05-12-1997 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR APRIL 28,1997 (#14 - Spring Hill Golf Club - Continued) Flint commented that an inventory doesn't achieve very much. There might be more value in spending time and money in looking at ways to mitigate the impact on the Big Woods. He specifically questioned the design of Hole #9 and the possibility of redesigning it to save a large portion of the Big Woods. Goetten asked if there was a possibility to look at another area to preser\^e part of the Big Woods such as Wolsfeld, Wood Rill or purchasing additional land. The applicant indicated that on the northern half across County Road 6, there were 6-10 acres that could be revegetated to redevelop into the Big Woods. These areas are currently pastured or grown with poplar trees. This would give a contiguous Big Woods around the perimeter of the property. Goetten expressed her appreciation for all that has been done to this point for the environment but she is still concerned about the loss of 50% of the Big Woods. She asked the applicants to look further as to what else could be done to have less harm to the environment. Dick Krueger, Willowbrook Drive, urged consideration of purchasing additional land. He noted there was open farmland in the area at the eastern tip of the golf course. Jabbour noted there would still be the issue of preserving the Big Woods as someone else could come in and develop the same area. Jack responded that they didn't know what property miglu be for sale nor is it in the applicant's budget, but they would consider these comments. He added that the chances of status quo remaining are very slim. Jabbour asked how much of the area could remain contiguous with the Big Woods, and if there is any occupied parcels containing the Big Woods which could be obtained. Gaffron was not aware of any such areas. Tim Wallace, 309 Benton Avenue, Wayzata, commented on experiences they have had with the Cenacle Woods in Wayzata. A group of Wayzata residents are concerned about saving the Big Woods as it is an important remnant. He noted that Wayzata has been working with an organization called the National Trust for Public Land and thought this organization may be helpful in a solution for preservation.