: Encourage the consumption of locally produced agricultural goods: Action 1:Facilitate the development of a local produce market or swap Action 2:Explore farm-to-school initiatives that can be implemented in the Enfield Elementary School Goal 4: Foster the use of best management practices for all forms of agriculture Action 1:Encourage agriculturalists to utilize the educational resources available from local universities, Cooperative Extension, government agencies, and agricultural professionals. Goal 5: Establish an Enfield Agricultural Community Action 1:Foster positive interactions among all agriculturalists: 1)Create and encourage social media to build community ▪The existing ​Enfield Agriculture​ Facebook™ page ▪The Town of Enfield Website ▪Email list 2)Encourage membership to the Enfield Grange and other relevant local Agricultural organizations. LAND USE Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement The Town of Enfield is a community residents are proud to call “home”. We are a regional leader in environmental preservation, agriculture, and safe and compatible renewable energy development. Residential renewable energy installations as well as conservation efforts in Enfield show a conscious effort to protect our environment and resources for future generations. The Town of Enfield offers opportunities for affordable growth and economic development respective of our rural character and our natural beauty, while protecting the property rights of landowners. Enfield continues to provide a safe and beautiful environment to live and do business. Residents actively work to advance common values and goals to preserve our rural landscape for future generations. The town has adequate resources and infrastructure to support our thriving community. 20 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan The Town is committed to maintaining Enfield’s rural character by ensuring that our existing and future development enhance the safety and quality of life of our residents. Enfield residents wish to maintain a balance between the property rights of individual landowners and the goals of the community at large. The Town would like to provide adequate public services, use good Planning principles, and ensure that growth is thoughtfully incorporated into the existing Enfield community. The Land Use section reflects a commitment to all aspects of the Plan, informing us as to how our use of the land in the Town of Enfield will support the goals and actions of each section. The Comprehensive Plan serves as a tool for policymakers, citizens, and developers. This section will serve to inform interested parties of the intentions for development and growth going forward. The Town of Enfield is comprised of 36.9 sq. miles in Tompkins County, New York. The Town also includes the unincorporated hamlet of Enfield Center. This is a very small residential area that holds the Town Hall, Highway Department storage facility, Community Building/Town Court, Grange Hall, Volunteer Fire Department, and existing and former church buildings. In addition to a growing number of single family homes, farms constitute a large segment of the land use in the Town of Enfield. Most of the acreage is part of an Agricultural District. Enfield is also home to several recreational parks and preserves. At this time there are no significant industrial uses. Multiple solar farm operations have been constructed by Renovus Solar in the Town of Enfield, and were operational in 2016. Present land uses and designations in Enfield are depicted in maps and charts included as appendices to this document. Article 16 of the New York State Town Law states that the purpose of a comprehensive plan is to establish a consensus about a community’s future, prepare it for future demographic and economic changes, protect its natural and agricultural resources, and provide direction to the Town and other governmental agencies in the consideration and enactment of future land use policies and regulations. According to the State, enabling statutes and land use regulations must be in accordance with a comprehensive plan. The Town has enacted three significant laws regarding Land Use since the 2001 Comprehensive Plan. Municipalities may review and update existing laws at regular intervals, and develop new ordinances in accordance with current understanding of impacts to health, safety, welfare and property of the residents of the municipality. Local Law #1-2009, “Wind Energy Facilities Local Law”, regulates commercial wind-powered electricity generation facilities as well as the installation of small wind generators for home 21 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan owners. Changes to the Wind Energy Facilities Local Law have been proposed, as the current law was found to be deficient in providing for the safety of residents and the environment through the creation of a Wind Advisory Committee charged with addressing issues related to health, safety, welfare and property of Enfield residents. The purpose of Local Law # 2 of 2012, “Site Plan Review”, is to protect the value of land throughout the Town; to encourage orderly and beneficial development of land; to prevent the pollution of air and water; to assure the adequacy of proper drainage methods; to provide for the preservation of open spaces; to abate and mitigate nuisances; to encourage the preservation of natural features, topography, and resources; and to generally protect the health, safety and public welfare of the residents of the Town. The intent of this Local Law