Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 02/04/2013

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Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that he did not believe that the City has any direct ordinance regarding tree removal from a vacant lot but noted that the Lower Rum River Water Management Organization (LRRWMO) requires a permit to be obtained for any lot disturbance over one acre, which may come into play in that scenario. He suggested that if the Board believes this be addressed that language be added to the intent of the Ordinance to clarify that point without stepping on the rights of property owners. Board Member Enstrom provided additional information in regard to farming under Green Acres and the disadvantage that trees have on farming property. Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that he believed he had enough input from the Board at this time and would attempt to craft language to take out the vagueness of the Ordinance and intent statements. 5.03: Water Conservation Standards Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson presented the staff report. Board Member Lewis asked for additional information on permitting requirements regarding the installation of an irrigation system. Board Member Bentz provided additional input on his irrigation system and the cost for certain monitoring equipment. Associate Planner /Environmental Coordinator Anderson noted that the idea of offering an incentive for use of that monitoring equipment could be discussed with Public Works and the City Council. Chairperson Max suggested that this item be thought about for the future. 6. BOARD / STAFF INPUT Chairperson Max referenced a public hearing that occurred regarding water pollution and asked for additional information regarding the scope of the Board, as he would think water pollution would come before this Board and not simply the Planning and Zoning Commission. Associate Planner/Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that the storm water illicit discharge regulations will be in the Zoning Chapter of City Code and therefore the Planning Commission is responsible for holding the public hearing. The proposed amendments were the minimum required to remain in compliance with the MS4 permit and the LRRWMO's 3` Generation Plan, so the decision was made to bring this directly to the Planning Commission rather than first to this Board, then the Planning Commission, then twice to the City Council. Additionally, there was some urgency in getting these amendments adopted, with the Planning Commission meeting being moved up one week, it occurred prior to the EPB meeting, which would have delayed the process by another month. Environmental Policy Board / February 4, 2013 Page 5 of 6