[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]



                                                  FY 1992 FINAL PRODUCT Task 35
                                                           Technical Assistance





                          CTOWN OF CLAREMONT

                           COMPREHENSIVE PLAN











                     Prepared By Claremont Planning Commission
                                 with assistance from
                          Crater Planning District Commission

                                   September, 1993












                   A report of the Virginia Department of Environmental
                   Quality's Coastal Resources Management Program pursuant
                   to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
                   Award No. NA270ZO312-01.



  I
  I
  I
  I
  I                                          QTOWN OF CLAREMONT
  I                                           COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
  I
                                                  Adopted October 4, 1993 by
  I                                                 Claremont Town Council
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I
  I    @n,
       q@
  I
       K,




       W
  I "
       @;p
  I    k.@
       ril-
  l    -11
       9
  I











                                                 TABLE OF CONTENTS





              Introduction  .......................................................                        1


              Population Analysis    .................................................                     4

              Economic Analysis     ..................................................                     8


              Natural Resources     .................................................                    10


              Housing     ........................................................                       13

              Community Facilities    ...............................................                    15

              Special Planning Considerations   ........................................                 18

              Goals and Objectives    ...............................................                    25
              The Plan   .........................................................                       29
              Implementation     ....................................................                    31











                                                        INTRODUCTION


                                                            Authority

               Under Title 15. 1, Chapter 11, Article 4 of the Code of Virginia (1950), as amended, the
               Claremont Planning Commission is authorized to prepare and recommend a plan for the
               development of the Town. The Act stipulates that the plan, with illustrative materials, shall
               show a planning commission's long-range recommendations for the general development of
               the territory within its jurisdiction. It may include, but need not be limited to:

                       1 .    The designation of areas for various types of public and private development
                              and use, such as different kinds of residential, business, industrial, agricultural,
                              conservation, recreation, public service, flood plain and drainage, and other
                              areas;


                       2.     The designation of a system of transportation facilities such as streets,      roads,
                              highways, parkways, railways, bridges, viaducts, waterways, airports, ports,
                              terminals, and other like facilities;

                       3.     The designation of a system of community service facilities su         ch as parks,
                              forests, schools, playgrounds, public buildings and institutior)s, hospitals,
                              community centers, waterworks, sewage disposal or waste disposal areas, and
                              the like; ,


                       4.     The designation of historical areas and areas for urban renewal or other
                              treatment;


                       5.     The designation of areas for the implementation of reasonable groundwater
                              protection measures;

                       6.     An official map, a capital improvements program, a subdivision ordinance, and
                              a zoning ordinance and zoning district maps; and,

                       7.     The designation of areas for the implementation of measures to promote the
                              construction and maintenance of affordable housing.

               The Act further provides that the plan shall show the general or approximate location, charter,
               and extent of each feature described in the plan; but it may also show where lands or existing
               facilities are proposed to be extended, widened, removed, relocated, vacated narrowed,
               abandoned, or otherwise changed. In addition, the Act states that at least once every five
               years the comprehensive plan shall be reviewed by the local planning commission to determine
               whether it is advisable to amend the plan.



                                                             Purpose

               The Claremont Comprehensive Plan is a general guide for decisions and actions that determine
               the Town's physical, social and economic development. The plan identifies goals and
               objectives, suggests policies to implement them and proposes programs to carry these policies
               out.










                                                         Plan History

               While the Town's planning commission has been in existence since March 25, 1976, it had
               been more or less idle until it was reactivated in 1 9@5. Preparation of the Comprehensive Plan
               was started in 1987. The staff of the Crater Planning District Commission assisted in. the
               preparation of the first draft in 1990 and the final draft in 1993.



                                                       Data Collection


               Data for Claremont's Comprehensive Plan was collected from the U.S. Bureau of the Census,
               Crater Planning District Commission, the Surry County Planning Commission and the Surry
               County Office of the Treasurer.



                                                         Plan Format


               The Claremont Plan contains six parts. The introduction describes the planning area, the
               authority for planning, the purpose of the plan, and the plan adoption procedures.

               The second provides economic and population characteristics, an inventory of land features
               and land use, housing and transportation, and community facilities.

               The third section discusses special planning considerations that will affect development.

               The fourth section contains goals, objectives, and policies to guide future land use planning
               and development.

               The fifth provides specific suggestions for future land use, a future transportation system, and
               plans for community facilities.

               The sixth section discusses plan implementation methods such as zoning, subdivision control,
               and capital improvements programming.




                                                        Plan Adoption

               After the required public hearings, the Planning Commission will amend the plan, if necessary,
               and then recommend it to the Town Council for adoption. The Town Council will then have
               ninety days to adopt the plan after receiving it from the Planning Commission. If not adopted,
               it is returned to the Planning Commission and must be re-submitted within sixty days.

               The plan may be amended at any time, using public      hearing and adoption procedures.






                                                              2










                                                        History

            Before selecting Jamestown as the first permanent English settlement in America, the land
            on which Claremont is now situated was first explored when the colonists met with natives
            of the nearby Quioughchonach tribe in May of 1607.

            In 1632, Benjamin Harrison arrived in Virginia and took title to what is now Claremont and
            Sunken Meadow. The plantation stayed in the Harrison family until after the American
            Revolution when it was purchased by William Allen.

            After the Civil War, the Allens and the plantation fell on hard times and the plantation was
            sold to J.F. Mancha. Claremont was officially incorporated in 1886 and it was to be the
            period of the area's greatest growth, which continued into the first quarter of the twentieth
            century, with an estimated population of one thousand persons.

            By World War 11, the Town had significantly declined and today maintains a population of
            under four hundred, which is increased by seasonal residents who occupy riverfront summer
            homes.


            Claremont is situated on the northernmost point of Surry County on the South bank of the
            James River.








                                           RICHMOND




                 











                                                   POPULATION ANALYSIS


               This section   analyzes Claremont's population characteristics and will used to project a
               population trend which provides a basis for establishing public service priorities and for setting
               Town goals and policies. Data from the 1960 through the 1990 U.S. Census will be
               compared.



                                                     Trends and Estimates


               Claremont is located in the Crater Planning District, an area where the population increased
               between 1960 and 1980. This growth occurred where new industries were established in the
               nearby cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell and Petersburg. However, between 1970 and
               1980, population growth moderated as industrial growth leveled off. During the eighties, the
               Tri-Cities area experienced major industrial closings and layoffs. Between 1980 and 1990 the
               population of the district decreased by 0.34 percent.

