As part of his SmartGrowth Initiative , Sims specifically set forth that the Lower Green River Agricultural Production District be recognized as a permanent unincorporated island to serve as an urban separator between designated agricultural land and developed urban annexation. In the 1980s, the County designated Agricultural Production Districts as farmland with large lot zoning requirements and agricultural use preferences. However, Agricultural Production District farmland could be annexed by interlocal agreement. Sims' proposals would eliminate annexation as a choice. I am very pleased to make a proposal that strengthens the County's ability to protect agriculture and, at the same time, recognizes the need for urban separators.
King County has the tools in place to protect farmlands.
Some of these tools include our Transfer of Development Rights Program and a very successful Farmlands Preservation Program . Sims will transmit these proposed policies to the King County Council for their consideration during the 1999 King County Comprehensive Plan amendment process early next year. Bob Tidball, left, points to his raspberry farm just south of Kent. This proposal sends a clear message that King County is serious about protecting this region's farmlands and open spaces as urban land is developed. By visiting this and other King County web pages, you expressly agree to be bound by terms and conditions of the site.