7.1 PCSR 03-28-2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Memorandum To: Zach Carlton, Planning Manager From: Amanda Bednar, Environmental Coordinator Date: March 21, 2017 Subject: OA 17-05 Changes to the Citys Wetland Setback Ordinance ________________________________________________________________ Drafted in 2006, the Citys wetland buffer ordinance aims to pro of the entire community. The Citys Wetland Technical EvaluationPanel (TEP) created this ordinance based on their recommendation for how best to maintain quality, provide flood control and protect fish and wildlife habitat. Wetlands provide vast benefits to the public. The City is tasked with preserving those benefits via our wetland buffer ordinance. Due to precipitation changes in recent decades, water quality an stormwater management continue to be of high importance. All new construction is required to meet the ordinance as stated with 45 foot setbacks from wetland boundaries. Although lots platted prior to 2006 may have requirements, the first 25 foot buffer strip is critical to ensu and should not be disturbed. Homeowners should work to ensure these requirements are met which may result in a loss of usable land. If adjustments need to be made to meet city code, I recommend that the buffer be as large as possible (up to an existing structurebuiltbefore 2006. These areas should not have mowed turf grass, landscaping or fences present as per the city requirements. I recommend this exception be applied only to existing structures and not sites platted before structures built.City staff should continue to work with individual homes to help them come into compliance and grant variances as they see fit. I do no change to current city code. C:\Users\zcarlton\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Windows\INetCache\Content.Outlook\0Y8J0PES\OA Wetland Setback Memo (5).docx