HomeMy WebLinkAbout03.12.08 meeting packet
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
March 12,2008
Andover City Hall
Council Chambers
7:00 p.m.
1. Call to Order
2. Approval of Minutes - February 13,2008
3. Update on Discussions with Property Owners
4. Natural and Scenic Areas Grant Application
5. Establishment of Corridors
6. Other Business
a. Next meeting
7. Adjournment
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 Planner
SUBJECT: Approval of Minutes - February 13,2008
DATE: March 12, 2008
INTRODUCTION
The Commission is asked to review and approve the minutes from the last meeting.
DISCUSSION
Please share any changes to the minutes at the meeting.
ACTION REQUESTED
A motion, second and vote are necessary to approve the minutes.
Attachment
Minutes
1
2
3 ~
4
5
6 REGULAR ANDOVER OPEN SPACE ADVISORY COMMISSION MEETING
7 FEBRUARY 13, 2008
8 MINUTES
9
10
11 The Regular Meeting of the Andover Open Space Advisory Commission was called to order by
12 Chairman Deric Deuschle, February 13, 2008, 7:01 p.m., at the Andover City Hall, 1685
13 Crosstown Boulevard NW, Andover, Minnesota.
14
15 Commissioners present: Gretchen Sabel, Jody Keppers, Jim Olson, Winslow Holasek,
16 Bruce Perry and Kim Kovich
17 Commissioners absent: None
18 Also present: City Planner, Courtney Bednarz
19 Others
20
21
22 APPRO V AL OF MINUTES
23
24 January 9, 2008
25
26 Motion by Kovich, seconded by Olson, to approve the minutes as presented. Motion carried on
27 a 7 -ayes, O-nays, O-present, O-absent vote.
28
29
30 Commissioner Perry thanked Chairman Deuschle and Commissioner Sabel for going to the
31 League of Women's Voters meeting and reporting the status of what they do at the Open Space
32 Advisory Commission.
33
34
35 UPDATE FROM COUNCIL WORK SESSION
36
37 Mr. Bednarz stated staff presented a progress report to the Council at their January 22nd work
38 session. He conveyed several things the Council wanted to share with the Commission.
39
40 Commissioner Olson stated he looked back at the July 11,2007 meeting and it is the criteria for
41 the Open Space which is what they use and the number one item from the criteria is the one that
42 was morphed into Number Seven. He stated he did not have a huge problem with it being
43 changed. Commissioner Kovich thought the Council was misled and this had nothing to do with
44 W ACA laws.
45
46 Commissioner Perry wondered how Number Seven fit into Number Nine. Chairman Deuschle
47 noted Numbers Seven and Eight were merged together.
48
49 Mr. Bednarz explained the reasoning for the Council merging the numbers together.
.
.
Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting
Minutes - February 13, 2008
Page 2
1
2 Commissioner Olson wondered what the Council considered public access. Mr. Bednarz thought
3 it would be being able to walk into it and seeing it. CO:mnllssioner Olson wondered if they
4 would even be interested in land that did not have public access. He wondered if that was a code
5 word for trails and parks. Mr. Bednarz stated the funds cannot be used for trails or active use
6 parks and if they fmd a site which a trail could be put through, the funds would have to come
7 from other funds.
8
9 Commissioner Kovich stated he did not have a problem with changing the points but he did not
10 like the idea of throwing out Number Seven because wetlands are already covered. Mr. Bednarz
11 stated they can play with the list and it may change as they look at different properties. He
12 thought they spent enough time looking at the list and thought they needed to move on and begin
13 evaluating properties.
14
15 Chairman Deuschle agreed and did not have a problem with losing Number Seven. He did not
16 know if he wanted to lose the emphasis by having it in there.
17
18 Commissioner Seibel thought in Number Eight of the criteria they should delete "buffer" and add
19 "land including or adjacent to". The Commission felt "protect" shoUld not be removed from
20 Number Eight. They also changed the following in Number Eight "Scoring based on width size
21 of area and its ability to protect lakes streams a:nd ~..;etlands. These features. Additional scoring if
22 the ffiiffef area is adjacent to area with the DNR Public Waters Inventory or Coon Creek."
23
24
25 APPLICATION OF REVIEW CRITERIA TO STUDY AREA
26
27 Mr. Bednarz stated staff has prepared information for nine study areas based on review of the
28 natural resource inventory. The Commission is asked to review each of these areas at the
29 meeting and suggest priority sites to pursue for the 2008 grant. Several sites will be necessary as
30 not all property owners will be interested.
31
32 Commissioner Olson thought Item #6 was a pretty weak area and they should not look at it at
33 this time. Co:mmissioner Keppers thought from the City's point of view it would be a high area
34 to look at to preserve. Mr. Bednarz thought this area was important to the City to protect
35 because of the creek and corridor. He noted there are no features currently on the land but it can
36 be restored to its natural state. He stated the idea was to preserve the entire area along the creek
37 corridor where possible.
