ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
1.0
ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
1.1
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The purpose of this section is to provide basic background information for the comprehensive planning process and general demographic characteristics for the Village of Cobb. More specifically this section includes information from visioning sessions, community profile and projection data including population trends, age distribution, and population projections.
1.2
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICY AND PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS
The following are the Issues and Opportunities goals, objectives, policy, and program recommendations for Cobb. The essence of these recommendations is reflected throughout the entire document. 1.
Protect and improve the health, safety, and welfare of residents in the Village of Cobb.
2.
Preserve and enhance the quality of life for the Village of Cobb residents.
3.
Protect and preserve the Village of Cobb community character.
Note: The above policy recommendations are further explained in other elements of this Comprehensive Plan. This section provides background information and overall direction. For example, the above recommendations may be carried out by implementing recommendations in other sections such as housing, economic development, and transportation. Wisconsin State Statute 66.1001(2)(a) (a) Issues and Opportunities Background information on the local governmental unit and a statement of overall objectives, policies, goals and programs of the local governmental unit to guide the future development and redevelopment of the local governmental unit over a 20-year planning period. Background information shall include population, household and employment forecasts that the local governmental unit uses in developing its comprehensive plan, and demographic trends, age distribution, educational levels, income levels and employment characteristics that exist within the local governmental unit.
1.3
COMMUNITY VISION
A vision statement identifies both where a community intends to be in the future and how to meet the future needs of stakeholders: its citizens. The vision statement incorporates the community’s shared understanding of its nature and purpose and uses this understanding to move together towards a greater purpose. The Village Planning Commission utilized visioning information to create their formal vision statement: We envision the future of Cobb as a progressive community, set in a beautiful natural setting of diverse agricultural and recreational land where intergovernmental cooperation advances will help keep the community pristine, safe, and rural.
1.4
BACKGROUND
Under the Comprehensive Planning legislation, adopted by the state in October of 1999, beginning on January 1 2010, if a local governmental unit engages in any of the actions listed below, those actions shall be consistent with that local governmental unit’s Comprehensive Plan.
Official Mapping Local Subdivision Regulations County, Town, Village or City zoning Ordinances Zoning of Shorelands or Wetlands in Shorelands
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Comprehensive plans are a blueprint for how a community will develop and grow. Their purpose is to provide communities with information and policies that they shall use in the future to guide planning and community decisions. The Comprehensive Plan includes nine elements:
Issues and Opportunities Utilities and Community Facilities Agricultural, Natural, and Cultural Resources
Housing Transportation Economic Development
Intergovernmental Cooperation Land Use Implementation
In addition, the Comprehensive Planning legislation establishes fourteen planning goals to guide planning efforts. The fourteen goals, along with other planning policies and objectives created during the planning process, appear throughout each chapter in this document and are listed below: 1.
2.
Promote the redevelopment of lands with existing infrastructure and public services and the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing residential, commercial and industrial structures. Encourage neighborhood designs that support a range of transportation choices.
8.
Build community identity by revitalizing main streets and enforcing design standards.
9.
Provide an adequate supply of affordable housing for individuals of all income levels throughout each community.
10. Provide adequate infrastructure and public services and an adequate supply of developable land to meet existing and future market demand for residential, commercial and industrial uses.
3.
Protect natural areas, including wetlands, wildlife habitats, lakes, woodlands, open spaces and groundwater resources.
4.
Protect economically productive areas, including farmland and forests.
11. Promote the expansion or stabilization of the current economic base and the creation of a range of employment opportunities at the state, regional and local levels.
5.
Encourage land-uses, densities and regulations that promote efficient development patterns and relatively low municipal, state governmental and utility costs.
12. Balance individual property rights with community interests and goals.
6.
Preserve cultural, historic and archaeological sites.
7.
Encourage coordination and cooperation among nearby units of government.
Adopted December 13, 2010
13. Plan and develop land uses that create or preserve varied and unique urban and rural communities. 14. Provide an integrated, efficient and economical transportation system that affords mobility, convenience and safety and that meets the needs of all citizens, including transitdependent and disabled citizens.
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Three jurisdictions (the villages of Cobb and Cobb in Iowa County and the Town of Millville in Grant County) together with the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission applied for a Comprehensive Planning Grant through the Wisconsin Department of Administration in the fall of 2008. In the spring of 2009, a thirty-month Comprehensive Planning Grant was awarded. The jurisdictions contracted with the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SWWRPC) to complete individual comprehensive plans for each of the participating jurisdictions in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes 66.1001. (See Chapter Attachments Map. 1.1)
1.5
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following indicates the roles and responsibilities of each entity involved in the comprehensive planning process.
Southwest Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SWWRPC) a. Provide staff services and project management for process. b. Produce written plans and supplementary documents. c. Plan, coordinate, and staff joint-jurisdictional meetings.
Village Planning Commission a. Provide feedback and direction to SWWRPC in developing Plan policies, information, and implementation measures. b. Hold meetings to discuss comprehensive planning issues. c. Develop Comprehensive Plan and recommend it to the governing body for adoption. d. Represent the jurisdiction at joint-jurisdictional planning meetings.
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Village of Cobb
Village Board a. Appoint plan commission members. b. Provide funds for the process. c. Provide notice for and hold local meetings and hearings for the adoption of the Plan and implementation measures via ordinance.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
As part of the Comprehensive Planning legislation, every community must develop a public participation plan at the beginning of the planning process. The goal of a public participation plan is to promote awareness of the planning process, to keep the public informed and educated, and to obtain input and participation from the public in order to create a plan, which reflects the vision and goals of the community. The Village of Cobb Planning Commission developed its plan for involving the public as part of the requirements of the Comprehensive Planning Process (Section 66.1001(4)(a), Stats.). Below is a table that provides headings for three primary audiences for the jurisdiction’s Public Participation Plan. These groups include the general public, legal boards/agencies, civic associations, businesses, and groups/individuals involved with land use issues. Table 1.1 Primary Public Participation Contacts Legal Boards and Agencies Village of Cobb Board Town of Eden Board Public Library Fire District
Civic Associations and Groups Lions Lioness’ Cobb Community
Groups and Individuals Kids Kingdom Cobb Beauty Salon Tri-Star Pustina Esser Electric Construction Ritchies Charter Fuels Cornerstone Infinite Health Foundation. Chuck Ehrler Reynolds Farm Feed Frontier FS Stenner Bishop Farm Welding/Farm Bob Wagner Badger Lawn Farm Care Lauretta Gard Paul Havlik Farm Plumbing Jim Pustina Cobb Food Farm Mart E-mail Royal Bank Contacts Fingerson’s Barnstone
Both planning commission meetings and SWWRPC facilitated meetings serve as methods for public participation throughout the entire Village of Cobb Comprehensive Planning Process. The Village is responsible for using outreach methods to encourage participation during the planning process. Those methods include posting notices of the Planning Commission meetings at the Village Office, Royal Bank, the Post Office, the Cobb Food Mart, the Cobb Public Library, and on the Village website. Notice of the meetings will also be made available through the Cobb Village Newsletter, and through the Village’s e-mail distribution. The success of the public participation plan is measured by the extent to which progress has been made towards the achievement of the Comprehensive Plan’s goals.
1.7
PLAN ADOPTION AND IMPLEMENTATION
During the implementation phase of the project, the Planning Commission adopts, by majority vote, a resolution that formally recommends the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan (and any future Plan amendments) to the Village Board. CD copies of the recommended and adopted Plan will be sent to the clerk of the Town of Eden, Iowa County, and the Iowa-Grant School District Administrator (Section 66.1001(4)(b), Stats.) In addition, a CD and a paper copy of the Plan will be sent to the Wisconsin Department of Administration and to the Public Library serving the jurisdiction. Paper copies will also go to the Planning Commission and Village Board, including the Village Clerk.
