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Commission tables proposed xeriscape amendment after extended debate on rocks, aesthetics and water conservation
Summary
City planner Dave Dixon proposed adding drought-tolerant xeriscape ground covers as approved materials while maintaining a 25% pervious minimum (with up to 80% of that pervious area allowed for xeriscape). Commissioners raised concerns about rock-heavy yards, maintenance and stormwater impacts and asked staff for further study; the item was tabled for more analysis.
City planner Dave Dixon introduced an ordinance to allow drought-tolerant xeriscape ground covers (an option for single-family and duplex lots) and explained it would not be mandatory but would add acceptable materials to the approved list. The proposal keeps a 25% pervious minimum for each lot and, as drafted, would allow up to 80% of that pervious area to be xeriscape-related ground cover.
The item prompted detailed discussion about aesthetics, maintenance, stormwater and the possibility that rock-dominated yards could create heat-island effects or erode into sidewalks. One commissioner urged adding minimum landscape requirements for new or substantially renovated homes; another suggested limiting the percentage of non-organic materials. William Yellow and Lisa Rask spoke during public comment in favor of thoughtful xeriscape rules and landscape plans to ensure water savings without degrading neighborhood character. After extended debate the commission agreed to table the ordinance for additional study and possible refinement.
Commissioners asked staff to return with clearer definitions, placement standards and options for minimum landscape requirements or design guidelines that would permit xeriscaping while preventing poorly executed rock-only yards.
