Workshop Breakout Group Summary of Outcomes & Proposed Next Steps

Transcription

1 P i n a l P a r t n e r s h i p Economic Benefits of Open Space Workshop Workshop Breakout Group Summary of Outcomes & Proposed Next Steps January 30th, 2014 Central Arizona College Superstition Mt Campus, Apache Junction 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM Workshop Goal: To bring together a diverse and action-orientated group of public and private stakeholders willing to collaboratively explore economic benefits of open space through presentations and probing discussions about the ways in which economic development and open space preservation can support jobs and workforce quality of life for Pinal County residents. Workshop Structure and Objectives: Morning Sessions - Enhance participant understanding of the economic and quality of life values of open space, as well as the core elements of economic and community development. Afternoon Breakout Sessions (facilitated discussions by Pinal County Supervisor District) - Generate ideas for partnership opportunities and ways to move forward in 2014 and beyond. o Session 1 Gain an understanding of the current situation regarding open space and economic development in the district. o Session 2 Identify gaps and needs related to bridging the values of important open spaces and economic development in Pinal County. District Reports Share breakout session highlights.

2 Summary of Outcomes and Proposed Next Steps: On Thursday, January 30, 2014 at the Superstition Mountain Campus of Central Arizona College in Apache Junction, 104 people, representing 65 different organizations, businesses and agencies, attended the Pinal Partnership Economic Benefits of Open Space Workshop organized by the Partnership s Open Space and Trails Committee. The following 2 pages of outcomes were summarized from the information provided by participants of the afternoon breakout session discussions (full District reports also provided below). County-wide Common Threads and Next Step Ideas for the Open Space and Trails Committee 1. Coordinate events/programs to engage more citizen, including youth, involvement in outdoor recreation, and open space planning/advocacy (regional efforts & countywide events) 2. Work with the County to improve policies and generate funding for the protection of natural drainage corridors (OSTC Natural Drainages Subcommittee is actively working on this effort) 3. Work with the County to improve policies and generate funding for the identification of key economic development and open space opportunities (new ED-OS subcommittee?) a. Research open space bond option (in process for 2014) b. Research the necessity and feasibility of more fully-formed economic development and natural resource conservation plans to communicate regional vision to local development c. Research opportunities to incentivize the prioritization, creation and connectivity of green infrastructure within and between development 4. Continue discussions with the economic development community Pinal Partnership Economic Development Committee, Pinal County and regional groups (new ED-OS subcommittee, regional?): a. Identify opportunities to brand/market open space and natural resource amenities b. Identify areas where open space can be used to draw in diverse industries and high quality jobs c. Invent creative sources of funding to pay for the planning and development of new or exploitation of existing open space and outdoor recreation opportunities i. Private and public programs/incentives for within-development open space and regional open space connectivity ii. Instead of or in addition to strict open space requirements within developments allow/create opportunities for developers and home buyers to contribute to the larger, regional open space plan 5. Facilitate/encourage ongoing conversations with State Trust Land Department regarding: a. Identification of areas where conservation/recreation in Pinal County could be the highest and best use for state lands b. Identification of prime conservation target areas that could actually increase the value of neighboring state trust lands c. Development of partnerships to purchase specific parcels for conservation and recreation purposes (could also be related to #4 above - new subcommittee?) 6. Continue researching the economic benefits of open space and promoting them to a diverse audience (new subcommittee and/or local efforts to find and develop statistics?) 7. Continue to encourage Board of Supervisor Support for Open Space 8. Continue to promote the Open Space and Trails Master Plan 9. Assist the County and local jurisdictions with stewardship and planning as opportunities arise Page 2 of 3