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In order to comply with Act 307 regarding nonmetallic mining, the Village of Cobb will also send a copy of the Plan, per a written request, to any operator who has applied for or obtained a nonmetallic reclamation permit; a person who has registered a marketable nonmetallic mineral deposit; and any other property owner or leaseholder who has an interest in property allowing the extraction of nonmetallic mineral resources. Prior to adopting the Plan, the Village of Cobb Board will hold at least one public hearing to discuss the recommended Plan (Section 66.1001(4)(d), Stats.) and provide an opportunity for written comments by the public and respond to such comments through review and discussion at a Village Board meeting. At least 30 days prior to the hearing, a Class 1 notice will be published that contains, at a minimum, the following:
The date, time and location of the hearing A summary of the proposed Plan or Plan amendment The local government staff that can be contacted for additional information Where to inspect and how to obtain a copy of the proposal before the hearing
The Village Board, by a majority vote, shall enact the ordinance adopting the recommended Plan (Section 66.1001(4)(c), Stats.). The adopted Plan and ordinance shall be distributed to the aforementioned parties in Section 66.1001(4)(b), Stats. The Plan shall contain all nine elements identified in Section 66.1001(2), Stats. If the Village Board asks the Planning Commission to revise the recommended Plan, it is not mandatory that these revisions be sent to the distribution list. However, in the spirit of public participation and intergovernmental cooperation, revisions constituting a substantial change to the recommended Plan may be sent to the distribution list.
1.8
PLANNING AREA
Refer to Map 1.2 at the end of Chapter 1, Issues and Opportunities, for a map of the planning area considered during this comprehensive planning process. According to state statute, Class 4 municipalities have extraterritorial jurisdiction to the area 1.5 miles outside of the corporate limits. During the course of this Plan, this area shall be considered as part of the planning area. Conversely, the extraterritorial area will also be considered as part of the planning area for jurisdictions that border municipalities. The inclusion of the extraterritorial area in two separate plans underscores the importance of these lands and the importance of intergovernmental cooperation (see Chapter 8, Land Use). The purpose of the extraterritorial zone is essentially one of coordination with adjoining communities in an effort to anticipate and mitigate any impacts stemming from the development in that area.
1.9
COMMUNITY SURVEY
In the fall of 2009, staff from UW-River Falls Survey Center mailed a survey to all property owners in the Village of Cobb, the Village of Cobb (both in Iowa County), and the Town of Millville (Grant County). The purpose of the survey was to provide participating planning commissions with community feedback regarding key elements in the Comprehensive Plan. UW-River Falls Survey Center was also responsible for tabulating and analyzing the survey responses. The analysis report of your jurisdiction is included as an attachment to this Chapter (see attachments section).
1.10
COMMUNITY PROFILE AND PROJECTION
The following displays the population statistics and projections that were prepared as part of the requirements of the Comprehensive Planning legislation. Other demographic data and statistics are in their corresponding chapters. Table 1.2 Population Statistics (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 U.S. Census) Village of Village of Cobb Cobb Iowa County Population Number Percent Number Total Population (1970) 410 100.0% 19,303 Total Population (1980) 409 100.0% 19,802 Total Population (1990) 440 100.0% 20,150 Total Population (2000) 442 100.0% 22,780 SEX AND AGE (2000) Male 233 52.7% 11,350 Female 209 47.3% 11,430 Under 10 years 10 to 19 years
Adopted December 13, 2010
65 60
14.7% 13.6%
3,181 3,516
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Iowa County Percent 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Wisconsin Number 4,417,933 4,705,767 4,891,769 5,363,675
Wisconsin Percent 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
49.8% 50.2%
2,649,041 2,714,634
49.4 50.6
14.0% 15.5%
721,824 810,269
13.5% 15.1%
Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
Table 1.2(cont.) Population Statistics (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 U.S. Census) Village of Village of Cobb Cobb Iowa County Population Number Percent Number SEX AND AGE (2000) 20 to 34 years 76 17.2% 3,861 35 to 44 years 66 14.9% 4,048 45 to 59 years 67 15.2% 4,290 60 to 74 years 61 13.8% 2,411 75+ years 47 10.6% 1,473 Median Age (2000)
38.3
Iowa County Percent
Wisconsin Number
Wisconsin Percent
16.9% 17.8% 18.8% 10.6% 6.5% 100.0%
1,063,460 875,522 985,048 560,306 347,246
19.8% 16.3% 18.4% 10.4% 6.5% 100%
37.1
36.0
Figure 1.1 shows that the Village of Cobb overall experienced a small population increase from 1970 to 2000 of 7.8%. Figure 1.1 Population Changes in the Village of Cobb (Source: US Census)
500 450 400
Population
350 300 250 200
410
409
1970
1980
440
442
1990
2000
150 100 50 0 Year
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Figure 1.2 shows the population of the Village of Cobb by age distribution for the year 2000. The largest group was people ages 20 to 34 (76 people), making up 17.2 % of the population. The second largest age group of 45 to 59 years of age contained 15.2% of the population with 67 people. The Village’s median age was 38.3. Figure 1.2 Age Distribution in the Village of Cobb (Source: 2000 US Census)
100 90
76
Number of People
80 65
70
66
67 61
60
60
47
50 40 30 20 10 0 Under 10 years 10 to 19 years
20 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 59 years
60 to 74 years
75+ years
Age Groups
Figure 1.3 compares the population percentage by age group for the Village of Cobb, Iowa County, and the State of Wisconsin in 2000. Figure 1.3 Population Distribution (Source: 2000 US Census)
25.0%
Percent Population
20.0%
15.0%
Village of Cobb Iowa County Wisconsin
10.0%
5.0%
0.0% Under 10 years
10 to 19 years
20 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 59 years
60 to 74 years
75+ years
Age Groups
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Table 1.3 Population Projections (Source: 2007 SWWRPC) Age Group 2010 Low 2010 High 2020 Low Less than 10 61 62 50 10 to 19 Years 65 66 62 20 to 34 Years 84 85 86 35 to 44 Years 58 59 69 45 to 59 Years 84 85 83 60 to 74 Years 60 60 77 75+ Years 38 38 30 Total 450 454 458
2020 High 52 63 88 70 84 79 30 466
2030 Low 51 51 80 74 87 91 32 466
2030 High 52 52 82 75 89 94 33 478
Figure 1.4 shows the projected populations for the years 2010, 2020, and 2030. The red line indicates the future high projection, while the blue line indicates the future low projection. All future population projections show increases. Figure 1.4 Village of Cobb Population Projections (Source: 2005 SWWRPC, Note: State Projections extend only to 2020)
520
500 478 480
Population
466 454
460
458
449 440
Low Projection High Projection
450
442
440
Census
466
458
State Projection
420 410
409
400
380 1970
1980
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1990
2000 Year
2010
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2020
2030
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Village of Cobb
Table 1.4 Educational Attainments (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 US Census) Village of Village of Iowa Cobb Cobb County Educational Attainment Number Percent Number
Iowa County Percent
Wisconsin Number
Wisconsin Percent
Less than 9th Grade
11
3.5%
632
4.2%
186,125
5.4%
9th to 12th No Diploma
18
5.8%
1,111
7.4%
332,191
9.6%
HS Grad
122
39.2%
6,306
41.8%
1,201,813
34.6%
Some College
77
24.8%
3,009
19.9%
715,664
20.6%
Associate Degree
34
10.9%
1,255
8.3%
260,711
7.5%
Bachelor's Degree
39
12.5%
1,990
13.2%
530,268
15.3%
Graduate/Prof. Degree Percent High School Grad or Higher
10
3.2%
797
5.3%
249,005
7.2%
90.7%
88.5%
85.1%
Figure 1.5 Educational Attainment (Source: 2000 US Census) 45.0% 40.0%
Percentage
35.0% 30.0%
Village of Cobb
25.0%
Iowa County
20.0%
Wisconsin
15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%
Educational Attainment
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Table 1.5 Occupations (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 US Census) Village of Village of Cobb Cobb Iowa County Occupations Number Percent Number
Iowa County Percent
Wisconsin Number
Wisconsin Percent
Prod, Trans & Mat. Moving
36
14.7%
2,195
17.4%
540,930
19.8%
Const, Extraction & Maint.
