09-13-2005 PC MIN - JOINT - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning Commission Special Joint Meeting 9 September 13, 2005 Page Commissioner Scott stated that since both “ends” of the transfer would be negotiated at the same time, no one should end up getting “stuck”. He felt that the incentive to invest in this process would be to achieve higher density. Draft Wetland Buffer Ordinance Commissioner Stevens explained the setback requirements of the wetland buffer. He stated that the difficult art of the ordinance would be enforcement. Commissioner Lemke felt that most people will understand it and do the right thing. Commissioner Stevens stated that the biggest issue is “lawn creep”, and that the enforcement will generally be complaint-driven. Commissioner Stevens noted that the ordinance will apply to new developments, not existing. Discussion followed regarding the purpose of the buffer. Commissioner Offerman stated that this ordinance was drafted by Rebecca Haug, Environmental Technician, and was included in the NRI Task Force’s recommendations, since it was related. Discussion followed regarding signing of the buffer zone and enforcement. Draft Tree Preservation Ordinance Commissioner Stevens briefly explained the history of the Tree Preservation Ordinance. The Commission discussed various components of the ordinance. Commissioner Stevens stated that after reviewing this draft, he felt there were some things missing that were supposed to have been included. Commissioner Stevens stated that the intent of the ordinance was to preserve the native species in the area, and to encourage re-forestation of oaks, birch, sweet maples, etc. He noted that the Task Force felt the language on page 8 was too restrictive, regarding single family property owners rights. Commissioner Lemke stated that sometimes it is necessary to cut down trees in order to save trees. He questioned the right of the City to dictate how a property owner should take care of his trees. Discussion followed regarding rights of a property owner on this issue. Commissioner Stevens stated that he felt more work needs to be done on the Tree Preservation Ordinance and that it is far to restrictive for the homeowner. He also felt that a “minimum standard lot size” needs to be established. It was the consensus of the Commission that more work is needed on the draft ordinances and that the NRI reconvene to further discuss the Transfer of Development Rights Program and the Tree Preservation Ordinance.