               Surry County's population between 1980 and 1990 experienced a slight decrease.

               Surry's sparsely populated Guilford District which surrounds Claremont had very little change
               between 1960 and 1990, losing only 10 persons.

               Claremont's population experienced only a slight decrease throughout the years between 1960
               and 1990. The 1990 Claremont population, according to the Census, was 335, a decrease
               of only 42 persons over the 1960 population.



                                                  Population Characteristics

               Population characteristics present statistics on age, race and sex. Such statistics are useful
               in evaluating the Town's labor force, its dependents, and the structure of community facility
               programs needed to serve Claremont's population.


                                                              Age

               The age profile of Claremont's population is determined by using age groups. The Town of
               Claremont has a lower proportion of its population in the youth age group (birth to 24) and
               a higher proportion in the elderly dependent group (over 65) than Surry County or Virginia.
               This results in an older overall population for the Town. Because of its older population,
               Claremont currently has a relatively small labor force (ages 25 to 64). A labor force is a
               prerequisite for attracting industry.

               More than forty percent of Claremont's labor force was above 45 years old in 1990 and will
               all reach retirement by the 201 O's. These retirees would normally be replaced by younger
               workers from within the community. This Will be a different case, however, in Claremont, for
               the 5 to 24 age group has a combined population of only 28 percent of the total population.



                                                               4











                                                        Race and Sex


               In 1990, there were more blacks than whites in Surry County. Blacks accounted for 55.5
               percent of the County's population. For the Town of Claremont, whites accounted for 73.18
               percent of the Town's population; only 2.6.82 percent of the 1990 population was black.

               According to the 1990 Census, there were more females than males in both Surry County and
               Claremont in 1990. The accounted for 54.9 and 45.1 percents of Claremont's total
               population respectively.


                                                    Population Projections

               Claremont's projected population is based on an analysis of past and current population trends
               and the extension of these trends into the future. Population projections reflect both historical
               and current population trends and a sense of local economic and physical development
               factors. Population projections should be used only as a guide because unforeseen factors,
               such as the location of a new industry, or location of a new river crossing close to Claremont,
               may cause the population to increase. By contrast, the loss of an industry could cause f    urther
               population decline.

               Population gains and losses for Surry County and Claremont have historically run a parallel
               course. State population projections for Virginia's counties and cities are prepared by the
               Virginia Department of Planning and Budget. Although projections are not made for towns,
               Claremont's 2000 population is expected to be 350 persons. This projection is based on the
               projected annual population increase for Surry County of 0.42 percent, to 6,400 persons by
               2000.


               For Claremont to be a desirable place in which to live, there should be employrn               ent
               opportunities, sufficient and affordable housing, places to shop, and public services. If
               Claremont is to attract more population for the next ten years, the Town must find a way to
               improve the quality of life and the means to achieve it.



















                                                               5









                                                           Population Change 1960-1990


                                                                                                                 Average Annual
                                                                                                                 Rate of Growth
                                                1960             1970            1980             1990     1970-1980         1980-1990


             Town of Claremont                    377             383              380             335          -.008             -.118

             Guilford District                  1,851           1,738            1,798           1,841           .035              .024

             Surry County                      6,220            5,882            6,046           6,145           .028              .016

             Crater Planning
               District*                     147,006         161,059          161,959         156,457            .006             -.034

             State of Virginia            3,966,949        4,648,494        5,346,279       6,187,358            .130              .160




             SOURCE:       U.S. Bureau of the Census, Census of Population, 1960, 1970, 1980 and 1990.


                  Includes the population of the Counties of Dinwiddie, Greensville, Prince George, S'urry and Sussex; and the Cities
                  of Colonial Heights, Emporia, Hopewell and Petersburg.









                                                                          6









                                                          Poi)ulation -Ch a racteristics
                                                        Claremont and SurEy-@unt@
                                                                    1990



                                                         Percent of                                           Percent of
                                       Surry           Total-Population                Claremont            Total Pol2ulation
             Population                6,145                                            335
                 White                 2,722               44.48                        237                     73.18
                 Black                 3,411               55.50                          98                    26.82
                 Other                    12               0.02                           0                     0



                                                         Percent of                                           Percent of
            By Age and Sex         Female   Male       Total Por)ulation             Female Male           Total Population
                 Under 5            229     221             7.3                          7   4                  3.3-
                 5-14               459     461            15.0                        30    23                 15.8
                 15-24              362     376            1.2.0                       16    24                 11.9
                 25-44             1,024    939            31.9                        49    36                 25.4
                 45-64              602     566            19.0                        38    28                 19.7
                 65 +               515     391            14.8                        44    36                 23.9
                   TOTAL            3,191 2,954                                        184   151



            SOURCE:     U.S. Bureau of the Census 1990.


                                                                     7












                                                     ECONOMIC ANALYSIS


                                                              Income


                In 1989,the per capita income in the Town of Claremont was $11,714,a figure which is 27.9
                percent lower than Surry County's per capita income figure of $16,245 for the same year.
                When comparing Claremont's income to that of the State's as a whole, Claremont's
                represented only 74.5 percent of Virginia's average. As has been the case since 1979, the
                Town's income grew at a slower rate than the County's. The average annual rate of growth
                in per capita income in the County was 19.5 percent, higher than the rate of growth for the
                Town or State.


                                                        Per Cavita Income


                                                                                    Average Annual
                                                                                    Rate of Change
                                            1979                  1989                1979- 1989


                Claremont                  $6,100               $11,714                   9.2%


                Claremont as a
                percent of
                Surry                      110.7%                72.1%                    -----

                Surry County               $5,515               $16,245                  19.5%


                Claremont as a
                percent of
                Virginia                   80.7%                 74.5%                     -----

                Virginia                   $7,563               $15,713                  10.8%





                SOURCE:        U.S. Bureau of the Census, Selected Characteristics for Governmental Units and
                               Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas - Virg_[a@q, October, 1982 & 1992.





                Median family income information for 1989 was also collected as a part of the 1990 Census.
                This data revealed that the median family income level in both the Town and Surry County fell
                far below that for the State as a whole.







                                                                 8










                                              Median Family Income - 1989


                         Claremont                                                    $28,333


                         Surry County                                                 $30,109.

                         Virginia                                                     $38,213





              SOURCE:        U.S. Bureau of the Census, Selected Characteristics for Governmental Units and
                             Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas - Virginia, October, 1982 & 1992.




