Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 04/15/2019

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City of Ramsey staff were informed that the CDFA's Brownfields Technical Assistance Program selected Ramsey's CLP site for free technical assistance in assessing the site's solar potential. The City will be working with the MN Brightfields Initiative to identify stakeholders for inclusion in a future on site meeting to discuss the potential economic asset the CLP site could be. Chairperson Valentine stated that this is very intriguing and a great way to use a poor -quality property. Board Member Hiatt asked the acreage of the landfill. City Planner Anderson estimated about 260 acres. Board Member Hiatt asked the size of the solar array that was recently approved/constructed. City Planner Anderson replied that solar array is 20 to 30 acres. Board Member Hiatt stated that it is good to move in this direction. He stated that this could be an ideal location and could be moved up in scale to have a larger impact. City Planner Anderson stated that the PCA is sending crews out to mow two or three times per year. He stated that if something were to happen, there would be a potential to convert the landscaping into a more native, pollinator friendly landscape. Chairperson Valentine asked if the process includes an environmental review. City Planner Anderson stated that is some of the information that they hope to gain from this exploration. He stated that there are a lot of unknowns and this process will provide some answers. Board Member Covart stated that in the past Connexus had an ability for homeowners to buy into the solar field. She asked if that would be an option for this activity. City Planner Anderson stated that Connexus is not involved in the discussion at this time. 5.03: Arbor Day Event Update City Planner Anderson presented the staff report. He stated that the purpose of this case is provide an update to the EPB regarding a planned Arbor Day activity with Ramsey Elementary School. The planting event will occur on Arbor Day, which in Minnesota is always the last Friday in April (this year April 26th). The MN DNR will also be assisting in the tree planting activity by providing the seedlings to be planted in the Environmental Learning Area (ELA). Staff was unfortunately unable to attend the initial planning meeting for the event but did receive a follow up email from the school with some information. Planting by students will occur from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Staff has been asked to try and provide a couple volunteers to assist with the planting activities and to see if a water truck may be available for use that day as well. He stated that this would be a great opportunity to infuse some excitement and education about the benefits that trees provide in the community and encouraged EPB member to assist with the event if possible. Environmental Policy Board / March 18, 2019 Page 3 of 4