The Watershed Erosion Task Force voted to advance a proposed preapproved design and permitting pathway intended to speed residential streambank repairs.

Chair Joe Farmer described the plan as an online toolkit including a site‑eligibility checklist, a menu of preapproved designs, permit triggers and public flowcharts to help homeowners determine whether a simple repair qualifies for expedited review. “If you submit one of these things … you should get a response within about 5 business days from the city,” Farmer said.

The task force asked staff to present the materials to the city communications manager, Paula (the city’s economic development and communications director), and to Public Works for review. Members suggested piloting the checklist and fast‑track pathway in Wildwood Meadows to evaluate whether it accelerates safe, permitted repairs without increasing downstream risk.

City staff told the task force that no ordinance would be required to start the program; the city could later formalize it by resolution if desired. The task force approved the move to communicate, test and refine the toolkit and to return with implementation recommendations.

The plan is intended to: empower homeowners who cannot afford full consultant services, reduce long‑term strain on public infrastructure by encouraging legal repairs, and allow staff to focus on higher‑priority public sites.