                                                       Employment

              The information gathered during the 1990 Census indicated that, in 1989, 118 persons in
              Claremont who were sixteen years old or older were a part of the civilian labor force. Of that
              number, 7 persons were unemployed, producing an unemployment rate at that time of 5.9
              percent. For the same period, the County's unemployment rate was reported to be 6.6
              percent.

              More recent data regarding the County's labor force shows that unemployment has risen
              According to the Virginia Employment Commission, during the first two months of 1993, the*
              County's civilian labor force consisted of 3,179 persons, with an unemployment rate in May
              1993 of 9.2 percent, increasing to 9.4 percent in June 1993. Data for the Town is not
              tracked separately by the Virginia Employment Commission.






















                                                            9












                                                    NATURAL RESOURCES


               The natural resources of an area, such as topographic features, geologic materials, and
               availability of groundwater, influence decisions concerning suitability for agricultural, forestal,
               residential, and industrial development. Activities causing overuse of groundwater, increased
               surface drainage, or air and water pollution can adversely impact land use.


                                                         Physiography

               Claremont is located in the Coastal Plain Physiographic Province of Virginia. The Coastal Plain
               consists of a series of broad, relatively flat areas referred to as terraces, separated by
               relatively steeper areas referred to as scarps. The terraces decrease in elevation seaward and
               toward rivers.


               Claremont is situated on a coastal plain terrace approximately 110 feet in elevation. Steep
               ravines dissect the terrace, directing surface water flow to the James River or to Brandon Gut
               and Sunken Meadow Creek which form tributaries to Upper Chippokes Creek and the James
               River respectively.



                                                       Geology and Soils

               Surficial sedimentary deposits in the   Claremont area are assigned to the Moorings unit and
               consist primarily of clayey silt and fine sand which grades downward into sand and gravel.
               Soils which have developed within the upper 70 inches are classified as Craven loam
               throughout more than 50 percent of the area, and mostly as Emporia fine sandy loam and
               Kempsville fine sandy loam throughout the remainder of the area. These soils are moderately
               well-drained to well drained, exhibit slow permeability, exhibit low natural fertility, and are
               strongly to extremely acidic. The U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service
               has interpreted the soils for land use management as follows:

               Cropland:
               Cultivated crops are moderately well suited to this soil. Economic yields can be obtained by
               applying lime and fertilizer based on soil test results and a management plan. Wetness in the
               spring restricts tillage operations, harvesting, and alfalfa growth. Management practices that
               maintain organic matter content and tilth, reduce crusting, and reduce runoff and erosion are
               minimum tillage, cover crops, returning crop residue to soil, grassed waterways and
               diversions, and crop rotations that include grasses and legumes.


               Pastures:
               Pastures and hay grasses and legumes are moderately well suited to this soil. Carrying
               capacity of pastures is increased by establishing and maintaining a mixture of grasses and
              --legumes, proper stocking rates, and rotating and deferring grazing. Economic yields can be
               obtained by applying lime and fertilizer based on soil test results and a management plan.
               Compaction of the surface layer of the soil, damages to grasses and legumes, and increased
               erosion occurs by grazing during periods of seasonal wetness.



                                                               10











               Woodland:
               The potential productivity for loblolly pine is very high; the site index is 88. The estimated
               annual production of wood is 125 cubic feet per acre. Wetness limits use of equipment for
               managing timber. Plant competition limits establishment of desirable tree species.

               Community Development:
               Septic tank absorption fields are limited by slow permeability and a seasonable high water
               table. Unsatisfactory performance of septic tank absorption fields can adversely affect public
               health. Sanitary landfills are limited by slow permeability and a seasonal high water table.
               Building sites are limited by low strength and moderate shrink-swell potential. Excavations are
               limited by a perched high water table. Vehicular traffic is limited when the clayey subsoil is
               wet.



                                                          Hydrology

               Water is obtained from surface water supplies, such as rivers, streams, and lakes, and from
               groundwater, which is water stored in the ground within permeable sediments, in layers, at
               specific depths below the ground surface. When water from rainfall reaches the ground
               surface, it moves laterally across the surface as runoff and also infiltrates the ground to deeper
               subsurface zones. Best Management Practices have been outlined by the Department of
               Environmental Quality in order to prevent runoff from causing soil erosion and from allowing
               water to flow into streams and rivers instead of infiltrating downward as groundwater. Proper
               groundwater management can create a perpetual adequate water supply to communities and
               agricultural areas even in times of drought.

               Permeable sands and gravels which are saturated with water at specific depths, in zones or
               layers, are referred to as aquifers. In the Claremont area, there are 4 major aquifers which can
               supply groundwater. The aquifers are separated from each other by relatively impermeable
               sediments. The water table aquifer is the first aquifer encountered below the ground surface.
               It consists of sand, silt, and some dravel at depths generally less than 50 feet and is usually
               adequate to supply pumping rates of 10 to 50 gallons per minute of domestic needs. The
               water table aquifer is not level; rather, it reflects the ground surface topography and decreases
               in lower areas such as ravines. Also, the water table aquifer does not maintain a constant
               level; it fluctuates seasonally with varying amounts of precipitation. Groundwater from this
               aquifer has highly variable water quality with respect to iron and hydrogen sulfide content and
               may be easily polluted.

               The Miocene aquifer is encountered at depths between 100 feet and 1 50feet and is separated
               from the water table aquifer by a relatively impermeable silt and clay unit. With impermeable
               sediments above and below, this aquifer is referred to as a confined aquifer. Water infiltrates,
               or recharges this aquifer where its sediments are exposed at the ground surface west of Surry
               County in Sussex and Dinwiddie Counties. The aquifer slopes gently seaward and is covered
               by younger deposits. Groundwater from the Miocene aquifer is commonly used for domestic
               purposes and yields approximately 50 gallons per minute. The water quality is generally good;
               pollution would enter the aquifer from the recharge area.

               The Paleocene aquifer is another confined aquifer; it is encountered at depths between 350


                                                              11









              and 400 feet. This aquifer is similar to the Miocene aquifer, having a recharge area in Sussex
              and Dinwiddie Counties and yielding approximately 50 gallons per minute. Water quality from
              the Paleocene aquifer is good; pollution would enter the aquifer from the recharge area.

              The Cretaceous aquifer is encountered at depths of 460+ feet. The recharge area for this
              aquifer is in Dinwiddie County. Yields from this aquifer are adequate for large municipal and
              industrial use, generally 700 gallons per minute. Fluoride and sodium concentrations are
              commonly high in water from the Cretaceous aquifer; pollution would enter the aquifer from
              the recharge area.



