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HomeMy WebLinkAbout10.10.07 meeting packet - - __n___ C I T Y o F NDOVE 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. -ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 - (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 - WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US Andover Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Agenda October 10, 2007 Andover City Hall Conference Rooms A & B 7:00 n.m. 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Minutes - September 12, 2007 and September 26,2007 3. Discuss changes to Parks and Open Space Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan 4. Other Business a. Next meeting 5. Adjournment .' 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. . ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 . (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 . WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Courtney Bednarz, City Plann~ SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes - September 12, 2007 and September 26, 2007 DATE: October 10,2007 INTRODUCTION The Commission is asked to review and approve the minutes from the last two meetings. DISCUSSION Please share any changes to the minutes at the meeting. ACTION REQUESTED A motion, second and vote are necessary to approve the minutes. . C I T Y o F NDOVE 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD NW. . ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 · (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 . WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Courtney Bednarz, City Plannl( SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes - September 12, 2007 and September 26, 2007 DATE: October 10, 2007 INTRODUCTION The Commission is asked to review and approve the minutes from the last two meetings. DISCUSSION Please share any changes to the minutes at the meeting. ACTION REOUESTED A motion, second and vote are necessary to approve the minutes. --------------- . 1 2 3 4 5 6 REGULAR ANDOVER OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING 7 SEPTEMBER 12, 2007 8 MINUTES 9 10 11 The Regular Meeting of the Andover Open Space Advisory Commission was called to order by 12 Chairperson Deric Deischle, September 12, 2007, 7:05 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685 13 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. 14 15 Commissioners present: Chairperson Deric Deischle, Commissioners Gretchen Sabel, Jody 16 Keppers, Winslow Holasek, Bruce Perry and Kim Kovich 17 Commissioners absent: Commissioner Jim Olson 18 Also present: City Planner, Courtney Bednarz 19 Others 20 21 22 APPROVAL OF MINUTES 23 24 August 9,2007 25 26 Commissioner Keppers indicated Chairman Deischle's name was not listed under 27 Commissioners present. 28 29 Motion by Commissioner Perry, seconded by Commissioner Keppers, to approve the minutes as 30 presented. Motion carried on a 4-ayes, O-nays, 3-absent (Holasek, Olson, Sabel) vote 31 32 Commissioner Sabel arrived at 7:07 p.m. 33 34 35 PRESENTATION OF NATURAL FEATURES INFORMATION/ANOKA CONSERVATION 36 DISTRICT 37 38 Mr. Bednarz introduced Josh Williams from the Anoka Conservation District who made a 39 presentation to the Commission regarding Natural Features Information. 40 41 Commissioner Holasek arrived at 7:11 p.m. 42 43 Mr. Williams reviewed two Conservation Opportunities in Andover maps with the Commission. 44 45 Commissioner Perry wondered what the definition of Conservation Corridors was. Mr. Williams' 46 explained the definition to the Commission. 47' 48 Mr. Williams reviewed with the Commission the potential scope of services that are provided by the --~---- -------- - ------ Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes - September 12, 2007 Page 2 1 Anoka Conservation District along with a Memorandum ofDnderstanding. 2 3 Commissioner Kovich stated when making up the maps, it may be nice to break down ownership, 4 current parks, State or County land, school land, etc: He wondered if a map like this could be put 5 together. Mr. Williams stated they could put together a pretty up to date map and they can do 6 different things with the data. 7 8 Commissioner Kovich wondered what materials would consist of. Mr. Williams stated they would 9 charge for printing of large maps and other items along with !ime. 10 11 Chairperson Deischle stated he would like to further discuss the Memorandum of Understanding 12 (MOD) because he thought this would be a recommendation to the City Council. 13 14 Commissioner Kovich asked if Mr. Bednarz reviewed the MOD. Mr. Bednarz indicated he reviewed 15 it at the meeting. Commissioner Kovich wondered if the City Attorney should review this. Mr. 16 Bednarz stated they could have the City Attorney review this if needed. 17 18 Mr. Williams indicated he forgot to print out Exhibit A and would email it to Mr. Bednarz for 19 Commission review. 20 21 Chairperson Deischle stated he envisioned the scope of service to be similar to what was presented 22 and he did not see any reason why they would turn this down. He stated he did not have a problem 23 with green lighting this project. Commissioner Keppers agreed along with Commissioner Sabel. 24 25 Commissioner Keppers stated since Mr. Williams will only be here until the end of the year and the 26 project would be done in June 2008, he thought they should move forward on this sooner than later. 27 28 Commissioner Sabel wondered if they could use the potential scope of services to indicate what they 29 would be interested in. 30 31 Commissioner Kovich stated being on the Board at the Anoka Conservation District, he thought they 32 should approve Mr. Williams because the main cost to them would be the cost of materials but he 33 thought the City could print out a lot of the items. He stated Mr. Williams is the grant person but 34 there are other people in the organization that can carry on after Mr. Williams is not there. 35 36 Chairperson Deischle indicated he would be willing to recommend to the City Council requesting 37 Anoka Conservation District (ACD) to write up attachment A with the Scope of Services. Mr. 38 Bednarz indicated before a motion can be made, they need to get the Exhibit A from Mr. Williams in 39 order for the City Council to review and possibly approve it. 40 41 Commissioner Sabel wondered if City Staff would have time to work with ACD on this. Mr. 42 Bednarz indicated they would. 43 44 Commissioner Sabel asked what the zones would mean. Chairperson Desichle thought it was just a ~----- -- ------ Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes - September 12, 2007 Page 3 1 way to pair down the area and did not have significant differences. He thought it was a mapping of 2 keeping track of where things are. Commissioner Sabel wondered why they cannot look at this as 3 corridors instead of zones. Mr. Bednarz thought they would still use corridors but zoning was to 4 prioritize areas and to figure out who was in the phases they needed to work with. 5 6 The Commission discussed what they wanted to have the ACD to work on for them. 7 8 Commissioner Sabel thought a use for the zones would be to have goals for each zone and look at 9 this before they look at parcel by parcel. 10 11 Chairperson Deischle thought they would not be getting review of any of the platunless they indicate 12 they would like to review ones they were interested in for open space. Mr. Bednarz stated they could 13 indicate areas within the development corridor they should be communicating through the 14 development process. 15 16 Mr. Bednarz indicated they would refine the Exhibit A and refine the map and come to the next 17 meeting for recommendation to the Council. 