Plan Commission Meeting/Public Hearing — Agenda packet

Town of Oregon 1138 Union Road, Oregon, WI 53575 Phone: (608) 835-3200 townoforegonwi.gov MEETING DATE TIME LOCATION Plan Commission Tuesday, June 16, 2026 6:30 PM Oregon Town Hall 1138 Union Road Oregon, WI 53575 Join Zoom Meeting To Call In: 1-312-626-6799 Meeting ID: 829 1537 2299 Passcode: 1138 Public Hearing 1. Open Public Hearing. 2. Land Division/Rezone/CSM Petition #DPREZ-2026-12301 Parcel #0509-093-9000-3;5794 Lincoln Rd., Oregon, WI . This request is to separate existing residence from farmland. Rezone of 5.01 acres from FP-35 to RR-4. Applicant/Owner Chen-Kang & Julie Chang TR, 7601 Welton Dr. Madison, WI. 3. Close Public Hearing. Call to Order Roll Call Approval of Minutes 4. Approval of Minutes Public Comment Action/Discussion Items 5. Disscussion and Possible Action re: Land Division/Rezone/CSM Petition #DPREZ-2026-12301 Parcel #0509-093-9000-3;5794 Lincoln Rd., Oregon, WI . This request is to separate existing residence from farmland. Rezone of 5.01 acres from FP-35 to RR-4. Applicant/Owner Chen-Kang & Julie Chang TR, 7601 Welton Dr. Madison, WI. 6. Discussion with owners re: Removal of an existing home on parcel 0509-044-9000-2; 1396 S Fish Hatchery Rd. and replacement of the existing structure in a more suitable location. Page 1 of 132 Communications 7. Update on Comprehensive Plan amendments. Adjournment 8. Adjournment NOTE: Any item listed on the agenda is subject to discussion and action. Public Notice: Agendas are posted in the following locations: Town Hall bulletin board & Town website. Special Accommodations: Requests from persons with disabilities who need assistance to participate in this meeting should be made to the clerk’s office at 608-835-3200 with at least three business days advance notice. Possible Quorum: A quorum of members of other town governmental bodies may be present at this meeting for the purpose of gathering information and possible discussion. Unless noted, no official action by other town governmental bodies will be taken. Posted: 6/11/2026 Page 2 of 132 Town of Oregon Plan Commission Meeting Minutes Tuesday, May 19, 2026 Call to Order Chair Kay called the meeting to order at 6:30pm. Roll Call Present: Sharon Christensen, Laura Wilmot, Chuck Soule, Dave Hagemann, Arlan Kay, Jessica Barmack, Gena Larson. Also Present : Treasurer/Deputy Clerk Stephanie Goth, and Supervisor Fitzgerald. Approval of Minutes 1. Approval of April 28th, 2026 meeting minutes. Move by Hagemann, seconded by S. Christensen to approve April 28th, 2026, minutes. Motion Carried 7-0. Public Comment 2. Public Hearing Re: Blanket Rezone Petition DCPREZ-2026-12289. This petition is to correct zoning map discrepancies. Todd Kluever, 5606 W Netherwood Rd. and Rita Kluever, 5848 Madsen Cr., appeared in person to confirm parcels 0509-041-8320-0,0509-041-6166-2, and 0509-044-8050-0 were removed from Blanket rezone petition DCPREZ-2026-12289 and that zoning will remain the same. Staff confirmed the parcels were removed from the blanket rezone application. Action/Discussion Items 3. Discussion and Possible Action Re: Blanket Rezone Petition DCPREZ-2026-12289. Blanket rezone to correct zoning map discrepancies. Moved by Larson, seconded by Wilmot to recommend approval of Blanket Rezone Petition DCPREZ-2026-12289. Discussion occurred regarding the resident of Parcel #0509-062-6055-0 objection letter, where the owners requested to remain in RR-2 due to future business plans including an engineering consulting business and accessory buildings. After extensive discussion about fairness, neighborhood consistency, and the owners' wish to maintain their original zoning classification, Motion Carried (4-2-1). Aye: Kay, Wilmot, Larson, Soule. Nay: S. Christensen, Barmack. Abstain: Hagemann. 4. Review of amended approval of conditions re: Rezone Petition #DCPREZ-2026-12256 and CUP Petition #DCPCUP-2026-02702. Applicant/Owner is Amble Land, LLC 5900 County Highway D., Oregon, WI 53575. The Plan Commission reviewed the amended conditions. The amendments address and clean up repetitive language throughout both petitions. The Town Board has approved the amendments and requested that Page 3 of 132 Plan Commission Meeting Minutes May 19, 2026 Page 2 of 2 the Plan Commission review the revised documents for any issues related to the rezone petition and the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) petition. The Commission noted no issues with the amended language. Communications 5. Set a work session date for Comprehensive Plan amendments. Work session is scheduled for Monday, June 8th, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. to review and edit the draft amendments of the Comprehensive Plan. 6. Staff Communication. Goth informed the Commission of upcoming agenda items for the June 16th, 2026 Plan Commission meeting, including the review of 1367 S. Fish Hatchery Rd per the Town Board's request. The landowners will be in attendance for discussion. Goth updated the Commission on the proposed Amendment of the Urban Service Area for Featherwood Trail Neighborhood (Veridan development) on Netherwood Rd. A public input session is being held by the developer on Monday, June 8th from 6:30-7:30pm at the Oregon Public Library. 7. Town Board Items. (Arlan Kay) No additional Town Board items. Adjournment 8. Adjournment Moved by Hagemann, seconded by S. Christensen to adjourn the meeting at 8:20pm. Page 4 of 132 Page 5 of 132 Page 6 of 132 Page 7 of 132 Page 8 of 132 Page 9 of 132 Page 10 of 132 Page 11 of 132 11/24/2025 Town of Oregon Board Attn: Carl Walser, Chairman 1138 Union Road Oregon, WI 53575 Oregon Fire-EMS Attn: Chief Glenn Linzmeier 131 Spring Street Oregon, WI 53575 Re: Property located at 1396 County Rd D (1396 S. Fish Hatchery Road), Township of Oregon, WI 53575 Re: Township of Oregon Ordinance No. 98: An Ordinance Relating to the Mai;1temince of Premises and Structures in the Town of Oregon Chairman Walser and Chief Linzmeier,, The residential house at 1396 County Rd D in the Town of Oregon is a structure that falls under Township of Oregon Ordinance No. 98; namely it is a stI ucture, formerly a two-story residence, that has: a) Not been maintained; b) Threatens the health and safety of the public and anyone, including children and teenagers, who may attempt to enter it for curiosity, thrill-seeking or otl1er illegal activities; c) Has significant uncorrected structural deficiencies; d) Is so old, dilapidated and out-of-repair as to be dangerous, unsafe, unsanitary and unfit for human habitation, occupancy or use; and e) Has significant breaches in walls and roofs leading to a reasonable assumption that birds and vermin may be utilizing the premises for their habitation. Under Ordinance No. 98, a structure of this type and condition that presents a hazard to the community requires an Inspection by the Building Inspector, the Public Works Supervisor, and/or the Fire Chief. Please implement the requirements of Ordinance No. 98 which stipulate that an inspection of the premises is necessary in order to determine whether the conditions listed above warrant further action by the Fire Department and the Township. Sincereiy, Concerned Town of Oregon Resident Enclosured: Photos; Ordinance No. 98 Page 12 of 132 ORDINANCE NO. 98 AN ORDINANCE RELATING TO THE MAINTENANCE OF PREMISES AND STRUCTURES IN THE TOWN OF OREGON The Town Board of the Town of Oregon, Dane County, Wisconsin, do hereby ordain as follows: 1. Section 9.35 of the Town of Oregon Municipal Code is hereby created to read as follows: "Section 9.35.010 Maintenance of Premises and Structures. a. Premises and Structures Shall Be Maintained. Every owner of any premises and every adult resident of any premises, with the exception of premises including out buildings or farm buildings not used for human living or sleeping purposes, shall keep such premises and every structure thereon free of any condition that poses a hazard or threatens the health and safety of the occupants or public, including: 1. Any deterioration. 2. Any appearance of deterioration. 3. Any nuisance. 4. Any vermin. 5. Any health, safety, or fire hazard. b. Definitions: For the purposes of this section, the following terms shall have the described meanings: 1. "Adult." A person who is 18 years of age or older. 2 "Basement." That portion of a structure that has a floor below the surface of the ground immediately adjoining it. 3. "Deterioration." The condition of a structure, or part thereof, that is: A. So old, dilapidated, or has become so out of repair as to be dangerous, unsafe, unsanitary, or otherwise unfit for human habitation, occupancy, or use; or B. Characterized by hazardous structural unsoundness; or other evidence of hazardous decay, neglect, lack of maintenance, or excessive use. C. This term does not include outbuildings or old farm buildings not used for human living or sleeping purposes. 4. "Fence." An independent structure forming a barrier at grade between lots, between a lot and a street or an alley, or between portions of a lot or lots, and includes a wall or latticework 1 Page 13 of 132 c. Enforcement. 1. Inspection of Premises and Structures. The Building Inspector, the Public Works Supervisor, and the Fire Chief are each authorized to make one or more inspections of any premises or structure to determine whether such premises or structure comply with this section. The Building Inspector, the Public Works Supervisor, and the Fire Chief are each authorized to obtain a special inspection warrant pursuant to Wis. Stats. §66.0119 The Building Inspector, the Public Works Supervisor, and the Fire Chief may act pursuant to Wis. Stats. §66.0413. 2. Notice. Whenever the Building Inspector, Public Works Supervisor, or Fire Chief believes that a violation of this section has occurred, the Building Inspector, Public Works Supervisor, or Fire Chief shall provide written notice of the violation to any owner of the premises, any adult resident of the premises, or any combination thereof as the Building Inspector, Public Works Supervisor, or Fire Chief deems appropriate. The notice may be addressed to an owner or resident by name or as "owner" or "Resident". The notice mailed to any owner shall be mailed to the address to which the property tax bills for the premises are sent. The notice mailed to any resident shall be mailed to the resident's address. Notice is effective upon mailing. 3. 30-Day Correction Period. The owner, owners, adult resident, or adult residents to whom a notice has been mailed shall have 30 days from the effective date of the notice to correct the violation. 4. Defenses to Charge. It shall be a defense to any charge under this section that: A. The person charged does not have the legal right to correct the condition upon which the charge is based. B. A different person or persons have the legal responsibility to correct the condition upon which the charge is based. C. The person charged does not have a legal right to reside on the premises and resides on the premises pursuant to permission that may be revoked at any time. D. An item or items have been placed near a highway for the purpose ofremoval from the premises within 24 hours. 5. Forfeiture. In the event a violation of this section is not corrected within the 30-day correction period, each person found guilty of such a violation shall forfeit not less than $25.00 not more than $200.00 for each violation plus all costs, fees, penalties, assessments, surcharges, and other charges that are or can be imposed by state law. Each day a violation occurs or exists after the effective date of the notice shall be considered a separate violation. 6. Town Agreement After Forfeiture Is Imposed. In the event a forfeiture is imposed under this section, the Town and any owner or any resident may stipulate that the amount of the forfeiture may be reduced to an agreed-upon if the violation is corrected by an agreed-upon date." This Ordinance shall take effect the day after passage and publication pursuant to law. 3 Page 14 of 132 AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING STATE OF WISCONSIN Town of Oregon Dane County I, Jennifer Hanson, the town clerk of the Town of Oregon, Dane County, Wisconsin, attest and affirm of the following: 1. That the following action was posted pursuant to s. 60.80 Wis. stats: Ordinance No. 98 An Ordinance Relating to the Maintenance of Premises and Structures in the Town of Oregon 2. That the above-noted action was posted as required in the following 3 places in the Town of Oregon, Dane County, Wisconsin: 1. Oregon Town Hall, 1138 Union Road, Oregon, WI 53575 & w vw.l!n n.on;gnn \\ i.us 2. Town of Oregon Disposal Site (TORC), 1067 Storytown Rd., Oregon, WI 53575 3. Village of Oregon, 117 Spring St., Oregon, WI 53575. 3. That the posting of this action occurred at the following times and dates: Posting: Thursday, August 10, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. That I filed this affidavit in the records of the town clerk for the Town of Oregon on August 10, 2023. Dated this 10th day of August 2023. 11 Town Clerk Page 15 of 132 Page 16 of 132 - -- --. Page 17 of 132 TOWN OF OREGON COMPREHENSIVE PLAN Effective Sept. 20, 2023; Revised June 2026 Prepared by Dane County Planning and Development Page 18 of 132 Table of Contents Page i | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Table of Contents 1.1.1 Town Profile ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 9 1.1.2 Planning History ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 9 1.1.3 Plan Updates ................................ ................................ ................................ ................ 9 1.1.4 Plan Purpose & Background ................................ ................................ ............................ 9 1.2.1 Population Trends ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 10 1.2.2 Demographic Trends ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 11 1.5.1 Public Participation Process ................................ ................................ ............................ 14 1.5.2 Overall Goals ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 15 2.1.1 Housing Stock Characteristics ................................ ................................ ......................... 16 2.1.2 Value Characteristics ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 17 2.1.3 Housing Affordability ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 17 2.4.1 Goals ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 19 2.4.2 Objectives ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 19 2.4.3 Policies ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 19 3.1.1 Roadways ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 20 3.1.2 Transit................................ ................................ ................................ ........................ 20 3.1.3 Taxis & Ride Hail Services ................................ ................................ .............................. 20 3.1.4 Carpool & Vanpool Services ................................ ................................ ............................ 21 3.1.5 Specialized Transportation Services ................................ ................................ ................. 21 3.1.6 Bicycles & Pedestrians ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 21 Page 19 of 132 Table of Contents Page ii | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 3.1.7 Rail ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................ 21 3.1.8 Intercity Bus Service ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 21 3.1.9 Trucking ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 21 3.1.10 Water Transportation................................ ................................ ................................ ... 21 3.1.11 Airports................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 22 3.1.12 Snowmobile Trails ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 22 3.2.1 County & Regional Plans ................................ ................................ ................................ 22 3.2.2 Applicable State Transportation Plans ................................ ................................ ............... 22 3.3.1 Goal ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 23 3.3.2 Objectives ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 23 3.3.3 Policies ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 23 4.1.1 Town Hall ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 25 4.1.2 Water Supply ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 25 4.1.3 On-Site Wastewater Treatment ................................ ................................ ....................... 25 4.1.4 Solid Waste Disposal & Recycling Facilities ................................ ................................ ........ 25 4.1.5 Stormwater Management ................................ ................................ ............................... 25 4.1.6 Law Enforcement ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 25 4.1.7 Fire Protection & Emergency Medical Service (EMS) ................................ ............................ 26 4.1.8 Cemeteries ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 26 4.1.9 Libraries ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 26 4.1.10 Schools ................................ ................................ ................................ ..................... 26 4.1.11 Parks & Recreational Facilities ................................ ................................ ....................... 26 4.1.12 Health Care Facilities ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 27 4.1.13 Child Care Facilities ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 27 4.1.14 Churches ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 27 4.1.15 Senior Services ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 27 4.1.16 Other Community Services ................................ ................................ ........................... 28 4.1.17 Telecommunications Facilities ................................ ................................ ....................... 28 4.1.18 Broadband ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 28 4.1.19 Power Plants & Transmission................................ ................................ ......................... 28 4.1.20 Service Demand Forecast ................................ ................................ ............................. 28 Page 20 of 132 Table of Contents Page iii | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 4.2.1 Goal ................................ ................................ ................................ ........................... 28 4.2.2 Objectives ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 28 4.2.3 Policies ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 29 5.1.1 Historic Trends ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 31 5.1.2 Existing Farming ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 31 5.1.3 Future Prospects ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 34 5.2.1 Environmentally Sensitive Areas ................................ ................................ ..................... 34 5.2.2 Soils ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................... 35 5.2.3 Wetlands ................................ ................................ ................................ .................... 36 5.2.4 Groundwater ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 36 5.2.5 Wildlife & Endangered Species ................................ ................................ ........................ 36 5.2.6 Woodlands ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 36 5.2.7 Metallic/Non-Metallic Mineral Resources ................................ ................................ ............ 37 5.3.1 Historic Sites ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 37 5.3.2 Archaeological and Burial Sites ................................ ................................ ....................... 37 5.3.3 Community Design ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 38 5.4.1 Agricultural Resources ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 38 5.4.2 Mineral Resources ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 39 5.4.3 Natural Resources ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 40 5.4.4 Cultural Resources ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 41 6.1.1 Labor & Income ................................ ................................ ................................ ........... 43 6.1.2 Major Industries & Employment ................................ ................................ ...................... 45 6.4.1 Goals ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 47 6.4.2 Objectives ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 47 6.4.3 Policies ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 47 Page 21 of 132 Table of Contents Page iv | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 7.1.1 Regional Context ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 48 7.1.2 Existing and Potential Collaboration ................................ ................................ ................. 49 7.1.3 Existing or Potential Conflicts ................................ ................................ .......................... 49 7.2.1 Goals ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 49 7.2.2 Objectives ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 50 7.2.3 Policies & Programs ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 50 8.1.1 Agriculture ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 52 8.1.2 Woodlands ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 52 8.1.3 Residential ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 52 8.1.4 Commercial ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 52 8.1.5 Other Public Uses ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 53 8.2.1 Supply and Demand ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 53 8.2.2 Land Use Acreage Projections ................................ ................................ ......................... 53 8.2.3 Land Use Conflicts ................................ ................................ ................................ ........ 54 8.2.4 Redevelopment Opportunities ................................ ................................ ......................... 54 8.3.1 Goals ................................ ................................ ................................ ......................... 56 8.3.2 Objectives ................................ ................................ ................................ ................... 56 8.3.3 Policies ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 57 8.4.1 Rural Density Policy ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 57 8.4.2 Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) ................................ ................................ ............. 60 8.4.3 Commercial Development ................................ ................................ .............................. 61 8.4.4 Mineral Extraction ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 62 8.4.5 Renewable Energy Facilities ................................ ................................ ............................ 62 8.4.6 Conditional Uses in Zoning Districts ................................ ................................ ................. 63 8.5.1 Farmland Preservation Area ................................ ................................ ........................... 69 8.5.2 Agricultural Transition Areas ................................ ................................ ........................... 72 8.5.3 Rural Mixed-Use Area ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 74 8.5.4 Traditional Subdivision Area ................................ ................................ ........................... 76 Page 22 of 132 Table of Contents Page v | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 8.5.5 Resource Protection Corridor Overlay ................................ ................................ ............... 78 8.5.6 Public Lands Overlay ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 79 9.1.1 Land Use Regulations ................................ ................................ ................................ .... 80 Appendix 2: Public Participation Summary………………………………………………………………………………………………….114 List of Maps Map 1: Future Land Use ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 83 Map 2: Building Types ................................ ................................ ................................ .............. 84 Map 3: Deed Restrictions ................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 85 Map 4: Fire and EMS Service Area ................................ ................................ .............................. 86 Map 5: School Districts ................................ ................................ ................................ ............. 87 Map 6: Historic Farmstead Size ................................ ................................ ................................ .. 88 Map 7: Flood Prone Areas ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 89 Map 8: Hydrologic Soil Groups ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 90 Map 9: Hydric Soils ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 91 Map 10: Historic Land Cover ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 92 Map 11: Tax Parcels ................................ ................................ ................................ ................. 93 Map 12: Soil LESA Scores ................................ ................................ ................................ ......... 94 Map 13: Prime Soil Classification ................................ ................................ ................................ 95 Map 14: 2000 Land Use ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 96 Map 15: 2010 Land Use ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 97 Map 16: 2020 Land Use ................................ ................................ ................................ ............ 98 Map 17: 2020 Agricultural Land Use ................................ ................................ ............................ 99 Map 18: Mineral Resources ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 100 Map 19: Elevation ................................ ................................ ................................ .................. 101 Map 20: Parks & Open Space ................................ ................................ ................................ ... 102 Map 21: Trails ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................... 103 Map 22: Zoning & Conditional Use Permits ................................ ................................ ................. 104 Map 23: Shoreland & Wetland Zones ................................ ................................ ......................... 105 Map 24: Slopes & Contours ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 106 Map 25: Traffic Counts & Speeds ................................ ................................ .............................. 107 Page 23 of 132 Table of Contents Page vi | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 26: Water Resources ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 108 Map 28: Water Flow ................................ ................................ ................................ ............... 109 Map 29: Solar Radiation................................ ................................ ................................ .......... 