Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 06/19/2017

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Environmental Policy Board (EPB) 5. 2. Meeting Date: 06/19/2017 By: Chris Anderson, Community Development Information Title: Consider Natural Resources Elements for Cole Addition Preliminary Plat (Project No. 17-132) Purpose/Background: The City has received an application for Preliminary Plat from Bryon and Lynn Cole to subdivide their property at 6951 168th Ave NW (the "Subject Property") into eight (8) lots (one of which will retain their existing home). The Subject Property is zoned R-1 Residential (MUSA) and guided for Low Density Residential. Observations/Alternatives: According to the City's Natural Resources Inventory, there are no natural areas of significance on the Subject Property (categorized as Urban with Vegetative Cover), which is not surprising considering this is a re -plat of an existing residential parcel. A tree inventory was conducted and a Tree Preservation Plan was prepared. The existing trees comprise mostly of ash, maple and boxelder. The proposed removals slightly exceed the allowable threshold; however, the required base landscaping does satisfy the reforestation standards (with the 2.5 inch caliper as shown on the Landscape Plan). The Landscape Plan proposes two (2) trees per lot in accordance with the requirements for the R-1 Residential District. Species and size are acceptable. While the properties to the east are of similar size to the Subject Property (2-2.5 acres in size), they are also zoned R-1 Residential (MUSA). Furthermore, there is an existing line of evergreen trees along this common property line that already provides some screening from Lot 3, Block 1 and Lot 3, Block 2. It does not appear that density transitioning would be required for this project. The plan set also indicates that an existing drainage and utility easement on the Subject Property would be vacated. This Applicant will need to demonstrate that the runoff standards can still be met and that the project will not result in stormwater runoff being routed into areas not encumbered by drainage and utility easements. Staff finds that the Tree Preservation and Landscape Plans are generally acceptable with the necessary revisions outlined in the Staff Review Letter. Funding Source: The Applicant is responsible for all costs associated with this request. Action: Motion to recommend approval of the Tree Preservation and Landscape Plans contingent upon compliance with the Staff Review Letter. Attachments Site Location Map Plan Set Staff Review Letter