I have lived in Kitsap County for almost 30 years. I am in support of Comp Plan Alternative 2 with focused growth in Urban Growth Areas. Plus I would encourage the adoption of tree retention as stated in the 3rdAlternative…so Alternative 2 but with tree retention.
We need to build the health of rural and open spaces in Kitsap through the adoption of Net Ecological Gain.
I urge the Planning Commission to support our local farms, most especially our small farmers who are struggling. Some considerations in support of farming include:
- Implement agricultural zoning
- Acquire land or agricultural conservation easements for farming and food production
- Explore financial incentives such as farm energy audits and tax incentives
- Implement regulatory reform such as setbacks
- The Comp Plan needs to distinguish ways to preserve or enhance agricultural resource land from other allowed uses.
Carol, Kitsap County