18 19 Mr. Bednarz stated staff would like to have more collaboration with ACD throughout the process. 20 21 Motion by Commissioner Perry, seconded by Commissioner Keppers, to allowiACD to continue to 22 work on what was previously agreed to. Motion carried on a 5 ayes, 0 nays, 1 abstain (Kovich), 1 23 absent (Olson). 24 25 26 DISCUSS SITE SELECTION CRITERIA/PARKS AND OPEN SPAde CHAPTER OF 27 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 28 29 Chairperson Deischle reviewed what was discussed at the previous meeting with the Commission. 30 31 Commissioner Keppers thought a lot of what they have been talking about relates to this.topic. 32 33 Commissioner Perry wondered if they were looking at the criteria from the Comprehensive Plan. 34 Chairperson Deischle indicated that was correct. Mr. Bednarz stated the langUage came from their 35 existing Comprehensive Plan and is a draft form of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment. He 36 thought they could be more specific in the criteria if they want to be. 37 38 Chairperson Deischle did not think the Comprehensive Plan needed to have their point system and 39 grading for potential open space areas but it could have more detail. He thought they could apply 40 criteria as a bullet point in the plan. He stated their criteria may be more specific than what is listed. 41 42 Commissioner Sabel wondered if they should have their criteria done and in the update for public 43 hearing of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment this fall. Mr. Bednarz thought it would be a good 44 idea. He stated there is room in there to discuss this monthly until they get the criteria figured out. . Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes - September 12, 2007 Page 4 1 2 Commissioner Kovich thought as a group they should put up all the criteria they wanted and then go 3 through them individually. 4 5 Commissioner Sabel wondered if it would be better to have a worksession rather than a formal 6 meeting in a couple of weeks to go over the criteria they have started to mention and this would give 7 them some traction because she did not think they were getting very far at their meetings. 8 9 Commissioner Keppers stated he would be in favor of a worksession in a couple of weeks rather than 10 waiting an entire month before meeting again. Commissioner Sabel thought it was a way to sit down 11 and go over the specific criteria. 12 13 Commission concurrence was to have a worksession for September 26,2007 at 7:00 p.m. 14 15 Motion by Commissioner Sabel, seconded by Commissioner Kovich, to schedule a worksession for 16 September 26, 2007 at 7:00 p.m. Motion carried on a 6 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent (Olson). 17 18 19 RECEIVE INFORMATION ON 2006 CITIZEN SURVEY 20 21 Chairperson Deischle thought the survey was very interesting. Commissioner Perry stated he found 22 it interesting that Parks and Open Space were high priority on the survey. 23 24 Commissioner Perry wondered how much per household the cost was for the Open Space 25 Referendum. Commissioner Sabel thought it was around $8.00 per$100,000. 26 27 Commissioner Sabel thought Item 3 was the most important item in the survey regarding open space. 28 She thought people in Andover thought differently than other communities in the area because they 29 have different site lines and a blend of forests, wetland and communities. 30 31 32 OTHER BUSINESS 33 34 Mr. Bednarz reviewed the 2007 Conservation Seminar with the Commission and recapped what was 35 discussed at the seminar and the different areas and places they can look for help in planning the 36 Open Space. He stated there are people who can assist them with communicating with the 37 homeowners on an individual basis. They need to fmd out what the property owners vision for their 38 land is and there are people out there that can help them with this. There are a lot more approaches 39 out there beside Conservation Easements. There are a number of different tax incentives and 40 programs that people can take advantage of for sales of properties and the City has different 41 resources they can use to communicate this to the property owners who are looking to sell. 42 43 Commissioner Kovich asked if Mr. Bednarz would recommend attending this. Mr. Bednarz stated 44 he would because it was very helpful. . Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes - September 12, 2007 Page S 1 2 A. Next Meeting 3 4 October 10, 2007 will be the next Open Space Commission meeting. S 6 Motion by Commissioner Perry, Seconded by Commissioner Kovich, to adjoUrn.. Motion carried 7 unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. 8 9 Respectfully submitted, 10 11 Susan Osbeck, Recording Secretary - - ~- , . I DRAFT 2 ANDOVER OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING - SEPTEMBER 26,2007 3 MINUTES 4 5 6 The Regular Meeting of the Andover Open Space Advisory Commission was called to order by 7 Chairman Deric Deuschle, September 26, 2007, 7:12 p.m., at the Andover City Hall," 1685 8 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota. 9 10 Commissioners present: Gretchen Sabel, Bruce Perry, Jim Olson, Jody Keppers, and Kim 11 Kovich. Winslow Holasek (arrived at 7:15 p.m.). 12 Commissioners absent: Jim Olson 13 Also present: City Planner, Courtney Bednarz 14 15 16 17 REVIEW REVISED MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH ANOKA 18 CONSERVATION DISTRICT 19 20 The Commission discussed the proposed agreement with the Anoka Conservation District 21 (ACD). It was noted that the timetable was left open ended and that the agreement indicated that" 22 ACD would provide a staff planner to assist the city as necessary to complete the project. The 23 Commisison also discussed the June 8, 2008 deadline for payment and observed that this was the 24 deadline for the grant ACD has with the Legislative Citizen Commission on Minnesota 25 Resources (LCCMR). The Commission corrected the discrepancy regarding the number of hours 26 necessary to complete Task C from 18 to 16 hours in the table as indicated in the text of the 27 agreement. The Commission also corrected the billable hours for Task B listed in the table from 28 13 to 15 hours. The total billable hours remained 62 hours. 29 30 Motion by Sabel, Seconded by Perry, to recommend approval of the agreement with the Anoka 31 Conservation District. Motion carried unanimously. 32 33 REVIEW NATURAL RESOURCE MAPPING 34 35 The Commission discussed the maps that were included in the packet. Various methods for 36 presenting information in the future were discussed, including showing wetland and floodplain areas 37 in gray along with unprotected natural features to illustrate their relationship. The use of smaller 38 zones to evaluate parcel level detail was discussed. It was noted that the city looks much more open 39 as you travel through it than the patches of natural areas on the maps indicate. The use of a projector 40 to allow layers of information to be turned on and off was suggested. 41 42 43 ---- . . Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting Minutes - September 26, 2007 Page 2 1 2 DISCUSS CHANGES TO PARKS AND OPEN SPACE CHAPTER OF THE 3 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN 4 5 The Commission discussed and edited each of the open space site selection criteria and noted 6 that these items are better described as evaluation criteria. The Commission indicated that 7 definitions for the evaluation criteria would be helpful and that a ranking system within each 8 criterion may be necessary to objectify the evaluation process. The Commission discussed the 9 evaluation criteria as a guide for the natural resource inventory to be conducted by the Anoka 10 Conservation District. It was determined that staff would edit the plan as discussed by the 11 Commission for review at the next meeting. 