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HomeMy WebLinkAboutUntitled , n. t; !E 619 SECOND STREET `ij.l'r%il ' b HUDSON,WISCONSIN 54016-1576 �, I ' `,� .Y , ` )V-Jo MN Telephone FAX:715.386.9571 ``, AUG ` 1#I`ihon- 651.436.7131 EMAIL:mwbac@mwbac.state.wi.us 1 . 86.94 \\ NOTICE OF COMMISSION MEETING • August 23, 1999 4:00 p.m. - St.James Hotel Red Wing MN (651) 388-2846 Proposed Agenda 4:00 1. Call to Order and Announcements -Chair,James M. Fitzpatrick A. Approve agenda, including consent agenda(on back) B. Approve minutes of June. 10, 1999 meeting 4:10 2. Executive Director's Report • 4:15 3. Public Forum (The time when citizens are encouraged to briefly address the Commission with concerns not scheduled on the agenda.More time will be taken if needed.)* 4:45 4. Mississippi River Regional Committee A. Mississippi River Stewardship Initiative 5:00 5. St. Croix River Regional Committee A. Recommendations resulting from July 3 Boat Collision 5:15 Supper recess(on your own) 7:00 6. Evaluation of the Commission's scope of authority and role in regional issues. The Commission may vote to schedule any past position or action for review at a subsequent meeting and to vote to take action pursuant to our legislative survival 9:30 Adjourn .*Citizens may speak on items scheduled on the agenda, after registering and being recognized by the Chair. Action may be taken on any items (except those raised in the public forum, for which open meeting law notice requirements preclude substantive discussion and action). • Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • S COMMISSION MEETING August 23, 1999 CONSENT AGENDA 1. Accept financial reports A. Months of April,May,June and July, 1999 B. Fiscal year 1999 (July 1, 1998-June 30, 1999) MINNESOTA(ISCONSIN BOUNDARY Ai& COMMISSION 619 SECOND STREET _• �� HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 ' i . .1 t MN Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 WI Telephone 651.436.7131 EMAIL: mwbac@mwbac.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 MINUTES OF COMMISSION MEETING JUNE 10, 1999 STEAMBOAT INN PRESCOTT,WISCONSIN CALL TO ORDER Chair Fitzpatrick called the meeting to order at 10:10 a.m. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Commissioner DeLapp moved,Commissioner Blue seconding, approval of the agenda. Unanimously adopted. APPROVAL OF MINUTES • Commissioner Howe moved,Commissioner Mullally seconding, approval of the minutes of the April 13, 1999 Commission meeting. Unanimously adopted. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT Malick reported that the new zebra mussel sign has been placed at Prescott. Commissioners discussed the possibility of scheduling the August regular Commission meeting to coincide with the Mississippi Commission's river trip to this area August 23 and 24. Staff was directed to investigate participation of legislators and elected officials. Malick discussed the Expo scheduled for September 18, 1999 and distributed the latest fact sheets. Malick reported on the status of the Commission's 1999 Work Program and introduced Len Meissen,Village of North Hudson President,who has been contracted to work with Harrison in implementing public forums and field trips on the Mississippi River to promote public awareness of river issues. Harrison reported that he and Meissen have been working to schedule a listening and learning session on the River July 22, 1999. The Corps of Engineers,U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and City of Winona have committed to working with the Commission on this trip. Commissioners stressed the importance of involving all river users. Malick reported that the Commission's FY 1999 budget provides a small carryover balance that will cover expected July expenses. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • . 2 � Boundary Commission Minutes—June 10, 1999 PUBLIC FORUM Rob Bignell,Prescott Journal Editor welcomed Commissioners,noting the Journal's editorial support of the Commission. He introduced reporter Morgan Holly. Terry Moe,Wisconsin DNR,informed Commissioners that the Wisconsin Joint Commission on Finance has recommended maintaining DNR funding of the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association at the past dues level,resulting in a shortfall of$13,000. He said steps are being taken to hopefully restore those funds. Harrison stated that the Commission at an earlier meeting took action in support of the increased dues. Paul Mosby,landowner north of Prescott,expressed his concern that the Commission is not aware of landowner problems relating to land use. He cited the 50 percent rule and NR118. Commissioner Mullally responded that the Commission does not have any regulatory power and problems cannot be solved until all entities come together to discuss the issues. The Commission is trying to provide the vehicle for pulling all interested parties together for such discussion. Commissioner Tyler thanked Mosby for his comments and Commissioner Blue expressed a desire that the Commission study land use issues on both rivers to see if recommendations to the states regarding citizen rights is in order. Staff was directed to include this issue on the next Commission meeting agenda. Malick observed that the draft EIS for the whole Cooperative Management Plan for the Lower St. Croix,including NR 118 topics, should be available for Commission study and comment in July. • ST.CROIX RIVER Stillwater Bridge Mitigation List Commissioner Tyler moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding, adoption of the St. Croix River Regional Committee recommendation that the Cmmission support the following as mitigation for the scenic and recreational impacts of the St. Croix River Bridge project by Mn/DOT,Wis/DOT and FHWA: 1. Remove the Northern States Power mooring cells and barge off-loading facility at the A.S. King Plan in Oak Park Heights 2. Remove the Terra Terminal building south of downtown Stillwater and restore the shoreline 3. Remove the earthen causeway between the lift bridge and the Wisconsin shoreline and restore the shoreline 4. Provide funds to the future owner of the lift bridge for routine maintenance and its ultimate future removal 5. Remove the unnecessary pavement from the Wisconsin approach to the lift bridge and provide landscape restoration 6. Stiliwater's Kolliner Park: clean-up property and allow it to revert to a more natural state Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 Y • 3 • Boundary Commission Minutes—June 10, 1999 7. Partner with Stillwater in the development of a river front park on the former Aiple barge facility property and restore the shoreline 8. Assist in the development of a regional infrastructure and land use plan for the St. Croix River Valley area between Taylors Falls and Prescott 9. Provide a public boat access near the former FEIS alignment or the Consensus alignment on the Minnesota side of the river 10. Involve the state DNRs in the placement of covenants on potential excess properties from the previous bridge alignment to limit future development uses 11. Resolve the future of the existing lift bridge 12. No more visible crossings Steven Johnson,Minnesota DNR, indicated that removal of the historic lift bridge is focussing on ten years after completion of the new bridge(or when the bridge "breaks," whichever is earlier). Commissioner DeLapp reported that he understands the Metropolitan Council will be studying the capacity of the new bridge and making a recommendation this fall about the number of lanes. The motion was unanimously adopted. Compensation for Damage from Electric Transmission Lines • Commissioners noted that Wisconsin statutes applicable to power lines and highways provide that only owners of real property subject to easement or purchase are compensated. Owners of other property receive nothing for damage to their view,their solitude or other property rights. The St. Croix Regional Committee, at its meeting in May, addressed the concept of compensation for owners of property located outside a utility corridor if the corridor