09-27-1999 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 27, 1999 • PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS - Bill Stoddard, Representative Stoddard stated he will be present at tonight's meeting to answer any possible questions that may arise concerning any of the applications before the City Council. Stoddard commented that the Planning Commission would like some direction from the City Council regarding the possibility of preparing an ordinance regulating the amount of phosphorous that runs off into Lake Minnetonka. Mayor Jabbour stated this issue has been discussed previously, and that it was determined that the Department of Agriculture is the agency that would regulate that. Gaffron remarked that this issue has been discussed as part of the City's stormwater plan and that this issue will again be discussed in the near future. Gaffron stated that other communities have adopted ordinances regulating the use of phosphorous. Stoddard suggested that perhaps the local nurseries be notified of this issue and suggest that phosphorous -free products be made available at their businesses. Mayor Jabbour stated he was in agreement with contacting the nurseries regarding this issue, and that the City should address this issue further. Jabbour stated there is a concern regarding chemical runoff into Lake Minnetonka and the effects on the community. • Stoddard commented he would like the City to continue to pursue this issue. Mayor Jabbour suggested that public education regarding the use of chemicals and chemical runoff into the local lakes would probably be the best step in addressing this situation, but that in his opinion the Department of Agriculture has the ultimate authority in limiting the use of phosphorous. McMillan commented that Medina and Plymouth have ordinances regulating the use of phosphorous, which perhaps the City of Orono should review considering the number of wetlands and lakes in the area. Jerry Kemp, 2800 Farview Lane, stated he has concerns regarding the quality of the lakes, but that any decisions regarding issuance of licenses does restrict the freedom of one or more individuals. Kemp commented that there are good reasons for the City to consider restricting the use of chemicals around the lake. Stoddard inquired whether the City Council would be willing to look at pervious fabric once again, noting that people are reverting to spray chemicals to kill the weeds that grow in their rock gardens after the plastic underlayment is removed. Mayor Jabbour stated that this issue should perhaps be looked at again and that an alternative product should perhaps be an option. •