Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 03/21/2016

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Motion carried. Voting Yes: Acting Chairperson Valentine, Board Member Bernard, Lewis, Bentz, and Covart. Voting No: None. Absent: Chairperson Stodola, Board Member Hiatt. 5.04: Receive Update on the New Buffer Initiative Law City Planner Anderson reviewed the staff report. He pointed out this is a law that was initiated by the Governor and is being implemented statewide. He said the type of vegetation is not specified. It just states perennial vegetation must be used. Board Member Lewis asked if Kentucky Blue Grass could be used, for example, and if it would need to be used right up to the edge. He also asked if it is to be maintained by the homeowner. City Planner Anderson responded that type of grass could be used, and it would be maintained by the homeowner. Board Member Bentz questioned if the country roads and agricultural lands that are privately held are considered county ditches. City Civil Engineer II Linton explained the county ditch system started around 1890. A group of farmers could get the okay to dig a ditch for drainage. The benefited properties would help pay. They are maintaining them in agricultural areas for drainage. When bare soil is washed over by rain, it brings the sediment into the agricultural area. The goal is to have a buffer area where there is no bare soil adjacent to public waterways and ditches. Board Member Bentz asked if the above information is true for public waterways. City Planner Anderson replied where there is shoreline ordinances in place, the buffer area will be viewed differently. There are rules in place along waterways, which vary due to public and private ownership. Board Member Lewis asked whether there are records on ditches that were built 100 years ago. City Civil Engineer II Linton answered there are, for the most part. It is dependent on the record keeping at the time. Board Member Bentz commented the paperwork may be able to help determine whether property is public or private, if there is a question. This item is for information only. 6. BOARD / STAFF INPUT • Elementary School Meeting: City Planner Anderson stated staff has been in contact with the school regarding working with the Ramsey Rangers. He will be able to provide an update in the near future. 7. ADJOURNMENT Environmental Policy Board / February 22, 2016 Page 5 of 6