reduces the value of the property. Commissioner Tyler moved,Commissioner DeLapp seconding,that the Commission recommend that a person whose property is outside a utility corridor and is diminished in value due to the presence of transmission lines may receive redress for a diminution in property value.The motion passed. During the lunch break Gene"Popeye"Tronnier,the only river pilot with a license for the whole length of the Mississippi River related some of his experiences. He decried the decline in qualifications of tow captains generally and the pressures to move cargo in risky situations. MISSISSIPPI RIVER EMP Reauthorization and Funding Harrison reported that the House enacted its WRDA bill on April 29 and there is now a Conference Committee reconciling differences between the House and Senate versions. The House Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 4 • � Boundary Commission Minutes—June 10, 1999 authorization is open-ended compared to the Senate's ten year extension. The Senate version increases non-federal EMP project costs to 35 percent and the House kept the current 25 percent. Both bills contain the same authorized spending amounts. Long-Term Resource Monitoring Program(LTRMP)Restructuringand Budget Shortfalls Commissioner Mullally moved, Commissioner Howe seconding, adoption of the following Mississippi River Regional Committee recommendation in order to promote the continuity and integrity of the EMP Long-Term Resource Monitoring Program: The Mississippi River Regional Committee recommends that the MWBAC take the position and advise its sponsor states,the Clinton Administration and the Minnesota and Wisconsin Congressional delegations that: (a) There is an immediate need to relieve the constraints of funding under the original (1986) annual appropriations ceiling of$5.955 million on the Long-Term Resource Monitoring Program(LTRMP)of the Upper Mississippi River Environmental Management Program(EMP),in order to preserve several critical elements and capabilities of the program; (b) The elimination of as many as 14 professional LTRMP staff positions and suspension of such elements as sediment monitoring and bathymetric surveys to meet the original budget limitations will interrupt and compromise data gathering, creating very serious losses to the EMP program,even on a short-term basis, and every effort should be made to retain and maintain them; (c) The proposed reauthorization of the EMP in the Water Resources Development Act of 1999 (WRDA 99) would allow for a higher annual appropriation level of$10.420 million for the LTRMP; therefore, (d) If WRDA 99 is enacted soon enough to correct this deficiency under the increased funding authorization,the Congress should appropriate an additional$1.0 million over and above the$18.955 million requested in the President's Budget for the EMP in FY 2000 in the Corps of Engineers Construction-General Budget,so that the devastating effects of preventable program reductions in the LTRMP and the entire EMP program can be avoided. The motion was unanimously adopted. Habitat Needs Assessment Commissioners discussed the 12 Audubon/UMRCC sponsored public meetings held during April and May, 1999. Harrison reported that overall attendance at the 12 meetings was about 300. Commissioner Mullally questioned if the mix of agency people might skew the results of public input into the process. Mr.Moe and Don Powell,Corps of Engineers,reported that agency people did not submit written comments. Harrison stated that a lot of ideas came from the 321 comments. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 411 5 • Boundary Commission Minutes—June 10, 1999 Upper Mississippi/Illinois River Navigation Study Commissioner Mullally advised Commissioners of two workshops scheduled in La Crosse, Wisconsin,August 4, 1999, and Inver Grove Heights,Minnesota,August 5, 1999.The workshops will provide an opportunity for the public to examine alternatives with both economic and environmental inputs relating to the Upper Mississppi River-Illinois Waterway Navigation Study. Malick urged Commissioners to inform the office if they wish to attend either of these meetings. Commissioner Mullally noted that the Commission is on record in favor of completion and consensus agreement among cooperating river agencies and states through the original navigation study process regarding any final decisions on modifications to the Upper Mississippi River and Illinois River navigation systems. He cautioned Commissioners to present this position. Evaluation of Upper Mississippi River Federal Partnership Roles On October 8, 1998 the Commission directed the Mississippi River Regional Committee to initiate an evaluation of federal partnership authorities,responsibilities and funding for balanced river management,with special attention to the role of the Department of the Interior, with recommendations for consideration in the Commission's 1999 Work Program.The Committee, in conjunction with its regular meetings,has visited operations centers of river managing agencies. Mississippi River Stewardship Initiative The Commission has a long-standing interest in sediment and erosion issues going back to the GREAT River Study in the 1970s. Commissioners discussed a proposal developed by St.Mary's University Resource Studies Center in Winona in conjunction with the University of Minnesota's Waseca Station relating to sediment and nutrient reduction for the Upper Mississippi River system. At its last meeting the Mississippi River Regional Committee was briefed by Barry Drazkowski on the plan and a strategy to seek Congressional support.The Committee determined that the best direction for the Commission to take to assist the states and federal government in this matter would be to incorporate it in the 1999 Work Program. Commissioner Mullally moved, Commissioner Grawe seconding, adoption of the Mississippi River Regional Committee recommendation that the Commission reinstate "promotion of funding and implementation of a sediment and Erosion Control Plan for the Upper Mississippi River System" as a Mississippi River work task in the 1999 Work Program. Unanimously adopted. Lock and Dam 3 Dike Construction Project Don Powell, Corps of Engineers,described Corps plans to reconstruct the failing Lock and Dam 3 dike. An environmental assessment was prepared which the Mississippi River Regional Committee reviewed. The Committee sent a comment letter, subject to Commission approval,to the Corps St. Paul District requesting that additional information on other alternatives be provided before taking final action on the proposal. Powell noted letters of response were received with some substantial negative comments. He said the Corps,in the process of trying to resolve some of the concerns,is Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 6 • Boundary Commission Minutes—June 10, 1999 preparing a revised environmental assessment which will then be put out for public review and comment. Terry Moe,Wisconsin DNR expressed concerns that habitat will not be improved as expected,citing damage that will be done to mussel beds. He encouraged dive surveys. Commissioners discussed the Mississippi River Regional Committee comment letter and Commissioner Grawe moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding, Commission ratification of the letter. Unanimously adopted. Commissioners discussed public access and the possibility of maintaining the old dikes. Harrison suggested that perhaps the Mississippi River Regional Committee could sponsor a public workshop in Red Wing in conjunction with a regular meeting. Commissioner Tyler moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding,that the Committee be directed to proceed with plans for such a workshop. Unanimously adopted. Pilot Pool Drawdown: Pool 8 -Role of the Commission in Dredging Projects Commissioners discussed the Commission's possible role as fiscal agent to handle the non-federal share of the costs in the pre-drawdown dredging process. Costs would range from$375 to$16,475. The Commission would not be responsible