12 13 14 OTHER BUSINESS 15 16 There was none. 17 18 19 ADJOURNMENT 20 21 Motion by Kovich, Seconded by Keppers, to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously. The meeting 22 adjourned at 9:12 p.m. 23 24 Respectfully submitted, 25 26 27 Courtney Bednarz 28 -.--- -.---- - 5'\NDbVE~ 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. . ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 · (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 . WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Courtney Bednarz, City Plann~ SUBJECT: Discuss changes to Parks and Open Space Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan DATE: October 10, 2007 INTRODUCTION The entire chapter, including the changes discussed at the last meeting and a few other changes suggested by others, is attached. DISCUSSION The Commission also discussed providing definitions for some of the terms. Staff believes that the clarifications suggested by the Commission at the last meeting already serve this purpose. The Commission also briefly discussed a ranking system at the last meeting. The ranking system used by Washington County is attached as an example. The Commission is asked to determine the extent of the ranking system that will be used. ACTION REQUESTED The Commission is asked to review and discuss the attached information. Attachments Parks and Open Space Chapter Washington County Project Evaluation Criteria --.-- - - - )l.\NDbVE~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT Parks and Open Space Goals, Objectives and Policies Goal 1: Provide parks and facilities that meet present park needs and plan for the future needs of the city Objectives: a. Maintain and upgrade current park facilities b. Evaluate existing conditions and future growth projections to determine the types of parks and facilities needed to complete the park system c. Provide more passive recreation opportunities d. Provide for a balance among active and passive recreation areas and activities e. Provide recreation facilities for all age groups and abilities within the city f. Design and maintain recreation areas with appropriate lighting, landscaping, parking, and shelter design g. Consider the Site Selection Criteria established in the Parks and Open Space Plan and the standards of the Nationa/ Recreation and Park Association in the planning and design of the park system Policies: . Implement a maintenance schedule for the grounds and facilities within the current park system . Aggregate resources from local, state and federal sources to complete planned improvements as scheduled in the Capital Improvement Plan . Maintain and Update the Park Study as a guide for the number, size, type and location of parks and facilities needed to complete the park system to serve the needs of residents . Accept only lands suitable for park and recreation purposes as fulfillment of the parkland dedication requirements. . Utilize the Capital Improvement Plan to schedule replacement of existing park facilities and installation of new facilities . Utilize the Park and Recreation Commission to advise the Council on matters relating to parks, recreation and park facilities ------- - - .- 5'\NDbvlf~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT . Provide regulations and policies for park use and park dedication . Consider the adopted Guidelines for Field Usage by Youth Athletic Associations . Work cooperatively with other organizations and government agencies to enhance local and regional park systems Goal 2: Promote, protect, preserve and enhance the City's natural and open space for the enjoyment of residents, protection of water and air quality and the preservation of wildlife habitat Objectives: a. Consider development of passive, nature-related recreation or conservancy areas on sites otherwise considored unsuitablo for development found to be suitable for these purposes b. Identify appropriate areas for preservation through analysis of natural features, the Site Selection Criteria established in the Parks and Open Space Plan and the Land Use Plan c. Plan for and Provide connections with the park and trail systems in a manner that both preserves and allows public enjoyment of natural areas d. Seek to provide buffer areas adiacent to sianificant natural resources and parks Policies: . Work collaboratively with property owners in the preservation of open space . Utilize conservation easements, fee title acquisition and other methods as necessary to permanently protect open space . Prepare, implement and monitor the effectiveness of conservation plans that address the specific characteristics of the various types of natural areas . Utilize the Open Space Advisory Commission to advise the Council on matters concerning preservation of open space . Prevent incompatible land uses from locating adjacent to parks and open space areas through implementation of the Land Use Plan and zoning regulations . Work cooperatively with other organizations and government agencies to acquire and enhance open space areas within the city 2 ~NDbVE~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT Open Space A plan for the preservation of open space is necessary to protect natural areas from development, as well as to protect water and air quality and to preserve wildlife habitat. The city has worked cooperatively with a variety of resource protection organizations and government agencies to enhance natural areas within the existing park system and to protect floodplain and wetlands.:. in areas outside of the park system. In 2006, tRe voters Andover residents approved a bond referendum to provide a dedicated funding source for the preservation of open space. INSERT PROGRESS PRIOR TO FINAL DRAFT... Since that time the city has establishod an Open Space Adyisory Commission, prepared a community wide natural resource inventory and established policies to guide this effort... The Council subseQuently established an Open Space Advisory Commission to develop preservation recommendations. The Commission. in cooperation with the Anoka Conservation District, prepared a natural resource inventory as a basis for these recommendations. Open Space Evaluation and Site Selection Criteria And Acquisition Policies The city has established criteria to evaluate sites for their potential to fulfill the needs identified by the plans and studies described earlier in this chapter. preservation opportunities. The following criteria are used to properly evaluate sites for the location of parks, recreation facilities and open space preservation afeaS. a) Open Space: The City of Andover will select evaluate open space sites for open space preservation opportunities based on the following criteria: i) The area provides an opportunity to protect and preserve significant local natural resources, including: . Sensitive Groundwater recharge areas and natural hydrological systems . Natural hydroloaical systems . Forests :md Native plant communities . Buffer areas adjacent to lakes. streams and wetlands . Natural buffer areas adiacent to upland natural plant and animal communities . Unique biological, geological, historical and archaeological sites . Lands important as wildlife oontaining signifioant areas of natural habitat,..