                                                 Climate and Air Quality

              The Claremont area has a temperate climate with normal daily Maximum temperatures ranging
              seasonally from approximately 460F to 880F and normal minimum temperatures ranging
              seasonally from approximately 260F to 780F. Normal precipitation is 44 inches and normal
              relative humidity ranges from 53% to 90%. Mean annual wind speed is 7.6 mph, generally
              from the NNE in February and October and from the S and SSW the remainder of the year.

              The Federal Clean Air Act of 1970 established national air quality standards for allowable
              amounts of suspended particulate matter, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides,
              ozone, and  lead. Areas near Claremont currently exhibit air quality better than the required
              standards.  Surry County does not have any ambient air monitoring sites. In consideration of
              the general wind directions, the closest monitoring sites to Claremont are located at Waverly
              (monitoring suspended particulate matter, Suffolk (monitoring ozone), Newport News
              (monitoring carbon monoxide), and West Point (monitoring suspended particulate matter).


























                                                            12











                                                       HOUSING
              Claremont's housing inventory, trends, projections, and problems are discussed below. In
              developing the background data, the Census of Housing   for 1980 and 1990, as prepared by
              the U.S. Bureau of the Census, were used.



                                                   Housing Inventory

              Housing Types:
              Claremont's dominant housing types are traditional single family structures. In 1990, there
              were 286 single family units in Claremont, which is an increase of 50.5 percent over the
              number of single family units in 1980. During the same time period, there was a 33.3 percent
              decrease in the number of multi-family units. There were 40 manufactured housing units, 18
              units more than the 1980 Census figure. The total number of year-round housing units
              increased by 91 units, or 37.8 percent during the last decade.



                                          Housing Units by Type of Structure
                                                  Claremont, Vir-ginia


                        Structure Tyoe                                        Number of Units
                                                                              1980        1990


                        One Family                                            210*        286

                        Multiple Family                                           9           6

                        Manufactured Housing, Year-Round Units                  22          40


                              TOTAL                                            241        332



                includes 20 seasonal and manufactured units.



              SOURCE:       U. S. Bureau of the Census, Census of Housing, 1980 & 1990.
















                                                           13











                                                   Housing Occupancy
                                                   Claremont, Virginia


                                                                               Number of Units
                                                                                1980        1990


                          owner Occupied                                         112          99

                          Renter Occupied                                         41           53


                          Vacant                                                  68          77


                          Seasonal or Occasional Use                              20        103


                               TOTAL                                             241        33  2



               SOURCE:       U.S. Bureau of the Census, Census of Housing, 1980 & 1990.



               Conditions of Housing:
               The 1980 Census of Housing classified substandard housing according to units which lacked
               complete plumbing facilities or which were overcrowded. Overcrowding exists when a unit
               contains 1.01 or m ore persons per room used for living purposes.

               According to the 1990 Census of Housing, 32 units in Claremont were identified as lacking
               of plumbing. No information on overcrowding was provided by the 1990 Census.


               SOURCE:       U.S. Bureau of the Census, Census of Housing, 1980 & 1990.





                                             Housing Trends and Projections

               Twenty housing units were added to Claremont's housing stock between 1980 and 1990.
               It should be noted that contradictions exist in information provided by the Census of Housing
               from 1980 and 1990. The increase in total number of housing units between 1980 and 1990
               is 91, while the number of new units is only 20.

               After discussions with the Planning Commission, it was determined that the Town supplies
               water to 250 units. Thirty-two of the units are in Cypress Point, outside of Claremont,
               bringing the number to 218 units in Claremont. After adding approximately 20 units found
               in the Claremont Beach area, the number of units counted within Claremont is approximately
               238. This number nearly matches the number of houses included in the 1980 Census of
               Housing.


                                                            14











                                                   COMMUNITY FACILITIES


               Community facilities and services include those government and quasi-public improvements
               that serve the general public. Community facilities include buildings, land, and improvements
               that provide utilities, trash disposal, recreation, and library services. Community facilities are
               among the basic necessities needed for a community's growth and development.



                                                            Utilities


               Water:
               Claremont's water system was established in 1982. The system's water is supplied from two
               wells with a total pumping capacity of 30,000 gallons in twenty-four hours. The untreated
               water is stored in a 5,000 gallon tank. Distribution lines are 4" to 6" in diameter. The system
               serves the Town as well as an area southeast of the corporate limits along River Road.

               Claremont's present water system is not capable of meeting existing needs; additional storage
               is necessary for existing needs and future growth. Residential or industrial growth, therefore,
               will influence decisions regarding an expansion of the Town's water system.


                                           Water Source, Storage, and Distribution
                                                  Town of Claremont, 1989


                                                                                      Pumping Capacity
               Well Number                                                            in Gallons per Minute


                    1                                                                  50 (back-up system)
                    2 (River Road)                                                     200


               Water Storage - 5,000 gallon tank


                                                      Water Distribution
               Pine Size                                 Lencith in Feet                 Percent of Total


                    61'                                  16,000 (est.)                           60.0
                    41'                                  10,000 (est.)                           37.7
                    21t                                    500 (est.)                              2.3
                                                         26,500                                 100.0


               Fire Hydrants - 32


               Customers


                                                                                         Water Use in Gallons
                                                         Number                         Per Month-January 1989

               Small                                      230                                702,100
               Large                                       1                                Summer Only


                                                               15











              Sewerage:
              Claremont residents have individual septic tanks.

              Electricity:
              The Virginia Power Company supplies Claremont's electricity with 34Y2 Kilovolts. Presently
              there is no problem with this service.

              Telephone:
              GTE of Virginia, Inc. supplies Claremont's telephone service. This service is adequate.



                                                        Solid Waste


              Claremont is supplied by dumpsters from Surry County which are emptied twice weekly by
              County trash trucks. Industrial and commercial customers may rent dumpsters and receive
              the same service. Claremont uses the Surry County Landfill which is twelve miles southeast
              of the Town.



                                                         Education


              Claremont school children attend Surry County Schools, which provide instruction from
              kindergarten through 1 2th grades. There is one elementary school and one high school in
              Surry County.

              Institutions of higher education near Claremont include two four-year colleges and two
              community colleges offering two-year programs.