110 Page 24 of 132 Acknowledgements Page 7 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Acknowledgements 2023 Planning Commission Sharon Christensen Dave Hagemann Chuck Soule Gena Larson Tim Yanacheck Arlan Kay Jessica Barmack Brian Duffin (partial term) 2025-26 Planning Commission Sharon Christensen Dave Hagemann Chuck Soule Gena Larson Arlan Kay Jessica Barmack Laura Wilmot 2023 Town Board Carl Walser Arlan Kay Laurie Fitzgerald Steve Jeregan Kate Gladding 2025-26 Town Board Carl Walser Arlan Kay Laurie Fitzgerald Steve Jernegan Tim LeBrun Town Staff Stephanie Goth, Deputy Clerk Jennifer Hansen, Clerk Dane County Staff Brian Standing, Dane County Planning and Development (2023 draft) Bridgit Van Belleghem, Dane County Planning and Development (2026 update) Page 25 of 132 Acknowledgements Page 8 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 [insert Adopting Ordinance] Page 26 of 132 Element 1: Issues & Opportunities Page 9 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Issues & Opportunities 1.1 Introduction Located in south-central Dane County, the Town of Oregon sits between the Villages of Oregon, Brooklyn and Belleville, immediately south of the City of Fitchburg, and north of the Town of Brooklyn in Green County. Its location atop the terminal moraine of the Wisconsin glaciation has left the town with a diverse natural landscape, including the westernmost reaches of the Southeast Glacial Plains ecological landscape. At the time of the 2020 Census, 3,125 people lived in the Town of Oregon. The town adopted its first land use plan in 1994 and completed adoption of Dane County’s exclusive agricultural zoning ordinance in 1995. In 2005 the Town Planning Committee identified the following as guiding principles: • Build upon the policies and principles in the 1994 Land Use Plan and the 2001 Visioning document. • Clarify and maintain the Town’s groundwater protection policy. • Update and implement the Town conservation subdivision ordinance. • Evaluate the potential for transfer or purchase of development rights. • Limit new commercial development within the Town to designated areas. • Plan for some mineral extraction uses within the Town. As per Wisconsin’s comprehensive planning legislation, the Town will review and update the Comprehensive Plan at least every ten years. Changing conditions and goals in the Town will be noted and adjustments will be made to the Comprehensive Plan text and maps accordingly. This plan update is intended to aid the Plan Commission and Town Board in meeting statutory timeline requirements and achieving the Town’s goals. This plan is a decision-making guide that the Town of Oregon government uses to manage changes in land use and in carry out Town business. The plan provides a framework that respect s the rights of landowners while preserving and enhancing those qualities that make the Town a special place to live and work. This Plan is to be used to guide the development of Town ordinances and policies. In particular, Wisconsin's Comprehensive Planning law (Wis. Statute 66.1001) requires that beginning on January 1, 2010, certain actions related to zoning and land use regulation must be consistent with an adopted Comprehensive Plan. 9 Plan Elements 1. Issues & Opportunities 2. Housing 3. Transportation 4. Utilities & Community Facilities 5. Economic Development 6. Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources 7. Intergovernmental Cooperation 8. Land Use 9. Implementation Page 27 of 132 Element 1: Issues & Opportunities Page 10 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 The plan and the associated ordinances and policies are to be used in conjunction with applicable Dane County ordinances, Wisconsin statutes and federal laws. This plan has many technical terms. If the terms are not defined in the text, please reference Appendix 1: Glossary. 1.2 Background & Existing Conditions The Town of Oregon grew rapidly (5.2% average annual growth rate) from 1978 -1998. However, over the next twenty years, from 1998-2018, the Town’s growth rate leveled off (0.6% average annual growth rate). As of the 2020 Decennial Census, the Town of Oregon had a population of 3,125 people, 59 people fewer than in 2010. The Wisconsin Department of Administration projects the Town to decrease slowly over the next 25 years, with projected 2050 population of 2,813 people. Table 1: Population 1980-2020 (with surrounding communities) Municipality 1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 Town of Oregon 1,798 2,428 3,148 3,184 3,125 Village of Oregon 3,876 4,519 7,514 9,231 11,179 Village of Brooklyn 643 789 1,340 1,401 1,524 City of Fitchburg 11,973 15,648 20,501 25,260 29,609 Town of Rutland 1,468 1,584 1,887 1,966 1,997 Town of Montrose 1,024 1,032 1,134 1,081 1,064 Town of Exeter 709 756 1,261 2,023 2,156 Source: U.S. Bureau of the Census Figure 1: Population and Projections 1990-2040 Source: Applied Population Lab- Wisconsin Population and Housing Estimates- Table 2: Population Projections Municipality 2020 Census 2030 2040 2050 2020-2050 Town of Oregon 3,125 2,967 2,885 2,813 -312 Village of Oregon 11,179 13,079 15,170 17,235 +6,056 Village of Brooklyn* 1,026 1,063 1,123 1,183 +157 City of Fitchburg 29,609 37,798 45,076 52,245 +22,609 Town of Rutland 1,997 1,908 1,887 1,871 -126 Town of Montrose 1,064 996 954 916 -148 Town of Exeter 2,156 2,188 2,180 2,084 -72 *Dane County portion only Source: Wisconsin Department of Administration 2024 Projections. Note: The Regional Data Group Published higher projections for the communities in Dane County. 1,798 2,428 3,184 3,125 2,967 2,885 2,813 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 2,500 3,000 3,500 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 2050 Page 28 of 132 Element 1: Issues & Opportunities Page 11 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Age & Gender According to the Census Bureau’s annual American Community Survey, the median age in the Town has increased by 12.1% over the last decade from 43 in 2010 to 48.2 in 2020. The median age of Dane County increased less dramatically during the same period from 34.3 to 35.5 years old. As the population of the Town ages, housing and services to meet older citizens’ needs will rise. Figure 2 shows the age composition of the Town population as of 2020. Figure 2: Age Pyramids 2020 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2020 Census Ethnic Minorities According to the 2010 Census, the Town’s racial minority population comprised 2.2% of the total population. Figure 3 shows the 2010 racial and minority breakdown of the Town’s population. Figure 3: Population by Ethnic Background (% of population) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Demographic Profile 2020 6% 4% 2% 0% 2% 4% 6% Under 5 years 5 to 9 years 10 to 14 years 15 to 19 years 20 to 24 years 25 to 29 years 30 to 34 years 35 to 39 years 40 to 44 years 45 to 49 years 50 to 54 years 55 to 59 years 60 to 64 years 65 to 69 years 70 to 74 years 75 to 79 years 80 to 84 years 85 years and over Male Female 93.7% 3.1% 2.0% 0.1% 0.3% 0.7% 0.1% 90% 91% 92% 93% 94% 95% 96% 97% 98% 99% 100% White alone Two or more races Hispanic or Latino (any race) American Indian and Alaska Native alone Asian alone Black or African American alone Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander alone Page 29 of 132 Element 1: Issues & Opportunities Page 12 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Education In 2017 98.8% of Town residents age 25 or older held a high school diploma or higher (Figure 4). Dane County reports 95.5% of residents with at least a high school diploma. These figures are similar to the percentages for Dane County as a whole. Figure 4: Educational Attainment for Population 25+ Years Old Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 Income With a median household income of $143,056 in 2023, Town of Oregon residents were more affluent than Dane County as a whole. Figure 5 and 6 depict the Town’s household income distribution. Figure 5: Household Median Income (in 2023 inflation-adjusted dollars) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 1.2% 14.3% 20.1% 17.5% 26.0% 20.9% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 9th to 12th grade, no diploma High school graduate (or equivalent) Some college, no degree Associate's degree Bachelor's degree Graduate or professional degree $153,718 $143,056 $122,020 $88,108$97,261 $75,670 $0 $20,000 $40,000 $60,000 $80,000 $100,000 $120,000 $140,000 $160,000 $180,000 Median Family Income Median Household Income Income Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin Page 30 of 132 Element 1: Issues & Opportunities Page 13 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 6: Income Distribution (2023 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 1.3 Housing & Household Trends The number of households in the Town increased from 1,144 in 2010 to 1,180 in 2020, a 3% increase over the decade. Conversely, the average household size in the Town decreased from 2.77 persons per household in 2010 to 2.64 in 2020. The trend toward smaller household sizes is mirrored nationwide and is due in part to increases in divorce, decreases in the birth rate, and a larger proportion of the population being age 65 and older. By 2040, the projected number of households in the Town is expected to increase by 70 for a total of 1,250 total households, according to the Wisconsin Department of Administration. Household projections are useful in planning for future housing development. Population projections for 2050 indicate a decrease in population to 2,813 people. 1.4 Labor Force & Employment Trends According to the Census Bureau’s American Community Survey estimates, the Town of Oregon had a 2020 labor force of 1,861 people. From 2016-2020, the unemployment rate for the labor force population 16 years and over averaged under 2% (Figure 7), which compares favorably with Dane County’s unemployment rate of 2.5% and Wisconsin’s rate of 3.5%. Between 2010 and 2017, the town saw moderate employment growth in the professional, management and administrative, information, manufacturing; and arts, recreation, accommodation and food service sectors. Meanwhile, retail trade, public administration, and wholesale trade sectors saw employment declines. Oregon’s working population is primarily employed by private companies (53%). The remaining are self - employed (19%), work for government (12%), have their own businesses (9%), or are working for a non- profit (7%). The average worker commutes alone and drives an average of 28 minutes to their place of work (American Community Survey, 2023 ). With planned limited non -agricultural development, the employment forecast for the town is expected to remain similar to what is shown in Figure 8. Figure 7: Unemployment Rate (16-year-olds and older) 1.9% 0.0% 0.5% 0.0% 1.5% 0.1% 2.1% 0.1% 2.3% 2.0% 11.9% 9.6% 13.3% 5.9% 26.8% 22.1% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% Less than $10,000 $10,000 to $14,999 $15,000 to $19,999 $20,000 to $24,999 $25,000 to $29,999 $30,000 to $34,999 $35,000 to $39,999 $40,000 to $44,999 $45,000 to $49,999 $50,000 to $59,999 $60,000 to $74,999 $75,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $124,999 $125,000 to $149,999 $150,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more Percent of Population Income Page 31 of 132 Element 1: Issues & Opportunities Page 14 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 Figure 8: Labor Force Participation Rate (Population 16+ Years Old) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 1.5 Key Planning Issues & Goals The 2023 Comprehensive Plan steering committee employed various methods to ensure meaningful participation, including newsletter announcements, website updates, a community survey, an open house, and public hearings. Over 50% of survey respondents felt that the town population should be approximately “the same as today” in 20 years. Strong majorities indicated protection of natural and agricultural resources are “essential” or “very important,” with farmland, woodlands, wildlife habitat, streams, air qualit y, and groundwater resources ranking highly. In 2025, the Town conducted the Oregon Vision 2040 survey to solicit input from residents opinion on the future direction of the Town. The survey was conducted by UW-Extension and UW-River Falls and went out to all Town residents. The survey had 489 responses, with 48 responses from the mail survey and 431 responses from the online survey, for an overall 39% response rate. To learn more visit: Vision 2040 Plan. As a result of this outreach effort, the Town of Oregon formally adopted the following Vision Summary 2040: “By 2040, our community will be a vibrant, engaged, and welcoming place where rural beauty and small-town warmth endure. The Town will maintain its rural character and small -town atmosphere through careful land use planning and managed growth. Development will be directed toward the Village and adjacent subdivisions, minimizing the division of agricultural land and preserving open spaces. Natural resources —including groundwater, woodlands, wetlands, and streams —will be protected and enhanced, ensuring clean groundwater and 2.2% 2.4% 3.3% .0% .5% 1.0% 1.5% 2.0% 2.5% 3.0% 3.5% Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin Percent of Population 67.1% 70.5% 65.5% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin Percent of Population Page 32 of 132 Element 1: Issues & Opportunities Page 15 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 healthy ecosystems for generations to come. Wildlife habitats and farmland will continue to define our landscape, honoring the agricultural heritage that is central to our identity. Residents will enjoy a high quality of life rooted in strong community connections, safe neighborhoods, and abundant recreational opportunities for all ages. Housing will be thoughtfully planned near village boundaries, offering options for affordability a nd aging in place, while maintaining the integrity of agricultural land. Town services will remain reliable and responsive, supported by expanded broadband access that connects every household and fosters economic vitality. Transportation will prioritize safety and sustainability, with well -maintained roads complemented by a network of bike paths and lanes linking the Town to neighboring areas. Local businesses will flourish, providing goods and services that strengthen our economy and sense of community. Facilities will evolve to meet future needs, including securing land for a new Town Hall and enhancing spaces for civic engagement. Communication will be proactive and multichannel, using social media, neighborhood ambassadors, and community forums to keep residents informed and engaged. The Town will continue to provide high-quality facilities and services without imposing significant tax increases. Above all, the Town of Oregon will continue to balance progress with preservation—embracing innovation while safeguarding the natural beauty, agricultural heritage, and rural character that makes our community unique.” With the urging of the Town of Oregon residents, this plan sets forth these goals in pursuit of the Town’s vision: 1. Preserve the rural character of the Town: Residents like living in the country. The Town is a desirable place to live and to raise children because the community is safe, people are friendly, and schools are good. The goal is to maintain farmland because they provide much of the rural character residents cherish. 2. Plan development wisely and control growth: Residents would like the population to stay small and to protect property rights and values. Residents want Town officials to plan development carefully to preserve the productive farmland, precious wetlands, sheltering woodlands, wildlife habitats, open spaces, and scenic views. 3. Partner with the Villages of Oregon and Brooklyn: The Town wants to partner with the Villages of Oregon and Brooklyn so that they continue to provide commercial and public services. The Town would like to stabilize the boundaries between the Town and these Villages to preserve the town’s integrity. 4. Provide an outdoor resource for residents: Residents need a place for quiet and reflective outdoor recreation, whether for biking with friends down a country road or walking alone. Residents want to preserve the Town of Oregon as an outdoor sanctuary for the greater good. Page 33 of 132 Element 2: Housing Page 16 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Housing 2.1 Existing Housing Conditions Between the years 2000 and 2020, the number of housing units in the Town increased 18%, from nearly 1,100 to more than 1,200 (Figure 9). This is comparable to the 25% increase for Dane County as a whole over the same period. Detached, single-family residences make up 99.8% of the housing units in the Town of Oregon. As of the 2015 Dane County Land Use Inventory, there were 1,202 detached single -family residences, 3 duplexes and no multi -family homes in the town. Owner-occupied homes were estimated to comprise between 95% and 98% of the housing stock in the Town in 2017. Estimates of vacancy rates (for both homeowners and renters) are typically near zero. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), a healthy owner-occupied vacancy rate is around 2% because it allows residents adequate housing choice. According to the 2017 American Community Survey, 61 % of the houses in the Town were built before 1980, similar to Dane County (Figure 10). Figure 9: Number of Housing Units 2000-2020 Source: 2020, 2010, 2000 Decennial census data 1,077 1,191 1,214 1,000 1,050 1,100 1,150 1,200 1,250 2000 2010 2020 Total Housing Units Year Page 34 of 132 Element 2: Housing Page 17 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 10: Build Years for Existing Housing Stock Source: 2020 5-year ACS data & 2010, 2000, 1990 Decennial Census data In 2017 the median value of owner -occupied homes in the Town of Oregon was estimated at $ 432,400, 25% higher than the $366,100 median value for Dane County as a whole (Figure 11). Figure 11: Median Housing Value Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 “Cost-burdened” is defined as homeowners and renters who spend more than 30% of their monthly income on housing costs. Compared with Dane County and the State of Wisconsin, the Town of Oregon has a smaller percentage of housing cost -burdened residents with 27% of mortgage holders being cost -burdened. Of those households, the 2015 Dane County Housing Needs Assessment suggests 18 existing households with senior citizen residents are cost-burdened. 0.0% 3.0% 10.3% 25.0% 22.2% 27.9% 5.1% 0.7% 0.0% 5.8% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 2020 or later 2010 to 2019 2000 to 2009 1990 to 1999 1980 to 1989 1970 to 1979 1960 to 1969 1950 to 1959 1940 to 1949 1939 or earlier Percent of Housing Stock Year Built $432,400 $366,100 $247,400 $0 $50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000 $250,000 $300,000 $350,000 $400,000 $450,000 $500,000 Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin Page 35 of 132 Element 2: Housing Page 18 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 2.2 Projected Housing Need The number of households in the Town increased from 1,144 in 2010 to 1,180 in 2020, a 3% increase over the decade. Conversely, the average household size in the Town increased from 2.74 persons per household in 2010 to 2.82 in 2020 ( Figure 12). The general trend toward smaller household sizes is mirrored nationwide and is due in part to increases in divorce, decreases in the birth rate, and a larger proportion of the population age 65 and older. Figure 12: Average Household Size Source: American Community Survey 5-year estimates for 2020, 2010, 2000, 1990 2.3 Housing Programs • Rural Development- USDA: A federal program with state offices that provides a variety of housing and community development programs for rural areas. Some programs cover support for rental housing development, direct and guarantee mortgage loans for home buyers, and support for sel f- help and cooperative housing development. • Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA): Provides mortgage financing for first-time homebuyers, grants for home repair, and financing for multifamily housing. Specific programs change with the needs and demands of the housing market. • Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) : The CDBG Entitlement Program provides annual grants on a formula basis to entitled cities and counties to develop viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, and by expanding economic opportunities, principally for low- and moderate-income people. The funds that Dane County receives from Housing and Urban Development (HUD) are distributed across the County (outside of Madison) and available to a variety of sub-recipients including municipalities, non-profit, and for-profit entities. • Home Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program: HOME provides grants to States and localities that communities use, often in partnership with local nonprofit groups, to fund a range of activities that build, buy, and/or rehabilitate affordable housing for rent homeownership or provide rental assistance to low-income people. 2.4 Housing Goals, Objectives, & Policies The following goals, objectives, and policies are informed by public input and the Town of Oregon’s history of planning and policy practices. 2.82 2.74 2.96 3.1 2.5 2.6 2.7 2.8 2.9 3 3.1 3.2 2020 2010 2000 1990 Average household size (people) Year Page 36 of 132 Element 2: Housing Page 19 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 1. Direct allowable residential uses to qualified areas as defined in the Land Use section of this plan. a. Plan for the needs of Town residents to meet existing and forecasted housing demands. 2. Assure a variety of quality housing opportunities for Town residents. 1. Encourage the protection and enhancement of the rural character and open spaces of the Town by establishing and enforcing development standards for nonfarm, residential development. 2. Consider a policy to phase in the approval of all residential development constructed in the Town to allow the Town to maintain adequate levels of public services. 3. Work with neighboring municipalities to ensure that a range of housing that meets the needs of area residents of various income levels, age, and health status is planned for. 4. Encourage Town residents to maintain the existing housing stock. 5. Avoid future land use conflicts by carefully siting new residential development. 6. Provide adequate infrastructure, public services and an adequate supply of developable land to meet existing and future housing demand. 1. To the extent feasible, cooperate with local and county planning efforts to evaluate housing needs of area residents. 2. Review and comment on the planning efforts of neighboring communities with regards to housing availability and proposed residential uses. 3. Encourage neighboring municipalities to reuse and redevelop properties within their jurisdictions for residential uses that could provide opportunities for affordable housing for area residents with special needs. 4. Encourage voluntary efforts by private homeowners to maintain, rehabilitate, update or otherwise make improvements to their homes. 5. Redirect high-density development requiring public transportation, public sewers or public water to an appropriate Urban Service Area. 6. Consider higher density development, such as accessory dwelling units, duplexes, condominiums and multi-family units, only in specific circumstances and only where compatible with the environment, neighborhood, and rural character. 7. Follow Town density policy as outlined in the Land Use Goals, Objectives and Policies (see Element 8: Land Use). 8. Educate residents about housing rehabilitation and affordability programs available through the US Department of Agriculture Rural Housing Service and Dane County Department of Human Services. 9. Consider alternative options for maintenance of aging housing to supplement or substitute for assistance and/or loan programs. 10. Re-evaluate housing and land use policies on a regular basis to allow for adequate housing to meet the needs of all residents of the town. 11. Provide a variety of quality housing opportunities for Town residents. Page 37 of 132 Element 3: Transportation Page 20 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Transportation 3.1 Existing Transportation Network A primary function of Town government is to maintain the local road system and work with county and state government to maintain the regional transportation network. Road maintenance is the largest line item in the Town's budget. Town residents are largely satisfied with the local roads. The Town aims to maintain this satisfaction while addressing future challenges. Arterials U.S. Highway 14 runs north and south, near the eastern edge of the town, through the Village of Oregon. The highway connects with the South Beltline in the Madison metropolitan area and south and east to Rock County. Collectors: Four County Trunk Highways traverse the Town totaling 16.87 miles. County Trunk Highway MM runs north to south, is the arterial connection between the Villages of Brooklyn and Oregon and connects State Trunk Highways 92 and 138. County Trunk Highway D connects County Highway M and Madison to the north and Belleville and State Highways 69 and 92 to the southwest. Town Roads The Town has 79 Roads totaling 52.12 miles. The Town has 51 roads totaling 38.3 miles. Maintenance, repair, and snow removal are performed by the Town. This expense accounts for a significant portion of the annual budget. Road expenditures in the Town could be affected by more miles driven per person and heavy construction and agricultural traffic associated with development in the Town. The closest fixed-route public transit service to the Town of Oregon is t he Madison Metro Route 49 (peak- hour service) in the City of Fitchburg, approximately 4.1 miles north of the Oregon-Fitchburg line. Park n’ Ride lots in Verona (2565 Old PB, approximately 11 miles from the Town Hall) and Madison (Dutch Mill lot, at U.S. Highways 12, 18 & 51, approximately 15 miles from the Town Hall) provide free parking, and connections to the Metro. Union Cab is the only taxi and ride -hail service to portions of the Town of Oregon; however, this is not practical for regular use. More often residents and visitors use Uber and Lyft for ride services. Page 38 of 132 Element 3: Transportation Page 21 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 The Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization operates RIDESHARE, etc., an online ride-matching service to connect commuters with carpooling and vanpool opportunities. The service area includes the Town of Oregon. The Wisconsin Department of Administration operates a vanpool system for commuters (including both state and non-state employees) traveling to and from the Madison area. The closest Park & Ride is the Dutch Mill Park& Ride, approximately 15 miles north in the City of Madison. Rides for seniors to doctor/dental appointments are available through RSVP of Dane County Driver Services Program. The Dane County Department of Human Services provides individual and group transportation services which enable seniors and people with disabilities to access their communities and needed services. Transportation assistance may also be provided for low -income families or persons with unusual m edical transportation expenses. The Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization operates a number of commuter programs that provide a ride home from work in an emergency to regular carpool, vanpool, mass transit, and bicycle commuters. A portion of the Badger State Trail, which runs from Madison to the Illinois border, crosses through the Northwest ¼ of Section 6, near the intersection of Sayles Trail and Purcell Road. An existing segment of the Oregon-Badger State Trail Connector, an off-street, county-operated trail, runs from the Village of Oregon to South Fish Hatchery Road. Planned extensions would run along Purcell Road and the north town line to connect to the Badger State Trail. Dane County has proposed the Fitchburg -Oregon Rail Trail, a shared -use trail that would run from Union Road southeasterly to the Village of Brooklyn. This facility is currently in the planning stages. Paved shoulders along County Trunk Highways D and MM are adequate to accommodate bicycle traffic. Many of the local town roads may also be suitable for on-road bicycle use. The Madison Area Transportation Board maintains an online Low-Stress Bicycle Route Finder that can help find other suitable bicycle routes. The Town of Oregon does not have an active rail. An abandoned rail line known as the “Harvard Sub” runs north and south through the Village of Oregon and through the eastern portion of the Town. This rail corridor has been acquired by the State of Wisconsin rail bank program for future use as a multi -use recreational trail. This service is not provided in the Town. Several commercial bus lines provide regular service from the bus stop at 250 N. Lake Street, in the City of Madison (18 miles from the Town center) to destinations, including Milwaukee, Janesville, Beloit, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Chicago, and Minneapolis-St. Paul. Truck traffic uses the many highways across the Town. There is no significant water traffic in the Town. Page 39 of 132 Element 3: Transportation Page 22 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 There are three private, grassed-runway air strips in the Town of Oregon: Storytown Airfield in section 17, Peterson Field in Section 10, and Syvrud airstrip in section 26. The Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in the City of Madison is approximately 18 miles from the Town center. Commercial airlines operate daily non- stop flights to 19 destinations in the continental United States. The Belleville Sno Cats and the Oregon Sno Blazers manage snow mobile trails in the area. Trails include trail numbers 6, 38, 41, 50, 52, and 84. 