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Agenda Packet CC - 08/15/2016 - Agenda Packet
Joe Lockwood, Mayor CITY COUNCIL Karen Thurman Matt Kunz Bill Lusk Burt Hewitt Joe Longoria Rick Mohrig CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS City Hall, Suite 107E Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular Council Meeting Agenda 6:00 PM INVOCATION - Jason Howard, Stonecreek Church, Milton, Georgia CALL TO ORDER 1) ROLL CALL 2) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (Led by Mayor Joe Lockwood) 3) APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA (Add or remove items from the agenda) (Agenda Item No. 16-175) 4) PUBLIC COMMENT MILTON CITY COUNCIL REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 15, 2016 Page 2 of 4 Persons needing special accommodations in order to participate in any City meeting should call 678-242-2500. 5) CONSENT AGENDA 1. Approval of the April 25, 2016 City Council Regular City Council Minutes. (Agenda Item No. 16-176) (Sudie Gordon, City Clerk) 2. Approval of the May 9, 2016 City Council Work Session Minutes. (Agenda Item No. 16-177) (Sudie Gordon, City Clerk) 3. Approval of the Financial Statements for the Period Ending July, 2016. (Agenda Item No. 16-178) (Bernadette Harvill, Finance Manager) 6) REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS 1. Presentation of CARES Award. (Robert Edgar, Fire Chief) 2. North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan Update. (Carter Lucas, Assistant City Manager) 3. Discussion of City of Milton Budget – Revenue and Expenditures Capital Improvement Project Prioritization. (Stacey Inglis, Assistant City Manager) 7) FIRST PRESENTATION 1. Consideration of an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton, Georgia, to Establish the Ad Valorem Tax Rate of the City of Milton for Fiscal Year 2016; and for Other Purposes. (Agenda Item No. 16-179) (Stacey Inglis, Assistant City Manager) 8) PUBLIC HEARING 1. Consideration of a Resolution To Transmit the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). (Agenda Item No. 16-180) (Discussed at July 18, 2016 Joint Council and CPAC Work Session) (Michele McIntosh-Ross, Principal Planner) MILTON CITY COUNCIL REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 15, 2016 Page 3 of 4 Persons needing special accommodations in order to participate in any City meeting should call 678-242-2500. 2. Consideration of a Resolution Requesting the Transmitting a Draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update, Relating to the City’s Impact Fee Program to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State Review. (Agenda Item No. 16-181) (Discussed at August 8, 2016 City Council Work Session) (Michele McIntosh-Ross, Principal Planner) 3. Consideration of an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton, Georgia, to Establish the Ad Valorem Tax Rate of the City of Milton for Fiscal Year 2016; and for Other Purposes. (Agenda Item No. 16-182) (First Presentation at August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting) (Stacey Inglis, Assistant City Manager) 9) ZONING AGENDA 1. Consideration of RZ16-03 – Donegal Lane (Northern End) by 1699 Land Co., LLC to Rezone from AG-1 (Agricultural) to R-3A (Residential) to Develop 26 Single Family Homes on 17.25 Acres of an Overall Density of 1.5 Units per acre and a Concurrent Variance to Recue Setback for a New Street from 50 Feet to 0 Feet (Section 64-2397). (Agenda Item No. 16-169) (First Presentation at August 1, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting) (Kathleen Field, Community Development Director) 2. Consideration of V16-003 – The Reserve at Providence, Providence Road, the Providence Group of Georgia Custom Homes, LLC Requested Variances (Section 4-416.b and Section 64.1141.c.1). The reduction of the front setback from: 60 feet to 50 feet, lots 3, 19, 21, 23; 60 feet to 45 feet, lots 20, 30; 60 feet to 40 feet, lots 4, 9, 22; 60 feet to 30 feet, lots 5, 6, 7, 8. The increase in the allowed height from: 28 feet to 33 feet, lots 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 19, 20. (Agenda Item No. 16-131) (First Presentation at June 6, 2016 Regular Ci ty Council Meeting) (Deferred at June 20, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting) (Deferred at July 25, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting) (Kathleen Field, Community Development Director) 10) UNFINISHED BUSINESS (None) MILTON CITY COUNCIL REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 15, 2016 Page 4 of 4 Persons needing special accommodations in order to participate in any City meeting should call 678-242-2500. 11) NEW BUSINESS 1. Consideration of a Resolution Requesting to Transmit the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and the GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). (Agenda Item No. 16-180) (Discussed at July 18, 2016 Joint Council and CPAC Work Session) (Public Hearing Held at August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting) (Michele McIntosh-Ross, Principal Planner) 2. Consideration of a Resolution Transmitting a Draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update, Relating to the City’s Impact Fee Program to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State Review. (Agenda Item No. 16-181) (Discussed at August 8, 2016 City Council Work Session) (Public Hearing Held at August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting) (Michele McIntosh-Ross, Principal Planner) 3. Consideration of a Resolution of the Mayor and Council of Milton , Georgia Regarding Criteria for A Park and Greenspace Bond. (Agenda Item No. 16-183) (Kathleen Field, Community Development Director) 4. Consideration of a Resolution Adopting the City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department Revised Facility and Fields Use Policy. (Agenda Item No. 16-184) (Jim Cregge, Director of Parks and Recreation) 12) MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS 13) STAFF REPORTS Department Updates 1. Community Development 2. Parks & Recreation 14) EXECUTIVE SESSION (if needed) 15) ADJOURNMENT (Agenda Item No. 16-185) The minutes were provided electronically TO: AGENDA ITEM: MEETING DATE: HOME OF '' HE BEST CY.;A ii ILTON, ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM City Council DATE Steven Krokoff, City Manager August 9, 2016 FROM:0 Approval of the Financial Statements for the Period Ending July, 2016. Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: ()APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: () YES CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: () YES APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: () APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: 0SII-5ILafil REMARKS: () NOT APPROVED (4-IN0 (►yi10 (J NOT APPROVED youln- PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 -GreenMEci of infoC4cityofmlltonga.us 1 www.cityofmikWILDLIFE 0011 MUnl Ed»U �,_ ty onga.us ■A� ;. , s,,,,..K.,, .,, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 - �tRT F,Eo BRONZE -O To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Bernadette Harvill, Finance Manager Date: Submitted on August 10, 2016 for the August 15, 2016 Regular Council Meeting Agenda Item: Financial Statements for Period 10 – July 2016 Overview and Financial Highlights: General Fund Revenue collections for the General Fund are .31% over what is anticipated for the tenth period of the fiscal year. Total expenditures to-date are $31,343,382 and are 2.22% less than expected for this period of the fiscal year. Capital Project Fund Expenditures within this fund continue to occur on a project-by-project basis. With a total project expenditure budget of $25,658,906, capital expenditures-to-date total $7,259,269. City of Milton STATEMENT OF REVENUES & EXPENDITURES General Fund For the Period Ending July 2016 Actual Budgeted Variance over/(under)Actual Budgeted Variance over/(under) Property Tax 9,902,000 3,047 7,000 (3,953) 362,851 342,000 20,851 Motor Vehicle Tax 975,000 43,883 81,250 (37,367) 536,489 731,250 (194,761) Intangible Tax 200,000 26,614 16,667 9,947 187,207 150,000 37,207 Real Estate Transfer Tax 85,000 18,393 7,083 11,309 80,139 63,750 16,389 Franchise Fees 1,900,000 302,658 161,500 141,158 1,490,024 1,489,171 853 Local Option Sales Tax 8,300,000 718,209 691,667 26,542 6,387,719 6,225,000 162,719 Alcohol Beverage Excise Tax 295,000 28,167 24,583 3,583 222,065 221,250 815 Business & Occupation Tax 650,000 2,291 3,250 (959) 642,226 630,500 11,726 Insurance Premium Tax 1,800,000 - - - - - - Financial Institution Tax 39,000 - - - 46,001 39,000 7,001 Penalties & Interest 32,300 1,113 2,692 (1,579) 33,524 26,917 6,607 Alcohol Beverage Licenses 145,000 - - - 140,450 139,200 1,250 Other Non-Business Permits/Licenses 16,800 1,762 1,400 362 19,760 14,000 5,760 Zoning & Land Disturbance Permits 217,100 1,220 18,092 (16,872) 146,747 180,917 (34,170) Building Permits 480,000 29,053 40,000 (10,947) 368,810 400,000 (31,190) Intergovernmental Revenue - - - - - - - Other Charges for Service 600,000 26,628 45,415 (18,787) 459,546 477,480 (17,933) Municipal Court Fines 550,000 29,910 45,833 (15,924) 439,772 458,333 (18,561) Interest Earnings 20,450 3,941 1,704 2,237 36,977 17,042 19,936 Contributions & Donations - - - - 10,964 - 10,964 Other Revenue 47,628 12,813 3,969 8,844 102,203 39,690 62,513 Other Financing Sources 9,973,171 3,500 3,500 - 9,940,184 9,940,184 - Total Revenues 36,228,449 1,253,200 1,155,605 97,595 21,653,657 21,585,683 67,975 Actual Budgeted Variance over/(under)Actual Budgeted Variance over/(under) Mayor and Council 171,375 8,684 8,978 (294) 123,561 135,732 (12,171) City Clerk 193,574 10,884 12,517 (1,633) 134,474 152,608 (18,134) City Manager 705,273 41,012 47,839 (6,828) 564,489 582,403 (17,914) General Administration 43,557 1,660 3,323 (1,663) 32,331 36,411 (4,080) Finance 427,877 28,163 30,513 (2,350) 338,256 353,004 (14,748) Legal 230,000 - - - 193,154 153,333 39,821 Information Technology 837,203 39,283 53,755 (14,472) 635,044 720,027 (84,983) Human Resources 341,602 17,735 20,592 (2,857) 208,809 223,085 (14,276) Risk Management 216,328 23,523 19,453 4,069 167,158 166,591 567 General Government Buildings 396,421 32,202 33,035 (833) 322,017 330,351 (8,334) Public Information & Marketing 309,345 18,864 21,317 (2,453) 223,198 253,225 (30,028) Municipal Court 323,708 20,282 23,770 (3,488) 227,138 265,828 (38,690) Police 4,202,095 253,557 299,864 (46,307) 3,284,971 3,413,454 (128,482) Fire 5,997,260 402,217 432,928 (30,710) 4,740,018 4,976,440 (236,422) Public Works 2,086,601 108,118 153,094 (44,976) 1,567,948 1,641,785 (73,837) Parks & Recreation 1,509,405 36,627 24,158 12,469 914,593 924,564 (9,972) Community Development 688,885 45,255 48,093 (2,838) 512,256 568,652 (56,396) Economic Development 78,588 2,931 3,634 (703) 59,825 63,263 (3,437) Debt Service - Capital Lease Payment - - - - - - - Operating Transfers to Other Funds 22,500,005 2,702,931 2,702,931 - 17,094,142 17,094,142 - Operating Reserve 187,401 - - - - - - Total expenditures 41,446,503 3,793,928 3,939,794 (145,866)31,343,382 32,054,898 (711,517) Net Income/(Loss)(5,218,054)(2,540,728)(9,689,724) Fund Balance - Beginning 10,081,237 10,081,237 Fund Balance - Ending 4,863,183 391,512 Revenues Annual Budget Current Month Year-to-Date Operating Expenditures Annual Budget Current Month Year-to-Date Page 2 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Earth Day Vendor Fee 2,000$ -$ 170$ (1,830)$ Hometown Jubilee Vendor Fee 1,000 - - (1,000) Interest Revenues - 2 8 8 Crabapple Fest Sponsor 15,000 - 1,000 (14,000) Earth Day Sponsor 4,500 - 2,250 (2,250) Concert Sponsor - - - - Mayor's Run Sponsor 1,000 - 2,000 1,000 Donations/MGG - - 310 310 T-shirt Sales - - - - Mayor's Run Reg. Fees - - 375 375 Roundup Food Sales - - - - Total revenues 23,500$ 2$ 6,114$ (17,386)$ EXPENDITURES Current: Special Events 79,140$ 268$ 57,948$ 21,192$ Total Expenditures 79,140$ 268$ 57,948$ 21,192$ OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Transfers in from Hotel/Motel Tax Fund 47,000$ 6,731$ 46,262$ (738)$ Total other financing sources and uses 47,000$ 6,731$ 46,262$ (738)$ Net change in fund balances (8,640)$ (5,573)$ Fund balances - beginning 30,712 30,712 Fund balances - ending 22,072$ 25,138$ City of Milton Special Events Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 3 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Cash Confiscations/State Funds -$ -$ -$ -$ Cash Confiscations/Fed Funds/US Marshal - - - - Cash Confiscations/Federal Funds - 853 50,116 50,116 Interest Revenues/State Funds - 2 18 18 Interest Revenues/Federal Funds - 4 53 53 Realized Gain on Investments/State Funds - - - - Budgeted Fund Balance - - - - Total revenues -$ 859$ 50,187$ 50,187$ EXPENDITURES Current: Police -$ 291$ 96,093$ (96,093)$ Total Expenditures -$ 291$ 96,093$ (96,093)$ OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Transfers in from General Fund -$ -$ -$ -$ Total other financing sources and uses -$ -$ -$ -$ Net change in fund balances -$ (45,906)$ Fund balances - beginning 202,497 202,497 Fund balances - ending 202,497$ 156,592$ City of Milton Confiscated Assets Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 4 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Amended Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Wireless 911 Fees 890,000$ 890,000$ 143,386$ 648,380$ (241,620)$ Interest Revenue - - 10 88 88 Total revenues 890,000$ 890,000$ 143,397$ 648,469$ (241,531)$ EXPENDITURES Current: Public Safety 909,080$ 909,080$ 219,317$ 520,982$ 388,098$ Total Expenditures 909,080$ 909,080$ 219,317$ 520,982$ 388,098$ OTHER FINANCING USES Unallocated -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Operating Transfer Out to Capital Projects 300,000$ 43,626$ 7,271$ 29,084$ (14,542)$ Net change in fund balances (319,080)$ (62,706)$ 98,402$ Fund balances - beginning 62,719 768,794 62,719 Fund balances - ending (256,361)$ 706,088$ 161,121$ City of Milton E-911 Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 5 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Taxes Hotel/Motel Taxes 67,000$ 6,731$ 46,262$ (20,738)$ Total revenues 67,000$ 6,731$ 46,262$ (20,738)$ OTHER FINANCING SOURCES/(USES) Transfers out to General Fund 20,000$ -$ -$ (20,000)$ Transfers out to Special Events Fund 47,000 6,731 46,262 (738) Total other financing sources and uses 67,000$ 6,731$ 46,262$ (20,738)$ Net change in fund balances - - Fund balances - beginning - - Fund balances - ending -$ -$ City of Milton Hotel/Motel Tax Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 6 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Amended Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Charges for Service Infrastructure Maintenance Fee 90,000$ 90,000$ 17,638$ 74,312$ (15,688)$ Infrastructure Maint Penalty & Interest -$ -$ -$ 1,397$ 1,397$ Sidewalk Replacement Account - - - - - Crabapple Paving Fee - - - - - Traffic Calming - - - - - Tree Recompense - - - 75,500 75,500 Landfill Host Fees 120,000 120,000 - 70,291 (49,709) HYA Fees - - - - Interest Revenue 500 500 98 801 301 Realized Gain or Loss on Investments - - - - - Insurance Proceeds/Public Safety - - - - - Insurance Proceeds/Parks & Rec - - - 14,399 14,399 Insurance Proceeds/Public Works - - - - - Atlanta HIDTA Stipend - - - - - Capital Lease Proceeds - - - - - Total revenues 210,500 210,500 17,735$ 236,700$ 26,200$ EXPENDITURES Capital Outlay City Council 710,069$ 710,069$ -$ 2,301$ 707,768$ General Admin 13,762 13,762 - - 13,762 General Govt Bldg - 9,935,171 836,290 3,263,008 6,672,163 Finance - - - - - IT - - - - - Court 100,000 55,000 - 715 54,285 Police 1,079,618 1,079,618 60,750 230,889 848,729 Fire 2,541,748 2,541,748 3,102 186,440 2,355,308 Public Works 8,614,121 8,678,121 310,624 3,472,954 5,205,167 Parks & Recreation 2,318,210 2,318,210 - 70,210 2,248,000 Community Development 247,207 327,207 - 32,753 294,454 Total Capital Outlay 15,624,735$ 25,658,906$ 1,210,765$ 7,259,269$ 18,399,637$ Excess of revenues over expenditures (15,414,235) (25,448,406) (1,193,030) (7,022,569) (18,373,437) OTHER FINANCING SOURCES/(USES) Transfers in from General Fund 8,327,979$ 18,763,150$ 2,433,193$ 13,896,763$ (4,866,387)$ Transfers in from E-911 Fund 300,000$ 43,626$ 7,271$ 29,084$ (14,542)$ Unallocated - - - - -$ Lease Proceeds - - - - -$ Proceeds of Sale of Assets - - - -$ Budgeted Fund Balance - - - - - Total other financing sources and uses 8,627,979 18,806,776 2,440,464 13,925,847 (4,880,929) Net change in fund balances (6,786,256) (6,641,630) 6,903,278 Fund balances - beginning 7,224,493 7,224,493 7,224,493 Fund balances - ending 438,237$ 582,863$ 14,127,771$ City of Milton Capital Project Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 7 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Amended Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Intergovernmental Revenues GDOT Crabapple Streetscape 500,000$ 500,000$ -$ -$ (500,000)$ GDOT TAP (Big Creek Greenway)146,732 146,732 - 98,200 (48,532) CDBG 24,700 24,700 - 32,619 7,919 LMIG Funds 200,000 200,000 - 280,076 80,076 GDOT HPP Funds 5,938,408 5,938,408 - - (5,938,408) MARTA Grant 74,650 74,650 - 2,788 (71,863) SR 9 @ Bethany Bend Grant 872 872 - - (872) GDOT-Signage/Landscaping 4,062 4,062 - - (4,062) Trail Connection to Big Creek Greenway - - - - - Interest Revenues - - - 163 163 Total revenues 6,889,424$ 6,889,424$ -$ 413,844$ (6,475,580)$ EXPENDITURES Capital Outlay Unallocated -$ Public Safety - Public Works 6,212,525$ 5,712,525$ 26,321$ 576,462$ 5,136,063$ Community Development 4,900 4,900 - - 4,900 Total Capital Outlay 6,217,425$ 5,717,425$ 26,321$ 576,462$ 5,140,963$ Excess of revenues over expenditures 671,999 1,171,999 (26,321) (162,618) (1,334,617) OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Transfers in from General Fund 1,411,202$ 911,202$ 34,267$ 842,668$ (68,534)$ Transfers in to General Fund - - -$ -$ -$ Budgeted Fund Balance - - - - - Total other financing sources and uses 1,411,202$ 911,202$ 34,267$ 842,668$ (68,534)$ Net change in fund balances 2,083,201 2,083,201 680,050 Fund balances - beginning (2,082,969) (2,082,969) (2,082,969) Fund balances - ending 232$ 232$ (1,402,919)$ City of Milton Capital Grant Fund Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 8 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Admin Fund -$ 2,113$ 19,704$ 19,704$ Law Enforcement Fund - 1,043$ 12,616$ 12,616$ Fire Fund - 5,979$ 72,295$ 72,295$ Road Fund - 7,462$ 90,222$ 90,222$ Park Fund - 55,936$ 481,670$ 481,670$ Interest Revenues - 43 137$ 137$ Total revenues -$ 72,577$ 676,644$ 676,644$ EXPENDITURES Admin Police Fire Public Works Parks & Recreation Total Capital Outlay -$ -$ -$ -$ Excess of revenues over expenditures - 72,577 676,644 676,644 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Transfers in from General Fund -$ -$ -$ Total other financing sources and uses -$ -$ -$ -$ Net change in fund balances - 676,644 Fund balances - beginning - - Fund balances - ending -$ 676,644$ City of Milton Capital Projects Fund - Impact Fees Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 9 of 10 Original Budgeted Amounts Amended Budgeted Amounts Current Period Actuals Year-to-Date Actuals Variance with Final Budget - Positive (Negative) REVENUES Intergovernmental Revenues Interest Revenues 19 1,214 1,214 Contributions & Donations - - - - - Total revenues -$ -$ 19$ 1,214$ 1,214$ EXPENDITURES Capital Outlay General Government Buildings 9,935,171$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Parks & Recreation 822,974 822,974 - 773,119 49,855 Bond Principal 589,878 589,878 - - 589,878 Bond Interest 276,256 276,256 - 153,529 122,727 Total Capital Outlay 11,624,279$ 1,689,108$ -$ 926,648$ 762,460$ Excess of revenues over expenditures (11,624,279) (1,689,108) 19 (925,434) 763,674 OTHER FINANCING SOURCES (USES) Transfers in from General Fund 2,825,653$ 2,825,653$ 235,471$ 2,354,711$ (470,942)$ Transfers out to General Fund -$ (9,935,171)$ -$ (9,935,171)$ -$ Revenue Bond Proceeds 689,868 689,868 - 689,868 (0)$ Total other financing sources and uses 3,515,521$ (6,419,650)$ 235,471$ (6,890,593)$ (470,943)$ Net change in fund balances (8,108,758) (8,108,758) (7,816,026) Fund balances - beginning 8,109,005 8,109,005 8,109,005 Fund balances - ending 247$ 247$ 292,979$ City of Milton Capital Projects Fund - Revenue Bond Statement of Revenues, Expenditures, and Changes in Fund Balances - Budget and Actual For the Period Ended July 31, 2016 Page 10 of 10 TO: FROM: HOME OF 'THEBEST QUALITY OF LIFE IN GEORGIA' M1 LTONI ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM City Council DATE: August 11, 2016 Steven Krokoff, City Manager AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton, Georgia, to Establish the Ad Valorem Tax Rate of the City of Milton for Fiscal Year 2016; and for Other Purposes. MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: (PROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: () YES CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: () YES APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: () APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: 5( ( J ( 1 REMARKS: (J NOT APPROVED (<NO (-�NO (J NOT APPROVED L.(` © #You(n ®Green _ *** -� ; ��d ; T' PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 wanuFE Community why Infoftityofmiltonga.us I www.cityofmiltonga.us ,,:,c.k.F.T,r .E`.r,u, N _ � 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Stacey Inglis, Assistant City Manager Date: Submitted on August 11, 2016 for the September 7, 2016 Regular Council Meeting Agenda Item: Consideration of an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton, Georgia, to Establish the Ad Valorem Tax Rate of the City of Milton for Fiscal Year 2016; and for Other Purposes. Department Recommendation: Adopt the ordinance as presented to establish the ad valorem tax rate of the City of Milton for the 2016 fiscal year. Executive Summary: We are proposing a millage rate of 4.731 mills, which is the same rate the City of Milton Charter permits and the rate we’ve had in all 9 years of the City’s incorporation. The tax digest for 2016 is showing taxable assessments for real and personal property at $2,271,909,971, net of exemptions. This represents an increase of 5.8% over the 2015 digest due to assessments on newly improved properties. Motor vehicle assessed values in 2016 are $55,613,700 and have decreased by 31% since 2015. This decline is a result of House Bill 386, which is phasing out motor vehicle taxes (or the “birthday tax”) and replacing it with the title ad valorem tax. The TAVT is a one-time title fee that is paid on all vehicle sales. It is not a property tax and is, therefore, not included in the tax digest. Funding and Fiscal Impact: The total amount of property taxes to be levied, excluding motor vehicl e tax, is roughly $10.7 million. The FY16 budget anticipates collecting $9,490,000, or 89% of the levied taxes. Historically, we’ve experienced a collection rate of 90%-94% by the due date. It is important to note that a software programming error has held up the release of the tax digest from Fulton County. We anticipate receiving the tax files by the middle of September and hope to send tax bills prior to September 30th. The late billing shouldn’t affect the budget. Alternatives: None. Legal Review: Not required. Concurrent Review: Steve Krokoff, City Manager Page 1 of 2 STATE OF GEORGIA ORDINANCE NO. COUNTY OF FULTON AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MILTON, GEORGIA, TO ESTABLISH THE AD VALOREM TAX RATE OF THE CITY OF MILTON FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES WHEREAS, the Charter of the City of Milton, Georgia authorizes the City to levy and provide for the assessment of ad valorem property taxes on all property subject to taxation; and WHEREAS, the Charter of the City of Milton, Georgia provides that the valuation of all property subject to taxation by the City shall be determined according to the tax digest prepared by the Fulton County Board of Tax Assessors; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council, after hearing and after duly considering all such relevant evidence, testimony and public comments, has determined that it is in the best interests of, and necessary to meet the expenses and obligations of, the City of Milton, Georgia to set a levy in the amount of $4.731 on each $1,000.00 of taxable value for all property subject to ad valorem taxation by the City; now BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of Milton, Georgia as follows: SECTION I: The ad valorem tax rate for the City of Milton, Georgia for the 2016 fiscal year, on property subject to ad valorem taxation by the City is hereby fixed at $4.731 on forty percent (40%) of each $1,000.00 of property subject to ad valorem tax by the City. SECTION II: Said rate of $4.731 on forty percent (40%) of each $1,000.00 of taxable property is hereby levied for General Government purposes. SECTION III: All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. Page 2 of 2 ORDAINED this the ____day of ________, 2016. ____________________________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: ___________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk (SEAL) TO: FROM: HOME OF '-HEBEST G?'_.A:'1 �' '.� 1I'=E Ire -�--A' M I LTO N, ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM City Council DATE: August 11, 2016 Steven Krokoff, City Manager AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of a Resolution to Transmit the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: �PPROVED (J NOT APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: (,}-fES () NO CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: (-IES () NO APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY:APPROVED (J NOT APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: 8I(S 1 1(p REMARKS: 9110 YOU(n. PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 Green w + car ; WILDLIFE COMMUni info�cityofmiltonga.us I www.cityofmiifonga.us ®� ,,.,, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Michele McIntosh-Ross, Principal Planner Date: Submitted on August 11, 2016 for the August 15, 2016 Council Regular Council Meeting. Agenda Item: Consideration of a Resolution to Transmit the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). _____________________________________________________________________________________ Department Recommendation: Approval. Executive Summary: The City of Milton adopted its 2030 Comprehensive Plan on June 06, 2011. Per the regional and State planning requirements, the city is required to prepare and submit a five-year update of its Comprehensive Plan by October 31, 2016. With the assistance of the ARC staff, and the City’s Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC), the planning process got underway in November 2015 with a public hearing and Comprehensive Plan Kick-Off meeting. Subsequent meetings were held with the CPAC and the community to gather thoughts and comments. A draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 was prepared and discussed at the July 18, 2016 joint CPAC and City Council work session. Comments derived from the work session were considered by CPAC and resulted in the revised Draft dated August 10, 2016. Funding and Fiscal Impact: None Alternatives: None. Legal Review: Ken Jarrard – Jarrard & Davis (08-11-2016) Concurrent Review: Page 2 of 2 Steve Krokoff, City Manager Attachment(s): Draft Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 Resolution to Transmit the Plan STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF FULTON RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSMITTAL OF A DRAFT CITY OF MILTON COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2016 TO THE ATLANTA REGIONAL COMMISSION FOR REGIONAL AND STATE REVIEW WHEREAS, the City of Milton has completed the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 as the State required five-year update; and WHEREAS, a 16-person Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC), plus one City Council liaison, were appointed by the Mayor and Council to review and assist in the development of the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016; and WHEREAS, the preparation of the City’s Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 was initiated in the Fall of 2015 with the assistance of the Atlanta Regional Commission, using funds provided by the State of Georgia; and WHEREAS, the document was prepared by the Atlanta Regional Commission in accordance with the Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning established by the Georgia Planning Act of 1989, and the required public hearings were held on November 2, 2015 and August 15, 2016. BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the City Council does hereby authorize the transmittal of the draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State review, as per the requirements of the Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements adopted pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act of 1989. RESOLVED this 15th day of August, 2016 _________________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: _____________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk The City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Red text indicate areas of revisions This document was prepared by the Atlanta Regional Commission using funds provided by the State of Georgia. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 Contents Executive Summary 5 Data and Demographics 6 Housing 12 Community Vision 15 Issues and Opportunities 16 Transportation and Mobility 31 Future Community Map and Narrative 34 Future Land Use Map and Narrative 59 Report of Accomplishments 67 Short Term Work Program 73 Appendix Removed State Planning Goals and Objectives - no longer a required element City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20164 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Acknowledgments City Council Joe Lockwood, Mayor Karen Thurman - District 1/ Post 1 Matt Kunz - Mayor Pro Tem, District 2/ Post 2 William C. “Bill” Lusk, P.E. - District 2/ Post 1 Burt Hewitt - District 1/ Post 2 Joe Longoria - District 3/ Post 1 Rick Mohrig - District 3/ Post 2 Comprehensive Planning Steering Committee Peyton Jamison - Chair Karen Thurman - Liaison to the City Council Paul Moore Fred Edwards Noel Carpenter Mark Bittner Wilson Borden Chris Doty Gariel Burchett Todd Chernik Marty Littleton Lauren Holmes Richie Johnson Terrence McCrossan William O’Connor Tom Gauger Steve Smith Sumeet Shah City of Milton Staff Kathleen Field - Community Development Director Michele McIntosh-Ross - Principal Planner Atlanta Regional Commission Staff Dan Reuter - Division Manager Jared Lombard - Senior Principal Planner Allison Duncan - Principal Planner Sidney Douse - Senior Planner Robert Herrig - Planner Beth Davis - Intern Elizabeth Burns - Intern Dana De Lessio - Intern City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 5Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Executive Summary The City of Milton was chartered in 2006. Previously, the area that comprises the city was a part of unincorporated Fulton County. Many of the land use and transportation patterns were set in place by zoning and development standards that pre-dated the incorporation of the city. The original vision of the city was focused on the preservation of rural character, community heritage, and “small-town” quality of life. According to the Community Assessment of the city’s original Comprehensive Plan, “The City was created with the idea that the rapid pace of urban development since 1990 would displace the rural-based assets that attracted the city’s current citizens to Milton, and that the City should establish and adhere to its own resources to balance future development and services with the City’s vision for preservation of existing lifestyles and community character. Maintenance of the unique agricultural elements, lower density development patterns, lifestyle and character of the existing community is central to the wishes of many local citizens.” Citizens still wish to see Milton preserve agricultural and low density development patterns. There are areas along the southern border of the city that have been identified for higher density, mixed use development – particularly in the Deerfield and Crabapple Character Areas. Higher density residential development opportunities exist in Milton Lakes and Bethany. Outside of these areas, the majority of the city is reserved for low density residential development on lots that are 1-acre or greater. Beyond the community’s keen interest in future development, topics of consideration included acquisition and development of community greenspace; traffic congestion and transportation improvements, and the need to preserve opportunities for agricultural landscapes and working farms. Overall, the community is generally satisfied with the policy direction set down in their 2011 Comprehensive Plan. Therefore, this Comprehensive Plan Update largely reflects the policy and direction adopted in the city’s initial plan, with changes noted in the topics of greenspace, land conservation, and traffic congestion. Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: Promote a high quality of life Create a strong sense of community and place Respect our heritage while guiding our future Be the best place to call home City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20166 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Data & Demographics City of Milton, Fulton County, Georgia Data and demographics have been added to the 2016 Comprehensive Plan Update City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 7Draft for Review 8.10.2016 32,661 36,291 39,804 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000 45,000 2010 2015 2020 Milton Population Population The city of Milton became a city on December 1, 2006. The first demographic data available for Milton comes from 2010, at which point the population was 32,661. According to ESRI Business Analyst Projections, the population is expected to continue to grow quickly, with an anticipated 22% growth between 2010 and 2020. The city’s Impact Fee Population Forecast anticipates they will reach “build out at a population around 61,580 residents.” 2010 2015 2020 Milton 32,661 36,291 39,804 Sandy Springs 93,853 98,184 103,980 Alpharetta 57,551 61,375 65,902 Johns Creek 76,728 80,993 86,870 Roswell 88,346 91,326 96,222 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 The chart to the left compares the population of Milton with other North Fulton cities. Milton’s population has been lower than its neighbors, and is predicted to continue to be lower, though it is projected to experience steady growth over the next five years. North Fulton Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 Census Profile(2000,2010)., ESRI Business Analyst Online Community Profile (2015, 2020 Projections)Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20168 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Race White residents make up 76.6% of the racial distribution in the City of Milton as of 2010. Black residents make up 9%, Asian residents are 10.4% of the population, and those of two or more races are 2.2% of the population. Residents of Hispanic origin of any race are 6.0% of the population. W h i t e B l a c k a s i a n t W o o r M o r e r a c e s o t h e r 2015 2020 The proportion of White and Black residents is expected to decline, replaced by Asian residents, and those of two or more races. The proportion of those of Hispanic descent is also expected to decline from 6% in 2010 to about 5.7% in 2020. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Community ProfileStaff comment 7/13 Staff comment 7/13 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 9Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Age 25% 11% 29% 28% 6%1% <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 22% 14% 23% 32% 8%1% 2015 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 19% 14% 23% 33% 10%1% 2020 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 16% 27% 28% 21% 8% <5 5 to 9 10 to 14 15 to 19 20 to 24 Young and middle aged adults (25-64) combine for 59% of the population. Milton has a high number of residents under the age of 14 for the region. Between 2010 and 2015, the population is expected to get older as a whole. The youngest age group of those under 14 and those aged 25-44 decrease in proportion of the total, while adults aged 45-84 gain 6% of the population. These trends are projected to continue into 2020. 2010 School Age Population The impact of the public schools on the development patterns of the community has consistently been an issue raised during the Comprehensive Plan process. The breakdown of school-aged population is included here for planning purposes. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 census profile; ESRI Business Analyst Online Demographic and income Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201610 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Employment 1326 1581 1100 1089 2157 1181 1034 1315 1149 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Health Care/ Social Assistance Food Services What Jobs do Milton Residents Do? 329 1108 2483 306 1084 1316 820 531 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Food Services What jobs are available in Milton?re s i d e n t ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sWo r k p l a c e ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sSource: US Census Bureau, Census on the Map Resident Area Profile Analysis City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 11Draft for Review 8.10.2016 73,674 114,273 129,119 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 140,000 2010 2015 2020 Median Household Income 14% 22% 27% 19% 13% 4%1% <$25,000 $25,000-$49,999 $50,000-$74,999 $75,000-$99,999 $100,000-$149,999 $150,000-$199,999 $200,000+ Income 68% of households made between $25,000 and $100,000 in 2010. 2010 Source: :2010 data- US Census American Fact Finder ACS 2010 Selected Economic Characteristics. 2015/2020 data- ESRI Business Analyst Demographic and income ProfileStaff comment 7/13 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201612 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000 2010 2015 2020 Owner Occupied Rented Vacant Housing Demand Demand in housing is expected to increase, resulting in both an increase in the number of units and a decrease in the vacancy rate. The number of rented units is 24.7% of units in 2010, 22.9% in 2015, and 23.8% in 2020. $469,100 $451,100 $2,790 $1,220 2010 2014 Median Selected Monthly Owner Costs 2014 Median Rent 2014 Median home values can be somewhat of a moving target depending on the source of information. According to the US Census American Fact Finder, home values have fluctuated around the mid-$400,000 range. Some private data sources, such as Zillow, list the median a little higher around $485,000. Housing Values Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Housing Profile; US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 13Draft for Review 8.10.2016 According to the American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate (2014), there are 12,853 housing units in Milton, with a vacancy rate of around 5%. The majority of vacant units are rental – less than 1% of owner occupied units are vacant. Of the rental units that are available in the city, rents still tend to be high with the majority of units in the city available for rents over $1,000/ month. 85% of Milton’s housing has been built since 1990. The map included here shows the development patterns in the city, depicted by year. This reinforces the ACS data that suggests that the vast majority of the housing stock in the city is fairly new. The majority of housing – almost 70% is single family detached dwellings. Around 15% of the city’s housing is a type of multi-family dwelling. The average housing value in the city of Milton is around $451,000. Compared with the average in Fulton County, which is $237,600, this is almost double of the county as a whole. The relative newness of the housing stock, plus the high value of real estate combine to ensure the good condition of housing in the city. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 Average Rents, Milton GA Housing by Structure Type, Milton GA Single Family Detached Single Family Attached Duplex, Triplex or Quadplex Multi-family 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing CharacteristicsStaff comment 7/13 CPAC comment 7/21 - fixed formatting City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201614 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Milton has limited water and sewer infrastructure, and there are no plans for expansion. The desire to preserve Milton’s rural and low-density quality of life will need to be balanced with the increasing conversion of agricultural land to housing, and the impermanence that may result when the equestrian and agricultural community feels that they can no longer afford to continue operations in a rapidly suburbanizing area. Additionally, concerns have been expressed that many aging adults and “empty-nesters” choose to leave the community because they lack housing options. 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 Housing Values, Milton GA Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 15Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Community Vision Monday November 2 Milton City Council Comp Plan Kick Off Tuesday February 9 CPAC Meeting Tuesday March 8 Public Meeting Tuesday April 12 CPAC Meeting Saturday April 23 Milton Earth Day Festival Wednesday December 16 CPAC Meeting Monday October17: Milton City Council Meeting - Adoption of the Comprehensive Plan and CIE Thursday May 12 Public Meeting Tuesday June 14 CPAC Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday July 18 Joint CPAC & City Council Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday August 8 CIE Work Session (Ross & Associates) Monday August 15 Public Hearing & Transmittal CIE & Comp Plan Thursday July 21 CPAC Meeting Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: • Promote a high quality of life • Create a strong sense of community and place • Respect our heritage while guiding our future • Be the best place to call home Comprehensive Plan Mission We take responsibility together to provide the best quality of life to those we serve. Through excellent service to our neighbors, we strengthen our cherished sense of community. Community Input Opportunities The Milton Comprehensive Plan Update process was guided by a Stakeholder Committee (CPAC) comprised of citizens, local business owners, elected officials, and Milton staff. CPAC met on multiple occasions, providing direction and feedback at key points in the process. There were additional opportunities for public participation at community meetings and local festivals, as well as regularly scheduled City Council meetings where the plan was discussed. Meetings were advertised through local media outlets and on the city’s social media sites. Concurrent with the Comprehensive Plan Update, the city was undertaking an update to the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP), and their Capital Improvements Element (CIE). In addition to the CTP and CIE, there are numerous other plans and studies that support the Comprehensive Plan, and referenced herein. They are identified below. Other Plans and Programs • Crabapple LCI Form Code & Visioning Study • Deerfield/ GA 9 LCI Form Based Code • GA 9 Design Guidelines • Hwy 9 North Visioning • Arnold Mill Visioning Study • Tree Inventory • Parks and Recreation Plan • Conservation Plan • City Strategic Plan 2016-2020 • Impact Fee Assessment Report This page new to this update City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201616 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Community Issues & Opportunities The community issues and opportunities are a snap shot of the community’s concerns, and its perception of the strengths they possess and the challenges they face. The issues and opportunities included herein were generated in the initial Milton Comprehensive Plan. They were reviewed and updated by CPAC, and feedback from community members was used to generate the final list presented here. Priority Issues are those that were ranked highly by community members as still being a priority issue at the time of this update of the Comprehensive Plan. This list of issues and opportunities is used to provide direction toward crafting the policies and implementation goals for the city. The Objectives listed in this section are community policies that address the issues and opportunities identified by the community through the public review of the Comprehensive Plan Update. Priorities • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. • Traffic congestion is a persistent problem within the community. • The city lacks a network of sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian and bridle paths, and trails that would enhance transportation choices. • Adequate funding is needed to implement road improvements. Priorities are issues that were valued highly at public meetings, language is the same as 2011 plan CPAC comment 7/21 - clarified that objectives refer to policies per DCA rules City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 17Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Overall Overall issues and opportunities were derived from the consistent concerns that have been reiterated throughout the Comprehensive Plan process from its initiation with the Community Assessment to its completion with the Community Agenda. These include an emphasis on community aesthetics, the need for more parks and greenspace, the need to enhance community connectivity, and the importance of accessibility and universal design to benefit citizens of all abilities. Issues • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Current development patterns do not encourage interaction with neighbors • Current development patterns do not reflect a comprehensive awareness of accessibility and universal design concepts. Opportunities • The city currently has acquired land that can be developed into public greenspace and active and passive parkland, and there are additional opportunities for the further acquisition of land for similar purposes. • The development and implementation of commercial design standards for each character area will enhance community aesthetics. • New residential development, within certain Character Areas such as Crabapple or Deerfield, should be connected to existing neighborhoods and commercial service areas. • The development and implementation of rural design standards within appropriate character areas will enhance community aesthetics. Staff comment 6/27 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201618 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development Patterns and Land Use Development within Milton boomed through much of the 1990s and into the early 2000s while the city was still a part of unincorporated Fulton County. This is a timeframe that coincides with the rising awareness of many of the negative impacts of sprawling commercial and residential land use patterns. The issues and opportunities identified for Development Patterns/ Land Use emphasize the importance of limiting sprawl and preserving the unique rural character of much of the city. Community preference has been articulated for Master Plans tied to existing and potential development; rigorous aesthetic design controls; specific geographic boundaries and specified densities to prevent sprawl; and the protection of open space, woodlands, specimen trees, stream buffers, steep slopes, the night sky, agricultural land, and other environmentally sensitive areas. Issues • Unattractive sprawl development has led to visual clutter along roadways that can distract drivers and detract from the community’s appearance. • Lack of design standards have resulted in unattractive subdivisions and subdivision entrances. • Lack of design standards have led to subdivision entrances that are not in keeping with the rural character of the area. • Sprawl development threatens the indistinct boundary between town and countryside. • There is widespread opposition to typical high-density development patterns. limits the diversity of housing options available in the city. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • New development threatens to encroach upon areas that may not be suited for development. Opportunities • Milton has preserved a unique patterns of equestrian-oriented development as well as open/green space and woodlands that should be enhanced and promoted. • Plentiful scenic areas, pastoral areas, and woodlands are the hallmark of community character and should be preserved. • Proactive stewardship of the community’s extensive greenspace and woodlands can be an asset for current and future generations. • Emphasis on the redevelopment of existing areas can preserve and enhance the community’s greenspace and sense of place. • Policies and regulations should maintain and promote the rural character of the city, including the preservation of “open road” neighborhoods1, inclusion of a conservation subdivision option and locating new residential development in areas contiguous to existing neighborhoods. • Policies and regualtions should protect and enhance current agricultural land by defining zoning districts that appropriately differentiate agricultural and residential land uses to preserve character and limit potential land use conflicts • Preserve the gravel roads in Milton – along with the larger lots (minimum 3 acres) required on gravel roads – as a part of the special character of Milton as well as including this asset as a part of the transportation and recreation plans for the city. • Explore the appropriate Support the use of Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to encourage redevelopment and infill development within targeted areas while effectively limiting sprawl and protecting the rural areas. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will encourage development that is sensitive to the overall setting of the community and will contribute to our community’s character and sense of place. 1 Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/ neighborhoods are located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts with conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 CPAC comment 7/21 - changed policy to objective throughout Staff comment 8/9 Staff comment 8/11 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 19Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Obtain broad support for the Comprehensive Plan from community leaders and the public through education initiatives and consensus-building meetings. Strategy: Encourage the maintenance of equestrian and agricultural areas with large tracts of land in order to maintain this important aspect of the community. Strategy: Protect natural areas, viewsheds, floodplains, wetlands, tree canopy, heritage and specimen trees through strict adherence to codes during site preparation and construction, and avoidance of clear-cutting. Strategy: Encourage land uses which integrate the rivers and streams and environmental aesthetics into their planning and design. Strategy: Protect the dark night sky, especially in lower density residential, conservation and natural areas of the city. Strategy: Work with utility companies to protect city assets. Policy Objective 2: We will encourage development of a balanced network of commercial activity centers that are vibrant areas of the community which, 1) improve overall attractiveness and local quality of life 2) meet the service needs of our citizens and 2) avoid unattractive and inefficient sprawling strip development. Strategy: Emphasize the development of barrier free, smaller, pedestrian-oriented streets, shops and parking in the denser areas of the city to support existing structures and appropriate commercial uses. Strategy: Encourage compact, mixed use development in the Crabapple Crossroads Area as reflected in the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan; the Birmingham Crossroads Area as reflected in the Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan; and along Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill Road pursuant to their recommended Master Plans. Strategy: Develop master plans that include Access Management Studies along the roadways within the study areas. Strategy: Limit inefficient sprawling development by using Transfer of Development Rights to define the geographic limits of receiving areas. Strategy: Provide safe accessible crossings for persons who have specific needs. Policy Objective 3: We want development whose design, landscaping, lighting signage and scale add value to our community. Strategy: Create more specific detailed design guidelines for Arnold Mill Road (SR 140), and other specific areas around of the City; support existing design guidelines for Crabapple, Deerfield and Birmingham Crossroads. Strategy: Develop context sensitive standards for protecting and enhancing rural viewsheds in the City. Strategy: Develop context sensitive residential development standards for entrances and right-of-way amenities for residential subdivision developments. Policy Objective 4: We will create gateways to establish a “sense of place” for our community. Strategy: Create consistent images (including the equestrian logo) to help “brand” Milton as a unique and desirable community on street signs, public buildings and public vehicles. Incorporate branding images into City documents, special event signage, and gateways to the City. Strategy: Identify prospective sites for unique public signs at the major gateways to the City and acquire rights to place substantial gateway signs that convey pride and sense of place. Strategy: Identify specific design standards for public gateway investments (i.e. signage, landscape, hardscape, sidewalks, lighting, street furnishings). Policy Objective 5: We will encourage mixed-used developments, where appropriate, that are human-scale, less auto-oriented and include neighborhoods that are walkable, bicycle and wheelchair friendly in Master Planned Areas as identified on the Future Community map. Strategy: Coordinate infrastructure design where appropriate to provide barrier-free, safe, walkable connections between activity centers, institutions, and residential neighborhoods. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201620 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Encourage developers to incorporate appropriate amenities such as sidewalks or pathways, shallow front yard setbacks, porches, streetlights, street furnishings, and small green space sites in grid-style Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) patterns close to existing transportation and community facility infrastructure. Strategy: Provide local street and/ or pedestrian connections between existing and new subdivisions in addition to access from primary streets. Policy Objective 6: We will be open to willing to assess land planning and development concepts that may be new to our area, but have been tried successfully in other places. Strategy: Consider using Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a method to protect the low-density, rural and agricultural areas of the city as well as encourage redevelopment and infill development within the targeted development areas of the City. Strategy: Consider adopting policies and standards related to “Universal Design” and/ or “Visitable Homes”2 concepts. Strategy: Consider implementing Implement context sensitive and form based zoning. Strategy: Consider conservation subdivisions in rural and enviornmentally sensitive areas in addition, consider a conservation subdivision classification that incorporates gravel roads. Policy Objective 7: We support appropriate residential and non-residential infill development and redevelopment in ways that complement surround areas. Strategy: Support infill development that meets appropriate design standards on local streets within the city. Strategy: Encourage infill of existing subdivisions and development projects as a priority before constructing new residential subdivisions. 2 “Universal Design” is a planning idea, meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able bodied and the physically disabled. “Visitable Homes” is a type of universal design that refers to a home that is designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size, or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. More information about these concepts is provided in the Glossary of Terms found in the Appendix of this document. Staff comment 7/13 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 21Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Community Facilities and Services The City faces unique challenges and prospects to maintaining its identity. Issues and opportunities for Community Facilities and Services focus on the broad themes of community spaces, community character, and sense of place. The city can concentrate its efforts on preserving the high quality of existing development and enhancements that will improve community aesthetics. Issues • Milton needs to better define its community character – including areas around municipal boundaries and gateways – to foster a sense of place so visitors know they have arrived to a unique community. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. Opportunities • Currently there are virtually no areas of decline due to the relative newness of development in Milton. Policies and regulations can promote high development standards to prevent the decline of existing development. • The City should support the build out of Birmingham Crossroads consistent with its adopted plan as the village activity center that anchor the Birmingham Character Area; and support the continued build out of Crabapple Crossroads as would be recommended per a revised Crabapple plan as the activity center to anchor the Crabapple character area the downtown for the City. • The redevelopment of the Highway 9 Corridor consistent with an adopted set of community design guidelines would enhance the character and sense of place in the Deerfield character area. • Implementing a community branding campaign – including standards for the design and placement of signage – can foster a visual aesthetic and sense of place within the City. • The design and location of a city hall/government center should consider an area which best serves all residents and visitors and enhances a sense of community for the City. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will incorporate sustainable policies and practices in projects undertaken and services offered by the City of Milton. Strategy: Design government buildings and projects including parkland, transportation projects, etc. to meet “Green” certification standards. Encourage these standards for private development. Strategy: Work with environmental stakeholders the Milton Grows Green (MGG) committee to implement advise on environmentally responsible policies and practices through Milton. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Policy Objective 2: We will explore opportunities for multiple transportation alternatives. Strategy: Implement the recommendations of the Milton Transportation Plan and Milton Trails Plan. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Policy Objective 3: We will invest in parks and open space to enhance the quality of life for our citizens. Strategy: Develop and implement Master Plans for Birmingham Park and Providence Park and Bell Memorial Park, ensuring that multiple needs of multiple users are met (i.e. children, youth, adults, seniors, individuals with disabilities, etc) with a sensitivity towards the unique characteristics of the area in which the park is being developed and the land itself. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 Staff comment 7/19 CPAC comment 7/21 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201622 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Ensure parks and parkland are developed with the city’s mission and vision statements in mind, including the protection of the rural characteristics of Milton as well as “green” practices and development standards. Strategy: Identify and protect other areas that serve as parks or parklands to the city’s residents, such as pocket parks, equestrian areas, greenways, and other recreational lands. Strategy: Work with Fulton County to provide community parks, regional parks, and large active and passive recreation facilities, including consideration of barrier free access to all amenities, to serve City residents and visitors. Strategy: Encourage parks and other green spaces to be protected in perpetuity through appropriate legal mechanisms. Strategy: Ensure that the City of Milton Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan is updated regularly to remain current and relevant to the needs of the citizens of Milton. Policy Objective 4: We will seek opportunities to provide pleasant, accessible, public gathering places and parks throughout the community. Strategy: Develop community gathering spaces and pocket parks in village and neighborhood centers to serve as meeting places and destinations. Strategy: Establish appropriate requirements for new development to set-aside specific amounts of land for greenspace or meeting acceptable alternative requirements to provide for future needs for greenspace. Strategy: Ensure public gathering spaces have barrier-free, ADA compliant amenities. Policy 5: We will determine an appropriate location(s) for a city hall/government center within the city. Strategy: Consider a location that will best serve residents and visitors to the community. Strategy: Consider a location that will allow for future expansion of municipal functions. Strategy: Maintain current levels of service for fire and police protection to the southeastern area of Milton if the fire/ police are relocated to a city hall/government center elsewhere in the community. Strategy: Consider an area that can accommodate the traffic demands without exacerbating congestion or posing a burden upon the city’s transportation networks. Strategy: Ensure the site is ADA accessible and planned with barrier free access. Policy Objective 5: We will support the city in the acquisition of new greenspace opportunities to meet the needs of the citizens of Milton. Strategy: It shall be a priority to Preserve greenspace and open space using bond revenues for the acquisition of general areas of green or open space including pastures, horse farms, wooded areas, larger tracts of undeveloped land, and open space between new or existing subdivisions. This can include protecting natural resources from development - especially wooded and tree areas with a special concentration on preserving as many trees as possible; protecting wildlife habitat and corridors from development by preserving areas in their natural state that are home to wildlife, including identifying and preserving wildlife corridors; and protecting water and watersheds from development by protecting areas with water, rivers, ponds, lakes, creeks, streams, stream buffer areas and watersheds. Strategy: It shall be a priority to Preserve rural views and rural character using bond revenues for the purpose of protecting or conserving the rural views along roadways; protecting or conserving the rural feel, look, setting and character of Milton; protecting historic resources; and protecting agricultural uses of land including farms, horse farms, etc. Strategy: It shall be a priority to Preserve trails and parks using bond revenues for the acquisition of trails and parks in establishing new trails and connecting existing trails based on the Milton Trail Plan; establishing trails for walking, biking, and horse riding, either through separate or combined use trails depending on location, need and the Trail Plan; establishing trails that connect parks, schools and commercial centers, including connections to greenways; and establishing parks, including passive, and or mostly unimproved or “natural state” parkland with the possibility of creating trails and minimal improvements to provide public access. These could include pocket parks or larger tract parks. CPAC Direction CPAC Direction Staff Comment 8/11 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 23Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Policy Objective 6: We will work with the Fulton County Public Schools to encourage school location decisions that support overall growth and development plans of the community. Strategy: Encourage the Fulton County Public Schools to improve access and egress into existing school properties to minimize traffic disruption and congestion. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to locate future facilities that are consistent with the Milton Future Land Use Plan. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to design new schools consistent with the design standards unique to Milton including site planning, building design, the utilization of green standards, access/ egress, parking configuration, tree preservation/ replacement review, appropriate buffers and the integration of trailways where possible. Strategy: Work with Fulton County Public Schools to identify opportunities to use recreational fields during periods when the schools are not using the facilities. Policy Objective 7: We will seek ways for new growth to pay for public infrastructure and services to support the development to the maximum extent possible. Strategy: Work with private developers to encourage the development of public infrastructure by building connections to existing infrastructure and new development sites. Strategy: Consider adoption of Implement an impact fee ordinance and use impact fees for specific improvements allowed by State law. Strategy: Actively pursue partnerships and grant opportunities to facilitate infrastructure expansion and enhance community services. Policy Objective 8: We will use planned infrastructure expansion to support development in areas identified as suitable for such development in the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Encourage the balanced development of Crabapple, Deerfield, Birmingham Crossroads, Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill that is 1) consistent with land use policies and adopted overlays or master plans for the areas, and 2) concurrent with needed infrastructure improvements. Strategy: Encourage the stated development of character areas concurrent with the growth of service infrastructure as a method of maintaining sustainability. Strategy: Establish and protect defined development boundaries and sustainable density levels as defined specifically by the Master Plan for that given area to identify and maintain appropriate edges between areas with planned infrastructure and adjacent areas. Policy Objective 9: We will promote enhanced initiatives for solid waste reduction and recycling. Strategy: Coordinate solid waste management with Fulton County and other cities in the County. Strategy: Reduce the volume of waste entering the solid waste disposal system by sponsoring recycling education, and provide opportunities and incentives to sort plastics, paper, glass metals and other materials. Strategy: Require private waste management contractors to provide curbside recycling options. Encourage and educate recycling throughout the city including the integration of development standards that create a recycling pick up location and commercial and non-commercial sites. Strategy: Consider the long term alternatives to use of landfills. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201624 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Housing The relative newness of development and the limited infrastructure in the city of Milton have resulted in property values and housing stock that tends toward the higher end. The needs of land-extensive agricultural uses, such as equestrian estates, also impact housing, land values and development patterns. There are higher density residential options within the city that include townhomes and single family homes on small lots. However, the perceptions of a lack of housing diversity underscore the need for more study and analysis of the existing housing stock before any significant changes are made to current zoning policies or land use patterns. Additionally, diversity should not just focus on smaller-lot, higher density development but also consider preserving choices for individuals who need large acreages for land extensive agricultural and recreational uses, as well as lifestyle choices. Issues • Current development patterns include little mix of housing sizes, types and income levels within neighborhoods. • Current development patterns include limited development of housing in proximity to employment centers. • Current development patterns do not consider senior housing and its location relative to senior services. Opportunities • Undertaking a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock would enable better planning and preparation for future growth and development patterns. • Based on a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock, identify ways to create greater diversity in housing options within the city. • Identify opportunities to create housing and employment centers within the city to mitigate the need to commute outside the city for employment. • Identify opportunities to create senior housing in a lifelong community setting that places senior housing and senior services in close proximity. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will accommodate our diverse population by encouraging a compatible mixture of housing types, densities and costs within the City. Strategy: Encourage a mix of housing types, densities and amenities appropriate for the development patterns of each character area to accommodate a mix of income and family needs. Strategy: Develop accessibility guidelines and policies for ADA accessible homes concept to accommodate full participation in housing choice by people with disabilities. Strategy: Promote policies that protect the existing low density, rural residential housing throughout the Birmingham, Central Milton, Arnold Mill, And Sweet Apple Character Areas of the City. Strategy: Promote policies that provide more housing choices, including apartments, town homes, condominiums and single family homes with smaller footprints on smaller lots in the Deerfield Character Area. Policy Objective 2: We will encourage development of housing opportunities that enable residents to have easier access to commercial services and employment opportunities. Strategy: Increase and expand mobility in neighborhoods with more barrier free bicycle, wheelchair and pedestrian options. Strategy: Construct more sidewalks or alternative pathways that connect homes to work and shopping facilities as well as parks/ gravel roads and institutional uses, as appropriate. Strategy: Integrate housing, transportation and land use plans to improve mobility to and from jobs and other primary destinations. Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 25Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Intergovernmental Coordination Multi-jurisdictional coordination provides partnership opportunities that more efficiently allocate public resources to accomplish the programs of the Community Agenda Comprehensive Plan. As a city, Milton has the opportunity to engage with the adjacent cities in Fulton County, but also has the benefit of working with established departments within Fulton County and regional and state entities that facilitate economic development, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure improvements. Issues • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • Local officials and/ or neighborhoods are resistant to new or innovative development ideas. Opportunities • The City should work with adjacent jurisdictions to adopt consistent design standards for new development that will promote community aesthetics and sustainability. • There is potential to form partnerships with adjacent jurisdictions in pursuit of LCI/ CID funds for Hwy 9 (SR 9), Windward Parkway, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Road (SR 140). • The City of Milton can help educate and leverage its unique characteristics for the benefit of the region and our citizens. • The City should coordinate with Forsyth County, Cherokee County, as well as Alpharetta and Roswell to ensure proper cross jurisdictional planning occurs and potential conflicts are resolved. • The North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan (NFCTP) was developed through coordination and cooperation of the cities of North Fulton County. This success should be leveraged for future transportation investments that benefit all North Fulton cities. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will proactively identify opportunities to share facilities and services with neighboring jurisdictions when they would be mutually beneficial. Policy Objective 2: We will initiate efforts to work with neighboring jurisdictions to develop shared solutions for regional issues (such as growth management, watershed protection, transportation solutions, etc.) Policy Objective 3: We will initiate efforts with neighboring jurisdictions to pursue joint processes for collaborative planning and decision-making. Policy Objective 4: We will consult with Fulton County and other public entities in our area when making decisions that are likely to impact them. Policy Objective 5: We will provide input to Fulton County and other public entities in our area when they are making decisions that are likely to have an impact on our community or our plans for future development. Policy Objective 6: We will engage in cooperative planning between the City of Milton, Fulton County, and Fulton County Public Schools in regard to the appropriate location and use of schools as community facilities, as well as needed transportation improvements to accommodate traffic to, from and around schools and improve opportunities for walking, biking, and other forms of alternative transport for individuals of all abilities. Policy Objective 3: We will encourage housing policies, choices and patterns that increase opportunities for people to move into affordable owner-occupied housing. Strategy: Encourage the completion of undeveloped parcels in existing subdivisions. Strategy: Identify opportunities for infill residential development in existing neighborhoods. Strategy: Assess community housing stock to accurately determine the current mix of residential uses and identify areas of need. Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201626 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Natural and Cultural Resources The City of Milton contains numerous examples of locally significant historic resources as well as environmentally sensitive areas, including lakes, streams, floodplains, and wetlands. In addition to those natural resources protected by state and local legislation, citizens have identified preservation of tree canopy and wildlife habitat as important priorities. All of these elements contribute to the rural character and rural lifestyle that plays a central role in community identity. Issues • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • Loss of tree canopy and specimen trees detracts from community aesthetics, threatens environmentally sensitive areas, and exacerbates heat-island effects experienced throughout the metropolitan area. • The effects of environmental pollution and contaminated properties compromise public health and welfare and should be mitigated. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. Opportunities • Development of Birmingham Park according to a master plan with sensitivity to the vision of Milton’s citizen expectations would provide active/ passive recreation and greenspace amenities for the city. • Development of Providence Park could create opportunities for active and passive recreation for citizens of all ages, lifestyles and abilities. • Give priority to the protection of environmentally sensitive areas with further compliance with state and federal environmental regulations and avoid detrimental actions to our natural ecosystem and costly fines and/ or penalties for lack of compliance. • The development of pocket parks in areas that are already established would enhance the community’s greenspace and provide recreational opportunities for its citizens. • Develop policy that would Continue to mitigate the loss of tree canopy and promote the protection of specimen trees and other urban forest resources. • Explore Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to preserve open space. • Revise the City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will encourage the preservation of natural resources areas and preserve contiguous green open spaces development of land in appropriate designated areas as development occurs. Strategy: Maintain density neutral development practices through innovative land development techniques, such as conservation subdivisions and Transfer of Development Rights. Strategy: Acquire conservation easements for the protection of environmental sensitive land. Strategy: Promote low impact site development that encourages maintaining the natural topography and existing vegetation on a site when feasible, and in some cases when required. Strategy: Encourage projects that project and/ or integrate the preservation of natural areas, stream corridors, and green space as amenities and required development. Policy Objective 2: We will encourage new development to locate in suitable locations close to transportation and infrastructure resources in order to project environmentally sensitive areas, agricultural lands, and valuable historic, archaeological or cultural resources from encroachment. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 27Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Cross check proposed development sites with inventories of existing natural, historic, archaeological and cultural resources to prevent encroachment on these sites. Strategy: Designate areas of value historic, archaeological, or cultural resources through the city’s historic preservation ordinance to mitigate impacts of new development. Strategy: Ensure development/ infill projects are consistent with land use policies and citizen wishes to protect and preserve low-density rural areas of Milton. Strategy: Work with public utilities to protect the rural viewshed and other natural and scenic views. Policy Objective 3: We will consider the potential impacts to air and water quality in making decisions on new developments and transportation improvements, and we will steer new development away from sensitive natural resource areas. Strategy: Encourage new development projects to commit to providing water, storm water, and air pollution control facilities that fully meet and exceed city standards. Strategy: Encourage changes to current codes that address air and water quality improvements and/ or which provide flexible design that results in a reductions of air or water quality impacts. Strategy: Encourage local governments and/ or local land trusts to acquire stream corridors along the Little River corridor and their tributaries to provide floodway protection, natural habitat corridors and passive recreation resources. Policy Objective 4: We will expand the identification, documentation, and protection of historic, cultural and archaeological resources in the city, and when possible encourage access by the public. Strategy: Review and refine existing inventories of historic, cultural and archaeological resources to include previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Collaborate with local and regional libraries and archives, as well as local historians and long-time residents, to document previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Ensure historic and cultural sites that are open to the public are barrier-free, ADA accessible venues. Strategy: Identify those elements of the rural landscape (i.e. specimen trees, tree canopies, woodlands, fences, hedgerows, structures, etc) that contribute to rural character and scenic viewsheds within the community. Policy Objective 5 We will promote the protection and maintenance of trees and contiguous green open space in new development. Strategy: Promote community awareness regarding the economic value and sustainability of green space preservation and maintenance of existing vegetative cover and protection of trees. Strategy: Promote design standards which prefer the retention of existing trees and tree coverage to new plantings. Strategy: Ensure existing tree canopy along scenic streets and other public rights of way are protected. Strategy: Increase setbacks and undisturbed buffers between roadways and developments including both residential and commercial. Policy Objective 6: We will protect ground and surface water sources to promote the maintenance of safe and adequate supplies of water. Strategy: Adopt the appropriate recommendations to protect existing water quality consistent with the City’s land use policies, and as recommended by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District, ARC Fulton County Water Resources that protect ground and stream water quality. Staff comment 7/13 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201628 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Coordinate with Fulton County, Forsyth County, Cherokee County, and other local governments in implementing the three comprehensive plans adopted by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District to ensure adequate supplies of drinking water, protection of water quality, and minimized impacts of development on the District’s watersheds and downstream water quality. Strategy: Consider expansion of riparian buffers for sites affected by topography, soils, wetlands, or other conditions that may accelerate groundwater or surface water intrusion. Strategy: Coordinate programs of Fulton County Water Resources to conserve outdoor water use. Strategy: create and implement a septic tank maintenance program for the unsewered areas of Milton which are consistent with the lower density areas of the city. Economic Development A creative and innovative economic development agenda will have impacts on many community issues and opportunities. Commercial and professional employment opportunities will balance the City’s tax digest, alleviate commuting times as well as traffic congestion, and provide needed services to local residents. Encouraging commercial and professional development in Milton should also balance impacts on residential, rural and environmentally sensitive areas of the community. Issues • The city needs to pursue innovative economic development initiatives. • The city needs greater employment opportunities to serve local residents of Milton. • Future development plans need to include opportunities for greater commercial densities. Opportunities • The city should continue to promote the unique residential niche of low density development with high value properties that is found in Milton. • The city should promote the creation of economic development centers. • New developments can be mixed-used without necessarily being high-end. • Proactively work to educate the region and adjacent jurisdictions regarding the value that Milton’s unique characteristics bring to the entire region with respect to economic benefits. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will identify and put in place the requisites of the desired quality of life within our community and carefully consider costs as well as benefits in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Balance housing, transportation, infrastructure, resource protection and economic development considerations in decision making. Strategy: Utilize the unique economic assets of Milton to attract appropriate and sustainable economic activities that can be accommodated without changing the character of the City. Strategy: Encourage diversified economic development centers within mixed-use non-residential areas and balance commercial densities with local demand, being mindful of existing vacant commercial space as well as commercial density approved but not yet built. Strategy: Ensure the city’s economic development initiatives are fiscally sustainable and will enhance community revenues to support the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Implement use of a financial model as one criterion in decision making on economic development projects. Staff comment 6/27 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 29Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Policy Objective 2: We will support programs that retain, expand and create businesses that provide a good fit for our community’s economy in terms of job skills required and links to existing businesses to locate them appropriately within the City. Strategy: Support the existing agricultural and equestrian related economy of the city. Strategy: Support the development of small businesses within the community. Strategy: Support the growth of knowledge-based industries and office/professional uses in designated employment centers. Policy Objective 3: We will consider access and/or impacts to housing and transportation when considering economic development projects. Strategy: Support the use of planning studies, value studies, cost/ benefit studies and analyses of sustainability to identify cost effective projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of business and/ or commercial uses into established, stable residential areas. Embrace and protect defined geographic boundaries and defined density levels for specific areas including those with a master plan as well as other areas not yet planned. Strategy: Identify primary employment areas that motivate out-of-city commuting patterns and focus economic development initiatives to recruit those employment sectors to the city. Policy Objective 4: We will consider impacts on infrastructure and natural resources in our decision making on economic development projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of facilities and services to areas close to existing infrastructure before expanding into areas that require larger extensions and/ or greater costs. Strategy: Encourage adaptive reuse of existing facilities and infill development in established areas to accommodate new commercial enterprises where appropriate and consistent with the land use and infrastructure development policies and vision of the City of Milton. Policy Objective 5: We will consider employment needs and skill levels of our existing population in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Work with the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Cherokee and Forsyth Counties, the cities of Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, and other organizations to encourage expansion and retention of professional jobs within employment centers in the City of Milton and surround jurisdictions. Strategy: Encourage recruitment of individuals with disabilities for jobs in various employment sectors. