09-26-07 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SEPTEMBER 26, 2007 of those is that the first inch of run-off from pavement and roof surfaces must be heated and retained on-site. The combination of the ponds will accomplish this. The Engineer also noted that the overflow from the pond will flow to the southeast away from the Gores property. The City Engineer agreed that from a drainage standpoint, the plat will improve the current situation. Blesener asked the value of the proposed homes. Soby reported that they will have minimum values of $600,000. Keis asked the size of the proposed lots. Soby replied that the lots exceed the City's 10,000 square foot minimum and average 11,000 to 12,000 square feet. The three lots proposed in Maplewood are much greater in size. Keis pointed out the Gervais Hills developed and expressed concern about large houses squeezed on small lots. Soby pointed out that the Richie Place lots are about 95 feet in width; therefore, the houses will not appear to be squeezed in. Soby also reported that they take a jewelry box approach to the homes that they build. The houses are actually smaller in size but more expensive given the amenities that are included. Allan asked about the lack of a landscaping plan at this time. Soby replied that a landscaping plan was submitted for inclusion with the Final Plat review. He noted that landscaping will be a part of individual lot design. The landscaping plan includes the location, amount, and type of species, however, location could change depending on buyers' preferences and house design. Landscaping escrows will also be utilized to ensure that landscaping is completed. Keis was concerned with the clear cutting of the land and asked what efforts would be made to save existing trees. Soby stated that existing trees would be saved to the extent possible as they recognize the aesthetic benefit of saving as many large trees as possible. The landscaping plan meets the City's landscaping requirement. Keis was not sure that the City and developer were of the same mind set in saving trees. Montour suggested that a tree inventory be done and the City identify the trees that must be saved. The City Planner indicated that the City has done that in the past. He also noted that the City's Tree Replacement Ordinance requires replacement of up to 30 caliper inches per acre. A caliper inch is measured at the point 5 feet from the ground. The Planner noted that this will be far less than what exists in the natural condition of the land. Keis stated that he would like as many trees saved as possible. His concern is that developers generally clear cut and replace. Keis felt that