03-28-1994 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON FEBRUARY 22, 1994 (#4) #1901 1903 TANDEM PROPERTIES 2645/3025 WATERTOWN ROAD PRELIMINARY SUBDI\TSION - CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING Mabusih reviewed the staff report and noted the outstanding issues. She reviewed the topography and illustrated the drainage flow patterns and ponding areas and culvert locations. Smith inquired if the horse/jogging trail was included in the "trail" and not just the limestone surface which was located higher up. She described the conditions on the horse/jogging trail and the difficulties she has encountered in the past when using this trail. Mark Gronberg. Gronberg & Gronberg Associates, stated they have endeavored to reduce the drainage to allow this area to drain more quickly and thus be drier than it has been in the past. He commented that the drainage ponds located on the Dickey property could be enlarged to accommodate more water if needed. Chairman Schroeder inquired if the revised plans would make the drainage situation better than it is now, and Mr. Gronberg responded affirmatively. He affirmed that they have been dealing with both trails, not just the higher one. Gustafson stated he was not «v.are of the problems with the horse trail in this area He felt the developers had provided a great deal of storm water retention, but it may not be adequate to alleviate the problems on the lower trail. Peterson commented he felt the DNR had not maintained the lower trail the way it should be. Mabusth discussed the wetland mitigation is.sue, which is under the jurisdiction of the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. She referenced a letter from Director Ellen Sones regarding this, which stated she was satisfied with the plan and per the Wetland Act, they will be able to replace these wetlands with something better. Gronberg reviewed the proposed drainage plans and illustrated the locations of the holding ponds and flowage patterns upon release. He stated the holding ponds will slow the drainage rate significantly, and decrease the flow by approximately one-third. He stated that because the water will be released at a slower rate it will allow the water downstream to dissipate before additional water comes down. Rowlette inquired if there could be problems regarding the dry buildable area of the lots if the holding ponds become larger due to heavy rainfall and Mr. Gronberg responded they have allowed adequate area to prevent any problems like this from arising. Gustafson commented that (I vas a balancing act, because it was impossible to control the amount of precipitation, but he icit this was a workable plan. Discussion ensued regarding drainage problems downstream, and the Planning Commission expressed concern that this development would not exacerbate already existing drainage problems.