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<br />. <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />City Council Minutes <br />April 10, 2006 <br /> <br />Page 7 <br /> <br />Mr. Maertz stated that if we include hiring a consultant in the 2007 budget that staff could be <br />prepared to start with request for proposals in January, completing the process in six- <br />months, and if support is indicated to have a referendum in Fall of 2007 or Spring of 2008. <br /> <br />Commissioner Niziolek stated that the timing of an election depends on the economy and <br />what the school district brings forward. He stated that he feels there needs to be a <br />discussion with the school board and to look at the economy before deciding. <br /> <br />Mr. Maertz stated that if the value really is to become known as the city with the great parks <br />and trails, to place the question on the ballot of the election were most people are going to <br />turnout, and not to try to strategize but put it out for the most voters. <br /> <br />Councilmember Dietz stated that once people realize we are spending hundreds of <br />thousands of dollars on parks they will realize we are trying to go forward for their benefit <br />and develop the parks so they can take full advantage of them. <br /> <br />Councilmember Gumphrey inquired what will be done from now until a future consultant is <br />hired to work with future developers. <br /> <br />Mr. Maertz stated that he will work with Chris Leeseberg to develop a new trail Master Plan <br />and bring this before the Park and Recreation Commission and for council approval in May. <br /> <br />Commissioner Niziolek stated that another tool to use is the NRI and this guides us as to <br />strategic properties that should be acquired and preserved. He stated that if we develop a <br />program for transfer development rights, it would buy us time to acquire those parcels. 'Ibis <br />would help us to set our community up to have sufficient open space without burdening us <br />fmancially. He stated that Chis ago County does this currently. <br /> <br />Mayor Klinzing stated that she is glad that tlle commission and council were able to have <br />this discussion and that she knows everyone will work together. She thanked the members <br />for their hard work. <br /> <br />7.0. Adjournment <br /> <br />The meeting of the Elk River City Council adjourned at 8:12 p.m. <br /> <br />