Agenda - Planning Commission - 03/06/2003

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Minnesota Department of Natural Resources DNR Waters - Central Region, 1200 Warner Road, St. paul, MN 55106-6793 Telephone: (651) 772-7910 Fax: (651) 772-7977 February 24, 2003 Sylvia Frolik, Community Development Director City of Ramsey 15153 Nowthen Boulevard Ramsey, MN 55303 RE: DALE WIRZ PROPERTY, RIVER PARK SKETCH PLAN, RUM RIVER, WILD & SCENIC DISTRICT, CITY OF RAMSEY, ANOKA COUNTY Dear Ms Frolik: I I I I I I I I I I I This letter is in response to your letter dated January 30, 2003 regarding the above referenced Wirz property (part ofNW ¼ NW ¼ Section 12, T32N-R25W). we have reviewed the material you sent and have the following comments: That part of the property in Section 12 is in the Wild and Scenic River land use district and is affected by the City's Scenic Overlay District as well as MN Rules, Part 6105. Minnesota Rules, Part 6105'.0140 allows Planned Cluster Developments "when the proposed clustering provides a means of preserving agricultural land, open space, woods, scenic views and other features-of the natural environment. Smaller lot sizes may be allowed for planned cluster developments provided: A) Preliminary plans are approved by the commissioner of natural resources prior to their enactment by the local authority; B) Central sewage facilities are installed which at least.meet the applicable standards, criteria, or rules of the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency; and C) Open space is preserved. This may be accomplished through the use of restrictive deed covenants, public dedication, granting of scenic easements, or other methods." The proposal that you forwarded does nothing to permanently preserve natural features or open space, and therefore would not be allowed within the Scenic River District. ft seems that platting the higher density in the Scenic River'D/strict early in the process with no open space preservation shows a disregard for the outstanding scenic, natural, and historic values of the Rum River. We are opposed to such a plan. Cluster developments that protect a property owners development.rights as well as preserve open space and natural features are highly regarded at the Department and are seen as a great tool. . I would also caution that it is not safe to assume that the land within the Scenic River District'will be Open for typical urban densities with the coming of the Metropolitan Urban Service Area. At this time,.the Minnesota Rules would not permit it. Thank you for the opportunity to comment, DNR Information: 651-296-6157 · An Equal Opportunity Employer Who Values Diversity Please feel free lo call me.lfyou have any questions. 1-888-646-6367 ° TTY: 651-296-5484 · 1-800-657-3929 Printed on Recycled Paper Containing a Minimum of 20% Post-Consumer Waste