Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 08/17/2015

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Print Agenda Item Page 3 of 3 Option # 1. Direct Staff to work with the EPB to consider possible ideas/solutions to this matter and present them to the Planning Commission for consideration. Staff supports this option, as it focuses on answering the question as to whether an issue exists that warrants a policy change. Potential ideas include, but are not limited minimum buildable area standards and/or primary structure setbacks with open air decks and detached accessory structures exempt. Option #2. Do not direct Staff to proceed with any ordinance amendment and continue to try and work with builders to site and design a home such that a deck (or other reasonable improvements) can be installed without conflicting with these features. Staff will continue to review Building Permits for compliance with bulk standards as well as where a patio/sliding glass door is located on a structure to try and avoid a future conflict. However, without the standard in City Code, Staff could not prevent or prohibit issuance of a Building Permit for a home even if it has the appearance to have a high potential for future conflict (as shown on the attached examples). The City Council would be acknowledging the cost and timeframe involved in approving encroachments where allowed. This does not solve the concern of lack of back yard when a home is sited close to certain boundaries, especially wetlands. Funding Source: This is being handled under normal Staff duties. Recommendation: Staff recommends beginning discussion with the Environmental Policy Board (EPB) and Planning Commission to develop possible ideas to protect a homeowner from potential future issues for common and reasonable improvements, especially in the rear yard of a lot. The intent would be to ensure the City has the proper tools during plat/subdivision review to ensure proper buildable area. Action: Motion to direct Staff to begin working with the Environmental Policy Board (EPB) and Planning Commission on developing ideas to resolve, or at least reduce, issues some homeowners are encountering as a result of the proximity of the principal structure to a wetland, floodplain, and/or storm sewer pipe. Attachments Examples of Sites where Issues have been Encountered Inbox Tim Gladhill Chris Anderson (Originator) Kurt Ulrich Form Started By: Chris Anderson Final Approval Date: 07/09/2015 Form Review Reviewed By Tim Gladhill Chris Anderson Kurt Ulrich Date 07/08/2015 03:54 PM 07/08/2015 04:47 PM 07/09/2015 01:31 PM Started On: 07/08/2015 08:42 AM http://156.142.212.178:8080/frs/publish/print_ ag_memo.cfm?seq=5511 &rev_num=0&mo... 8/12/2015