is to promote the conservation, preservation, and development of the Town, while also helping to prevent and mitigate certain unwanted and deleterious impacts that may arise from the unregulated development of land for certain allowed uses. In addition, the passing of Local Law No. 1 of 2013, the “Prohibition Within the Town of Gas And Petroleum Exploration And Extraction Activities, Underground Storage Of Natural Gas, and Disposal Of Natural Gas Or Petroleum Extraction, Exploration, And Production Wastes” was the culmination of a two year effort by residents to show that heavy industry of this type is not compatible with the preservation of Enfield’s rural character. These three laws demonstrate that the residents of the Town of Enfield are invested in the ongoing preservation of the natural resources, land security, rural history, and future of Enfield. The Tompkins County Draft Comprehensive Plan states the following​: “When we think of places we have visited or lived, some stand out as models of natural beauty and human comfort, supported by thriving local economies. These communities do not grow by accident or without public debate and agreed-upon guidelines. Collaborative planning processes and comprehensive plans are the building blocks of such great communities.” One of the goals of the Enfield Comprehensive Plan is to guide the planning of land use that encourages responsible growth and respects the beauty and comfort that residents of Enfield have always enjoyed. According to the Comprehensive Plan Survey, residents most appreciate Enfield’s rural character and open spaces. Any land use planning must reflect the desires of the community to maintain these characteristics and safe-guard the rural way of life enjoyed by those who live here. Agricultural endeavors have been the foundation of economic sustainability for much of Enfield as 20,528​ ​acres are part of Agriculture District #2 in Tompkins County, representing 87% of the 22 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan the Town’s total acreage (23,622). It is important to this community to create a friendly environment for sustaining existing and inviting new agricultural projects to the Town. Responsible agricultural practice has helped significantly in cultivating the rural character residents appreciate. Community members registered concerns about Agricultural practices that would diminish Enfield’s ability to sustain farming as a viable economic endeavor for generations to come. Among those mentioned are large-scale industrial farming practices and CAFOs (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations) that are not compatible with sustainable preservation of land and water resources. ​(Cite survey) Land uses that preserve and protect land and water resources are important to the residents of Enfield and encouraged in the Town. Climate predictions and economic challenges make this community mindful of the future need for more locally sourced food and renewable energy opportunities. The Enfield community has demonstrated a commitment to reducing the use of fossil fuels and exploring renewable energy development that is compatible with the rural way of life enjoyed in the Town of Enfield. More than 20 permits for home-scale solar installations were granted by the end of 2014, and multiple solar farms built by Renovus and operational in 2016.​ (GET 2016 NUMBERS) Black Oak Wind Farm, LLC has proposed a 7-turbine, 11.9 megawatt wind farm on approximately 33 acres on Black Oak Road. ​(THIS INFORMATION HAS CHANGED- GET NEW INFO) ​However, challenges to this development by local residents have brought to light new data that has made deficiencies in the Wind Facilities Law evident. A lack in advanced communication systems in Enfield has historically made the mobilization and education of residents challenging. However, with new communication technologies slowly filling the gaps in Enfield, informing residents and keeping them connected has improved participation and awareness of the issues that impact them. Input from all residents is an important tool to move forward as we grow. Through time, residents have struggled to plan for the future of the Town. This has left the municipality at a disadvantage when new issues arise that have to be explored and decided upon. Having a defined community vision and planning model will aid the Town in resolving disputes, addressing problems, and engaging residents to participate in Town decisions and development. The following Goals and Actions are recommended based on the current conditions in the Town of Enfield as described above. 23 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Land Use Goals and Actions Goal 1:​ Maintain Enfield’s Rural Character Action 1:​ Encourage homesteading and farming Action 2:​ Limit high-density development Action 3:​ Define and preserve the Town Center Action 4:​ Preserve and provide private and public open spaces by protecting environmentally sensitive areas and scenic vistas, and promoting agricultural and forrestal lands. Action 5:​ Clearly articulate and communicate the Town’s Future Land Use goals, development standards and requirements to the development community and the general public. Action 6:​ Scrutinize industrial land uses before approval Action 7:​ Actively support residents in maintaining housing. Goal 2:​ Maintain a balance between property rights of individual landowners and the community at large. Action 1:​ Encourage developers to work with surrounding property owners and tenants to resolve community concerns prior