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Donnelly Comprehensive Plan
Valley County State of Idaho
www.cityofdonnelly.org
For the City and Its Impact Area Amended 09/14/14
Adopted by City
Council
10/20/2014
THE CITY OF DONNELLY, IDAHO
“Crossroads to Recreation”
The City of Donnelly would like to thank its citizens and representatives for their hard work
and dedication to completing and implementing this Comprehensive Plan.
Table of Contents
Contents
List of Figures ............................................................................................................................................................................... i
List of Tables ................................................................................................................................................................................ ii
LOCATION AND HISTORY OF THE CITY OF ..................................................................................................................... 1
LOCATION ................................................................................................................................................................................. 1
HISTORY .................................................................................................................................................................................... 2
Vision Statement: ..................................................................................................................................................................... 4
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................................................ 5
IDAHO REQUIREMENTS AND THE LOCAL LAND USE PLANNING ACT ........................................................ 5
Role and Value ........................................................................................................................................................................ 6
Format ......................................................................................................................................... 7
Use of the Plan ........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Time Frame .............................................................................................................................................................................. 9
Maintaining and Updating the Plan ............................................................................................................................... 9
COMMUNITY PROFILE ........................................................................................................................................................... 11
Natural Resources .............................................................................................................................................................. 11
Land Ownership .................................................................................................................................................................. 12
Community Characteristics ............................................................................................................................................ 12
LAND USE ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Planning Area ....................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Future Land Use Classification System ..................................................................................................................... 23
Analysis .................................................................................................................................................................................. 25
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 31
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 32
COMMUNITY DESIGN ............................................................................................................................................................. 34
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 37
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 37
Objective III ........................................................................................................................................................................... 38
Objective IV ........................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Objective V ............................................................................................................................................................................. 39
HOUSING ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Analysis .................................................................................................................................................................................. 40
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 43
TRANSPORTATION .................................................................................................................................................................. 44
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 44
Analysis .................................................................................................................................................................................. 48
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 50
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 51
Objective III ........................................................................................................................................................................... 51
NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ................................................................................................................................................... 53
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 53
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 54
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 55
Objective III ........................................................................................................................................................................... 56
RECREATION ............................................................................................................................................................................... 57
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 57
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 60
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 60
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ................................................................................................................................................ 61
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................... 61
Analysis .................................................................................................................................................................................. 62
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 64
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 64
Objective III ........................................................................................................................................................................... 65
PUBLIC SERVICES AND UTILITIES .................................................................................................................................... 66
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................................................... 66
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 70
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 70
Objective III ........................................................................................................................................................................... 71
Objective IV ........................................................................................................................................................................... 71
Objective V ............................................................................................................................................................................. 72
Objective VI ........................................................................................................................................................................... 72
Objective VII .......................................................................................................................................................................... 73
SPECIAL AREAS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 74
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 74
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 77
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 77
HAZARDS ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 78
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 78
Objective I .............................................................................................................................................................................. 81
Objective II ............................................................................................................................................................................. 81
Objective III ........................................................................................................................................................................... 82
IMPLEMENTATION .................................................................................................................................................................. 83
Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................... 83
Implementation Elements .............................................................................................................................................. 83
ACTIONS STEPS .................................................................................................................................................................. 85
Private Property Rights ................................................................................................................................................... 85
Land Use ................................................................................................................................................................................. 86
Community Design ............................................................................................................................................................. 86
Housing ................................................................................................................................................................................... 87
Transportation ..................................................................................................................................................................... 87
Natural Environment ........................................................................................................................................................ 88
Recreation .............................................................................................................................................................................. 88
Economic Development ................................................................................................................................................... 88
Public Services and Utilities........................................................................................................................................... 89
Special Areas......................................................................................................................................................................... 89
Hazards ................................................................................................................................................................................... 90
APPENDIX A: ACRONYMS AND DEFINITIONS...........................................................................................................A-1
i
List of Figures
Figure 1. City of Donnelly Location .................................................................................................................................... 1
Figure 2. Original Donnelly Townsite ............................................................................................................................... 3
Figure 3. Comprehensive Planning Cycle ............................................................................................................................... 9
Figure 4. Age Distribution, City of Donnelly ...................................................................................................................... 13
Figure 5. Estimated Household Income ........................................................................................................................ 14
Figure 6. Average Earnings ................................................................................................................................................ 14
Figure 7. Valley County Netflow Income ....................................................................................................................... 15
Figure 8. Valley County Unemployment Rate ............................................................................................................. 17
Figure 9. Planning Area and Area of City Impact ....................................................................................................... 22
Figure 10. City of Donnelly Current Land Use ............................................................................................................ 27
Figure 11. Current Zoning Overlay as of 2011 ........................................................................................................... 28
Figure 12. Future Land Use Map ...................................................................................................................................... 29
Figure 13. 2010 Estimated Household Income Distribution ................................................................................ 42
Figure 14. Roadway Circulation by Street Type ........................................................................................................ 46
Figure 15. City of Donnelly Greenbelt Pathways ....................................................................................................... 47
Figure 16. Average Daily Traffic on State Highway 55 through Donnelly ....................................................... 48
Figure 17. City of Donnelly Parks and Recreation Facility Sites .......................................................................... 58
Figure 18. Regional Parks and Recreation ................................................................................................................... 59
Figure 19. Valley County Employment by Type ......................................................................................................... 63
Figure 20. Valley County Employment by Annual Percentage Change ............................................................. 63
Figure 21. City of Donnelly Public and Community Facilities .............................................................................. 69
Figure 22. City of Donnelly Historic Sites ..................................................................................................................... 75
Figure 23. Roseberry Historic Townsite ....................................................................................................................... 76
Figure 24. City of Donnelly Hazard Assessment ........................................................................................................ 78
Figure 25. City of Donnelly Floodplain Hazards ........................................................................................................ 80
ii
List of Tables
Table 1. Valley County Land Ownership ....................................................................................................................... 12
Table 2. Regional Population and Population Change Estimates ........................................................................ 13
Table 3. Southwest Idaho Netflow Income .................................................................................................................. 16
Table 4. Southwest Idaho Total Employment ............................................................................................................. 16
Table 5. Valley County Employment by Industry ...................................................................................................... 18
Table 6. Current Zoned Acreage ....................................................................................................................................... 26
Table 7. Future Land Use Acreage Tier I ....................................................................................................................... 30
Table 8. Future Land Use Acreage Tier II ..................................................................................................................... 30
Table 9. Regional Population ............................................................................................................................................. 40
Table 10. 2010 Estimated Housing Occupancy ................................................................................................................ 41
Table 11. Affordable Housing Payments for Valley County .................................................................................. 42
Table 12. Projected Average Daily Traffic Counts for Local Streets ................................................................... 49
Table 13. City of Donnelly Recreation Facilities ........................................................................................................ 57
Table 14. Valley County Employment by Industry 2001-2007 ................................................................................ 62
Table 15. Historic City Sites and Buildings .................................................................................................................. 74
1
LOCATION AND HISTORY OF THE CITY OF DONNELLY
LOCATION
The City of Donnelly is located in upper Long Valley, along the western border of Valley
County in central Idaho. The City is situated at the north end of Lake Cascade along State
Highway 55, also known as the Payette River Scenic Byway. Within Valley County, the City
of Donnelly is centrally located between the City of Cascade, 16 miles to the south, and the
City of McCall, 11 miles to the north. East and West of Donnelly are the Boise National
Forest and the Payette National Forest. The City of Boise is the nearest metropolitan area
and is located 96 miles to the south of Donnelly.
Figure 1. City of Donnelly Location
2
HISTORY
Early homesteaders staked claim in the Long Valley region of central Idaho for its rich soils
and access to water. Isolated from the more established City of Boise approximately 100
miles to the south, the town of Roseberry, east of what is today the City of Donnelly was
established as a supply post in 1905. As mining, timber and farming expanded in the
region, Roseberry flourished and by 1907 was the largest community in the Long Valley
region.
In 1912, the Northern Idaho Railroad Company began building a new line that would run
through Gem and Valley Counties from Emmett to McCall. Roseberry sought to have the
line run through town and connect it with its larger neighbors, Cascade and McCall. While
the Town fought hard for the lines location, the Northern Idaho Railroad Company
ultimately decided to locate 1 ½ miles west to the present Donnelly townsite. The location
of the rail line caused residents, business and investors to relocate to Donnelly. Several
businesses went so far as to relocate buildings (using horses to pull the buildings on skids)
to the new townsite, including the bank building, which still stands today.
Though it was originally established as a railroad depot station, the City of Donnelly was
expanded in 1914 with the donation of land by the estate of Colonel W.H. Dewey. The town
was named after Mr. Peter Donnelly, who was an employee and friend of Colonel Dewey.
Donnelly quickly became the commercial hub of Long Valley, and its population reached a
high of 200 people in 1914.
The community of Donnelly has a rich Finnish heritage. Those of Finnish decent settled the
valley, mainly because of the similarity of their homeland in Finland. They were willing to
endure whatever it would take to claim the land. It took what the Finnish call “sisu”,
meaning “tenacity”. The community of Donnelly believes that this “sisu” is the driving force
of the community. We look to the future with anticipation and tenacity at our side.
3
Figure 2. Original Donnelly Townsite
Throughout the twentieth century, the City of Donnelly relied on the natural resources of
the region for its economic base. While ranching and timber management still remain
present today, much of the economic base of the City has shifted in more recent times
towards recreation and tourism. In 2004, Tamarack ski resort was developed to the west
of the City, bringing with it significant commercial and residential development. In 2009,
Tamarack resorts suspended operations due to financial difficulties, which dampened
economic growth. The recreation and tourism industries have seen further declines due to
the larger national economic and housing downturn beginning in 2007. Despite the
economic shifts that have occurred over time, Donnelly still remains a small community
with strong connections to both the natural environment and transportation routes.
4
Vision Statement:
The City of Donnelly is the crossroads of recreation for Valley County. The City
celebrates a quality of life that balances the natural surroundings and a vibrant
economy of cottage industries1 with a development pattern that supports both.
1 A cottage industry is an industry where creation of products and services is home or community based, rather than factory-based. Products and service are often unique and distinctive given that they are not mass produced.
5
INTRODUCTION
The Comprehensive Plan is the adopted planning document for Donnelly’s growth and
development. This plan, with periodic review and timely updates will be the most
important document in guiding the City of Donnelly toward attainment of an exceptional
quality of life and assuring economic vitality into the future.
IDAHO REQUIREMENTS AND THE LOCAL LAND USE PLANNING ACT
The Comprehensive Plan is the implementation process that ensures the City of Donnelly
complies with the State of Idaho’s Local Land Use Planning Act (1972). As the Act states in
section 67-6502:
The purpose of this act shall be to promote the health, safety, and general welfare
of the people of the state of Idaho as follows:
1) To protect private property rights while making accommodations
for other necessary types of development such as low-cost housing
and mobile home parks.
2) To ensure that adequate public facilities and services are provided
to the people at reasonable cost.
3) To ensure that the economy of the State and localities is protected.
4) To ensure that the important environmental features of the State
and localities are protected.
5) To encourage the protection of prime agricultural, forestry, and
mining lands for production of food, fiber, and minerals.
6) To encourage urban and urban-type development within
incorporated cities.
7) To avoid undue concentration of population and overcrowding of
land.
6
8) To ensure that the development on land is commensurate with the
physical characteristics of the land.
9) To protect life and property in areas subject to natural hazards and
disasters.
10) To protect fish, wildlife, and recreation resources.
11) To avoid undue water and air pollution.
12) To allow local school districts to participate in the community
planning and development process so as to address public school
needs and impacts on an ongoing basis.
Role and Value
The Comprehensive Plan plays several major roles for the City of Donnelly. To City Council,
the plan is a roadmap that details the future vision and objectives of the City. Information
within the plan helps officials make important decisions regarding the City’s future. Also
for the City Council, and the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Plan is a yardstick by
which projects are measured for their consistency with the values of the City.
For businesses and developers, the Plan is a guidebook to understanding the conditions,
values and desired development pattern of the City. The Plan plays an essential role in
helping business and industry make decisions in terms of establishing or relocating
themselves in the City, or expanding existing facilities. Based on the Plan, businesses and
developers are able to craft projects that will be in line with the historic character and
future desired conditions of the City of Donnelly.
