Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 02/03/2014

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Chairperson Max stated that perhaps a principle should be listed that specifies that any implementation items would need to be reviewed by the City Council and any other necessary Boards or Commissions. Board Member Bentz noted that the EPB is an advisory Board and cannot do anything without the approval of the City Council; he felt that should have been known and not have to be spelled out. He stated that there has been discussion in the past as to how the City can provide alternative options to developers and noted that this program would provide a list of options. City Planner Anderson stated that based on the discussion he has four to five items that could be formalized into guiding principles including that the program will be used as a resource and not a mandate, the emphasis will focus on the City and City operations, this is a voluntary program that will provide resources for the City to draw upon, there will be recognition of efforts already accomplished by the City which could be of use in terms of marketing the City, and that the City Council will review any additional actions. 5.02: Discuss Upcoming Citizen Engagement Opportunities City Planner Anderson presented the staff report. He noted that the session regarding the amenities for the lake would be on Thursday, March 13 at 6:00 p.m. and the Comprehensive Plan session would be on Thursday, March 20 at 6:00 p.m., noting that both meetings would take place at City Hall in the Alexander Ramsey room. He presented some presentation pictures of potential amenities that could be used to spark discussion. He noted that the intent of the session is to assist in providing input on amenities that could be further explored by the City. He hoped that available Board Members would attend and participate in one, or both, of the meetings and noted that if unavailable to attend Board Members could provide their input via email as well. Board Member Bentz questioned if the intent would be to make swimming and fishing available if stormwater were going to be routed to this area. City Planner Anderson believed the original intent was to include those features but was unsure the effect that stormwater would have on that option. City Administrator Ulrich noted that the smaller pond would be used as a sedimentation area to act as a natural filter. He stated that if the beach was meant for swimming there would be other aspects that would need to be considered, including lining. Chairperson Max suggested incorporating an area where planting demonstrations could be done, referencing a park in Saint Paul. He confirmed that he is planning to attend the lake amenity session. 5.03: Community Stewardship Recognition Program City Planner Anderson presented the staff report. He noted that the recognition program could not only recognize the efforts of individuals and organizations within the City, but also bring forward those projects for others to see and possibly implement as well. Environmental Policy Board / February 3, 2014 Page 4 of 8