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Park & Recreation Commission Minutes May 10,2000 Page 2 . to discuss forming a regional park coalition for East Sherburne County. Mr. Nystrom explained how he recently became aware of the opportunities which are available for parks. trails and open space when communities combine their efforts and form a coalition. He described the St. Cloud Area Planning Organization (APO) which is made up of members from Benton. Sterns and Sherburne County and the City of St. Cloud. He stated that they have a well- defined and well-organized planning process for acquiring property and grants from various organizations for projects which benefit a large area. Mr. Nystrom stated that the purpose of the East Sherburne County coalition would be to develop a regional park plan. identify trail corridors and lobby for funds from various sources. He suggested that membership could possibly include roughly the Highway 169 corridor. consisting of approximately 16 - 17 public entities from Rogers up to Princeton. with a population of about 50.000 - 60.000. Approximately 5 counties would be involved. He felt that planning for this area would increase park and recreation opportunities in East Sherburne County. Mr. Nystrom suggested possible projects could include a trail corridor project with the proposed Mississippi River Highway 101 north bridge replacement. This link would connect Wright and Sherburne County. and eventually, it could provide the link necessary to connect Anoka and Hennepin Counties. He felt the City of Elk River Park & Recreation Commission would be the best place to start the movement to form a coalition. . Mr. Nystrom noted that Mille Lacs County has purchased the railroad right-of-way all the way from Milaca down to Princeton. Chair Kuester suggested that this issue be placed on a future agenda. Mr. Nystrom suggested that in one to two years. the coalition could be formed and a plan developed. so that they could then approach the legislature for bonding. He added that some of the acquisition can be done without bonding, through tools such as park dedication and DNR grants. Mr. Nystrom stated that he will prepare an outline of his proposal for a future agenda. Michele McPherson suggested that Mr. Nystrom present the idea to the Community Recreation Board. since the board includes elected officials from some of the communities proposed to be included in the coalition. Mr. Nystrom stated that the coalition would be a planning body for acquisition and development. He was not sure if the Recreation Board was the appropriate body to approach. and felt they would deal more with implementation. 7. Area Recreation Uodate Michele McPherson reviewed the May 2000 Area Recreation update prepared by Michele Bergh. Highlights included the summer program registrations, staff additions. summer intern. youth field scheduling and attendance at Emporium. .