01-23-2006 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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A set of BMPs has been developed that provides credit for many items that the City is already doing to control stormwater pollution and also includes several BMPs to meet new requirements. The City's long-standing development philosophy of low density 2 and 5-acre zoning development and wetland protection to protect Lake Minnetonka,and the other lakes in the City,is the best method of reducing stormwater pollution. Emphasis on the City's low density development philosophy is discussed in the overview section of the permit and is also listed in several BMP's. City ordinances and policies that limit impervious surfaces in the shoreland areas, protect lakeshore trees and vegetation, wetland setbacks, and require stormwater treatment for all new developments are all valuable BMPs to control stormwater runoff. Orono's Surface Water Management Plan that provides detailed information on the City's stormwater drainage system and stormwater control is another important BMP. The entire City development review process is a good educational tool and provides many opportunities to educate residents on the philosophy behind our restrictive approach in regulating density and limiting impervious surfaces. The City can also count our comprehensive septic inspection and monitoring program, sanitary sewer maintenance and rehabilitation projects, the new SCADA system, and the spring cleanup and recycling programs for reduction of illicit discharges to the storm water system. Overall, the City is in good shape and can take much credit in meeting the intent of the NPDES Phase II permit to control stormwater runoff. Orono is also involved in a cooperative effort with other cities, Metro Watershed Partners, and the Miruiehaha Creek Watershed District in developing cooperative educational programs to increase public awareness of storm water management issues. Status of compliance with Permit conditions The City is in substantial compliance with the permit conditions and has continued to maintain the programs and policies described in the Best Management Practices. The appropriateness of the BMPs listed in the SWPPP The development of the BMP's in the SWPPP were based on a self assessment process and consideration of the unique factors in the City of Orono and address storm water pollution control to the Maximum Extent Practical. There have not been any substantial changes in the factors that were considered in the development of the original BMP's that would cause these BMP's to not be applicable anymore. Progress toward achieving the Measurable Goals The City is making progress toward achieving the measurable goals. T he City's zoning ordinances contain limitations on the size of houses and impervious surfaces in the Shoreland areas. In 2005, approximately 30 replacement homes were constructed with most of these on the Page 3 of 4