20240828 Environmental Board Minutes

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Environmental Board August 28, 2024 Page 3 DRAFT MINUTES Mr. Grochala presented the staff report. Natures Refuge North is a proposed residential subdivision on approximately 59 acres located north of the Natures Refuge development on Main Street. M/I Homes refocused design efforts on minimizing impacts. The revised concept plan prioritizes open space preservation, minimizes the development footprint and results in a substantial reduction in tree removal. Mr. Grochala wanted to point out that Street C will be evaluated through a traffic study. The Board discussed the proposed development. Chair Sullivan expressed concern for the number of trees that would be removed for the road going south to north, from the current development into the new one. Mr. Schwartz asked if it is possible to preserve the right of way as an unofficial outlet into the street. Mr. Grochala stated that the board could make that recommendation noting that the city would possibly put up a sign for a future road. Mr. Parsons asked for clarification on who would pay for the 3 trees planted per lot. Mr. Grochala clarified that is a responsibility of the developer. Ms. Holmes recommended that a tree management plan should be included since there are many trees being preserved. Mr. Grochala said that would be something they can continue to discuss with the developer. Mr. Schwartz recommended to require the open space areas should remain in the ownership of the HOA with a Conservation Easement granted to the city rather than as a deed. The Board agreed to add that as a recommendation number 12. The Board also agreed to add a recommendation number 13, which states that the street right of way (Street C Road) be dedicated to preserve the corridor for future use, if necessary, but don’t construct the street with the development. The Board also made an addition to recommendation number 11, which states that the street location entering the site should be shifted to minimize tree impact if possible.