Ms. Goodwin explained that the subject tree removal permit is before the Planning |
|
Commission for further modification. When the tree removal permit was approved, it |
|
became part of the site plan approval. There is another substantive phase which is the |
|
construction phase, where all the details of utilities, grading, and permitting done by |
|
other outside agencies are addressed. It was during the construction phase that |
|
conflicts became evident that were not anticipated at the site plan level in terms of |
|
trees that have been noted to be saved. After getting into the construction details it |
|
turned out that trees that were originally thought could be saved were impacted by |
|
either the slopes required for the placement of storm sewers or other factors. In this |
|
instance the Tree Removal Permit was brought back to the Planning Commission after |
|
the site plan had been originally approved in April 1997. At that time the city's |
|
landscape consultant noted that the tree preservation percentage was very close to the |
|
required minimum. The Planning Commission subsequently re-affirmed its approval of |
|
the tree permit with the condition that the developer was not to remove trees until |
|
individual lot plans were reviewed and approved by Forestry in case the tree |
|
preservation percentage dropped below the minimum 37 percent. |
|
Once construction plans have been approved, the next step is an environmental |
|
pre-con meeting at which the approved tree preservation plan and the approved |
|
construction plans are reviewed with the contractors to assure that snow fencing will |
|
be installed properly and that everyone is clear on the areas noted for preservation |
|
and those for clearing. In the case of Avon Woods those steps have occurred. |
|
Continuing the sequence, once the snow fencing is installed, construction plans are |
|
issued, the land improvement permit is issued, and the developer can then begin work |
|
on the site. Following the completion of the infrastructure and the laying of pavement |
|
for Avon Woods Subdivision, an inspection was conducted to assure that the tree |
|
preservation plan has been followed. It was the result of the inspection report |
|
contained in the packet that staff became aware of this situation. |
|