to formalizing development plans. Action 2:​ Provide oversight for the amount of noise, light, and other pollutants produced by land uses to minimize impacts on nearby properties. Action 3:​ Educate residents about property rights. Action 4:​ Provide opportunities for concerns to be expressed without legal actions. Action 5:​ Base changes on community input. Goal 3:​ Provide adequate public services. Action 1:​ Protect the integrity and quality of water resources in the Town. Action 2:​ Support accessibility to communication via cellular/cable/Internet Action 3:​ Develop and enforce a road preservation law to establish limitations of our local town roads in order to protect them. (Exempted could be agricultural operations, school buses, law enforcement, fire-fighting equipment, military vehicles, and municipal vehicles engaged in road work) 24 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Goal 4:​ Use good planning principles. Action 1:​ Continue responsible site design and development practices to minimize environmental impacts within the Town. Residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural development or redevelopment should meet or exceed federal, state, or local regulations to minimize impacts of soil erosion, storm water run-off, and pollution. Action 2:​ Explore programs to encourage energy efficient residential and commercial buildings. Action 3:​ Use detailed Town map and land-use data to make informed decisions relative to the concerns in this Comprehensive Plan. Action 4:​ Ensure growth is thoughtfully incorporated into the existing community Action 5:​ Consider the compatibility of development with surrounding uses. Utilize strategies such as landscaping or other buffering techniques along with modification of site design to minimize impacts and facilitate compatibility. Goal 5:​ Preserve and support the agricultural resources of the town. Action 1:​ Inventory vacant land and parcels to identify potential sites for future local food production and other agricultural community uses. Action 2:​ Promote environmentally and economically sustainable agriculture through which the industry of farming is protected, agricultural soils are conserved, and agriculture is maintained as an economically viable land use for this and future generations in the Town of Enfield. Goal 6:​ Encourage land uses that follow sustainability principles. Action 1:​ Encourage renewable energy that is compatible with the Enfield community’s stated goals and concerns Action 2:​ Encourage energy conservation Action 3:​ Create buffer zones ​to control air, soil, and water quality Action 4:​ Encourage land preservation techniques among the Agricultural community. 25 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Environment and Natural Resources Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement The Town of Enfield meets the needs of today without compromising the needs of future generations. Enfield respects and manages its natural resources in a way that is sustainable for the natural environment and protects our rural nature and natural beauty. Enfield strives for clean energy opportunities and reduction in energy use to preserve and protect our resources. Enfield is well prepared to manage its resources in the event of infrastructure growth, natural disaster, and environmental preservation. Enfield is a rural, primarily agricultural town in the Finger Lakes region of New York State. Natural beauty is a key feature of what makes Enfield an appealing location to live. Abundant clean water resources, protected forests, gorges and waterfalls are cherished resources of the Town and serve as a primary driver of tourism within the Town. Enfield is committed to the preservation of our water, air, land, and other natural resources for sustainable use by many future generations. Hydrological Resources Most of the town lies within the Cayuga Lake watershed and Great Lakes Basin and the Southwestern corner lies within the Cayuta Creek watershed and Susquehanna River Basin. The St. Lawrence Continental Divide crosses through Enfield to create these watersheds. ​(Attach map of watersheds) X miles (CAN BECKY GET THIS FIGURE?)​ of Enfield Creek are designated as protected aquatic life habitat. Designated wetlands make up 56 acres of the town. Enfield is engaging with the USGS to study the aquifer underlying Enfield Creek, which consists of both confined and unconfined sand and gravel aquifers. The rest of the town is made up of till and/or bedrock aquifers. No municipal water system exists in Enfield and all residents obtain their drinking water from private wells or springs. Enfield is the only town in Tompkins County that has not identified 100-year floodplains for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is used to establish flood insurance premiums. Land Resources The landform of the Finger Lakes Region in which Enfield lies is a result of the most recent ice age approximately 200 million years ago. Retreating glaciers carved deep gorges and the Finger Lakes, leaving steep hills and valleys throughout southern Tompkins County. Deposits of 26 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan sedimentary rocks (shale, siltstone, and limestone) make up the bedrock geology of the town. Closer to the surface, deposits of kame, till and till moraine make up the surficial geology. ​[Need to find soil data and add sentence here about soil types] http://websoilsurvey.sc.egov.usda.gov/App/WebSoilSurvey.aspx Ecological Resources (UNAs, NYSPs, bird areas, natural heritage sites, critical