3 Regional Common Threads and Next Step Ideas for the Open Space and Trails Committee Regional Groups (Supervisor Districts) Northern Regional Group (Districts 2 & 5) 1. Explore ways to draw parks, future OSTMP trails, and natural drainages (Gila River, floodplains, Queen Creek) into the focus of citizens, local businesses and residential developers as community assets a. Branding and other marketing opportunities b. Research tourism needs and opportunities, including the potential economic benefits associated with high paying, diverse industries capitalizing on the scenic and recreation benefits of the area c. Use the proximity to the foothills of the San Tan and Superstition Mountains to sell northern Pinal County as a destination for resorts and other big businesses 2. Grow the network of stewardship and outdoor recreation groups and continue hosting clean-ups and other stewardship events 3. Expand outreach to target younger generations 4. Continue exploring ways to help coordinate local and county open space and economic development efforts Western Regional Group (Districts 3 & 4) 1. Promote outreach, research and support for working open space and other business opportunities as they relate to open space a. Work with the County and others on policy/incentive options related to support for working lands and preservation of green infrastructure b. Work with the economic development community and County on ways to attract and support industries that rely on local resources and recycling c. Work with UA, USDA and others to coordinate outreach opportunities d. Help develop trail/ecotourism links with eastern Pinal County 2. Explore ways to help coordinate local and county open space and economic development efforts 3. Continue hosting stewardship and outreach events 4. Continue working with the BLM on current and future open space management needs, including accessibility and the designation of diverse recreation areas Eastern Regional Group (District 1) 1. Work with other local groups to develop networking, marketing and branding strategies for the Lower San Pedro River Watershed and Copper Corridor a. Meet quarterly to coordinate promotions for partner events, develop new events and identify other opportunities for partner collaboration along the Copper Corridor b. Promote AZ Trail Gateway Communities and the Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition c. Identify tourist and community member current needs and near-future opportunities for the region d. Develop plans to take advantage of the existing railroads along the Copper Corridor for tourism e. Media outreach 2. Identify potential locations for connector trails between the AZ National Trail and Gateway Communities 3. Be aware of public access opportunities and concerns in the region involve all stakeholders in planning and stewardship efforts 4. Raise funds for the development (planning, advocacy?) of a bridge over Gila River to Kearny 5. Assist the OSTC with development and coordination of county-wide networking, outreach and strategic planning opportunities related to open space and economic development Page 3 of 3

4 Pinal Partnership Economic Benefits of Open Space Workshop Workshop Breakout Group Full 1-Page Summaries & Recorded Responses by Supervisor District January 30 th, 2014 Introduction On Thursday, January 30, 2014 at the Superstition Mountain Campus of Central Arizona College in Apache Junction, 104 people attended the Pinal Partnership Economic Benefits of Open Space Workshop organized by the Partnership s Open Space and Trails Committee. The following pages contain full summaries and participant responses from facilitated discussions for each Supervisor District in Pinal County. Pinal County Supervisor District Map Table of Contents Subject Page #s District 1 Pete Rios. 1 3 District 2 Cheryl Chase. 4 6 District 3 Steve Miller 7 9 District 4 Anthony Smith District 5 Todd House Facilitator Questions.. 17

5 January 30, 2014 Pinal Open Space Workshop Breakout Session Notes DISTRICT 1 Pete Rios SUMMARY - Common Threads and Ideas for Next Steps in District 1 1. Encourage Board of Supervisor Support for Open Space a. Host public events - use the Open Space and Trails Master Plan to promote and educate b. Plan for legacy projects (need facilitator and/or participant explanation) c. More budget appropriations - support a bond d. Media outreach - keep open space issues in the public eye 2. Promote regional collaboration, tourism and community development a. Meet quarterly to coordinate promotions for partner events, develop new events and identify other opportunities for partner collaboration along the Copper Corridor (spread idea to existing coalitions?) b. Identify tourist and community member current needs and near-future opportunities for the region c. Promote AZ Trail Gateway Communities and the Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition d. Develop networking, marketing and branding strategies for the Lower San Pedro River Watershed and Copper Corridor e. Develop plans to take advantage of the existing railroads along the Copper Corridor for tourism 3. Maintain, protect, expand and connect existing open spaces and trails a. Work with developers to incentivize the prioritization, creation and connectivity of green infrastructure b. Expand the details of the Open Space and Trails Master Plan c. Promote/develop adequate zoning for the protection of open space and identification of appropriate places for development d. Continue researching the economic benefits of open space and promoting them to a diverse audience e. Identify potential locations for connector trails between the AZ National Trail and Gateway Communities f. State Trust land reform and enforcement encourage new and continued conversations regarding opportunities for conservation to be the highest and best use of state trust land in Pinal County g. Promote access to open spaces h. Raise funds for the development (planning, advocacy?) of a bridge over Gila River to Kearny Page 1 of 17

6 RAW Data from the District 1 Breakout Sessions Session 1 Session 1 discussions were aimed at understanding the current situation regarding open space and economic development in the district. Existing Open Space Gila River watershed access Tortolita Mountains San Pedro River Arizona National Scenic Trail Aravaipa Creek Oracle State Park Boyce Thompson Arboretum Legends of Superior Trail 96 Ranch BLM wilderness Ripsey Wash Florence/Kelvin Highway State Trust Land Casa Grande National Monument Picacho Peak State Park Picacho Reservoir Central Arizona Project canal Open Space Opportunities Florence military Existing Economic Development Active and proposed mining Proposed development Sun Zia San Carlos Casino Arizona Trail Gateway Communities Capstone Mining Central Arizona Project Economic Development Opportunities Agriculture Tourism Mining Florence military Union pacific Copper Basin Railway MARR Company Arizona Trail Gateway Communities Airports Community Park partnerships Watchable wildlife Private prisons Page 2 of 17

