O-2010-3243 amending landscaping, tree preservation and tree replacement standards; and establishing a tree fund

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REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM Agenda Date Requested: April 26, 2010 Requested By: Tim Tietiens Department: Planning Report: Resolution: Ordinance: X Exhibits: Ordinance (showing changes) Ordinance Appropriation Source of Funds: NA Account Number: NA Amount Budgeted: NA SUMMARY Recent developments have generated preliminary discussion on possible revision of landscaping standards to Chapter 106 (Zoning) of the Code of Ordinances. The purpose is to enhance the overall impression of the City, to have quality developments along major thoroughfares, and attract new sustainable businesses to La Porte. Staff analyzed the situation thoroughly and presented this item to the Planning and Zoning Commission for discussion and further guidance in order for possible changes to the Code of Ordinances relating to landscaping, tree preservation, tree replacement and establishing tree fund in La Porte. Current ordinances require minimum landscaping to be 6%. Instead, a landscape area four feet in width is recommended along the front property line and along the side property lines to the building setback line or building, whichever distance is greater. Corner lots shall be treated as having two front property lines. Proposed landscaping shall be a combination of trees and shrubs. The existing provision for tree preservation requires that any native tree within 15 feet of the street right-of-way line or easement line abutting front yard or within ten feet of street right-of- way line or easement line abutting required side yard with a trunk exceeding six inches in diameter should not be removed or destroyed. To encourage preservation of existing large trees, an overall developed site area is recommended for consideration under this section. A tree disposition plan or tree survey would be required for tree replacement in the case of removal or damage to a native tree or qualifying protected tree. In addition, a tree fund is introduced as an optional means of mitigating tree loss or conflict regarding site development. Monies from the tree fund would be allocated to purchase trees required for replacement. It is staff's opinion that the above measures will protect urban environment of the City from unreasonable harm during development and predevelopment activities. In addition, proposed amendments to the ordinance will enhance beauty, creation of open space, preserving trees, and to create sense of place for subdivisions, corridors, and community entryways.