with VRI. The second emphasized language seems to suggest that existing streets are also subject <br />to the street tree standards. Furthermore, EC 9.2170(5)(d) requires street tree standards for <br />commercial development in general - not just commercial development that creates a new street. <br />The application has not provided a street tree plan or provided any evidence regarding compliance <br />with this standard. EC 9.2170(5)(d) is not satisfied" (Hearings Official Decision, page 8). <br />Summary of Appellant's Argument: <br />The appellant states that "Evidence in the record demonstrates that the proposal either already <br />provides, or can be conditioned to provide, street trees in a manner that will comply with the <br />requirements of EC 7.280" (Appeal Statement, page 3). The appellant further explains that "There are <br />either sufficient existing and planned trees to satisfy the street tree standards, or the ability to add <br />additional trees to meet those standards," and that "Case law is clear that if evidence in the record <br />demonstrates that a standard can be met, a decision maker can and should conclude that the standard <br />is satisfied and impose conditions of approval that ensure the standard is met when the development <br />occurs" (Appeal Statement, page 3). <br />Accordingly, the appellant recommends to the Planning Commission that they impose the following <br />condition of approval to ensure compliance with the street tree standards: <br />Applicant's Recommended Condition: "The street tree requirements of EC 7.280 apply to the Valley <br />River Way and Delta Highway frontages. As required by EC 7.280(3), prior to development, the City <br />shall approve final development plans including a street tree plan consistent with EC 7.280 and city <br />administrative rules. Under no circumstances should the street tree plan authorize fewer trees than <br />shown on the approved Tree Preservation Plan and Landscaping Plan." <br />Staff Comments: <br />VRI and the Hearings Official note that street trees are required on streets abutting the development <br />site. On occasion, a development will reconstruct or construct the remaining half of an existing street. <br />The street tree criterion allows the City to implement a street tree plan on streets that are existing, but <br />are not fully developed to urban standards. Public Works staff have consistently interpreted and <br />applied the street tree criterion in this way. However, in this case no street improvements are <br />proposed (or required), and therefore Public Works would not require new street trees. <br />Secondly, and perhaps more importantly, Public Works staff note that 1-105 and Delta Highway are <br />owned in fee by Lane County and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). The City of <br />Eugene does not have jurisdiction in these rights-of-way; consequently, the City cannot apply public <br />improvements standards (i.e. street tree plans) to right-of-way that is not under the City's jurisdiction. <br />Finally, staff notes that the development has limited frontage on Valley River Way, all of which is <br />encumbered by a driveway apron and sidewalk. City of Eugene Street Tree Program Administrative <br />Rule R-7.280 forbids the installation of street trees in and near locations that are encumbered by <br />sidewalks and driveway aprons. In other words, street trees are physically prohibited by rule at this <br />location along Valley River Way. <br />Planning Commission Options: <br />If the Planning Commission determines the Hearings Official did not error in his decision to determine <br />Page 3 <br />PC Agenda - Page 3 <br />