12-15-1997 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION MINUTES FOR DECEMBER 15,1997 (#3 Tree Preservation, Continued) Stoddard said some developers leave significant trees while clearing out the brush. He would like to see developers encouraged to do similar projects to Sugar Woods by developing guidelines to follow. This would put the work load on the developer and builder rather than the City Clear cutting guidelines could be offset with mitigation Lindquist asked if the goal should apply to preservation of existing wooded areas. McMillan felt the goal was more for preservation of the rural character of the City. Hawn said community issues would be dealt with upfront by use of buffenng zones without telling the property owners what they can do with the core areas of the property. This would place more emphasis on property that comes in contact with other properties and residents Lindquist said this could be used with creative methods to keep the area similar to existing wooded areas today noting the land will be developed McMillan felt that an ordinance restricting what may be the ideal building site would be too restrictive. Linc ’quist agreed that this could not occur but tradeoffs could be offered The end result may L< more trees SmuL refer<mced the Coffman Subdivision which resulted in buffering be removed. McMillan said this occur '«j after the development of the property. Schroeder asked if there were buffering guidelines now for subdivisions Gaffron said the subdivision would be required to replant one tree for every 40' of right-of-way. In a PRO, more tree replacement can be requested but may not result in the creation of a buffer Lindquist indicated there is general agreement with the goal with some differences as noted. Hawn would like to see the ordinance where cutting of buffer areas is not allowed. Park Chair Wilson said the tree preservation issue came from past Mayor Callahan, whose goal was to protect the rural areas of Orono without restricting the people One way to accomplish this is thr ugh preservation of trees. Wilson said she would like to make general policies for buffenng and reforestation, targeting developers, by using a brochure with guidelines. She would like the policy to protect trees without making it difficult for the property owner Schroeder asked if this factors into whether land or fee is taken for park dedication. Wilson said it did as far as buffering and trails are concerned Land is taken when it will enhance the area. Wilson said she likes the idea of reforestation She does not want to make it impossible for people to do what they want with their land Wilson feels that most people will do what is right as they moved to the area due to the rural character of it She noted the slope and ravine issues in Saga Hill. McMillan suggested the policy come from a positive outlook. She would like to see natural buffering with trees every 20' She noted once the trees are established, they gene'ally will not be