COM 0042.061 2004-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• Encourage the development of small family-operated hotels. • Consider small-scale retreat resort development. • Encourage resort development that enhances the natural beauty of the area. LAND USE -OPEN SPACE INTRODUCTION A vital part of the environment, open space is land that is basically not used for buildings or structures and is characterized by scenic beauty, existing openness, and natural conditions. It is the counterpart of development. Retained in its state of use, open space would maintain and/or enhance the conservation of needed or desired natural, scenic, or historical resources that might otherwise be permanently lost. It would also enhance the present or potential value of abutting or surrounding urban development. Open space is used to maintain and/or provide forestry pursuits, water supply, fish and marine protection, wildlife and endemic plant preservation, recreational pursuits and visual and scenic amenities. Open space also demarcates potential natural hazard areas. Just as the use of open space is affected by development, so is the character and quality of development influenced by what is done with open space. The following goals, policies, and standards are set forth to insure the protection and wise use of open space in the County of Hawaii. GOALS • Provide and protect open space for the social, environmental, and economic well- being of the County of Hawaii and its residents. • Protect designated natural areas. POLICIES • Open space shall reflect and be in keeping with the goals, policies, and standards set forth in the other elements of the General Plan. • Open space in urban areas shall be established and provided through zoning and subdivision regulations. • Encourage the identification, evaluation, and designation of natural areas. • Zoning, subdivision and other applicable ordinances shall provide for and protect open space areas. • Amend the Zoning Code to create a category for lands that should be kept in a largely natural state, but that may not be in the Conservation District, such as certain important viewplanes, buffer areas, and very steep slopes.