38
39 Chairman Deuschle thought it would behoove the City to purchase the area between the road and
40 right of way along Bunker Lake Boulevard for their corridor and use the open space dollars' in
41 other areas.
42
43 The Commission discussed all nine areas and eliminated six before reviewing the final three for
44 recommendation.
45
.
,
Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting
Minutes - February 13, 2008
Page 3
1 Commissioner Kovich thought before they could make a recommendation they would need to go
2 out and look at each piece of land being considered and he would not feel comfortable making a
3 recommendation without doing that.
4
5 Commissioner Olson thought all of the properties along the Rum River should get high priority
6 in the future because they should be protected.
7
8
9
10 Open Space Study Area - Section 1
11
12 Commissioner Olson wondered why this would not go all the way to the lake. Commissioner
13 Kovich thought a nice point for this piece of land is that Crosstown Boulevard is a good way to
14 look at it and if they want support in the future, they need to pick a piece that is a high score.
15
16 Chairman Deuschle thought they needed to have one piece of land on Rum River. He thought
17 that was a high priority.
18
19 Motion by Olson, Seconded by Perry, to recommend the following areas for consideration of an
20 initial grant application:
21
22 I. Section 1 with a total of 70/1 00 possible points.
23 2. South of Leeman Lake with a total of 95/100 possible points.
24 3. Section 11 with a total of 751100 possible points.
25
26 Motion carried on a 7 -ayes, O-nays, O-present, O-absent vote.
27
28 Mr. Bednarz reviewed the next steps of the process with the Commission.
29
30
31 OTHER BUSINESS
32
33 a. Next Meeting - Joint City Council Meeting
34
35 Mr. Bednarz noted there will be a joint meeting with the City Council on February 26, 2008 at
36 6:00 p.m. at the Council Workshop.
37
38 b. March 2008 Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting.
39
40 Chairman Deuschle thought the March 2008 meeting should focus on the grant application.
41
42 c. Three Parcels picked for Grant Application
43
44 Commissioner Kovich stated they only have the recommendation of the staff on the three
45 properties they selected and have not applied their own criteria to the selections. He indicated he
.
Regular Open Space Advisory Commission Meeting
Minutes - February 13, 2008
Page 4
I had an issue with this. He noted he did not disagree with any of the areas selected but thought
2 they should apply the criteria to the areas.
3
4 Mr. Bednarz asked Commissioner Kovich if he has ranked all the properties himself like other
5 Commission members indicated they had. Commissioner Kovich stated he did not and thought
6 they should discuss the criteria and possibly drive by the site.
7
8 Chairman Deuschle thought they had enough justification with the points. He thought the order
9 in which they are listed may change by further discussion but he thought the scores would
10 closely match staff's and he felt comfortable with using those scores as justification. He stated
11 he would not want to recommend anything for the grant without looking at the parcels.
12
13 Commissioner Keppers thought the properties did need to be looked at more closely before the
14 City takes any action on them but what they are doing at this point is cutting down the areas for
15 contacting people and grant application. He thought this was a good start and was not too
16 concerned about jumping into this. Commissioner Olson thought the criteria was a tool to be
17 used in the overall evaluation process.
18
19 Commissioner Sabel wondered how the parcels were chosen by staff for Commission review.
20 Mr. Bednarz reviewed how staff chose the parcels.
21
22
23 Motion by Perry, Seconded by Olson, to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously. The meeting.
24 adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
25
26 Respectfully submitted,
27
28
29 Susan Osbeck, Recording Secretary
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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 Planner
SUBJECT: Update on Discussions with Property Owners
DATE: March 12, 2008
INTRODUCTION
Staff will update the Commission on this item at the meeting.
DISCUSSION
Discussion will be held at the meeting.
ACTION REOUESTED
This item will be discussed at the meeting.
~~??
courtn~ Bednarz
"
C 1 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 Planner
SUBJECT: Natural and Scenic Areas Grant Application
DATE: March 12,2008
INTRODUCTION
The Commission requested the grant application be placed on this agenda.
DISCUSSION
A checklist of the required materials is attached followed by additional details for each
item. The Council has authorized this grant application to move forward.
ACTION REQUESTED
The Commission is asked to discuss the grant application.
Attachment
Checklist
Application Form
Program Manual
Respectfully submitted,
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"
NATURAL AND SCENIC GRANT AREA PROGRAM APPLICATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS/CHECKLIST
Item 1: - Application Summary
Item 2: - Project Narrative
Item 3 Project Site Evaluation
-
Item 4: - Cost Breakdown - Acquisition
Item 5: - Local Match
Item 6: - Local Government Resolution
Item 7: - Projected Operation, Maintenance and Protection Costs
Item 8: - Public Hearing
Item 9: - Appraisals and Property Deed
Item 10: - USGA Topographical Map
Item 11: - Location Map
Item 12: - Site Map
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program
2008 Application
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
The Natural and Scenic Area Grant program is competitive and requires a review and ranking
period to make funding determinations and awards once each fiscal year. In order to be eligible to
compete for funding, an application must address all of the items identified in the Table of
Contents. No additional information will be accepted after the deadline. Any application that
does not address each of the items will be returned to the project sponsor and considered
ineligible for this fiscal year.