24
9.8%
1,378
10.9%
237,086
8.7%
Farm, Fishing & Forestry
2
0.8%
315
2.5%
25,725
0.9%
Sales & Office
88
35.9%
3,221
25.5%
690,360
25.2%
Services
17
6.9%
1,611
12.8%
383,619
14.0%
Mgmt, Prof & Related
78
31.8%
3,898
30.9%
857,205
31.3%
Total
245
100%
12,618
100%
2,734,925
100%
Figure 1.6 shows the projected labor force populations for the years 2010, 2020, and 2030. The red line indicates a high projection, while the blue line indicates the low projection. Labor figures were not available for 1970 and 1980. Figure 1.6 Village of Cobb Labor Force Projections (Source: 2000 US Census, SWWRPC)
300 280 260 253 246
Counts
240
236 225
220
241 232
Census Low Projection
223
High Projection
201
200 180 160 140 1990
1.11
2000
2010 Year
2020
2030
ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS
At the end of each chapter of this Comprehensive Plan is a section that lists some of the state and federal agencies and programs that exist to help communities: it is not an exhaustive list. Many of these agencies and programs (a brief program description and contact information is given) can provide expertise or funding to help implement some of the recommendations of this Comprehensive Plan. Your community should contact the agency of interest to obtain the most up-to-date information. Grants.gov (see below) is a source that could be used to accrue funding for all types of projects. GRANTS.GOV (www.grants.gov) Grants.gov allows organizations to electronically find and apply for competitive grant opportunities from all Federal grant-making agencies. Grants.gov is the single access point for over 900 grant programs offered by the 26 Federal grant-making agencies. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is the managing partner for Grants.gov.
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ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES CHAPTER ATTACHMENT
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Village of Cobb During August through October of 2009 a total of 199 questionnaires were sent to households in the Village of Cobb. A total of 129 questionnaires were returned for a return rate of 65 percent. This number of returned surveys will provide estimates that expected to be accurate to within plus or minus 5.2 percent. Key results of this survey include:
Village of Cobb residents reported that small town atmosphere, being near their job and being near family and friends were the most important factors when choosing whether or not to reside in the Village. Compared to Iowa County residents as a whole, respondents from the Village were much more likely to consider cost of home, low crime rate, being near their job, quality schools and small town atmosphere when choosing a place to live. They were also less likely than County residents to consider recreational opportunities in this decision. Residents reported that they were overwhelmingly satisfied with all community services and facilities about which we asked except for police protection. Over 75 percent rated all other services and facilities as excellent or good, less than 50% felt that way about police protection. When compared to Iowa County, higher percentages of Village residents rated garbage collection, municipal water system, sanitary sewer system, and storm water management excellent or good. They also seemed to be more satisfied with overall street and road maintenance. Overall, Cobb residents rated fire protection, park and recreation facilities, public library, recycling programs and snow removal as excellent more frequently than Iowa County residents. Over half of all Village respondents agreed that it is important to protect all the natural and cultural resources about which we asked with the exception of wetlands and historic and cultural sites. When compared to the County, Village residents were less likely to say that forested lands, historic and cultural sites, wetlands and wildlife habitat were very important and more likely to rate them as unimportant. They also rated open space and rivers and streams as very important less frequently than the County overall. A majority of Village residents agree or strongly agree that there is a need for all the types of housing about which we asked with the exception of apartments. Village opinion is more evenly split on this form of housing. Compared to the Iowa County, Village residents were much more likely to agree with the need for improving existing homes, duplexes, elderly homes and starter homes. They also tend to prefer traditional type development (large lots with little or no shared open space) as opposed to a cluster design (smaller lots with more shared open space). By about a 2 to 1 margin, Village of Cobb residents disagreed that landowners should be able to develop any way they want. They also agreed, almost unanimously, that ag land should be used for agricultural purposes and not for commercial, or residential purposes. However, while agreeing that large scale farms (those with 500+ animals) should be allowed, they would prefer for them to be located outside of a 2 mile radius from incorporated areas. A majority of residents agree that current driveways meet the requirements of emergency services and that visual impact should be considered in the development process. When asked about minimum lot sizes residents reported that they would prefer having a minimum lot size in place and that it should be 5 acres or less. This is not to surprising considering that nearly 80 percent of respondents currently own less than one acre of land in Iowa County. Iowa County residents were more likely to strongly agree that ag land should be used for agricultural purposes than Village residents. Village residents were also less likely to disagree with the thought of using ag land for other purposes such as commercial and residential, they also had greater amounts of no opinion about these uses. While Village residents wanted minimum lot sizes of less than 5 acres, the County preferred a slightly larger minimum size, which is consistent with the fact that more County residents own larger amounts of land. Overall Village respondents seemed to be happy about the condition of roads and the current network. They also strongly agreed or agreed that walking and biking were important modes of transportation but were evenly split about whether or not more walking and biking trails were needed along public roads. While residents rated the quality of roads and sidewalks as excellent or good other modes of transportation about which we asked (railroads, buses, airports, etc) as fair or poor.
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While Village residents were satisfied with roads and biking and walking trails, they also seemed to be more satisfied with these modes of transportation than the County as a whole. They were more likely to rate roads and sidewalks as excellent or good and they were also more likely to have an opinion about these issues as well. They were also more likely to have no opinion about all other modes of transportation about which we asked.
The most preferred way to receive information about comprehensive planning was via direct mailings.
Village residents support the development of downtown, commercial and retail, and ag related businesses. They feel that this development should take place in or near already developed cities and that developments on the edge of the city should be required to use municipal water and sewer. They also support the development of wind and solar energy as a form of economic development. More opposed than supported the development of ethanol as an alternative energy source.
While residents agree with the need for commercial and industrial development they were less likely than the County to agree that this development should take place in or near existing cities. They were also more likely than the county to disagree with the development of ethanol plants as a source of economic development.
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SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – QUALITY OF LIFE
When asked why they chose to live in the Village of Cobb, respondents reported the small town atmosphere, being near their job and family and friends as the most important factors. Recreational opportunities, historical significance and community services were of little importance in this choice.
