From: Erika R. Anderson Sent: Monday, June 13, 2016 4:47 PM To: Comp Plan Subject: Food Policy Comments June 13, 2016 Dear Commissioners, Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback during this update process. As acting Food Policy Intern in the office of the Kitsap County Board of Commissioners, also working with the Kitsap County Food Policy Council, and a private citizen please accept the following comments as formal testimony for the June 13, 2016 Board of County Commissioners public hearing with regards to the 2016 Comprehensive Plan Update. The Planning Commission deliberation sessions appear to have resulted in some confusion. Supposedly the Planning Commission voted to remove all references to food policies with an understanding that new language would be proposed to eliminate redundancies and re-locate some policies that were considered strategies. In that process it appears that some of the goals and policies were inadvertently lost in the housing and human services and capital facilities chapters. Suggestions: 1. Add the narratives, goals, policies, and strategies shown below for Land Use and Economic Development chapters. Preferably this information would be included as a standalone Food Policy section within those chapters. 2. Remove the following language from the planning commission recommended draft: a. ED Goal: 5-10 b. ED Policy: 25-55 c. LU Goal: 8, 14-17, 20 d. LU Policy: 32-35, 55-75, 80-82 3. Retain Housing and Human Services Goals and Policies that were removed as part the planning commission deliberations: a. Goal: 7 - 9 b. Policies: 24 – 35 4. Retain Capital Facilities and Utilities Goals and Policies that were removed as part the planning commission deliberations: a. Goal: 13, 14 b. Policies: 39-43 Thank you for your considerations. Sincerely, Erika Anderson Food Policy Intern? Land Use Agricultural Lands Kitsap County has a rich and diverse agricultural heritage that dates back to the early 1900’s. As commerce changed from timber to naval ship making, cleared lands shifted into agricultural uses. Mostly congregating around cities, towns or other places with population density, early farms took advantage of the maritime climate and lush valleys created by glacial activity, producing such products as: fruit and vegetable crops, dairy, meat, poultry, Christmas trees, and holly. Farmers began using the Mosquito Fleet ferry system to transport goods to Seattle and other metropolitan areas, making Kitsap County a leader in local food distribution. With the onset of World War II agriculture flourished with the addition of victory gardens and 4H gardens helping to create a sustainable culture in Kitsap County. After the war, agriculture continued to grow in the area, but by the 1940’s the economy shifted yet again, this time from resource dependent industries to technology based industry. This change created an influx of population growth, transferring prime agricultural lands into nonagricultural uses. LAND USE GOAL 16. TO MEET REQUIREMENTS OF THE GROWTH MANAGEMENT ACT TO MAINTAIN AND ENHANCE AGRICULTURE, RCW 36.70A.177, KITSAP COUNTY WILL RECOGNIZE THE DIVERSE NATURE OF FARMS AND THE CULTURAL VALUE THAT FARMS BRING TO OUR COMMUNITY THROUGH THEIR PRESERVATION OF OPEN SPACE, ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS, ECONOMIC GROWTH AND ACCESS TO HEALTHY LIFESTYLE . FARMLANDS ARE AN IRREPLACEABLE RESOURCE. THE KITSAP COUNTY AGRICULTURAL STRATEGIC PLAN AND INVENTORY SHALL BE THE BASIS FOR KITSAP’S FOOD SYSTEM, INCLUDING AGRICULTURE, POLICIES AND PROGRAMS DEVELOPED BY THE COUNTY. AGRICULTURAL MAPPING DETAILED IN THE PLAN SHALL BE MAINTAINED AND REFINED. KITSAP COUNTY WILL RETAIN, PRESERVE AND EXPAND LAND SUITABLE FOR AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND ENCOURAGE THE CONTINUED PRACTICE OF DIVERSIFIED AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES THROUGH REGULATORY AND NON- REGULATORY MEANS. LAND USE POLICY 62. Allow agricultural activities and practices from cultivation to harvest as well as on- farm value-added processing within the Rural Wooded, Rural Protection and Rural Residential zoning districts or the Farming Focus Areas identified in the Agricultural Strategic Plan and Inventory. LAND USE POLICY 63. Foster agriculture opportunities by promoting flexibility in development regulations. LAND USE POLICY 64. Recognize recreational equine activities and grazing uses as a compatible use with agricultural uses and activities because of its economic contribution to the County’s agricultural industry and for preserving large parcels of land for other agricultural uses. LAND USE GOAL 17. IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN AND OPERATE THEIR FARMS, FARMERS NEED ASSISTANCE TO SUSTAIN VIABILITY IN THE FACE OF INCREASING URBANIZATION, SOIL DEGRADATION, INCREASED FLOODING AND WATER SCARCITY. KITSAP COUNTY WILL DEVELOP AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE RURAL AND URBAN FACILITIES AND