The purpose of this article is to provide for a future land use map; background concepts of the future district map; identification, alteration, and replacement of the future district map; and criteria to be considered in amending the future district map.

(Res. of 4-7-2023(1))

The future land use map represents a synthesis of data concerning population, land use patterns, transportation, natural resource protections and economic activity. These data and a set of goals and policies provide suitable space for anticipated future development while the public health, safety, and welfare is protected. The map contains an arrangement of land uses, which permits minimum adverse impact on neighboring land uses and on safety conditions, while maximum efficiency in providing community and utility services is achieved. The future land use map represents a projection of how land use patterns in Dawson County should look in the medium-to-long-range future. The development standards and other requirements contained in this resolution are intended to encourage the development of the land use patterns depicted on the future land use map.

(Res. of 4-7-2023(1))

The State of Georgia requires that all local governments maintain a comprehensive plan and future land use map to systemize the community's future and to enable access to a variety of state funding tools. This approach requires planning for elements such as land use, capital improvements, economic development, transportation, and natural resource protection.

The future land use map may be amended only if the proposed amendment is in conformance with sound comprehensive planning principles.

The procedure by which amendments are proposed and approved is contained in article XII. Any amendment to the future land use map must be entered on that map as soon as possible after the amendment has been approved by the board of commissioners.

The future land use map is maintained by the Dawson County Department of GIS.

(Res. of 4-7-2023(1))

The following criteria should be considered when deciding proposed amendments to the future land use map. In determining whether or not a proposed amendment satisfactorily addresses the criteria stated below, sound planning principles should be used.

(1)

The proposed amendment should be supported by facts and evidence provided by the applicant.

(2)

The proposed amendment should meet demonstrated changes in community needs.

(3)

The proposed amendment should be consistent with indications of current available population, economic, and land use data upon which information depicted on the future land use map is based.

(Res. of 4-7-2023(1))

The future land use map shall be cited as section 121-244 and shall be a part of this chapter.

(Res. of 4-7-2023(1))