for providing the source of the funds-only disbursing funds supplied by others. The project is scheduled to be implemented next year. The Commission has been involved with this project and has been favorable toward the concept for pool backwater revegetation. Commissioner Howe moved, Commissioner Grawe seconding, approval of the Mississippi River Regional Committee recommendation that the Commission agree to be the fiscal agent for the pre- drawdown Section 1135 dredging proiect,subiect to contract approval and our longevity. Unanimously adopted. FUTURE OF COMMISSION Malick reported that Minnesota has reauthorized the Commission's funding,conditioned on Wisconsin matching. Commissioner Grawe earlier had provided a letter to Commissioners suggesting that the Commission examine its operations and attitudes toward a redefinition of the Commission in the sense of altering our work program and in the sense of redefming our role. In discussion Commissioners agreed that the Commission through its Legislative Affairs Committee should begin to work with Senator Jane Krentz and others toward a meeting with critics of the Commission. Commissioner DeLapp cautioned Commissioners against overreacting stating that this is a process that should be followed every year. Commissioner Blue suggested that such a meeting be a discussion of issues rather than negative testimonials. Harrison reported that letters have been prepared to send to key legislators commending them for their support during the budget process. Commissioner Grawe suggested the Commission inform both governors of the Commission's intent to examine its role. In response to questions raised by Commissioner Tyler relating to the American Heritage Rivers Mississippi project, staff was directed to check into and provide information for Commissioners. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 n , • 7 • Boundary Commission Minutes—June 10, 1999 Commissioner Grawe suggested referring it to the Mississippi River Regional Committee for review. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was declared adjourned at 4:00 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Rosie Herricks, Office Manager • Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 . 8 • Boundary Commission Minutes—June 10, 1999 AIThNDANCE COMMISSION MEMBERS WISCONSIN MINNESOTA Bill Howe Suzanne Blue Bob Mullally Steve DeLapp Wayne Tomfohrde Jim Fitzpatrick Gerald Tyler Robin Grawe Absent: Judy Kinkead STAFF Clarence Malick,Executive Director Jim Harrison,Public Affairs Director • Rosie Herricks,Office Manager Jessie Meschievitz,Clerical Assistant • GUESTS Mark Aumann,Representative Ron Kind's Office,Eau Claire,Wisconsin Matt Nikolay,Senator Russ Feingold's Office,La Crosse,Wisconsin Cara Casper,Senator Kohl's Office,La Crosse,Wisconsin Shirley Fredrickson,Senator Alice Clausing's Office,Menomonie,Wisconsin Steve Johnson,Minnesota DNR, St.Paul,Minnesota Terry Moe,Wisconsin DNR,La Crosse,Wisconsin Jeff Schneider,Minnesota Pollution Control Agency,Rochester,Minnesota Don Powell,Corps of Engineers,St.Paul,Minnesota Rob Bignell,Prescott Journal Editor,Prescott,Wisconsin Morgan Holly,Prescott Journal,Prescott,Wisconsin Gene Tronnier,Mississippi River Pilot,Prescott,Wisconsin Pat Tronnier,Prescott,Wisconsin Paul Mosby,River Falls,Wisconsin MaryAnn Mullally,Onalaska,Wisconsin • Cal Bruer,Edina,Minnesota Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • - S 5 BULK RATE U.S. POSTAGE Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission PAID 619 Second Street HUDSON WI Hudson WI 54016-1576 PERMIT NO.207 Tom Melena City Administrator City of Oak Park Heights PO Box 2007 Oak Park Heights MN 55082 CITY (' • PARKHEIGHTS OAK .04::—'4"'"," 14168 N. 57th Street•Box 2007 •Oak Park Heights,MN 55082 •Phone: (612) 439-4439 • FAX 439-0574 C y March 30, 1998 Mr. Todd Butterfield, General Manager Port of Sunnyside. 6413 St. Croix Trl.N. Oak Park Heights,MN 55082 Dear Mr.Butterfield: I am in receipt of your letter of March 17, 1998. This response is to let you know of the information we have received on the possibility of your request; that being,to have a no-wake zone in front of the Sunnyside marina. City representatives did attend the Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission meeting, specifically their St.Croix Regional Committee meeting held March 25th. At that meeting we were able to make contact with Mr. James Harrison, the Public Affairs Directors and further received information on the law enforcement efforts being undertaken by both the Minnesota and Wisconsin Departments of Natural Resources as well as the various law enforcement agency's.- At the same time also received some information from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources on their boat wake/island impacts. The outcome of all this information is that first of all, as you are probably aware, it is mandatory that there is a 100 foot setback and automatic no wake zone from all"areas along the river shore." Secondly, your marina is already approved for buoys in the general area of that same no wake zone. Mr: Harrison did point out that if you have any further questions or would like to see those no wake zones expanded there are two people you could talk to. One would be Molly Shodeen of M.D.N.R., another would be Dan Seemon with the Corps. of Engineers. If you would and call either one of these individuals,they can help you through any further processing requests that you may have. I would point out that if you do not have their phone numbers,you can call Jessie with the Boundary Area Commission at(612) 436- 7131 or(715) 386-9444 for those numbers. If there is anything else I can do to help you,please let me know. At this point it would appear that your next step would be the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources or with the Corps. Of Engineers. Sincerely, Thomas M.Melena City Administrator TM:jah Tree City U.S.A. MINNESOTISCONSIN BOUNDARY ARNPCOMMISSION 619 SECOND STREET �" L',r- a.1 HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 ;IMOD) N Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 WI Telephone 12.436.7131 EMAIL: mwbac@mail.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 NOTICE OF MEETING ST. CROIX REGIONAL COMMITTEE DATE: Wednesday, March 25, 1998 IE © 0 V E III I� TIME: 9:30 .m. to 4:30 p.m. I 11 P MAR 1 3 1998 PLACE: Stillwater City Hall 216 North Fourth Street Stillwater, MN 55082 Phone: (612) 439-8800 PROPOSED AGENDA 9:30 a.m. 1. Call to Order- Commissioner Jim Fitzpatrick, Chair 2. Briefing and discussion of Lower St. Croix Cooperative Management Plan Task Force alternatives and planning timeline 11:30 a.m. 3. Lunch 1:00 p.m. 4. Committee review of Lower St. Croix Cooperative Management Plan alternatives and management structure* 2:00 p.m. 5. Land use and Riverway zoning (NR118) issues* - Dan McGuiness, MWBAC 2:15 p.m. 6. Basin water quality updates -Jim Harrison, MWBAC a. Hinkley wastewater treatment proposal b. Rush City wastewater treatment proposal c. LCMR St. Croix basin proposal 2:45 p.m. 7. Coordination and stewardship a. MN-WI law enforcement - Dave Rasmussen, WDNR • b. Non-profit organization interest in volunteer monitoring - Dan McGuiness, MWBAC 3:15 p.m. 8. Updates of interagency recreational boating studies a. Boat wake/island impacts—Scot Johnson, MDNR b. 1997 preliminary recreational boating study data - Eric Macbeth, MWBAC 4:00 p.m. 9. 1998 Zebra mussel response plan 4:10 p.m. 10. Public forum 4:30 p.m. 11. Adjournment Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • 110 0000; On the Beautiful St.Croix River (-1 — Port of Sunnyside Club, Inc. 6413 St.Croix Trail North " n h 1 �,, ��r I,/ Stillwater,Minnesota 55082 • 612-439-2118 •Fax 612-439-1033 iI A March 17, 1998 City Administrator Oak Park Heights Dear Sir: The U.S. Coast Guard suggested that I write to concerning the Port of Sunnyside's request to the Coast Guard for a No Wake zone in front of our marina. I have attached copies of two setters, one from Sunnyside's president, Gary Gustafson requesting the No Wake zone and the reply from the Coast Guard. Does the city of Oak Park Heights have a role in helping us to obtain a No Wake zone? We look forward to hearing from you on this matter. Sincerely. Todd Butterfield, General Manager Port of Sunnyside Club,Inc. 4 Alp • '�''f"!!