§ 118-1330. Findings, purposes and objectives.

(a)

Shoreline vegetation is necessary for the health and viability of a lake system. Sediments and nutrients, contributed both by stormwater runoff and recirculation within the lakes' waters, are removed by shoreline vegetation and associated areas by means of filtration and recycling through the shoreline vegetation.

(b)

Both wave action and stormwater runoff will cause extensive erosion of nutrient-laden soils, particularly where those soils have been destabilized by removal of shoreline vegetation.

(c)

Shoreline vegetation both protects and improves water quality and should be protected from substantial clearing.

(d)

The city is authorized, pursuant to general law, to regulate and control conservation and beach erosion control programs. The city is authorized to regulate and control all lakes, canals, streams, waterways, inlets, bays, and their alteration by dredging, filling, pumping and otherwise altering the shoreline, land contours and/or water areas in the interest of public rights, public welfare, protection of public riparian property rights, and preservation of the natural beauty and attractiveness of the lakes, canals, streams, waterways, inlets and bays.

(e)

In order to protect the public health, safety and welfare, preserve the natural beauty and attractiveness of waters of the city, and maintain lake water quality and reduce nutrient loading in public lakes, this division is hereby enacted as a measure to protect the legitimate public interest by restricting the amount of clearing or removal of shoreline vegetation.

(Ord. No. 11-20, § III, 9-21-11)