HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 02-13-2017 1
APPROVED 3/7/2017
MINUTES
ORANGE COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
QUARTERLY PUBLIC HEARING
FEBRUARY 13, 2017
7:00 P.M.
The Orange County Board of Commissioners met for a Quarterly Public Hearing on Monday,
February 13, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Whitted Building in Hillsborough, N.C.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Chair Mark Dorosin and Commissioners Mia
Burroughs, Barry Jacobs, Mark Marcoplos, Earl McKee, Renee Price and Penny Rich
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ABSENT:
COUNTY ATTORNEY PRESENT: James Bryan (Staff Attorney)
COUNTY STAFF PRESENT: Deputy County Manager Travis Myren and Deputy Clerk to the
Board David Hunt (All other staff members will be identified appropriately below)
Chair Dorosin called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m.
A. OPENING REMARKS FROM THE CHAIR
Chair Dorosin noted the dual purpose of this evening's meeting: a quarterly public
hearing and a Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) work session.
B. PUBLIC CHARGE
Chair Dorosin dispensed with the reading of the Public Charge.
C. PUBLIC HEARING — QUASI JUDICIAL ITEMS
NONE
D. PUBLIC HEARING — LEGISLATIVE ITEMS
1. Comprehensive Plan and Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) Text Amendment - To
review government-initiated amendments to the text of the Comprehensive Plan and
UDO regarding revisions and modifications to the Mobile Home Park Conditional Zoning
District (MHP-CZD). The modifications would revise the district standards to also allow
for Temporary Residential Units [namely, Recreational Vehicles (RVs)]. The zoning
district would also be renamed Home Park Conditional Zoning District (HP-CZD).
BACKGROUND: This amendment is in response to a BOCC work session item on February 18,
2016 reviewing current development regulations and discussing opportunities for allowing more
flexibility with respect to residential development. During this work session, staff recommended
modifying the existing MHP-CZ District to allow for temporary residential units within mobile
home parks, including recreational vehicles (RVs) and tiny homes constructed to the RV
standard. Information from the work session can be viewed at:
http://server3.co.orange.nc.us:8088/weblink8/0/fol/40558/Rowl.aspx.
This item was presented to the Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) at its November 2, 2016
meeting. As a result of various comments received on the proposal, staff has crafted an
amendment that:
i. Provides standards for Temporary Residential Units that allow for up to a 180-day
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occupancy;
ii. Balances the various state and federal construction standards for temporary and
permanent units; and
iii. Allows for a wider-range of housing types.
The goal is to revise existing development standards in an effort to encourage purposeful
growth and development within the county in a cost efficient manner while promoting varied
housing options.
The Comprehensive Plan text amendment involves modification of Appendix F to change
references to the Mobile Home Park Conditional Zoning (MHP-CZ) district to Home Park
Conditional Zoning (HP-CZ) district.
For more background information please refer to Attachment 1. Proposed text amendment
language for both the UDO and Comprehensive Plan changes can be found in Attachment 6
within a "track changes" format.
Planning Director's Recommendation: The Planning Director recommends approval of the
Statement of Consistency, indicating the amendments are reasonable and in the public interest,
contained in Attachment 5 and the proposed amendment package as contained in Attachment
6.
Planning Board Recommendation: The Planning Board originally reviewed this item at its
December 7, 2016 regular meeting and voted 7-1 to recommend approval. Minutes from this
meeting are contained within Attachment 3. Agenda materials can also be viewed at viewed at:
http://www.orangecountync.gov/12.7.16AgendaPacket.pdf
After this meeting the County's Attorney office identified inconsistencies in the use of
terminology and definitions within the amendment package. Staff revised the amendment and
resubmitted to the Attorney for review. It was deemed necessary to have the Planning Board
review the revisions and take additional action on the proposal.
The Board reviewed the revised amendment package at its February 1, 2017 regular meeting
and voted unanimously to recommend approval. The Statement of Consistency for the
amendment can be found in Attachment 4.
The proposed amendment, as deemed legally sufficient by the County's Attorney office and as
recommended for approval by the Planning Board, is contained in Attachment 6.
