10/18/1993 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION • MEETING HELD OCTOBER 21, 1993 ROLL The Planning Commission met on the above date with the following members present: Chairman Charles Schroeder, Planning Commission Members Sandra Smith, Charles Nolan, Stephen Peterson, and Janice Berg. Commission Members Rowlette and Lindquist were absent. City staff was represented by Assistant Planning & Zoning Administrator Mike Gaffron. Chairman Schroeder called the meeting to order at 8:02 a.m. ( #1) PUBLIC HEARING - COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT Gaffron presented background information regarding this proposed amendment to add policy language to the Environmental Policies section of the Comprehensive Plan, relating to the application of National Urban Runoff Program (NURP) standards for new storm water ponds, and the application of "Best Management Practices" for land alteration projects. He noted that adoption of this language is required by the Metropolitan Council before they will approve Orono's MUSA boundary amendment for the Nettles and sewer plant properties. He noted that forty other metro area cities had adopted similar language to -date. Gaffron noted that the City Council had adopted a resolution of intent to add this language to the Comprehensive Plan and implement the policies by revising the zoning code by May 15, 1995. He further noted that adoption of NURP standards will result in the general use of "wet" detention ponds, as opposed to the fully draining ponds that were commonly incorporated into subdivisions during the 1980s. He also noted that the "Best Management Practices for Protecting Water Quality in Urban Areas ", a document provided by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, contains methods and practices that are commonly in use by the City staff and engineer currently, although they are merely guidelines rather than code requirements. Gaffron noted that the proposed revisions would incorporate one paragraph regarding Best Management Practices, and one sentence regarding NURP standards. He also noted that the May 15, 1995 deadline was the same deadline date by which Orono must have its storm water management plans in compliance with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District's 509 Plan. Schroeder questioned how adoption of the NURP and BMP standards would affect the City's current practices. Gaffron indicated that the main difference would be in the use of wet detention ponds, which have somewhat different dimensions and parameters than dry ponds, but which should have only a minor financial implication for developers. He also noted that staff and the City Engineer already have put into use many of the Best Management Practices identified. He indicated as we progress with our storm water management plan review, ordinances will be developed regarding the use of fertilizers, street sweeping, and many of the practices which are not currently required by code. •