04-21-1994 CC MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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City Council Minutes April 25, 1994 Page 2 e available on the east side of the railroad trail, that the larger recreation area is much more than the 160 acre Woodland Trails Park. The Commission and Council discussed the history of the purchase of this park, the need for transportation planning, and the improvements that are scheduled in this park in 1994 with State grant monies. Commissioner Lipetzky recommended that the City needs to purchase more park land in order to provide park and recreation opportunities for Elk River residents 20 to 40 years in the future. Clete further indicated that he disagrees with the current transportation plan and with any street plans in this area, and believes that Woodland Trails Park should be left undisturbed. Commissioner Olson stated that he concurs with Commissioner Lipetsky's comments. Chair Anderson indicated that a Commission member will be attending Planning Commission, City Council and Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee meetings in order to provide input on issues that are before the City Council, Planning Commission and Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee. e Dana Anderson led the discussion on the Commission's concern over park dedication fees. The concern relates to the fact that developers are much more willing to provide cash to the City in lieu of park dedication land. This issue leads the Commission to think that this fee structure needs to be re-evaluated. The Commission and Council discussed the concern over the small developer paying a large dollar amount for a subdivision of one or two lots vs. the large developer that develops 80 lots on 40 acres. Discussion continued on a different park dedication fee for urban vs. rural lots or the possibility of not charging park dedication fees for the first lot that is subdivided, thereby helping the small developer. Commission Chairman Anderson led the discussion on the update of the Master Park and Recreation Plan. Dave indicated that the Commission in concentrating on the location of its urban parks and trails, and is now beginning to work on addressing the need for community athletic facilities. Later in the planning process the Commission will look at area wide or regional parks in the City. It was indicated that its was scheduled for the Master Plan to be incorporated into the Comprehensive Plan Update. e Dave further indicated that for plat proposals, the Commission would like to have on site evaluations of the property in order to identify areas that are desired for parks or other areas that have significant natural features. In this manner, adjustments in the Master Plan can take place early in the platting process so that the developers will know of relevant park issues associated with their property.