Patrick Mallett, Current Planning, reviewed the Abstract and the Attachments, and noted
a grammatical/graphical error in the Table of Permitted Uses (page 5-25, page 35 in the
packet). He said there is an "x" through the Table of Permitted Uses, which covers a single-
family residential use within the home park district. He said it is intended that this should be
allowed for permitted use, in order to allow for a caretaker's residence at a mobile home park.
Patrick Mallett made the following PowerPoint presentation:
BOCC
UDO Text Amendment
Modification of Mobile Home Park Conditional Zoning (MHP-CZD)
Creating Home Park Conditional Zoning District (HP-CZD)
February 13, 2017
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Overview
• Orange County has approximately 90 mobile home parks scattered throughout the
county. These home parks offer affordable housing and can serve significant needs in
our community.
• Residents have expressed greater interest in RVs and "Tiny Homes" as alternative
housing types. These options are a temporary housing alternative to suit their family
and/or medical needs.
• The current UDO doesn't allow for RVs.
• Staff has seen an increase in RVs in mobile home parks, which not consistent with State
Codes and UDO requirements.
• These units cannot be legally considered as permanent dwellings.
All residential construction (including "Tiny Homes, Micro-Homes and/or cottages) must be
classified and built as either a:
1. Manufactured (aka Mobile) Homes = HUD Standards;
2. RV = State Home Park Model Standards;
3. Single-family "Stick Built" = State Building Code; or
4. Single-family "Modular" = State Building Code.
Mobile Home Park Locations (map)
Goals of the Amendment
• As directed by the BOCC on February 18, 2016, Planning staff is proposing
amendments to the UDO, providing additional options for temporary and permanent
housing.
• Align with Housing and Land Use Goals in the Comprehensive Plan.
• Address a petition by the Commissioners to encourage more flexibility and housing
options in the County.
• Ensure that UDO requirements are consistent with State and Federal Codes and
guidelines.
Objectives
1. Revise the Mobile Home Park Conditional Zoning District (MHP-CZD) and other
applicable UDO Sections to allow for both permanent units (i.e. mobile homes) and
temporary units (i.e. RV Parks and Trailer Models).
2. Rename MHP-CZD to HP-CZD.
3. Offer additional opportunities in the UDO that encourage flexible development in rural
sections of Orange County.
4. Establish clear standards for temporary and permanent home park units.
Benefits of Text Amendment
• Addresses emerging needs.
• Avoids non-conformities and illegal land uses.
• Designed to solidify addressing and EMS issues.
• Provides temporary housing options.
What This Amendment Will Not Do
• Provide a total solution for those interested in living tiny homes and/or RVs.
• Allow for RVs as permanent residences.
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• Permit such uses outside of a Home Park.
• Define Tiny Homes.
• Automatically allow in existing MHPs.
Mobile Homes
• Built to HUD standards.
• Can be located in Home Park or on single-family lot.
• Requires permanent utility connections.
• Fixed in space with skirting or foundation.
• Typically requires 5,000 sq. ft. of space.
• Home Park spaces typically rented on a monthly basis.
Recreational Vehicles
• Technically a vehicle or a trailer.
• Uses temporary utility connections.
• Uses a drive through space.
• Must be built to the RV Park Model Standard.
Tiny Homes
• Legally, there is no such thing as a "tiny home."
• Must meet one of the following standards:
- RV Park Model;
- Mobile Home HUD;
- Modular Construction; or
- Single-family residence (aka "stick built").
Utility Connections
• Mobile Homes require permanent connections, while RVs require temporary hook-ups
• Each space must be designated and developed as one or the other
Outreach
• Issued press releases inviting Mobile Home Park owners and interested parties to
participate.
• Posted information on the Orange County and Planning websites.
• Sent 90+ letters to existing Mobile Home Park owners.
• Staff hosted numerous individual meetings with mobile home park owners November-
December 2016.
• Staff has continued dialogue with residents and design professionals vested in this
amendment.
• Staff shared materials with Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Mebane, and Hillsborough for peer
review.
Revision Highlights
• Revised UDO Section 3.8 Mobile Home Park Conditional Zoning District (MHP-CZD)
and retitled to Home Park Conditional Zoning District (HP-CZD).
• Revised UDO Sections 5.2 Table of Permitted Uses and 5.5.4 Performance Standards
for Mobile Homes.
• Added/revised definitions in UDO Section 10.
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Recommendations
The Administration recommends the Board:
1. Receive the proposed amendments to the Comprehensive Plan and UDO as detailed in
this abstract and attachments.
