Agenda - Council - 03/28/2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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CC Regular Session 7. 3. Meeting Date: 03/28/2017 By: Chris Anderson, Community Development Information Title: Adopt Resolution#17-03-071 Approving the EPB's 2017-2019 Work Plan Purpose/Background: The purpose of this case is to consider approving the 2017-2019 Work Plan for the Environmental Policy Board (EPB). The EPB had identified four(4)elements at their February meeting for inclusion in a work plan. Those items were presented to City Council at a joint meeting in February as well. Based on discussion at the joint meeting with City Council and the EPB, Staff compiled this draft Work Plan in a format similar to that of the City Council's Strategic Plan as well as the Planning Commission's Work Plan. The EPB reviewed the draft Work Plan at their March meeting. The Board fully supported the Work Plan but did note a concern with the feasibility of completing the items in one year's time. Rather than reduce the number of items on the Work Plan,the Board recommended extending the timeframe of the Work Plan through 2019. The Board felt that would not only allow sufficient time to complete each task but also build in some time to review the effectiveness of the various components and recommend, if necessary, any adjustments for greater impact. Observations/Alternatives: The following was identified by the EPB through discussions at their February meeting and was presented to the City Council. 1. Development of a Pollinator Initiative Program. .The Board found that this effort would address multiple initiatives of the City.Not only would it create more pollinator habitat and attract more wildlife,but it would simultaneously result in a lower demand on water supply as these sustainable landscapes do not require as many inputs as traditional turf grasses. .Education and Awareness .Review of existing city practices for possible improvements .Incorporate pollinator friendly practices and concepts into the Natural Resources Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan (a concept identified from the initial round of the Strategic Plan update) .Work collaboratively with the Parks and Recreation Commission to identify areas within existing parks suitable for converting to pollinator friendly landscapes 2. Water Resources .Water supply continues to be an important issue for the City. Maintaining a focus on water resources will help keep the community informed on the importance of potable water(both quality and quantity). .Develop incentives and/or rebates for water conservation initiatives (e.g. retrofitting existing irrigation systems with water efficient technologies) 3. Utilize the Mississippi River Shoreline Inventory to connect with potential candidates for riverbank stabilization projects. .The inventory that was completed in 2016 indicated that over 5,000 tons of sediment is being lost to the river annually. This has a serious impact on water quality. This information was obtained with the intention of potentially accessing grant funds to assist willing and suitable candidates with stabilization projects (this seems to fit in with the concept identified in the initial round of the Strategic Plan update process of building