The state, regional and all local governments should identify open space and link it in networks to permanently separate cities, protect and enhance the environment, provide for recreation, and secure a strong resource base for agriculture and forestry. All local governments should prevent development from encroaching on commercially viable agricultural and forest land. Sharing Economic Growth - The state should focus its spending to build a network of strong regional economies that seek to spread growth across the state. Making Our Cities More Livable - Local governments should seek to concentrate employment centers and housing, using urban design to preserve community character and open space. Designating Urban Growth Areas and Providing Services - Urban growth should be contained to protect the environment and to make more efficient use of public facilities.
Cities are the preferred places for urban growth.
Providing Affordable Housing - Required housing and land use plans must include sufficient developable land for a range of housing types. Each community within a region should be required to accept its fair share of low-income housing. Linking Land Use and Public Facilities - Funding for transit should favor communities with supportive land use plans. Ensuring Compliance - The state with the governor's coordination should develop flexible guidelines and regulations where needed and evaluate planning efforts. All plans should be presumed valid upon adoption, unless within a given time the state objects.