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<br />Board Member Freeburg stated that the phenomenon is not just city wide, but across the <br />entire metro area. <br /> <br />Chairperson McDilda stated that Ramsey is changing rapidly. He stated that the City <br />Council will be challenged with looking at a transition from rural to metro. <br /> <br />Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that the study does reference increasing <br />property values, but is countering a reaction to the stigma that wetlands are a hindrance to <br />a property. Coordinator Anderson stated a valuation increase is just one of many benefits <br />of wetlands. <br /> <br />Board Member Max stated that the previous comprehensive plan indicated that people <br />wanted more trails with easy access but not in their back yards. <br /> <br />Chairperson McDilda stated that this is about open space, and wetlands are a piece of <br />open space. He stated this is about development planning and the value of not <br />developing everything in the city. He stated open space can be broadly defined. He <br />acknowledged that open spaces, regardless of how defined, are protected and can be all <br />kinds of things. He explained that as Ramsey becomes more populated, open space is a <br />valued amenity and should be protected as a premium that enhances property values. <br /> <br />Board Member Freeburg asked if he should pursue bringing in a speaker on this subject. <br /> <br />Chairperson McDilda asked Board Member Freeburg to pursue bringing in a speaker. <br /> <br />NEW BUSINESS <br /> <br />None <br /> <br />BOARD INPUT <br /> <br />Board Member Freeburg reported that he saw 17 trumpeter swans near his home <br />yesterday, and this is an unexpected surprise as trumpeter swans were once near <br />extinction. <br /> <br />Chairperson McDilda stated they were also in his pond this week. <br /> <br />Board Member Sibilski asked Environmental Coordinator Anderson ifthe report and <br />wetland inventory was presented to the planning commission. Board Member Sibilski <br />asked why the wetland inventory had to be approved. <br />Environmental Coordinator Anderson stated that the planning commission made it clear <br />they would like the map to be brought back for a public hearing. Coordinator Anderson <br />stated the planning commission meetings are typically where public hearings are held. <br /> <br />ADJOURNMENT <br /> <br />Environmental Policy Board/ January 8, 2006 <br />Page 14 of 15 <br />