4.4. SR 02-18-2003 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Volunteer Commissions Elk River Park and Recreation Commission 1987-2002 My years on the Commission have seen a lot of changes in its role within city governrnent. One of our earlier major projects was having a contest that resulted in the naming of Woodland Trails Park. Since then we have come a long way to currently being a very strong, well-balanced group that plays an important role in recreation activities and in the identification, protection and development of parks in the City of Elk River. I am most proud of the following accomplishments during my tenure: Acquisition of the abandoned Burlington Northern Railroad (currently known as the Great Northern Trail) within the city. Dedication of 50 acr~"$f property from a local gravel mining company, which is currently part of Top-of-the-World Park and adjacent tO the Great Northern Trail. Acquisition of 30 acres of wooded, terminal moraine adjacent to the above 50 acres. Saving 10 acres of mature white oak trees, south of the fair grounds, from development. Sherburne County Park Commission 1992-2002 ltaelped found the Sherburne County Park Commission in 1992 and served as its chairman for seven years. The most important accomplishments while on the Commission include: Starting the process to re-acquire the abandoned Burlington Northern Railroad from Elk River to Princeton. This land was lost to private ownership because the county did not want to purchase it at the same time that the city was able to acquire their portion. Realistically the county will only be able to get about 75% of the grade back; furthermore, it will take decades and will cost between 50 and 100 times mote than it would have if it had been purchased when it was first available. Approval of a modest park plan in 1997.