Vice Mayor Appoints Work Group to Look at Tourism & Recreation

Zip Lining is a Proposed Part of Boone Creek Adventures Canopy Tour

While The Fayette Alliance understands that the canopy tour, in theory, could be a great thing for the community–it is premature in light of our current planning and zoning laws. The proposal is considered an “amusement park” under state law, and it’s currently prohibited in the A-R zone of Fayette County–the zoning category of the property.

If the canopy tour is allowed without first amending our local laws, it will set a dangerous countywide precedent by violating several key provisions of our Zoning Ordinance, Rural Land Management Plan, and Comprehensive Plan. In theory, the canopy tour may be a good idea that creates public appreciation for the Bluegrass and its remarkable natural resources—however, it’s premature in light of our current land-use requirements, and the Board of Adjustment’s jurisdiction.

More time and thought is needed on how to establish this facility on a countywide level, without jeopardizing our signature farmland, sensitive environmental areas and watersheds, and acclaimed signature industries.

Just as we have demonstrated over the last two months, The Fayette Alliance remains committed, in good faith, to work with leaders in the ag-community, Mr. Carey, and LFUCG staff to have this discussion in the text amendment process. We appreciate Mr. Carey’s earnest efforts and understand that eco-tourism could be a great thing for Lexington-Fayette County and the Bluegrass Region—but it must be done carefully and in concert with the land-use traditions and planning requirements that have served our community so well for so long. Click here for our official position statement.

On January 27th, 2012, the Board of Adjustment rejected the proposal 4-3, citing concerns that the project is an amusement park and not legally permitted for a rural area of Fayette County. Also, the Board was concerned about the public’s safety in the operation of such a canopy tour, due to Boone Creek’s limited access to fire, police and emergency medical vehicles.

We will keep you posted of all ensuing developments here at www.fayettealliance.com.

Vice Mayor Gorton Appoints Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Work Group

by Jennifer Benningfield, 2.21.12, The Work Group Press Release

Vice Mayor Linda Gorton announced today the creation of a Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment Work Group to address issues regarding tourism in Fayette County.

“It is important for us to recognize our strengths, such as our strong agricultural farms and businesses in Fayette County. This Work Group will be a mechanism for proactive evaluation of our potential for recreational opportunities,” said Gorton.

The Work Group will serve as an advisory body and will represent key stakeholders and community interests. The Work Group will study the need for and develop recommendations for the Urban County Council and the Planning Commission concerning the preparation of amendments to the Zoning Ordinance of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County, Kentucky, which govern and regulate commercial and non-commercial recreational activities as they relate to tourism.

Don Robinson of the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association and the Fayette Alliance will Chair the Work Group. Robinson will issue a report to the Urban County Council no later than August 30th, 2012…Press Release

“Vet Boone Creek plan the right way” 1.20.20 Lexington Herald-Leader Editorial

“The Great Outdoors: Boone Creek Outdoors seeks to put the adventure back into local tourism” 1.19.2012, Erik Rust

“Boone Gorge proposal a test for Fayette’s future” 12.18.2011, Tom Eblen

Burgess-Statement
Liberto Memo