(A) Most urban expansion takes place in the form of land subdivision created by private developers for residential, business and industrial users. Subdivision of land will be explained in the text of this chapter. Generally, the great bulk of subdivision activity is for residential use and takes place in the growing corridors of existing communities.
(B) Land subdivision regulation is one of the most important tools for carrying out plans for the development of the town area. Land development plans calling for the location of future streets, parks and schools can be incorporated into plans for new subdivisions. It is customary to require the dedication, without cost to the community, of public street right-of-way and open space land. The reservation of sites for public buildings or for later public acquisition is also a frequent practice.
(C) The use of subdivision regulations also protects the community in other ways. Streets that are properly designed and adequately paved will require a minimum amount of maintenance. Requirements for installing essential utilities, paving streets and providing other improvements will discourage the premature and excessive subdivision of land, which would inevitably result in scattered development and increase the cost of governmental operation. Properly subdivided land stabilizes property values and thus strengthens the local tax base.
(D) The subdivision chapter will bring the developer, the local decision-maker and the homeowners to a common ground of understanding in an urban environment. Special note: The developer should consult any locally adopted area thoroughfare plan, and hazard mitigation plan. Reference to these plans by the developer will assist in proper street design and subdivision location.
(Ord. passed 9-8-83; Am. Res. passed 4-8-10)