§ 1.2. Authority and Purpose

A.

This Ordinance is adopted pursuant to the authority granted to the Town of Mint Hill by G.S. Chapter 160A, Article 19, and by any special local acts enacted by the North Carolina General Assembly for the Town of Mint Hill in order to carry out the purposes stated therein. The standards, districts and maps identified in this Ordinance shall be in accordance with the objectives and policies of locally adopted comprehensive plans and other such plans as may have been adopted for the physical development of the Town of Mint Hill and its extraterritorial jurisdiction.

B.

The purpose of this UDO is to implement the adopted Land Use Plan and promote the orderly development of the Town of Mint Hill. The Ordinance enables the Town of Mint Hill to respond uniformly and consistently to development proposals and to promote the health, safety, and general welfare of its residents. The UDO seeks to provide uniformity, certainty, and predictability regarding land use and development issues to the greatest degree feasible for properties located within the jurisdiction of this Ordinance. Notwithstanding, this Ordinance also attempts to provide flexibility in dealing with situations that may fall outside typical processes and requirements. The elements that make up the Ordinance are interrelated and cannot be taken in isolation; they must be taken within the context and intent of the entire Ordinance.

C.

Other goals this UDO is anticipated to serve include:

1.

Lessen congestion on streets;

2.

Secure safety from fire, panic and dangers;

3.

Avoid undue overcrowding while also encouraging efficient use of limited land resources;

4.

Facilitate the efficient and adequate provision of transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks and other public requirements;

5.

Provide a guide for the orderly growth and development of the Town;

6.

Regulate the use of buildings, structures and land;

7.

Control the bulk, scale and design of buildings and structures;

8.

Ensure adequate privacy and access to property;

9.

Maintain orderly and compatible land use and development patterns;

10.

Protect the integrity of water supply watersheds;

11.

Encourage environmentally responsible development practices;

12.

Maintain and develop economically vibrant commercial and industrial areas;

13.

Provide for attractive and effective signage that is compatible with the surrounding environment;

14.

Accommodate and promote pedestrians and pedestrian use to the greatest degree feasible and practical in the interest of promoting health, safety and welfare;

15.

Allow a range of housing choices and options;

16.

Establish clear and effective development review procedures;

17.

Coordinate transportation networks and utilities within proposed subdivisions with existing or planned streets and highways and other public facilities.

(Ord. No. 598, 4-14-2011)