02-16-2010 Planning Commission Packet

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(2) Includes a program for the removal of invasive species and diseased trees; protects significant tree � stands and woodlands that support scenic and/or ecological goals; and includes mitigation of any such stands that will be impacted by development activities; (3) Protects existing wetlands by implementing new buffers or augmenting existing buffers; mitigates identified wetland impacts; and enhances degraded wetland systems; (4) Results in no negative impact to ecological communities of Ecological Management Categories 1 and 2; results in no negative modification of any ecological communities as described by the Minnesota Land Cover Classification System; and establishes, maintains and improves native ecological communities including natural and semi-natural areas to provide wildlife habitat and support natural ecological functions (i.e. drainage, filtering, buffering, etc.); (5) Establishes or maintains ecological connections through site design, as shown on the Orono Natural � Resource Inventory that will enhance stormwater collection and conveyance, promote ecological and wildlife corridors, and provide recreational opportunities for residents; (6) Preserves and where appropriate augments or improves roadway corridor enclosure to promote community aesthetics associated with the city's rural character; preserves open rural views and other aesthetic elements of the landscape; and mitigates th�e negative visual impacts of development; (7) Preserves, maintains, or reinterprets existing landmarks and unique points of local character, and preserves distinct cultural features that will maintain a familiar sense of place in the community. DIVISION 3. DENSITY BONUS STANDARDS Sec. 78-1636. Density bonuses for urban density development. For residential development in Orono's defined urban area (zoning districts allowing densities in excess of one unit per two acres, and including properties identified in the Orono Community Management Plan for conversion to urban density) within the ranges of the guided density a density bonus may be allowed if the city council finds that the performance bonus requirements of this division have been met. The city council shall determine the extent of density bonus awarded for such properties. Example: Properties guided in the Community Management Plan for a density range of two--four units per acre have a base density of two units per acre; while the high end of the density range is not guaranteed, the city council at its discretion may allow development at a final density of up to four units per acre through the performance bonus process. Sec. 78-1637. Pertormance bonus requirements. Within the urban density area, developers have the opportunity to increase the base density by going above and beyond the Basic Conservation Design Master Plan requirement. By implementing a combination of development enhancements that not only preserve but improve the natural characteristics of the property or preserve and enhance existing landmarks, the developer shall become eligible for a density bonus. The extent of such density bonus shall be determined by the city council. Development enhancements include but are not necessarily limited to the following: (1) Reforestation beyond existing woodland limits; (2) Water quality improvements; (3) Improvements in ecological grade of existing communities; (4) Upgrading of edge buffering to maximum, or tunneled, character; and (5) Major preservation or enhancement of existing landmarks. 4