Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 06/20/2005

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Case #2 Review of Functions & Values Classification Survey Proposals from Peterson Environmental Consulting Staff Member Chris Anderson stated that at the May 16th Board meeting Staff was directed to obtain quotes from Peterson Environmental Consulting regarding a functions and values classification survey of Ramsey's wetlands. He stated that Staff has asked for detailed proposals for a GIS data review with field verification of both Preserve and manage I wetlands and for a full wetlands inventory. He stated that the proposals came back as follows: $33,320 for a scaled back version and $67,081 for the full inventory and survey. He reviewed the options with the Board noting that they would look at the twelve characteristics that define the four categories. He explained that the more information they can provide to the developer up front would help to alleviate problems at the City staff level. He noted that the $33,320 proposal is based on the assumption that 20-percent would come back as Manage 1 and/or Preserve wetlands. He indicated that the cost could increase or decrease depending on the actual number of Manage 1 and Preserve wetlands identified. He stated that a full assessment of all wetlands would cost approximately $67,000 and if they decide to do a barebones review it would only involve work from the office as they would review each wetland using the computer. Board member Olds asked if those subject to new development would be of a higher priority. Acting Chairperson McDilda stated that this could be identified and worked out through the review process. Board Member Bentz asked if this would overlap with anything that has been done by the DNR or could they consider a college student or intern to do the work. Mr. Anderson stated that it would tie in with the national wetland inventory. He indicated that there is not an agency or individual available that has done this specifically for Ramsey. Acting Chairperson McDilda referenced the timeliness noting that if they decide to work with Peterson it would all happen rather quickly. He stated that the Board should make a strong recommendation and noted that Peterson Environmental could provide a very strong scientific approach to the process. Board Member Bentz asked if they have received the flowcharts yet. Acting Chairperson McDilda stated that they have not received the flowcharts yet. Mr. Anderson responded stating that he would do a follow-up with Mr. Peterson, as they do need the flowcharts for the Planning Commission meeting. Mr. Anderson stated that he was informed, through a conversation he recently had with a DNR representative, that there may be a possible grant opportunity for this project. He stated that the Representative emailed information on the grant opportunity and he also spoke with the contact person at Met Council Environmental Services regarding eligibility and it was determined that their project is eligible. He reviewed the criteria noting that the applications are due by mid-July. He explained that the only possible concern or potential problem is that they would not be awarding the grant until August and it is not retroactive, anything happening prior to the authorization of the grant would not be covered. He stated that the map and the ordinance should go hand in hand noting that the ordinance really wouldn't mean much without the map. He reviewed the application and approval process for the grants with the Board Members. Environmental Policy Board / June 20, 2005 Page 7 of 9