                                     Institutions of Higher Education Near Claremont


                   Name                                Degree Program                       Distance

              Virginia State University                Four year Bachelor and               33 miles in
                                                       graduate degree programs             Petersburg

              The College of William                   Four year Bachelor and               25 miles in
                   and Mary                            graduate degree programs             Williamsburg

              Richard Bland  College of                Two year associate degree            30 miles in
                   The College of William              programs                             Petersburg
                   and Mary

              John Tyler Community                     Two year associate degree            35 miles in
                   College                             programs                             Chesterfield
                                                                                            County




                                                             16











                                                     Health Services


              Surry has one physician in private practice. Public health services and home health care
              services are available at the Surry County Public Health Department located on Route 10, 21
              miles east of the Surry Court House.

              The nearest hospitals are John Randolph in Hopewell, Williamsburg Community Hospital in
              Williamsburg and Southside Regional Medical Center in Petersburg.


                                                      Public Safety


              Police:
              Police protection for Claremont is provided by the Surry County Sheriff's Department. One
              officer is assigned to Claremont.


              Fire:
              The Claremont Volunteer Fire Department was established in 1945. There are 23 volunteers
              in the County Fire Fighters and Auxiliary Council. Seventy-five hours of training is required
              at the Department of Forestry Fire Program.

              Equipment consists of a 1979 3/4 ton brush truck, a 1982 1,000 gallon pumper and a 1984
              1,500 gallon tank.

              Funding: One-half of the budget for the fire department comes from grants and county taxes,
              while the remainder comes from a $1,000.00 donation from the Town of Claremont and
              private donations and fund raising events.

              Rescue Squad:
              The Town is served by the Surry County Rescue Squad.





















                                                            17











                                          SPECIAL PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS


               Not all of the land in Claremont is suitable for development; parts of the area are more easily
               developed for certain uses than others. Certain land disturbing activities can possibly create
               hazards if unnatural uses occur. Additional costs may be incurred when overcoming the
               natural conditions existing in the area or when development in the area disturbs the natural
               process through environmental degradation, both on and off the site. There are development
               constraints and several important factors that have affected the Claremont area's growth and
               will continue to have a major influence on the area's future. Special planning considerations
               are directed to address these development constraints and factors to guide the best possible
               land uses for the study area in the future.



               Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act

               Protection of the water quality of the Chesapeake Bay, the James River and its tributaries is
               essential to the welfare of the Commonwealth and the Town of Claremont. As a natural
               resource, the Chesapeake Bay has always been instrumental to the growth and vitality of
               Virginia. It is 'an attractive body of water for recreation and transportation, and it has always
               been a critical corTiponent of the state's ecosystem.

               In December 1987, Gov. Gerald Baliles acknowledged the significance of the Chesapeake Bay
               and the importance of protecting its water quality by signing the 1987 Chesapeake Bay
               Agreement, along with Representatives from Maryland, Pennsylvania, the District of Columbia,
               the Environmental Protection Agency and the Chesapeake Bay' Commission. Passage of the
               Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act by *the 1988 General Assembly demonstrate$ Virginia's
               commitment to the Bay.

               In an. attempt to save the Bay from pollution that will be generated as millions live, work and
               play along the Bay, the General Assembly mandated that preservation regulations be adopted.
               Those regulations were enacted in September, 1989. These regulations affect shoreline
               development in all Tidewater localities including the Town of Claremont.

               The Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act requires that all tidewater communities to designate
               Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas (CBPAs). Land features within these areas serve an
               important function in the protection of water quality by removing sediment, nutrients and
               harmful substances from runoff entering the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. If improperly
               developed or disturbed, these areas may greatly degrade water quality. Two types of land are
               included in these Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas.


               Resource Protection Areas (RPAs) are to include "areas which consist of sensitive lands at or
               near shorelines that have intrinsic water quality due to the ecological and biological processes
               they perform or are sensitive to impacts which may cause significant degradation to the
               quality of state waters." Areas designated as RPAs include, but are not limited to, the
               following:

                   0 tidal wetlands;
                   0 non-tidal wetlands connected by surface flow and contiguous to tidal wetlands or


                                                              18










                     tributary streams;
                   ï¿½ tidal shores; and
                   ï¿½ 100-foot buffer zones adjacent to other RPA components.

               Resource ManagementAreas (RMAs) are lands which "have a potential for causing significant
               water quality degradation or for diminishing the functional value of the Resource Protection
               Areas." These management areas include all areas contiguous to the entire RPA inland
               boundary.

               Included in Resource Management Areas are such components as:

                   0 floodplains;
                   0 highly erodible soils;
                   0 highly permeable soils;
                   0 isolated, non-tidal wetlands;
                   0 steep slopes; and
                   0 other lands at local discretion.


               Following the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act's designation guidelines, the Town of
               Claremont designated the entire jurisdiction a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area. Map 1
               identifies Claremont's CBPAs.


               Inappropriate land uses and development within Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas may have
               a negative effect on the water quality of the area. Development in an RPA is allowed only if
               it is water dependent or if it constitutes redevelopment. A water quality impact assessment
               is required for any proposed development or redevelopment within an RPA. A water quality
               assessment may be required within a Resource Management Area because of the unique
               characteristics of the site or intensity of development.



               Floodplains
               The James River borders the corporate limits of the Town of Claremont on the North and flows
               eastwardly toward the Chesapeake Bay. An examination of the Flood Hazard Areas map of
               Claremont reveals that most of the flood plains in the area are located along the banks and
               beaches of the James. Because of its relatively high elevation, few structures were identified
               to be located in the flood plain, except those in the Sloop Point area. Map 2 illustrates the
               Flood Hazard Areas for Claremont. The map was prepared by the FIA (Federal Insurance
               Administration, now the Federal Emergency Management Agency) in April, 1975.

               In general, flood plains are best left in a natural state. In addition to serving surface water
               hydrological functions, they are a prime habitat for animal and plant life. If left undisturbed,
               flood plains can provide a useful function of filtering eroded soils and other debris resulting
               from land-disturbing activities. Preserving flood plains in a natural state can also serve as a
               quiet reserve for passive recreation activity. Flood plains are crucial to the environment and
               ecological balance and must be protected.





                                                              19





                                        N                                                                                                                 MAP 1: CHESAPEAKE !BAY PRESERVATION AREAS



                                                                                                          x                           U
                                                                           MEW-
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Tidal wetlands
                                                                                                                              \v//                                                                                Non-tidal Wetlands

                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Protection Area Boundary
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Resource













                                                                                      V







                                                                                                                                                                                                                  - ---------------

                                                                 V









                                                                                                                                                                                                                          SCALE: 1 inch 04UMS 300 1001.











