07-12-2000 PR MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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Joint Park & Recreation/Planning Commission Meeting July 12.2000 Page 2 . Ms. McPherson felt that the Park and Recreation Commission is moving more toward a proactive stance. rather than a reactive one in working with developers. Chair Mesich felt that the City has been very liberal with builders and that it needs to be more demanding. He felt the City should have gotten more land with the Trout Brook Farms development and was concerned that there will be no parking available for park users. Commissioner Dave Anderson expressed his appreciation to the Planning Commissioner for their support. He stated that often at the Council level the park dedication recommendations are cut considerably. He felt it was important for the Park and Recreation Commission and Planning Commission to work cooperatively to get their message to the City Council. Commissioner Huberty felt that it is important that the developer knows early in the process of what the Commission wants. . Commissioner Dana Anderson stated that the Park and Recreation Commission is looking for quality land which is more suitable for recreation. as compared to some of the low. wet park land which was dedicated in the past. He explained that the Commission has set criteria for park land which includes accessibility and visibility from a city street, rather than tucked back behind someone's backyard, availability of parking, and connection to city trails and other parks. Ms. McPherson stated that the Park and Recreation Commission is in the processing reviewing the topography of "future parks" designated on the Master Park Plan. Commissioner John Kuester stated that the Commission feels the City now has some valuable natural park areas. but now needs to move toward acquiring more open and level property. suitable for recreational use, in order to have a balance of park land. Commission Reitsma asked how the Planning Commission felt about the proposal partnership with the School District for park land in conjunction with a new elementary school on County Road 12. Chair Mesich stated that he felt it seems like a natural partnership, but that the city must be comfortable that they are getting something for their money. 3. Tree Preservation Commissioner Reitsma stated that he felt there is a need to establish guidelines or standards for tree preservation. Ms. McPherson explained that the City currently does not have any standards in place. She stated that the Planning Department is trying to deal with tree preservation as a condition of new plats, but does not have the staff to do the inspections. Chair Mesich stated that he felt the city would need a forester on staff if a tree preservation ordinance were adopted. .