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201630 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Financing Fiscal responsibility was reiterated throughout each step of the Comprehensive Plan process. The overwhelming response to the community’s initial public survey underscored a resistance to new taxes and a preference for creative alternatives to generate revenues needed for city improvements. Only a small percentage of survey respondents were willing to consider an annual tax increase. Of those, the amount specified as an acceptable increase was less than $100.00. However, a recent survey undertaken as a part of an upcoming referendum on a Greenspace Bond for the city of Milton suggested that the community was generally favorable to a potential $25 million bond to support greenspace acquisition. Issues • The high cost of providing public services and facilities for new development is a challenge for a new city. • The capacity of existing public facilities may need to be expanded to attract new development. • Financing can be difficult to obtain. • City revenues need to fund desired service levels without an increase in taxes on current residents. • Based on the limited financial analysis of this plan, it appears there would be a potential shortfall in revenue versus expenses as early as 2013. • The City lacks a long term capital plan. Opportunities • The city can explore innovative management and governance policies as a result of the lack of pre-existing bureaucratic commitments. • A financial planning model should be a tool to help evaluate planning alternatives and scenarios to ensure an optimized development plan • Opportunities for alternative sources of funding and revenues can enhance programs and projects and should be pursued. • Modifying expenses is another necessary approach in order to balance fiscal requirements. • The City should develop a five year capital spending plan that is “base-loaded” with those capital expenditures that are required to maintain the City’s assets and then identifies opportunities for growing or enhancing that asset base • Utilizing potential bond revenues for greenspace acquisition will help the City meet the needs of its citizens, now and in the future. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will be fiscally responsible by developing and maintaining a five-year capital spending plan that is updated annually as an integral part of our annual budget process. Strategy: Financial modeling capacity will be used by the city as a tool to proactively guide the City’s financial decisions in the future. Strategy: Alternative funding sources will be identified and aggressively pursued to support the City’s short and longer term capital requirements. Strategy: The City’s five year capital plan will be based on funding those expenditures that are needed to maintain the quality of life desired by our residents and only then funding those opportunities that provide enhancements as funds are available. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 31Draft for Review 8.10.2016 The City of Milton maintains a Comprehensive Transportation Plan separate from its Comprehensive Plan or the North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan. The recommendations of the currently adopted plan are summarized here, and the plan in its entirety is incorporated herein by reference. At such a time as the newly updated Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan is adopted, current recommendations shall supersede. Goals Improve transportation network system level performance (level of service) with particular emphasis on the impacts of commuter/ “cut through” traffic and safety. • Provide specific paths for through commuters • Improve system for local trips • Improve and preserve existing levels of service • Identify high-accident locations and recommend improvements to achieve better safety • Improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists by upgrading facilities for alternative modes of transportation Maintain and Improve mobility and system performance through roadway improvements and alternative transportation improvements with specific consideration of transit investments appropriate to the community vision and multi-use paths serving cyclists, pedestrians, equestrian users, and those with disabilities including wheelchair access. • Identify bridges in need of maintenance or replacement • Provide maintenance recommendations for the existing roadway network • Identify intersections in need of operational and geometric enhancements to improve system performance • Identify multi-modal enhancements to increase alternative transportation options • Integrate the Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan with the Milton Trail Plan Protect and improve the environment, recognizing its contribution to community economic vitality and quality of life. • Promote conservation and minimize harmful impacts on the environment • Emphasize preservation of historic places Coordinate transportation investments with the comprehensive plan and land use policies ensuring creation of a “sense of place” (Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and the Highway 9 area) as well as barrier free connectivity to community assets such as schools, parks and recreation areas. • Coordinate with CPAC to achieve an integrated land use vision and plan • Preserve right-of-way for future facility improvements • Preserve historic places • Achieve a barrier-free transportation network Leverage regional cooperation and regional solutions to transportation issues, including coordination with surrounding jurisdictions, while maintaining the singularly unique character of the City of Milton. • Coordinate with nearby jurisdictions including Alpharetta, Roswell, Mountain Park, Cherokee County, and Forsyth County to create a continuous and well-thought out network • Coordinate with GDOT, MARTA, GRTA and ARC Recommended Corridor Improvements • Direct commuter traffic from Cherokee County to State Route 140/ Arnold Mill Road/ Hickory Flat Highway to GA 400 • Widen State Route 9/ Alpharetta Highway/ Cumming Highway • Widen sections of Holbrook Campground Road, Hopewell Road, and Hamby Road to State Route 9 Transportation and Mobility City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201632 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 • Widen School Drive to a four-lane section between Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road • Widen Morris Road to four lanes between Webb Road and McGinnis Ferry Road • Model Analysis of Corridor Improvements Recommended Intersection Improvements • Potential Locations for Roundabouts Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road Hopewell Road, Cogburn Road, and Francis Road Freemanville Road and Providence Road Bethany Road and Providence Road Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/ Hickory Flat Road Hopewell Road and Redd Road • Potential New Signal Locations Birmingham Road and Hopewell Road Strickland Road and Bethany Road (partially in Forsyth County) Bethany Bend and Morris Road/ McGinnis Ferry Road (partially in Forsyth County) Webb Road and Morris Road Morris Road and Deerfield Parkway • Other Potential Intersection Improvements Hopewell Road and Bethany Road Hopewell Road and Bethany Way Bethany Oaks Pointe and Hopewell Road Cogburn Road and Bethany Bend Batesville Road and Taylor Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Green Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Keyingham Way Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Bethany Bend Hopewell Road and Hamby Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Ranchette Road Crabapple Road/ Mayfield Road and Birmingham Highway/ Broadwell Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Webb Road • Intersections with Significant Improvements in Progress Birmingham Highway/ SR 372 and New Providence Road Arnold Mill/ SR 140 and New Providence Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR and Deerfield Parkway Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Cox Road • Bridge Improvements Landrum Road over Cooper Sandy Creek tributary Cogburn Road over Cooper Sandy Creek New Providence Road over Cooper Sandy Creek The Comprehensive Transportation Plan also includes recommendations for equestrian improvements, cyclist improvements, pedestrian improvements, transit improvements and improvements for persons with disabilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 33Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Potential Intersection Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 Potential Road Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201634 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Future Community Map & Narrative The Future Community Map along with the Future Land Use Map represents the City’s future development policy and will be used to guide City officials in land use decisions. The Future Development Community Map is a general illustration of development policy showing the City’s eight Character Areas as the base, and further identifies areas that require special attention for either rural preservation or economic development. Such areas are Gateways, Rural Viewsheds, Master Planned Areas, and Priority Master Planning Areas. The proposed city trail network is overlaid on the Future Community Map. These areas deserving special classifications will be discussed in more detail below. The Future Land Use Map is a more specific illustration of development policy showing allowable land uses for each parcel and this will be discussed in more detail in the Future Land Use and Supporting Narrative section. Future Community Map, Milton, Georgia k k k k k k k k k k k kk k k [ Legend k Gateway Locations Roads Sidewalk Trails Planned Trails Existing Trail Plan Rural Viewshed Milton Master Planned Areas Priority Master Planning Areas Milton Character Areas Arnold Mill Bethany Birmingham Central Milton Crabapple Deerfield Milton Lakes Sweetapple The Future Development Map also identifies community facilities such as schools, churches, parks, and fire stations. The current City Hall is identified, as well as sites of cultural significance such as cemeteries. Environmentally sensitive areas including floodplains, streams and lakes are identified, and the proposed city trail networks is overlaid on top of existing transportation networks. Areas with concentrations of equestrian estates were highlighted, though not every horse farm was noted on the map. Staff comment 6/27 Map updated 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 35Draft for Review 8.10.2016 The areas identified as requiring special attention for rural preservation and/or economic development are: Gateways: Gateways are important identifiers that distinguish the community from all others. Having a distinguished community lends itself to niche marketing for economic development purposes. The community expressed a desire for the city’s branding efforts to be carried out at key entry points into the city by posting “Welcome to Milton” signage accompanied by specific landscaping The gateways into the city of Milton are identified on the Future Development Community Map at principle roads leading into the community, including • Arnold Mill Road/SR 140 (North and South points with the city limits? • Batesville Road • Hickory Flat Road at the Cherokee County line • Birmingham Highway (SR 372) at the Cherokee County line • Crabapple Road (SR 372) at Green Road • Cogburn Road (North and South points within the city limits) • Hamby Road • Francis Road at the Forsyth County line • Hwy 9 (North and South points within the city limits) • McGinnis Ferry Road • Deerfield Pkwy at Windward Parkway • Hopewell Road • Broadwell Road • Bethany Road at Mayfield Road In 2010 Milton received a recommendation for grant funding from the GA Department of Transportation’s GATEway grant program. The grant program offers grants for communities to enhance and beautify roadways (state routes) at gateway points. Milton applied for Hwy 9(SR 9) at the Forsyth County line, Hwy 9 at Webb Road, Birmingham Hwy (SR 372) at the Cherokee County line, and Crabapple Road (SR 372) at Green Road. Plans are set to install signs and landscaping in Spring 2011. The other gateway points along local roads will be funded through the City’s General Fund. Rural Viewsheds The rural viewshed refers to the characteristic pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Rural viewsheds contribute to the rural character and sense of place and the city of Milton. The bucolic scenic qualities of many of Milton’s roads are considered to be character defining features within several of the larger character areas, and concerns have been expressed about maintaining and preserving these viewsheds and cherished characteristic of Milton. The Future Development Community Map identified the road that should be considered for protection as rural viewsheds. Ideas about a context sensitive design standards overlay, as well as placing potential value as sending areas for a Transfer of Development Rights program, have been discussed as tools that can be used along these identified rural viewsheds to protect their rural character. These are priority areas for resource surveys and development of design guidelines and buffers as part of a larger program to mitigate development pressures along the rural roadways. Master Planned Areas There are three areas identified on the Future Community Map that are referred to as future development Master Planned Areas. They are Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and Deerfield/ Highway 9. The development of these areas proceeded after a Master Plan was done - Crabapple Crossroads Plan in 2003; Birmingham Crossroads Plan in 2004; and Highway 9 in 2012. In addition to a Master Plan, these areas may be governed by overlay zoning districts as well as a city-wide zoning overlay district. The Master Plans provide aesthetic and design controls that cover the build out of the existing areas within their plan boundaries. Non-residential development should be concentrated within these areas according to the specifications of their Master Plans and zoning controls. The Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is defined as the area at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/Hickory Flat Road. At this writing The Birmingham Crossroads has not built out to the limits of the City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201636 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Master Plan and the surrounding area has not been a source of development pressure, or brought unmanageable traffic volume to the area. The existing Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is still viable for its continued growth as defined in the master plan. The Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan boundary is significantly larger and located at the intersection of Crabapple Road, Birmingham Highway, Mayfield Road, Mid-Broadwell Road and Broadwell Road. At this writing, there have been several discussions among community members, community leaders, the business community and councilmembers about the status and future of Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan. The sentiment at these discussions has been that development pressure from its surrounding area, the overwhelming traffic volume through the area, and the current square footage limitations in the plan and the deviations from the plan prior to incorporation. This plan recommends the revision of the Crabapple Master Plan as a short term work program item to be done within the next twelve to eighteen months. With the revision of Crabapple Master Plan, the area may be considered as a receiving area for a possible Transfer of Development Rights program. Since the city’s first comprehensive plan, the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan has been adopted as an LCI study with an extensive analysis of exisitng land use, zoning urban design, historic resources, environmental and open space resources, and public facilities. The plan also provides a number of recommendations for transportation, open space and ongoing or future projects in the study area. Crabapple will be the location of the city’s future city hall, currently under development, and is a receiving area for Transfer of Development Rights. The Crabapple Form Based Code specifies the regulating plans, public building standards, lot and building plans, and other development standards that projects within the receiving zone must adhere to in order to create a cohesive and attractive community that respects pedestrians and the spatial form of public places. The Master Plan should avoid strip commercial development, such as the pattern of most of Hwy 9. Non-residential development should be clustered in sections along the roadway and emphasis should be placed on preserving open space, rural viewsheds, and protecting environmentally sensitive features. If more than one development cluster is formed along this road way, they should respect the rural viewshed and be seperated by areas of open space and/or attractive rural-residential development. During the Master Planning process, the area will be thoroughly studied to determine the appropriate land uses. The comprehensive future land use map in this document does not forecast the future land uses for this area, but will be amended to reflect the determination of the master plan. Though the lack of non-residential zoning or future land use classifications will help mitigate the demand for commercial uses along Arnold Mill Road (SR 140) at this time, it is recommended that the master planning get underway ahead of any development pressure; and give ample time to be considered as a receiving area for a possible Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program. TDR’s should be aggressively pursued following the adoption of a master plan before any commercial nodes are considered or allowed to develop so as to ensure the protection of more rural areas in Milton. Also, proactively approach the City of Roswell given the shared territory along Arnold Mill Road (SR 140). The Deerfield/ Hwy 9 area has developed a concentration of commercial and service uses for the City of Milton. Though the area is subject to a zoning overlay district that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements, the community has expressed the desire to develop a full Master Plan and Market Study for the area similar to those for Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The Master Plan should ensure that the area remains economically viable, avoids unattractive strip development and recruits businesses and services that will benefit the city of Milton while being sensitive to the many residents that live in that area. The Highway 9/ GA 400 Area Master Plan was prepared in 2012. The study provides a clear, comprehensive picture of the area of study to guide future development. It includes recommendations for zoning, public improvement projects, and funding. The report includes an inventory and assessment of existing conditions, a concept plan that provides more detail on proposed initiatives, and an action plan to facilitate plan implementation. Unlike Arnold Mill, Hwy 9 has commercial zoning in place that would allow new development and redevelopment to occur. This allows Hwy 9 to be vulnerable to unplanned development. Realizing this threat, the master planning of Hwy 9 is considered a high priority and is designated as a Priority Master Planning Area on the Future Development Map. Regardless, any development project posed in the area prior to the completion of the master planning will be scrutinized for compliance with goals and policies of this document. As an area identified for future development, the master plan should consider the Hwy 9 area as a recieving area for a possible Transfer of Development Rights program that should be pursued in the short term. During the Master Planning process, the area will be thoroughly studied to determine the appropriate land uses and suggest any amendments to the comprehensive future land use map in this document. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 37Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Priority Master Planning Area Arnold Mill Road (SR 140) (also designated as a rural viewshed) is an area of limited development with mostly rural residential and agricultural uses. However, community feedback identified it as an area that could potentially accommodate the development of limited non-residential uses at some point in the future (possibly beyond the 20 year scope of this plan). The zoning and future land use classifications for this area are predominantly residential, though the area is subject to a zoning overlay that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements for any new non-residential development. The community has expressed a desire to develop a Master Plan for the area similar to those for the Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The City of Milton and the Atlanta Regional Commission undertook an Arnold Mill Road Visioning Study in May 2014. This study consists of an analysis of and recommendations for the portion of Arnold Mill Road within the City of Milton. The plan provides background and contextual information about the area through analysis of existing plans, a traffic analysis, and an evaluation of recreational land through the corridor. Recommendations for the area are categorized into two groups - 1) Land Use & Design and 2)Transportation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201638 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Character Area Map Narrative The following narratives were developed for each of these eight Character Areas, including development patterns, appropriate zoning districts and land use classifications. A summary of appropriate implementation measures for each Character Area also follows each of the narratives. Character Area Map, Milton, Georgia Quality Community Objectives are no longer required and have been removed from each section City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 39Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Birmingham Birmingham displays the rich, rural nature of the City of Milton. Located in the northwest portion of the City of Milton, this Character Area is dominated by horse farms, pastures and woodlands. Other uses include large estates, residential lots and large land holdings. There are undeveloped natural areas and environmentally sensitive steep slopes in areas such as Pritchard Mountain. In addition, at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road is the Birmingham Crossroads, which is a rural, mixed use village. This limited rural-style village that includes commercial activities and limited residential use was comprehensively planned for 27.1 acre parcel that covers the four corners at this intersection. Birmingham Crossroads provides a sense of place as well as services to residents in the Birmingham Character Area. There are several active farms near Mountain Road with cattle pastures and chicken houses located along the Cherokee County border. Many of the roads, including Hickory Flat/ Birmingham Road, Mountain Road, and Freemanville Road provide scenic and linear greenspace corridors. Also, the largest park in the City of Milton is located in this area – 200 acre Birmingham Park. Currently, this park is undeveloped and has limited access. The terrain is rolling and includes both floodplain and steep slopes along the Little River. This parkland includes beautiful viewsheds, woodlands, specimen trees and some endangered flora and fauna. This park needs to have a unique approach to take in its design and development to protect the special characteristics of this land. There are several institutional uses including schools and places of worship in the Birmingham Character Area. The Birmingham Character Area also included gravel roads, waterways, woodlands, specimen trees, historic areas and structures. Development Patterns in this Area Birmingham Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of mixed use village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space. Buildings are and should be architecturally integrated with the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center. But, this activity center should nonetheless retain a pedestrian friendly environment. Birmingham Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Any additional non-residential development within the Birmingham Character Area should be limited to the boundaries of Birmingham Crossroads as defined in the master plan for that area. A continued focus on strong development and design standards, including context sensitive transportation considerations, remain essential as do the protection of specimen trees, tree coverage, and the overall unique setting in which this rural village co-exists. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201640 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Birmingham includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Active agricultural and equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (1 unit/ acre or less)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Living Working/ Mixed Use AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Birmingham Crossroads Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 41Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Arnold Mill This Character Area serves as one of the gateways into the City. State Route 140 is now a two-lane route that provides access from Cherokee County across the Little River into Milton, Alpharetta and Roswell. It is anticipated that this will become a four- lane route during the span of this plan. The Milton Transportation Plan, however, makes it clear that any future widening of this roadway should be done with context-sensitive design. The Character Area includes several large properties, but the nature of the area changes as it approaches the Crabapple Silos area. The southern portion of the area includes a difficult angles intersection with New Providence Road, and is adjacent to the relatively densely developed residential subdivisions located along Green Road. Also, Chadwick Landfill is located in this character area. There is only so much capacity left in the landfill and there needs to be proactive plans for this land once that capacity is met so that the area can become a community asset. Development Patterns in this Area • The area along SR 140/Arnold Mill Road is typical of the rural, low density character of Milton. Future development within this character area should respect existing rural character and rural-residential development predominant in its adjacent character areas, Sweet Apple and Central Milton. • SR 140/Arnold Mill Road should include some mixed use development along its travel from Cherokee County to the Silos, but should avoid strip commercial development. Clustering higher density, predominantly non-residential development intermittently along the corridor preserves open space and protects environmentally sensitive features. If more than one commercial area is developed along this corridor, they should be separated by areas of open space and/or attractive rural-residential development. • Development should be tied to a Master Plan with specific boundaries, design specifications, and allowable uses, similar to Crabapple Crossroads or Birmingham Crossroads including historic preservation, tree save of woodlands and specimen trees, viewsheds and buffers transitioning from higher density areas back to residential and agricultural settings. • Planning for development along Arnold Mill/SR-140 must involve the City of Roswell given that parts of Arnold Mill are adjacent to the City of Roswell. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201642 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR1) R1, R2 Residential Medium (MDR2 R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR3) R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Retail and Service C1 Rural Milton Overlay District Arnold Mill Overlay (Master Plan) Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 43Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Central Milton This is the largest character area in Milton, dominated by residential subdivisions with large lots in excess of 1 acre, some of the most expansive in the city. These high value residential developments with very large houses are anchored by golf courses and other private amenities such as swim and tennis. Many were developed in the 1990s and with similar lot sizes, have created a uniform overall density in the area. Even with the existing development, this area has retained much of the rural characteristics of the City of Milton. Along with the many subdivisions within this area, it is also characterized by several large properties. In addition, many of the roads provide scenic and linear green space corridors such as Birmingham Highway, Freemanville Road, Thompson Road and Hopewell Road. Most of these scenic corridors include rural home sites, horse farms, wetland crossings and access to country clubs, equestrian facilities and more open space. The visual aesthetics of this Character Area should be maintained even as residential development continues. Development Patterns in this Area Central Milton includes areas that are typical of the city’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. Newer developments with private recreational amenities have integrated with older, established open road neighborhoods. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. New development should incorporate elements that enhance connectivity to the proposed Milton trail system and other alternative modes of transportation. Residential developments should consider clustering to maintain scenic, linear green space without increasing overall residential density.Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201644 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Rural Milton Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 45Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Deerfield One of the Deerfield Character Area’s primary assets is its location adjacent to Georgia 400, a limited access expressway, its proximity to the Windward Parkway interchange in Alpharetta and to Forsyth County. This character area represents a quality of life that embraces the concept of “live, work, play.” It is characterized by a mixture of higher density residential, commercial and office uses. The retail and commercial uses along Highway 9, the office uses along Deerfield Parkway and the numerous apartment units located south of Bethany make this Character Area one of the main activity centers for the City of Milton. There are also several single family subdivision and townhouse developments located within this area. The properties along both sides of Deerfield Road and Morris Road provide a campus- style employment center and office park. A significant amount of space in this area has been developed and is available for lease. This area provides a strong and realistic opportunity for mixed uses at a regional scale in association with nearby development in Alpharetta and with Forsyth County in conjunction with the possible creation of McGinnis Ferry Road interchange on GA 400. The City of Milton recognizes the development pressure that this character area faces. In anticipation of the major growth projected for this area, the city is taking a proactive approach to prevent or mitigate the ill effects of unmanaged growth by designating the area along Highway 9 and Bethany Bend as a Priority Master Planned Area. This designation indicates that a detailed master plan of the area has been completed, and this plan will guide the future growth and development in the area. Development Patterns in this Area: • Creating a Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Road Bend is a high priority for the community. And it is strongly recommended that Development should occur in this area only after the Master Plan has been adopted that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • The existing patterns of mixed-use development within this Character Area should be encouraged and expanded. There are a limited number of undeveloped parcels, but there nonetheless are opportunities for redevelopment along the Highway 9 corridor and within the Deerfield Character Area. • New non-residential development should adhere to the Highway 9 Overlay District regulations and the Highway 9 Design Guidelines, where innovative design elements such as locating parking to the rear, limiting signage and incorporating street trees and pedestrian amenities are encouraged. To mitigate overdevelopment of parking areas, new parking should only be developed in areas where shared parking or existing parking is not an option. If necessary, new parking should utilize permeable Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201646 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 paving alternatives and landscaping to mitigate the deleterious effects of stormwater run-off, heat islands and other environmental considerations. • To further the demand for employment, opportunities in proximity to residential development in the city of Milton, redevelopment of the Deerfield Character Area should encourage professional uses and office space in addition to expanding existing commercial and service sectors. • The majority of higher density residential development is currently within or adjacent to the Deerfield Character Area, and new development in this Character Area should continue to reflect traditional neighborhood design principles, such as smaller lots, mix of housing types, access to pocket parks and pedestrian access to commercial services and community amenities. Preservation of environmentally sensitive areas by setting them aside as public parks, trails, or greenbelts should be encouraged. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 47Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201648 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 This area is made up of a variety of subdivisions developed in the 1990s and early 2000s. These neighborhoods are stable with a mixture of lot sizes and open space. Although this area is located in close proximity to commercial activity centers in both the City of Milton and Forsyth County, Bethany is unique in that it also retains some private amenities provided within these residential subdivisions such as the golf course adjacent to the Crooked Creek subdivision. Development Patterns in this Area • The predominant land use of the Bethany Character Area should remain residential. Given its proximity to the Deerfield Character Area and small pockets of non- residential zoning, there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. but this should be strictly limited The expansion of non-residential development should be limited to the boudaries established in the form-based code that governs development of this area. Preservation of the existing residential neighborhoods is the priority. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be avoided, and new residential development should match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • The Highway 9 Corridor, which extends through both the Deerfield and Bethany Character Areas, has been identified as a corridor in need of a Master Plan. Creating a Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor is a high priority for the community, and development is only encouraged in this area after the Master Plan has been adopted. Development along Highway 9 in the Bethany area should respect the unique character of Bethany and should be distinct from, but compatible with, development along Highway 9 in the Deerfield Character Area. Development in close proximity to the new Fulton County high school should be done in a way that ensures appropriate transition between residentially zoned land and higher density uses. • Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Road Bend is a high priority for the community. Development should occur in this area that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • Development along Highway 9 in the Bethany area should respect the unique character of Bethany and should be distinct from, but compatible with, development along Highway 9 in the Deerfield Character Area. Development in close proximity to Cambridge High School should be done in a way that ensures appropriate transition between residentially zoned land and higher density uses. Bethany Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 49Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Private Recreation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201650 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Non-residential development in Bethany is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 51Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Crabapple The Character Area has seen intense mixed use development at the crossroad of Crabapple Road and Birmingham Highway with low density residential development radiating outside of the core. There are at least two 1-acre lot subdivsions located in the Crabapple character area. In addition, within Crabapple there are several institutional uses- including schools and places of worship. Crabapple represents a unique rural based village center and lends itself to becoming the “City Center” for Milton. Crabapple has the highest concentration of historic resources of any character area in Milton. Development Patterns in this Area Crabapple Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space and rural residential development. Buildings will be architecturally integrated within the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center, but will nonetheless promote pedestrian friendliness. Uses may include a mix of residential, commercial and community facilities. Crabapple Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Crabapple includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/ agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201652 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 53Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201654 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Milton Lakes This area represents a variety of neighborhoods in the southernmost portion of the City, bordering the City of Alpharetta. There are environmentally sensitive areas such as several water bodies and floodplain. The major corridors are Hopewell Road and Cogburn Road. These corridors include mostly suburban neighborhoods developed in the late 1990s with a mixture of lot sizes. Included in this area is Providence Park. There are several institutional uses such as places of worship, schools, and the site of the new high school at the intersection of Bethany Bend and Cogburn Road. Development Patterns in the Area • This area reflects the rural-residential development pattern typical of much of the city, but its access to limited sewer connections as well as its proximity to commercial zoning and institutional uses within the area suggest it may be appropriate for a live-work pattern of development. The intensity to which the live- work concept has been developed within the Deerfield Character Area would not be suitable for Milton Lakes, and unlike Crabapple or Birmingham, there is no identifiable “crossroads community” to anchor a mixed use development. The possibility of sprawling patterns of development exists in this area, and mitigation against this should be a priority. • The predominant land use of the Milton Lakes Character Area should remain residential, even though there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be minimized, and new residential development should primarily match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • Development should be well designed and blend into existing neighborhoods and buffers should separate more intense areas of development from nearby neighborhoods or other lower intensity areas. New development on the edge of urbanized areas should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding residential uses. • The Milton Lakes character area contains a diversity of residential lot sizes, and future residential development should reflect an average of the current diversity of densities and housing patterns. Enhancements such as a scenic corridor overlays and bicycle and pedestrian trail options may augment existing development and mitigate the effects of sprawling development. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 55Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts in this Area Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG2, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District Rural Milton Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201656 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Non-residential development in Milton Lakes is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 57Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Sweet Apple Sweet Apple is made up of two areas located in the southwest portion of the City of Milton, bounded by the City of Roswell on three sides (north, south, and to the west). Horse farms, pastures and woodlands dominate this Character Area. Two of the equestrian estates in the City are located in this area as well as Georgia Golf Center – a golf practice facility driving range, Other uses include churches, estate residential, large rural sites and pleasant pastoral views. Development Patterns in this Area The Sweet Apple character area is typical of Milton’s agricultural and rural-residential pattern of development. It is dominated by its rural character and equestrian uses, but is unique in that it is virtually surrounded by land within the city of Roswell, outside of Milton’s jurisdiction. The land use patterns in this area may be impacted by land use decisions within the City of Roswell, as well as the potential development of SR 140, Arnold Mill Road, but care should be taken to protect the existing uses and rural character on the urban/rural fringe. Economically viable agriculture uses, such as forestry and equestrian facilities, can be sustained in this area with the assistance of preferential taxation programs. Estate residential uses with limited hobby agricultural will also preserve the pastoral character of the area. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201658 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR) AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 59Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Future Land Use Map & Narrative The Future Land Use Map is a parcel-based map that identifies land use patterns using standard categories, such as Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Public/ Institutional, etc. The land use designation for a particular parcel of land represents the City’s official policy for the recommended future development of that parcel over the next 20 years. The Future Land Use Map shows the land use designations of all the parcels of land within the City of Milton, and this map will continue to guide future development and be an important tool in making zoning decisions. A detailed description of each future land use classification is below. There are eleven thirteen land use designations recognized and portrayed on the City’s future land use map. They are: • Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) • Low Density Residential (LDR) • Medium Density Residential 1-3 (MDR 1-3) • High Density Residential1-2 (HDR 1-2) • Multi-Family Residential (MFR) • Retail and Services (RS) • Office (O) • Community Facilities (CF) • Private Recreation (PR) • Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) • Mixed Use/ Living Working (MLW) Land Use relates to zoning in that the zoning should be compatible with the land use designation (see compatibility chart). Each land use designation is more generalized than any individual zoning district and may be considered to be compatible with several zoning districts. Since land use is more general and less specific, there are more zoning classifications than land use designations. Zoning is a very specific means of regulating property as compared to land use designation. The land use map and policies guide the land use pattern of the city in general, while the zoning districts impose specific controls and permissions on property. Two areas of the City - Crabapple and Deerfield - are controlled through form based codes. Form based codes use transect zones to govern land use and zoning as a combined mechanim to guide development of an area. The Transect Zone Descriptions for Crabapple and Deerfield are also included in this section for reference. Staff comment 7/20 Staff revision 7/29 Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201660 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Residential Residential uses include all properties where the principal structures are designed for human habitation. Several residential categories, listed below, are shown on the Land Use Map. The categories show the recommended minimum densities per acre, based on the smallest lot size. Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) – This category consists of scattered single-family homes, each one at least one acre, but are typically on several acres. This land use promotes hobby farms, equestrian facilities, and large lot residential estates includes minimum 3 acre lots on gravel roads. Low Density Residential (LDR) – This residential category consists of one single-family home on at least one acre (minimum 1.0 acre lots). Medium Density Residential (MDR) – There are three MDR categories. • MDR-(1): Up to 1.5 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.75 acre lots) • MDR-(2): Up to 2 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.5 acre lots) • MDR-(3): Up to 3 units per acre (1/3 acre lots or minimum 0.333 acre lots) High Density Residential (HDR) – There are two HDR categories. • HDR-(1): 3 to 5 units per acre (0.32 acre lots to 0.2 acre lots) • HDR-(2): 5 or more units per acre (0.19 or smaller acre lots) Multifamily Residential (MFR) – This residential category consists of five or more residential units per acre. This could be single family homes, duplexes, townhomes, and low to moderate density apartments. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Low Density Residential (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-2)RI, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-3)R1,R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Multifamily Residential R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A Staff Revised 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 61Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Commercial & Mixed Use Retail, services and offices are appropriate uses in this category. Retail and Service (RS) - Retail, service and office uses are appropriate uses in this category. These uses may be located in a single building or as part of a shopping center. Office (O) – Office uses are appropriate for this category – The office uses may be in single office buildings as well as office parks. Mixed Use/ Live Work (MLW) – The purpose of the Mixed Use/ Live Work land use district is to allow an appropriate and balanced mix of uses to create a living, working environment at a scale and character that is compatible with its surrounding community. Mixed Use/ Live Work areas will be activity centers where the community can live, work, shop, meet and play. These areas should be compact, pedestrian oriented, with a mix of office, commercial and residential uses and incorporate open space. This will result in the protection of environmental resources, accessible open space, a balance of all modes of transportation, housing choices and civic interaction. Detailed development standards are outlined below. Density will be defined by the specific zoning conditions or overlay district as applicable. Land Use • Live Work land uses should have a compatible mix of office, commercial, services, institutional, civic and residential uses. These should be integrated both vertically and horizontally. The uses within the Live Work areas should be in proximity to each other in order to encourage walking and to increase mobility to those who do not drive, especially the elderly and the young. Within the Live Work land use there should be transition of land uses, height and density. The Live Work land use should also serve the adjacent community. • Live Work areas should have an integrated transportation system. The transportation system should provide connectivity within the node and to and from the surround community. The transportation system should incorporate automobile, transit when available, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The streets should form an interconnected transportation network. This street network will create options, improve access and mobility, shorten auto trips and reduce congestion. Interconnected networks and should be designed to promote walking, biking, and transit usage where present. The pedestrian and bicycle facilities should facilitate safe, attractive and convenient pedestrian and bicycle circulation and minimize conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. Open Space • A range of parks and open space, from village greens to active recreation and passive open space, should be distributed throughout the Live Work district. Open space should be centrally located and accessible for the enjoyment of residents and workers. Open space and parks could be used to define and connect neighborhoods and uses. Environmentally sensitive areas should be protected and their fragmentation should be avoided. At least 20% of development should be set aside as open space. Housing • Live Work areas should have a diversity of housing types to meet the needs of the workforce and city residents. General • 20% of the project shall be comprised of open space of which the community gathering space is a part. • Projects that are 15 acres or less shall have two uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Projects that are 15 acres or more shall have three uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Live Work projects shall provide a balance of uses with a minimum of 20% of each of the uses on the site and/ or in the area. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Retail and Service MIX, C1, C2 Office OI, MIX, M1-A Mixed Use/ Live Work AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201662 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Public & Recreational Community Facilities (CF) – This land use includes public uses such as community centers, government facilities such as senior centers, health centers, fire and police stations, libraries, government centers, and schools, semi-public uses such as churches and cemeteries and institutional uses such as hospitals. Private Recreation (PR) – Privately owned recreational facilities such as golf courses and common open spaces are included in this land use. Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) – This includes parks, open space and recreational facilities owned by public entities. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 63Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Compatibility Chart Land Use Designation Zoning Classifications AG1R1R2R2AR3R3AR4R4AR5R5ATRACUPNUPOIMIXC1C2M1M2M1ARetail & Service Office Mixed Use/ Live Work Community Facilities Private Recreation Parks, Recreation, Conservation Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential 1 Medium Density Residential 2 Medium Density Residential 3 High Density Residential 1 High Density Residential 2 Multi-family Residential City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201664 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 65Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201666 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Future Land Use Map Implementation Measures section deleted- not required Staff Revised 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 67Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Key to Terminology: Items that are Completed have been finished within the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Underway have been initiated or have had partial progress made as of the end of the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. They have been carried over into the new 5-year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Postponed are still priorities for the community, and have been carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Cancelled will not be carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Generally, these are items that are broad policy statements or routine city operations, and they have been identified appropriately as such. Report of Accomplishments Project #Project Description Status Notes Economic Development ED1 Economic Development Plan to attract businesses to Milton; including agricultural and equestrian economic development Underway The policy to maintain Milton’s agricultural and equestrian heritage has been upheld in cases before council, which shows its commitment to attracting agri/equestrian businesses. ED2 Create an information database of economic development resources include a list of vacant buildings and available commercial properties that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed A list of vacant/undeveloped parcels available for development is maintained in the GIS system. The city also has access to a database called CoStar that reports vacant retail and commercial property as requested ED3 Evaluate tax implications for prospective businesses Cancelled Revised in the updated STWP ED4 Evaluate business license requirements and fees for Milton as compared with adjacent jurisdictions to insure that rates are competitive and will encourage new businesses to locate inside the city Postponed Milton looked at its business licence fee structure in 2011 and determined to keep the existing structure at that time. This function was moved to the finance department and is planned to be reviewed with a new fee structure implemented in time for the 2017 business license renewal period ED5 Encourage the Expansion of the North Fulton CID to include Deerfield and along Hwy 9 Underway Work is being done to encourage businessed to join the North Fulton CID to facilitate the expansion Natural and Cultural Resources City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201668 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes NRC1 Create an historic zoning code Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC2 Develop and implement Design Standards for historic properties Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC3 Pursue grant funding from GA Forestry Commission to conduct a Tree Canopy Study to establish a baseline for tree preservation Completed GA Forestry grant Milton $20,000 in 2011 to conduct a Forestry master plan and tree inventory and canopy study, completed in 2012 NRC4 Implement an inventory of current street trees within key areas of Milton, such as Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Highway, and Highway 9 Corridor that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed This was done as part of the Forest Management Plan NRC5 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of wetlands Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC6 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of areas with steep slopes Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC7 Study potential greenway and greensapce protection through easements, land trusts, etc.Completed Conservation Plan 2014 NRC8 Create ordinance to support the creation of green infrastructure Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC9 Adopt DNR Part 5 Criteria 4: Groundwater Recharge Areas and Wetlands Protection Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) Facilities and Services Parks and Recreation FS1 Parks and Recreation 15-year Comprehensive Plan Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS2 Complete a Greenprint Plan to identify key elements of Milton’s green infrastructure and identify mechanisms and recommendations for its acquisition, preservation and community use Completed Conservation Plan 2014 FS3 Revise the Birmingham Park Master Plan Completed This was looked at and reported on in the Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS4 Trail Plan Update Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS5 Trail Plan Implementation Underway This wll be ongoing for the next 20 years FS6 Crabapple Crossing Park Partnership Completed Friendship Park was opened in 2012 FS7 Crabapple Community Center/ Park Completed This is now the Broadwell Pavilion opened in 2015 FS8 Bell Memorial Park Improvements Completed completed in 2015 FS9 Bethwell Community Center & Park Completed completed in 2011 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 69Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS10 Hopewell Middle School/ Cogburn Woods and Birmingham Fall Elementary School and Northwestern Middle School Improvements Completed The projects at Hopewell MS, Cogburn Woods and Birmingham ES were done in 2012. The Northwestern MS improvments were done in 2015 FS11 Park Sign Program Underway Portions of this program have been completed. FS12 Land Acquisition/ Site Improvements Completed Land was acquired for the expansion of Bell Memorial Park in 2012 and Providence Park was acquired in 2015 FS13 Identify and Create Pocket parks in the Bethany, Deerfield, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Character Areas consistent with the future Master Plans of the Character Areas Completed Friendship Park and the Broadwell Pavilion were created in Crabapple; and Freedom Park was created in the Deerfield and Bethany areas. The Arnold Mill Plan identifies the Chadwick Landfill as a future park site FS14 Create a Master Plan for Providence Park and implement construction per the Master Plan recommendations Underway The Park land became available for acquisition in 2015. The park is scheduled to open to the public October 2016. After at leaset six months of public use, the city will engage teh community in thinking about a master plan for the park in 2017 FS15 Pursue LCI grant funding for Hwy 9 Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI FS16 Pursue LCI grant funding for Crabapple Town Center Completed FS17 Pursue LCI grant funding for Windward Parkway/ Deerfield with Alpharetta and North Fulton CID Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI. It included Windward Parkway with Alpharetta FS18 Pursue certification through the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Green Communities program working with the Milton Grows Green Communities (MGG) Completed Achieved Bronze level certification FS19 Gateway Grant Program Completed Police FS20 Improve current training curriculum options for city police officers Completed FS21 Improve reporting software for police department Completed FS22 Plan the location for police stations to maintain adequate service coverage through the city. Also applies to Fire Department Underway The location analysis has been done for a public Safety complex. The property site has been idenified and purchased. Architectral and space planning is underway, and the buildings are expected to be completed in 2019 Fire FS23 Improve current training curriculum options for city fire personnel Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS24 Expand EMS service to Advanced Life Support (ALS)Completed City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201670 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS25 Continue to expand the large animal rescue program Completed FS25 Continue renovations to Station 41 Completed FS27 Plan the location for fire stations to maintain adequate service coverage throughout the city. Also applies to police department Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program Public Works FS28 Continue to make improvements to the city Maintenance Facility Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS29 Develop and implement a stormwater management plan for Bell Memorial Park Completed Administration FS30 City Hall Underway A new City Hall is being constructed in Crabapple. Completion date is estimated to be 2017. FS31 Sponsor recycling education programs and increase opportunities for curbside recycling options Underway Housing H1 Undertake a city wide housing survey to determine the existing diversity of housing types, sizes, and values throughout Milton Completed This information was gathered census data and ongoing building permits H2 Ordinances for New Subdivisions Completed Amendments to the subdivision ordinance was proposed in 2015, but failed due to lack of community support H3 Develop Creative Design Guidelines for higher density housing Completed The Form Based Codes were implemented in areas that would allow higher density housing. A City Achitect was hired to review and suggest better design for these housing options Land Use and Development Controls LUDC1 Review and evaluate city wide buffer requirements and establish alternative requirements as needed to mitigate incompatibilities of adjacent land uses and to protect viewsheds Completed The buffer requirements were evaluated and no additional or increased buffers were implemented LUDC2 Agricultural/ Equestrian incentive land uses and zoning. Review and evaluate the standards of the Northwest Fulton Zoning Overlay and the AG-1 Zoning District to ensure protection of residential uses, traditional agriculture, and equestrian uses. Assemble a committee of citizens and stakeholders to discuss alternatives and make recommendations for improvements Completed The study led to the new Rural Milton Overlay that replaced the Northwest Fulton Overlay. Other incentives include the TDR program. Continued research is programed for 2017 thru 2018 LUDC3 Adopt Development Regulations - Unified Development Code Postponed This project was re-evaluated and re- assigned to 2018 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 71Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes LUDC4 Create a Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor, including visual design standards Completed This area has Form Based Code zoning with architectural review LUDC5 Create a Master Plan for the SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road Corridor, including visual design standards collaborating with the City of Roswell Completed This was done in 2014 LUDC6 Prepare a Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) ordinance or appropriate Form Based Code Completed LUDC7 Develop Rural Viewshed Districts Completed The comprehensive plan’s future community map shows the Rural Viewshed designated areas LUDC8 Establish a Green Building Ordinance Completed Adopted in 2012 LUDC9 Establish a Transfer of Development Rights and Purchase of Development Rights program Completed The TDR ordinance was adopted in 2012 LUDC10 Establish an Impact Fee Ordinance Completed The Impact Fee ordinance was adopted in 2015 LUDC11 Develop a conservation development design ordinance that is compatible with vision and policies for the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Milton. Completed A consultant was hired to develop the ordinance. but The City Council chose not to adopt it for several reasons, including public opposition unanimously denied the measure by a vote of 7-0. There was significant public opposition to the ordinance that was presented at the time, as well as concern during the Comprehensive Plan Update that consideration of the ordinance could be brought up again at a later date. LUDC12 Establish a system to Monitor septic systems Cancelled The management of the septic system in the community is a County function. We have decided to pursue educational workshops and communications to make the community aware of maintenance schedules LUDC13 [omitted in the original table] LUDC14 Conduct a parking audit of existing surface parking in the city to determine if the amount is disproportionate to need and review current parking regulations to determine if too much surface parking is required for new development. Completed This was evaluated in the master planned areas where reduced parking requirements were implemented. A parking deck study was done for Crabapple LUDC15 Develop digital and web-based information systems to better inform citizens of land use and development matters and other elements of the planning process. Underway Improved communication has been implemented by their emails and social media specifically about zoning and land use. Additional improvements such as allowing citizen to have access to a map- based case logs is ongoing LUDC16 Crabapple Master Plan Update including transportation Completed This was done with the LCI in 2013 CPAC Revised 7/21 CPAC Revised 8/1 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201672 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes Transportation T1 Context Sensitive design for Streets improvements Completed This is being done as part of the intersection capital Improvement projects T2 Create a Complete Streets Program Completed The Milton Trail Plan and Comprehensive Transportation plan incorporates and identifies modes of transportation to accommodate vehicular, bike and pedestrian traffic T3 Develop criteria for traffic impact studies for development proposals Completed This is in Chapter 48 of the Milton code of ordinances T4 Install new compliant road signs, as required by safety studies and engineering review Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program T5 Rebuild Cogburn Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2012 T6 Replacement of Landrum Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2013 T7 Pavement Management Plan Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FN-199 Install fiber optic cable and upgrade traffic signal system along SR 9 Completed This was a multi-jurisdiction project. The installation of the taffic signal at Deerfield and Hwy 9 contributed to this project FN-206 SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road at New Providence/ New Providence Road intersection realignment and improvement, as well as streetscape improvements Completed completed in 2013 FN-237 Mayfield Road and Mid-Broadwell Road intersection realignment with drainage and streetscape improvements Underway IC1 Proactively seek opportunities for Milton’s Council, staff & residents to be involved in development discussions/ coordinate with other jurisdictions, esp. Forsyth, Cherokee, Alpharetta and Roswell Cancelled Removed because language was vague and suggested an item covered as a routine part of government services. IC2 Increase Milton’s presence/ influence with the North Fulton Chamber Completed Milton created a part time economic development position and hired an economic development manager to increase Milton’s presence / influence with the North Fulton Chamber IC3 Work with Alpharetta and Roswell to develop an amicable system for non-resident park usage Completed It was determined that the non-resident park usage agreement was pertenant to Alpharetta and not Roswell. An intergovernmental agreement between Milton and Alpharetta was signed in 2012 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 73Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Short Term Work Program Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Economic Development Explore a Milton CID in the Crabapple Downtown area to carry out infrastructure projects in that boundary zone. x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Launch door-to-door outreach program to formalize the feedback loop within the business community. x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Explore an innovation center in a suitable location to incubate future business opportunity and growth. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Conduct business association outreach for regular interaction with the Milton Business Alliance, Crabapple Business Association, GNFCC and Metro Chamber. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Build and maintain an available land database listing of properties in CoStar and Select Georgia databased to convert properties from vacant to filled. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Community Facilities Complete the construction of the new City Hall in Crabapple. x City of Milton General Fund Implement the construction of the Crabapple Streetscape.x City of Milton Public Works General Fund, $250,000 Enhance multi-use connection to Big Creek Greenway.x x x City of Milton Public Works General Fund Explore the feasibility of a walkable connection from Birmingham Park to an Arnold Mill Park at the closing landfill with focus being along Little River. x x x x x City of Milton Public Works Staff Time Develop phase 2 of Providence Park to repair the rock quarry, establish access to water, public restrooms and a safe shelter. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation $400,000 Evaluate renewal and continuation of the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Alpharetta for parks without borders. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Partner with a provider to establish programming at Providence Park.x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation TBD Based on Project Scope CPAC Revised 7/21 Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201674 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Research new program offerings which might include activities not currently offered by Milton. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Revise and Update the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including the Trails Master Plan x City of Milton Parks and Recreation General Fund $75,000 Implement greenspace acquistion in accordance with the greenspace bond, if approved x x x x x City of Milton Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and Community Development $25 million Community Development Produce process maps for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency as measured by average time per permit. x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Produce process maps/videos for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency (NOT measured by average time per permit). x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant $50,000 Establish a Unified Development Code to encourage better development and design while clarifying process. x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant General Fund $180,000 Formalize a training program so each city staff member can act as a concierge for our customers (in coordination with process mapping). x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Create Program to allow online tracking of permits x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore 5 acre zoning category for TDR parcels x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore incentives for bigger lots/ estate homes x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Identify appropriate staffing needs and make sound recommendations as needed. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Through the Innovation Academy, explore implementing a detailed employee review process/ performance management system. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Initiate informational sessions with city boards and commission to inform of strategic plan and other city initiatives x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time CPAC Revised 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 75Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create and maintain a signage program digital information kiosks that direct people where to find additional information on current city projects and developments. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for construction of new City Hall Create and implement basic guides to enhance the ease of understanding our building and design standards. x x x City of Milton; Internship Intern Time Create branding material that promotes Milton’s unique identity. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Pursue a street topper sign program that would be intended to create a sense of place through signage. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for Crabapple Streetscape Create a Master Plan for Downtown Milton that incorporates the Municipal Center, Community Center, and Central Community Greenspace x City of Milton; Consultant $80,000 Continue welcome packets mailed monthly to new homeowners to increase resident awareness of Milton programs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff and Volunteer Time Support the Village Volunteers program designed to assist young adults who have graduated high school and also have special needs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Create education opportunties for citizens about planning, zoning, etc./Citizen’s Academy x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for older-student education participation in planning/com dev work i.e. Mock member of Board, Commission or Council x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for younger-student education participation in planning/com dev work Lego city build program x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reinvent the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) for the review and designation of historic properties x City of Milton; Historic Preservation Commission Staff Time; Citizen Time Establish and implement a signage program for historic land markers and points of interest x x City of Milton; Consultant General Fund $51,000 Create educational opportunities for the community that are grounded in sustainability, resiliency and conservation (Earthday Festival; Arbor Day Event; Community Meetings) x x x x x City of Milton; Community Volunteers Staff Time; Citizen Time Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201676 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create a formal feedback loop with the equestrian community x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Review the code of ordinances for desired enhancements that protect our rural character x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish and facilitate a working group charged to identify evaluation criteria for potential areas of land conservation or community greenspace x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reflect greenspace needs within the updated comprehensive plan x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore the establishment of a City sponsored TDR Bank x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish incentive packages to encourage the retention of farms and equestrian facilities x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore options for undertaking Future Land Use Map amendments prior to considering zoning petitions that may not be compatible with the Future Land Use Map x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reconcile the current zoning districts with updated land use classifications in the Comprehensive Plan/ on the Future Land Use Map x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a method for tracking commercial- type uses in the AG-1 zoning district x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time CPAC Revised 7/21 Staff Revised 7/28 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 77Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appendix Glossary ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990 and later amended in 2009 to protect individuals with a disability from discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, State and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications. ARC: Atlanta Regional Commission: is the agency responsible for regional planning and intergovernmental coor- dination for the Atlanta Metropolitan Area which includes ten counties (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties) and all the cities within those counties. The ARC reviews the comprehensive plans of all these jurisdictions along with the state’s planning/coordinating agency, GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Bioswales: are vegetation and compost filled landscape elements designed to filter silt and pollution from surface run- off water before it is released to the watershed or storm sewer. Common applications are along roadways and around parking lots, where substantial automotive pollution is collected by the paving and then flushed into the watershed or stormwater by rain. The bioswale collects the runoff and slows the water flow, maximizing the time water spends in the swale, which aids the trapping of pollutants and silt. Biological factors also contribute to the breakdown of certain pollutants. Bucolic: of the countryside, rural, pastoral CPAC : Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee: is the sixteen member citizen group formed in 2007 by the Mayor and Council to initiate the comprehensive planning process. The group consists of the seven members of the Planning Commission, Chairperson of the Board of Zoning Appeals, Chairperson of the Design Review Board, and seven citizen appointees of the Mayor and City Council. Context Sensitive Design: refers to the concept of taking community values and environmental preservation into account in the designing and engineering of projects. The concept impresses that a project should be sensitive to their surrounding environment, especially in scenic or historic areas and should include public involvement by collaborating with local communities during the projects design phase. An understanding of the natural and built environments including roadways as part of the valued landscape must be accomplished before the engineering design progresses begins. Complete Streets: Streets that provide multiple travel choices such as vehicle travel lanes, bike travel lanes, pedestrian sidewalks, and amenities such as lights, benches, shade trees that make all users safe. A balanced transportation system that includes complete streets can increase the overall capacity of the transportation network and bolster economic growth and stability by providing accessible and efficient connections between residences, schools, parks, public trans- portation, offices, and retail destinations. Conservation Design: refers to design of any build project that considers the conservation of open and green space and configures the build elements in such a way that it maximized the conservation area. Conservation Subdivision: refers to the design of a residential subdivision that maintains its zoned/permitted project density, but configures the home placement/arrangement in such a way that it maximizes open and green space for conservation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201678 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 DCA: Department of Community Affairs: is the state agency created in 1977 to serve as an advocate for local govern- ments. On July 1, 1996, the Governor and General Assembly merged the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority (GHFA) with the Department of Community Affairs. Today, DCA operates a host of state and federal grant programs; serves as the state’s lead agency in housing finance and development; promulgates building codes to be adopted by local gov- ernments; provides comprehensive planning, technical and research assistance to local governments; and serves as the lead agency for the state’s solid waste reduction efforts. Feasibility Study: A combination of a market study and an economic analysis that provides the facts about a proposed project and estimates the expected return on investment to be derived from the project. Gateways: are locations that signify the entrance to a community. GATEway grant: GATE is an acronym for GA Transportation Enhancement. The GATEway Grant is an annual grant oppor- tunity provided by the GA Department of Transportation to assist communities in their efforts to enhance and beautify roadsides along state routes especially at gateway locations. GDOT: Georgia Department of Transportation: The State of Georgia’s transportation management authority. Green Infrastructure system: where a network of parks, recreation, and conservation areas are, or planned to be, inter- connected throughout the city or region. Heat-island or urban head island: refers to areas which consistently record significantly warmer temperatures than its surrounding areas. This is generally the case in metropolitan areas where modification of the land surface by urban development, i.e. uses of materials which effectively retain heat and waste heat generated by energy usage increase the average temperatures. Mitigation of the urban heat island effect can be accomplished through the use of green roofs and the use of lighter-colored surfaces in urban areas, which reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/neighborhoods located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. Rain gardens: refers to a planted depressed area designed to collect rainwater runoff from impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and compacted lawn areas, and allow it the opportunity to be absorbed into the ground as opposed to flowing into storm drains and water ways. This reduces the pressure on stormwater systems and reduces the risk of flash flooding. It also replenishes groundwater. Rural Viewshed: refers to the pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Scenic Byways: A Georgia Scenic Byway is defined as any designated highway, street, road, or route, which features cer- tain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. The qualities that give the byway its character and appeal are its scenic, historic, natural, archaeological, cultural, or recreational nature. Currently, twelve corridors have achieved Georgia Scenic Byways status as designated by the Georgia Department of Transportation, with more to follow. SR: State Route: roads/highways that are part of the state’s network of roads that are managed/maintained by the state’s department of transportation. Milton has three state routes: SR 9 (Hwy 9), SR 372 (Birmingham Hwy), and SR 140 (Arnold Mill Road). City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 79Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activ- ities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as “design for all,” “inclusive design,” and “life-span design,” refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessi- ble kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. City of Milton 2030 Comprehensive Plan: Community Agenda 06-06-2011 XI. Glossary of Terms 110 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as "design for all," "inclusive design," and "life-span design," refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessible kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. The City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 This document was prepared by the Atlanta Regional Commission using funds provided by the State of Georgia. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 Contents Executive Summary 5 Data and Demographics 6 Housing 12 Community Vision 15 Issues and Opportunities 16 Transportation 33 Future Community Map and Narrative 36 Future Land Use Map and Narrative 60 Report of Accomplishments 68 Short Term Work Program 74 Appendix City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20164 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Acknowledgments City Council Joe Lockwood, Mayor Karen Thurman - District 1/ Post 1 Matt Kunz - Mayor Pro Tem, District 2/ Post 2 William C. “Bill” Lusk, P.E. - District 2/ Post 1 Burt Hewitt - District 1/ Post 2 Joe Longoria - District 3/ Post 1 Rick Mohrig - District 3/ Post 2 Comprehensive Planning Steering Committee Peyton Jamison - Chair Karen Thurman - Liaison to the City Council Paul Moore Fred Edwards Noel Carpenter Mark Bittner Wilson Borden Chris Doty Gariel Burchett Todd Chernik Marty Littleton Lauren Holmes Richie Johnson Terrence McCrossan William O’Connor Tom Gauger Steve Smith Sumeet Shah City of Milton Staff Kathleen Field - Community Development Director Michele McIntosh-Ross - Principal Planner Atlanta Regional Commission Staff Dan Reuter - Division Manager Jared Lombard - Senior Principal Planner Allison Duncan - Principal Planner Sidney Douse - Senior Planner Robert Herrig - Planner Beth Davis - Intern Elizabeth Burns - Intern Dana De Lessio - Intern City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 5Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Executive Summary The City of Milton was chartered in 2006. Previously, the area that comprises the city was a part of unincorporated Fulton County. Many of the land use and transportation patterns were set in place by zoning and development standards that pre-dated the incorporation of the city. The original vision of the city was focused on the preservation of rural character, community heritage, and “small-town” quality of life. According to the Community Assessment of the city’s original Comprehensive Plan, “The City was created with the idea that the rapid pace of urban development since 1990 would displace the rural-based assets that attracted the city’s current citizens to Milton, and that the City should establish and adhere to its own resources to balance future development and services with the City’s vision for preservation of existing lifestyles and community character. Maintenance of the unique agricultural elements, lower density development patterns, lifestyle and character of the existing community is central to the wishes of many local citizens.” Citizens still wish to see Milton preserve agricultural and low density development patterns. There are areas along the southern border of the city that have been identified for higher density, mixed use development – particularly in the Deerfield and Crabapple Character Areas. Higher density residential development opportunities exist in Milton Lakes and Bethany. Outside of these areas, the majority of the city is reserved for low density residential development on lots that are 1-acre or greater. Beyond the community’s keen interest in future development, topics of consideration included acquisition and development of community greenspace; traffic congestion and transportation improvements, and the need to preserve opportunities for agricultural landscapes and working farms. Overall, the community is generally satisfied with the policy direction set down in their 2011 Comprehensive Plan. Therefore, this Comprehensive Plan Update largely reflects the policy and direction adopted in the city’s initial plan, with changes noted in the topics of greenspace, land conservation, and traffic congestion. Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: Promote a high quality of life Create a strong sense of community and place Respect our heritage while guiding our future Be the best place to call home City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20166 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Data & Demographics City of Milton, Fulton County, Georgia City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 7Draft for Review 8.11.2016 32,661 36,291 39,804 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000 45,000 2010 2015 2020 Milton Population Population The city of Milton became a city on December 1, 2006. The first demographic data available for Milton comes from 2010, at which point the population was 32,661. According to ESRI Business Analyst Projections, the population is expected to continue to grow quickly, with an anticipated 22% growth between 2010 and 2020. The city’s Impact Fee Population Forecast anticipates they will reach “build out at a population around 61,580 residents.” 2010 2015 2020 Milton 32,661 36,291 39,804 Sandy Springs 93,853 98,184 103,980 Alpharetta 57,551 61,375 65,902 Johns Creek 76,728 80,993 86,870 Roswell 88,346 91,326 96,222 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 The chart to the left compares the population of Milton with other North Fulton cities. Milton’s population has been lower than its neighbors, and is predicted to continue to be lower, though it is projected to experience steady growth over the next five years. North Fulton Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 Census Profile(2000,2010)., ESRI Business Analyst Online Community Profile (2015, 2020 Projections) City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20168 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Race White residents make up 76.6% of the racial distribution in the City of Milton as of 2010. Black residents make up 9%, Asian residents are 10.4% of the population, and those of two or more races are 2.2% of the population. Residents of Hispanic origin of any race are 6.0% of the population. W h i t e B l a c k a s i a n t W o o r M o r e r a c e s o t h e r 2015 2020 The proportion of White and Black residents is expected to decline, replaced by Asian residents, and those of two or more races. The proportion of those of Hispanic descent is also expected to decline from 6% in 2010 to about 5.7% in 2020. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Community Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 9Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Age 25% 11% 29% 28% 6%1% <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 22% 14% 23% 32% 8%1% 2015 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 19% 14% 23% 33% 10%1% 2020 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 16% 27% 28% 21% 8% <5 5 to 9 10 to 14 15 to 19 20 to 24 Young and middle aged adults (25-64) combine for 59% of the population. Milton has a high number of residents under the age of 14 for the region. Between 2010 and 2015, the population is expected to get older as a whole. The youngest age group of those under 14 and those aged 25-44 decrease in proportion of the total, while adults aged 45-84 gain 6% of the population. These trends are projected to continue into 2020. 2010 School Age Population The impact of the public schools on the development patterns of the community has consistently been an issue raised during the Comprehensive Plan process. The breakdown of school-aged population is included here for planning purposes. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 census profile; ESRI Business Analyst Online Demographic and income Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201610 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Employment 1326 1581 1100 1089 2157 1181 1034 1315 1149 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Health Care/ Social Assistance Food Services What Jobs do Milton Residents Do? 329 1108 2483 306 1084 1316 820 531 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Food Services What jobs are available in Milton?re s i d e n t ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sWo r k p l a c e ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sSource: US Census Bureau, Census on the Map Resident Area Profile Analysis City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 11Draft for Review 8.11.2016 73,674 114,273 129,119 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 140,000 2010 2015 2020 Median Household Income 14% 22% 27% 19% 13% 4%1% <$25,000 $25,000-$49,999 $50,000-$74,999 $75,000-$99,999 $100,000-$149,999 $150,000-$199,999 $200,000+ Income 68% of households made between $25,000 and $100,000 in 2010. 2010 Source: :2010 data- US Census American Fact Finder ACS 2010 Selected Economic Characteristics. 2015/2020 data- ESRI Business Analyst Demographic and income Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201612 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000 2010 2015 2020 Owner Occupied Rented Vacant Housing Demand Demand in housing is expected to increase, resulting in both an increase in the number of units and a decrease in the vacancy rate. The number of rented units is 24.7% of units in 2010, 22.9% in 2015, and 23.8% in 2020. $469,100 $451,100 $2,790 $1,220 2010 2014 Median Selected Monthly Owner Costs 2014 Median Rent 2014 Median home values can be somewhat of a moving target depending on the source of information. According to the US Census American Fact Finder, home values have fluctuated around the mid-$400,000 range. Some private data sources, such as Zillow, list the median a little higher around $485,000. Housing Values Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Housing Profile; US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 13Draft for Review 8.11.2016 According to the American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate (2014), there are 12,853 housing units in Milton, with a vacancy rate of around 5%. The majority of vacant units are rental – less than 1% of owner occupied units are vacant. Of the rental units that are available in the city, rents still tend to be high with the majority of units in the city available for rents over $1,000/ month. 85% of Milton’s housing has been built since 1990. The map included here shows the development patterns in the city, depicted by year. This reinforces the ACS data that suggests that the vast majority of the housing stock in the city is fairly new. The majority of housing – almost 70% is single family detached dwellings. Around 15% of the city’s housing is a type of multi-family dwelling. The average housing value in the city of Milton is around $451,000. Compared with the average in Fulton County, which is $237,600, this is almost double of the county as a whole. The relative newness of the housing stock, plus the high value of real estate combine to ensure the good condition of housing in the city. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 Average Rents, Milton GA Housing by Structure Type, Milton GA Single Family Detached Single Family Attached Duplex, Triplex or Quadplex Multi-family 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201614 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Milton has limited water and sewer infrastructure, and there are no plans for expansion. The desire to preserve Milton’s rural and low-density quality of life will need to be balanced with the increasing conversion of agricultural land to housing, and the impermanence that may result when the equestrian and agricultural community feels that they can no longer afford to continue operations in a rapidly suburbanizing area. Additionally, concerns have been expressed that many aging adults and “empty-nesters” choose to leave the community because they lack housing options. 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 Housing Values, Milton GA Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 15Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Community Vision Monday November 2 Milton City Council Comp Plan Kick Off Tuesday February 9 CPAC Meeting Tuesday March 8 Public Meeting Tuesday April 12 CPAC Meeting Saturday April 23 Milton Earth Day Festival Wednesday December 16 CPAC Meeting Monday October17: Milton City Council Meeting - Adoption of the Comprehensive Plan and CIE Thursday May 12 Public Meeting Tuesday June 14 CPAC Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday July 18 Joint CPAC & City Council Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday August 8 CIE Work Session (Ross & Associates) Monday August 15 Public Hearing & Transmittal CIE & Comp Plan Thursday July 21 CPAC Meeting Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: • Promote a high quality of life • Create a strong sense of community and place • Respect our heritage while guiding our future • Be the best place to call home Comprehensive Plan Mission We take responsibility together to provide the best quality of life to those we serve. Through excellent service to our neighbors, we strengthen our cherished sense of community. Community Input Opportunities The Milton Comprehensive Plan Update process was guided by a Stakeholder Committee (CPAC) comprised of citizens, local business owners, elected officials, and Milton staff. CPAC met on multiple occasions, providing direction and feedback at key points in the process. There were additional opportunities for public participation at community meetings and local festivals, as well as regularly scheduled City Council meetings where the plan was discussed. Meetings were advertised through local media outlets and on the city’s social media sites. Concurrent with the Comprehensive Plan Update, the city was undertaking an update to the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP), and their Capital Improvements Element (CIE). In addition to the CTP and CIE, there are numerous other plans and studies that support the Comprehensive Plan, and referenced herein. They are identified below. Other Plans and Programs • Crabapple LCI Form Code & Visioning Study • Deerfield/ GA 9 LCI Form Based Code • GA 9 Design Guidelines • Hwy 9 North Visioning • Arnold Mill Visioning Study • Tree Inventory • Parks and Recreation Plan • Conservation Plan • City Strategic Plan 2016-2020 • Impact Fee Assessment Report City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201616 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Community Issues & Opportunities The community issues and opportunities are a snap shot of the community’s concerns, and its perception of the strengths they possess and the challenges they face. The issues and opportunities included herein were generated in the initial Milton Comprehensive Plan. They were reviewed and updated by CPAC, and feedback from community members was used to generate the final list presented here. Priority Issues are those that were ranked highly by community members as still being a priority issue at the time of this update of the Comprehensive Plan. This list of issues and opportunities is used to provide direction toward crafting the policies and implementation goals for the city. The Objectives listed in this section are community policies that address the issues and opportunities identified by the community through the public review of the Comprehensive Plan Update. Priorities • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. • Traffic congestion is a persistent problem within the community. • The city lacks a network of sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian and bridle paths, and trails that would enhance transportation choices. • Adequate funding is needed to implement road improvements. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 17Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Overall Overall issues and opportunities were derived from the consistent concerns that have been reiterated throughout the Comprehensive Plan process. These include an emphasis on community aesthetics, the need for more parks and greenspace, the need to enhance community connectivity, and the importance of accessibility and universal design to benefit citizens of all abilities. Issues • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Current development patterns do not reflect a comprehensive awareness of accessibility and universal design concepts. Opportunities • The city currently has acquired land that can be developed into public greenspace and active and passive parkland, and there are additional opportunities for the further acquisition of land for similar purposes. • The development and implementation of commercial design standards for each character area will enhance community aesthetics. • New residential development, within certain Character Areas such as Crabapple or Deerfield, should be connected to existing neighborhoods and commercial service areas. • The development and implementation of rural design standards within appropriate character areas will enhance community aesthetics. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201618 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development Patterns and Land Use Development within Milton boomed through much of the 1990s and into the early 2000s while the city was still a part of unincorporated Fulton County. This is a timeframe that coincides with the rising awareness of many of the negative impacts of sprawling commercial and residential land use patterns. The issues and opportunities identified for Development Patterns/ Land Use emphasize the importance of limiting sprawl and preserving the unique rural character of much of the city. Community preference has been articulated for Master Plans tied to existing and potential development; rigorous aesthetic design controls; specific geographic boundaries and specified densities to prevent sprawl; and the protection of open space, woodlands, specimen trees, stream buffers, steep slopes, the night sky, agricultural land, and other environmentally sensitive areas. Issues • Unattractive sprawl development has led to visual clutter along roadways that can distract drivers and detract from the community’s appearance. • Lack of design standards have led to subdivision entrances that are not in keeping with the rural character of the area. • Sprawl development threatens the indistinct boundary between town and countryside. • There is widespread opposition to typical high-density development patterns. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • New development threatens to encroach upon areas that may not be suited for development. Opportunities • Milton has preserved a unique patterns of equestrian-oriented development as well as open/green space and woodlands that should be enhanced and promoted. • Plentiful scenic areas, pastoral areas, and woodlands are the hallmark of community character and should be preserved. • Proactive stewardship of the community’s extensive greenspace and woodlands can be an asset for current and future generations. • Emphasis on the redevelopment of existing areas can preserve and enhance the community’s greenspace and sense of place. • Policies and regulations should maintain and promote the rural character of the city, including the preservation of “open road” neighborhoods1, and locating new residential development in areas contiguous to existing neighborhoods. • Preserve the gravel roads in Milton – along with the larger lots (minimum 3 acres) required on gravel roads – as a part of the special character of Milton as well as including this asset as a part of the transportation and recreation plans for the city. • Support the use of Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to encourage redevelopment and infill development within targeted areas while effectively limiting sprawl and protecting the rural areas. Objectives Objective 1: We will encourage development that is sensitive to the overall setting of the community and will contribute to our community’s character and sense of place. Strategy: Obtain broad support for the Comprehensive Plan from community leaders and the public through education initiatives and consensus-building meetings. Strategy: Encourage the maintenance of equestrian and agricultural areas with large tracts of land in order to maintain this important aspect of the community. 1 Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/ neighborhoods located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts with conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 19Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Strategy: Protect natural areas, viewsheds, floodplains, wetlands, tree canopy, heritage and specimen trees through strict adherence to codes during site preparation and construction, and avoidance of clear-cutting. Strategy: Encourage land uses which integrate the rivers and streams and environmental aesthetics into their planning and design. Strategy: Protect the dark night sky, especially in lower density residential, conservation and natural areas of the city. Strategy: Work with utility companies to protect city assets. Objective 2: We will encourage development of a balanced network of commercial activity centers that are vibrant areas of the community which, 1) improve overall attractiveness and local quality of life 2) meet the service needs of our citizens and 2) avoid unattractive and inefficient sprawling strip development. Strategy: Emphasize the development of barrier free, smaller, pedestrian-oriented streets, shops and parking in the denser areas of the city to support existing structures and appropriate commercial uses. Strategy: Encourage compact, mixed use development in the Crabapple Crossroads Area as reflected in the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan; the Birmingham Crossroads Area as reflected in the Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan; and along Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill Road pursuant to their recommended Master Plans. Strategy: Develop master plans that include Access Management Studies along the roadways within the study areas. Strategy: Limit inefficient sprawling development by using Transfer of Development Rights to define the geographic limits of receiving areas. Strategy: Provide safe accessible crossings for persons who have specific needs. Objective 3: We want development whose design, landscaping, lighting signage and scale add value to our community. Strategy: Create more specific detailed design guidelines for Arnold Mill Road (SR 140), and other specific areas around of the City; support existing design guidelines for Crabapple, Deerfield and Birmingham Crossroads. Strategy: Develop context sensitive standards for protecting and enhancing rural viewsheds in the City. Strategy: Develop context sensitive residential development standards for entrances and right-of-way amenities for residential subdivision developments. Objective 4: We will create gateways to establish a “sense of place” for our community. Strategy: Create consistent images (including the equestrian logo) to help “brand” Milton as a unique and desirable community on street signs, public buildings and public vehicles. Incorporate branding images into City documents, special event signage, and gateways to the City. Strategy: Identify prospective sites for unique public signs at the major gateways to the City and acquire rights to place substantial gateway signs that convey pride and sense of place. Strategy: Identify specific design standards for public gateway investments (i.e. signage, landscape, hardscape, sidewalks, lighting, street furnishings). Objective 5: We will encourage mixed-used developments, where appropriate, that are human-scale, less auto- oriented and include neighborhoods that are walkable, bicycle and wheelchair friendly in Master Planned Areas as identified on the Future Community map. Strategy: Coordinate infrastructure design where appropriate to provide barrier-free, safe, walkable connections between activity centers, institutions, and residential neighborhoods. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201620 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Strategy: Encourage developers to incorporate appropriate amenities such as sidewalks or pathways, shallow front yard setbacks, porches, streetlights, street furnishings, and small green space sites in grid-style Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) patterns close to existing transportation and community facility infrastructure. Strategy: Provide local street and/ or pedestrian connections between existing and new subdivisions in addition to access from primary streets. Objective 6: We will be willing to assess land planning and development concepts that may be new to our area, but have been tried successfully in other places. Strategy: Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a method to protect the low-density, rural and agricultural areas of the city as well as encourage redevelopment and infill development within the targeted development areas of the City. Strategy: Consider adopting policies and standards related to “Universal Design” and/ or “Visitable Homes”2 concepts. Strategy: Consider implementing Implement context sensitive and form based zoning. Objective 7: We support appropriate residential and non-residential infill development and redevelopment in ways that complement surround areas. Strategy: Support infill development that meets appropriate design standards on local streets within the city. 2 “Universal Design” is a planning idea, meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able bodied and the physically disabled. “Visitable Homes” is a type of universal design that refers to a home that is designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size, or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. More information about these concepts is provided in the Glossary of Terms found in the Appendix of this document. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 21Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Community Facilities and Services The City faces unique challenges and prospects to maintaining its identity. Issues and opportunities for Community Facilities and Services focus on the broad themes of community spaces, community character, and sense of place. The city can concentrate its efforts on preserving the high quality of existing development and enhancements that will improve community aesthetics. Issues • Milton needs to better define its community character – including areas around municipal boundaries and gateways – to foster a sense of place so visitors know they have arrived to a unique community. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. Opportunities • Currently there are virtually no areas of decline due to the relative newness of development in Milton. Policies and regulations can promote high development standards to prevent the decline of existing development. • The City should support the build out of Birmingham Crossroads consistent with its adopted plan as the village activity center that anchor the Birmingham Character Area; and support the continued build out of Crabapple Crossroads as would be recommended per a revised Crabapple plan as the downtown for the City. • The redevelopment of the Highway 9 Corridor consistent with an adopted set of community design guidelines would enhance the character and sense of place in the Deerfield character area. • Implementing a community branding campaign – including standards for the design and placement of signage – can foster a visual aesthetic and sense of place within the City. Objectives Objective 1: We will incorporate sustainable policies and practices in projects undertaken and services offered by the City of Milton. Strategy: Design government buildings and projects including parkland, transportation projects, etc. to meet “Green” certification standards. Encourage these standards for private development. Strategy: Work with environmental stakeholders to advise on environmentally responsible policies and practices through Milton. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Objective 2: We will explore opportunities for multiple transportation alternatives. Strategy: Implement the recommendations of the Milton Transportation Plan and Milton Trails Plan. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Objective 3: We will invest in parks and open space to enhance the quality of life for our citizens. Strategy: Develop and implement Master Plans for Birmingham Park and Providence Park, ensuring that multiple needs of multiple users are met (i.e. children, youth, adults, seniors, individuals with disabilities, etc) with a sensitivity towards the unique characteristics of the area in which the park is being developed and the land itself. Strategy: Ensure parks and parkland are developed with the city’s mission and vision statements in mind, including the protection of the rural characteristics of Milton as well as “green” practices and development standards. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201622 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Strategy: Identify and protect other areas that serve as parks or parklands to the city’s residents, such as pocket parks, equestrian areas, greenways, and other recreational lands. Strategy: Work with Fulton County to provide community parks, regional parks, and large active and passive recreation facilities, including consideration of barrier free access to all amenities, to serve City residents and visitors. Strategy: Encourage parks and other green spaces to be protected in perpetuity through appropriate legal mechanisms. Strategy: Ensure that the City of Milton Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan is updated regularly to remain current and relevant to the needs of the citizens of Milton. Objective 4: We will seek opportunities to provide pleasant, accessible, public gathering places and parks throughout the community. Strategy: Develop community gathering spaces and pocket parks in village and neighborhood centers to serve as meeting places and destinations. Strategy: Establish appropriate requirements for new development to set-aside specific amounts of land for greenspace or meeting acceptable alternative requirements to provide for future needs for greenspace. Strategy: Ensure public gathering spaces have barrier-free, ADA compliant amenities. Objective 5: We will support the city in the acquisition of new greenspace opportunities to meet the needs of the citizens of Milton. Strategy: Preserve greenspace and open space using bond revenues for the acquisition of general areas of green or open space including pastures, horse farms, wooded areas, larger tracts of undeveloped land, and open space between new or existing subdivisions. This can include protecting natural resources from development - especially wooded and tree areas with a special concentration on preserving as many trees as possible; protecting wildlife habitat and corridors from development by preserving areas in their natural state that are home to wildlife, including identifying and preserving wildlife corridors; and protecting water and watersheds from development by protecting areas with water, rivers, ponds, lakes, creeks, streams, stream buffer areas and watersheds. Strategy: Preserve rural views and rural character using bond revenues for the purpose of protecting or conserving the rural views along roadways; protecting or conserving the rural feel, look, setting and character of Milton; protecting historic resources; and protecting agricultural uses of land including farms, horse farms, etc. Strategy: Preserve trails and parks using bond revenues for the acquisition of trails and parks in establishing new trails and connecting existing trails based on the Milton Trail Plan; establishing trails for walking, biking, and horse riding, either through separate or combined use trails depending on location, need and the Trail Plan; establishing trails that connect parks, schools and commercial centers, including connections to greenways; and establishing parks, including passive, and or mostly unimproved or “natural state” parkland with the possibility of creating trails and minimal improvements to provide public access. These could include pocket parks or larger tract parks. Objective 6: We will work with the Fulton County Public Schools to encourage school location decisions that support overall growth and development plans of the community. Strategy: Encourage the Fulton County Public Schools to improve access and egress into existing school properties to minimize traffic disruption and congestion. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to locate future facilities that are consistent with the Milton Future Land Use Plan. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to design new schools consistent with the design standards unique to Milton including site planning, building design, the utilization of green standards, access/ egress, parking configuration, tree preservation/ replacement review, appropriate buffers and the integration of trailways where possible. Strategy: Work with Fulton County Public Schools to identify opportunities to use recreational fields during periods when the schools are not using the facilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 23Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 7: We will seek ways for new growth to pay for public infrastructure and services to support the development to the maximum extent possible. Strategy: Work with private developers to encourage the development of public infrastructure by building connections to existing infrastructure and new development sites. Strategy: Implement an impact fee ordinance and use impact fees for specific improvements allowed by State law. Strategy: Actively pursue partnerships and grant opportunities to facilitate infrastructure expansion and enhance community services. Objective 8: We will use planned infrastructure expansion to support development in areas identified as suitable for such development in the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Encourage the balanced development of Crabapple, Deerfield, Birmingham Crossroads, Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill that is 1) consistent with land use policies and adopted overlays or master plans for the areas, and 2) concurrent with needed infrastructure improvements. Strategy: Encourage the stated development of character areas concurrent with the growth of service infrastructure as a method of maintaining sustainability. Strategy: Establish and protect defined development boundaries and sustainable density levels as defined specifically by the Master Plan for that given area to identify and maintain appropriate edges between areas with planned infrastructure and adjacent areas. Objective 9: We will promote enhanced initiatives for solid waste reduction and recycling. Strategy: Coordinate solid waste management with Fulton County and other cities in the County. Strategy: Reduce the volume of waste entering the solid waste disposal system by sponsoring recycling education, and provide opportunities and incentives to sort plastics, paper, glass metals and other materials. Strategy: Require private waste management contractors to provide curbside recycling options. Encourage and educate recycling throughout the city including the integration of development standards that create a recycling pick up location and commercial and non-commercial sites. Strategy: Consider the long term alternatives to use of landfills. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201624 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Housing The relative newness of development and the limited infrastructure in the city of Milton have resulted in property values and housing stock that tends toward the higher end. The needs of land-extensive agricultural uses, such as equestrian estates, also impact housing, land values and development patterns. There are higher density residential options within the city that include townhomes and single family homes on small lots. However, the perceptions of a lack of housing diversity underscore the need for more study and analysis of the existing housing stock before any significant changes are made to current zoning policies or land use patterns. Additionally, diversity should not just focus on smaller-lot, higher density development but also consider preserving choices for individuals who need large acreages for land extensive agricultural and recreational uses, as well as lifestyle choices. Issues • Current development patterns include limited development of housing in proximity to employment centers. • Current development patterns do not consider senior housing and its location relative to senior services. Opportunities • Undertaking a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock would enable better planning and preparation for future growth and development patterns. • Based on a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock, identify ways to create greater diversity in housing options within the city. • Identify opportunities to create housing and employment centers within the city to mitigate the need to commute outside the city for employment. • Identify opportunities to create senior housing in a lifelong community setting that places senior housing and senior services in close proximity. Objectives Objective 1: We will accommodate our diverse population by encouraging a compatible mixture of housing types, densities and costs within the City. Strategy: Encourage a mix of housing types, densities and amenities appropriate for the development patterns of each character area to accommodate a mix of income and family needs. Strategy: Develop accessibility guidelines and policies for ADA accessible homes concept to accommodate full participation in housing choice by people with disabilities. Strategy: Promote policies that protect the existing low density, rural residential housing throughout the Birmingham, Central Milton, Arnold Mill, And Sweet Apple Character Areas of the City. Strategy: Promote policies that provide more housing choices, including apartments, town homes, condominiums and single family homes with smaller footprints on smaller lots in the Deerfield Character Area. Objective 2: We will encourage development of housing opportunities that enable residents to have easier access to commercial services and employment opportunities. Strategy: Increase and expand mobility in neighborhoods with more barrier free bicycle, wheelchair and pedestrian options. Strategy: Construct more sidewalks or alternative pathways that connect homes to work and shopping facilities as well as parks/ gravel roads and institutional uses, as appropriate. Strategy: Integrate housing, transportation and land use plans to improve mobility to and from jobs and other primary destinations. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 25Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 3: We will encourage housing policies, choices and patterns that increase opportunities for people to move into affordable owner-occupied housing. Strategy: Identify opportunities for infill residential development in existing neighborhoods. Strategy: Assess community housing stock to accurately determine the current mix of residential uses and identify areas of need. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201626 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Intergovernmental Coordination Multi-jurisdictional coordination provides partnership opportunities that more efficiently allocate public resources to accomplish the programs of the Comprehensive Plan. As a city, Milton has the opportunity to engage with the adjacent cities in Fulton County, but also has the benefit of working with established departments within Fulton County and regional and state entities that facilitate economic development, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure improvements. Issues • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • Local officials and/ or neighborhoods are resistant to new or innovative development ideas. Opportunities • The City should work with adjacent jurisdictions to adopt consistent design standards for new development that will promote community aesthetics and sustainability. • There is potential to form partnerships with adjacent jurisdictions in pursuit of LCI/ CID funds for Hwy 9 (SR 9), Windward Parkway, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Road (SR 140). • The City of Milton can help educate and leverage its unique characteristics for the benefit of the region and our citizens. • The City should coordinate with Forsyth County, Cherokee County, as well as Alpharetta and Roswell to ensure proper cross jurisdictional planning occurs and potential conflicts are resolved. • The North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan (NFCTP) was developed through coordination and cooperation of the cities of North Fulton County. This success should be leveraged for future transportation investments that benefit all North Fulton cities. Objectives Objective 1: We will proactively identify opportunities to share facilities and services with neighboring jurisdictions when they would be mutually beneficial. Objective 2: We will initiate efforts to work with neighboring jurisdictions to develop shared solutions for regional issues (such as growth management, watershed protection, transportation solutions, etc.) Objective 3: We will initiate efforts with neighboring jurisdictions to pursue joint processes for collaborative planning and decision-making. Objective 4: We will consult with Fulton County and other public entities in our area when making decisions that are likely to impact them. Objective 5: We will provide input to Fulton County and other public entities in our area when they are making decisions that are likely to have an impact on our community or our plans for future development. Objective 6: We will engage in cooperative planning between the City of Milton, Fulton County, and Fulton County Public Schools in regard to the appropriate location and use of schools as community facilities, as well as needed transportation improvements to accommodate traffic to, from and around schools and improve opportunities for walking, biking, and other forms of alternative transport for individuals of all abilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 27Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Natural and Cultural Resources The City of Milton contains numerous examples of locally significant historic resources as well as environmentally sensitive areas, including lakes, streams, floodplains, and wetlands. In addition to those natural resources protected by state and local legislation, citizens have identified preservation of tree canopy and wildlife habitat as important priorities. All of these elements contribute to the rural character and rural lifestyle that plays a central role in community identity. Issues • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • Loss of tree canopy and specimen trees detracts from community aesthetics, threatens environmentally sensitive areas, and exacerbates heat-island effects experienced throughout the metropolitan area. • The effects of environmental pollution and contaminated properties compromise public health and welfare and should be mitigated. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. Opportunities • Development of Birmingham Park according to a master plan with sensitivity to the vision of Milton’s citizen expectations would provide active/ passive recreation and greenspace amenities for the city. • Development of Providence Park could create opportunities for active and passive recreation for citizens of all ages, lifestyles and abilities. • Give priority to the protection of environmentally sensitive areas with further compliance with state and federal environmental regulations and avoid detrimental actions to our natural ecosystem and costly fines and/ or penalties for lack of compliance. • The development of pocket parks in areas that are already established would enhance the community’s greenspace and provide recreational opportunities for its citizens. • Continue to mitigate the loss of tree canopy and promote the protection of specimen trees and other urban forest resources. • Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to preserve open space. • Revise the City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance. Objectives Objective 1: We will encourage the preservation of natural resources areas and preserve contiguous green open spaces development of land in appropriate designated areas as development occurs. Strategy: Maintain density neutral development practices through innovative land development techniques, such as Transfer of Development Rights. Strategy: Acquire conservation easements for the protection of environmental sensitive land. Strategy: Promote low impact site development that encourages maintaining the natural topography and existing vegetation on a site when feasible, and in some cases when required. Strategy: Encourage projects that project and/ or integrate the preservation of natural areas, stream corridors, and green space as amenities and required development. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201628 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 2: We will encourage new development to locate in suitable locations close to transportation and infrastructure resources in order to project environmentally sensitive areas, agricultural lands, and valuable historic, archaeological or cultural resources from encroachment. Strategy: Cross check proposed development sites with inventories of existing natural, historic, archaeological and cultural resources to prevent encroachment on these sites. Strategy: Designate areas of value historic, archaeological, or cultural resources through the city’s historic preservation ordinance to mitigate impacts of new development. Strategy: Ensure development/ infill projects are consistent with land use policies and citizen wishes to protect and preserve low-density rural areas of Milton. Strategy: Work with public utilities to protect the rural viewshed and other natural and scenic views. Objective 3: We will consider the potential impacts to air and water quality in making decisions on new developments and transportation improvements, and we will steer new development away from sensitive natural resource areas. Strategy: Encourage new development projects to commit to providing water, storm water, and air pollution control facilities that fully meet and exceed city standards. Strategy: Encourage changes to current codes that address air and water quality improvements and/ or which provide flexible design that results in a reductions of air or water quality impacts. Strategy: Encourage local governments and/ or local land trusts to acquire stream corridors along the Little River corridor and their tributaries to provide floodway protection, natural habitat corridors and passive recreation resources. Objective 4: We will expand the identification, documentation, and protection of historic, cultural and archaeological resources in the city, and when possible encourage access by the public. Strategy: Review and refine existing inventories of historic, cultural and archaeological resources to include previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Collaborate with local and regional libraries and archives, as well as local historians and long-time residents, to document previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Ensure historic and cultural sites that are open to the public are barrier-free, ADA accessible venues. Strategy: Identify those elements of the rural landscape (i.e. specimen trees, tree canopies, woodlands, fences, hedgerows, structures, etc) that contribute to rural character and scenic viewsheds within the community. Objective 5 We will promote the protection and maintenance of trees and contiguous green open space in new development. Strategy: Promote community awareness regarding the economic value and sustainability of green space preservation and maintenance of existing vegetative cover and protection of trees. Strategy: Promote design standards which prefer the retention of existing trees and tree coverage to new plantings. Strategy: Ensure existing tree canopy along scenic streets and other public rights of way are protected. Strategy: Increase setbacks and undisturbed buffers between roadways and developments including both residential and commercial. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 29Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 6: We will protect ground and surface water sources to promote the maintenance of safe and adequate supplies of water. Strategy: Adopt the appropriate recommendations to protect existing water quality consistent with the City’s land use policies, and as recommended by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District, ARC Fulton County Water Resources that protect ground and stream water quality. Strategy: Coordinate with Fulton County, Forsyth County, Cherokee County, and other local governments in implementing the three comprehensive plans adopted by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District to ensure adequate supplies of drinking water, protection of water quality, and minimized impacts of development on the District’s watersheds and downstream water quality. Strategy: Coordinate programs of Fulton County Water Resources to conserve outdoor water use. Strategy: create and implement a septic tank maintenance program for the unsewered areas of Milton which are consistent with the lower density areas of the city. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201630 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Economic Development A creative and innovative economic development agenda will have impacts on many community issues and opportunities. Commercial and professional employment opportunities will balance the City’s tax digest, alleviate commuting times as well as traffic congestion, and provide needed services to local residents. Encouraging commercial and professional development in Milton should also balance impacts on residential, rural and environmentally sensitive areas of the community. Issues • The city needs to pursue innovative economic development initiatives. • The city needs greater employment opportunities to serve local residents of Milton. • Future development plans need to include opportunities for greater commercial densities. Opportunities • The city should continue to promote the unique residential niche of low density development with high value properties that is found in Milton. • The city should promote the creation of economic development centers. • New developments can be mixed-used without necessarily being high-end. • Proactively work to educate the region and adjacent jurisdictions regarding the value that Milton’s unique characteristics bring to the entire region with respect to economic benefits. Objectives Objective 1: We will identify and put in place the requisites of the desired quality of life within our community and carefully consider costs as well as benefits in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Balance housing, transportation, infrastructure, resource protection and economic development considerations in decision making. Strategy: Utilize the unique economic assets of Milton to attract appropriate and sustainable economic activities that can be accommodated without changing the character of the City. Strategy: Encourage diversified economic development centers within mixed-use non-residential areas and balance commercial densities with local demand, being mindful of existing vacant commercial space as well as commercial density approved but not yet built. Strategy: Ensure the city’s economic development initiatives are fiscally sustainable and will enhance community revenues to support the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Implement use of a financial model as one criterion in decision making on economic development projects. Objective 2: We will support programs that retain, expand and create businesses that provide a good fit for our community’s economy in terms of job skills required and links to existing businesses to locate them appropriately within the City. Strategy: Support the existing agricultural and equestrian related economy of the city. Strategy: Support the development of small businesses within the community. Strategy: Support the growth of knowledge-based industries and office/professional uses in designated employment centers. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 31Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 3: We will consider access and/or impacts to housing and transportation when considering economic development projects. Strategy: Support the use of planning studies, value studies, cost/ benefit studies and analyses of sustainability to identify cost effective projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of business and/ or commercial uses into established, stable residential areas. Embrace and protect defined geographic boundaries and defined density levels for specific areas including those with a master plan as well as other areas not yet planned. Strategy: Identify primary employment areas that motivate out-of-city commuting patterns and focus economic development initiatives to recruit those employment sectors to the city. Objective 4: We will consider impacts on infrastructure and natural resources in our decision making on economic development projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of facilities and services to areas close to existing infrastructure before expanding into areas that require larger extensions and/ or greater costs. Strategy: Encourage adaptive reuse of existing facilities and infill development in established areas to accommodate new commercial enterprises where appropriate and consistent with the land use and infrastructure development policies and vision of the City of Milton. Objective 5: We will consider employment needs and skill levels of our existing population in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Work with the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Cherokee and Forsyth Counties, the cities of Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, and other organizations to encourage expansion and retention of professional jobs within employment centers in the City of Milton and surround jurisdictions. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201632 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Financing Fiscal responsibility was reiterated throughout each step of the Comprehensive Plan process. The response to the community’s initial public survey underscored a resistance to new taxes and a preference for creative alternatives to generate revenues needed for city improvements. However, a recent survey undertaken as a part of an upcoming referendum on a Greenspace Bond for the city of Milton suggested that the community was generally favorable to a potential $25 million bond to support greenspace acquisition. Issues • The high cost of providing public services and facilities for new development is a challenge for a new city. • The capacity of existing public facilities may need to be expanded to attract new development. • Financing can be difficult to obtain. • City revenues need to fund desired service levels without an increase in taxes on current residents. Opportunities • The city can explore innovative management and governance policies as a result of the lack of pre-existing bureaucratic commitments. • Opportunities for alternative sources of funding and revenues can enhance programs and projects and should be pursued. • Modifying expenses is another necessary approach in order to balance fiscal requirements. • Utilizing potential bond revenues for greenspace acquisition will help the City meet the needs of its citizens, now and in the future. Objectives Objective 1: We will be fiscally responsible by developing and maintaining a five-year capital spending plan that is updated annually as an integral part of our annual budget process. Strategy: Financial modeling capacity will be used by the city as a tool to proactively guide the City’s financial decisions in the future. Strategy: Alternative funding sources will be identified and aggressively pursued to support the City’s short and longer term capital requirements. Strategy: The City’s five year capital plan will be based on funding those expenditures that are needed to maintain the quality of life desired by our residents and only then funding those opportunities that provide enhancements as funds are available. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 33Draft for Review 8.11.2016 The City of Milton maintains a Comprehensive Transportation Plan separate from its Comprehensive Plan or the North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan. The recommendations of the currently adopted plan are summarized here, and the plan in its entirety is incorporated herein by reference. At such a time as the newly updated Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan is adopted, current recommendations shall supersede. Goals Improve transportation network system level performance (level of service) with particular emphasis on the impacts of commuter/ “cut through” traffic and safety. • Provide specific paths for through commuters • Improve system for local trips • Improve and preserve existing levels of service • Identify high-accident locations and recommend improvements to achieve better safety • Improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists by upgrading facilities for alternative modes of transportation Maintain and Improve mobility and system performance through roadway improvements and alternative transportation improvements with specific consideration of transit investments appropriate to the community vision and multi-use paths serving cyclists, pedestrians, equestrian users, and those with disabilities including wheelchair access. • Identify bridges in need of maintenance or replacement • Provide maintenance recommendations for the existing roadway network • Identify intersections in need of operational and geometric enhancements to improve system performance • Identify multi-modal enhancements to increase alternative transportation options • Integrate the Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan with the Milton Trail Plan Protect and improve the environment, recognizing its contribution to community economic vitality and quality of life. • Promote conservation and minimize harmful impacts on the environment • Emphasize preservation of historic places Coordinate transportation investments with the comprehensive plan and land use policies ensuring creation of a “sense of place” (Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and the Highway 9 area) as well as barrier free connectivity to community assets such as schools, parks and recreation areas. • Coordinate with CPAC to achieve an integrated land use vision and plan • Preserve right-of-way for future facility improvements • Preserve historic places • Achieve a barrier-free transportation network Leverage regional cooperation and regional solutions to transportation issues, including coordination with surrounding jurisdictions, while maintaining the singularly unique character of the City of Milton. • Coordinate with nearby jurisdictions including Alpharetta, Roswell, Mountain Park, Cherokee County, and Forsyth County to create a continuous and well-thought out network • Coordinate with GDOT, MARTA, GRTA and ARC Recommended Corridor Improvements • Direct commuter traffic from Cherokee County to State Route 140/ Arnold Mill Road/ Hickory Flat Highway to GA 400 • Widen State Route 9/ Alpharetta Highway/ Cumming Highway • Widen sections of Holbrook Campground Road, Hopewell Road, and Hamby Road to State Route 9 Transportation and Mobility City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201634 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 • Widen School Drive to a four-lane section between Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road • Widen Morris Road to four lanes between Webb Road and McGinnis Ferry Road • Model Analysis of Corridor Improvements Recommended Intersection Improvements • Potential Locations for Roundabouts Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road Hopewell Road, Cogburn Road, and Francis Road Freemanville Road and Providence Road Bethany Road and Providence Road Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/ Hickory Flat Road Hopewell Road and Redd Road • Potential New Signal Locations Birmingham Road and Hopewell Road Strickland Road and Bethany Road (partially in Forsyth County) Bethany Bend and Morris Road/ McGinnis Ferry Road (partially in Forsyth County) Webb Road and Morris Road Morris Road and Deerfield Parkway • Other Potential Intersection Improvements Hopewell Road and Bethany Road Hopewell Road and Bethany Way Bethany Oaks Pointe and Hopewell Road Cogburn Road and Bethany Bend Batesville Road and Taylor Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Green Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Keyingham Way Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Bethany Bend Hopewell Road and Hamby Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Ranchette Road Crabapple Road/ Mayfield Road and Birmingham Highway/ Broadwell Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Webb Road • Intersections with Significant Improvements in Progress Birmingham Highway/ SR 372 and New Providence Road Arnold Mill/ SR 140 and New Providence Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR and Deerfield Parkway Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Cox Road • Bridge Improvements Landrum Road over Cooper Sandy Creek tributary Cogburn Road over Cooper Sandy Creek New Providence Road over Cooper Sandy Creek The Comprehensive Transportation Plan also includes recommendations for equestrian improvements, cyclist improvements, pedestrian improvements, transit improvements and improvements for persons with disabilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 35Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Potential Intersection Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 Potential Road Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201636 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Future Community Map & Narrative The Future Community Map along with the Future Land Use Map represents the City’s future development policy and will be used to guide City officials in land use decisions. The Future Community Map is a general illustration of development policy showing the City’s eight Character Areas as the base, and further identifies areas that require special attention for either rural preservation or economic development. Such areas are Gateways, Rural Viewsheds, Master Planned Areas, and Priority Master Planning Areas. The proposed city trail network is overlaid on the Future Community Map. These areas deserving special classifications will be discussed in more detail below. The Future Land Use Map is a more specific illustration of development policy showing allowable land uses for each parcel and this will be discussed in more detail in the Future Land Use and Supporting Narrative section. Future Community Map, Milton, Georgia k k k k k k k k k k k kk k k [ Legend k Gateway Locations Roads Sidewalk Trails Planned Trails Existing Trail Plan Rural Viewshed Milton Master Planned Areas Priority Master Planning Areas Milton Character Areas Arnold Mill Bethany Birmingham Central Milton Crabapple Deerfield Milton Lakes Sweetapple City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 37Draft for Review 8.11.2016 The areas identified as requiring special attention for rural preservation and/or economic development are: Gateways: Gateways are important identifiers that distinguish the community from all others. Having a distinguished community lends itself to niche marketing for economic development purposes. The community expressed a desire for the city’s branding efforts to be carried out at key entry points into the city by posting “Welcome to Milton” signage accompanied by specific landscaping The gateways into the city of Milton are identified on the Future Community Map at principle roads leading into the community, including • Arnold Mill Road/SR 140 (North and South points with the city limits? • Batesville Road • Hickory Flat Road at the Cherokee County line • Birmingham Highway (SR 372) at the Cherokee County line • Crabapple Road (SR 372) at Green Road • Cogburn Road (North and South points within the city limits) • Hamby Road • Francis Road at the Forsyth County line • Hwy 9 (North and South points within the city limits) • McGinnis Ferry Road • Deerfield Pkwy at Windward Parkway • Hopewell Road • Broadwell Road • Bethany Road at Mayfield Road Rural Viewsheds The rural viewshed refers to the characteristic pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Rural viewsheds contribute to the rural character and sense of place and the city of Milton. The bucolic scenic qualities of many of Milton’s roads are considered to be character defining features within several of the larger character areas, and concerns have been expressed about maintaining and preserving these viewsheds and cherished characteristic of Milton. The Future Community Map identified the road that should be considered for protection as rural viewsheds. Ideas about a context sensitive design standards overlay, as well as placing potential value as sending areas for a Transfer of Development Rights program, have been discussed as tools that can be used along these identified rural viewsheds to protect their rural character. These are priority areas for resource surveys and development of design guidelines and buffers as part of a larger program to mitigate development pressures along the rural roadways. Master Planned Areas There are three areas identified on the Future Community Map that are referred to as Master Planned Areas. They are Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and Deerfield/ Highway 9. The development of these areas proceeded after a Master Plan was done - Crabapple Crossroads Plan in 2003; Birmingham Crossroads Plan in 2004; and Highway 9 in 2012. In addition to a Master Plan, these areas may be governed by overlay zoning districts as well as a city-wide zoning overlay district. The Master Plans provide aesthetic and design controls that cover the build out of the existing areas within their plan boundaries. Non-residential development should be concentrated within these areas according to the specifications of their Master Plans and zoning controls. The Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is defined as the area at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/Hickory Flat Road. The Birmingham Crossroads has not built out to the limits of the Master Plan and the surrounding area has not been a source of development pressure, or brought unmanageable traffic volume to the area. The existing Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is still viable for its continued growth as defined in the master plan. The Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan boundary is significantly larger and located at the intersection of Crabapple Road, Birmingham Highway, Mayfield Road, Mid-Broadwell Road and Broadwell Road. Since the city’s first comprehensive plan, the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan has been adopted as an LCI study with an extensive City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201638 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 analysis of existing land use, zoning urban design, historic resources, environmental and open space resources, and public facilities. The plan also provides a number of recommendations for transportation, open space and ongoing or future projects in the study area. Crabapple will be the location of the city’s future city hall, currently under development, and is a receiving area for Transfer of Development Rights. The Crabapple Form Based Code specifies the regulating plans, public building standards, lot and building plans, and other development standards that projects within the receiving zone must adhere to in order to create a cohesive and attractive community that respects pedestrians and the spatial form of public places. The Deerfield/ Hwy 9 area has developed a concentration of commercial and service uses for the City of Milton. Though the area is subject to a zoning overlay district that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements, the community has expressed the desire to develop a full Master Plan and Market Study for the area similar to those for Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The Master Plan should ensure that the area remains economically viable, avoids unattractive strip development and recruits businesses and services that will benefit the city of Milton while being sensitive to the many residents that live in that area. The Highway 9/ GA 400 Area Master Plan was prepared in 2012. The study provides a clear, comprehensive picture of the area of study to guide future development. It includes recommendations for zoning, public improvement projects, and funding. The report includes an inventory and assessment of existing conditions, a concept plan that provides more detail on proposed initiatives, and an action plan to facilitate plan implementation. Priority Master Planning Area Arnold Mill Road (SR 140) (also designated as a rural viewshed) is an area of limited development with mostly rural residential and agricultural uses. However, community feedback identified it as an area that could potentially accommodate the development of limited non-residential uses at some point in the future (possibly beyond the 20 year scope of this plan). The zoning and future land use classifications for this area are predominantly residential, though the area is subject to a zoning overlay that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements for any new non-residential development. The community has expressed a desire to develop a Master Plan for the area similar to those for the Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The City of Milton and the Atlanta Regional Commission undertook an Arnold Mill Road Visioning Study in May 2014. This study consists of an analysis of and recommendations for the portion of Arnold Mill Road within the City of Milton. The plan provides background and contextual information about the area through analysis of existing plans, a traffic analysis, and an evaluation of recreational land through the corridor. Recommendations for the area are categorized into two groups - 1) Land Use & Design and 2)Transportation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 39Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Character Area Map Narrative The following narratives were developed for each of these eight Character Areas, including development patterns, appropriate zoning districts and land use classifications. A summary of appropriate implementation measures for each Character Area also follows each of the narratives. Character Area Map, Milton, Georgia City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201640 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Birmingham Birmingham displays the rich, rural nature of the City of Milton. Located in the northwest portion of the City of Milton, this Character Area is dominated by horse farms, pastures and woodlands. Other uses include large estates, residential lots and large land holdings. There are undeveloped natural areas and environmentally sensitive steep slopes in areas such as Pritchard Mountain. In addition, at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road is the Birmingham Crossroads, which is a rural, mixed use village. This limited rural-style village that includes commercial activities and limited residential use was comprehensively planned for 27.1 acre parcel that covers the four corners at this intersection. Birmingham Crossroads provides a sense of place as well as services to residents in the Birmingham Character Area. There are several active farms near Mountain Road with cattle pastures and chicken houses located along the Cherokee County border. Many of the roads, including Hickory Flat/ Birmingham Road, Mountain Road, and Freemanville Road provide scenic and linear greenspace corridors. Also, the largest park in the City of Milton is located in this area – 200 acre Birmingham Park. Currently, this park is undeveloped and has limited access. The terrain is rolling and includes both floodplain and steep slopes along the Little River. This parkland includes beautiful viewsheds, woodlands, specimen trees and some endangered flora and fauna. This park needs to have a unique approach to take in its design and development to protect the special characteristics of this land. There are several institutional uses including schools and places of worship in the Birmingham Character Area. The Birmingham Character Area also included gravel roads, waterways, woodlands, specimen trees, historic areas and structures. Development Patterns in this Area Birmingham Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of mixed use village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space. Buildings are and should be architecturally integrated with the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center. But, this activity center should nonetheless retain a pedestrian friendly environment. Birmingham Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Any additional non-residential development within the Birmingham Character Area should be limited to the boundaries of Birmingham Crossroads as defined in the master plan for that area. A continued focus on strong development and design standards, including context sensitive transportation considerations, remain essential as do the protection of specimen trees, tree coverage, and the overall unique setting in which this rural village co-exists. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 41Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Birmingham includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Active agricultural and equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (1 unit/ acre or less)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Living Working/ Mixed Use AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Birmingham Crossroads Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201642 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Arnold Mill This Character Area serves as one of the gateways into the City. State Route 140 is now a two-lane route that provides access from Cherokee County across the Little River into Milton, Alpharetta and Roswell. It is anticipated that this will become a four- lane route during the span of this plan. The Milton Transportation Plan, however, makes it clear that any future widening of this roadway should be done with context-sensitive design. The Character Area includes several large properties, but the nature of the area changes as it approaches the Crabapple Silos area. The southern portion of the area includes a difficult angles intersection with New Providence Road, and is adjacent to the relatively densely developed residential subdivisions located along Green Road. Also, Chadwick Landfill is located in this character area. There is only so much capacity left in the landfill and there needs to be proactive plans for this land once that capacity is met so that the area can become a community asset. Development Patterns in this Area • The area along SR 140/Arnold Mill Road is typical of the rural, low density character of Milton. Future development within this character area should respect existing rural character and rural-residential development predominant in its adjacent character areas, Sweet Apple and Central Milton. • SR 140/Arnold Mill Road should include some mixed use development along its travel from Cherokee County to the Silos, but should avoid strip commercial development. Clustering higher density, predominantly non-residential development intermittently along the corridor preserves open space and protects environmentally sensitive features. If more than one commercial area is developed along this corridor, they should be separated by areas of open space and/or attractive rural-residential development. • Development should be tied to a Master Plan with specific boundaries, design specifications, and allowable uses, similar to Crabapple Crossroads or Birmingham Crossroads including historic preservation, tree save of woodlands and specimen trees, viewsheds and buffers transitioning from higher density areas back to residential and agricultural settings. • Planning for development along Arnold Mill/SR-140 must involve the City of Roswell given that parts of Arnold Mill are adjacent to the City of Roswell. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 43Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR1) R1, R2 Residential Medium (MDR2 R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR3) R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Retail and Service C1 Rural Milton Overlay District Arnold Mill Overlay (Master Plan) City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201644 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Central Milton This is the largest character area in Milton, dominated by residential subdivisions with large lots in excess of 1 acre, some of the most expansive in the city. These high value residential developments with very large houses are anchored by golf courses and other private amenities such as swim and tennis. Many were developed in the 1990s and with similar lot sizes, have created a uniform overall density in the area. Even with the existing development, this area has retained much of the rural characteristics of the City of Milton. Along with the many subdivisions within this area, it is also characterized by several large properties. In addition, many of the roads provide scenic and linear green space corridors such as Birmingham Highway, Freemanville Road, Thompson Road and Hopewell Road. Most of these scenic corridors include rural home sites, horse farms, wetland crossings and access to country clubs, equestrian facilities and more open space. The visual aesthetics of this Character Area should be maintained even as residential development continues. Development Patterns in this Area Central Milton includes areas that are typical of the city’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. Newer developments with private recreational amenities have integrated with older, established open road neighborhoods. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. New development should incorporate elements that enhance connectivity to the proposed Milton trail system and other alternative modes of transportation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 45Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Rural Milton Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201646 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Deerfield One of the Deerfield Character Area’s primary assets is its location adjacent to Georgia 400, a limited access expressway, its proximity to the Windward Parkway interchange in Alpharetta and to Forsyth County. This character area represents a quality of life that embraces the concept of “live, work, play.” It is characterized by a mixture of higher density residential, commercial and office uses. The retail and commercial uses along Highway 9, the office uses along Deerfield Parkway and the numerous apartment units located south of Bethany make this Character Area one of the main activity centers for the City of Milton. There are also several single family subdivision and townhouse developments located within this area. The properties along both sides of Deerfield Road and Morris Road provide a campus- style employment center and office park. A significant amount of space in this area has been developed and is available for lease. This area provides a strong and realistic opportunity for mixed uses at a regional scale in association with nearby development in Alpharetta and with Forsyth County in conjunction with the possible creation of McGinnis Ferry Road interchange on GA 400. The City of Milton recognizes the development pressure that this character area faces. In anticipation of the major growth projected for this area, the city is taking a proactive approach to prevent or mitigate the ill effects of unmanaged growth by designating the area along Highway 9 and Bethany Bend as a Master Planned Area. This designation indicates that a detailed master plan of the area has been completed, and this plan will guide the future growth and development in the area. Development Patterns in this Area: • Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Bend is a high priority for the community. Development should occur in this area that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • The existing patterns of mixed-use development within this Character Area should be encouraged and expanded. There are a limited number of undeveloped parcels, but there nonetheless are opportunities for redevelopment along the Highway 9 corridor and within the Deerfield Character Area. • New non-residential development should adhere to the Highway 9 Overlay District regulations and the Highway 9 Design Guidelines, where innovative design elements such as locating parking to the rear, limiting signage and incorporating street trees and pedestrian amenities are encouraged. To mitigate overdevelopment of parking areas, new parking should only be developed in areas where shared parking or existing parking is not an option. If necessary, new parking should utilize permeable paving alternatives and landscaping to mitigate the deleterious effects of stormwater run-off, heat islands and other environmental considerations. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 47Draft for Review 8.11.2016 • To further the demand for employment, opportunities in proximity to residential development in the city of Milton, redevelopment of the Deerfield Character Area should encourage professional uses and office space in addition to expanding existing commercial and service sectors. • The majority of higher density residential development is currently within or adjacent to the Deerfield Character Area, and new development in this Character Area should continue to reflect traditional neighborhood design principles, such as smaller lots, mix of housing types, access to pocket parks and pedestrian access to commercial services and community amenities. Preservation of environmentally sensitive areas by setting them aside as public parks, trails, or greenbelts should be encouraged. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201648 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 49Draft for Review 8.11.2016 This area is made up of a variety of subdivisions developed in the 1990s and early 2000s. These neighborhoods are stable with a mixture of lot sizes and open space. Although this area is located in close proximity to commercial activity centers in both the City of Milton and Forsyth County, Bethany is unique in that it also retains some private amenities provided within these residential subdivisions such as the golf course adjacent to the Crooked Creek subdivision. Development Patterns in this Area • The predominant land use of the Bethany Character Area should remain residential. Given its proximity to the Deerfield Character Area and small pockets of non- residential zoning, there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. The expansion of non-residential development should be limited to the boundaries established in the form-based code that governs development of this area. Preservation of the existing residential neighborhoods is the priority. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be avoided, and new residential development should match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Road Bend is a high priority for the community. Development should occur in this area that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • Development along Highway 9 in the Bethany area should respect the unique character of Bethany and should be distinct from, but compatible with, development along Highway 9 in the Deerfield Character Area. Development in close proximity to Cambridge High School should be done in a way that ensures appropriate transition between residentially zoned land and higher density uses. Bethany City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201650 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Private Recreation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 51Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Non-residential development in Bethany is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201652 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Crabapple The Character Area has seen intense mixed use development at the crossroad of Crabapple Road and Birmingham Highway with low density residential development radiating outside of the core. In addition, within Crabapple there are several institutional uses- including schools and places of worship. Crabapple represents a unique rural based village center and lends itself to becoming the “City Center” for Milton. Crabapple has the highest concentration of historic resources of any character area in Milton. Development Patterns in this Area Crabapple Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space and rural residential development. Buildings will be architecturally integrated within the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center, but will nonetheless promote pedestrian friendliness. Uses may include a mix of residential, commercial and community facilities. Crabapple Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Crabapple includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/ agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 53Draft for Review 8.11.2016 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201654 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 55Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Milton Lakes This area represents a variety of neighborhoods in the southernmost portion of the City, bordering the City of Alpharetta. There are environmentally sensitive areas such as several water bodies and floodplain. The major corridors are Hopewell Road and Cogburn Road. These corridors include mostly suburban neighborhoods developed in the late 1990s with a mixture of lot sizes. Included in this area is Providence Park. There are several institutional uses such as places of worship, schools, and the site of the new high school at the intersection of Bethany Bend and Cogburn Road. Development Patterns in the Area • This area reflects the rural-residential development pattern typical of much of the city, but its access to limited sewer connections as well as its proximity to commercial zoning and institutional uses within the area suggest it may be appropriate for a live-work pattern of development. The intensity to which the live- work concept has been developed within the Deerfield Character Area would not be suitable for Milton Lakes, and unlike Crabapple or Birmingham, there is no identifiable “crossroads community” to anchor a mixed use development. The possibility of sprawling patterns of development exists in this area, and mitigation against this should be a priority. • The predominant land use of the Milton Lakes Character Area should remain residential, even though there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be minimized, and new residential development should primarily match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • Development should be well designed and blend into existing neighborhoods and buffers should separate more intense areas of development from nearby neighborhoods or other lower intensity areas. New development on the edge of urbanized areas should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding residential uses. • The Milton Lakes character area contains a diversity of residential lot sizes, and future residential development should reflect an average of the current diversity of densities and housing patterns. Enhancements such as a scenic corridor overlays and bicycle and pedestrian trail options may augment existing development and mitigate the effects of sprawling development. