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ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 2003 <br />3 APPROVED MINUTES <br />Mr. Von Delinde noted that the final stop for the Parks and Recreation Committee <br />would be the Commission on March 11. The land was appraised at $300,000, but <br />Saint Paul dropped the price to $200,000 with the Metropolitan Council assisting <br />with $90,000, so the County portion would be $110,000. Because the cost was <br />low, there would probably be no need for city funding. The land had been <br />publicly owned for 100 years, and was purchased to ensure the City’s drinking <br />water. There would not be a loss of tax revenue for the cities because it was <br />already non-taxable land. <br />Donlin stated that she was refreshed to see a positive plan, and believed it was in <br />concert with the goals of the Environmental Board. The critter corridor was of <br />special interest to her. Asleson concurred, adding that wildlife crossings were <br />beginning to be studied over highways in Europe. <br />Chair Kukonen inquired if the property was entirely owned by the City of Saint <br />Paul. Mr. Von Delinde answered that it was, and that the land was undeveloped. <br />Adjacent private landowners might find a conservation easement appealing. <br />Chair Kukonen mentioned in the future, it could be an opportunity to educate the <br />landowners on the value of the corridor. He then asked for a motion to support <br />the resolution. <br />Schneider made a motion to support the resolution put forth by Anoka County, <br />and to pass it on to City Council. Donlin seconded the motion. Motion carried <br />unanimously. <br />B.Dairy Queen Grill and Chill/PDO/Plan Review <br />Asleson reviewed the background and analysis. He introduced Rick Reese from <br />Rick Reese Architects. <br />Mr. Reese expressed his desire to comply with the recommended changes. <br />Grundhofer inquired about several specific areas including islands and other areas <br />on the site for the purposes of landscaping. Mr. Reese agreed to add appropriate <br />plantings. <br />Chair Kukonen referred to the number of parking spaces and noted that they were <br />slightly above the minimum City Ordinance. He mentioned that the Board liked <br />to keep the parking spaces to the minimum. <br />Donlin stated that the plan did not connect with the other businesses with lush <br />landscaping. The plan was barren with 54 parking spaces. Mr. Reese assured the <br />Board that they were willing to adapt the plan to comply with the initial approved <br />plan.