Council approves rezoning and three‑lot subdivision at 5676 Oak Green Ave N despite trail concerns

Scott Richards presented the rezoning and preliminary/final subdivision for 5676 Oak Green Ave N, describing an adjacent city‑owned trail, past tree losses, and added conditions for tree replacement and arborist review under city code (chapter 13.07).

"The tree removal, replacement and landscape plan is subject to city arborist review and approval and should be in good performance with chapter 13.07 of the city code," Scott Richards said, and he noted staff recommends the current tree ordinance is sufficient to regulate removals. He also explained utility work will require subsequent property owners to install and maintain service lines from the main along the lot frontages.

Council members and residents asked whether the new lots would provide access to Oak Creek and raised concerns about preserving the trail and tree cover. A council member noted the lot lines were redrawn so the middle and south lots will not gain access to the open space. Staff said utilities will run along the front of the lots on 58th Street with easements to the city.

A council member moved to approve the ordinance to rezone to R‑1 and the resolution approving the preliminary and final plat with the added conditions; the motions were seconded and passed by roll call. Roll call listed affirmative votes from Councilmembers Johnson, Liljegren, Ronk, Swanson and Mayor Doherty.

The approval includes: rezoning the property from open space to R‑1 (single‑family), creating three lots (existing corner house plus two new lots), a tree-replacement and landscape plan subject to city arborist review, and a condition that subsequent property owners are responsible for installation and maintenance of utility service lines along the lot frontages.