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Planning Commission <br /> May 8,2001 <br /> Page 3 <br /> • that a professional do a context study. A context study will help the City to <br /> understand what we have. The Heritage Preservation Commission consists of an <br /> archeologist, Sherburne County Historical Society Coordinator, and a number of <br /> long-time residents that know the history of Elk River. Mr. Rohlf reviewed the 8 <br /> categories to determine historic significance, as taken from the City's ordinance. <br /> He cited examples from the map of possible locations of historic significance, <br /> such as the hitching posts from the 1800's, and other sites as described in his <br /> memo dated May 8, 2001. <br /> Mr. Rohlf strongly encouraged the City to authorize the context study. <br /> Commissioner Baker asked how much the study would cost. Mr. Rohlf stated that <br /> the study would cost between $10,000-$15,000,with the actual cost being closer <br /> to$10,000. The City has applied to become a certified local government through <br /> the State Historic Preservation Office. He felt that approximately one-half of the <br /> cost of the study could be funded by a grant, reducing the City's cost to$5,000- <br /> $7,000. City Administrator Pat Klaers asked how long it would take to do a study. <br /> Mr. Rohlf stated that he was unsure. <br /> Mr. Franz asked if any of the downtown buildings may be eligible to be on the <br /> National Historic Register. Mr. Rohlf stated yes. <br /> Ms. Mehelich thanked staff for their help in the downtown evaluation. She <br /> distributed copies of a Downtown Elk River Planning & Improvement History- 1970 <br /> -2000. Ms. Mehelich noted that consistent themes through the history included <br /> (1) utilizing the river for public space and recreation, events and activities, and <br /> • also business attraction such as restaurants, art centers, (2) historic or small-town <br /> character in both rehab and reconstruction through design standards. She noted <br /> that design standards were mentioned numerous times but were never drafted <br /> and implemented; (3) safer pedestrian and vehicle movement (pathway for <br /> riverwalk, parking ramp, etc.) <br /> Larry Toth, HRA Commissioner, asked for clarification on possible traffic generators <br /> for the downtown. Mr.Thompson reviewed his recommendations for retaining <br /> the post office, locating a restaurant in the downtown, the potential riverwalk, <br /> and conducting events to bring people to the downtown. <br /> Ms. Bujold felt that events can sometimes overtake the downtown. <br /> Mr. Toth asked how issues with park could be resolved. Ms. Bujold suggested that <br /> shared parking options and writing specific ordinances for parking in the <br /> downtown. City Administrator stated that if the parking lot property were <br /> developed, there would be a parking problem in the downtown. He noted that <br /> there is parking across Highway 10 but it is very difficult to get people to use it. <br /> Cliff Lundberg suggested ramping the existing parking lot behind Kempers and <br /> build a skywalk to parking on the north side of the highway. He had concerns <br /> regarding building on the east City parking lot. He felt this would close off the <br /> new view to the river. <br /> Commissioner Baker suggested working on a couple significant ideas such as <br /> parking. Cliff Lundberg suggested bringing back the 1950's façade of the <br />