Establish a Zoning District in Occoquan Reservoir Protection Area (ORPA)

Overview

In alignment with the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and to promote public health, safety, and welfare, Supervisor Vega would like for the Board to discuss and consider whether and how to explore the process of evaluating and establishing a zoning district, as a base or overlay zoning district, in the areas designated Occoquan Reservoir Protection Area (ORPA) in the Comprehensive Plan. The purpose of the discussion regarding a possible ORPA Zoning District would be to: Explore zoning ordinance amendments consistent with the Comprehensive Plan ORPA designation. Explore the legal and policy issues involved in a possible zoning ordinance amendment that could enhance existing protections for the Occoquan Reservoir and its watershed in the Comprehensive Plan; one such option would be to explore a potential 5-acre minimum average lot size, with consideration to any potential existing vested rights claims, etc. Help ensure that future land use and development in and around the ORPA prioritize water quality, environmental preservation, and public health. Provide clear standards to help preserve the recreational, ecological, and drinking water functions of the ORPA. To maintain the integrity of this protected area, I would like to explore options to have development within the ORPA zoning district limited to the maximum extent possible under applicable law, and to have any such development be low-impact and subject to rigorous environmental standards. This directive is intended solely to protect the ORPA and its resources and is not intended to promote additional development within the ORPA, while taking into consideration applicable legal issues. Supervisor Vega directed the County Executive to work with staff to explore this issue; the County Executive is requested to return with a briefing and proposed plan for consideration at the earliest possible Board of County Supervisors work session, including recommended zoning language, protective measures that will include an analysis on options regarding whether and how to address development of various projects with in the ORPA, and implementation strategies consistent with these conservation and public health objectives. Such recommendations should, where applicable, include timelines, fiscal impacts, and other pertinent impacts for Board consideration. The County Attorney’s Office is directed to review the information and recommendations for any legal issues, and to provide legal advice regarding this matter.

Supporting Materials

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