•� On the Beautiful St.Croix River Port of Sunnyside Club, Inc. 6413 St.Croix Trail North h ( ', Stillwater,Minnesota 55082 • 612-439-2118 • Fax 612-439-1033 r A Much 6, 1998 United States Coast Guard PO Box 65428 St. Paul,MN 55165-0428 Re:No Wake Zone Sunnyside Marina St. Croix River I am writing to you on behalf of the members of the Port of Sunnyside,a marina on the St. Croix river just south of Stillwater,MN. We request that a"no wake"zone be established for the entire width of the river opposite our marina The length of the zone would have to be approximately 3000 feet to accomplish our objective. The reason for this request is twofold. First,the boat traffic continues to increase and the boats are larger and throw a larger wake. This is a problem to our members and guests in that our boats are continually rocking on the weekends.This is not only uncomfortable but unsafe. It is not unusual for items to fly off galley counters and break. The slips at the end of our piers are obviously effected the most severely. At times it can be dangerous to walk on the fingers near the end of our piers. Secondly,the heavy wave action is causing extensive damage to our docks. We are spending thousands upon thousands of dollars every summer replacing broken boards, structural members and hundreds of fasteners. It has become such a safety problem on the walking surfaces that we must pound the nails back in place after the turbulent weekends. This action is also applying massive amounts of stress and strain to our pilings and"H" beams which ultimately requires additional attention. The Port of Sunnyside is now studying the feasibility of rebuilding the marina The type of reconstruction of our docks will be determined by the amount of wave action that they must sustain. One alternative is to construct a floating wave attenuator across the front of our marina but that would not be necessary if we were in a"no wake"zone. We have had preliminary discussions with the Corp.ofEngineers regarding the construction of a wave attenuator but have been informed by them that before they could • consider such a request we would need to pursue the"nowake" solution first. We would prefer to have the"no wake zone" Page 2 Please respond as soon as possible to this request If there is additional information that is required please contact our manager,Todd Butterfield, at this address. Thank you. Sincerely, Port of Sunnyside Club,Inc. Gary C. Gustafson,President • • • U.S. Deportment Supervisor P.O. Box 65428 4.XMarine Safety Detachment St. Paul, Minnesota of Transportation U. S. Coast Guard 55165-0428 United States (612) 290-3991 Coast Guard 5216 March 12 , 1998 Port of Sunnyside Club, Inc. Attn: Mr. Gary C. Gustafson 6413 St . Croix Trail North Stillwater, Minnesota 55082 Sir: I received your letter regarding a no wake zone in the vicinity of the Sunnyside Marina. The U. S. Army Corp of Engineers is correct in suggesting you pursue a no wake zone for this area first . However, establishment and law enforcement of such a zone falls to either state, county or city resources. Therefore, although we strongly encourage no wake zones for the safety reasons you mention, the appropriate city, county or state office is the first place to start in your pursuit of a such a zone. If that appropriate office decides to establish a no wake zone then the Coast Guard will assist that office in a planning capacity. I hope this will assist you in your efforts. Please call me at 612 290-3991 if you have further questions regarding this matter. Sincerely, C C. S. BATES Lieutenant, U.S. Coast Guard Supervisor, Marine Safety Detachment St . Paul, Minnesota ,1 t • E._. MINNESOTA CONS1N BOUNDARY AREA MISSION • � 619 SECOND STREET v-vi HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 MN Telephone FAX:715.386.9571 WI Telephone 651.436.7131 EMAIL: mwbac@mwbac.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 NOTICE OF COMMISSION MEETING DATE: Friday, December 4, 1998 TIME: 1:00 p.m.—4:00 p.m. PLACE: Carpenter Nature Center Classroom 12805 St. Croix Trail, Hastings, MN (651) 437-4359 Proposed Agenda 1:00 1. Call to Order and Announcements-Chair,Judith R. Kinkead A. Approve Agenda B. Approve Minutes of 10/8/98 1:10 2.Executive Director's Report 1:15 3. Office Manager's Report A. Accept Report 1:20 4.Public Forum(when citizens may briefly address the Chair concerning topics not scheduled on the agenda) 1:35 5.Mississippi River Regional Committee items: A. Metro Wastewater Treatment Plant Permit B. 10-State Governors' Mississippi River Conference C. EMP Reauthorization/River Management Plans D. Upper Mississippi/Illinois River Navigation Study 2:00 6. St. Croix River Regional Committee items: A. Zebra mussel prevention activities B. St. Croix River Crossing C. Chisago Project Power Line Crossing D. St. Croix and Washington County Plans 3:00 7. Proposed MWBAC 1999 Work Program A. Overview from Strategic Planning Workshop B. Authorization to Distribute for 45-Day Review/Comment 3:45 8. Election of 1999 Officers 4:00 9. Adjourn SPECIAL NOTICE The MWBAC will hold its annual Strategic Planning Workshop on Thursday,December 3,1998,from 5:30 p.m. to 9:10p.m.and on Friday,December 4, 1998,from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.at the Carpenter Nature Center. This workshop is open to the public. Call the MWBAC office for more information. Citizens may speak on any item on the agenda,after registering and being recognized by the Chair. Action may be taken on any items except those raised in the public forum. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croi... .hid Mississippi rivers since 1965 ! sar • -,-; °- MINNESOTA- CONSIN BOUNDARY( AREA COVIISSION u�r, 619 SECOND STREET (itirc.C�'li ‘.'. :44_-, ) HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 i 1) , � . . MN Telephone FAX:715.386.9571 WI Telephone 651.436.7131 EMAIL:mwbac@mwbac.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 MINUTES OF COMMISSION MEETING OCTOBER 8, 1998 THE PHIPPS CENTER FOR THE ARTS HUDSON, WISCONSIN CALL TO ORDER Chair Kinkead called the meeting to order at 10:00 a.m. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Commissioner Craig moved, Commissioner Howe seconding, approval of the agenda. Unanimously adopted. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Craig moved, Commissioner Fitzpatrick seconding, approval of the minutes of the August 17, 1998 Commission meeting. Unanimously adopted. NOMINATING COMMITTEE ANNOUNCEMENT Chair Kinkead appointed Commissioners Craig and DeLapp to serve as the Nominating Committee to select a 1999 slate of officers to be voted on at the Commission's December meeting. WORK PROGRAM UPDATE Commissioners reviewed the Work Program update discussed at the August 17 meeting. Malick observed that the work item to host public forums along the Upper Mississippi River has not been completed. He suggested this item be discussed at the planning meeting in December and carried over into next year. Commissioner DeLapp moved,Commissioner Craig seconding, approval of the updated Work Program. Unanimously adopted. Malick announced that everyone is invited to the annual meeting of the St. Croix Valley Community Foundation November 10, 1998. He informed Commissioners that he is working with UW-River Falls to produce a website where meeting minutes and agendas will be published. There is no cost to the Commission to do this and the information could be cross-linked to other sites such as the Environmental Technical Center in La Crosse. He asked that Commissioners contact him with their ideas. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 f . * I f -2- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 Commissioners discussed the staff suggestion that Regional Committee meeting notes be mailed only with the next meeting agenda rather than when they are completed. Commissioner DeLapp moved, Commissioner Tyler seconding,that the suggested procedure be followed. Unanimously adopted. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR'S REPORT Annual Planning Meeting The Commission's annual planning meeting is scheduled for December 3-4, 1998 at Carpenter Nature Center. Malick discussed an outline for the agenda. Performance Appraisal Form Malick provided Commissioners with a form for their evaluation of his job performance. Commissioners will mail the completed forms to Chair Kinkead. OFFICE MANAGER'S REPORT Quarterly report Herricks presented the Financial Reports for August and September 1998. Commissioner Mullally moved, Commissioner Craig seconding, Commission approval of the reports as presented. Unanimously adopted. Commissioner Mullally commended Herricks for her work earning interest. MISSISSIPPI RIVER Metro Waste Plant In May and June the Mississippi River Regional Committee held two meetings and a special workshop on the Metro Wastewater Treatment Plant Permit. The Commission approved a preliminary position statement at its June 25, 1998 meeting. The Commission's comment letter was held up because the comment deadline was extended several times. Harrison referred to a request from the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy that the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency hold a contested case hearing because: there are material issues of fact in dispute,the MPCA has the jurisdiction to make a determination of these disputed facts, and holding a contested case hearing would aid the agency in making a final decision on phosphorous and endocrine disrupting pollutants. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 i • -3- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 Commissioner Howe moved, Commissioner Blue seconding, adoption of the Committee recommendation that the Commission ratify the comments in its letter dated September 14, 1998 to Kelly Garvey of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency,regarding the Metro Plant permit as the official Commission comments on the matter. Following discussion the motion was unanimously adopted. 10-State Governors'Conference Commissioner Craig referred to his letter to Chris Spooner of Governor Thompson's office, encouraging the Governor to take a lead to successfully draw the river-states'governors into conference. Commissioners agreed with Commissioner Craig's suggestion to wait until after the election to pursue this issue. Harrison reported on his Congressional contacts with leadership offices of the Mississippi River House Caucus in Washington,D. C. relating to the proposed conference. Mississippi River/Gulf of Mexico Watershed Nutrient Task Force Macbeth reported that he attended a task force meeting in September. In the Gulf of Mexico near the mouth of the Mississippi River there is an area so low in oxygen that aquatic life cannot survive. The problem is caused by nutrients flowing into the Gulf from the Mississippi River attributed to agricultural production in the Midwest and loss of wetlands. Since the 1993 flood the area has doubled to 6000-7000 square miles. The task force established to study and find a solution to this problem is made up of federal, state and tribal members. There will be another meeting between December 1998 and February, 1999 to look at a win-win strategy being developed to restore and protect the waters of the Mississippi River and the Gulf of Mexico. Funding was discussed and Commissioner Mullally cautioned Commissioners not to get too excited about any new money for this project since it may already be part of the budget. Other issues discussed relating to this problem were possible EMP connections and involvement of the whole watershed. EMP Reauthorization/River Management Plans Harrison reported on meetings he had in Washington,D.C. on Interior Department Upper Mississippi River programs,noting the Upper Mississippi River House Task Force is preparing a joint letter to be sent to Interior Secretary Babbitt and OMB to get earmarked refuge operating and staffing funds in the FY 2000 President's budget. He suggested the Commission invite Region 3 Director Bill Hartwig to speak on Upper Mississippi management issues to its meeting in December. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • 4 • -4- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 Commissioner Grawe moved,Commissioner Howe seconding, adoption of the staff recommendation that the Commission initiate an evaluation,through the Mississippi River Regional Committee,of federal partnership authorities, responsibilities and funding for balanced river management, with special attention to the role of the Department of the Interior,with recommendations for consideration in the Commission's 1999 Work Program; and recommend that the U.S. Fish&Wildlife Service coordinate the revision of its Upper Mississippi River refuges master plans (now called Comprehensive Conservation Plans)with the Habitat Needs Assessment now being undertaken through the EMP. Unanimously adopted. Harrison also reported that Congress has passed the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill. The final compromised EMP appropriation is $18.9 million. Commissioner Craig moved, Commissioner Mullally seconding,that the Commission send letters of commendation to the co-chairs of the Upper Mississippi River Congressional Task Force for their leadership in moving these issues ahead. Unanimously adopted. Upper Mississippi River Basin Association Dues Increase The states of Minnesota,Wisconsin,Missouri,Iowa and Illinois formed the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association in 1982 with start-up money from the federal government. Annual dues have been assessed at$35,000 per state but now the association members have agreed to recommend that the annual dues be raised to$48,000 per year. The Mississippi River Regional Committee addressed this issue and views this organization as the key to unified states'efforts on the upper river,having proved its worth many times in research, legislative initiatives and as a forum in which all river interests interact on a quarterly basis. Commissioner Howe moved, Commissioner Mullally seconding,the Mississippi River Regional Committee recommendation that the Commission endorse the work of the UMRBA and recommend approval of the proposed dues increase by the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin through the Governors'UMRBA representatives. Unanimously adopted. Harrison 30-year Anniversary Jim Harrison's 30-year anniversary with the Commission was commemorated with a decorated cake served during the catered lunch. Chair Kinkead reflected on some of his achievements with a tongue-in-cheek reading. Tony Andersen and Brian Adams on behalf of the National Park Service presented him with a plaque of the St. Croix Riverway for his service to that agency. Other Commissioners and people in the audience commended him also,noting his dedicated service to both rivers. During the noon break,Henry Paulson of Short,Elliott,Hendrickson,Inc. spoke on Wastewater Treatment Plant Technology. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 1 ~ • + • -5- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 ST. CROIX REGIONAL COMMITTEE ITEMS St. Croix River Crossing Report Chair Kinkead read a letter provided to Commissioners from Secretary George Meyer,Wisconsin DNR, written to Richard Braun stating Wisconsin's position on the bridge issue. Terry Moe, Wisconsin DNR,discussed with Commissioners some of the issues in the letter. The Chair referred to the resolutions prepared by Commissioners. Commissioner DeLapp suggested that the Commission take action on the resolution of commendation of Richard Braun before working through the other issues since recognizing his efforts and showing appreciation for that is not connected to any bridge decisions. Chair Kinkead ruled against that and instead referred to a letter from Commissioner Fitzpatrick,St. Croix Regional Committee Chair. In the letter Commissioner Fitzpatrick observed that the Committee has not had an opportunity to address this issue and is not prepared to make a recommendation. He asked the Commission to refer the crossing issue to the Committee to discuss and formulate a recommendation to the full Commission. Chair Kinkead then asked that each Commissioner hold their motions and present their own views on this river crossing issue,which they did. Malick informed Commissioners that a Memorandum of Understanding(MOU),which is a recommendation in the Braun Report,is in its second draft. The National Park Service and Wisconsin and Minnesota Departments of Transportation are parties to this MOU but the NPS will not be allowed to sign the MOU until approval is given by their Solicitor. Commissioner Fitzpatrick questioned if Commissioner DeLapp's Resolution of Commendation had been presented to Richard Braun without Regional Committee or Commission approval. Commissioner DeLapp related that he had read it at the last meeting of the bridge Advisory Group with the qualification that it would be offered for ratification at the October 8 Commission meeting. Commissioner Craig moved, Commissioner Mullally seconding, adoption of the Resolution to Commend Richard Braun. Malick noted that the concept had been reviewed in advance by several Regional Committee members. The motion was unanimously adopted as follows: RESOLUTION OF COMMENDATION OF RICHARD P. BRAUN WHEREAS, It has been the official position of the Commission since April, 1997 a. that an improved river crossing is needed and b. that the Commission would like to be guided through the alternative dispute resolution process, Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • 4 • -6- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 AND WHEREAS, The Commission has continuously encouraged the parties involved in the St. Croix River Crossing lawsuits to employ alternative dispute resolution and suspend both litigation and legislation, AND WHEREAS, The Commission's 1998 Work Program includes assisting in development of a balanced approach that protects the Lower St. Croix Riverway and meets traffic needs for transportation facilities serving the Stillwater-Houlton bridge corridor, AND WHEREAS, the Commission identified four critical factors essential to a balanced river crossing decision: 1. Location in or near an area already committed as a Riverway highway crossing 2. Least impacting on natural, undeveloped Riverway landscape areas 3. Least visually obtrusive in terms of overall Riverway setting as viewed from the water, and 4. Least impacting on established water-based recreational use, AND WHEREAS, RICHARD P. BRAUN has served with distinction in the challenging . position of consultant to the parties to the lawsuits, Employing the tools of alternative dispute resolution and systematically considering the listed four critical factors, NOW THEREFORE, the Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission takes pleasure in commending RICHARD P. BRAUN for his especially meritorious 1998 effort to resolve the St. Croix River Crossing dispute by consensus-building. Commissioner Mullally moved, Commissioner Fitzpatrick seconding,that the Commission's position statement be referred to the St. Croix River Regional Committee for a recommendation to be made at the next meeting of the full Commission, and meanwhile the resolution process should continue. [Commissioner Blue left for the day.] The motion was adopted. Commissioner Grawe moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding,that the Commission write to the parties involved in the MOU and other parties that perhaps should be involved, telling them basically where we are, that we have appreciated the Braun process,that we have referred our final disposition of our position to the St. Croix River Regional Committee,that we would like to keep them informed about what we are doing,that we would like to be involved and we think that perhaps many parties should be involved as well, that we are very encouraged by what has come out of the process so far, and we hope to see continuation of the next phase moving onward to a resolution as soon as possible. Commissioner Tyler offered a friendly amendment supporting the Braun Report,which was not accepted and was ruled out of order by the Chair because of its Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • • • -7- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 conflict with the previous motion referring the Commission's position statement to the St. Croix River Regional Committee. Commissioner Tyler offered another friendly amendment, which was accepted, asking"that the parties comprising the St. Croix River Crossing Advisory Group will be kept fully informed and involved throughout the project development process by the FHWA,NPS, MnDOT and WisDot. The motion was adopted with Commissioner Tyler abstaining. Commissioner Tyler stated he had a resolution on the table. Since neither Malick nor Herricks had it recorded, Commissioner Tyler was asked to state the motion. He said, "Obviously what I have had to say or what I'm going to say is some of the change that... . I want to talk about,mention that rm not going back and plowing old ground that the parties did have to say throughout the process. I think that seven of the eleven parties are in agreement and made statements to that effect at the meeting on the 28th in support of the Braun findings and recommendations. They included Congressman Kind, Congressman Luther,Minnesota DNR,Minnesota DOT,The National Park Service, the St. Croix Board of Commissioners, St.Joseph Township,Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce,Wisconsin DOT,Wisconsin DNR and a list of others that obviously confirms that they made that statement. It's not clear yet what the historical societies, whether they supported the Braun proposal or not. At that time the Minnesota-Wisconsin BAC had not yet stated its position. I have a press release from Ron Kind that I will introduce to this body and also Luther's statement. "The Sierra Club and the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy had both indicated a lack of support for the Braun recommendations. Ms. Bellairs was quoted in an article in the September 29th Pioneer Press as follows: 'She and others at the Sierra Club are concerned that a bigger bridge will bring bigger problems to the St. Croix Valley and would encourage urban sprawl into Western Wisconsin. We have to decide whether or not we will let people move further and further out and then expand infrastructure to meet them. A line must be drawn and we think the St. Croix River is a good place to draw the line.' "This Commission brought its considerable influence to bear in opposition to the so-called preferred alignment pointing out that the bridge was too high,was environmentally insensitive on its impact on the Wisconsin bluffline and the bridge itself was in need of redesign. Minnesota- Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission asked to be involved in the Braun study and that study has now been completed. The proposed... ." Chair Kinkead ruled the Commissioner out of order because this issue had been referred to the St. Croix River Regional Committee where all concerns will be discussed. Commissioner Tyler withdrew his motion and requested that his statement would be part of the minutes. Speed Limits Commissioners discussed the staff report and recommendation regarding speed limits on the St. Croix River. The St. Croix River Regional Committee had previously reviewed a letter from St. Croix River Association (SCRA) officers. They oppose the Lower St. Croix Management Commission's preferred alternative for the Cooperative Management Plan to set a 40-50 mph speed between the Arcola sandbar and Prescott. The Regional Committee directed staff to draft a Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 410 110 -8- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 recommendation suggesting that the Lower St. Croix Management Commission enact in the Lower St. Croix