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Mounds View EDA October 24, 2005 Regular Meeting Page 4 Commissioner Thomas asked about arrangements for the compost site and parking for the condo and senior housing area. Economic Development Coordinator Backman stated the relocation of the compost site is a policy decision that the EDA will have to make. He stated with this concept plan, he likes the arrangement, noting three solid areas for “selling points”: 1) It does not add additional roads onto Long Lake Road and uses existing right-of-way and roads, which will be attractive to the County as well. 2) It has a lower density and allows for phases in the project. 3) It uses some of the existing infrastructure and builds on existing infrastructure so the City does not have to “recreate the wheel” or relocate utility lines. With regard to the location of the compost site, Public Works Director Lee stated that is a policy decision of the Council or EDA about what is the highest and best use for this land. He stated staff could initiate discussions with Ramsey County about the long-range goals for the compost collection site and if they would consider more of a regional compost site. Economic Development Coordinator Backman reviewed that the City Survey indicated a majority want to retain a compost site in Mounds View but some indicated a willingness to take composting material to Shoreview or Arden Hills. He stated residents could be asked what distance they would be willing to drive to an alternate site. Commissioner Thomas stated she loves this revised plan which echoes more of what the EDA had in mind. She noted the next step is the EDA’s, to find another location for the compost site. She stated it is her opinion there should be a location found within the City and she is not comfortable with locating it in the north corner at this time. She stated this is an amenity the City is providing and while it will never be the highest and best use of any property, it is important to her to keep providing this service. She stated she does not want to get in a bind by approving this now and then trying to find an alternate compost site. She reiterated this is the responsibility of the City, Council, and staff, and she is not willing to give up providing that service to the residents. Commissioner Gunn stated she assumes this plan can be done in phases to start with the homes first until the alternate compost site is relocated. She pointed out that residents have been asking for senior condos and this plan addresses that need. Vice President Stigney agreed that the compost issue definitely needs to be looked at and he wants to know what the developer could do if the compost site is shifted to the north. He asked if this development could encompass that use. Mr. Sweitzer stated they have not looked at that option but can do so.