06-01-2015 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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WS — Item # 3 WORK SESSION STAFF REPORT Work Session Item No. 3 Date: June 1, 2015 To: City Council From: Michael Grochala Re: Rice Lake Land Donation Uses Background The City Council recently accepted the donation of a 3.17 acre of land adjacent to Rice Lake. Staff has received inquiries from the council regarding the future use of the land. As noted in the original staff report the land is primarily comprised of wetland. The property is not buildable but has some public value as lake buffer, stormwater and floodplain mitigation purposes as well as potential trail right-of-way. Rice Lake is classified as a Natural Environment Lake. As such it is the intent of the Shoreland Management Ordinance to minimize development activity along the shoreline. Additionally, the parcel has limited recreational value given the shallow water depth of the lake. As recently as this spring mud flats extended approximately 200 yards out from the shoreline. Accordingly staff's opinion is that the primary use of the property should remain as a protective buffer for the lake. The limited amount of upland on the may be used for stormwater management purposes in the future. If a future trail is constructed along the northeast side of Hodgson Road it might be possible to include a wayside stop at this location. Requested Council Direction Staff is requesting council direction regarding future use of the property. Attachments 1. General Location Map