Protecting Ag Lands

The steady increase in population throughout Tulare County has, over time, forced growth into many prime agricultural areas on the valley floor. Unfortunately, the bulk of this growth has occurred on a parcel-by-parcel or piecemeal level. The Yokohl Ranch is a comprehensive or “turnkey” community that directs some future growth away from the orchards and other prime agricultural lands on the valley floor.

New Services & Facilities

To keep pace with the challenges often associated with growth, additional services and facilities will be required within Tulare County. These services include increased fire, police and paramedic services, more schools, parks, and other public amenities. In addition, major infrastructure improvements are anticipated including roadways and utilities. The 2004/2005 Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) by Tulare County Association of Governments (TCAG) noted that Tulare County's regional road system is expected to increase its load by an average of 84% by the year 2030. The finding suggests

gridlock on many existing community routes unless substantial upgrades are made. In addition, more than 3,000 miles in the County are in need of repair due to deferred maintenance.

New Funding Sources

To help address the needs of today's increasing population and the County's future generations, while also directing growth away from the prime agricultural lands on the valley floor, the County will need to look at new ways of developing as well as seek new funding sources. In fact, with the median home value at just over $87,000 and the median household income under $35,000, the County will be hard pressed to ask existing residents to help fund improvements. Therefore, the County will be forced to ask new development to help fund new and future improvements. Yet, the fees associated with small (more piecemeal) subdivision applications are often insufficient to cover the costs of even existing populace needs. This reality creates the opportunity for large comprehensive community development - or development that provides essential services and "fair share" fees so that it pays its own way.