Resolution Number 01-88, Establishing a Natural Resources Conservation Board

Whereas, the Blaine City Council and Open Space/Greenway Planning Citizen Committees have been working on creating an Open Space Plan for the City by conducting a Natural Resource Inventory (1999) and completing a Master Greenway Plan (2001); and

Whereas, the Blaine voters passed a bond referendum in November of 2000 to fund the preservation of significant natural areas and trail corridors; and

Whereas, the members of the Blaine City Council wish to implement an Open Space Plan for the City by acquiring significant natural areas for preservation and creating trail corridors with bond funds, park dedication fees dedicated to Open Space, and grant funds available through the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources; and

Whereas, the City Council and Blaine residents are interested in exploring policy options for the maintenance and preservation of Blaine's natural resources; including both public and private initiatives/responsibilities, and

Whereas, the City Council wishes to combine the role of the Citizen's Environmental Committee with this new Board, establishing a formal recommendation process for issues relating to the Board's charge.

Now, therefore, be it resolved by the City Council of the City of Blaine that a Natural Resource Conservation Board is established and the Natural Resource Conservation Board's Process for Selection, Structure, Format, and Charge as contained in the attached policy document are approved.

Passed by the City Council of the City of Blaine this 17th day of May 2001.