06-24-1991 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD JUNE 24, 1991 ( #17)SEWER POND LEVEL CONTINUED view. The area is very unique and needs to be protected." Mike Ellis, 1020 Old Crystal Bay Road, stated that there are retention ponds located throughout the City that have more water depth than that of the sewer pond. Butler asked Ellis if there is currently water in the sewer pond. Ellis stated that there is approximately one foot of water in the pond. He added that just because the City may agree to allow a level of six feet in the pond, it does not mean that such a level will actually be achieved. It was moved by Butler, seconded by Goetten, to table this matter until such time that Council can review additional information from the Park Commission and the DNR as to the appropriate level of the pond. All voted aye. Motion passed. Callahan noted that Park Commission member, Susan Wilson, was present and could perhaps shed some light on the Park Commission's review of this matter. Wilson advised that the Park Commission had discussed this issue at their June 3, 1991 meeting, but that only five of the eight members were present. The consensus of the five members was that they would like to.have the pond designated as a natural wetlands area, but that the other three members should be given an opportunity to provide their input. She said, "There is definite interest in the area, and we would like to see the water level restored. The key use of the pond is by diving ducks, which require a certain depth of water. It was that element which made for a unique wetlands complex, which would be nearly impossible to duplicate. I am a member of the Nature Conservancy and have had the opportunity to see other wetland complexes in the State. This is one of the best I have seen. I encourage the Council to push for the additional depth. The diving ducks and migratory birds will come back." ( #18)SPATES AVENUE ALTERNATIVES In response to Council's request, Bernhardson provided information and sketches pertaining to various alterations that could be done to Spates and /or Railroad Avenue in order to reduce traffic levels. He asked Council for their input. Butler suggested that Staff should provide this information to the residents in the area, such as Dan Crear and Art Tourangeau, who had raised concerns and asked the City to address the traffic problems on Spates Avenue. It was Council's consensus that this information should be - 21 -