6.0. PRSR 08-18-1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ITEM NO. 6 (Pity of MEMORANDUM � •Elk �� River TO: PARK AND RECREATION COMMISSION FROM: STEPHEN ROHLF, BUILDING AND ZONING ADMINISTRATOR DATE: AUGUST 16, 1994 SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF PARK LAND ON SHIELY PROPERTY The Shiely Company is proposing to dedicate approximately 50 acres of land to the City for park purposes in lieu of some portion of their future park dedication fees. If the City were to accept Shiely's offer, the details would be worked out by staff. Staff is strongly recommending that the City accept the property offered by Shiely for the following reasons: 1. The dry oak forest proposed to be dedicated as park by the 411 Shiely Company (a map will be provided at the meeting) is classified as "Threatened" by the Department of Natural Resources. In the letter dated June 16, 1994, (regarding the final environmental impact statement on gravel mining), the DNR strongly encouraged the use of the Master Park Plan process to ensure the development of a balanced landscape, which would provide parks or natural areas as well as opportunities for commercial or residential development. The site in question was specifically referenced. 2. The land Shiely is offering to dedicate as park is a logical extension of Woodland Trails. If this land was bought on the open market, it would be extremely expensive. Because of its natural beauty, it would be a prime location for a housing development. Opportunities such as this one are rare. 3. Shiely currently owns approximately 938 acres. Depending on the deal that is struck, the 50 acres would satisfy park dedication for no more than 500 acres. Enough additional park dedication can be required on the remainder of Shiely's property to satisfy neighborhood parks, even if Shiely's property would be • situated in the sewer and water district in the future. P.O. Box 490 • 13065 Orono Parkway • Elk River, MN 55330 • (612) 441-7420 • Fax: (612) 441-7425