04-21-81 CCM - Laserfiche WebLink

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LAKE ELMO.CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 21, 1981 -7_ E. Sealcoatin� - Bids - Mottaz moved, seconded by Morgan, to authorize the Administrator to take bids for sealcoating. Motion carried 4-0. F. 50th Street - Oakdale - The Council reviewed the proposed alignment 6f 50th Street to Highway 36. Mottaz expressed concern on the number of access points onto Highway 36 in this area. Morgan moved, seconded by Mottaz, to instruct the Administrator to send a letter to the City of Oakdale stating Lake Elmo's concerns on the proposed alignment and access of 50th Street. Motion carried 4-0. HANDICAPPED USE OF PARKS/MOTORIZED VEHICLES: Dave Siedow has asked for a permit to operate a 3-wheeled ATC, all terrain vehicle, in the City parks. Current policy prohibits motorized vehicles in the parks. Mr. Siedow said his vehicle is his only means of getting around the parks. The Administrator contacted the County and DNR about their policy on motorized vehicles. He reported that the County does not have a policy governing handicapped use of motorized vehicles in parks. The DNR permits motorized wheelchairs on improved trails; but prohibits all other motorized vehicles. Morgan stated that the graveled trails in the parks could accomodate motorized wheel- chairs. The Park Commission opposes other types of motorized i vehicles because of the damage and erosion problems they cause. Mr. Siedow disagreed that the graveled trails would accomodate a motorized wheelchair,, stating the ground would break away. He feels his vehicle is best suited for the trails Mottaz questioned how the City could permit some use of motorized vehicles and prohibit others. He asked how the City could police use of all terrain vehicles by other than handicapped persons. He does not agree that a 3-wheel vehicle would not cause damage. Mr. Siedow suggested ticketing violators--' who do not have a permit. Again, the Council'foxesaw problems with policing this much as they had in snowmobile use in,the parks. The speed is another concern. Mottaz suggested limiting 'handidapped u'se of-motorized=vehicles to surfaced trails with a permit. He suggested the Park Commission consider this. Mr. Siedow stated this limitation would not give him full use of the park and does not feel his vehicle would do any more damage than what is caused by general use of the parks. Novak said the safety factor has to be considered. Fraser feels that if the Park Commission is willing to consider opening even a limited area, like the surfaced trails, this is a concession to Mr. Siedow. Morgan said the Park Commission will discuss this request.