Minutes - Council - 08/09/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Council was afforded the opportunity for two different recreation uses; the opportunity for a ski hill on the north slope of the landfill or a 50-acre parcel on the north side of the landfill. He ·stated that he and Council·member Peterson met with the Pollution Control Agency (PCA) and WMMI to try to come to a closure on this issue. He stated that WMMI would .be open to deeding over property on the other side of the landfill, somewhat different or. larger than 50 acres if the City demonstrated the need. The PCA is concerned, from an environmental standpoint, about areas upgradient from the landfill. Environmental liens will not be an issue so long as WMMI applies with the PCA for a transfer agreement excluding these areas; methane migration north of the landfill is not a concern. The State has issue,s to work .out relative to landfill transfers, but for the most part, Ramsey's concerns are not an issue. An excePtion is thgt the PCA would not sign off on City ownership of the Sunwood Drive right, of-way until they evaluate methane and ground water issues in that area more closely. The long-term reuse of property south of the landfill is in question. The PCA would not allow private well and septic systems or a use of the property which may someday cause the state to expend additional mitigation dollars (i.e. housing or refineries). They are not sure of impacts on the methane project. City. Attorney Goodrich stated that the City's past position is that WMMI has not tried to construct a ski hill; therefore, they should be willing to negotiate with regard to the 50 acres and other items; maybe 23 acres, grading, etc. Keep in mind to force them to do this, the City would have to go to court and this is expensive; cases are never absolute. He suggested coming to a reasonable solution. Mayor Gilbertson stated that Mr. Don Otter of WaSte Management has agreed to the 50 acres and the 10,000 cubic yards of dirt, etc. If the PCA says there shouldn't be a ski hill, the City wouldn't want it. The City would not want to take all the liability back. Councilmember Peterson stated Mr. Otter is willing to wOrk with the City. Councilmember Peterson feels there is very little value to the 23 acres of'swamp. He felt there shouldn't be a pro.blem with the State if the property is designated for recreational purposes. Mr. Schroeder stated that he is hoping Council Will authorize him and the City Attorney to put together a settlement agreement to forward to WMMI. It is up to the City to take the next step. Doug Fountain, 15255 Garnet Street N.W., Ramsey, inquired if there is anything in the agreement pertaining to the gift of 50 acres and that it has to be used for recreational purposes to which Mr. Goodrich replied yes. Mr. Schroeder stated that WMMI has the ability to restrict it to recreation use in the ski hill agreement. Mr. Fountain stated it's understandable they need restrictions. Mr. Schroeder stated it wou'ld be the City's position that any property given to the City would be unrestricted. A recreational use of the property south of 153rd Avenue and residential use north of 153rd Avenue N.W. was not objectionable to Mr. Dunn of the PCA. Mr. Fountain inquired if we are casting recreational use of this property in concrete and added that "gifts are ultimately not cost-free". He inquired of the plans for this property. Mr. Schroeder stated that the Park and Recreation Commission has not yet reviewed them but Staff is proposing baseball, football and soccer fields, tennis courts and an ice rink. City Council/August 9, 1994 Page 12 of 20