07/27/2005 Env Bd Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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4 ENVIRONMENTAL BOARD MEETING MAY 25, 2005 • Grundhofer indicated that the upland area appeared to be quite small according to the maps. Asleson clarified the buildable upland was small. • • Bauman had calculated the upland to be 18 acres. Grundhofer responded that they would have to bring in a lot of fill. Mr. Husveth mentioned that there were certain rights for a landowner to develop. He noted that if the wetland was put into an easement, it would not enhance the wetland, By aggressively managing the area, up to 20 species could be present in the seed bank. He believed it was a win -win situation. Asleson added that there could be a minimum lot size and reduced width of streets. Grundhofer inquired the amount the developer could fill. Mr. Husveth responded that under these circumstances, he would never fill the entire wetland. It was not economically feasible. Bauman questioned if it would be economically feasible through mitigation and banking to restore the wetland. Asleson noted there was an inventory, and there were 40 lots left for the City to develop this year. Bor asked staff to explain the P.U.D. or planned unit development. Asleson answered that there was less road to plow, and was probably and advantage for the City. The developer could often obtain higher price for the lots, and the area would have managed open space. Mr. Husveth indicated he asked Rice Creek Watershed District for wetland credit on the site. He tried to get a bigger picture, out to regional. He would like to address degraded wetlands. He walked the site, but it was early in the season. Asleson stated he needed a strong public value statement from the Board. O'Connell expressed concern over the developer's other sites Asleson answered that they had a good engineer working with them, who lived in Lino Lakes. Kukonen suggested that the Board began with staff's bullet points. Grundhofer inquired about the amount of land the plants needed. Mr. Husveth responded the land should be thought of as a large wetland complex in order to keep the plants intact. It needed to remain intact, and could be restored and managed as a continuous corridor. Grundhofer questioned if there was enough greenway space for animals and plants. Mr. Husveth stated it was not just a matter of quantity, but also quality. Money would be needed to restore and manage the area through an endowment or dues. 3 DRAFT MINUTES