Agenda - Council - 11/23/2021 - Laserfiche WebLink

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that the Makowski property may not be the best fit for that activity either, but noted that the Commission could conduct a search process to find the best fit for disc golf when that time comes. Commissioner Loss asked if the Park Dedication funds would be earmarked for the Makowski park. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Mark Riverblood stated that the funds would be contributed to the Park Trust Fund. He stated that typically funds are spent where the need arises and although funds are not always spent in the specific area collected. He stated that if the need arises for park improvements to support the development that has occurred, funds are spent in that area even though it may not be on that specific property. Chair Bennett asked for details on where this request is within the planning process. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Mark Riverblood replied that the Planning Commission has recommended approval of the preliminary plat, and this will go forward to the City Council for its consideration. Chair Bennett noted that the staff recommendation seems in line with the previous discussions the Commission has had with this area of the community and its park needs. He noted that while he may not agree with the type of development proposed for this rural area, that is not part of the discussion tonight. Parks & Assistant Public Works Superintendent Mark Riverblood stated that the Hunts have owned this property and farmed it for over 100 years. He stated that in the previous Comprehensive Plan processes, the Hunts requested this property to be included in the MUSA and have planned for this for over a decade. Chair Bennett acknowledged the complexities of the situation. He stated that is why it will be important to obtain park dedication in the right manner in order to leverage that to provide the best amenities for the area and preserve the rural character. Commissioner Walker stated that he has been aware of the Makowski development since the concept review and has been active in the public hearings. He stated that he previously gathered signatures in opposition of the development of the Makowski and Hunt properties and also provided comments in opposition at the last Planning Commission meeting. He stated that the only people that will be happy with this development are those that will be living in them. He stated that the existing residents will not be pleased with the development because it is tearing apart the rural character. He stated that because of his history with the project he will be opposing the vote on principal and not because he does not want a park in this area. Chair Bennett appreciated the transparency and the passion that Commissioner Walker has expressed throughout this process. Commissioner Walker commented that when the guiding for the properties were changed, the residents in that area were not notified and have felt cheated throughout this process. He commented that this issue is very personal to him. Park and Recreation Commission/September 9, 2021 Page 4 of 6