SERVICES THAT SUPPORT AGRICULTURE. LAND USE POLICY 65. Pursue new innovations that are supportive of agricultural resource management. Strategy 1 – Regional Emphasis Partnerships: Coordinate with federal, state and local governments, community groups, and private landowners to promote long-term preservation of farmlands, such as, “no-net-loss” policy. Strategy 2 – Focus on Community Development Projects and Programs: Assess and if feasible support and incentivize the development and adoption of joint use agreements on publicly-owned lands or institutional facilities for agriculture production, processing and distribution. Strategy 3 – Recognize Diversity in Land Uses Projects and Programs: Create Policies and Programs supporting Kitsap County’s food system based on the Kitsap County Agricultural Strategic Plan and Inventory. * Review and amend development regulations to consider impacts of non-farm-related commercial or industrial uses to the Farming Areas identified in the Agricultural Strategic Plan and Inventory. * Slaughtering facilities, meat packing or commercial feed lots shall be limited to the Farming Areas identified in the Agricultural Strategic Plan and Inventory. Projects and Programs: Develop and implement new and existing models of land ownership which invite next-generation farmers. Strategy 4 – Review, Revision, and Creation of Zoning Code Projects and Programs: Re-examine and, if appropriate, adopt or amend criteria used to determine if land meeting Growth Management Act designation criteria as Agricultural Resource Land exists within the county. Projects and Programs: Continue regulatory and non-regulatory preservation of historic or working farm land, particularly through tax policy, conservation easements, Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Purchase of Development Rights (PDR), innovative design criteria and the establishment of a small farms institute, to encourage small farms. Some historic Kitsap County working farms should be preserved for food and fiber production, educational and scenic purposes. Projects and Programs: Permit all agricultural uses as defined KCC 17.110.050 and agricultural activities as defined in Revised Code of Washington 7.48.310 in the Rural Wooded, Rural Protection and Rural Residential zoning districts, and consider procedures to notify neighboring landowners of approved agricultural uses. Projects and Programs: Develop regulations that permit appropriate farm-related activities secondary to primary farm operations in Rural Wooded, Rural Protection and Rural Residential zoning districts. This includes, but is not limited to, farm infrastructure buildings, commercial activities in conjunction with adding value to products grown on the farm (on-farm processing, community kitchens), farm stands and sales, and other essential farm support activities. Projects and Programs: Develop and promote incentives for continued resource uses, including but not limited to a Transfer of Development Rights program, an expedited agricultural activity permit review program, and educational and agritourism activities. Strategy 5 – Continuous Improvement Partnerships: Partner with appropriate local, county, tribal and state agencies to promote viable coordinated water resources for greater accessibility to water rights for agriculture usage. Projects and Programs: Develop strategies for water collection, storage and reuse.? Economic Development Kitsap County recognizes that adequate land use planning, efficient regulatory processes, solid infrastructure, and environmental protections are essential to a stable, prosperous and diversified economy that can provide a setting for Kitsap businesses to grow living-wage jobs for residents and retain and encourage new businesses to locate in the County. At this time the following industry sectors highlight economic development, either for longevity or potential for growth. An important directive in this effort is the encouragement of expansion/recruitment of these recognized industries: Advanced Manufacturing Aerospace Maritime Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), e.g., office furniture and equipment, medical devises, fishing and sporting goods, and energy efficient products Clean Technology Architectural and engineering services Consulting Research and Development Energy distribution Information Technology Healthcare Military (Defense) Business Services Finance and Insurance Advertising and Marketing Legal Services Property Management Food Industry Tourism (including ecotourism and agritourism). The County continues to encourage economic development while at the same time avoiding concentrating industrial and commercial uses in environmentally sensitive areas and maintaining a high quality of life to attract desired businesses. The policies in this section and related code assist in expanding the county’s business and job base to promote a healthy and diverse economy, while assuring an