Minutes - Planning Commission - 11/07/2002

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Principal Planner Trudgeon explained that with the strictest interpretation it would require a 45- foot buffer with eight trees per 100 feet. Chairperson Nixt noted that would mean 3-4 inch trees, which are fairly small, and equal 50 trees along that area. He also noted that the Tree Preservation Plan would preserve 163 trees. Principal Planner Trudgeon stated the trees would have to be a combination of overstory, coniferous, and evergreen. No shrubs are required under the Density Transition requirement but two new trees per lot would be required. He explained that shrubs could probably be required instead if the Planning Commission so directed. He stated the applicant has given thought to the development to minimize tree loss while the big equipment is on site. He stated that best management practices would occur during the grading and construction of the street. He noted there are a lot of trees in the middle of the lots so some of them would have to be removed to construct the home but all understand the lot is more valuable if it contains trees. Commissioner Johnson asked whether he read the November 1, 2002 letter from staff and has other comments. Mr. Packer stated he has read the letter and has no questions or further comments. Motion by Chairperson Nixt, seconded by Commissioner Johnson, to close the public hearing. Motion Carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Nixt, Commissioners Johnson, Brauer, Kociscak, Reeve and Watson. Voting No: None. Absent: None. The public hearing closed at 8:18 p.m. Commission Business Chairperson Nixt called the regular meeting of the Planning Commission back to order at 8:18 p.m. Motion by Commissioner Johnson, seconded by Commissioner Watson, to recommend that City Council approve the preliminary plat for Highlands at River Park 4t~ Addition subject to compliance with City Staff Review letter dated November 1, 2002. Further discussion: Chairperson Nixt noted that the staff review letter is vague on the transitioning but recommends additional landscaping on the western border. He stated that this has been discussed and he would like the City to not lock themselves in by considering trees in the building pad. He stated he would prefer to consider the number of trees that remain after home construction and require the developer to provide a credit for trees removed. Commissioner Johnson agreed that the language needs to be clear and preservation looked at on a lot-by-lot basis to determine the appropriate location for the homes. Chairperson Nixt noted Planning Commission/November 7, 2002 Page 11 of 16