09/28/1987 Meeting (2) - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ms. Ehrman moved, seconded by Mr. Holmer, to prepare revisions to the solar access regulations and schedule a public hearing e for City Council consideration. Ms. Bascom said the solar access protections provide an opportunity for the council to address a new property right which is the right to sunlight on a lot. She said it is a women's issue because women have been at home and have learned the value of sunlight in a house and a yard. Mr. Miller said solar access should be protected for future generations. He said he has tried to find a compromise between the objections to the existing regulations and the regulations so that a consensus can be obtained. He said several City ordinances, such as those that restrict lot sizes, impact the proposed regulations. He said building industry representatives will be enthusiastic about implementing the regulations if a consensus can be reached. Answering a question from Mr. Rutan, Ms. Ehrman said the motion implies that the existing regulations will not be implemented if the motion passes. Mr. Rutan asked that the motion include a specific statement that the existing regulations will not be implemented and Ms. Ehrman and Mayor Obie agreed to hi s request. Mr. Bennett said he supports the motion. He said the Planning Commission did not receive much comment from representatives of the building industry when it considered the existing regulations. He would like to have comments from the industry. He said it is also important that EWES representatives state their position clearly. e Ms. Ehrman said she will not support the motion. She said the City has been working on the regulations for two years and their implementation should not be delayed. Answering a question from Ms. Bascom, Ms. Ehrman said the "revisions" in the motion were the four changes discussed by Mr. Croteau. Mayor Obie agreed with Ms. Ehrman and said the following fifth revision should be included: 5. Homes built in existing neighborhoods may be compatible with existing homes in the neighborhood. Mr. Croteau reviewed the revisions. He said the slope adjustments (No. 4) would be changed every five degrees. Ms. Schue said enough time has been spent on the solar access protections. The Homebuilders Association had opportunities to comment. She said she approves of the change in slope increments that can be implemented administratively. Other changes can be reviewed in a year. She will oppose the motion. Ms. Bascom said she will oppose the motion because a change in the solar fence would weaken the regulations. She said the other changes seem to have some - MINUTES--Eugene City Council September 28, 1987 Page 4