01-12-2005 PR MIN - WORKSHOP
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MEETING OF THE ELK RIVER
PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION WORKSHOP
HELD AT CITY HALL
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2005
Members Present:
Chair Peterson, Commissioners Kuester, Polston-Hork, Nystrom,
Anderson, Paige and Niziolek
Council Liaison:
Council Member Gumphrey
Staff Present:
Bill Maertz, Parks and Recreation Director
1. Call Meeting To Order
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting of the Elk River Parks and Recreation
Commission was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Chair Peterson.
2. Discuss Land Acquisition
Commissioners discussed future park acquisitions and funding mechanisms.
Director of Parks and Recreation, Bill Maertz stated that with the increase of land prices, the
larger parcels under consideration were too expensive to purchase with park dedication
funds. Discussion focused on identifying key parts of the large parcels that have particular
value as recreational space. Land along the Elk River and Mississippi were rated most
desirable.
Some smaller parcels adjacent to Camp Cozy, with Elk River frontage, were thought to be
obtainable at reasonable prices because they are in floodplain. Commissioner Kuester is
familiar with the landowner and will approach him to determine if he has an interest in
selling.
Land prices are currendy about $20,000 per acre outside the urban service district. At this
price, the park dedication fund would be depleted with the purchase of one area wide or
community park. Mr. Maertz stated that the park master plan identifies the long-term need
for four additional community parks in this area, and that it would likely require a
referendum and bonding to finance it.
Commissioners agreed that a referendum would be needed to implement the park master
plan.
3. Adiournment
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
q~,,~
RaeAnn Gardner
Recording Secretary