§ 2. Purpose.

The purpose of this Ordinance is to promote and encourage the preservation of farmland in the rural southern portion of the City, where agricultural uses predominate, by means which are voluntary, rather than regulatory. The preservation of farmland will promote and enhance agriculture as an important industry which contributes to the maintenance of a diverse and healthy local economy. In addition, the preservation of farmland will:

(a)

Preserve the rural character of the southern portion of the City;

(b)

Conserve and protect environmentally sensitive lands, waters and other resources;

(c)

Reduce and defer the need for major urban infrastructure improvements in the southern portion of the City and the expenditure of public funds for such improvements;

(d)

Preserve open space; and

(e)

Assist in shaping the character, direction and timing of community development.