Laserfiche WebLink
<br /> <br /> <br /> <br />Economic Development Commission Meeting <br />July 16, 1986 <br />Page Two <br /> <br />4. RDF <br /> <br />A discussion of the proposed RDF facility in Elk River followed. Mayor Dick <br />Hinkle stressed that he felt it was very important that all members of the <br />Commission become knowledgeable on the subject of the RDF processing plant <br />and burn unit. Mayor Hinkle explained that the RDF has become .a very controversial <br />issue and there seems to be much conflicting information being passed around. <br />Mayor Hinkle discussed the apparent confusion of mass-burn units and RDF and <br />the difference between the two types of operations. <br /> <br />Chairman Gongoll stated that he felt the issue has become a very emotional <br />issue and the facts are being swept aside. Chairman Gongoll stated that he <br />felt that there are many U.P.A. people who are residents of Elk River and <br />that it would seem unlikely for them to be involved in a project that would <br />be detrimental to their own community. <br /> <br />Mr. Glennie stated that he felt other industries interested in Elk River would <br />be observing the City's position in this issue, as the RDF would be classified <br />as industrial development. <br /> <br />Keith Holme stated that he was concerned about groundwater pollution and that <br />the RDF appears to be a favorable alternative to landfills. <br /> <br />Mayor Hinkle discussed the reasoning behind selecting Elk River as a site; <br />that NSP was looking for a site in close proximity to the burn unit. He stated <br />that the 37 acre site happened to come up for sale and appears to be a logical <br />site for an industry of this type. He commented that if this facility proves <br />to be economically feasible and environmentally safe, it would be a definite <br />asset to the City's tax base and a boost to the City's general fund. <br /> <br />Frank Madsen discussed his concerns regarding landfills. <br /> <br />Discussion was carried on regarding the Elk River Landfill and the City's <br />plans to test for groundwater pollution. Frank Madsen stated that approximately <br />$4,000-$5,000 has been budgeted by Sherburne County for well testing. Pat <br />Klaers, City Administrator, stated that their consultant will submit a report <br />to determine the extent of the problem of groundwater pollution. <br /> <br />Discussion was carried on regarding phone surveys being conducted. <br /> <br />Jackie Schuelein expressed her feeling that it was important that those in <br />favor of the proposed RDF facility be represented at the public hearings to be <br />held. <br /> <br />It was the consensus of the Commission Members that they would like a condensed <br />EIS Report if available, and also information on the conditions of the City's <br />Conditional Use Permit for the RDF facility. <br /> <br />5. Chairman Gongoll stated that there is some expansion being planned in the Elk <br />River Industrial Park, and that Alltool has already expanded as well as Elk <br />River Machine. <br />