8.2. SR 10-21-2013 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City of Elk Request for Action River To Item Number Mayor and City Council 8.2 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by General Business October 21, 2013 Michael Hecker, Parks and Recreation Director Item Description Reviewed by Resolution Authorizing Application to Parks Legacy Cal Portner, City Administrator Grant Program for Funds to Assist in the Reviewed by Acquisition of Houlton Property Action Requested Approve by motion,Resolution No. 13-_supporting the acquisition of the Houlton farm property through the Parks Legacy Grant Program. Background/Discussion At the July 1, 2013, regular meeting, the Council approved a Lelter of Intent with the Conservation Fund. It basically outlines respective responsibilities,including the city providing coordination and the resources of its staff and legal on all contracts and agreements for the successful funding and closing on the Houlton Farm property acquisition. The Conservation Fund,as a technical advisor to the city,has worked with staff in developing a substantial grant application through the Parks Legacy Grant Program. This grant requires a resolution by Council. The attached resolution was reviewed by the city attorney. The partnerships in the grant application includes the City of Elk River,Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council, the Minnesota Land Trust, Friends of the Mississippi River,The Houlton family and The Conservation Fund. The Houlton family has indicated that they are willing to donate a significant portion of the acquisition costs toward the project. The proposed regional park in the grant is being called the Elk River Nature Preserve. This reflects the natural restored natural amenities of the site, along with its unique location,providing many opportunities for interpretation of our natural and cultural heritage. The details of the project's importance are described in the attached grant application item 2—Regional Significance. This project was discussed at a public work session on October 2, 2013. Invitations were sent to the adjoining property owners and public meeting notices were posted. About 32 people attended the meeting with about 14 providing input to the concept plan. The 335-acres acquisition contains a mix of 130 acres of floodplain forest,wetlands and approximately 180 acres of farmland. The farmland will be restored to native prairie and oak savanna. We expect to develop trails that will offer many opportunities for interpretation of our natural and cultural heritage. Trails that wind through the different landscape will have various interpretative displays as well as strategically placed viewing platforms, offering visitors incredible views of the prairies and the Mississippi River. The site plan includes a boat launch on the Mississippi River. P a w E R E U 6 Y NaA f RE]