adequate mix and supply of land to facilitate employment growth within all business sectors. Efforts to revitalize the county’s cities and urban cores creates economic growth by attracting commercial and housing developments, generating demand for additional services. Recognition of the diverse nature of businesses in rural areas is necessary for long term economic vitality. Healthy partnerships and regular communication among government, private corporations, and nonprofit entities are also part of the broader County mission in order to implement economic development goals and to provide cost-effective capital improvements. Food System Defined as the path that food travels from field to fork or from farm to table, a food system is a network, typically comprising food production, processing, distribution, access and waste management. These integrated elements enhance the community’s livability. Regional food networks can increase access to healthy and nutritious foods. As seen in the figure above, a functioning food system provides the education necessary to create supportive policies. A coordinated food system supports the three tiers of sustainability: a healthy environment, equitable access, and economic viability. This path will increase Kitsap County’s self-sufficiency now and into the future. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GOAL 5. THROUGH SUPPORT AND PROMOTION OF THE LOCAL FOOD SYSTEM KITSAP COUNTY CAN STRENGTHEN AND STIMULATE THE ECONOMIC GROWTH OF THE FOOD SECTOR. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY 25. Expand the county’s capacity to produce, process, distribute and access local foods. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY 26. Support agricultural tourism and value-added programs that will stimulate economic growth. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GOAL 6. RURAL AND URBAN ECONOMIES CAN BE STRENGTHENED THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS THAT DISPERSE INFORMATION AND EDUCATE ABOUT THE FOOD SYSTEM. INFORMATION AND EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES THAT SUPPORT FARMING, PROCESSING, MARKETING, CONSUMPTION, AND WASTE MANAGEMENT ARE FUNDAMENTAL TO FOOD SYSTEMS AND LOCAL ECONOMIES. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY 27. Foster a culture -- at the local, regional and federal levels -- which appreciates food system products and functions. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GOAL 7. KITSAP COUNTY STRIVES TO PROMOTE FOOD SECURITY, FOOD ECONOMY, AND PUBLIC HEALTH BY ENCOURAGING LOCALLY-BASED FOOD PRODUCTION, DISTRIBUTION, AND CHOICE THROUGH URBAN AGRICULTURE, COMMUNITY GARDENS, FARMERS MARKETS, AND FOOD ACCESS INITIATIVES. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY 28. Promote inter-agency and intergovernmental cooperation to expand access to local foods, e.g., food hubs. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GOAL 8. LACK OF FOOD RELATED PROCESSING AND DISTRIBUTION HAS CREATED MANY GAPS IN KITSAP COUNTY’S FOOD SYSTEM. IN ORDER TO IMPROVE THE FOOD SECTORS ECONOMIC VIABILITY KITSAP COUNTY WILL ENHANCE LOCAL AND REGIONAL AGGREGATION AND DISTRIBUTION BY INCREASING, AND WHERE NECESSARY, CREATING, FOOD PROCESSING INFRASTRUCTURE. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT POLICY 29. Strengthen the food value chain by supporting new congregation and distribution opportunities such as farm stands, farmers’ markets, and food hubs. Strategy 1 – Regional Emphasis Projects and Programs: Encourage community gardens, school gardens, farm-to-school programs, farmers or public markets, and other small-scale, collaborative initiatives. Measuring, Monitoring and Evaluation: Assess whether publicly owned properties/facilities that are currently underutilized could be made available for one or more facets of the food system. Partnerships: Foster consistency of food policy across jurisdictions. Projects and Programs: Promote marketing opportunities across the food system. Measuring, Monitoring and Evaluation: Maintain affordable land for farmers through a range of potential innovations and new business models. Public Outreach: Raise the level of county-wide public awareness and understanding of Kitsap County agriculture, including its ecological, economic, open space and cultural value, and its importance to local food security. Measuring, Monitoring and Evaluation: Assess opportunities to reduce regulatory burdens and related expenses through means such as, streamlining of agricultural taxation exemption processes. Projects and Programs: Develop and adopt a Right-to-Farm ordinance; revise conditional use regulations to create a more agriculture-supportive climate. Strategy 2 – Focus on Community Development Projects and Programs: Educate the agricultural community regarding business and succession planning, and provide resource assistance. Projects and Programs: Promote youth engagement in agricultural activities. Partnerships: