Agenda - Planning Commission - 02/07/2019

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require much less water than sunny portions. Again, options such as soil moisture sensors placed in differing growing conditions within a yard, can significantly reduce water usage by restricting which zones actually run on a scheduled day/time. Recommendation While topsoil is a beneficial addition, both for water conservation and vegetation establishment, the cost difference of an engineered soil compared to a more standard black dirt is significant. Focusing more on irrigation systems and water efficient technologies rather than engineered soils, along with additional public education on the use of irrigation systems, will be more effective than the current premium topsoil requirement for reducing demand on groundwater. It would also be accomplished at a lower cost to the future homeowner (and possibly current homeowners if a rebate program were implemented). The EPB has reviewed this topic and did recommend proceeding with an Ordinance to amend the definition of topsoil to be more similar to surrounding peer communities. Alternatives Alternative 1: Recommend adoption of Ordinance #19-03 to amend the definition of topsoil to be more consistent with peer communities. Staff has seen examples of yards that are oversaturated, either from on -site irrigation, neighboring irrigation, and even from multiple days of precipitation, resulting in spongy, unusable areas. Continued advancements in irrigation system technologies, along with development of enhanced educational materials on irrigation system operation and maintenance, should result in less demand on groundwater for irrigation purposes at a lower cost to future homeowners. The EPB and City Staff support this alternative. Alternative 2: Recommend the City Council not amend the current definition of topsoil and continue to require an engineered soil for all new development. Based on the cost of this engineered material, and the advances in irrigation technology (as well as continued research and development of grasses such as fine fescues that are more drought tolerant and require less water inputs), Staff does not support this alternative. Funding Source: This case is being handled as part of Staffs regular duties. Action: Motion to recommend City Council adopt Ordinance #19-03 amending the definition of topsoil. Attachments Letter from Capstone Homes Current Topsoil Specification Comparison of Topsoil Requirements of Peer Communities EPB Meeting Minutes Dated August 20, 2018 EPB Meeting Minutes Dated November 19, 2018 Draft Ord 19-03 Form Review Inbox Reviewed By Date Bruce Westby Bruce Westby 01/30/2019 07:06 PM Tim Gladhill Tim Gladhill 02/01/2019 07:32 AM Form Started By: Chris Anderson Started On: 01/28/2019 08:51 AM Final Approval Date: 02/01/2019