Please read the application carefully to be sure that you have completed it in accordance with the
, instructions provided. Applicants may utilize the form provided for each item presented in the
application or reproduce it in the same format. Applications that are completed correctly will
receive points in the ranking process. For example, maps and the project site evaluation must
contain all of the information requested in the application to receive ranking points. Please do not
send your applications in binders, folders, or other plastic - a simple clip is enough. Use Item 1
- Application Summary as your cover sheet.
If you would like to have your application reviewed and comments provided prior to the
application deadline, please submit the application by March 1. For additional assistance, please
contact your designated Local Grants Staff person:
Joe Hiller 651/259-5538 j oe.hiller@dnr.state.mn.us
Audrey Mularie 651/259-5549 audrey.mularie@dnr.state.mn.us
Fax: 651/296-6047
DNR Information Center: 1-888-646-6367 (Outside the Metro Area)
651/296-6157 (Metro Area)
Submit two copies of your completed application to:
Local Grants Program
Department of Natural Resources
Office of Management and Budget Services
500 Lafayette Road, Box 10
St. Paul, Minnesota 55155-4010
All Applications Must Be Postmarked No Later Than March 31, 2008.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 1 - APPLICATION SUMMARY
Send one original and one copy of the application to:
Local Grants Program
Department of Natural Resources
Office of Management and Budget Services
500 Lafayette Road, Box 10
St. Paul, Minnesota 55155-4010
Local Unit of Government:
Contact Person:
Title:
Address:
Zip: County:
Daytime Phone:
Fax Number:
Project Name:
Existing Park Acreage Acres
Please identify the activities to be completed with your Application:
Acres to be purchased: Acres
Protection Measures:
Cost Breakdown:
Grant Request (50%) $
Local Match (50%) $
Total Cost (100%) $
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
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ITEM 2 - PROJECT NARRATIVE
-
The Project Narrative should include a general descriptive overview of what the project involves and
what will be accomplished by the completion of the project. Also, describe the public benefits that
will result from this project. Please limit your narrative to one page.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 3 - PROJECT SITE EVALUATION
All applicants must prepare and submit a Proiect Site Evaluation using the format below. The
project site evaluation will provide information necessary to determine the impacts of the project,
if any, on the environmental and cultural resources of the area. It will also provide information
needed by program staff to complete the application review and ranking process. It is very
important, therefore, that the project site evaluation be completed carefully and that all requested
information be supplied.
The following sources of information may be helpful in completing the evaluation:
Endan2ered SDecies:
Information on animals and plants that are endangered, threatened or merit special consideration
or management is available from the Minnesota Natural Heritage ProgramlNongame Wildlife
Program, Section of Wildlife, Department of Natural Resources (DNR). A booklet entitled
Minnesota's List of Endangered and Threatened Animal Species. which includes a list of all
species of Minnesota's animals and plants that are listed under the provisions of the Federal
Endangered Species Act of 1973, Public Law 93-205, and/or Minnesota Statute 84.0895, is
available from the DNR by calling (651) 296-6157 or (888) 646-6367 or at the DNR website
www.dnr.state.mn.us/ets.
Additional information may be obtained by calling the Division of Ecological Resources
information number at (651) 259-5100. The DNR is also developing biological surveys on a
county-by-county basis on sensitive natural habitats and rare plant and animal species. Several
publications are available which provide detailed information on these subjects. Additional
information may be obtained from your DNR Regional Office.
Wetlands:
Minnesota has adopted a "no-net-Ioss" wetlands policy. Each state agency must ensure that its
activities, including state sponsored, financed or assisted projects, do not contribute to the loss or
diminishment of the many important values of wetlands. Unavoidable impacts must be
minimized and compensatory mitigation must be provided for all values that have been lost or
diminished. It is very important, therefore, that the project site evaluation identify all possible
wetlands impacts of the proposed project. This will help in determining whether any changes in
project scope or design may be required or whether mitigation measures must be undertaken. The
basic reference for wetland determination will be the National Wetlands Inventory produced by
the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and available at the DNR. Questions regarding
implementation of the "no-net-loss" policy and identification of wetlands may be directed to the
Ecological Resources Division, DNR at (651) 259-5100.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
PROJECT SITE EVALUATION - FORMAT
Please prepare a project site evaluation using the following format and subject categories. Try to
address all of the points covered under each category and be as specific as possible. It is
important that the project site evaluation be a complete and accurate assessment of the natural
and/or scenic characteristics of the area and the likely impacts of the project, either positive or
negative, on those characteristics.