2. Conduct the Public Hearing and accept comments on the proposed amendments
3. Close the public hearing (Note that, because this is a legislative decision, additional
comments at a later date are permitted).
Decide on one of the following options:
a. Adopt the proposed amendments by approving the Statement of Consistency
(Attachment 5) and Ordinance (Attachment 6)
b. Defer a decision to a later BOCC regular meeting date;
c. Refer this item back to the Planning Board for a specific purpose; or
d. Deny the proposed amendments. (Note: Section 2.2.8 Effect of Denial on Subsequent
Applications of the UDO states that no application for the same or similar amendment
may be submitted for a period of one year. The one-year period begins on the date of
denial.)
Commissioner Price asked if the process, after the 180 days expires, could be outlined.
Patrick Mallett said the time is set by the North Carolina building code, and after 180
days it becomes a permanent structure, and must meet certain guidelines. He said an RV is not
designed to meet such deadlines.
Commissioner Price said asked if it would be legal for the RV to move to the adjacent
lot.
Patrick Mallett said he believes so, from a legal perspective. He said there would need
to be discussion regarding how the 180-day time limit would be enforced.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if a manufactured housing community is fully occupied, will
one be allowed to add onto the water and sewer system, and will there be some sort of
certification of adequacy.
Patrick Mallett said appropriate measures would need to be taken, whether the home is
temporary or permanent. He said mobile homes would have a fixed system, whereas converted
spaces, like the RV park model, would have different types of fixtures. He said all would be
reviewed and approved by the Health Department. He said most mobile home parks have
spaces that have not been utilized, which could be set aside for conversion for temporary units.
Commissioner Jacobs said there are some mobile home parks with failing systems, and
asked if these parks would be allowed to add units.
Patrick Mallett said no; if there is a failing system, Environmental Health should be
working with the park to get the systems up to speed and functioning safely.
Commissioner Rich asked if the lack of a legal definition of a tiny home is an issue
nationwide.
Patrick Mallett said he does not know about the rest of the country, but in North Carolina,
there is no legal definition or code for tiny homes. He said there are two main obstacles: is
there a square footage that would qualify as a tiny home; and, in many cases, marketed tiny
homes on a chassis cannot be built to the building code.
Commissioner Rich asked if other states have been able to work around this issue.
Patrick Mallett said the State requirements control what can and cannot be done.
Commissioner Marcoplos said a national definition is lacking. He said a home on a
trailer is an RV, and a home on a foundation is a home. He said the law seems to pertain to
connections. He asked if one had an RV home on a trailer, with a solar panel and a battery and
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a composting toilet, and gas cooking and heating capability; could one park in the RV lot without
connection and not violate the UDO.
Patrick Mallett said from the Planning perspective, there would need to be a plan
indicating that this was a temporary residential unit. He said if a unit is off the grid, the
classification defers to whether the electrical and composting toilet would match up with
Environmental Health and building code requirements.
Commissioner Marcoplos said the utility connection is not the only determining factor.
Patrick Mallet said it goes back to specifics of building and health codes.
Commissioner Price referred to page 51, section 2-C, which states: "no permanent
mobile homes or temporary residential units, or other accessory structures shall be permitted
within a home park space." She asked if this means there can be no temporary residential
units.
Patrick Mallett said permanent and temporary structures cannot be located on the same
lot.
Commissioner McKee said the wording is awkward.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Tom Pritchard thanked BOCC for their questions about this topic. He said his parents
founded Spring Hill Park in 1972, which currently houses RVs mostly. He said the Orange
County Visitors Bureau has worked with his park for many years, and the park has done much
good over the years. He said many people have come to the area to receive health treatment,
and have moved into his park during their time here. He said some people stay longer than 180
days. He said the amount of income that this brings into the County is noteworthy, and his park
uses significantly less water than a mobile home park. He said his park is clean, safe and quiet,
offering a place where people can feel comfortable surrounding medical treatments.
Planning Board Chair Lydia Wegman said a great deal of thought went into the
recommendations from the Planning Board.