Quality of Life Factors n. Small Town Atmosphere h. Near Family and Friends i. Near Job d. Cost of Home f. Low Crime Rate l. Quality Schools a. Agriculture k. Quality Neighborhood g. Natural Beauty j. Property Taxes o. Other b. Appearance of Homes m. Recreational … c. Community Services e. Historical Significance
0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
10%
20%
30%
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40%
50%
60%
70%
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Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – QUALITY OF LIFE (COUNTY COMPARISON) Significantly more Village residents indicated that the cost of their home, low crime rate, being near their job, quality schools and small town atmosphere where important factors in their decision to live in Iowa County. Respondents rated recreational opportunities as an important factor significantly less frequently than the County as a whole. 1. What are the three most important reasons you and your family choose to live in Iowa County? Municipality
County
Municipality
County
a. Agriculture
19%
22%
i. Near Job
42%
30%
b. Appearance of Homes
5%
c. Community Services
3%
j. Property Taxes
8%
9%
2%
2%
k. Quality Neighborhood
12%
9%
d. Cost of Home
26%
17%
l. Quality Schools
24%
13%
e. Historical Significance
2%
5%
m. Recreational Opportunities
4%
13%
f. Low Crime Rate
25%
18%
n. Small Town Atmosphere
58%
51%
g. Natural Beauty
9%
38%
o. Other
6%
9%
h. Near Family and Friends
55%
51%
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SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
With one exception (police protection), Village residents are extremely satisfied with the local community facilities and services, with at least 75 percent of respondents rating them as either excellent or good. Opinions were evenly split in regards to police protection in the Village. Rating Community Facilities and Services b. Fire Protection c. Garbage Collection j. Sanitary Sewer Service g. Public Library i. Recycling Programs k. Snow Removal Fair+Poor
m. Street & Road Maintenance
Ex+Good
a. Ambulance Service e. Park & Rec Facilities d. Municipal Water System h. Public School System l. Storm Water Management f. Police Protection 0%
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25%
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50%
75%
100%
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Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES (COUNTY COMPARISON) When compared to Iowa County as a whole, Village residents were substantially more likely to rate garbage collection, municipal water system, sanitary sewer system, and storm water management as excellent or good. On the other hand, they were also less likely to rate police protection as excellent or good. Village respondents were more satisfied with street and road maintenance than the County overall. They were also more likely to rate fire protection, park and recreation facilities, public library, recycling programs and snow removal as excellent. Smaller percentages of Village residents indicated garbage collection, municipal water system, sanitary sewer service, and storm water management as not applicable compared to the County overall. 2. Rate the following local services Excellent Cobb
Good
Cnty
Cobb
Fair Cnty
Cobb
Poor Cnty
Cobb
Not Applicable Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
a. Ambulance Service
37%
49%
48%
40%
6%
5%
1%
0%
8%
6%
b. Fire Protection
60%
48%
36%
42%
0%
5%
0%
1%
4%
4%
c. Garbage Collection
44%
27%
47%
41%
5%
11%
1%
3%
2%
18%
d. Municipal Water System
35%
16%
47%
33%
11%
11%
3%
3%
4%
37%
e. Park & Rec Facilities
38%
31%
46%
48%
14%
13%
0%
2%
2%
5%
9%
19%
39%
49%
31%
23%
9%
6%
13%
4%
g. Public Library
44%
23%
44%
40%
9%
14%
0%
5%
2%
18%
h. Public School System
17%
19%
60%
52%
14%
15%
3%
3%
5%
10%
i. Recycling Programs
35%
18%
53%
55%
9%
17%
1%
4%
2%
5%
j. Sanitary Sewer Service
35%
13%
55%
40%
5%
9%
0%
1%
5%
36%
k. Snow Removal
46%
21%
41%
53%
7%
16%
2%
5%
4%
6%
l. Storm Water Management
23%
8%
52%
38%
14%
17%
5%
5%
6%
32%
f. Police Protection
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SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES With the exception of wetlands and historical and cultural sites, Cobb residents agreed that all natural and cultural resources about which we asked were very important or important to protect. A large majority stressed that rivers and streams, groundwater, farmland and air quality are important or very important resources to protect. Importance of Protecting Natural & Cultural Resources
a. Air Quality d. Groundwater g. Rivers and Streams b. Farmland h. Rural Character Unimportant + Very Unimportant
c. Forested Lands
Very Important + Important
i. Scenic Views and Undevel Bluffs f. Open Space k. Wildlife Habitat j. Wetlands e. Historic and Cultural Sites 0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
25%
50%
75%
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SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES (COUNTY COMPARISON) Residents of Cobb were significantly less likely to rate forested lands, historic and cultural sites, wetlands, and wildlife habitat as very important and more likely to rate them as unimportant compared to the County overall. Lower percentages of Villagers rated open space and rivers & streams as very important than in the County as a whole. Village of Cobb residents also rated scenic views and undeveloped bluff as very important less frequently than the overall County. 4. It is important to protect the following: Very Important
Important
Unimportant
Very Unimportant
Not Applicable
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
a. Air Quality
53%
53%
34%
32%
13%
14%
0%
1%
0%
1%
b. Farmland
37%
40%
36%
35%
20%
21%
2%
3%
4%
1%
c. Forested Lands
22%
36%
34%
37%
31%
24%
2%
2%
10%
1%
d. Groundwater
60%
61%
26%
27%
14%
11%
0%
1%
0%
0%
e. Historic and Cultural Sites
11%
19%
25%
29%
50%
41%
8%
10%
7%
2%
f. Open Space
16%
27%
38%
31%
38%
33%
6%
7%
2%
1%
g. Rivers and Streams
32%
47%
43%
34%
21%
18%
2%
1%
2%
1%
h. Rural Character
28%
28%
43%
36%
25%
29%
4%
6%
0%
1%
i. Scenic Views & Undevel Bluffs
18%
32%
36%
32%
30%
27%
8%
8%
8%
1%
j. Wetlands
15%
32%
28%
27%
38%
30%
11%
9%
8%
2%
k. Wildlife Habitat
23%
35%
29%
31%
36%
28%
7%
5%
6%
1%
Adopted December 13, 2010
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SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – HOUSING Over 50 percent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with all housing needs about which we asked with the exception of apartment buildings, on which the opinions were evenly split. Housing Needs
5. Improve Existing 8. Need elderly housing 6a. Need single family Disagree + strongly disagree
9. Need starter homes
Strongly agree + agree
7. Need affordable
6b. Need duplexes
6c. Need apartments 0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
25%
50%
75%
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100%
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Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – HOUSING (COUNTY COMPARISON) Village of Cobb residents were much more likely to strongly agree with the need for improvement of existing homes and duplexes. They were also more likely to agree with the need for elderly and starter homes. Consistently, they are also much less likely to disagree with the need for these same types of housing in the Village. When asked about the type of residential development preferred, Cobb residents reported, by a small margin, that they prefer the traditional design (large lots with little or no shared open space). The County as a whole would prefer a cluster design (smaller lots with more shared open space).
Strongly Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
No Opinion
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
23%
17%
54%
49%
7%
15%
2%
4%
15%
14%
a. Single Family Housing
19%
19%
49%
44%
5%
12%
2%
4%
25%
22%
b. Duplexes (2 units)
13%
7%
39%
35%
18%
23%
5%
11%
25%
24%
c. Apartments (3 or more units)
11%
6%
27%
25%
22%
29%
14%
16%
26%
24%
7. Need affordable housing
20%
22%
43%
43%
18%
15%
4%
6%
15%
15%
8. Need elderly housing
16%
14%
56%
43%
8%
19%
3%
5%
17%
18%
9. Need starter homes
17%
17%
48%
40%
12%
20%
2%
6%
21%
18%
5. Improve existing housing quality. 6. Need following housing types:
10. Would you prefer housing built in a traditional design (Option A) or a cluster design (Option B)? OPTION A OPTION B
Traditional Design
Cluster Design
Cobb
County
Cobb
County
58%
31%
42%
69%
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SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – AGRICULTURE AND LAND USE Village of Cobb residents disagree that land owners should be able to develop land any way they want. They almost unanimously agree that agricultural land should used for agricultural purposes while disagreeing that it should be used for any of the other purposes about which we asked. They also agree that large-scale farm (500+ animals) should be allowed outside of a 2-mile radius from incorporated areas. Over 75 percent of respondents agree or strongly agree that new driveways be required to meet emergency service standards. They also feel that it is important to consider visual impact when evaluating development proposals. A majority of Cobb residents feel there should be a minimum lot size, and 68 percent agree that it should be 5 acres or less. This is consistent with the fact that nearly 80 percent (76%) currently own less than one acre in Iowa County. Land Use Opinions 14. Consider visual impact 15. Driveways meet emergency service standards 16. Should be a minimum lot size 13. Develop land any way wanted
12c. Large scale farms 2+ miles out Disagree + strongly disagree
12a. Large scale farms anywhere
Strongly agree + agree
12b. Large scale farms nowhere
11a. Use ag land for ag 11b. Use ag land for residences 11c. Use ag land for commercial 11d. Use ag land for any use 0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
25%
50%
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75%
100%
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Preferred Minimum Lot Size
1 - 5 acres
Village of Cobb
1.0
ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES
1.1
CHAPTER SUMMARY
The purpose of this section is to provide basic background information for the comprehensive planning process and general demographic characteristics for the Village of Cobb. More specifically this section includes information from visioning sessions, community profile and projection data including population trends, age distribution, and population projections.
1.2
GOALS, OBJECTIVES, POLICY AND PROGRAM RECOMMENDATIONS
The following are the Issues and Opportunities goals, objectives, policy, and program recommendations for Cobb. The essence of these recommendations is reflected throughout the entire document. 1.