7 RAW Data from the District 1 Breakout Sessions Session 2 The second breakout session was aimed at understanding the gaps and needs related to bridging the values of important open spaces and economic development in Pinal County. Green Infrastructure - Unity of protecting existing green infrastructure - Expansion of open spaces - Zoning that protects open spaces - Prioritize green infrastructure during development - Triple bottom line and land use planning - Sell benefits of open space to developers - Access to open space - Development where appropriate - Integrating trails, open space connections - Gateway community connector trails - Bridge over Gila River to Kearny funding Conservation - Resource management plans - Education partnerships - Volunteerism - Stewardship/ Friends groups - State Land reform and enforcement Land Use Planning - Open Space and Trails Master Plan use as foundation and expand details - Zoning - Future development - Understanding land use and areas - Coalition - State Land Reform - Leveraging infrastructure - Travel and wildlife corridors Recreation - Repair existing parks and facilities - Oracle State Park open - Community fishing program - Hunting opportunities - Transportation - Support day use services - Promotes overnight stays - Multi-use areas - Do existing retailers have items tourists need Tourism - Networking - Marketing - Signage - Restaurants open past 8 p.m. - Design standards - Friendly and welcoming communities - Customer service training - Branding - Promotion within and outside communities - Identify and use circles of influence - Promote outside the region Regionalism - Spread the word about the Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition throughout the corridor - Encourage collaboration across the District - Hold quarterly meetings for cross-promotion Partnership/Communication - Department of Open Space and Trails website - Central clearing house of information - Advocacy group - Superstition Vistas - Cross-section of stakeholders - Partner with educational institutions - Salt River Project and Arizona Public Services - Media - San Carlos Irrigation and Power - Army Corps of Engineers - BLM - San Carlos Apache Tribe - AZ Department of Tourism - National Fish and Wildlife Service - Federal agencies - Employers (BHP, ASARCO, Groupo) - Farmers and ranchers Jobs/Retention - Address insufficient community amenities - More education opportunities - Base industry that attracts work force - Utilizing Work Force Investment Act funds - Diverse job opportunities Encourage Board of Supervisor Support for Open Space - Host public events - Plan for legacy projects - More budget appropriations - Use the OSTMP to promote/educate - Support a bond issue - Outreach to media to keep open space issues in the public eye Page 3 of 17

8 January 30, 2014 Pinal Open Space Workshop Breakout Session Notes DISTRICT 2 Cheryl Chase SUMMARY Common Threads and Ideas for Next Steps in District 2 1. Land Use Planning, Policies & Incentives Develop a more fully-formed strategic plan for economic development that enhances diversity as growth happens a. Identify key features that bring people to the area other than low house prices b. More and diverse higher education and training institutions c. More tourist destination services (e.g., places to stay & eat) & marketing of amenities d. Use nearby Gateway airport, ASU, etc to bring people and opportunities to the area e. Create and highlight unique destinations and recreation opportunities San Tan Flats, Horseshoe Park, CAP trail and other trails f. Infrastructure planning Identify future, connected open space opportunities and a detailed trail plan a. Identify key drainages and floodplains that are important for the public safety, preventing/reducing costs of flood control, water supply and sustainability of Queen Creek and the Gila River b. Develop key drainages and floodways as a connected system of natural corridors with various types of public benefit that connect natural, residential and business attractions the region c. Major trails with paved and/or dirt walking/running/biking paths that connect natural, residential and business attractions d. Private residential trails along washes and in floodplains e. Develop and/or encourage innovative ways to protect the natural flow of Queen Creek Encourage creative, non-restrictive ways to dedicate open space areas in new developments a. Invent new open space and park opportunities - maybe instead of developers creating an open space area in each development, those requirements (or funds for them) could be pooled to purchase larger areas that make sense for regional open space protection and recreation opportunities Explore ways to overcome concerns about land grabs and decisions made to maximize sales tax at the expense of regional well being 2. Partnerships & Collaborations Continue to explore ways to draw the parks, future OSTMP trails, and natural drainages (Gila River, floodplains, Queen Creek) into the focus of citizens, local businesses and residential developers as community assets. Initiate/encourage conversations with the State Land Department regarding: a. The potential for parks or other conservation designations being the highest and best use for specific areas in northern Pinal County. b. Explore ways to increase property value of State Trust Lands by selling the San Tan Valley/Superstition Vistas area as Pinal County s best opportunity to stand out against Phoenix as a distinct destination to live, play and work i. Use the proximity to the foothills of the San Tan and Superstition Mts to sell northern Pinal County as a destination for resorts and other big businesses ii. Identify ways to encourage appropriate locations for cheap housing vs higher value/low density development and businesses Page 4 of 17