Commissioner Marcoplos read a letter from resident below:
Hi,
My name is April Kemper. I live and work in Chapel Hill. I've been following the tiny house
movement for years now. Like Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Orange County, other communities
are trying to provide affordable, energy efficient, sustainable housing for their residents. Tiny
houses on wheels are one way to provide such housing. I would be happy to sit down with the
Orange County Planning Staff to share what I have learned from other communities who have
made tiny houses an option for their residents by revising their local zoning and building codes.
Thank you for considering another affordable housing option for our community.
Commissioner Price reiterated that section 2-C on page 51 was ambiguous.
Patrick Mallett said this section can be stricken.
Commissioner Rich said this is a good start, with solutions for RV homes. She said she
would like to examine the tiny home trend a bit more, along with County ordinances. She said
tiny homes could be a viable option for affordable housing, and she does not want to miss it.
Patrick Mallett said this is one part of the discussion, and it should continue more
completely. He said more thought needs to be given to a tiny home definition.
Commissioner Rich said all options should be explored.
Commissioner Marcoplos said it is interesting to hear that there are people who stay
longer than 180 days, and this information should be passed onto State representatives with the
intent that exceptions might be given for medical situations.
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Commissioner Price agreed, and noted that the Department of Housing and Urban
Development (HUD) does not recognize tiny homes. She said she would like to see this
challenged, as tiny homes are a good option.
Michael Harvey, Planning, reminded the Board that if it approves the amendment, it is
approving the revision to page 46, and the striking of sub-section 2 on page 52.
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Burroughs to
close the public hearing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Jacobs to
amend the amendment as stated below:
The revision of page 46, allowing single-family residences in the home park, and to strike 5.5.4
subsection 2-C on page 56.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
A motion was made by Commissioner Price, seconded by Commissioner Rich to
adopt the proposed amendments (as amended) by approving the Statement of Consistency
(Attachment 5) and Ordinance (Attachment 6).
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
E. ADJOURNMENT OF PUBLIC HEARINGS
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by to Commissioner Burroughs
adjourn the public hearing at 7:38 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
F. WORK SESSIONS ITEMS
1. Introduction to Potential Joint Planning Amendments — To receive a presentation
on possible amendments to the Orange County— Chapel Hill — Carrboro Joint
Planning Land Use Plan and Agreement.
BACKGROUND: Planning staffs of the three local government jurisdictions that are party to the
"Joint Planning Agreement," as it is commonly called, have been discussing possible
amendments to the Land Use Plan to better align with various local government goals and
policies, including the Water and Sewer Management, Planning, and Boundary Agreement
(WASMPBA) (WASMPBA is also the subject of a separate agenda item).
The map in Attachment 1 depicts the possible amendments to the Land Use Plan (the current
version of which is included in Attachment 4). A summary of possible amendments is as follows:
• Chapel Hill Area:
o Change the Millhouse Road Park (78.2 acres) parcels, three smaller parcels (6.3
acres) owned by the Town of Chapel Hill and located between Millhouse Road and
the Millhouse Road Park parcels, and 2.2 acres of road right-of-way from Rural
Buffer to Chapel Hill ETJ (Extraterritorial Jurisdiction).
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• This modification would allow the planned park to eventually be served by
public water and sewer systems, if WASMPBA is also amended. Service by
public water and sewer is an important component of increasing the capacity
of the park and its expected active recreation (possible soccer center)
component, since a park served only by well and septic systems would have
a more limited capacity.
o Change the northern portion of the parcel on which the Town of Chapel Hill's
Operations Facility is located from Rural Buffer to ETJ (32.2 acres).
Change 66 acres of Chapel Hill Transition Area to ETJ. This area is located
immediately south of Interstate 40 in the vicinity of Sunrise Road.
o Change 207.8 acres from Chapel Hill Transition Area to Rural Buffer. This area is
located in the southwest corner of the county between Highway 15-501 and Old
Lystra Road. Staff's understanding is that this area was formerly part of Chapel
Hill's Urban Service area before the WASMPBA "primary service area" boundary
was established in 2001, thereby removing this area from urban utility access.
• Carrboro Area:
o Change 2.9 acres on Highway 54 West from Rural Buffer to Carrboro ETJ. This
proposal involves six parcels and was discussed at the October 13, 2016 joint
BOCC/Town of Carrboro meeting. The portions of the parcels located immediately
adjacent to the highway are currently within Carrboro's ETJ while the northern
portion of the parcels is designated as Rural Buffer. This change would designate
all of the smaller parcels (five parcels) as ETJ while moving the ETJ line of a "flag
lot" slightly further north. Because of the relatively small size on the overall map, a
"zoomed in" map is provided in Attachment 2.
