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Planning Commission Minutes April 10, 2007 Page 4 Commissioner Staid asked if a model ordinance was used to draft the proposed language. Ms. Haug stated that a model was used from a company in Colorado, as well as the MPCA ordinance model. She noted that there will be penalties if they do not get back to the 1988 levels, but that the models may not work, and may need modification. Chair Stevens asked if Ms. Haug felt the goal was possible. She stated yes, and explained that for some time, all storm water for new developments in the city is not allowed to leave the site. Ms. Haug stated that there are measures to control runoff on existing sites, such as creating rain gardens. Chair Stevens opened the public hearing. Arthur Jackett, 19854 Xavier Street -Expressed his concern regarding how the proposed changes in the ordinance will affect the residents. He asked how the city will control the phosphorus being washed away. He stated he has a wetland near his property and he does not want to see it change to have more water in it, He stated he feels the city has very little concern for wetlands and the environment. Chair Stevens asked Ms. Haug how the proposed ordinance amendment may impact residents. Ms. Haug stated that the ordinance will impact residents, and that an education program will be implemented. She noted that a storm water survey was distributed to the public. She stated that Elk River Municipal Utilities has concerns regarding water usage and irrigation. Ms. Haug stated that she feels the city does a very good job in preserving wetlands, requiring wetland replacement, and reducing impacts on the environment. She noted that there are eight different types of wetlands. Mr. Jackett stated that he disagreed with Ms. Haug's comments, and that the wetlands in Hillside Estates were covered up with this area when this area was developed. He stated that the wetlands were pumped out and a drainage pond was put in and this was not monitored. Ms. Haug stated that hopefully, the new ordinance measures will prevent that from happening again. Mr. Jackett stated that he has pictures of poor erosion control in this area. There being no further public comment, Chair Stevens closed the public hearing. MOTION BY COMMISSIONER WESTGAARD AND SECONDED BY COMMISSIONER STAUL TO RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF THE ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS REGARDING STORM WATER, EROSION, GRADING AND EXCAVATING, CASE NO. OA 07-05. MOTION CARRIED 6-0. 6.1. Update on Signs Senior Planner Sheila Cartney provided an update on the sign issue. She stated that the following issues will be confirmed with the City Council -safety/brightness, changing too often, animation, "TV" screen-type signs, lack of clarity in defining animated signs in the current ordinance. Commissioner Westgaard stated that his concern with the changing signs is the frequency of change, brightness, and how to differentiate between those flashing time and temperature, and advertising signs. Commmissioner Scott questioned how it would be possible to regulate the brightness of signs, or how much light a sign throws off. He asked if there was a way to monitor this, since some signs are so bright they are distracting.