9 RAW Data from the District 2 Breakout Sessions Session1 Session 1 discussions were aimed at understanding the current situation regarding open space and economic development in the district. Existing Open Space San Tan Regional Park Gila River drainage (flood plains) Landscape monument and wildlife Central Arizona Project Regional trails Gila River Queen Creek Magna dam (flood control) Outdoor recreation opportunity Existing Economic Development Population centers Infrastructure (Hunt Hwy, Ironwood, railroads (2)) Private land Zoning and Comprehensive Plans Desire for economic development Baner Ironwood Florence Hospital Central Arizona College Desire for cultural and unique characteristics Existing developments Military installation State Trust Land North/South Corridor (State Route 24) Copper Archaeological sites (Casa Grande Ruins National Monument current and proposed expansion) Gateway Airport Kinder Morgan pipeline Salt River Project and Arizona Public Service lines Various flood control structures San Tan flats Open Space Opportunities Magma dam/flood control structure Increase connectivity to park Seek business opportunity related to park Creating more open spaces Dedicated open space areas in new developments Central Arizona Project trail connectivity Conservation of State Trust Land Economic Development Opportunities Partnerships between Chamber of Commerce and parks Product/service development around park Get park in Pinal ownership and remarket as an emblem of lifestyles Horseshoe park Future San Tan flats (unique destination) Incoming development/growth (including opportunities for trails and outdoor recreation) Include diversity as growth happens (diversify target, maximize existing assets, leverage what we have) Gateway airport and ASU (use as assets to bring more into the area) Ready and able workforce that wants to work locally More post-high school educational institutions Central Arizona College nursing, medical, dental programs Hospital and prison relationships Infrastructure for future needs Page 5 of 17

10 RAW Data from the District 2 Breakout Sessions Session2 The second breakout session was aimed at understanding the gaps and needs related to bridging the values of important open spaces and economic development in Pinal County. Green Infrastructure - No response Conservation - Identify future open space opportunities - Leverage park more Land Use Planning - Better vision of what regional residents want in the future (i.e., gap between current land use and residential areas) - Leverage park more - Find other things that add to the mix Recreation - Translate into more detailed on the ground plan for trails, connectivity and infrastructure - Connectivity for open spaces Tourism - Lack of destination services (places to stay, eat, etc.) - Lack of marketing for things offered Regionalism - Diversify for what we don t have now - Encourage cross-governance and crossjurisdictional partnerships and collaboration - Explore ways to overcome concerns about land grabs and decisions made to maximize sales tax at the expense of regional well being - Lack of fully formed strategic plan - Working effectively together will bring more in - Connectivity to regional park is needed - Transportation planning for the area/region needed - Sewer infrastructure is needed - Other than house prices, what brings people to this area - Improve job opportunities - Lack of scale - Create a lifestyle including cultural amenities to accent park Partnership/Communication - More detailed definition of mature economic conditions and opportunities for future Encourage Board of Supervisor Support for Open Space - No response Jobs/Retention - Lack of job opportunities Page 6 of 17

11 January 30, 2014 Pinal Open Space Workshop Breakout Session Notes DISTRICT 3 Steve Miller SUMMARY Common Threads and Ideas for Next Steps in District 3 1. Land Use Planning Better coordination between county and cities More coordination and discussions between County and State Land Department Proactive, regional, multi-disciplined planning for conservation/green infrastructure and economic development Develop incentives to attract & retain diverse local talent o Plot existing industrial campuses on a map and look for patterns o Create a university/diverse education/training options 2. Tourism & Recreation Develop trail/ecotourism links with eastern Pinal County Improved recreation amenities and access Quality investment in facilities and management Assess needs and develop niche and majority markets 3. Education & Community Outreach Generate buy-in, citizen advocacy and citizen involvement with planning Build a government alliance among cities and towns Build partnerships among businesses and organizations see list in raw data Page 7 of 17

12 RAW Data from the District 3 Breakout Sessions Session1 Session 1 discussions were aimed at understanding the current situation regarding open space and economic development in the district. Open Space Casa Grande Mountains and trails Santa Cruz Wash Military Preserve (800 acres) Farmland (1/3 of the district) City of Casa Grande parks (17) Medians (83) Private open spaces Home Owners Associations parks Rodeo Grounds Dave White (extensive plan in Casa Grande area that includes open spaces and trails connecting with Pinal County) Performance Institute Open Space Opportunities El Paso gas line (trail) I-11 corridor Rail trails? San Carlos irrigation trail Drainage corridors Retention (storm water) Power line corridors County/City drainage cooperation effort as development happens Re-connect habitat corridors Existing Economic Development Phoenix market Two dairy companies Wal-Mart distribution Frito Lay campus Sam s Club Casa Grande Regional Medical Center (hospital) Fertizona Cargill Small business leader (entrepreneurship) Abott Daisy Brand Graham Packaging National Vitamin Recreation Seasonal living Hospitality Old Town Eloy Sky Diving Great Wastewater capacity Central Arizona College Economic Development Opportunities Broadband I-11 corridor Passenger rail Airport expansion Bedroom community Rail/server projects (Union Pacific) I-10 Pinal Ave. Transportation logistics Available industrial park space Agriculture Private land (water rights and utility) County/city drainage for open space opportunities Page 8 of 17