I. Description of the Environment and the Environmental Impact of the Proposed Proiect
A. Present Land Use: Describe the present land use of the proposed project site. Is the property
to be acquired a high priority inholding or addition crucial to the use of, ecological integrity of, or
access to an existing natural or scenic area? Address any other impacts the proposed project may
have on the present land use of the project site or adjacent lands.
B. Environmental Intrusions: Describe all man-made developments on, above, below or adjacent
to the proposed project site, including buildings, utility poles and lines, roads, driveways,
pipelines, sewer and water lines, fences, ditches, bridges, billboards, railroad tracks, and related
structures or facilities. Explain how these intrusions, if any, might affect the use, protection, and
enjoyment of the proposed project site and what measures will be taken to minimize any adverse
impacts.
.
C. Fish and Wildlife: Indicate whether the proposed project site is on, or adjacent to, a national,
state or local wildlife management area, park or natural area. Describe the known fish and
wildlife species common to the project site and any known species that are listed as endangered,
threatened or of special concern. Describe the likely impacts of the proposed project on habitat,
population levels, and any other factors related to the fish and wildlife resources.
D. Vegetation: Describe the major plant species and communities common to the project site
and any known species that are listed as endangered, threatened or of special concern. Describe
the distribution of major plant communities or types on the site. Indicate the extent of cutting,
clearing, removal or other disturbance that will result from the proposed project, as well as any
restoration and/or protection activities planned as part of the project.
E. Water Resources: Describe any existing wetland areas on or adjacent to the proposed project
site. Indicate any likely physical disturbances of these wetlands, including (but not limited to)
draining and filling that would result from the proposed project. Describe any other potential
impacts to wetlands, such as water level fluctuations or water pollution that may result from the
proposed project. Discuss possible alternatives that would avoid or minimize negative wetland
impacts. Also describe any other water resources on or adjacent to the site, proposed uses of
surface or groundwater, and any possible impacts on these resources, including depletion or
pollution, resulting from the proposed project. Explain how the proposed project would help to
protect water quality on or adjacent to the site.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
F. Geologic and Physiographic Features: Describe any interesting, unique or fragile geologic
and/or physiographic features on the proposed project site and any likely impacts on these
features that would result from the proposed project. Also describe any proposed protection
activities or measures to provide public education, interpretation and enjoyment of these
resources.
G. Air QualitylNoise: Describe any temporary or permanent air or noise pollution that will result
from the development and use of the site and the impacts on adjacent land uses or land owners.
H. Historical and Archeological Significance: Describe the type and location of any known
historical or archeological features within or adjacent to the proposed project site. Indicate, if
known, whether any of these features are registered or eligible for nomination to the State or
National Register of Historic Places. Describe any likely impacts on these historical and
archeological features that would result from the proposed project.
I. Transportation: Describe the likely impact of the proposed project on vehicular traffic within
and adjacent to the proposed project site, including whether the project will result in any
additional road building or rerouting, closing, or upgrading of existing roads. Describe the
impacts of these activities on the proposed project site and adjacent areas. Indicate, also, whether
the proposed project site will be served by mass transit or other forms of public transportation.
II. Description of Scenic Characteristics and Sceni'c Impacts of the Proposed Proiect
Please describe the scenic attributes of the area that relate to the following categories:
A. Vistas: Does the area provide opportunities for viewing a large, expansive landscape; distant
scenic views; views from high points, etc.?
B. Shoreland areas: Does the site include shoreland along lakes or rivers that provides scenic
views of water related features, such as rapids, waterfalls, islands, etc., or large expanses of
water?
C. CulturallHistorical: Does the site offer opportunities to view or protect scenic cultural and/or
historical features, such as historical structures, archeological resources, etc.?
D. Physiographic/Geologic: Does the site offer opportunities to view or protect outstanding or
unique physiographic and! or geologic features such as glacial landscape features, rock
precipices, waterfalls, rock outcrops, etc.?
E. Viewsheds: Would the project protect scenic "viewsheds", or scenic landscapes (rather than only
areas from which such viewsheds or landscapes might be viewed)?
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
F. Other: Does the project involve any other important characteristics or opportunities related to
sceruc resources
III. Description of the Proposed and Future Manae:ement Activities.
A. Land Management and Protection: Discuss the proposed size of the area and what impact that
may have on the ability to properly protect the site and its resources. Address the potential for
acquiring control over adjacent land uses that might otherwise adversely affect the property.
What long term management measures will be employed on this property and adjacent lands to
ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy the natural amenities (such as, restoration
efforts, exotic species control, etc). Discuss specific protection measures that are either in place
or planned (such as zoning or other land development restrictions, etc.).
B. Public Access: Describe what public access and use is planned for the site? While public
access to the site is encouraged, extensive recreational development is not appropriate for lands
acquired with Natural and Scenic Area grants. What (if any) recreational, educational and/or
interpretive activities are expected?