3.2 Transportation Plans Regional Transportation Plan 2050 (2017) Federal law requires Regional Transportation Plans for urban areas over 50,000 in population as a condition for spending federal highway and transit funding. Adopted by the Greater Madison Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO), the Regional Transportation Plan 2050 provides an overview of how the region intends to invest in the transportation system across all modes. Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) The MPO develops the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) annually. The TIP lists short -range transportation improvement projects to be undertaken in the next five year period. Projects within the MPO planning area must be included in the TIP to be eligible to receive federal funding. Outer county area projects are listed for coordination purposes. Bicycle Transportation Plan (2015) Adopted by the MPO, the Bicycle Transportation Plan provides a framework for cooperation between state agencies, Dane County, and local governments in planning for and developing b icycle facilities and programs. Dane County Comprehensive Plan (2012) Adopted by the Dane County Board of Supervisors, the Dane County Comprehensive Plan includes countywide goals, objectives, and policies for transportation. Connections 2050 (2022) Connections 2050 is the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's (WI DOT) long-range transportation plan for the state. This plan addresses all forms of transportation over a 20 year planning horizon: highways, local roads, air, water, rail, bicycle, pedestrian, and transit. W I DOT officially adopted Connections 2030 in October 2009. Planned transportation improvements affecting the Town of Oregon are included in the Madison Metropolitan Planning Area section. According to the WI DOT long-range plan, no major changes to Highway 78 are planned for the next fifteen years. WI DOT has plans to convert Highway 18-151 to a limited access highway within five years. Page 40 of 132 Element 3: Transportation Page 23 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Six-Year Highway Improvement Program (updated annually) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation prepares the Six -Year Highway Improvement Program to identify capital improvements to the statewide highway system. Planned improvements affecting Dane County, including the Town of Oregon, are contained in the Southwest Region section. Wisconsin Rail Plan 2050 Wisconsin Rail Plan 2050 identifies rail issues that reflect the views of Wisconsin citizens, businesses and government officials. The plan includes a statewide vision for freight, intercity passenger and commuter rail and an inventory of Wisconsin’s rail system, rail service and rail facilities. State Freight Plan The State Freight Plan (SFP) provides a vision for multimodal freight transportation and positions the state to remain competitive in the global marketplace. The SFP was approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation on March 19, 2018. 3.3 Transportation Goals, Objectives, & Policies The following goals, objectives, and policies are informed by public input and the Town of Oregon’s history of planning and policy practices. 1. Cost effectively maintain the road infrastructure at a level of service desired by Town residents and businesses. 2. Accommodate multiple modes of transportation, as appropriate. 3. Plan for anticipated traffic demand. 4. Address other transportation related policies required by Wisconsin’s Comprehensive Planning law. 1. Provide reasonable access to an adequate and safe transportation system for residents, farmers, and businesses. 2. Ensure adequate Town road capacities and conditions to safely and efficiently accommodate automotive, trucking, agricultural, bicycle, and pedestrian traffic. 3. Establish and sustain an ongoing road maintenance program with limited funding. 4. When reconstructing roads, the Town will consider multiple users and incorporate provisions to enhance the safety of these users. Users include cyclists, farmers, and snowmobiles. Provisions may include adding bike lanes, signage or increasing width to accommodate farming equipment. 5. Work with Dane County and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to make sure improvements to County Trunk Highways and State Highways support the goals and objectives of this plan. 6. Evaluate traffic impacts on development projects and require road improvements where appropriate. 7. Recognize all applicable state and regional transportation plans. 8. Recognize all transportation policies and programs defined in the Dane County Comprehensive Plan. 1. Publicize assistance for disabled residents through the Town newsletter and rely on neighboring areas and regional programs to provide transportation for disabled residents. 2. Work with the Village of Oregon, the City of Fitchburg, and Wisconsin Southern Railroad to determine the long-term viability of rail services. 3. Ensure that the Town of Oregon takes an active role in providing input on bicycle routes through the Town of Oregon planned by Dane County or the Madison Area MPO, and routes planned by the Page 41 of 132 Element 3: Transportation Page 24 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Village of Oregon, Village of Brooklyn, City of Fitchburg, Village of Belleville, or as proposed by the Town Parks Commission. 4. Require new developments to provide adequate walking areas and routes in residential and commercial areas. 5. Continue to designate truck weight restrictions and routes, especially for those serving quarries. 6. Encourage traffic patterns that do not increase traffic on town roads unnecessarily. 7. Require intergovernmental agreements that define the responsibilities of the Town, developer, and neighboring community regarding any required improvements to Town roads and funding of such improvements. 8. Stay apprised of Dane County’s efforts to maintain and improve County Trunk Highways D, A, MM, and CC. 9. Continue implementing the Town driveway ordinance to minimize the amount of access points onto Town roads and to ensure adequate sight distances. 10. Maintain an average PASER rating of 7 for Town roads and prioritize road projects based on the PASER score. 11. Work with neighboring municipalities to plan, construct and maintain roadways that affect both jurisdictions, including cost sharing where appropriate. 12. Maintain the Town’s culvert and ditch inspection program including culvert replacements and grading of ditches on Town roadways as needed annually. 13. Address vehicular safety on town roads and county and state highways. 14. Work with WI DOT and Dane County Highways to accommodate wide farm equipment and heavy automobile traffic. 15. Work with the Dane County Sheriff and the State Patrol to enforce traffic regulations, reduce automobile/farm equipment safety problems and request written reports from the Sheriff of accidents in the Town. 16. Work with the Dane County Public Works, Highways and Transportation Department to improve shoulders on State and County roads. 17. Work with cycling organizations to identify biking routes and when feasible, notify Town residents. 18. Continue working with school districts to maintain safe, efficient bus transportation for students. Page 42 of 132 Element 4: Utilities and Community Facilities Page 25 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Utilities & Community Facilities 4.1 Existing Utilities & Community Facilities The Town of Oregon is a rural suburban community that provides limited public services, utilities and community facilities. In collaboration with other service providers, Town residents enjoy: The Oregon Town Hall and garage are located at 1138 Union Road. The town hall is used for convening of Town decision-makers and residents as well as a workplace for Town employees. Residents in the Town obtain water from private wells. The Town does not offer municipal water service and does not anticipate offering water service in the next 20 years. Residential and commercial wastewater is handled through on -site disposal and treatment techniques including conventional, mound, pressure distribution, at -grade, holding tank, and sand filter systems. The Town does not expect to need on-site wastewater treatment service in the next twenty years. Curbside garbage and recycling pickup is available to town residents through a contract with a private waste disposal firm. The Town of Oregon operates a disposal site at 1067 Storytown Road. The disposal site serves Town of Oregon residents and collects a variety of materials. The Town is served by the Dane County Sanitary Landfill, which is operated by Dane County Public Works, Highways, and Transportation Department. The Dane County Clean Sweep program, housed at the landfill, provides for disposal of hazardous wastes. The Town follows Dane County’s Erosion Control and Stormwater Management Ordinance (Chapter 14 Dane County Code of Ordinances). The ordinance sets standards for runoff quality and quantity where landscape alterations may result in changes in the amount and quality of water leaving a site. The Town falls entirely within the West 4 Dane County Sheriff District. Page 43 of 132 Element 4: Utilities and Community Facilities Page 26 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 The Oregon Area Fire -EMS District serves most of the northern and central portions of the Town. The Belleville Area EMS district serves portions of Sections 18, 19 and 30 along the western edge of the Town. The Brooklyn Fire-EMS Protection District serves the southern portion of the Town. Other fire, medical and rescue services may also respond to emergencies in the Town of Oregon under mutual aid contracts. One cemetery, Storytime Cemetery, operates in the Town of Oregon: a 1.16 acre cemetery on Town-owned land north of County Trunk Highway A in Section 20 . An inactive are also present: the historic Putnam Hill Cemetery and another located on Hwy D by Lake Harriet that is maintained by Town. Town of Oregon residents have access to public libraries in the Village of Oregon, Village of Belleville and the City of Fitchburg. Dane County Library Service Bookmobile services are also available in the Village of Brooklyn. All these local libraries par ticipate in the South -Central Library Servic e which provides shared collection access. The town is served by two school districts: Oregon and Belleville. The Town of Oregon owns and maintains five town parks: • Bicentennial Park, 845 Highway MM • Hillcrest Park, 873 and 876 Della Road • Kennedy Park, 4779 Kennedy Park Road • Raven Oaks Park, 6238 Ahwahnee Court • Town Park, 901 Glenway Road Playground equipment is available at all Town parks, except for Bicentennial Park. The Town also maintains a walking path at the end of Sheil Drive in the Hillcrest subdivision. To learn more, see the Town of Oregon Parks and Open Space Plan. The Oregon School District operates a joint-use community pool at 249 Brook Street. The pool is open to Town of Oregon residents when not in use for school activities. The Anderson Farm County Park , operated by Dane County Parks, provides opportunities for hiking, foraging, wildlife viewing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. The park has a picnic area , dog park, and restroom facilities. See Element 3: Transportation for a description of the bicycle trails, paths and routes that serve the Town of Oregon. Page 44 of 132 Element 4: Utilities and Community Facilities Page 27 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 The Town does not contain any health care facilities. A variety of commercial health care clinics and individual practitioners in the Village of Oregon and the Village of Brooklyn also serve Town of Oregon residents. The nearest full-service hospitals are in the City of Madison. No known childcare centers are in the Town. Small, in- home services, may exist from time to time. Two child day-care centers in the Village of Oregon also serve Town of Oregon residents. There are no churches within the Town of Oregon. A number of religious institutions are located in the Villages of Oregon and Brooklyn. The Oregon Area Senior Center focuses on the needs of older adults within the Oregon School District. The Center is a department of the Village and is funded by the Village, Town of Oregon, Town of Rutland, and Dane County. The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Dane County provides information about resources related to aging and/or living with a disability, long-term care options, and public benefits. ADRC services are free and available to all County residents. The Area Agency on Aging of Dane County provides Kennedy Park with new equipment installed in 2025. Page 45 of 132 Element 4: Utilities and Community Facilities Page 28 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 individuals age 60 and over and/or their family members information and assistance in accessing services that help older adults stay in their homes and communities. The Oregon-Area Food Pantry provides food and basic necessities to residents in need in the Oregon School District. No cellular telecommunication towers are present in the Town. The majority of the Town has sufficient broadband service; however, there are still considerable pockets that lack sufficient coverage. There are approximately 1,305 broadband serviceable locations in the Town. About 1,006 (~77%) of those are considered se rved, with 299 (~23%) being considered underserved or unserved. Improvements are coming by way of a few different federal funding mechanisms. The first being the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), where Spectrum has built out much of the southwestern corner of the Town. Second, Bertram Communications has pending Broadband, Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) funding to build out fiber-to-the-premise service to approximately 137 locations in the Town. These locations are primarily located in the central portions of the Town. Dane County’s Planning and Development Department has a Broadband Coordinator position dedicated to broadband expansion efforts. To learn more, please see the Dane County Broadband Webpage. Wisconsin Power and Light operates an electrical substation at the intersection of County Highway CC and South Fish Hatchery Road. There are no power plants or other major transmission lines in the Town. Due to the low growth rate anticipated for the Town of Oregon, existing utilities and community facilities are expected to be sufficient for the next twenty years. One exception, broadband internet access, is insufficient to meet current demand. 4.2 Utilities & Community Facilities Goals, Objectives, & Policies The following goals, objectives, and policies are informed by public input and the Town of Oregon’s history of planning and policy practices. 1. Cost effectively maintain the Town’s infrastructure and services at a level of service desired by Town residents, farmers, and businesses. 1. Provide reasonable access to adequate and safe water for drinking and fire protection. 2. Coordinate with appropriate regulatory agencies to provide adequate and safe disposal of wastewater and management of stormwater throughout the Town. Page 46 of 132 Element 4: Utilities and Community Facilities Page 29 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 3. Work with neighboring jurisdictions, special districts and other providers to ensure Town residents, farmers and businesses receive adequate service levels. 4. Evaluate the Town Hall, garage and associated equipment to ensure that it will continue to meet Town needs. 5. Provide convenient solid waste and recycling services. 6. As feasible, accommodate recreational facilities of interest to Town residents. 7. Cooperate with other municipalities and governmental agencies to maximize cost-efficient delivery of services. 1. Restrict or prohibit any land uses that could damage or threaten groundwater supplies. 2. Work with the Villages of Oregon, Brooklyn and Belleville and with local fire districts to ensure adequate fire protection for all Town development areas. 3. Encourage landowners with private wells to properly maintain and monitor their wells through inspections and water testing, as necessary. 4. Encourage landowners to ensure private wells that are no longer in use are properly closed or abandoned according to Wisconsin DNR and Dane County regulations. 5. All proposed new Urban Service Areas (USAs) within the Town must be addressed as a formal amendment to this comprehensive plan. Such areas may not be submitted or approved until the Town Comprehensive Plan is formally updated and amended to incorporate such areas on the proposed land use map. Appropriate policies for the location, capacity and need for the expansion of services must also be incorporated into the proposed amendment to the Comprehensive Plan. The formal adoption/amendment process identified in this plan must be followed in considering and potentially approving a formal amendment to this plan. 6. Work with neighboring municipalities and Dane County to maintain adequate emergency services for Town residents and businesses and to review service levels once per year or sooner if necessary. 7. Annually review levels of service provided by the contracted solid waste disposal and recycling carrier and meet with them to address any concerns raised by residents or local businesses. 8. Actively participate in the planning and siting of any major transmission lines for electricity or natural gas. If major transmission lines for electricity or natural gas are being proposed, work with potentially affected landowners and jurisdictions to determine if such lines can be run through the Town safely and in a manner that will not overly disrupt life in the Town. If such an area is identified and approved, these areas should be identified on the Map 1: Future Land Usethrough a formal amendment to this plan. 9. Major power production facilities, substations, lines, or other related facilities should be in areas away from significant residential uses, high traffic areas, and major livestock operations whenever possible. 10. No new telecommunications tower shall be located in the Town of Oregon without the owner/operator entering into an agreement that addresses the use, design, site location, overall safety, and potential impacts to the Town and neighboring jurisdictions of such a facility. Such an agreement will be a condition of recommending approval of a Conditional Use Permit to Dane County. If such an area is identified and approved, these areas should be identified on the Town Proposed Land Use Map through a formal amendment to this plan. 11. Continue working with overlapping school districts to provide high quality educational facilities for Town residents and coordinate the review of potential impacts to schools by significant developments within the Town. 12. Work with neighboring jurisdictions to maintain and improve access to public library facilities for Town residents through mobile or “traveling” collections. 13. Evaluate the need for recreational or natural preservation areas in the Town and work with the Wisconsin DNR and Dane County as necessary to develop and maintain these areas if established. (NOTE: If such areas are identified and approved in the future, these areas should be identified on the Town Proposed Land Use Map.) Page 47 of 132 Element 4: Utilities and Community Facilities Page 30 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 14. Limit residential and commercial/industrial development to densities that are cost-effective to serve. 15. Work to improve uniformity and availability of telecommunication and high-speed internet services to Town residents. Develop policies to manage placement of communication towers to provide more uniform service, while minimizing impacts on rural character and the environment. The Town should consider pre-planning and pre-approving new communication tower locations. 16. Support and expand relationships with regional cooperative organizations, such as South West Dane Outreach, to deliver needed services to Town residents. 17. Support development of alternative energy, heat or cooling sources, including solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, and wood that are consistent with goals, objectives, and policies of this plan. Page 48 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 31 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources 5.1 Agricultural Resources The Town of Oregon’s topography is suited for pastures and high -intensity crop production. Most farmers plant fields that follow natural contours and rotate grain crops (such as corn) with forages and legumes (such as soybeans). During the growing season, corn, alfalfa, and oat fields alternate along the landscape. The rural character of the Town is strongly linked to agriculture. While the number of full-time, larger farms in the Town has decreased, many Town residents farm part -time and the Town remains an agriculture - based community. Additionally, the State, through Farmland Preservation Zoning certification, provides tax relief to landowners that maintain large areas of agricultural land. The Town recognizes that farming is not just an economic pursuit, it is a way of life. In the Town of Oregon land in agricultural use remained relatively constant between 2010 and 2020. Open lands declined by 365 acres and woodlands declined by 180 acres. Meanwhile, over the same period, lands in residential use increased by 186 acres, outdoor recreation increased by 134 acres, and acres in transportation, industrial and commercial land uses saw small gains. This relative ly stable pattern follows previous decades that saw significant declines in agriculture and increases in residential land use. Sixty percent of the Town’s land was in agricultural use in 2015 (the last year detailed agricultural land use data is available). Nearly three -quarters (74%) of the farmland in the Town was dedicated to traditional corn/soybean rotational crops, with another 22% in other grain, pasture or fallow land. Small but growing acreages of tree farming, floriculture, community-supported agriculture, horse farms and fruit and vegetable farming also occur throughout the town. The Dane County Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 10, Dane County Code) defines a “farm” as “all land under common ownership that is primarily devoted to agricultural use.” In 2020, 178 landowners had a majority of their property in agricultural use and could be considered a “farm.” Farms range from five to 580 acres, with an average area of 59 acres. Page 49 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 32 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 13: Agricultural & Developed Land Use 1990-2020 *Residential, Commercial, Industrial, Government, Institutional Source: Dane County Land Use Inventory 2020 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 1990 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 Cropland/Pasture Woodland/Other Open Lands/Water Developed* Transportation/Communication/Utilities Outdoor Recreation Vacant/Under Construction Page 50 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 33 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 14: Crop & Pasture by Acreage (2020) Source: Dane County Land Use Inventory 2020; Crop Type Table 3: Land in Agricultural Use 2010-2020 (Acres) Description 2010 2020 Change 2010-2020 Farm residence and driveway/access road 402.0 52.08 -350.0 All other farm related buildings 65.3 151.29 86.0 Corn farming 5,959.8 4,382.30 -1,577.5 Hay/Alfalfa farming 1,247.1 1,612.45 365.4 Soybean farming 3,109.4 4,105.63 996.2 Wheat farming 308.8 476.93 Fallow Farm Field 70.3 78.29 8.0 Large scale grain elevators, Co-op 13.7 -13.7 Grain (barley, rye, milo, oat, wild rice) 47.1 33.25 -13.8 Dry pea and bean farming 8.6 93.76 85.1 Pasture (fenced areas for grazing) 294.5 477.80 183.3 Beef cattle, including feedlots - 40.25 40.3 Dairy cattle and milk production 26.0 17.49 -8.5 Horses and other equine production - 4.70 4.7 All other animal production 1.8 - -1.8 Fruit and tree nut farming 101 104.6 8.2 Greenhouse, nursery, tree (non-food) 47.6 134.5 22.7 Polyculture/CSA - 8.48 8.5 Total 11,620 11,772 151 Source: Land Use Inventory 2020 5% 37% 14% 35% 1% 4% 1% 1% 2% Livestock and pasture Corn farming Hay/Alfalfa farming Soybean farming Grain and peas Wheat farming Fruit and tree nut Nursery Buildings Page 51 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 34 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 15: Distribution of Farm Acres Source: Dane County Land Use Inventory, 2020 Because of the Town’s strong density policy, agricultural practices will likely continue over the next twenty years. Global, national, and regional market factors may affect the type of farming in the Town. 5.2 Natural Resources The natural environment in the Town of Oregon is an irreplaceable resource. The Town recognizes plant and animal diversity is an important environmental value, along with the need to preserve native plant communities and large tracts of undeveloped land. The richness of the terrain is based on a diverse natural environment, with wetlands, woodlands, prairies, and meadows. The Town of Oregon lies in the Southeast Glacial Plains ecological landscape, near the glacial terminal moraine, which lies just to the west. The Wisconsin Land Legacy Report (WIDNR, 2006) describes the Southeast Glacial Plains as “one of the world’s best examples of continental glacial activity. Drumlins, eskers, kettle lakes, kames, ground and end moraines, and other glacial features are prevalent throughout the entire area.” Conservation priorities for the area include preserving and enhancing critical habitat for ducks, geese and marsh -dwelling birds provided by the many wetlands and shallow lakes. The Town of Oregon straddles the boundary between two major watersheds: 11 83 43 19 10 4 3 5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 Less than 10 10-40 41-80 81-120 121-160 161-200 201-240 240+ Page 52 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 35 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 1. The southwestern portion of the Town lies in the Allen Creek and Middle Sugar River Watershed, a cold-water system. