10-24-2011 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, October 10, 2011 7:00 o'clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 2 of 13 (3a. DONATION GARDEN - LIZZ LEVANG, Continued) eggplant, cabbage, tomatoes, cucumbers, squash, zucchini, beans, peppers, watermelon, onions, flowers, and some herbs. The soil ended up being mostly clay and the volunteers spent a number of hours and money attempting to remedy the soil. In addition, some of the debris from the construction of the fire hall was left on the site and needed to be removed. A fence was erected surrounding the entire perimeter about halfway through the season and they planted approximately an 80' x 80' garden. The recipients were very pleased with the fresh produce. The flowers were given to the senior citizen center. The total amount of produce harvested was 1,699.95 pounds. Levang stated in the future the group hopes to be able to plant a garden that is 100' x 100', expand the agreement to a five year license, expand the number of recipients, and provide some teaching opportunities for young children. April Wysocki noted her name is on the license with the City, and that she would request the Council to consider entering into a five-year contract with the stipulation that if anyone comes forward to purchase the property, that the group be given a 90-day notice to vacate between the months of January and July. Wysocki indicated she would also like the Council to consider allowing them to have a bench that is not fastened to the ground so it can be removed easily to accommodate senior citizens. The size of the bench is not that important and their group would be willing to purchase it. They would like the fencing structure to remain each year rather than having to erect it and remove it each year. Currently the fencing on the north and south has been rolled back but the posts are still in the ground. Wysocki stated they would also like to do some experimental gardening in the southeast corner, which is a very wet portion of the garden. They would like to place a couple of hay bales there to grow potatoes and tomatoes. Wysocki noted that the agreement contains a clause restricting raised beds, but that there is a company in the area called Little Acres which sells a structure that is three foot by four foot structure that they would like to utilize. Otten Brothers has said that area would be perfect to show people alternative ways to grow crops in different types of conditions. McMillan requested the other volunteers stand so they can be acknowledged for their hard work. McMillan commented the work of the volunteers has been tremendous. McMillan thanked the City of Long Lake for supplying the water to the garden. With a longer-term contract, the group would be able to invest in a spigot that is located closer to the garden. Rahn commented that the garden is impressive and that he is glad everything worked out. Printup stated they did not initially anticipate that amount of produce. Printup recommended the City Attorney review the license agreement and incorporate the requests of the group. Mattick stated he would likely change the license to a rental agreement with an explanation of how the land would be used going into the future that can be presented to the group. Mattick requested a list of the items the group would like incorporated to be submitted to him. Item #03 - CC Agenda - 10/24/2011 Approval of Council Minutes 10/10/2011 [Page 2 of 13]