Norton planning commission backs Summit Soil & Water limits on clear-cutting, declines code change

The Norton Planning Commission voted to recommend that clear-cutting of trees in the city be controlled by the limitations imposed by the Summit Soil and Water Conservation District and that no further action be taken to amend Norton's codified ordinances at this time.

At the meeting commissioners discussed sample regulations from other jurisdictions that include diameter thresholds and permit requirements. The commission acknowledged those models were sometimes subjective and noted Summit County already has its own limitations. The commission's motion reads in part: "The planning commission recommends that the clear cutting of trees in the city of Norton be controlled by the limitations imposed by the Summit Soil and Water Conservation District. No further action should be initiated in the city of Norton's codified ordinances."

A commissioner moved the wording and another seconded; roll call recorded unanimous approval. The item was presented under "old business" as a follow-up to council requests made last year. Commissioners said staff would not pursue additional codified-ordinance text at this time and instead defer to the Summit Soil and Water Conservation District's limits.

The vote represents a recommendation from the Planning Commission; it does not by itself change city code. Commissioners indicated they may return to the issue if council or staff brings additional direction.

The commission approved the motion by roll call and entered it into the record as the body's position on clear-cutting controls.