12-05-2006 HPC MIN - Laserfiche WebLink

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Heritage Preservation Commission December 5, 2006 Page 3 might mean "re-claiming" the Mississippi River (view). The area needs to prosper, which will be a challenge. Scott discussed birding books that Elk River is referenced in by Vernon Bailey (1893... chief biologist for the Smithsonian at the time) and/or T.S. Roberts (1932, Birds ofMinnerota). He stated that he would provide that information to Commissioner Kragness. Scott was thanked for attending and providing the update for the Commission. He left the meeting. Commissioner Gongoll questioned Commissioners Lindberg and Nadeau as to how the meeting was, and whether the members listened to each other. Commissioner Lindberg responded that it was a fair meeting. Each person was asked what the downtown area means to them and each person was given time to speak. Commissioner Gongoll questioned where the HPC can help the representatives on the Task Force (primarily Commissioner Lindberg). Rebecca commented that her understanding is that the HPC needs to have actual, written policies. Commissioner Nadeau specified what Scott said. Rebecca referred to the goals from October 11, 2004. Commissioner Nadeau stated there is a need to be detailed. Commissioner Lindberg commented that he felt there were two main areas. He objected to such broad areas. Discussion followed regarding areas to have within the scope of the project and a progression (through prioritization). Commissioner Gongoll questioned whether it could be stated that all residential areas need to be preserved within the scope of the project due to their historical character. Rebecca stated that she doesn't feel that would be detailed enough. Commissioner Lindberg discussed the Comprehensive Plan and information within a study conducted several years ago. Commissioner Kragness suggested the City research funds for updating homes that could entice the local finance community. He mentioned the Preservation Alliance of MN and suggested Commission members check out their website if they've never heard of it before. Commissioner Lindberg stated that one of his objections is that the residential areas are now "on the table" and he questioned what is wrong with the zoning as it is now. He added that very few homes are in tough shape. Commissioner Gongoll questioned why the zoning would be "messed with". Discussion followed that the commissioners would like to see the neighborhoods preserved as residential, single family homes. Commissioner Gongoll commented upon the residential homes along Jackson Avenue. He stated that he doesn't feel that they are as critical as some other areas and asked if the area is zoned commercial. Rebecca checked the zoning and stated it is zoned as PUD (planned unit development) with some commercial area. Discussion followed that neighborhoods need to be defined. Preservation can be helped with design guidelines.