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FC CASE FEASIBILITY STUDY FOR A NINE HOLE GOLF COURSE AS PART OF COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AT THE WASTE MANAGEMENT SITE By: James E. Norman, City Administrator and Mark Boos, Parks/Utilities Supervisor Background: As was discussed in February, $1,300,000 in TIF dollars is proposed within the 1999-2003 Capital Improvement Program to purchase approximately 160 acres south of the landfill. The purpose would be to continue the successful commercial/industrial development that began with the Business Park 95 venture (Business Park 95 is nearly built-out). In addition, acquisition of this land allows the City to determine exactly how the property develops. One concept that has been discussed as part of the commercial/industrial land development is the integration of a par 3, nine- hole golf course. The west and northwest portions of the Waste Management site are dotted with wetlands (and mature oaks) and therefore, difficult or cost prohibitive to develop in a traditional way. Plus, portions of the north part of this same 160-acre parcel are govemed by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) rules, which limit the placement of buildings and associated infrastructure - but do not preclude park or golf course purposes. On January 14, 1999, the Park and Recreation Commission examined the concept of a nine-hole golf course at this location (noting that some existing parkland may be needed for the golf course). After discussion, the Commission unanimously recommended the City Council order a feasibility study for the golf course concept. The park portion of the 1999 General Fund budget provides the moneys necessary under the professional services line item. On March 2, 1999, the Mayor and City Staff met with MPCA staff to discuss City receipt of the above-referenced land (north and south of the future Sunwood Drive), status of the groundwater treatment, the golf course concept and the possibility of a fireworks display on top of the landfill. The following summarizes the discussion. Land Purchase MPCA staff indicated the land would likely be offered to City for purchase as soon as 3-5 years. The southern parcels may be available sooner than the northern acreage. MPCA Staff seemed to indicate a willingness to work with the City to determine valuation. Groundwater Treatment MPCA staff announced that the plume of contaminants is continuing to shrink with groundwater concerns limited to the immediate area south and southeast of the landfill itself and entirely within the property controlled by the MPCA. As soon as conditions permit this spring, new, small-production "curtain" wells will be installed at the south and southeast side of the landfill. These wells will pump water to a below-ground air stripping device to remove the volatile organics and inorganics. The "cleaned" water will then be discharged into a man-made wetland at the south-by-southwest side of the landfill. Once this activity is completed and demonstrated successful, the existing air stripping tower would be