environmental areas, finger lakes land trust preserves) Enfield is home to magnificent natural beauty, most prominently, Enfield Creek as it runs through the Robert H. Treman New York State Park, including the well-known Lucifer Falls. There are 9 Unique Natural Areas (UNAs) in the Town, totaling 923 acres. The Finger Lakes Land Trust holds conservation easements on two properties totaling 167 acres. The Stevenson Forest Preserve at 83 acres, and the Lower Nature Preserve, are both open to the public. ​[x]​ acres of Robert H. Treman New York State Park and ​[x] ​acres of the New York State Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area lie within the town, and provide recreational opportunities for residents and tourists. The Bock-Harvey Forest Preserve was once part of the military tracts owned by the Harvey family, who settled in southwestern Enfield in 1807. For over 200 years, descendants of Harveys worked the farmland and preserved the family’s woods. Six generations hence, the Bock family donated 48 acres to a partnership of the Finger Lakes Trail Conference (FLTC), the Finger Lakes Land Trust (FLLT), and the Cayuga Trails Club (CTC). Crossed by the Finger Lakes Trail, the Bock-Harvey Forest Preserve features a lean-to campsite, views of the Enfield valley, and a walking loop through 12 acres of old-growth maples estimated to have stood there for 250-400 years. Foresters say this may be the finest virgin maple forest in the state. The Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area is also considered an “Important Bird Area” by the National Audubon Society. There are 856 acres of nationally or federally designated wetland within the Town. The Robert H. Treman Park attracts thousands of visitors each year, however, residents of Enfield may find the parking fee prohibitive and explore other natural areas instead. Energy Resources Enfield holds potential for the production of energy resources and wishes to be careful and deliberate about how these resources are managed. Decisions regarding energy production, such as the proposed Black Oak Wind Farm and Oil/Gas Ban have taken place with widespread citizen engagement, indicating the importance of energy resource development as well as safety and quality of life for Enfield residents. Natural gas resources are present in the Town and historically those resources have been exploited by drilling wells. Since the passage of “Local Law No. 1 of 2013 to affect a Prohibition within The town of Natural Gas And Petroleum Exploration And Extraction Activities, Underground Storage Of Natural Gas, And Disposal Of Natural Gas Or Petroleum Extraction, Exploration, And Production Wastes” was passed on June 12, 2013, natural gas drilling activities and exploration have ceased permanently. 27 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Renewable energy resources offer great potential for development in Enfield, including solar, wind, geothermal, micro-hydropower and bioenergy. The town wishes to support residents and businesses in developing renewable energy systems safely at the home and commercial scale. Solar energy is increasingly affordable and incentives such as Solar Tompkins, NYS tax subsidies, and local solar installer programs have resulted in an increase of solar panel installations in the Town of Enfield. ​(GET UP TO DATE INFO ON PERMITS) In January, 2016, New York State's first solar farm with a capacity of 190 kilowatts went online in The Town of Enfield, serving 23 residential customers with remote net metering. Construction of a second farm with an additional capacity of 290 kilowatts serving 30 customers will be complete by mid-2016. Renovus Solar, a local company headquartered in neighboring Town of Ulysses, NY constructed the projects. Ongoing innovations in bio-energy and bio-products research will provide future opportunities for grasses and other perennial plants to be grown for fuel. The amount of vacant agricultural land within the town offers promising potential renewable energy development. Further, Black Oak Wind Farm LLC has proposed a 7-turbine, 11.9 megawatt wind farm on approximately 33 acres on Black Oak Road. The project is still under review as of 2016. ​(ASK ALAN TEETER-How many individuals have home-scale wind energy?)​ This proposal has raised many concerns over the compatibility of such heavy industry in the Town of Enfield with regard to setbacks and health and safety concerns. Environment and Natural Resources Goals and Actions Goal 1: ​Protect land, air, soil, and water resources within the Town through Planning and Development Action 1: ​Discourage commercial activities which threaten environmental health, such as oil and gas extraction and other heavy industries. Action 2: ​Uphold municipal protections, and add new statutes as it becomes necessary. Action 3: ​Preserve rural character and open space by limiting high-density development. Action 4: ​Support community organizing efforts that support the protection of natural resources and development of renewable energy and reduction of energy use, such as Solar Tompkins and Heat Smart campaigns and more. Action 5: ​Actively engage residents to provide input when considering new development. Action 6:​ Support land conservation through easements with Finger Lakes Land Trust. 