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KITTITAS COUNTY Page 7 Comprehensive Plan LAND USE INTRODUCTION The Land Use Element plays the central role in guiding land use patterns and decisions for the County. In keeping with State law, the County fulfills its responsibility of shaping land use primarily through its Comprehensive Plan policies and implementing development regulations. While this chapter addresses all land uses in the County, the emphasis is on urban lands. Rural and resource land uses are specifically addressed in Chapter 8, Rural and Resource Lands. The majority of new growth in the County is encouraged to locate in established cities and urban growth areas (UGAs) where adequate public facilities and services can be provided in an efficient and economical manner. An adequate supply of land in the UGAs will ensure that immediate and future urban needs are met as well as provide for an orderly and efficient transition from low intensity land uses to urban land uses over time as the incorporated cities expand. Current population data and population projections developed by the Washington Office of Financial Management (OFM) as recent as 2017 indicate that Kittitas County is meeting GMA mandates to provide an adequate land supply for UGAs to accommodate future growth and that no immediate changes in UGA boundaries are necessary. In addition to projections by OFM, an analysis completed on behalf of Kittitas County in 2016 has demonstrated that while there are some significant growth trends unique to Kittitas County that should be monitored, for the immediate planning future the County’s projected growth is being adequately planned for and is meeting GMA mandates. GROWTH MANAGEMENT ACT GOALS Three of the Growth Management Act (GMA) planning goals are particularly relevant to land use:  Urban growth. Encourage development in urban areas where adequate public facilities and services exist or can be provided in an efficient manner (Revised Code of Washington [RCW] 36.70A.020(1)). » As previously noted, the County has designated UGAs that are adequate to meet its projected growth through 2037.  Reduce sprawl. Reduce the inappropriate conversion of undeveloped land into sprawling, low-density development (RCW 36.70A.020(2)). » Since 2013 the County has completed a rezoning process that has been found to comply with a rural zoning standard consistent with the GMA.  Private property. Private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation having been made. The property rights of landowners shall be protected from arbitrary and discriminatory actions. » All County zoning ordinances and development policies are reviewed and approved.