-aAG thre::Jtened or corridors or endangered species of plants or animals . Threatened or endanaered species of plants or animals . Educationally valuable features . Sites of exceptional aesthetic quality . Other Notable Features. includina historical. educational. archaeoloaical. aesthetic, and other features 3 - -- ------- - --- ---- -- - ~NDbVE~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT ii) The area to be protected is of Sufficient in size to preserve and enhance natural resources iii) The area presents an opportunity to protect significant natural resources that would otherwise be negatively affected by urban development or negligence iv) The area connects or expands corridors of floodplain and wotlands. iv) The area provides opportunities for passive recreation and observation of the natural environment along trail corridors Vf) The area provides views of the natural environment along majGF transportation corridors includina roads and trails. b) The City of Andover will select sites for open space preservation based on the number and value of the evaluation criteria present. Other factors may be considered, includina the amount of similar resources that exist, the location of the area, the amount of fundina available, and others. Park Land Site Selection Criteria 9!) P::uk Land: The City of .t\ndover '....i11 select park sites based on the following criteria: The city has established criteria to evaluate sites for their potential to fulfill the needs identified by the plans and studies described earlier in this chapter. The followina criteria are used to properly evaluate sites for the location of parks, recreation facilities i) The area is in close proximity to particular natural resources, such as lakes, rivers and other unique features ii) The area is sufficient in size to allow the user to experience the natural resource and enjoy compatible recreation activities without degrading the natural resource or the visitor's experience iii) The area is suitable for recreation opportunities that complement those provided by other city parks and county and regional agencies iv) The area is geographically located to fulfill and not duplicate the type of ark and facilities needed to serve the present needs of residents and the needs of the long range projected population in the service area v) The area is located where it will be easily accessible 4 - - - - - - -- .- )l.\NDbVE~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT vi) The area is physically suitable for types of facilities that are needed in the service area vii) The area has sufficient size and flexibility to provide a variety of recreation opportunities and the capacity to be adapted to the changing needs of residents in the future viii) The area can provide linkage to the trail system, open space corridors or other parks Public Controls or Ownership e!) Public Controls or O'.Amership: The City of Andover recognizes that official public controls and/or public ownership may be desirable and in some cases essential to: i) Assure public land availability for future generations although the current need may not be imperative ii) Protect a significant resource threatened by development, deterioration, neglect or inordinate increase in land values iii) Preserve unique or significant landscape features, including geographical, historical and archaeological iv) Provide open space v) Meet both active and passive recreation needs al;!) Methods of Acquisition: To assure protection and availability of public land, the City of Andover shall utilize various methods of acquisition, including but not limited to: i) City purchase . Negotiated purchase with willing seller when possible . Eminent domain may be utilized if an overriding public need can be established and 2006 Open Space Bond Referendum funds are not utilized ii) County or regional funding iii) State purchase iv) Conservation Easements v) Purchase or transfer of development rights vi) Assistance and/or cost-sharing with other agencies vii) Donations/bequests/foundations viii) Tax forfeited land 5 --~_._- _._-~--_.__.._- - WASHINGTON COUNTY LAND AND WATER LEGACY PROGRAM PROJECT EVALUATION CRITERIA The following criteria will be used to evaluate proposals for the Washington County Land and Water Legacy Program. At its sole discretion, the county reserves the right to reject any or all proposals. I. GENERAL For parcels to be considered for the acquisition and improvement of the land or an interest in the land through the Land and Water Legacy Program it must meet one of the program purposes: improving water quality of rivers, lakes, and streams; protecting drinking water sources; purchasing parklands, including trail corridors; preserving wetlands and woodlands; and protecting land along water bodies from development. The following factors should be present for a parcel to be considered for the Land and Water Legacy Program. A. Purchase of Parkland and Trail Corridors Acquisition of land or interests in land within the mapped boundary of actively developing county parks and trail corridors will be considered outside the competitive process. For these parcels, the county's highest priority is for fee acquisition. When the landowner is not willing to sell fee title, the county may pursue a partial interest in the property through the purchase of a conservation easement. B. Competitive Purchase of Development Rights Process A voluntary application is submitted by the landowner or on the landowner's behalf. The applicant is willing to sell or place a permanent conservation easement on the parcel. The criteria contained herein will be used to prioritize applications and determine which projects to pursue. C. Opportunity Purchases The county may act upon a proposal needing immediate action without going through the Competitive Purcbase of Development Rights Process. These projects must have time constraints sucb as a limited time to purchase an interest in the land due to imminent sale or development or a limited time to use or apply for outside funding. D. Local Matching Grant Program The following criteria shall be met for a local unit of government to receive funds from the Purchase of Development Rights Local Matching Grant Program: (1) The county will approve funding on a parcel-by-parcel basis; and (2) The funds are to be used to protect property consistent with an officially adopted land protection plan or policy; and (3) To be eligible for the funds, the local unit of government must demonstrate a commitment to raising funds to cover at least 50% of the cost of the project (eligible costs include interests in property as well as any real estate transaction costs); and (4) The owner of the property must be willing to have the county or another unit of government hold a perpetual conservation easement over the parcel that limits future development of the parcel; and 1 (5) Payment to the local unit of government shall be made after the costs are incurred and paid for upon receipt of an invoice and proper documentation of the costs. II. EcOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS Natural areas and other open spaces provide a wide variety of environmental benefits to people. Potential parcels, if protected, could improve surface and ground water resources, stabilize soils, preserve woodlands and create natural flood storage capacity. Current and anticipated use oflands adjacent to the site should not, over time, significantly diminish the ecological quality of the site. A. Shoreland Frontage The parcel is located adjacent to an intermittent or perennial stream, river or lake. Ravine drains into water body: low Less than 1/4 mile offrontage: mediwn More than 1/4 mile offrontage: high B. Ground Water Sensitivity The parcel is located within an area identified on the Washington County Geologic Atlas as sensitive to ground