10-12-2022 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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STAFF REPORT TO: Mayor Keis and Members of the City Council FROM: Bill Dircks, Public Works Director DATE: October 12, 2022 RE: Ordinance 867, Amending Zoning Code Chapter 928, Stormwater Management ACTION TO BE CONSIDERED: Motion to adopt Ordinance 867, Amending Zoning Code Chapter 928, Stormwater Management, adding language for bulk deicer storage. BACKGROUND: As staff continues to work through the new MS4 stormwater permit approved by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, it has recognized the need to amend existing ordinances or add additional ordinances to meet the requirements of the permit. The first amendment is for Zoning Code Chapter 928 – Stormwater Management. The City is required to add language for bulk deicer storage, which includes salt, sand, and other products used for deicing and traction as part of winter maintenance operations. Salt, sand, and other deicing chemicals are not good for water quality in lakes, ponds, streams, and other water bodies. The ordinance language states that all deicer must be stored indoors if possible. Otherwise it must be covered at all times with either a permanent roof or a waterproof cover (tarp). The City’s salt shed is a good example of what is required for salt storage. The shed keeps the material dry and does not allow water to flow in and melt the salt and cause it to run off into the stormwater system. The language also includes where facilities should be placed on properties. The buildings or piles should be kept close to the area it will be used, must be kept away from floodplains and water features such as lakes, ponds, etc., must be kept on an impermeable surface such as asphalt or concrete, and must be kept upstream of runoff from the rest of the property. The ordinance applies to all bulk deicer storage facilities in Little Canada so staff will be sending out information to properties in the City that are storing deicer and will ensure that they are complying with the new rules. STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS: Staff recommends adoption of Ordinance 867, amending Zoning Code Chapter 928, Stormwater Management, and approve publication of a summary ordinance. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 412.191, in the case of a lengthy ordinance, a summary may be published.