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LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL MINUTES April 16, 2013 Page 3 of 12 ITEM 12: Water surface use City Administrator Zuleger provided an overview of the background, timeline, and how the issue was raised. At the 3/05/2013 Council meeting, Council Members Park and Bloyer asked staff to draft an amendment to be brought to 4/16 meeting. Explained the lake rule process and how the MNDNR handles proposals. All water use management starts with local regulation. State of Minnesota encourages local governments to follow state rules. Explained the four principles that the MNDNR uses. 1. Accommodating all compatible uses, where feasible; 2. Minimizing adverse impacts on natural resources; 3. Minimizing conflicts between users to provide maximum use, safety, and enjoyment; and 4. Conform to standards set in law. Mr. Zuleger presented an overview of MNDNR available options for time use, direction of travel, motor type and size, speed limits, and area zoning. The proposed amendments and the legislative intent were explained. The points of policy decisions were also explained. These included: noise, tranquility, property values, shoreland erosion, congestions, use balance, water safety, and invasive species. Summarized overviews of each lake- Olson Lake/Lake Demontreville, Lake Elmo, and Lake Jane were presented. Each lake possesses unique issues. It was pointed out that Washington County has expressed the intention of increasing the usage of the Park Reserve Aquatic Center. It was noted that there is generally a generational gap in position. It was also pointed out that local realtors are not consistent in disclosing use restriction to potential buyers in related property sales. Mr. Zuleger presented a summary of community positions received by the City. Council Member Bloyer spoke about his motivation for proposing the amendment. Mr. Bloyer then proposed amendments to initial proposal: For Lake Elmo, there would be no changes. On Olson Lake, Lake Demontreville, and Lake Jane- hours of operation with no wake would be from sunset to sunrise on weekdays; and from sunset to 9:00AM on weekends and holidays. The high water mark restrictions would remain the same; buoy placement would require sheriff approval. Counterclockwise directional traffic will remain. Motorboat races will be prohibited. Accepting a fee for lake access will remain prohibited unless for instructional purposes. There was a discussion of why Lake Elmo was treated differently. It was noted that the location of the Park Reserve required unique treatment. Mayor Pearson explained the way the public comment segment will be conducted. He also asked that the public not direct anger towards staff, but instead take issue with the elected officials. Public input: Rev. John Burns opposes changes. He represents the Carmelites men & women. He reported sending letters to council and administrators. He has grave concerns about the impact of proposed changes. He reported viewing the 3/05/13 meeting. Mr. Burns relayed discussions of state