7B, Approve Ordinance 2008-007 in PC 08-014 Tree Preservation

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Ms. Beekman requested consideration of a proposal to add Section 1325.055, Tree Preservation, to the Zoning Code. She then provided background information and said Staff is recommending approval of the addition of Section 1325.055, Tree Preservation, in the Zoning Code. Draft Meeting Minutes - April 2, 2008, Planning Commission Meeting PLANNING CASE # 08-014 - ZONING CODE AMENDMENT; CITY OF ARDEN HILLS; TREE PRESERVATION ORDINANCE- PUBLIC HEARING Chair Larson opened the floor to Commission questions. Commissioner Zimmerman inquired about the reference to unapproved tree loss resulting in a 2: 1 loss and the reference to approved tree loss. Ms. Beekman stated that the language could be added to clarify that the code is referring to approved tree loss. She stated that the clarifications could also be made through the discussions with the applicants. Commissioner Thompson inquired about the source for the definition of the critical root zone. Ms. Beekman stated it is a standard measure of 1.5 feet for every inch of tree. She stated it is from the American Standards of Nursery Stock. Commissioner Thompson stated that it might be beneficial to refer to the source since it is based on existing best management practices. Commissioner Holewa stated that he thinks it is a common standard. Commissioner Stodola noted that on page 6, part B, section 5 had a typo. She stated the sentence should read "Attaching protective devices, signs, etc., to trees is prohibited..." Chair Larson opened the public hearing at 9:03 p.m. Chair Larson invited anyone for or against the application to come forward and make comment. Chair Larson closed the public hearing at 9:04 p.m. Commissioner Holewa moved, seconded by Commissioner Zimmerman, to recommend approval of Planning Case #08-014 to add Section 1325.055 to the Zoning Code, as proposed in April 2, 2008, planning case report. Commissioner Holewa stated that he would like the ordinance to encourage residents to plant trees including planting trees on the public property. He stated that he has been thinking about the City's encouraging the residents to preserve and maintain trees, but not assisting in the preservation or maintenance.