                        A map of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality's Coastal Resources
                   _A   Management Program pursuant to National Oceanic and Atmospheric
                        Administration Award No. NA270ZO312-01.


                        PREPARED BY CRATER PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION
                        SEPTEMBER 1993

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           20
                                                                                                                      CLAREMONT








                                                                                                                                                             MAP 2: SPECIAL PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS




                                                                                0


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Floodplains

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Moderate Shoreline
                              Brandon       P                                                                                                                                                                                                           Erosion
                                            h"     -7
                                Gut                                                             X,
                                                                                                           7k\                                                                                                                  Waterfront    Access
                                                                                                                                                                                      Claremont
                                                                                                                                                                                        Beach          Walnut
                                                                                                                                                                                                        Tree

                                                                                                                                                         .... . .......






                                                                                                                                                                                                    N
                                                                                                          Is,






                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      VIA
                                                                 6


                                                                                    \@x



                                                                V                                                      --------


                                                                                                                                                                                                                  'IT
                                                                                                  "j, 'N

                                                                                                                                                                                                                         SCALE. I Inch eausis 300 fe*t.
                                                                                                     C-j
                                                                                                                                                                                                30




                           A map of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality's Coastal Resources
                   4,- TO jManagement Program pursuant to National oceanic and Atmospheric
                           Administration Award No. NA270ZO312-01.



                           PREPARED BY CRATER PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION
                           SEPTEMBER 1993
                                                                                                                     CL A R Eivl 0 N -71'                                                                                                                 21












                Waterfront Access
                The 1990 Coastal Zone Management Act encourages the coastal community to identify
                opportunities for public waterfront access. Provision of public access is an important part of
                the Commonwealth's overall strategy for improved stewardship of its natural resources;
                citizens will be more likely to develop a sense of ownership and appreciation for Virginia's
                coastal environment if they are able to experience these resources personally. In turn, these
                citizens will become more likely to support coastal resource protection programs.

                In the spring of 1993, a Waterfront Access and Recreation Plan was prepared by consultants
                for Surry County. Included in the plan is an identification of the problems and opportunities
                that exist along the county's waterfront. As recommended in the consultant's report, the
                following is a list of waterfront access points located in Claremont:

                Walnut Tree: This beach is for the use of residents of Claremont only. The area is used for
                sun bathing and picnicking. Several benches are in place at this site.

                Claremont Beach: Claremont beach is a private, mostly vacation home community with
                perhaps one of the best natural area for a bathing beach in the County. The beach area is
                privately owned and     'for the exclusive use of owners and their guests. There is a boat ramp
                and small pier within this community which can be used by the public for a fee. Several signs
                posted at the entrance to the community tend to discourage any general public access without
                prior knowledge of being able to use the boat ramp.

                Brandon Gut: The drive to the mouth of Brandon Gut is one of the most scenic areas in the
                County and is obviously used for such purposes. However, the scenic drive and turnaround
                area are the subject of a disagreement between the Town of Claremont and the adjacent
                landowner. A large fence which denies access to the water has been constructed by the
                adjacent owner. A fishing pier and a pier where boats tied up 'no longer exist at this access
                point.

                Because of the potential for environmental damage at these waterfront access points,
                guidelines for activities and development in these areas should be developed and actively
                enforced to ensure the protection of this valuable resource. Map 2 identifies waterfront
                access areas.      All of these sites are privately owned, however, there may be future
                possibilities for public access.



                Shoreline Erosion
                Shoreline erosion can have adverse effects on surrounding lands. These areas often include
                subaqueous lands, marshes and other lands which play a vital role in maintaining water
                quality.    Because of the potential hazards associated with shoreline erosion, careful
                management of shoreline property is necessary.               The condition of shorelines within a
                community should be identified and development in these areas should be monitored.

                Map 2 illustrates the conditions. of the shoreline in the Town of Claremont as identified           in a
                study by the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. Erosion in this area is identified as slight to
                moderate with historical erosion rates averaging 1.0 to 1.2 feet per year. No structures are
                threatened by this rate of erosion. The shoreline areas of Claremont are suitable for low-


                                                                   22










              density usage such as recreation areas. Any development should be in harmony with the
              natural surroundings.



              Soil Suitability
              The suitability and limitations of the soils in an area have a great impact on its development.
              Soil factors such as depth, absorption, percolation, shrink-swell conditions, wetness and
              filtering action all have an effect on development. Identified on Map 3 are highly erodible soils
              and hydric soils. Map 4 is a general soil suitability map for Claremont. Soils identified in the
              Town are divided into three categories defining their suitability for development. A working
              definition for each soil suitability classification provided by the Virginia Soil Conservation
              Service is as follows:


              Slight Limitation:        On-site study should indicate that only minor problems exist in the
                                        dominant soils. There are'other soils in the area that have severe
                                        limitations due to seasonal high water table, slow permeability, steep
                                        slopes, flooding and other undesirable soil characteristics.

              Moderate Limitation:      Indicates that one or more of problems exist in the dominant soils,
                                        and an on-site study is recommended to determine the seriousness of
                                        the situation. There are soils in this area that have slight limitations
                                        due to more desirable soil characteristics. There are also soils with
                                        severe limitations due to undesirable soil characteristics.


              Severe Limitations:       Indicates that the dominant soils have one or more serious problems,
                                        and that on-site study is necessary to determine the feasibility of
                                        corrective measures. There are also minor soils in this area that have
                                        slight and moderate limitations due to more desirable soil
                                        characteristics.


              The information on soils in this section has only a general application to the study area.
              Before developmenton a site, tests should be undertakento identifythe limiting soil conditions
              which may occur on the site.



















                                                               23









                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     MAP 3: HYDRIC AND HIGHLY ERODIBLE SOILS










                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          FM Hydric Soils
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          V
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Highly Erodible Soils
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      V.@
                                                                                                                                     R.2
                                                                                                                                           _0
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       _-...V!-, Vt.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                R',  -




                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                .,-V-VV

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  -V`
                                                                                                                         %




                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       V

                                                                                                                                    -VVaV-V-                                                                                                                                                                                             0,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    ............
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        V@           ..........
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     .........

