6.3. SR 04-10-2006
City of Elk River
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
Agenda Section Meeting Date
J oint Meeting with Parks and April 10, 2006
Recreation Commission
Item Description
Future Referendum for Parks and Trails
Item Number
6.3
Prepared by
Bill Maertz, Parks and Recreation
Director
Reviewed by
Lori ohnson, Ci Administrator
Introduction
Discussion of a potential referendum for parks and trails development.
Discussion
. The 5 year Capital Improvement plan, revised in 2004 totals $4,296,400.
. The trail development estimate is $4,000,000.
. The purchase of Pinewood will have some impact on the park dedication fund balance.
. Land acquisition, even with matching grants, will be substantial but should be pursued as soon
as possible due to rapidly increasing land prices.
. Athletic associations are advocating for field development due to a shortage of ball fields.
These are all important projects that will add to the quality of life in Elk River. In addition, these
expenditures can be seen as an investment that will show a long-range return in property values and
quality real estate investment.
Staff recommends that in 2007 the park dedication budget should include funds to revise and update the
1997 Park System Master Plan. As part of this process, a consultant would work with staff to hold an
extensive series of public meetings. This "visioning process" would create a system plan that reflects
resident's values. This in turn, would give residents "ownership" of the funding solutions, such as a
referendum.
Financial Impact
Staff found four recent system plans completed:
Hassan Township $38,000
Minnetrista $40,000
Independence $68,000 (lots of public process)
Mankato $38,000
Attachments
None
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Action Requested
Authorize staff to request proposals for updating and revising the park system master plan in 2007 at a
cost of approximately $45,000.
Council Action
Motion by _
Second by _
Vote
Follow Up
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