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Planning & Zoning Board <br />May 10, 2006 <br />Page 6 <br />Brian Boroussa, MFRA Engineering, and Jason Husveth, ecologist, Critical Connections, <br />were present on behalf of the developer. <br />Mr. Husveth responded to public comments. He clarified that the required wetland <br />replacement for this development is 2:1. He added that an additional 39 acres of <br />proposed wetland restoration is above and beyond the required amount. <br />Mr. Husveth explained that the Department of Natural Resources has declared the rare <br />orchids found on this site to be an endangered species, therefore preventing the ability of <br />removal. This restricted the location of a road through this area. <br />Mr. Husveth stated that the tree tags were for inventory purposes, tracking the locations, <br />species and diameters of trees last spring. He added that this information was considered <br />during the planning process in helping to guide the location of roads and trails through <br />this development. <br />Mr. Husveth noted that the amount of upland area being preserved is fairly low, and that <br />75 percent is wetland. He added that this leaves a very small development window for <br />the placement of houses and roads. He said that about five to ten percent of upland is <br />going to conservation areas. <br />Mr. Husveth explained that water entering the wetland area will be consistent with <br />construction runoff. Mr. Husveth was the ecologist in the Foxborough development, and <br />added that the blockage of flow in that development may be due to beaver dams. He <br />added that an 80 -page stewardship plan for this site is available to anyone interested. <br />Board members suggested that city staff look into the possibility of improving the entire <br />pond on the north end of the site. Mr. Smyser stated that city staff can discuss the <br />possibilities with Mr. Husveth on the potential to improve the whole pond at once. Mr. <br />Husveth added that individual land owners would need to be included in this effort. <br />Mr. Husveth gave a summary of the plans for wetland restoration. He stated that this <br />development will include enhancing the quality of wetlands through aggressive <br />vegetation management, enhancing aesthetics, wildlife value and ecological integrity. <br />Board members were concerned about additional impervious surface, increased runoff <br />and drainage issues. Mr. Husveth responded that they have assessed the amount of runoff <br />and taken additional steps to infiltrate water, slowing the amount of runoff. <br />Mr. Smyser noted that Mr. Husveth has been very helpful working with staff, and that his <br />ecological expertise is appreciated. <br />Mr. Smyser addressed concerns about parkland. He noted that city parks are currently <br />overburdened. He stated that an area has been considered for additional parking. He <br />stated that the road width would allow for pedestrians. <br />Mr. Rafferty requested that staff look into the possibility of decreasing speed limits in <br />residential neighborhoods with new developments. <br />DRAFT MINUTES <br />