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FC CASE #: q GREENWAYS APPLICATION By: Mark Boos, Parks/Utilities Supervisor Background: The purpose of this case is to request Finance Committee support for a cooperative Metro Greenways Planning Grant with the Anoka Conservation District (ACD). The Greenways grant is an opportunity to take advantage of DNR monies and ACD resources to accomplish existing goals within the City's 2002 work plan. Specifically, these are improving the City's digitized information on natural resources within the City and their locations. This would include wetlands, tree and plant cover types and soil hydrology - all in a standardized GIS format. The City would also receive another license for ArcView software to utilize this information and integrate it into planning efforts and development reviews. The majority of Ramsey's match would be Staff time associated with the public input process within the proposed Master Trail Plan. The results of the natural resource inventory can be used for open space planning in addition to engineering and community development purposes. The program offers land protection assistance to residents in certain instances. Staff projects that existing "greenways" within the City may merit the ecological distinction necessary to be considered land protection could take the form of park dedication or conservation easements. This strategy could complement large scale trail development proposals - and, at the same time perhaps meet resident desires that would be learned from the trail planning public forums. Observations: The deadline for submission of this application is January 25, 2002. Ramsey's commitment is $9,600 dollars of the proposed Master Trail Plan, $3,000 of in-kind Staff hours associated with the project, and $500 dollars to purchase ArcView 8.1. Attached for your information are a copy of the DNR's Metro Greenways brochure and a description of the Minnesota Land Cover Classification System. The enclosed grant application is in the DNR's required format and includes the "Proposed Deliverables" criteria, budget, work plan and timeline. Finance Committee Action: Motion to recommend City Council approve the Greenways Application contingent upon Ramsey proceeding with a Master Trail Plan, and application approval by the ACD Board of Directors. Copies to: Reviewed by: Parks/Utilities Supervisor City Administrator Public Works Director City Engineers Finance Officer FC: 01/22/02 Park and Recreation Commission