Of all subject areas discussed during the preparation of the Strategic Growth Plan public sentiment and interest in favor of enhanced environmental quality was the strongest and most consistent across the board. This heightened awareness of environmental quality may be a reflection of the community's recent concern over the potential placement of a hazardous waste facility in Rowan County. In any event, environmental quality issues receiving the strongest support included the need for a trash recycling program, keeping development out of flood prone areas, and keeping hazardous waste out of the community. Other issues also receiving strong support included improving sewage treatment capabilities, establishing a new landfill, stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, recruiting only clean industries, and better controlling storm water runoff.
One important conclusion that may be deduced from the public's concern for environmental quality may be that any major economic development projects, while generally welcome, should be subjected to careful scrutiny to determine their potential environmental impacts. While it is normal to expect that certain trade offs will be made between economic benefits and environmental quality, the public expressed its viewpoint that if there is any doubt, environmental considerations should normally take precedence over potential economic gains.
| POLICY 12.1 | Continued improvements to public sewage collection and treatment facilities shall be supported, with priority to servicing existing or planned densely developed areas where environmental and economic benefits can be realized. |
| POLICY 12.2 | Development activities in the 100 year floodplain shall be carefully controlled. If development must occur, low intensive uses such as open space, recreation, and agricultural activities shall be preferred. |
| POLICY 12.3 | Runoff and drainage from development and agricultural activities shall be of a quality and quantity as near to natural conditions as possible. |
| POLICY 12.4 | Industries producing excessive noise, odor, air and water pollution, or other harmful impacts, shall be discouraged, unless such adverse impacts can be clearly overcome through effective mitigation. |
| POLICY 12.5 | Local area requirements for solid waste disposal facilities shall be anticipated through advanced planning; facilities shall be located and designed to not adversely impact significant natural or man-made resources. The city recognizes the need for a regional solution to the solid waste issue, and will support efforts toward that end. |
| POLICY 12.6 | Research and development for recycling and resource recovery programs, whether public or private, shall be encouraged and supported. |
| POLICY 12.7 | The location of hazardous waste storage and disposal facilities within the planning area shall not be supported. |
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