The Township Board finds that:
(A) Williamstown Township contains lands that are particularly well-suited for farming and adjacent to these farmlands are other woodlands, wetlands and open lands that contribute to aesthetic and economic value of the community;
(B) These lands are a valuable and irreplaceable natural resource. When these lands are converted to residential or other urban uses an important community resource is permanently lost;
(C) Williamstown Township is experiencing development pressure because of its location in the Lansing/East Lansing metropolitan area. Many of the same characteristics that make the land valuable for agricultural use also make it desirable for residential use;
(D) It is the policy of the Williamstown Township to protect and preserve agricultural and open space lands. This policy is set forth in the township's Master Plan, Chapter 155 and Chapter 156 of this code;
(E) The Master Plan, Chapter 155 and Chapter 156 of this code are not sufficient to dissuade speculative purchase of farmlands for future development, thus driving the cost of farmland beyond its value for agricultural use. These circumstances result in decreased agricultural investment;
(F) The permanent acquisition by the township of interest in farmland and open space lands will provide the opportunity to retain their use for agricultural and open space, and provide for the long-term protection of public interests which are served by farmlands and open space in the township; and
(G) Accordingly, this chapter has been created to establish, finance and provide for the administration of a program for acquisition of development rights (ADR) to protect agricultural land and other eligible land, as defined herein.
(Ord. passed 6-29-1999)