13 RAW Data from the District 3 Breakout Sessions Session2 The second breakout session was aimed at understanding the gaps and needs related to bridging the values of important open spaces and economic development in Pinal County. Green Infrastructure - Up-front and pro-active regional planning - Multi-usage of land and resources - Multi=disciplined approach to planning (Engineering, Ecology, Hydrology, etc.) - Education/training component of green infrastructure Conservation - Regional scope and collaboration Land Use Planning - Pro-active awareness in planning - County Comprehensive Plan is great but more coordination needed among and with other cities plans and County plans - Political will to stick to the Plan - Buy-in, citizen advocacy, and citizen involvement - State Land Department involved in discussions (Pinal County impacted by State Trust Lands more than any other county) - State Land Reform Recreation - Improved staging, trail heads, access, parking, amenities, etc. - Quality of the venue (key to attract visitors) - Assessment of needs (niche markets, majority markets) - Investment in facilities and management yields great stewardship Tourism - District 3 needs linkages to eastern Pinal County for eco-tourism/bicycle bi-way, cycling and mountain biking, connect the proposed regional parks) - Capitalize on snowbirds - Quality access, staging, assessment needed - Niche markets - Majority markets Regionalism - Build a government alliance among cities and towns (Eloy, City of Maricopa, Coolidge, Ak-Chin Indian Community, Gila River Indian Community, Tohon O odham Nation, Casa Grande) - Access Arizona (CAREDF) - Central Arizona College - Sun Corridor MPO - Utility companies - Arizona State Land Department - Pinal County - BLM - Central Arizona Governments - Private/corporate partnerships - ADOT - Chambers of Commerce - Pinal Partnership - Education/advocacy awareness - Lower Santa Cruz River Alliance - Various departments representing Arizona Partnership/Communication - No response Jobs/Retention - Education - Training - Developing living wage jobs - Land use policies (quality practices) - Incentives to attract and retain talent - Diverse local economy - Create a university - Infrastructure, utilities, transportation - Stable political atmosphere Encourage Board of Supervisor Support for Open Space No response Page 9 of 17

14 January 30, 2014 Pinal Open Space Workshop Breakout Session Notes DISTRICT 4 Anthony Smith SUMMARY - Common Threads and Ideas for Next Steps in District 4 1. Policies District 4 has several successful working open spaces (agricultural, farming, dairies, etc.) and industries that provide agricultural research (U of A Maricopa Agricultural Center & USDA Research Center). The group recognized this existing economic development opportunity and endeavor to maintain it. Develop/promote working open space industry and research Develop policies to secure the viability of agriculture and attract and support industries that cater to working landscapes and working open space research Develop policies to attract and support industries that rely on local resources and recycling Develop policies that address drainage, wildlife corridor protection and land use management issues before the next wave of population growth 2. Land Use Planning The group understood the importance of Open Space Acquisition and preserving our green infrastructure and wildlife corridors. Holding accountable our decision makers to the voter-approved General Plan, Comprehensive Plan and Open Space & Trails Master Plan is imperative when new development is seeking approval for zoning amendments. Providing a holistic assessment of the impacts that new developments have on the aforementioned Plans presented to P&Z Commissions (County and City), as well as other decision makers (Mayor, Council, Board of Supervisors) is a critical step that needs to be defined. 3. Management of Open Space & Trails Currently, District 4 s open spaces are poorly managed (public and private). The Pinal County Open Space & Trails Department can facilitate the process of negotiating Intergovernmental Agreements between Pinal County, the City of Maricopa, land owners, regional partners and others (e.g. recreational user groups, conservation organizations, etc.). The group felt that each active and/or passive recreational use for our planned/existing parks, trails, and other open space needs to be designated and managed accordingly. Recreation accessibility for all user types/groups were discussed as currently lacking. Once established, GPS coordinates of our managed open spaces can include a plethora of comprehensive data to inform and educate users (and tourists of: 1) the Location of our Open Space & Trails, 2) Type of open space (or trail), 3) Allowable recreational activity, 4) Significant historical, archeological and/or cultural information, 5) Wildlife habitat and viewing areas, 6) Accessibility, and 7) Restrictions. Establishing signage that provides some of the aforementioned applicable information at trailheads would be useful. Utilize all available social networking for communication and education of the aforementioned. 4. Education & Community Outreach Our Economic Development Leaders need to be cultivated to understand the business opportunities in our region as they relate to open space (e.g., our working open spaces agriculture/farming -- have a considerable history in this region). Note: The City of Maricopa includes Agri-Tech as one of their Economic Development Strategies. In 2012, agriculture was a 1.1 billion dollar industry in Pinal County. The City of Maricopa is home to the U of A Maricopa Agricultural Center and the USDA Research Center. ECO and Agri-Tourism, Ag-Research and businesses that cater to outdoor recreational activities are all important in planning discussions for District 4. Identify and collaborate with regional economic developers, counties, municipalities, land owners, recreational user groups, friends groups, etc. for public education and community outreach. Page 10 of 17