For citizens and the community as a whole, the Comprehensive Plan carries out their vision
of the City’s future. It describes the values and desired conditions of the City, the extent to
which citizens and leaders want their City to grow, and how they would like to see their
community progress over time. The value of the Comprehensive Plan is that it describes in
7
detail the desired conditions of the City and a course of action for achieving those
conditions. In this way, the Plan is a guide that helps to maintain the City’s course through
challenging times such as economic downturn or rapid regional growth.
The value of the Comprehensive Plan however, is only as good as the support that it gets
from the leadership and the citizens of the community. To achieve the goals and objectives
described in the Comprehensive Plan will require significant participation and
collaboration from both government officials and citizens. With participation and
implementation over time, the Plan will help to create a city that all can be proud of.
Format
The Comprehensive Plan is organized to provide the reader a clear understanding of
current conditions within the City of Donnelly, desired future conditions, and the policies
and action steps to achieve those desired future conditions. In this way, the
Comprehensive Plan is organized to act as a guiding document for both citizens, developers
and the City itself.
The Comprehensive Plan consists of three major sections: Introduction, Community
Elements and Implementation. The Introduction chapter provides the reader an
understanding of the history and current conditions of the City. The second major section
of the document is a series of Community Elements required by the State’s Local Land Use
Planning Act. These chapters contain three components: goals, objectives and policies (see
definition below). Together these chapters establish the desired future conditions and a
decision making framework to achieve these conditions. The final component of the plan is
Implementation, which describes action steps that the City, its citizens, and potential
businesses and landowners can take to achieve the goals, objectives and policies described
in the Community Elements. Together these components create an active plan that will
help the City of Donnelly achieve its desired future conditions.
8
Goal
A goal is a direction setter. It is an ideal future end, condition or state related to the public
health, safety and general welfare toward which planning and implementation measures
are directed. A goal is a general expression of community values and therefore, is general in
nature. Consequently, a goal is not usually quantifiable, time-specific, or suggestive of
specific actions for its achievement.
Objective
An objective is a specific end, condition or state that is an intermediate step toward
attaining a goal. It should be achievable and, when possible, measurable and time-specific.
An objective may only pertain to one particular aspect of a goal or it may be one of several
successive steps toward goal achievement. Consequently, there may be more than one
objective for each goal.
Policy
A policy is a specific statement that guides decision-making. It indicates a clear
commitment of the local governing body toward achieving the goals and objectives of the
plan. A policy is effectuated by implementation measures and action steps (such as zoning,
land division and environmental ordinances).
Action Step
Action steps are specific implementation measures that are to be taken to achieve the
desired objectives and move conditions towards the future goal. Where policies guide
decision making, action steps are proactive measures of implementation. By providing a
measure or checklist of progress, action steps are a means of monitoring the success of a
comprehensive plan.
Use of the Plan
The Comprehensive Plan is a guiding document for the City of Donnelly, its citizens,
potential businesses and developers. The Plan articulates the desired conditions for the
9
City, its built environment and future conditions. For city governance and citizens, the
Comprehensive Plan is a guide and action plan for achieving desired conditions.
Individuals and organizations are encouraged to act as implementers of policies and
programs to achieve stated goals and objectives. Potential businesses and developers can
use the plan to understand the desired conditions of the City of Donnelly when considering
new projects. City officials and the Planning and Zoning Commission should use the plan to
review potential projects to ensure that future growth is in line with the goals and vision of
the City.
Time Frame
The Comprehensive Plan has been developed for a 15 year time horizon. As discussed
below, this does not mean that the plan will not be revisited until that future time (2029).
Rather the timeframe provides a reasonable planning horizon upon which the City has
established goals and objectives that are realistic and relevant. It is intended that
throughout the 15 year time horizon, the document will be continuously evaluated for
relevancy and success.
Maintaining and Updating the Plan
It is intended that the Comprehensive plan is a living document, which means that it is
constantly used, reviewed and updated. The use and update of the Comprehensive Plan
should be part of a larger comprehensive planning cycle.
Figure 3. Comprehensive Planning Cycle
10
Maintenance to the plan should occur on an annual basis. Comprehensive updates to the
plan should be conducted every 5 years to ensure that the plan is still relevant.
11
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Natural Resources
Geography and Topology
The City of Donnelly is located at latitude 44.731 N and longitude 116.08 W, in west central
Idaho. The City is located in a region known as Long Valley in Valley County, Idaho and sits
at an elevation of 4,865 feet above sea level. Directly west of the City is the West Mountain
Range, which runs the length of the Valley. The ridges and peaks nearest Donnelly range
between approximately 6,000 and 7,660 feet. The valley floor extends further to the east of
the City leading into a foothill range with elevations ranging from 4,900-6,000 feet.
Hydrology
The City of Donnelly lies due east of Lake Cascade, which is a dammed reservoir. Lake
Cascade is fed by the North Fork of the Payette River, which runs from Payette Lake
approximately 11 miles to the north of Donnelly. The Reservoir is approximately 23 square
miles in size and holds an annual water level between 4,828 and 4,816 feet. Directly east of
the city limits and within the City’s Area of Impact is Boulder Creek, a year-round creek
whose headwaters are Boulder Lake and Boulder Meadows Reservoir northeast of the City.
Vegetation
The region surrounding the City of Donnelly is a mixture of rangeland and forestland.
Much of the rangeland surrounding the City has been altered from its natural state for
livestock management. While not all lands are currently managed for livestock, they are
occupied by pasture grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass, Timothy, common hay and small
grains. Common shrub species found in the area include Big Sagebrush, Low Sagebrush,
and Antelope bitterbrush2. Forestlands to the west of the City are predominately conifer
forests with dominant tree types of Douglas Fir, Engelmann Spruce, Ponderosa Pine,
Western Larch, Quaking Aspen and Lodgepole Pine.
2 U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation Pacific Northwest Region Snake River Area Office. Lake Cascade Resource Management Plan. February 2002.
12
Land Ownership
The majority of land within the City of Donnelly is held in private ownership. Of those
properties held by public entities, most if not all are for public services such as the city hall,
the fire station, the elementary school, city parks, the Donnelly airport and the Donnelly
Depot Center (DDC). As the table below shows, the lands surrounding the City (Valley
County) consist mostly of public lands under federal ownership. Lake Cascade is owned
and managed by the Bureau of Reclamation and National Forest lands lie to the east and
west of the City.
Table 1. Valley County Land Ownership
Ownership Type Acreage Percentage of Land
Municipal 8 0.00%
U of I Regent 65 0.00%
Parks and Recreation 1,298 0.06%
Idaho Fish & Game 1,914 0.08%
County 2,180 0.09%
State Endowment 64,268 2.73%
Private 221,151 9.40%
Federal 2,063,164 87.64%
Total 2,354,048 100.00% Source: Idaho Department of Labor, Land ownership statistics, 2002.
Community Characteristics
Population and Households
The population of the City of Donnelly has remained steady over the past 20 years.
According to estimates from Idaho Department of Labor, the population increased slightly
between 2000 and 2008, but has since returned to 2000 levels. While growth in the
metropolitan area of Boise (Ada County) has increased between 2000-2009, populations in
Valley County have varied among the incorporated cities. The total estimated number of
households in Donnelly as of 2010 is 60.
13
Table 2. Regional Population and Population Change Estimates
Area Estimated Population 2009
% Change 2000- 2009
State of Idaho 1,545,801 .45%
Ada County 384,656 26.88% Valley County 8,726 14.27%
City of Donnelly 139 0% City of Cascade 972 -3.76% City of McCall 2,554 15.15%
Source: Idaho Department of Commerce: City by County Population Estimates. 2010.
Population forecasts by the Department of Labor predict a population increase of
approximately 5% between 2010 and 2015. However, several development projects have
been approved within the City and could potentially increase the population of the City to
as much as 2,000 when completed.
Demographics
The highest proportion of Donnelly’s population is within the age bracket of 50-59 years at
20% (see Figure 4 below). 23% of the population is 19 years of age or younger, and 20%
are 60 years or older. The majority of the population in the City of Donnelly is classified as
Caucasian at 96.4%, with the largest minority population being Hispanic at 4.3%.
Figure 4. Age Distribution, City of Donnelly
Source: Idaho Department of Commerce: Gem State Prospector 2010
14
Income
Household income for the city is relatively even across the categories under $50,000 per
year, with the highest percentage (22.81%) in the $40,000-$60,000 bracket.
Figure 5. Household Income
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000 Census
Average Earnings in Valley County have fluctuated between 2000 and 2007, with a peak
occurring in 2006 of $28,246. Despite increases in average earnings, Valley County has
remained below the average for the state of Idaho and the southwest region3.
Figure 6. Average Earnings
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information System data. 2009
3 Southwest Idaho is defined as the ten county regions of Ada, Adams, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette, Valley and Washington.
15
Netflow income is the percentage of county income that is earned from individuals
commuting to job locations outside of the county. The percentage is an indicator of a
county’s economic health and ability to provide jobs for its residents. Counties with low
percentages indicate that most residents stay in the area for work. High percentages
indicate that residents are drawn out of the county to larger employment centers for work.
As Figure 7 (on the following page) shows, netflow income decreased from 2003 to a low in
2008 of 1.9%, which explains that relative to other counties in the southwest region, Valley
County’s employment has been driven primarily by local employers (table 3).
Figure 7. Valley County Netflow Income
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information System data. 2009
16
Table 3. Southwest Idaho Netflow Income County Percentage
Ada -4.0%
Adams 3.6%
Boise 43.3%
Canyon 8.6%
Elmore 3.6%
Gem 26.1%
Owyhee 25.2%
Payette 17.3%
Valley 3.2%
Washington 10.8% Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information System data. 2009
Employment
Total Employment in Valley County increased significantly between 2000 and 2008. This
means that there was an increase in the labor pool for Valley County during the eight year
time period. Valley County outpaced all other Idaho counties in terms of total employment,
including Ada County, which experienced much higher population growth.
Table 4. Southwest Idaho Total Employment Area % Change 2000-2008
Ada 35.3%
Adams 26.9%
Boise 31.3%
Canyon 40.7%
Elmore 9.2%
Gem 19.6%
Owyhee 17.8%
Payette 20.5%
Valley 43.9%
Washington 6.1%
Southwest Region 33.8%
State 28.1%
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information
System data. 2009
17
While the unemployment rate for the City of Donnelly is not tracked specifically, it is likely
to follow the trend of the greater Valley County. Over the three year period of 2008 to
2010, Valley County experienced a 94.3% change in unemployment with a high of 12.2% in
2010. In 2009 Valley County ranked 4th highest in the state for their rate of unemployment.
Higher rates of unemployment are likely associated with the over-all decline in the
economy, with particular downturns in construction, housing and tourism industries
within Valley County.
Figure 8. Valley County Unemployment Rate Over Time
Source: Communications & Research Idaho Department of Labor 2009
Economy and Industry
The proximity of two major lake/reservoirs, two ski resorts and location in a county with
93% public lands, makes tourism, recreation and construction major industries within the
Donnelly economy.
According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), private enterprise made up
approximately 85% of total employment in Valley County in 2007, while government
related jobs made up 15% of total employment. Of these government jobs, 80% are
attributed to federal employment and 20% state and local.
18
While some information was withheld or not available, BEA data does support the general
hypothesis that the economy of Valley County has shifted from more traditional natural
resource based industries to tourism related industries. Of those industries that saw a
significant increase in the number of employees between 2001 and 2007, real estate, arts,
entertainment, recreation and construction all saw at least a 96% increase. As Table 5
below shows, other tourism related industries also saw significant increases, while
forestry, agriculture and manufacturing all experienced decreases in the number of
employees.
Table 5. Valley County Employment by Industry
Major Industry Category Employees (2007)
% Change 2001-2007
Farm Employment 149 -3.9%
Forestry, fishing, related activities 167 -20.9%
Mining 39 143.8%
Construction 1,281 96.5%
Manufacturing 130 -36.9%
Retail Trade 973 35.5%
Transportation and warehousing 110 -24.7%
Information 71 -11.3%
Finance and insurance 201 81.1%
Real estate and rental and leasing 798 122.3%
Arts, entertainment, and recreation 532 111.1%
Accommodation and food services 907 43.3%
Other services, except public administration 374 54.5%
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information System data. 2009
According to a survey conducted by Sage Community Resources in 2008 as part of the
Donnelly Downtown Revitalization Planning process, 28 businesses were registered within
the City. The largest local industries reported were retail (39%), Real Estate/Property
Management (18%) and Construction/Household (14%). These percentages are closely
aligned with the County industries that experienced the largest gain between 2001 and
2007.
