Review of Harvest Estates 2nd Addition (Project No. 18-161); Case of Meadowcreek Builders

The purpose of this case is to review various elements related to a proposed Preliminary Plat for Harvest Estates 2nd Addition.  This is the second phase of development of the former Municipal Center site, located off Nowthen Blvd just south of Alpine Drive.  The development proposal is for fifteen (15) new single family homes, accessed with an extension of 152nd Lane NW connecting to Krypton Terrace NW.  The property is zoned R-1 Residential (MUSA) and the surrounding land to the east, west and south is also zoned R-1 Residential (MUSA), while the land to the northwest and north is zoned PUD (single family development with slightly narrower lots than what City Code had allowed at that time).

As previously noted, this is the site of the former municipal center.  According to the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI), there are no wetlands present on this site.  Also, per the MLCCS, the area is generally classified as urban with little vegetative cover and urban with vegetative cover.  There are no significant natural areas present.
 
This is the second phase of Harvest Estates, the first addition received approvals in 2015.  Included with the original review was a Tree Inventory and Preservation Plan and Landscape Plan, which was approved.  While the tree removals exceeded the allowable threshold, there was a reforestation plan that did meet the requirements.  It appears that the proposed removals and landscaping do conform to the approved plans in 2015. 

All proposed deciduous plantings will be 2.5 inches in caliper, which is larger than what City Code requires, but necessary to remain compliant with the reforestation plan.  The proposed species are acceptable.  The Planting Schedule includes a mix of both deciduous and coniferous trees, compliant with the landscaping requirements.

As with the 1st Addition, there are additional plantings proposed in the rear of many of the lots, again necessary to meet the reforestation requirements.  Staff is recommending that all plantings other than the two (2) required front yard trees be installed by the Developer as a Stage I Improvement, since they are intended to satisfy the required reforestation.

Staff recommends approval of the Landscape Plan contingent upon compliance with the Staff Review Letter.

 

All costs associated with this project are the Applicant's responsibility.

Motion to recommend approval of the Landscape Plan contingent upon compliance with the Staff Review Letter.