Laserfiche WebLink
Section 5-2-2. Actions. <br />(a) Sound planning depends on understanding existing system capacity. The department of <br />water supply shall maintain a current inventory of water sources, storage facilities, and <br />distribution infrastructure and regularly assess system capacity and deficiencies. <br />(b) Capital investments should be guided by system priorities and long-term needs. The <br />department of water supply shall plan and prioritize capital improvements to maintain <br />system reliability, address deficiencies, and support planned growth. <br />(c) Rate structures should encourage conservation while supporting system health. The <br />department of water supply shall evaluate water rate structures and pricing strategies, <br />including progressive rate schedules, to encourage efficient use while supporting financial <br />sustainability. <br />(d) Development standards should reflect limited water resources. The department of water <br />supply shall develop and apply standards for water -efficient and, where appropriate, water - <br />neutral development. <br />(e) County water assets require active protection and stewardship. The department of <br />water supply shall protect County water sources and facilities through operational <br />practices, land use coordination, and collaboration with other agencies. <br />(f) Long-range planning supports reliable service over time. The department of water <br />supply shall maintain and regularly update water master plans to guide phased system <br />improvements and long-term investment. <br />(g) Infrastructure readiness should guide development timing. The planning department <br />and the department of water supply shall coordinate development approvals with the <br />availability and timing of water infrastructure. <br />Article 3. Wastewater and Sewer. <br />Section 5-3-1. Policies. <br />(1) Protecting public health and water quality is the core purpose of wastewater systems. <br />The County should provide wastewater systems that operate safely, function reliably, and <br />prevent harm to people and the environment. <br />(2) Wastewater infrastructure should reinforce the County's planned growth pattern. <br />Wastewater system planning and expansion should align with the County's land use <br />policies and designated growth areas to ensure efficient use of public resources. <br />(3) Centralized sewer systems are most appropriate where density supports them. Public <br />sewer service should be focused in areas with sufficient density and demand to support the <br />cost, complexity, and long-term operation of centralized collection and treatment systems. <br />(4) Existing systems must be kept functional before expanding service elsewhere. The <br />County should prioritize the maintenance, repair, and replacement of aging or failing <br />wastewater infrastructure to avoid service disruptions and environmental harm. <br />37 <br />