Agenda - Council - 11/26/2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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-184- there are a lot of trees in the middle of the lots so some of them would have to be removed to construct the home but all understand the lot is more valuable if it contains trees. Commissioner Johnson asked whether he read the November 1, 2002 letter from staff and has other comments. Mr. Packer Stated he has read the letter and has no questions or further comments. Motion by Chairperson Nixt, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to close the public hearing. Motion Carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Nixt, Commissioners Johnson, Brauer, Kociscak, Reeve and Watson. Voting No: None. Absent: None. The public hearing closed at 8718 p.m. Commission Business Chairperson Nixt called the regular meeting of the Planning Commission back to orderat 8:18 p.m. Motion by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Watson, to recommend that City Council approve the preliminary plat for Highlands at River Park 4t~ Addition subject to compliance with City Staff.Review letter dated November 1, 2002. Further discussion: Chairperson Nixt noted that the staff review letter is vague on the transitioning but recommends additional landscaping on the western border. He stated tha~ this has been discussed and he would like the City to not lock themselves in by considering trees in the building pad. He stated he would prefer to consider the number of trees that remain a2er home construction and require the developer to provide a credit for trees removed. Commissioner Johnson agreed that the language needs to be clear and preservation looked at on a lot-by-lot basis to determine the appropriate location for the homes. Chairperson Nixt noted that one new overstory tree would not replace the removal of a mature tree. He asked staff to look at the variables given the topography and existing foliage, and what variance options for landscaping are the most appropriate to provide credit for trees let5 while still providing screening necessary for compliance. He stated that would provide more clarity. Principal Planner Trudgeon stated the development agreement can require information to be provided for staff's review when the building permits are pulled to identify which trees would be removed and which would remain. He stated when the building permit is pulled, COmmUnity Development staff would then have the opportunity to look at the trees that would remain to assure it meets the intent of preservation. He stated he does not know of any other way to accomplish this without staff reView of each individual lot. Commissioner Johnson noted there are not many lots so between now and Council consideration, staff could work with the applicant to determine house building pads and the trees that would remain. Chairperson Nixt commented on the benefit of not having arbitrary language. He stated that the maximum number of trees required will probably be exceeded by what is lePr on the site, but he wants to assure that happens. With regard to the three lots they think may need Planning Commission/November 7, 2002 Page 11 of 16 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I