19
Originally constructed in 2004, Tamarack Ski Resort contributed significantly to the local
economy in the way of jobs associated with construction, operation and spending revenues
from visitors. Due to financial difficulties, the resort suspended operations in 2009, but it is
unlikely that it will remain closed permanently. Re-opening of the resort is likely to
provide additional demand and opportunities for businesses within related industries such
as retail, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, food services and construction.
20
LAND USE
Introduction
The City of Donnelly has remained a relatively small community throughout its history.
Between 2000 and 2008, Valley County experienced tremendous development growth
which yielded an increase in population of approximately 14%. Much of the regional
growth was spurred by growth in the Boise metropolitan area and the attractiveness of
Valley County’s natural amenities for recreational opportunities. The construction of
Tamarack Resort west of Donnelly increased the number of project applications within the
City. Projects such as Coach Crossing and The Glen, when developed, will increase the total
number of residential dwelling units significantly.
While potential growth provides new opportunities, the City of Donnelly seeks to grow in a
manner that preserves the history and culture of the City, while minimizing negative
impacts such as increased traffic and loss of open space. The Land Use chapter seeks to
fulfill Donnelly’s vision to grow its development pattern in a way that protects the natural
surroundings, and maintains and enhances its current quality of life. The goals and
objectives of this chapter describe the desired development pattern the City seeks to
achieve in the future. The policies described below are intended to act as guiding
principles and parameters for potential developers, the Planning and Zoning Commission,
City Council, County staff and other decision makers. By implementing the policies of the
Land Use chapter in combination with the other chapters of the Comprehensive Plan, the
City of Donnelly will achieve its objective of creating a healthy and vibrant community.
21
Planning Area
The Comprehensive Plan addresses not only the land within the current Donnelly city
limits, but also the unincorporated land surrounding the City. This planning boundary is
called the Area of City Impact (AOI) and is agreed upon by the City and Valley County. The
AOI defines a functional planning area based on the City’s trade area and geographic
location, and the anticipated annexation of adjacent lands to accommodate future growth.
The designation also illustrates, for planning purposes, the potential extent of future
services that the City must provide. Finally, the Area of City Impact is a means by which the
City may express its desired future land use pattern to both City and County officials, who
have joint jurisdiction over lands within the AOI.
As Donnelly grows, it is the desire of the City that new development is consistent with the
principles of smart growth and that the City’s connection with the surrounding landscape is
protected. To achieve these two objectives, the City has chosen to “tier” its planning area to
encourage higher densities closer to the city center and preserve the rural character of the
outlying areas. Within Tier I, the City has also applied Future Land Use Classifications to
clearly define the desired pattern of development within city limits and adjacent areas.
Future Land Use Classifications do not affect the current zoning of individual parcels or
existing development but rather reflect the desired development pattern for zones in
transition and undeveloped lands that may be annexed in the future. The intention of Tier
II is to preserve the rural character, agricultural lands and open space of the surrounding
environment.
22
Figure 9. Planning Area and Area of City Impact
23
Future Land Use Classification System
The Future Land Use Classification System describes the desired future development
pattern for the City of Donnelly. The achievement of the desired future land use comes
from the implementation of the Comprehensive Plan itself, implementation of the Zoning
Ordinance, implementation of new development and redevelopment projects and
coordination with Valley County. The following are general descriptions of the
development zones within the future land use map.
Future Land Use Classifications
Central Business District (CBD)
The Central Business District (CBD) is the heart of the City. The CBD acts as the historic
center, core business district and community gathering space. It is a pedestrian friendly
environment that is attractive for businesses, visitors and residents. Uses include a broad
range of civic, retail, community-oriented commercial and residential uses. The intent of
the area is to promote a healthy and safe environment for residents and visitors to enjoy.
To achieve a pedestrian friendly environment that is attractive for both businesses and
customers, uses are more strictly regulated in the CBD. This regulation is intended to
encourage in-fill, preserve neighborhood character and historic buildings and lessen the
degree of non-conformity.
General Commercial (GC)
This area accommodates community oriented services, retail, offices, limited residential
and public uses. This is a mixed use designation that is intended to encourage pedestrian-
oriented development and street-front commercial along major transportation corridors.
24
Light Industrial (LI)
This area accommodates light industrial activities such as research and development, light
manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, distribution, storage, processing or other enterprises
engaged in low-impact industrial activities. Industrial uses in this area have few, if any,
nuisance characteristics.
Rural Residential (R-R)
This area provides areas for stable, single-family residential development, at a density not to
exceed one (1) dwelling per ten (10) acres, with a limited number of other uses compatible
with a rural residential neighborhood and nearby agricultural areas
Very Low Density Residential (R1)
The purpose of the Very Low Density Residential R-1 District is to provide areas for stable,
single-family residential development, at a density not to exceed one (1) dwelling per acre,
with a limited number of other uses compatible with a rural residential neighborhood.
Medium Density Residential (R8)
Medium Density Residential neighborhoods are pedestrian oriented with an emphasis on
connectivity to adjoining uses. They offer a diverse mix of housing types that meet the
needs of all residents. A base density of eight (8) dwelling units per acre is supported in this
area to encourage compact development close to the city center. Smart growth principles
should be applied t o residential neighborhood development projects. The city is
supportive of mixed-use development applications that include neighborhood scale
commercial uses and connectivity pathways. Cottage or home-based businesses are
allowed in neighborhood residential areas provided there are no nuisance characteristics.
Low Density Residential (R4)
This designation is intended to recognize existing development patterns and areas where
small-lot development is desirable. The base density is fout (4) dwelling units per acre to
25
accommodate growth and encourage single family style homes, typified by generous
setbacks and family friendly yards and gardens. Wherever possible, open space within one
subdivision will be connected to existing or planned open space outside the subdivision.
The City is supportive of small scale farming that is complimentary to suburban
development. Tier I standards will also encourage the extension of the existing Donnelly
grid street pattern.
Agricultural (AG)
The Tier II area is decidedly rural in character and is meant to preserve its historical
agricultural land uses. While residential development is allowed within the Agricultural
category, it is allowed only at a base density of one unit per 20 acres. Contiguous open space
parcels should be encouraged in order to preserve wildlife habitat, wetlands or other
environmentally sensitive areas, or to allow working farmsteads to continue in operation.
Sustainable farming practices are encouraged in this area in an attempt to reclaim the
historic water quality of Donnelly’s watershed.
Open Space (OS)
Open space areas may include existing and future parkland, floodplain, sensitive
environmental areas, community recreation areas, pathways and trails. Small-scale
commercial uses that support recreational activities may be appropriate in these areas.
Public schools are also included in Open Space designations.
Analysis
The land use pattern in the City of Donnelly has been shaped by its history as well as the
more recent social and economic shifts of the Valley. The heart of Donnelly is the Central
Business District, which is located along Highway 55. Stepping back from Main
Street/State Highway 55, which is predominately commercial and retail, residential
neighborhoods exist to the east.
To the West, industrial sites are clustered as indicated on the Zoning Overlay map on page
28. Beyond these areas, residential development is characterized as low-density, with
26
agricultural lands still occupying much of the area surrounding the City. Based on current
city limits, there are approximately 288 acres of land within the City of Donnelly (excluding
the airport). Of this total, residential makes up the largest proportion of zoned land (55%),
with commercial and industrial lands second (34%).
Table 6. Current Zoned Acreage Within City Limits Zoning Acres Percentage
Central Business District 20 7%
Commercial 49 17%
Industrial 49 17%
Open 12 4%
Residential 160 55%
Total 290 100%
As Figure 10 shows, only a small proportion of land zoned within the City is developed
currently. Based on the desired vision of future land use, it is the City’s preference that
these areas within the current City limits be developed first, prior to additional lands being
annexed.
27
Figure 10. City of Donnelly Current Land Use
28
Figure 11. Zoning Overlay as of August 2014
LAKE FORK
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LEGEND
ZONE R-4
ZONE R-8
ZONE CBD
ZONE C
ZONE OPEN
ZONE INDUSTRIAL
ZONE AIRPORT
ZONE AGRICULTURAL
PENDINGANNEXATION
29
Figure 12. Future Land Use Map
LAKE FORK
RIVER
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HW
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W. R O SEB ERR Y ROAD E. R O SEBER RY ROAD
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4
TIER 2 & CURRENT IMPACT AREA
TIER 1 IMPACT AREA /
CITY LIMITS
CITY OF DONNELLY IMPACT AREASSCALE 1" = 3000'
September 2014
LEGEND
ZONE R-1
ZONE R-4
ZONE R-8
ZONE CBD
ZONE C
ZONE OPEN
ZONE INDUSTRIAL
ZONE AIRPORT
30
The Future Land Use Map, which represents the desired future build out of the City and
Area of Impact, would increase the total potential development to 2,310 acres. As Table 7
shows, if the future land use was implemented, agricultural would be the largest
percentage of land (50.4%) with residential being second at 38.3%.
Table 7. Future Land Use Acreage Tier I & II
Land use Type Acreage Percentage
Very Low Density Residential 1164 50.4%
Low Density Residential 594 25.7%
Medium Density Residential 292 12.6%
Central Business District 49.4 2.1%
Commercial 108 4.7%
Light Industrial 70.6 3.1%
Open Space 30.1 1.3%
Airport 35 1.5%
Total Tier I & Tier II Area 2310.00
Table 8. Future Land Use Acreage with Tier II Land use Type Acreage
Tier I 290
Tier II 2020
Total Acreage 2310
This future land use pattern is in line with the desired goals and objectives of the City
described below. Increased emphasis would be placed on high density residential within
the city limits, while limiting density in the Tier II area. Emphasis would be placed on
creating a vibrant downtown area that services local residents and visitors. Open Space in
key areas will preserve the rural character of the City and maintain the views of the
surrounding landscape.
31
Objective I
Maintain the integrity of residential and commercial neighborhoods within city limits
Policy 1 A development proposal, and/or rezoning, that substantially deviates from
the Comprehensive Plan’s land use principles and current zoning map, shall
be required to demonstrate that the deviation is for public benefit.
Policy 2 Development that places an excessive burden on the City’s infrastructure,
and/or intensifies traffic congestion may be the basis for rejection if it cannot
be mitigated. The Donnelly City Officials and Valley County Officials shall
make this determination within the Area of City Impact.
Policy 3 Multi-use developments that emphasizes quality design standards including,
but not limited to, clustering, open space, minimization of major traffic,
increased road cuts and diminution of automobile dependency, shall be
encouraged within the City.
Policy 4 Multi-use development that enhances quality of life elements, providing not
only residential units but also employment, education and shopping
opportunities shall be encouraged.
Policy 5 The City shall consider mobile home parks to allow for neat and orderly
placement of mobile homes on prepared pads with minimum lot areas
established per unit. Mobile home parks should be subject to a design review
approval process, including public hearings.
Policy 6 Manufactured and prefabricated homes shall be allowed to be placed on
standard single family residential lots, provided they comply with minimum
GOAL: Create and maintain a vibrant and healthy community
32
lot areas, setbacks and off street parking. Manufactured homes shall be
placed on a permanent perimeter foundation per Idaho State Code.
Policy 7 The City shall provide incentives for projects that in-fill existing lots within
the city limit and near the Central Business District.
Policy 8 The City shall encourage service businesses, cottage industries, light
industries and multi-use projects close to the Central Business District.
Policy 9 Housing projects proposing multiple units shall vary in size and price point
to offer a variety of housing options for residents of the City.
Policy 10 The City shall allow cottage industries to be mixed with single family
housing.
Policy 11 The City shall encourage cottage industries and affordable housing close to
public and private services.
Objective II
Create a consistent and compatible land use pattern from the Central Business District out to the surrounding Area of Impact.
Policy 12 Zoning use categories that require rezoning to a more intense category than
prevails on adjacent lands, shall not be granted, unless potentially negative
impacts are mitigated.
Policy 13 In-fill development shall be encouraged within the City to create a more
continuous development pattern and to avoid shoestring or leap frog
development patterns.