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201656 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts in this Area Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG2, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District Rural Milton Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 57Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Non-residential development in Milton Lakes is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201658 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Sweet Apple Sweet Apple is made up of two areas located in the southwest portion of the City of Milton, bounded by the City of Roswell on three sides (north, south, and to the west). Horse farms, pastures and woodlands dominate this Character Area. Two of the equestrian estates in the City are located in this area as well as Georgia Golf Center – a golf practice facility driving range, large rural sites and pleasant pastoral views. Development Patterns in this Area The Sweet Apple character area is typical of Milton’s agricultural and rural-residential pattern of development. It is dominated by its rural character and equestrian uses, but is unique in that it is virtually surrounded by land within the city of Roswell, outside of Milton’s jurisdiction. The land use patterns in this area may be impacted by land use decisions within the City of Roswell, as well as the potential development of SR 140, Arnold Mill Road, but care should be taken to protect the existing uses and rural character on the urban/rural fringe. Economically viable agriculture uses, such as forestry and equestrian facilities, can be sustained in this area with the assistance of preferential taxation programs. Estate residential uses with limited hobby agricultural will also preserve the pastoral character. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 59Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR) AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201660 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Future Land Use Map & Narrative The Future Land Use Map is a parcel-based map that identifies land use patterns using standard categories, such as Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Public/ Institutional, etc. The land use designation for a particular parcel of land represents the City’s official policy for the recommended future development of that parcel over the next 20 years. The Future Land Use Map shows the land use designations of all the parcels of land within the City of Milton, and this map will continue to guide future development and be an important tool in making zoning decisions. A detailed description of each future land use classification is below. There are thirteen land use designations recognized and portrayed on the City’s future land use map. They are: • Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) • Low Density Residential (LDR) • Medium Density Residential 1-3 (MDR 1-3) • High Density Residential1-2 (HDR 1-2) • Retail and Services (RS) • Office (O) • Community Facilities (CF) • Private Recreation (PR) • Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) • Mixed Use/ Living Working (MLW) Land Use relates to zoning in that the zoning should be compatible with the land use designation (see compatibility chart). Each land use designation is more generalized than any individual zoning district and may be considered to be compatible with several zoning districts. Since land use is more general and less specific, there are more zoning classifications than land use designations. Zoning is a very specific means of regulating property as compared to land use designation. The land use map and policies guide the land use pattern of the city in general, while the zoning districts impose specific controls and permissions on property. Two areas of the City - Crabapple and Deerfield - are controlled through form based codes. Form based codes use transect zones to govern land use and zoning as a combined mechanism to guide development of an area. The Transect Zone Descriptions for Crabapple and Deerfield are also included in this section for reference. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 61Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Residential Residential uses include all properties where the principal structures are designed for human habitation. Several residential categories, listed below, are shown on the Land Use Map. The categories show the densities per acre, based on the smallest lot size. Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) – This category consists of scattered single-family homes, each one at least one acre, but are typically on several acres. This land use promotes hobby farms, equestrian facilities, and large lot residential estates includes minimum 3 acre lots on gravel roads. Low Density Residential (LDR) – This residential category consists of one single-family home on at least one acre (minimum 1.0 acre lots). Medium Density Residential (MDR) – There are three MDR categories. • MDR-(1): Up to 1.5 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.75 acre lots) • MDR-(2): Up to 2 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.5 acre lots) • MDR-(3): Up to 3 units per acre (1/3 acre lots or minimum 0.333 acre lots) High Density Residential (HDR) – There are two HDR categories. • HDR-(1): 3 to 5 units per acre (0.32 acre lots to 0.2 acre lots) • HDR-(2): 5 or more units per acre (0.19 or smaller acre lots) Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Low Density Residential (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-2)RI, R2, R2A, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-3)R1,R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201662 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Commercial & Mixed Use Retail, services and offices are appropriate uses in this category. Retail and Service (RS) - Retail, service and office uses are appropriate uses in this category. These uses may be located in a single building or as part of a shopping center. Office (O) – Office uses are appropriate for this category – The office uses may be in single office buildings as well as office parks. Mixed Use/ Live Work (MLW) – The purpose of the Mixed Use/ Live Work land use district is to allow an appropriate and balanced mix of uses to create a living, working environment at a scale and character that is compatible with its surrounding community. Mixed Use/ Live Work areas will be activity centers where the community can live, work, shop, meet and play. These areas should be compact, pedestrian oriented, with a mix of office, commercial and residential uses and incorporate open space. This will result in the protection of environmental resources, accessible open space, a balance of all modes of transportation, housing choices and civic interaction. Detailed development standards are outlined below. Density will be defined by the specific zoning conditions or overlay district as applicable. Land Use • Live Work land uses should have a compatible mix of office, commercial, services, institutional, civic and residential uses. These should be integrated both vertically and horizontally. The uses within the Live Work areas should be in proximity to each other in order to encourage walking and to increase mobility to those who do not drive, especially the elderly and the young. Within the Live Work land use there should be transition of land uses, height and density. The Live Work land use should also serve the adjacent community. • Live Work areas should have an integrated transportation system. The transportation system should provide connectivity within the node and to and from the surround community. The transportation system should incorporate automobile, transit when available, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The streets should form an interconnected transportation network. This street network will create options, improve access and should be designed to promote walking, biking, and transit usage where present. The pedestrian and bicycle facilities should facilitate safe, attractive and convenient pedestrian and bicycle circulation and minimize conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. Open Space • A range of parks and open space, from village greens to active recreation and passive open space, should be distributed throughout the Live Work district. Open space should be centrally located and accessible for the enjoyment of residents and workers. Open space and parks could be used to define and connect neighborhoods and uses. Environmentally sensitive areas should be protected and their fragmentation should be avoided. At least 20% of development should be set aside as open space. Housing • Live Work areas should have a diversity of housing types to meet the needs of the workforce and city residents. General • 20% of the project shall be comprised of open space of which the community gathering space is a part. • Projects that are 15 acres or less shall have two uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Projects that are 15 acres or more shall have three uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Live Work projects shall provide a balance of uses with a minimum of 20% of each of the uses on the site and/ or in the area. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Retail and Service MIX, C1, C2 Office OI, MIX, M1-A Mixed Use/ Live Work AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 63Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Public & Recreational Community Facilities (CF) – This land use includes public uses such as community centers, government facilities such as senior centers, health centers, fire and police stations, libraries, government centers, and schools, semi-public uses such as churches and cemeteries and institutional uses such as hospitals. Private Recreation (PR) – Privately owned recreational facilities such as golf courses and common open spaces are included in this land use. Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) – This includes parks, open space and recreational facilities owned by public entities. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201664 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Compatibility Chart Land Use Designation Zoning Classifications AG1R1R2R2AR3R3AR4R4AR5R5ATRACUPNUPOIMIXC1C2M1M2M1ARetail & Service Office Mixed Use/ Live Work Community Facilities Private Recreation Parks, Recreation, Conservation Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential 1 Medium Density Residential 2 Medium Density Residential 3 High Density Residential 1 High Density Residential 2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 65Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201666 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 67Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Future Land Use Map City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201668 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Key to Terminology: Items that are Completed have been finished within the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Underway have been initiated or have had partial progress made as of the end of the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. They have been carried over into the new 5-year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Postponed are still priorities for the community, and have been carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Cancelled will not be carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Generally, these are items that are broad policy statements or routine city operations, and they have been identified appropriately as such. Report of Accomplishments Project #Project Description Status Notes Economic Development ED1 Economic Development Plan to attract businesses to Milton; including agricultural and equestrian economic development Underway The policy to maintain Milton’s agricultural and equestrian heritage has been upheld in cases before council, which shows its commitment to attracting agri/equestrian businesses. ED2 Create an information database of economic development resources include a list of vacant buildings and available commercial properties that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed A list of vacant/undeveloped parcels available for development is maintained in the GIS system. The city also has access to a database called CoStar that reports vacant retail and commercial property as requested ED3 Evaluate tax implications for prospective businesses Cancelled Revised in the updated STWP ED4 Evaluate business license requirements and fees for Milton as compared with adjacent jurisdictions to insure that rates are competitive and will encourage new businesses to locate inside the city Postponed Milton looked at its business licence fee structure in 2011 and determined to keep the existing structure at that time. This function was moved to the finance department and is planned to be reviewed with a new fee structure implemented in time for the 2017 business license renewal period ED5 Encourage the Expansion of the North Fulton CID to include Deerfield and along Hwy 9 Underway Work is being done to encourage businessed to join the North Fulton CID to facilitate the expansion Natural and Cultural Resources City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 69Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes NRC1 Create an historic zoning code Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC2 Develop and implement Design Standards for historic properties Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC3 Pursue grant funding from GA Forestry Commission to conduct a Tree Canopy Study to establish a baseline for tree preservation Completed GA Forestry grant Milton $20,000 in 2011 to conduct a Forestry master plan and tree inventory and canopy study, completed in 2012 NRC4 Implement an inventory of current street trees within key areas of Milton, such as Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Highway, and Highway 9 Corridor that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed This was done as part of the Forest Management Plan NRC5 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of wetlands Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC6 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of areas with steep slopes Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC7 Study potential greenway and greensapce protection through easements, land trusts, etc.Completed Conservation Plan 2014 NRC8 Create ordinance to support the creation of green infrastructure Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC9 Adopt DNR Part 5 Criteria 4: Groundwater Recharge Areas and Wetlands Protection Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) Facilities and Services Parks and Recreation FS1 Parks and Recreation 15-year Comprehensive Plan Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS2 Complete a Greenprint Plan to identify key elements of Milton’s green infrastructure and identify mechanisms and recommendations for its acquisition, preservation and community use Completed Conservation Plan 2014 FS3 Revise the Birmingham Park Master Plan Completed This was looked at and reported on in the Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS4 Trail Plan Update Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS5 Trail Plan Implementation Underway This wll be ongoing for the next 20 years FS6 Crabapple Crossing Park Partnership Completed Friendship Park was opened in 2012 FS7 Crabapple Community Center/ Park Completed This is now the Broadwell Pavilion opened in 2015 FS8 Bell Memorial Park Improvements Completed completed in 2015 FS9 Bethwell Community Center & Park Completed completed in 2011 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201670 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS10 Hopewell Middle School/ Cogburn Woods and Birmingham Fall Elementary School and Northwestern Middle School Improvements Completed The projects at Hopewell MS, Cogburn Woods and Birmingham ES were done in 2012. The Northwestern MS improvments were done in 2015 FS11 Park Sign Program Underway Portions of this program have been completed. FS12 Land Acquisition/ Site Improvements Completed Land was acquired for the expansion of Bell Memorial Park in 2012 and Providence Park was acquired in 2015 FS13 Identify and Create Pocket parks in the Bethany, Deerfield, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Character Areas consistent with the future Master Plans of the Character Areas Completed Friendship Park and the Broadwell Pavilion were created in Crabapple; and Freedom Park was created in the Deerfield and Bethany areas. The Arnold Mill Plan identifies the Chadwick Landfill as a future park site FS14 Create a Master Plan for Providence Park and implement construction per the Master Plan recommendations Underway The Park land became available for acquisition in 2015. The park is scheduled to open to the public October 2016. After at leaset six months of public use, the city will engage teh community in thinking about a master plan for the park in 2017 FS15 Pursue LCI grant funding for Hwy 9 Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI FS16 Pursue LCI grant funding for Crabapple Town Center Completed FS17 Pursue LCI grant funding for Windward Parkway/ Deerfield with Alpharetta and North Fulton CID Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI. It included Windward Parkway with Alpharetta FS18 Pursue certification through the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Green Communities program working with the Milton Grows Green Communities (MGG) Completed Achieved Bronze level certification FS19 Gateway Grant Program Completed Police FS20 Improve current training curriculum options for city police officers Completed FS21 Improve reporting software for police department Completed FS22 Plan the location for police stations to maintain adequate service coverage through the city. Also applies to Fire Department Underway The location analysis has been done for a public Safety complex. The property site has been idenified and purchased. Architectral and space planning is underway, and the buildings are expected to be completed in 2019 Fire FS23 Improve current training curriculum options for city fire personnel Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS24 Expand EMS service to Advanced Life Support (ALS)Completed City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 71Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS25 Continue to expand the large animal rescue program Completed FS25 Continue renovations to Station 41 Completed FS27 Plan the location for fire stations to maintain adequate service coverage throughout the city. Also applies to police department Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program Public Works FS28 Continue to make improvements to the city Maintenance Facility Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS29 Develop and implement a stormwater management plan for Bell Memorial Park Completed Administration FS30 City Hall Underway A new City Hall is being constructed in Crabapple. Completion date is estimated to be 2017. FS31 Sponsor recycling education programs and increase opportunities for curbside recycling options Underway Housing H1 Undertake a city wide housing survey to determine the existing diversity of housing types, sizes, and values throughout Milton Completed This information was gathered census data and ongoing building permits H2 Ordinances for New Subdivisions Completed Amendments to the subdivision ordinance was proposed in 2015, but failed due to lack of community support H3 Develop Creative Design Guidelines for higher density housing Completed The Form Based Codes were implemented in areas that would allow higher density housing. A City Achitect was hired to review and suggest better design for these housing options Land Use and Development Controls LUDC1 Review and evaluate city wide buffer requirements and establish alternative requirements as needed to mitigate incompatibilities of adjacent land uses and to protect viewsheds Completed The buffer requirements were evaluated and no additional or increased buffers were implemented LUDC2 Agricultural/ Equestrian incentive land uses and zoning. Review and evaluate the standards of the Northwest Fulton Zoning Overlay and the AG-1 Zoning District to ensure protection of residential uses, traditional agriculture, and equestrian uses. Assemble a committee of citizens and stakeholders to discuss alternatives and make recommendations for improvements Completed The study led to the new Rural Milton Overlay that replaced the Northwest Fulton Overlay. Other incentives include the TDR program. Continued research is programed for 2017 thru 2018 LUDC3 Adopt Development Regulations - Unified Development Code Postponed This project was re-evaluated and re- assigned to 2018 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201672 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes LUDC4 Create a Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor, including visual design standards Completed This area has Form Based Code zoning with architectural review LUDC5 Create a Master Plan for the SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road Corridor, including visual design standards collaborating with the City of Roswell Completed This was done in 2014 LUDC6 Prepare a Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) ordinance or appropriate Form Based Code Completed LUDC7 Develop Rural Viewshed Districts Completed The comprehensive plan’s future community map shows the Rural Viewshed designated areas LUDC8 Establish a Green Building Ordinance Completed Adopted in 2012 LUDC9 Establish a Transfer of Development Rights and Purchase of Development Rights program Completed The TDR ordinance was adopted in 2012 LUDC10 Establish an Impact Fee Ordinance Completed The Impact Fee ordinance was adopted in 2015 LUDC11 Develop a conservation development design ordinance that is compatible with vision and policies for the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Milton. Completed A consultant was hired to develop the ordinance. The City Council unanimously denied the measure by a vote of 7-0. There was significant public opposition to the ordinance that was presented at the time. LUDC12 Establish a system to Monitor septic systems Cancelled The management of the septic system in the community is a County function. We have decided to pursue educational workshops and communications to make the community aware of maintenance schedules LUDC13 [omitted in the original table] LUDC14 Conduct a parking audit of existing surface parking in the city to determine if the amount is disproportionate to need and review current parking regulations to determine if too much surface parking is required for new development. Completed This was evaluated in the master planned areas where reduced parking requirements were implemented. A parking deck study was done for Crabapple LUDC15 Develop digital and web-based information systems to better inform citizens of land use and development matters and other elements of the planning process. Underway Improved communication has been implemented by their emails and social media specifically about zoning and land use. Additional improvements such as allowing citizen to have access to a map- based case logs is ongoing LUDC16 Crabapple Master Plan Update including transportation Completed This was done with the LCI in 2013 Transportation T1 Context Sensitive design for Streets improvements Completed This is being done as part of the intersection capital Improvement projects City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 73Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes T2 Create a Complete Streets Program Completed The Milton Trail Plan and Comprehensive Transportation plan incorporates and identifies modes of transportation to accommodate vehicular, bike and pedestrian traffic T3 Develop criteria for traffic impact studies for development proposals Completed This is in Chapter 48 of the Milton code of ordinances T4 Install new compliant road signs, as required by safety studies and engineering review Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program T5 Rebuild Cogburn Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2012 T6 Replacement of Landrum Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2013 T7 Pavement Management Plan Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FN-199 Install fiber optic cable and upgrade traffic signal system along SR 9 Completed This was a multi-jurisdiction project. The installation of the taffic signal at Deerfield and Hwy 9 contributed to this project FN-206 SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road at New Providence/ New Providence Road intersection realignment and improvement, as well as streetscape improvements Completed completed in 2013 FN-237 Mayfield Road and Mid-Broadwell Road intersection realignment with drainage and streetscape improvements Underway IC1 Proactively seek opportunities for Milton’s Council, staff & residents to be involved in development discussions/ coordinate with other jurisdictions, esp. Forsyth, Cherokee, Alpharetta and Roswell Cancelled Removed because language was vague and suggested an item covered as a routine part of government services. IC2 Increase Milton’s presence/ influence with the North Fulton Chamber Completed Milton created a part time economic development position and hired an economic development manager to increase Milton’s presence / influence with the North Fulton Chamber IC3 Work with Alpharetta and Roswell to develop an amicable system for non-resident park usage Completed It was determined that the non-resident park usage agreement was pertenant to Alpharetta and not Roswell. An intergovernmental agreement between Milton and Alpharetta was signed in 2012 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201674 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Short Term Work Program Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Economic Development Explore a Milton CID in the Crabapple Downtown area to carry out infrastructure projects in that boundary zone. x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Launch door-to-door outreach program to formalize the feedback loop within the business community. x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Explore an innovation center in a suitable location to incubate future business opportunity and growth. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Conduct business association outreach for regular interaction with the Milton Business Alliance, Crabapple Business Association, GNFCC and Metro Chamber. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Build and maintain an available land database listing of properties in CoStar and Select Georgia databased to convert properties from vacant to filled. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Community Facilities Complete the construction of the new City Hall in Crabapple. x City of Milton General Fund Implement the construction of the Crabapple Streetscape.x City of Milton Public Works General Fund, $250,000 Enhance multi-use connection to Big Creek Greenway.x x x City of Milton Public Works General Fund Explore the feasibility of a walkable connection from Birmingham Park to an Arnold Mill Park at the closing landfill with focus being along Little River. x x x x x City of Milton Public Works Staff Time Develop phase 2 of Providence Park to repair the rock quarry, establish access to water, public restrooms and a safe shelter. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation $400,000 Evaluate renewal and continuation of the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Alpharetta for parks without borders. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Partner with a provider to establish programming at Providence Park.x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation TBD Based on Project Scope City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 75Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Research new program offerings which might include activities not currently offered by Milton. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Revise and Update the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including the Trails Master Plan x City of Milton Parks and Recreation General Fund $75,000 Implement greenspace acquisition in accordance with the greenspace bond, if approved x x x x x City of Milton Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and Community Development $25 million Community Development Produce process maps for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency as measured by average time per permit. x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Produce process maps/videos for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency (NOT measured by average time per permit). x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant $50,000 Establish a Unified Development Code to encourage better development and design while clarifying process. x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant General Fund $180,000 Formalize a training program so each city staff member can act as a concierge for our customers (in coordination with process mapping). x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Create Program to allow online tracking of permits x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore 5 acre zoning category for TDR parcels x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore incentives for bigger lots/ estate homes x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Identify appropriate staffing needs and make sound recommendations as needed. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Through the Innovation Academy, explore implementing a detailed employee review process/ performance management system. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Initiate informational sessions with city boards and commission to inform of strategic plan and other city initiatives x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201676 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create and maintain a digital information kiosks that direct people where to find additional information on current city projects and developments. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for construction of new City Hall Create and implement basic guides to enhance the ease of understanding our building and design standards. x x x City of Milton; Internship Intern Time Create branding material that promotes Milton’s unique identity. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Pursue a street topper sign program that would be intended to create a sense of place through signage. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for Crabapple Streetscape Create a Master Plan for Downtown Milton that incorporates the Municipal Center, Community Center, and Central Community Greenspace x City of Milton; Consultant $80,000 Continue welcome packets mailed monthly to new homeowners to increase resident awareness of Milton programs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff and Volunteer Time Support the Village Volunteers program designed to assist young adults who have graduated high school and also have special needs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Create education opportunties for citizens about planning, zoning, etc./Citizen’s Academy x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for older-student education participation in planning/com dev work i.e. Mock member of Board, Commission or Council x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for younger-student education participation in planning/com dev work Lego city build program x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reinvent the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) for the review and designation of historic properties x City of Milton; Historic Preservation Commission Staff Time; Citizen Time Establish and implement a signage program for historic land markers and points of interest x x City of Milton; Consultant General Fund $51,000 Create educational opportunities for the community that are grounded in sustainability, resiliency and conservation (Earthday Festival; Arbor Day Event; Community Meetings) x x x x x City of Milton; Community Volunteers Staff Time; Citizen Time City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 77Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create a formal feedback loop with the equestrian community x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Review the code of ordinances for desired enhancements that protect our rural character x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish and facilitate a working group charged to identify evaluation criteria for potential areas of land conservation or community greenspace x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reflect greenspace needs within the updated comprehensive plan x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore the establishment of a City sponsored TDR Bank x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish incentive packages to encourage the retention of farms and equestrian facilities x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore options for undertaking Future Land Use Map amendments prior to considering zoning petitions that may not be compatible with the Future Land Use Map x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reconcile the current zoning districts with updated land use classifications in the Comprehensive Plan/ on the Future Land Use Map x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a method for tracking commercial- type uses in the AG-1 zoning district x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201678 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appendix Glossary ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990 and later amended in 2009 to protect individuals with a disability from discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, State and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications. ARC: Atlanta Regional Commission: is the agency responsible for regional planning and intergovernmental coor- dination for the Atlanta Metropolitan Area which includes ten counties (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties) and all the cities within those counties. The ARC reviews the comprehensive plans of all these jurisdictions along with the state’s planning/coordinating agency, GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Bioswales: are vegetation and compost filled landscape elements designed to filter silt and pollution from surface run- off water before it is released to the watershed or storm sewer. Common applications are along roadways and around parking lots, where substantial automotive pollution is collected by the paving and then flushed into the watershed or stormwater by rain. The bioswale collects the runoff and slows the water flow, maximizing the time water spends in the swale, which aids the trapping of pollutants and silt. Biological factors also contribute to the breakdown of certain pollutants. Bucolic: of the countryside, rural, pastoral CPAC : Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee: is the sixteen member citizen group formed in 2007 by the Mayor and Council to initiate the comprehensive planning process. The group consists of the seven members of the Planning Commission, Chairperson of the Board of Zoning Appeals, Chairperson of the Design Review Board, and seven citizen appointees of the Mayor and City Council. Context Sensitive Design: refers to the concept of taking community values and environmental preservation into account in the designing and engineering of projects. The concept impresses that a project should be sensitive to their surrounding environment, especially in scenic or historic areas and should include public involvement by collaborating with local communities during the projects design phase. An understanding of the natural and built environments including roadways as part of the valued landscape must be accomplished before the engineering design progresses begins. Complete Streets: Streets that provide multiple travel choices such as vehicle travel lanes, bike travel lanes, pedestrian sidewalks, and amenities such as lights, benches, shade trees that make all users safe. A balanced transportation system that includes complete streets can increase the overall capacity of the transportation network and bolster economic growth and stability by providing accessible and efficient connections between residences, schools, parks, public trans- portation, offices, and retail destinations. Conservation Design: refers to design of any build project that considers the conservation of open and green space and configures the build elements in such a way that it maximized the conservation area. Conservation Subdivision: refers to the design of a residential subdivision that maintains its zoned/permitted project density, but configures the home placement/arrangement in such a way that it maximizes open and green space for conservation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 79Draft for Review 8.11.2016 DCA: Department of Community Affairs: is the state agency created in 1977 to serve as an advocate for local govern- ments. On July 1, 1996, the Governor and General Assembly merged the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority (GHFA) with the Department of Community Affairs. Today, DCA operates a host of state and federal grant programs; serves as the state’s lead agency in housing finance and development; promulgates building codes to be adopted by local gov- ernments; provides comprehensive planning, technical and research assistance to local governments; and serves as the lead agency for the state’s solid waste reduction efforts. Feasibility Study: A combination of a market study and an economic analysis that provides the facts about a proposed project and estimates the expected return on investment to be derived from the project. Gateways: are locations that signify the entrance to a community. GATEway grant: GATE is an acronym for GA Transportation Enhancement. The GATEway Grant is an annual grant oppor- tunity provided by the GA Department of Transportation to assist communities in their efforts to enhance and beautify roadsides along state routes especially at gateway locations. GDOT: Georgia Department of Transportation: The State of Georgia’s transportation management authority. Green Infrastructure system: where a network of parks, recreation, and conservation areas are, or planned to be, inter- connected throughout the city or region. Heat-island or urban head island: refers to areas which consistently record significantly warmer temperatures than its surrounding areas. This is generally the case in metropolitan areas where modification of the land surface by urban development, i.e. uses of materials which effectively retain heat and waste heat generated by energy usage increase the average temperatures. Mitigation of the urban heat island effect can be accomplished through the use of green roofs and the use of lighter-colored surfaces in urban areas, which reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/neighborhoods located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. Rain gardens: refers to a planted depressed area designed to collect rainwater runoff from impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and compacted lawn areas, and allow it the opportunity to be absorbed into the ground as opposed to flowing into storm drains and water ways. This reduces the pressure on stormwater systems and reduces the risk of flash flooding. It also replenishes groundwater. Rural Viewshed: refers to the pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Scenic Byways: A Georgia Scenic Byway is defined as any designated highway, street, road, or route, which features cer- tain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. The qualities that give the byway its character and appeal are its scenic, historic, natural, archaeological, cultural, or recreational nature. Currently, twelve corridors have achieved Georgia Scenic Byways status as designated by the Georgia Department of Transportation, with more to follow. SR: State Route: roads/highways that are part of the state’s network of roads that are managed/maintained by the state’s department of transportation. Milton has three state routes: SR 9 (Hwy 9), SR 372 (Birmingham Hwy), and SR 140 (Arnold Mill Road). City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201680 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activ- ities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as “design for all,” “inclusive design,” and “life-span design,” refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessi- ble kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. City of Milton 2030 Comprehensive Plan: Community Agenda 06-06-2011 XI. Glossary of Terms 110 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as "design for all," "inclusive design," and "life-span design," refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessible kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. RES TO: FROM: HOME OF'TI�F EENT iY O J --E i% ;EORGIa' M ILTON, ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM City Council DATE: August 11, 2016 Steven Krokoff, City Manager AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of a Resolution Transmitting a Draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update Relating to the City's Impact Fee Program to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State Review. MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: W1A'**`PPROVED (J NOT APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: (-�<ES () NO CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: KYES (J NO APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: APPROVED (J NOT APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: REMARKS: 611<1t� 42 youm- PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 Green + cI T a1g0 p infoC�cityofWILDLIFE Commumiltonga.us 1 www.cityofmiltonga.us ,.w,.,,.,�„,o�„,�.:�.,,.rq 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 - CERTIF ED BRONZE - By STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF FULTON RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSMITTAL OF A DRAFT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ELEMENT 2016 ANNUAL UPDATE TO THE ATLANTA REGIONAL COMMISSION FOR REGIONAL AND STATE REVIEW WHEREAS, on September 21, 2015, the City of Milton adopted a Capital Improvements Element as an amendment to the Milton Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, the City of Milton has drafted a 2016 Annual Update to the adopted Capital Improvements Element, which incorporates an impact fee financial report for FY 2015 (as applicable); and WHEREAS, the draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update was prepared in accordance with the “Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements” and the “Minimum Planning Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning” adopted by the Department of Community Affairs pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act of 1989, and a duly advertised Public Hearing was held on August 15, 2016, at 6:00 p.m. in the City of Milton City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway; BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the City Council does hereby authorize the transmittal of the draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State review, as per the requirements of the Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements adopted pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act of 1989. RESOLVED this 15th day of August, 2016. _________________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: _____________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update Fiscal Year 2015 (10/1/14—9/30/15) Financial Report & Community Work Program City of Milton, Georgia TRANSMITTAL DRAFT: August 8, 2016 Introduction City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 1 This Capital Improvements Element Annual Update has been prepared based on the rules and regulations pertaining to impact fees in Georgia, as specified by the Development Im- pact Fee Act (DIFA) and the Depart- ment of Community Affairs (DCA) documents Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements and Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning. These three documents dictate the essential el e- ments of an Annual Update, specifi- cally the inclusion of a financial report and a schedule of improvements. According to DCA’s Compliance Re- quirements, the Annual Update: “must include: 1) the Annual Re- port on impact fees required under O.C.G.A. 36-71-8; and 2) a new fifth year schedule of improve- ments, and any changes to or re- visions of previously listed CIE projects, including alterations in project costs, proposed changes in funding sources, construction schedules, or project scope.” (Chapter 110-12-2-.03(2)(c)) This Annual Update itself is based on the City of Milton’s Capital Improve- ments Element, as adopted by the City October 5, 2015. Financial Report The Financial Report included in this document is based on the require- ments of DIFA, specifically: “As part of its annual audit pro- cess, a municipality or county shall prepare an annual report describ- ing the amount of any develop- ment impact fees collected, en- cumbered, and used during the preceding year by category of pub- lic facility and service area.” (O.C.G.A. 36-71-8(c)) The required financial information for each public facility category appears in the main financial table (page 2); each of the public facility categories has a single, city-wide service area. The status of all impact fee projects, by public facility category, is shown on the tables on pages 3, 4, 5 and 6. The City’s fiscal year runs from Octo- ber 1 to September 30. Schedule of Improvements In addition to the financial report, the City has prepared a five-year sched- ule of improvements—a community work program (CWP)—as specified in DCA’s Compliance Requirements (Chapter 110-12-2-.03(2)(c)), which states that local governments that have a CIE must “update their entire Short Term [i.e., Community] Work Programs annually.”)1 According to DCA’s requirements,2 the CWP must include: A brief description of the activity; Legal authorization, if applicable; Timeframe for undertaking the ac- tivity; Responsible party for implement- ing the activity; Estimated cost (if any) of impl e- menting the activity; and, Funding source(s), if applicable. All of this information appears in the Community Work Program portion of this document, beginning on page 7. 1 Note that DCA’s Compliance Requirements specify that the work program is to meet the requirements of Chapter 110-12-1-.04(7)(a), which is a reference to the work program re- quirements in a previous version of the Stand- ards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning. The correct current description is found at Chapter 110-12-1-.04(2)(b)1. 2 Chapter 110-12-1-.03(3). Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 2 Public Facility Parks & Recreation Fire Protection Law Enforcement Roads Adminis- tration TOTAL Impact Fee Fund Balance October 1, 2014 -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Impact Fees Collected (October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015)-$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Subtotal: Fee Accounts -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Accrued Interest -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ (Impact Fee Refunds)-$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ (Expenditures)-$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Impact Fee Fund Balance September 30, 2015 -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Impact Fees Encumbered -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Note: Impact Fee collections initiated October 5, 2015 (FY 2016) Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 3 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Parks and Recreation Department Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Park Land 2016 2035 68,665,646.59$ 67.39%46,275,786.85$ -$ -$ Conservation Easements 2016 2035 37,687,219.02$ 41.44%15,616,326.67$ -$ -$ Land for Trails 2016 2035 22,637,026.35$ 41.39%9,369,796.00$ -$ -$ Baseball Field 2022 2035 2,416,978.76$ 63.80%1,541,931.23$ -$ -$ Football/Soccer/Lacrosse 2022 2035 277,625.94$ 89.85%249,433.52$ -$ -$ Basketball Court 2022 2035 898,201.57$ 42.18%378,852.88$ -$ -$ Playground (Structured)2020 2035 1,665,755.63$ 42.89%714,408.29$ -$ -$ Picnic Shelter / Pavilion 2020 2035 4,997,266.90$ 42.89%2,143,224.88$ -$ -$ Community Center 2017 2035 2,605,646.33$ 42.53%1,108,195.49$ -$ -$ Multi-Use Trails 2020 2035 62,195,885.85$ 42.48%26,419,298.43$ -$ -$ 204,047,252.94$ 103,817,254.24$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. Parks and Recreation City-wide Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 4 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Fire Department / Administration Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Emergency Warning Sirens 2014 2014 216,329.00$ 41.44%89,646.74$ -$ -$ Storage Facility 2017 2017 267,096.40$ 100.00%267,096.40$ -$ -$ Fire Station 42 Replacement 2020 2022 1,389,243.43$ 40.00%555,697.37$ -$ -$ Training Facility 2017 2017 430,176.66$ 100.00%430,176.66$ -$ -$ Westside Fire Station **2024 2026 1,501,562.50$ 66.67%1,001,091.72$ -$ -$ Hwy 9 Fire Station **2017 2019 1,428,686.06$ 100.00%1,428,686.06$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2015 2015 38,609.80$ 100.00%38,609.80$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2016 2016 453,066.46$ 100.00%453,066.46$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2020 2020 39,442.62$ 100.00%39,442.62$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2018 2018 462,839.28$ 100.00%462,839.28$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2022 2022 40,725.67$ 100.00%40,725.67$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2021 2021 477,895.17$ 100.00%477,895.17$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2024 2024 42,050.45$ 100.00%42,050.45$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2024 2024 493,440.83$ 100.00%493,440.83$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2027 2027 509,492.17$ 100.00%509,492.17$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2029 2029 43,884.11$ 100.00%43,884.11$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2030 2030 526,065.66$ 94.36%496,408.38$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2033 2033 45,797.72$ 94.36%43,215.84$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2033 2033 543,178.27$ 0.00%-$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2034 2034 47,287.49$ 0.00%-$ -$ -$ 8,996,869.75$ 6,913,465.73$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. **Percent impact fee eligible revised due to change in anticipated year of expenditure. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. NOTE: For projects that are not eligible for impact fee funding, the cells in the "FY2015 Impact Fees Expended" column are shaded out, indicated that no impact fees may be expended on those projects. Fire Protection City-wide Facilities Vehicles Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 5 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Police Department / Administration Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Law Enforcement Center, Phase 1 2016 2017 30,947.62$ 41.44%12,825.42$ -$ - -$ Law Enforcement Center, Phase 2 2018 2018 1,729,358.54$ 41.44%716,686.51$ -$ - -$ Law Enforcement Center, Phase 3 2019 2019 2,738,978.49$ 41.44%1,135,096.56$ -$ - -$ 4,499,284.65$ 1,864,608.49$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. Law Enforcement City-wide Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 6 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Public Works Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Intersection-Hopewell/Francis/Cogburn 2014 2014 992,103.00$ 40.1%397,918.39$ -$ -$ Intersection-Deerfield Pkwy @ Morris Rd 2014 2014 85,206.00$ 40.1%34,174.91$ -$ -$ Intersection-Bethany @ Cogburn 2014 2014 446,923.00$ 40.1%179,254.45$ -$ -$ Intersection-Arnold Mill @ New Providence 2014 2014 313,300.00$ 40.1%125,660.17$ -$ -$ Intersection-Birmingham @ Providence 2014 2014 852,581.00$ 40.1%341,958.10$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Birmingham 2015 2015 693,135.00$ 40.1%278,006.58$ -$ -$ Intersection-Crabapple @ Birmingham 2014 2017 1,353,263.94$ 40.1%542,774.90$ -$ -$ Transportation Master Plan Update 2015 2016 231,044.84$ 40.1%92,668.80$ -$ -$ McGinnis Ferry Interchange 2015 2015 51,343.30$ 40.1%20,593.07$ -$ -$ Crabapple NE Connector Rd 2017 2019 2,581,434.50$ 40.1%1,035,376.64$ -$ -$ Bridge Replacement Program 2014 2021 2,445,358.07$ 40.1%980,798.32$ -$ -$ Intersection-Freemanville @ Providence/B'ham 2015 2018 2,409,375.80$ 40.1%966,366.34$ -$ -$ Intersection-SR9 @ Bethany Bend 2014 2016 173,168.05$ 40.1%69,455.24$ -$ -$ Intersection-Webb Rd Turn Lanes 2015 2015 189,970.20$ 40.1%76,194.34$ -$ -$ Intersection-Bethany @ Providence 2016 2022 1,794,032.06$ 40.1%719,560.72$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Bethany Bnd/ Way 2025 2025 3,346,503.60$ 40.1%1,342,234.96$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Redd Road 2015 2017 123,223.91$ 40.1%49,423.36$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Hamby 2020 2021 1,412,239.23$ 40.1%566,429.05$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Thompson 2021 2022 1,439,668.46$ 40.1%577,430.53$ -$ -$ Crabapple SE Connector 2021 2025 180,587.44$ 40.1%72,431.05$ -$ -$ Hopewell/Hamby Road Widening 2030 2030 7,991,049.35$ 40.1%3,205,096.16$ -$ -$ Morris Road Widening 2024 2024 9,125,056.76$ 40.1%3,659,930.39$ -$ -$ 38,230,567.52$ 15,333,736.48$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. Roads City-wide Community Work Program City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 7 The following listing of impact fee projects is submitted as part of this CIE Annual Update report, covering the 5-year period 2017-2021. The City has prepared a Comprehensive Plan update, which includes a complete CWP covering the years 2017 to 2021 (includ- ing the projects eligible for impact fee funding). The new Community Work Program within the Comprehensive Pl an update in- cludes all project activities, including the specific impact fee eligible projects below. 2017-2021 Community Work Program – Impact Fee Eligible Projects Project Description 20172018201920202021Responsible Party Cost Estimate Funding Sources Notes/ Explanation Parks and Recreation Continue land acquisition program for park lands x x x x x Parks and Recreation $1,030,000 estimated annual average 67.39% Impact Fees; Bond Issue On-going debt service to bonds Continue acquisition program for conservation easements and multi-use trails x x x x x Parks and Recreation $1,315,790 estimated annual average 41.44% Impact Fees for conservation easements; 41.49% Impact Fees for multi-use trails; Bond issue On-going debt service to bonds Construction of multi-use trails x x x Parks and Recreation / Public Works $3,660,000 estimated annual average 42.48% Impact Fees; General Fund On-going annually Design and improve Providence Park: 1 Playground (structured) 1Pavilion / Picnic Shelter 1 Multi-Use Trail (1 mi. est.) Completion in 2022 42.89% Impact Fees for playground and pavilion/picnic shelter; 42.48% Impact Fees for trail; General Fund $1,175,762Parks and Recreationxxxxx Community Work Program City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 8 Project Description 20172018201920202021Responsible Party Cost Estimate Funding Sources Notes/ Explanation Design and construct Arnold Mill Park project: 1 Playground (structured) 1Pavilion / Picnic Shelter 1 Multi-Use Trail (1 mi. est.) Design and construct Chadwick Landfill park project x x x x Parks and Recreation $350,000 Impact Fees (% varies depending on the facilities); General Fund See the Parks and Recreation table in the Financial Report section for facilities' impact fee eligibility Design and construct a community center x x x x x Parks and Recreation $651,420 42.53% Impact Fees; General Fund Police Design and construct Law Enforcement Center x x x Police/ Administration $4,499,285 41.44% impact fees; General Fund Fire Construct Storage Facility x Fire/ Administration $267,096 100% impact fees Construct Hwy 9 Fire Station x x x Fire/ Administration $1,727,112 100% impact fees Replace Fire Station 42 x x Fire/ Administration $1,389,243 40% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2022 Construct Training Facility x Fire/ Administration $430,177 100% impact fees Parks and Recreation $1,175,762 42.89% Impact Fees for playground and pavilion/picnic shelter; 42.48% Impact Fees for trail; General Fund Completion in 2022xx Community Work Program City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 9 Project Description 20172018201920202021Responsible Party Cost Estimate Funding Sources Notes/ Explanation Purchase heavy vehicle x x Fire/ Administration $940,734 100% impact fees Purchase general vehicle x Fire/ Administration $39,442 100% impact fees Transportation Complete Intersection- Crabapple @ Birmingham x Public Works $1,353,264 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Project underway Bridge Replacement Program x x x x x Public Works $2,445,358 40.1% impact fees; General Fund On-going annual improvements Intersection-Freemanville @ Providence & B'ham x x Public Works $2,409,376 40.1% impact fees; General Fund To be completed in phases (Freemanville@Providen ce is Phase 1) Intersection-SR9 @ Bethany Bend x Public Works $173,168 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Project underway Intersection-Bethany @ Providence x x x x x Public Works $1,794,032 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion beyond 2021 Complete Intersection- Hopewell @ Redd Road x Public Works $123,224 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Project underway Intersection-Hopewell @ Hamby x x Public Works $1,412,239 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2021 Intersection-Hopewell @ Thompson x Public Works $1,439,668 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2022 Crabapple SE Connector x Public Works $180,587 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion beyond 2021 Crabapple NE Connector x x x Public Works $2,581,435 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2019 TO: FROM: HOME OF 'THEBEST QUALITY OF LIFE IN GEORGIA' M1 LTONI ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM City Council DATE: August 11, 2016 Steven Krokoff, City Manager AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton, Georgia, to Establish the Ad Valorem Tax Rate of the City of Milton for Fiscal Year 2016; and for Other Purposes. MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: (PROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: () YES CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: () YES APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: () APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: 5( ( J ( 1 REMARKS: (J NOT APPROVED (<NO (-�NO (J NOT APPROVED L.(` © #You(n ®Green _ *** -� ; ��d ; T' PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 wanuFE Community why Infoftityofmiltonga.us I www.cityofmiltonga.us ,,:,c.k.F.T,r .E`.r,u, N _ � 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Stacey Inglis, Assistant City Manager Date: Submitted on August 11, 2016 for the September 7, 2016 Regular Council Meeting Agenda Item: Consideration of an Ordinance of the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton, Georgia, to Establish the Ad Valorem Tax Rate of the City of Milton for Fiscal Year 2016; and for Other Purposes. Department Recommendation: Adopt the ordinance as presented to establish the ad valorem tax rate of the City of Milton for the 2016 fiscal year. Executive Summary: We are proposing a millage rate of 4.731 mills, which is the same rate the City of Milton Charter permits and the rate we’ve had in all 9 years of the City’s incorporation. The tax digest for 2016 is showing taxable assessments for real and personal property at $2,271,909,971, net of exemptions. This represents an increase of 5.8% over the 2015 digest due to assessments on newly improved properties. Motor vehicle assessed values in 2016 are $55,613,700 and have decreased by 31% since 2015. This decline is a result of House Bill 386, which is phasing out motor vehicle taxes (or the “birthday tax”) and replacing it with the title ad valorem tax. The TAVT is a one-time title fee that is paid on all vehicle sales. It is not a property tax and is, therefore, not included in the tax digest. Funding and Fiscal Impact: The total amount of property taxes to be levied, excluding motor vehicl e tax, is roughly $10.7 million. The FY16 budget anticipates collecting $9,490,000, or 89% of the levied taxes. Historically, we’ve experienced a collection rate of 90%-94% by the due date. It is important to note that a software programming error has held up the release of the tax digest from Fulton County. We anticipate receiving the tax files by the middle of September and hope to send tax bills prior to September 30th. The late billing shouldn’t affect the budget. Alternatives: None. Legal Review: Not required. Concurrent Review: Steve Krokoff, City Manager Page 1 of 2 STATE OF GEORGIA ORDINANCE NO. COUNTY OF FULTON AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MILTON, GEORGIA, TO ESTABLISH THE AD VALOREM TAX RATE OF THE CITY OF MILTON FOR FISCAL YEAR 2016; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES WHEREAS, the Charter of the City of Milton, Georgia authorizes the City to levy and provide for the assessment of ad valorem property taxes on all property subject to taxation; and WHEREAS, the Charter of the City of Milton, Georgia provides that the valuation of all property subject to taxation by the City shall be determined according to the tax digest prepared by the Fulton County Board of Tax Assessors; and WHEREAS, the Mayor and City Council, after hearing and after duly considering all such relevant evidence, testimony and public comments, has determined that it is in the best interests of, and necessary to meet the expenses and obligations of, the City of Milton, Georgia to set a levy in the amount of $4.731 on each $1,000.00 of taxable value for all property subject to ad valorem taxation by the City; now BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and City Council of the City of Milton, Georgia as follows: SECTION I: The ad valorem tax rate for the City of Milton, Georgia for the 2016 fiscal year, on property subject to ad valorem taxation by the City is hereby fixed at $4.731 on forty percent (40%) of each $1,000.00 of property subject to ad valorem tax by the City. SECTION II: Said rate of $4.731 on forty percent (40%) of each $1,000.00 of taxable property is hereby levied for General Government purposes. SECTION III: All ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. Page 2 of 2 ORDAINED this the ____day of ________, 2016. ____________________________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: ___________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk (SEAL) r, 61 HOME OF 'THEBEST QUALITY OF LIFE IN GEORGIA' M1 LTON* ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM TO: City Council DATE: August 9, 2016 FROM: Steven Krokoff, City Manager Q) AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of RZ16-03 - Donegal Lane (Northern End) by 1699 Land Co., LLC to Rezone from AG -1 (Agricultural) to R -3A (Residential) to Develop 26 Single Family Homes on 17.25 Acres of an Overall Density of 1.5 Units per acre and a Concurrent Variance to Recue Setback for a New Street from 50 Feet to 0 Feet (Section 64-2397) . MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: (APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: () YES CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: () YES APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: () APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: 09,I1SI 2d(, REMARKS: () NOT APPROVED (4-1V0 0 (J NOT APPROVED PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 ,-Green �� InfoOcityofmiltonga.us I www.cifyofmiftcnga.us wi52 COn1n1tl111 .�. 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 - OEPT EiEO BNOHZF- B Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 1 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 PETITION NO. RZ16-03/VC16-03* PROPERTY INFORMATION ADDRESS Donegal Lane (Northern Most) DISTRICT, LAND LOT 2/2 1036, 1037 OVERLAY DISTRICT Rural Milton Overlay District EXISTING ZONING AG-1 (Agricultural) PROPOSED ZONING R-3A (Residential) ACRES 17.25 EXISTING USE Undeveloped PROPOSED USE 26 single family residential lots PETITIONER 1699 Land Co., LLC ADDRESS 1424 North Brown Road, Suite 100 Lawrenceville, GA 30043 REPRESENTATIVE Joshua Scoggins Miles Hansford & Tallant 202 Tribble Gap Road, Suite 200 Cumming, Georgia 30040 PHONE 770-781-4100 INTENT To rezone from AG-1 (Agricultural) to R-3A (Residential) to develop 26 single family homes on 17.25 acres at an overall density of 1.5 units per acre and a concurrent variance to reduce setback for a new street from 50 feet to 0 feet (Sec. 64-2397)* Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 2 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING – JUNE 22, 2016 This meeting was cancelled due to the lack of a quorum. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT RECOMMENDATION – JULY 27, 2016 RZ16-03 – DENIAL VC16-03 – DENIAL PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION – JULY 27, 2016 RZ16-03 – WITHDRAWAL – 6-0 VC16-03 – WITHDRAWAL – 6-0 Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 3 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 LOCATION MAP Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 4 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 CURRENT ZONING MAP Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 5 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 CITY OF MILTON 2030 COMPREHENSIVE FUTURE LAND USE MAP Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 6 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 SITE PLAN SUBMITTED APRIL 26, 2016 Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 7 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 TREE SURVEY Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 8 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 SUBJECT SITE AND BACKGROUND: The subject site contains 17.25 acres and is undeveloped and is located at the northernmost of Donegal Lane in the Vickery Crest Subdivision. Brookshade Subdivision abuts to the north and west and a large estate lot to the east. The site is located within the Agricultural, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) designation of the City of Milton 2030 Comprehensive Plan Map. Staff also notes that this property is within the Rural Milton Overlay. The applicant is requesting a rezoning to R-3A (Residential) to develop 26 single family residences on at an overall density of 1.5 units per acre. Staff has also included a concurrent variance to reduce the setback for a new street from 50 feet to 0 feet for the new street on the north portion of the property that runs parallel to Brookshade Subdivision. Staff received a letter from the applicant to request a deferral of this rezoning from June 22, 2016 to July 27, 2016 which is included in this report. The Planning Commission did not vote on this request as there was not a quorum for the June 22nd meeting and therefore it was cancelled. SITE PLAN ANALYSIS Based on the applicant’s site plan submitted to the Community Development Department on April 28, 2016, Staff offers the following considerations: DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS – SEC. 64-531 - R-3A (Single Family Dwelling District) Development Standards Proposed Development No building shall exceed 40 feet in height None indicated Minimum front yard – 50 feet 50 feet Minimum side yard as follows: Adjacent to interior line: 10 feet Adjacent to street: 20 feet 10 feet 20 feet Minimum rear yard –35 feet 35 feet Minimum lot area – 18,000 sq.ft. 18,000 sq. ft. ; 27,000 sq. ft. adjacent to north property line. Minimum lot width shall be 100 ft. 100 feet Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 9 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 Minimum lot frontage shall be 35 feet adjoining a street 35 feet Minimum heated floor area shall be as follows: For less than two-story dwelling: 1,600 sq. ft. For two-story dwelling: 1,800 sq.ft. Per the letter of intent – 2,400 sq.ft. LANDSCAPE STRIPS AND BUFFERS The proposed development shall comply with Article III, Tree Preservation and Administrative Guidelines within the Zoning Ordinance, Sec. 64-237 (g) of the Zoning Ordinance which states “Unless otherwise specified, lots developed with single-family detached dwelling units are not required to provide landscape areas or zoning buffers”. Staff notes that a 20-foot landscape strip and fencing are required around all detention ponds. The site plan does not indicate the required landscape strip and fencing. The fencing shall be a 6-foot high, five-board equestrian style fence with two inch by four inch welded wire constructed around it. OTHER SITE PLAN CONSIDERATIONS The site plan indicates a sanitary sewer easement northeast of the site originating in the Brookshade Subdivision. If this connection cannot be made, Staff notes that without the service of public sewer to the site, the requested minimum 18,000 square foot lots cannot be developed but minimum one acre lots served by individual septic systems can be devel oped. Based on the Traffic Memo submitted by the applicant, the proposed development will not require any further transportation improvements other than the newly developed streets. Staff does note that the Zoning Ordinance states the following: Sec. 64-2397. - Minimum setback for new street. Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 10 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 New public and private streets must be located a minimum of 50 feet from any peripheral property line adjoining AG-1 and residentially zoned property unless inter-parcel access is required. This provision allows for the southernmost portion of the new street to be adjacent to AG-1 (to the east) but does not permit the new street on the north portion of the property running parallel to the Brookshade Subdivision. A concurrent variance has been included and advertised as required and is discussed later in the Staff report. ENVIRONMENTAL SITE ANALYSIS The Environmental Site Analysis (ESA) report is sufficient and sati sfies the requirement of Sec. 64-2126. The applicant has stated the following: “There is no jurisdictional Flood Plain per official FEMA maps. There are no wetlands, steams, or stream buffers contained on this site. There are no slopes exceeding 25% located on this property. There are no vegetation or historical sites located on this property. A tree survey was performed on this property and the specimen trees located on this property are shown on the site plan.” ARBORIST COMMENTS The proposed rezoning will be subject to the tree preservation ordinance including recompense and tree density requirements. There are five specimen trees shown on the plan. All five are scheduled for removal or disturbance. The site consists mostly of pine trees along the eastern and western property lines, with predominately hardwoods along the southern property line and the adjacent property to the east. The proposed development will retain little vegetation between the adjacent properties. The only areas where trees will remain are in the rear of the lots and will be subject to the homeowner’s desire to remove to create larger rear yards. CITY OF MILTON FIRE MARSHAL The roads would fall under the new 26 foot back of curb to back of curb without designated on street parking (down to 20 feet with designated on street parking spaces) and a 48’ radius on cul-de-sacs. The site plan indicates 24 foot back of Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 11 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 curb to back of curb and therefore the proposed streets need to be increased in size to satisfy this requirement. FULTON COUNTY BOARD OF EDUCATION Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 12 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 FINANCIAL MODELING RESULTS Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 13 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT On May 24, 2016 the applicant’s legal representative was present at the Community Zoning Information Meeting (CZIM) held at the Milton City Hall. The applicant was not in attendance. There were approximately 80 people in attendance at the meeting. They voiced their objection to the proposed development with the following comments: 1. Too many homes proposed. 2. The homes are too close to the adjacent houses at 35 rear setback. 3. How will they access sanitary sewer? 4. It is against the Future Land Use Plan for minimum one acre lots. 5. The proposed homes will bring down the value of adjacent properties. Already, a homeowner has lost a contract on their house because of the proposed development. 6. Too much traffic going through Vickery Crest. 7. Would there be an alternative construction entrance while the homes are built? 8. Frustrated that the applicant was not in attendance at the meeting. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION REPORT Staff received the report on June 13, 2016. The applicant’s Public Participation Meeting was held on June 1, 2016 at 6:30 pm at the Bethwell House located on Hopewell Road. There were 21 people in attendance. They raised the following concerns about the development; lot size, density, buffers, product type, access to public road system and existence of sewer easements. CITY OF MILTON DESIGN REVIEW BOARD COURTESY REVIEW – June 7, 2016 Comments: Small lots next to big lots are never a good idea. The end product should be in character with existing homes. Standards of Review (Section 64-2104) Planning Staff shall, with respect to each zoning application, investigate and make a recommendation with respect to factors 1 through 7, below, as well as any other factors it may find relevant. Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 14 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 1. Whether or not the proposal will permit a use that is suitable in view of the use and development of adjacent and nearby Property? The proposed 26 lot subdivision with minimum 18,000 square foot lots along the west property line and interior lots are inconsistent with the adjacent lots within Brookshade Subdivision to the west which are developed with minimum 27,000 square foot lots and the parcel to the east currently zoned AG-1 with a large individual lot. In addition, the most northern lots in Vickery Crest are minimum one acre, although the remainder of lots within Vickery Crest are between 15,000 and 20,000 square feet in size. Therefore, it is Staff’s opinion that the proposed development is not suitable based on adjacent and nearby properties. Existing uses and zoning of nearby property Location Parcel / Zoning Petition Zoning / Name Approved Density/Min. Heated Floor Area East 1 AG-1 (Agricultural) Single Family Residences 1 u/a East 2 RZ13-14 R-3 (Single Family Residential) Undeveloped 1.22 u/a 2,500 sq.ft. Southeast 3 RZ03-122/ RZ03-41 R-3 (Single Family Residential) Milton Place 1.64 u/a 2,750 s.f. 1.67 u/a 2,750 s.f. 1 acre lots along Hopewell Rd. Further Southeast 4 RZ95-21 R-3 (Single Family Residential) Hopewell Place S/D 2 u/a 1,800 s.f. 1 acre lots along Hopewell Rd. South 5 RZ04-144/ RZ05-135 CUP (Community Unit Plan) Vickery Crest S/D 1 u/a Min 18,000sq.ft. lots / 2,500 s.f. 1.88 u/a Min 15,000 sq.ft. lots/ 2,500 s.f. 1 acre lots along Hopewell Rd Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 15 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 and north portion of Subdivision. Southwest 6 RZ93-035 R-4A (Residential) Providence Oaks S/D 2.14 u/a 2,500 sq.ft. 50 ft. building setback to AG-1 West 7 RZ94-102 R-3A (Residential) Brookshade S/D 1 u/a 2,500 sq.ft. 50 ft. building setback to AG-1 North 8 RZ94-127 R-2A (Residential) Brookshade S/D .98 u/a 2,500 sq.ft. 1 acre lots along Hopewell Rd. Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 16 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 17 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 2. Whether or not the proposal will adversely affect the existing use or usability of adjacent or nearby property? It is Staff’s opinion that the proposal may adversely impact existing use or usability of the adjacent properties to the east, south, and west as described above. The proposed development does not provide a transition between the existing densities to the east, south, and west. The development does provide a similar size lot along the north property line of 27,000 square foot lots adjacent to Brookshade Subdivision. 3. Whether the property to be affected by the proposal has a reasonable economic use as currently zoned? The subject site may have a reasonable use currently zoned AG-1 (Agricultural). 4. Whether the proposal will result in a use which will or could cause an excessive or burdensome use of existing streets, transportation facilities, utilities or schools? It is Staff’s opinion that the proposal may cause a burden on existing streets and transportation facilities in the area. 5. Whether the proposal is in conformity with the policies and intent of the land use plan? City of Milton 2030 Comprehensive Land Use Plan Map – Agricultural, Equestrian, and Estate Residential / INCONSISTENT Inconsistent with the following Plan Policies: We support appropriate residential and non-residential infill development and redevelopment in ways that complement surrounding areas. We will encourage development that is sensitive to the overall setting of the community and will contribute to our community’s character and sense of place. Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 18 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 Proposed use/density: Single Family Residential at 1.5 units per acre is inconsistent with Brookshade Subdivision of 1 unit per acre and .98 unit per acre. 6. Whether there are other existing or changed conditions affecting the use and development of the property which gives supporting grounds for either approval or disapproval of the proposal? The proposed development is inconsistent with the Plan Map recommendation of Agricultural, Equestrian and Estate Residential which requires minimum one acre lots. In addition, the proposed lots along the west property line should be a minimum of 27,000 square feet in size and interior lots should be one acre in size to mirror the existing size lots to the west in the Brookshade subdivision and the large AG-1 lot to the east. Based on these facts, it is grounds to recommend DENIAL of RZ16-03. 7. Whether the zoning proposal will permit a use which can be considered environmentally adverse to the natural resources, environment and citizens of the City of Milton? The proposed use may be environmentally adverse to the natural resources, environment and citizens of the City. VC16-03 - To reduce setback for a new street from 50 feet to 0 feet (Sec. 64- 2397) Based on the fact that Staff is recommending denial of the requested rezoning from AG-1 to R3-A, staff recommends that the VC16-03 be DENIED. CONCLUSION The proposed 26 lot single family subdivision is inconsistent with the City of Milton’s 2030 Comprehensive Land Use Plan Map for “Agricultural, Equestrian, and Estate Residential”. Therefore, Staff recommends DENIAL of RZ16-03 to rezone from AG-1(Agricultural) to R-3A (Single Family Residential) and DENIAL of VC16-03. A set of Recommended Conditions are included if the Mayor and City Council chooses to approve this petition. Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 19 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 REQUEST FOR WITHDRAWAL Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 20 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS If this petition is approved by the Mayor and City Council, the rezoning of property located at Donegal Lane (Northern Most), it should be approved for R-3A (Single Family Residential) CONDITIONAL subject to the owner’s agreement to the following enumerated conditions. Where these conditions conflict with the stipulations and offerings contained in the Letter of Intent, these conditions shall supersede unless specifically stipulated by the Mayor and City Council. 1) To the owner’s agreement to restrict the use of the subject property as follows: a) Single family detached dwellings and accessory uses and structures. b) No more than 26 total dwelling units at a maximum density of 1.5 units per acre, whichever is less, based on the total acreage zoned. Approved lot/unit totals are not guaranteed. The developer is responsible through site engineering (at the time of application for a Land Disturbance Permit) to demonstrate that all lots/units within the approved development meet or exceed all the development standards of the City of Milton. The total lot/unit yield of the subject site shall be determined by this final engineering. 2) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following: a) To the site plan received by the Community Development Department on April 28, 2016. Said site plan is conceptual only and must meet or exceed the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, all other applicable city ordinances and these conditions prior to the approval of a Land Disturbance Permit. Unless otherwise noted herein, compliance with all conditions shall be in place prior to the issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy. b) All areas which are not part of an individual lot and held in common shall be maintained by a mandatory homeowners association, whose proposed documents of incorporation shall be submitted to the Director of Community Development for review and approval prior to the recording of the first final plat. Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 21 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 3) To the owner’s agreement to the following site development considerations: a) Minimum 27,000 square foot lots along the north property line adjacent to Brookshade Subdivision. b) Minimum heated floor area per unit – 2,500 square feet. c) To reduce the setback from 50 feet to 0 feet for a new street. (VC16- 03) 4) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following requirements, dedication, and improvements: a) Dedicate at no cost to the City of Milton prior to the approval of a right of way encroachment permit, sufficient land as necessary to provide the following: 1. Access to the site shall be subject to the approval of the City of Milton Public Works Department i. Access to the site shall meet City of Milton Code of Ordinances and AASHTO guidelines and subject to the approval of the City of Milton Public Works Department 5) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following: a) Prior to the application for a land Disturbance Permit, the developer/engineer shall submit to the Department of Community Development a Stormwater Concept Plan. The plan shall comply with the requirements of the Stormwater Division of Chapter 20 Environment of the City of Milton Code of Ordinances. b) The stormwater management facilities shall utilize earthen embankments, where possible. Walled structures are not encouraged. If walled structures are proposed, they must meet the acceptable design standards of the City of Milton Department of Community Development and the Department of Public Works. 