Laserfiche WebLink
Appendix 7 <br />LAKE MINNETONKA ACQUISITION PROCESS <br />This document will describe the process the DNR will use to acquire land on Lake <br />Minnetonka. <br />BACKGROUND <br />A Process to provide Public Water Access (PWA) in the metropolitan area was developed by <br />the Metropolitan Council, The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR), and <br />the State Planning Agency under the direction of the Legislative Commission on Minnesota <br />Resources (LCMR). <br />These agencies produced a document that outlined a Site Selection Criteria, a Lake Ranking <br />system and an Access Priority List. The MNDNR and other public agencies use these <br />procedures to develop accesses in the metropolitan area. This document is available from the <br />Metropolitan Council. <br />PROCESS <br />On a priority bay or lake area, public property is investigated for access suitability. If none is <br />available or useable, a search for suitable sites is begun. Often on heavily developed lakes or <br />bays, the actual acquisition process begins with a parcel of land becoming available that meets <br />the criteria. The MNDNR purchases only from willing sellers and the owner must be willing <br />to sell the parcel for a public water access. <br />When the landowner indicates a willingness to sell, the acquisition process and timeline are <br />explained. If the landowner agrees to proceed, the Landowner Bill of Rights Letter is signed. <br />This letter verifies that the landowner understands the process and has agreed to work with <br />the MNDNR. <br />If the site meets the criteria and the landowner agrees to proceed, the MNDNR will have the <br />property appraised to determine its fair market value. After the appraisal has been approved, <br />an offer to purchase can be made. <br />If the landowner agrees with the value, then the MNDNR may take an option on the property. <br />The option will indentify such things as, the land to be purchased, the price, the length of <br />time required to complete the negotiations. <br />After the option is signed by the landowner, the MNDNR, within 5 working days, will notify <br />the city and the LMCD, in writing, of its actions. Notification can not be made prior to the <br />signing of the option due to confidentiality requirements. <br />Page 23 <br />275 <br />