2. PRSR AGENDA 08-13-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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• A landowner agrees to place a desired preservation area in an easement that is recorded on the deed and prohibits development of the land. In return the landowner would receive some property tax relief. As ap- propriate, these areas should include trail easements to allow public access and links with other areas. • Property owners can be encouraged to donate property to the City for long-term preservation through the greenway system. • Density bonuses could be used as an incentive for additional land dedi- cation. The developer offsets the loss of land with the ability to build additional housing units. The City's Open Space Preservation Plat regulations provide a model. The City can grant the ability to add additional lots if certain criteria are met. Allowing additional units or smaller minimum lots would be options in sewered subdivisions and zoning districts. This approach requires specific criteria for obtaining the bonus and the limits on maximum changes in density. • The greenway initiative promotes a reevaluation of the overall park dedication regulations. This step enables the City to discuss the role of park dedication and plans to ensure implementation of overall park open space needs. • Shifting park dedication resources to greenways will reduce funds for other elements of the park system. In new subdivisions, special assess- ments and housing improvement areas could be used to acquire and improve neighborhood parks. • Parks and greenways will compete with other services and facilities for property taxes. Some communities have sought voter approval to is- sue bonds to finance park and open space initiatives. Old Town The Old Town land use seeks to preserve and enhance the commercial • .- tricts and residential neighborhoods in this area. The Old Town is essen- tial part of Elk River's heritage and identity. Designating a l • . e is the first step. Subsequent actions must work to achieve these •• -ctives. Focus future planning on a broader area. C -nt redevelopment planning focuses on the downtown/central busin— district portion of Old Town. The next phase of planning should in ..e the entire Old Town area. This plan- ning initiative would provi.- means of identifying needs for preservation, revitalization, redeye • • ent and public improvement. . -•u- ..o• A key to the Old Town concept is the ability to build Conn- •ns within the area and to other parts of the community. Some po- ial connections include: Eik3 Building the Future -A Comprehensive Plan for Elk River 13.17 Inver