33
Policy 14 Development, redevelopment or intensification of existing land uses and/or
zoning patterns that are incompatible, shall be buffered from each other by
community design elements such as open space, landscaping, greater
setbacks and lower building heights.
Policy 15 Non-residential land uses shall only be allowed as components of residential
subdivisions in the AOI when their purpose and scale is clearly to provide
services to the immediate area that are accessible by alternative means of
transportation such as walking and cycling.
Policy 16 The City shall encourage development of commercial enterprises within the
city limits before expansion out from the City.
Policy 17 The City shall coordinate with Valley County to ensure that planning and
zoning ordinances are consistent with County regulations within the Area of
City Impact.
Policy 18 Limited residential development will be allowed in Tier II to maintain open
space and working agricultural lands.
Policy 19 Where feasible, open space shall be connected in Tier II to protect the rural
character of the area and preserve environmentally sensitive areas.
34
COMMUNITY DESIGN
Introduction
The City of Donnelly is committed to preserving the unique Pioneer Victorian style that
embodies the City’s character and history, within the Central Business District. Building a
physically attractive and unique city is consistent with the aspiration of creating an overall
exceptional quality of life. People desire an attractive and pleasant environment in which
to live, work and visit. Donnelly must strive to promote these concepts with every new
development, as well as the expansion of older and existing developments. The City of
Donnelly is committed to, and will insure that its heritage is an integral part of its future.
The Pioneer Victorian character which the City of Donnelly seeks to maintain is actually a
mixture of architectural styles commonly found throughout the 1800s to early 1900s. This
mixing of styles is representative of the western United States during the pioneer period,
which saw various cultural groups move westward in search of opportunity and
prosperity. Below are the main architectural styles that make up the Pioneer Victorian
character found in the City of Donnelly. These descriptions and examples are intended to
act as a guide for those new development and redevelopment projects within the City.
Folk Victorian
Victorian architecture is most commonly
associated with the Queen-Anne Period
between 1840-1900. Victorian
architecture was found more formally
among wealthy homes, banks and other
capital commercial institutions. Building
forms were often complex with multiple
pitched roofs, eves and turrets. Folk
Photo courtesy of: WikiMedia Commons
35
Victorian describes the more common form of architecture from this period, usually found
in residential buildings. Characteristics of Folk Victorian include asymmetrical floor
designs, porches, gables, ornamental trim and horizontal clapboard with variant shingling
on upper floors.
Folk Vernacular
Vernacular architecture is characterized by resources available locally and traditional
design. In the western United States during the early to mid 1900s, Folk Vernacular
blended elements of popular architectural
designs of the times, but in simpler forms.
Simplified Victorian and Queen Anne
design elements were matched with local
timber types and suited to the
environmental conditions. In mountain
regions of the west this usually meant shed
roofs on the first level and steeper pitched
metal roofs. Other common elements to
Folk Vernacular include full length porches,
rounded posts, tripartite, Palladian
windows in the upper story of the gable
and hipped roofs.
Photo: Flight of the Fancy Building, courtesy of Sage
Community Resources
36
Pioneer Architecture
Pioneer architecture describes the design style often found in historic main streets and
downtowns of communities in the western United States. Most often associated with the
western pioneer period, design elements are a collage of various designs and readily
available materials. Typical design
elements include “false” or “store”
fronts or facades, which have more
elaborate designs that cover the
remainder of the building, and tend to
be square and simple. In main street
settings, continuous buildings tend to
be within the same theme, but vary in
elements to create an individual
appearance. Photo courtesy of Sage Community Resources
The City’s goal for the original townsite of the City of Donnelly is one of maintaining its
exterior appearance of 1910 – 1940 Pioneer Victorian. Any development on the original
townsite must not take away from the City’s original flavor. By preserving the historic
Pioneer Victorian character, the City of Donnelly is creating a unique community character,
which creates an attractive built environment, builds civic pride and ensures a rich culture
for future generations. The following goals, objectives and policies are intended to guide
future development and redevelopment projects to create a consistent character
throughout the City.
37
Objective I
All new development and redevelopment projects shall be visually compatible with the City’s historic Pioneer Victorian design
Policy 1 All new development projects, within the Central Business District, shall
include architectural elements that are consistent with Pioneer Victorian
design.
Policy 2 Redevelopment or expansion of existing projects, within the Central Business
District, shall maintain and/or encourage the traditional design elements of
Pioneer Victorian design.
Objective II
Preserve and enhance the landscape views around the City
Policy 3 Utilities shall be installed underground whenever possible to minimize visual
impacts.
Policy 4 The City shall encourage beautification of existing buildings.
Policy 5 The City shall promote garbage pick-up in recreational and park areas.
Policy 6 New and redevelopment projects shall be consistent with the human scale of
existing development.
GOAL: Preserve and enhance the visual appearance and unique character of the City
38
Objective III
Create and maintain an attractive pedestrian friendly environment for visitors and residents through strategic development of the downtown corridor
Policy 7 The City shall establish the section of Main Street between Roseberry Road
and State Street as the community hub.
Policy 8 Where feasible, the City shall coordinate streetscape improvement projects
with ITD State Highway 55 road improvement projects.
Policy 9 The City shall prioritize the construction of sidewalks and parallel parking in
the community hub corridor.
Policy 10 The City shall prioritize the construction of sidewalks with landscaping and
illumination within the downtown corridor.
Policy 11 The City shall connect downtown properties through creation of public
spaces such as gardens and plazas in or along adjacent vacant lots or small
un-used areas.
Policy 12 The City shall encourage civic improvement projects such as gateway signage
and public art.
Policy 13 The City shall encourage new and redevelopment projects in the Central
Business District to implement the concepts and recommendations set forth
in the Donnelly Downtown Revitalization Plan, including:
• Scored concrete attached (to the curb) sidewalks 10 feet in width.
• Prominently marked cross walks.
• Parallel parking on both sides of the street.
• Ornamental trees in 3’ x 3’ grates in the sidewalk.
• Special “period” street light fixture that meets AASHTO standards.
39
Objective IV
Establish West State Street between Main and Front Streets as a pedestrian friendly retail area
Policy 14 Utilize diagonal parking and planting/furnishing along West State Street to
create a buffer between street traffic and pedestrians.
Objective V
Continue preservation, enhancement and redevelopment of the built environment throughout the City
Policy 15 Encourage all property owners within the City to maintain their properties to
enhance civic pride.
Property maintenance includes removal of non-functional cars, appliances,
and other refuse, upkeep of landscaping and painting of buildings.
Policy 16 Ensure that future redevelopment in and beyond the downtown area is in
character with desired design elements of the Pioneer Victorian design.
Policy 17 Redevelopment and re-purposing of existing buildings should include
emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energy.
40
Table 9. Regional Population and Population Change Estimates
HOUSING
Introduction
Housing is an important component of maintaining community health in the City of
Donnelly. Like many western mountain towns, Donnelly is susceptible to the housing
pressures associated with recreational or amenity-rich areas. Trends towards second or
seasonal homeownership reduce the housing stock available to local residents.
Recreational development such as Tamarack Ski Resort can also place added pressure on a
community’s housing stock by increasing the demand for employee housing. As the City of
Donnelly grows, it needs to be aware of the social factors affecting its stock of available
housing. By considering residents’ income levels, housing prices and other factors, the City
can plan for and encourage new housing that will meet the needs of its residents.
Analysis
According to the Idaho Department of Labor, the population of the City of Donnelly has
remained relatively steady since 2000 (Table 9). The total number of households is
estimated to be 60 within the City. As discussed in the Community Profile (Chapter 2), the
population of Donnelly is anticipated to grow in the future to as many as 2000 residents.
Much of this growth is anticipated to be driven by new residential projects and the
operations of Tamarack Ski Resort.
Area Estimated Population 2009
% Change 2000- 2009
State of Idaho 1,545,801 .45%
Ada County 384,656 26.88% Valley County 8,726 14.27%
City of Donnelly 139 0% City of Cascade 972 -3.76% City of McCall 2,554 15.15%
Source: Idaho Department of Commerce: City by County Population Estimates. 2010.
41
The total number of current dwelling units in the City of Donnelly is 100. Of this, 60% are
occupied by full-time households. The remaining 40% is likely attributable to un-occupied
housing for sale or otherwise and part-time residents. The proximity to Tamarack Resort
has likely increased the interest in housing within the City and surrounding area for the
purposes of second or recreation home ownership. As the resort grows in the future, the
trend toward part-time or seasonal occupation is likely to continue. Increases in part-time
occupation will decrease the stock of housing available for any new full-time residents.
Table 10. 2010 Housing Occupancy Dwellings Percentage of
Units Total
Owner-Occupied Dwellings 32
53.3% of Occupied Dwellings
Renter-Occupied Dwellings 28
46.7% of Occupied Dwellings
Housing Units Occupied 60 60% of Total
Dwellings Housing Units Un-Occupied 40 40% of Total
Dwellings Total Dwellings 100
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2010 Census
The highest percentage of household income in the City of Donnelly is between $40-50,000
(22.81%) with 13 households. According to the National Housing and Urban Development
Authority, the median family income for Valley County in 2010 was $55,019.63. Valley
County is below the median family income for the state of Idaho ($56,500), but above the
national non-metropolitan income limit ($51,600). Based on Idaho Department of
Commerce estimates, 52% of households within the City of Donnelly earn less than the
median family income in Valley County.
A major element of quality of life within a community is the affordability of housing. Based
on the 2010 Valley County median family income of $55,019.63, a family of four would
spend roughly $1,376 on monthly housing expenses. Assuming a 30-year fixed mortgage
42
at 6.5%, a household of 4 could afford a home at $228,583.
Figure 13. Household Income Distribution
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2000 Census
Table 11. Affordable Housing Payments for Valley County 50% (Very Low) 80% AMI (Low) 100% AMI
(Moderate)
Income $ 27,509.81 $ 44,015.70 $ 55,019.63 Monthly Housing payments
$ 688.00 $ 1,100.00 $ 1,376.00
Maximum Housing Price $ 114,291.45 $ 182,733.60 $ 228,582.90 Calculations assume no greater than 30% of monthly income is spent on housing. Housing values assume a 30 year
fixed interest rate of 6.5 and 5% down payment.
According to sales data from Valley County for 2005 through 2010, the median home sales
price in the City of Donnelly was approximately $192,000.4 This means that the current
stock of housing within the City of Donnelly is within the median income of City residents.
It is difficult to determine the housing need within the City of Donnelly given its relatively
small size. Based on the figures above, it appears that the current housing stock meets the
needs of current residents. However, a 2005 housing study conducted for Valley and
Adams County reported that housing within the City of Donnelly is likely to be strained due
43
to Tamarack resort becoming a major employment center. As the economy and Tamarack
Resort recover, it will be important for the City to monitor housing to ensure that stock and
price meet the needs of its residents.
Objective I
Maintain a viable inventory of housing that is affordable to all City residents
Policy 1 Encourage affordable housing within close proximity to shopping and
services.
Policy 2 Projects that create additional employment opportunities shall consider
wages, housing opportunities and the impacts on the local housing inventory.
Policy 3 Commercial and industrial projects that may significantly increase the City’s
population shall include housing components.
Policy 4 Encourage Multi-Residential and Multi-Use projects to include housing units
at various price points, as well as opportunities for both ownership and
rental.
4 It should be noted that only a small number of homes were sold between 2005-2010 within the City, which may not be representative of the entire housing stock. Based on assessor data for certified values, the sales prices from 2005-2010 are representative of the distribution of housing stock within the City and therefore used in the calculations above.
GOAL: Provide an inventory of housing that meets the needs and lifestyle of current and future residents of the City
44
TRANSPORTATION
Introduction
Transportation has had a significant role in shaping the City of Donnelly. Originating as a
depot town for the Idaho Northern Railroad, the City of Donnelly was, and remains a
prominent stopping point for travelers. The City is located along State Highway 55 (SH 55),
the major north-south travel route through central Idaho. The intersection of SH 55 and
Roseberry Road is also the main access point for traffic to and from Tamarack Ski Resort.
Given its location along a major transportation route and recreational crossroads, the City
of Donnelly must balance the economic benefits of transportation routes with the health
and safety of its community.
The following are the major elements of the City of Donnelly’s transportation system.