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 4 - COST BREAKDOWN
Identify the land to be acquired, state the number of acres and the total cost from the appraisal for
each parcel. Also, include the expected acquisition date. Your application must include a current
appraisal for each parcel to be acquired with this grant. The appraisals must conform to either the
USP AP or USFLA standards as described in Item 10.
Parcel Identification Acres Total Appraised Expected
Number Cost Acauisition Date
TotalCost of all
Parcels $
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 5 -LOCAL MATCH
List below each source of local match and its dollar value that will be contributed to the project.
For each donation, attach a letter of commitment from the donor. The local match must equal
50% of the total project cost identified in your cost breakdown.
It is important that your project be ready for implementation as soon as possible following the
grant award notification. The required match should either be in place or should be attainable
within a reasonable period following notification of the grant award. Grant funds that are tied up
for lengthy periods, or projects that are canceled result in inefficient use of scarce grant
resources.
Local governments that contribute to the cost of acquiring their natural and scenic areas will
likely have a greater commitment to ongoing management and protection costs. Therefore,
ranking points will be awarded if the applicant commits at least 20% of the total project cost
from it's own resources.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 6 - LOCAL GOVERNMENT RESOLUTION
BE IT RESOLVED that act as legal sponsor for the
(Applicant)
project contained in the Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program Application to be submitted
on and that is hereby authorized
(Day. Month, Year) (Title of Authorized Official)
to apply to the Department of Natural Resources for funding of this project on behalf of
(Applicant)
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that has the legal authority
(Applicant)
to apply for financial assistance, and financial capability to meet the match requirement and
ensure adequate management and protection.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that has not incurred
(Applicant)
any development costs described on Item 5 and has not entered into a written purchase agreement
to acquire the property described on Item 4.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that upon approval of its application by the state,
may enter into an agreement with the State of Minnesota
(Applicant)
for the above-referenced project, and that certifies that it will
(Applicant)
comply with all applicable laws and regulations as stated in the grant agreement including
dedicating the park property for natural and/or scenic uses into perpetuity.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that is hereby
(Title of Authorized Official)
authorized to execute such agreements as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the
applicant.
I CERTIFY THAT the above resolution was adopted by the
(City Council. County Board, etc.)
of on
(Applicant) (Date)
SIGNED: WIlNESSED:
(Signature) (Signature)
(Title) (Date) (Title) (Date)
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 7 - PROJECTED OPERATION, MANAGEMENT AND PROTECTION COSTS
In preparing an application for a Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program, it is important that the
applicant demonstrate a commitment not only to the acquisition (and appropriate development, if
any) of the natural or scenic area, but also the ongoing management and operations. The applicant
must develop an estimate of projected management, operations, and protection costs for the
proposed area for the time periods outlined below. In developing these estimates it is important
to consider not only the routine costs (such as labor, materials, utility costs and equipment costs), but
also periodic major restoration or preventive maintenance (such as fire management, seeding, disease
control, exotic species control, etc.).
Each applicant should assess the particular needs of their specific project. It is not sufficient to
simply reference the overall local government budget and suggest that the management, operation
and protection costs for the proposed project are somehow covered within that budget. You will be
expected to have made a careful, thorough assessment of the specific cost impact of the proposed
project. Cost estimates may be explained in a narrative or table format. However, actual dollar
figures must be included for each identified cost.
These estimates should be made available at the public hearing. See Item 9.
I. Time Period:
The time period needs to be long enough to reflect the ongomg operation,
management, and protection costs, future restoration and preventive management measures
for the proposed project. Provide an estimate for each of the following time periods.
- Annually
- Every 3-5 years
- Every 10 years
- Every 20 years
n. Cost Factors:
Depending on the type of project proposed, estimates may be made for:
- Restoration (seeding, fire management, etc.)
- Repair and replacements (fencing, signs, etc.)
- Exotic species control
- Disease control
- Services
- Others (Specify)
m. Inflation:
Factor in reasonable inflation rates into the estimate.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 8 - PUBLIC HEARING
CITIZEN P ARTICIP ATION PROCESS - PUBLIC HEARING REQUIREMENT
A minimum of one public hearing must be held to obtain citizen input on this proposed Natural and
Scenic Area Grant Application. A regular park board, city council, town board, county board or
school board meeting is not considered a public hearing unless the meeting, or a portion of the
meeting, was specifically noticed and identified as a public hearing.
The hearing must be held prior to, but not more than, 18 months before the submission of the
application. Notice of the public hearing must follow the normal public hearing notice
requirements for your local community and specifically mention the proposed grant application.
Please attach a copy of the bylaws for your public notification process and evidence that they
were followed.
A copy of the public notice and the minutes from the hearing must be submitted with your
application. The minutes should reflect that the following information has been provided at the
hearing:
- Project scope and the type of activities involved
- Implem~ntation schedule
- Overall cost and the proposed financing for the project
- Costs to be assessed to community residents
_ Other associated project costs such as maintenance expenses, etc.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 9 - APPRAISALS AND PROPERTY DEEDS
All applications must include an appraisal(s) for the property to be acquired.