water contamination. High sensitivity to ground water contamination: mediwn Very high sensitivity to ground water contamination: high Within a wellhead protection area: high C. Erosion-prone Soils and Steep Slopes The parcel is identified as being erosion prone or a steep slope according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service classifications. These are soils with a class greater than or equal to "Se". Some coverage: low About 50% coverage: mediwn 100% coverage: high D. County Biological Survey Sites The parcel contains one or more native plant communities, is relatively undisturbed and provides habitat for a wide variety of resident and/or migratory wildlife. The presence of a "state listed" species is an added value. These areas are identified on the National Areas Map created by the Department of Natural Resources Minnesota County Biological Survey project. County Biological Survey Site: low County Biological Survey Area: mediwn E. Forest Interior The parcel is a relatively large tract with a high interior to edge ratio. The parcel is located within a large block of forest interior, as shown on the "Forest Interior Criteria" map of the Green Corridor Project analysis. Some woods: low About 50% woods: mediwn 100% woods: high m. LOCATION A. Parcel Size Relative size is considered in the ranking. Multiple contiguous parcels under single ownership or a single application would be considered together. < 10 acres: low 10-40 acres: mediwn > 40 acres: high 2 ----------------- B. Connectivity The parcel is near or adjacent to other land which has already been permanently protected from development through a conservation easement, deed restriction, or public ownership. The parcel provides a corridor that promotes the movement of wildlife. Within 1/2 mi of private conservation easement or public protected land: low A4iacent to protected land and creates a corridor of local significance (shorter): mediwn A4iacent to protected land and creates a corridor of county significance (longer, contained in a state, regional or county land protection plan): high C. Buffer The parcel adds value to an existing public facility by buffering the facility from encroaching development The parcel protects the adjacent natural areas, important open spaces, rivers, streams and lakes by reducing current or future negative impacts. Some visual or ecological buffer: low Significant visual or ecological buffer: mediwn A4iacent to a county park: high D. Imminence of Threat The parcel is threatened by development pressure and fragmentation. Only a short period of time may be available to protect an area from being permanently lost or degraded. Is in no threat of development: low Only a short period of time may be available to protect the area from being permanently lost or degraded: mediwn Has been offered for sale; other offers have been made on the property: high E. Showcase The parcel, because of its size, location, ecological characteristics, or history, can further natural resource protection and provide attention, identity and stature to the Land and Water Legacy Program. The parcel is a good 'showcase' for the program e.g. it is visible to and/or useable by the public; it creates ecological connections and corridors of natural space; or it demonstrates good water quality practices. No opportunity to showcase the program: low Has one of the 'showcase' characteristics: mediwn Has more than one of the 'showcase' characteristics: high IV. PuBLIC PuRPoSE Many natural areas have the potential to serve many public purposes. In order to maximize the public investment, propriety will be given to parcels that meet the needs of multiple partners. A. Public Use/ Access Applicants who are willing to provide public access to the parcel for purposes of education, stewardship or recreation will receive additional consideration. Public use allowed but will not be in public ownership: low In public ownership but will offer limited recreational or educational opportunities: mediwn In public ownership allowing unrestricted use, and enhances cwrent recreational or educational opportunities: high 3 ------------------------- B. Multiple Public Purpose The parcel has ability to serve multiple public purposes, such as water management, recreation, environmental education, etc. One purpose: low 2 purposes: medium 3 or more fJW"poses: high C. Preservation Plans The parcel is within an area that is included in a land preservation program or plan (e.g. wild and scenic river district, local greenways plan, conservancy zone district, historic preservation district, scenic roadway, county park, etc.). The parcel is located within a corridor designated as scenic by congressional or state legislative action, by local unit of government resolution or ordinance, or some other formal method. Existing corridors include St. Croix Riverway, Mississippi National River Recreation Area and County Road 21. Within a local plan: low D~i~on~mploce:memum Regulation or other tools such as zoning in ploce to protect the surrounding area: high D. Historical Characteristics The parcel is listed as a historical site on the State Register of Historic Sites or the parcel has been registered as a Century Farm. Preserves a segment of the county's cultw'allandscape: low Century farm or other historical feature: medium On national or state register: high E. Local Support Protection of the parcel is supported by the local community and other governmental agencies, and other interested groups. Some support: low moderate support: medium great amoW'lt of support: high V. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Additional factors may warrant consideration in evaluating the project. Such factors will be reviewed, evaluated, and documented on a case-by-case basis. VI. FINANCIAL AND TECHNICAL AsSISTANCE Some parcels may quality for other financial resources such as contributions of in-kind services or matching funds from other public agencies; private or non-profit sources of funds; or a landowner willing to accept a payment of less than the value of the property or development rights. If other resources have been committed, a letter or other documentation of the commitment must accompany the application. If other resources will be available at a future time, a statement describing the availability of the resources should accompany the application. A. Likelihood for Leveraging . No opportunity for leveragingjunds has been identified: low Funding may be available from another organization: medium Funding has been committed by another organization: high B. Percent of Leverage A portion of the total project cost is contributed from non county sources. More than 0 but <50%: low 51% - 75%: medium > 75%: high 4 C. Technical Assistance Another organization is contributing staff time to complete the real estate transaction activities, the project documentation or the landowner negotiations. Some county staff time is reduced by the assistance of others: low County staff time is needed to coordinate the activities to ensure completion: medium Minimal county staff time is needed: high VII. LIABILITYffIMELINESS The parcel will not become an unacceptable legal or financial liability due to known public health or safety concerns (e.g. pollution concerns, abandoned wells, open dump sites, hazardous waste, unoccupied or degraded structures), or real estate problems or issues which would prevent reaching an agreement (e.g. title problems, survey problems, property encroachments, boundary disputes). The parcel has known public health or safety concerns: high concern The parcel has problems that will create difficulties in reaching an agreement: medium concern The project is ready to go and the acquisition can be expedited sooner than expected because some of the work is done, e.g. Phase 1, appraisal, draft conservation easement, etc.: low concern N:\WP\legacyprog\OfIControls\LegacyCriteria2007.doc 5 -- 1 . C I T Y o F NDOVE 1685 CROSSTOWN BOULEVARD N.W. . ANDOVER, MINNESOTA 55304 . (763) 755-5100 FAX (763) 755-8923 . WWW.CI.ANDOVER.MN.US TO: Andover Open Space Advisory Commission FROM: Courtney Bednarz, City Plann4 SUBJECT: Discuss changes to Parks and Open Space Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan DATE: October 10, 2007 INTRODUCTION The entire chapter, including the changes discussed at the last meeting and a few other changes suggested by others, is attached. DISCUSSION The Commission also discussed providing definitions for some of the terms. Staff believes that the clarifications suggested by the Commission at the last meeting already serve this purpose. The Commission also briefly discussed a ranking system at the last meeting. The ranking system used by Washington County is attached as an example. The Commission is asked to determine the extent of the ranking system that will be used. ACTION REQUESTED The Commission is asked to review and discuss the attached information. Attachments Parks and Open Space Chapter Washington County Project Evaluation Criteria , . 9\NDbVE~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT Parks and Open Space Goals, Objectives and Policies Goal 1 : Provide parks and facilities that meet present park needs and plan for the future needs of the city Objectives: a. Maintain and upgrade current park facilities b. Evaluate existing conditions and future growth projections to determine the types of parks and facilities needed to complete the park system c. Provide more passive recreation opportunities d. Provide for a balance among active and passive recreation areas and activities e. Provide recreation facilities for a/l age groups and abilities within the city f. Design and maintain recreation areas with appropriate lighting, landscaping, parking, and shelter design g. Consider the Site Selection Criteria established in the Parks and Open Space Plan and the standards of the National Recreation and Park Association in the planning and design of the park system Policies: . Implement a maintenance schedule for the grounds and facilities within the current park system . Aggregate resources from local, state and federal sources to complete planned improvements as scheduled in the Capital Improvement Plan . Maintain and Update the Park Study as a guide for the number, size, type and location of parks and facilities needed to complete the park system to serve the needs of residents . Accept only lands suitable for park and recreation purposes as fulfillment of the parkland dedication requirements. . Utilize the Capital Improvement Plan to schedule replacement of existing park facilities and installation of new facilities . Utilize the Park and Recreation Commission to advise the Council on matters relating to parks, recreation and park facilities ---------- --- - - - - . . ~NDbVEh 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT . Provide regulations and policies for park use and park dedication . Consider the adopted Guidelines for Field Usage by Youth Athletic Associations . Work cooperatively with other organizations and government agencies to enhance local and regional park systems Goal 2: Promote, protect, preserve and enhance the City's natural and open space for the enjoyment of residents, protection of water and air quality and the preservation of wildlife habitat Objectives: a. Consider development of passive, nature-related recreation or conservancy areas on sites othort/ise considered unsuitable for dev.elopment found to be suitable for these lJurlJoses b. Identify appropriate areas for preservation through analysis of natural features, the Site Selection Criteria established in the Parks and Open Space Plan and the Land Use Plan c. Plan for and Provide connections with the park and trail systems in a manner that both preserves and allows public enjoyment of natural areas d. Seek to IJrovide buffer areas adiacent to sianificant natural resources and lJarks Policies: . Work collaboratively with property owners in the preservation of open space . --:=, ~V.(.;.J WHeN PeA.,.mAt'F~ . .~ze conservation easements,/ke title acquisition and other methods as '~':$pA~A'Cbl'4,ecessary~permanentIY protect open space~ fML. vs~, "" t n-f- C~ r-<7 ~ " J::3~<;' ~ (Il"'t:,J · Prepare, implement and monitor the effectiveness of conservation plans that - address the specific characteristics of the various types of natural areas . Utilize the Open Space Advisory Commission to advise the Council on matters concerning preservation of open space . Prevent incompatible land uses from locating adjacent to parks and open space areas through implementation of the Land Use Plan and zoning regulations . Work cooperatively with other organizations and government agencies to acquire and enhance open space areas within the city 2 ! ~NDOVE~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT Open Space A plan for the preservation of open space is necessary to protect natural areas from development, as well as to protect water and air quality and to preserve wildlife habitat. The city has worked cooperatively with a variety of resource protection organizations and government agencies to enhance natural areas within the existing park system and to protect floodplain and wetlands.:. in are3S outside of the park system. In 2006, tRe ~ Andover residents approved a bond referendum to provide a dedicated funding source for the preservation of open space. INSERT PROGRESS PRIOR TO FINAL ~J;v DRJ\FT... Since that time the city haE: established an Open Space .^.dvisory Commission, prepared a community 'Nide natural resource inventor" and established policies to guide this effort... The Council subsequently established an Open Space l. e..~ IE Advisory Commission to develop preservation recommendations. The /KMc-.;vr Commission. in cooperation with the Anoka Conservation District. prepared a o~:'r natural resource inventory as a basis for these recommendations. Open Space Evaluation and Site Selection Criteria And Acquisition Policies The city has established criteria to evaluate sites for their potential to fulfill the needs identified by the plans and studies deE:cribed earlier in this chapter. preservation opportunities. The following criteria are used to properly evaluate sites for the location of parks, recreation facilities and open space preservation areas. a) Open Space: The City of Andover will celect evaluate open space sites for open space preservation opportunities based on the following criteria: i) The area provides an opportunity to protect and preserve significant local natural resources, including: . Sensitiv G undwater recharge areas and natural hydrological systems . Natural hv roloaical svstems . Forests and Native plant communities . Buffer areas adjacent to lakes. streams and wetlands . ..f'A-L....o;ol Suffer areas adiacent to upland natural plant and animal communities . Unique biological, geologic31, historical and archaeological sites . Lands important as wildlife containing significant areas of natural habitat,..