Town of Dartmouth, MA Article 1 Preamble

§ 375-1.1 2007 Dartmouth Master Plan; Vision Statement.

A. Decisions are made every day that affect the character, environment, infrastructure and economy of Dartmouth. The Master Plan is a guide to decision making for Town Meeting, the various Town Boards, Commissions and Departments. Periodic review and update of the Dartmouth Master Plan and corresponding revisions to these Zoning By-Laws should guide future growth and development in a manner that matches the following values and goals.

B. Dartmouth Community Values: Our Vision for the Future.

(1) WE value the rural character of our Town. The farmland, coastal interface, forests, wetlands, scenic vistas, and historic coastal and countryside village centers all contribute to this shared appreciation. Progress should not diminish or detract from the features that define the nature of our Town.

(2) WE value the great natural beauty of our community. The inland waters, coastal marshes, deciduous forests, meadows, and other natural areas, should be adequately protected from encroachment and degradation related to development.

(3) WE value the quality of municipal services this community provides in particular the schools and library system. Our local budget needs to be managed in a manner to maintain the level of municipal services as we grow.

(4) WE value traditional local industries with ties to our natural resources. Farming, fishing and marine industries have long provided jobs for residents and rooted the community in a harmonious relationship with the land and sea. These industries should be supported — Dartmouth would not be the same without them.

(5) WE value the civic involvement of residents. Our many Town Boards and Commissions, Call Fire Departments, Representative Town Meeting, and nonprofit interest groups, all work with the best interest of Dartmouth in mind. The continued and lively participation of residents will lead to better choices.

(6) WE value the small town feel that endures within a community that has gained big town attractions. Attention must be paid to the delicate balance of these two traits, with new development integrated in a manner that doesn't sacrifice small town connections.

(7) WE value access to goods and services. Such convenience, however, should not come at the cost of congestion, buildings that lack character, and intrusion into residential areas. Growth in commercial areas should be well-managed and meet high standards for safety, accessibility, compatibility, and aesthetics.

(8) WE value the varied water resources that set this Town apart. The abundance of fresh and saltwater bodies — beaches, rivers, streams, and ponds — provide clean water for drinking and opportunities for recreation.

(9) WE value our historical roots. Our heritage includes buildings and significant natural features that link us across time and enrich our community. Preservation of our historic built and natural landscape should be pursued.

(10) WE value the diversity of experiences that are available within this Town and the region of which it is a part. Dartmouth provides accessibility to academic, cultural, recreational, commercial, and employment opportunities, all of which add to our quality of life. We must reconcile our desire for such offerings with our desire for the maintenance of a rural lifestyle.