1. For all projects, appraisals must be performed by a qualified licensed appraiser and meet, if
uncomplicated with a market value of less than $100;000, the Uniform Standards of Professional
Appraisal Practice (USP AP). Otherwise, the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land
Acquisitions (USFLA must be used. The appraisal must include the DNR as an intended user and
the landowner or designated representative must be given an opportunity to accompany the
appraiser during the inspection of the property.
Appraisals will be reviewed by the state to ensure that they meet applicable standards. If the
appraisal is not accepted, the applicant will be contacted for additional clarification or
modification.
2. For all projects that add to an existing natural or scenic area owned by the applicant, a property
deed must be submitted for that existing area.
All projects selected for funding will require the project sponsor to record a condition with the
deed of the property acquired and, if necessary, adjacent lands owned by the applicant. The
condition is to ensure that the property will be managed and maintained consistent with the
purpose and type of property acquired using appropriate management and protection practices to
protect the natural and! or scenic resources and that the property will not be converted to any uses
other than permitted in ,the grant agreement without the prior written approval of the State. The
specific language for the condition will depend on the funding source provided and will be stated
in the grant agreement.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 10 - USGS TOPOGRAPIDCAL MAP
A United States Geological Survey (USGS). map, or similar topographical map at a scale of
1:24,000 is required for all projects (an aerial photo without topographic lines is not sufficient).
Topographical maps can be viewed and printed at various sites on the Internet such as USGS
.COM for no charge. USGS maps can also be purchased at a number of dealers throughout the
state. A list of dealers can be found at USGS website: www.usgs.gov or by contacting the ask-
USGS at 1-888-275-8747 for the dealer nearest you.
Outline the proposed natural and scenic area boundaries on the map.
.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
ITEM 11 - LOCATION MAP
Provide a location map that shows how to drive to the proposed natural and scenic area If necessary,
please provide written directions with your map.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
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ITEM 12 - SITE MAP
A site map is required for all projects. The primary purpose of the site map is to clearly identify the
acquisition proposed for the project. All maps must include the following:
- Title "Site Plan" and the project name
- Entire property and all adjacent land uses
- All city names and corporate limits
- All lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands
- Acreage of the natural or scenic area and/or each parcel to be acquired
- Existing facilities
- Legend including a north direction arrow, graphic bar scale, county and date
0 25 500
Graphic Bar Scale example: ..
A Text Scale such as I" = 500' is not acceptable.
The site plan must be signed and dated by the applicant.
Color Coding
Yellow- Delineate the boundary of the proposed natural and scenic area. This should coincide
with the area described in Item 10 - Property Deed or Appraisal(s).
Red- Highlight all existing property (to which the proposed area will be added) and
existing development.
Blue- Highlight any future acquisition and future development, if any.
A color-coded map must be submitted with each copy of your application.
Natural & Scenic 2008 I rev. Nov 07
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ADMINlSTRATIONIPROGRAM PURPOSE
The Local Grants Unit, in the Department of Natural Resources administers the Natural and
Scenic Area Grant Program. The program assists local governments and school districts in
acquiring fee title acquisition and permanent easement acquisition of natural and scenic areas.
Applications must be submitted by March 31 'to be eligible for funding assistance for the current
year.
The Natural and Scenic Area Grant Program is intended to protect high quality natural and! or
scenic areas. Additionally, public access should be provided to the extent necessary to allow
users to experience the natural and scenic qualities protected. High levels of development or
active use are not appropriate. Recipients may submit development projects appropriate in a
Natural and Scenic Area to the Outdoor Recreation Grant Program for funding consideration.
PROGRAM FUNDING
The Local Grants Unit finances projects using state dollars authorized by the Minnesota State
Legislature. Typically, the state dollars available are either state bond dollars or Environment and
Natural Resources Trust Fund dollars recommended by the Legislative Citizens Commission on
Minnesota Resources (LCCMR). In addition to state funds, federal funds may be available
through the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LA WCON).
GRANT AWARDS
Grant awards are typically for 50 percent of the total eligible project costs up to the maximum
grant amount of $500,000. Grant agreements generally expire within 24 months and projects
must be completed by then.
PROGRAM INFORMATION
Eligible Aoolicants: Cities, counties, townships, and school districts.
Elie:ible Proiects:
- Fee title acquisition of natural or scenic areas.
- Permanent easement acquisition of natural or scenic areas
Eligible Support Facilities: Minimal betterment activities are eligible as part of an acquisition
project, and may include the following:
- Site Surveying, Boundary Signing
- Immediate measures needed to stabilize the site and ensure the safety of users
Inelie:ible Facilities and Costs: Ineligible facilities or costs are those items that cannot be funded
with a Natural and Scenic Area Grant or included as part of the local match requirement.
