01/26/2022 EB Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Enivornmental Board January 4, 2022 Page 7 DRAFT MINUTES Mr. Nelson confirmed that water eventually reaches Marshan Lake, and noted the importance of having functional native plant buffers because Marshan Lake is an impaired water. Mr. Schwartz asked if there were any improvements that could be done to incorporate the pipeline into the greenway corridor, potentially with acquisition of easements. Mr. Nelson responded that options for incorporating the pipeline into greenway corridor were under discussion. Mrs. Buchmeier wanted to know if the plan had undergone any significant changes since the original version in 2006. Mr. Peterson confirmed that the project has undergone significant change. The plan in 2006 included an additional 500 acres north of Main Street. The current development is projected to be a gross 160 acres as opposed to what would have been a 650 acre development. Mr. Sullivan made a MOTION to forward the Robinson Property Concept Plan with the listed recommendations and Environmental Board comments. Ms. Cavegn seconded the motion. Motioned carried 5-0. VII. UPDATES A. 2021 Preparing for EAB Grant Mr. Nelson provided an update on the work being done as part of the city’s emerald ash borer response. This includes removals of boulevard ash trees, replacement of these trees with a diverse mix of species, and insecticide injections that allow for staggered removals over time. City Council approved entering into a contract with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources on December 13th, 2021 to accept grant funds. Grant funds will cover 60 contracted tree removals and stump grinding, 91 bare root replacement trees, and planting supplies. Removals will begin as early as January 4th. The City grant fund match will be in the form of labor and staff time. Mr. Schwartz asked if the trees on the inventory map shown were all boulevard trees or specifically ash. Mr. Nelson responded that the map shown is all of the boulevard trees in the areas of the grant work, noting that there are less than 300 ash trees left on boulevards. This grant will help get the number of trees under 200. Mrs. Buchmeier asked about how often this grant can be applied for.