Protect and improve the health, safety, and welfare of residents in the Village of Cobb.
2.
Preserve and enhance the quality of life for the Village of Cobb residents.
3.
Protect and preserve the Village of Cobb community character.
Note: The above policy recommendations are further explained in other elements of this Comprehensive Plan. This section provides background information and overall direction. For example, the above recommendations may be carried out by implementing recommendations in other sections such as housing, economic development, and transportation. Wisconsin State Statute 66.1001(2)(a) (a) Issues and Opportunities Background information on the local governmental unit and a statement of overall objectives, policies, goals and programs of the local governmental unit to guide the future development and redevelopment of the local governmental unit over a 20-year planning period. Background information shall include population, household and employment forecasts that the local governmental unit uses in developing its comprehensive plan, and demographic trends, age distribution, educational levels, income levels and employment characteristics that exist within the local governmental unit.
1.3
COMMUNITY VISION
A vision statement identifies both where a community intends to be in the future and how to meet the future needs of stakeholders: its citizens. The vision statement incorporates the community’s shared understanding of its nature and purpose and uses this understanding to move together towards a greater purpose. The Village Planning Commission utilized visioning information to create their formal vision statement: We envision the future of Cobb as a progressive community, set in a beautiful natural setting of diverse agricultural and recreational land where intergovernmental cooperation advances will help keep the community pristine, safe, and rural.
1.4
BACKGROUND
Under the Comprehensive Planning legislation, adopted by the state in October of 1999, beginning on January 1 2010, if a local governmental unit engages in any of the actions listed below, those actions shall be consistent with that local governmental unit’s Comprehensive Plan.
Official Mapping Local Subdivision Regulations County, Town, Village or City zoning Ordinances Zoning of Shorelands or Wetlands in Shorelands
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Comprehensive plans are a blueprint for how a community will develop and grow. Their purpose is to provide communities with information and policies that they shall use in the future to guide planning and community decisions. The Comprehensive Plan includes nine elements:
Issues and Opportunities Utilities and Community Facilities Agricultural, Natural, and Cultural Resources
Housing Transportation Economic Development
Intergovernmental Cooperation Land Use Implementation
In addition, the Comprehensive Planning legislation establishes fourteen planning goals to guide planning efforts. The fourteen goals, along with other planning policies and objectives created during the planning process, appear throughout each chapter in this document and are listed below: 1.
2.
Promote the redevelopment of lands with existing infrastructure and public services and the maintenance and rehabilitation of existing residential, commercial and industrial structures. Encourage neighborhood designs that support a range of transportation choices.
8.
Build community identity by revitalizing main streets and enforcing design standards.
9.
Provide an adequate supply of affordable housing for individuals of all income levels throughout each community.
10. Provide adequate infrastructure and public services and an adequate supply of developable land to meet existing and future market demand for residential, commercial and industrial uses.
3.
Protect natural areas, including wetlands, wildlife habitats, lakes, woodlands, open spaces and groundwater resources.
4.
Protect economically productive areas, including farmland and forests.
11. Promote the expansion or stabilization of the current economic base and the creation of a range of employment opportunities at the state, regional and local levels.
5.
Encourage land-uses, densities and regulations that promote efficient development patterns and relatively low municipal, state governmental and utility costs.
12. Balance individual property rights with community interests and goals.
6.
Preserve cultural, historic and archaeological sites.
7.
Encourage coordination and cooperation among nearby units of government.
Adopted December 13, 2010
13. Plan and develop land uses that create or preserve varied and unique urban and rural communities. 14. Provide an integrated, efficient and economical transportation system that affords mobility, convenience and safety and that meets the needs of all citizens, including transitdependent and disabled citizens.
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Three jurisdictions (the villages of Cobb and Cobb in Iowa County and the Town of Millville in Grant County) together with the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission applied for a Comprehensive Planning Grant through the Wisconsin Department of Administration in the fall of 2008. In the spring of 2009, a thirty-month Comprehensive Planning Grant was awarded. The jurisdictions contracted with the Southwestern Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SWWRPC) to complete individual comprehensive plans for each of the participating jurisdictions in accordance with Wisconsin Statutes 66.1001. (See Chapter Attachments Map. 1.1)
1.5
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The following indicates the roles and responsibilities of each entity involved in the comprehensive planning process.
Southwest Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission (SWWRPC) a. Provide staff services and project management for process. b. Produce written plans and supplementary documents. c. Plan, coordinate, and staff joint-jurisdictional meetings.
Village Planning Commission a. Provide feedback and direction to SWWRPC in developing Plan policies, information, and implementation measures. b. Hold meetings to discuss comprehensive planning issues. c. Develop Comprehensive Plan and recommend it to the governing body for adoption. d. Represent the jurisdiction at joint-jurisdictional planning meetings.
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1.6
Village of Cobb
Village Board a. Appoint plan commission members. b. Provide funds for the process. c. Provide notice for and hold local meetings and hearings for the adoption of the Plan and implementation measures via ordinance.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
As part of the Comprehensive Planning legislation, every community must develop a public participation plan at the beginning of the planning process. The goal of a public participation plan is to promote awareness of the planning process, to keep the public informed and educated, and to obtain input and participation from the public in order to create a plan, which reflects the vision and goals of the community. The Village of Cobb Planning Commission developed its plan for involving the public as part of the requirements of the Comprehensive Planning Process (Section 66.1001(4)(a), Stats.). Below is a table that provides headings for three primary audiences for the jurisdiction’s Public Participation Plan. These groups include the general public, legal boards/agencies, civic associations, businesses, and groups/individuals involved with land use issues. Table 1.1 Primary Public Participation Contacts Legal Boards and Agencies Village of Cobb Board Town of Eden Board Public Library Fire District
Civic Associations and Groups Lions Lioness’ Cobb Community
Groups and Individuals Kids Kingdom Cobb Beauty Salon Tri-Star Pustina Esser Electric Construction Ritchies Charter Fuels Cornerstone Infinite Health Foundation. Chuck Ehrler Reynolds Farm Feed Frontier FS Stenner Bishop Farm Welding/Farm Bob Wagner Badger Lawn Farm Care Lauretta Gard Paul Havlik Farm Plumbing Jim Pustina Cobb Food Farm Mart E-mail Royal Bank Contacts Fingerson’s Barnstone
Both planning commission meetings and SWWRPC facilitated meetings serve as methods for public participation throughout the entire Village of Cobb Comprehensive Planning Process. The Village is responsible for using outreach methods to encourage participation during the planning process. Those methods include posting notices of the Planning Commission meetings at the Village Office, Royal Bank, the Post Office, the Cobb Food Mart, the Cobb Public Library, and on the Village website. Notice of the meetings will also be made available through the Cobb Village Newsletter, and through the Village’s e-mail distribution. The success of the public participation plan is measured by the extent to which progress has been made towards the achievement of the Comprehensive Plan’s goals.
1.7
PLAN ADOPTION AND IMPLEMENTATION
During the implementation phase of the project, the Planning Commission adopts, by majority vote, a resolution that formally recommends the adoption of the Comprehensive Plan (and any future Plan amendments) to the Village Board. CD copies of the recommended and adopted Plan will be sent to the clerk of the Town of Eden, Iowa County, and the Iowa-Grant School District Administrator (Section 66.1001(4)(b), Stats.) In addition, a CD and a paper copy of the Plan will be sent to the Wisconsin Department of Administration and to the Public Library serving the jurisdiction. Paper copies will also go to the Planning Commission and Village Board, including the Village Clerk.
