HomeMy WebLinkAboutWPO201200029 Review Comments Mitigation Plan 2012-04-23Philip Custer
From:
Philip Custer
Sent:
Monday, April 23, 2012 5:01 PM
To:
'Brian Smith'; 'rwrinc @earthlink.net'
Cc:
Glenn Brooks
Subject:
Milliman Mitigation Plan
Good afternoon,
I have reviewed the latest submittal of the Milliman Mitigation Plan. It seems confusion still remains regarding the
expectations for this application.
My initial letter stated the disturbance to the stream buffer could not be authorized by county staff. The county's
position was later modified in light of correspondence during previous subdivision applications highlighted in a meeting
with the applicant and his consultants. In summary, the program authority would allow the buffer disturbance on the
condition that analysis was done by the applicant to show that the FEMA floodplain map was likely in error. This was
done and is successfully exhibited in the latest submittal; the stream buffer disturbance to construct this driveway is
authorized on the condition that a mitigation plan is approved.
However, such an analysis does not modify the floodplain map, which is a federally controlled document, nor does it
modify the actual buffer line since the WPO buffer is tied directly to the edge of the FEMA floodplain. Therefore, the
disturbed area of the stream buffer is equal to the amount shown in the original submittal: 6,600sf (assuming only a 10ft
wide disturbance). Accordingly, the area that must be planted is at least 13,200sf.
The planting plan provided by the applicant in mitigation area 1 is not acceptable. This was stated in the county's first
review letter as well as in the meeting. Ornamental driveway plantings are not acceptable; the plantings will be required
in the floodplain /buffer at the northeastern corner of the property. Plantings must be provided in such a way that
mimic natural buffer features along protected waterways and wetlands. Alternatively, the county will accept the
applicant fencing off an area in the buffer in the northeast corner of the site that is equal to 4 times the buffer
disturbance, or 26,400 sf. The fencing of the wetland area adjacent to the driveway is not acceptable because it's not
associated with Lickinghole Creek, which was our incorrect impression in the meeting.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks,
Phil
296 -5832 x3072