The map in Attachment 3 shows the "primary service area" of WASMPBA overlaid on the
geographic area. The Millhouse Park Road/Town Operations Center area would have to be
designated as "primary service area" on the WASMPBA map in order to be served by public
water and sewer. The 66 acres in northern Chapel Hill proposed to be designated as ETJ is
currently within the "primary service area" for water and sewer services. The 207.8 acre area
south of Chapel Hill's ETJ currently designated as "Transition Area" is outside of the "primary
service area" and is proposed to be designated "Rural Buffer." The parcels on Highway 54West
are outside of the "primary service area" and are not proposed for change in this regard.
The following table summarizes the possible amendments in terms of acreage:
Transition Area to Rural Buffer 207.8 acres
Rural Buffer to ETJ 121.8 acres
Transition Area to ETJ 66 acres
Amendments to the Joint Planning Land Use Plan would require approval of all three signatory
local governments (Orange County and the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro) subsequent to a
joint public hearing (which includes mailed notifications to affected and nearby property owners).
JPA public hearings can be held in the spring and fall of each year, generally the March and
October joint meeting dates, which must be "converted" to joint public hearing dates on the
governmental calendars.
Craig Benedict, Planning Director, reviewed the background of this topic and the history
of the Joint Planning Area (JPA).
Perdita Holtz, Planner III, made the following PowerPoint presentation:
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Introduction to Possible Joint Planning Area Amendments
February 13, 2017
QPH Work Session
Item F.1
Tonight's Purpose
• To receive an introduction to possible Joint Planning Area amendments and provide
feedback to staff
Brief History of JPA
• Land Use Plan and Agreement between Orange County and Towns of Chapel Hill and
Carrboro
• Initially adopted in 1986
• Outlines zoning requirements, development standards, development review and
permitting, and limitations on annexations
• All three jurisdictions must approve amendments to plan or agreement, after a joint
public hearing
o Joint public hearings held in March or October
o Change joint meetings on calendar to joint public hearings
• For many years, joint public hearing was a meeting date on adopted
calendars, deleted in late 2000's because hearings were sometimes
canceled. Decision made to have hearings on an as-needed basis by
converting joint meeting dates to 3-party hearings.
Current Joint Planning Area
• Rural Buffer (approx. 37,000 acres)
• Carrboro Transition Areas (1 and 2) (496 acres & 1,258 acres, respectively)
• Chapel Hill Transition Area (274 acres remain, ETJ authority extended over Roger Road
area in late 2015)
Possible Amendments to JPA Map
• Amendments are not interlinked
• Being pursued together due to required process of joint public hearing and separate
action by the three jurisdictions, including respective Planning Board recommendations
• Four geographic areas:
o Millhouse Road
o Sunrise Road
o Old Lystra Road
o Highway 54 West
Possible Map Amendments
• Millhouse Road Park (78.2 acres), 3 parcels owned by Town of Chapel Hill (6.3 acres),
and 2.2 acres of road right-of-way
o From Rural Buffer to Chapel Hill ETJ
o Would allow proposed park to be served by public water and sewer of
WASMPBA is also amended
• Town of Chapel Hill's Operation Facility, northern portion of parcel (32.2 acres)
o Town staff expressed interest a few years back
o Currently awaiting direction from Town Management/Council
o From Rural Buffer to Chapel Hill ETJ
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Chair Dorosin asked if water and sewer could only be extended to Millhouse Road Park
area by changing the designation from rural buffer to Town of Chapel Hill ETJ.
Perdita Holtz said yes.
Commissioner Jacobs said, in the interest of openness, when the County had
discussions regarding the boundaries of the historic Rogers Road community and what was the
Rogers Road community. He said there were people that insisted that the whole area near
Millhouse Road Park and the Chapel Hill Operation Facility was part of Rogers Road. He said,
moving forward, there should be transparency with the community about the possible use of
these lands. He said this area may be used for a transfer station or recycling facilities.