28 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Action 7: ​Utilize information generated by the USGS aquifer study to identify the location, quality and quantity of groundwater resources. Goal 2​: Protect land, air, soil, and water resources within the town through education and outreach. Action 1: ​Promote environmental education opportunities offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension, Groundswell, and other resources. Action 2: ​Encourage community organizing efforts that support the protection of natural resources and development of renewable energy, such as the Solar Tompkins campaign. Action 3: ​Encourage and educate the community regarding ways to limit the use of fossil fuels and promote the use of renewable energy, including clean-burning wood and biomass heat. Action 4: ​Protect the quality of surface and groundwater resources against degradation, through actions such as formalizing stream corridor protections, supporting the documentation of water quality through volunteer water monitoring partnerships with the Community Science Institute, and encouraging practices that reduce erosion and sedimentation of water bodies, including agricultural practices Goal 3: ​Protect land, air, soil, and water resources within the Town through preservation. Action 1: ​Preserve the quality of surface and ground-water in order to protect against environmental degradation. Action 2: ​Encourage all practices which minimize contamination of the environment. Action 3: ​Encourage all practices which safeguard waterways from excessive erosion and sedimentation. Action 4: ​Decrease drainage of organic and inorganic contaminants into Cayuga Lake and wetlands. Action 5: ​Use data from the USGS aquifer study to determine the quality and quantity of water in Enfield and appropriate measures for preserving the aquifer. Action 6: ​Uphold the protections provided to Unique Natural Areas (UNA) as identified by the Tompkins County Planning Department. Action 7: ​Research and identify other possible UNAs and Critical Environmental Areas (CEAs) for official designation. Action 8: ​Explore the implementation of an aquifer protection law based on information gathered by the Aquifer Study is complete. 29 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Built Environment: Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Transportation Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement The Town of Enfield enjoys accessible roads, and safe and economical transportation options that meet the needs of residents and others who travel through it, regardless of their method of transportation. Solutions that reduce the need for automobiles and save energy are encouraged. Residents and businesses have access to modern communications systems necessary to be competitive in today’s education and economic environment. Enfield shows a clear understanding of its resources and the potential for growth of its infrastructure such as water, waste, roads, and energy needs. The major transportation routes through the township are State Route 79 (Mecklenburg Road) and State Route 327 (Enfield Falls/Enfield Main Road). There are 12 center line miles of State road and 24.7 center line miles of County road in Enfield. The 44.45 center line miles of Town road are laid out in a grid pattern, reflecting the agricultural history of the community. The Enfield Highway Department is responsible for all maintenance of Town roads. Transportation by residents of the Town is mainly achieved by automobile. However, more and more residents find that public transportation as well as bicycling and walking are becoming attractive options for getting around. Residents are concerned with the safety of pedestrians and bicyclists and look forward to improvements to the environment that will make these options safer and more easily accessible. In 2016, the Town of Enfield and TCAT implemented a Park and Ride on Enfield Main Road, across from the current Town Hall, providing residents with an accessible place for parking and catching public transportation to and from Ithaca. An additional bus stop is provided at the new Town of Enfield Highway facility, but with no parking. More of these pick-up/drop-off locations are desired by the community. The Town of Enfield does not have municipal water or sewer services. Because of the low density of homes and businesses, it would be difficult and costly to provide such services town-wide. However, the lack of municipal water and sewer may be an impediment to economic development here as some businesses may find well-water unsuitable, or septic costs prohibitive. A major hindrance to the Town of Enfield’s growth is deficient communication services. Cell phone service both in the center of town as well as in many outlying areas is deficient or non-existent. High-speed internet is not available in sections of Enfield. This inhibits the ability 30 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan of businesses to compete. Lack of adequate communication infrastructure has a negative impact on residents seeking an education, employment, or other services, which now heavily rely upon Internet connectivity. Low quality internet service makes formal distance learning and self-education impossible. Enfield government and community services communicate important information to residents using online methods. The Town of Enfield is clear that it values its rural character and natural resources; it does not welcome heavy industry. Nevertheless, it is important for Enfield to implement a Road Use agreement law to protect itself from the potential of high road repair costs incurred by heavy industrial traffic beyond that for which our roads were built. Such an agreement establishes the amount of compensation and/or repair/reconstruction for which the