01-19-1993 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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I-'' TO: FROM: DATE: Jeanne A. Mabusth, Planning and Zoning Administrator Stephen Weckman, On-Site Systems Manager January 12, 1993 SUBJECT: #1793 Tim Johnson, 627 Ferndale Rd. N. - Site Review The applicant would like to dredge an existing wetland which lies within a conservation and flowage easement area to create a water retention area for the purpose of alleviating flooding and water problems in the basement. The existing wetland lies entirely within a flowage and conservation easement, however the proposed pond requires excavation extends both inside and outside of the easement area. The plan calls for excavation of a drainage way from che applicant's front yard to the retention pond in the rear and excavation of no more than three feet below the existing wetland area. Excavation within the flowage and con.servation easement area began in October 1992 without municipal approvals at which time the City issued a stop work order. A large portion of the wetland area was stripped of vegetation and in some areas excavation had begun. A permit was later granted for the excavation of a drainage swale from the front yard to the back yard 26' from the existing wetland area. A site evaluation has been completed to determine how the proposed changes would effect the lot. In 1987 a lot line rearrangement required that the alternate drainfield site be relocated to the south of the existing residence and west of the existing septic system The applicant's plans, however, show the expansion of the holding pond outside of the easement area which will encroach into the required setback for the alternate drainfield site. Therefore, the applicant should revise the site plan so that the pond area remains at least 75' from both primary and alternate drainfield sites. Another site issue is the elevation difference between the residences and the pond elevation. Elevation information would be beneficial to determine whether the pond will indeed drain water from the basements of the applicant and his neighbor. The soils in this area have a seasonally high ground water table wnich will not likely be altered by the excavation of a pond, but more information would show whether a drain tile could be effective. There may also be a question as to whether the excavation of a wetland within a flowage and conservation easement may be permitted to solve water problems for an existing residence. In conclusion, additional information should be submitted identifying a smaller pond area so as not to encroach the alternate septic site and elevations to demonstrate that the proposed action will serve the purpose for which it is intended, the elimination of water problems in the basements. The Planning Commission should also consider whether the excavation of wetlands may be allowed to alter existing drainageways to solve individual problems.