(1) Preserve and protect the State’s natural resources; and

(2) Achieve the State’s economic growth, resource protection, and planning policy in § 5-7A-01 of the State Finance and Procurement Article.

(b) The General Assembly finds that sustainable communities are places where public and private investments and partnerships achieve:

(1) Development of a healthy local economy;

(2) Protection and appreciation of historic and cultural resources;

(3) A mix of land uses;

(4) Affordable and sustainable housing and job options; and

(5) Growth and development practices that protect the environment and conserve air, water, and energy resources, encourage walkability and recreational opportunities, and, where available, create access to transit.