company causing the damage would be responsible. Heavy industrial use, such as the installation of a commercial wind farm, is one example of additional use of Enfield’s roads that would cause such wear. Understanding these challenges and mitigation techniques is imperative to maintaining our roadways and keeping our residents safe. Public Utilities, Infrastructure and Transportation Goals and Actions Goal 1:Increase safety of Enfield residents using roads within the Town of Enfield. Action 1:Determine dangerous areas for all traffic- automobile, pedestrian and cyclists- within the Town of Enfield and explore methods to mitigate these dangers. Action 2:Determine appropriate caution signage that will assist in making drivers aware of chronically dangerous road areas and conditions, as well as warnings about pedestrian and bicycle traffic. Action 3:Seek ways to improve roadside safety conditions to provide pedestrian and bicycle traffic safe passage. Goal 2: Increase accessibility to public transportation. Action 1:Increase the mobility of Enfield community members as well as the Town's accessibility to visitors. Action 2:Encourage the use of Park and Ride locations and other transportation services that would be most useful. Engage TCAT and other transportation programs in implementing these options. Goal 3:​ Improve communication services in the Town of Enfield. Action 1:Survey the Enfield community to map areas that lack sufficient cell, internet, and cable services. 31 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Action 2:Using information obtained about local deficiencies in services, solicit service providers who can expand their offerings to the Enfield community. Action 3:Continue to seek technology grants and other funding that may be available to communities for economic growth and expansion, as well as opportunities for expanding communication technology services to the Town of Enfield. Goal 4:​ Improve understanding of, and protect water resources in the Town of Enfield. Action 1:Define the water resources in the Town of Enfield with data obtained by the Aquifer Study in cooperation with the USGS. Action 2:Determine what protections are needed for the water resources entrusted to the Town by its residents. Action 3:Prepare Enfield for future growth by understanding the resources available and what protections may be necessary for future residential population increases and changes in water use. Goal 5:Prepare the Town of Enfield for the potential of heavy traffic changes. Action 1:Put in place a road use agreement to protect the Town and its residents from the liabilities and dangers of these road uses. Action 2:Coordinate with other towns that have experienced these changes and learn what dangers and challenges they present. Action 3:Encourage training for Highway Department Superintendent and employees to address the changes that may occur in the event of heavy use of the roads in Enfield. Goal 6:​ Provide adequate equipment and services for road maintenance in order to keep town routes safe for travelers. Action 1:​ Prepare and maintain a replacement and maintenance schedule for aging equipment for the Enfield Highway Department. Make inventory replacement a priority for proper care of transportation routes. Action 2:​ Continue to provide training opportunities for Highway Department staff. Action 3:​ Maintain a quality workplace for Highway Department staff in order to draw and keep quality employees committed to the care of our transportation routes. 32 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Housing Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement The Town of Enfield welcomes residents to the town of all ages and socio-economic backgrounds and offers a variety of housing opportunities. Enfield encourages affordability in housing opportunities to those who wish to make a home here. New home development and old home replacement are on the rise as newcomers and long-time residents alike find community and stability here. Residents are informed of programming designed to meet the needs of those facing housing challenges. The Town of Enfield encourages programming designed to help meet the needs these challenges present. According to the US Census, in 2010, there were 1,567 housing units in Enfield, which is an 18% increase from 2000, when there were 1,323 units. Of 1,567 occupied housing units in Enfield, 72.5% were owner-occupied, and the other 27.5% were rental housing. The percentage of owner-occupied homes decreased by 9% between 2000-2010. Rental units increased by 2.5%. The 2010 US Census also shows that the Town of Enfield has a density of 38.8 homes per square mile, an increase of 3 homes per square mile since 2000, with 122 vacant housing units in Enfield (7.8% of the housing stock). The vacancy rate represents an increase of .2% since 2000. In 2010, there were 580 mobile homes in the Town, or 37% of the housing stock, an increase of 3% since 2000. The 2011 estimated median house value in Enfield was $112,000. The estimated median house value in Tompkins County was $160,000. In the past, the Town of Enfield has struggled with a high poverty rate, diminished investment in infrastructure, and a deteriorating municipal center. The absence of public water and sewer services as well as limited internet and cellular services are just some of the challenges that impede our ability to be a more attractive area for new housing and business development. As we focus efforts on removing these impediments through the stated goals, Enfield can become a strong contender for future endeavors, such as those explored in the Economic Development section, that add to the quality of life of current residents as well as an attractive neighborhood for residential and business newcomers. Housing Goals and Actions Goal 1:​ Improve the standard of housing and the quality of life for Enfield residents, so all Enfield residents may enjoy safe and affordable homes. 