1. Where side slopes for stormwater management facility are steeper than 4:1 the facility shall have a six foot high, five- board equestrian style fence with two inch by four inch Prepared by the Community Development Department for the City of Milton Mayor and City Council Meeting on August 15, 2016 *Concurrent Variance was added after the scheduled June 22, 2016 PC meeting. 7/28/2016 Page 22 of 22 RZ16-03/VC16-03 welded wire constructed around it, or equivalent as may be approved by the City of Milton Public Works Department. Page 1 of 6 ORDINANCE NO._______ PETITION NO. RZ16-03/VC16-03 STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF FULTON AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE A REZONING FROM AG-1 (AGRICULTURAL) TO R-3A (RESIDENTIAL) FOR A 26 LOT SINGLE FAMILY SUBDIVISION ON 17.25 ACRES LOCATED DONEGAL LANE. BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council for the City of Milton, Georgia while in regular session on August 15, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. as follows: SECTION 1. That the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Milton be amended, so that the following property located at Donegal Lane consisting of a total of approximately 17.25 acres as described in the attached legal description , be approved for a 26 lot single family subdivision zoned R-3A with conditions, attached hereto and made a part herein; ALL THAT TRACT or parcel of land lying and being Land Lots 1036 and 1037 of the 2nd District 2nd Section, City of Milton, Fulton County, Georgia; and SECTION 2. That the single family subdivision in the attached conditions of approval, be approved under the provisions in Article VI, Division 7, of the Zoning Ordinance of the City of Milton; and SECTION 3. That the property shall be developed in compliance with the conditions of approval as attached to this ordinance. Any conditions hereby approved (including any site plan) do not authorize the violation of any district regulations; and SECTION 4. That all ordinances or part of ordinances in conflict with the terms of this ordinance are hereby repealed; and SECTION 5. This Ordinance shall become effective upon adoption by the Mayor and City Council and the signature of approval of the Mayor. ORDAINED this 15th Day of August, 2016. Page 2 of 6 Approved: ______________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: ________________________________ Sudie Gordon, City Clerk (Seal) Page 3 of 6 RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS If this petition is approved by the Mayor and City Council, the rezoning of property located at Donegal Lane (Northern Most), it should be approved for R-3A (Single Family Residential) CONDITIONAL subject to the owner’s agreement to the following enumerated conditions. Where these conditions conflict with the stipulations and offerings contained in the Letter of Intent, these conditions shall supersede unless specifically stipulated by the Mayor and City Council. 1) To the owner’s agreement to restrict the use of the subject property as follows: a) Single family detached dwellings and accessory uses and structures. b) No more than 26 total dwelling units at a maximum density of 1.5 units per acre, whichever is less, based on the total acreage zoned. Approved lot/unit totals are not guaranteed. The developer is responsible through site engineering (at the time of application for a Land Disturbance Permit) to demonstrate that all lots/units within the approved development meet or exceed all the development standards of the City of Milton. The total lot/unit yield of the subject site shall be determined by this final engineering. 2) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following: a) To the site plan received by the Community Development Department on April 28, 2016. Said site plan is conceptual only and must meet or exceed the requirements of the Zoning Ordinance, all other applicable city ordinances and these conditions prior to the approval of a Land Disturbance Permit. Unless otherwise noted herein, compliance with all conditions shall be in place prior to the issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy. b) All areas which are not part of an individual lot and held in common shall be maintained by a mandatory homeowners association, whose proposed documents of incorporation shall be submitted to the Director of Community Development for review and approval prior to the recording of the first final plat. 3) To the owner’s agreement to the following site development considerations: a) Minimum 27,000 square foot lots along the north property line adjacent to Brookshade Subdivision. Page 4 of 6 b) Minimum heated floor area per unit – 2,500 square feet. c) To reduce the setback from 50 feet to 0 feet for a new street. (VC16-03) 4) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following requirements, dedication, and improvements: a) Dedicate at no cost to the City of Milton prior to the approval of a right of way encroachment permit, sufficient land as necessary to provide the following: a. Access to the site shall be subject to the approval of the City of Milton Public Works Department i. Access to the site shall meet City of Milton Code of Ordinances and AASHTO guidelines and subject to the approval of the City of Milton Public Works Department 5) To the owner’s agreement to abide by the following: a) Prior to the application for a land Disturbance Permit, the developer/engineer shall submit to the Department of Community Development a Stormwater Concept Plan. The plan shall comply with the requirements of the Stormwater Division of Chapter 20 Environment of the City of Milton Code of Ordinances. b) The stormwater management facilities shall utilize earthen embankments, where possible. Walled structures are not encouraged. If walled structures are proposed, they must meet the acceptable design standards of the City of Milton Department of Community Development and the Department of Public Works. 1. Where side slopes for stormwater management facility are steeper than 4:1 the facility shall have a six foot high, five-board equestrian style fence with two inch by four inch welded wire constructed around it, or equivalent as may be approved by the City of Milton Public Works Department Page 5 of 6 SITE PLAN SUBMITTED APRIL 26, 2016 Page 6 of 6 Lam: HOME OF `THE BEST OUAI JY OF LIFE IN v:=URGIA.' MILTON111IN ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM TO: City Council DATE: Au ust 9, 2016 FROM: Steven Krokoff, City Manager AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of V16-003 -The Reserve at Providence, Providence Road, the Providence Group of Georgia Custom Homes, LLC Requested Variances (Section 4-416.b and Section 64.1141.c.1). The reduction of the front setback from: 60 feet to 50 feet, lots 3, 19, 21, 23; 60 feet to 45 feet, lots 20, 30; 60 feet to 40 feet, lots 4, 9, 22; 60 feet to 30 feet, lots 5, 6, 7, 8. The increase in the allowed height from: 28 feet to 33 feet, lots 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 19, 20. MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: (,APPROVED (J NOT APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: () YES (, 40 CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: () YES (JVO APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: () APPROVED (J NOT APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: al Ocie, PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499, Green : w * .Vi.: *al WILDUFE Community _ infoC�cityofmlltonga.us 1 www.cityofmiitonga.us 110W .,, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 PETITION NUMBER: V16-003 PROPERTY INFORMATION Providence Road DISTRICT, LAND LOT 2/2,842,843,886,887,888&914 OVERLAY DISTRICT RURAL MILTON EXISTING ZONING AG-1 ACRES 52.748 EXISTING USE SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION FUTURE LAND USE AGRICULTRAL, ESTATE RESIDENTAL, EQUESTRIAN, (AEE) DESIGNATION REQUESTED VARIANCES: (Section 4-416,b and Section 64.1141.c.1) The reduction of the front setback from : 60 feet to 50 feet, lots 3,19,21,23 60 feet to 45 feet, lots 20,30 60 feet to 40 feet, lots 4,9,22 60 feet to 30 feet, lots 5,6,7,8 The increase in the allowed height from: 28 feet to 33 feet, lots 5,6,7,8,9,19,20 PETITIONER(S) Chris Willis Reserve at Providence, LLC/The Providence Group of Georgia Custom Homes, LLC ADDRESS 11340 Lakefield Drive, Suite 250 Johns Creek, GA 30097 Page 2 of 13 Page 3 of 13 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF ANALYSIS STAFF CONTACT: ANGELA RAMBEAU 678.242.2539 Background: The site, the Reserve at Providence subdivision, is located at the southwest intersection of Bethany Road and Providence Road. This 36 lot subdivision consists of 53 acres, and is zoned AG-1. It is located in the Rural Milton Overlay. This variance is before Mayor and Council because of Section 64-1888, b. It states that variances that involve more than five lots or ten percent of the lots in a subdivision (whichever is greater) shall be heard by the Mayor and City Council. Chris Willis, representing The Providence Group of Georgia and the Reserve at Providence, is requesting a variance to several lots in the subdivision. He states that the severe topography is creating the need to push the houses further to the front on several lots. On lots 5,6,7 and 8, he would like to move the front setback from 60 feet to 30 feet, allowing a useable rear yard. He is requesting a front setback reduction to 40 feet on lots 4, 9, and 22, along with a front setback reduction to 45 feet on lots 20 and 30. Mr. Willis is requesting a front setback reduction to 50 feet on lots 3, 19,21 and 23. Finally, on lots 5-9, 19, and 20, the applicant proposes a 5 foot height variance. This will allow him to increase the maximum height of the house from 28 feet to 33 feet. Height is measured from average finished grade to the lowest part of the eave. Section 64-416,b states that the front setback for AG-1 lots is 60 feet. Section 64, 1141,c,1 states that there shall be a maximum height limit of two stories with the maximum height of 28 feet from average finished grade to the bottom of the roof eave. Since the applicant proposes to set 13 houses less than 60 feet from the right of way, and to increase the height of seven houses to 33 feet, a two part variance is required. Page 4 of 13 DESIGN REVIEW BOARD (DRB) COURTESY REVIEW: On June 7, 2016, the DRB offered the following comments: You chose where to locate your roads. You sealed your own fate when you chose to put that road there when you can’t put a house on that side of the road. I can only imagine what that’s going to look like with those homes super high. If you had rock problems in the road, what makes you think that you won’t have rock problems on the lot? My concern—what is that going to look like from the backside? If you cut a big house… everybody who drives by Summithill will be looking at a very tall house, and there’s no way that will go over well with the citizens. Playing devil’s advocate--they could put a lot smaller homes that don’t conform to the rest of the neighborhood. What is the plan b if the variances are not approved? It seems to me that you’d just put it where it doesn’t look as good. The big question is going to be how it’s going to look like from the rural viewshed. If you move these house forward you’ll need to have a buy in from the existing homeowners. In this situation, I think you have to get complete buy in and agreement. Select the house based on the topography. Fit the houses to the lots, not the other way around. These kind of lots are going to be very difficult resale lots; they are going to lower everybody’s property values. I’m glad you’re trying to work through this. Any home built on a road like that is going to end up decreasing in value. I’d rather have houses closer to the street in the neighborhood than Providence Road. Is it possible to bring in more fill and make the 60 foot setback work? I know walls are super expensive to build, but they would make the houses fit in better with the community A 30 foot wall along Providence would look horrible. If I was the homeowner, I would want to see what house they are putting there. I’d have to see specifically on each lot what’s going to go there. Page 5 of 13 ADDITIONAL DEPARTMENT COMMENTS The staff held a Focus Meeting on March 2, 2016, at which the following comments were provided: SITE PLAN REVIEW STAFF CONTACT JIMMY SANDERS 678.242.2543 No comments. ARCHITECT STAFF CONTACT ROBERT BUSCEMI 678.242.2607 Staff has met with the applicant several times. He has agreed to maintain the rural viewshed on the affected lots, as well as Architectural design review of the houses. ARBORIST STAFF CONTACT MARK LAW 678.242.2552 No comments. DOT/STORMWATER STAFF CONTACT SARAH LEADERS 678.242.2559 No comments. Page 6 of 13 Standards for Consideration: The approval of a variance is based on the following consideration(s): Relief, if granted would not offend the spirit or intent of the Ordinance. There are such extraordinary and exceptional situations or conditions pertaining to the particular piece of property that the literal or strict application of the Ordinance would create an unnecessary hardship due to size, shape or topography or other extraordinary and exceptional situations or conditions not caused by the variance applicant. Relief, if granted would not cause a substantial detriment to the public good and surrounding properties. That the public safety, health and welfare are secured, and that substantial justice is done. The applicant response: The applicant states that the severe topography creates a hardship condition on the lots submitted for this variance. The topography drops from the front curb to the rear of the lot in excess of 60’ to 80’ on many of the lots, and specifically 40’ or so across the buildable pad for the homes on Providence Road. The topography results in a situation with no usable rear yard area and a fully exposed basement on a massive sub wall. A reduction in the front setback will allow the home to move forward on the lot and would help create les s rear exposure of the façades of the homes along Providence Road. The extreme topography on lots 5-9, 19, 20 also necessitates five feet of relief in the height requirement due to the downward sloping grade. The proposal, if approved, would not have an adverse impact on the adjacent properties and will be aesthetically consistent with the blending of the street scape in the community and from public view. The requirement would require 360 degree architecture and staff review on each lot. This requirement will bring relief to the severe topography along with compliance for the rural view shed requirements and give staff some oversite in the process. This type of variance request is consistent with other properties in the City of Milton that have similar hardships with topography. Approval of the variances will benefit the subdivision’s appearance and function without negative impact on the intent of the zoning standard. There will be no negative effect to the citizens of Milton, or surrounding property owners since the setback relief will help bring an improved streetscape to the community. Finally, public safety, health and welfare has in no way been compromised with this variance. Page 7 of 13 The staff response: The purpose and intent of the Ordinance is to promote uniformity among lots in AG-1 areas and to protect adjoining properties from unexpected development patterns. The lots subject to the variances will be different from the existing homes, however, the approved variance will allow the balance of the lots to be similarly situated on the lots. This will enhance the continuity of the subdivision. The existing, extreme topography of this property creates an extraordinary and exceptional situation. As development proceeded, the applicant, realized that his current product would require massive sub walls and/or extensive decks, especially along Providence Road. These elements would not support the goals of the rural viewshed. Relief if granted, would not cause a substantial detriment to the public good and surrounding properties. The approval of these two variances will allow the builder to build homes specifically suited to their lots. The applicant has worked with the existing residents to minimize the lots that required variances. Also, he has taken staffs’ suggestions and revised his stock product to create something uniquely suited to these lots. He has shown that he is willing to work with Staff to build homes that not only respect Milton’s rural viewshed, but will also be as high quality as the current homes in the subdivision, thus protecting the property values and quality of life of the existing homeowners. Approval of these variance requests will not impede public safety, health and welfare. Pushing the houses forward, away from Providence Road will actually create quieter, safer, more useable rear lots. By working with staff, the applicant will ensure a pleasant streetscape which will enhance the subdivision. Recommended conditions: Should the Board choose to approve the application, Staff recommends the following conditions(s): The lots along Providence Road shall maintain the 60 foot rural viewshed, including the 40 foot undisturbed buffer. The design of these houses shall meet rural viewshed requirements. On the lots subject to height variances, the soffit shall be set at the ceiling of the first floor, causing the second floor massing to be achieved through dormers. The vertical plane should be broken in order to reduce the height impact on the massing of the building. The houses subject to the reduced front setback shall include 8 foot deep porches. The design of all houses subject to variances shall be reviewed and approved by the City Architect prior to the issuance of a building permit. Page 8 of 13 Staff recommendation: Staff recommends approval with conditions of this request. Page 9 of 13 PREVIOUS VARIANCE REQUEST Page 10 of 13 CURRENT VARIANCE REQUEST Lot Front Setback Height 3 50' 4 40' 5 30' 33' 6 30' 33' 7 30' 33' 8 30' 33' 9 40' 33' 19 50' 33' 20 45' 33' 21 50' 22 40' 23 50' 30 45' 13 7 Page 11 of 13 Page 12 of 13 Existing homes Page 13 of 13 Lots adjacent to Providence Road TO: FROM: HOME OF '-HEBEST G?'_.A:'1 �' '.� 1I'=E Ire -�--A' M I LTO N, ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM City Council DATE: August 11, 2016 Steven Krokoff, City Manager AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of a Resolution to Transmit the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: �PPROVED (J NOT APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: (,}-fES () NO CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: (-IES () NO APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY:APPROVED (J NOT APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: 8I(S 1 1(p REMARKS: 9110 YOU(n. PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 Green w + car ; WILDLIFE COMMUni info�cityofmiltonga.us I www.cityofmiifonga.us ®� ,,.,, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Michele McIntosh-Ross, Principal Planner Date: Submitted on August 11, 2016 for the August 15, 2016 Council Regular Council Meeting. Agenda Item: Consideration of a Resolution to Transmit the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) and GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). _____________________________________________________________________________________ Department Recommendation: Approval. Executive Summary: The City of Milton adopted its 2030 Comprehensive Plan on June 06, 2011. Per the regional and State planning requirements, the city is required to prepare and submit a five-year update of its Comprehensive Plan by October 31, 2016. With the assistance of the ARC staff, and the City’s Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC), the planning process got underway in November 2015 with a public hearing and Comprehensive Plan Kick-Off meeting. Subsequent meetings were held with the CPAC and the community to gather thoughts and comments. A draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 was prepared and discussed at the July 18, 2016 joint CPAC and City Council work session. Comments derived from the work session were considered by CPAC and resulted in the revised Draft dated August 10, 2016. Funding and Fiscal Impact: None Alternatives: None. Legal Review: Ken Jarrard – Jarrard & Davis (08-11-2016) Concurrent Review: Page 2 of 2 Steve Krokoff, City Manager Attachment(s): Draft Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 Resolution to Transmit the Plan STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF FULTON RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSMITTAL OF A DRAFT CITY OF MILTON COMPREHENSIVE PLAN UPDATE 2016 TO THE ATLANTA REGIONAL COMMISSION FOR REGIONAL AND STATE REVIEW WHEREAS, the City of Milton has completed the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 as the State required five-year update; and WHEREAS, a 16-person Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC), plus one City Council liaison, were appointed by the Mayor and Council to review and assist in the development of the Draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016; and WHEREAS, the preparation of the City’s Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 was initiated in the Fall of 2015 with the assistance of the Atlanta Regional Commission, using funds provided by the State of Georgia; and WHEREAS, the document was prepared by the Atlanta Regional Commission in accordance with the Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning established by the Georgia Planning Act of 1989, and the required public hearings were held on November 2, 2015 and August 15, 2016. BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED, that the City Council does hereby authorize the transmittal of the draft City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State review, as per the requirements of the Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements adopted pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act of 1989. RESOLVED this 15th day of August, 2016 _________________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: _____________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk The City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Red text indicate areas of revisions This document was prepared by the Atlanta Regional Commission using funds provided by the State of Georgia. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 Contents Executive Summary 5 Data and Demographics 6 Housing 12 Community Vision 15 Issues and Opportunities 16 Transportation and Mobility 31 Future Community Map and Narrative 34 Future Land Use Map and Narrative 59 Report of Accomplishments 67 Short Term Work Program 73 Appendix Removed State Planning Goals and Objectives - no longer a required element City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20164 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Acknowledgments City Council Joe Lockwood, Mayor Karen Thurman - District 1/ Post 1 Matt Kunz - Mayor Pro Tem, District 2/ Post 2 William C. “Bill” Lusk, P.E. - District 2/ Post 1 Burt Hewitt - District 1/ Post 2 Joe Longoria - District 3/ Post 1 Rick Mohrig - District 3/ Post 2 Comprehensive Planning Steering Committee Peyton Jamison - Chair Karen Thurman - Liaison to the City Council Paul Moore Fred Edwards Noel Carpenter Mark Bittner Wilson Borden Chris Doty Gariel Burchett Todd Chernik Marty Littleton Lauren Holmes Richie Johnson Terrence McCrossan William O’Connor Tom Gauger Steve Smith Sumeet Shah City of Milton Staff Kathleen Field - Community Development Director Michele McIntosh-Ross - Principal Planner Atlanta Regional Commission Staff Dan Reuter - Division Manager Jared Lombard - Senior Principal Planner Allison Duncan - Principal Planner Sidney Douse - Senior Planner Robert Herrig - Planner Beth Davis - Intern Elizabeth Burns - Intern Dana De Lessio - Intern City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 5Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Executive Summary The City of Milton was chartered in 2006. Previously, the area that comprises the city was a part of unincorporated Fulton County. Many of the land use and transportation patterns were set in place by zoning and development standards that pre-dated the incorporation of the city. The original vision of the city was focused on the preservation of rural character, community heritage, and “small-town” quality of life. According to the Community Assessment of the city’s original Comprehensive Plan, “The City was created with the idea that the rapid pace of urban development since 1990 would displace the rural-based assets that attracted the city’s current citizens to Milton, and that the City should establish and adhere to its own resources to balance future development and services with the City’s vision for preservation of existing lifestyles and community character. Maintenance of the unique agricultural elements, lower density development patterns, lifestyle and character of the existing community is central to the wishes of many local citizens.” Citizens still wish to see Milton preserve agricultural and low density development patterns. There are areas along the southern border of the city that have been identified for higher density, mixed use development – particularly in the Deerfield and Crabapple Character Areas. Higher density residential development opportunities exist in Milton Lakes and Bethany. Outside of these areas, the majority of the city is reserved for low density residential development on lots that are 1-acre or greater. Beyond the community’s keen interest in future development, topics of consideration included acquisition and development of community greenspace; traffic congestion and transportation improvements, and the need to preserve opportunities for agricultural landscapes and working farms. Overall, the community is generally satisfied with the policy direction set down in their 2011 Comprehensive Plan. Therefore, this Comprehensive Plan Update largely reflects the policy and direction adopted in the city’s initial plan, with changes noted in the topics of greenspace, land conservation, and traffic congestion. Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: Promote a high quality of life Create a strong sense of community and place Respect our heritage while guiding our future Be the best place to call home City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20166 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Data & Demographics City of Milton, Fulton County, Georgia Data and demographics have been added to the 2016 Comprehensive Plan Update City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 7Draft for Review 8.10.2016 32,661 36,291 39,804 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000 45,000 2010 2015 2020 Milton Population Population The city of Milton became a city on December 1, 2006. The first demographic data available for Milton comes from 2010, at which point the population was 32,661. According to ESRI Business Analyst Projections, the population is expected to continue to grow quickly, with an anticipated 22% growth between 2010 and 2020. The city’s Impact Fee Population Forecast anticipates they will reach “build out at a population around 61,580 residents.” 2010 2015 2020 Milton 32,661 36,291 39,804 Sandy Springs 93,853 98,184 103,980 Alpharetta 57,551 61,375 65,902 Johns Creek 76,728 80,993 86,870 Roswell 88,346 91,326 96,222 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 The chart to the left compares the population of Milton with other North Fulton cities. Milton’s population has been lower than its neighbors, and is predicted to continue to be lower, though it is projected to experience steady growth over the next five years. North Fulton Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 Census Profile(2000,2010)., ESRI Business Analyst Online Community Profile (2015, 2020 Projections)Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20168 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Race White residents make up 76.6% of the racial distribution in the City of Milton as of 2010. Black residents make up 9%, Asian residents are 10.4% of the population, and those of two or more races are 2.2% of the population. Residents of Hispanic origin of any race are 6.0% of the population. W h i t e B l a c k a s i a n t W o o r M o r e r a c e s o t h e r 2015 2020 The proportion of White and Black residents is expected to decline, replaced by Asian residents, and those of two or more races. The proportion of those of Hispanic descent is also expected to decline from 6% in 2010 to about 5.7% in 2020. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Community ProfileStaff comment 7/13 Staff comment 7/13 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 9Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Age 25% 11% 29% 28% 6%1% <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 22% 14% 23% 32% 8%1% 2015 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 19% 14% 23% 33% 10%1% 2020 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 16% 27% 28% 21% 8% <5 5 to 9 10 to 14 15 to 19 20 to 24 Young and middle aged adults (25-64) combine for 59% of the population. Milton has a high number of residents under the age of 14 for the region. Between 2010 and 2015, the population is expected to get older as a whole. The youngest age group of those under 14 and those aged 25-44 decrease in proportion of the total, while adults aged 45-84 gain 6% of the population. These trends are projected to continue into 2020. 2010 School Age Population The impact of the public schools on the development patterns of the community has consistently been an issue raised during the Comprehensive Plan process. The breakdown of school-aged population is included here for planning purposes. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 census profile; ESRI Business Analyst Online Demographic and income Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201610 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Employment 1326 1581 1100 1089 2157 1181 1034 1315 1149 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Health Care/ Social Assistance Food Services What Jobs do Milton Residents Do? 329 1108 2483 306 1084 1316 820 531 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Food Services What jobs are available in Milton?re s i d e n t ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sWo r k p l a c e ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sSource: US Census Bureau, Census on the Map Resident Area Profile Analysis City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 11Draft for Review 8.10.2016 73,674 114,273 129,119 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 140,000 2010 2015 2020 Median Household Income 14% 22% 27% 19% 13% 4%1% <$25,000 $25,000-$49,999 $50,000-$74,999 $75,000-$99,999 $100,000-$149,999 $150,000-$199,999 $200,000+ Income 68% of households made between $25,000 and $100,000 in 2010. 2010 Source: :2010 data- US Census American Fact Finder ACS 2010 Selected Economic Characteristics. 2015/2020 data- ESRI Business Analyst Demographic and income ProfileStaff comment 7/13 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201612 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000 2010 2015 2020 Owner Occupied Rented Vacant Housing Demand Demand in housing is expected to increase, resulting in both an increase in the number of units and a decrease in the vacancy rate. The number of rented units is 24.7% of units in 2010, 22.9% in 2015, and 23.8% in 2020. $469,100 $451,100 $2,790 $1,220 2010 2014 Median Selected Monthly Owner Costs 2014 Median Rent 2014 Median home values can be somewhat of a moving target depending on the source of information. According to the US Census American Fact Finder, home values have fluctuated around the mid-$400,000 range. Some private data sources, such as Zillow, list the median a little higher around $485,000. Housing Values Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Housing Profile; US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 13Draft for Review 8.10.2016 According to the American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate (2014), there are 12,853 housing units in Milton, with a vacancy rate of around 5%. The majority of vacant units are rental – less than 1% of owner occupied units are vacant. Of the rental units that are available in the city, rents still tend to be high with the majority of units in the city available for rents over $1,000/ month. 85% of Milton’s housing has been built since 1990. The map included here shows the development patterns in the city, depicted by year. This reinforces the ACS data that suggests that the vast majority of the housing stock in the city is fairly new. The majority of housing – almost 70% is single family detached dwellings. Around 15% of the city’s housing is a type of multi-family dwelling. The average housing value in the city of Milton is around $451,000. Compared with the average in Fulton County, which is $237,600, this is almost double of the county as a whole. The relative newness of the housing stock, plus the high value of real estate combine to ensure the good condition of housing in the city. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 Average Rents, Milton GA Housing by Structure Type, Milton GA Single Family Detached Single Family Attached Duplex, Triplex or Quadplex Multi-family 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing CharacteristicsStaff comment 7/13 CPAC comment 7/21 - fixed formatting City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201614 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Milton has limited water and sewer infrastructure, and there are no plans for expansion. The desire to preserve Milton’s rural and low-density quality of life will need to be balanced with the increasing conversion of agricultural land to housing, and the impermanence that may result when the equestrian and agricultural community feels that they can no longer afford to continue operations in a rapidly suburbanizing area. Additionally, concerns have been expressed that many aging adults and “empty-nesters” choose to leave the community because they lack housing options. 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 Housing Values, Milton GA Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 15Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Community Vision Monday November 2 Milton City Council Comp Plan Kick Off Tuesday February 9 CPAC Meeting Tuesday March 8 Public Meeting Tuesday April 12 CPAC Meeting Saturday April 23 Milton Earth Day Festival Wednesday December 16 CPAC Meeting Monday October17: Milton City Council Meeting - Adoption of the Comprehensive Plan and CIE Thursday May 12 Public Meeting Tuesday June 14 CPAC Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday July 18 Joint CPAC & City Council Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday August 8 CIE Work Session (Ross & Associates) Monday August 15 Public Hearing & Transmittal CIE & Comp Plan Thursday July 21 CPAC Meeting Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: • Promote a high quality of life • Create a strong sense of community and place • Respect our heritage while guiding our future • Be the best place to call home Comprehensive Plan Mission We take responsibility together to provide the best quality of life to those we serve. Through excellent service to our neighbors, we strengthen our cherished sense of community. Community Input Opportunities The Milton Comprehensive Plan Update process was guided by a Stakeholder Committee (CPAC) comprised of citizens, local business owners, elected officials, and Milton staff. CPAC met on multiple occasions, providing direction and feedback at key points in the process. There were additional opportunities for public participation at community meetings and local festivals, as well as regularly scheduled City Council meetings where the plan was discussed. Meetings were advertised through local media outlets and on the city’s social media sites. Concurrent with the Comprehensive Plan Update, the city was undertaking an update to the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP), and their Capital Improvements Element (CIE). In addition to the CTP and CIE, there are numerous other plans and studies that support the Comprehensive Plan, and referenced herein. They are identified below. Other Plans and Programs • Crabapple LCI Form Code & Visioning Study • Deerfield/ GA 9 LCI Form Based Code • GA 9 Design Guidelines • Hwy 9 North Visioning • Arnold Mill Visioning Study • Tree Inventory • Parks and Recreation Plan • Conservation Plan • City Strategic Plan 2016-2020 • Impact Fee Assessment Report This page new to this update City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201616 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Community Issues & Opportunities The community issues and opportunities are a snap shot of the community’s concerns, and its perception of the strengths they possess and the challenges they face. The issues and opportunities included herein were generated in the initial Milton Comprehensive Plan. They were reviewed and updated by CPAC, and feedback from community members was used to generate the final list presented here. Priority Issues are those that were ranked highly by community members as still being a priority issue at the time of this update of the Comprehensive Plan. This list of issues and opportunities is used to provide direction toward crafting the policies and implementation goals for the city. The Objectives listed in this section are community policies that address the issues and opportunities identified by the community through the public review of the Comprehensive Plan Update. Priorities • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. • Traffic congestion is a persistent problem within the community. • The city lacks a network of sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian and bridle paths, and trails that would enhance transportation choices. • Adequate funding is needed to implement road improvements. Priorities are issues that were valued highly at public meetings, language is the same as 2011 plan CPAC comment 7/21 - clarified that objectives refer to policies per DCA rules City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 17Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Overall Overall issues and opportunities were derived from the consistent concerns that have been reiterated throughout the Comprehensive Plan process from its initiation with the Community Assessment to its completion with the Community Agenda. These include an emphasis on community aesthetics, the need for more parks and greenspace, the need to enhance community connectivity, and the importance of accessibility and universal design to benefit citizens of all abilities. Issues • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Current development patterns do not encourage interaction with neighbors • Current development patterns do not reflect a comprehensive awareness of accessibility and universal design concepts. Opportunities • The city currently has acquired land that can be developed into public greenspace and active and passive parkland, and there are additional opportunities for the further acquisition of land for similar purposes. • The development and implementation of commercial design standards for each character area will enhance community aesthetics. • New residential development, within certain Character Areas such as Crabapple or Deerfield, should be connected to existing neighborhoods and commercial service areas. • The development and implementation of rural design standards within appropriate character areas will enhance community aesthetics. Staff comment 6/27 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201618 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development Patterns and Land Use Development within Milton boomed through much of the 1990s and into the early 2000s while the city was still a part of unincorporated Fulton County. This is a timeframe that coincides with the rising awareness of many of the negative impacts of sprawling commercial and residential land use patterns. The issues and opportunities identified for Development Patterns/ Land Use emphasize the importance of limiting sprawl and preserving the unique rural character of much of the city. Community preference has been articulated for Master Plans tied to existing and potential development; rigorous aesthetic design controls; specific geographic boundaries and specified densities to prevent sprawl; and the protection of open space, woodlands, specimen trees, stream buffers, steep slopes, the night sky, agricultural land, and other environmentally sensitive areas. Issues • Unattractive sprawl development has led to visual clutter along roadways that can distract drivers and detract from the community’s appearance. • Lack of design standards have resulted in unattractive subdivisions and subdivision entrances. • Lack of design standards have led to subdivision entrances that are not in keeping with the rural character of the area. • Sprawl development threatens the indistinct boundary between town and countryside. • There is widespread opposition to typical high-density development patterns. limits the diversity of housing options available in the city. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • New development threatens to encroach upon areas that may not be suited for development. Opportunities • Milton has preserved a unique patterns of equestrian-oriented development as well as open/green space and woodlands that should be enhanced and promoted. • Plentiful scenic areas, pastoral areas, and woodlands are the hallmark of community character and should be preserved. • Proactive stewardship of the community’s extensive greenspace and woodlands can be an asset for current and future generations. • Emphasis on the redevelopment of existing areas can preserve and enhance the community’s greenspace and sense of place. • Policies and regulations should maintain and promote the rural character of the city, including the preservation of “open road” neighborhoods1, inclusion of a conservation subdivision option and locating new residential development in areas contiguous to existing neighborhoods. • Policies and regualtions should protect and enhance current agricultural land by defining zoning districts that appropriately differentiate agricultural and residential land uses to preserve character and limit potential land use conflicts • Preserve the gravel roads in Milton – along with the larger lots (minimum 3 acres) required on gravel roads – as a part of the special character of Milton as well as including this asset as a part of the transportation and recreation plans for the city. • Explore the appropriate Support the use of Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to encourage redevelopment and infill development within targeted areas while effectively limiting sprawl and protecting the rural areas. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will encourage development that is sensitive to the overall setting of the community and will contribute to our community’s character and sense of place. 1 Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/ neighborhoods are located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts with conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 CPAC comment 7/21 - changed policy to objective throughout Staff comment 8/9 Staff comment 8/11 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 19Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Obtain broad support for the Comprehensive Plan from community leaders and the public through education initiatives and consensus-building meetings. Strategy: Encourage the maintenance of equestrian and agricultural areas with large tracts of land in order to maintain this important aspect of the community. Strategy: Protect natural areas, viewsheds, floodplains, wetlands, tree canopy, heritage and specimen trees through strict adherence to codes during site preparation and construction, and avoidance of clear-cutting. Strategy: Encourage land uses which integrate the rivers and streams and environmental aesthetics into their planning and design. Strategy: Protect the dark night sky, especially in lower density residential, conservation and natural areas of the city. Strategy: Work with utility companies to protect city assets. Policy Objective 2: We will encourage development of a balanced network of commercial activity centers that are vibrant areas of the community which, 1) improve overall attractiveness and local quality of life 2) meet the service needs of our citizens and 2) avoid unattractive and inefficient sprawling strip development. Strategy: Emphasize the development of barrier free, smaller, pedestrian-oriented streets, shops and parking in the denser areas of the city to support existing structures and appropriate commercial uses. Strategy: Encourage compact, mixed use development in the Crabapple Crossroads Area as reflected in the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan; the Birmingham Crossroads Area as reflected in the Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan; and along Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill Road pursuant to their recommended Master Plans. Strategy: Develop master plans that include Access Management Studies along the roadways within the study areas. Strategy: Limit inefficient sprawling development by using Transfer of Development Rights to define the geographic limits of receiving areas. Strategy: Provide safe accessible crossings for persons who have specific needs. Policy Objective 3: We want development whose design, landscaping, lighting signage and scale add value to our community. Strategy: Create more specific detailed design guidelines for Arnold Mill Road (SR 140), and other specific areas around of the City; support existing design guidelines for Crabapple, Deerfield and Birmingham Crossroads. Strategy: Develop context sensitive standards for protecting and enhancing rural viewsheds in the City. Strategy: Develop context sensitive residential development standards for entrances and right-of-way amenities for residential subdivision developments. Policy Objective 4: We will create gateways to establish a “sense of place” for our community. Strategy: Create consistent images (including the equestrian logo) to help “brand” Milton as a unique and desirable community on street signs, public buildings and public vehicles. Incorporate branding images into City documents, special event signage, and gateways to the City. Strategy: Identify prospective sites for unique public signs at the major gateways to the City and acquire rights to place substantial gateway signs that convey pride and sense of place. Strategy: Identify specific design standards for public gateway investments (i.e. signage, landscape, hardscape, sidewalks, lighting, street furnishings). Policy Objective 5: We will encourage mixed-used developments, where appropriate, that are human-scale, less auto-oriented and include neighborhoods that are walkable, bicycle and wheelchair friendly in Master Planned Areas as identified on the Future Community map. Strategy: Coordinate infrastructure design where appropriate to provide barrier-free, safe, walkable connections between activity centers, institutions, and residential neighborhoods. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201620 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Encourage developers to incorporate appropriate amenities such as sidewalks or pathways, shallow front yard setbacks, porches, streetlights, street furnishings, and small green space sites in grid-style Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) patterns close to existing transportation and community facility infrastructure. Strategy: Provide local street and/ or pedestrian connections between existing and new subdivisions in addition to access from primary streets. Policy Objective 6: We will be open to willing to assess land planning and development concepts that may be new to our area, but have been tried successfully in other places. Strategy: Consider using Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a method to protect the low-density, rural and agricultural areas of the city as well as encourage redevelopment and infill development within the targeted development areas of the City. Strategy: Consider adopting policies and standards related to “Universal Design” and/ or “Visitable Homes”2 concepts. Strategy: Consider implementing Implement context sensitive and form based zoning. Strategy: Consider conservation subdivisions in rural and enviornmentally sensitive areas in addition, consider a conservation subdivision classification that incorporates gravel roads. Policy Objective 7: We support appropriate residential and non-residential infill development and redevelopment in ways that complement surround areas. Strategy: Support infill development that meets appropriate design standards on local streets within the city. Strategy: Encourage infill of existing subdivisions and development projects as a priority before constructing new residential subdivisions. 2 “Universal Design” is a planning idea, meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able bodied and the physically disabled. “Visitable Homes” is a type of universal design that refers to a home that is designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size, or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. More information about these concepts is provided in the Glossary of Terms found in the Appendix of this document. Staff comment 7/13 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 21Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Community Facilities and Services The City faces unique challenges and prospects to maintaining its identity. Issues and opportunities for Community Facilities and Services focus on the broad themes of community spaces, community character, and sense of place. The city can concentrate its efforts on preserving the high quality of existing development and enhancements that will improve community aesthetics. Issues • Milton needs to better define its community character – including areas around municipal boundaries and gateways – to foster a sense of place so visitors know they have arrived to a unique community. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. Opportunities • Currently there are virtually no areas of decline due to the relative newness of development in Milton. Policies and regulations can promote high development standards to prevent the decline of existing development. • The City should support the build out of Birmingham Crossroads consistent with its adopted plan as the village activity center that anchor the Birmingham Character Area; and support the continued build out of Crabapple Crossroads as would be recommended per a revised Crabapple plan as the activity center to anchor the Crabapple character area the downtown for the City. • The redevelopment of the Highway 9 Corridor consistent with an adopted set of community design guidelines would enhance the character and sense of place in the Deerfield character area. • Implementing a community branding campaign – including standards for the design and placement of signage – can foster a visual aesthetic and sense of place within the City. • The design and location of a city hall/government center should consider an area which best serves all residents and visitors and enhances a sense of community for the City. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will incorporate sustainable policies and practices in projects undertaken and services offered by the City of Milton. Strategy: Design government buildings and projects including parkland, transportation projects, etc. to meet “Green” certification standards. Encourage these standards for private development. Strategy: Work with environmental stakeholders the Milton Grows Green (MGG) committee to implement advise on environmentally responsible policies and practices through Milton. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Policy Objective 2: We will explore opportunities for multiple transportation alternatives. Strategy: Implement the recommendations of the Milton Transportation Plan and Milton Trails Plan. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Policy Objective 3: We will invest in parks and open space to enhance the quality of life for our citizens. Strategy: Develop and implement Master Plans for Birmingham Park and Providence Park and Bell Memorial Park, ensuring that multiple needs of multiple users are met (i.e. children, youth, adults, seniors, individuals with disabilities, etc) with a sensitivity towards the unique characteristics of the area in which the park is being developed and the land itself. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 Staff comment 7/19 CPAC comment 7/21 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201622 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Ensure parks and parkland are developed with the city’s mission and vision statements in mind, including the protection of the rural characteristics of Milton as well as “green” practices and development standards. Strategy: Identify and protect other areas that serve as parks or parklands to the city’s residents, such as pocket parks, equestrian areas, greenways, and other recreational lands. Strategy: Work with Fulton County to provide community parks, regional parks, and large active and passive recreation facilities, including consideration of barrier free access to all amenities, to serve City residents and visitors. Strategy: Encourage parks and other green spaces to be protected in perpetuity through appropriate legal mechanisms. Strategy: Ensure that the City of Milton Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan is updated regularly to remain current and relevant to the needs of the citizens of Milton. Policy Objective 4: We will seek opportunities to provide pleasant, accessible, public gathering places and parks throughout the community. Strategy: Develop community gathering spaces and pocket parks in village and neighborhood centers to serve as meeting places and destinations. Strategy: Establish appropriate requirements for new development to set-aside specific amounts of land for greenspace or meeting acceptable alternative requirements to provide for future needs for greenspace. Strategy: Ensure public gathering spaces have barrier-free, ADA compliant amenities. Policy 5: We will determine an appropriate location(s) for a city hall/government center within the city. Strategy: Consider a location that will best serve residents and visitors to the community. Strategy: Consider a location that will allow for future expansion of municipal functions. Strategy: Maintain current levels of service for fire and police protection to the southeastern area of Milton if the fire/ police are relocated to a city hall/government center elsewhere in the community. Strategy: Consider an area that can accommodate the traffic demands without exacerbating congestion or posing a burden upon the city’s transportation networks. Strategy: Ensure the site is ADA accessible and planned with barrier free access. Policy Objective 5: We will support the city in the acquisition of new greenspace opportunities to meet the needs of the citizens of Milton. Strategy: It shall be a priority to Preserve greenspace and open space using bond revenues for the acquisition of general areas of green or open space including pastures, horse farms, wooded areas, larger tracts of undeveloped land, and open space between new or existing subdivisions. This can include protecting natural resources from development - especially wooded and tree areas with a special concentration on preserving as many trees as possible; protecting wildlife habitat and corridors from development by preserving areas in their natural state that are home to wildlife, including identifying and preserving wildlife corridors; and protecting water and watersheds from development by protecting areas with water, rivers, ponds, lakes, creeks, streams, stream buffer areas and watersheds. Strategy: It shall be a priority to Preserve rural views and rural character using bond revenues for the purpose of protecting or conserving the rural views along roadways; protecting or conserving the rural feel, look, setting and character of Milton; protecting historic resources; and protecting agricultural uses of land including farms, horse farms, etc. Strategy: It shall be a priority to Preserve trails and parks using bond revenues for the acquisition of trails and parks in establishing new trails and connecting existing trails based on the Milton Trail Plan; establishing trails for walking, biking, and horse riding, either through separate or combined use trails depending on location, need and the Trail Plan; establishing trails that connect parks, schools and commercial centers, including connections to greenways; and establishing parks, including passive, and or mostly unimproved or “natural state” parkland with the possibility of creating trails and minimal improvements to provide public access. These could include pocket parks or larger tract parks. CPAC Direction CPAC Direction Staff Comment 8/11 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 23Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Policy Objective 6: We will work with the Fulton County Public Schools to encourage school location decisions that support overall growth and development plans of the community. Strategy: Encourage the Fulton County Public Schools to improve access and egress into existing school properties to minimize traffic disruption and congestion. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to locate future facilities that are consistent with the Milton Future Land Use Plan. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to design new schools consistent with the design standards unique to Milton including site planning, building design, the utilization of green standards, access/ egress, parking configuration, tree preservation/ replacement review, appropriate buffers and the integration of trailways where possible. Strategy: Work with Fulton County Public Schools to identify opportunities to use recreational fields during periods when the schools are not using the facilities. Policy Objective 7: We will seek ways for new growth to pay for public infrastructure and services to support the development to the maximum extent possible. Strategy: Work with private developers to encourage the development of public infrastructure by building connections to existing infrastructure and new development sites. Strategy: Consider adoption of Implement an impact fee ordinance and use impact fees for specific improvements allowed by State law. Strategy: Actively pursue partnerships and grant opportunities to facilitate infrastructure expansion and enhance community services. Policy Objective 8: We will use planned infrastructure expansion to support development in areas identified as suitable for such development in the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Encourage the balanced development of Crabapple, Deerfield, Birmingham Crossroads, Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill that is 1) consistent with land use policies and adopted overlays or master plans for the areas, and 2) concurrent with needed infrastructure improvements. Strategy: Encourage the stated development of character areas concurrent with the growth of service infrastructure as a method of maintaining sustainability. Strategy: Establish and protect defined development boundaries and sustainable density levels as defined specifically by the Master Plan for that given area to identify and maintain appropriate edges between areas with planned infrastructure and adjacent areas. Policy Objective 9: We will promote enhanced initiatives for solid waste reduction and recycling. Strategy: Coordinate solid waste management with Fulton County and other cities in the County. Strategy: Reduce the volume of waste entering the solid waste disposal system by sponsoring recycling education, and provide opportunities and incentives to sort plastics, paper, glass metals and other materials. Strategy: Require private waste management contractors to provide curbside recycling options. Encourage and educate recycling throughout the city including the integration of development standards that create a recycling pick up location and commercial and non-commercial sites. Strategy: Consider the long term alternatives to use of landfills. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201624 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Housing The relative newness of development and the limited infrastructure in the city of Milton have resulted in property values and housing stock that tends toward the higher end. The needs of land-extensive agricultural uses, such as equestrian estates, also impact housing, land values and development patterns. There are higher density residential options within the city that include townhomes and single family homes on small lots. However, the perceptions of a lack of housing diversity underscore the need for more study and analysis of the existing housing stock before any significant changes are made to current zoning policies or land use patterns. Additionally, diversity should not just focus on smaller-lot, higher density development but also consider preserving choices for individuals who need large acreages for land extensive agricultural and recreational uses, as well as lifestyle choices. Issues • Current development patterns include little mix of housing sizes, types and income levels within neighborhoods. • Current development patterns include limited development of housing in proximity to employment centers. • Current development patterns do not consider senior housing and its location relative to senior services. Opportunities • Undertaking a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock would enable better planning and preparation for future growth and development patterns. • Based on a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock, identify ways to create greater diversity in housing options within the city. • Identify opportunities to create housing and employment centers within the city to mitigate the need to commute outside the city for employment. • Identify opportunities to create senior housing in a lifelong community setting that places senior housing and senior services in close proximity. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will accommodate our diverse population by encouraging a compatible mixture of housing types, densities and costs within the City. Strategy: Encourage a mix of housing types, densities and amenities appropriate for the development patterns of each character area to accommodate a mix of income and family needs. Strategy: Develop accessibility guidelines and policies for ADA accessible homes concept to accommodate full participation in housing choice by people with disabilities. Strategy: Promote policies that protect the existing low density, rural residential housing throughout the Birmingham, Central Milton, Arnold Mill, And Sweet Apple Character Areas of the City. Strategy: Promote policies that provide more housing choices, including apartments, town homes, condominiums and single family homes with smaller footprints on smaller lots in the Deerfield Character Area. Policy Objective 2: We will encourage development of housing opportunities that enable residents to have easier access to commercial services and employment opportunities. Strategy: Increase and expand mobility in neighborhoods with more barrier free bicycle, wheelchair and pedestrian options. Strategy: Construct more sidewalks or alternative pathways that connect homes to work and shopping facilities as well as parks/ gravel roads and institutional uses, as appropriate. Strategy: Integrate housing, transportation and land use plans to improve mobility to and from jobs and other primary destinations. Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 25Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Intergovernmental Coordination Multi-jurisdictional coordination provides partnership opportunities that more efficiently allocate public resources to accomplish the programs of the Community Agenda Comprehensive Plan. As a city, Milton has the opportunity to engage with the adjacent cities in Fulton County, but also has the benefit of working with established departments within Fulton County and regional and state entities that facilitate economic development, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure improvements. Issues • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • Local officials and/ or neighborhoods are resistant to new or innovative development ideas. Opportunities • The City should work with adjacent jurisdictions to adopt consistent design standards for new development that will promote community aesthetics and sustainability. • There is potential to form partnerships with adjacent jurisdictions in pursuit of LCI/ CID funds for Hwy 9 (SR 9), Windward Parkway, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Road (SR 140). • The City of Milton can help educate and leverage its unique characteristics for the benefit of the region and our citizens. • The City should coordinate with Forsyth County, Cherokee County, as well as Alpharetta and Roswell to ensure proper cross jurisdictional planning occurs and potential conflicts are resolved. • The North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan (NFCTP) was developed through coordination and cooperation of the cities of North Fulton County. This success should be leveraged for future transportation investments that benefit all North Fulton cities. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will proactively identify opportunities to share facilities and services with neighboring jurisdictions when they would be mutually beneficial. Policy Objective 2: We will initiate efforts to work with neighboring jurisdictions to develop shared solutions for regional issues (such as growth management, watershed protection, transportation solutions, etc.) Policy Objective 3: We will initiate efforts with neighboring jurisdictions to pursue joint processes for collaborative planning and decision-making. Policy Objective 4: We will consult with Fulton County and other public entities in our area when making decisions that are likely to impact them. Policy Objective 5: We will provide input to Fulton County and other public entities in our area when they are making decisions that are likely to have an impact on our community or our plans for future development. Policy Objective 6: We will engage in cooperative planning between the City of Milton, Fulton County, and Fulton County Public Schools in regard to the appropriate location and use of schools as community facilities, as well as needed transportation improvements to accommodate traffic to, from and around schools and improve opportunities for walking, biking, and other forms of alternative transport for individuals of all abilities. Policy Objective 3: We will encourage housing policies, choices and patterns that increase opportunities for people to move into affordable owner-occupied housing. Strategy: Encourage the completion of undeveloped parcels in existing subdivisions. Strategy: Identify opportunities for infill residential development in existing neighborhoods. Strategy: Assess community housing stock to accurately determine the current mix of residential uses and identify areas of need. Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201626 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Natural and Cultural Resources The City of Milton contains numerous examples of locally significant historic resources as well as environmentally sensitive areas, including lakes, streams, floodplains, and wetlands. In addition to those natural resources protected by state and local legislation, citizens have identified preservation of tree canopy and wildlife habitat as important priorities. All of these elements contribute to the rural character and rural lifestyle that plays a central role in community identity. Issues • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • Loss of tree canopy and specimen trees detracts from community aesthetics, threatens environmentally sensitive areas, and exacerbates heat-island effects experienced throughout the metropolitan area. • The effects of environmental pollution and contaminated properties compromise public health and welfare and should be mitigated. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. Opportunities • Development of Birmingham Park according to a master plan with sensitivity to the vision of Milton’s citizen expectations would provide active/ passive recreation and greenspace amenities for the city. • Development of Providence Park could create opportunities for active and passive recreation for citizens of all ages, lifestyles and abilities. • Give priority to the protection of environmentally sensitive areas with further compliance with state and federal environmental regulations and avoid detrimental actions to our natural ecosystem and costly fines and/ or penalties for lack of compliance. • The development of pocket parks in areas that are already established would enhance the community’s greenspace and provide recreational opportunities for its citizens. • Develop policy that would Continue to mitigate the loss of tree canopy and promote the protection of specimen trees and other urban forest resources. • Explore Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to preserve open space. • Revise the City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will encourage the preservation of natural resources areas and preserve contiguous green open spaces development of land in appropriate designated areas as development occurs. Strategy: Maintain density neutral development practices through innovative land development techniques, such as conservation subdivisions and Transfer of Development Rights. Strategy: Acquire conservation easements for the protection of environmental sensitive land. Strategy: Promote low impact site development that encourages maintaining the natural topography and existing vegetation on a site when feasible, and in some cases when required. Strategy: Encourage projects that project and/ or integrate the preservation of natural areas, stream corridors, and green space as amenities and required development. Policy Objective 2: We will encourage new development to locate in suitable locations close to transportation and infrastructure resources in order to project environmentally sensitive areas, agricultural lands, and valuable historic, archaeological or cultural resources from encroachment. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 27Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Cross check proposed development sites with inventories of existing natural, historic, archaeological and cultural resources to prevent encroachment on these sites. Strategy: Designate areas of value historic, archaeological, or cultural resources through the city’s historic preservation ordinance to mitigate impacts of new development. Strategy: Ensure development/ infill projects are consistent with land use policies and citizen wishes to protect and preserve low-density rural areas of Milton. Strategy: Work with public utilities to protect the rural viewshed and other natural and scenic views. Policy Objective 3: We will consider the potential impacts to air and water quality in making decisions on new developments and transportation improvements, and we will steer new development away from sensitive natural resource areas. Strategy: Encourage new development projects to commit to providing water, storm water, and air pollution control facilities that fully meet and exceed city standards. Strategy: Encourage changes to current codes that address air and water quality improvements and/ or which provide flexible design that results in a reductions of air or water quality impacts. Strategy: Encourage local governments and/ or local land trusts to acquire stream corridors along the Little River corridor and their tributaries to provide floodway protection, natural habitat corridors and passive recreation resources. Policy Objective 4: We will expand the identification, documentation, and protection of historic, cultural and archaeological resources in the city, and when possible encourage access by the public. Strategy: Review and refine existing inventories of historic, cultural and archaeological resources to include previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Collaborate with local and regional libraries and archives, as well as local historians and long-time residents, to document previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Ensure historic and cultural sites that are open to the public are barrier-free, ADA accessible venues. Strategy: Identify those elements of the rural landscape (i.e. specimen trees, tree canopies, woodlands, fences, hedgerows, structures, etc) that contribute to rural character and scenic viewsheds within the community. Policy Objective 5 We will promote the protection and maintenance of trees and contiguous green open space in new development. Strategy: Promote community awareness regarding the economic value and sustainability of green space preservation and maintenance of existing vegetative cover and protection of trees. Strategy: Promote design standards which prefer the retention of existing trees and tree coverage to new plantings. Strategy: Ensure existing tree canopy along scenic streets and other public rights of way are protected. Strategy: Increase setbacks and undisturbed buffers between roadways and developments including both residential and commercial. Policy Objective 6: We will protect ground and surface water sources to promote the maintenance of safe and adequate supplies of water. Strategy: Adopt the appropriate recommendations to protect existing water quality consistent with the City’s land use policies, and as recommended by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District, ARC Fulton County Water Resources that protect ground and stream water quality. Staff comment 7/13 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201628 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Strategy: Coordinate with Fulton County, Forsyth County, Cherokee County, and other local governments in implementing the three comprehensive plans adopted by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District to ensure adequate supplies of drinking water, protection of water quality, and minimized impacts of development on the District’s watersheds and downstream water quality. Strategy: Consider expansion of riparian buffers for sites affected by topography, soils, wetlands, or other conditions that may accelerate groundwater or surface water intrusion. Strategy: Coordinate programs of Fulton County Water Resources to conserve outdoor water use. Strategy: create and implement a septic tank maintenance program for the unsewered areas of Milton which are consistent with the lower density areas of the city. Economic Development A creative and innovative economic development agenda will have impacts on many community issues and opportunities. Commercial and professional employment opportunities will balance the City’s tax digest, alleviate commuting times as well as traffic congestion, and provide needed services to local residents. Encouraging commercial and professional development in Milton should also balance impacts on residential, rural and environmentally sensitive areas of the community. Issues • The city needs to pursue innovative economic development initiatives. • The city needs greater employment opportunities to serve local residents of Milton. • Future development plans need to include opportunities for greater commercial densities. Opportunities • The city should continue to promote the unique residential niche of low density development with high value properties that is found in Milton. • The city should promote the creation of economic development centers. • New developments can be mixed-used without necessarily being high-end. • Proactively work to educate the region and adjacent jurisdictions regarding the value that Milton’s unique characteristics bring to the entire region with respect to economic benefits. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will identify and put in place the requisites of the desired quality of life within our community and carefully consider costs as well as benefits in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Balance housing, transportation, infrastructure, resource protection and economic development considerations in decision making. Strategy: Utilize the unique economic assets of Milton to attract appropriate and sustainable economic activities that can be accommodated without changing the character of the City. Strategy: Encourage diversified economic development centers within mixed-use non-residential areas and balance commercial densities with local demand, being mindful of existing vacant commercial space as well as commercial density approved but not yet built. Strategy: Ensure the city’s economic development initiatives are fiscally sustainable and will enhance community revenues to support the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Implement use of a financial model as one criterion in decision making on economic development projects. Staff comment 6/27 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 29Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Policy Objective 2: We will support programs that retain, expand and create businesses that provide a good fit for our community’s economy in terms of job skills required and links to existing businesses to locate them appropriately within the City. Strategy: Support the existing agricultural and equestrian related economy of the city. Strategy: Support the development of small businesses within the community. Strategy: Support the growth of knowledge-based industries and office/professional uses in designated employment centers. Policy Objective 3: We will consider access and/or impacts to housing and transportation when considering economic development projects. Strategy: Support the use of planning studies, value studies, cost/ benefit studies and analyses of sustainability to identify cost effective projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of business and/ or commercial uses into established, stable residential areas. Embrace and protect defined geographic boundaries and defined density levels for specific areas including those with a master plan as well as other areas not yet planned. Strategy: Identify primary employment areas that motivate out-of-city commuting patterns and focus economic development initiatives to recruit those employment sectors to the city. Policy Objective 4: We will consider impacts on infrastructure and natural resources in our decision making on economic development projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of facilities and services to areas close to existing infrastructure before expanding into areas that require larger extensions and/ or greater costs. Strategy: Encourage adaptive reuse of existing facilities and infill development in established areas to accommodate new commercial enterprises where appropriate and consistent with the land use and infrastructure development policies and vision of the City of Milton. Policy Objective 5: We will consider employment needs and skill levels of our existing population in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Work with the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Cherokee and Forsyth Counties, the cities of Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, and other organizations to encourage expansion and retention of professional jobs within employment centers in the City of Milton and surround jurisdictions. Strategy: Encourage recruitment of individuals with disabilities for jobs in various employment sectors. