Department of Community Development
Reference: Historic Splendid Valley TDR Study
To: Mayor Gregory Mills and Members of City Council
Through: Marv Falconburg, AICP, Acting City Manager
Holly Prather, AICP, Community Development Director
Prepared By: Anneli Berube, Ag Innovation Specialist
Date Prepared: March 4, 2020
PURPOSE
To approve an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between the City and Adams County outlining the roles and financial participation of each entity for a joint study of Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) for Historic Splendid Valley.
STRATEGIC FOCUS AREA
* Recognizable and Well-Planned Community
BACKGROUND
The City of Brighton and Adams County are working together to preserve agricultural land and encourage local food production for the future of the greater Brighton area and the benefit of residents. This area is a mix of City and County lands located in the southeast side of Brighton's Growth Management Area. Much of this land is designated as "prime farmland if irrigated" by the United States Department of Agriculture, and has sufficient water for agricultural activities, according to a water study jointly commissioned by the City and County in 2015. Many of the farmers in this area grow vegetables and fruits that are sold locally (farm markets and local retail stores) and regionally, which is aided by this area's proximity to Denver markets.
In order to ensure the preservation of these areas, and to continue access to the economic opportunities afforded by agritourism and local food production, the City and County developed the District Plan. The District Plan highlights the appetite of the local community to preserve its unique heritage and assets, and identifies necessary initiatives to preserve land, promote agritourism, and attract local food businesses. Among the priorities identified by the Plan is the preservation of productive farmland and associated water rights for conti...
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