Adopted December 13, 2010
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In order to comply with Act 307 regarding nonmetallic mining, the Village of Cobb will also send a copy of the Plan, per a written request, to any operator who has applied for or obtained a nonmetallic reclamation permit; a person who has registered a marketable nonmetallic mineral deposit; and any other property owner or leaseholder who has an interest in property allowing the extraction of nonmetallic mineral resources. Prior to adopting the Plan, the Village of Cobb Board will hold at least one public hearing to discuss the recommended Plan (Section 66.1001(4)(d), Stats.) and provide an opportunity for written comments by the public and respond to such comments through review and discussion at a Village Board meeting. At least 30 days prior to the hearing, a Class 1 notice will be published that contains, at a minimum, the following:
The date, time and location of the hearing A summary of the proposed Plan or Plan amendment The local government staff that can be contacted for additional information Where to inspect and how to obtain a copy of the proposal before the hearing
The Village Board, by a majority vote, shall enact the ordinance adopting the recommended Plan (Section 66.1001(4)(c), Stats.). The adopted Plan and ordinance shall be distributed to the aforementioned parties in Section 66.1001(4)(b), Stats. The Plan shall contain all nine elements identified in Section 66.1001(2), Stats. If the Village Board asks the Planning Commission to revise the recommended Plan, it is not mandatory that these revisions be sent to the distribution list. However, in the spirit of public participation and intergovernmental cooperation, revisions constituting a substantial change to the recommended Plan may be sent to the distribution list.
1.8
PLANNING AREA
Refer to Map 1.2 at the end of Chapter 1, Issues and Opportunities, for a map of the planning area considered during this comprehensive planning process. According to state statute, Class 4 municipalities have extraterritorial jurisdiction to the area 1.5 miles outside of the corporate limits. During the course of this Plan, this area shall be considered as part of the planning area. Conversely, the extraterritorial area will also be considered as part of the planning area for jurisdictions that border municipalities. The inclusion of the extraterritorial area in two separate plans underscores the importance of these lands and the importance of intergovernmental cooperation (see Chapter 8, Land Use). The purpose of the extraterritorial zone is essentially one of coordination with adjoining communities in an effort to anticipate and mitigate any impacts stemming from the development in that area.
1.9
COMMUNITY SURVEY
In the fall of 2009, staff from UW-River Falls Survey Center mailed a survey to all property owners in the Village of Cobb, the Village of Cobb (both in Iowa County), and the Town of Millville (Grant County). The purpose of the survey was to provide participating planning commissions with community feedback regarding key elements in the Comprehensive Plan. UW-River Falls Survey Center was also responsible for tabulating and analyzing the survey responses. The analysis report of your jurisdiction is included as an attachment to this Chapter (see attachments section).
1.10
COMMUNITY PROFILE AND PROJECTION
The following displays the population statistics and projections that were prepared as part of the requirements of the Comprehensive Planning legislation. Other demographic data and statistics are in their corresponding chapters. Table 1.2 Population Statistics (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 U.S. Census) Village of Village of Cobb Cobb Iowa County Population Number Percent Number Total Population (1970) 410 100.0% 19,303 Total Population (1980) 409 100.0% 19,802 Total Population (1990) 440 100.0% 20,150 Total Population (2000) 442 100.0% 22,780 SEX AND AGE (2000) Male 233 52.7% 11,350 Female 209 47.3% 11,430 Under 10 years 10 to 19 years
Adopted December 13, 2010
65 60
14.7% 13.6%
3,181 3,516
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Iowa County Percent 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Wisconsin Number 4,417,933 4,705,767 4,891,769 5,363,675
Wisconsin Percent 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
49.8% 50.2%
2,649,041 2,714,634
49.4 50.6
14.0% 15.5%
721,824 810,269
13.5% 15.1%
Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
Table 1.2(cont.) Population Statistics (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 U.S. Census) Village of Village of Cobb Cobb Iowa County Population Number Percent Number SEX AND AGE (2000) 20 to 34 years 76 17.2% 3,861 35 to 44 years 66 14.9% 4,048 45 to 59 years 67 15.2% 4,290 60 to 74 years 61 13.8% 2,411 75+ years 47 10.6% 1,473 Median Age (2000)
38.3
Iowa County Percent
Wisconsin Number
Wisconsin Percent
16.9% 17.8% 18.8% 10.6% 6.5% 100.0%
1,063,460 875,522 985,048 560,306 347,246
19.8% 16.3% 18.4% 10.4% 6.5% 100%
37.1
36.0
Figure 1.1 shows that the Village of Cobb overall experienced a small population increase from 1970 to 2000 of 7.8%. Figure 1.1 Population Changes in the Village of Cobb (Source: US Census)
500 450 400
Population
350 300 250 200
410
409
1970
1980
440
442
1990
2000
150 100 50 0 Year
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Figure 1.2 shows the population of the Village of Cobb by age distribution for the year 2000. The largest group was people ages 20 to 34 (76 people), making up 17.2 % of the population. The second largest age group of 45 to 59 years of age contained 15.2% of the population with 67 people. The Village’s median age was 38.3. Figure 1.2 Age Distribution in the Village of Cobb (Source: 2000 US Census)
100 90
76
Number of People
80 65
70
66
67 61
60
60
47
50 40 30 20 10 0 Under 10 years 10 to 19 years
20 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 59 years
60 to 74 years
75+ years
Age Groups
Figure 1.3 compares the population percentage by age group for the Village of Cobb, Iowa County, and the State of Wisconsin in 2000. Figure 1.3 Population Distribution (Source: 2000 US Census)
25.0%
Percent Population
20.0%
15.0%
Village of Cobb Iowa County Wisconsin
10.0%
5.0%
0.0% Under 10 years
10 to 19 years
20 to 34 years
35 to 44 years
45 to 59 years
60 to 74 years
75+ years
Age Groups
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Table 1.3 Population Projections (Source: 2007 SWWRPC) Age Group 2010 Low 2010 High 2020 Low Less than 10 61 62 50 10 to 19 Years 65 66 62 20 to 34 Years 84 85 86 35 to 44 Years 58 59 69 45 to 59 Years 84 85 83 60 to 74 Years 60 60 77 75+ Years 38 38 30 Total 450 454 458
2020 High 52 63 88 70 84 79 30 466
2030 Low 51 51 80 74 87 91 32 466
2030 High 52 52 82 75 89 94 33 478
Figure 1.4 shows the projected populations for the years 2010, 2020, and 2030. The red line indicates the future high projection, while the blue line indicates the future low projection. All future population projections show increases. Figure 1.4 Village of Cobb Population Projections (Source: 2005 SWWRPC, Note: State Projections extend only to 2020)
520
500 478 480
Population
466 454
460
458
449 440
Low Projection High Projection
450
442
440
Census
466
458
State Projection
420 410
409
400
380 1970
1980
Adopted December 13, 2010
1990
2000 Year
2010
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2020
2030
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Table 1.4 Educational Attainments (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 US Census) Village of Village of Iowa Cobb Cobb County Educational Attainment Number Percent Number
Iowa County Percent
Wisconsin Number
Wisconsin Percent
Less than 9th Grade
11
3.5%
632
4.2%
186,125
5.4%
9th to 12th No Diploma
18
5.8%
1,111
7.4%
332,191
9.6%
HS Grad
122
39.2%
6,306
41.8%
1,201,813
34.6%
Some College
77
24.8%
3,009
19.9%
715,664
20.6%
Associate Degree
34
10.9%
1,255
8.3%
260,711
7.5%
Bachelor's Degree
39
12.5%
1,990
13.2%
530,268
15.3%
Graduate/Prof. Degree Percent High School Grad or Higher
10
3.2%
797
5.3%
249,005
7.2%
90.7%
88.5%
85.1%
Figure 1.5 Educational Attainment (Source: 2000 US Census) 45.0% 40.0%
Percentage
35.0% 30.0%
Village of Cobb
25.0%
Iowa County
20.0%
Wisconsin
15.0% 10.0% 5.0% 0.0%
Educational Attainment
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Table 1.5 Occupations (Source: DP-1,DP-2. 2000 US Census) Village of Village of Cobb Cobb Iowa County Occupations Number Percent Number
Iowa County Percent
Wisconsin Number
Wisconsin Percent
Prod, Trans & Mat. Moving
36
14.7%
2,195
17.4%
540,930
19.8%
Const, Extraction & Maint.