Roadway Circulation
The circulation system incorporates State Highway 55, which is the major roadway
connecting Long Valley to Treasure Valley (starting in Eagle) to the south, and to McCall 11
miles to the north. Roseberry Road is the east-west connection running through the City of
Donnelly. To the east is the historic community of Roseberry and to the west is Cascade
Lake and Tamarack Resort. Jordan, Payette, Halferty and State Streets are classified as the
local or minor collector streets within city limits. The majority of these local or minor
collector streets are unpaved surfaces.
Pedestrian/Bicycle Circulation
The City currently contains 346 feet of sidewalk within the Central Business District.
Upgrades and extensions to sidewalks through the Central Business District are scheduled
for 2011. No bicycle paths currently exist, but the City has created a Pathways Master Plan.
45
Several proposed residential development projects include bike/pedestrian paths within
their project boundaries.
The Donald D. Coski Memorial Airport
The Donald D. Coski Memorial Airport lies within the Donnelly Area of City Impact. The
Airport is approximately 34 acres at an elevation of 4,988 feet. The City maintains a grass
landing strip, which is 2,500 feet in length by 125 feet in width.
Public Transportation
Mountain Community Transit is a public transportation service operated by Treasure
Valley Transit. The bus service operates between Cascade and McCall with stops in
Donnelly. The Rural Idaho Public Transit system was recently implemented expanding the
public transit system from McCall to Grangeville, Riggins and New Meadows.
While not a publicly operated system, the cities of McCall, Donnelly and Cascade are also
serviced by Northwestern Trailways, which offers bus transportation between Spokane,
Coeur d'Alene and Boise.
46
Figure 14. Roadway Circulation by Street Type
47
Figure 15. Donnelly Greenbelt Pathways
48
Analysis
State Highway 55(SH 55) is the primary arterial through Valley County and acts as Main
Street for the City of Donnelly. With recreational attractions such as Cascade Lake,
Tamarack Resort, Payette Lake and Brundage Mountain Resort nearby, traffic volumes
through the City of Donnelly fluctuate seasonally. As a result a mix of residential
commuter, destination and commerce traffic passes through the City.
Figure 16. Average Daily Traffic on SH 55 through Donnelly
Source: City of Donnelly Master Transportation Plan 2006
As Figure 16 shows, traffic counts increased significantly (above 10%) in 2004 for the
months of September through December. According to the City of Donnelly Master
Transportation Plan, these higher traffic counts are likely due to construction and
operation of Tamarack Ski Resort. The resort was also a likely contributor to the increase
in truck traffic. According to the Master Transportation Plan, the annual increase of truck
traffic making left turns on the northbound intersection of SH 55 and Roseberry increased
24% between 2001 and 2005. The eastbound approach (traffic coming from Tamarack)
increased 75% for left turning traffic and 35% for right turning traffic during this same
time period. While Tamarack currently operates at less than full capacity, it is likely that
the resort will resume full operations sometime in the future, with the potential for even
further development. Increases in recreational operation and residential development
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over the next 15 years are likely to continue the trend of increased traffic through the City
of Donnelly.
Prior to the economic downturn of 2007-2008, several development applications for
residential development within the City of Donnelly were pending. These applications
varied in size, but all increased the population and thus potential traffic. Table 12 below
shows recent projected traffic counts for local City streets.
Table 12. Projected Average Daily Traffic Counts for Local Streets
Year
Daily Traffic Counts
Jordan State Halferty Payette
2005 272 465 160 150
2010 307 526 181 169
2015 351 603 208 192
2020 404 695 239 220
2025 462 795 274 251
2030 524 902 311 283
Source: City of Donnelly Master Transportation Plan 2006.
The recent growth period from 2000 to 2008 has shown that the region’s amenities and
presence of Tamarack Ski Resort make the potential for growth and development likely. To
reduce the negative impacts associated with increased traffic volumes, the City will pursue
multiple efforts in both transportation and land use planning.
The following goal, objectives and policies are intended to guide future development in
coordination with the land use, community design and natural resources elements. In
addition, the policies presented here are in concert with the more comprehensive 2006
Donnelly Transportation Management Plan, which outlines development of transportation
infrastructure and a capital improvement plan. Achievement of goals and objectives will
also require coordination with other government entities including Valley County, Treasure
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Valley Transit, Idaho Department of Transportation and neighboring communities such as
the Cities of McCall and Cascade.
Objective I
Provide a circulation system throughout Donnelly that supports residents and visitors equally and is well maintained
Policy 1 Encourage convenient pull-in parking to support tourism, shopping and
dining.
Policy 2 Centralized parking shall be developed for future tourism and to entice
future businesses. Extra parking shall be situated in the Central Business
District to ensure and encourage safe pedestrian traffic.
Policy 3 Support reasonable programs that reduce traffic congestion and travel time
that are compatible with safe pedestrian and recreational traffic.
Policy 4 Prioritize resurfacing of gravel streets to pavement to reduce maintenance
and environmental degradation caused by poor drainage and dust.
Policy 5 Ensure that all streets maintained by the City meet the Standard Roadway
Details described in the Donnelly Master Transportation Plan.
Policy 6 Encourage local businesses to pave off street parking, egress and ingress.
GOAL: Achieve efficient and safe movement of people, goods and services, within the City of Donnelly and through the Long Valley region
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Objective II
Establish a safe and well maintained pedestrian and bicycle network throughout the City of Donnelly
Policy 7 The City shall support a circulation system that accommodates alternative
forms of transportation along State Highway 55.
Policy 8 All bike and pedestrian path projects shall be ADA compliant.
Policy 9 All bike and pedestrian paths proposed within the City shall include a
maintenance schedule.
Policy 10 Future school sites shall be located close to residential neighborhoods and
have connectivity to identified safe routes.
Policy 11 Clearly defined pedestrian crossings should be located at each downtown
intersection.
Objective III
Provide adequate and varying opportunities for connectivity to and from the City of Donnelly.
Policy 12 Encourage development of an airport capable of handling scheduled air
carrier service with instrument approach facilities within Valley County.
Policy 13 Ensure that land uses adjacent to the airport are compatible and beneficial to
its operations.
Policy 14 Promote alternative forms of transportation and integrate those systems into
the overall fabric of the City.
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Policy 15 Plan for, and implement a centralized parking and bus facility to service the
downtown area, connect Donnelly to neighboring communities and
encourage alternative forms of transportation throughout the City.
Policy 16 Develop and encourage partnerships with neighboring communities, state
governments and non-profit organizations to maintain and expand a public
transit system.
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NATURAL ENVIRONMENT
Introduction
Donnelly’s past, present and future have been and are influenced by the natural
surroundings of Long Valley. It is therefore imperative that efforts to improve the health of
the community and economy strongly consider the health of the environment. Such strong
ties make management and restoration of environmental conditions an important
component of the City’s planning efforts.
While the City addresses all environmental conditions with importance, the following are
three priority areas.
Water Quality
Because Donnelly is located between the northeastern edge of Lake Cascade, Boulder Creek
and the Payette River, water quality and the impacts from development on water quality
are of high importance. Water Quality is an important part of the ecosystem’s integrity, but
is also important to the community’s health through drinking water, and to the economy
through water related recreational activities such as boating and fishing. The three
primary areas of concern with regard to water quality from the City’s perspective include
storm water run-off, spring snow melt run-off and irrigation run-off.
Protection of Lake Cascade is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation and is guided by the
Agency’s Resource Management Plan. Protection of water quality also involves several
other entities including County and State transportation departments, and organizations
such as the University of Idaho Extension Office, who provides outreach to agricultural
producers.
Air Quality
The elements that affect air quality in Long Valley are cold temperature and low elevation
inversions. Estimates for inversions indicate that their occurrence and duration is four to
five times each year, lasting for five consecutive days or more and about fourteen times
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each year for two consecutive days. As the City of Donnelly grows, the City Council, as well
as the Planning & Zoning Commission must keep air quality as a top consideration in future
development. In order to maintain air quality, the City must coordinate and cooperate with
different levels of city, county, state and federal entities.
Scenic Quality
The City of Donnelly, centrally located in the Long Valley region, is surrounded by open
grasslands and mountain ranges. Within the City, the appreciation of the surrounding
environment comes from its strong presence through scenic viewsheds and transportation
corridors. As the City grows, it must balance its desires for compact development with
preservation of its natural viewsheds. The Planning and Zoning Commission and the City
Council should consider goals, objectives and policies within this chapter, as well as the
community design chapter to protect scenic quality. Coordination with Valley County to
guide development within the Area of Impact will also help to preserve scenic quality.
The following goals, objectives and policies are intended to guide future projects and
decision making.
Objective I
Protect and preserve water quality in Donnelly and the surrounding area for human and ecosystem health
Policy 1 Priority wetlands and stream banks should be identified and restored to
reduce run-off and sedimentation.
GOAL: Protect and preserve the natural resources surrounding the City of Donnelly
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Policy 2 The public works department and North Lake Sewer and Water District
should collaborate with the Resource Conservation District and University of
Idaho Extension Office to reduce agricultural run-off from lands adjacent to
the City and its drinking water supply.
Policy 3 Secondary and access roads in the City shall be paved to reduce erosion.
Policy 4 New commercial and industrial projects shall be required to include
stormwater management features that connect to stormwater systems when
present.
Policy 5 The City shall develop a comprehensive stormwater treatment system.
Objective II
Protect and preserve air quality in Donnelly and the surrounding area for human and ecosystem health
Policy 6 Work with County and State transportation departments to prioritize
pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure and include pedestrian and bicycle
infrastructure in roadway improvement projects.
Policy 7 New subdivision projects shall include pedestrian and bicycle connectivity to
reduce dependency on automobiles.
Policy 8 Reduce health and ecosystem risks, emissions and pollutant exposures through plans, discretionary project review and permitting.
Policy 9 Work with neighboring communities and resorts to develop and maintain a
public transit system for residents and visitors to reduce auto emissions.
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Policy 10 When feasible public diesel powered vehicles shall be replaced with
alternative fuel vehicles.
Objective III
Protect and preserve scenic quality surrounding the City of Donnelly
Policy 11 All new development and redevelopment projects shall comply with the tall
building ordinance.
Policy 12 Sign height shall conform to City’s sign ordinance.
Policy 13 All new development and redevelopment projects shall provide open space
and architectural features that break-up building surface and allow for scenic
viewsheds.
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RECREATION
Introduction
The City of Donnelly is surrounded by a variety of public and private lands that provide
ample year round recreational activities. In addition to National Forests, the City is within
close proximity to two major ski resorts and six golf courses. Lake Cascade, Payette Lake,
Gold Fork Hot Springs, several reservoirs, geothermal features and the Payette River are
well known attractions for a variety of water sports and fishing. As a result of this ample
access, recreation and tourism have become major economic industries for the City and
Valley County.
Donnelly has determined that recreation and tourism are important to the City’s culture
and economy. The following goals, objectives and policies, combined with the economic
development and transportation chapters, outline the current importance and future
desired conditions of recreation within and surrounding the City of Donnelly. More
specifically, the recreation element is intended to provide guidance for new public and
private projects that either target or incorporate recreational facilities.
Table 13. City of Donnelly Recreational Facilities Facility Location
Donnelly City Park Gestrin Street Donnelly Tennis Court Gestrin Street
Donnelly Boat Docks
¾ of a mile west and ¾ of a mile south from the City of Donnelly
Donnelly Camp Grounds
¾ of a mile west and ½ of a mile south from the City of Donnelly
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Figure 17. City of Donnelly Parks and Recreation Facility Sites
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Figure 18. Regional Parks and Recreation
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Objective I
Create and maintain recreational opportunities within the City of Donnelly
Policy 1 Enhance the City’s quality of life by expanding social, recreational,
educational and cultural programs.
Policy 2 The City shall support recreational business and development by supporting
parks and recreational facilities, as well as maintaining public information.
Policy 3 New and planned bike and pedestrian paths shall link to parks and
recreational facilities.
Objective II
Support recreation and tourism as economic industries within the City of Donnelly
Policy 4 Encourage tourism in the city by providing visitor information on
recreational opportunities.
Policy 5 Support the development of tourism services including, but not limited to,
bike paths, snowmobile trails, bridal paths, ice skating rink, skate-boarding
park, marina, winter RV park and a bicycle park.
Policy 6 Encourage recreational and tourism serving businesses such as outfitters,
guiding services, hospitality and lodging services in the downtown area.
Policy 7 Coordinate with local and regional transportation providers as well as
resorts to provide public transportation to major recreational sites.
