Item 56.9 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Using the Plan Identify key properties. • The Comprehensive Plan shows potential greenway patterns based on existing data. Better information about current natural features would help to identify key properties to target for acquisition, and also enhances the ability to identify key parcels for linking the system together. Areas of environmental significance can be preserved and incorporated into the greenway system. Conduct NRI. One way of gathering this information is through a Natural Resource Inventory (NM). This study provides a current, city-wide analysis of natural features. The NRI would identify key natural areas in Elk River including wetlands, prairie, swamps, marshes, forested areas, and habitats. This information would be a valuable tool in guiding efforts to establish the greenway system. Expand subdivision data. A more incremental approach is to collect additional information during the platting process. Cluster subdivisions are required to submit a detailed resource inventory. Expanding this requirement to all plats would produce a better database for the City, and would also provide a better basis for obtaining greenway elements in individual subdivisions. Establish a finance plan. Limited financial resources will play a role in undertaking this initiative. Some potential finance strategies include: • • Allowing a landowner to place a desired preservation area in an easement that is recorded on the deed and prohibits development of the land. In return the landowner would receive some property tax relief. As appropriate, these areas should include trail easements to allow public access and links with other areas. • Encouraging property owners to donate property to the City for long- term preservation through the greenway system. • Using density bonuses as an incentive for additional land dedication. A developer can offset the loss of dedicated land with the ability to build additional housing units. The City's Open Space Preservation Plat regulations provide a model. The City can also grant the ability to add additional lots if certain criteria are met. Allowing additional units or smaller minimum lots might also be options for sewered subdivisions and zoning districts. This approach requires specific criteria for obtaining the bonus and the limits on maximum changes in density. • The greenway initiative promotes a reevaluation of the overall park dedication regulations, allowing the City to discuss the role of park dedication, and to develop plans to ensure implementation of overall park open space needs. • Building the Future -A Comprehensive Plan for Elk River 3.5 River