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An updated planning tool could change how the county protects natural resources, like wildlife and water, from development. But only if county commissioners approve it. Local electeds kicked an official decision down the road this week.
Teton County Commissioners voted unanimously to postpone their decision on changes to a new natural resources overlay, saying they need more time to review information and make potential changes based on public comment.
“This is going to impact our community more than I think a lot of people realize,” said outgoing Commissioner Greg Epstein.
The map is used to find and limit development where natural resources like wildlife habitat and water quality are particularly vulnerable.
Commissioners made the same move to delay a decision in a meeting last month, after environmental advocates said potential protections didn’t go far enough, while private landowners said it went too far.
Amberley Baker is a lawyer representing the Gill family. The Gills own over 100 acres south of town planned for nearly 700 homes. Baker spoke against the plan last month.
“We have to strike a thoughtful balance between achieving natural resource goals and respecting private property rights,” she said.
The new system would rank areas in three-tiers. Right now, land is either in or out.
Commissioners agree the plan still needs some work, but to different degrees. Commissioner Mark Newcomb cautioned that an overhaul would delay a final decision by months.
“We keep kind of saying that this is really complicated,” Newcomb said, “it’s not that complicated.”
Commissioners are expected to further discuss the planning tool on Jan. 28. A final decision could be at least six months out.
