Agenda - Council - 11/27/2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Potential Environmental Effects There is great potential for significant environmental effects if the request for the new extreme outdoor recreational uses is granted. The biological and ecological functions of the Mississippi River could suffer irreversible damage due to the impacts of noise, groundwater contamination, decreased air quality from fumes, dust and odor. Increased car traffic is also a concern in an already overly congested area of this state. The park area adjacent to the project is located along a section of a State designated Wild and Scenic River which should be protected and preserved for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Just as noise impact studies have been conducted to determine "acceptable decibel levels" for humans there is scientific evidence that reveals sensitive wildlife species are severely stressed on many levels by frequent noise and commotion. This is also upsetting to the predator /prey dynamics. There is a berm in place at the south side of the site however motocross bikes exceed the height of the berm while racing which renders it useless. There are no additional plans for noise abatement. Soil contamination issues have not been addressed in workshops or even considered for this project. There is possible soil and groundwater contamination from motor fluids such as gasoline, antifreeze and used or waste oils. Repeated excavation is necessary for the project owner to set up for each of these events, further incorporating these toxins into the soil. Adjacent to the proposed site of the race tracks are holding pools for runoff.. There is concern for runoff contaminants entering the wastewater that runs into the Mississippi River. Unsafe and illegal disposal into dumpsters and drains around town or into the local environment are also concerns. Dirt tracks are utilized for the races and unless they are kept wet and groomed they will create clouds of dust with the exhaust emissions. There have been no plans submitted to mitigate this problem either. There is concern that due to the popularity of these extreme sports whose events are primarily held in rural areas or at county fairgrounds as one time events due to the loud noise they produce, a central location such as Ramsey will draw a significant, unanticipated increase in car traffic in an already highly congested area. The park area adjacent to the project is part of a master plan that was originally supported by the Ramsey City Council. Future park development is dependent on surrounding land uses. The proposed uses are not compatible in nature with the designated uses of the park. As stated by Anoka County in the enclosed letter, "the proposed development would create unavoidable nuisances related to high levels of noise and visual impacts on the park." Anoka county has requested that the City Council deny the the request by Diamonds. As residents of this community we urge our decision makers to give serious consideration in evaluating the logistics and associated environmental impact of this proposed project to prevent any devastating and irreversible effects it may have on our environment. -134-