08/12/2009 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Systems) of the North Olmsted Zoning Code in order to permit and establish regulations for the use of Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS) in the City of North Olmsted. Note: PDC tabled 6/10/09 & 7/8/09 Ms. Wenger said the ordinance establishes a new chapter of the zoning code which would regulate wind energy conversion systems. At the Commission meetings of June 10 and July 8, the Commission reviewed each section of the proposed chapter, discussed the zoning language generally, and took public comments. The Commission identified a number of potential areas for amendments. Staff drafted zoning language to address the Commission's concerns: 1153.01 Reinforce in the Intent that the process outlined in the chapter is required 1153.02 Eliminated references to maximum wattage for small, medium and building integrated VVECS 1153.03 Allow flexibility for different types of WECS design, subject to PDC review; link noise standards to noise control chapter 555; more explicitly describe requirements for braking systems 1153.04 Add word "only" 1153.05 Also consider word "only" 1153.06 Clarify the different design possibilities and review procedures for building integrated WECS 1153.07 Clarify Landmarks Commission review for COA if WECS proposed in a historic district; show location of easements; require certification of independent testing agency; require submission of maintenance plan and annual maintenance reports; specify amounts of liability insurance 1153.08 Impose cost of removal of WECS on applicant through bond Mr. O'1VIalley said the Commission can not base their recommendation to adopt Ordinance 2009- 63 upon the inclusion of the recommended amendments. However, the commission can offer the suggested recommendations to Council either through their minutes, clerk or city planner. Mr. Lasko said he agreed with the entire recommended wording but to be consistent the word "only" should be in both chapter sections. He questioned if thought was given to how the term lot or parcel would be addressed as there are land owners who may appear to have one large lot but in fact have multiple parcels which makes up their lot. Mr. O'Malley said that chapter 1115.07 defines the definition parcel and there could be an issue when addressing a lot which has multiple parcels. Mr. Wenger said if the commission wanted to look at the total development area to meet the 5 acre minimum requirement, that may be acceptable as long as they have common ownership over all the parcels. She could work on wording to be included with the recommendations and the Gommission agreed that total development area was an appropriate standard. Ms. Williamson felt that limiting the wattage should remain in the chapter as the height does not affect output and the output should be limited. Mr. Rerko felt that if a smaller, quieter unit could provide more output for higher savings it shouldn't be restricted. Mrs. Meredith agreed the heights should be restricted but didn't think the wattage should be restricted, as technology improves the output will naturally increase. Ms. Williamson said section 1153.07(a) references using Underwriter Laboratories as a certification agency however they have not received their certification yet but Germanischer Lloyd is certified and may be referenced. Mrs. Meredith asked if the listed bond amounts as listed were standard amounts. Mr. O'Malley said the amounts were a common amount used throughout the codified codes. 6