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          V % -
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               V, -
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               -0.                                                                                            ,V
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            V`
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     V . .
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    ,V
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   1,M
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     .%.N..
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           %
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        it
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  R,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         00*14,1-
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          w.,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        N'
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 71A     k
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               & --
                                                                                                                                                                                                   vn             -V
                                                                                                                                                                                                                 V
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       it
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     V. -
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              A
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  IV,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     21
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  _.V                                                                                                   .V.- -
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          `!%V
                                                                                                                                                                    N 416@
                                                                                                                                                                                                                        V


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    V,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            N-%NV-V%'

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   v
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              VN    V"A
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       V.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  CALE. I inch iiawait 300 feel.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           _Vt_
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    411
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                          V., N.-       NO.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                               . .. ....
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       'V-                                                                                                                   V.
                                                                                                                                                                            V                                                                                                                ......
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       XXX%, V..
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 V
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       2,.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  V -




                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        _V 1-

                                                                                               ent of Environmental Quality's Coastal Resources
                                                                                       artm
                                          AmapofthevirginiaDep
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         A.
                                          Management Program pursuant to National Oceanic and Atmospheric
                                          Administration Award No. NA270ZO312-01.



                                           PREPARED BY CRATER PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION
                                           SEPTEMBER 1993



                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              24
                                                                                                                                                                                                                          CLAREMONT











                                                                                                                                                                              MAP 4: SO            IL SUITABILITY



                                                         ...............
                                                                        0@










                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Slight Limitation

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Moderate Limitation


                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Severe Limitation



                                                                                                    .. .........
                                                                                                    .........



                                                                                                                                                C


























                                                                                                                                                                                                                              SCALE: I MCh OQUWS 300 feel.










                                                                                                                                                            ---------- - -------


                                                    rtment of Environmental Quality's Coastal Resources
                           A map of the virginia Depa                                                                      ...
                      .,j                                      ional Oceanic and Atmospheric
                           Management Program pursuant to Nat
                           Administration Award No. NA270ZO312-01.


                           PREPARED BY CRATER PLANNING DISTRICT COMMISSION
                           SEPTEMBER 1993

                                                                                                                           CLAREMONT                                                                                                                      25












                                          GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES


              Following are the goals, objectives. and policies for Claremont regarding Land Use, Comm    unity
              Services and Capital Improvements.

              As defined in the Virginia Citizens Planning Association Handbook, "The Comprehensive Plan":

              A gaal is a general statement of a future state which is considered desirable for the
              community; it is an end toward which actions are aimed.

              An obiective is a clear statement of a way in which a goal is to be reached; it refers to some
              specific accomplishment which is reasonably attainable.

              A oolicy is a statement of a fundamental commitment which is used to guide decisions. It
              prescribes a definite course of action or method of doing something, and is selected from
              alternatives based on an assessment of existing conditions and future expectatio.ns.



                                                         Land Use


              Goal: To provide a balanced pattern of land uses that will meet the future needs of all of
                      Claremont's citizens and promote both social and economic development.


                      Residential Land Use


              Objective:    Provide for continued safe and attractive housing areas.


              Policies:


              1.      Encourage residential development that is compatible with nearby residential
                      development.

              2.      Encourage new housing only where land is suitable for septic tank installation.

              3.      Recognize manufactured housing as an alternative affordable housing option and plan
                      for its future development.

              4.      Explore possibilities for the limited use of residential areas for small businesses.

              5.      Establish an information center at the Town Hall for the distribution of information on
                      building and zoning codes to facilitate the use of proper procedures by prospective
                      home builders and those planning home improvements.







                                                            26











                        Commercial Land Use


                Objective:    Upgrade and expand the current commercial areas.

                Policies:


                1       Promote the establishment of new businesses and the remodeling of existing ones.

                2.      Explore demolition or restoration of current dilapidated buildings in commercial areas.

                3.      Implement the use of special use permits to encourage small businesses in residential
                        areas that do not conflict with current zoning laws.

                        Historic Preservation


                Objective     Encourage the preservation of local historic homes and buildings.

                Policies:


                1 .     Adopt ordinances to preserve historic landmarks in Claremont as established by the
                        Virginia Department of Historic Resources.

                2.      Follow guidelines set down by the Natural Trust for Historic Preservation t  o protect
                        historic structures.


                        Environmental Protection


                Objective:    Sensitive lands at or near shorelies that have intrinsic water quality value due
                              to the ecologocal and biological processes they perform should be protected
                              from the adverse effects of indiscrminate land development patterns and
                              practices.


                Policies:


                1.      Enforce the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act.

                2.      Protect ecologically and environmentally sensitive areas for open space and passive
                        recreational use.


                3.      Reserve flood hazard areas for open space and passive recreational use.

                4.      Restrict development in areas of critical environmental importance.

                5.      Collect and refine land use information or physical contraints, then direct future
                        development away from these areas.





                                                              27










                                               Community Facilities and Services

              The quality, range and accessibility of community facilities and services are critical fa       ctors in
              planning for the future of the community.

              Goal: To provide and maintain a high quality of community fa               cilities necessary for the
                       continued growth of the area.

                       Utilities


              Objective:      Completion of a water system to provide adequate           water for every citizen of
                              Claremont and Claremont Beach.


              Policies:


              1        Supply a generator for the pumping station on River Road to provide power during
                       blackout emergencies.

              2.       Eventually install a 50,000 gallon elevated water storage tank to replace the 5,000
                       gallon tank in the pumping station.

                       Public Safety


              Objective:      Continue current support of the Claremont Volunteer Fire Department and local
                              Sheriff's Department.


              Policies:


              1 .      Provide in the annual budget, for the support of the Claremont Volunteer Fire
                       Department.
              2.       Encourage private'and public support of the Surry County Rescue Squad.

                       Librarv


              Objective:      Provide for increased library service.

              Policies:


              1 .      Explore federal and state support for the expansion of the current library.

              2.       Look for land in Claremont that could facilitate a new library, or find a pre-existing
                       structure that might accommodate one.

              3.       Expand library facilities and programs.





                                                                 28











                    Litter Control


            Objective:   Remove or replace all unsanitary garbage disposal sites.

            Policies:


            1 .     Approach Surry County's Board of Supervisors and request the placement of
                    dumpsters in or near Sunken Meadow to alleviate over-loading of Claremont
                    dumpsters.

            2.      Modify the Adopt-A-Mile Highway program to "Adopt-A-Street" for Claremont.

            3.      Police Claremont dumpsters to maintain current legal and health standards.

            4.      Plan for eventual curb-side garbage pickup.

            5.      Encourage private and public support of community-wide recycling program.

                    Communications


            Objective:   Improve the current system of communications in the vicinity of Claremont.