- Administrative Expenses
- Incidental cost of Land Acquisition (Appraisals and legal fees)
- Land already in public ownership
- Recreational Site development
- Operation and Maintenance
January 8, 2008 2
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THE APPLICATION PROCESS
To receive an application, complete and return an Application Request Form. We urge
applicants to return the request form no later January 31 st to ensure adequate time to complete
your grant application. This will allow adequate time to meet certain application requirements,
such as holding a public hearing, having the project reviewed for any needed permits, completion
of an appraisal, etc.
After submitting the Application Request Form, the application forms will be sent to you.
Completed applications must be postmarked by March 31st. This program is very competitive.
Staff members are available to discuss your project or review application materials. You are
encouraged to submit any draft application or materials by March 1st if you would like staff to
provide comments.
APPRAISAL REQUIREMENTS
For all projects involving acquisition, the application must include a current original appraisal for
each parcel to be acquired. Appraisals must be performed by a qualified licensed appraiser and
meet, if uncomplicated with a market value of less than $100,000, the Uniform Standards of
Professional Appraisal Practice (USP AP). Otherwise, the Uniform Appraisal Standards for
Federal Land Acquisitions (UASFLA) must be used. The appraisal must include the DNR as an
intended user and the landowner or designated representative must be given an opportunity to
accompany the appraiser during the inspection of the property.
Appraisals will be reviewed by the state to ensure that they meet applicable standards. If the
appraisal is not accepted, the applicant will be contacted for additional clarification or
modification. If you or the appraiser has any questions, please contact the program staff assigned
to your area prior to completing the appraisal assignment.
THE COMPETITIVE REVIEW AND RANKING PROCESS
The program is competitive and requires a review and ranking process to make funding
determinations and awards. The review and ranking process will take place after the application
deadline, and funding announcements will be made in the summer/fall. Completed applications
received later than the deadline will not be eligible for funding consideration during this cycle.
Incomplete applications will be disqualified and returned to the applicant. Program staffwill
review applications and, if necessary, a site visit will be conducted. The review will focus on the
natural and scenic qualities of the project site and surrounding land uses.
Review Components: The project review will access the natural resource qualities of the site
such as endangered, threatened, race or special concern species or communities, high quality
native terrestrial or aquatic ecosystems, ecological viability, outstanding geological or
physiographic features, protection of water quality and potential vulnerability to exotic species.
Scenic qualities will be accessed such as, blufflands or other elevated terrain that affords an
opportunity for viewing scenic vistas, viewing unique natural features, viewing unique historical
or cultural features, and shore land properties that offer scenic vistas across lakes or streams.
Other review components include adjacent lands, educational and scientific values, open space
and historical/cultural values and local government commitment.
January 8, 2008 3
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AWARD OF FUNDS
Announcement of funding approvals will take place after the review and selection process is
complete. All applicants will receive official written notification regarding their request for
funding. If your proposed project has received preliminary approval for funding, you will be
contacted regarding additional information requirements needed before an agreement can be
processed. These requirements may include Minnesota Historical Society review, a deed
restriction and other details.
If the Minnesota Historical Society determines that there is a potential for the site to yield
historical or archeological information, you will be contacted and provided instructions on hiring
an archeological consultant to perform an on-site survey. These surveys are to be funded by the
applicant and must be completed before a grant agreement can be processed. for your project.
Projects cannot begin until all final documentation has been submitted and a grant agreement has
been completed. This process can take three months to complete. Most projects can expect to
begin in the fall. Any project costs incurred prior to the start date of the grant agreement will not
be eligible for reimbursement. Nor can it be considered as part of the required local match.
Payment of grant funds to the local sponsor is on a reimbursement basis. The grant recipient must
initially expend monies, which are then reimbursed under the terms of the grant agreement. Ten
percent of the grant funds will be retained until a fmal inspection has been completed.
GUIDELINES FOR USE AND DEVELOPMENT
1. COMPATIBLE USE AND DEVELOPMENT: In general, outdoor recreation use of
natural and scenic areas should be limited to passive outdoor recreation activities, such as
nature observation, walking or hiking, bird watching, cross country skiing, snow shoeing,
canoeing, photography and similar low impact activities. In some cases, environmental
education activities may be appropriate. Limited facilities to support these activities, such
as trails, overlooks, interpretive displays, benches, informational and boundary signing,
protective fencing, and parking, are allowable uses. In some cases, rest room facilities and
limited picnic facilities may also be compatible.
All development plans should be submitted for review and prior approval by the Local
Grants Program staff of the Department of Natural Resources (ONR). Development
proposals will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the specific
characteristics of the natural and scenic area. Any development should be designed to
avoid damage to natural resources and features, steer activities away from sensitive areas
(such as steep bluffs, erosion prone shorelines, rare plant communities, etc.), and
discourage inappropriate recreational use. Facilities must meet all safety and accessibility
standards.
