Board accepts applicant's tree mitigation, approves phasing plan for Woodstone at The Flats

Board members debated whether additional tree mitigation beyond the applicant's calculations was needed after Jim Marsh described the ITD right-of-way impacts that forced tree removal. Marsh asked the board to accept the applicant's mitigation and to allow a phased build so the office building could be occupied early. "So what we're asking for is the removal of the conditions for the mitigation in there," he said, noting the development constraints created by the roadway take.

Planning staff Barbara Williams reviewed condition language and mitigation calculations and said staff could offer a site-specific solution for paving: if the applicant cannot complete required paving prior to occupancy, the office could receive a temporary certificate of occupancy provided the applicant posts surety for paving completion. One board member who said they were familiar with the site and its park-like setting urged accepting the applicant's mitigation: "I'd be fine with accepting, no no additional mitigation requirements." The board incorporated the applicant's mitigation direction into its motion and added a condition approving the submitted phasing plan; staff will rewrite condition 2 to reflect the board's decision.

The record includes approximate figures rather than final calculations: Marsh referenced a mitigation figure in the "mid 80,000 range" and estimated on-site parking as "157 or 153 stalls." Those numeric statements were presented as estimates in the hearing and will need documentation during post-approval condition finalization.