24
9.8%
1,378
10.9%
237,086
8.7%
Farm, Fishing & Forestry
2
0.8%
315
2.5%
25,725
0.9%
Sales & Office
88
35.9%
3,221
25.5%
690,360
25.2%
Services
17
6.9%
1,611
12.8%
383,619
14.0%
Mgmt, Prof & Related
78
31.8%
3,898
30.9%
857,205
31.3%
Total
245
100%
12,618
100%
2,734,925
100%
Figure 1.6 shows the projected labor force populations for the years 2010, 2020, and 2030. The red line indicates a high projection, while the blue line indicates the low projection. Labor figures were not available for 1970 and 1980. Figure 1.6 Village of Cobb Labor Force Projections (Source: 2000 US Census, SWWRPC)
300 280 260 253 246
Counts
240
236 225
220
241 232
Census Low Projection
223
High Projection
201
200 180 160 140 1990
1.11
2000
2010 Year
2020
2030
ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES AGENCIES AND PROGRAMS
At the end of each chapter of this Comprehensive Plan is a section that lists some of the state and federal agencies and programs that exist to help communities: it is not an exhaustive list. Many of these agencies and programs (a brief program description and contact information is given) can provide expertise or funding to help implement some of the recommendations of this Comprehensive Plan. Your community should contact the agency of interest to obtain the most up-to-date information. Grants.gov (see below) is a source that could be used to accrue funding for all types of projects. GRANTS.GOV (www.grants.gov) Grants.gov allows organizations to electronically find and apply for competitive grant opportunities from all Federal grant-making agencies. Grants.gov is the single access point for over 900 grant programs offered by the 26 Federal grant-making agencies. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is the managing partner for Grants.gov.
Adopted December 13, 2010
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ISSUES AND OPPORTUNITIES CHAPTER ATTACHMENT
Adopted December 13, 2010
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Village of Cobb
Village of Cobb During August through October of 2009 a total of 199 questionnaires were sent to households in the Village of Cobb. A total of 129 questionnaires were returned for a return rate of 65 percent. This number of returned surveys will provide estimates that expected to be accurate to within plus or minus 5.2 percent. Key results of this survey include:
Village of Cobb residents reported that small town atmosphere, being near their job and being near family and friends were the most important factors when choosing whether or not to reside in the Village. Compared to Iowa County residents as a whole, respondents from the Village were much more likely to consider cost of home, low crime rate, being near their job, quality schools and small town atmosphere when choosing a place to live. They were also less likely than County residents to consider recreational opportunities in this decision. Residents reported that they were overwhelmingly satisfied with all community services and facilities about which we asked except for police protection. Over 75 percent rated all other services and facilities as excellent or good, less than 50% felt that way about police protection. When compared to Iowa County, higher percentages of Village residents rated garbage collection, municipal water system, sanitary sewer system, and storm water management excellent or good. They also seemed to be more satisfied with overall street and road maintenance. Overall, Cobb residents rated fire protection, park and recreation facilities, public library, recycling programs and snow removal as excellent more frequently than Iowa County residents. Over half of all Village respondents agreed that it is important to protect all the natural and cultural resources about which we asked with the exception of wetlands and historic and cultural sites. When compared to the County, Village residents were less likely to say that forested lands, historic and cultural sites, wetlands and wildlife habitat were very important and more likely to rate them as unimportant. They also rated open space and rivers and streams as very important less frequently than the County overall. A majority of Village residents agree or strongly agree that there is a need for all the types of housing about which we asked with the exception of apartments. Village opinion is more evenly split on this form of housing. Compared to the Iowa County, Village residents were much more likely to agree with the need for improving existing homes, duplexes, elderly homes and starter homes. They also tend to prefer traditional type development (large lots with little or no shared open space) as opposed to a cluster design (smaller lots with more shared open space). By about a 2 to 1 margin, Village of Cobb residents disagreed that landowners should be able to develop any way they want. They also agreed, almost unanimously, that ag land should be used for agricultural purposes and not for commercial, or residential purposes. However, while agreeing that large scale farms (those with 500+ animals) should be allowed, they would prefer for them to be located outside of a 2 mile radius from incorporated areas. A majority of residents agree that current driveways meet the requirements of emergency services and that visual impact should be considered in the development process. When asked about minimum lot sizes residents reported that they would prefer having a minimum lot size in place and that it should be 5 acres or less. This is not to surprising considering that nearly 80 percent of respondents currently own less than one acre of land in Iowa County. Iowa County residents were more likely to strongly agree that ag land should be used for agricultural purposes than Village residents. Village residents were also less likely to disagree with the thought of using ag land for other purposes such as commercial and residential, they also had greater amounts of no opinion about these uses. While Village residents wanted minimum lot sizes of less than 5 acres, the County preferred a slightly larger minimum size, which is consistent with the fact that more County residents own larger amounts of land. Overall Village respondents seemed to be happy about the condition of roads and the current network. They also strongly agreed or agreed that walking and biking were important modes of transportation but were evenly split about whether or not more walking and biking trails were needed along public roads. While residents rated the quality of roads and sidewalks as excellent or good other modes of transportation about which we asked (railroads, buses, airports, etc) as fair or poor.
Adopted December 13, 2010
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Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
While Village residents were satisfied with roads and biking and walking trails, they also seemed to be more satisfied with these modes of transportation than the County as a whole. They were more likely to rate roads and sidewalks as excellent or good and they were also more likely to have an opinion about these issues as well. They were also more likely to have no opinion about all other modes of transportation about which we asked.
The most preferred way to receive information about comprehensive planning was via direct mailings.
Village residents support the development of downtown, commercial and retail, and ag related businesses. They feel that this development should take place in or near already developed cities and that developments on the edge of the city should be required to use municipal water and sewer. They also support the development of wind and solar energy as a form of economic development. More opposed than supported the development of ethanol as an alternative energy source.
While residents agree with the need for commercial and industrial development they were less likely than the County to agree that this development should take place in or near existing cities. They were also more likely than the county to disagree with the development of ethanol plants as a source of economic development.
Adopted December 13, 2010
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Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – QUALITY OF LIFE
When asked why they chose to live in the Village of Cobb, respondents reported the small town atmosphere, being near their job and family and friends as the most important factors. Recreational opportunities, historical significance and community services were of little importance in this choice.
