Minutes - Planning Commission - 09/03/2009

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stated that the ordinance allows for topsoil from the site that is moved to be reused on the site and questioned if the four inches of topsoil would be required for the entire site. Environmental Coordinator Anderson explained that the purpose of the ordinance is water conservation. He advised that staff could approve the use of a legitimate restoration plan, with sod or prairie grass, in lieu of the four inches of top soil for the entire site. Commissioner Hunt confirmed that someone could mix compost with existing topsoil to meet the City standards. He questioned what an estimated cost for the topsoil would be. City Engineer Himmer stated that for an average quarter acre lot the cost would be an additional $1,200 to $1,500. He stated that the average cost for soil is $3.00 to $8.00 a yard, compared to the City mix, with a cost of$12.00 to $15.00. Commissioner Dunaway questioned how the soil could be certified if someone were to mix compost material with the existing topsoil. City Engineer Himmer stated that staff could test the soil that was mixed to ensure that it meets. the standard. He stated that staff was not trying to be too restrictive and wanted flexibility within the ordinance. He explained that the City did not previously have an ordinance. He stated that staff would like homeowners to understand the effect of topsoil on water conservation. Commissioner Brauer stated that he was more concerned with the certification process, as he was not aware of any other City that tests the soil quality themselves. He stated that he believed that the people putting in the soil should provide the certification to the City as he did not think that the City should be involved in the certification process. He advised that while he was not in favor of lowering the amount of organic matter he ultimately did not see the difference as a huge change and would agree with the amendment. Commissioner Dunaway stated that staff had worked with the first builder through this process and questioned if that could be discussed. City Engineer Himmer stated that at this point the people have taken the information and do not complain until the time of occupancy. He explained that complaints have been received when the builder has to pay for the soil. He stated that staff has attempted to work with builders upfront but has not received comments until the time of occupancy. He explained that the City felt, by completing the certification of the soil themselves and providing a list of suppliers, they would be saving builders' time. He eXplained that by amending the ordinance it would allow for a larger market of available soil. Commissioner Cleveland advised that she was comfortable with the ordinance requiring a certain amount of black dirt to help with water retention. She stated that she understood that this requirement would aid in water retention and help the grass to retain water. Planning Commission / September 3, 2009 Page 7 of 10