DEPARTMENT: Development Services
SUBJECT: TPV 18-017 Tree Preservation Variance for SAWS 15-4802 Martinez Creek Sewer Line Replacement Project
SUMMARY:
Request by Mr. Curt Raabe, P.E., for approval of a tree preservation variance request from Unified Development Code 35-523 (h), "significant trees shall be preserved at eighty (80) percent and heritage trees at one hundred (100) percent preservation within both the 100-year floodplains and environmentally sensitive areas." Staff recommends approval. (Herminio Griego, (210) 207-6042, herminio.griego@sanantonio.gov, Development Services Department)
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Project A/P# 2333423
Council District: 1
Consultant: Curt Raabe, P.E. of CDS Muery
Staff Coordinator: Herminio Griego, Assistant City Arborist, (210) 207-6042
ANALYSIS:
The Development Services Department (DSD) has reviewed the information presented in Curt Raabe's letter dated June 8, 2018 (revised).
The Unified Development Code (UDC) - Article V, Section 35-523 (h), 100-Year Floodplain(s) and Environmentally Sensitive Areas states that, "Significant trees shall be preserved at eighty (80) percent preservation within both the 100-year floodplains and environmentally sensitive areas. Mitigation shall be prohibited in floodplains and environmentally sensitive area except when a variance is granted by the Planning Commission."
The applicant is requesting a Variance Request to mitigate for removal of surveyed trees within the 100-year floodplain in excess of the 80% minimum preservation of protected trees in place under the 2015 Tree Preservation Ordinance for development of the SAWS 15-4802 Martinez Creek Sewer Line replacement project. DSD staff does agree with the applicant's request to mitigate for tree stand canopy below 80% preservation for the following reasons:
1. Existing site conditions - The project is a sewer replacement with lines ranging in diameter up to fifty-four (54") inches. The entire project is located within the Martinez ...
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