GOAL: Provide quality recreation as a major community, economic and cultural element of the City
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Introduction
The City of Donnelly sees itself economically as a service orientated community with strong
ties to the natural environment. Located in the heart of Valley County near the northern
reaches of Lake Cascade, Donnelly has easy access for many outdoor activities including
hunting, boating, camping, skiing and snowmobiling. Tamarack Ski Resort, to the west of
Donnelly, has increased the presence of recreational activity in the local economy. While
the resort has had financial difficulties in recent years, it is likely to make long-term
contributions to the economy of Donnelly.
Several organizations exist within the region to address economic development. The City
of Donnelly has an active Chamber of Commerce, which provides support to local
businesses such as shared marketing and civic events that highlight local businesses.
Another economic development process in which the City of Donnelly participates is the
Payette River Scenic Byway, which is a regional economic development process focused on
tourism and transportation along the Payette River corridor. This process was initiated in
2001 and established a Byway Management Plan aimed at preserving the regions natural
and cultural resources, and creating economic opportunities for communities along the
corridor by highlighting these assets. In addition to these specific partnerships, the City of
Donnelly collaborates with various regional, state and federal agencies including Valley
County Economic Development, Idaho Department of Commerce, United States Department
of Agriculture, University of Idaho Extension Office and Sage Community Resources.
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A central focus for economic development in the City of Donnelly is the downtown area, or
Central Business District. In 2009 the City completed the Downtown Revitalization Plan,
which lays out a process for rejuvenating the downtown area within the City. When
implemented, the plan is intended to create a pedestrian friendly Central Business District
that can sustainably service both residents and visitors.
Analysis
According to a survey conducted by Sage Community Resources in 2008, as part of the
Donnelly Downtown Revitalization planning process, 28 businesses were operating within
the City. The largest local industries reported were retail (39%), Real Estate/Property
Management (18%) and Construction/Household (14%). These percentages are closely
aligned with county industries that experienced the largest gain between 2001 and 2007.
Table 14. Valley County Employment by Industry 2001-2007
Major Industry Category Employees (2007)
% Change 2001-2007
Farm Employment 149 -3.9%
Forestry, fishing, related activities 167 -20.9%
Mining 39 143.8%
Construction 1,281 96.5%
Manufacturing 130 -36.9%
Retail Trade 973 35.5%
Transportation and warehousing 110 -24.7%
Information 71 -11.3%
Finance and insurance 201 81.1%
Real estate and rental and leasing 798 122.3%
Arts, entertainment and recreation 532 111.1%
Accommodation and food services 907 43.3%
Other services, except public administration
374 54.5%
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information System data. 2009
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Total employment in Valley County rose overall in Valley County between 2001 and 2008,
but fell from 2007 to 2008, which coincides with the larger national economic downturn.
Figure 19. Valley County Employment by Type
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information System data. 2009
As Figure 19 shows, the percentage change among the two types of employment tracked
relatively the same between 2001-2008. However, between 2006 and 2008, proprietor
employment still increased, unlike wage and total employment.
Figure 20. Valley County Employment by Annual Percentage Change
Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis, Regional Economic Information System data. 2009
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While recreation and tourism can provide communities with strong economic alternatives
to more traditional resource based industries, they can be cyclical in nature, creating
boom-bust type conditions. The following goals, objectives and policies are intended to
provide guidance toward creating a strong, vibrant and local-serving economy. Combined
with the land use, community design, housing and implementation chapters, these policies
and their implementation will help shape the future economic development conditions for
the City of Donnelly.
Objective I
Ensure that the economy of Donnelly includes a vibrant retail base that supports the local community and retains area spending
Policy 1 Encourage retail and service businesses in the current city limits.
Policy 2 The City shall support coordinated networks for local serving businesses
through a Chamber of Commerce or other business dialog opportunities.
Policy 3 Coordinate economic development strategies with the City of Cascade and
City of McCall.
Policy 4 Restrict franchises to encourage local entrepreneurship.
Objective II
Create and maintain a vibrant downtown economy that is attractive to both residents and visitors alike
GOAL: Maintain a vibrant economy that serves residents and visitors alike
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Policy 5 Create an attractive downtown business atmosphere by improving
pedestrian safety and circulation.
Policy 6 Prioritize resurfacing of City streets as a means of attracting businesses,
visitors and residents.
Policy 7 Provide incentives to development projects that attract new businesses to
the Central Business District.
Policy 8 Encourage and promote local innovation and entrepreneurial businesses that
provide jobs and services and keep dollars circulating within Donnelly’s
economy.
Objective III
Encourage a land use development pattern that protects the natural amenities and open spaces of the City of Donnelly
Policy 9 Encourage development projects that incorporate recreation and open
space.
Policy 10 Encourage and promote recreational land uses that are complimentary to,
and support local businesses.
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PUBLIC SERVICES AND UTILITIES
Introduction
Donnelly is dedicated to ensuring and managing public facilities that accommodate the
needs of the City now and in the future. In planning for future growth, the City of Donnelly
must ensure that the capacities of public facilities and utilities are available and in step
with the City’s needs. To adhere to this commitment, the City will work with its public
partners such as Valley County, North Lake Sewer and Water District, emergency service
districts, Idaho Power and neighboring communities.
The following are brief assessments of the current condition of the City’s major public
services and utility infrastructures.
Water
The City provides adequate public water service to the residents of Donnelly. The City
system originated from a railroad company well and a private (FmHA assisted) distribution
facility. The system was recently improved through the addition of a deep well, new
storage tank and additional distribution lines and fire hydrants.
Sewer
The City of Donnelly provides sewer service to the residents of Donnelly through
agreements with a third party provider. North Lake Sewer and Water District currently
oversees the sewer system within the City of Donnelly. The system consists of an adequate
collection system and pump stations, which delivers raw sewage to a treatment facility
located within the city.
Public Utilities
Several utility companies service Donnelly. The Idaho Power Company provides electrical
services; Frontiers Telecom provides telephone service with long distance service provided
by customers’ choices; and CableOne provides cable service.
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Emergency Services
The City of Donnelly is served by the Donnelly Rural Fire Department and ambulance
services are provided through Valley County Emergency Services. Valley County Sheriff’s
Department provides 911 services. Health care is provided by Cascade Medical Center,
which is a ten-bed critical access hospital located in the City of Cascade and St. Luke’s
McCall Hospital, which is a fifteen-bed facility that provides primary health care, inpatient
and outpatient services and emergency care. Life flight medical transport is also provided
out of the City of McCall, which provides patients emergency access to larger medical
facilities.
Stormwater
Some stormwater features exist within the City of Donnelly. The west side slough, which
runs through the northwest corner of the city, frequently floods city streets and adjacent
private property. Groundwater diversion systems exist along the northern boundary of the
city. Stormwater ditches have been installed along most downtown streets and
underground systems were installed when Idaho Department of Transportation re-
conditioned Main Street.
Municipal Services
The City of Donnelly is serviced by Lakeshore Disposal, which maintains and provides both
garbage and recycling services. Once collected at the city site, waste is transported to
Idaho Waste Systems’ landfill in Elmore County. Snow removal and road maintenance is
provided by the respective city, county and state highway districts.
Schools
The Donnelly area is served by an elementary school in the city (grades kindergarten – 5th).
The middle school (grades 6, 7, & 8th), high school (grades 9-12th), and Heartland
Alternative high school, are located 11 miles north in the City of McCall. The Valley County
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Head Start Program for pre-school children is located in Donnelly. There are currently no
post-secondary or vocational training facilities in Valley County. The University of Idaho
Extension Office located in Cascade provides some training programs, mostly geared
toward agriculture and landownership.
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Figure 21. City of Donnelly Public and Community Facilities
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Objective I
Ensure safe drinking water for the City of Donnelly
Policy 1 Adhere to the Drinking Water Protection Plan for the City of Donnelly to
ensure safe drinking water.
Policy 2 The City shall coordinate with Idaho State Department of Agriculture, Idaho
Soil and Water Conservation Commission and Valley Soil and Water
Conservation District to minimize agricultural run-off to city drinking water
sources.
Policy 3 The City Public Works Department shall monitor and implement best
management practices to protect the drinking water well head and surface
seal within the well zone.
Policy 4 Establish and maintain partnerships with neighboring jurisdictions, state
agencies and local industry to minimize the potential for accidents and
contamination.
Objective II
Maintain and upgrade wastewater capacity, as needed, to meet the needs of the current population and future growth
Policy 5 The review of development projects shall consider impacts to current
wastewater capacity.
GOAL: Maintain public services, utilities and facilities to meet current and future needs of the community and create a safe and healthy environment
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Policy 6 Formulate, encourage and implement a viable and attractive linkage of the
greenbelt with the existing park network.
Policy 7 The North Lake Sewer and Water District and City of Donnelly shall
coordinate activities when planning for future growth and capacity.
Objective III
Maintain a storm water system that protects drinking water and reduces environmental degradation to in region
Policy 8 Encourage improvement of city roads and State Highway 55 north and south
known as Main Street; by improving storm drains in the city, the west side
slough on West Roseberry Road and appropriate drainage on the north side
of the city.
Policy 9 Coordinate with County and State Highway Departments to ensure
stormwater features are planned for and included in future projects.
Policy 10 The impact on the capacity of the city’s stormwater system shall be
considered in the review of potential projects.
Objective IV
Provide adequate public utility infrastructure to meet the needs of current and future residents while minimizing its visual impact
Policy 11 The city’s plan for electric utility facilities will be formulated, interpreted and applied in a manner consistent with and complementary to the serving utility’s public service obligations.
Policy 12 Decisions made by Donnelly regarding electric utility facilities within the city
will be made in a manner consistent with and complementary to regional electrical demands and resources.
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Policy 13 Coordinate and cooperate with other municipal jurisdictions for planning of utility development and expansion.
Policy 14 Coordinate with utility providers to identify the general sighting locations of
future facilities and infrastructure to minimize visual impact.
Policy 15 Renewable energy development is encouraged inside city limits and within
the Area of City Impact. Solar and wind systems, as well as larger land applied systems shall be encouraged.
Objective V
Ensure that the City of Donnelly is a city where the health and safety of its people and property are protected
Policy 16 Provide adequate levels of police and fire services for maximum efficiency in
law enforcement and fire fighting services.
Policy 17 The City shall consider the impact of additional development on current and
projected emergency services when reviewing project applications.
Objective VI
Provide and maintain municipal services to support and protect the residences of the City of Donnelly
Policy 18 Modify city building setback requirements to allow for snow removal and
storage for businesses and residences. The city shall obtain land for the
placement of additional snow storage.
Policy 19 The city shall consider the impact of additional development on current and
projected municipal services when reviewing project applications.
Policy 20 Where appropriate and feasible, coordinate with neighboring communities
and Valley County to reduce the cost of providing municipal services.
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Objective VII
Provide an education system that gives students the opportunity to excel
Policy 21 The city shall consider the impact of additional development on current and
projected school facilities.
Policy 22 Implement the City of Donnelly Pathways Master Plan to provide safe biking
and pedestrian routes to school.
Policy 23 Work with neighboring communities and Valley County to ensure adequate
and efficient resources for the regional school system.
Policy 24 Work with and encourage educational institutions such as colleges,
universities and vocational schools to develop local programs that provide
opportunities for the local workforce and that meet the needs of area
businesses.
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SPECIAL AREAS
Introduction
The City is committed to the preservation of its historic culture. Several buildings
throughout Donnelly still remain from the original townsite. These buildings have historic
significance in that they preserve the unique cultural history of Donnelly and represent the
Pioneer Victorian architecture, which the city seeks to preserve.
In addition to the historic sites located within the city, the Roseberry Townsite, east of the
city limits on East Roseberry Road, still contains several historic buildings. Thanks to
private efforts, these buildings have been preserved and improved as key historic sites.
The Roseberry Townsite represents a key piece of the region’s history and it is the desire of
the city to see the original townsite cared for and preserved.
Table 15. Historic City Sites and Buildings A. Davis Building
(Old DanceHall, Duck Pin Bowling)
B. Hat Shop (Old Roseberry/Donnelly Bank)
C. Flight of the Fancy (Old Church Building)
F. Original School Building
G. Donnelly Community Center
(Old Boy Scout Hall)
H. Jerry’s Antiques (Old Saddle Shop)
D. Long Valley Farm Service I. Bubblery (Little Red Barn Restaurant)
E. Old Grain Storage
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Figure 22. City of Donnelly Historic Sites
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Figure 23. Roseberry Historic Townsite
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Objective I
Maintain and restore priority historic sites
Policy 1 Work with partnering state, federal and non-profit organizations to obtain
resources for the maintenance of historic sites.
