Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 01/23/2023

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Board Member Hiatt asked and received confirmation that the mentioned boulevard landscaping would occur between the street and sidewalk. He asked if some of the trees from the backside could be moved to the boulevard. Senior Planner Anderson confirmed that the applicant could choose to do that. He noted that another option would be to add trees to the boulevard. Chairperson Moore appreciated the information on the Drinking Water Supply Management Area (DWSMA) and found that interesting. Senior Planner Anderson provided additional details on the DWSMA and concerns for infiltration within that area. Chairperson Moore asked if the plans for stormwater anticipated this type of use for the property. Senior Planner Anderson replied that the boundary of the DWSMA is not impacted by the type of development. Board Member Hiatt commented on the diverse species planned for landscaping. Senior Planner Anderson agreed that the applicant did a good job emphasizing a diverse landscape. Motion by- Board Member Fetterley and seconded by Board Member Bernard to recommend approval of the Landscape Plan, contingent upon compliance with Staffs review comments. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Moore, Board Member Fetterley, Bernard, Arts, and Hiatt. Voting No: None. Absent: Board Member Little. 6. BOARD / STAFF INPUT Chairperson Moore asked for an update related to an email received from the Anoka Conservation District (ACD) on potential land uses within Ramsey. Senior Planner Anderson provided a high-level summary of the request from ACD to inquire on whether there was park land that would be suitable to convert to a natural landscape because ACD was looking to apply for grant funds for that type of conversion. He stated that nothing was locked into place, the request was simply to determine if there were site candidates that would work. He stated that staff did identify a few locations and if ACD is successful in obtaining the grant, staff would bring that information forward to the EPB, Parks and Recreation Commission and ultimately City Council for input and approval. He noted that should that move forward, it would reduce maintenance and improve pollinator habitat. He stated that he will have a case to present at an upcoming meeting for a similar project to consider along the railroad right-of-way and COR infiltration basin. He noted that could be an opportunity for the Board to assist with the plantings. Board Member Hiatt commented that if park land is converted as discussed, it would be nice to have some walking paths as that could be an opportunity for resident education. Environmental Policy Board / January 23, 2023 Page 3 of 4