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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,March 18,2013 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> Martini indicated there is not necessarily land left over that could be sold,which is the idea behind the <br /> banking. <br /> Lemke asked if there is a database listing the available banking credits. <br /> Martini stated the Watershed District has that information. <br /> Gaffron stated the Watershed District has also informed the City that manmade wetlands do not have the <br /> same impact and function as natural wetlands. When the Spring Hill Golf Club initially constructed the <br /> golf course,they created wetlands on the property but they have not taken off the way the Watershed <br /> District would like them to. Staff was convinced by their conversations with the Watershed District that <br /> this is probably a better solution than attempting to find something on site. <br /> Martini stated in this scenario the City is still getting that manmade natural area and it will be taken over <br /> some day by the wetlands but it will be a lower functioning wetland. The benefit with this arrangement is <br /> it will result in a higher functioning wetland. The problem for Staff with invasive species is it is difficult <br /> to monitor it and get the vegetation to the point where it is acceptable. <br /> Leskinen commented the City is getting some benefit in the treatment of the water by filling in a wetland <br /> that is filled with invasive species,which would terminate the spreading of that. <br /> Martini noted originally almost three-quarters of an acre was proposed to be impacted,but after finalizing <br /> the plans, it has been reduced to less than half an acre. <br /> Lemke asked if the borrowed area then becomes part of the official wetland. <br /> Martini indicated it would become part of the wetland area if a study determines that it is. <br /> Chair Schoenzeit opened the public hearing at 6:49 p.m. <br /> There were no public comments regarding this application. <br /> Chair Schoenzeit closed the public hearing at 6:49 p.m. <br /> Landgraver commented it is unfortunate that Orono loses this area but that as part of this project they are <br /> increasing the stormwater retention, lowering the impact area, and getting more native buffer,which are <br /> positives. <br /> Schoenzeit stated he did not understand the area would be built as a wetland but not counted as a wetland. <br /> Martini stated Staff shared the same concerns and it was only after meeting with the Watershed District <br /> that Staff became acceptable with what is being proposed. <br /> Schoenzeit stated a longer-term study to conduct is to find out how many projects in Orono are actually <br /> purchasing offsite credits. <br /> Gaffron indicated to his recollection this is the first such project in Orono that requires the purchase of <br /> credits. <br /> Page 4 of 24 <br />