33 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Action 1:Identify programs to assist in building or upgrading homes -- including, but not limited to, Better Housing for Tompkins County. Action 2:Inform residents of county and state programs for first time home buyers that support upgrades and improvements. Action 3:Educate residents on low-cost improvements that can be made to make properties safe and attractive. Action 4:Encourage replacement of older, inefficient mobile homes with homes meeting current standards. Action 5:Educate residents about methods of making their homes energy-efficient and encourage sustainability practices. Goal 2:​ ​Encourage new populations to move into the Town of Enfield. Action 1:Explore opportunities and investors for multi-unit and senior housing to provide safe and affordable living areas for new and existing residents. Action 2:Encourage the creation of a community center that provides support to all residents in the Enfield community. A connected community is attractive to potential home-buyers/builders. Action 3:Promote Enfield to the greater public to encourage new residential, agricultural, and business growth. Goal 3:​ Protect residents through proper management and planning of housing and other development that meets the goals of the community to maintain its rural character. Action 1:Follow and update the Town of Enfield Subdivision Regulations and Site Plan Review standards to reflect changes and trends in housing and development. Action 2:Develop a Floodplain Management plan or ordinance for the protection of homes, property, and other town resources. Action 3:Develop an Emergency Management Plan to protect the lives and property of residents, to promote orderly function of services, and to identify and effectively work with outside emergency management resources and agencies. Action 4: ​Identify community resources such as equipment, skillsets, and other resources residents may be willing to contribute in the event of a community emergency. 34 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Economic Development Introduction V​ision ​S​tatement The Town of Enfield provides an excellent setting for affordable living within an easy distance to several business and employment centers. Enfield has a great balance of businesses, schools, parks, cultural/artistic centers, and community facilities that make living here convenient and enjoyable. Development that is compatible with the rural character of Enfield is actively sought and encouraged. Economic development is key to achieving the goals and objectives defined in this Comprehensive Plan and to maintaining and improving Enfield. Currently there is an intermingling of residences, small businesses and farms throughout the town. Positive support of this diverse mix strengthens the vitality and stability of the town while offering economic opportunity and growth for Enfield residents. This intermingling can potentially cause conflict. Therefore it is also important for the Town to recognize and address potential areas of conflict among businesses, residents, and farms. Enfield residents value and wish to maintain the rural character of the Town. To that end, development should be discouraged that would damage air and water quality, increase noise levels, cause pollution, create traffic problems, adversely affect Enfield visually, or otherwise damage its rural nature. Current Industry and Employment Despite the fact that many small-scale or “family” farms have disappeared or been incorporated into larger scale operations -- a trend in many areas of New York State and the country -- farms are currently the primary industry in Enfield. This includes both conventional and organic farming operations. There are small businesses scattered throughout Enfield, many of which are sole-proprietorships or family owned. Table [ ] shows that non-agricultural commercial uses of land in Enfield represent 3.1% of total parcels. Agricultural use represents 5.8% of total parcels. (CAN THIS BE ACCURATE WITH 87% OF ENFIELD BEING DESIGNATED AS AG?) Most Enfield residents earn their primary income in the Ithaca urban area, not within the Town of Enfield. The two sectors that employ the most Enfield residents are education/health/social services and retail. The education/health/social services sector provides the greatest share of county employment. Major employers within Tompkins County include Cornell University, Ithaca College, the Ithaca City School District, BorgWarner Automotive, and the Cayuga Medical Center. 