Adopt Resolution #14-06-110 Allowing Stoney River to Improve a Portion of their Lot at 14401 Nowthen Blvd NW with Seed rather than Sod; Case of First Pheonix Ramsey, LLC

As part of the Site Plan review of the Stoney River facility, which is presently under construction at 14401 Nowthen Blvd NW (the "Subject Property"), the City received, reviewed and approved a Landscape Plan.  In accordance with City Code, the Landscape Plan indicated that sod would be installed in all areas not otherwise improved with impervious surfaces (building, parking lot, walkways etc.).  The City has received a request to allow the use of seed rather than sod on certain portions of their site.

Notification is not required.

Section 117-348 (Newly erected buildings; lot grade elevations) of City Code requires all exposed ground areas not otherwise improved with impervious surfaces to be finished with sod; however, there is a provision that allows the City Council to approve an alternative.  The applicant has submitted a revised Landscape Plan generally depicting the areas they prefer to utilize seed rather than sod to establish ground cover.  Sod would still be utilized in those areas adjacent to Nowthen Blvd and around the perimeter of their parking area and building.  Seed is proposed adjacent to a larger, undisturbed area and along their northern property border adjacent to the Lord of Life site. 

All disturbed areas of the site are subject to the topsoil requirement and will have an in-ground irrigation system as well.  These factors should aid in the germination and establishment of seed across the site.  Staff has informed the applicant that the Required Improvements surety would not be fully released until such time that the seeded areas are fully established and mowable to ensure permanent erosion control measures are in place.  Considering this, Staff is supportive of the request.

The site plan included in this case will be attached as an exhibit to the resolution if adopted.

All costs associated with this request are the responsibility of the applicant.

Staff recommends adopting Resolution #14-06-110 allowing the use of seed rather than sod as generally depicted on the attached exhibit.

Motion to adopt Resolution #14-06-110 approving the use of seed rather than sod at 14401 Nowthen Blvd NW as generally shown on the attached exhibit.