-aR9 threatened or corridors or endangered species of plants or animals . Threatened or endanaered species of plants or animals . Educationally valuable features . historical educational archaeolo ical -~ 3 -- ---- -- --- - - - , ~NDbVE~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT (~he =~ be prOleGle~Ufficienl in size 10 preserve and en anc atural resources iii) The area presents an opportunity to protect significant natural resources that would otherwise be negatively affected by urban development or negligence i'l) The area connects or expands corridors of floodplain and wetlands. Iv) The area provides opportunities for passive recreation and observation of the natural environment -aIOFlg tr-ail sorFiefers.-. vi) The area provides views of the natural environment along majef transportation corridors includina roads and trails. b) The City of Andover will select sites for open space preservation based o.n..tbe ntllnlser _REI -;ala& of the evaluation criteria.... 65ftl't. ~ther factors may be considered, includina the amount of similar resources that exist, the location of the area, the amount of fundina available, and others. OPF.>oof sptt<~ Cq~I'?51f:)N vV;/1 Ec;rr-IJ.fbLJSJ..-i AN o~..J"l:2cn l-€: $- Y s7fY'r' 4 fL R..e Co tyl'fl-VI 0 Q{) ~ekenorJ ~ Park Land Site Selection Criteria <;1 ~.'7:. 9!) Park Land: The City of Andover ,,".:i11 select park sites based on the following criteria: The city has established criteria to evaluate sites for their potential to fulfill the needs identified by the plans and studies described earlier in this chapter. The followina criteria are used to properly evaluate sites for the location of parks, recreation facilities i) The area is in close proximity to particular natural resources, such as lakes, rivers and other unique features ii) The area is sufficient in size to allow the user to experience the natural resource and enjoy compatible recreation activities without degrading the natural resource or the visitor's experience iii) The area is suitable for recreation opportunities that complement those provided by other city parks and county and regional agencies iv) The area is geographically located to fulfill and not duplicate the type of ark and facilities needed to serve the present needs of residents and the needs of the long range projected population in the service area v) The area is located where it will be easily accessible 4 ~NDbv]f~ 2008 Comprehensive Plan Update 10/10/07 DRAFT vi) The area is physically suitable for types of facilities that are needed in the service area vii) The area has sufficient size and flexibility to provide a variety of recreation opportunities and the capacity to be adapted to the changing needs of residents in the future viii) The area can provide linkage to the trail system, open space corridors or other parks, Public Controls or Ownership . : The City of Andover recognizes at official public trois and/or public ownership may be desirable and' some cases essential t . i) Assure public nd availability for future erations although the current need may not be iii) Preserve uni or significant landsca geographic , istorical and archaeological v) Meet both active ar:1d passive recreation needs 'f'~~ ..,. "r PN $ pA C'E 4121 Methods of Acquisition: To assure protection and availability of public land, the City of Andover snail utilize various methods of acquisition, including but not limited to: . i) City purchase . Negotiated purchase with willing seller when possible . Eminent domain may be utilized if an overriding public need can be established MKl2005 Open Space Bond Referendum funds,aft) not utiliZ~'~ ~AtN f>VU~S flt.v<;.r ii) Coun or regional funding iii) ~tat ~- iv) Conservatio sements v) Purchase or transfer of development rights vi) Assistance and/or cost-sharing with other agencies vii) Donationslbequests~oundations /.,,--------....,... viii) Tax forfeited I~ ;" (~_ _"""" ~_..:.-So~ '9z;-p Leo ~ / 4- ~"N $ !)cTlOIli<; 'if )c~k ~.wI"M-nOI\l ~~~-_!!!:fV ---- ---- --- ----------- - -- -- - , WASHINGTON COUNTY LAND AND WATER LEGACY PROGRAM PRo~cTEVALUATIONCmrrEmA The following criteria will be used to evaluate proposals for the Washington County Land and Water Legacy Program. At its sole discretion, the county reserves the right to reject any or aU proposals. L GENERAL For parcels to be considered for the acquisition and improvement of the land or an interest in the land through the Land and Water Legacy Program it must meet one of the program purposes: improving water quality of rivers, lakes, and streams; protecting drinking water sources; purchasing parklands, including trail corridorS; preserving wetlands and woodlands; and protecting land along water bodies from development The following factors should be present for a parcel to be considered for the Land and Water Legacy Program. A. Purchase of Parkland and Trail Corridors Acquisition ofland or interests in land within the mapped boundary of actively developing county parks and trail corridors will be considered outside the competitive process. For these parcels, the county's highest priority is for fee acquisition. When the landowner is not willing to sell fee title, the county may pursue a partial interest in the property through the purchase of a conservation easement B. Competitive Purchase of Development Rights Process A voluntary application.is submitted by the landowner or on the landowner's behalf. The applicant is willing to sell or place a permanent conservation easement on the parcel. The criteria contained herein will be used to prioritize applications and determine which projects to pursue. C. Opportunity Purchases The county may act upon a proposal needing immediate action without going through the Competitive Purchase of Development Rights Process. These projects must have time constraints such as a limited time to purchase an interest in the land due to imminent sale or development or a limited time to use or apply for outside funding. D. Local Matching Grant Program The following criteria shall be met for a local unit of government to receive funds from the Purchase of Development Rights Local Matching Grant Program: (1) The county will approve funding on a parcel-by-parcel basis; and (2) The funds are to be used to protect property consistent with an officially adopted land protection plan or policy; and (3) To be eligible for the funds, the local unit of government must demonstrate a commitment to raising funds to cover at least 50% of the cost of the project (eligible costs include interests in property as well as any real estate transaction costs); and (4) The owner of the property must be willing to have the county or another unit of government hold a perpetual conservation easement over the parcel that limits future development of the parcel; and 1 - --- -------------------- -- ---- ... (5) Payment to the local unit of government shall be made after the costs are incurred and paid for upon receipt of an invoice and proper documentation of the costs. n. ECOLOGICAL FUNCTIONS Natural areas and other open spaces provide a wide variety of environmental benefits to people. Potential parcels, if protected, could improve surface and ground water resources, stabilize soils. preserve woodlands and create natural flood storage capacity. Current and anticipated use of lands adjacent to the site should not, over time, significantly diminish the ecological quality of the site. A. Shoreland Frontage The parcel is located adjacent to an intermittent or perennial stream, river or lake. Ravine drains into water body: low Less than 1/4 mile of frontage: medium More than 1/4 mile offrontage: high B. Ground Water Sensitivity The parcel is located within an area identified on the Washington County Geologic Atlas as sensitive to ground water contamination. High sensitivity to ground water contamination: medium Very high sensitivity to ground water contamination: high Within a wellhead protection area: high C. Erosion-prone Soils and Steep Slopes The parcel is identified as being