Policy 2 Encourage and support private property owners to maintain historic sites
and buildings.
Policy 3 Ensure additions and repurposing of historic buildings maintain original
architectural elements.
Objective II
Create and maintain historic connections with the Roseberry Townsite
Policy 4 Provide signage and visitor information for Roseberry Townsite in
downtown Donnelly.
Policy 5 Coordinate with Valley County to preserve historic buildings and
architecture surrounding the Roseberry Townsite.
Policy 6 Create a multi-use path connecting old townsite to new townsite.
GOAL: Restore and/or maintain historic buildings and properties to preserve the rich history of Donnelly for future generations
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HAZARDS
Introduction
Effective comprehensive planning must consider potential hazards that a community may
face now and in the future. The City of Donnelly is surrounded by natural features such as
lakes, rivers and mountains. While these natural surroundings provide abundant
amenities, they also present health and safety risks. In addition to natural hazards, man-
made and technological hazards exist which the city must effectively plan for. While
hazards cannot be fully avoided in all instances, risks can be minimized through proper
planning. The following chapter describes planning policies aimed at reducing health and
safety risks associated with identified hazards.
The City of Donnelly is an active participant in the Valley County Multi-Jurisdiction All
Hazards Mitigation Plan, which was adopted by the City Council in 2010. This plan
assesses the risk of hazards in Valley County and provides an implementation and
mitigation plan that the participating cities and county will carry out. Through
implementation of this plan it is intended that all natural and man-made hazards will be
avoided or minimized and/or mitigated.
Figure 24. City of Donnelly Hazard Assessment
Source: Valley County Multi-Jursidictional All Hazards Mitigation Plan 2010.
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According to the Multi-Jurisdiction All Hazards Mitigation Plan assessment, the City of
Donnelly is most at risk for damages associated with earthquakes, extreme weather
patterns, such as high winds and temperatures, flooding from rivers and streams, structure
and wild fire.
The following goals, objectives and policies are intended to provide guidance to city
decision makers in planning and project approval processes. Consideration of the various
risks in the planning stage of individual projects and implementation of the Comprehensive
Plan will help to minimize or mitigate potential hazards.
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Figure 25. City of Donnelly Floodplain Hazards
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Objective I
Mitigate losses due to severe weather
Policy 1 The Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council shall consider the
risks associated with severe weather events when reviewing projects.
Policy 2 Inspect schools and other public buildings for snow-load resistance and
retrofit when necessary.
Policy 3 Collaborate with neighboring cities, Valley County and Adams County to
establish an east-west emergency transportation route.
Policy 4 Prioritize surfacing of secondary and access roads for all weather use.
Objective II
Continue to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program
Policy 5 Maintain current FEMA issued flood hazard maps for the city and
surrounding Area of Impact.
Policy 6 The City shall discourage development in the 100 year floodplain.
Policy 7 Where possible, protect and restore wetland functionality and stabilize
stream and river banks.
GOAL: Protect human life, health and property from the impact of natural and manmade hazards
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Objective III
Reduce potential damage to community infrastructure and structures through implementation of earthquake mitigation techniques
Policy 8 Apply International Building Standards to all new public buildings to prevent
damage from earthquakes.
Policy 9 Where feasible, retrofit public health and safety buildings to be compliant
with International Building Standards to prevent damage from earthquakes.
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IMPLEMENTATION
Introduction
Goals, objectives and policies provide guidance to decision makers, project proponents and
the greater community. The implementation process is one that transforms these goals
and policies, into tangible results. The process involves the application of a variety of
“tools,” or elements, such as a sound zoning ordinance, quality development standards and
a Capital Improvement Program. Other aspects of the implementation process involve
building and maintaining partnerships with various organizations and government entities.
It is not intended that the goals and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan be achieved in a
short time period. Rather the goals of the plan are the long-range vision of how the
community sees itself in the future. Given the Comprehensive Plan’s 15 year time horizon,
it is important that decision makers and the community not only have tools for
implementation, but also a strategic course of action. The following tools and action steps
provide an implementation process for achieving the desired future goals and objectives
for the City of Donnelly.
Implementation Elements
Administration
The Comprehensive Plan is administered by city staff, the Planning and Zoning
Commission and the City Council. A council appointed administrator is responsible for
implementing the Comprehensive Plan by providing citizens and interested parties
education and expertise on the various elements of the Plan. The Planning and Zoning
Commission uses the Comprehensive Plan along with implementation tools such as the
Zoning Ordinance to guide potential projects. In addition, the Planning and Zoning
Commission is responsible for managing the Comprehensive Plan by continually updating
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its goals, objectives and policies through amendments. The City Council authorizes all
proposed changes recommended by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
Planning and Zoning authority within a region is divided by county and city jurisdiction,
with cities responsible for lands only within city limits. Land adjacent to city limits are the
administrative responsibility of the county, but are recognized as areas “influenced” by
development within the city. Thus, areas to which future development and potential
annexation might occur are designated as the Area of City Impact. Through the Future
Land Use Map which proposes desired development patterns in the Area of City Impact,
cities are able to express to county authorities desired land uses that are compatible to
those within city limits. These proposed designations shall then be adopted and
administered by the county.
The Zoning Ordinance
This is a primary tool for implementing the Comprehensive Plan. The Zoning Ordinance
defines zoning districts based on a variety of land uses and provides detailed development
requirements in each zoning district. It must be periodically adapted to deal with new and
more demanding development proposals. Revisions shall be made to facilitate and regulate
the new forms of development recommended in the Comprehensive Plan. The Zoning
Ordinance is maintained by a council appointed administrator. All major changes to the
Zoning Ordinance must be publicly noticed and approved by the City Council.
The purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is to support the implementation of the goals in the
Comprehensive Plan. The support of the City of Donnelly, Valley County Commissioners,
and the residents of Donnelly and the Area of Impact is to be encouraged and solicited. The
Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinances cannot function without each other.
The Subdivision Ordinance
This tool establishes procedures and requirements for the division of larger pieces of land
into smaller, individual lots for development, sale or lease. The Subdivision Ordinance will
continue to be revised to improve processing procedures and to remain consistent with
public works and community development standards.
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The Design Review Ordinance
The Design Review Ordinance is intended to preserve the historic Pioneer Victorian
architectural theme and create a cohesive community character. Through implementation
of the ordinance and design guidelines, land use applications are reviewed for consistency
with existing development. Application of the ordinance and guidelines will ensures a high
standard of design excellence in the City of Donnelly.
The City Planning and Zoning Commission oversees the implementation and maintenance
of the ordinance and guidelines. If so desired, the commission may create a separate
Design Review Committee responsible for implementation and maintenance.
ACTIONS STEPS
Action steps are intended to provide a tangible implementation process that provides not
only the steps, but also the means of tracking achievement of Comprehensive Plan goals
and objectives. Just like goals, objectives and policies, the action steps described here
should be periodically monitored, reviewed and updated for relevancy.
Private Property Rights
Action 1 Use the following Idaho Attorney General’s checklist as an implementation tool:
i. Does the regulation or action result in a permanent or temporary
physical occupation of private property?
ii. Does the regulation or action require a property owner to dedicate a
portion of property, or to grant an easement? (If yes, the dedication
must be designed to compensate directly for adverse impacts of the
proposed development.)
iii. Does the regulation or action deprive the owner of all economically
viable uses of the entire property?
iv. Does the regulation or action have a significant impact on the
landowner’s economic interest in the property as a whole? (If yes, the
impact must not be a severe reduction in value.)
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v. Does the regulation or action deny any fundamental attribute of
ownership, such as the ability to possess, to exclude others, or to
dispose of the property?
vi. Does the regulation or action fail to be supported by a legitimate
public purpose? If the answer to any of the above questions is “yes”
the implementation tool must be limited to ensure private property
rights are not compromised to the degree financial compensation
from the City to the landowner would be required.
Land Use
Action 1 Formulate and implement a Capital Improvement Program that prioritizes
public infrastructure projects.
Action 2 Develop policy incentives such as density bonuses to encourage in-fill
projects within city limits, especially the Central Business District.
Action 3 Formulate and implement comprehensive guidelines for mixed-use
development.
Action 4 Update the current Zoning Ordinance to be current with the implementation
of this Comprehensive Plan.
Action 5 Collaborate with Valley County Planning and Zoning on land use regulations
in the Area of Impact; Valley County should adopt mutually agreed upon
regulations.
Community Design
Action 6 Develop design guidelines that the use of architectural elements consistent
with the Pioneer Victorian theme supported by the City.
Action 7 Develop landscape design guidelines for the Central Business District.
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Action 8 Formulate and implement guidelines for manufactured prefabricated homes.
Housing
Action 9 Conduct a housing study to determine the need and stock of housing
within the City of Donnelly.
Action 10 Identify priority areas for affordable housing that are co-located or within
walking distance to city services.
Action 11 Participate in regional discussions regarding affordable housing needs.
Transportation
Action 12 Acquire additional land to accommodate more parking facilities and
recreation areas and to facilitate pedestrian traffic.
Action 13 As part of a Capital Improvement Program, prioritize side-street upgrades
such as paving and signage to encourage business and housing
developments.
Action 14 Work with the appropriate agencies and landowners to purchase
development easements and acquire land to develop and expand the
secondary circulation system.
Action 15 Seek funding and implement the Donnelly Pathways Plan.
Action 16 Formulate and implement a sidewalk system and provide handicapped
ramps throughout the city through a Capital Improvement Program.
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Action 17 Implement the Master Transportation Plan, including the rejection of by-pass
alternatives and enhancements to Main Street/State Highway 55.
Natural Environment
Action 18 Maintain and upgrade existing stormwater infrastructure to maximize
effectiveness.
Action 19 Identify side-streets for resurfacing from gravel to pavement with a Capital
Improvement Program.
Action 20 Maintain and update the Tall Building Ordinance and develop guidelines to
protect scenic viewsheds.
Action 21 Amend the design guidelines to provide more detailed descriptions of
architectural features that break-up building surfaces and allow for scenic
viewsheds.
Action 22 Work with state and county transportation departments to include
pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure in roadway improvement projects.
Recreation
Action 23 Provide information throughout the Central Business District, Gateway and
key recreational locations that includes visitor parking, area map, restrooms,
and a telephone.
Economic Development
Action 24 Attract larger commodity stores. This will encourage convenient shopping in
the central area of the City of Donnelly.
Action 25 Amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow cottage industries as integral parts of
residential neighborhoods.
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Action 26 Work with the Chamber of Commerce to develop a business development
strategy for the city.
Action 27 Develop incentives for projects that encourage new business location within
the Central Business District.
Public Services and Utilities
Action 28 Develop a Future Acquisitions Map for inclusion in the Comprehensive Plan
that identifies existing and future utility facilities and corridors.
Action 29 Adopt and implement guidelines and standards for energy conservation
practices.
Action 30 Partner with Idaho Power Company to develop and promote sustainability
programs for new construction and development as well as for existing
businesses and homes.
Action 31 Develop a storm water treatment facility for the north and south sides of the
city before running into creeks or reservoirs.
Action 32 Develop and implement a stormwater master plan.
Special Areas
Action 33 Support an organized historical and/or arts commission to develop and
promote cultural assets.
Action 34 Create a program that encourages and recognizes property owners for
maintaining and improving historical buildings, sites and properties.
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Action 35 Include the purchase of historical sites as a component of the
Capital Improvement Program.
Hazards
Action 36 Identify and assess for safety at least one public building as a refugee
center in the event of displacement of city residents due to a severe
weather event.
Action 37 Update building codes for new and rebuilt public buildings consistent
with International Building Standards for earthquake design.
Action 38 Assess seismic hazards for public buildings within the city.
Action 39 Where feasible, retrofit public buildings to be compliant with
International Building Standards to prevent damage from earthquakes.
Action 40 Continue to participate in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program
and maintain accurate flood plain mapping for the city.
Action 41 Inspect schools and other public buildings for snow-load resistance
and retrofit if necessary.
