Explanation
BACKGROUND: The Big Darby Watershed is one of the most biologically diverse aquatic systems in the Midwest and is among the top warm freshwater habitats in the nation. Ten communities collectively retained a team of consultants to develop a multi-jurisdictional plan for the area. That process began in April 2005 and involved substantial input from numerous stakeholders, several public meetings attended by hundreds of participants, consideration of related efforts and a project website.
The final Big Darby Watershed Master Plan was completed and presented to the elected leaders of partner jurisdictions on June 29, 2006. The plan's general land use map and other provisions work to balance development and conservation objectives and underscore the primary goal of safeguarding the Big Darby for future generations. The participating jurisdictions are working to establish a Memorandum of Understanding to guide ongoing cooperation and implementation of the Accord with an important first step being the Accord's adoption by partner communities. This legislation demonstrates Columbus' continued leadership in protecting the Darby through adoption of the plan.
FISCAL IMPACT: No funding is required for this legislation.
Title
To adopt the Big Darby Accord Watershed Master Plan.
Body
WHEREAS, the Big Darby Watershed is one of the most biologically diverse aquatic systems in the Midwest and is among the top warm, fresh water habitats in the United States; and
WHEREAS, each jurisdiction expressed its resolve to work cooperatively on the development of a plan that would protect the Big and Little Darby Creeks for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the ten jurisdictions: Columbus, Franklin County, Hilliard, Harrisburg, Grove City, Brown Township, Pleasant Township, Prairie Township, Norwich Township and Washington Township developed a Mission Statement to guide the planning process; and
WHEREAS, the parties retained a team...
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