Ballot Initiative Addresses Need for Smart Growth

"Solano County leaders want to restrict the amount of development encroaching on agricultural and open spaces for the next 30 years, which some consider too long.

Measure J will require most residential or non-agricultural development to occur within city boundaries. More than 80 percent of Solano County is considered open space or agricultural land.

The county wants to have the new initiative in place before the current one expires in 2010. It would ensure that a controlled-growth plan is in place as the county puts together its general plan. If Measure J passes, the general plan would adhere to those guidelines.

Because of a 1984 controlled-growth initiative, Solano County is considered a standout among counties hoping to establish similar initiatives to get a handle on development. Still, some argue that the measure is too restrictive on farmland and the contract is too long."