It is hereby determined that the system of wetlands, riparian areas, rivers, streams, and other natural watercourses within the Village contributes to the health, safety, and general welfare of the residents. This chapter shall apply to all lands that are within the jurisdiction of the Village and the designated watercourses and wetlands as defined in this chapter.
(a) It is the intent of the Village of Bratenahl to adopt regulations for construction sites that protect the quality of both local and state water resources and both adjoining and downstream property owners from:
(1) Loss or disturbance of riparian areas, and
(2) Loss or disturbance of wetlands.
(b) The specific purpose and intent of this chapter is to:
(1) Reduce flood impacts by absorbing peak flows, slowing the velocity of flood waters, and regulating base flow;
(2) Assist in stabilizing the banks of watercourses to reduce bank erosion and the downstream transport of sediments eroded from watercourse banks;
(3) Reduce pollutants in watercourses during periods of high flows by filtering, settling, and transforming pollutants already present in the watercourse;
(4) Reduce pollutants in watercourses by filtering, settling, and transforming pollutants in runoff before they enter watercourses;
(5) Provide watercourse habitats with shade and food;
(6) Provide habitat to a wide array of aquatic organisms, wildlife, many of which are on Ohio’s endangered and/or Threatened Species listing, by maintaining diverse and connected riparian and wetland vegetation; and
(7) Benefit the Village economically by minimizing encroachment on wetlands and watercourse channels and the need for costly engineering solutions such as dams and retention basins to protect structures and reduce property damage and threats to the safety of residents; and by contributing to the scenic beauty and environment of the Village, and thereby preserving the character of the Village, the quality of life of the residents of the Village, and corresponding property values.
(c) The Village shall issue no approvals and permits without full compliance with the terms of this chapter.
(d) This chapter gives the Village of Bratenahl authority to adopt, implement, use, and require that developers and builders in the Village use Chapter 1316 of the Village of Bratenahl Codified Ordinances regarding erosion and sediment control and Chapter 1317 of the Village of Bratenahl Codified Ordinances regarding storm water management. These chapters shall comply with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s Phase II Storm Water Permits Program and the Storm Water Management Program developed by the Village.
(Ord. 3275. Passed 3-16-05.)