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MINUTES OF THE <br />ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION <br />Tuesday, February 18, 2020 <br />6:00 p.m. <br />Libby stated that was how he first pictured it but there are tree companies out there that have equipment <br />that is capable of replacing very large trees. <br />Bollis stated that it would be difficult to get that equipment in within 75 feet of the lake. <br />Libby stated that when the equipment is capable of accessing the area, they can replace the large trees. <br />Ressler likes the idea of putting a minimum diameter size and asked what size he would propose as the <br />minimum. <br />Thiesse suggested 3 inches. <br />Barnhart stated that he would suggest 1 inch in diameter because some trees, like oak trees, transplant <br />better when they are smaller. <br />Libby asked if a 1 -inch tree was larger or smaller than a sapling. <br />Barnhart stated that it was larger than a sapling. <br />Bollis asked if anyone was in favor of a less than 1:1 ratio. He expressed concern about over foresting the <br />area. <br />Barnhart stated that there is language in the ordinance regarding Staff approval. <br />Ressler stated that if Staff has the ability to intervene then perhaps the Commission doesn't need to be put <br />in minimum diameter standards. <br />Curtis stated that the ordinance needs to have a starting point which is doesn't currently have. <br />Bollis reiterated his question on whether anyone was in favor of a less than 1:1 replacement. He stated <br />that he could argue in favor of a 50% caliper inch replacement in order to ensure the trees planted will <br />thrive. He gave the example of cutting down a 30 -inch tree and the replacement would be the equivalent <br />of 15 inches. <br />Barnhart stated that what he has seen in the past is a tiered system which if it is over a certain amount, the <br />requirement would be decreased. He stated that he thinks that type of system could be worked into the <br />ordinance. <br />Libby asked if Staff could consult with an arborist to make sure they are pursing the correct replacement <br />level. <br />Barnhart stated that he would prefer a tiered system as discussed. He stated that this is only talking about <br />healthy trees that are removed based on convenience. <br />Libby noted that Staff cannot be an expert in every area and feels that an arborist may be needed. <br />Barnhart stated that they could contact an arborist, but explained that it is likely that they would not. He <br />stated that it becomes more of a space issue and he doesn't necessarily want to spend taxpayer money on <br />Page 26 of 30 <br />