09-16-2009 ECCMIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Environmental Administrator Haug stated that two companies have approached Elk River regarding starting up in the City, so Energy City may see new development regarding this technology in the future. Wind Turbine Ordinance Staff reviewed the draft ordinance and recommended approval. The Energy City Commission was asked to provide comments and a recommendation to the City Council regarding the ordinance. Mayor Klinzing stated that the goal is to allow wind turbines in proper locations. The City does not want to be too restrictive, yet location is important. The City Council is fine with the ordinance so far. The following comments or questions were raised during the discussion: • Will there be conditions placed upon residents who desire wind turbines on their properties to ensure that neighbors agree to the placement? • Questions regarding definitions of turbine parts and heights or diameters were raised. A detailed definition page was recommended. • A recommendation was made that language needs to be consistent. • A question was raised regarding how the turbines would be measured... to the tower height or to the tip of the blade, for example. • A concern was raised that the ordinance may be too restrictive because turbines would not be allowed on smaller properties (such as 1 - 4.9 acres). Types of turbines were discussed for smaller properties (non-utility scale turbines). A suggestion was made to allow a 60' or less turbine tower on lots greater than one acre with a conditional use permit (CUP). Discussion followed regarding energy produced by a turbine and the grid system. Commissioner Chuba and Chair Zehringer will provide comments to Nicki by noon Thursday for the staff memo. Mr. Anderson recommended getting information from Northfield concerning their wind towers. 8. Other Mayor Klinzing discussed the situation regarding the CBOC (Community Based Outpatient Clinic). The deadline for proposals was September 15th and several local developers are putting in proposals. The County was unable to submit a proposal because the possible location was limited to being east of Proctor Avenue. The developer will talk with the ECC if it's to be built within Elk River. Mayor Klinzing would like it to be LEED certified and the first LEED certified Veteran's Clinic. A question was raised regarding whether the VA is willing to invest the funds necessary for LEED certification ($50,000 - $100,000). Mayor Klinzing was not sure. She added that the City is offering land and is open to getting it, but there is a LOT of competition for the clinic. Chair Zehringer asked what the ECC can do to help. Mayor Klinzing commented the ECC may need to "police" the construction if it does come here. Landfill abatement funds have been offered as an incentive as well. It could take months (if not years) to decide upon the location of the CBOC. This is an item that will be placed on the next agenda. Environmental Administrator Haug stated the kick off date for the Northstar Commuter rail will be November 14th from 10:30 - 2:00 p.m.