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201630 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Financing Fiscal responsibility was reiterated throughout each step of the Comprehensive Plan process. The overwhelming response to the community’s initial public survey underscored a resistance to new taxes and a preference for creative alternatives to generate revenues needed for city improvements. Only a small percentage of survey respondents were willing to consider an annual tax increase. Of those, the amount specified as an acceptable increase was less than $100.00. However, a recent survey undertaken as a part of an upcoming referendum on a Greenspace Bond for the city of Milton suggested that the community was generally favorable to a potential $25 million bond to support greenspace acquisition. Issues • The high cost of providing public services and facilities for new development is a challenge for a new city. • The capacity of existing public facilities may need to be expanded to attract new development. • Financing can be difficult to obtain. • City revenues need to fund desired service levels without an increase in taxes on current residents. • Based on the limited financial analysis of this plan, it appears there would be a potential shortfall in revenue versus expenses as early as 2013. • The City lacks a long term capital plan. Opportunities • The city can explore innovative management and governance policies as a result of the lack of pre-existing bureaucratic commitments. • A financial planning model should be a tool to help evaluate planning alternatives and scenarios to ensure an optimized development plan • Opportunities for alternative sources of funding and revenues can enhance programs and projects and should be pursued. • Modifying expenses is another necessary approach in order to balance fiscal requirements. • The City should develop a five year capital spending plan that is “base-loaded” with those capital expenditures that are required to maintain the City’s assets and then identifies opportunities for growing or enhancing that asset base • Utilizing potential bond revenues for greenspace acquisition will help the City meet the needs of its citizens, now and in the future. Policies Objectives Policy Objective 1: We will be fiscally responsible by developing and maintaining a five-year capital spending plan that is updated annually as an integral part of our annual budget process. Strategy: Financial modeling capacity will be used by the city as a tool to proactively guide the City’s financial decisions in the future. Strategy: Alternative funding sources will be identified and aggressively pursued to support the City’s short and longer term capital requirements. Strategy: The City’s five year capital plan will be based on funding those expenditures that are needed to maintain the quality of life desired by our residents and only then funding those opportunities that provide enhancements as funds are available. Staff comment 7/13 Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 31Draft for Review 8.10.2016 The City of Milton maintains a Comprehensive Transportation Plan separate from its Comprehensive Plan or the North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan. The recommendations of the currently adopted plan are summarized here, and the plan in its entirety is incorporated herein by reference. At such a time as the newly updated Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan is adopted, current recommendations shall supersede. Goals Improve transportation network system level performance (level of service) with particular emphasis on the impacts of commuter/ “cut through” traffic and safety. • Provide specific paths for through commuters • Improve system for local trips • Improve and preserve existing levels of service • Identify high-accident locations and recommend improvements to achieve better safety • Improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists by upgrading facilities for alternative modes of transportation Maintain and Improve mobility and system performance through roadway improvements and alternative transportation improvements with specific consideration of transit investments appropriate to the community vision and multi-use paths serving cyclists, pedestrians, equestrian users, and those with disabilities including wheelchair access. • Identify bridges in need of maintenance or replacement • Provide maintenance recommendations for the existing roadway network • Identify intersections in need of operational and geometric enhancements to improve system performance • Identify multi-modal enhancements to increase alternative transportation options • Integrate the Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan with the Milton Trail Plan Protect and improve the environment, recognizing its contribution to community economic vitality and quality of life. • Promote conservation and minimize harmful impacts on the environment • Emphasize preservation of historic places Coordinate transportation investments with the comprehensive plan and land use policies ensuring creation of a “sense of place” (Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and the Highway 9 area) as well as barrier free connectivity to community assets such as schools, parks and recreation areas. • Coordinate with CPAC to achieve an integrated land use vision and plan • Preserve right-of-way for future facility improvements • Preserve historic places • Achieve a barrier-free transportation network Leverage regional cooperation and regional solutions to transportation issues, including coordination with surrounding jurisdictions, while maintaining the singularly unique character of the City of Milton. • Coordinate with nearby jurisdictions including Alpharetta, Roswell, Mountain Park, Cherokee County, and Forsyth County to create a continuous and well-thought out network • Coordinate with GDOT, MARTA, GRTA and ARC Recommended Corridor Improvements • Direct commuter traffic from Cherokee County to State Route 140/ Arnold Mill Road/ Hickory Flat Highway to GA 400 • Widen State Route 9/ Alpharetta Highway/ Cumming Highway • Widen sections of Holbrook Campground Road, Hopewell Road, and Hamby Road to State Route 9 Transportation and Mobility City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201632 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 • Widen School Drive to a four-lane section between Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road • Widen Morris Road to four lanes between Webb Road and McGinnis Ferry Road • Model Analysis of Corridor Improvements Recommended Intersection Improvements • Potential Locations for Roundabouts Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road Hopewell Road, Cogburn Road, and Francis Road Freemanville Road and Providence Road Bethany Road and Providence Road Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/ Hickory Flat Road Hopewell Road and Redd Road • Potential New Signal Locations Birmingham Road and Hopewell Road Strickland Road and Bethany Road (partially in Forsyth County) Bethany Bend and Morris Road/ McGinnis Ferry Road (partially in Forsyth County) Webb Road and Morris Road Morris Road and Deerfield Parkway • Other Potential Intersection Improvements Hopewell Road and Bethany Road Hopewell Road and Bethany Way Bethany Oaks Pointe and Hopewell Road Cogburn Road and Bethany Bend Batesville Road and Taylor Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Green Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Keyingham Way Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Bethany Bend Hopewell Road and Hamby Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Ranchette Road Crabapple Road/ Mayfield Road and Birmingham Highway/ Broadwell Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Webb Road • Intersections with Significant Improvements in Progress Birmingham Highway/ SR 372 and New Providence Road Arnold Mill/ SR 140 and New Providence Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR and Deerfield Parkway Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Cox Road • Bridge Improvements Landrum Road over Cooper Sandy Creek tributary Cogburn Road over Cooper Sandy Creek New Providence Road over Cooper Sandy Creek The Comprehensive Transportation Plan also includes recommendations for equestrian improvements, cyclist improvements, pedestrian improvements, transit improvements and improvements for persons with disabilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 33Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Potential Intersection Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 Potential Road Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201634 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Future Community Map & Narrative The Future Community Map along with the Future Land Use Map represents the City’s future development policy and will be used to guide City officials in land use decisions. The Future Development Community Map is a general illustration of development policy showing the City’s eight Character Areas as the base, and further identifies areas that require special attention for either rural preservation or economic development. Such areas are Gateways, Rural Viewsheds, Master Planned Areas, and Priority Master Planning Areas. The proposed city trail network is overlaid on the Future Community Map. These areas deserving special classifications will be discussed in more detail below. The Future Land Use Map is a more specific illustration of development policy showing allowable land uses for each parcel and this will be discussed in more detail in the Future Land Use and Supporting Narrative section. Future Community Map, Milton, Georgia k k k k k k k k k k k kk k k [ Legend k Gateway Locations Roads Sidewalk Trails Planned Trails Existing Trail Plan Rural Viewshed Milton Master Planned Areas Priority Master Planning Areas Milton Character Areas Arnold Mill Bethany Birmingham Central Milton Crabapple Deerfield Milton Lakes Sweetapple The Future Development Map also identifies community facilities such as schools, churches, parks, and fire stations. The current City Hall is identified, as well as sites of cultural significance such as cemeteries. Environmentally sensitive areas including floodplains, streams and lakes are identified, and the proposed city trail networks is overlaid on top of existing transportation networks. Areas with concentrations of equestrian estates were highlighted, though not every horse farm was noted on the map. Staff comment 6/27 Map updated 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 35Draft for Review 8.10.2016 The areas identified as requiring special attention for rural preservation and/or economic development are: Gateways: Gateways are important identifiers that distinguish the community from all others. Having a distinguished community lends itself to niche marketing for economic development purposes. The community expressed a desire for the city’s branding efforts to be carried out at key entry points into the city by posting “Welcome to Milton” signage accompanied by specific landscaping The gateways into the city of Milton are identified on the Future Development Community Map at principle roads leading into the community, including • Arnold Mill Road/SR 140 (North and South points with the city limits? • Batesville Road • Hickory Flat Road at the Cherokee County line • Birmingham Highway (SR 372) at the Cherokee County line • Crabapple Road (SR 372) at Green Road • Cogburn Road (North and South points within the city limits) • Hamby Road • Francis Road at the Forsyth County line • Hwy 9 (North and South points within the city limits) • McGinnis Ferry Road • Deerfield Pkwy at Windward Parkway • Hopewell Road • Broadwell Road • Bethany Road at Mayfield Road In 2010 Milton received a recommendation for grant funding from the GA Department of Transportation’s GATEway grant program. The grant program offers grants for communities to enhance and beautify roadways (state routes) at gateway points. Milton applied for Hwy 9(SR 9) at the Forsyth County line, Hwy 9 at Webb Road, Birmingham Hwy (SR 372) at the Cherokee County line, and Crabapple Road (SR 372) at Green Road. Plans are set to install signs and landscaping in Spring 2011. The other gateway points along local roads will be funded through the City’s General Fund. Rural Viewsheds The rural viewshed refers to the characteristic pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Rural viewsheds contribute to the rural character and sense of place and the city of Milton. The bucolic scenic qualities of many of Milton’s roads are considered to be character defining features within several of the larger character areas, and concerns have been expressed about maintaining and preserving these viewsheds and cherished characteristic of Milton. The Future Development Community Map identified the road that should be considered for protection as rural viewsheds. Ideas about a context sensitive design standards overlay, as well as placing potential value as sending areas for a Transfer of Development Rights program, have been discussed as tools that can be used along these identified rural viewsheds to protect their rural character. These are priority areas for resource surveys and development of design guidelines and buffers as part of a larger program to mitigate development pressures along the rural roadways. Master Planned Areas There are three areas identified on the Future Community Map that are referred to as future development Master Planned Areas. They are Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and Deerfield/ Highway 9. The development of these areas proceeded after a Master Plan was done - Crabapple Crossroads Plan in 2003; Birmingham Crossroads Plan in 2004; and Highway 9 in 2012. In addition to a Master Plan, these areas may be governed by overlay zoning districts as well as a city-wide zoning overlay district. The Master Plans provide aesthetic and design controls that cover the build out of the existing areas within their plan boundaries. Non-residential development should be concentrated within these areas according to the specifications of their Master Plans and zoning controls. The Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is defined as the area at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/Hickory Flat Road. At this writing The Birmingham Crossroads has not built out to the limits of the City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201636 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Master Plan and the surrounding area has not been a source of development pressure, or brought unmanageable traffic volume to the area. The existing Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is still viable for its continued growth as defined in the master plan. The Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan boundary is significantly larger and located at the intersection of Crabapple Road, Birmingham Highway, Mayfield Road, Mid-Broadwell Road and Broadwell Road. At this writing, there have been several discussions among community members, community leaders, the business community and councilmembers about the status and future of Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan. The sentiment at these discussions has been that development pressure from its surrounding area, the overwhelming traffic volume through the area, and the current square footage limitations in the plan and the deviations from the plan prior to incorporation. This plan recommends the revision of the Crabapple Master Plan as a short term work program item to be done within the next twelve to eighteen months. With the revision of Crabapple Master Plan, the area may be considered as a receiving area for a possible Transfer of Development Rights program. Since the city’s first comprehensive plan, the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan has been adopted as an LCI study with an extensive analysis of exisitng land use, zoning urban design, historic resources, environmental and open space resources, and public facilities. The plan also provides a number of recommendations for transportation, open space and ongoing or future projects in the study area. Crabapple will be the location of the city’s future city hall, currently under development, and is a receiving area for Transfer of Development Rights. The Crabapple Form Based Code specifies the regulating plans, public building standards, lot and building plans, and other development standards that projects within the receiving zone must adhere to in order to create a cohesive and attractive community that respects pedestrians and the spatial form of public places. The Master Plan should avoid strip commercial development, such as the pattern of most of Hwy 9. Non-residential development should be clustered in sections along the roadway and emphasis should be placed on preserving open space, rural viewsheds, and protecting environmentally sensitive features. If more than one development cluster is formed along this road way, they should respect the rural viewshed and be seperated by areas of open space and/or attractive rural-residential development. During the Master Planning process, the area will be thoroughly studied to determine the appropriate land uses. The comprehensive future land use map in this document does not forecast the future land uses for this area, but will be amended to reflect the determination of the master plan. Though the lack of non-residential zoning or future land use classifications will help mitigate the demand for commercial uses along Arnold Mill Road (SR 140) at this time, it is recommended that the master planning get underway ahead of any development pressure; and give ample time to be considered as a receiving area for a possible Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) program. TDR’s should be aggressively pursued following the adoption of a master plan before any commercial nodes are considered or allowed to develop so as to ensure the protection of more rural areas in Milton. Also, proactively approach the City of Roswell given the shared territory along Arnold Mill Road (SR 140). The Deerfield/ Hwy 9 area has developed a concentration of commercial and service uses for the City of Milton. Though the area is subject to a zoning overlay district that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements, the community has expressed the desire to develop a full Master Plan and Market Study for the area similar to those for Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The Master Plan should ensure that the area remains economically viable, avoids unattractive strip development and recruits businesses and services that will benefit the city of Milton while being sensitive to the many residents that live in that area. The Highway 9/ GA 400 Area Master Plan was prepared in 2012. The study provides a clear, comprehensive picture of the area of study to guide future development. It includes recommendations for zoning, public improvement projects, and funding. The report includes an inventory and assessment of existing conditions, a concept plan that provides more detail on proposed initiatives, and an action plan to facilitate plan implementation. Unlike Arnold Mill, Hwy 9 has commercial zoning in place that would allow new development and redevelopment to occur. This allows Hwy 9 to be vulnerable to unplanned development. Realizing this threat, the master planning of Hwy 9 is considered a high priority and is designated as a Priority Master Planning Area on the Future Development Map. Regardless, any development project posed in the area prior to the completion of the master planning will be scrutinized for compliance with goals and policies of this document. As an area identified for future development, the master plan should consider the Hwy 9 area as a recieving area for a possible Transfer of Development Rights program that should be pursued in the short term. During the Master Planning process, the area will be thoroughly studied to determine the appropriate land uses and suggest any amendments to the comprehensive future land use map in this document. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 37Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Priority Master Planning Area Arnold Mill Road (SR 140) (also designated as a rural viewshed) is an area of limited development with mostly rural residential and agricultural uses. However, community feedback identified it as an area that could potentially accommodate the development of limited non-residential uses at some point in the future (possibly beyond the 20 year scope of this plan). The zoning and future land use classifications for this area are predominantly residential, though the area is subject to a zoning overlay that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements for any new non-residential development. The community has expressed a desire to develop a Master Plan for the area similar to those for the Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The City of Milton and the Atlanta Regional Commission undertook an Arnold Mill Road Visioning Study in May 2014. This study consists of an analysis of and recommendations for the portion of Arnold Mill Road within the City of Milton. The plan provides background and contextual information about the area through analysis of existing plans, a traffic analysis, and an evaluation of recreational land through the corridor. Recommendations for the area are categorized into two groups - 1) Land Use & Design and 2)Transportation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201638 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Character Area Map Narrative The following narratives were developed for each of these eight Character Areas, including development patterns, appropriate zoning districts and land use classifications. A summary of appropriate implementation measures for each Character Area also follows each of the narratives. Character Area Map, Milton, Georgia Quality Community Objectives are no longer required and have been removed from each section City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 39Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Birmingham Birmingham displays the rich, rural nature of the City of Milton. Located in the northwest portion of the City of Milton, this Character Area is dominated by horse farms, pastures and woodlands. Other uses include large estates, residential lots and large land holdings. There are undeveloped natural areas and environmentally sensitive steep slopes in areas such as Pritchard Mountain. In addition, at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road is the Birmingham Crossroads, which is a rural, mixed use village. This limited rural-style village that includes commercial activities and limited residential use was comprehensively planned for 27.1 acre parcel that covers the four corners at this intersection. Birmingham Crossroads provides a sense of place as well as services to residents in the Birmingham Character Area. There are several active farms near Mountain Road with cattle pastures and chicken houses located along the Cherokee County border. Many of the roads, including Hickory Flat/ Birmingham Road, Mountain Road, and Freemanville Road provide scenic and linear greenspace corridors. Also, the largest park in the City of Milton is located in this area – 200 acre Birmingham Park. Currently, this park is undeveloped and has limited access. The terrain is rolling and includes both floodplain and steep slopes along the Little River. This parkland includes beautiful viewsheds, woodlands, specimen trees and some endangered flora and fauna. This park needs to have a unique approach to take in its design and development to protect the special characteristics of this land. There are several institutional uses including schools and places of worship in the Birmingham Character Area. The Birmingham Character Area also included gravel roads, waterways, woodlands, specimen trees, historic areas and structures. Development Patterns in this Area Birmingham Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of mixed use village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space. Buildings are and should be architecturally integrated with the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center. But, this activity center should nonetheless retain a pedestrian friendly environment. Birmingham Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Any additional non-residential development within the Birmingham Character Area should be limited to the boundaries of Birmingham Crossroads as defined in the master plan for that area. A continued focus on strong development and design standards, including context sensitive transportation considerations, remain essential as do the protection of specimen trees, tree coverage, and the overall unique setting in which this rural village co-exists. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201640 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Birmingham includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Active agricultural and equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (1 unit/ acre or less)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Living Working/ Mixed Use AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Birmingham Crossroads Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 41Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Arnold Mill This Character Area serves as one of the gateways into the City. State Route 140 is now a two-lane route that provides access from Cherokee County across the Little River into Milton, Alpharetta and Roswell. It is anticipated that this will become a four- lane route during the span of this plan. The Milton Transportation Plan, however, makes it clear that any future widening of this roadway should be done with context-sensitive design. The Character Area includes several large properties, but the nature of the area changes as it approaches the Crabapple Silos area. The southern portion of the area includes a difficult angles intersection with New Providence Road, and is adjacent to the relatively densely developed residential subdivisions located along Green Road. Also, Chadwick Landfill is located in this character area. There is only so much capacity left in the landfill and there needs to be proactive plans for this land once that capacity is met so that the area can become a community asset. Development Patterns in this Area • The area along SR 140/Arnold Mill Road is typical of the rural, low density character of Milton. Future development within this character area should respect existing rural character and rural-residential development predominant in its adjacent character areas, Sweet Apple and Central Milton. • SR 140/Arnold Mill Road should include some mixed use development along its travel from Cherokee County to the Silos, but should avoid strip commercial development. Clustering higher density, predominantly non-residential development intermittently along the corridor preserves open space and protects environmentally sensitive features. If more than one commercial area is developed along this corridor, they should be separated by areas of open space and/or attractive rural-residential development. • Development should be tied to a Master Plan with specific boundaries, design specifications, and allowable uses, similar to Crabapple Crossroads or Birmingham Crossroads including historic preservation, tree save of woodlands and specimen trees, viewsheds and buffers transitioning from higher density areas back to residential and agricultural settings. • Planning for development along Arnold Mill/SR-140 must involve the City of Roswell given that parts of Arnold Mill are adjacent to the City of Roswell. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201642 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR1) R1, R2 Residential Medium (MDR2 R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR3) R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Retail and Service C1 Rural Milton Overlay District Arnold Mill Overlay (Master Plan) Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 43Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Central Milton This is the largest character area in Milton, dominated by residential subdivisions with large lots in excess of 1 acre, some of the most expansive in the city. These high value residential developments with very large houses are anchored by golf courses and other private amenities such as swim and tennis. Many were developed in the 1990s and with similar lot sizes, have created a uniform overall density in the area. Even with the existing development, this area has retained much of the rural characteristics of the City of Milton. Along with the many subdivisions within this area, it is also characterized by several large properties. In addition, many of the roads provide scenic and linear green space corridors such as Birmingham Highway, Freemanville Road, Thompson Road and Hopewell Road. Most of these scenic corridors include rural home sites, horse farms, wetland crossings and access to country clubs, equestrian facilities and more open space. The visual aesthetics of this Character Area should be maintained even as residential development continues. Development Patterns in this Area Central Milton includes areas that are typical of the city’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. Newer developments with private recreational amenities have integrated with older, established open road neighborhoods. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. New development should incorporate elements that enhance connectivity to the proposed Milton trail system and other alternative modes of transportation. Residential developments should consider clustering to maintain scenic, linear green space without increasing overall residential density.Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201644 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Rural Milton Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 45Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Deerfield One of the Deerfield Character Area’s primary assets is its location adjacent to Georgia 400, a limited access expressway, its proximity to the Windward Parkway interchange in Alpharetta and to Forsyth County. This character area represents a quality of life that embraces the concept of “live, work, play.” It is characterized by a mixture of higher density residential, commercial and office uses. The retail and commercial uses along Highway 9, the office uses along Deerfield Parkway and the numerous apartment units located south of Bethany make this Character Area one of the main activity centers for the City of Milton. There are also several single family subdivision and townhouse developments located within this area. The properties along both sides of Deerfield Road and Morris Road provide a campus- style employment center and office park. A significant amount of space in this area has been developed and is available for lease. This area provides a strong and realistic opportunity for mixed uses at a regional scale in association with nearby development in Alpharetta and with Forsyth County in conjunction with the possible creation of McGinnis Ferry Road interchange on GA 400. The City of Milton recognizes the development pressure that this character area faces. In anticipation of the major growth projected for this area, the city is taking a proactive approach to prevent or mitigate the ill effects of unmanaged growth by designating the area along Highway 9 and Bethany Bend as a Priority Master Planned Area. This designation indicates that a detailed master plan of the area has been completed, and this plan will guide the future growth and development in the area. Development Patterns in this Area: • Creating a Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Road Bend is a high priority for the community. And it is strongly recommended that Development should occur in this area only after the Master Plan has been adopted that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • The existing patterns of mixed-use development within this Character Area should be encouraged and expanded. There are a limited number of undeveloped parcels, but there nonetheless are opportunities for redevelopment along the Highway 9 corridor and within the Deerfield Character Area. • New non-residential development should adhere to the Highway 9 Overlay District regulations and the Highway 9 Design Guidelines, where innovative design elements such as locating parking to the rear, limiting signage and incorporating street trees and pedestrian amenities are encouraged. To mitigate overdevelopment of parking areas, new parking should only be developed in areas where shared parking or existing parking is not an option. If necessary, new parking should utilize permeable Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201646 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 paving alternatives and landscaping to mitigate the deleterious effects of stormwater run-off, heat islands and other environmental considerations. • To further the demand for employment, opportunities in proximity to residential development in the city of Milton, redevelopment of the Deerfield Character Area should encourage professional uses and office space in addition to expanding existing commercial and service sectors. • The majority of higher density residential development is currently within or adjacent to the Deerfield Character Area, and new development in this Character Area should continue to reflect traditional neighborhood design principles, such as smaller lots, mix of housing types, access to pocket parks and pedestrian access to commercial services and community amenities. Preservation of environmentally sensitive areas by setting them aside as public parks, trails, or greenbelts should be encouraged. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 47Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201648 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 This area is made up of a variety of subdivisions developed in the 1990s and early 2000s. These neighborhoods are stable with a mixture of lot sizes and open space. Although this area is located in close proximity to commercial activity centers in both the City of Milton and Forsyth County, Bethany is unique in that it also retains some private amenities provided within these residential subdivisions such as the golf course adjacent to the Crooked Creek subdivision. Development Patterns in this Area • The predominant land use of the Bethany Character Area should remain residential. Given its proximity to the Deerfield Character Area and small pockets of non- residential zoning, there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. but this should be strictly limited The expansion of non-residential development should be limited to the boudaries established in the form-based code that governs development of this area. Preservation of the existing residential neighborhoods is the priority. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be avoided, and new residential development should match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • The Highway 9 Corridor, which extends through both the Deerfield and Bethany Character Areas, has been identified as a corridor in need of a Master Plan. Creating a Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor is a high priority for the community, and development is only encouraged in this area after the Master Plan has been adopted. Development along Highway 9 in the Bethany area should respect the unique character of Bethany and should be distinct from, but compatible with, development along Highway 9 in the Deerfield Character Area. Development in close proximity to the new Fulton County high school should be done in a way that ensures appropriate transition between residentially zoned land and higher density uses. • Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Road Bend is a high priority for the community. Development should occur in this area that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • Development along Highway 9 in the Bethany area should respect the unique character of Bethany and should be distinct from, but compatible with, development along Highway 9 in the Deerfield Character Area. Development in close proximity to Cambridge High School should be done in a way that ensures appropriate transition between residentially zoned land and higher density uses. Bethany Staff comment 6/27 CPAC comment 7/21 CPAC comment 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 49Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Private Recreation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201650 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Non-residential development in Bethany is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 51Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Crabapple The Character Area has seen intense mixed use development at the crossroad of Crabapple Road and Birmingham Highway with low density residential development radiating outside of the core. There are at least two 1-acre lot subdivsions located in the Crabapple character area. In addition, within Crabapple there are several institutional uses- including schools and places of worship. Crabapple represents a unique rural based village center and lends itself to becoming the “City Center” for Milton. Crabapple has the highest concentration of historic resources of any character area in Milton. Development Patterns in this Area Crabapple Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space and rural residential development. Buildings will be architecturally integrated within the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center, but will nonetheless promote pedestrian friendliness. Uses may include a mix of residential, commercial and community facilities. Crabapple Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Crabapple includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/ agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201652 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 53Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201654 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Milton Lakes This area represents a variety of neighborhoods in the southernmost portion of the City, bordering the City of Alpharetta. There are environmentally sensitive areas such as several water bodies and floodplain. The major corridors are Hopewell Road and Cogburn Road. These corridors include mostly suburban neighborhoods developed in the late 1990s with a mixture of lot sizes. Included in this area is Providence Park. There are several institutional uses such as places of worship, schools, and the site of the new high school at the intersection of Bethany Bend and Cogburn Road. Development Patterns in the Area • This area reflects the rural-residential development pattern typical of much of the city, but its access to limited sewer connections as well as its proximity to commercial zoning and institutional uses within the area suggest it may be appropriate for a live-work pattern of development. The intensity to which the live- work concept has been developed within the Deerfield Character Area would not be suitable for Milton Lakes, and unlike Crabapple or Birmingham, there is no identifiable “crossroads community” to anchor a mixed use development. The possibility of sprawling patterns of development exists in this area, and mitigation against this should be a priority. • The predominant land use of the Milton Lakes Character Area should remain residential, even though there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be minimized, and new residential development should primarily match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • Development should be well designed and blend into existing neighborhoods and buffers should separate more intense areas of development from nearby neighborhoods or other lower intensity areas. New development on the edge of urbanized areas should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding residential uses. • The Milton Lakes character area contains a diversity of residential lot sizes, and future residential development should reflect an average of the current diversity of densities and housing patterns. Enhancements such as a scenic corridor overlays and bicycle and pedestrian trail options may augment existing development and mitigate the effects of sprawling development. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 55Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts in this Area Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG2, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District Rural Milton Overlay District Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201656 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Non-residential development in Milton Lakes is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 57Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Sweet Apple Sweet Apple is made up of two areas located in the southwest portion of the City of Milton, bounded by the City of Roswell on three sides (north, south, and to the west). Horse farms, pastures and woodlands dominate this Character Area. Two of the equestrian estates in the City are located in this area as well as Georgia Golf Center – a golf practice facility driving range, Other uses include churches, estate residential, large rural sites and pleasant pastoral views. Development Patterns in this Area The Sweet Apple character area is typical of Milton’s agricultural and rural-residential pattern of development. It is dominated by its rural character and equestrian uses, but is unique in that it is virtually surrounded by land within the city of Roswell, outside of Milton’s jurisdiction. The land use patterns in this area may be impacted by land use decisions within the City of Roswell, as well as the potential development of SR 140, Arnold Mill Road, but care should be taken to protect the existing uses and rural character on the urban/rural fringe. Economically viable agriculture uses, such as forestry and equestrian facilities, can be sustained in this area with the assistance of preferential taxation programs. Estate residential uses with limited hobby agricultural will also preserve the pastoral character of the area. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201658 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR) AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 59Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Future Land Use Map & Narrative The Future Land Use Map is a parcel-based map that identifies land use patterns using standard categories, such as Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Public/ Institutional, etc. The land use designation for a particular parcel of land represents the City’s official policy for the recommended future development of that parcel over the next 20 years. The Future Land Use Map shows the land use designations of all the parcels of land within the City of Milton, and this map will continue to guide future development and be an important tool in making zoning decisions. A detailed description of each future land use classification is below. There are eleven thirteen land use designations recognized and portrayed on the City’s future land use map. They are: • Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) • Low Density Residential (LDR) • Medium Density Residential 1-3 (MDR 1-3) • High Density Residential1-2 (HDR 1-2) • Multi-Family Residential (MFR) • Retail and Services (RS) • Office (O) • Community Facilities (CF) • Private Recreation (PR) • Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) • Mixed Use/ Living Working (MLW) Land Use relates to zoning in that the zoning should be compatible with the land use designation (see compatibility chart). Each land use designation is more generalized than any individual zoning district and may be considered to be compatible with several zoning districts. Since land use is more general and less specific, there are more zoning classifications than land use designations. Zoning is a very specific means of regulating property as compared to land use designation. The land use map and policies guide the land use pattern of the city in general, while the zoning districts impose specific controls and permissions on property. Two areas of the City - Crabapple and Deerfield - are controlled through form based codes. Form based codes use transect zones to govern land use and zoning as a combined mechanim to guide development of an area. The Transect Zone Descriptions for Crabapple and Deerfield are also included in this section for reference. Staff comment 7/20 Staff revision 7/29 Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201660 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Residential Residential uses include all properties where the principal structures are designed for human habitation. Several residential categories, listed below, are shown on the Land Use Map. The categories show the recommended minimum densities per acre, based on the smallest lot size. Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) – This category consists of scattered single-family homes, each one at least one acre, but are typically on several acres. This land use promotes hobby farms, equestrian facilities, and large lot residential estates includes minimum 3 acre lots on gravel roads. Low Density Residential (LDR) – This residential category consists of one single-family home on at least one acre (minimum 1.0 acre lots). Medium Density Residential (MDR) – There are three MDR categories. • MDR-(1): Up to 1.5 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.75 acre lots) • MDR-(2): Up to 2 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.5 acre lots) • MDR-(3): Up to 3 units per acre (1/3 acre lots or minimum 0.333 acre lots) High Density Residential (HDR) – There are two HDR categories. • HDR-(1): 3 to 5 units per acre (0.32 acre lots to 0.2 acre lots) • HDR-(2): 5 or more units per acre (0.19 or smaller acre lots) Multifamily Residential (MFR) – This residential category consists of five or more residential units per acre. This could be single family homes, duplexes, townhomes, and low to moderate density apartments. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Low Density Residential (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-2)RI, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-3)R1,R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Multifamily Residential R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A Staff Revised 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 61Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Commercial & Mixed Use Retail, services and offices are appropriate uses in this category. Retail and Service (RS) - Retail, service and office uses are appropriate uses in this category. These uses may be located in a single building or as part of a shopping center. Office (O) – Office uses are appropriate for this category – The office uses may be in single office buildings as well as office parks. Mixed Use/ Live Work (MLW) – The purpose of the Mixed Use/ Live Work land use district is to allow an appropriate and balanced mix of uses to create a living, working environment at a scale and character that is compatible with its surrounding community. Mixed Use/ Live Work areas will be activity centers where the community can live, work, shop, meet and play. These areas should be compact, pedestrian oriented, with a mix of office, commercial and residential uses and incorporate open space. This will result in the protection of environmental resources, accessible open space, a balance of all modes of transportation, housing choices and civic interaction. Detailed development standards are outlined below. Density will be defined by the specific zoning conditions or overlay district as applicable. Land Use • Live Work land uses should have a compatible mix of office, commercial, services, institutional, civic and residential uses. These should be integrated both vertically and horizontally. The uses within the Live Work areas should be in proximity to each other in order to encourage walking and to increase mobility to those who do not drive, especially the elderly and the young. Within the Live Work land use there should be transition of land uses, height and density. The Live Work land use should also serve the adjacent community. • Live Work areas should have an integrated transportation system. The transportation system should provide connectivity within the node and to and from the surround community. The transportation system should incorporate automobile, transit when available, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The streets should form an interconnected transportation network. This street network will create options, improve access and mobility, shorten auto trips and reduce congestion. Interconnected networks and should be designed to promote walking, biking, and transit usage where present. The pedestrian and bicycle facilities should facilitate safe, attractive and convenient pedestrian and bicycle circulation and minimize conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. Open Space • A range of parks and open space, from village greens to active recreation and passive open space, should be distributed throughout the Live Work district. Open space should be centrally located and accessible for the enjoyment of residents and workers. Open space and parks could be used to define and connect neighborhoods and uses. Environmentally sensitive areas should be protected and their fragmentation should be avoided. At least 20% of development should be set aside as open space. Housing • Live Work areas should have a diversity of housing types to meet the needs of the workforce and city residents. General • 20% of the project shall be comprised of open space of which the community gathering space is a part. • Projects that are 15 acres or less shall have two uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Projects that are 15 acres or more shall have three uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Live Work projects shall provide a balance of uses with a minimum of 20% of each of the uses on the site and/ or in the area. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Retail and Service MIX, C1, C2 Office OI, MIX, M1-A Mixed Use/ Live Work AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201662 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Public & Recreational Community Facilities (CF) – This land use includes public uses such as community centers, government facilities such as senior centers, health centers, fire and police stations, libraries, government centers, and schools, semi-public uses such as churches and cemeteries and institutional uses such as hospitals. Private Recreation (PR) – Privately owned recreational facilities such as golf courses and common open spaces are included in this land use. Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) – This includes parks, open space and recreational facilities owned by public entities. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 63Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Compatibility Chart Land Use Designation Zoning Classifications AG1R1R2R2AR3R3AR4R4AR5R5ATRACUPNUPOIMIXC1C2M1M2M1ARetail & Service Office Mixed Use/ Live Work Community Facilities Private Recreation Parks, Recreation, Conservation Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential 1 Medium Density Residential 2 Medium Density Residential 3 High Density Residential 1 High Density Residential 2 Multi-family Residential City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201664 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 65Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201666 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Future Land Use Map Implementation Measures section deleted- not required Staff Revised 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 67Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Key to Terminology: Items that are Completed have been finished within the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Underway have been initiated or have had partial progress made as of the end of the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. They have been carried over into the new 5-year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Postponed are still priorities for the community, and have been carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Cancelled will not be carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Generally, these are items that are broad policy statements or routine city operations, and they have been identified appropriately as such. Report of Accomplishments Project #Project Description Status Notes Economic Development ED1 Economic Development Plan to attract businesses to Milton; including agricultural and equestrian economic development Underway The policy to maintain Milton’s agricultural and equestrian heritage has been upheld in cases before council, which shows its commitment to attracting agri/equestrian businesses. ED2 Create an information database of economic development resources include a list of vacant buildings and available commercial properties that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed A list of vacant/undeveloped parcels available for development is maintained in the GIS system. The city also has access to a database called CoStar that reports vacant retail and commercial property as requested ED3 Evaluate tax implications for prospective businesses Cancelled Revised in the updated STWP ED4 Evaluate business license requirements and fees for Milton as compared with adjacent jurisdictions to insure that rates are competitive and will encourage new businesses to locate inside the city Postponed Milton looked at its business licence fee structure in 2011 and determined to keep the existing structure at that time. This function was moved to the finance department and is planned to be reviewed with a new fee structure implemented in time for the 2017 business license renewal period ED5 Encourage the Expansion of the North Fulton CID to include Deerfield and along Hwy 9 Underway Work is being done to encourage businessed to join the North Fulton CID to facilitate the expansion Natural and Cultural Resources City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201668 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes NRC1 Create an historic zoning code Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC2 Develop and implement Design Standards for historic properties Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC3 Pursue grant funding from GA Forestry Commission to conduct a Tree Canopy Study to establish a baseline for tree preservation Completed GA Forestry grant Milton $20,000 in 2011 to conduct a Forestry master plan and tree inventory and canopy study, completed in 2012 NRC4 Implement an inventory of current street trees within key areas of Milton, such as Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Highway, and Highway 9 Corridor that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed This was done as part of the Forest Management Plan NRC5 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of wetlands Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC6 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of areas with steep slopes Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC7 Study potential greenway and greensapce protection through easements, land trusts, etc.Completed Conservation Plan 2014 NRC8 Create ordinance to support the creation of green infrastructure Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC9 Adopt DNR Part 5 Criteria 4: Groundwater Recharge Areas and Wetlands Protection Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) Facilities and Services Parks and Recreation FS1 Parks and Recreation 15-year Comprehensive Plan Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS2 Complete a Greenprint Plan to identify key elements of Milton’s green infrastructure and identify mechanisms and recommendations for its acquisition, preservation and community use Completed Conservation Plan 2014 FS3 Revise the Birmingham Park Master Plan Completed This was looked at and reported on in the Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS4 Trail Plan Update Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS5 Trail Plan Implementation Underway This wll be ongoing for the next 20 years FS6 Crabapple Crossing Park Partnership Completed Friendship Park was opened in 2012 FS7 Crabapple Community Center/ Park Completed This is now the Broadwell Pavilion opened in 2015 FS8 Bell Memorial Park Improvements Completed completed in 2015 FS9 Bethwell Community Center & Park Completed completed in 2011 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 69Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS10 Hopewell Middle School/ Cogburn Woods and Birmingham Fall Elementary School and Northwestern Middle School Improvements Completed The projects at Hopewell MS, Cogburn Woods and Birmingham ES were done in 2012. The Northwestern MS improvments were done in 2015 FS11 Park Sign Program Underway Portions of this program have been completed. FS12 Land Acquisition/ Site Improvements Completed Land was acquired for the expansion of Bell Memorial Park in 2012 and Providence Park was acquired in 2015 FS13 Identify and Create Pocket parks in the Bethany, Deerfield, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Character Areas consistent with the future Master Plans of the Character Areas Completed Friendship Park and the Broadwell Pavilion were created in Crabapple; and Freedom Park was created in the Deerfield and Bethany areas. The Arnold Mill Plan identifies the Chadwick Landfill as a future park site FS14 Create a Master Plan for Providence Park and implement construction per the Master Plan recommendations Underway The Park land became available for acquisition in 2015. The park is scheduled to open to the public October 2016. After at leaset six months of public use, the city will engage teh community in thinking about a master plan for the park in 2017 FS15 Pursue LCI grant funding for Hwy 9 Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI FS16 Pursue LCI grant funding for Crabapple Town Center Completed FS17 Pursue LCI grant funding for Windward Parkway/ Deerfield with Alpharetta and North Fulton CID Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI. It included Windward Parkway with Alpharetta FS18 Pursue certification through the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Green Communities program working with the Milton Grows Green Communities (MGG) Completed Achieved Bronze level certification FS19 Gateway Grant Program Completed Police FS20 Improve current training curriculum options for city police officers Completed FS21 Improve reporting software for police department Completed FS22 Plan the location for police stations to maintain adequate service coverage through the city. Also applies to Fire Department Underway The location analysis has been done for a public Safety complex. The property site has been idenified and purchased. Architectral and space planning is underway, and the buildings are expected to be completed in 2019 Fire FS23 Improve current training curriculum options for city fire personnel Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS24 Expand EMS service to Advanced Life Support (ALS)Completed City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201670 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS25 Continue to expand the large animal rescue program Completed FS25 Continue renovations to Station 41 Completed FS27 Plan the location for fire stations to maintain adequate service coverage throughout the city. Also applies to police department Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program Public Works FS28 Continue to make improvements to the city Maintenance Facility Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS29 Develop and implement a stormwater management plan for Bell Memorial Park Completed Administration FS30 City Hall Underway A new City Hall is being constructed in Crabapple. Completion date is estimated to be 2017. FS31 Sponsor recycling education programs and increase opportunities for curbside recycling options Underway Housing H1 Undertake a city wide housing survey to determine the existing diversity of housing types, sizes, and values throughout Milton Completed This information was gathered census data and ongoing building permits H2 Ordinances for New Subdivisions Completed Amendments to the subdivision ordinance was proposed in 2015, but failed due to lack of community support H3 Develop Creative Design Guidelines for higher density housing Completed The Form Based Codes were implemented in areas that would allow higher density housing. A City Achitect was hired to review and suggest better design for these housing options Land Use and Development Controls LUDC1 Review and evaluate city wide buffer requirements and establish alternative requirements as needed to mitigate incompatibilities of adjacent land uses and to protect viewsheds Completed The buffer requirements were evaluated and no additional or increased buffers were implemented LUDC2 Agricultural/ Equestrian incentive land uses and zoning. Review and evaluate the standards of the Northwest Fulton Zoning Overlay and the AG-1 Zoning District to ensure protection of residential uses, traditional agriculture, and equestrian uses. Assemble a committee of citizens and stakeholders to discuss alternatives and make recommendations for improvements Completed The study led to the new Rural Milton Overlay that replaced the Northwest Fulton Overlay. Other incentives include the TDR program. Continued research is programed for 2017 thru 2018 LUDC3 Adopt Development Regulations - Unified Development Code Postponed This project was re-evaluated and re- assigned to 2018 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 71Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes LUDC4 Create a Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor, including visual design standards Completed This area has Form Based Code zoning with architectural review LUDC5 Create a Master Plan for the SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road Corridor, including visual design standards collaborating with the City of Roswell Completed This was done in 2014 LUDC6 Prepare a Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) ordinance or appropriate Form Based Code Completed LUDC7 Develop Rural Viewshed Districts Completed The comprehensive plan’s future community map shows the Rural Viewshed designated areas LUDC8 Establish a Green Building Ordinance Completed Adopted in 2012 LUDC9 Establish a Transfer of Development Rights and Purchase of Development Rights program Completed The TDR ordinance was adopted in 2012 LUDC10 Establish an Impact Fee Ordinance Completed The Impact Fee ordinance was adopted in 2015 LUDC11 Develop a conservation development design ordinance that is compatible with vision and policies for the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Milton. Completed A consultant was hired to develop the ordinance. but The City Council chose not to adopt it for several reasons, including public opposition unanimously denied the measure by a vote of 7-0. There was significant public opposition to the ordinance that was presented at the time, as well as concern during the Comprehensive Plan Update that consideration of the ordinance could be brought up again at a later date. LUDC12 Establish a system to Monitor septic systems Cancelled The management of the septic system in the community is a County function. We have decided to pursue educational workshops and communications to make the community aware of maintenance schedules LUDC13 [omitted in the original table] LUDC14 Conduct a parking audit of existing surface parking in the city to determine if the amount is disproportionate to need and review current parking regulations to determine if too much surface parking is required for new development. Completed This was evaluated in the master planned areas where reduced parking requirements were implemented. A parking deck study was done for Crabapple LUDC15 Develop digital and web-based information systems to better inform citizens of land use and development matters and other elements of the planning process. Underway Improved communication has been implemented by their emails and social media specifically about zoning and land use. Additional improvements such as allowing citizen to have access to a map- based case logs is ongoing LUDC16 Crabapple Master Plan Update including transportation Completed This was done with the LCI in 2013 CPAC Revised 7/21 CPAC Revised 8/1 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201672 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes Transportation T1 Context Sensitive design for Streets improvements Completed This is being done as part of the intersection capital Improvement projects T2 Create a Complete Streets Program Completed The Milton Trail Plan and Comprehensive Transportation plan incorporates and identifies modes of transportation to accommodate vehicular, bike and pedestrian traffic T3 Develop criteria for traffic impact studies for development proposals Completed This is in Chapter 48 of the Milton code of ordinances T4 Install new compliant road signs, as required by safety studies and engineering review Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program T5 Rebuild Cogburn Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2012 T6 Replacement of Landrum Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2013 T7 Pavement Management Plan Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FN-199 Install fiber optic cable and upgrade traffic signal system along SR 9 Completed This was a multi-jurisdiction project. The installation of the taffic signal at Deerfield and Hwy 9 contributed to this project FN-206 SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road at New Providence/ New Providence Road intersection realignment and improvement, as well as streetscape improvements Completed completed in 2013 FN-237 Mayfield Road and Mid-Broadwell Road intersection realignment with drainage and streetscape improvements Underway IC1 Proactively seek opportunities for Milton’s Council, staff & residents to be involved in development discussions/ coordinate with other jurisdictions, esp. Forsyth, Cherokee, Alpharetta and Roswell Cancelled Removed because language was vague and suggested an item covered as a routine part of government services. IC2 Increase Milton’s presence/ influence with the North Fulton Chamber Completed Milton created a part time economic development position and hired an economic development manager to increase Milton’s presence / influence with the North Fulton Chamber IC3 Work with Alpharetta and Roswell to develop an amicable system for non-resident park usage Completed It was determined that the non-resident park usage agreement was pertenant to Alpharetta and not Roswell. An intergovernmental agreement between Milton and Alpharetta was signed in 2012 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 73Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Short Term Work Program Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Economic Development Explore a Milton CID in the Crabapple Downtown area to carry out infrastructure projects in that boundary zone. x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Launch door-to-door outreach program to formalize the feedback loop within the business community. x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Explore an innovation center in a suitable location to incubate future business opportunity and growth. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Conduct business association outreach for regular interaction with the Milton Business Alliance, Crabapple Business Association, GNFCC and Metro Chamber. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Build and maintain an available land database listing of properties in CoStar and Select Georgia databased to convert properties from vacant to filled. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Community Facilities Complete the construction of the new City Hall in Crabapple. x City of Milton General Fund Implement the construction of the Crabapple Streetscape.x City of Milton Public Works General Fund, $250,000 Enhance multi-use connection to Big Creek Greenway.x x x City of Milton Public Works General Fund Explore the feasibility of a walkable connection from Birmingham Park to an Arnold Mill Park at the closing landfill with focus being along Little River. x x x x x City of Milton Public Works Staff Time Develop phase 2 of Providence Park to repair the rock quarry, establish access to water, public restrooms and a safe shelter. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation $400,000 Evaluate renewal and continuation of the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Alpharetta for parks without borders. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Partner with a provider to establish programming at Providence Park.x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation TBD Based on Project Scope CPAC Revised 7/21 Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201674 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Research new program offerings which might include activities not currently offered by Milton. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Revise and Update the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including the Trails Master Plan x City of Milton Parks and Recreation General Fund $75,000 Implement greenspace acquistion in accordance with the greenspace bond, if approved x x x x x City of Milton Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and Community Development $25 million Community Development Produce process maps for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency as measured by average time per permit. x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Produce process maps/videos for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency (NOT measured by average time per permit). x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant $50,000 Establish a Unified Development Code to encourage better development and design while clarifying process. x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant General Fund $180,000 Formalize a training program so each city staff member can act as a concierge for our customers (in coordination with process mapping). x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Create Program to allow online tracking of permits x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore 5 acre zoning category for TDR parcels x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore incentives for bigger lots/ estate homes x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Identify appropriate staffing needs and make sound recommendations as needed. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Through the Innovation Academy, explore implementing a detailed employee review process/ performance management system. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Initiate informational sessions with city boards and commission to inform of strategic plan and other city initiatives x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time CPAC Revised 7/21 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 75Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create and maintain a signage program digital information kiosks that direct people where to find additional information on current city projects and developments. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for construction of new City Hall Create and implement basic guides to enhance the ease of understanding our building and design standards. x x x City of Milton; Internship Intern Time Create branding material that promotes Milton’s unique identity. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Pursue a street topper sign program that would be intended to create a sense of place through signage. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for Crabapple Streetscape Create a Master Plan for Downtown Milton that incorporates the Municipal Center, Community Center, and Central Community Greenspace x City of Milton; Consultant $80,000 Continue welcome packets mailed monthly to new homeowners to increase resident awareness of Milton programs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff and Volunteer Time Support the Village Volunteers program designed to assist young adults who have graduated high school and also have special needs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Create education opportunties for citizens about planning, zoning, etc./Citizen’s Academy x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for older-student education participation in planning/com dev work i.e. Mock member of Board, Commission or Council x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for younger-student education participation in planning/com dev work Lego city build program x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reinvent the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) for the review and designation of historic properties x City of Milton; Historic Preservation Commission Staff Time; Citizen Time Establish and implement a signage program for historic land markers and points of interest x x City of Milton; Consultant General Fund $51,000 Create educational opportunities for the community that are grounded in sustainability, resiliency and conservation (Earthday Festival; Arbor Day Event; Community Meetings) x x x x x City of Milton; Community Volunteers Staff Time; Citizen Time Staff Revised 8/2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201676 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create a formal feedback loop with the equestrian community x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Review the code of ordinances for desired enhancements that protect our rural character x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish and facilitate a working group charged to identify evaluation criteria for potential areas of land conservation or community greenspace x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reflect greenspace needs within the updated comprehensive plan x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore the establishment of a City sponsored TDR Bank x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish incentive packages to encourage the retention of farms and equestrian facilities x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore options for undertaking Future Land Use Map amendments prior to considering zoning petitions that may not be compatible with the Future Land Use Map x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reconcile the current zoning districts with updated land use classifications in the Comprehensive Plan/ on the Future Land Use Map x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a method for tracking commercial- type uses in the AG-1 zoning district x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time CPAC Revised 7/21 Staff Revised 7/28 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 77Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Appendix Glossary ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990 and later amended in 2009 to protect individuals with a disability from discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, State and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications. ARC: Atlanta Regional Commission: is the agency responsible for regional planning and intergovernmental coor- dination for the Atlanta Metropolitan Area which includes ten counties (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties) and all the cities within those counties. The ARC reviews the comprehensive plans of all these jurisdictions along with the state’s planning/coordinating agency, GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Bioswales: are vegetation and compost filled landscape elements designed to filter silt and pollution from surface run- off water before it is released to the watershed or storm sewer. Common applications are along roadways and around parking lots, where substantial automotive pollution is collected by the paving and then flushed into the watershed or stormwater by rain. The bioswale collects the runoff and slows the water flow, maximizing the time water spends in the swale, which aids the trapping of pollutants and silt. Biological factors also contribute to the breakdown of certain pollutants. Bucolic: of the countryside, rural, pastoral CPAC : Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee: is the sixteen member citizen group formed in 2007 by the Mayor and Council to initiate the comprehensive planning process. The group consists of the seven members of the Planning Commission, Chairperson of the Board of Zoning Appeals, Chairperson of the Design Review Board, and seven citizen appointees of the Mayor and City Council. Context Sensitive Design: refers to the concept of taking community values and environmental preservation into account in the designing and engineering of projects. The concept impresses that a project should be sensitive to their surrounding environment, especially in scenic or historic areas and should include public involvement by collaborating with local communities during the projects design phase. An understanding of the natural and built environments including roadways as part of the valued landscape must be accomplished before the engineering design progresses begins. Complete Streets: Streets that provide multiple travel choices such as vehicle travel lanes, bike travel lanes, pedestrian sidewalks, and amenities such as lights, benches, shade trees that make all users safe. A balanced transportation system that includes complete streets can increase the overall capacity of the transportation network and bolster economic growth and stability by providing accessible and efficient connections between residences, schools, parks, public trans- portation, offices, and retail destinations. Conservation Design: refers to design of any build project that considers the conservation of open and green space and configures the build elements in such a way that it maximized the conservation area. Conservation Subdivision: refers to the design of a residential subdivision that maintains its zoned/permitted project density, but configures the home placement/arrangement in such a way that it maximizes open and green space for conservation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201678 Draft for Review 8.10.2016 DCA: Department of Community Affairs: is the state agency created in 1977 to serve as an advocate for local govern- ments. On July 1, 1996, the Governor and General Assembly merged the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority (GHFA) with the Department of Community Affairs. Today, DCA operates a host of state and federal grant programs; serves as the state’s lead agency in housing finance and development; promulgates building codes to be adopted by local gov- ernments; provides comprehensive planning, technical and research assistance to local governments; and serves as the lead agency for the state’s solid waste reduction efforts. Feasibility Study: A combination of a market study and an economic analysis that provides the facts about a proposed project and estimates the expected return on investment to be derived from the project. Gateways: are locations that signify the entrance to a community. GATEway grant: GATE is an acronym for GA Transportation Enhancement. The GATEway Grant is an annual grant oppor- tunity provided by the GA Department of Transportation to assist communities in their efforts to enhance and beautify roadsides along state routes especially at gateway locations. GDOT: Georgia Department of Transportation: The State of Georgia’s transportation management authority. Green Infrastructure system: where a network of parks, recreation, and conservation areas are, or planned to be, inter- connected throughout the city or region. Heat-island or urban head island: refers to areas which consistently record significantly warmer temperatures than its surrounding areas. This is generally the case in metropolitan areas where modification of the land surface by urban development, i.e. uses of materials which effectively retain heat and waste heat generated by energy usage increase the average temperatures. Mitigation of the urban heat island effect can be accomplished through the use of green roofs and the use of lighter-colored surfaces in urban areas, which reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/neighborhoods located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. Rain gardens: refers to a planted depressed area designed to collect rainwater runoff from impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and compacted lawn areas, and allow it the opportunity to be absorbed into the ground as opposed to flowing into storm drains and water ways. This reduces the pressure on stormwater systems and reduces the risk of flash flooding. It also replenishes groundwater. Rural Viewshed: refers to the pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Scenic Byways: A Georgia Scenic Byway is defined as any designated highway, street, road, or route, which features cer- tain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. The qualities that give the byway its character and appeal are its scenic, historic, natural, archaeological, cultural, or recreational nature. Currently, twelve corridors have achieved Georgia Scenic Byways status as designated by the Georgia Department of Transportation, with more to follow. SR: State Route: roads/highways that are part of the state’s network of roads that are managed/maintained by the state’s department of transportation. Milton has three state routes: SR 9 (Hwy 9), SR 372 (Birmingham Hwy), and SR 140 (Arnold Mill Road). City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 79Draft for Review 8.10.2016 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activ- ities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as “design for all,” “inclusive design,” and “life-span design,” refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessi- ble kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. City of Milton 2030 Comprehensive Plan: Community Agenda 06-06-2011 XI. Glossary of Terms 110 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as "design for all," "inclusive design," and "life-span design," refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessible kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. The City of Milton Comprehensive Plan Update 2016 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 This document was prepared by the Atlanta Regional Commission using funds provided by the State of Georgia. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 Contents Executive Summary 5 Data and Demographics 6 Housing 12 Community Vision 15 Issues and Opportunities 16 Transportation 33 Future Community Map and Narrative 36 Future Land Use Map and Narrative 60 Report of Accomplishments 68 Short Term Work Program 74 Appendix City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20164 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Acknowledgments City Council Joe Lockwood, Mayor Karen Thurman - District 1/ Post 1 Matt Kunz - Mayor Pro Tem, District 2/ Post 2 William C. “Bill” Lusk, P.E. - District 2/ Post 1 Burt Hewitt - District 1/ Post 2 Joe Longoria - District 3/ Post 1 Rick Mohrig - District 3/ Post 2 Comprehensive Planning Steering Committee Peyton Jamison - Chair Karen Thurman - Liaison to the City Council Paul Moore Fred Edwards Noel Carpenter Mark Bittner Wilson Borden Chris Doty Gariel Burchett Todd Chernik Marty Littleton Lauren Holmes Richie Johnson Terrence McCrossan William O’Connor Tom Gauger Steve Smith Sumeet Shah City of Milton Staff Kathleen Field - Community Development Director Michele McIntosh-Ross - Principal Planner Atlanta Regional Commission Staff Dan Reuter - Division Manager Jared Lombard - Senior Principal Planner Allison Duncan - Principal Planner Sidney Douse - Senior Planner Robert Herrig - Planner Beth Davis - Intern Elizabeth Burns - Intern Dana De Lessio - Intern City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 5Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Executive Summary The City of Milton was chartered in 2006. Previously, the area that comprises the city was a part of unincorporated Fulton County. Many of the land use and transportation patterns were set in place by zoning and development standards that pre-dated the incorporation of the city. The original vision of the city was focused on the preservation of rural character, community heritage, and “small-town” quality of life. According to the Community Assessment of the city’s original Comprehensive Plan, “The City was created with the idea that the rapid pace of urban development since 1990 would displace the rural-based assets that attracted the city’s current citizens to Milton, and that the City should establish and adhere to its own resources to balance future development and services with the City’s vision for preservation of existing lifestyles and community character. Maintenance of the unique agricultural elements, lower density development patterns, lifestyle and character of the existing community is central to the wishes of many local citizens.” Citizens still wish to see Milton preserve agricultural and low density development patterns. There are areas along the southern border of the city that have been identified for higher density, mixed use development – particularly in the Deerfield and Crabapple Character Areas. Higher density residential development opportunities exist in Milton Lakes and Bethany. Outside of these areas, the majority of the city is reserved for low density residential development on lots that are 1-acre or greater. Beyond the community’s keen interest in future development, topics of consideration included acquisition and development of community greenspace; traffic congestion and transportation improvements, and the need to preserve opportunities for agricultural landscapes and working farms. Overall, the community is generally satisfied with the policy direction set down in their 2011 Comprehensive Plan. Therefore, this Comprehensive Plan Update largely reflects the policy and direction adopted in the city’s initial plan, with changes noted in the topics of greenspace, land conservation, and traffic congestion. Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: Promote a high quality of life Create a strong sense of community and place Respect our heritage while guiding our future Be the best place to call home City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20166 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Data & Demographics City of Milton, Fulton County, Georgia City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 7Draft for Review 8.11.2016 32,661 36,291 39,804 0 5,000 10,000 15,000 20,000 25,000 30,000 35,000 40,000 45,000 2010 2015 2020 Milton Population Population The city of Milton became a city on December 1, 2006. The first demographic data available for Milton comes from 2010, at which point the population was 32,661. According to ESRI Business Analyst Projections, the population is expected to continue to grow quickly, with an anticipated 22% growth between 2010 and 2020. The city’s Impact Fee Population Forecast anticipates they will reach “build out at a population around 61,580 residents.” 2010 2015 2020 Milton 32,661 36,291 39,804 Sandy Springs 93,853 98,184 103,980 Alpharetta 57,551 61,375 65,902 Johns Creek 76,728 80,993 86,870 Roswell 88,346 91,326 96,222 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 The chart to the left compares the population of Milton with other North Fulton cities. Milton’s population has been lower than its neighbors, and is predicted to continue to be lower, though it is projected to experience steady growth over the next five years. North Fulton Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 Census Profile(2000,2010)., ESRI Business Analyst Online Community Profile (2015, 2020 Projections) City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 20168 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Race White residents make up 76.6% of the racial distribution in the City of Milton as of 2010. Black residents make up 9%, Asian residents are 10.4% of the population, and those of two or more races are 2.2% of the population. Residents of Hispanic origin of any race are 6.0% of the population. W h i t e B l a c k a s i a n t W o o r M o r e r a c e s o t h e r 2015 2020 The proportion of White and Black residents is expected to decline, replaced by Asian residents, and those of two or more races. The proportion of those of Hispanic descent is also expected to decline from 6% in 2010 to about 5.7% in 2020. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Community Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 9Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Age 25% 11% 29% 28% 6%1% <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 22% 14% 23% 32% 8%1% 2015 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 19% 14% 23% 33% 10%1% 2020 <14 15-24 25-44 45-64 65-84 85+ 16% 27% 28% 21% 8% <5 5 to 9 10 to 14 15 to 19 20 to 24 Young and middle aged adults (25-64) combine for 59% of the population. Milton has a high number of residents under the age of 14 for the region. Between 2010 and 2015, the population is expected to get older as a whole. The youngest age group of those under 14 and those aged 25-44 decrease in proportion of the total, while adults aged 45-84 gain 6% of the population. These trends are projected to continue into 2020. 2010 School Age Population The impact of the public schools on the development patterns of the community has consistently been an issue raised during the Comprehensive Plan process. The breakdown of school-aged population is included here for planning purposes. Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online 2010 census profile; ESRI Business Analyst Online Demographic and income Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201610 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Employment 1326 1581 1100 1089 2157 1181 1034 1315 1149 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Health Care/ Social Assistance Food Services What Jobs do Milton Residents Do? 329 1108 2483 306 1084 1316 820 531 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 Wholesale Trade Retail Trade Information Finance and Insurance Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services Waste Management Educational Services Food Services What jobs are available in Milton?re s i d e n t ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sWo r k p l a c e ar e a ch a r a c t e r i s t i c sSource: US Census Bureau, Census on the Map Resident Area Profile Analysis City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 11Draft for Review 8.11.2016 73,674 114,273 129,119 0 20,000 40,000 60,000 80,000 100,000 120,000 140,000 2010 2015 2020 Median Household Income 14% 22% 27% 19% 13% 4%1% <$25,000 $25,000-$49,999 $50,000-$74,999 $75,000-$99,999 $100,000-$149,999 $150,000-$199,999 $200,000+ Income 68% of households made between $25,000 and $100,000 in 2010. 2010 Source: :2010 data- US Census American Fact Finder ACS 2010 Selected Economic Characteristics. 2015/2020 data- ESRI Business Analyst Demographic and income Profile City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201612 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 0 2000 4000 6000 8000 10000 12000 14000 16000 2010 2015 2020 Owner Occupied Rented Vacant Housing Demand Demand in housing is expected to increase, resulting in both an increase in the number of units and a decrease in the vacancy rate. The number of rented units is 24.7% of units in 2010, 22.9% in 2015, and 23.8% in 2020. $469,100 $451,100 $2,790 $1,220 2010 2014 Median Selected Monthly Owner Costs 2014 Median Rent 2014 Median home values can be somewhat of a moving target depending on the source of information. According to the US Census American Fact Finder, home values have fluctuated around the mid-$400,000 range. Some private data sources, such as Zillow, list the median a little higher around $485,000. Housing Values Source: ESRI Business Analyst Online Housing Profile; US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 13Draft for Review 8.11.2016 According to the American Community Survey 5-Year Estimate (2014), there are 12,853 housing units in Milton, with a vacancy rate of around 5%. The majority of vacant units are rental – less than 1% of owner occupied units are vacant. Of the rental units that are available in the city, rents still tend to be high with the majority of units in the city available for rents over $1,000/ month. 85% of Milton’s housing has been built since 1990. The map included here shows the development patterns in the city, depicted by year. This reinforces the ACS data that suggests that the vast majority of the housing stock in the city is fairly new. The majority of housing – almost 70% is single family detached dwellings. Around 15% of the city’s housing is a type of multi-family dwelling. The average housing value in the city of Milton is around $451,000. Compared with the average in Fulton County, which is $237,600, this is almost double of the county as a whole. The relative newness of the housing stock, plus the high value of real estate combine to ensure the good condition of housing in the city. 0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 Average Rents, Milton GA Housing by Structure Type, Milton GA Single Family Detached Single Family Attached Duplex, Triplex or Quadplex Multi-family 0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201614 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Milton has limited water and sewer infrastructure, and there are no plans for expansion. The desire to preserve Milton’s rural and low-density quality of life will need to be balanced with the increasing conversion of agricultural land to housing, and the impermanence that may result when the equestrian and agricultural community feels that they can no longer afford to continue operations in a rapidly suburbanizing area. Additionally, concerns have been expressed that many aging adults and “empty-nesters” choose to leave the community because they lack housing options. 0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 Housing Values, Milton GA Housing by Year, Milton GA Source: US Census American Fact Finder 2009-2013 American Community Survey; Selected Housing Characteristics City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 15Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Community Vision Monday November 2 Milton City Council Comp Plan Kick Off Tuesday February 9 CPAC Meeting Tuesday March 8 Public Meeting Tuesday April 12 CPAC Meeting Saturday April 23 Milton Earth Day Festival Wednesday December 16 CPAC Meeting Monday October17: Milton City Council Meeting - Adoption of the Comprehensive Plan and CIE Thursday May 12 Public Meeting Tuesday June 14 CPAC Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday July 18 Joint CPAC & City Council Review & Comment Draft Plan Monday August 8 CIE Work Session (Ross & Associates) Monday August 15 Public Hearing & Transmittal CIE & Comp Plan Thursday July 21 CPAC Meeting Comprehensive Plan Vision Milton is a premier city where we strive to: • Promote a high quality of life • Create a strong sense of community and place • Respect our heritage while guiding our future • Be the best place to call home Comprehensive Plan Mission We take responsibility together to provide the best quality of life to those we serve. Through excellent service to our neighbors, we strengthen our cherished sense of community. Community Input Opportunities The Milton Comprehensive Plan Update process was guided by a Stakeholder Committee (CPAC) comprised of citizens, local business owners, elected officials, and Milton staff. CPAC met on multiple occasions, providing direction and feedback at key points in the process. There were additional opportunities for public participation at community meetings and local festivals, as well as regularly scheduled City Council meetings where the plan was discussed. Meetings were advertised through local media outlets and on the city’s social media sites. Concurrent with the Comprehensive Plan Update, the city was undertaking an update to the Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP), and their Capital Improvements Element (CIE). In addition to the CTP and CIE, there are numerous other plans and studies that support the Comprehensive Plan, and referenced herein. They are identified below. Other Plans and Programs • Crabapple LCI Form Code & Visioning Study • Deerfield/ GA 9 LCI Form Based Code • GA 9 Design Guidelines • Hwy 9 North Visioning • Arnold Mill Visioning Study • Tree Inventory • Parks and Recreation Plan • Conservation Plan • City Strategic Plan 2016-2020 • Impact Fee Assessment Report City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201616 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Community Issues & Opportunities The community issues and opportunities are a snap shot of the community’s concerns, and its perception of the strengths they possess and the challenges they face. The issues and opportunities included herein were generated in the initial Milton Comprehensive Plan. They were reviewed and updated by CPAC, and feedback from community members was used to generate the final list presented here. Priority Issues are those that were ranked highly by community members as still being a priority issue at the time of this update of the Comprehensive Plan. This list of issues and opportunities is used to provide direction toward crafting the policies and implementation goals for the city. The Objectives listed in this section are community policies that address the issues and opportunities identified by the community through the public review of the Comprehensive Plan Update. Priorities • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. • Traffic congestion is a persistent problem within the community. • The city lacks a network of sidewalks, bike lanes, pedestrian and bridle paths, and trails that would enhance transportation choices. • Adequate funding is needed to implement road improvements. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 17Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Overall Overall issues and opportunities were derived from the consistent concerns that have been reiterated throughout the Comprehensive Plan process. These include an emphasis on community aesthetics, the need for more parks and greenspace, the need to enhance community connectivity, and the importance of accessibility and universal design to benefit citizens of all abilities. Issues • Community residents have articulated a desire for more public greenspace and/ or active/ passive parkland. • Unattractive commercial sprawl detracts from the community’s appearance. • Current development patterns do not reflect a comprehensive awareness of accessibility and universal design concepts. Opportunities • The city currently has acquired land that can be developed into public greenspace and active and passive parkland, and there are additional opportunities for the further acquisition of land for similar purposes. • The development and implementation of commercial design standards for each character area will enhance community aesthetics. • New residential development, within certain Character Areas such as Crabapple or Deerfield, should be connected to existing neighborhoods and commercial service areas. • The development and implementation of rural design standards within appropriate character areas will enhance community aesthetics. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201618 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development Patterns and Land Use Development within Milton boomed through much of the 1990s and into the early 2000s while the city was still a part of unincorporated Fulton County. This is a timeframe that coincides with the rising awareness of many of the negative impacts of sprawling commercial and residential land use patterns. The issues and opportunities identified for Development Patterns/ Land Use emphasize the importance of limiting sprawl and preserving the unique rural character of much of the city. Community preference has been articulated for Master Plans tied to existing and potential development; rigorous aesthetic design controls; specific geographic boundaries and specified densities to prevent sprawl; and the protection of open space, woodlands, specimen trees, stream buffers, steep slopes, the night sky, agricultural land, and other environmentally sensitive areas. Issues • Unattractive sprawl development has led to visual clutter along roadways that can distract drivers and detract from the community’s appearance. • Lack of design standards have led to subdivision entrances that are not in keeping with the rural character of the area. • Sprawl development threatens the indistinct boundary between town and countryside. • There is widespread opposition to typical high-density development patterns. • Large tracts of land suitable for continued agricultural uses are being sold for residential development. • New development threatens to encroach upon areas that may not be suited for development. Opportunities • Milton has preserved a unique patterns of equestrian-oriented development as well as open/green space and woodlands that should be enhanced and promoted. • Plentiful scenic areas, pastoral areas, and woodlands are the hallmark of community character and should be preserved. • Proactive stewardship of the community’s extensive greenspace and woodlands can be an asset for current and future generations. • Emphasis on the redevelopment of existing areas can preserve and enhance the community’s greenspace and sense of place. • Policies and regulations should maintain and promote the rural character of the city, including the preservation of “open road” neighborhoods1, and locating new residential development in areas contiguous to existing neighborhoods. • Preserve the gravel roads in Milton – along with the larger lots (minimum 3 acres) required on gravel roads – as a part of the special character of Milton as well as including this asset as a part of the transportation and recreation plans for the city. • Support the use of Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to encourage redevelopment and infill development within targeted areas while effectively limiting sprawl and protecting the rural areas. Objectives Objective 1: We will encourage development that is sensitive to the overall setting of the community and will contribute to our community’s character and sense of place. Strategy: Obtain broad support for the Comprehensive Plan from community leaders and the public through education initiatives and consensus-building meetings. Strategy: Encourage the maintenance of equestrian and agricultural areas with large tracts of land in order to maintain this important aspect of the community. 1 Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/ neighborhoods located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts with conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 19Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Strategy: Protect natural areas, viewsheds, floodplains, wetlands, tree canopy, heritage and specimen trees through strict adherence to codes during site preparation and construction, and avoidance of clear-cutting. Strategy: Encourage land uses which integrate the rivers and streams and environmental aesthetics into their planning and design. Strategy: Protect the dark night sky, especially in lower density residential, conservation and natural areas of the city. Strategy: Work with utility companies to protect city assets. Objective 2: We will encourage development of a balanced network of commercial activity centers that are vibrant areas of the community which, 1) improve overall attractiveness and local quality of life 2) meet the service needs of our citizens and 2) avoid unattractive and inefficient sprawling strip development. Strategy: Emphasize the development of barrier free, smaller, pedestrian-oriented streets, shops and parking in the denser areas of the city to support existing structures and appropriate commercial uses. Strategy: Encourage compact, mixed use development in the Crabapple Crossroads Area as reflected in the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan; the Birmingham Crossroads Area as reflected in the Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan; and along Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill Road pursuant to their recommended Master Plans. Strategy: Develop master plans that include Access Management Studies along the roadways within the study areas. Strategy: Limit inefficient sprawling development by using Transfer of Development Rights to define the geographic limits of receiving areas. Strategy: Provide safe accessible crossings for persons who have specific needs. Objective 3: We want development whose design, landscaping, lighting signage and scale add value to our community. Strategy: Create more specific detailed design guidelines for Arnold Mill Road (SR 140), and other specific areas around of the City; support existing design guidelines for Crabapple, Deerfield and Birmingham Crossroads. Strategy: Develop context sensitive standards for protecting and enhancing rural viewsheds in the City. Strategy: Develop context sensitive residential development standards for entrances and right-of-way amenities for residential subdivision developments. Objective 4: We will create gateways to establish a “sense of place” for our community. Strategy: Create consistent images (including the equestrian logo) to help “brand” Milton as a unique and desirable community on street signs, public buildings and public vehicles. Incorporate branding images into City documents, special event signage, and gateways to the City. Strategy: Identify prospective sites for unique public signs at the major gateways to the City and acquire rights to place substantial gateway signs that convey pride and sense of place. Strategy: Identify specific design standards for public gateway investments (i.e. signage, landscape, hardscape, sidewalks, lighting, street furnishings). Objective 5: We will encourage mixed-used developments, where appropriate, that are human-scale, less auto- oriented and include neighborhoods that are walkable, bicycle and wheelchair friendly in Master Planned Areas as identified on the Future Community map. Strategy: Coordinate infrastructure design where appropriate to provide barrier-free, safe, walkable connections between activity centers, institutions, and residential neighborhoods. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201620 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Strategy: Encourage developers to incorporate appropriate amenities such as sidewalks or pathways, shallow front yard setbacks, porches, streetlights, street furnishings, and small green space sites in grid-style Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) patterns close to existing transportation and community facility infrastructure. Strategy: Provide local street and/ or pedestrian connections between existing and new subdivisions in addition to access from primary streets. Objective 6: We will be willing to assess land planning and development concepts that may be new to our area, but have been tried successfully in other places. Strategy: Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a method to protect the low-density, rural and agricultural areas of the city as well as encourage redevelopment and infill development within the targeted development areas of the City. Strategy: Consider adopting policies and standards related to “Universal Design” and/ or “Visitable Homes”2 concepts. Strategy: Consider implementing Implement context sensitive and form based zoning. Objective 7: We support appropriate residential and non-residential infill development and redevelopment in ways that complement surround areas. Strategy: Support infill development that meets appropriate design standards on local streets within the city. 2 “Universal Design” is a planning idea, meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able bodied and the physically disabled. “Visitable Homes” is a type of universal design that refers to a home that is designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size, or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. More information about these concepts is provided in the Glossary of Terms found in the Appendix of this document. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 21Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Community Facilities and Services The City faces unique challenges and prospects to maintaining its identity. Issues and opportunities for Community Facilities and Services focus on the broad themes of community spaces, community character, and sense of place. The city can concentrate its efforts on preserving the high quality of existing development and enhancements that will improve community aesthetics. Issues • Milton needs to better define its community character – including areas around municipal boundaries and gateways – to foster a sense of place so visitors know they have arrived to a unique community. • The City lacks both indoor and outdoor community gathering spaces, including spaces for arts activities and performances. Opportunities • Currently there are virtually no areas of decline due to the relative newness of development in Milton. Policies and regulations can promote high development standards to prevent the decline of existing development. • The City should support the build out of Birmingham Crossroads consistent with its adopted plan as the village activity center that anchor the Birmingham Character Area; and support the continued build out of Crabapple Crossroads as would be recommended per a revised Crabapple plan as the downtown for the City. • The redevelopment of the Highway 9 Corridor consistent with an adopted set of community design guidelines would enhance the character and sense of place in the Deerfield character area. • Implementing a community branding campaign – including standards for the design and placement of signage – can foster a visual aesthetic and sense of place within the City. Objectives Objective 1: We will incorporate sustainable policies and practices in projects undertaken and services offered by the City of Milton. Strategy: Design government buildings and projects including parkland, transportation projects, etc. to meet “Green” certification standards. Encourage these standards for private development. Strategy: Work with environmental stakeholders to advise on environmentally responsible policies and practices through Milton. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Objective 2: We will explore opportunities for multiple transportation alternatives. Strategy: Implement the recommendations of the Milton Transportation Plan and Milton Trails Plan. Strategy: Consider the development of bicycle and pedestrian transportation modes to provide barrier free alternative travel opportunities for short trips. Objective 3: We will invest in parks and open space to enhance the quality of life for our citizens. Strategy: Develop and implement Master Plans for Birmingham Park and Providence Park, ensuring that multiple needs of multiple users are met (i.e. children, youth, adults, seniors, individuals with disabilities, etc) with a sensitivity towards the unique characteristics of the area in which the park is being developed and the land itself. Strategy: Ensure parks and parkland are developed with the city’s mission and vision statements in mind, including the protection of the rural characteristics of Milton as well as “green” practices and development standards. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201622 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Strategy: Identify and protect other areas that serve as parks or parklands to the city’s residents, such as pocket parks, equestrian areas, greenways, and other recreational lands. Strategy: Work with Fulton County to provide community parks, regional parks, and large active and passive recreation facilities, including consideration of barrier free access to all amenities, to serve City residents and visitors. Strategy: Encourage parks and other green spaces to be protected in perpetuity through appropriate legal mechanisms. Strategy: Ensure that the City of Milton Comprehensive Parks and Recreation Master Plan is updated regularly to remain current and relevant to the needs of the citizens of Milton. Objective 4: We will seek opportunities to provide pleasant, accessible, public gathering places and parks throughout the community. Strategy: Develop community gathering spaces and pocket parks in village and neighborhood centers to serve as meeting places and destinations. Strategy: Establish appropriate requirements for new development to set-aside specific amounts of land for greenspace or meeting acceptable alternative requirements to provide for future needs for greenspace. Strategy: Ensure public gathering spaces have barrier-free, ADA compliant amenities. Objective 5: We will support the city in the acquisition of new greenspace opportunities to meet the needs of the citizens of Milton. Strategy: Preserve greenspace and open space using bond revenues for the acquisition of general areas of green or open space including pastures, horse farms, wooded areas, larger tracts of undeveloped land, and open space between new or existing subdivisions. This can include protecting natural resources from development - especially wooded and tree areas with a special concentration on preserving as many trees as possible; protecting wildlife habitat and corridors from development by preserving areas in their natural state that are home to wildlife, including identifying and preserving wildlife corridors; and protecting water and watersheds from development by protecting areas with water, rivers, ponds, lakes, creeks, streams, stream buffer areas and watersheds. Strategy: Preserve rural views and rural character using bond revenues for the purpose of protecting or conserving the rural views along roadways; protecting or conserving the rural feel, look, setting and character of Milton; protecting historic resources; and protecting agricultural uses of land including farms, horse farms, etc. Strategy: Preserve trails and parks using bond revenues for the acquisition of trails and parks in establishing new trails and connecting existing trails based on the Milton Trail Plan; establishing trails for walking, biking, and horse riding, either through separate or combined use trails depending on location, need and the Trail Plan; establishing trails that connect parks, schools and commercial centers, including connections to greenways; and establishing parks, including passive, and or mostly unimproved or “natural state” parkland with the possibility of creating trails and minimal improvements to provide public access. These could include pocket parks or larger tract parks. Objective 6: We will work with the Fulton County Public Schools to encourage school location decisions that support overall growth and development plans of the community. Strategy: Encourage the Fulton County Public Schools to improve access and egress into existing school properties to minimize traffic disruption and congestion. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to locate future facilities that are consistent with the Milton Future Land Use Plan. Strategy: Encourage Fulton County Public Schools to design new schools consistent with the design standards unique to Milton including site planning, building design, the utilization of green standards, access/ egress, parking configuration, tree preservation/ replacement review, appropriate buffers and the integration of trailways where possible. Strategy: Work with Fulton County Public Schools to identify opportunities to use recreational fields during periods when the schools are not using the facilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 23Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 7: We will seek ways for new growth to pay for public infrastructure and services to support the development to the maximum extent possible. Strategy: Work with private developers to encourage the development of public infrastructure by building connections to existing infrastructure and new development sites. Strategy: Implement an impact fee ordinance and use impact fees for specific improvements allowed by State law. Strategy: Actively pursue partnerships and grant opportunities to facilitate infrastructure expansion and enhance community services. Objective 8: We will use planned infrastructure expansion to support development in areas identified as suitable for such development in the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Encourage the balanced development of Crabapple, Deerfield, Birmingham Crossroads, Hwy 9 and Arnold Mill that is 1) consistent with land use policies and adopted overlays or master plans for the areas, and 2) concurrent with needed infrastructure improvements. Strategy: Encourage the stated development of character areas concurrent with the growth of service infrastructure as a method of maintaining sustainability. Strategy: Establish and protect defined development boundaries and sustainable density levels as defined specifically by the Master Plan for that given area to identify and maintain appropriate edges between areas with planned infrastructure and adjacent areas. Objective 9: We will promote enhanced initiatives for solid waste reduction and recycling. Strategy: Coordinate solid waste management with Fulton County and other cities in the County. Strategy: Reduce the volume of waste entering the solid waste disposal system by sponsoring recycling education, and provide opportunities and incentives to sort plastics, paper, glass metals and other materials. Strategy: Require private waste management contractors to provide curbside recycling options. Encourage and educate recycling throughout the city including the integration of development standards that create a recycling pick up location and commercial and non-commercial sites. Strategy: Consider the long term alternatives to use of landfills. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201624 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Housing The relative newness of development and the limited infrastructure in the city of Milton have resulted in property values and housing stock that tends toward the higher end. The needs of land-extensive agricultural uses, such as equestrian estates, also impact housing, land values and development patterns. There are higher density residential options within the city that include townhomes and single family homes on small lots. However, the perceptions of a lack of housing diversity underscore the need for more study and analysis of the existing housing stock before any significant changes are made to current zoning policies or land use patterns. Additionally, diversity should not just focus on smaller-lot, higher density development but also consider preserving choices for individuals who need large acreages for land extensive agricultural and recreational uses, as well as lifestyle choices. Issues • Current development patterns include limited development of housing in proximity to employment centers. • Current development patterns do not consider senior housing and its location relative to senior services. Opportunities • Undertaking a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock would enable better planning and preparation for future growth and development patterns. • Based on a comprehensive inventory of current housing stock, identify ways to create greater diversity in housing options within the city. • Identify opportunities to create housing and employment centers within the city to mitigate the need to commute outside the city for employment. • Identify opportunities to create senior housing in a lifelong community setting that places senior housing and senior services in close proximity. Objectives Objective 1: We will accommodate our diverse population by encouraging a compatible mixture of housing types, densities and costs within the City. Strategy: Encourage a mix of housing types, densities and amenities appropriate for the development patterns of each character area to accommodate a mix of income and family needs. Strategy: Develop accessibility guidelines and policies for ADA accessible homes concept to accommodate full participation in housing choice by people with disabilities. Strategy: Promote policies that protect the existing low density, rural residential housing throughout the Birmingham, Central Milton, Arnold Mill, And Sweet Apple Character Areas of the City. Strategy: Promote policies that provide more housing choices, including apartments, town homes, condominiums and single family homes with smaller footprints on smaller lots in the Deerfield Character Area. Objective 2: We will encourage development of housing opportunities that enable residents to have easier access to commercial services and employment opportunities. Strategy: Increase and expand mobility in neighborhoods with more barrier free bicycle, wheelchair and pedestrian options. Strategy: Construct more sidewalks or alternative pathways that connect homes to work and shopping facilities as well as parks/ gravel roads and institutional uses, as appropriate. Strategy: Integrate housing, transportation and land use plans to improve mobility to and from jobs and other primary destinations. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 25Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 3: We will encourage housing policies, choices and patterns that increase opportunities for people to move into affordable owner-occupied housing. Strategy: Identify opportunities for infill residential development in existing neighborhoods. Strategy: Assess community housing stock to accurately determine the current mix of residential uses and identify areas of need. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201626 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Intergovernmental Coordination Multi-jurisdictional coordination provides partnership opportunities that more efficiently allocate public resources to accomplish the programs of the Comprehensive Plan. As a city, Milton has the opportunity to engage with the adjacent cities in Fulton County, but also has the benefit of working with established departments within Fulton County and regional and state entities that facilitate economic development, environmental monitoring, and infrastructure improvements. Issues • The City needs to proactively engage in regional/ multi-jurisdictional coordination and cooperation. • Local officials and/ or neighborhoods are resistant to new or innovative development ideas. Opportunities • The City should work with adjacent jurisdictions to adopt consistent design standards for new development that will promote community aesthetics and sustainability. • There is potential to form partnerships with adjacent jurisdictions in pursuit of LCI/ CID funds for Hwy 9 (SR 9), Windward Parkway, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Road (SR 140). • The City of Milton can help educate and leverage its unique characteristics for the benefit of the region and our citizens. • The City should coordinate with Forsyth County, Cherokee County, as well as Alpharetta and Roswell to ensure proper cross jurisdictional planning occurs and potential conflicts are resolved. • The North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan (NFCTP) was developed through coordination and cooperation of the cities of North Fulton County. This success should be leveraged for future transportation investments that benefit all North Fulton cities. Objectives Objective 1: We will proactively identify opportunities to share facilities and services with neighboring jurisdictions when they would be mutually beneficial. Objective 2: We will initiate efforts to work with neighboring jurisdictions to develop shared solutions for regional issues (such as growth management, watershed protection, transportation solutions, etc.) Objective 3: We will initiate efforts with neighboring jurisdictions to pursue joint processes for collaborative planning and decision-making. Objective 4: We will consult with Fulton County and other public entities in our area when making decisions that are likely to impact them. Objective 5: We will provide input to Fulton County and other public entities in our area when they are making decisions that are likely to have an impact on our community or our plans for future development. Objective 6: We will engage in cooperative planning between the City of Milton, Fulton County, and Fulton County Public Schools in regard to the appropriate location and use of schools as community facilities, as well as needed transportation improvements to accommodate traffic to, from and around schools and improve opportunities for walking, biking, and other forms of alternative transport for individuals of all abilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 27Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Natural and Cultural Resources The City of Milton contains numerous examples of locally significant historic resources as well as environmentally sensitive areas, including lakes, streams, floodplains, and wetlands. In addition to those natural resources protected by state and local legislation, citizens have identified preservation of tree canopy and wildlife habitat as important priorities. All of these elements contribute to the rural character and rural lifestyle that plays a central role in community identity. Issues • The disappearance of rural scenery that threatens the character of the community and detracts from the community vision. • The community lacks the necessary regulations to adequately protect our historic resources, and their loss jeopardizes our collective heritage. • Loss of tree canopy and specimen trees detracts from community aesthetics, threatens environmentally sensitive areas, and exacerbates heat-island effects experienced throughout the metropolitan area. • The effects of environmental pollution and contaminated properties compromise public health and welfare and should be mitigated. • There is a lack of active/ passive recreation programs and recreational areas for the community. Opportunities • Development of Birmingham Park according to a master plan with sensitivity to the vision of Milton’s citizen expectations would provide active/ passive recreation and greenspace amenities for the city. • Development of Providence Park could create opportunities for active and passive recreation for citizens of all ages, lifestyles and abilities. • Give priority to the protection of environmentally sensitive areas with further compliance with state and federal environmental regulations and avoid detrimental actions to our natural ecosystem and costly fines and/ or penalties for lack of compliance. • The development of pocket parks in areas that are already established would enhance the community’s greenspace and provide recreational opportunities for its citizens. • Continue to mitigate the loss of tree canopy and promote the protection of specimen trees and other urban forest resources. • Implement Transfer of Development Rights as a tool to preserve open space. • Revise the City’s Tree Preservation Ordinance. Objectives Objective 1: We will encourage the preservation of natural resources areas and preserve contiguous green open spaces development of land in appropriate designated areas as development occurs. Strategy: Maintain density neutral development practices through innovative land development techniques, such as Transfer of Development Rights. Strategy: Acquire conservation easements for the protection of environmental sensitive land. Strategy: Promote low impact site development that encourages maintaining the natural topography and existing vegetation on a site when feasible, and in some cases when required. Strategy: Encourage projects that project and/ or integrate the preservation of natural areas, stream corridors, and green space as amenities and required development. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201628 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 2: We will encourage new development to locate in suitable locations close to transportation and infrastructure resources in order to project environmentally sensitive areas, agricultural lands, and valuable historic, archaeological or cultural resources from encroachment. Strategy: Cross check proposed development sites with inventories of existing natural, historic, archaeological and cultural resources to prevent encroachment on these sites. Strategy: Designate areas of value historic, archaeological, or cultural resources through the city’s historic preservation ordinance to mitigate impacts of new development. Strategy: Ensure development/ infill projects are consistent with land use policies and citizen wishes to protect and preserve low-density rural areas of Milton. Strategy: Work with public utilities to protect the rural viewshed and other natural and scenic views. Objective 3: We will consider the potential impacts to air and water quality in making decisions on new developments and transportation improvements, and we will steer new development away from sensitive natural resource areas. Strategy: Encourage new development projects to commit to providing water, storm water, and air pollution control facilities that fully meet and exceed city standards. Strategy: Encourage changes to current codes that address air and water quality improvements and/ or which provide flexible design that results in a reductions of air or water quality impacts. Strategy: Encourage local governments and/ or local land trusts to acquire stream corridors along the Little River corridor and their tributaries to provide floodway protection, natural habitat corridors and passive recreation resources. Objective 4: We will expand the identification, documentation, and protection of historic, cultural and archaeological resources in the city, and when possible encourage access by the public. Strategy: Review and refine existing inventories of historic, cultural and archaeological resources to include previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Collaborate with local and regional libraries and archives, as well as local historians and long-time residents, to document previously undocumented resources. Strategy: Ensure historic and cultural sites that are open to the public are barrier-free, ADA accessible venues. Strategy: Identify those elements of the rural landscape (i.e. specimen trees, tree canopies, woodlands, fences, hedgerows, structures, etc) that contribute to rural character and scenic viewsheds within the community. Objective 5 We will promote the protection and maintenance of trees and contiguous green open space in new development. Strategy: Promote community awareness regarding the economic value and sustainability of green space preservation and maintenance of existing vegetative cover and protection of trees. Strategy: Promote design standards which prefer the retention of existing trees and tree coverage to new plantings. Strategy: Ensure existing tree canopy along scenic streets and other public rights of way are protected. Strategy: Increase setbacks and undisturbed buffers between roadways and developments including both residential and commercial. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 29Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 6: We will protect ground and surface water sources to promote the maintenance of safe and adequate supplies of water. Strategy: Adopt the appropriate recommendations to protect existing water quality consistent with the City’s land use policies, and as recommended by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District, ARC Fulton County Water Resources that protect ground and stream water quality. Strategy: Coordinate with Fulton County, Forsyth County, Cherokee County, and other local governments in implementing the three comprehensive plans adopted by the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District to ensure adequate supplies of drinking water, protection of water quality, and minimized impacts of development on the District’s watersheds and downstream water quality. Strategy: Coordinate programs of Fulton County Water Resources to conserve outdoor water use. Strategy: create and implement a septic tank maintenance program for the unsewered areas of Milton which are consistent with the lower density areas of the city. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201630 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Economic Development A creative and innovative economic development agenda will have impacts on many community issues and opportunities. Commercial and professional employment opportunities will balance the City’s tax digest, alleviate commuting times as well as traffic congestion, and provide needed services to local residents. Encouraging commercial and professional development in Milton should also balance impacts on residential, rural and environmentally sensitive areas of the community. Issues • The city needs to pursue innovative economic development initiatives. • The city needs greater employment opportunities to serve local residents of Milton. • Future development plans need to include opportunities for greater commercial densities. Opportunities • The city should continue to promote the unique residential niche of low density development with high value properties that is found in Milton. • The city should promote the creation of economic development centers. • New developments can be mixed-used without necessarily being high-end. • Proactively work to educate the region and adjacent jurisdictions regarding the value that Milton’s unique characteristics bring to the entire region with respect to economic benefits. Objectives Objective 1: We will identify and put in place the requisites of the desired quality of life within our community and carefully consider costs as well as benefits in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Balance housing, transportation, infrastructure, resource protection and economic development considerations in decision making. Strategy: Utilize the unique economic assets of Milton to attract appropriate and sustainable economic activities that can be accommodated without changing the character of the City. Strategy: Encourage diversified economic development centers within mixed-use non-residential areas and balance commercial densities with local demand, being mindful of existing vacant commercial space as well as commercial density approved but not yet built. Strategy: Ensure the city’s economic development initiatives are fiscally sustainable and will enhance community revenues to support the Comprehensive Plan. Strategy: Implement use of a financial model as one criterion in decision making on economic development projects. Objective 2: We will support programs that retain, expand and create businesses that provide a good fit for our community’s economy in terms of job skills required and links to existing businesses to locate them appropriately within the City. Strategy: Support the existing agricultural and equestrian related economy of the city. Strategy: Support the development of small businesses within the community. Strategy: Support the growth of knowledge-based industries and office/professional uses in designated employment centers. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 31Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Objective 3: We will consider access and/or impacts to housing and transportation when considering economic development projects. Strategy: Support the use of planning studies, value studies, cost/ benefit studies and analyses of sustainability to identify cost effective projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of business and/ or commercial uses into established, stable residential areas. Embrace and protect defined geographic boundaries and defined density levels for specific areas including those with a master plan as well as other areas not yet planned. Strategy: Identify primary employment areas that motivate out-of-city commuting patterns and focus economic development initiatives to recruit those employment sectors to the city. Objective 4: We will consider impacts on infrastructure and natural resources in our decision making on economic development projects. Strategy: Limit the expansion of facilities and services to areas close to existing infrastructure before expanding into areas that require larger extensions and/ or greater costs. Strategy: Encourage adaptive reuse of existing facilities and infill development in established areas to accommodate new commercial enterprises where appropriate and consistent with the land use and infrastructure development policies and vision of the City of Milton. Objective 5: We will consider employment needs and skill levels of our existing population in making decisions on proposed economic development projects. Strategy: Work with the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, Cherokee and Forsyth Counties, the cities of Alpharetta, Roswell, Johns Creek, and other organizations to encourage expansion and retention of professional jobs within employment centers in the City of Milton and surround jurisdictions. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201632 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Financing Fiscal responsibility was reiterated throughout each step of the Comprehensive Plan process. The response to the community’s initial public survey underscored a resistance to new taxes and a preference for creative alternatives to generate revenues needed for city improvements. However, a recent survey undertaken as a part of an upcoming referendum on a Greenspace Bond for the city of Milton suggested that the community was generally favorable to a potential $25 million bond to support greenspace acquisition. Issues • The high cost of providing public services and facilities for new development is a challenge for a new city. • The capacity of existing public facilities may need to be expanded to attract new development. • Financing can be difficult to obtain. • City revenues need to fund desired service levels without an increase in taxes on current residents. Opportunities • The city can explore innovative management and governance policies as a result of the lack of pre-existing bureaucratic commitments. • Opportunities for alternative sources of funding and revenues can enhance programs and projects and should be pursued. • Modifying expenses is another necessary approach in order to balance fiscal requirements. • Utilizing potential bond revenues for greenspace acquisition will help the City meet the needs of its citizens, now and in the future. Objectives Objective 1: We will be fiscally responsible by developing and maintaining a five-year capital spending plan that is updated annually as an integral part of our annual budget process. Strategy: Financial modeling capacity will be used by the city as a tool to proactively guide the City’s financial decisions in the future. Strategy: Alternative funding sources will be identified and aggressively pursued to support the City’s short and longer term capital requirements. Strategy: The City’s five year capital plan will be based on funding those expenditures that are needed to maintain the quality of life desired by our residents and only then funding those opportunities that provide enhancements as funds are available. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 33Draft for Review 8.11.2016 The City of Milton maintains a Comprehensive Transportation Plan separate from its Comprehensive Plan or the North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan. The recommendations of the currently adopted plan are summarized here, and the plan in its entirety is incorporated herein by reference. At such a time as the newly updated Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan is adopted, current recommendations shall supersede. Goals Improve transportation network system level performance (level of service) with particular emphasis on the impacts of commuter/ “cut through” traffic and safety. • Provide specific paths for through commuters • Improve system for local trips • Improve and preserve existing levels of service • Identify high-accident locations and recommend improvements to achieve better safety • Improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists by upgrading facilities for alternative modes of transportation Maintain and Improve mobility and system performance through roadway improvements and alternative transportation improvements with specific consideration of transit investments appropriate to the community vision and multi-use paths serving cyclists, pedestrians, equestrian users, and those with disabilities including wheelchair access. • Identify bridges in need of maintenance or replacement • Provide maintenance recommendations for the existing roadway network • Identify intersections in need of operational and geometric enhancements to improve system performance • Identify multi-modal enhancements to increase alternative transportation options • Integrate the Milton Comprehensive Transportation Plan with the Milton Trail Plan Protect and improve the environment, recognizing its contribution to community economic vitality and quality of life. • Promote conservation and minimize harmful impacts on the environment • Emphasize preservation of historic places Coordinate transportation investments with the comprehensive plan and land use policies ensuring creation of a “sense of place” (Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and the Highway 9 area) as well as barrier free connectivity to community assets such as schools, parks and recreation areas. • Coordinate with CPAC to achieve an integrated land use vision and plan • Preserve right-of-way for future facility improvements • Preserve historic places • Achieve a barrier-free transportation network Leverage regional cooperation and regional solutions to transportation issues, including coordination with surrounding jurisdictions, while maintaining the singularly unique character of the City of Milton. • Coordinate with nearby jurisdictions including Alpharetta, Roswell, Mountain Park, Cherokee County, and Forsyth County to create a continuous and well-thought out network • Coordinate with GDOT, MARTA, GRTA and ARC Recommended Corridor Improvements • Direct commuter traffic from Cherokee County to State Route 140/ Arnold Mill Road/ Hickory Flat Highway to GA 400 • Widen State Route 9/ Alpharetta Highway/ Cumming Highway • Widen sections of Holbrook Campground Road, Hopewell Road, and Hamby Road to State Route 9 Transportation and Mobility City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201634 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 • Widen School Drive to a four-lane section between Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road • Widen Morris Road to four lanes between Webb Road and McGinnis Ferry Road • Model Analysis of Corridor Improvements Recommended Intersection Improvements • Potential Locations for Roundabouts Birmingham Highway and Freemanville Road Hopewell Road, Cogburn Road, and Francis Road Freemanville Road and Providence Road Bethany Road and Providence Road Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/ Hickory Flat Road Hopewell Road and Redd Road • Potential New Signal Locations Birmingham Road and Hopewell Road Strickland Road and Bethany Road (partially in Forsyth County) Bethany Bend and Morris Road/ McGinnis Ferry Road (partially in Forsyth County) Webb Road and Morris Road Morris Road and Deerfield Parkway • Other Potential Intersection Improvements Hopewell Road and Bethany Road Hopewell Road and Bethany Way Bethany Oaks Pointe and Hopewell Road Cogburn Road and Bethany Bend Batesville Road and Taylor Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Green Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Keyingham Way Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Bethany Bend Hopewell Road and Hamby Road Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Ranchette Road Crabapple Road/ Mayfield Road and Birmingham Highway/ Broadwell Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR 9 and Webb Road • Intersections with Significant Improvements in Progress Birmingham Highway/ SR 372 and New Providence Road Arnold Mill/ SR 140 and New Providence Road Alpharetta Highway/ SR and Deerfield Parkway Arnold Mill Road/ SR 140 and Cox Road • Bridge Improvements Landrum Road over Cooper Sandy Creek tributary Cogburn Road over Cooper Sandy Creek New Providence Road over Cooper Sandy Creek The Comprehensive Transportation Plan also includes recommendations for equestrian improvements, cyclist improvements, pedestrian improvements, transit improvements and improvements for persons with disabilities. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 35Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Potential Intersection Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 Potential Road Improvements, Milton CTP, 2009 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201636 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Future Community Map & Narrative The Future Community Map along with the Future Land Use Map represents the City’s future development policy and will be used to guide City officials in land use decisions. The Future Community Map is a general illustration of development policy showing the City’s eight Character Areas as the base, and further identifies areas that require special attention for either rural preservation or economic development. Such areas are Gateways, Rural Viewsheds, Master Planned Areas, and Priority Master Planning Areas. The proposed city trail network is overlaid on the Future Community Map. These areas deserving special classifications will be discussed in more detail below. The Future Land Use Map is a more specific illustration of development policy showing allowable land uses for each parcel and this will be discussed in more detail in the Future Land Use and Supporting Narrative section. Future Community Map, Milton, Georgia k k k k k k k k k k k kk k k [ Legend k Gateway Locations Roads Sidewalk Trails Planned Trails Existing Trail Plan Rural Viewshed Milton Master Planned Areas Priority Master Planning Areas Milton Character Areas Arnold Mill Bethany Birmingham Central Milton Crabapple Deerfield Milton Lakes Sweetapple City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 37Draft for Review 8.11.2016 The areas identified as requiring special attention for rural preservation and/or economic development are: Gateways: Gateways are important identifiers that distinguish the community from all others. Having a distinguished community lends itself to niche marketing for economic development purposes. The community expressed a desire for the city’s branding efforts to be carried out at key entry points into the city by posting “Welcome to Milton” signage accompanied by specific landscaping The gateways into the city of Milton are identified on the Future Community Map at principle roads leading into the community, including • Arnold Mill Road/SR 140 (North and South points with the city limits? • Batesville Road • Hickory Flat Road at the Cherokee County line • Birmingham Highway (SR 372) at the Cherokee County line • Crabapple Road (SR 372) at Green Road • Cogburn Road (North and South points within the city limits) • Hamby Road • Francis Road at the Forsyth County line • Hwy 9 (North and South points within the city limits) • McGinnis Ferry Road • Deerfield Pkwy at Windward Parkway • Hopewell Road • Broadwell Road • Bethany Road at Mayfield Road Rural Viewsheds The rural viewshed refers to the characteristic pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Rural viewsheds contribute to the rural character and sense of place and the city of Milton. The bucolic scenic qualities of many of Milton’s roads are considered to be character defining features within several of the larger character areas, and concerns have been expressed about maintaining and preserving these viewsheds and cherished characteristic of Milton. The Future Community Map identified the road that should be considered for protection as rural viewsheds. Ideas about a context sensitive design standards overlay, as well as placing potential value as sending areas for a Transfer of Development Rights program, have been discussed as tools that can be used along these identified rural viewsheds to protect their rural character. These are priority areas for resource surveys and development of design guidelines and buffers as part of a larger program to mitigate development pressures along the rural roadways. Master Planned Areas There are three areas identified on the Future Community Map that are referred to as Master Planned Areas. They are Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Crossroads and Deerfield/ Highway 9. The development of these areas proceeded after a Master Plan was done - Crabapple Crossroads Plan in 2003; Birmingham Crossroads Plan in 2004; and Highway 9 in 2012. In addition to a Master Plan, these areas may be governed by overlay zoning districts as well as a city-wide zoning overlay district. The Master Plans provide aesthetic and design controls that cover the build out of the existing areas within their plan boundaries. Non-residential development should be concentrated within these areas according to the specifications of their Master Plans and zoning controls. The Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is defined as the area at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road/Hickory Flat Road. The Birmingham Crossroads has not built out to the limits of the Master Plan and the surrounding area has not been a source of development pressure, or brought unmanageable traffic volume to the area. The existing Birmingham Crossroads Master Plan is still viable for its continued growth as defined in the master plan. The Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan boundary is significantly larger and located at the intersection of Crabapple Road, Birmingham Highway, Mayfield Road, Mid-Broadwell Road and Broadwell Road. Since the city’s first comprehensive plan, the Crabapple Crossroads Master Plan has been adopted as an LCI study with an extensive City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201638 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 analysis of existing land use, zoning urban design, historic resources, environmental and open space resources, and public facilities. The plan also provides a number of recommendations for transportation, open space and ongoing or future projects in the study area. Crabapple will be the location of the city’s future city hall, currently under development, and is a receiving area for Transfer of Development Rights. The Crabapple Form Based Code specifies the regulating plans, public building standards, lot and building plans, and other development standards that projects within the receiving zone must adhere to in order to create a cohesive and attractive community that respects pedestrians and the spatial form of public places. The Deerfield/ Hwy 9 area has developed a concentration of commercial and service uses for the City of Milton. Though the area is subject to a zoning overlay district that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements, the community has expressed the desire to develop a full Master Plan and Market Study for the area similar to those for Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The Master Plan should ensure that the area remains economically viable, avoids unattractive strip development and recruits businesses and services that will benefit the city of Milton while being sensitive to the many residents that live in that area. The Highway 9/ GA 400 Area Master Plan was prepared in 2012. The study provides a clear, comprehensive picture of the area of study to guide future development. It includes recommendations for zoning, public improvement projects, and funding. The report includes an inventory and assessment of existing conditions, a concept plan that provides more detail on proposed initiatives, and an action plan to facilitate plan implementation. Priority Master Planning Area Arnold Mill Road (SR 140) (also designated as a rural viewshed) is an area of limited development with mostly rural residential and agricultural uses. However, community feedback identified it as an area that could potentially accommodate the development of limited non-residential uses at some point in the future (possibly beyond the 20 year scope of this plan). The zoning and future land use classifications for this area are predominantly residential, though the area is subject to a zoning overlay that includes aesthetic controls and design review requirements for any new non-residential development. The community has expressed a desire to develop a Master Plan for the area similar to those for the Crabapple Crossroads and Birmingham Crossroads. The City of Milton and the Atlanta Regional Commission undertook an Arnold Mill Road Visioning Study in May 2014. This study consists of an analysis of and recommendations for the portion of Arnold Mill Road within the City of Milton. The plan provides background and contextual information about the area through analysis of existing plans, a traffic analysis, and an evaluation of recreational land through the corridor. Recommendations for the area are categorized into two groups - 1) Land Use & Design and 2)Transportation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 39Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Character Area Map Narrative The following narratives were developed for each of these eight Character Areas, including development patterns, appropriate zoning districts and land use classifications. A summary of appropriate implementation measures for each Character Area also follows each of the narratives. Character Area Map, Milton, Georgia City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201640 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Birmingham Birmingham displays the rich, rural nature of the City of Milton. Located in the northwest portion of the City of Milton, this Character Area is dominated by horse farms, pastures and woodlands. Other uses include large estates, residential lots and large land holdings. There are undeveloped natural areas and environmentally sensitive steep slopes in areas such as Pritchard Mountain. In addition, at the intersection of Birmingham Highway and Birmingham Road is the Birmingham Crossroads, which is a rural, mixed use village. This limited rural-style village that includes commercial activities and limited residential use was comprehensively planned for 27.1 acre parcel that covers the four corners at this intersection. Birmingham Crossroads provides a sense of place as well as services to residents in the Birmingham Character Area. There are several active farms near Mountain Road with cattle pastures and chicken houses located along the Cherokee County border. Many of the roads, including Hickory Flat/ Birmingham Road, Mountain Road, and Freemanville Road provide scenic and linear greenspace corridors. Also, the largest park in the City of Milton is located in this area – 200 acre Birmingham Park. Currently, this park is undeveloped and has limited access. The terrain is rolling and includes both floodplain and steep slopes along the Little River. This parkland includes beautiful viewsheds, woodlands, specimen trees and some endangered flora and fauna. This park needs to have a unique approach to take in its design and development to protect the special characteristics of this land. There are several institutional uses including schools and places of worship in the Birmingham Character Area. The Birmingham Character Area also included gravel roads, waterways, woodlands, specimen trees, historic areas and structures. Development Patterns in this Area Birmingham Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of mixed use village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space. Buildings are and should be architecturally integrated with the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center. But, this activity center should nonetheless retain a pedestrian friendly environment. Birmingham Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Any additional non-residential development within the Birmingham Character Area should be limited to the boundaries of Birmingham Crossroads as defined in the master plan for that area. A continued focus on strong development and design standards, including context sensitive transportation considerations, remain essential as do the protection of specimen trees, tree coverage, and the overall unique setting in which this rural village co-exists. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 41Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Birmingham includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Active agricultural and equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (1 unit/ acre or less)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Living Working/ Mixed Use AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Birmingham Crossroads Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201642 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Arnold Mill This Character Area serves as one of the gateways into the City. State Route 140 is now a two-lane route that provides access from Cherokee County across the Little River into Milton, Alpharetta and Roswell. It is anticipated that this will become a four- lane route during the span of this plan. The Milton Transportation Plan, however, makes it clear that any future widening of this roadway should be done with context-sensitive design. The Character Area includes several large properties, but the nature of the area changes as it approaches the Crabapple Silos area. The southern portion of the area includes a difficult angles intersection with New Providence Road, and is adjacent to the relatively densely developed residential subdivisions located along Green Road. Also, Chadwick Landfill is located in this character area. There is only so much capacity left in the landfill and there needs to be proactive plans for this land once that capacity is met so that the area can become a community asset. Development Patterns in this Area • The area along SR 140/Arnold Mill Road is typical of the rural, low density character of Milton. Future development within this character area should respect existing rural character and rural-residential development predominant in its adjacent character areas, Sweet Apple and Central Milton. • SR 140/Arnold Mill Road should include some mixed use development along its travel from Cherokee County to the Silos, but should avoid strip commercial development. Clustering higher density, predominantly non-residential development intermittently along the corridor preserves open space and protects environmentally sensitive features. If more than one commercial area is developed along this corridor, they should be separated by areas of open space and/or attractive rural-residential development. • Development should be tied to a Master Plan with specific boundaries, design specifications, and allowable uses, similar to Crabapple Crossroads or Birmingham Crossroads including historic preservation, tree save of woodlands and specimen trees, viewsheds and buffers transitioning from higher density areas back to residential and agricultural settings. • Planning for development along Arnold Mill/SR-140 must involve the City of Roswell given that parts of Arnold Mill are adjacent to the City of Roswell. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 43Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR1) R1, R2 Residential Medium (MDR2 R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR3) R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H, MIX, C1 Retail and Service C1 Rural Milton Overlay District Arnold Mill Overlay (Master Plan) City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201644 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Central Milton This is the largest character area in Milton, dominated by residential subdivisions with large lots in excess of 1 acre, some of the most expansive in the city. These high value residential developments with very large houses are anchored by golf courses and other private amenities such as swim and tennis. Many were developed in the 1990s and with similar lot sizes, have created a uniform overall density in the area. Even with the existing development, this area has retained much of the rural characteristics of the City of Milton. Along with the many subdivisions within this area, it is also characterized by several large properties. In addition, many of the roads provide scenic and linear green space corridors such as Birmingham Highway, Freemanville Road, Thompson Road and Hopewell Road. Most of these scenic corridors include rural home sites, horse farms, wetland crossings and access to country clubs, equestrian facilities and more open space. The visual aesthetics of this Character Area should be maintained even as residential development continues. Development Patterns in this Area Central Milton includes areas that are typical of the city’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. Equestrian estates co-exist with low density residential land uses. Newer developments with private recreational amenities have integrated with older, established open road neighborhoods. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. New development should incorporate elements that enhance connectivity to the proposed Milton trail system and other alternative modes of transportation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 45Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Rural Milton Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201646 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Deerfield One of the Deerfield Character Area’s primary assets is its location adjacent to Georgia 400, a limited access expressway, its proximity to the Windward Parkway interchange in Alpharetta and to Forsyth County. This character area represents a quality of life that embraces the concept of “live, work, play.” It is characterized by a mixture of higher density residential, commercial and office uses. The retail and commercial uses along Highway 9, the office uses along Deerfield Parkway and the numerous apartment units located south of Bethany make this Character Area one of the main activity centers for the City of Milton. There are also several single family subdivision and townhouse developments located within this area. The properties along both sides of Deerfield Road and Morris Road provide a campus- style employment center and office park. A significant amount of space in this area has been developed and is available for lease. This area provides a strong and realistic opportunity for mixed uses at a regional scale in association with nearby development in Alpharetta and with Forsyth County in conjunction with the possible creation of McGinnis Ferry Road interchange on GA 400. The City of Milton recognizes the development pressure that this character area faces. In anticipation of the major growth projected for this area, the city is taking a proactive approach to prevent or mitigate the ill effects of unmanaged growth by designating the area along Highway 9 and Bethany Bend as a Master Planned Area. This designation indicates that a detailed master plan of the area has been completed, and this plan will guide the future growth and development in the area. Development Patterns in this Area: • Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Bend is a high priority for the community. Development should occur in this area that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • The existing patterns of mixed-use development within this Character Area should be encouraged and expanded. There are a limited number of undeveloped parcels, but there nonetheless are opportunities for redevelopment along the Highway 9 corridor and within the Deerfield Character Area. • New non-residential development should adhere to the Highway 9 Overlay District regulations and the Highway 9 Design Guidelines, where innovative design elements such as locating parking to the rear, limiting signage and incorporating street trees and pedestrian amenities are encouraged. To mitigate overdevelopment of parking areas, new parking should only be developed in areas where shared parking or existing parking is not an option. If necessary, new parking should utilize permeable paving alternatives and landscaping to mitigate the deleterious effects of stormwater run-off, heat islands and other environmental considerations. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 47Draft for Review 8.11.2016 • To further the demand for employment, opportunities in proximity to residential development in the city of Milton, redevelopment of the Deerfield Character Area should encourage professional uses and office space in addition to expanding existing commercial and service sectors. • The majority of higher density residential development is currently within or adjacent to the Deerfield Character Area, and new development in this Character Area should continue to reflect traditional neighborhood design principles, such as smaller lots, mix of housing types, access to pocket parks and pedestrian access to commercial services and community amenities. Preservation of environmentally sensitive areas by setting them aside as public parks, trails, or greenbelts should be encouraged. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201648 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 49Draft for Review 8.11.2016 This area is made up of a variety of subdivisions developed in the 1990s and early 2000s. These neighborhoods are stable with a mixture of lot sizes and open space. Although this area is located in close proximity to commercial activity centers in both the City of Milton and Forsyth County, Bethany is unique in that it also retains some private amenities provided within these residential subdivisions such as the golf course adjacent to the Crooked Creek subdivision. Development Patterns in this Area • The predominant land use of the Bethany Character Area should remain residential. Given its proximity to the Deerfield Character Area and small pockets of non- residential zoning, there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. The expansion of non-residential development should be limited to the boundaries established in the form-based code that governs development of this area. Preservation of the existing residential neighborhoods is the priority. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be avoided, and new residential development should match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • Implementing the recommendations of the Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor including Bethany Road Bend is a high priority for the community. Development should occur in this area that is compatible with the adopted Master Plan. • Development along Highway 9 in the Bethany area should respect the unique character of Bethany and should be distinct from, but compatible with, development along Highway 9 in the Deerfield Character Area. Development in close proximity to Cambridge High School should be done in a way that ensures appropriate transition between residentially zoned land and higher density uses. Bethany City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201650 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts Residential Low (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Private Recreation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 51Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Non-residential development in Bethany is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201652 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Crabapple The Character Area has seen intense mixed use development at the crossroad of Crabapple Road and Birmingham Highway with low density residential development radiating outside of the core. In addition, within Crabapple there are several institutional uses- including schools and places of worship. Crabapple represents a unique rural based village center and lends itself to becoming the “City Center” for Milton. Crabapple has the highest concentration of historic resources of any character area in Milton. Development Patterns in this Area Crabapple Crossroads serves as the activity center for this Character Area, and is typical of village developments with buildings clustered at the center, a clearly defined perimeter, and surrounded by open space and rural residential development. Buildings will be architecturally integrated within the site and one another, and developed at a sufficient scale to be identified as an activity center, but will nonetheless promote pedestrian friendliness. Uses may include a mix of residential, commercial and community facilities. Crabapple Crossroads is connected to the larger community via existing transportation networks as well as the proposed community trail system. Crabapple includes areas that are typical of Milton’s distinct rural-residential land use pattern. New development should match the typical densities found within this area and should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding rural/ agricultural uses. Significant site features, such as view sheds and environmentally sensitive areas, should be enlisted as amenities that shape identity and character of new development within this character area. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 53Draft for Review 8.11.2016 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201654 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 55Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Milton Lakes This area represents a variety of neighborhoods in the southernmost portion of the City, bordering the City of Alpharetta. There are environmentally sensitive areas such as several water bodies and floodplain. The major corridors are Hopewell Road and Cogburn Road. These corridors include mostly suburban neighborhoods developed in the late 1990s with a mixture of lot sizes. Included in this area is Providence Park. There are several institutional uses such as places of worship, schools, and the site of the new high school at the intersection of Bethany Bend and Cogburn Road. Development Patterns in the Area • This area reflects the rural-residential development pattern typical of much of the city, but its access to limited sewer connections as well as its proximity to commercial zoning and institutional uses within the area suggest it may be appropriate for a live-work pattern of development. The intensity to which the live- work concept has been developed within the Deerfield Character Area would not be suitable for Milton Lakes, and unlike Crabapple or Birmingham, there is no identifiable “crossroads community” to anchor a mixed use development. The possibility of sprawling patterns of development exists in this area, and mitigation against this should be a priority. • The predominant land use of the Milton Lakes Character Area should remain residential, even though there may be pressure to expand non-residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses into stable residential areas. Redevelopment of the area to include higher density multi-family residential uses should be minimized, and new residential development should primarily match the mix of housing types and styles of established neighborhoods in this character area. Existing recreational amenities should be preserved and enhanced and connectivity to the proposed Milton trail network should be encouraged. This area would benefit from the creation of pocket parks that would serve the residential neighborhoods that lack such amenities. • Development should be well designed and blend into existing neighborhoods and buffers should separate more intense areas of development from nearby neighborhoods or other lower intensity areas. New development on the edge of urbanized areas should minimize undesirable impacts on surrounding residential uses. • The Milton Lakes character area contains a diversity of residential lot sizes, and future residential development should reflect an average of the current diversity of densities and housing patterns. Enhancements such as a scenic corridor overlays and bicycle and pedestrian trail options may augment existing development and mitigate the effects of sprawling development. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201656 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Appropriate Zoning Districts in this Area Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR)AG2, R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, CUP, H Residential Medium (MDR-3)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H Residential High (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H State Route 9 Overlay District Rural Milton Overlay District City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 57Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Non-residential development in Milton Lakes is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201658 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Sweet Apple Sweet Apple is made up of two areas located in the southwest portion of the City of Milton, bounded by the City of Roswell on three sides (north, south, and to the west). Horse farms, pastures and woodlands dominate this Character Area. Two of the equestrian estates in the City are located in this area as well as Georgia Golf Center – a golf practice facility driving range, large rural sites and pleasant pastoral views. Development Patterns in this Area The Sweet Apple character area is typical of Milton’s agricultural and rural-residential pattern of development. It is dominated by its rural character and equestrian uses, but is unique in that it is virtually surrounded by land within the city of Roswell, outside of Milton’s jurisdiction. The land use patterns in this area may be impacted by land use decisions within the City of Roswell, as well as the potential development of SR 140, Arnold Mill Road, but care should be taken to protect the existing uses and rural character on the urban/rural fringe. Economically viable agriculture uses, such as forestry and equestrian facilities, can be sustained in this area with the assistance of preferential taxation programs. Estate residential uses with limited hobby agricultural will also preserve the pastoral character. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 59Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appropriate Land Uses in this Area Compatible Zoning Districts Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Residential Low (LDR) AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201660 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Future Land Use Map & Narrative The Future Land Use Map is a parcel-based map that identifies land use patterns using standard categories, such as Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Public/ Institutional, etc. The land use designation for a particular parcel of land represents the City’s official policy for the recommended future development of that parcel over the next 20 years. The Future Land Use Map shows the land use designations of all the parcels of land within the City of Milton, and this map will continue to guide future development and be an important tool in making zoning decisions. A detailed description of each future land use classification is below. There are thirteen land use designations recognized and portrayed on the City’s future land use map. They are: • Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) • Low Density Residential (LDR) • Medium Density Residential 1-3 (MDR 1-3) • High Density Residential1-2 (HDR 1-2) • Retail and Services (RS) • Office (O) • Community Facilities (CF) • Private Recreation (PR) • Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) • Mixed Use/ Living Working (MLW) Land Use relates to zoning in that the zoning should be compatible with the land use designation (see compatibility chart). Each land use designation is more generalized than any individual zoning district and may be considered to be compatible with several zoning districts. Since land use is more general and less specific, there are more zoning classifications than land use designations. Zoning is a very specific means of regulating property as compared to land use designation. The land use map and policies guide the land use pattern of the city in general, while the zoning districts impose specific controls and permissions on property. Two areas of the City - Crabapple and Deerfield - are controlled through form based codes. Form based codes use transect zones to govern land use and zoning as a combined mechanism to guide development of an area. The Transect Zone Descriptions for Crabapple and Deerfield are also included in this section for reference. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 61Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Residential Residential uses include all properties where the principal structures are designed for human habitation. Several residential categories, listed below, are shown on the Land Use Map. The categories show the densities per acre, based on the smallest lot size. Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE) – This category consists of scattered single-family homes, each one at least one acre, but are typically on several acres. This land use promotes hobby farms, equestrian facilities, and large lot residential estates includes minimum 3 acre lots on gravel roads. Low Density Residential (LDR) – This residential category consists of one single-family home on at least one acre (minimum 1.0 acre lots). Medium Density Residential (MDR) – There are three MDR categories. • MDR-(1): Up to 1.5 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.75 acre lots) • MDR-(2): Up to 2 units per acre (1/2 acre lots or minimum 0.5 acre lots) • MDR-(3): Up to 3 units per acre (1/3 acre lots or minimum 0.333 acre lots) High Density Residential (HDR) – There are two HDR categories. • HDR-(1): 3 to 5 units per acre (0.32 acre lots to 0.2 acre lots) • HDR-(2): 5 or more units per acre (0.19 or smaller acre lots) Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential (AEE)AG1, R1, R2, H Low Density Residential (LDR)AG1, R1, R2, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-1)R1, R2, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-2)RI, R2, R2A, CUP, H Medium Density Residential (MDR-3)R1,R2, R2A, R3, R3A, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-1)R1, R2, R2A R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R6, CUP, H High Density Residential (HDR-2)R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, R6, TR, CUP, H City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201662 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Commercial & Mixed Use Retail, services and offices are appropriate uses in this category. Retail and Service (RS) - Retail, service and office uses are appropriate uses in this category. These uses may be located in a single building or as part of a shopping center. Office (O) – Office uses are appropriate for this category – The office uses may be in single office buildings as well as office parks. Mixed Use/ Live Work (MLW) – The purpose of the Mixed Use/ Live Work land use district is to allow an appropriate and balanced mix of uses to create a living, working environment at a scale and character that is compatible with its surrounding community. Mixed Use/ Live Work areas will be activity centers where the community can live, work, shop, meet and play. These areas should be compact, pedestrian oriented, with a mix of office, commercial and residential uses and incorporate open space. This will result in the protection of environmental resources, accessible open space, a balance of all modes of transportation, housing choices and civic interaction. Detailed development standards are outlined below. Density will be defined by the specific zoning conditions or overlay district as applicable. Land Use • Live Work land uses should have a compatible mix of office, commercial, services, institutional, civic and residential uses. These should be integrated both vertically and horizontally. The uses within the Live Work areas should be in proximity to each other in order to encourage walking and to increase mobility to those who do not drive, especially the elderly and the young. Within the Live Work land use there should be transition of land uses, height and density. The Live Work land use should also serve the adjacent community. • Live Work areas should have an integrated transportation system. The transportation system should provide connectivity within the node and to and from the surround community. The transportation system should incorporate automobile, transit when available, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The streets should form an interconnected transportation network. This street network will create options, improve access and should be designed to promote walking, biking, and transit usage where present. The pedestrian and bicycle facilities should facilitate safe, attractive and convenient pedestrian and bicycle circulation and minimize conflicts between pedestrians and vehicles. Open Space • A range of parks and open space, from village greens to active recreation and passive open space, should be distributed throughout the Live Work district. Open space should be centrally located and accessible for the enjoyment of residents and workers. Open space and parks could be used to define and connect neighborhoods and uses. Environmentally sensitive areas should be protected and their fragmentation should be avoided. At least 20% of development should be set aside as open space. Housing • Live Work areas should have a diversity of housing types to meet the needs of the workforce and city residents. General • 20% of the project shall be comprised of open space of which the community gathering space is a part. • Projects that are 15 acres or less shall have two uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Projects that are 15 acres or more shall have three uses of which residential is one of the uses. • Live Work projects shall provide a balance of uses with a minimum of 20% of each of the uses on the site and/ or in the area. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Retail and Service MIX, C1, C2 Office OI, MIX, M1-A Mixed Use/ Live Work AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 63Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Public & Recreational Community Facilities (CF) – This land use includes public uses such as community centers, government facilities such as senior centers, health centers, fire and police stations, libraries, government centers, and schools, semi-public uses such as churches and cemeteries and institutional uses such as hospitals. Private Recreation (PR) – Privately owned recreational facilities such as golf courses and common open spaces are included in this land use. Parks, Recreation and Conservation (PRC) – This includes parks, open space and recreational facilities owned by public entities. Land Use Designation Compatible Zoning District Community Facilities AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Private Recreation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Parks, Recreation and Conservation AG1, R1, R2, R2A, R3, R3A, R4, R4A, R5, R5A, TR, A, OI, MIX, C1, C2, CUP, NUP, M1, M2, M1-A Staff comment 6/27 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201664 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Compatibility Chart Land Use Designation Zoning Classifications AG1R1R2R2AR3R3AR4R4AR5R5ATRACUPNUPOIMIXC1C2M1M2M1ARetail & Service Office Mixed Use/ Live Work Community Facilities Private Recreation Parks, Recreation, Conservation Agriculture, Equestrian, Estate Residential Low Density Residential Medium Density Residential 1 Medium Density Residential 2 Medium Density Residential 3 High Density Residential 1 High Density Residential 2 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 65Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Crabapple is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Crabapple Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201666 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Development in Deerfield is governed by Transect Zones. For more information, refer to the Deerfield/ Highway 9 Form Based Code, which is a part of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 67Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Future Land Use Map City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201668 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Key to Terminology: Items that are Completed have been finished within the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Underway have been initiated or have had partial progress made as of the end of the 5-Year reporting period prior to this Comprehensive Plan Update. They have been carried over into the new 5-year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Postponed are still priorities for the community, and have been carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Items that are Cancelled will not be carried over into the new 5-Year reporting period for this Comprehensive Plan Update. Generally, these are items that are broad policy statements or routine city operations, and they have been identified appropriately as such. Report of Accomplishments Project #Project Description Status Notes Economic Development ED1 Economic Development Plan to attract businesses to Milton; including agricultural and equestrian economic development Underway The policy to maintain Milton’s agricultural and equestrian heritage has been upheld in cases before council, which shows its commitment to attracting agri/equestrian businesses. ED2 Create an information database of economic development resources include a list of vacant buildings and available commercial properties that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed A list of vacant/undeveloped parcels available for development is maintained in the GIS system. The city also has access to a database called CoStar that reports vacant retail and commercial property as requested ED3 Evaluate tax implications for prospective businesses Cancelled Revised in the updated STWP ED4 Evaluate business license requirements and fees for Milton as compared with adjacent jurisdictions to insure that rates are competitive and will encourage new businesses to locate inside the city Postponed Milton looked at its business licence fee structure in 2011 and determined to keep the existing structure at that time. This function was moved to the finance department and is planned to be reviewed with a new fee structure implemented in time for the 2017 business license renewal period ED5 Encourage the Expansion of the North Fulton CID to include Deerfield and along Hwy 9 Underway Work is being done to encourage businessed to join the North Fulton CID to facilitate the expansion Natural and Cultural Resources City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 69Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes NRC1 Create an historic zoning code Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC2 Develop and implement Design Standards for historic properties Completed Article 18 of the Zoning Code NRC3 Pursue grant funding from GA Forestry Commission to conduct a Tree Canopy Study to establish a baseline for tree preservation Completed GA Forestry grant Milton $20,000 in 2011 to conduct a Forestry master plan and tree inventory and canopy study, completed in 2012 NRC4 Implement an inventory of current street trees within key areas of Milton, such as Crabapple Crossroads, Birmingham Highway, and Highway 9 Corridor that can be identified and managed by a GIS system Completed This was done as part of the Forest Management Plan NRC5 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of wetlands Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC6 Review ordinance for adequate local protection of areas with steep slopes Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC7 Study potential greenway and greensapce protection through easements, land trusts, etc.Completed Conservation Plan 2014 NRC8 Create ordinance to support the creation of green infrastructure Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) NRC9 Adopt DNR Part 5 Criteria 4: Groundwater Recharge Areas and Wetlands Protection Postponed This will be part of the comprehensive review of the City’s ordinances with the UDC project (2018) Facilities and Services Parks and Recreation FS1 Parks and Recreation 15-year Comprehensive Plan Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS2 Complete a Greenprint Plan to identify key elements of Milton’s green infrastructure and identify mechanisms and recommendations for its acquisition, preservation and community use Completed Conservation Plan 2014 FS3 Revise the Birmingham Park Master Plan Completed This was looked at and reported on in the Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS4 Trail Plan Update Completed Parks and Rec Master Plan 2012 FS5 Trail Plan Implementation Underway This wll be ongoing for the next 20 years FS6 Crabapple Crossing Park Partnership Completed Friendship Park was opened in 2012 FS7 Crabapple Community Center/ Park Completed This is now the Broadwell Pavilion opened in 2015 FS8 Bell Memorial Park Improvements Completed completed in 2015 FS9 Bethwell Community Center & Park Completed completed in 2011 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201670 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS10 Hopewell Middle School/ Cogburn Woods and Birmingham Fall Elementary School and Northwestern Middle School Improvements Completed The projects at Hopewell MS, Cogburn Woods and Birmingham ES were done in 2012. The Northwestern MS improvments were done in 2015 FS11 Park Sign Program Underway Portions of this program have been completed. FS12 Land Acquisition/ Site Improvements Completed Land was acquired for the expansion of Bell Memorial Park in 2012 and Providence Park was acquired in 2015 FS13 Identify and Create Pocket parks in the Bethany, Deerfield, Crabapple and Arnold Mill Character Areas consistent with the future Master Plans of the Character Areas Completed Friendship Park and the Broadwell Pavilion were created in Crabapple; and Freedom Park was created in the Deerfield and Bethany areas. The Arnold Mill Plan identifies the Chadwick Landfill as a future park site FS14 Create a Master Plan for Providence Park and implement construction per the Master Plan recommendations Underway The Park land became available for acquisition in 2015. The park is scheduled to open to the public October 2016. After at leaset six months of public use, the city will engage teh community in thinking about a master plan for the park in 2017 FS15 Pursue LCI grant funding for Hwy 9 Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI FS16 Pursue LCI grant funding for Crabapple Town Center Completed FS17 Pursue LCI grant funding for Windward Parkway/ Deerfield with Alpharetta and North Fulton CID Completed This is the Deerfield/Hwy 9 / GA 400 LCI. It included Windward Parkway with Alpharetta FS18 Pursue certification through the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Green Communities program working with the Milton Grows Green Communities (MGG) Completed Achieved Bronze level certification FS19 Gateway Grant Program Completed Police FS20 Improve current training curriculum options for city police officers Completed FS21 Improve reporting software for police department Completed FS22 Plan the location for police stations to maintain adequate service coverage through the city. Also applies to Fire Department Underway The location analysis has been done for a public Safety complex. The property site has been idenified and purchased. Architectral and space planning is underway, and the buildings are expected to be completed in 2019 Fire FS23 Improve current training curriculum options for city fire personnel Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS24 Expand EMS service to Advanced Life Support (ALS)Completed City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 71Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes FS25 Continue to expand the large animal rescue program Completed FS25 Continue renovations to Station 41 Completed FS27 Plan the location for fire stations to maintain adequate service coverage throughout the city. Also applies to police department Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program Public Works FS28 Continue to make improvements to the city Maintenance Facility Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FS29 Develop and implement a stormwater management plan for Bell Memorial Park Completed Administration FS30 City Hall Underway A new City Hall is being constructed in Crabapple. Completion date is estimated to be 2017. FS31 Sponsor recycling education programs and increase opportunities for curbside recycling options Underway Housing H1 Undertake a city wide housing survey to determine the existing diversity of housing types, sizes, and values throughout Milton Completed This information was gathered census data and ongoing building permits H2 Ordinances for New Subdivisions Completed Amendments to the subdivision ordinance was proposed in 2015, but failed due to lack of community support H3 Develop Creative Design Guidelines for higher density housing Completed The Form Based Codes were implemented in areas that would allow higher density housing. A City Achitect was hired to review and suggest better design for these housing options Land Use and Development Controls LUDC1 Review and evaluate city wide buffer requirements and establish alternative requirements as needed to mitigate incompatibilities of adjacent land uses and to protect viewsheds Completed The buffer requirements were evaluated and no additional or increased buffers were implemented LUDC2 Agricultural/ Equestrian incentive land uses and zoning. Review and evaluate the standards of the Northwest Fulton Zoning Overlay and the AG-1 Zoning District to ensure protection of residential uses, traditional agriculture, and equestrian uses. Assemble a committee of citizens and stakeholders to discuss alternatives and make recommendations for improvements Completed The study led to the new Rural Milton Overlay that replaced the Northwest Fulton Overlay. Other incentives include the TDR program. Continued research is programed for 2017 thru 2018 LUDC3 Adopt Development Regulations - Unified Development Code Postponed This project was re-evaluated and re- assigned to 2018 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201672 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes LUDC4 Create a Master Plan for the Highway 9 Corridor, including visual design standards Completed This area has Form Based Code zoning with architectural review LUDC5 Create a Master Plan for the SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road Corridor, including visual design standards collaborating with the City of Roswell Completed This was done in 2014 LUDC6 Prepare a Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) ordinance or appropriate Form Based Code Completed LUDC7 Develop Rural Viewshed Districts Completed The comprehensive plan’s future community map shows the Rural Viewshed designated areas LUDC8 Establish a Green Building Ordinance Completed Adopted in 2012 LUDC9 Establish a Transfer of Development Rights and Purchase of Development Rights program Completed The TDR ordinance was adopted in 2012 LUDC10 Establish an Impact Fee Ordinance Completed The Impact Fee ordinance was adopted in 2015 LUDC11 Develop a conservation development design ordinance that is compatible with vision and policies for the Comprehensive Plan for the City of Milton. Completed A consultant was hired to develop the ordinance. The City Council unanimously denied the measure by a vote of 7-0. There was significant public opposition to the ordinance that was presented at the time. LUDC12 Establish a system to Monitor septic systems Cancelled The management of the septic system in the community is a County function. We have decided to pursue educational workshops and communications to make the community aware of maintenance schedules LUDC13 [omitted in the original table] LUDC14 Conduct a parking audit of existing surface parking in the city to determine if the amount is disproportionate to need and review current parking regulations to determine if too much surface parking is required for new development. Completed This was evaluated in the master planned areas where reduced parking requirements were implemented. A parking deck study was done for Crabapple LUDC15 Develop digital and web-based information systems to better inform citizens of land use and development matters and other elements of the planning process. Underway Improved communication has been implemented by their emails and social media specifically about zoning and land use. Additional improvements such as allowing citizen to have access to a map- based case logs is ongoing LUDC16 Crabapple Master Plan Update including transportation Completed This was done with the LCI in 2013 Transportation T1 Context Sensitive design for Streets improvements Completed This is being done as part of the intersection capital Improvement projects City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 73Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project #Project Description Status Notes T2 Create a Complete Streets Program Completed The Milton Trail Plan and Comprehensive Transportation plan incorporates and identifies modes of transportation to accommodate vehicular, bike and pedestrian traffic T3 Develop criteria for traffic impact studies for development proposals Completed This is in Chapter 48 of the Milton code of ordinances T4 Install new compliant road signs, as required by safety studies and engineering review Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program T5 Rebuild Cogburn Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2012 T6 Replacement of Landrum Road Bridge Completed Completed in 2013 T7 Pavement Management Plan Cancelled This is a routine function of city government and has been removed from the work program FN-199 Install fiber optic cable and upgrade traffic signal system along SR 9 Completed This was a multi-jurisdiction project. The installation of the taffic signal at Deerfield and Hwy 9 contributed to this project FN-206 SR 140/ Arnold Mill Road at New Providence/ New Providence Road intersection realignment and improvement, as well as streetscape improvements Completed completed in 2013 FN-237 Mayfield Road and Mid-Broadwell Road intersection realignment with drainage and streetscape improvements Underway IC1 Proactively seek opportunities for Milton’s Council, staff & residents to be involved in development discussions/ coordinate with other jurisdictions, esp. Forsyth, Cherokee, Alpharetta and Roswell Cancelled Removed because language was vague and suggested an item covered as a routine part of government services. IC2 Increase Milton’s presence/ influence with the North Fulton Chamber Completed Milton created a part time economic development position and hired an economic development manager to increase Milton’s presence / influence with the North Fulton Chamber IC3 Work with Alpharetta and Roswell to develop an amicable system for non-resident park usage Completed It was determined that the non-resident park usage agreement was pertenant to Alpharetta and not Roswell. An intergovernmental agreement between Milton and Alpharetta was signed in 2012 City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201674 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Short Term Work Program Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Economic Development Explore a Milton CID in the Crabapple Downtown area to carry out infrastructure projects in that boundary zone. x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Launch door-to-door outreach program to formalize the feedback loop within the business community. x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Explore an innovation center in a suitable location to incubate future business opportunity and growth. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Conduct business association outreach for regular interaction with the Milton Business Alliance, Crabapple Business Association, GNFCC and Metro Chamber. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Build and maintain an available land database listing of properties in CoStar and Select Georgia databased to convert properties from vacant to filled. x x x x x City of Milton Economic Development Staff Time Community Facilities Complete the construction of the new City Hall in Crabapple. x City of Milton General Fund Implement the construction of the Crabapple Streetscape.x City of Milton Public Works General Fund, $250,000 Enhance multi-use connection to Big Creek Greenway.x x x City of Milton Public Works General Fund Explore the feasibility of a walkable connection from Birmingham Park to an Arnold Mill Park at the closing landfill with focus being along Little River. x x x x x City of Milton Public Works Staff Time Develop phase 2 of Providence Park to repair the rock quarry, establish access to water, public restrooms and a safe shelter. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation $400,000 Evaluate renewal and continuation of the intergovernmental agreement with the City of Alpharetta for parks without borders. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Partner with a provider to establish programming at Providence Park.x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation TBD Based on Project Scope City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 75Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Research new program offerings which might include activities not currently offered by Milton. x x x x x City of Milton Parks and Recreation Staff Time Revise and Update the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, including the Trails Master Plan x City of Milton Parks and Recreation General Fund $75,000 Implement greenspace acquisition in accordance with the greenspace bond, if approved x x x x x City of Milton Public Works, Parks and Recreation, and Community Development $25 million Community Development Produce process maps for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency as measured by average time per permit. x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Produce process maps/videos for all customer interactions seeking to maximize efficiency (NOT measured by average time per permit). x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant $50,000 Establish a Unified Development Code to encourage better development and design while clarifying process. x x City of Milton Community Development; Consultant General Fund $180,000 Formalize a training program so each city staff member can act as a concierge for our customers (in coordination with process mapping). x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Create Program to allow online tracking of permits x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore 5 acre zoning category for TDR parcels x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore incentives for bigger lots/ estate homes x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Identify appropriate staffing needs and make sound recommendations as needed. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Through the Innovation Academy, explore implementing a detailed employee review process/ performance management system. x City of Milton Human Resources Staff Time Initiate informational sessions with city boards and commission to inform of strategic plan and other city initiatives x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201676 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create and maintain a digital information kiosks that direct people where to find additional information on current city projects and developments. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for construction of new City Hall Create and implement basic guides to enhance the ease of understanding our building and design standards. x x x City of Milton; Internship Intern Time Create branding material that promotes Milton’s unique identity. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Pursue a street topper sign program that would be intended to create a sense of place through signage. x City of Milton; Consultant costs factored into the budget for Crabapple Streetscape Create a Master Plan for Downtown Milton that incorporates the Municipal Center, Community Center, and Central Community Greenspace x City of Milton; Consultant $80,000 Continue welcome packets mailed monthly to new homeowners to increase resident awareness of Milton programs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff and Volunteer Time Support the Village Volunteers program designed to assist young adults who have graduated high school and also have special needs. x x x x x City of Milton Communications Staff Time Create education opportunties for citizens about planning, zoning, etc./Citizen’s Academy x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for older-student education participation in planning/com dev work i.e. Mock member of Board, Commission or Council x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a program for younger-student education participation in planning/com dev work Lego city build program x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reinvent the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) for the review and designation of historic properties x City of Milton; Historic Preservation Commission Staff Time; Citizen Time Establish and implement a signage program for historic land markers and points of interest x x City of Milton; Consultant General Fund $51,000 Create educational opportunities for the community that are grounded in sustainability, resiliency and conservation (Earthday Festival; Arbor Day Event; Community Meetings) x x x x x City of Milton; Community Volunteers Staff Time; Citizen Time City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 77Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Project 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 Responsibility Funding and Cost Create a formal feedback loop with the equestrian community x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Review the code of ordinances for desired enhancements that protect our rural character x x x x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish and facilitate a working group charged to identify evaluation criteria for potential areas of land conservation or community greenspace x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reflect greenspace needs within the updated comprehensive plan x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore the establishment of a City sponsored TDR Bank x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Establish incentive packages to encourage the retention of farms and equestrian facilities x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Explore options for undertaking Future Land Use Map amendments prior to considering zoning petitions that may not be compatible with the Future Land Use Map x x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Reconcile the current zoning districts with updated land use classifications in the Comprehensive Plan/ on the Future Land Use Map x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time Develop a method for tracking commercial- type uses in the AG-1 zoning district x City of Milton Community Development Staff Time City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201678 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Appendix Glossary ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990 and later amended in 2009 to protect individuals with a disability from discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, State and local government, public accommodations, commercial facilities, transportation, and telecommunications. ARC: Atlanta Regional Commission: is the agency responsible for regional planning and intergovernmental coor- dination for the Atlanta Metropolitan Area which includes ten counties (Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties) and all the cities within those counties. The ARC reviews the comprehensive plans of all these jurisdictions along with the state’s planning/coordinating agency, GA Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Bioswales: are vegetation and compost filled landscape elements designed to filter silt and pollution from surface run- off water before it is released to the watershed or storm sewer. Common applications are along roadways and around parking lots, where substantial automotive pollution is collected by the paving and then flushed into the watershed or stormwater by rain. The bioswale collects the runoff and slows the water flow, maximizing the time water spends in the swale, which aids the trapping of pollutants and silt. Biological factors also contribute to the breakdown of certain pollutants. Bucolic: of the countryside, rural, pastoral CPAC : Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee: is the sixteen member citizen group formed in 2007 by the Mayor and Council to initiate the comprehensive planning process. The group consists of the seven members of the Planning Commission, Chairperson of the Board of Zoning Appeals, Chairperson of the Design Review Board, and seven citizen appointees of the Mayor and City Council. Context Sensitive Design: refers to the concept of taking community values and environmental preservation into account in the designing and engineering of projects. The concept impresses that a project should be sensitive to their surrounding environment, especially in scenic or historic areas and should include public involvement by collaborating with local communities during the projects design phase. An understanding of the natural and built environments including roadways as part of the valued landscape must be accomplished before the engineering design progresses begins. Complete Streets: Streets that provide multiple travel choices such as vehicle travel lanes, bike travel lanes, pedestrian sidewalks, and amenities such as lights, benches, shade trees that make all users safe. A balanced transportation system that includes complete streets can increase the overall capacity of the transportation network and bolster economic growth and stability by providing accessible and efficient connections between residences, schools, parks, public trans- portation, offices, and retail destinations. Conservation Design: refers to design of any build project that considers the conservation of open and green space and configures the build elements in such a way that it maximized the conservation area. Conservation Subdivision: refers to the design of a residential subdivision that maintains its zoned/permitted project density, but configures the home placement/arrangement in such a way that it maximizes open and green space for conservation. City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 2016 79Draft for Review 8.11.2016 DCA: Department of Community Affairs: is the state agency created in 1977 to serve as an advocate for local govern- ments. On July 1, 1996, the Governor and General Assembly merged the Georgia Housing and Finance Authority (GHFA) with the Department of Community Affairs. Today, DCA operates a host of state and federal grant programs; serves as the state’s lead agency in housing finance and development; promulgates building codes to be adopted by local gov- ernments; provides comprehensive planning, technical and research assistance to local governments; and serves as the lead agency for the state’s solid waste reduction efforts. Feasibility Study: A combination of a market study and an economic analysis that provides the facts about a proposed project and estimates the expected return on investment to be derived from the project. Gateways: are locations that signify the entrance to a community. GATEway grant: GATE is an acronym for GA Transportation Enhancement. The GATEway Grant is an annual grant oppor- tunity provided by the GA Department of Transportation to assist communities in their efforts to enhance and beautify roadsides along state routes especially at gateway locations. GDOT: Georgia Department of Transportation: The State of Georgia’s transportation management authority. Green Infrastructure system: where a network of parks, recreation, and conservation areas are, or planned to be, inter- connected throughout the city or region. Heat-island or urban head island: refers to areas which consistently record significantly warmer temperatures than its surrounding areas. This is generally the case in metropolitan areas where modification of the land surface by urban development, i.e. uses of materials which effectively retain heat and waste heat generated by energy usage increase the average temperatures. Mitigation of the urban heat island effect can be accomplished through the use of green roofs and the use of lighter-colored surfaces in urban areas, which reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. Open Road Neighborhood: residential homes/neighborhoods located along public open two-lane country roads; which contrasts conventional subdivision neighborhoods where the homes are situated off the main thorough-fare along a web of internal streets that do not allow through traffic and sometimes are private. Rain gardens: refers to a planted depressed area designed to collect rainwater runoff from impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and compacted lawn areas, and allow it the opportunity to be absorbed into the ground as opposed to flowing into storm drains and water ways. This reduces the pressure on stormwater systems and reduces the risk of flash flooding. It also replenishes groundwater. Rural Viewshed: refers to the pastoral views that can be seen along the roads as one travels through Milton. Scenic Byways: A Georgia Scenic Byway is defined as any designated highway, street, road, or route, which features cer- tain intrinsic qualities that should be protected or enhanced. The qualities that give the byway its character and appeal are its scenic, historic, natural, archaeological, cultural, or recreational nature. Currently, twelve corridors have achieved Georgia Scenic Byways status as designated by the Georgia Department of Transportation, with more to follow. SR: State Route: roads/highways that are part of the state’s network of roads that are managed/maintained by the state’s department of transportation. Milton has three state routes: SR 9 (Hwy 9), SR 372 (Birmingham Hwy), and SR 140 (Arnold Mill Road). City of Milton Comprehensive plan • 201680 Draft for Review 8.11.2016 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activ- ities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as “design for all,” “inclusive design,” and “life-span design,” refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessi- ble kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. City of Milton 2030 Comprehensive Plan: Community Agenda 06-06-2011 XI. Glossary of Terms 110 Steep Slopes: 20 to 30 percent. Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND): A basic neighborhood unit which contains a center that includes a public space and commercial enterprise; an identifiable edge, ideally a five minute walk from the center; a mix of activities and variety of housing types; an interconnected network of streets usually in a grid pattern, high priority of public space, with prominently located civic buildings and open space that includes parks, plazas, squares; Reminiscent of traditional neighborhoods and increasing in popularity as a component in New Urbanism concepts. TND may occur in infill settings and involve adaptive reuse of existing buildings, but can also occur as all-new construction on previously undeveloped land. Tree Canopy: refers to the shade or coverage provided by forests. It is above the ground portion of trees including the branches and foliage. Universal Design: also known as "design for all," "inclusive design," and "life-span design," refers to broad-spectrum architectural planning ideas meant to produce buildings, products and environments that are inherently accessible to both the able-bodied and the physically disabled. It is based on the idea that all environments and products should be usable by all people, regardless of their ages, sizes, or abilities. Universal Design encompasses Visitable Homes. Visitable Homes: refers to homes that are designed to accommodate families and visitors, regardless of age, size or physical ability by providing easy access, easy passage and easy use for everyone. A step-free entrance into the central living area, wider doorways/passageways and a self-contained main floor with a bedroom, entertainment area, accessible kitchen and full bathroom makes it possible for residents or visitors who rely on mobility aids, or who may develop serious medical conditions, to maneuver through the home with relative ease. RES TO: FROM: HOME OF'TI�F EENT iY O J --E i% ;EORGIa' M ILTON, ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM City Council DATE: August 11, 2016 Steven Krokoff, City Manager AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of a Resolution Transmitting a Draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update Relating to the City's Impact Fee Program to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State Review. MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: W1A'**`PPROVED (J NOT APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: (-�<ES () NO CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: KYES (J NO APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: APPROVED (J NOT APPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: REMARKS: 611<1t� 42 youm- PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 Green + cI T a1g0 p infoC�cityofWILDLIFE Commumiltonga.us 1 www.cityofmiltonga.us ,.w,.,,.,�„,o�„,�.:�.,,.rq 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 - CERTIF ED BRONZE - By STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF FULTON RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE TRANSMITTAL OF A DRAFT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS ELEMENT 2016 ANNUAL UPDATE TO THE ATLANTA REGIONAL COMMISSION FOR REGIONAL AND STATE REVIEW WHEREAS, on September 21, 2015, the City of Milton adopted a Capital Improvements Element as an amendment to the Milton Comprehensive Plan; and WHEREAS, the City of Milton has drafted a 2016 Annual Update to the adopted Capital Improvements Element, which incorporates an impact fee financial report for FY 2015 (as applicable); and WHEREAS, the draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update was prepared in accordance with the “Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements” and the “Minimum Planning Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning” adopted by the Department of Community Affairs pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act of 1989, and a duly advertised Public Hearing was held on August 15, 2016, at 6:00 p.m. in the City of Milton City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway; BE IT THEREFORE RESOLVED that the City Council does hereby authorize the transmittal of the draft Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update to the Atlanta Regional Commission for Regional and State review, as per the requirements of the Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements adopted pursuant to the Georgia Planning Act of 1989. RESOLVED this 15th day of August, 2016. _________________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: _____________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk Capital Improvements Element 2016 Annual Update Fiscal Year 2015 (10/1/14—9/30/15) Financial Report & Community Work Program City of Milton, Georgia TRANSMITTAL DRAFT: August 8, 2016 Introduction City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 1 This Capital Improvements Element Annual Update has been prepared based on the rules and regulations pertaining to impact fees in Georgia, as specified by the Development Im- pact Fee Act (DIFA) and the Depart- ment of Community Affairs (DCA) documents Development Impact Fee Compliance Requirements and Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning. These three documents dictate the essential el e- ments of an Annual Update, specifi- cally the inclusion of a financial report and a schedule of improvements. According to DCA’s Compliance Re- quirements, the Annual Update: “must include: 1) the Annual Re- port on impact fees required under O.C.G.A. 36-71-8; and 2) a new fifth year schedule of improve- ments, and any changes to or re- visions of previously listed CIE projects, including alterations in project costs, proposed changes in funding sources, construction schedules, or project scope.” (Chapter 110-12-2-.03(2)(c)) This Annual Update itself is based on the City of Milton’s Capital Improve- ments Element, as adopted by the City October 5, 2015. Financial Report The Financial Report included in this document is based on the require- ments of DIFA, specifically: “As part of its annual audit pro- cess, a municipality or county shall prepare an annual report describ- ing the amount of any develop- ment impact fees collected, en- cumbered, and used during the preceding year by category of pub- lic facility and service area.” (O.C.G.A. 36-71-8(c)) The required financial information for each public facility category appears in the main financial table (page 2); each of the public facility categories has a single, city-wide service area. The status of all impact fee projects, by public facility category, is shown on the tables on pages 3, 4, 5 and 6. The City’s fiscal year runs from Octo- ber 1 to September 30. Schedule of Improvements In addition to the financial report, the City has prepared a five-year sched- ule of improvements—a community work program (CWP)—as specified in DCA’s Compliance Requirements (Chapter 110-12-2-.03(2)(c)), which states that local governments that have a CIE must “update their entire Short Term [i.e., Community] Work Programs annually.”)1 According to DCA’s requirements,2 the CWP must include: A brief description of the activity; Legal authorization, if applicable; Timeframe for undertaking the ac- tivity; Responsible party for implement- ing the activity; Estimated cost (if any) of impl e- menting the activity; and, Funding source(s), if applicable. All of this information appears in the Community Work Program portion of this document, beginning on page 7. 1 Note that DCA’s Compliance Requirements specify that the work program is to meet the requirements of Chapter 110-12-1-.04(7)(a), which is a reference to the work program re- quirements in a previous version of the Stand- ards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning. The correct current description is found at Chapter 110-12-1-.04(2)(b)1. 2 Chapter 110-12-1-.03(3). Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 2 Public Facility Parks & Recreation Fire Protection Law Enforcement Roads Adminis- tration TOTAL Impact Fee Fund Balance October 1, 2014 -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Impact Fees Collected (October 1, 2014 through September 30, 2015)-$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Subtotal: Fee Accounts -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Accrued Interest -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ (Impact Fee Refunds)-$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ (Expenditures)-$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Impact Fee Fund Balance September 30, 2015 -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Impact Fees Encumbered -$ -$ -$ -$ -$ Note: Impact Fee collections initiated October 5, 2015 (FY 2016) Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 3 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Parks and Recreation Department Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Park Land 2016 2035 68,665,646.59$ 67.39%46,275,786.85$ -$ -$ Conservation Easements 2016 2035 37,687,219.02$ 41.44%15,616,326.67$ -$ -$ Land for Trails 2016 2035 22,637,026.35$ 41.39%9,369,796.00$ -$ -$ Baseball Field 2022 2035 2,416,978.76$ 63.80%1,541,931.23$ -$ -$ Football/Soccer/Lacrosse 2022 2035 277,625.94$ 89.85%249,433.52$ -$ -$ Basketball Court 2022 2035 898,201.57$ 42.18%378,852.88$ -$ -$ Playground (Structured)2020 2035 1,665,755.63$ 42.89%714,408.29$ -$ -$ Picnic Shelter / Pavilion 2020 2035 4,997,266.90$ 42.89%2,143,224.88$ -$ -$ Community Center 2017 2035 2,605,646.33$ 42.53%1,108,195.49$ -$ -$ Multi-Use Trails 2020 2035 62,195,885.85$ 42.48%26,419,298.43$ -$ -$ 204,047,252.94$ 103,817,254.24$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. Parks and Recreation City-wide Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 4 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Fire Department / Administration Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Emergency Warning Sirens 2014 2014 216,329.00$ 41.44%89,646.74$ -$ -$ Storage Facility 2017 2017 267,096.40$ 100.00%267,096.40$ -$ -$ Fire Station 42 Replacement 2020 2022 1,389,243.43$ 40.00%555,697.37$ -$ -$ Training Facility 2017 2017 430,176.66$ 100.00%430,176.66$ -$ -$ Westside Fire Station **2024 2026 1,501,562.50$ 66.67%1,001,091.72$ -$ -$ Hwy 9 Fire Station **2017 2019 1,428,686.06$ 100.00%1,428,686.06$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2015 2015 38,609.80$ 100.00%38,609.80$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2016 2016 453,066.46$ 100.00%453,066.46$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2020 2020 39,442.62$ 100.00%39,442.62$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2018 2018 462,839.28$ 100.00%462,839.28$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2022 2022 40,725.67$ 100.00%40,725.67$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2021 2021 477,895.17$ 100.00%477,895.17$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2024 2024 42,050.45$ 100.00%42,050.45$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2024 2024 493,440.83$ 100.00%493,440.83$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2027 2027 509,492.17$ 100.00%509,492.17$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2029 2029 43,884.11$ 100.00%43,884.11$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2030 2030 526,065.66$ 94.36%496,408.38$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2033 2033 45,797.72$ 94.36%43,215.84$ -$ -$ Heavy Vehicle 2033 2033 543,178.27$ 0.00%-$ -$ -$ General Vehicle 2034 2034 47,287.49$ 0.00%-$ -$ -$ 8,996,869.75$ 6,913,465.73$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. **Percent impact fee eligible revised due to change in anticipated year of expenditure. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. NOTE: For projects that are not eligible for impact fee funding, the cells in the "FY2015 Impact Fees Expended" column are shaded out, indicated that no impact fees may be expended on those projects. Fire Protection City-wide Facilities Vehicles Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 5 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Police Department / Administration Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Law Enforcement Center, Phase 1 2016 2017 30,947.62$ 41.44%12,825.42$ -$ - -$ Law Enforcement Center, Phase 2 2018 2018 1,729,358.54$ 41.44%716,686.51$ -$ - -$ Law Enforcement Center, Phase 3 2019 2019 2,738,978.49$ 41.44%1,135,096.56$ -$ - -$ 4,499,284.65$ 1,864,608.49$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. Law Enforcement City-wide Financial Report City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update _________________ Draft 8/8/2016 ____________________________________________ page 6 Public Facility: Responsible Party:Public Works Service Area: Project Description Project Start Date Project End Date Local Cost of Project* Maximum % of Funding from Impact Fees Max Funding from Impact Fees* FY 2015 Impact Fees Expended Impact Fees Expended (Previous Years) Total Impact Fees Expended to Date Impact Fees Encumbered Status/Remarks Intersection-Hopewell/Francis/Cogburn 2014 2014 992,103.00$ 40.1%397,918.39$ -$ -$ Intersection-Deerfield Pkwy @ Morris Rd 2014 2014 85,206.00$ 40.1%34,174.91$ -$ -$ Intersection-Bethany @ Cogburn 2014 2014 446,923.00$ 40.1%179,254.45$ -$ -$ Intersection-Arnold Mill @ New Providence 2014 2014 313,300.00$ 40.1%125,660.17$ -$ -$ Intersection-Birmingham @ Providence 2014 2014 852,581.00$ 40.1%341,958.10$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Birmingham 2015 2015 693,135.00$ 40.1%278,006.58$ -$ -$ Intersection-Crabapple @ Birmingham 2014 2017 1,353,263.94$ 40.1%542,774.90$ -$ -$ Transportation Master Plan Update 2015 2016 231,044.84$ 40.1%92,668.80$ -$ -$ McGinnis Ferry Interchange 2015 2015 51,343.30$ 40.1%20,593.07$ -$ -$ Crabapple NE Connector Rd 2017 2019 2,581,434.50$ 40.1%1,035,376.64$ -$ -$ Bridge Replacement Program 2014 2021 2,445,358.07$ 40.1%980,798.32$ -$ -$ Intersection-Freemanville @ Providence/B'ham 2015 2018 2,409,375.80$ 40.1%966,366.34$ -$ -$ Intersection-SR9 @ Bethany Bend 2014 2016 173,168.05$ 40.1%69,455.24$ -$ -$ Intersection-Webb Rd Turn Lanes 2015 2015 189,970.20$ 40.1%76,194.34$ -$ -$ Intersection-Bethany @ Providence 2016 2022 1,794,032.06$ 40.1%719,560.72$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Bethany Bnd/ Way 2025 2025 3,346,503.60$ 40.1%1,342,234.96$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Redd Road 2015 2017 123,223.91$ 40.1%49,423.36$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Hamby 2020 2021 1,412,239.23$ 40.1%566,429.05$ -$ -$ Intersection-Hopewell @ Thompson 2021 2022 1,439,668.46$ 40.1%577,430.53$ -$ -$ Crabapple SE Connector 2021 2025 180,587.44$ 40.1%72,431.05$ -$ -$ Hopewell/Hamby Road Widening 2030 2030 7,991,049.35$ 40.1%3,205,096.16$ -$ -$ Morris Road Widening 2024 2024 9,125,056.76$ 40.1%3,659,930.39$ -$ -$ 38,230,567.52$ 15,333,736.48$ -$ -$ -$ -$ *All costs are Net Present Value per CIE adopted October 5, 2015. Maximum funding based on percent impact fee eligible. When impact fees are initially calucated for proposed projects, they are based on estimated costs, and the percentage of the estimate that is impact fee eligible is calculated based on the Level of Service standards in the Capital improvements Element, which yielded the proportion of the project that is required to meet the needs of future growth and develop- ment. When a project is completed, the actual cost is then known and, based on the percent eligible for impact fee funding, the actual amount of impact fee collections that can be expended on the project is revised accordingly so that the proportional share of the project attributable to new growth and development is not exceeded. NOTE: For projects that are not 100% impact fee funded, funding may be provided from the General Fund, the Capital Projects Fund or other local taxation sources, as determined during the annual budget adoption process. Roads City-wide Community Work Program City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 7 The following listing of impact fee projects is submitted as part of this CIE Annual Update report, covering the 5-year period 2017-2021. The City has prepared a Comprehensive Plan update, which includes a complete CWP covering the years 2017 to 2021 (includ- ing the projects eligible for impact fee funding). The new Community Work Program within the Comprehensive Pl an update in- cludes all project activities, including the specific impact fee eligible projects below. 2017-2021 Community Work Program – Impact Fee Eligible Projects Project Description 20172018201920202021Responsible Party Cost Estimate Funding Sources Notes/ Explanation Parks and Recreation Continue land acquisition program for park lands x x x x x Parks and Recreation $1,030,000 estimated annual average 67.39% Impact Fees; Bond Issue On-going debt service to bonds Continue acquisition program for conservation easements and multi-use trails x x x x x Parks and Recreation $1,315,790 estimated annual average 41.44% Impact Fees for conservation easements; 41.49% Impact Fees for multi-use trails; Bond issue On-going debt service to bonds Construction of multi-use trails x x x Parks and Recreation / Public Works $3,660,000 estimated annual average 42.48% Impact Fees; General Fund On-going annually Design and improve Providence Park: 1 Playground (structured) 1Pavilion / Picnic Shelter 1 Multi-Use Trail (1 mi. est.) Completion in 2022 42.89% Impact Fees for playground and pavilion/picnic shelter; 42.48% Impact Fees for trail; General Fund $1,175,762Parks and Recreationxxxxx Community Work Program City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 8 Project Description 20172018201920202021Responsible Party Cost Estimate Funding Sources Notes/ Explanation Design and construct Arnold Mill Park project: 1 Playground (structured) 1Pavilion / Picnic Shelter 1 Multi-Use Trail (1 mi. est.) Design and construct Chadwick Landfill park project x x x x Parks and Recreation $350,000 Impact Fees (% varies depending on the facilities); General Fund See the Parks and Recreation table in the Financial Report section for facilities' impact fee eligibility Design and construct a community center x x x x x Parks and Recreation $651,420 42.53% Impact Fees; General Fund Police Design and construct Law Enforcement Center x x x Police/ Administration $4,499,285 41.44% impact fees; General Fund Fire Construct Storage Facility x Fire/ Administration $267,096 100% impact fees Construct Hwy 9 Fire Station x x x Fire/ Administration $1,727,112 100% impact fees Replace Fire Station 42 x x Fire/ Administration $1,389,243 40% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2022 Construct Training Facility x Fire/ Administration $430,177 100% impact fees Parks and Recreation $1,175,762 42.89% Impact Fees for playground and pavilion/picnic shelter; 42.48% Impact Fees for trail; General Fund Completion in 2022xx Community Work Program City of Milton 2016 CIE Annual Update ______________ Draft 8/8/2016 ______________________________________ page 9 Project Description 20172018201920202021Responsible Party Cost Estimate Funding Sources Notes/ Explanation Purchase heavy vehicle x x Fire/ Administration $940,734 100% impact fees Purchase general vehicle x Fire/ Administration $39,442 100% impact fees Transportation Complete Intersection- Crabapple @ Birmingham x Public Works $1,353,264 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Project underway Bridge Replacement Program x x x x x Public Works $2,445,358 40.1% impact fees; General Fund On-going annual improvements Intersection-Freemanville @ Providence & B'ham x x Public Works $2,409,376 40.1% impact fees; General Fund To be completed in phases (Freemanville@Providen ce is Phase 1) Intersection-SR9 @ Bethany Bend x Public Works $173,168 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Project underway Intersection-Bethany @ Providence x x x x x Public Works $1,794,032 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion beyond 2021 Complete Intersection- Hopewell @ Redd Road x Public Works $123,224 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Project underway Intersection-Hopewell @ Hamby x x Public Works $1,412,239 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2021 Intersection-Hopewell @ Thompson x Public Works $1,439,668 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2022 Crabapple SE Connector x Public Works $180,587 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion beyond 2021 Crabapple NE Connector x x x Public Works $2,581,435 40.1% impact fees; General Fund Completion in 2019 4) HOME OF - I LT BEST GUA4TY OF LIFE IC N*k GEORGIA' 0 f .*12"iM R 111:11 DWITION CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM TO: City Council DATE: August 11, 2016 FROM: Steven Krokoff, City Manage AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of a Resolution of the Mayor and Council of Milton, Georgia Regarding Criteria for A Park and Greenspace Bond Criteria MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: (,APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: (-'YES CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: (,,Jn'ES APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: �PPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: Gol-T iqu REMARKS: () NOT APPROVED () NO (JNO (J NOT APPROVED © YOU ® ?,. _ PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 Gi@eil + C iE`',� infO�cifyofmilfonga.us 1 www.cifyofmiitonga.us law_� E•RTIFOEO`WILDLIFE CommunBRON2�E -tyf O 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Kathleen Field – Community Development Director Date: Submitted on August 10, 2016 for the August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting Agenda Item: Resolution of the Mayor and Council of Milton, Georgia Regarding Criteria for A Park and Greenspace Bond Criteria ______________________________________________________________________________ Department Recommendation: Approval. Executive Summary: In April, 2016, the Planning Commission, based on a series of public workshops and hearings, approved a series of criteria to be considered for making determinations on which parcel of land to purchase, or acquire interests, when utilizing proceeds from the park and greenspace bond issue. On the advice of the City Attorney, it was determined that a resolution of the City Council endorsing such criteria, be considered by the City Council in order to clearly delineate them to the public in anticipation of the referendum in November. Additionally, the City Attorney has added language in the last section of this proposed Resolution that he believes will honor the spirit of the Resolution, while otherwise ensuring that the City retains sufficient legislative discretion on these critically important (future) land use decisions. Funding and Fiscal Impact: None. Alternatives: None. Legal Review: Ken Jarrard – Jarrard & Davis (08-10-16) Concurrent Review: Steve Krokoff, City Manager Attachment: Resolution Page 1 of 2 STATE OF GEORGIA RESOLUTION NO. COUNTY OF FULTON RESOLUTION OF THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL OF MILTON, GEORGIA REGARDING CRITERIA FOR A PARK AND GREEN SPACE BOND WHEREAS, on June 20, 2016 the Mayor and City Council for the City of Milton resolved to authorize the issuance of general obligation bonds or debt, subject to voter approval in the November, 2016 general election, of no less than $25,000,000 for the acquisition of, or securing interests in, park and green space properties in Milton, leveraging green space preservation opportunities, and/or otherwise funding park and green space improvements; WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to inform its citizens that it, and any other committee, commission or other designated advisory group over which the City Council has control or influence, will consider the following criteria when making determinations on which parcels of land to purchase or acquire interests in utilizing in whole or part the bond proceeds. These criteria include, but are not limited to, the criteria approved by the Milton Planning Commission in April, 2016, which include (in no preference or priority): preserving general areas of green or open space including pastures, horse farms, wooded areas, and large tracts of undeveloped land so as to protect natural resources; wildlife habitat and water resources; protecting or conserving the rural views, feel, and look of Milton including historic resources and agricultural uses of land; establishing new and connecting existing trails for walking, biking and horse riding; and acquiring parkland within the city with minimal improvements made to provide public access and use therein; and, WHEREAS, the City Council, and any other committee, commission or other designated advisory group, will also consider the following factors, in its land acquisition decisions using in whole or part the bond proceeds. Land will be acquired from willing landowners and no bond funds shall be used to acquire land through the exercise of eminent domain unless agreed to by the affected landowner; the preservation of trees should be given strong consideration in each land acquisition decision and clear cutting of trees should be avoided; land acquired should be mainly buildable land; acquisition of land that is contiguous or adjacent to existing, protected green space parcels is encouraged; parcels that meet two or more of the above criteria may receive priority in acquisition decisions. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton, that the City of Milton hereby commits that it, and any other committee, commission or other designated advisory group over which the City Council has control or influence, will consider at least the foregoing criteria and factors in acquiring land or interests in land with the general obligation bond authorized on June 20, 2106, should the requisite number of qualified voters of Milton approve the issuance of said bond. Page 2 of 2 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that in adopting this Resolution, the City Council is mindful of those limitations in Georgia law on its ability to bind itself or future Councils in the exercise of legislative discretion, and further is mindful that appropriate financial stewardship requires a degree of flexibility and latitude in making land acquisition decisions, and therefore the Council does hereby further resolve that nothing in this Resolution is intended or should be construed as an attempt to: 1. Impermissibly bind the Council or its successors so as to prevent free legislation in matters of municipal government, O.C.G.A. 36-3-3; 2. Limit the Council’s legislative and policy-making discretion as set forth in the Georgia Constitution and the laws of the State of Georgia; 3. Be construed as a brochure, listing, or other advertisement committing the City to any particular bond project(s), O.C.G.A. 36-82-1(d); and 4. Be construed as prohibiting the Council from considering other land acquisition criteria and making acquisition decisions based upon same, if such decisions and the additional criteria considered are otherwise in the best interests of the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the City of Milton and are otherwise compliant with the purposes set forth in the notice issued under O.C.G.A. 36-82-1(b). SO RESOLVED, this 15th day of August, 2016. _______________________________ Mayor, Joe Lockwood Attest: __________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, Clerk 0 N*k HOME OF "HFBEST QUAIL : i r �-FORGIA' M LT ESTABLISHED 2006 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM TO: City Council DATE: August 8, 2016 FROM: Steven Krokoff, City Manag r AGENDA ITEM: Consideration of a Resolution Adopting the City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department Revised Facility and Fields Use Policy MEETING DATE: Monday, August 15, 2016 Regular City Council Meeting BACKGROUND INFORMATION: (Attach additional pages if necessary) See attached memorandum APPROVAL BY CITY MANAGER: (,APPROVED CITY ATTORNEY APPROVAL REQUIRED: (.,SES CITY ATTORNEY REVIEW REQUIRED: Q4ES APPROVAL BY CITY ATTORNEY: �PPROVED PLACED ON AGENDA FOR: at) Is) ?01U REMARKS: (J NOT APPROVED () NO (J NO (J NOT APPROVED ©,*You(*** PHONE: 678.242.25001 FAX: 678.242.2499 ® -Green ,w C�c W►LDUR Col'1lmuni EN ' ' infoifyofmiltonga.us 1 www.cityofmiifonga.us w��,,,„, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107 1 Milton GA 30004 Page 1 of 2 To: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members From: Jim Cregge, Director of Parks and Recreation Date: Submitted on 08/04/2016 for the 08/15/2016 Regular Council Meeting Agenda Item: Consideration of a Resolution Adopting the City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department Revised Facility and Fields Use Policy ____________________________________________________________________________ Department Recommendation: Staff is recommending the approval of a Resolution Adopting the City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department Facility and Fields Use Policy 2016 Executive Summary: The city continues to grow in many ways. Our population is growing and the number of Parks and Recreation Department assets we have is growing as well. In 2016, we had many requests, both formally and informally, to rent out the artificial turf assets of the City for repetitive private functions. Our policy needed to be revised such that we can be consistent in our delivery of service to the citizens. The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) invested three months of work, crafting a policy that allows the citizens of Milton a fair and equal opportunity to use the city assets for private functions. Also, the modifications incorporated herein were reviewed with the Mayor and Council at the April 18 Workshop. This policy combines the stated wishes of the citizens, the elected officials, the PRAB as well as the best practices from the parks and recreation agencies of the surrounding communities. Page 2 of 2 Funding and Fiscal Impact: The resolution itself does not have a fiscal impact. The adoption of this revised Facilities and Field Use Policy clarifies the terms of rental and is unlikely to impact the rental revenue to the City. Alternatives: If this policy is not adopted our alternative is to relay the council’s input and return to the PRAB to revise the policy. Legal Review: Jeff Strickland – Jarrard & Davis, July 6, 2016. Concurrent Review: Steven Krokoff, Interim City Manager Attachment(s): 1) Resolution Adopting the City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department Revised Facility and Fields Use Policy 2) MPRD Revised Facility Field Use Policy August 2016– Proposed Version STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF FULTON RESOLUTION NO. A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY OF MILTON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT REVISED FACILITY AND FIELDS USE POLICY WHEREAS, the City of Milton continues to expand and grow the Facilities and Fields in the Parks and Recreation Department; and WHEREAS, the City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department continues to expand the number and variety of recreation programs; and WHEREAS, the number of requests to use and/or rent the city’s Facilities and Fields increased in 2016; and WHEREAS, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) worked closely with the City Staff, the City Attorney and surrounding Parks and Recreation Agencies to create a City of Milton Facility and Field Use Policy; and WHEREAS, the public interest will be served by the adoption of this revised Facility and Field Use Policy. NOW THEREFORE BE IT SO RESOLVED, that the Mayor and Council of the City of Milton hereby approve the Department of Parks and Recreation Facility and Fields Use Policy. BE IT SO RESOLVED AND ORDAINED, this 15th day of August, 2016, by the Council of the City of Milton, Georgia. CITY OF MILTON, GEORGIA By: ________________________ Joe Lockwood, Mayor Attest: _____________________________ Sudie AM Gordon, City Clerk City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 Purpose and Mission The City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department (hereinafter referred to as “MPRD”) has a variety of facilities and fields located within the City of Milton, Georgia (“City”) that are available to rent when not in use for City-sponsored programs or City partner programs. MPRD’s mission is to serve the residents of the City, and therefore City residents enjoy the first opportunity to rent available space after other programming needs are met. MPRD hereby establishes these universal policies and procedures (the “Policy”) pertaining to the rental of such fields and facilities for distribution to City employees and the general public as appropriate to ensure consistency in MPRD operations. It should be noted that each rental facility and field is unique and has specific guidelines that renters must adhere to in addition to those listed in this Policy. Rental fees will vary for each specific facility/field. Facilities include, but may not be limited to, picnic pavilions, meeting rooms, gymnasiums and tennis courts identified by MPRD. Fields include, but may not be limited to, baseball/softball fields and multi-purpose rectangular athletic fields identified by MPRD. MPRD facilities and fields are intended to be used by residents of the City, and City residents shall be given first priority to rent after City-sponsored programs or City partner programs. MPRD reserves the right to request participation information (including participant names and addresses) from any individual or group requesting to rent fields or facilities. Factors that may be considered by MPRD in considering a request to rent include the number of City residents involved in the rental activity. Rentals will be subject to the following restrictions: 1. Facilities will not be available when an event sponsored by the City or an activity approved by the City is being conducted. 2. With the exception of the Bethwell Community Center, indoor rentals will not be allowed on City recognized holidays. 3. All rentals, except outdoor athletic facilities, will end no later than 11:00pm. Outdoor athletic facility rentals must end at 10:00pm. 4. Reservations of indoor facilities during regular hours of operation are not allowed. 5. Reservations of indoor and outdoor facilities may be made no earlier than six (6) months prior to and no later than three (3) business days prior to the requested event date. MPRD reserves the right to amend this Policy, including the fee schedule, Rental Requests provisions, Universal Guidelines, and Fields/Facilities below, as deemed appropriate with thirty (30) days prior written notice of amendment by posting on the City’s website. Per the terms of the Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Alpharetta (“Alpharetta”) effective December 1, 2012, Alpharetta residents shall be allowed to rent City facilities and fields, City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 provided space is available, and shall pay the same fees as City residents. For the purposes of this Policy, the word “Resident” shall include residents of the Cities of Alpharetta and Milton unless noted otherwise. City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 Rental Requests All applicants shall complete a Field License Agreement or a Facility License Agreement (“Agreement”), copies of which are included with this Policy. Requests to rent a facility/field shall be treated as follows: 1. A request related to a program or athletic sport already offered by MPRD, or its partners, will be permitted a maximum of three rental periods in a calendar year. A rental period may consist of up to seven consecutive days. 2. Athletic teams representing a sport (or a certain level of sport) that is not offered by the MPRD may rent a field based on availability if the field has not been closed for repair or maintenance. 3. Social activities/events may be scheduled on any field as long as the field is available and there would be sufficient time after the rental to prepare/maintain the field for its next scheduled use. 4. In the event a rental request is made that does not fall under item 2 or 3 above, the MPRD Director (“Director”) shall determine if the rental request will be allowed. All requests must be made via a completed Field License Agreement or Facility License Agreement no more than six (6) months prior to the requested date. Requests will NOT be processed on a first come, first served basis. Each month on the 1st and 15th of the month (or the next business day if said date falls on a weekend or City holiday), there will be an approval of rental requests (approval date). The completed Field Use Agreement or Facility Use Agreement must be submitted to the MPRD Director no less than three (3) business days prior to the approval date. In the event of competing dates/times for the same facility or field, a drawing will be held to approve the rental. The approved renter will be notified via the contact email on the completed Agreement. Other Departments of the City will be allowed to reserve MPRD facilities during regular business hours for employee functions at no cost, depending on availability. Requests for Department usage outside of regular business hours will be handled on a case by case basis by the Director. No individual or group may make a rental request more than two (2) times in a calendar quarter. Separate individuals affiliated with the same group will not be allowed to individually apply in an effort to circumvent these two (2) requests in a calendar quarter restriction. Fees and Deposits will be set forth in the Fee Schedule below. City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 Fee Schedule Rentals contracted with non-Milton and non-Alpharetta residents will be charged an out of city fee of an additional 50% of the fees set forth below. Time requested for rental should include set-up and clean-up. A. Meeting Rooms a. Bethwell Community Center Rental – $40/hour, $300/day, three hour minimum. i. Refundable Cleaning deposit - $50 b. Bell Memorial Park Meeting Room - $20/hour, two hour minimum. B. Gymnasiums – Not available for rental per FCBoE agreement. C. Picnic Pavilion - $10/hour, two hour minimum. D. Tennis Courts – Not available for rental per FCBoE agreement E. Athletic Field (Diamond) - IGA Fields not available for rental per FCBoE agreement, fields at Bell Memorial Park are available for rental a. Without lights, $25/hour, $175/day, two hour minimum. b. With lights. $37.50/hour, $225/day two hour minimum. c. Include drag and line field – $75/field/usage i. Refundable Security deposit - $100 d. Special event - $500/day/field F. Athletic Field (Rectangular) – IGA Fields not available for rental per FCBoE agreement, Artificial turf fields at Bell Memorial Park are available for rental a. Without lights - $75/hour, two hour minimum. b. With lights - $100/hour, two hour minimum. i. Refundable Security deposit - $100 c. Other fees might be necessary and determined on a case by case basis G. Broadwell Pavilion a. Without lights - $25/hour, four hour minimum b. With lights - $50/hour, four hour minimum. i. Refundable Security deposit - $500 ii. Personal Gas Grill usage refundable deposit - $100 H. Other fees might be necessary and determined on a case by case basis Full refunds will be granted if a rental is cancelled by MPRD. Refunds will be granted if requested by the renter at least ten (10) business days prior to the rental. A $15.00 administrative fee will be deducted from all approved refunds. Events that are rained out will be offered a full refund or the opportunity to reschedule to another date. If any costs have been incurred by the city prior to the rain out (such as field preparation) those fees will still be billable. Refunds will not be granted if a rental group does not show up for their reserved time without advance notice (at least 10 business days). City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 Security deposits will be refunded provided that all trash is stored in receptacles, the facility is clean and there is no damage to any portion of the facility. City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 Universal Guidelines 1. No one under the age of 21 years shall be permitted to enter into an Agreement with MPRD. 2. Renter (person whose name is on the Agreement) must be present during the entire scheduled event. Failure to do so may result in immediate forfeiture of any applicable fees and deposits, and renter may not be allowed to use any City facility in the future for a period up to, but not exceeding, two years. 3. Renter is responsible for ensuring that any guest asked to leave the premises by any MPRD employee due to misconduct and/or violation of MPRD rules leaves the MPRD property immediately and without incident. 4. MPRD reserves the right to cancel, postpone or reschedule any rental. The renter will be given a choice of a refund or to have an alternative date scheduled. 5. For the safety of all, if MPRD is closed due to inclement weather, all facility reservations will be cancelled. The renter will be entitled to a full refund or may reschedule at another time as agreed upon in writing by MPRD and renter. 6. Requested times of use shall include set-up and clean-up times. 7. Per City ordinance, the use of tobacco and all tobacco products is strictly prohibited in City parks, fields and facilities. 8. Per City ordinance, the use of alcohol in City parks, fields and facilities requires a special permit. 9. Except for guide animals, pets are not allowed in or on facilities or fields. Pets are otherwise allowed in the parks if kept on a leash. 10. The renter shall not have the right to assign a rental agreement or any rights hereunder or to sublet MPRD facilities or fields. 11. Renter must provide at least one (1) adult chaperone for every fifteen (15) youth (i.e. individuals under the age of 18 years) in attendance. 12. Renter shall use only the facilities or fields that have been formally rented as identified in the Agreement. Rental activities shall not hinder or obstruct the activities of the occupants of the facility, or the accompanying or adjacent park areas. 13. MPRD has the right to immediately cancel any rental on site if the actions of the group put the group, any member of the group, any City employee, the general public, and/or the facility or field at risk or in danger. 14. Renter is responsible for discouraging participants at the event from the use of offensive language. MPRD has the right to order the removal from the premises any guest(s) who engages in physical abuse or threat of physical abuse toward another guest, a City employee or the general public. 15. Upon request, Renter must provide a Certificate of Insurance ($1,000,000 minimum). The City of Milton should be listed as an additional insured. 16. MPRD reserves the right to rent different areas of the same facility or field to different groups at the same time. City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 17. MPRD does not guarantee the use of equipment, tables, chairs, etc. No tables, chairs or other City personal property may be removed from a facility or field. 18. Portable grills of any kind are only permitted in support of concession stand operations at Bell Memorial Park. At the Broadwell Pavilion, a personal portable gas grill may be brought on site and used provided an additional security deposit has been paid and the grill is used only in the designated location. 19. Athletic field participants are prohibited from gaining access to any field by climbing over a fence. 20. Only stakes or posts that can be pushed by hand into the ground may be used on any baseball/softball field. No stakes or posts of any kind may be pushed into the surface of the artificial turf fields. 21. Renters are NOT allowed to use any paint or other similar materials on athletic fields. 22. All trash and garbage must be placed in the proper receptacles provided by the City. City of Milton Parks and Recreation Department: Facility and Fields Use Policy Version 4.1 - August 4, 2016 Facilities/Fields Bell Memorial Park Rectangular fields - Field 1 and Field 2: 360’ x 160’ Diamond fields – Field 3 – 290’, Field 4 – 190’, Field 5 – 200’, Field 6 – 200’ 1 Playground Pavilion north of fields 1 & 2 4 Picnic Tables 2 Standard Tables 2 Americans with Disabilities Act compliant Table (“ADA Table”) Pavilion in front of Concession Stand 2 Picnic Tables 2 ADA Tables Multiple standard tables in close proximity Friendship Community Park – IGA Facility, not rentable 1 Multi-Purpose Rectangular Field approximately ½ acre 1 Half-Court Basketball Court with 1 Basketball Goal Circular Pavilion – 24 feet X 24 feet 3 Picnic Tables 2 Standard Tables 1 ADA Table Birmingham Falls Elementary – IGA Facility, not rentable 1 Multi-Purpose Rectangular Field approximately 2.5 acres 1 Indoor Gymnasium Cogburn Woods Elementary 1 Multi-Purpose Rectangular Field approximately 1 acre 1 Indoor Gymnasium Hopewell Middle – IGA Facility, not rentable 1 Multi-Purpose Rectangular Field approximately 1.5 acres 1 Diamond shaped field – 190 feet 1 Indoor Gymnasium Northwestern Middle – IGA Facility, not rentable 1 Multi-Purpose Rectangular Field approximately 2 acres 1 Diamond Shaped Field 1 Indoor Gymnasium Bethwell Community Center 1 Indoor facility approximately 1300 square feet 1 Outdoor Grill 2 Picnic Tables 1 Playground