Agenda - Public Works Committee - 12/18/2007 - No Meeting

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Board Member Sibilski responded that there was a recent article in the newspaper about a suburb of St. Paul that was implementing a requirement for six (6) inches of topsoil. Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that other cities have stich an ordinance. Blaine has an ordinance similar to this as does Andover. Andover's ordinance is actually highlighted in the Met Council's water conservation toolbox. Board Member Olds stated there are new homes in his area that put sod on sand, which requires a 101' of watering. Board Member Max expressed his concern that grass evolved from northern Europe is being used in Minnesota. He suggested using ~ess water dependent grasses and different grass mixes. There are other ways to enrich topsoil with compo sting and other alternatives" Chairperson McDilda concurred with the recommendation of Board Member Max. Chairperson McDilda suggested looking into what the sod industry is doing to assist with grasses that are more water retentive than Kentucky bluegrass. Environmental Coordinator Anderson concurred with the 'concern expressed by Board Member Max. He stated this is one section of code that the City Council does want to see amended, but that education is key; using channels such as the Environmental Expo, using plants that are more appropriate or less water dependent, and providing an incentive for homeowners with existing irrigation systems to retrofit them with rain gauge sensors. Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated rain sensors are already required for multi- family and commercial developments. A permit is not required for single-family homes to install sprinklers. Chairperson McDilda stated that often times, residents are responsible to self manage the ordinances. Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated he brought this to the EPB at the Council's direction, to ask for input and for additional meas.ures the City could investigate for water conservation measures. Board Member Max stated that he liked the concept of a toolbox for management. He stated that the U of M is within a year of introducing some new turf grasses that use less water. Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated it requires changing the perception of the public to get them to use alternate varieties. Some of the newer grass varieties do not have the traditional manicured appearance. A lot of this will fall back on education and changing the mindset over time. Chairperson McDilda stated he would like to see the City adopt an ordinance that would require a permit for an irrigation system for a single family home. That would be a way to ensure that these systems include rain sensors. Environmental Policy Board/July 23, 2007 . Page 8 of 16 . 18