Perdita Holtz resumed the presentation:
• Chapel Hill Transition Area in vicinity of Sunrise Road (66 acres)
o From Transition Area to Chapel Hill ETJ
• Chapel Hill Transition Area in vicinity of Old Lystra Road (207.8 acres)
o From Transition Area to Rural Buffer
o No longer in Town's urban services area
• Should likely have been considered for changes in early 2000s
Commissioner Jacobs asked if these potential changes will affect the fire districts.
Chair McKee said he was trying to work this out.
Perdita Holtz said staff will look into this topic. She resumed the presentation:
• Highway 54 West (2.9 acres)
o From Rural Buffer to Carrboro ETJ
o Discussed with Town of Carrboro at October 13, 2016 joint meeting
Commissioner Jacobs referred to the BOCC fall meeting with the Town of Carrboro, and
asked if there was an update regarding the 75% development of transition area one.
Perdita Holtz said she spoke with Carrboro staff, and said there have been some
preliminary calculations done, and the area is very close 75%. She said more specific
calculations are being worked on currently.
Commissioner Jacobs said there was some sentiment about discussing a more
comprehensive look at the intersections of interest between Carrboro and the County on
Highway 54, as far as updating land use. He said there was a string of lots on Highway 54 that
could be reviewed comprehensively. He said he would like to reintroduce that concept.
Perdita Holtz said she does not have an update on this topic.
Chair Dorosin said to forward this as a petition, and he will follow up with the Manager
and the Town of Carrboro.
Perdita Holtz resumed the presentation:
WASMPBA Primary Service Area
• Millhouse Road area currently outside of Primary Service Area (PSA)
• Sunrise Road area is within PSA
• Old Lystra Road area was moved out of urban services area when WASMPBA was
adopted in 2001
• Highway 54 West area is outside of PSA& proposed to remain outside (service by well
& septic)
Questions/Feedback
• Town of Carrboro Board of Aldermen received information as a Consent Agenda item on
February 7
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• Town of Chapel Hill staff determining process/date to inform Town Council
• If jurisdictions wish to proceed, earliest joint public hearing date would be October 26,
2017
• Normal process mandated by State statutes would be required for Towns to extend
ETJs
• Questions and feedback for staff by BOCC
Commissioner Price asked if the Town of Carrboro had this report on their consent
agenda.
Perdita Holtz said the Aldermen received the information and asked questions.
Commissioner Price clarified that the Alderman just received the information and made
no decisions.
Perdita Holtz said yes, the Board of Alderman just received the information.
Commissioner Rich asked if clarification could be provided regarding potential
complications with the fire zone in the southern portion of the map.
Commissioner McKee said with these maps, it is unclear whether changing the zoning
will remove water from the fire zones.
Commissioner Rich asked if this area of the map is solely residential.
Perdita Holtz said mostly residential.
Commissioner Rich said Chatham County is building right up to this area. She said this
is a triangle of land that seems to be hanging out there, and she does not understand why it
became the rural buffer.
Commissioner Marcoplos said he totally agreed with Commissioner Rich, and asked if
there is value in the triangle of the rural buffer. He said it is a unique land section, different from
the rest of the rural buffer, and he would like to know more about it.
Commissioner Jacobs said people in Chapel Hill wanted to preserve open spaces, and
this piece of land may have served that purpose in anticipation of greater development.
Chair Dorosin asked if staff could follow up on all these questions.
Commissioner Rich clarified that it would be helpful to know the Town of Carrboro's land
use plan for the aforementioned areas.
2. Introduction to Potential Amendments to the Water and Sewer Management, Planning,
and Boundary Agreement—To receive a presentation on possible amendments to the
Water and Sewer Management, Planning, and Boundary Agreement.
BACKGROUND: Planning staffs of the three local government jurisdictions that are party to the
"Joint Planning Agreement," as it is commonly called, have been discussing possible
amendments to the Land Use Plan to better align with various local government goals and
policies (this is a separate agenda item) and accompanying modifications to the Water and
Sewer Management, Planning, and Boundary Agreement (WASMPBA) map. Additionally,
during discussions regarding the Hillsborough Economic Development District (EDD) that
occurred in the fall of 2016, it was mentioned that it could be advantageous to the EDD to
designate additional WASMPBA primary service area immediately south of the EDD to the
Rural Buffer boundary.
These potential amendments would change the designation from `long term interest area' to
`primary service area' which would permit development in the short term.