15 RAW Data from the District 4 Breakout Sessions Session 1 Session 1 discussions were aimed at understanding the current situation regarding open space and economic development in the district. Existing Open Space Ironwood National Monument Vekol & Palo Verde Mountains All the washes Table Top Mountains and Wilderness Area Anza National Historic Trail Tortolita Mountain County Park (Pima County) Central Arizona Project Pinal Trail near Oracle Junction (planned) Oracle Junction area (Falcon Valley) Camp Grant Wash (end of Aravaipa Creek) Open Space Opportunities Illegal dumping addressed Desert clean ups Mining of items found at illegal dump sites (i.e. tires, glass, concrete) Active and passive recreation areas Wildcat trails addressed Flood control district improvement sites Agriculture and agriculture research Hunting Existing Economic Development Hunting Agriculture Agriculture research (UofA Ag Center) Heritage and cultural history Economic Development Opportunities Tourism (both passive and active, build on opportunities here) Develop Monuments on trailheads Develop a GPS app with cultural and recreational locations Include Wildlife habitat information (animals and plants) and viewing areas Acquisition and management of open space and trails Build partnerships for funding OS&T Encourage industries related to recreation Education institutions Manage wildcat open space Create recycle industries for trash that is most commonly illegally dumped (tires, etc) Pursue experimental agricultural/livestock research industries Encourage more agriculture and wildlife supportive industries Encourage more historical and archaeological promotion type industries Try to keep local, natural products industries and use those products in all future development (i.e. re-use concrete) Manage hunting, shooting and range locations Manage active and passive recreation Coordinate recreation opportunities with local neighborhoods and neighboring counties Page 11 of 17

16 Raw Data from the District 4 Breakout Sessions Session 2 The second breakout session was aimed at understanding the gaps and needs related to bridging the values of important open spaces and economic development in Pinal County. Green Infrastructure - Manage use of washes and drainage corridors - Manage use of mountain ranges - Manage links to Sonoran Desert National Monument Conservation - Acquire designated open space land to preserve - Develop Intergovernmental Agreements and partnerships for managing land for conservation. Land Use Planning - Develop land use management policies (for drainage corridors, etc.) - Use holistic management approach when developing land use policies - Support industries through zoning that caters to eco-tourism, agriculture, working open space areas, agri-tourism Recreation - Include accessibility for all recreational users - Develop a coordinated managed system - Develop GPS apps for recreational locations that include type of recreation allowed and cultural and historical references. Tourism - Encourage Eco-tourism industries and users - Attract industries that cater to recreational activities - Advertise hunting and other outdoor sports - Advertise active and passive outdoor recreation opportunities - Include historical, cultural, archaeological sites and signage (Native American, railroad, historical trails, etc.) on trails and advertising - Secure Intergovernmental Agreements for recreation on public lands (e.g. Pinal County and BLM in Proposed Regional Park #4) Regionalism - Acquire the land designated in the OS&T Master Plan Regionalism continued - Attract industries that cater to economic development opportunities - Develop information tools (GPS apps, signs and other guides) for use - Develop Intergovernmental Agreements with recreation and environmental groups - Approach this from the holistic management perspective looking systematically as we grow - Create recreational amenities for those with mobile or other limitations (a system that coordinates various needs) - Designate and manage areas for various recreation needs - Seek more partnerships - Cultivate economic development leaders who recognize potential (conduct a national survey of businesses) - Take advantage of social media - Provide a free cable network county-wide for OS&T activities - Develop and promote eco-tourism, agritourism, etc. - Identify barriers to outdoor activities/ enjoyment and address them - Establish policies that address drainage, wildlife corridor protection and land use management Jobs/Retention - Encourage Recycling industries - Support our Agricultural industries - Cater to agriculture and livestock research industries - Look for local resources for local product development and use in local markets Partnership/Communication - Collaborate county to county - Encourage partnerships with Recreational user groups - Incorporate partnerships with both the Public and private sectors - Collaborate with all Municipal neighbors - Partner with Economic development leaders - Utilize social media communication network Encourage Board of Supervisor Support for Open Space - Get involved and encourage more people to get involved in the land planning and County decisionmaking process. Page 12 of 17