Quality of Life Factors n. Small Town Atmosphere h. Near Family and Friends i. Near Job d. Cost of Home f. Low Crime Rate l. Quality Schools a. Agriculture k. Quality Neighborhood g. Natural Beauty j. Property Taxes o. Other b. Appearance of Homes m. Recreational … c. Community Services e. Historical Significance
0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
10%
20%
30%
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40%
50%
60%
70%
Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – QUALITY OF LIFE (COUNTY COMPARISON) Significantly more Village residents indicated that the cost of their home, low crime rate, being near their job, quality schools and small town atmosphere where important factors in their decision to live in Iowa County. Respondents rated recreational opportunities as an important factor significantly less frequently than the County as a whole. 1. What are the three most important reasons you and your family choose to live in Iowa County? Municipality
County
Municipality
County
a. Agriculture
19%
22%
i. Near Job
42%
30%
b. Appearance of Homes
5%
c. Community Services
3%
j. Property Taxes
8%
9%
2%
2%
k. Quality Neighborhood
12%
9%
d. Cost of Home
26%
17%
l. Quality Schools
24%
13%
e. Historical Significance
2%
5%
m. Recreational Opportunities
4%
13%
f. Low Crime Rate
25%
18%
n. Small Town Atmosphere
58%
51%
g. Natural Beauty
9%
38%
o. Other
6%
9%
h. Near Family and Friends
55%
51%
Adopted December 13, 2010
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Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
With one exception (police protection), Village residents are extremely satisfied with the local community facilities and services, with at least 75 percent of respondents rating them as either excellent or good. Opinions were evenly split in regards to police protection in the Village. Rating Community Facilities and Services b. Fire Protection c. Garbage Collection j. Sanitary Sewer Service g. Public Library i. Recycling Programs k. Snow Removal Fair+Poor
m. Street & Road Maintenance
Ex+Good
a. Ambulance Service e. Park & Rec Facilities d. Municipal Water System h. Public School System l. Storm Water Management f. Police Protection 0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
25%
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50%
75%
100%
Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES (COUNTY COMPARISON) When compared to Iowa County as a whole, Village residents were substantially more likely to rate garbage collection, municipal water system, sanitary sewer system, and storm water management as excellent or good. On the other hand, they were also less likely to rate police protection as excellent or good. Village respondents were more satisfied with street and road maintenance than the County overall. They were also more likely to rate fire protection, park and recreation facilities, public library, recycling programs and snow removal as excellent. Smaller percentages of Village residents indicated garbage collection, municipal water system, sanitary sewer service, and storm water management as not applicable compared to the County overall. 2. Rate the following local services Excellent Cobb
Good
Cnty
Cobb
Fair Cnty
Cobb
Poor Cnty
Cobb
Not Applicable Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
a. Ambulance Service
37%
49%
48%
40%
6%
5%
1%
0%
8%
6%
b. Fire Protection
60%
48%
36%
42%
0%
5%
0%
1%
4%
4%
c. Garbage Collection
44%
27%
47%
41%
5%
11%
1%
3%
2%
18%
d. Municipal Water System
35%
16%
47%
33%
11%
11%
3%
3%
4%
37%
e. Park & Rec Facilities
38%
31%
46%
48%
14%
13%
0%
2%
2%
5%
9%
19%
39%
49%
31%
23%
9%
6%
13%
4%
g. Public Library
44%
23%
44%
40%
9%
14%
0%
5%
2%
18%
h. Public School System
17%
19%
60%
52%
14%
15%
3%
3%
5%
10%
i. Recycling Programs
35%
18%
53%
55%
9%
17%
1%
4%
2%
5%
j. Sanitary Sewer Service
35%
13%
55%
40%
5%
9%
0%
1%
5%
36%
k. Snow Removal
46%
21%
41%
53%
7%
16%
2%
5%
4%
6%
l. Storm Water Management
23%
8%
52%
38%
14%
17%
5%
5%
6%
32%
f. Police Protection
Adopted December 13, 2010
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Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES With the exception of wetlands and historical and cultural sites, Cobb residents agreed that all natural and cultural resources about which we asked were very important or important to protect. A large majority stressed that rivers and streams, groundwater, farmland and air quality are important or very important resources to protect. Importance of Protecting Natural & Cultural Resources
a. Air Quality d. Groundwater g. Rivers and Streams b. Farmland h. Rural Character Unimportant + Very Unimportant
c. Forested Lands
Very Important + Important
i. Scenic Views and Undevel Bluffs f. Open Space k. Wildlife Habitat j. Wetlands e. Historic and Cultural Sites 0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
25%
50%
75%
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100%
Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES (COUNTY COMPARISON) Residents of Cobb were significantly less likely to rate forested lands, historic and cultural sites, wetlands, and wildlife habitat as very important and more likely to rate them as unimportant compared to the County overall. Lower percentages of Villagers rated open space and rivers & streams as very important than in the County as a whole. Village of Cobb residents also rated scenic views and undeveloped bluff as very important less frequently than the overall County. 4. It is important to protect the following: Very Important
Important
Unimportant
Very Unimportant
Not Applicable
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
a. Air Quality
53%
53%
34%
32%
13%
14%
0%
1%
0%
1%
b. Farmland
37%
40%
36%
35%
20%
21%
2%
3%
4%
1%
c. Forested Lands
22%
36%
34%
37%
31%
24%
2%
2%
10%
1%
d. Groundwater
60%
61%
26%
27%
14%
11%
0%
1%
0%
0%
e. Historic and Cultural Sites
11%
19%
25%
29%
50%
41%
8%
10%
7%
2%
f. Open Space
16%
27%
38%
31%
38%
33%
6%
7%
2%
1%
g. Rivers and Streams
32%
47%
43%
34%
21%
18%
2%
1%
2%
1%
h. Rural Character
28%
28%
43%
36%
25%
29%
4%
6%
0%
1%
i. Scenic Views & Undevel Bluffs
18%
32%
36%
32%
30%
27%
8%
8%
8%
1%
j. Wetlands
15%
32%
28%
27%
38%
30%
11%
9%
8%
2%
k. Wildlife Habitat
23%
35%
29%
31%
36%
28%
7%
5%
6%
1%
Adopted December 13, 2010
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Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – HOUSING Over 50 percent of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with all housing needs about which we asked with the exception of apartment buildings, on which the opinions were evenly split. Housing Needs
5. Improve Existing 8. Need elderly housing 6a. Need single family Disagree + strongly disagree
9. Need starter homes
Strongly agree + agree
7. Need affordable
6b. Need duplexes
6c. Need apartments 0%
Adopted December 13, 2010
25%
50%
75%
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100%
Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – HOUSING (COUNTY COMPARISON) Village of Cobb residents were much more likely to strongly agree with the need for improvement of existing homes and duplexes. They were also more likely to agree with the need for elderly and starter homes. Consistently, they are also much less likely to disagree with the need for these same types of housing in the Village. When asked about the type of residential development preferred, Cobb residents reported, by a small margin, that they prefer the traditional design (large lots with little or no shared open space). The County as a whole would prefer a cluster design (smaller lots with more shared open space).
Strongly Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly Disagree
No Opinion
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
Cobb
Cnty
23%
17%
54%
49%
7%
15%
2%
4%
15%
14%
a. Single Family Housing
19%
19%
49%
44%
5%
12%
2%
4%
25%
22%
b. Duplexes (2 units)
13%
7%
39%
35%
18%
23%
5%
11%
25%
24%
c. Apartments (3 or more units)
11%
6%
27%
25%
22%
29%
14%
16%
26%
24%
7. Need affordable housing
20%
22%
43%
43%
18%
15%
4%
6%
15%
15%
8. Need elderly housing
16%
14%
56%
43%
8%
19%
3%
5%
17%
18%
9. Need starter homes
17%
17%
48%
40%
12%
20%
2%
6%
21%
18%
5. Improve existing housing quality. 6. Need following housing types:
10. Would you prefer housing built in a traditional design (Option A) or a cluster design (Option B)? OPTION A OPTION B
Traditional Design
Cluster Design
Cobb
County
Cobb
County
58%
31%
42%
69%
Adopted December 13, 2010
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Comprehensive Plan
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Village of Cobb
SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS – AGRICULTURE AND LAND USE Village of Cobb residents disagree that land owners should be able to develop land any way they want. They almost unanimously agree that agricultural land should used for agricultural purposes while disagreeing that it should be used for any of the other purposes about which we asked. They also agree that large-scale farm (500+ animals) should be allowed outside of a 2-mile radius from incorporated areas. Over 75 percent of respondents agree or strongly agree that new driveways be required to meet emergency service standards. They also feel that it is important to consider visual impact when evaluating development proposals. A majority of Cobb residents feel there should be a minimum lot size, and 68 percent agree that it should be 5 acres or less. This is consistent with the fact that nearly 80 percent (76%) currently own less than one acre in Iowa County. Land Use Opinions 14. Consider visual impact 15. Driveways meet emergency service standards 16. Should be a minimum lot size 13. Develop land any way wanted
12c. Large scale farms 2+ miles out Disagree + strongly disagree
12a. Large scale farms anywhere
Strongly agree + agree
12b. Large scale farms nowhere
11a. Use ag land for ag 11b. Use ag land for residences 11c. Use ag land for commercial 11d. Use ag land for any use 0%
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25%
50%
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75%
100%
Comprehensive Plan
Issues and Opportunities
Village of Cobb
Preferred Minimum Lot Size
1 - 5 acres
