Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 06/05/2005

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APPROVAL OF MINUTES Motion by Board Member Sibilski and seconded by Board Member Bentz to approve the regular meeting minutes dated June 6, 2005. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Acting Chairperson McDilda, Board Member Sibilski, Bentz, Freeburg, and Olds. Voting No: None. Absent: Board Member Hustvedt and Max. POLICY BOARD BUSINESS Case #1: Wetland Buffer Ordinance Review and Discussion Staff member Chris Anderson referenced the concerns expressed at the last meeting with regards to fire safety issues and enforcement stating that he has included verbiage addressing the structure setback from the buffer to address these concerns. He stated that the residents should be able to have some useable yard before they get to the point where they can't mow. And if they do not have a point of separation it could become an issue. He stated that the city currently does not have any setback requirements. He stated that the Fire Marshal is pleased that a 15-foot setback is going to be incorporated. He stated that the Fire Marshal would be happier with 30- feet but is also very ok with 15-feet. He stated that there is a good possibility that many of the properties would already exceed this within new construction developments. Acting Chairperson McDilda stated that he has had similar conversations with respect to the properties around the wetland areas, especially along the sides of structures. He indicated that the city has had to reconsider 30-feet on several occasions with the various developments noting that the city is trying to build the awareness that this would be a safety enhancement. He noted that at least they have some good intent with respect to new developments and each variance request can be reviewed on a case -by -case basis. He stated that he is quite comfortable with how it is laid out. Board Member Olds agreed that it would be to the benefit of the property owner to have this setback for fire protection. He expressed concerns that the requirements have not been enforced and also stated that he is concerned about residents dumping leaves and debris in the buffer and setback areas. Acting Chairperson McDilda clarified that the Fire Marshall provided safety guidelines to consider and incorporate and from there the Planning Commission and City Council become involved. He further clarified that this would only impact new developments, not existing homes. Mr. Anderson stated that once a buffer is installed, the city would be relying on the residents to inform the city when issues arise. He briefly reviewed the process stating that if a complaint is made staff would conduct an inspection to review the area and clarify all issues. Board Member Sibilski stated that he still has a few concerns with the proposed 15-foot setback requirement. He stated that there would be a huge potential for many of the residents to approach the city requesting variances on their properties to add decks, landscaping or structures. He stated that he did not think 15-feet would be enough and suggested setting a higher requirement. Environmental Policy Board / June 20, 2005 Page 4 of 9