A. The subdivision of land is the first step in the process of urban development. The arrangement of land parcels in the community for residential, commercial and industrial uses and for streets, alleys, schools, parks and other public purposes will determine, to a large degree, the conditions of health, safety, economy and amenity that prevail in the urban area. The quality of these conditions is of public interest. This title and standards for the subdivision and improvement of land for urban use are to make provision for adequate light, air, open space, drainage, transportation, public utilities and other needs to ensure the development and maintenance of a healthy, attractive and efficient community that provides for the conservation and protection of its human and natural resources.
B. This title is designed and intended to achieve the following and should be administered so as to:
1. Assist orderly, efficient and coordinated development within the territorial jurisdiction.
2. Provide neighborhood conservation and prevent the development of slums and blight.
3. Harmoniously relate the development of the various tracts of land to the existing community and facilitate the future development of adjoining tracts.
4. Provide that the cost of improvements which primarily benefit the tract of land being developed be borne by the owners or developers of the tract, and that cost of improvements which primarily benefit the whole community be borne by the whole community.
5. Provide the best possible design for the tract.
6. Provide the most beautiful relationship between the uses of land and buildings and the circulation of traffic throughout the city, having particular regard to the avoidance of congestion in the streets and highways and the pedestrian traffic movements appropriate to the various uses of land and buildings, and to provide for the proper location and width of streets and building lines.
7. Prevent pollution of the air, streams and ponds; assure the adequacy of drainage facilities; safeguard the water table; and encourage the wise use and management of natural resources throughout the city in order to preserve the integrity, stability, and beauty of the community and the value of the land.
8. Preserve the natural beauty and topography of the city and ensure appropriate development with regard to these natural features.
9. Reconcile any differences of interest.
10. Establish adequate and accurate records of land subdivision. (Ord. 65, 1-21-1980)