8.3.B. PRSR 10-12-2005 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Item # 8.3.B. rover MEMORANDUM TO: Parks and Recreation Commission FROM: Bill Maertz, Parks and Recreation Director DATE: October 6, 2005 SUBJECT: Potential Park Acquisition in NE Elk River ITEM: Potential Purchase of 20-acre pazcel in NE Elk River BACKGROUND: The owner of a twenty-acre pazcel on CR 21 (Brook Road) in NE Elk River has approached Parks and Recreation Staff regarding the purchase of their properly for parkland. The Director and Park Planner toured the properly and had the following observations. • The property has an easy access and a high visibility entrance on CR 21 • The 20-acre parcel represents a microcosm of the geography and biology of Elk River. There are oak woods, birch forest, wetlands, ponds, a cattail marsh, hay fields, • The Trott Brook runs through the property. • The NRI indicates that it contains moderate quality woodland with high restoration potential. • The SE portion of the property would be suitable for an athletic field • The existing mowed trails provide a template for a paved trail system that could be developed with minimal clearing. Overall, staff believes that the multiple options for recreation on this site make it worth considering. Staff has commissioned an appraisal, and has encouraged the property owner to have their own appraisal done as well. The appraisal has not been completed as of October 6, but if is complete by the October 14`h Pazk Commission meeting staff will provide copies to Commissioners. Staff has contacted the DNR about the grant potential of the property, and believes that a grant is unlikely due the limited size of the property. The owner has indicated a willingness to receive payments over a 5-year period. A location map has been attached. The entrance to the property has a red livestock gate. The property owner has given permission for staff and Park Commissioners to tour the property. Commissioners have an oppomuiity to tour the property prior to the Park