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Council advances revised clear‑cutting rules after extended debate over bonds, buffers and 'site‑ready' land
Summary
Council voted to pursue an amendment that reduces buffer requirements and allows limited clear‑cutting with developer bonds (3 years for residential, 5 years for commercial) if development approval is obtained; members pressed staff on bond calculation, enforcement and potential takings concerns.
Reedsville — The City Council voted Jan. 13 to move forward with an amendment to the city’s clear‑cutting policy after an extended discussion about bonding, buffer reductions and when cleared parcels must be replanted.
Planning Director Drew Bigelow presented the proposed ordinance changes, which would: lower required tree buffer zones in many cases from 50 feet to 25 feet; allow residential landowners to clear property fully if they obtain development approval within three years (residential) or five years (commercial), subject to a bond to guarantee replanting of required buffers if development…
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