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#04-2997 Big Island Access April 16, 2004 Page2 At the PC's March 15 meeting, a variety of conflicting opinions were expressed by various owners of property on Big Island. While staff does not object to eventual consideration of a third access point, that access point would require substantial excavation within 7 5' of the shoreline, and would result in even greater pressures to allow tree removal in right-of-ways to create easy, direct travel routes through the island. This would require substantial public discussion, has no support from the Council currently, has no funding support, and would have the potential to create a significant change in the character ofthe island. The current proposal is to merely replace on public right-of-way the long-established access that was recently eliminated from the adjacent private property. The proposed wetland and floodplain impacts are minimal. While the abutting neighbors may not approve of the proposal, the City recognizes an obligation to re-establish this access, and is going about it in what staffbelieves is the least impact method given the limited options. Staff Recommendation Please review the memo and exhibits of March 12. Staff recommends approval of the variances and CUP to allow the wetland alteration and driveway construction project, including filling of a portion of the wetland, excavation within 26' of the wetland, and filling and hardcover within the 0-7 5' setback zone per the revised plan, subject to establishment of a Conservation and Flo wage Easement over the wetland, and subject to MCWD permit approvals prior to commencement of construction activities.