Chairman Marley called the Brier Planning Commission meeting to order at 7:01 PM.

ROLL CALL:

PRESENT:                                  Commissioner Marley, Weston, DeMorett, Carroll and Scott; Councilmember Kaemingk.

ABSENT:                                    Commissioner Rosman and Wirch.

STAFF:                                       City Planner Gaudette.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES:

Chairman Marley opened for consideration approval of the May 21, 2014 Planning Commission minutes. Commissioner DeMorett made a MOTION to approve the May 21, 2014 Planning Commission minutes with the correction of adding more detail of what resident Curtis Taylor spoke about. Commissioner Scott SECONDED. Motion Carried. Commissioner Carroll abstained.

Commissioner Weston left the meeting at 7:03 PM.

COMMITTEE REPORTS:

Councilmember Kaemingk discussed recent City Council activity.

PUBLIC REQUESTS & ORAL COMMUNICATIONS: None.

NEW BUSINESS:

Chairman Marley opened for review the new draft for tree regulations. City Planner Gaudette reviewed for the Commissioners the changes that need to be updated. There needs to be a clear line as to what amount of tree removal on a property, not associated with development, triggers the need for a permit. The bond section of the code does not work as written, it needs to be revised. We need more flexibility for how tree fees are spent. Commissioners recommend modifying the significant tree definition to eliminate alders and cotton woods.

Commissioner Marley would like to see a time limit added for how long a tree needs to remain on site of a development once a house is built, 15-20 years. Should there be a minimum amount of trees per lot? When measuring trees that were removed illegally, trees should be measured from natural grade.

Commissioner Carroll suggested if a tree is removed due to overgrowth, that a replacement needs to be planted. Look into seeing if a nursery in the area would be interested in a voucher program with the city and the residents, maybe offering a discount. The penalty for taking down a tree without City approval seems to be too harsh. When noting size of tree, designate caliper or DBH.

Commissioner DeMorett would like to see a fund added to assist home owners in replacing trees. She would like to see the code say either Arborist or Qualified Professional, not both titles in the code.

Commissioner Scott would like to eliminate irrigation options and state a requirement. If trees do not survive they will need to be replaced.

ADJOURNMENT:

Commission Scott made a MOTION to adjourn. Commissioner Carroll SECONDED. Motion carried. Meeting adjourned at 7:50 PM.