Also in the fall of 2016, OWASA and Town of Carrboro staff broached the potential idea of
designating additional "primary service area" adjacent to Smith Level Road. The area is zoned
R-10 (Residential, 10,000 square feet per dwelling unit) which is extremely small if onsite well
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and septic service is necessary. There is water service in part of the area already (which may
have started in 1969, according to OWASA pipe data) and a sewer line is stubbed out at Bixby
Lane which could provide service to a portion of the properties; others would be served from
lines adjacent to Smith Level Road.
The maps in Attachments 1, 2 and 3 depict the possible amendments to the WASMPBA map
(the current version of which is included in Attachment 4 with the possible changes overlaid). A
summary of possible amendments is as follows:
• Chapel Hill Area:
o Designate 118.9 acres in the vicinity of Millhouse Road as "primary service area."
These parcels include:
• 78.2 acres Orange County owns for the planned Millhouse Road Park
• Three smaller parcels (totaling 6.3 acres) owned by the Town of Chapel
Hill, located between the railroad tracks and the Millhouse Road Park
parcels.
• 2.2 acres of road right-of-way.
These three modifications would allow the planned park to eventually
be served by public water and sewer systems. Service by public
water and sewer is an important component of increasing the
capacity of the park and its expected use as a soccer center since a
park served only by well and septic systems would have a more
limited capacity.
• The northern portion of the parcel on which the Town of Chapel Hill's
Operations Facility is located (32.2 acres).
• Carrboro Area:
o Designate 20.6 acres (comprised of 34 parcels, 3 partial parcels, and road right-of
way) in the vicinity of Smith Level Road near Carrboro High School as "primary
service area."
• Hillsborough Area:
o Designate 87.5 acres (comprised of 12 parcels, 2 partial parcels, and road right-of
way) contiguous to, and south of, the Hillsborough EDD as "primary service area."
Amendments to the WASMPBA would require approval of all three five signatory parties
(Orange County, OWASA, and the Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough) through
the regular agenda/decision process (a formal public hearing is not required).
Craig Benedict reviewed this item with the Board.
Chair Dorosin asked if the phrase "long term interest area" could be explained.
Craig Benedict said it mainly refers to whose responsibility it would be if there was any
crisis that occurred in the area, or maybe on the fringe, a minor expansion into that area.
Chair Dorosin said it is like the water system's ETJ.
Craig Benedict said yes. He said sometimes before amendments are made, small area
plans need to be reviewed. He said the Efland-Mebane small area plan was completed in the
mid-2000s, and included some area on the outskirts of Mebane. He said this area was changed
from a long-term interest area to a primary service area, and is the current location of the
Morinaga Factory.
Commissioner Jacobs said one utility outlet, which has not been mentioned, is
Orange/Alamance Water System (OAWS), and asked if this entity fits into this discussion.
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Craig Benedict said Orange/Alamance Water System is located in Orange County, but
serves parts of Alamance. He said they are not a signatory to this agreement, and there are no
sub agreements either. He said there are annual meetings held with them to discuss economic
development within the Efland area, as well as any long range plans they may have.
Commissioner Jacobs asked if Orange/Alamance Water System has adopted a master
plan.
Craig Benedict said no, but staff is moving closer to presenting the Board with a water
infrastructure integrity analysis.
Commissioner Rich asked if the service area for Orange/Alamance Water could be
defined.
Craig Benedict said all of the residential within the unincorporated Efland area, and the
Perry Hills neighborhood, as well as around part of Mebane's water system serving an area to
the north and southwest of it. He said he is working in an ongoing fashion to stress that the
water needs to not only be potable, but also a fire suppression system.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if the Orange/Alamance Water Supply is exclusively
from wells.
Craig Benedict said no, part is an allocation from the Lake Orange Eno Capacity Use
Agreement; part is from wells; and part is from interlocal agreements with Mebane/Graham
Water System.
Commissioner Marcoplos asked if OAWS has drilled any new wells in the last 10 years.
Craig Benedict said not in Orange County but perhaps in Alamance.
Commissioner Jacobs said OAWS is a wild card in the middle of the County. He said
there is a history of a dysfunctional relationship.
Commissioner Jacobs said a central public facility can be put in the rural buffer, to be
served by water and sewer, like a school or a fire station, but it has yet to actually happen.
