Standards and requirements for development

A.  Minimum acreage for a Flex Tech development:

B.  Site design details, including but not limited to landscaping and open space networking, shall be approved by the planning board.  Public improvements shall be constructed in conformance with the requirements of the land development and subdivision regulations and any other applicable municipal ordinance.

C.  The total density and building bulk of any proposed Flex Tech development may not exceed density and building requirements set forth in the ordinance codified in this chapter.  However, the planning board may modify lot dimensions, building setbacks and lot areas if it finds that such modification would result in a more functional and desirable use of the property.

D.  The planning board shall approve the shape, site, location and use of open space.  An open space, conservation, and pathway or walkway plan shall be a component of the master plan.  The master plan shall provide for any necessary restoration and maintenance of the buffer between the Flex Tech zoning district and abutting zoning districts, and shall provide for the development of a trail system in the open space buffer.  The planning board shall establish a performance bond for restoration of the buffer area, if restoration necessary.  Conservation or preservation easements for open space shall be conveyed to the town of Richmond pursuant to Title 34, Chapter 39 of the Rhode Island General Laws.

E.  The planning board shall require that a maintenance guarantee be provided by the subdivider for all improvements that are being dedicated to the town for public acceptance and maintenance, and for all landscaping as shown on the approved landscape plan.  The amount of the maintenance guarantee shall be ten percent of the original estimate of construction cost.  The initial period for such maintenance guarantee shall be one year.  At the end of the one-year maintenance period, the director of public works shall inspect all improvements subject to the guarantee and shall certify in writing to the administrative officer as to their condition.  If found to be unacceptable, the administrative officer shall recommend an extension of the guarantee period to the town clerk, and the original funds shall not be returned to the subdivider.  If public improvements are in good condition and have not been damaged due to the fault of the subdivider, or through faulty workmanship or design, the maintenance guarantee shall be returned to the subdivider.  In cases where the planning board finds there are extenuating circumstances, the initial maintenance period may be established for a period longer than one year.  The reasons for establishing a longer maintenance period and the nature of the extenuating circumstances shall be made a part of the record.

(Ord. dated 11-16-02 (part))