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WI DNR) manages the 3,096 - acre Brooklyn Wildlife Area. Story Creek, a Class 2 Trout Stream, runs through the Brooklyn Wildlife Area. The WI DNR, Dane County Land and Water Resources Department and pri vate conservation organizations have made a variety of improvements in and around Story Creek to improve the trout fishery and riparian habitat. The surrounding lands are managed for multiple recreational, hunting, and wildlife uses. Prevalent game species include pheasant, white-tail deer, turkey, rabbit, squirrel, waterfowl, quail, gray partridge and mourning doves. Mammals include red and gray fox, beaver, mink, raccoon, and muskrat. Non-game species include yellow-breasted chat, Bell's vireo, Cerulean warbler, Henslow's sparrow, and a variety of hawks, owls, cranes, amphibians, and reptiles. 2. The northeast portion of the Town (including nearly all the Village of Oregon) falls within the Badfish Creek Watershed. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (US FWS) owns 91 acres in the Town of Oregon of wetland and upland on the Town of Oregon adjacent to the Oakhill Correctional facility. The US FWS manages these lands as a Waterfowl Production Area. Within these, Oak Openings, Dry Prairie, Southern Mesic Forest, Forested Seep, and Southern Dry-mesic Forest are DNR identified Threatened Habitats (http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/NHI/calypso/EOReport.html#CName). Under the Soil and Water Conservation Society’s Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA) classification, agriculturally productive soils describe a gradient from northeast to southwest. The most productive (Class I) soils lie under the northeastern third of the Town, moderately productive soils (Class II) dominate the middle third, and poorer soils are associated with the wetlands and floodplains of Story Creek in the southwest. Extensive hydric soils and soils with hydric inclusions exist throughout the Town, especially in the areas near Story and Allen Creeks. Many of these areas were likely wetlands at one time but have since been drained for agricultural purposes. Areas with hydric soils may, in time, revert to wetland conditions if the y are not actively drained or cropped. Hydric soils present a variety of practical difficulties for construction and should Page 53 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 36 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 be avoided when planning any new development. The Dane County Zoning Division typically requires official wetland boundaries, or delineations, for proposed fill or construction near hydric soils. Many of the Town’s historic wetlands have been drained for agriculture. As active drainage in this area declines, some of these areas may naturally revert to wetland conditions. Large wetlands (2 acres or more) persist in the creek and stream valleys. Numerous small wetlands (less than 2 acres) dot the landscape of the Town. Some of these small wetlands may be naturally occurring glacial pothole wetlands and some may be remnants of larger historic wetland systems. These conditions make the Town of Oregon a good candidate for wetland restoration projects. Dane County’s Shoreland and Wetland Zoning Ordinance (Chapter 11, Dane County Code) regulates development in and near wetlands. Like most of Dane County, the Town of Oregon sits atop two underground aquifers: 1. A regional aquifer is located in the Mount Simon sandstone formation, approximately 850 feet below the surface. This deep aquifer provides the primary source for municipal water systems in the Village of Oregon, the Village of Brooklyn, and the communities in the Madison Central Urban Service Area. In most portions of the county, the Mount Simon aquifer is isolated from the surface by a layer of impervious rock. 2. The second aquifer is shallow, located only approximately 50 -100 feet below the surface. This groundwater resource, tapped through private wells, provides the primary source of drinking water to Town of Oregon residents. Except in st ream and creek valleys, groundwater typically lies more than 6 feet below the surface throughout most of the Town. However, with permeable layers of soil between it and the surface, this shallow aquifer is particularly susceptible to contamination from the surface. In Dane County, groundwater supplies nearly all the water for domestic, commercial, and industrial uses. Therefore, it is extremely important to protect the quality of our groundwater. Excessive use of road salts, fertilizers, pesticides, and poor maintena nce of some animal waste and septic systems can impair groundwater quality. The Wisconsin DNR Natural Heritage Inventory identifies the following endangered or threatened species or species of special concern as potentially present in the Town. Blanchard’s Cricket Frog (Acris blanchardi), a state-endangered species, was observed in the Town of Oregon. Other species include: • Azure Bluets (Houstonia caerulea), a prairie/woodland/wet meadow wildflower, • Blanding’s Turtle (Emydoidea blandingii), • Pickerel Frog (Lithobates palustris), • Plains Gartersnake (Thamnophis radix), and • Yellow-breasted Chat (Icteria virens), a grassland/woodland songbird. In 2020, the Town of Oregon had approximately 2,100 acres of woodlands, slightly less than in 2010. Forested land comprises 11% of the land area in the Town. Blocks of woodlands are scattered throughout the Town. Page 54 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 37 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 As of 2025, three mineral extraction sites operate in the Town . One is a legal, nonconforming site that predates current regulations. The town has abundant non-metallic mineral resources. See Map 18: Mineral Resources. 5.3 Cultural Resources The Wisconsin Historical Society’s Architectural Heritage Inventory (AHI) identifies 11 structures of historic interest in the Town of Oregon (Table 4). No sites are listed on the National and State Register of Historical Places, but some may be of regional or local significance. Resources in the AHI were last surveyed in 2017. The Wisconsin Historical Society provides grants to communities for historic survey research. Table 4: Historic Architectural Resources Id # Historic Name/Other Name Building Type Style Year Built 4453 No name House Gabled Ell Unknown 4454 No name House Gabled Ell Unknown 4458 No name House Gabled Ell Unknown 4460 No name House Other Vernacular Unknown 4461 No name House Other Vernacular Unknown 4462 No name House Other Vernacular Unknown 4463 No name House Gabled Ell Unknown 4465 No name House Other Vernacular Unknown 4466 No name House Italianate Unknown 4467 O'Brien House House Gabled Ell 1876 76346 Brooklyn WLA - Residence #04281 House Gabled Ell 1934 Source: Wisconsin Historical Society Under Wisconsin law, Indigenous burial mounds, unmarked burials, and all marked and unmarked cemeteries are protected from intentional disturbance. The Wisconsin Historical Society maintains a list of archaeological sites and cemeteries referred to as the Archaeological Site Inventory ( ASI). The ASI is the most comprehensive list of archaeological sites, mounds, unmarked cemeteries, marked cemeteries, and cultural sites available. The ASI does not include all the sites and cemeteries in the state , it only includes sites reported to the WI Historical Society. Detailed site information is confidential and is not subject to Wisconsin’s Open Records Law (Wis. Stats. §§ 44.48 and 157.70). This information is also protected by Federal law (Section 304 of the National Historic Preservation Act, Section 9(a) of the Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979). These laws not only protect archaeological sites, they also protect the private landowners who own most of the archaeological sites in the Town. Since only a small portion of the Town has been surveyed for th e presence of archaeological sites and cemeteries, the sites listed in the inventory represent a fraction of what may be present. Residents and Indigenous communities who live and work in the area may possess information on other archaeological sites and cemeteries. Steps should be taken to have this information incorporated into future updates of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Page 55 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 38 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Table 5: Archeological Resources Id # Name/ Other Name Site Type Culture Name Section 67784 Lamboley Site Campsite/village Early Woodland; Middle Woodland; Early Archaic; Middle Archaic; Late Archaic; Paleo-Indian; Late Paleo-Indian 19 67784 Lamboley Site Campsite/village Early Woodland; Middle Woodland; Early Archaic; Middle Archaic; Late Archaic; Paleo-Indian; Late Paleo-Indian 24 12647 Site A Campsite/village Historic Indian, Woodland 4 12285 Burke 1 Campsite/village Unknown Prehistoric 8 12286 Burke 2 Campsite/village Unknown Prehistoric 8 12287 Burke 3 Campsite/village Unknown Prehistoric 9 12646 George Campsite/village Unknown Prehistoric 26 12284 Reiner Campsite/village Unknown Prehistoric 28 12291 Badfish Campsite/village Unknown Prehistoric 30 12283 Arrowleaf Campsite/village; Farmstead Historic Euro-American; Early Woodland; Middle Woodland 4 13691 Lake Harriet Cemetery Cemetery/burial Historic Euro-American 9 13689 Putnam Hill Cemetery Cemetery/burial Historic Euro-American 15 13690 Storytown Cemetery (Aka Story Cemetery) Cemetery/burial Historic Euro-American 20 21543 Oregon Mound Group Mound(s)Other/Unk; Mound(s) Linear Woodland; Late Woodland 4 Source: Wisconsin Historical Society The Town incorporates community design guidelines. When reviewing development proposals, the Town and property owners will consider these Town objectives: • Avoid disturbance of land with a history of agriculture, • Avoid disturbance of floodplains, wetlands and steep slopes, • Minimize number and length of driveways, and • Avoid fragmentation of existing contiguous wood lots of 20 acres or more. See Element 8: Land Use for detailed design and siting criteria. 5.4 Resources Goals, Objectives, & Policies The following goals, objectives, and policies are informed by public input and the Town of Oregon’s history of planning and policy practices. Goals 1. Limit nonfarm uses in Farmland and Farmland Preservation areas (see Element 8: Land Use). 2. Preserve productive farmlands in the Town for continued agricultural use. 3. Keep farming economically viable in the Town of Oregon through the 21st century. 4. Maintain the rural character of the Town. Page 56 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 39 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Objectives 1. Discourage unplanned development in Farmland Preservation areas by guiding new development to planned development areas. 2. Discourage land uses which conflict with agriculture. 3. Support efforts to expand economic opportunities for farmers. 4. Limit nonfarm development consistent with town density policies. 5. Direct nonfarm development away from productive agricultural lands. 6. Protect farm operations from incompatible land uses and activities that may adversely affect capital investment in agricultural land, improvements and equipment. Policies 1. Identify areas designated as Farmland Preservation areas on the Planned Land Use Map. 2. Consider non -farm residential developments within Farmland Preservation areas only if they minimize impacts on local agriculture. 3. Establish and enforce lot size and density standards for residential development in Farmland Preservation areas. 4. Limit nonfarm uses in Farmland Preservation districts to one unit per 35 acres owned as of December 15, 1994. See Element 8: Land Use. 5. Allow rezones for nonfarm development only on lands that meet town siting, lot design and driveway criteria. See Element 8: Land Use. 6. Cooperate with other units of government to make local farmers eligible for farmland preservation tax credits and other programs that encourage continued farming. 7. Ensure that farming activities in agricultural preservation districts are excluded from Town ordinances that restrict noise, odors, keeping animals, etc. 8. Encourage farmer participation in cost -share and other programs as described in the Dane County Land & Water Resources Plan. 9. Encourage and participate in farmer education programs provided through UW Extension. Goals 1. Make sure mineral extraction operations protect public health, safety and the environment and are consistent with the goals and objectives of this plan. 2. Limit conflicts between mineral extraction and incompatible uses. Objectives 1. Establish clear, consistent policies for conditional use permits for mineral extraction operations. See Element 8: Land Use 2. Work closely with Dane County to review and provide appropriate conditions for proposed mineral extraction operations. See Element 8: Land Use. 3. Discourage development that would conflict with existing mineral extraction operations. Policies 1. Help identify significant mineral deposits within the Town and inventory inactive unreclaimed mineral extraction sites. 2. Review conditional use permits for new or expanded mineral extraction sites and develop recommended conditions based on the nature of the proposed operation; the location, topography, environmental features of the site; and public comment received. Work with Dane County as necessary to develop specific conditions related to, at a minimum: • Hours of operation, • Conditions on schedule, notification to neighbors and nature of blasting (if any), • Truck traffic and safe routes for material hauling, • Other uses on the site, such as crushing or asphalt production, Page 57 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 40 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 • Fencing, screening and warning signs on the site, • Final use of any reclaimed sites, consistent with other goals, objectives and policies of this plan. Goals 1. Protect environmentally sensitive areas in the Town through the regulation of land use, density and lot size of proposed development. 2. Provide and maintain outdoor recreation areas as well as natural preservation areas within the Town. 3. Protect important natural features such as significant woodland and grassland areas, floodplains, wetlands, endangered species habitats and steep slopes. 4. Provide sufficient parks and outdoor recreation areas to meet the needs of Town residents. 5. Preserve the rural and scenic character of the Town. 6. Protect and where possible, improve surface and groundwater quality. 7. Provide sustainable hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and other outdoor activities within the Town. 8. Support and encourage voluntary stewardship of private and public lands. Objectives 1. Require that impacts on the environment be considered in the evaluation of any development. 2. Maintain and enhance the existing parks within the Town. 3. Identify potential new park locations or open space corridors within the Town. 4. Establish a resource protection district with policies to help protect sensitive environmental areas including floodplains, wetlands, and steep slopes. 5. Establish a public lands district with policies to foster cooperation with public agencies owning lands in the town and to promote consistency with this plan. 6. Use best practices to minimize impacts on natural land and water resources during development. 7. Direct development requiring public sewer and water to designated Urban Service Areas. 8. Where possible, limit fragmentation of valuable natural resources and try to connect separated wildlife habitats to maintain robust viable populations. Policies 1. No development will be allowed in “Resource Protection Areas” identified in this plan. 2. Discourage any development that might cause water or air pollution, unreasonable soil erosion or have an unreasonably adverse effect on rare or irreplaceable natural areas such as wetlands, floodplains, steep slopes, significant woodlands, etc. • Alterations to Environmental Areas – Wetlands, 100-year floodplains, and slopes greater than 12% may not be altered unless to restore, maintain or enhance these natural resource areas. • Soil Suitability in Environmental Areas – Soils in wetlands, floodplains, and steep slopes are not considered to be suitable for any sort of development. 3. Protect wildlife habitat and known threatened and endangered species. 4. Require that any new development in proximity to stream corridors and other surface water lakes and ponds incorporate specific measures into their site design to protect these resources. These areas include: • Story Creek • Oregon Branch– Badfish Creek • Lake Harriet 5. Maintain the following Town facilities: • Bicentennial Park (20 acres; conservation park) • Central Park/Town Park (24 acres; community park) • Trussler Plat Public Land Dedication (2.25 acres; wooded conservation area and waterway) • Ravenoaks Public Park and Walkway (11.7 acres; wooded natural area and playground area) • Kennedy Park (7.9 acres; neighborhood park) • Hillcrest Park (1.7 acres; greenway) Page 58 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 41 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 6. Coordinate with County, State and Federal agencies to maintain public access to their lands in the Town, including: • Brooklyn State Wildlife Area (Wisconsin DNR) • Swan Pond Natural Area (US Fish and Wildlife Service) 7. Cooperate in opportunities to plan and develop the Ice Age Trail system. 8. Use conservation subdivision concepts to develop and maintain connectivity between different open spaces within the Town. 9. Follow the guidelines and recommendations included in the Town of Oregon 2024 Parks and Open Space Plan to ensure that the Town maintains and protects these resources. Use the Plan as a guide when pursuing grant funding through the WI DNR or other agencies to improve or acquire parks and open spaces. 10. Preservation, Maintenance and Care of Open Spaces – Cooperate with other units of government as well as developers to ensure the preservation and maintenance of open spaces created through conservation subdivisions. 11. Locate and design development in a manner that minimizes any adverse impact on the quality of surface waters, aquifers, wetlands, woodlands, and agriculture. 12. Support and coordinate with Dane County on erosion control and stormwater, floodplain, wetland and shoreland regulation. 13. Support cost-share, farm conservation plans and other efforts described in the Dane County Land & Water Resources Plan. 14. Work cooperatively with municipal, county, state and federal public agencies and nonprofits owning land in the Town to: • Participate in public acquisition planning processes, • Develop agreements on future use of existing public lands, • Assure input from Town officials and citizens, • Provide better understanding of financial resources and funding mechanisms available for land acquisition and management. 15. Stay informed of new programs to protect natural resources and give landowners alternatives to development. 16. Consider using the County’s NR-I zoning to identify areas where additional information, site planning, or mitigation measures are needed prior to development. 17. Regularly r eview Town siting criteria, design and development guidelines to make sure they adequately protect the rural character of the Town and avoid environmental impacts. 18. The Town should consider whether future amendments to the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan should address issues such as: • Preparing development, landscaping, or design guidelines for ridgetops to reduce impacts on scenic visas and to prevent erosion. • Establishing limits on tree removal to protect woodlands and avoid fragmentation of habitat. • Using downward directed lighting to protect dark skies and avoid light pollution. Goals and Objectives 1. Encourage identification, protection, interpretation and maintenance for all significant archaeological sites in the Town. 2. Encourage identification, protection, preservation and restoration of buildings, structures and sites which represent or reflect elements of the Town’s cultural, social, economic, political and architectural history. 3. Help increase public awareness and appreciation of the Town’s historic and archaeological resources. Policies 1. Support local, county, state and federal historic preservation efforts. 2. Support efforts to help provide restoration grants to willing owners of historic properties. 3. Provide information about grants, technical assistance and recognition programs to Town residents. Page 59 of 132 Element 5: Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Page 42 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 4. Consider providing modest incentives for landowners to maintain or restore historic properties. 5. Support efforts to document and research historic and archaeological sites in the Town. Work with the Wisconsin Historical Society to provide interpretative materials, plaques, or markers for Town of Oregon sites of statewide or regional interest. 6. Work with the Village of Oregon Historical Society, other historical societies, the Oregon Lutheran Church, Native American tribes and residents to educate and provide interpretation of Town historic sites, rural schools, and document the written and oral history of the Town. 7. Support local festivals, ethnic celebrations, farm tours, farm breakfasts, and markets that celebrate the Town’s history, heritage and rural way of life. 8. When reviewing rezone petitions, land divisions, or other development approvals in areas with known archaeological or burial site resources, the Plan Commission shall consult with Dane County Planning and Development and the Wisconsin Historical Society to make sure such resources are protected. Program The State of Wisconsin operates a tax exemption program for owners of archaeological sites listed in the National or State Register of Historic Places [see Wis. Stats. 70.11(13m)]. A landowner who agrees to place a permanent protective covenant for the site in the deed for the property may obtain a property tax exemption. The intent of the program is not to prevent all use of the property containing a site, but to encourage land use planning that protects our archaeological heritage. Page 60 of 132 Element 6: Economic Development Page 43 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Economic Development 6.1 Economic Base Labor Force Between 2018 and 2023, approximately 70% of the Town’s population aged 16 or over participated in the labor force, slightly less than participation rate for Dane County as a whole, but comparable with the State. Figure 16: Labor Force Participation Rate (Population 16+ Years Old) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 Median Income In 2023, Town of Oregon household median income was $143,056, almost twice the median for the County as a whole. Family income shows a similar pattern with a smaller difference between the Town and County. 67.1% 70.5% 65.5% 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin Percent of Population Page 61 of 132 Element 6: Economic Development Page 44 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 17: Family & Household Median Income Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 Figure 18: Income Distribution Past 12 Months (in 2022 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) Source: ACS 5-year estimates 2023 Fifty-seven percent of Town of Oregon households reported incomes of $100,000 or more in the 2019 American Community Survey. Compared with Dane County as a whole, the Town of Oregon has a greater proportion of households earning $100,000 or more and a cons iderably smaller proportion of households earning less than $50,000. Poverty According to the American Community Survey five year averages (Figure 19), less than 5% of the residents of the Town of Oregon, across all age groups, had incomes below the federal poverty standard between 2015 and 2019. In comparison, Dane County had poverty rates of between 7% and 12% over the same period. $153,718 $143,056 $122,020 $88,108$97,261 $75,670 $0 $50,000 $100,000 $150,000 $200,000 Median Family Income Median Household Income Income Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin 1.9% 0.0% 0.5% 0.0% 1.5% 0.1% 2.1% 0.1% 2.3% 2.0% 11.9% 9.6% 13.3% 5.9% 26.8% 22.1% 0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% Less than $10,000 $10,000 to $14,999 $15,000 to $19,999 $20,000 to $24,999 $25,000 to $29,999 $30,000 to $34,999 $35,000 to $39,999 $40,000 to $44,999 $45,000 to $49,999 $50,000 to $59,999 $60,000 to $74,999 $75,000 to $99,999 $100,000 to $124,999 $125,000 to $149,999 $150,000 to $199,999 $200,000 or more Percent of Population Page 62 of 132 Element 6: Economic Development Page 45 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 19: Poverty Rates by Age Source: ACS 5-year 2023 Major Industries In 2023, 77% of the Town’s labor force worked in education, healthcare, social assistance, manufacturing, construction, arts, entertainment, or food service (Figure 20). Most residents commuted outside the Town of Oregon for employment. Agriculture, forestry and related fields employed approximately 2% of Town residents. Occupations by sector mirror distributions for Dane County as a whole. The 2020 Land Use Inventory identified 16 distinct (based on landowner and land use) commercial, industrial or mineral extraction operations located in the Town of Oregon. Figure 20: Employment by Industry (16+ years old) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 1.9% 4.0% 2.0% 12.3% 5.5% 8.5% 10.3% 8.6% 13.0% 0% 2% 4% 6% 8% 10% 12% 14% Poverty 18 to 64 years Poverty 65 years and over Poverty under 18 years Percent of Population Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin 1.2 1.1 3.2 32.4 4.6 2.7 13.6 4.1 22.5 4.4 4.6 4.2 1.5 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunting, and mining Arts, entertainment, and recreation, and accommodation… Construction Educational services, and health care and social assistance Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing Information Manufacturing Other services, except public administration Professional, scientific, and management, and administrative… Public administration Retail trade Transportation and warehousing, and utilities Wholesale trade Percent of Population Page 63 of 132 Element 6: Economic Development Page 46 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Unemployment Between 2015 and 2019, the Town’s unemployment rate averaged 2.2%, slightly lower than Dane County’s average of 2.4% and Wisconsin’s average of 3.5%. Figure 21: Unemployment Rate (16-year-olds and older) Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-year estimates 2023 Environmentally Contaminated Sites According to the WI DNR Bureau of Remediation and Redevelopment, there are no active contaminated sites in the Town of Oregon as of 2025. 