Assist in the coordination between the farming community and the seasonal and year- round workforce and educational internships. Partnerships: Engage decision makers, agencies, tribal governments and the public through collaboration with agricultural associations, producers, processors and distributors to promote the food system. Strategy 3 – Recruit New Businesses Projects and Programs: Support the development and adoption of joint-use agreements on publicly- owned sites or institutional facilities to allow aggregation, processing, distribution and sales. Projects and Programs: Create guidelines for alternative retail models including pop-ups and mobile markets. Projects and Programs: Assess and plan for community-supported agriculture programs, local food processing, wholesaling, and distribution facilities to connect local agriculture to markets such as retailers, restaurants, schools, hospitals, and other institutions. Strategy 4 – Support Local Business Growth Projects and Programs: Increase market opportunities for producers including the use of community gathering places as venues for local food sales and encourage establishment of sustainable community processing centers. Projects and Programs: Create support networks to increase accessibility and affordability of food processing centers. Projects and Programs: Expand distribution to retail and wholesale buyers to improve consistency in food quantity, quality and availability (e.g., food hubs). Partnerships: Encourage partnerships that support opportunities for local and regional marketing, distribution and sales. Projects and Programs: Promote institutional procurement that favors local and regional food sourcing by county, school and other governmental agencies and local employers. Measuring, Monitoring and Evaluation: Create and update a county-wide food assessment. Partnerships: Work with nonprofit partners and local food system members to support processing both on and off farms. Projects and Programs: Develop regulations that permit appropriate farm- related activities secondary to primary farm operations. ? Housing and Human Services HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES GOAL 7. PROMOTE EDUCATION, TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND MENTORING ABOUT THE FOOD SYSTEM. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 24. Ensure education and information is cohesive, coordinated and shared across the food system community. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 25. Engage and inform the community at large about the importance of strengthening and expanding the larger food system. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 26. Foster mentoring of the next generation of food system professionals. HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES GOAL 8. PROMOTE A DIVERSIFIED FOOD SYSTEM. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 27. Work with agencies to assess programs for an emergency food supply. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 28. Provide public awareness of the benefits of non-genetically engineered crops and seeds. HOUSING AND HUMAN SERVICES GOAL 9. EXPAND AND COORDINATE RESOURCES SO THAT LOCAL HEALTHY FOOD IS AVAILABLE TO ALL RESIDENTS OF KITSAP COUNTY. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 29. Continue to improve access to a high quality, affordable and adequate supply of locally grown foods. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 30. Create mechanisms for fresh local food to be affordable and accessible to all segments of our community. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 31. Expand community gardening through the use of available and under- utilized public lands, and if appropriate, voluntarily on private lands. HOUSING, HUMAN SVCS POLICY 32. Prioritize underserved communities, including communities with “food deserts” e.g. lack of grocery stores, as areas for potential locations for community gardens, farmers markets, and local food access programs. ? Capital Facilities and Utilities CAPF AND UTILITIES GOAL 13. MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE THE WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN KITSAP COUNTY TO ENSURE A HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT. CAPF AND UTILITIES POLICY 39. Research development of composting programs as part of waste management. CAPF AND UTILITIES POLICY 40. Explore best practices and improvement opportunities for green and sustainable packaging. CAPF AND UTILITIES POLICY 41. Decrease food waste by focusing on a higher and better use. CAPF AND UTILITIES GOAL 14. PURSUE NEW INNOVATIONS IN WASTE MANAGEMENT. CAPF AND UTILITIES POLICY 42. Identify opportunities to bring more locally-sourced compost into the agricultural community and incentivize its use. CAPF AND UTILITIES POLICY 43. Support food system activities that use local and renewable energy resources and minimize energy use and waste.