            Policies:


            1 .     Upgrade telephone services with fiber optics.

            2.      Solicit proposals for cable television services for the Claremont area.

                    Capital Improvements Program

            Objective:   Since the financing of community facilities and services is complex, even the
                         smallest community should develop a capital improvements program.


            Policies:


            1       Install sidewalks and gutters.

            2.      Utilize a capital improvement programto ensure that community facilities are scheduled
                    in a manner compatible with the financial capability of the Town.











                                                         29











                                                        THE PLAN


              The history of a town affects its present and future. Therefore, this plan includes an analysis
              of past trends and developments as well as projections for the future. In formulating the plan,
              consideration has been given to the Town's current inventory, status and financial standing,
              as well as citizens' wishes for its future development.


                                                         Land Use


              The plan recommends continued expansion of single-family detached dwellings in conformity
              with the present make-up of the Town, while seeking to insure that new developments only
              build on land that will meet the needs of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act. It encourages
              the Town to pursue ordinances to enforce the restoration of abandoned buildings and
              deteriorating structures, or to demolish them.

                                                        Commercial


              The Town wishes to promote new businesses in the existing land zoned for commercial use
              and to expand into, with limited special use permits, some land currently zoned residential.
              It encourages owners of dilapidated and deteriorating buildings to upgrade and improve such
              structures or to demolish them and build new ones.


                                                   Historic Preservation


              With its historic past, many of the current homes and buildings have historic significance and
              the plan encourages the Town to preserve these landmarks.

                                                   Community Facilities

              Water: The plan believes that it is imperative that every citizen of the Town have access to
              necessary water, despite power breakdowns and occasional over usage. The addition of a
              generator to the pumping station and the projected building of a 50,000 gallon elevated water
              storage tank for the Town should be a priority.

                                                       Public Safety

              The plan encourages the current financial support of the Fire Department and increased private
              support of the Sheriff's office and the Surry Rescue Squad.

                                                      Health Services


              A litter control program is urged, cleaning up and policing the dumpsters,'asking the Board of
              Supervisors to provide extra dumpsters for Sunken Meadow and to eventually have garbage
              pick-up for the Town.






                                                            30










                                            Capital Improvements Plan (CIP)

              The capital improvements program should include installation of curbs and gutters where
              necessary and eventual retirement of the current'water-loan debt.

                                                   Communications


              The installation of fiber optics cable in the telephone system and the establishment of a Cable
              TV system is recommended.

                                                        Library

              A priority is the expansion of the facilities in the current library and plans for a new building
              for a larger library.


              Map 5 is the land use map for the Town of Claremont.




































                                                           31











                                                   IMPLEMENTATION


             Full implementation of the Claremont Comprehensive Plan is as important as the preparation
             and adoption of the plan. The value of the plan to the Town will be determined by the extent
             to which it guides future development in the Town.

             The State Code mandates the review of the adopted comprehensive plan at least once every
             five years. Due to the mid-range time frame of the plan, periodic monitoring and evaluation
             is necessary to insure its adequacy and appropriateness against changed values and other
             conditions. The maintenance of current data upon which the plan was predicated is a
             prerequisite to such periodic monitoring and evaluation.

             There are a number of techniques that could be employed in Claremont to implement the plan
             once it has been approved by the Council. These include both direct and indirect methods.
             The more direct methods include a zoning ordinance, subdivision regulations, and capital
             improvement programming. The State legislation enabling the Town to implement these
             mechanisms already exists. These mechanisms and others are discussed in the following
             paragraphs.

             Adoption or Revision of Land Use Regulations
             Zoning is probably the single most important land use regulation that can be used in Claremont
             to effectuate the comprehensive plan. A zoning ordinance consists of a text and a zoning
             district map. The text may regulate in each district the use of land and the size, height, area,
             bulk, and location of structures. The zoning district map divides the locality into the various
             districts described in the text. A properly prepared zoning ordinance will enable Claremont to
             achieve many of the objectives delineated in the comprehensive plan.

             Claremont adopted its subdivision ordinance. Through regulating the division of land in
             preparation for sale and/or development, the Town is in a good position to protect the interests
             of those affected by such development.

             Peanut, Soil and Water Conservation District currently enforces a Soil Erosion and
             Sedimentation Control Ordinance for the Town of Claremont. This ordinance regulates certain
              land-disturbing activities" by requiring the submission of soil erosion and sediment control
             plans prior to the approval of certain types of development. Land-disturbing activity means
             any land change which may result in soil erosion from water or wind and the movement of
             sediments into water or onto land including clearing, grading, excavating, transportation and
             filli ng of land.

             Capital Improvements Programming
             Many private investments hinge on the availability of public facilities and services. The
             availability of schools, recreational and cultural facilities, water and sewer services and other
             community facilities can cause the growth and development of certain areas. This gives the
             Town the opportunity to channel growth and development, commensurate with its financial
             capabilities, in a manner compatible with the goals and objectives of the comprehensive plan.
             Community facilities and services should be provided on a priority basis only to those areas
             in which growth and development are anticipated.



                                                             32










            Citizen Cooperation and Coordination
            It is obvious from the foregoing discussion that a number of public and private decisions will
            be involved in the implementation of Claremont Comprehensive PLan. The importance of
            consistent decisions and the facilitation of citizen support of the Plan cannot be overstated.
            Successful implementation of the plan requires openness and the cooperation of all of the
            parties involved.

            Summary
            A comprehensive plan is an official public document adopted by a local government as a policy
            to guide decisions about the physical, development of -the community.              Thus, the
            comprehensive plan is an instrument by which general guidance is applied to issues addressed
            by the Town Council and Planning Commission regarding decisions directly or indirectly related
            to future development.

            The above mentioned implementation techniques are those which are essential to realizing
            Town objectives. However, it should be remembered that implementation is a process of
            coordination and decision making which is consistent with planning policies. Thus, it is the
            process which will help the Town reach its goals and objectives.








J

































                                                         33



















                                                                                                                                      1A MES       RIVER
































                                                                                                                                            IN'\









                     LAND USE



                        Residential

                        Residential, waterfront

                        Commercial

                        Commercial, waterfront
                                                                                                                                                                       A rr
                                                                                                                                                                       Ma
                                                                                                                                                                       Ad






                                                                                                                           NOAA COASTAL SERVICES CTR LIBRARY



                                                                                                                           3 6668 14111914 1