6.2 Desired Economic Development Town of Oregon residents enjoy easy access to the Madison metropolitan area and the Wisconsin River Corridor. Transportation networks provide relatively short commute times. Based on the 2023 comprehensive plan survey, a slight majority (50.76%) wanted to see new “small stores and shops serving mostly Town residents” in the future. The only other type of commercial development with significant support was “agriculture-related businesses” (49.24%). 6.3 Economic Development Programs • Tax Increment Financing (TIF): TIF is a tool for financing local economic development projects. As outlined in Wis. Act 231, town governments may use TIF to encourage agricultural, forestry, manufacturing, or tourism projects within their jurisdictions. Details of the law can be found here. • Dane County Community Development Block Grant Program: This program provides funds for eligible economic development projects such as business counseling, small business owner education, and loans. Learn more here. • Wisconsin Economic Development Council (WEDC) programs: WEDC offers funding, resources, programs, and training to help both companies and communities bring their visions to life. Programs include Small Business Development Grant (SBDG) Program, Community Development Investment Grant, and others. 6.4 Economic Development Goals, Objectives, & 2.2% 2.4% 3.3% .0% .5% 1.0% 1.5% 2.0% 2.5% 3.0% 3.5% Town of Oregon Dane County State of Wisconsin Percent of Population Page 64 of 132 Element 6: Economic Development Page 47 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Policies The following goals, objectives, and policies are informed by public input and the Town of Oregon’s history of planning and policy practices. 1. Permit only those commercial uses that are compatible with neighboring uses. 2. Support limited small, home or farm based businesses that provide a service to Town residents and can supplement Town residents’ income. 3. Support development of limited retail and service uses that serve Town residents in specific locations identified on the Map 1: Future Land Use. 4. Continue to support agriculture and agriculture-related businesses in the Town. 1. Make sure new business development does not overburden existing Town roads and that traffic is managed to minimize impacts on surrounding properties. 2. Evaluate proposed commercial uses to minimize impacts on existing neighboring uses. 3. Require that all commercial uses have appropriate landscaping and be adequately separated and screened from adjacent uses to promote compatibility. 4. Standardize the review process, schedule, and fees for commercial development proposals. 1. Any commercial development must comply with the siting, lot size, scale, screening, noise and odor control, density and operational requirements described in Chapter 8. 2. Allow for home occupations, limited family businesses and limited farm businesses on non - commercially zoned parcels, provided traffic and other impacts are properly mitigated. 3. Develop policies to support sustainable green energy , biotechnology, and organic farming projects, while protecting the environment, natural resources and rural character. 4. Support local, county, state and federal programs to reinvest in agriculture, promote new agricultural products and create added value for farm, forestry and related operations in the Town. 5. Support and increase public awareness of alternative agriculture enterprises such as organic farming, community supported agriculture and farmers’ markets. 6. Survey and inventory road conditions and work with commercial users to make sure they pay their fair share of maintenance and repair caused by heavy vehicle traffic on Town roads. If necessary, consider seasonal road postings to limit vehicle weights, particularly in spring. 7. Work with University of Wisconsin Extension, local schools, 4-H and other groups to help interested Town residents learn new skills. 8. Continue to work with Dane County, the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission, the Department of Agriculture Trade and Consumer Protection and the University of Wisconsin to monitor the status and economic health of agricultural and other businesses in the Town. Page 65 of 132 Element 7: Intergovernmental Cooperation Page 48 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Intergovernmental Cooperation 7.1 Intergovernmental Cooperation Adjacent Towns The Town of Oregon shares borders with the Dane County towns of Montrose and Rutland, and with the Green County Town of Brooklyn. Adjacent Cities and Villages The Town of Oregon shares borders with the City of Fitchburg and the Villages of Oregon and Brooklyn. Dane County The Town of Oregon is within County Supervisory District 31. The Town uses Dane County’s zoning ordinance, floodplain zoning ordinance, land division ordinance, subdivision ordinance, erosion control and stormwater management ordinance, and shoreland/wetland zoning ordinance. The Town continues to maintain a good relationship with Dane County departments. School Districts The Town is served by two school districts: Oregon and Belleville. Capital Area Regional Planning Commission The Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) was created on May 2, 2007 to serve as the regional planning and area-wide water quality management planning entity for the Dane County region. Its responsibilities include approval of urban service areas and delineation of environmental and open space corridors. The CARPC is composed of thirteen Commissioners appointed by the Mayor of the City of Madison (4 appointees), the Dane County Executive (appoints three), the Dane County Cities and Villages Association (3 appointees), and the Dane County Towns Association (3 appointees). Relevant State Agencies The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) owns a substantial amount of land in the Town (see Public Lands District in Chapter 8: Land Use), and has regulatory authority over stream crossings and other work in navigable streams. The Town also participates in the Department of Agriculture Trade & Consumer Protection (DATCP)’s Farmland Preservation Program. Page 66 of 132 Element 7: Intergovernmental Cooperation Page 49 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Relevant Federal Agencies The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service owns lands in the south west part of the Town. Many farmers and other landowners in the Town participate in conservation programs funded and operated by the Natural Resource Conservation Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Town collaborates with regional governmental units and associations in land use planning. For example, the Town: • Cooperates with Dane County agencies and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources to continue to protect natural areas and open space corridors. • Maintains membership in the Wisconsin Town's Association to keep abreast of recent legislation and trends in other towns. • Participates in the Dane County Towns Association to promote our Town's interests and to maintain good relationships with the other towns in Dane County. • Works with nearby villages to encourage sound land use planning for land located within extraterritorial jurisdictions. • Works toward establishing boundary agreements to have an organized method for handling annexations and development. The Town has areas located within the extraterritorial jurisdictions of the Village of Oregon and the Village of Belleville. The adopted Village of Oregon Comprehensive Plan shows planned growth areas outside the current village boundaries and urban service areas that are currently within the Town of Oregon. (See Agricultural Transition Areas in Chapter 8, Land Use.) Future anne xations and the Village of Oregon’s exercise of its extraterritorial land division review authority may frustrate efforts by the Town to create Town development areas associated with TDR receiving areas or new subdivision development. The Town Board and Pl an Commission should explore potential intergovernmental agreements with the Village of Oregon to establish long-term village boundaries and explore opportunities for town development areas. The adopted comprehensive plan for the Village of Brooklyn does not show any projected expansion into the Town of Oregon within the next 20 years. Consequently, no potential conflicts are anticipated. The Towns of Rutland and Montrose and the City of Fitchburg all participate in the state farmland preservation program and maintain rural density policies like those adopted in the Town of Oregon. Consequently, few land use conflicts are anticipated across these town lines. The Town of Brooklyn, to the south, in Green County, however, allows for higher residential density than is permitted under this plan. The Town of Oregon Board and Plan Commission should work cooperatively with the Town of Brooklyn to minimize any potential conflicts arising from incompatible land uses. 7.2 Intergovernmental Cooperation Goals, Objectives, & Policies The following goals, objectives, and policies are informed by public input and the Town of Oregon’s history of planning and policy practices. 1. Facilitate and encourage cooperation and communication among all levels of government. 2. Establish a process for mutually beneficial intergovernmental relations with other governmental jurisdictions to promote cooperation and communication. Page 67 of 132 Element 7: Intergovernmental Cooperation Page 50 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 1. Maintain good working relationships with adjoining municipalities and other governmental jurisdictions. 2. Explore cooperation with municipalities, Dane County, and state and federal agencies, including land use planning, service, and boundary agreements. 3. Actively seek public service agreements that improve services and lower costs. 1. Continue to actively participate in intergovernmental organizations such as the Dane County Towns Association and events sponsored by the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission and explore other opportunities to meet with representative from other governments. 2. Continue to actively participate in formal public hearings, workshops, committees and other outreach opportunities sponsored by other governmental units including Dane County, the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission, nearby cities and villages, surro unding towns and state and federal agencies. 3. Provide formal comments and recommendations on proposed municipal, county or state plans, regulations or infrastructure improvements that have the potential to affect the Town of Oregon. 4. Work with the Dane County Board of Supervisors to have the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan adopted into the Dane County Comprehensive Plan. Page 68 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 51 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Land Use 8.1 Existing Land Use Existing land uses and historic trends are described below and listed in Table 6.These acreages are based on the 5 -year Dane County Land Use Inventory, which looks at actual land use as observed in aerial photography. As a result, Land Use Inventory acreages for each category are likely to be somewhat different than for similar zoning categories. Between 1990 and 2020, approximately 967 acres of the Town were annexed to the Village of Oregon. Of the 19,793 acres remaining, 1,109 acres of undeveloped agriculture, woodland, and open and vacant land was developed over the same period. Table 6: Land Use by Acreage 2000-20201 Category 1990 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 Cropland/Pasture 15,847 13,948 13,191 11,662 11,728 11,700 Woodland/Other Open Lands/Water 2,946 4,610 4,443 5,630 5,353 5,229 Residential 974 1,171 1,306 1,598 1,645 1,732 Transportation/Communication/Utilities 667 708 687 657 673 673 Outdoor Recreation 76 90 71 128 252 261 Industrial (incl. Mineral Extraction) 23 42 50 95 126 125 Commercial 3 4 3 22 17 20 Institutional/Governmental 5 2 10 4 2 Vacant/Under Construction 313 127 268 92 88 50 Total 20,852 20,703 20,018 19,895 19,886 19,793 Source: Dane County Planning & Development and CARPC (Land Use Inventory), 2022. 1 In 2010 CARPC changed agricultural, residential and rural land use reporting. See the Farmland Loss Mitigation-1, CARPC, 2010. Page 69 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 52 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 22:Top Four Land Uses by Proportion In 2020, cropland and pasture accounted for 59.1% of the land area of the town, down from 76% in 1990. Over this period, cropland and pasture declined by 4,146 acres. Conversion to single -family residential development, annexation for urban development and other development account for 1,678 acres (40%) of the lands converted from agriculture. The remaining 2,487 acres (60%) include s land removed from production to create grassland, woodland, and/or outdoor recreation. Woodlands accounted for 2,131 acres (11%) of the land area of the town in 2020. Woodlands have been expanding in the Town of Oregon, growing by 565 acres (36%) between 1990 and 2020. Residential development covers 1,732 acres (9%) of the Town of Oregon. The vast majority (94%) is single- family residential. Residential land uses have consumed 742 acres since 1990, or approximately 1.8 acres per new household. According to the 2020 Land Use Inventory, commercial retail or service land uses account for 20 acres in the Town. A number of agricultural enterprises, in -home occupations, and limited family businesses also operate in the Town. Such uses are not counted in the inventory and are considered secondary to a principal agricultural or residential use. 25% 35% 45% 55% 65% 75% 85% 95% 1990 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 Cropland/Pasture Woodland/Other Open Lands/Water Transportation/Communication/Utilities Residential Page 70 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 53 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 In 2020, transportation and utilities accounted for 673 acres (3%) of land in the Town of the total land area. Outdoor recreation accounted for 261 acres (1%) of the land area of the Town. Outdoor recreation grew by 185 acres since 1990, reflecting the creation of new parks, such as the Anderson Farm County Park. 8.2 Future Land Use The number of parcels created each year determines the rate of development in the Town. The Town has a density policy that allows one housing unit or split per 35 acres of contiguous land owned as of December 15, 1994. Between 2015 and 2024, 52 zoning changes across 270 acres were issued. All but five were for residential purposes. One zoning permit was issued in 2023; four were issued in 2024. Between four and seven rezones were issued in prior years. Figure 23: Rezones out of Farmland Preservation Source: Dane County Planning and Development Residential land use projections are based on Wisconsin Department of Administration household projections and single-family residential acreage per housing unit as reported in the 2020 Dane County Land Use 48 35 23 22 13 30 30 35 5 29 7 7 6 4 4 4 5 10 1 4 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Acres Number Page 71 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 54 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Inventory. Agricultural, commercial and other non-residential land uses are based on historic trends between 2000 and 2020. Table 7 shows land use projections for the Town of Oregon from 2020 through 20 40 if historic land development history continues into the future . However, g iven the declining population projections over the next several decades, it is not likely that historic land use conversion trends will continue until population levels return to and exceed current levels. Table 7: Land Use Changes and Projections Land Use Acres 2020 Actual Projection 2025 2030 2035 2040 Cropland and Pasture 11,700 11,163 10,606 10,049 9,492 Woodland/Other Open Lands/Water 5,229 5,314 5,430 5,545 5,660 Residential 1,732 1,846 1,900 1,938 1,963 Transportation/Utilities 673 673 673 673 673 Outdoor Recreation 261 304 347 390 433 Industrial (incl. mineral extraction) 125 145 166 187 207 Commercial 20 32 38 43 49 Institutional and Governmental 2 4 4 4 5 Source: WI DOA Household Projections, Dane County Land Use Inventory 2000-2020. Land use conflicts in the Town can arise from: • Poorly planned residential development that is incompatible with nearby agricultural and open space uses, • Commercial development that generates excessive traffic or is generally incompatible with the rural character of the Town, and • Incompatibilities between town, county, city, or village plans. The Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan seeks to minimize such conflicts by: • Limiting the overall density of residential development in agricultural areas, • Establishing site and design guidelines, • Redirecting more intensive uses to areas with appropriate municipal services, and • Supporting intergovernmental cooperation and planning. Due to the Town’s rural nature and lack of intense land uses, there are no redevelopment opportunities. Page 72 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 55 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 1: Future Land Use Page 73 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 56 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 8.3 Overarching Land Use Goals, Objectives, & Policies The Town of Oregon is blessed with a diverse rural landscape that includes farms, woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. Residents value the rural character of the Town. Over 80% of respondents to the 2019 Town comprehensive plan survey “agreed” or “strongly agreed” the Town should: Remain mostly rural, Promote preservation of farmland, and Participate in environmental improvement projects to maintain and improve water quality. In addition, over 70% of respondents “agreed” or “strongly agreed” that new development should occur adjacent to other developed areas, and that most new development should occur in cities and villages, not in the Town. The 2025 Oregon Vision 2040 campaign also further these goals and policy directions. The following land use goals, objectives, and policies reflect these desires and are designed to ensure the long-term quality of life in the Town by preserving farmland, protecting environmental resources, and respecting the property rights and responsibil ities of landowners. The following goals, objectives, and policies are informed by public input and the Town of Oregon’s history of planning and policy practices. 1. Discourage unplanned development by guiding new development in the Town to planned development areas. 2. Encourage the protection of private property rights while promoting public health, safety, and general welfare. 3. Encourage the protection of the most productive agricultural lands in the Town by guiding nonfarm development to areas of the Township that do not have a history of agricultural production. 4. Encourage the preservation of Resource Protection Areas and sensitive environmental features from development. 5. Ensure new development in the Town does not overburden the Town’s ability to provide cost- effective municipal services to Town residents. 6. Encourage the protection of the traffic-carrying capacity of the Town’s transportation system. 7. Encourage intergovernmental cooperation with surrounding communities with respect to land use, utilities, emergency services, and transportation facilities. 8. Protect and enhance the rural character of the Town by establishing and enforcing maximum density standards for nonfarm development as well as enforcing design standards that require high-quality designs for all new commercial, industrial, and institutional development in the Town. 9. Work with the Dane County Board to establish special zoning standards that are designed to address the needs and concerns of the Town of Oregon with respect to land use, site design, water and sewer service availability, stormwater management, erosion control, and transportation. 10. Allow a strictly limited amount of planned high-quality nonfarm commercial development. 11. Encourage a general review of this Plan by the Plan Commission and Town Board periodically to ensure that the goals, objectives, policies and recommendations contained herein adequately address current land use issues within the Town. 1. Discourage land uses that conflict with the agriculture and the rural character of the town. 2. Limit nonfarm development according to density and siting criteria described in this plan. 3. Protect, maintain and restore unique natural resources such as wetlands, floodplains, hydric soils, groundwater, steep slopes, woodlands, and productive farm soils. Page 74 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 57 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 4. Recognize the environment as an integrated system of land, water and air resources. The destruction or disturbance of which can adversely affect the Town by creating hazards, destroying important public resources, or wasting productive lands and renewable resources. 5. Control public costs for roads and services associated with development. 1. Provide a sufficient supply and mix of land uses to satisfy Town land use objectives. 2. Follow the recommendations and requirements of this Plan when making land use decisions. 3. Redirect high-density residential land uses, or other commercial or industrial development usually associated with an urban land use pattern, to a designated Urban Service Area. 4. Minimize development impacts on productive agricultural lands, or those lands with a history of productive farming activity. 5. Limit nonfarm residential development to those areas that are not classified as productive farmland. 6. Require agencies responsible for locating public improvements (e.g. roadway corridors, pipelines, or powerlines) to comply with the agricultural land preservation objectives of the Town. 7. Promote state and local programs that encourage farming, or investment in farming in the Town. 8.4 General Land Use Policies Within the Farmland Preservation Area, Agricultural Transition Area and Rural Mixed -Use Area, the density policies will serve as the primary tool for meeting the Town’s land use objectives to maintain rural character and preserve agricultural land. The den sity policy limits the amount of nonfarm development and will be used to guide Town decisions when considering rezones out of the FP-35 district. Density Limitation Nonfarm development shall not exceed a density of one dwelling unit (also referred to as “split” or “density unit”) per 35 acres held in single, contiguous or noncontiguous ownership, as of December 15, 1994. Types of Development Limited Except as specifically exempted below, this limitation shall apply to all residential development created after December 15, 1994 including: 8.4.1.2.1 New single-family residential development Any land rezoned to allow for new single -family, nonfarm residential development, duplexes or multifamily development will count as one development right per dwelling unit. “Dwelling units” are defined as one or more habitable rooms which are occupied, or which are intended or designed to be occupied, as a residence by one family with facilities for living, sleeping, cooking, and dining. 8.4.1.2.2 Increased residential density Any land rezoned to allow for increased density of development (e. g., rezoning from RR-4 to RR-2 to allow for two lots instead of one). Page 75 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 58 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Figure 24: Density Calculation Example 8.4.1.2.3 New farm residences Any approved Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for a farm residence. 8.4.1.2.4 Accessory dwelling units Conditional use permits for attached accessory dwelling units may be considered in specific instances. An approved accessory dwelling unit shall be counted as a density unit. 8.4.1.2.5 Commercial development Density policies for rezones for commercial development vary by Planning Area. Exemptions The following are exempt from the density limitations of this plan and do not count as a density unit taken. 8.4.1.3.1 Sales to public entities Sales of land or easements to public entities unless otherwise indicated in the terms of the deed or easement. 8.4.1.3.2 Separating Existing residences Separation of no more than one residence, with a fire number assigned that existed on the premises as of December 15, 1994 will not count against this policy. 8.4.1.3.3 Replacing existing residences A replacement of a residence that existed on the premises as of December 15, 1994 shall not count against this policy, provided that the preexisting residence was or will be demolished according to the Town’s House Replacement Agreement. Rounding Rounding is allowed. The maximum number of dwelling units allowed will be determined by dividing the acreage owned as of December 15, 1994. If the resulting quotient is a whole number, the owner may create that number of new dwelling units. If the quotient is a whole number plus a fraction, the owner may create that number of lots equal to the whole number plus one additional lot if the remainder equals or exceeds one-half (18/35). For example, a 90 acre parcel would be allowed a maximum of three dwelling units (90/35=2 20/35, or 2.57=round up to 3). An 80 acre parcel would be allowed a maximum of two new dwelling units (80/35=2 10/35, or 2.28=round down to 2). The density standard of one dwelling unit or non -farm use per 35 acres of land owned as of December 15, 1994, means that a 140-acre farm as of that date would be eligible for up to 4 new lots for non-farm development if all other plan policies were met. This policy is not meant to require or encourage 35-acre dwelling unit lots; rather landowners are encouraged to create smaller clustered dwelling unit lots that meet the siting criteria of this plan. Page 76 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 59 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Determining original December 15, 1994 farm units 8.4.1.5.1 Data sources The Town will use the 1995 Land Atlas and Plat Book for Dane County by Rockford Map Publishers, Inc., as a guide for determining original farm ownership and acreage as of December 15, 1994. Parcel size will be based on net acreage, excluding roads and other public rights-of-way, as calculated by the Dane County GIS system. Landowners or applicants for rezo ning proposals may submit more detailed information for consideration, such as recorded deeds or surveys. 8.4.1.5.2 Base farm tract An original farm unit, or base farm tract, is defined as contiguous or noncontiguous lands, not including lands divided by certified survey map or subdivision plat, that were in common ownership as of December 15, 1994. Common ownership is defined as parce ls owned by one individual or by a married couple, partnership, or corporation including that individual. 8.4.1.5.3 Eligible lands When calculating original farm acreage and eligible density units all property under single ownership, contiguous or noncontiguous, shall be included. This includes land under water within mapped wetlands, floodplains, or resource protection corridors. 