Action 42 Identify and pursue funding to implement the City of Donnelly and
Valley County hazard mitigation activities as described in the Valley
County Multi- Jurisdictional All Hazards Mitigation Plan (2010).
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APPENDIX A: ACRONYMS AND DEFINITIONS
Action Step Specific implementation measures that are to be taken to achieve the desired objectives and move conditions toward future goals. Where policies guide decision making, action steps are proactive measures of implementation.
Affordable Housing Housing where the occupant is paying no more than 30 percent of gross income for gross housing costs, including utility costs. In the case of ownership housing, the purchase costs of a housing unit are equal to or less than three times a household’s annual gross income.
Agricultural (AG) A future land use classification that designates areas in which the city would like to continue agricultural operations and preserve the rural character of the region. Residential development is allowed in the agricultural classification, but only at a density of 1 unit per 20 acres and contiguous undeveloped parcels are encouraged. Agricultural and residential are the only future land use classification in Tier II.
Air Quality The measure of the condition of air and its ability to meet human and ecosystem needs.
Alternative Forms of Transportation Forms of transportation other than the automobile, which may include pedestrian, bicycle and forms of public transit such as bus and train.
American’s with Disability Act The Americans with Disabilities Act gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, state and local government services and telecommunications.
Annexation The process undertaken by a city to incorporate additional properties into the existing boundaries of the city.
Area of City Impact The Area of City Impact describes the area where a city anticipates expanding, or at a minimum, providing public services to. Established by the Idaho Local Planning Act, cities and counties are required to draft, negotiate and adopt a map illustrating the extent of the Area of City Impact.
Arterial Roadway A class of roadway serving major movements of traffic not served by freeways. Arterial roadways are functionally classed depending on the degree to which they serve through traffic movements verses access to land.
Capital Improvement Program Funding program used to prioritize and acquire funding for public infrastructure improvements, such as sidewalks and streetscape improvements.
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Central Business District (CBD) The core business district located along Main Street/State Highway 55 through Donnelly. The Central Business district is intended to be the historical center, retail center, and public gathering place for the City of Donnelly. A pedestrian friendly environment encourages both visitors and residents to walk from building to building in a more interactive community setting.
City Limits The geographic boundaries to which the City of Donnelly is responsible for providing services and to which the city has planning authority.
Civic Improvements Public infrastructure that improve the over-all appearance and character of the city, which may include signage, public art or public spaces.
Clustering Clustering is a planning process by which intended development is concentrated in an area much smaller than the over-all project area. The intent of clustering or clustered development is to allow development while preserving the maximum amount of open space.
Community Design Architectural and landscape elements that capture the desired character of a city. Community design may include building design, landscaping, signage and public art.
Community Gateway Area designated as the entrance to the city. Community gateways provide historical and cultural context to the city and provide travelers with information and direction for the city and region.
Commercial/Industrial (C/I) A future land use classification that designates areas in which the city would like to concentrate service- oriented commercial (i.e. non retail) while accommodating light industrial uses such as distribution centers, low-impact assembly, and light processing. Industrial uses allowed in this classification are intended to have minimal if any nuisance characteristics, such as noise or odor emissions.
Conservation Easement A legal agreement between a private landowner and a municipal agency or non-profit to restrict development, specify management or use of the land.
Cottage Industry An industry where creation of products and services is home-based, rather than factory based. Products and services created by cottage industry are often unique and distinctive given that they are not mass produced.
Density The ratio between the number of residential dwelling units and total project area, expressed in acres.
Density Tiers A system of planning that promotes smart growth by guiding the density of development from most dense at its center and working outwards to less density. The intent is to locate the highest concentration of development close to services and infrastructure and preserve rural character, open space and agricultural lands in areas further from the city center.
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In the Donnelly Comprehensive Plan, Tier I describes future land-uses that the city desires to see close to the city center. Tier II describes the area outside of tier I where the city desires to see agricultural uses continued with the allowance of very low density residential development.
Design Guidelines Guidelines used to direct project applicants as to the desired look or character of the built environment.
Easement The right to use the real property of another without possessing it, such as roadway or right-of-way easements.
Ecosystem A biological environment consisting of all the organisms living in a particular area, as well as all the nonliving, physical components of the environment with which the organisms interact. Ecosystems recognized the interacting functions of both living and non-living components.
Emissions Exhaust resulting from the combustion of gas, generally from automotive vehicles, agricultural equipment or manufacturing plants. Emissions are often discussed in the context of air quality due to their contribution to additional particulates entering the air and reducing air quality or visibility.
Energy Efficiency Building elements or materials that reduce the over-all energy required by a facility or building. Examples include windows, insulation and water heaters.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Agency of the United States Department of Homeland Security responsible for coordinating the response to a disaster that has occurred in the United States. FEMA is the agency responsible for administering the National Flood Insurance Program.
Floodplain All land adjacent to a watercourse over which water flows in times of a flood. The flood plain is subject to a 1% chance of flooding in any given year as designated in an “area of special flood hazard” by the Federal Insurance Administration.
100 Year Floodplain Land within a community subject to a one (1) percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. Property location in relation to the 100 Year Floodplain is the major criteria for the National Flood Insurance Program.
Future Land Use Classification A system of land-use designations used to describe the desired future land use pattern of a city. Future land use classifications may not correspond directly to current zoning designations.
General Commercial (GC) A future land use classification that designates areas in which the city would like to concentrate community oriented services, such as doctors offices, retail, general office space, mixed with limited residential and public uses, such as parks and bike paths.
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Goal An ideal future end or condition related to the public health, safety, or general welfare toward which planning and implementation measures are directed.
Greenbelt Public pathway that connects private residents to public facilities and commercial centers. Greenbelts serve both pedestrian and bicycle travel.
Housing Inventory The number and type of residential dwelling units available in the city, including vacancy and occupation rates.
In-fill Development Development projects that focus on vacant or under-utilized properties within existing areas of the City, primarily the Central Business District. In-fill development is intended to create continuous development patterns within the existing area and maximize density, while maintaining the scale and character of the surrounding development.
International Building Code Building Code standards developed by the International Code Council, primarily used to prevent against harmful occurrences such as fire and earthquakes.
Land use The specific purpose for which land is designated, arranged, occupied or maintained.
Leap frog development Development that creates a patchy, low-density pattern with developed parcels separated by vacant lands, open space or agricultural lands. Leap frog development is noted for its negative environmental and social impacts associated with disconnected uses.
Light Industrial (LI) A future land use classification that designates areas in which the city would like to concentrate businesses that are considered industrial, but demonstrate minimal nuisance characteristics, such as noise, odor emissions or pollution.
Local Road A class of roadway with the primary function of providing access to abutting properties. Traffic control is usually limited with slow speeds and numerous driveways. This roadway class typically carries low traffic loads and is usually 1 to 2 lanes. They can be paved or gravel and don’t often extend over much distance.
Low Density Residential (R8) A future land use classification that designates areas in which the city would like residential densities of 8 dwelling units per acre in both single and multi-unit buildings. Low Density Residential areas should include pedestrian oriented facilities such as sidewalks and bike paths connecting to city services. Cottage or home-based businesses are allowed in neighborhood residential areas, as well as commercial that serves neighborhood residents.
Manufactured Housing A manufactured building or major portion of a building designed for long-term residential use. It is designed and constructed for transportation to a site for installation and occupancy when connected to required utilities.
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Medium Density Residential (R4) A future land use classification that designates areas in which residential development would be allowed at a
density of 4 dwelling units per acre. Medium Density residential development encourages ranchette-style
development, which is single family homes with parcels one-quarter acre or larger. Suburban residential is intended in Tier I only and allows for small-scale farming.
Multi-Residential Residential development projects that propose more than one dwelling unit per building (as opposed to single family housing). Multi-residential projects typically include a mixture of building types including apartment or condo buildings, townhomes, duplex and or tri-plex.
Multi-Use Development Development projects that include multiple types of allowed land uses, such as residential and commercial. Multi-use development is also sometimes referred to as mixed-use development. Various types of uses may be integrated either vertically, such as residential above commercial, or horizontally.
Objective A specific end, condition or state that is an intermediate step toward attaining a goal.
Open Space (OS) A future land use classification that designates areas in which structural development is limited. Intended uses of open space include parks, floodplain and sensitive environmental areas, recreation and limited agricultural operations. Small-scale commercial uses that support recreational activities such as gear rental or docking facilities may be appropriate in open space areas. Open space also includes properties containing public education facilities.
Ordinance A municipal statute or legislative action adopted by city government that has the force of law.
Pedestrian and Bicycle Orientation Areas of the city that encourage travel by walking or bicycle by providing safe travel features such as sidewalks, bike lanes and signage.
Pioneer Victorian The unique architectural style of the City of Donnelly. Pioneer Victorian is a combination of more traditional and recognized architectural styles such as Victorian, folk vernacular and Spanish colonial.
Planning and Zoning Commission A group of citizens appointed by the City Council to review, analyze and make recommendations on development policies and ordinances and land use applications.
Policy A specific statement that guides decision making by indicating a clear commitment of the local governing body, residents or applicant toward achieving the goals and objectives of the plan.
Public Facilities Infrastructure that provides service to the public including streets, water systems, storm and wastewater systems, parks and other recreational facilities.
Public Services Services provided to the public by government and non-profit entities such as law enforcement, fire protection and emergency response.
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Public Spaces Areas such as pathways, parks, plazas or gardens that are provided for individual or groups to enjoy or meet. Public spaces may be private or public.
Recreational Development Development that is oriented towards recreational pursuits including golf courses, ski resorts and marinas.
Redevelopment Projects that propose replacement or significant modification of existing buildings and facilities. Redevelopment projects generally refer to commercial projects, but may include a mix of uses.
Renewable Energy Energy that is created or harnessed from renewable resources such as solar, wind or water.
Run-off Water coming off of impervious or semi-impervious surfaces and either entering water bodies or infiltrating into the aquifer. Run-off is generally associated with stormwater coming off of impervious surfaces and irrigation waters coming off of production fields.
Rural Residential (R-R) A land use area for stable, single-family residential development, at a density not to exceed one (1) dwelling per ten (10) acres, with a limited number of other uses compatible with a rural residential neighborhood and nearby agricultural areas.
Scenic Quality The measure of the condition of the view of the surrounding natural environment.
Seasonal or Second Homeowner Residents that do not occupy a residential dwelling unit year round or full-time. Generally second homeownership is for recreational or retirement purposes.
Sedimentation The deposition of soil particles in water bodies due to natural and human induced processes, such as stream bank erosion and barren soil.
Setback Separation of building walls from streets or adjacent buildings and property lines. Setbacks are generally used in zoning ordinances to create open and public spaces between buildings and roadways.
Shoestring Development Development patterns that are stretched out along a roadway or path that is not conducive to pedestrian travel. Shoestring development exhibits low density levels and significant vacant or empty spaces between developed parcels.
Smart Growth and Smart Growth Principles A term coined to describe planning and development patterns that focus on maximizing social and environmental benefits, while minimizing negative impacts. The Smart Growth Network has summarized Smart Growth into ten principles:
Mix land uses Implement compact building design Create a range of housing opportunities and choices Create walkable neighborhoods Foster distinctive, attractive communities with a strong sense of place
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Preserve open space, farmland, natural beauty and critical environmental areas Strengthen and direct development towards existing communities Make development decisions predictable, fair and cost effective Provide a variety of transportation choices
Encourage community and stakeholder collaboration in development decisions
Stormwater Surface water that results from precipitation events or the application of waters, such as irrigation that is not immediately infiltrated into the aquifer.
Streetscape Improvements Public infrastructure oriented around pedestrian travel including signage, landscaping and lighting.
Subdivision The act of or result of dividing a parcel of land into multiple, smaller lots of land. Subdivision is usually used in the context of residential development projects.
Viewshed Also referred to as a corridor, a viewshed is the visible area of natural environment from any given point within a city or along a roadway.
Water Quality The measure of the condition of water and its ability to meet human and ecosystem needs.
Wetlands Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface water or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions.
Zoning The demarcation of an area by ordinance (text and map) into zones and the establishment of regulations to govern the uses within those zones and the extent of use within those zones (density).
Zoning District A legislatively defined and enacted policy, including standards, a detailed map and other criteria, all of which control and define areas of physical development of the city or any part thereof or any detail thereof and which are classified by the zoning ordinance as available for certain uses and unavailable for certain other uses.
