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Tim Gladhill <br />May 22, 2017 <br />Page 2 <br />Item 13 — Fish, Wildlife, Plant Communities, and Sensitive Ecological Resources (Rare Features) <br />(Jim Larsen, 651-602-1159) <br />The EAW states that Blanding's turtles (Emydoidea blandingii), a state threatened reptile species, has <br />been observed in the vicinity of the proposed project. The prevalence of wetlands, stormwater <br />treatment, and infiltration basins on and near this site raises the concern for wildlife impacts following <br />completion of the proposed project. Indigenous fauna will likely attempt to remain in the area, in spite <br />of its gradual conversion from a rural to an urban setting. Council staff recommends that the City <br />specify the utilization of sloping, surmountable curbing throughout the project site. The use of <br />standard, near -vertical B524 or similar curbing can be expected to result in nearly full mortality of the <br />area's turtle population by entrapping them within roadways as they pass between and to nearby water <br />basins for feeding and nesting. The simple change to a more gently sloping curb, consistent with <br />DNR's recommendation and guidance contained in Appendix D will reduce fauna mortality risks in <br />the area without impacts to stormwater flow, driver and pedestrian safety, or maintenance activities. <br />Use of Minnesota Department of Transportation Curb and Gutter Design No. S524 or similar design <br />profile is suggested. <br />Item 8 — Permits and Approvals Required (Eric Wojchik, 651-602-1330) <br />Table 3 shows that a Comprehensive Plan Amendment has been submitted for the Riverstone project. <br />This detail should be amended to state To be applied for' because, as of the date of this letter, no <br />amendment for this development has been submitted to the Metropolitan Council. <br />Forecasts (Todd Graham, 651-602-1322) <br />TAZ forecasts are not discussed in plan materials, but this would be helpful information. A draft set of <br />TAZ forecasts for 2040 has been prepared by Met Council and is available for local governments to <br />review. <br />The Riverstone site is within TAZ #61. The zone is currently forecasted to gain +86 households during <br />2014-40. Council staff recommend adding +260 households and +650 population to the TAZ #61 <br />forecast, to reflect the planned Riverstone development. Balancing adjustments can be made to TAZs <br />elsewhere in the community. The City can update the TAZ forecast through correspondence to <br />Metropolitan Council. <br />Council staff opinion is that the expected development fits within the community total forecast <br />prepared by Metropolitan Council; no change is needed to the community total forecast. <br />This concludes the Council's review of the EAW. The Council will take no formal action on the EAW. If <br />you have any questions or need further information, please contact Eric Wojchik, Principal Reviewer, at 651- <br />602-1330. <br />Sincerely., <br />Izis Beth Baras, Mana er <br />Local Planning Assistance, -- <br />CC: Steve O'Brien, MHFA <br />Tod Sherman, Development Reviews Coordinator, MnDOT - Metro Division <br />Todd Haas, Board Chair, Lower Rum River WMO <br />Edward Reynoso, Metropolitan Council District 9 <br />Eric Wojchik, Principal Reviewer/Sector Representative <br />Raya Esmaeili, Reviews Coordinator <br />Ar: ICommDevILPAIComnnmities1Ramsey ILetlers\Ranisey 2017_EAJV Riverslone 21716-1.docx <br />