8.4.1.5.4 Land transfers after December 15, 1994 and allocation of density units No new allotments Changes and reconfigurations in ownership do not trigger new allotments of potential future dwelling units per the density policy. Allocation of remaining homesites When land is sold or consolidated after December 15, 1994 the Town encourages property owners to make clear in sales contracts how many potential future dwelling units (if any) are being transferred along with the land. If provided to the Town and County w ith the development application, the Town will use such sales contracts or similar documents when considering the application. When no landowner agreement exists In the absence of a clearly understood sales contract or similar document, the Town may attempt to learn from all affected property owners the intent (in writing) and share that information with the Dane County Planning and Development Department. If the intention for the dwelling units (splits) is still unclear after these efforts, the Town Board will assume that all potential future potential dwelling units remain with the largest remaining parcel. Tracking of splits For eligible splits, the Town will coordinate with Dane County to ensure that any approved development results in a formal record of available splits to be incorporated into appropriate documents. This may be accomplished through a deed notice or other means deemed appropriate by the Town Board, in consultation with the Town Attorney as needed. An annual report may be developed with the assistance of Dane County Planning staff to monitor available dwelling units (splits) and to address where additional info rmation may be needed. When splits are exhausted When eligible density units for an original December 15, 1994 farm have been exhausted, the Town shall require the recording of a deed restriction that prohibits further residential development on the balance of Page 77 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 60 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 the property. Portions of the property intended to remain in agricultural use shall be zoned to prohibit nonfarm use, such as FP-35, FP-1, AT-35, RE, NR-C, or UTR. A Transfer of Development Rights program is a method of redirecting development from one part of a town (a sending area) to other lands in a different part of a town (a receiving area). The Town of Oregon has adopted Dane County’s Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance to facilita te the mutually agreed, voluntary transfer of development rights between landowners in the Town. Allocation of Development Rights Development rights are determined by the Rural Density Policy. Development rights are transferred from a specific sending area parcel to a specific receiving area parcel. Any development rights transferred to a parcel in a receiving area, but not immediately used for the development planned in that receiving area parcel, remain with that receiving area parcel (that is, the development rights run with the land) and are subject to all other requirements related to development rights as set fo rth in the Dane County TDR Ordinance and the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Sending Areas The following are considered potential “sending areas”: • All FP-35 or NR-C zoned lands within the Farmland Preservation Area. • All AT-35 or NR-C zoned lands within the Rural Mixed-Use Area. Before applying, landowners must provide a Density Study Report from the Dane County Department of Planning and Development showing that the proposed sending property has development potential remaining under the applicable density policies. Within potenti al sending areas, the Town will consider petitions by landowners to rezone all or a portion of their property into the TDR -S overlay zoning district (s.10.304, Dane County Code), provided at least one of the following criteria is met: 1. Soils on the land are predominantly classified as Groups I, II or III agricultural soils under the Dane County Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA) system (see Map 12: Soil LESA Scores), 2. Reduction of potential nonfarm development would contribute to the preservation of large blocks of contiguous farmland, natural resource land or other open space, 3. Proposed sending areas are within the Ice Age Trail corridor. Receiving Areas All lands in the Farmland Preservation, Rural Mixed Use and Traditional Subdivision planning areas are considered potential “receiving areas.” Within these areas, the Town may consider petitions by landowners to rezone all or a portion of their property to an appropriate zoning district with a TDR-R overlay (s. 10.305, Dane County Code). The Town Board will recommend approval of petitions to the TDR -R overlay district, provided all the following criteria are met: 1. Receiving areas are not in any of the FP-35, FP-1, FP-B or NR-C zoning districts, 2. Proposed receiving areas have minimal impact on Group I, II or III soils under the Dane County Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA) system (see Map 12: Soil LESA Scores), 3. Proposed development would be clustered and adjacent to existing nonfarm development, The Town of Oregon uses TDR to: 1. Preserve farmland and rural character, 2. Redirect nonfarm development away from productive agricultural lands, 3. Encourage permanent protection of large blocks of contiguous farmland, 4. Encourage permanent protection of regionally significant natural resources, environmental and recreational lands, 5. Allow farmers reasonable compensation for their land, 6. Direct development to more suitable areas where development is more efficiently served, 7. Develop at higher densities, 8. Encourage infill development. Page 78 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 61 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 4. No more than one development site or lot is created in a receiving area for every one development right retired in a sending area, 5. Proposed receiving areas are not within the Ice Age Trail corridor, 6. Proposed development meets all the siting criteria for the appropriate planning area as identified in the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Implementing a Transfer Transfers from sending areas to receiving areas are accomplished by recording either conservation easements or deed restrictions. Recorded documents must clearly identify the number of development rights transferred and identify both the sending and receiving properties. Transfers are permitted only within the Town of Oregon. Deed Notices Landowners of both the sending area and receiving area properties must record deed notices with the Dane County Register of Deeds. Deed notices must: 1. Meet all the requirements of ss. 10.004(110) and 10.305(5)(c), Dane County Code, 2. Track the number of rights transferred from each sending parcel, 3. Track the number of rights transferred to each receiving parcel, 4. Identify each sending and receiving parcel by legal description and parcel number, and 5. Reference a recorded TDR easement or deed restriction on an appropriate TDR-S-zoned parcel. Development Permits in Receiving Areas Before obtaining zoning, driveway or building permits for development in the TDR-R overlay zoning district, developers must present the following documents to the Town of Oregon Board and to Dane County Zoning: 1. Recorded deed notice documents on both the sending and receiving parcels as described in 8.4.2.5 Deed Notices. 2. A letter from the Town of Oregon Plan Commission indicating that the TDR transaction is consistent with transfer policies, site criteria, and all other applicable policies of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan; 3. A letter from the Dane County Planning Division indicating that the TDR transaction is consistent with the Dane County Comprehensive Plan. Commercial development must not result in environmental degradation, inappropriate traffic volumes or conflicts with farming operations. 1. Limit rezoning or Conditional Use Permit (CUP) boundaries to the portion of land necessary for the proposed use. 2. Avoid substantial use of public funds and municipal debt to constructing or providing municipal improvements and services associated with commercial development. 3. Avoid speculation and ensure compliance with previous policies, the applicant must request a specific use. The Town may require a condition on the rezoning to allow only the specific use as delineated on an approved site plan. This allows the Town to set specific limits and to review any expansion or new uses. The Dane County Zoning Ordinance describes three renewable energy facility categories: • Small-scale facilities, such as rooftop solar panels or wind turbines intended for onsite use. Such facilities are a permitted use in every zoning area. • Mid-size facilities intended for offsite use, but not under the direct approval authority of the Wisconsin Public Service Commission. Such uses are a conditional use in several County zoning areas. • Large-scale facilities intended for offsite use, under Wisconsin PSC authority. Such facilities are exempt from County zoning. Page 79 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 62 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 4. See also specific policies for commercial development for each Planning Area. Applicants must contact the Town Plan Commission secretary to have the proposal placed on the agenda of the next available Plan Commission meeting and meet with the Town Plan Commission prior to filing a Dane County Zoning CUP application. 1. At least two weeks prior to the scheduled Town Plan Commission meeting, applicants are advised to complete and provide to the Town Plan Commission secretary and the Town Clerk the following: a. Completed application materials, including site plans and reclamation plans, required by the Dane County Department of Planning and Development for a non-metallic mineral extraction CUP. b. Town of Oregon Mineral Extraction Questionnaire. 2. Prior to the scheduled Plan Commission meeting, applicants must review and understand the list of conditions for non-metallic mineral extraction CUPs provided by the Dane County Department of Planning and Development, and the reclamation standards required under Chapter 74, Dane County Code. Proposed land uses after reclamation must be consistent with the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan, including density policies. 3. After the applicant files a CUP application with Dane County, the Plan Commission may recommend conditions to the Town Board based on the Mineral Extraction Questionnaire, County standard conditions and public input received. At its discretion, the Plan Commission may choose to delay making a recommendation to the Town Board until after the County public hearing. 4. The Town will work with former extraction site owners, neighbors, and the Dane County Zoning Division to facilitate clean-up and reclamation. Reclamation must conform to Chapter 74, Dane County Code. Final land use after reclamation should conform to the policies of the appropriate planning area of this plan. 5. To meet the policies and objectives of this Plan, the Plan Commission and Town Board may recommend conditions on any mineral extraction application related, but not limited to, setbacks from existing development, road capacity, limitations on blasting (e.g., hours, notification, and safety measures), and expiration dates on mineral extraction CUPs to allow for review and renewal, as appropriate. The Town will apply the following guidelines to Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) for renewable energy facilities, and will encourage the Public Service Commission to follow these guidelines when issuing orders within the Town of Oregon: 1. Minimize need for new electrical transmission lines; locate new renewable energy installations as close as possible to existing transmission facilities. 2. Manage utility-scale installations density and size to minimize impacts to adjoining agricultural and rural character. 3. Except where required for aviation or other safety concerns, encourage setbacks, vegetative screening, berms, or other practices to minimize visual impact. 4. Encourage multiple or dual use facilities that allow agriculture, natural resources, habitat and/or soil and water conservation uses to coexist with energy generation. 5. Arrange energy infrastructure, fencing, and berms to allow for equipment movement, habitat and wildlife corridors, and pervious cover to minimize runoff. 6. Ensure installations comply with County erosion and stormwater standards during construction, operation, maintenance, and decommission. 7. Encourage adaptive use of operating or closed mineral extraction or other industrial sites for renewable energy use. 8. To the extent possible, follow the siting criteria of this plan to protect productive farm soils. Page 80 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 63 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 9. Make sure landscaping and other vegetation is maintained to continue to serve its intended purpose and does not create sources for invasive species. 10. Recommend decommissioning plans with sufficient financial instruments to cover equipment removal and reclamation, consistent with the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. The Town will review conditional uses in each district to determine if all provisions of the Comprehensive Plan and Map 1: Future Land Useare addressed and met including, but not limited, to the following factors: 1. Consistency with the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. 2. Whether the use is complementary with adjoining properties. 3. Compatibility with existing or permitted use on adjacent lands. 4. Impacts of noise, dust, lights, odor, contamination, parking, traffic, and other changes on public safety and the rural character of the Town. 5. The agricultural productivity and/or history of agricultural production of the lands involved. 6. The location of the proposed use to minimize the amount of productive agricultural land converted. 7. The need for public services created by the proposed use. 8. The availability of adequate public services and the ability of affected local units of government to provide them without an unreasonable burden. 9. The effect of the proposed use on water or air pollution, soil erosion and rare or irreplaceable natural resources. The Town will review the conditional uses listed in the Dane County zoning ordinance for consistency with the goals, objectives, and policies in this plan. The Town will review existing CUPs upon change of ownership. The conditional uses listed below represent those that, based upon their nature and well -known or anticipated impacts, the Town believes could be reasonably consistent with this plan. All applications will be evaluated to determine compliance with the standards detailed in section 10.101(7)(d) of the Dane County Zoning Ordinance. NR-C Natural Resource Conservation Zoning District 1. Establishment and development of public parks, private parks, recreational areas, boat access sites, outdoor education areas, historic areas, wildlife refuges, game preserves, and private wildlife habitat areas. 2. Soil conservation, shoreland, wetland and ecological restoration practices not listed as a permitted use. 3. Roads, railroads, or utilities which cannot practically be located outside of the NR-C district. RE Recreational Zoning District 1. Campgrounds 2. Caretaker’s residence FP-1 Small-lot Farmland Preservation Zoning District 1. Agricultural accessory uses: a. Agricultural entertainment b. Limited farm business c. Farm related exhibitions, sales, or events not exceeding 10 days per year d. Sale of agricultural and dairy products not produced on the premises e. Incidental sale of non-alcoholic beverages and snacks f. Sanitary facilities in an agricultural accessory building 2. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses Page 81 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 64 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 FP-35 Farmland Preservation Zoning District The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection must be notified prior to the approval of any CUP in this district. 1. Agricultural accessory uses: a. Agricultural entertainment, over 10 days per year b. Farm related exhibitions, sales or events, over 10 days per year c. Farm Residence, subject to 10.103(11) d. Attached accessory dwelling units associated with a farm residence e. Limited Farm Business, subject to 10.103(13) f. Sale of agricultural and dairy products not produced on the premise g. Incidental sale of non-alcoholic beverages and snacks h. Secondary farm residence (according to 2.2(3), a secondary farm residence is only permissible if it complies with the Town’s land division allocation policy) 3. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses 4. Non-metallic mineral extraction FP-B Farmland Preservation– Business 1. Agricultural accessory uses: a. Agricultural entertainment, over 10 days per year b. Farm related exhibitions, sales or events, over 10 days per year c. Farm Residence, subject to 10.103(11) d. Attached accessory dwelling units associated with a farm residence (if the property is 2 acres or greater in size) e. Limited Farm Business, subject to 10.103(13) f. Sale of agricultural and dairy products not produced on the premise g. Incidental sale of non-alcoholic beverages and snacks h. Commercial animal boarding for farm animals, and not including domestic pets 2. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses 3. Non-metallic mineral extraction AT-35 Agriculture Transition Zoning District 1. Agricultural accessory uses: a. Agricultural entertainment, over 10 days per year b. Attached accessory dwelling units associated with a farm residence c. Farm related exhibitions, sales or events, over 10 days per year d. Farm Residence, subject to 10.103(11) e. Limited Farm Business, subject to 10.103(13) f. Sale of agricultural and dairy products not produced on the premise and incidental sale of non-alcoholic beverages and snacks 2. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses 3. Non-metallic mineral extraction RM-8 Rural Mixed-Use Zoning District 1. Agricultural entertainment activities occurring 10 days per year or more 2. Attached accessory dwelling units 3. Farm related exhibitions, sales or events exceeding 5 days a year 4. Governmental, institutional, religious, or nonprofit community uses 5. Large animal boarding 6. Limited family business 7. Property maintenance sheds (600 sq. ft. or less) Page 82 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 65 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 8. Sanitary facilities in agricultural accessory buildings 9. Tourist or transient lodging 10.Transportation, communications, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses RM-16 Rural Mixed-Use Zoning District 1. Agricultural entertainment activities occurring over 10 days per year 2. Attached accessory dwelling units 3. Farm related exhibitions, sales or events exceeding 5 days a year 4. Governmental, institutional, religious, or nonprofit community uses 5. Large animal boarding 6. Limited family business 7. Mineral extraction 8. Sanitary facilities in agricultural accessory buildings 9. Tourist or transient lodging 10. Transportation, communications, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses RR-1 Rural Residential Zoning District 1. Limited Family Business 2. Day care centers 3. Governmental or religious uses Transient or tourist lodging 4. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses RR-2 Rural Residential Zoning District 1. Animal use exceeding one animal unit per acre 2. Limited family business 3. Attached accessory dwelling units 4. Day care centers 5. Governmental, institutional, religious, or nonprofit community uses 6. Transient or tourist lodging 7. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses. RR-4 Rural Residential Zoning District 1. Attached accessory dwelling units 2. Animal use exceeding one animal unit per acre 3. Limited family business 4. Day care centers 5. Governmental, institutional, religious, or nonprofit community uses Transient or tourist lodging 6. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses RR-8 Rural Residential Zoning District 1. Attached accessory dwelling units 2. Animal use exceeding one animal unit per acre 3. Limited family business 4. Day care centers 5. Governmental, institutional, religious, or nonprofit community uses Transient or tourist lodging Page 83 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 66 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 6. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses RR-16 Rural Residential Zoning District 1. Attached accessory dwelling units 2. Animal use exceeding one animal unit per acre 3. Limited family business 4. Day care centers 5. Governmental, institutional, religious, or nonprofit community uses Transient or tourist lodging 6. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses SFR-08 Single-Family Residential, Zoning District 1. Governmental uses 2. Religious uses 3. Transportation, utility, communications, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses SFR-1 Single-Family Residential Zoning District 1. Governmental uses 2. Religious uses 3. Transient or tourist lodging 4. Transportation, utility, communications, pipeline electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses SFR-2 Single-Family Residential Zoning District 1. Attached accessory dwelling units 2. Day care centers 3. Governmental uses 4. Institutional uses 5. Religious uses 6. Nonprofit community uses 7. Transient or tourist lodging 8. Transportation, utility, communications, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses TFR-08 Two-Family Residential Zoning District 1. Governmental uses 2. Religious uses 3. Transportation, utility, communications, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses MFR-08 Multi-Family Residential Zoning District 1. Governmental uses 2. Religious uses 3. Transportation, utility, communications, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or Page 84 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 67 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 drainage uses LC Limited Commercial Zoning District 1. Contractor, landscaping or building trade operations 2. Incidental parking for employees 3. Indoor storage and repair 4. Incidental indoor maintenance 5. Utility services associated with a permitted use 6. Undeveloped natural resource and open space areas 7. Agricultural and agricultural accessory uses (livestock not permitted) 8. Transportation, utility, or communication use required by law GC General Commercial Zoning District 1. Contractor, landscaping, building trades operation 2. Communication towers 3. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses HC Heavy Commercial Zoning District 1. Communication towers 2. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses RI Rural Industry Zoning District 1. Communication towers 2. Mineral extraction operations 3. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses. MI Manufacturing and Industrial Zoning District 1. Communication towers 2. Mineral extraction operations 3. Transportation, communication, pipeline, electric transmission, utility, or drainage uses UTR Utility, Transportation and Right-of-Way Zoning District 1. Storage structures, not to exceed 250 square feet 2. Transportation, utility, communication or similar uses Conditional Use Permit (CUP) Conditions The following conditions may be required for any CUP approval based on the intensity of the proposed use. Any or all of these conditions may be considered by the Town. Additionally, conditions for CUPs within 500 feet of a neighboring residence may be applied to CUPs that are more than 500 feet from a neighboring residence. This list is not exhaustive and additional conditions (e.g., duration, sunset dates, site design, seasonal accommodations) may be placed on any CUP. Page 85 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 68 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Table 8: Conditions for CUPs CUP Limited to Indoors CUP Includes Outdoor Use Within 500 feet of a residence More than 500 feet from a residence Within 500 feet of a residence More than 500 feet from a residence Operation hours non- agricultural entertainment 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Operation hours agricultural entertainment 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., or dusk, whichever is later 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., or dusk, whichever is later 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Employees Maximum 3 full or part time employees Maximum 6 full or part time employees Maximum 3 full or part time employees Maximum 6 full or part time employees Outdoor lighting Restricted to safety lights at building entrances. Lighting must be dark skies compliant, and no light shall shine over the property line. Lighting must be dark skies compliant, and no light shall shine over the property line. Restricted to safety lights at building entrances. Lighting must be dark skies compliant, and no light shall shine over the property line. Lighting must be dark skies compliant, and no light shall shine over the property line. Noise Limited to 60 decibels measured at the property line. For a period of a total of 10 minutes per day, decibel levels may reach 100 decibels from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Outdoor loudspeakers prohibited. Limited to 40 decibels 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. measured at the property line. From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., limited to 60 decibels measured at the property line. For a period of a total of 10 minutes per day, decibel levels may reach 100 decibels from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Outdoor radios or loudspeakers prohibited. Trash removal Applicant shall be responsible for contracting with a trash and recycling removal company if trash and recycling exceed what is allowed for collection by the Town. Parking No vehicle parking or storage within the street right-of-way. Number of events Events may be restricted based on anticipated traffic, noise, events, impact on neighboring properties, and impact on town infrastructure and services. Signs Limited to one sign on a building. Signs cannot be illuminated. Visual screening N/A N/A Visual landscaping barriers to block views between the use and the neighboring residence may be required. Visual landscaping barriers to block views between the use and the neighboring residence may be required. Stormwater management All stormwater resulting from the CUP must be managed on site. Rain gardens may be required. Business activities Materials and inventory must be stored indoors. Activities must be conducted indoors. Exception: one outdoor area for a day care. Materials and inventory may be stored outdoors, not visible from the road or neighboring property lines. Materials and inventory must be stored indoors. Activities must be conducted indoors. Exception: one outdoor area for a day care. Materials and inventory may be stored outdoors, not visible from the road or neighboring property lines. Dust Gravel or dirt roads must be wetted prior to vehicles traveling over the road. Gravel and dirt will be required to be removed from public roads. Odors Odor abatement measures may be required as a condition of the CUP. Such measures may restrict the time, day, or season of the odor producing use. The odor producing use may be restricted to specific locations on the property. Page 86 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 69 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 8.5 Planning Area Specific Policies The Town adopted six proposed planning areas to meet the Town’s land use goals and objectives over the next 20 years: • Farmland Preservation Areas • Agriculture Transition Areas • Rural Mixed-Use Areas • Traditional Subdivision • Resource Protection Corridors (Overlay area) • Public Lands Areas (Overlay zoning) The Town has established the Farmland Preservation Area, as shown on Map 1: Future Land Use, as a means of preserving agricultural lands and rural character throughout the Town while providing opportunities for limited nonfarm development. This area is intended to meet all the requirements for State certification as a “Farmland Preservation Area” under Chapter 91, Wisconsin Statutes. This designation will also promote continued investment in agricultural operations by ensuri ng that incompatible land uses are directed to areas that will minimize interference with farming activities. The primary land use policy within this district is the density policy, which limits the density of residential development to one dwelling unit per 35 acres. Lands to be included in this category are: • Those areas with productive farm operations including lands historically exhibiting good crop yields or capable of such yields, • Lands which have been demonstrated to be productive for dairying, livestock raising, and grazing, • Other lands which are integral parts of farm operations, • Lands used to produce specialty crops such as trees, sod, fruits, and vegetables, • Lands that are capable of productive use through economically feasible improvements such as irrigation, • Lands in the following Zoning Districts: o FP-35 (General Farmland Preservation) o FP-1 (Farmland Preservation- Small Lots) o FP-B (Farmland Preservation- Business) o NR-C (Natural Resource- Conservancy) o RE (Recreational) o Rural Residential (RR-1, RR-2, RR-4, RR-8) zoning districts o Rural Mixed-Use (RM-8, RM-16) zoning districts LC (Limited Commercial) with appropriate conditions needed to meet the plan’s goals and objectives. Objectives 1. Encourage preservation of agricultural land for food and fiber production. 