Laserfiche WebLink
ORONO PARKS, OPEN SPACE AND TRAILS COMMISSION MEETING <br /> MINUTES FOR JANUARY 3, 2000 <br /> 7. Dakota Rail <br /> McDermott stated in the upcoming weeks, possibly January 9th, the Mayor, Dick Flint, and <br /> Peter Johnson will be meeting with a state-run organization or group in charge of trails in an attempt <br /> to formulate a puchase agreement and/or obtain state funding to enable the cities to purchase the <br /> Dakota Rail. McDermott stated the City has not approached this group in the past and are looking <br /> for their support. <br /> Silber commented acquisition of the Dakota Rail would be a good asset to the community. <br /> McDermott stated Mound is informally supporting the project, with Minnetonka Beach being <br /> uncommitted at this time. McDermott noted that Orono is in support of acquiring this railroad line. <br /> Meyers commented once people are made aware of what the City is proposing in place <br /> of this railroad line, in his view the residents will be supportative of the project. Meyers stated it <br /> is his understanding the railroad line has passed state inspection, but due to the large number of <br /> derailments and incidents that have occurred on this line, in his opinion the railroad line should be <br /> subject to closer inspection by the state. Meyers stated if the railroad continues to own this line <br /> for another seven years, they would be free to sell it to any interested buyer. <br /> Council Member Peterson inquired whether the City has any obligation to maintain any of the <br /> railroad crossings. <br /> Gappa stated it is his understanding the railroad is responsible for maintaining the crossings. Gappa <br /> stated the City can approach the railroad about improving the crossings. <br /> Meyers stated he would be interested in approaching the private group who organizes the bike ride in <br /> the Lake Minnetonka area regarding the Dakota Rail to Trail project to gain their input. Meyers <br /> stated he will attempt to contact the chair of that group to see whether they would be interested in <br /> a presentation. <br /> NEW BUSINESS <br /> 8. Summit Beach <br /> Canoe Racks <br /> McDermott stated at the time the canoe racks were installed, it was decided that the people utilizing <br /> the racks were to apply to the City for a permit to store their canoes. McDermott inquired whether <br /> anyone has applied for that permit. <br /> Gappa stated the City has received some annual requests for permits from a couple of residents about <br /> storing their canoes over the winter on the racks. Gappa noted to date there has not been a shortage <br /> of space available on the canoe racks. <br /> McDermott inquired whether the City incurs any liability for the canoes while they are being stored on <br /> the racks. <br /> Gappa stated as part of the permit the applicant indemnifies the City from any liability, noting the <br /> applicant must provide evidence to the City that they have their own insurance coverage on the canoe. <br /> Gappa stated the racks are available to Orono residents first. Typically the City receives two or <br /> three permit requests per year for the canoe racks. <br /> Page 6 <br />