Cooperative Management Plan a speed limit of 30-40 mph between Arcola and Prescott. Commissioners reviewed the draft provided by staff and suggested some amendments. Following discussion among Commissioners and those in attendance Commissioner Fitzpatrick moved, Commissioner Tomfohrde seconding, adoption of the amended staff recommendation as follows: WHEREAS,the Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission(MWBAC)has received many complaints from boaters and riparian land owners about boat engine noise, AND WHEREAS,each boat engine makes more noise as it goes faster, AND WHEREAS,faster and noisier boats became more apparent on the Lower St. Croix after Lake Minnetonka imposed a speed limit, AND WHEREAS,boating safety hazards increase with speed, AND WHEREAS,Lake St. Croix is better suited for higher speeds than other parts of the Lower St. Croix River, NOW THEREFORE,the MWBAC recommends that the Lower St. Croix Management Commission put in the Comprehensive Management Plan effective maximum speed limits of 30 mph from the Arcola sandbar downstream to Prescott, subject to the no-wake zones. The motion was unanimously adopted. St. Croix County Plan Following discussion among Commissioners and members of the audience Commissioner Mullally moved,Commissioner Tyler seconding,that comment on the St. Croix County Plan be referred back to the St. Croix River Regional Committee for further study. Unanimously adopted. Chisago Project Power Line Crossing Commissioners Craig and Mullally expressed opposition to the proposed Chisago power line crossing,noting that Wisconsin is a debtor state which imports electricity and should provide for itself. Public information meetings are scheduled for October 12 in Lindstrom,Minnesota and October 13 in Dresser,Wisconsin. Minnesota public hearings are scheduled for late October. Written comments are due by November 6, 1998. Malick was directed to write a letter for Commission approval. Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • • -9- Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission—October 8, 1998 ADJOURNMENT Chair Kinkead declared the meeting adjourned at 4:05 p.m. Respectfully submitted, 4,11.74..e40) Rosie Herricks, Office Manager A 1-1'bNDANCE COMMISSION MEMBERS • WISCONSIN MINNESOTA Harold Craig Suzanne Blue Bill Howe Steve DeLapp Bob Mullally Jim Fitzpatrick Wayne Tomfohrde Robin Grawe Gerald Tyler Judy Kinkead STAFF Clarence Malick,Executive Director Jim Harrison,Public Affairs Director Eric Macbeth,Technical Director Rosie Herricks, Office Manager Jessie Meschievitz,Clerical Assistant GUESTS Marjorie Bunce, Senator Herb Kohl's Office,Eau Claire,Wisconsin Shirley Fredrickson, Senator Alice Clausing's Office,Menomonie,Wisconsin Brian Adams,National Park Service, St. Croix Falls,Wisconsin Terry Moe,Wisconsin DNR,La Crosse,Wisconsin Rita O'Connell,Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, St. Paul,Minnesota Randy Thoreson, Lower St. Croix Planning Coordinator, Stillwater, Minnesota B.F. Lee, City of Lakeland, Lakeland, Minnesota Audrey Halverson, Citizens for the Preservation of the St. Croix, River Falls,Wisconsin Roccy Raymond, Short,Elliott,Hendrickson,Inc.,Chippewa Falls,Wisconsin Henry Paulson,Short,Elliott,Hendrickson,Inc., Chippewa Falls,Wisconsin Russell Eichman,Upper Mississippi Waterway Association, St. Paul,Minnesota Robert Rolle,Town of Troy,River Falls,Wisconsin Jim Johnson,Riverway Consensus Standard Foundation,Marine on St. Croix,Minnesota Tom Clarke, Osceola,Wisconsin Audrey Kelly, Bayport, Minnesota Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 • • '411111k- .'`' � MINNESO1WISCONSIN BOUNDARY ARO COMMISSION .:� 619 SECOND STREET .m;.r'-i. zi HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 fi11 MN Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 WI Telephone 612.436.7131 EMAIL: mwbac@mail.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 Notice of Commission Meeting Thursday,February 5, 1998 Environmental Management Technical Center © M 0 575 Lester Avenue, Onalaska,Wisconsin 54650 D Phone: (608) 783-7550 JAN2 6 1998 Proposed Agenda (* =Action Items) 10:00 a.m. 1. Call to Order and Announcements - Chair, Judy Kinkead A. Approval of Minutes of Last Meeting* B. Approval of Consent Agenda(Back Side) and Regular Agenda* C. Administrative Director's Report 10:15 a.m. 2. Report and Recommendations from Minnesota-Wisconsin Interstate Law Consistency Task Force * 11:00 a.m. 3. Public Forum 11:15 a.m. 4. Upper Mississippi River Environmental Management Program • Report to Congress -Proposed BAC Congressional Liaison Activity* 12:00 Noon 5. Lunch Break 1:15 p.m. 6. St. Croix Regional Committee Reports A. Basin Team-No Net Increase of Nutrients Policy B. Rush City Wastewater Treatment Plant C. NSP Allen S. King Plant Air Emission Permit* 1:45 p.m. 7. Proposed 1998 Work Program A. Proposed Additions from Regional Committees B. Public and Agency Comments C. Final Commission Approval* 2:15 p.m. 8. Other Committee Reports A. Mid Fiscal Year Financial Report and Budget Amendments* B. Other 3:00 p.m. 9. Adjourn Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 r • • ' CONSENT AGENDA 2-5-98 Meeting Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission The following items are approved upon approval of the consent agenda unless removed for consideration by the Commission as part of the regular agenda: Recommended by the St. Croix Regional Committee A. Comments -Draft General Management Plan-Upper St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. 2. Recommended by the Mississippi Regional Committee A. Ratify Support Letter for Ban on Commercial Harvest of Washboard Mussels on the Wisconsin-Iowa Border, B. Ratify Pre-Proposal Letter to McKnight Foundation- 1998 Grant • Request for Mississippi River Information and Education Project. C. Ratify Letter of Support for Additional Funding for Upper Mississippi River and Mark Twain National Wildlife Refuges. t "*. MINNESOTA- SCONSIN BOUNDARY AtA COMMISSION !6.i/-1110[1! 4619 SECOND STREET, HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 fl('a Serving Our Sponsor States on the St. Croix Minnesota Telephone and Mississippi Rivers since 1965 Wisconsin Telephone 1612) 436-7131 17151 386-9444 Office Hours:8 A.M.-5 P.M.Monday-Friday FAX(715)386-9571 MINUTES OF COMMISSION MEETING DECEMBER 4, 1997 AMERICINN RED WING, WISCONSIN CALL TO ORDER Chair Harold Craig called the meeting to order at 1:00 p.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Malick moved, Commissioner Kinkead seconding, approval of the minutes of the October 9, 1997 Commission meeting. Unanimously adopted. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Commissioner Malick moved, Commissioner Blue seconding, approval of the agenda. Unanimously adopted. DIRECTORS REPORT McGuiness summarized the report high-lighting BAC activities. MISSISSIPPI RIVER REGIONAL COMMITTEE REPORTS Update from November 18-19 Upper Mississippi River Basin Association (UMRBA) and Governors' Liaison Committee (GLC)Meetings GLC Meeting: The meeting was held at the Mississippi River Commission's headquarters and included a tour of the Corps of Engineers Waterways Experiment Station which is doing much of the work modeling various scenarios and impacts for the navigation study. In 1998 the GLC will hold meetings with several • representatives from each state to formally review and comment on the states' behalf on this study. The Boundary Commission will participate in those meetings as a way to stay informed, in accordance with the 1998 work program. Upper Mississippi River Basin Association Meeting: McGuiness reported on the UMRBA briefings about the Mississippi River Commission and the Lower Mississippi Conservation Committee. He advised the Mississippi River Commission staff that the Boundary Commission is very interested in continuing to communicate and consult with the LMRC tc explore the potential for its involvement on the upper river. Commissioner Malick moved, Commissioner Blue seconding, ratification of the • letter sent to the Corps reiterating support for the