03-29-1999 PC MIN - SPECIAL - Laserfiche WebLink

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. . . City Council Minutes March 29, 1999 Page 3 homeowner then has the responsibility to remove the tree, and they may not replace it. Further discussion followed regarding inclusion of a tree replacement policy based on a given ratio. Councilmember Motin suggested if a developer does not feel he can plant the required number of replacement trees on site, the trees could be replaced off site, if necessary. Chair Cote noted a consensus of the Planning Commission and City Council to begin work on a tree preservation ordinance. Mayor Klinzing stated that Tim Edgeton, Sherburne County Forest Resource Specialist, has expressed his willingness to provide his assistance in establishing a policy. Commissioner Thompson indicated that the focus should not be on only preserving the high quality trees, because, in many cases, poor quality trees provide wildlife habitat. Parks and Open Space: Commissioner Kuester stated she felt the city needs to identify property for an area wide park east of Highway 169. She expressed concern for the lack of sidewalks and trails to connect to the proposed pedestrian overpass. Discussion followed regarding inclusion of wetlands in park dedication and how density is determined. Schools: Mayor Klinzing indicated that the School District is discussing the purchase of the Holzem property east of Highway 169 off Country Road No. 12. The school board has expressed an interest in a joint park endeavor with the city. Density and Development Patterns: Chair Cote asked the Council members their opinion regarding townhome density. Mayor Klinzing indicated that she did not feel it was the city's responsibility to ensure a developer made the maximum dollars on a town home project. She indicated that the highest and best use of a particular property may not necessarily be in the best interest of Elk River as a whole. Councilmember Motin felt there is a need for multi-family housing and questioned where it would go, if the multi-family zoned property is nearly used up. City Administrator Pat Klaers indicated that a large amount of multi-family apartment housing was constructed in the early 1980' s. Due to this drastic increase in available multi-family housing, the City Council felt there was not a need for creating more until the existing property was used up. Pat noted that Elk River has good balance of housing opportunities and that the percentage of the multi- family housing stock may even be slightly higher than average. Council member Motin questioned if a proposal to redevelop the area east of Highway 169 and north of Main Street has ever been considered. Pat Klaers indicated that staff feels this will likely happen someday.