3E - Variance to Exceed 25 Percent Impervious Coverage Limit and Variance from Buffer Zone Vegetation Requirements

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in a commercial district,the amount allowed is 25%,with an increase to 50%if certain things are completed,including the completion of a storm water pond,which is not required for the DMU district because of the storm sewer comment. The sewer(required in the DMU Zoning,District)and the ponding (required in the Commercial District)provide the same end result. That is they are both designed to allow for rate control of storm water runoff and the ability to treat water before it is re-introduced into the overall water system. Additionally,the use of a pond,versus a pipe system,allows for the water to percolate back into the system after being retained in the pond. This is usually a better system than just piping.' In the Land Use regulations of the City,specifically Section 17-5.10,#l,the purpose of the Commercial Zoning is stated for"Parcels larger than in the DMU zone in order to provide on-site parking,on-site stormwater facilities, ..." This seems to indicate that in the Commercial zoning areas,the introduction of a stormwater management pond system replace the ability to connect to the stormwater system of the city. If that is the case,the limitation on impervious surfaces at 50%seems to be inconsistent with the intent of the ponds versus pipe. Overall,we feel that the introduction of a pond system to accommodate the water treatment is the same as being connected to the storm sewer system in the DMU districts. We feel that the pervious areas(ponds, landscape,etc.)of 25%is reasonable with other cities we have developed in and,with the inclusion of a pond system,allows for the complete management of storm water before water is re-introduced to the overall system. Approving this variance will have no impact on the surrounding properties. They are currently used for commercial types of businesses. The road system is in place and will be enhanced by the addition of the planned roadway to the south. Public utilities are partially installed in the area with a watermain going through the site and continuing south. We feel that with a pond system to allow for good storm water management on the site,we have created a development that will be consistent with or potential better,in handling storm water from the site when compared to the DMU zoned properties. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you and the City of Pequot Lakes. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. Sincerely,...:-' Paul J. i