Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 02/04/2013

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Chairperson Max confirmed that the Subcommittee should meet to discuss the event the following Monday at 7:00 p.m. at Caribou. He noted that the Subcommittee would develop the list of categories for exhibitors and continue planning efforts. 5.02: Tree Preservation Ordinance Review Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson presented the staff report. He provided comparison information from other communities and provided examples that he would like the Board to consider and offer input on. Chairperson Max believed that one standard should be chosen and it should be made clear, rather than broader statements. Board Member Enstrom commented that historical value should be considered, noting that some species have become rare or significant. He also discussed whether this would apply to existing homes. Associate Planner/Environmental Coordinator Anderson clarified that this Ordinance applies specifically to new development and is not and would not be applied retroactively to existing homes. Board Member Bentz suggested removing desirable tree, unless it is specifically defined. Board Member Valentine believed that the Ordinance should be applied to both individual and multi - family properties and to remove vagueness, to the extent possible. He did not believe that the Board should attempt to craft the exact language, but should instead provide some guidance and let staff choose the specific language. Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson confirmed that the Board believed the original intent of this Ordinance was to be applied across the board to individual and multi- family properties, the term desirable should be removed and significant should be used in its place, as well as replacement standards and/or restitution. Chairperson Max questioned where Ramsey would like to fall on the spectrum and believed that the input of the Council would be beneficial, as to whether Ramsey should remain in the middle, above or below the curve. Associate Planner/Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that the intent of this process is not to make development harder but to review what is there and possibly build in flexibility. Board Member Bentz questioned the buildable area left and whether this is a huge issue. Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson noted that there are still sizable areas left to be developed within the City. Board Member Lewis referenced vacant lots and whether that would need to be specified as well within the Ordinance, specifically towards tree removal and lot clearing. Environmental Policy Board / February 4, 2013 Page 4 of 6