January 8,2008 4
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2. INCOMP A TffiLE USE AND DEVELOPMENT: Natural and scenic areas should not
be developed for more active outdoor recreational uses, such as athletic fields and courts,
campgrounds, motorized sports, etc. Any use or development that could result in damage
to significant natural and/or scenic resources must be avoided. In some cases, it may be
necessary to prohibit access to certain portions of the property to avoid damage to highly
sensitive or rare resources. Protective fencing may be used when appropriate. Natural and
Scenic Areas sites may not be used for a wetland mitigation or banking area. The intent of
this program is to expand and protect natural and scenic areas and not provide areas that
can be used for replacement of natural areas lost through development.
LAND RETENTION REQUIREMENT
1) CONVERSION OF USE: It is the intention of the State that the property acquired
under an agreement shall exist in the Grantee's ownership and be maintained and
managed consistent with the purpose and type of property to properly protect the
natural and/or scenic resources in perpetuity. The Grantee shall not at any time
convert any property acquired or developed pursuant to the agreement to uses other
than the pennitted uses specified in this agreement without the prior written approval
of the State. The State will consider a conversion request only after the following
pre-requisites have been met:
1. All practical alternatives to the conversion have been evaluated and rejected on
a sound basis.
2. The Grantee has agreed to replace the converted lands with other lands of at
least equal fair market value and reasonably equivalent natural and or scenic
resources. as detennined by the State.
The State shall have the authority to approve or disapprove conversion requests.
2) DEED RESTRICTION REQUIREMENT: The Grantee will be required to record a
condition with the deed of the property acquired and, if necessary, adjacent lands owned
by the applicant. The condition is to ensure that the property will be managed and
maintained consistent with the purpose and type of property acquired using appropriate
management and protection practices to protect the natural and/or scenic resources and
that the property will not be converted to any uses other than pennitted in the grant
agreement without the prior written approval of the State. The specific language for the
condition will depend on the funding source provided and will be stated in the grant
agreement.
The Site Boundary Map submitted with your application will delineate and establish the property
boundaries under contract with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources in perpetuity.
Therefore, it is very important that any existing public facilities and any mown future public
facilities (e.g., wells, lift stations, roadway improvements, etc.) are clearly identified and
excluded from the boundaries of the project. The site boundaries should include only the property
that the project sponsor plans on managing for natural area conservation uses in perpetuity.
January 8, 2008 5
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PROJECT CLOSEOUT PROCEDURES
Upon completion of your project, a fmal billing must be submitted to our office no later than 30
days after the expiration date on your agreement. Program staffwill complete a final inspection
ofthe project. The inspection will focus on ensuring that the project was completed in
accordance with the grant agreement, that facilities developed are accessible and a funding
acknowledgment sign is installed. If any problems are revealed during the inspection, they will
need to be corrected before you receive final reimbursement for your grant and the official
closeout notification for your project.
NOTE: All expenditures are subject to verification by an independent state audit and, therefore,
you must retain all project records for a period of at least six years after you receive the official
closeout notification letter.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT SIGN
All projects acquired or developed with assistance from this program must display a state
approved funding acknowledgment sign at the main entrance to the park. The grant program
staffwill provide the specific sign information.
AVAILABILITY TO USERS
Public property, facilities & programs that receive state assistance and future development of a
site that has received state assistance shall be open to entry by all persons regardless of race,
color, national origin, religion or sex. No person shall, on the basis of disability, be excluded
from participation in any program or activity receiving state assistance. Finally, discrimination on
the basis of residence, including preferential reservation, membership or annual permit systems is
prohibited except to the extent that reasonable differences in admission and other fees may be
maintained on the basis of residence. Fees charged to non-residents cannot exceed twice that
charged to residents and must be comparable to fees charged at other state or local facilities.
COMPLIANCE INSPECTIONS
Periodic post-completion inspections will be conducted to ensure that the site is being properly
operated and maintained and that no conversion of use has occurred.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Department of Natural Resources, Local Grants Unit
Office Budget and Management Services, Box 10
500 Lafayette Road, St. Paul, MN 55155-4010
Wayne Sames, Program Supervisor 651-259-5559
Joe Hiller, Northern Minnesota, South Metro 651-259-5538
Audrey Mularie, Southern Minnesota, North Metro 651-259-5549
January 8,2008 6
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 Planner
SUBJECT: Establishment of Corridors
DATE: March 12, 2008
INTRODUCTION
The Commission and Council briefly discussed establishing preservation corridors at the
joint meeting on February 26th. It was generally agreed upon that the Commission should
look at this more closely.
DISCUSSION
Maps are attached to show a variety of features that will help to shape the corridors. The
sample corridors provided by the Anoka Conservation District are also included.
. It is anticipated that corridors along the Rum River and Coon Creek can easily be
agreed upon.
. In developed areas of the city, floodplain and wetland areas may be the only
remaining corridor.
. In areas yet to be developed the location and shape of the corridor may be
,
influenced by a number of things, including natural fea~es, parks, trails, etc.
ACTION REOUESTED
The Commission is asked to discuss potential corridors throughout the city.
Enclosures
Maps are included in packet
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