Craig Benedict said the one time this topic did come up was the Solid Waste
Administration Center. He said as the Rogers Road long range planning area is discussed, the
topic of the rural buffer near Eubanks Road is sure to come up.
Perdita Holtz made the following PowerPoint presentation:
Introduction to Possible Water and Sewer Management, Planning, and Boundary
Agreement (WASMPBA) Amendments
February 13, 2017
QPH Work Session
Item F.2
Tonight's Purpose
• To receive an introduction to possible WASMPBA amendments and provide feedback to
staff
Brief History of WASMPBA
• Five party agreement adopted in 2001
o Orange County, OWASA, and Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough
o Amended only once— in 2010
• Defines Primary Service Areas and Long-Term Interest Areas
o Primary Service Areas: areas where water and sewer either are provided or
might reasonably be provided in the future, according to adopted plans and
future amendments to adopted plans
o Long Term Interest Areas: areas where water and sewer is not anticipated, but if
such services are to be provided, they would be provided by the entity
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designated for each long term interest area (e.g., OWASA, Town of Hillsborough,
or Orange County)
• All five entities must approve amendments
o Formal public hearing not required
o Can follow normal agenda/decision process
Current Service Area Map
• Primary Service Area and Long Term Interests
o OWASA
o Hillsborough
o Orange County
Possible Amendments — Northern Chapel Hill
• Millhouse Road parcels that are proposed for possible addition to the Town of Chapel
Hill's ETJ (118.9 acres total)
• JPA-related land use amendments would have to occur first
o Can run concurrently
Possible Amendments — Southern Carrboro
• Smith Level Road in vicinity of Carrboro High School (20.6 acres)
o OWASA has provided water and sewer services to much of the area since the
1960s
o Potential oversight in primary service area boundary when WASMPBA was
adopted??
Possible Amendments — Hillsborough EDD Area
• Old NC Highway 86 immediately south of existing Hillsborough EDD (87.5 acres)
• Would also require concurrent amendments to Joint Hillsborough/OC Land Use Plan
• Rezoning may also be desirable to reflect urban service boundary
o Currently zoned R-1 (Rural Residential)
Land Use Plans — Hillsborough Area (map)
Questions/Feedback
• Town of Carrboro Board of Aldermen received information as a Consent Agenda item on
February 7
• Town of Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, and OWASA staff determining process/date to inform
governing boards
• Questions and feedback for staff by BOCC
Commissioner Rich said the big map shows that some of the area looks like they fall in
the OWASA long term.
Perdita Holtz said boundaries need to be firmed up.
Craig Benedict said the rural buffer has to do with watersheds.
Commissioner Jacobs referred to the two white bulges on the map, and clarified that
these areas could possibly be amended and open to development of water and sewer.
Perdita Holtz said yes.
Commissioner Jacobs said, again, to be open with the public that there is a potential
development that is waiting for this area to be rezoned.
Perdita Holtz said this development application will be on the agenda for the May
Quarterly Public Hearing.
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Craig Benedict said an application was filed on February 3, and was found to be
sufficient on February 10. He said a review of the application will proceed, and staff will get this
information out to the Board. He said the public will also be informed about any changes in this
general area.
Commissioner McKee referred to the previous item, and the 200 plus acres south of
Chapel Hill. He said this land is close to highway 15-501, and asked if the zoning ordinances
for this area could be provided.
Perdita Holtz said this is a transition area, and Town of Chapel Hill zoning would apply
there. She said she would get complete information to the Board.
Chair Dorosin asked if Commissioner McKee wants information on all the parcels of
land, or just one.
Commissioner McKee said it is difficult to tell if this is one parcel of land, or multiple.
Perdita Holtz said it is 71 parcels.
Commissioner McKee said he would just like a general idea about the area, and whether
any are already zoned commercial.
G. INFORMATION ITEM
1. Unified Development Ordinance—Tables of Permitted Uses—To receive an update on
amendments to the UDO that would reorganize the Tables of Permitted Uses in
response to the Byrd v. Franklin County judicial decision.
ADJOURNMENT OF WORK SESSION
A motion was made by Commissioner McKee, seconded by Commissioner Price to
adjourn the meeting at 8:34 p.m.
VOTE: UNANIMOUS
Mark Dorosin, Chair
David Hunt
Deputy Clerk to the Board