17 January 30, 2014 Pinal Open Space Workshop Breakout Session Notes DISTRICT 5 Todd House SUMMARY - Common Threads and Ideas for Next Steps in District 5 1. Policies & Incentives Encourage diversity of economic development, not just residential Policies that become building code so they are harder to ignore (consider diverse nature of the County with codes that can be applied logically and usefully) Linkages and connectivity (trails, drainage, wildlife, open space) must be incorporated into land use plans and considered on every project. o Avoid building development block walls that prevent human, ecological and wildlife movements Continue to engage developers in discussions regarding ways to develop and promote and incentivize the economic values of open space, connectivity, sustainable development Show by example and incentivize sustainable, flexible business and development (protect drainage, cluster building and developments) Encourage architectural standards to reduce urban heat island effects, conserve dark skies and water Incentivize and set new standards for building that increase green efficiencies 2. Land Use Analysis and Planning Create/design overlay zones that capture the character of an area for certain parts of the County (understand the economic feasibility of this higher up-front costs leads to increased benefits later Scottsdale, Maricopa County Flood Control District, Pima County are examples) Plan for, encourage and expedite opportunities to preserve most important and vulnerable areas Coordinate infrastructure planning between different departments Provide designated areas for recreation (shooting, quad use, mountain biking, cycling, hiking, camping) Transportation planning to include alternative modes of travel (safe cycling along Hwy 88, for example) 3. Tourism and Recreation Develop better marketing of outdoor recreation, event promotion, volunteer interaction Superstition area as destination needs to be considered and flushed out Brand this area for basecamp to outdoor recreation: Portal to Tonto NF and the Arizona National Trail Seasonality of our outdoor recreation needs financial support for outdoor recreation businesses Destination resort needed in Apache Junction area Be aware of national conventions and conferences draw in tourists across the region Develop information about what is there to do Inventory what recreation users want and need Understand trends and use them to attract and support recreation industries Link our tourism opportunities with other destinations in the region or state Get tourism community involved in these discussions and efforts Central Arizona College training for industries we want to attract (this is a positive selling point) 4. Education and advocacy Advocate for open space and related amenities as key precipitators of economic development Get more youth involved in the planning and public process engage schools (all ages) Be mentors to help develop understanding of the planning process Provide more outdoor recreation opportunity for youth (Dons camp near Peralta, i.e.) Stay in contact with Supervisors let them know your ideas, priorities and support them in decisions Keep communicating that open space is a big issue a key issue in campaigns Advocate for open space and amenities as a reason for economic development Page 13 of 17

18 5. Partnerships and collaboration Develop communication and partnership with Arizona State Land Department Interconnect with others to maximize and enhance what we have o What are we trying to do how does this tie to what others are doing? o Create and support networks of existing community organizations RAW Data from District 5 Breakout Sessions Session 1 Session 1 discussions were aimed at understanding the current situation regarding open space and economic development in the district. Existing Open Space Multi-use trail in Apache Junction Tonto National Forest Superstition Mtns (most photographed view within AZ) and Wilderness Queen Creek, Weekes Wash and other major drainage corridors Multiple unnamed wash corridors Significant amount of State Trust Land Salt River Project easement lands Silly Mountain Connectivity to County parks from Apache Junction BLM lands along the northern and eastern boundary of Apache Junction and480 acres in the Goldfields Central Arizona Project corridor Lost Dutchman State Park Saguaro, Apache, Canyon lakes Open Space Opportunities Drainage protection Wilderness and public land buffers Wildlife corridors Preservation of views and scenic view sheds Protect hydrology (recharge management) Undeveloped open space Existing Economic Development 500 kv power lines Superstition Vistas Lost Dutchman Heights North/South Corridor (planned) Hwy 79/Hwy 60 intersection area Central Arizona College Lakes nearby Apache Trail Winter visitors Gateway Airport & industrial development impacts Supplier for Apple products Resorts (Gold Canyon, ex.) Mountain Health and Wellness Planned Grand Canyon University campus Agriculture/Ranching Economic Development Opportunities Locally grown food Corporate offices and head quartes, professional service buildings Clean industries Outdoor recreation businesses and industries Health industries Technology, business services, insurance industries Wildlife related recreation Support business development with logistics, training/education of work force, GCV campus planned Page 14 of 17

