06-20-2005 Planning Commission Packet

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#05-3097 • April 18,2005 Page 5 of 6 , shoreland restrictions apply. During.the sketch plan review process the applicant was directed to submifi a hardcover analysis for preliminary plat. The purpose of this hardcover analysis was to determine how much hardcover these lots could expect, as the 929.4' elevaiion winds tluoughout the plat. This information was submitted and is attached as Exhibits F-J for lots 1-5 and hardcover calculations for lot 6 (existing home). It appears that these lots will have adequate hardcover to accommodate potentially large homes. Wetlands on Site and/or Impacted The only apparent non-lakesllore wetlands on the site are those in the northeast corner of proposed lot 6 and the northwest corner of proposed lot 1 (labeled on the survey as a pond). As mentioned earlier in this report, the City will require a Flowage and Conservation Easement over all wetlands designated on the site including the lalceshore wetlands falling above or below the 929.4' contour. The applicant is advised to avoid any iinpacts to wetlands which can be avoided by proper site layout. The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District (MCWD) is the City's LGU for administration of the Wetland Conservation Act rules. Also, the City is currently working on a new wetland ordinance which may, or may not, impact the current design of this property. The applicant should be aware that adoption of a new wetland code may impose tlie creation of buffers and setbacks to the buffer that could further restrict developnlent of this property. It is expected that the City will finalize the new wetland ordinance within tlie next few months. Upon adoption of the new wetland ordinance, some of the guidelines with respect to the wetland information contained on the preliminary plat drawing and within this report may be subject to change. Tree and/or Woodland Impacts The site is somewhat wooded with a variety of tree species. Orono does not have a tree preservation ordinance other than within the 0-75' lakeshore setback zone, where clear- cutting and removal of trees 6" or greater in diameter is prohibited. The developer is encot�raged to preserve as many trees as possible to retain the wooded character of the property. Archaeological Site Proximity or Study Needed Given the unique nahire of the site with its rolling topography, potential bluffs, and its proximity to Lake Miruletonlca, the developer is advised to contact the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to determine whether an archaeological study is warranted. Bluff Impacts There appears to be one bluff on the property, located on proposed lot 6. Bluff areas have a 20' bluff impact zone protection standard and a 30' structural setback from the top of the bluff. The existing house on lot 6 appears to meet the 30' structural setback from tl�e top of bluff, however the top of bli.iff must be calculated and noted on the survey in order to verify this.