Agenda - Council - 09/12/2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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of fifty (50) feet and eliminates any grading activity in these rear yards in order to preserve additional trees. The Environmental Policy Board (EPB) reviewed the Tree Preservation and Landscape Plans and did note concern with the amount of oaks being removed. While the Tree Preservation Plan does comply with the Tree Preservation Ordinance, they noted concern with the greater loss of the higher quality and more desirable oaks compared to less desirable species. The updated exhibit for Lots 1-3 Block 1 does to address a concern raised by the EPB about tree removal and will assist in achieving compliance with the Density Transitioning requirements. While the majority of these additional preserved trees are boxelder, there are some more desirable significant red oak, bur oak, and American elm included. The EPB also suggested that the Developer consider additional plantings as a way of offsetting the loss of so many oak trees. We offer the following comments regarding the Tree Preservation Plan, prepared by Roshell Engineering, LLC and dated May 4, 2017, revised May 31, 2017: General Comments • Staff would like to work with the developer to have at least one deciduous tree installed in the boulevard area in front of each home. • Note that each lot, including boulevards, shall be improved with four (4) inches of topsoil meeting the City's topsoil specification across all areas not covered with impervious surfacing. Copies of the load tickets shall be provided to the City and a topsoil inspection shall be completed prior to installation of any landscaping. Density Transitioning The proposed subdivision includes a request for Comprehensive Plan Amendment and a Zoning Amendment to re -guide the land to Low Density Residential and to rezone the land to R-1 Residential (MUSA). The property is adjacent to lands to the north, south (portion), and east that are zoned R-1 Residential (Rural Developing) and thus, the development is subject to the City's Density Transitioning requirements outlined in City Code Section 117-110.