Recent Heavy Rains Batter Illegally Cleared Stream Bank

As previously reported, the new NY-based Town Center owner was red-tagged for directing a landscape crew to clear riparian vegetation that helps control erosion and sediment pollution of the stream along Lyon Creek by Starbucks. We asked LFP Community Development Director, Mark Hofman, the following:

• Are any fines being assessed against the mall owner?
• Do you know whether the illegal clearing caused any damage from the recent heavy rains?
• Why are the parking spaces still sectioned off?

And received the following: "The city was made aware, we issued a stop work, we met with the new management, they now understand the critical area issue, they will be creating a restoration plan, and voluntarily remediate the activities that took place (under the city's guidance)."

A more detailed reply was forwarded to us by Councilperson Goode from Mark Hofman stating "The new management ordered a landscaper to clean up and trim back the vegetation in three areas for "maintenance". They were unaware of the critical area and regulations. The stop work order was issued before they got to the third area near Chase Bank. Ground cover and willow root balls still exist fortunately, to guard against total erosion in these rains. The city is requiring a restoration plan with natives listed (and complete removal of invasives) and work likely to occur in the Spring after the rains subside. Some willow stakes could be put in now. First step is submittal of a qualified plan, city review, and agreement. The new management is now clearly educated on the city's regulations for critical areas and has a qualified entity preparing the plan and to do the work."

We followed up asking why the parking stalls are still blocked off, and Mark Hofman replied, "It's temporary, as there was trash and car parts discovered in the old debris after they did the vegetation work. Then the drainage and parking area was looked at and needed some love. When we see all the trash done (sensitively) we will remove the stop work signs, they will remove the cones and ribbon, and we will process a restoration plan in December and January."

We replied with the following photo "Thanks for clarifying. This is a picture from today showing the parking spots pretty well scoured by the recent rain. This is a lot of parking taken out of the equation when the mall is bustling this time of year. Who at the city has the authority to open up the parking? And are awaiting a reply.

According WSU Shore Stewards, "One of the most important functions of riparian vegetation is its ability to control erosion and prevent sediment pollution in the stream. Increased sediment and silt in stream water can clog fish’s gills, bury their eggs, cover their food sources on the stream bottom, and cloud the water, shading out the sun needed for aquatic life. Vegetation on the shoreline, combined with the meandering curves of the stream or river, helps dissipate stream energy, resulting in less soil erosion and flood damage."