2. Encourage preservation of productive farms by preventing land use conflicts. 3. Maintain a viable agricultural base to support agricultural processing and service industries. 4. Reduce costs for providing services to scattered nonfarm uses. 5. Pace and shape urban growth. 6. Implement the provisions of the Dane County Farmland Preservation Plan when adopted and revised. 7. Encourage local agriculture and accessory uses that are compatible with neighboring land uses and beneficial to the local economy. Page 87 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 70 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 8. Comply with the provisions of the Farmland Preservation Law to permit eligible landowners to receive tax credits under Section 71.09 (11) of Wisconsin Statutes. 9. Continue to maintain and encourage productive agriculture, agricultural-related businesses, forestry, open space, and compatible uses. 10. Protect farm operations from the encroachment of incompatible uses. 11. Limit nonfarm development consistent with Town density policies. 12. Direct nonfarm development away from productive agricultural lands. 13. Maintain and promote eligibility for county, state and federal programs, grants, incentives, cost- share funding and tax credits designed to support farming and maintain land in agricultural use. Rural Density Policy The Rural Density Policy applies to all lands within the Farmland Preservation Area. Rezones for commercial development count against the one unit per 35 acre limitation. Transfers of Development Rights (TDR) 8.5.1.3.1 Sending areas: Any property in the Farmland Preservation Area that is over 35 acres and in either the FP-35 or the NR- C zoning district qualifies as a sending area under 8.4.2. Transfer of Development Rights (TDR). 8.5.1.3.2 Receiving areas: Properties in the Farmland Preservation Area may qualify as receiving areas under 8.4.2. Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) if the proposed transfer would meet the following criteria: • Are not on lands currently zoned FP-35, FP-1, FP-B or NR-C, • Relocate proposed development away from Group I or Group II farm soils, as defined in the Dane County Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (see Map 12: Soil LESA Scores), • Promote clustered development adjacent to other rural residential development, • Maximize large contiguous areas of protected farmland, • Make sure that proposed lots in a receiving area have direct road frontage that meets the standards of the Dane County Land Division Ordinance and do not exceed an area of four acres. Subdivision Plats Subdivision plats (defined in Chapter 75, Dane County Code as 5 or more lots less than 35 acres in size created within 5 years) are not permitted in Farmland Preservation Areas. Development Siting Standards & Criteria The Town shall use the following siting standards and criteria when reviewing proposed non -farm rezones or development, land divisions under county land division ordinances, and building siting under the Town’s building permit ordinance. 8.5.1.5.1 Lot size: Within the Farmland Preservation Area, the minimum parcel size for proposed new lots shall be 2 acres. The Town encourages the creation of small lots ranging in size from 2 to 4 acres. Lots exceeding 4 acres may be approved if necessary to access the site, avoid productive agricultural lands, or preserve large intact blocks of farmland or woodland. 8.5.1.5.2 Soils: Development shall be directed away from productive agricultural soils, or those lands with a history of productive farming activity. For the purposes of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan, productive agricultural soils are soils classified as Group I or Group II under the Dane County Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (see Map 12: Soil LESA Scores). Page 88 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 71 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 8.5.1.5.3 Driveways, roads and road frontage: 1. Except as indicated below, all new lots must have at least 66 feet of frontage onto a public road. 2. The Town Board may approve, upon recommendation of the Town Plan Commission, exceptions to the frontage requirements of County Ordinance section 75.19(6)(b) where the Board and Commission find that: a. The exception protects the public health, safety, and welfare, b. The exception is needed because of topography limitations, public right of way access and sight lines, c. The exception will not conflict with surrounding land uses and will not create traffic or access problems, d. All approved exceptions must meet the requirements of County Ordinance 75.19(8). 3. New driveways and roads shall be the minimum length necessary to access the site. 4. Driveways shall be designed and located to accommodate emergency vehicle access and safe roadway access. 5. Driveways must comply with the Town Driveway Ordinance, and County or State Highway access requirements. 6. Contractors shall be required to use erosion control measures and return lands to a near normal setting after completion of construction. The Town may require an erosion control and/or stormwater management plan or a preliminary review letter meeting County ordinance standards as a condition of approval. For driveways longer than 125 feet, the Town will require proof of compliance with County erosion control and stormwater regulations before a driveway permit is issued. 8.5.1.5.4 Additional Criteria: At the discretion of the Planning Commission, additional standards may be required for certain development, such as, but not limited to, proposed commercial development or horse boarding facilities. These criteria may include, as appropriate: 1. Manure storage and/or farm conservation plans approved by the Dane County Land Conservation Division, 2. Erosion control and stormwater permits under Chapter 14, Dane County Code, 3. Site plans containing all information described in Chapter 10, Dane County Code. Commercial Development In addition to the general land use policies for commercial development, the Town shall apply the following policies regarding proposed new, or expansion of existing, commercial development within the Farmland Preservation Area: 1. Allow limited commercial development as needed to support existing agricultural activities, provide supplemental income for farm families, or provide agricultural-related services. 2. Limit commercial uses to those allowable under the FP-B district, LC district or as conditional uses in the Rural Residential or Rural Mixed-Use Zoning Districts. 3. Any rezone to allow nonfarm commercial use shall count against the Rural Density Policy. Mineral Extraction Within the Farmland Preservation Area, the Town will consider CUPs for new or expanded mineral extraction operations that: 1. Are consistent with the goals and objectives of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan, 2. Are consistent with agricultural use and farmland preservation, 3. Adequately protect public safety, rural character and the environment. Page 89 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 72 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 In addition to the general land use policies for mineral extraction, all mineral extraction sites in the Farmland Preservation Area must be reclaimed for agricultural or natural resource use. Agricultural Transition Areas are planned for urban expansion in the adopted Village of Oregon Comprehensive Plan and are within the Extraterritorial Plat Review area, or Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) of the Village of Oregon (see Map 1: Future Land Use). While currently in agricultural use, these areas will likely convert to urban uses within twenty years. Because of the short -term nature of current agricultural uses, properties within Agricultural Transition Areas are not eligible for state farmland pres ervation tax credits. To facilitate eventual conversion to urban uses, the Town will allow only limited nonfarm development within Agricultural Transition Areas. Appropriate zoning districts in this planning area are: • AT-35 (Agriculture Transition) • AT-B (Agriculture Transition- Business) • NR-C (Natural Resource- Conservancy) • RE (Recreational) • Rural Residential (RR-1, RR-2, RR-4, RR-8) zoning districts • Rural Mixed-Use (RM-8, RM-16) zoning districts • LC (Limited Commercial) with appropriate conditions to meet the plan objectives Objectives 1. Reduce costs for providing services to scattered nonfarm uses. 2. Pace and shape urban growth. 3. Protect farm operations from the encroachment of incompatible uses. 4. Limit nonfarm development consistent with town density policies. Rural Density Policy The Rural Density Policy applies to all lands within the Agricultural Transition Area. Rezones for commercial development count against the one per 35 acre limitation. Transfers of Development Rights (TDR) TDR, either as a sending or a receiving area, are not permitted in Agricultural Transition Areas. Subdivision Plats and Other Land Divisions Subdivision plats (defined in Chapter 75, Dane County Code as 5 or more lots less than 35 acres in size created within 5 years) are not permitted in Agricultural Transition Areas. All divisions of land are subject to extraterritorial review by the Village of Oregon. Development Siting Standards & Criteria The Town shall use the following sit e criteria when reviewing proposed nonfarm rezones or development, land divisions under county land division ordinances, and building siting under the Town building permit ordinance. 8.5.2.5.1 Lot size: Within the Agricultural Transition Area, the minimum parcel size for proposed new lots shall be 2 acres. The Town encourages the creation of small lots ranging in size from 2 to 4 acres. Lots exceeding 4 acres in size may be approved if necessary to access the site, avoid productive agricultural lands or preserve large intact blocks of farmland or woodland. Page 90 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 73 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 8.5.2.5.2 Driveways, roads, and road frontage: 1. Except as indicated below, all new lots must have at least 66 feet of frontage onto a public road. 2. The Town Board may approve, upon recommendation of the Town Plan Commission, exceptions to the frontage requirements of County Ordinance section 75.19(6)(b) where the Board and Commission find that: a. The exception protects public health, safety, and welfare, b. The exception is needed because of topography limitations, public right of way access and sight lines, c. The exception will not conflict with surrounding land uses, and will not create traffic or access problems, d. All approved exceptions must meet the requirements of County Ordinance 75.19(8). 3. New driveways and roads shall be the minimum length necessary to access the site. 4. All driveways shall be designed and located to be suitable for emergency vehicle access and safe access to existing roadways. 5. Driveways must comply with the Town Driveway Ordinance, County, and/or State Highway access requirements, as applicable. 6. Contractors shall be required to use erosion control measures and return lands to a near normal setting after completion of construction. The Town may require an erosion control and/or stormwater management plan or a preliminary review letter meeting county ordinance standards as a condition of approval. For driveways longer than 125 feet in length, the Town will require proof of compliance with County erosion control and stormwater regulations before a driveway permit is issued. 8.5.2.5.3 Additional Criteria: At the discretion of the Planning Commission, additional standards may be required for certain development types, such as, but not limited to, proposed commercial development or horse boarding facilities. Criteria may include, as appropriate: 1. Manure storage and/or farm conservation plans approved by the Dane County Land Conservation Division, 2. Erosion control and stormwater permits under Chapter 14, Dane County Code, 3. Site plans containing all information described in Chapter 10, Dane County Code. Commercial Development In addition to the general land use policies for commercial development, t he Town shall implement the following policies regarding proposed new, or expansion of existing, commercial development within the Agricultural Transition Area: 1. Allow limited commercial development as needed to support existing agricultural activities, provide supplemental income for farm families or provide agricultural-related services. 2. Limit commercial uses to those allowable under the AT-B district, LC district or as conditional uses in the Rural Residential or Rural Mixed-Use Zoning Districts. 3. Any rezone to allow nonfarm commercial use shall count against the rural density policy. Mineral Extraction Within the Agricultural Transition Area, the Town will consider Conditional Use Permits for new or expanded mineral extraction operations that: 1. Are consistent with the goals and objectives of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan, 2. Are consistent with agricultural use, Page 91 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 74 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 3. Do not impair the orderly transition to urban use or annexation to the Village of Oregon, 4. Adequately protect public safety, rural character and the environment. In addition to the general land use policies for mineral extraction, all mineral extraction sites in the Agricultural Transition Area must be reclaimed for agricultural or natural resource use. The Rural Mixed-Use Area is intended to accommodate a mix of agriculture, residential, utility, extractive, commercial and rural industrial uses consistent with and appropriate to a rural setting, on medium-to-large parcels. Appropriate zoning districts for this planning area are: • AT-35 • RM-16; RM-8 • RR • SFR • LC, GC • NR-C • RE • RI, provided conditions can be met • UTR Objectives 1. Allow for a wide variety of smaller scale agricultural uses, residential and other rural uses. 2. Keep residential densities relatively low, except in small clusters, because of transfers of development rights. 3. Nonfarm, commercial and rural industrial uses should be located and designed to minimize conflicts with nearby residential and agricultural uses. Rural Density Policy Within the Rural Mixed-Use Area, the Rural Density Policy applies to all lands, except for those in the TDR - R area overlay district. Rezones for commercial development do not count against the one unit per 35 acre limitation. Transfers of Development Rights (TDR) 8.5.3.3.1 Sending areas: Any property in the Rural Mixed -Use Area that is over 35 acres and is in either the AT -35 or the NR-C zoning district qualifies as a sending area under 8.4.2. Transfer of Development Rights (TDR). 8.5.3.3.2 Receiving areas: Properties in the Rural Mixed -Use Area may qualify as receiving areas under 8.4.2. Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) if the proposed transfer would meet the following criteria: 1. Receiving areas are not on lands currently zoned NR-C, 2. Proposed development is relocated away from Group I or Group II farm soils, as defined in the Dane County Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (see Map 12: Soil LESA Scores), 3. Clustered development adjacent to other rural residential development is promoted, 4. Large contiguous areas of protected farmland are maximized, 5. Proposed lots in a receiving area have direct road frontage that meets the standards of the Dane County Land Division Ordinance and does not exceed an area of four acres. Subdivision Plats New lots must be created by certified survey maps. New subdivision plats (5 or more lots created within 5 years) will not be approved within the Rural Mixed-Use Area. Page 92 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 75 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Development Siting Standards & Criteria 8.5.3.5.1 Lot size: 1. New lots must be a minimum of 2 acres, net of right-of-way. 2. Where there are two, three, or four existing lots, all created prior to December, 1994, and all are zoned for residential development, lot lines may be reconfigured in such a way that one or more revised lot(s) may be between 1 acre and 2 acres in area. 3. Under no circumstances shall the total number of homesites be increased beyond what is permitted under the current configuration. 8.5.3.5.2 Driveways, roads and road frontage: 1. All new lots must have at least 66 feet of frontage onto a public road. 2. New driveways and roads shall be the minimum length necessary to access the site. 3. All driveways shall be designed and located to be suitable for emergency vehicle access and safe access onto existing roadways. 4. Driveways must comply with the Town Driveway Ordinance and County or State Highway access requirements, as applicable. 5. Contractors shall be required to use erosion control measures and return lands to a near normal setting after completion of construction. The Town may require an erosion control and/or stormwater management plan or a preliminary review letter meeting County ordinance standards as a condition of approval. For driveways more than 125 feet long, the Town will require proof of compliance with county erosion control and stormwater regulations before a driveway permit is issued. 8.5.3.5.3 Additional Criteria: At the discretion of the Planning Commission, additional standards may be required for certain development types, such as, but not limited to, proposed commercial development or horse boarding facilities. Criteria may include, as appropriate: 1. Manure storage and/or farm conservation plans approved by the Dane County Land Conservation Division, 2. Erosion control and stormwater permits under Chapter 14, Dane County Code, 3. Site plans containing all information described in Chapter 10, Dane County Code. Commercial Development 1. To avoid speculation and ensure compliance with previous policies, the applicant must request a specific use. Depending on the permitted uses in the General Commercial and Limited Commercial districts, the Town may require a condition on the rezoning to allow only the specific use as delineated in an approved site plan. This allows the Town to set specific limits and to review any expansion or new uses. 2. The Town may set additional limits on the number of employees, number of customers on-site, traffic count, hours of operation, number or size of buildings, types of products or services or outdoor activities as needed to meet the goals and objectives of the comprehensive plan. 3. Rezoning or conditional use permit boundaries will be limited to the portion of land necessary for the proposed commercial use. 4. Buildings for commercial use shall be limited to two and one half stories or 35 feet tall, whichever is lower. Commercial buildings shall not have more than 10,000 square feet of floor area, unless the Town Plan Commission and Town Board find it is in the public interest to allow larger buildings. 5. Commercial or industrial uses requiring public sewer or water, intensive police or fire protection or other public services typically associated with an urban area will be redirected to a designated Urban Service Area. Page 93 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 76 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 6. The Town Plan Commission or Town Board may require vegetative screening, noise limits, dust or pollution controls and/or increased setbacks for commercial uses to minimize impacts on surrounding properties. 7. Commercial development does not count against the Rural Density Policy. Rural Industrial Development Within the Rural Mixed -Use District, the Town may consider rezones to the RI (Rural Industrial) zoning district, where the Town Plan Commission and Board find that the proposed use meets the following criteria: 1. The proposed zoning boundaries are the minimum area necessary to accommodate the proposed use and any required setbacks, visual screening, and accessways; 2. The proposed use will not significantly impair the use or enjoyment of neighboring properties; 3. The proposed use will not create a significant risk of noise, light, air, surface water or groundwater pollution; 4. The proposed use will not create traffic hazards or cause undue wear and tear on public roads and infrastructure; 5. The proposed use minimizes visual impact and protects the rural character of the town. To accomplish these objectives, the Town Plan Commission and Board may, at their discretion, recommend the following conditions on any rezone to the RI district, or on any CUPs allowed in the RI district: 1. Deed restrictions on the property to further limit permitted or conditional uses to ensure compatibility with the surrounding area, 2. Berms or vegetative screening to effectively screen the proposed use from view and retain rural character, 3. Noise limits, specific hours of operation and/or limits on scale of operation, number of employees, or types of materials used or stored on the premises, 4. Proof of compliance with all other local, county, state or federal safety, pollution control, environmental, reclamation or other applicable regulations prior to approval by the Town, 5. Environmental or safety monitoring requirements as necessary to protect public health, safety or welfare, 6. Expiration dates on CUPs and require resubmittal for renewal to allow Town and public review of operations. Mineral Extraction Within the Rural Mixed -Use Area, the Town will consider CUPs for new or expanded mineral extraction operations that: 1. are consistent with the goals and objectives of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan, 2. are consistent with the variety of other uses allowed in the Rural Mixed-Use Area, 3. minimize noise, dust, traffic and vibration impacts on surrounding properties, 4. adequately protect public safety, rural character, and the environment. In addition to the general land use policies for mineral extraction, all miner al extraction sites must be reclaimed to a use consistent with the Rural Mixed-Use Area and must comply with all applicable policies of this plan for such uses. The Town has established the Traditional Subdivision Area to accommodate existing development within existing residential subdivisions. The Town may consider limited infill, redivision, or reuse of existing parcels in the Traditional Subdivision Area, where such development would further other goals and objectives of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan, or as part of a Transfer of Development Rights (TDR). The Traditional Subdivision area is not intended to accommodate significant new growth. New subdivision plats (5 or more Page 94 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 77 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 lots created within five years) are not permitted in the Traditional Subdivision area. Appropriate Zoning Districts for this planning area are: • Single Family Residential (SFR-08; SFR-1; SFR-2) • Rural Residential (RR-1; RR-2; RR-4; RR- 8) • GC (General Commercial) • LC (Limited Commercial) • NR-C (Natural Resource - Conservancy) • RE (Recreational) • UTR Objectives 1. Accommodate existing residential subdivisions. 2. Allow for limited, local businesses and commercial services serving local populations. 3. Promote limited, efficient and compact development and allow for appropriate development opportunities. Minimum lot size Within the Traditional Subdivision Area, any new or redivided unsewered lot must be at least 2 acres in area, excluding right of way, except as described below: 1. County zoning, shoreland zoning or land division ordinances may require larger lot sizes. 2. Where there are two, three, or four existing lots, all created prior to December 1994, and are all zoned for residential development, lot lines may be reconfigured in such a way that one or more revised lot(s) may be between 1 acre and 2 acres in area. Under no circumstances shall the total number of homesites be increased beyond what is permitted under the current configuration. 3. Minimum lot sizes do not apply to certified survey maps, assessor’s plats or other legal instruments used to re-create existing, legally created lots of record, provided substandard lots are not reduced in size. Lot Design and Public Improvements 1. All new or redivided lots in the Traditional Subdivision Area must comply with all provisions of Chapter 75, Dane County Code, including a minimum frontage of 66 feet onto a public right-of- way. 2. Any new public roads must have a surveyed and recorded right-of-way that conforms to all standards of the Dane County Land Division Ordinance (Chapter 75, Dane County Code) and any applicable standards of the Town Engineer. No cul-de-sacs or dead-end roads will be permitted. 3. Road construction and paving must meet all standards of the Town Engineer before any new dedication is accepted. The Town of Oregon will not accept maintenance responsibility for any new public road until 80% of the development is complete, and the Town Engineer has certified that the road meets town standards. Financial securities to ensure road completion to Town specification will be required, as provided in Chapter 75, Dane County Code. 4. Any property owner or developer who divides or subdivides land must pay for and install, to Town specification, necessary public improvements such as streets, intersections, storm sewers, water supply systems, sidewalks, and streetlights. 5. Any property owner or developer who divides or subdivides land for residential purposes must provide adequate park, playground, recreation and open space to meet the needs created by and to be provided for their land division. 