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Residents say Dunes City rewrite weakens tree and wetland protections
Summary
Long-time residents told the planning commission that the draft ordinance removes key environmental protections, increases variance opportunities and could worsen erosion and habitat loss; the commission agreed to consider the comments in deliberations and to seek further review.
During the public hearing, residents Jeanie and Geneva Jackson said portions of the draft remove or weaken environmental standards that had previously protected forest buffers, water quality and habitat. Jeanie Jackson pointed to specific sections in the draft and said the changes could permit more tree removal and increase erosion risks in parts of the city that have a history of landslides.
"Portions such as 155.4 0.5 where it strikes down several environmental requirements without replacing them and allows for the cutting of more trees..." Jeanie Jackson said, urging the commission to slow the process. Commissioners acknowledged the concerns and agreed that the written and oral comments should be considered in deliberations and that staff could prepare responses for the March 6 continuation.
