While its removal doesn t mean that towns have to change their plans, it does signal another opportunity. Lots of towns are working to revise their plans and in many cases a new density standard could be helpful. In our heavily agricultural townships, a higher standard that limits residential development might make a lot of sense. It did to the Town of York Board when they approved a 70-acre standard last year. There might also be a few developing townships where a lower standard might provide for some development while still maintaining a land base for specialized types of agriculture, such as orchards, nurseries, or CSAs.
Water is always a challenge and opportunity.
Blessed with varied streams, rivers, and lakes, and with an abundant supply of groundwater, we also face the responsibility of stewardship. Too many of our surface waters are degraded by runoff and our groundwater, especially the supplies tapped by private wells, contain too many contaminants. We can and will do better. Our stormwater program will be regulations that are fair, comprehensive, and based on community input. One thing I know is I can t catch fish from my office.