Issue link: http://townofcary.uberflip.com/i/791958
CHAPTER 8:SERVE Policy Policy Intent Policy 8: Integrate Concepts of Resiliency and Adaptation into Planning Practices Support resiliency of all municipal services by identifying potential risks and planning ahead for solutions. With regard to the Town's municipal operations and provision of public services, resiliency refers to the ability to provide and maintain acceptable levels of service in the face of exceptional circumstances that could otherwise impede those operations and services. Adaptation refers to making changes or adjustments in the methods, manner, or type of services provided, in order to respond to changing conditions over time. The intent of this policy is to proactively plan for resiliency and adaptability when developing facility and operational plans for town services, in order to maximize the Town's ability to respond to predictable and unpredictable change. For example, planning for and adapting to predictable change might include planning Town services for an aging population, climate change, or planning for replacement of aging water and sewer lines. Examples of planning for resiliency in the event of unpredictable change might include planning for service delivery in the event of loss of a major town employer, major swings in fuel or energy prices, or even a market crash or recession. Policy 9: Preserve and Protect the Urban Tree Canopy Promote the retention of – and addition to – the tree canopy within Cary's planning area. The intent of this policy is to support retaining and/or adding to our community's tree canopy, particularly within developed areas. The urban tree canopy is the layer of trunks, branches, and leaves that cover the ground when viewed from above (i.e., the Town's tree cover). One objective of this policy is to strive to protect portions of existing canopy as new development occurs, particularly hardwood canopy. Another objective is to plan and design new development with ample and strategically-located deciduous tree plantings such that new development will have an ample tree canopy at maturity. Trees are a vital part of Cary's aesthetic and environmental health. In 2016, the Town of Cary was recognized as a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation, for the 33rd year in a row. Policy 10: Support Local Food Systems Support locally grown and produced foods in Cary. The intent of this policy is to support a healthy community by providing opportunities for people to grow their own food and to purchase locally grown food in farmers markets. Implementation includes education and recreational opportunities that connect citizens with Cary's agricultural heritage, as well as basic gardening and cultivation methods. 252