5.3 HPSR 02-24-2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The HPC utilized a CLG grant award from 2013 and hired Collaborative Design Group to complete a Condition Assessment of the tower. The report has been very helpful in preparing for the final goal of painting and repairing the water tower. The estimated cost to repair the structure was below previous estimates received by the city. The reduced cost was a pleasant surprise as Elk River Municipal Utilities, the current owner of the tower, has earmarked money for tower repairs. That money will be used for matching funds in a future CLG grant application. Elk River Walking Tour The HPC continues to work with students and faculty at St. Cloud State University to prepare a self- guided walking tour of historically significant locations in Elk River. Late fall 2014 the city hosted a presentation from St. Cloud State University students where they presented a number of different draft brochures.The HPC will utilize these to prepare a mobile brochure on the city's website. Oral Histories Commissioner Mortensen continues to conduct oral histories with residents willing to be interviewed. The HPC is also in the early stages of expanding this program to encourage additional members of the community to not only be interviewed,but interview other residents. 36th Annual Statewide Historic Preservation Conference In September 2015, HPC Commissioner Debra Mortensen attended the Statewide Historic Preservation Conference in Little Falls,MN. Houlton Farm Natural Area The City of Elk River worked with the Trust for Public Land to acquire the Houlton-Olson family farm and add it to the city's park system as a conservation area. The 335-acre riverfront property is located west of downtown near the Orono Dam and has been in the family since the 1870's. The park will open to the public in late 2016. 2016 Proposed Projects Preservation of Jackson Street Water Tower The HPC plans to apply for a CLG grant to assist with restoring the Jackson Street Water Tower. Matching funds are available,and the city hopes to accomplish the project in 2016. Oral Histories The HPC will continue working on conducting oral histories of some of the older generation residents from Elk River. Historic Neighborhood District The HPC will continue to explore creating a historic neighborhood district in the City. Educational Opportunities HPC will continue to work with the Elk River Community Education Department and Parks and Recreation Department to incorporate educational opportunities into their programs. A historic tour could be coordinated with the Parks and Recreation Department. Elk River Community Education may be willing to host training to conduct oral histories in the community. 3