Minutes - Council Work Session - 04/13/2015 - Joint with Anoka CC

Home

Anoka Councilmember Weaver said the oxbow has been designed to allow pontoons to pass with their tops up, which will be a good feature. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood said they have applied for more National Park Service money and are confident they will receive some for the canoe and bike system for the Mississippi West Park, Peninsula Point Park, and the Coon Rapids Dam Park. He said the $90,000 grant should be good fit at this regional park and that GPS units will be installed on the canoes so we can see where the boats go. Anoka Councilmember Weaver inquired about any fears regarding the boat wakes in the recreational pool. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood said the National Park Service have their own boats and understand the concern. He said he does not feel the National Park Service will be a problem as part of this collaboration. Mayor Strommen said we need to market diversity of opportunities, balancing the interest in both canoes and motorboats. Anoka Councilmember Weaver agreed we need to communicate right from the beginning that there will be all sorts of water activities. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Riverblood said the National Parks Service co- partners with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources on trails and waterways so they understand the need for all water activities. Mayor Strommen said there are many activities in parks that will focus on the region and use the centennial as an opportunity for diversity of activities. She said while the event is ours we can get the word out. Anoka Councilmember Weaver suggested a resolution be adopted by both cities stating what a unique corridor this is. Mayor Strommen said we should devise a joint marketing plan and outline opportunities to attract bicycling groups. Anoka Councilmember Freeburg agreed, stating the Mississippi River contains many different types of water activities that can be done all the way to Elk River. Anoka Councilmember Weaver noted the area includes a world -class fishery that should be marketed as well. City Administrator Ulrich said a resolution may be an outcome as joint efforts continue with Dayton and Champlin. Special Joint City Council Work Session / April 13, 2015 Page 6 of 8