10-11-95 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 11, 1995 city and Watershed funding is being requested. Morelan asked how the Phalen Project got started originally. Buss replied that it was originally started by the Watershed, the DNR, the City of St. Paul, and the University o£ Minnesota landscape architecture school as a different approach to natural resources management. The concept was to let local folks write the plan for the Phalen Chain of Lakes Watershed Project and see if they could develop a method that would work. Morelan asked if there were other organizations similar to the Phalen Project. Buss replied that there are none in the metro area; however, some in outstate and other parts of the country. This is a new way to do natural resources management other than the typical agencies which tell people what to do. The Natural Resources Board would have no regulatory authority. Forming the Board is not creating another level of government. Rather it is a bunch of folks getting together, thinking about problems, and proposing solutions. The Board would become involved in issues upon request providing consultants, technical assistance, and grant writing authority. Fahey stated that it was his understanding from the discussion that the Natural Resources Board could provide some on-going assistance beyond what the Watershed provides, specifically with Gervais Mill Park and Rice Street redevelopment. Buss reported that the City of North St. Paul has suggested a sunset for the group. Fahey noted that there would be an annual reporting whereby cities have the opportunity to evaluate whether tax dollars have been spent wisely. Fahey stated that he would oppose the creation of another regulatory body. Pedersen pointed out that without funding from the McKnight Foundation in 1997, the City's contribution would double. Fahey asked if the group has applied for grants to get assistance with administrative expenses. 5