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<br />stated that it appears that keeping the park focused on a more natural environment is what most <br />people would like, regardless of what trail connections may be possible. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elvig stated that although he thinks it is a good idea to look at the big picture, <br />the City does not own the land on the north side of the lake and asked what impact the plan will <br />have if the City cannot follow the plan for the trail along the north side. <br /> <br />Mr. Schoenbauer stated that there is a steep slope along that side of the lake that should <br />somewhat limit development. He stated that basically that option could be considered a fall back <br />plan, but it would show future developers that the City would like to make this connection <br />through the property in the future. He noted that there were three concepts for the park, but the <br />Park and Recreation Commission would like to keep the primary development near Sunwood <br />and Sunfish Lake Avenue. He stated that they would like to keep it small to start and have a <br />small parking area, picnic shelter, gazebo and a canoe launch. He stated that they have met with <br />nearby property owners and they would like to see the City have a trail through the area to keep <br />people off the roadways. He stated that the plan for this park would not duplicate what is at the <br />nearby parks, but focus on the linear connections to those sites with the trails and focus on <br />natural elements. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elvig stated that the lake is nice and clean in the spring, but full of algae in the <br />summer. He asked if there was any concern about kids jumping off the trail into the lake. <br /> <br />Mr. Schoenbauer stated that he doesn't think that will be a problem because of the composition <br />of the lake and feels the muddy water will be self limiting <br /> <br />Councimember Elvig asked if the lake could be aerated. <br /> <br />Mr. Hamburg stated that they have looked at some methods, but the lake is very shallow and <br />could be dredged, but that would be quite expensive. <br /> <br />Councilmember Strommen stated that on the existing boardwalk in Fox Park, there has not been <br />a problem with kids going into the water, but with litter. <br /> <br />. . <br />Mr. Schoenbauer stated that he would not recommend that the City spend the money to dredge <br />the lake. He stated that they are looking to make this a simple park where local business people <br />can go have lunch. <br /> <br />Councilmember Jeffrey stated that he likes the idea of connecting with the school and asked if <br />there would be a problem with the County granting road access. <br /> <br />Public Works Director Olson stated that he thinks the County will be less than enthusiastic, but <br />there is an existing access point and this is just improving it. He stated that the City could <br />consider looking at access off of Sunwood. <br /> <br />Mr. Hamburg stated that there is a strip of property on Sunwood that the City does not own. <br /> <br />City Council Work Session IAprill5, 2008 <br />Page 2 of 10 <br />