What natural areas will the map protect?
Angell says the growth map does not identify critical areas and habitat corridors before directing more development. The question is what must be mapped and protected before growth occurs.
“We need to include critical areas, habitat corridors, and open spaces in the land use mapping process.”
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Good afternoon. I'm here representing myself, Kirsten Angell, as well as Spokane Urban Nature. Our concern is that there's been a lot of public input favoring natural systems protections, and we're not sure this is being adequately represented in the comp plan revision process. Natural lands and overall natural infrastructure, such as critical areas and open space, need to be identified in the preferred alternatives land use map so that future development will not erase them. We support the idea of infill housing where appropriate, but not at the expense of our remaining natural systems that can enable our community, including the other than human residents, to adapt to the climate disruption we're already experiencing and according to best available science, will continue to intensify. Spokane's natural infrastructure makes us more resilient as the climate continues to change. We have record low snowpack levels this year, which will likely bring more intense drought and fire. Some of you may think that our urban areas are too disturbed to worry about it, but if you take into account the natural environment chapter of the comp plan and you listen to the feedback that came out of the Plan Spokane public outreach and Spokane Parks master planning process, this community cares deeply about these sometimes small but important natural assets. Our community wants to have a greater voice in the revision of our city's land use map and development and zoning codes. The process should include business and development interests and representatives from the neighborhoods who will shoulder the impacts and consequences of infill development. For example, from the community assemblies, land use subcommittee, or from Spokane Urban Nature. We need to include critical areas, habitat corridors, and open spaces in the land use mapping process. The community expects the revised zoning and development code to clearly and forcefully protect, restore, and enhance this critical resource in harmony with accommodating new growth and facilitating adequate housing for all. We will be watching closely to make sure that our community's love of nature is being reflected as this process moves forward. Thank you.