(a) Amount. The Planning Commission shall specify to the extent required the allocation of playfields, parks and other public open spaces that may be essential to a proper development of the areas or neighborhood. A maximum of three percent (3%) of the subdivision may be required for this purpose.
(b) Alternative. When, by reason of a topographical condition within a subdivision, the amount of acreage within a subdivision, the nature or development of the area surrounding a subdivision or because of other exceptional circumstances, the Commission determines that the dedication or reservation of public sites and open spaces for playgrounds, school sites, parks, etc., as required by subsection (a) hereof is impracticable, undesirable, unsuitable, uneconomic or not in accord with the Major Thoroughfare Plan and the Plan for Parks and Other Open Spaces in and within three miles of the City, the Commission may require in lieu thereof, that the subdivider dedicate or deed to the City or Township other lands of the subdivider which are acceptable to the Commission for the purposes intended by this section or to deposit with the City or appropriate township a sum of money equal in amount to three percent (3%) of the total value of the land within the subdivision. Such three percent (3%) value shall be determined by agreement between the Commission and the subdivider or shall be three percent (3%) of one-half of the total of two sealed land appraisals of the subdivision to be submitted to the Commission, one by an appraiser designated by the subdivider and one by an appraiser designated by the Commission, provided that the sealed appraisals shall each be within fifteen percent (15%) of the average of such new appraisals. The Commission and the subdivider shall each bear the costs of their respective appraisals.
Moneys deposited with the City or appropriate Township under the provisions of this subsection shall be placed in a special fund designated by the legislative authority of the City or Township and shall be appropriated and used solely for the acquisition, maintenance, development, improvement or equipment of playgrounds, school sites, parks and other recreational lands.
(c) Preservation. Due regard shall be shown for the preservation of outstanding natural and cultural features such as scenic spots, water courses, reserve forests and historic sites.
(Ord 39-81. Passed 10-7-81.)