5.2. SR 11-24-1997~.,y of
iver
Item# 5.2.
MEMORANDUM
TO:
FROM:
DATE:
Mayor and City Council
Scott Harlicker, Planning Assistant~
November 24, 1997
SUBJECT:
Consider Initiating Ordinance
Amendments Regarding Boulevard
Trees and Changeable Signs
Issue
At the Planning Commission workshop held on November 10, the Planning
Commission discussed landscaping requirements in subdivisions and the
frequency that changeable copy signs flash their message.
The existing landscaping requirements for subdivisions require yard trees
planted at 60 foot intervals outside the right-of-way. This causes problems in
that since urban lots are at least 80 feet wide, some lots end up with more
than one tree while others do not get any. The second concern is that by
planting the trees outside of the right-of-way, the trees are to far back from
the road to have the desired aesthetic impact.
The existing ordinance regarding changeable copy signs does not have a time
limit the regulates the frequency at which the message can change. This can
result in signs that change copy so often that it can be a distraction to
drivers.
Recommendation
The Planning Commission is requesting the City Council to consider
initiating ordinance amendments that will establish guidelines for planting
boulevard trees in new plats and establish a time frame for changeable copy
signs.
13065 Orono Parkway · P.O. Box 490 · Elk River, MN 55330 · TDD & Phone: (612) 441-7420 · Fax: (612) 441-7425