Agenda - Council - 03/12/2019 - Laserfiche WebLink

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7.07: Introduce Ordinance #19-03 Amending the Definition of Topsoil (Project No. 18-146) City Planner Anderson reviewed the staff report and recommendation from the EPB and Planning Commission to approve the Ordinance, which keeps, but modifies, the topsoil standard for the reasons stated in the case. The Public Works Committee received an update from staff on the proposed ordinance amendment on February 19th and by consensus, the Committee supported presenting the amendment to the City Council. In addition, the Committee requested that staff consider tailoring proposed water conservation educational material differently to property owners of larger rural lots on private wells. Ben Minks, Capstone, stated that staff did a great job of presenting this information. He explained how this relates to the market. He explained that they attempt to create an affordable housing product, and this is an area where money is being spent that does not accomplish the purpose it is intended to as well as it could be. He stated that if this change is implemented the average Ramsey lot within Brookfield, would save a couple thousand dollars per lot. He stated that his company also works in the neighboring communities that staff surveyed, and this is a unique cost to Ramsey and is a disadvantage to affordability in comparison to the ten other communities they build within. Councilmember Heinrich stated that she appreciates Mr. Minks bringing this forward to the City and appreciates that the adoption of this ordinance would provide a cost savings to new Ramsey residents. Motion by Councilmember Musgrove, seconded by Councilmember Heinrich, to introduce Ordinance #19-03 amending the definition of topsoil. Further discussion: Acting Mayor Riley noted that there will still be a requirement for topsoil, the definition will simply be changed to match other communities and will be easier for developers to meet. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Acting Mayor Riley, Councilmembers Musgrove, Heinrich, Kuzma, Musgrove, and Shryock. Voting No: None. Absent: Mayor LeTourneau.