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amendment, there would also be a disincentive for planting trees larger than the at -planting minimum because such trees would ultimately force a higher replacement standard on the project owner. This proposed amendment could also lead to unnecessary trimming and pruning of all site trees to keep replacement requirements "artificially low". Such unintended disincentives and results would be contrary to the intent of landscaping requirements in general. PSAC/STAFF PROPOSED 926.12(3) REQUIREMENTS A. 0-18 months after C.O. B. Over 18 months of C.O. At -planting sizes allowed, as followed: • Outside of Special Corridors Shrubs: 18" Understory trees: 5' (1" diameter at 0.5') Canopy trees: 10' (2" diameter at 0.51) • Within Special Corridors Shrubs: 18" 30" Understory trees: 5' (1" diameter at 0.5') Canopy trees: 12' (2" diameter at 0.5') Note: Same as current standard for 0-18 months after C.O. • (Same inside or outside special corridors) Shrubs: 30" Understory trees: 7' (1 %" diameter at 0.5') Canopy trees: 16' (3" diameter at 0.55) (established 16' canopy tree as minimum required height) Note: Same as current standard for 18-36 months after C.O. Staff's research indicates that, on adequately maintained sites, canopy trees can be expected to grow from 12' at planting to 16' after 48-60 months. It could take 12-36 months longer for trees 10' at planting (the minimum size required outside of special corridors) to reach a height of 16'. Thus, the proposed change to require 16' trees after 18 months of C.O. will boost landscaping appearance on most sites, and will likely blend in on sites with well-established trees. In addition, such a 16' cap would bring county requirements in line with City of Vero Beach requirements. City staff indicate that the 16' standard has worked well on a variety of established sites. Also, since the PSAC meeting staff has verified that the cost difference between 16' trees and 18' trees is probably greater than the aesthetic benefit of the 2' height difference. Based upon prices from local landscapers, the cost of Florida #1 live oaks (installed) is $6504820 for a 16' tree and $820-$1.700 for an 18' tree. • Alternatives The existing replacement requirements could be amended in various ways, including: modifications to the "time after C.O." variable , changes to the numerical minimum standards themselves, and changes to allow a greater number of shorter trees to be installed in lieu of 1:1 OCTOBER 23 2001 Pit] 0 'U -51-