The League’s priority for the next Regional Plan is to ensure the land use ordinances are consistent with the water quality goals of the newly completed Tahoe TMDL. The TMDL data shows that the greatest source of fine sediments polluting Lake Tahoe (the worst culprit when it comes to clarity loss) is the urban areas. It is of utmost importance therefore, that the next set of land use policies for the Basin more effectively addresses the problem of stormwater pollution and maintaining urban boundaries.
In addition, the League advocates for the achievement of the rest of the environmental standards for the Lake Tahoe Basin, including air quality, scenic beauty, soil conservation, vegetation protection, noise limitation, native fisheries and wildlife habitat, and recreation. We speak up for transportation alternatives to the private automobile, including “walkable” communities, bike trails, and public transit.
A well constructed plan must achieve all of the foregoing while serving the traditional goals of landowners and local communities for economic development, public safety, diverse housing opportunities, and preservation of community history and character. Environmental policies that encourage energy conservation and otherwise “green” building must also be incorporated into the Regional Plan to assure that Tahoe contributes its share to solving broader environmental problems.
It won’t be easy to achieve all of this, but we are optimistic that it can be done. In addition, as the process moves forward, the League is trying to ensure there is opportunity for meaningful public involvement in shaping the various alternatives for the Plan that will eventually be voted on by TRPA’s Governing Board.
The Regional Plan, which was originally scheduled for adoption in 2007, will not be completed until 2009 according to TRPA’s updated schedule. Check our website often for opportunities to provide your input.