35 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Enfield has an opportunity to build its reputation as a renewable energy leader with recent development of renewable resource projects within the limits of the Town, such as the new Renovus solar farms, proposed wind energy projects, as well as residential installations. Recreational Assets Less than ten miles from Ithaca, Trumansburg and Watkins Glen, the Town of Enfield offers easy access to hiking, camping, boating, auto racing, music festivals, wine touring, and more. Enfield also includes much of Robert H. Treman State Park and is in close proximity to Cayuga and Seneca Lakes. Golfing in Enfield is available at Hillendale Golf Course. Youth and Senior Programming Maintaining a strong Youth presence and making aging in place affordable is crucial to building community and attracting families to live and thrive in Enfield. Some programming is provided by various area organizations, Tompkins County offices, and the Enfield Community Council, however, the need is still great. Child care resources are limited, yet imperative for those who wish to make a home or find employment here. Continued support by the Town of Enfield for these types of programming will continue to be necessary for strengthening our resident base. The construction of fully accessible, multi-function community facilities that ensure educational, cultural, social, and economic opportunities can help stimulate growth and provide an appealing environment to attract new residents. A facility such as this may encourage interaction between residents of all ages and physical ability to deepen our community roots and connections to one another. Economic Development Goals and Actions To remain a viable township for future generations, the success of Enfield’s continued economic development will be determined by our ability to broaden the economic base of the town by promoting small business and agriculture that complement the rural character of Enfield. The following goals and actions have been set forth to provide a guide toward that achievement. Goal 1​: Engage the community in economic development. Action 1: Form a community-based Economic Development Task Force (ie: “Envision Enfield”), tasked with seeking out economic development in accord with the goals set forth in this plan, encourage municipal cooperation for such endeavors, and actively invite these opportunities to Enfield. Encourage community involvement. 36 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Action 2:​ Directly encourage and support community members to start and expand businesses through the following actions: -Identify and recruit businesses that would be good for Enfield -Create greater networking opportunities through community events. -Identify residents interested in starting businesses -Recruit mentors to help residents start and grow businesses -Identify potential business opportunities and encourage residents to start businesses to fill those needs -Create a small business survey of existing businesses within the Town -Publish a periodic directory of local businesses in and around Enfield. Goal 2:​ Utilize external resources to foster economic development. Action 1:​ Reach out to local and regional development organizations to ask for assistance. These include, but are not limited to: -Tompkins County Area Development -Small Business Administration -Empire State Development Corporation -US Department of Agriculture -Alternatives Credit Union -Groundswell -Cornell Cooperative Extension -Cornell Small Farm Program -Cornell Diverse Supplier program Action 2:​ Compile and publicize a list for Enfield residents of resources available such as: -Job boards -Financial assistance -Energy assistance -Micro loan programs 37 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan -Tax breaks -Job training opportunities -Education opportunities Action 3:​ Provide direct assistance to residents trying to utilize resources by providing help with: -Grant writing -Job applications -Business plan creation Goal 3:​ Work to improve infrastructure which would enable greater economic opportunity for Enfield residents. Action 1:​ Foster greater access to public transportation. Action 2:​ Work to ensure better access to high speed internet. Action 3:​ Research whether it would help to provide space for office, light manufacturing, or other business activities. Action 4:​ Work to establish a recognizable “Town Center” to encourage a new economic growth area that meets the goals of this Plan. Goal 4:​ Foster greater sharing of resources between Enfield residents: Action 1:​ Encourage the development of a community center or common area where information can be centralized and accessed easily by residents. Action 2:​ Expand the library of resources available at the Town Hall. Goal 5:​ Discourage development that would negatively impact air and water quality, traffic density and noise levels. Goal 6:​ Discourage development that challenges local, state, and federal laws designed to protect our peaceful, rural quality of life. Goal 7:Preserve recreational and natural areas. Action 1:​ Attract more people to Enfield by publicizing its convenient access to recreational sites. Action 2:​ Encourage Eco-Tourism. 38 MARCH 2017- DRAFT- SECTIONS ONLY - UNEDITED/UNFORMATTED- Enfield Comprehensive Plan Action 3:​ Pursue additional opportunities for public open space and recreational amenities. Goal 8: Increase the use of recreational areas within the Town. Action 1:​ Work with state and county agencies to increase the availability of recreational areas. For example: reinstate camping at Upper Treman Park, offer free admittance to Town of Enfield residents, and/or provide shuttle service from Enfield Center to Lower Treman swimming area. Action 2:​ Increase the usage of and extend Finger Lakes Trails by: -Documenting current usage (Cayuga Trails Club) -Researching issues of private property easements -Encouraging State Park funding for camping and swimming areas -Exploring the possibility of free entry for Enfield residents to encourage local ownership and pride in the upper Robert Treman Park, located in the Town of Enfield. 39