03/26/2003 Environmental Board Minutes

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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETINGMARCH 26, 2003 4 APPROVED MINUTES Chair Kukonen commented on clustering houses that Quigley’s development approached 50% open space. Ravens Hollow reflected a better plan than could be attained with the R-EC. Donlin expressed concern that the oaks remaining would be standing in water. Mr. Goertz stated that there was an outlet if the area had too much water. Asleson stated that he had been receiving calls concerning West Nile Virus, which he referred to the Metropolitan Mosquito Control. Donlin noted that poisoning was not the answer, but a healthy wetland with the natural predators to keep them in check. Asleson indicated that most of the wetlands would not be breeding areas because they only bred in stagnant water. He noted there had been the introduction of exotics and recorded changes in bat and frog populations. Donlin added there were 50 species of mosquitoes in Minnesota, with only 28 species that bite people. The chances of contracting the disease were extremely low. O’Dea suggested that Donlin write an article for the City newsletter relating to mosquitoes and the West Nile Virus. Chair Kukonen reviewed the recommendations, and the Board composed the following statement: “Even though this falls short of the goals of Conservation Development, we are endorsing it, because of the developer’s commitment and willingness to preserve open space, without the high density normally required in these projects in this zoning district. The following recommendations were also included: • Address staff recommendations. • Add restrictions in the homeowners’ association by-laws to emphasize preventing the removal of existing vegetation and significant trees. • Soften the tree lines thereby keeping the wood lots as natural as possible. • Work with City Forester to preserve the stands of significant trees.” Mr. Goertz addressed the southeast area of the site, where the zoning was 3-6 units per acre. The areas were too small, and one was under water. He asked adjacent neighbors and they did not want townhomes. He indicated that he might have to come up with a new plan because it went against the Comprehensive Plan. He believed that the plan fit the area better, and spoke with staff about amending the Comprehensive Plan. Grundhofer inquired about the water flowing to the southeast toward the road. Asleson answered that the vast majority was flowing to the southeast, but a small amount was going into the ditch. He noted that nine years ago there were wet areas. They were disturbed but could be restored in the future.