6. The Town may require a preliminary review letter, or other proof of compliance with the Dane County Erosion Control and Stormwater Ordinance (Chapter 75, Dane County Code) before approving any land division. Page 95 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 78 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Commercial Development: To avoid speculation and ensure compliance with previous policies, the applicant must request a specific use. Based on the permitted uses in the General Commercial and Limited Commercial districts, the Town may require a condition on the rezoning to allow only the specific use as delineated in an approved site plan. This allows the Town to set specific limits and to review any expansion or new uses. Mineral Extraction Mineral extraction is not permitted in the Traditional Subdivision Area. The Town has established Resource Protection Corridors, as shown on the Map 1: Future Land Use , to preserve and enhance unique and sensitive natural resources within the Town. This district applies to: • Navigable waterways, shoreland buffers and setbacks • Floodplains, including the 1% (100-year) regional floodplains • Wetlands and wetland buffers • Steep slopes exceeding 12% grade Non-farm development in the Resource Protection Corridor is generally prohibited, except as specifically provided below. Where there are disputes over mapped wetlands, floodplains or onsite soil conditions, the Town Plan Commission and Town Board may refer to studies derived from onsite conditions to determine Resource Protection Corridor boundaries. Any such study must be r eviewed and approved by the WI DNR, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Dane County Zoning Administrator, or the Dane County Land and Water Resources Department, as appropriate. Developers bear the burden of proof that mapped Resource Protection Corridors are in error. Appropriate Zoning Districts: for this area are: • NR-C (Natural Resource - Conservancy) • FP-35 (General Farmland Preservation) • FP-1 (Small-Acreage Agriculture) • AT-35 (Transitional Agriculture) • RE (Recreational) • For lands in private ownership, where there is sufficient room outside resource protection corridors for development to occur, zoning as appropriate to the underlying planning area. Objectives 1. Protect and improve the quality of the surface and ground water within the Town. 2. Protect important resources such as floodplains, wetlands, significant woodlands, steep slopes, and historic and archaeological sites. 3. Encourage the use of soil conservation practices and sustainable management of woodlands. 4. Protect health, safety, welfare, and the natural environment. 5. Encourage management, enhancement, and restoration of resource corridors and their ecological function. Policies 1. Maintain in agricultural, conservation, or open space use. 2. Require erosion control and soil and water conservation practices for all land-disturbing activities. 3. Prohibit new structures, buildings, or urban development and limit impervious surfaces. 4. Provided all applicable County and State erosion control, stormwater, shoreland, wetland, floodplain, and stream crossing regulations are met, the following may be permitted in the Environmental Protection District: Page 96 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 79 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 a. Expanding or improving existing accesses or driveways, if necessary, to meet Town driveway standards. b. Replacing existing structures unless prohibited by Dane County ordinance or by state and federal law. 5. Support County shoreland and wetland zoning, floodplains, erosion control, and stormwater ordinances. 6. Support programs to restore natural vegetation, remove invasive species, and improve habitat. The Town established the Public Lands Area to coordinate with the land owners in the town. Map 1: Future Land Use shows where the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and Dane County own land in the Town. Objectives 1. Guide future decision -making about lands owned by public agencies or purchased with public funds. 2. Ensure Town input on future land use decisions, acquisitions or dispensations of public lands. 3. Coordinate with local, county, state, federal and nonprofit agencies purchasing lands in the Town. Policies 1. Work with public agencies owning land in the Town and develop agreements on future use of the land. 2. Participate in Dane County Parks and Open Space Plan updates and state and federal public lands programs. 3. Develop procedures for future land acquisitions by public agencies that provide opportunities for adequate input from citizens and recognition of the goals, objectives, and policies of this Plan. 4. Encourage land uses that are compatible with natural resource preservation and protection. 5. Encourage public recreational opportunities for Town residents on publicly owned lands. Page 97 of 132 Element 9: Implementation Page 80 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Implementation 9.1 Implementation Tools The Plan Commission develops and maintains specific procedures for reviewing and evaluating development proposals, consistent with this Plan and applicable Town Ordinances. The Plan Commission revises and updates these procedures as necessary to provide fair and consistent enforcement of Town policies and to ensure that the goals of the Comprehensive Plan are being met. In addition to the policies established in this Plan, there are a variety of Town ordinances along with county, state, and federal laws tha t may also be applicable to development proposals . These laws are often complex or in the process of being updated or reinterpreted. The Town Plan Commission will provide advice to citizens in formulating their development projects to be consistent with these regulations. The Town of Oregon regulates land use through the following mechanisms: Town of Oregon Driveway Ordinance This ordinance regulates the creation, reworking or expansion of roads that ultimately connect to a public right-of-way. Applications for any driveway permit must comply with the provisions of this ordinance and must be consistent with the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Town of Oregon Building Permit Ordinance This ordinance regulates the placement of residences and residential accessory buildings on land in the Town of Oregon. Building sites must comply with the requirements of the ordinance and with the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Approval may be revoked if its conditions are not fulfilled. Zoning Ordinance- Chapter 10, Dane County Code Through zoning maps and text, the ordinance governs the use of publicly and privately owned land in the Town. The Town will not recommend approv al of rezone petitions under s. 59.69(5)(e), Wis. Stats., or on Conditional Use Permits under s.10.101(7), Dane County Code, unless they are consistent with the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Land Division Ordinance- Chapter 75, Dane County Code The Town falls under Chapter 75 of the Dane County Code of Ordinances : Subdivision Ordinance. This ordinance outlines provisions for subdividing parcels of land into parcels smaller than 35 acres in area. Approval of any plat or certified survey maps will require full compliance with the Ordinance and the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Page 98 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 81 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Erosion Control and Stormwater Management Ordinance- Chapter 14, Dane County Code To ensure environmental protection of natural resources and features, the Town falls under the authority of the Dane County ordinance. It is the applicant's responsibility to demonstrate to the Plan Commission that adequate erosion control will be provided. Shoreland Zoning Ordinance- Chapter 11, Dane County Code Dane County administers this ordinance to regulate development within 1,000 feet of a lake and within 300 feet of a stream to protect water quality, fish and wildlife habitat and natural scenic beauty. Floodplain Zoning Ordinance- Chapter 17, Dane County Code Dane County administers this ordinance to control development within floodplains to reduce flood hazards and protect the environment. Sign Regulations- Chapter 10, Dane County Code Sign regulations are within the Dane County Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 10. Building and Mechanical Codes The Town falls under the state Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC). Rural Density Policy The Town’s rural density policy limits the number of lots that may be created by certified survey to one parcel for each 35 acres, or portion thereof, owned as of December 15, 1994. To prevent the occurrence of multiple divisions by successive landowners, this limitation runs with the land; is cumulative; and applies to those persons owning land within the Town on December 15, 1994, and to their grantees, heirs, successors and assigns. For further details, please refer to the Land Use policies found in Element 8:Land Use Sanitary Codes- Chapter 46, Dane County Code The Town is covered by the Dane County Private Sewage System and Health Ordinances. 9.2 Plan Adoption, Evaluation, Amendments, & Updates Following the requirements of Wisconsin’s comprehensive planning legislation, the Town Board adopted the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan by ordinance after receiving recommendation from the Town’s Plan Commission and holding a formal public hearing. In addition, the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan was approved by the Dane County Board of Supervisors for inclusion in the Dane County Comprehensive Plan. Ongoing evaluation of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan will occur while being used by the Town. Progress toward goals will be reported, and changes in conditions that affect elements of the plan will be noted. When changing conditions in the Town warrant minor modification of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan text or maps, an amendment shall be made. Reasons for an amendment may include changes to state or federal law(s) , the Town of Orego n Comprehensive Plan, demographics, or i nstances where the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan becomes inconsistent with other policy goals. The Town Board and Plan Commission will review the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan every year to determine if amendments or updates are necessary. Every five years, the plan commission will recommend, if needed, minor amendments of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan for the Town Board to consider. Page 99 of 132 Element 8: Land Use Page 82 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Unlike an amendment, an update may accommodate significant changes and modifications to the plan text and maps, thus the need for adequate time to conduct the process. The Town Board shall initiate the revision process when the Board or the Plan Commission determine that the plan or any portion of it is not achieving its purpose, or when seven years have elapsed since the plan's effective date. Revisions to the plan will be drafted by a citizen committee, typically a subcommittee or committee-of-the-whole of the Plan Commission. The revised plan will be presented to Town citizens at a public hearing, after which it may or may not undergo further revision. Final proposed revisions will be subject to the approval of the Town Board and to the approval process prescribed by state and County requirements. In accordance with State law, the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan elements are integrated and consistent with the other elements. Elements were carefully prepared to achieve the Town of Oregon’s vision and goals. 9.3 Implementation Timeline Table 9 was created to help organize and carry out the objectives of the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan. Each year progress toward achieving the recommendations listed below will be monitored and evaluated by the Town Plan Commission. As is evident from the table, most of the activities are ongoing. Table 9: Implementation Actions & Timeline ELEMENT RECOMMENDATION TIMEFRAME Agricultural, Natural, & Cultural Resources Follow the residential density policy in the Agricultural Preservation District. Ongoing Continue to implement the Town driveway ordinance. Ongoing Work with the County to develop programs to preserve farmland, such as the purchase of and/or transfer of development rights programs. Ongoing Housing & Economic Development Allow for limited commercial uses appropriate to a rural town, consistent with land use policies in Element 8:Land Use. Ongoing Follow the residential density policy contained in this Comprehensive Plan. Ongoing Promote the careful placement of homesites in an effort to preserve farmland and protect natural features. Ongoing Identify local need and interest in the Dane County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program for maintenance and rehabilitation of existing housing stock. Ongoing Transportation Continue to maintain town local roads. Ongoing Utilities & Community Facilities Work with Dane County to develop policies and guidelines for wind turbines, communication towers, solar panels, and manure management. Ongoing Land Use Follow the Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan recommendations for all zoning petitions and land divisions. Ongoing Intergovernmental Cooperation Share information with neighboring towns and villages as comprehensive plans are developed and/or amended. Ongoing Page 100 of 132 Map Resources Page 83 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 1: Future Land Use Page 101 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 84 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 2: Building Types Page 102 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 85 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 3: Deed Restrictions Page 103 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 86 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 4: Fire and EMS Service Area Page 104 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 87 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 5: School Districts Page 105 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 88 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 6: Historic Farmstead Size Page 106 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 89 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 7: Flood Prone Areas Page 107 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 90 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 8: Hydrologic Soil Groups Page 108 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 91 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 9: Hydric Soils Page 109 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 92 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 10: Historic Land Cover Page 110 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 93 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 11: Tax Parcels Page 111 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 94 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 12: Soil LESA Scores Page 112 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 95 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 13: Prime Soil Classification Page 113 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 96 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 14: 2000 Land Use Page 114 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 97 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 15: 2010 Land Use Page 115 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 98 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 16: 2020 Land Use Page 116 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 99 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 17: 2020 Agricultural Land Use Page 117 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 100 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 18: Mineral Resources Page 118 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 101 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 19: Elevation Page 119 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 102 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 20: Parks & Open Space Page 120 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 103 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 21: Trails (adding bike trail) Page 121 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 104 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 22: Zoning & Conditional Use Permits Page 122 of 132 Map Resources Page 105 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 23: Shoreland & Wetland Zones Page 123 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 106 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 24: Slopes & Contours Page 124 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 107 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 25: Traffic Counts & Speeds Page 125 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 108 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 26: Water Resources Page 126 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 109 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 27: Water Flow Page 127 of 132 Mapped Resources Page 110 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Map 28: Solar Radiation Page 128 of 132 Appendix 1: Glossary Page 111 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Appendix 1: Glossary For additional definitions in the Dane County Comprehensive Plan visit: Dane County Glossary of Terms. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU): A separate and complete dwelling unit that is contained on the same lot as the structure of a single-family dwelling or business. In Dane County, maximum size is 800 square feet. Capital Area Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) : An independent, quasi -governmental agency established in 2007 by the Wisconsin governor under s.66.0309 of the Wisconsin Statutes. The CARPC serves as the areawide water quality planning agency for the Dane County region under NR 121, Wisconsin Administrative Code. Certified Survey Map (CSM): WI Statues Chapter 236.34, Land divisions that result in four or less parcels may be surveyed, monumented and mapped by a registered land surveyor. Conditional Use Permit (CUP) : A permit required for uses that because of their unique characteristics, cannot be properly classified as unrestricted permitted uses in any particular district or districts, without consideration, in each case, of the impact of those uses upon neighboring land or public facilities, and of the public need for the particular use at a particular location. Such uses, nevertheless, may be necessary or desirable to be allowed in a particular district provided that due consideration is given to location, development and operation of such uses. Contiguous: A parcel of land is contiguous if all parts under the same ownership are adjacent along a boundary, or at a point ("corner-to-corner"). Land under common ownership that is divided by a navigable waterway, road, public right-of-way, zoning district boundary, or survey line is considered contiguous. Cost burdened: Defined as homeowners and renters who spend more than 30% of their monthly income on housing costs. Density unit: An allowance for possible non -farm development on a parcel of land based on density requirements. Note that all other requirements of this plan must also be met for non-farm development on the parcel to be approved. Driveway: A private driveway, road, field road or other means of travel through any part of a private parcel of land which connects or will connect with any public roadway. Density: The amount of non -farm development allowed, in relation to the total area owned. The density limit of the plan is expressed as one "density unit" per 35 acres of contiguous ownership as of December 15, 1994. Environmental Corridor: Continuous systems of open space in urban and urbanizing areas, that include environmentally sensitive lands and natural resources requiring protection from disturbance and development, and lands needed for open space and recreational use. The Capital Are a Regional Planning Commission (CARPC) maps environmental corridors as part of Urban Service Area approvals, under the Dane County Water Quality Plan. Extraterritorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) : The legal ability of a government to exercise authority beyond its normal boundaries. In Wisconsin, most cities and villages have a buffer that extends 1.5 miles from the municipal limits. Some larger cities, such as Madison, have a 3-mile buffer. Farmland Preservation Area: Planning Area subject to the laws of State Chapter 75 related to maintaining agricultural business. Property owners who maintain their property in Farmland Preservation Zoning can apply for property tax credits. Areas planned for future development are no t able to receive farmland preservation credits. See Dane County website for more information. Floodplain: Land adjacent to a body of water which has been or may be hereafter covered by flood water (as delineated on official FEMA floodplain maps). Page 129 of 132 Appendix 1: Definitions Page 112 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Hydric soils: A soil that is saturated, flooded, or ponded long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part of the soil profile that favor the growth and regeneration of hydrophytic vegetation (USDA -CS, 1991). LESA: The Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA) is a land evaluation method for cropland integrates soil survey interpretations for important farmland classes, land capability classification, and either soil productivity or soil potential ratings. Land of Agricultural Significance : Land of sufficient quality to be preserved for agricultural use as determined by a town planning committee evaluation of: size, productivity, slope, crop history, shape and accessibility. Lot: A parcel of land occupied or intended to be occupied by a building and its accessory buildings and uses. A lot may be a parcel designated in a plat, a certified survey map, or described in a conveyance recorded in the register of deeds. Non-farm development : All residential development; non -farm commercial development; and development occurring through the sales of land or easements to public entities unless otherwise indicated in sales contracts, deeds, or recorded agreements. Ownership parcel: a contiguous and discrete tract of land, all under the same ownership and on public record. An ownership parcel is distinct from a tax parcel, and is not affected by zoning district boundaries. PASER: The PASER scale is a 1-10 rating system for road pavement condition developed by the University of Wisconsin -Madison Transportation Information Center. PASER uses visual inspection to evaluate pavement surface conditions. When assessed correctly, PASER ratings provide a basis for comparing the quality of roadway segments. Public agency: Any unit of local, state or national government and any publicly regulated utility. Potential Development Rights (PDR) : The potential to create a homesite under policy and physical constraints. Rural character: A place (usually an unincorporated town) with no more than 2,500 people and features a predominant visual landscape of open spaces, mountains, forests, and farms and the activities which preserve such features. It balances environmental, forest, and farm protection with rural development and recreational opportunities. Tax Increment Financing (TIF) : A tool used by cities, incorporated villages, and other development authorities to finance certain types of development costs. The public purposes of TIF are the redevelopment of blighted areas, construction of low and moderate income housing, provision of employment opportunities, and improvement of the tax base. (With TIF, a city “captures” the additional property taxes generated by the development that would have gone to other zoning districts. Transfer of Development Rights (TDR): Transfer of development rights programs allow landowners to transfer the right to develop one parcel of land to a different parcel of land. Generally, TDR programs are established by local zoning ordinances. The parcel of land where the rights originate is called the “sending” parcel. When the rights are transferred from a sending parcel, the land is restricted with a permanent conservation easement. Conservation easements typically have one or more public or nonprofit co-holders to ensure easement terms are maintained. The parcel of land to which the rights are transferred is called the “receiving” parcel. Buying these rights generally allows the owner to build at a higher density than ordinarily permitted by the base zoning. Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC): The statewide building code for one- and two-family dwellings built since June 1, 1980. The Division of Industry Services (DIS) provides consultation and education concerning UDC construction standards and inspection procedures. Urban services: Public services normally provided or needed in urban areas, including public water supply and distribution systems, sanitary sewerage systems, higher levels of police and fire protection, solid waste Page 130 of 132 Appendix 1: Definitions Page 113 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 collection, urban storm drainage systems, streets with curbs and gutters, street lighting, neighborhood facilities such as parks and schools, and urban transportation facilities such as sidewalks, taxi service and mass transit.) Urban Service Area (USA): Those areas in and around existing communities, which are most suitable for urban development and capable of being provided with a full range of urban services. Urban service area boundaries represent the outer limits of planned urban growth over the long-term planning period, at least 20 years, and include more than enough land to accommodate anticipated growth. Urban Service Area boundaries are approved by the Capital Area Regional Planning Commission under the Dane County Water Quality Plan. Zoning district: Any section or sections of a jurisdiction for which regulations govern land use, density, bulk, height, and coverage of buildings and other structures. Zoning overlay district: A superimposed additional set of regulations or allowances over an existing zoning district, or multiple zoning districts. Page 131 of 132 Appendix 2: Public Particpation Summary Page 114 | Town of Oregon Comprehensive Plan Draft June 9, 2026 Appendix 2: Public Participation Summary This plan was developed by a comprehensive plan steering committee. The committee employed various methods to ensure meaningful participation including a website, community survey, and several open houses and public hearings during the 2023 update and this 2026 revision. Over 50% of survey respondents felt that the town population 20 years from now should be approximately “the same as today.” Strong majorities felt that protection of natural and agricultural resources were either “essential” or “very important,” with “farm land,” “woodlands,” “wildlife habitat,” “streams,” “air quality,” and “groundwater resources” ranking particularly highly. The Town used Survey Monkey to reach the town residents and business owners. Approximately 1,300 postcards were mailed out. Of those, 262 were completed, for a 20% return rate. In general, residents are satisfied with the town plan’s goals, objectives, policies, and resulting way of life. The following pages provide a summary of the survey results. A complete copy of all comments offered is available at the Town Hall by request. [INSERT PDF PAGES] Survey results with comments v 2 10_2019 Include 2025 Vision info? Vision 2040 Plan | Town of Oregon Page 132 of 132