Memorandum 15-179 Standards for Impervious Coverage in Bridge Creek Watershed Protection District

Memorandum 15-179
 

TO:                  MAYOR WYTHE AND HOMER CITY COUNCIL
THROUGH         KATIE KOESTER, CITY MANAGER
FROM:             RICK ABBOUD, CITY PLANNER

DATE:                  October 22, 2015

SUBJECT:     RECOMMENDATION FROM HOMER ADVISORY PLANNING COMMISSION REGARDING THE PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO HCC 21.40.070, REQUIREMENTS, REGARDING STANDARDS FOR IMPERVIOUS COVERAGE IN THE BRIDGE CREEK WATERSHED PROTECTION DISTRICT.

The Planning Commission recommended an amendment to the previously proposed ordinance.

The amendment addresses the concerns found at the City Council. Technically, two different concepts are addressed. Reminder: These concepts only apply to lots that are less than 2.5 acres. No new lots may be subdivided under 4.5 acres in size.

What constitutes impervious on site?  All structures, walkways, and driveways are impervious for calculating the mitigation measures.
What exception may be granted for the calculation of impervious cover? 50% of the area used as walkways and driveways may be excluded for determination of the total amount of impervious allowed.

In a nutshell, if one wishes to exceed impervious cover greater than 4.2% on their, they will be expected to create a mitigation plan that considers the entire proposed development. They may develop 6.4% of the lot in addition to a maximum of an additional 50% of the proposed walkway and driveway area. This is all permitted within the Planning Office. If an exception greater than 50% of the walkway and driveway is proposed, they will need approval of the Planning Commission.

I believe this is a good compromise that really does not deviate much from the current allowance for impervious coverage, but makes it much friendlier to those wanting to develop. It provides a reasonable amount of exception for the development of small lots.