12-08-1986 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Dave Latvaaho Page 2 November 25, 1986 currently found with the State's Department of Natural Resources. To the extent however, that the municipalities are not able to exercise any such control or at least cooperation, the supplanting of DNR by Hennepin Parks does not meet the objectives of the City of Orono. BIG ISLAND - LEVEL OF PARK ACTIVITY - The City of Orono has for a number of years taken the position that both Big Island and Deering Island would most appropriately be used as a public park. During the recent efforts by the Board of Governors to rehabilitate the Veteran's Camp on the Island, the Orono Council has taken the position that if the Big Island Board of Governors is able to redevelop the camp in a reasonable period of time and such rehabilitation is in compliance with all existing or6inances and codes, that they would be allowed to have first opportunity to do that. Absent that being accomplished however, the Council's position is that it should be under public ownership. As the Veterans' Camp is not the only land on the island, it is appropriate that Hennepin Parks delineate the extent of acquisition on the Island and also discuss these issues with the Homeowners Association on the island. The City would like to be actively involved should there be acquisition of any property by Hennepin Parks together with involvement in establishing the level of activity for the island. DEERING ISLAND - As noted above the Council's position is that D—eezrn-g—fsland is best held in public ownership, with Hennepin Parks being the most appropriate agency. Orono is aware of Hennepin Parks interest in acquiring this property however, the present price of the property may understandably bar Hennepin Parks acquisition of the property. It is the City's desire should Deering Island come into Park ownership however, that the nature of the activities be extremely limited, even to the extent that the island be retained as a preserve. STAGING AREAS FOR ISLAND ACCESS - In order to use Big Island at a modest level of activity, an area for non -boat owners is needed so that they may gain access to the island. Marinas and accesses are about the only land on the lake suitable to such use in reasonable proximity to the island. Prior to acquisition of any staging area the Park District should work with the "Host" community as to type and level of use. Such would require a significant amount of parking and it is anticipated that it would necessitate outright acquisition of a marina by Hennepin Parks. Hennepin Parks presence on Lake Minnetonka as a regional entity would be deemed positive to the extent that it allows for more