07-23-1990 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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We considered each and every issue raisea by Orono and we did it in open public forum that Orono chose to avoid. Page 2, paragraph 3, d. "So far as the environment is concerned, the LMCD should immediately: 1. Establish the permissible density standards for optimum environmental protection and for purposes of boating safety;" RESPONSE: We considered and rejected density standards at the meetings that Orono chose not to participate in. The reasons are too many to here. Basically, 15-20 years of research on carrying capacity yielded little or nothing for planners preparing a Management Plan for Lake Minnetonka. The field of recreational research is now pursuing other management strategies. Your emphasis on a density standard is outdated and not supported by current recreational thinking. Again, we wish that Orono had opted to be involved in the planning process so these types of issues would not arise now. Page 2, paragraph 3, d 2. "Seek increased enforcement of existing regulations with emphasis on additional use of the water patrol, and consider methods of increased cooperation with and use of local police agencies (drunken boating, littering);" RESPONSE: We specifically call for increased enforcement in the Management Program. Orono's opposition to additional funds for the LMCD ana their opposition to the tax district, means no increased patrol hours on the lake if that view were in the majority. Unless the LMCD uses its own money, there will be no increase in patrol hours on the lake. It is shortsighted for Orono to oppose the tax district on one hand and call for increased patrol hours on the lake. There cannot be one without the other. We considered, at length, the use of local police agencies on the lake. Orono proposed this in the Public Safety Subcommittee. That proposal died for lack of a second. Not one other police department on the lake supported Orono's proposal. Two primary reasons were given for the lack of support: 1) insufficient enforcement resources; and 2) increased liability. Page 2, paragraph 3, d 3. "Require and encourage boat users education in right of way rules, etc., and in safe operation of their boats through licensing of boaters and certification requirements - e.g. power squadron certification is available." RESPONSE: This is specifically incluaeu xn the Management Plan. What Orono is overlooking is that the DNR must support efforts to require licensing of boat operators and they do not at