Laserfiche WebLink
August 25, 1994 <br />Robert Minton, Chair <br />Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee <br />Dear Mr. Minton: <br />It is my observation that both commercial and residential development in Elk River has <br />become less sensitive to the environment in recent years. Large wooded areas are being clear- <br />cut, hilltops are flattened and natural drainage ways are being filled. After the damage, there <br />does not seem to be any effort to replant or restore. It appears to me that Elk River is doomed <br />to become flat and barren. <br />The style and method of development now practiced in Elk River dates back to the <br />1950's. Since a relatively high density is needed to make it successful, it is terribly destructive <br />in hilly or wooded areas. In many ways the large lot, sprawling development of the 1970's was <br />better in preserving the natural features of the landscape. <br />The whole issue of land use in Elk River must totally reconsidered. New ideas should <br />be brought forward that would require more sensitive development. Land use and building <br />density should be compatible with contours and vegetation cover rather than geographic location. <br />I think it is senseless to continue the type of development that makes it necessary to <br />destroy trees and the land that attracted people here in the first place. <br />Yours very truly, <br />Jim Nystrom <br />JAN:pq <br />