Agenda - Council - 04/25/1995 - Laserfiche WebLink

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I CAS, # /0 TREE CONSERVATION POLICY PROCESS By: Mark Boos, Parks/Utilities Supervisor Background: The purpose of this case is to receive Council affirmation and direction on the interim tree conservation policy process. As you are aware, the subject of tree conservation has been addressed by the City Council, Park and Recreation Commission, and most recently, at the meeting with frequent developers here in Ramsey. New subdivision st~arts are the most prominent cause of tree loss within the City. In addition, the public subdivision process is the most visible and most enduring medium for the City to ensure that growth does riot detract from the quality of life residents expect. For these reasons, the primary focus of discussion has been new subdivisions. Observations: Tree issues, like all,other elements of subdivision creation, continue to be sorted out (usually) due to mutual agreemeqt between the Commissions, City Staff, and developers. City Council then has approved the termsivia the development agreement. The following issues are recommended and have been negotiat~ between the developers, Commissions, and City Staff: · Requiring the minimum equivalent of one 2" front yard tree for each new lot created · Significant lndividual trees and stands of trees to be identified on the grading plan for protection cbnsideration · Common b ,tO'y for the utilities in the road'right-of-way · Encouraging builders to protect saved trees on individual lots with fencing Attached for your ~formation is a summary of last month's meeting with developers regarding tree conservation. Six .ppints in the memo are believed to be the consensus of those in attendance at the meeting. Further, Be recommendations appear to afford more flexibility than most cities allow developers. It is for these reasons, Staff recommends that Council direct the Commissions and City Staff to negotiate with developers the above tree conservation measures for decision by Council within the development agreement framework. Staff has been worlting on ordinance amendments attempting to deal with several environmental issues within one ~rdinance. This is continuing and will include additional meeting(s) with affected parties including developers/builders. At this time, we are asking for Council ratification of Park and Recreation suggested policies which do not appear controversial. Council Action: Ratification of development policies pursuant to the attached. Reviewed by: Copies also distributed to: City Administrator Park and Recreation Commission City Engineer Parks/Utilities SuPerVisor CC:04/25/95