erosion prone or a steep slope according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service classifications. These are soils with a class greater than or equal to "5e". Some coverage: low About 50% coverage: medium 1 00% coverage: high D. County Biological Swvey Sites The parcel contains one or more native plant communities, is relatively undisturbed and provides habitat for a wide variety of resident and/or migratory wildlife. The presence of a "state listed" species is an added value. These areas are identified on the National Areas Map created by the Department of Natural Resources Minnesota County Biological Swvey project. C07mty Biological Survey Site: low County Biological Survey Area: medium E. Forest Interior The parcel is a relatively large tract with a high interior to edge ratio. The parcel is located within a large block of forest interior, as shown on the "Forest Interior Criteria" map of the Green Corridor Project analysis. Some woods: low About 50% woods: medium 100% woods: high m. LOCATION A. Parcel Size Relative size is considered in the ranking. Multiple contiguous parcels under single ownership or a single application would be considered together. < 10 acres: low 10-40 acres: medium > 40 acres: high 2 ... B. Connectivity The parcel is near or adjacent to other land which has already been permanently protected from development through a conservation easement, deed restriction, or public ownership. The parcel provides a corridor that promotes the movement of wildlife. Within 1/2 mi of private conservation easement or public protected land: low Adjacent to protected land and creates a corridor of local significance (shorter): medium Adjacent to protected land and creates a corridor of county significance (longer, contained in a state, regional or COW'lty land protection plan): high C. Buffer The parcel adds value to an existing public facility by buffering the facility from encroaching development The parcel protects the adjacent natural areas, important open spaces, rivers, streams and lakes by reducing current or future negative impacts. Some visual or ecological buffer: low Significant visual or ecological buffer: medium Adjacent to a COW'lty park: high D. Imminence of Threat The parcel is threatened by development pressure and fragmentation. Only a short period of time may be available to protect an area from being permanently lost or degraded. Is in no threat of development: low Only a short period of time may be available to protect the area from being permanently lost or degraded: medium Has been offeredfor sale; other offers have been made on the property: high E. Showcase The parcel, because of its size, location, ecological characteristics, or history, can further natural resource protection and provide attention, identity and stature to the Land and Water Legacy Program. The parcel is a good 'showcase' for the program e.g. it is visible to and/or useable by the public; it creates ecological connections and corridors of natural space; or it demonstrates good water quality practices. No opportunity to shuwcase the program: low Has one of the 'showcase' characteristics: medium Has more than one of the 'showcase' characteristics: high IV. PuBLIC PuRPoSE Many natural areas have the potential to serve many public purposes. In order to maximize the public investment, propriety will be given to parcels that meet the needs of multiple partners. A. Public Use! Access Applicants who are willing to provide public access to the parcel for purposes of education, stewardship or recreation will receive additional consideration. Public use allowed but will not be in public ownership: low In public ownership but will offer limited recreational or educational opportunities: medium In public ownership allowing unrestricted use, and enhances current recreational or educational opportunities: high 3 . ~ B. Multiple Public Purpose The parcel has ability to serve multiple public purposes, such as water management, recreation, environmental education, etc. One purpose: low 2 purposes: medium 3 or more purposes: high C. Preservation Plans The parcel is within an area that is included in a land preservation program or plan (e.g. wild and scenic river district, local greenways plan, conservancy zone district, historic preservation district, scenic roadway, county park, etc.). The parcel is located within a corridor designated as scenic by congressional or state legislative action, by local unit of government resolution or ordinance, or some other formal method. Existing corridors include St. Croix Riverway, Mississippi National River Recreation Area and County Road 21. Within a local plan: low Designation is in place: medium Regulation or other tools such as zoning in place to protect the surrounding area: high D. Historical Characteristics The parcel is listed as a historical site on the State Register of Historic Sites or the parcel has been registered as a Century Farm. Preserves a segment of the county's cultural landscape: low Century farm or other historical feature: medium On national or state register: high E. Local Support Protection of the parcel is supported by the local community and other governmental agencies, and other interested groups. Some support: low moderate support: medium great amount of support: high v. OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Additional factors may warrant consideration in evaluating the project Such factors will be reviewed, evaluated, and documented on a case-by-case basis. VI. FINANCIAL AND TEcHNICAL AsSISTANCE Some parcels may quality for other financial resources such as contributions of in-kind services or matching funds from other public agencies; private or non-profit sources of funds; or a landowner willing to accept a payment of less than the value of the property or development rights. If other resources have been committed, a letter or other documentation of the commitment must accompany the application. If other resources will be available at a future time, a statement describing the availability of the resources should accompany the application. A. Likelihood for Leveraging No opportunity for leveragingfimds has been identified: low Funding may be available from another organization: medium Funding has been committed by another organization: high B. Percent of Leverage A portion of the total project cost is contributed from non county sources. More than 0 but <50%: low 51% - 75%: medium > 75%: high 4 - ..~--.__. ._-~ . I c. Technical Assistance Another organization is contributing staff time to complete the real estate transaction activities, the project documentation or the landowner negotiations. Some county staff time is reduced by the assistance of others: low County staff time is needed to coordinate the activities to ensure completion: medium Minimal county staff time is needed: high VII. LlABlLITYffIMELINESS The parcel will not become an unacceptable legal or financial liability due to known public health or safety concerns (e.g. pollution concerns, abandoned wells, open dump sites, hazardous waste, unoccupied or degraded st:ructmes), or real estate problems or issues which would prevent reaching an agreement (e.g. title problems, survey problems, property encroachments, boundary disputes). The parcel has known public health or safety concerns: high concern The parcel has problems that will create difficulties in reaching an agreement: medium concern The project is ready to go and the acquisition can be expedited sooner than expected because some of the work is done, e.g. Phase 1, appraisal, draft conservation easement, etc.: low concern N:\WP\legacyprog\OffControls\LegacyCriteria2007.doc 5