Agenda - Council - 03/23/2010 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ordinance also includes language permitting alternatives to topsoil, such as compost, with the prior approval of the City Engineer. There were no verbal or written comments concerning the proposed ordinance amendment. Attached is the proposed ordinance with amendments. Additions are indicated as underlined deletions are indicated as a stfikethrougk. Funding Source: Amendments to Chapter 117 are being handled as part of regular Staff duties. Recommendation: The Planning Commission did question whether the requirement was still too stringent and limiting in terms of available material. Additionally, there was some concern that there wasn't really any science supporting the need to increase the required depth. While the requirement may be more stringent than some communities, Ramsey has been identified as one of the largest users of non - consumptive water (irrigation) in the metro area (most likely due to our sandy soils) and thus, a higher standard is appropriate. Also, Staff is confident that material consistent with the new topsoil specification is more readily available than what was previously required. While the Planning Commission did have the aforementioned concerns, they also are supportive of the City's water conservation initiatives. So, after much discussion and deliberation, the Planning Commission did recommend approval of the proposed ordinance. Council Action: Motion to introduce Ordinance #10- — to amend Chapter 117 of City Code to require six (6) inches of topsoil and to allow for alternatives to topsoil, such as compost, with the prior approval of the City Engineer. -or- Motion to deny the proposed ordinance. Reviewed By: / City Administrator: l City Engineer Planning Manager City Attorney CC: 3/23/10 Attachments: A. Proposed Ordinance #10- (with edits shown) B. MnDOT Spec 3877C Premium Topsoil Borrow C. City Council Minutes dated January 12, 2010 D. Draft Planning Commission meeting minutes dated March 4, 2010