19 RAW Data from District 5 Breakout Sessions Session 2 The second breakout session was aimed at understanding the gaps and needs related to bridging the values of important open spaces and economic development in Pinal County. Green Infrastructure - Linkages and connectivity must be incorporated into land use plans (this is a local activity, not regulatory) - Incorporate into the community (be sure to make available to all accessibility and mobility) - Funding to preserve this (highest bidder will acquire land) - Set rules, guidelines, expectations upfront in the Comprehensive Plan (developers will have a better understanding) Conservation - Set new standards of building that increase green efficiencies - Native plant preservation, xeriscaping, architectural standards to reduce urban heat island effects, buffers for lighting, water conservation - Education and marketing these ideas - Policies that become building code so they are harder to ignore (consider diverse nature of the County with codes that can be applied logically and usefully) - Overlay zones that capture the character of an area for certain parts of the County (understand the economic feasibility of this higher up-front costs leads to increased benefits later Scottsdale, Maricopa County Flood Control District, Pima County are examples) - Consider interdisciplinary approaches Land Use Planning - County may need to incentivize new business models - Transfer of development rights to preserve most important and vulnerable areas - Encourage new and flexible patterns (protect drainage, cluster building and developments) - Get rid of development block walls that prevent human and wildlife movements - Avoid decisions (zoning) that adversely impact a neighborhood (incompatible uses that impact values) - Arizona State Land Department needs to be involved in these conversations - Coordinate infrastructure planning (it has to go somewhere) Recreation - Provide designated areas for recreation (shooting, quad use, mountain biking, cycling, hiking, camping, etc.) - Peralta trailhead is the highest used trailhead in the FS system across the U.S. How to manage this kind of capacity and demand? - NFS Ranger Station could serve as an informational hub for outdoor recreation in the region - Superstition area as destination needs to be considered and flushed out - How to manage day use with high traffic/demand from Phoenix and points south and west of Pinal County? - Support industries to these recreation activities - Create museum and wildlife viewing areas - Develop Mineral Mountain, the Superstition trail system - Transportation planning to include alternative modes (safe cycling along Hwy 88, for example) - Inventory what recreation users want and need - Demand is for more foothills trials, not so much wilderness areas (foothills trails are more accessible) - County regional parks can help disperse recreation demand and fill in gaps for outdoor recreation opportunities Tourism - Portal to Tonto NF and the Arizona National Trail (we should brand this area for basecamp to outdoor recreation) - Forest Service is just beginning a revision of their Resource Management Plan - Seasonality (shoulder season support for outdoor recreation businesses) - Destination resort needed in Apache Junction area - How are tourism opportunities linked or connected to other destinations in the region or state - Be aware of national conventions and conferences (what else can visitors do during, before and after a conference in the area) - Get tourism community involved in these discussions and efforts - Develop information about what is there to do Page 15 of 17

20 Regionalism - Interconnect with others to maximize and enhance what we have - What are we trying to do how does this tie to what others are doing? - Make networks out of existing community organizations - We need to know what is going on (beyond maps) and what is available - Better marketing, event promotion, volunteer interaction - Don t assume others know about things and events that you know about recruit and encourage others to get involved - Overcome fear/concern of competition among communities and regions - Use word of mouth and any other form of communication to get the word out and get more people involved - More people need to know and understand the tools used and available for good planning and land management practices use the right tool for the right job - Be clear about the mission/vision let it drive policy and funding decisions - Advocate for open space and amenities as the reason for economic development Partnership/Communication - How do we educate developers and engage more of them in the conversation? - Show by example how such a business model can work - Develop partnership with Arizona State Land Department - Leadership directives (Supervisors and administrators) to County departments to communicate across departments and coordinate and collaborate where possible (use social media as a tool?) - Engage younger generation millennials to get involved in the planning process - Engage schools - Be mentors to help develop understanding of the planning process Jobs/Retention - Understand trends and use them to attract those industries - Involve younger generation in this discussion to diversify development plans that include what they want - Encourage diversity of economic development, not just residential - Industrial development will follow residential development so how to attract it through county economic development - Existing supply of commercial buildings available - Cities are starting to realize that whichever community is host to an industry, other surrounding communities benefit as well - Need infrastructure (water, sewer, roads, etc.) - Central Arizona College training for industries we want to attract (this is a positive selling point for a community or the County) Encourage Board of Supervisor Support for Open Space - Get more youth involved in the planning and public process - Provide more outdoor recreation opportunity for youth (Dons camp near Peralta, i.e.) - Stay in contact with Supervisors let them know your ideas and priorities - Make open space issues part of the campaign platforms - Reinforce and support Supervisors in their efforts - Keep communicating that open space is a big issue Page 16 of 17

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