02-23-2004 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, February 23, 2004 7:00 o'clock p.m. • (LMCD REPORT — Debora Halvorson, Continued) Halvorson indicated that the LMCD is studying this question; however, wrestles with the fact that these are public waters. McMillan stated that the lake management plan throws out some ideas of how to manage and restrict use, but this is an ongoing issue. White stated that parking alone can help manage use, by not allowing more boats in the water than the parking warrants for boats and trailers. Sansevere suggested the LMCD give thought to a small launch fee. Halvorson stated that she brought up the launch fee suggestion and was told by the LMCD that this was illegal, and could only be changed by lobbying the DNR. McMillan stated that, years ago, the DNR ruled that the lake could support 700 car /trailer parking spaces. Today, there are merely 400 spaces and it still feels as if the lake is at critical mass. McMillan suggested the 700 spaces be revisited, reduced, and capped, admitting that this would likely be a political `hot potato'. Halvorson continued, stating that zebra mussel inspections will be ongoing over the 2004 season, especially during peak usage times and at peak use access points. While the LMCD believes a more • comprehensive inspection program is necessary, at a cost of $250,000 funding that program would not be easy. She pointed out that ongoing education is necessary and suggested a newsletter article be published to urge the public to be cautious. Finally, Halvorson stated that the DNR is considering liquor licenses for charter boats on the lake. While the current limit is 14 excluding beer /wine permits, she asked the Council whether they felt this number sufficed, should increase, or be reduced. Sansevere stated that 14 sounded adequate to him. PUBLIC COMMENTS Mayor Peterson stated that she had received a call from Mr. and Mrs. Nusbaum, 3480 North Shore Drive, regarding the drainage water problem they have along Birch Lane to the rear of their home. She asked whether Public Works Director Gappa and Engineer Kellogg could visit the property and evaluate the construction of curb and gutter and what other short term solutions there might be. Betsy Nusbaum, 3480 North Shore Drive, stated that both Gappa and Kellogg have visited the property in the past and have not come up with a solution to date. She explained that, she and her husband, have been pumping hundreds of gallons of water out of their garage and driveway daily since the weather has begun to melt the snow. Having built their home 4 years ago, the water has continued to be a problem, causing their existing driveway to crumble. Mrs. Nusbaum stated that they were greatly concerned what impact this will have on their home and their intent to construct a new garage on the property. . PAGE 7 of 14