5.0. 6.0. 7.0. 8.0. EDSR 01-11-1999

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01/07/99 THU 10:34 FAX 904-MAINSTREET (]003 • • -2- RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT In 1997, five developments carded a majority of the residential activity. Cherrywood Hills is a 66-lot development with 46 lots being developed in Phase L The second phase is a rural subdivision of 40 acres divided into 14 lots. Lafayette Woods is in the second phase of developing 51 single family lots. Country Crossing received final plat approval to complete the remaining 24 lots. In all, the development has 202 single family lots and 62 townhouse units. Urban lots in 1997 outnumbered rural lots 162 to 27. A new 600-unit housing subdivision was recently approved by the City Council and will provide the community with additional housing options over the next three to five years. EDUCATION/HEALTH CARE The City's Iargest employer is Independent School District 728 with 600 employees. The School District serves nearly 8,000 students. The public school system includes a high school, two junior high schools, and seven elementary schools. Five parochial schools serve students from K-12. Community Education offers many classes for children and adults. In addition,a technical college and a community college are located nearby and universities are found in Minneapolis and St. Cloud. A regional hospital located in Coon Rapids is within a 15 minute drive. Medical, dental, optometric, chiropractic, and veterinary facilities are found within the community. The Rum River Medical Clinic is comprised of 15 family practice physicians. The Guardian Angels long-term care facility serves the 411 needs of the elderly and includes a 36-unit apartment building for moderate income clients. PARKS AND RECREATION/COMMUNITY EVENTS Elk River maintains 13 parks and a State park is located in the area. Lake Orono offers residents a variety of recreational water activities. A grand 4th of July celebration is held at Orono Park on the lake. Events include music, family games, food, and a water sl'i show. A fireworks display ends the day. The Sherburne County Fair is an annual summer event which features a parade, rides, and exhibits. Among the many organizations and clubs available to join are the Art Guild, Arts Council, Community Band and Chorus, Land of Lakes Choirboys, and the Elk River Community Theater. A variety of active fraternal and service organizations are available. Also serving the community is the Elk River Public Library which is part of the Great River Regional Library. CITY SERVICES The City of Elk River was incorporated in 1890 and was consolidated in 1977 with Elk River Township. At 44-square miles, the City represents the third largest municipality in land mass in Minnesota. The governing body consists of a Mayor, elected at large, and four Councilmembers. The City employs a total of 62 full-time personnel and 37 part-time workers. The general fund budget for 1998 was $4.9 million. Police protection is provided by 15 sworn officers, a 19 member reserve force, and three community service officers. The 35 member volunteer Fire Department is headed by a full-time Fire Chief. The Fire Department also responds to medical emergencies and supplements the local ambulance service. • The City owns and operates an off-sale liquor store.