4.5. SR 08-04-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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City of Elk Request for Action River To Item Number Mayor and City Council 4.5 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by Consent August 4, 2014 Cal Portner, City Administrator Item Description Reviewed by Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council Letter of Intent for Acquisition of Houlton Farm Reviewed by Action Requested Approve,by motion,a letter indicating the City of Elk River intent to acquire the Houlton farm property for the purpose of a natural habitat and hunting area. Background/Discussion The City of Elk River Parks and Recreation Commission has identified and recommended the city acquire the Houlton farm property for public use. The city has been made aware of an opportunity to acquire the property through the use of funds from Minnesota's Legacy,a sales tax program that funds grant programs to acquire and protect specific properties for restricted uses. The Trust for Public Land is willing to add the Houlton farm property to their acquisition list and transfer the property to the City of Elk River for stewardship. Owning the land would require city financial investment and management of the property for public use as a habitat conservation area and hunting reserve. The city would be restricted from adding most permanent public infrastructure improvements such as permanent or impervious roads, trails, and landings and may be required to remove existing buildings on the property. The attached letter outlines the city's intent to acquire and maintain the property with the restrictions required by the grant. Financial Impact The city will need to master plan the restoration of conservation area habitat and fund the restoration, maintenance, operations, and possible building demolition. Attachments • Letter of Intent to the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council • Sample Notice of Funding Restrictions P a w E A E U a r NaA f RE]