City Council members Chip Henderson and Jerry Mitchell said they want the council to consider language on preserving steep slopes and floodplains.
They said they want to go further than Councilman Darrin Ledford, who is proposing new curbs on erosion control and reducing stormwater runoff.
Councilman Ledford on Tuesday presented a proposed new ordinance that adds a section entitled "Steep Slopes And Floodplain Relief Standards."
Councilman Henderson said, "I don't see anything in this on mass grading of steep slopes or taking into considering infill on floodplains."
Councilman Mitchell said, "I don't see anything about preservation. We have already gone further than we should have in some cases."
He said he was interested in language with "teeth" on preservation "as well as stabilization."
John Bridger, executive director of the Regional Planning Agency, said he could have information this week on language sought by Council members Henderson and Mitchell.
But council members said there are still a number of steps to be taken and issues discussed before the matter comes up for a vote.
Councilman Ledford said his proposal would "provide immediate and positive impact."
He called it "a responsible step forward in our journey towards conscious and productive solutions in addressing a very important issue."
Councilman Ledford said, "The issue of steep slope and floodplain development should be conversation that takes place at the table, not a podium. The chance for dialogue based on first name basis is not only the Chattanooga way, but is indicative to common decency for all human beings.
"The process is deserving of our best efforts, diligent research, and equitable input from all. It is my core belief that looking for final solutions in copy and paste legislation is not our best course of action. In fact, I believe our action should reflect and respect the rights of all Chattanooga property owners.
"As we begin our education, let us exercise caution and allow our decisions to be rooted in development of relationships and vision.
"Let us not stumble backwards with a lack of progress; this proposal is a positive step forward. Our path begins today, and I look forward to continuing working on solutions that will help us leave Chattanooga better than we found it for future generations to come."