EMP project consistent with earlier Commission action. Unanimously adopted. Holly Stoerker reconfirmed the Basin Association's plans to have congressional briefings in the spring and urged the Commission in its Minnesota and Wisconsin congressional contacts to encourage EMP reauthorization in the 1998 Water Resources Development Act. • • - 2 - Boundary Commission Minutes - December 4, 1997 Mississippi Monitor: Commissioners expressed disappointment with some of the articles published in the Mississippi Monitor, the American Rivers publication financially supported by the Commission. Funding for this project comes from the McKnight grant to the Commission. The Mississippi River Regional Committee addressed this issue and voted unanimously to recommend the Commission withdraw its sponsorship of the Mississippi Monitor. McGuiness reported that the Commission is at the point of applying for another McKnight grant. He will convey to the McKnight Foundation the Commission's desire to continue to be a communicator of information to the public but through some other avenues. Following discussion, Commissioner Howe moved, Commissioner Malick seconding, that the Commission withdraw support for the Mississippi Monitor and send a letter explaining our position to American Rivers. Unanimously adopted. Commissioner Malick moved, Commissioner Mullally seconding, that the Commission authorize Harrison's travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in an EMP briefing. Unanimously adopted. ST. CROIX RIVER REGIONAL COMMITTEE REPORTS Lower St. Croix Management Structure Options: Commissioner Fitzpatrick discussed the work of the Lower St. Croix Task Force and Planning Team on the Management Plan for the Lower River as addressed by the St. Croix River Regional Committee. Commissioner DeLapp moved, Commissioner Malick seconding the St. Croix River Regional Committee recommendation that the Commission acknowledge and adopt the following concepts: a. The Boundary Commission role in Lower St. Croix Riverway Management will continue to be important, regardless of the management structure alternative chosen; b. Before a new plan is adopted, the Commission should review its role in relations with local units of government in the LSC Riverway to determine whether or not any action or assistance is needed; and c. The Commission should urge and assist in staging a joint meeting of its Legislative Advisory Committees to focus on the LSC Planning process and potential funding, staffing and policy issues, in the spring of 1998, in cooperation with the Riverway managing agencies and the LSC Planning Task Force. Commissioners discussed the Commission's role in the Lower St. Croix Management Commission and the management structure options adopted by the Task Force in November and agreed the Task Force should be invited to have input in Legislative Advisory Committee meetings. The motion was unanimously adopted. Riverway Scenic Vistas - St. Croix Falls Highway 8 Sign: The St. Croix Regional Committee addressed this issue at the direction of the full Commission following a discussion during the open forum at the regular meeting in October. The Committee instructed staff to explore resolution options between the City of St. Croix Falls and the owner of the sign. • S - 3 - Boundary Commission Minutes - December 4, 1997 Commissioner Malick moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding, adoption of the St. Croix Regional Committee recommendation that the Commission encourage the Lower St. Croix Management Commission to explore and address relevant issues and policies relating to protecting natural scenic vistas from and within the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway. In discussion of the motion Harrison reported the Lower St. Croix Management Commission Technical Committee will be addressing this issue on December 9, 1997. The motion was unanimously adopted. Personal Watercraft: The St. Croix River Association has requested Boundary Commission support of the National Park Service ban on personal watercraft adopted by the association at its annual fall meeting in October. The association has also requested Minnesota and Wisconsin adopt a similar ban. The St. Croix Regional Committee addressed this issue at its November meeting. Commissioner Malick moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding, the St. Croix Regional Committee recommendation that the Commission support the association's position to prohibit personal watercraft use on the federally-managed portion of the riverway. Further, the commission should urge the Lower St. Croix Planning Task Force to specifically address in the plan reducing or eliminating personal watercraft use on the Riverway. Unanimously adopted. Rush City, MN Wastewater Treatment Plant: The St. Croix Regional Committee met in special session December 3, 1997, to address this issue. The Minnesota Wastewater Treatment Plant at Rush City proposes to expand the existing stabilization pond system to accommodate sewage from a new State Correctional Facility approved by the Minnesota Legislature. Discharges to Rush Creek twice a year could impact the St. Croix River 8.5 miles downstream, through discharge of phosphorus in the effluent. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency feels it has been acting consistently with existing state rules since this is not a direct discharge. However, the PCA has agreed to extend the comment deadline to allow the Commission to take action and provide comments. Commissioner Fitzpatrick moved, Commissioner Tomfohrde seconding, the St. Croix River Regional Committee recommendation that the following action steps be . approved and implemented by the Commission regarding the proposed Rush City, Minnesota Wastewater Treatment Plant expansion plan: Whereas, treating the proposed Rush City effluent as an "indirect discharge" to the Outstanding Resource Value Waters of the St. Croix River appears to be inconsistent with the requirements of MR Chapter 7050 which prohibits discharge into such waters unless there is no prudent and feasible alternative, the Commission takes the following actions: 1. Endorses the St. Croix River Basin Water Resources Planning Team approach for an interim no net increase approach on phosphorus discharges, but encourages the same approach to all pollutants being discharged in the watershed, until water-quality-based objectives and standards have been adopted; 2. Agrees to provide Commission staff assistance in drafting a compendium of public and research-identified concerns for water quality protection against degradation; 3. Recommends that at least one public input meeting be held in the affected area of the Basin prior to submission of recommendations to the MPCA Board, and commit to Commission participation; i M - 4 - Boundary Commission Minutes - December 4, 1997 4. Recommends that the City of Rush City seriously consider measures for pollutant removal or alternative treatment systems, such as spray irrigation, that would keep discharges out of surface waters of the St. Croix River Basin; 5. Recommends acceleration of efforts toward meeting goals of the St. Croix River Basin Water Resources Management Plan; and 6. Offers to assist the Basin Planning Team in preparation of a stakeholder list for immediate involvement in the basin criteria and standards development process. Following discussion the motion was unanimously adopted. PLANNING WORKSHOP Commissioners met earlier at the annual Commission planning retreat to discuss a 1998 Work Program. Staff had prepared a draft, working off of the 1997 plan. Commissioners reviewed the draft and recommended amendments. Commissioner DeLapp moved, Commissioner Mullally seconding, adoption of the draft 1998 Work Program to be finalized by staff for distribution to Commissioners, agency personnel and other interested parties, for review. Unanimously adopted. ADMINISTRATIVE AND FINANCIAL REPORTS Election of Officers for 1998 The Nominating Committee presented the following slate of officers for 1998: Chair, Commissioner Judy Kinkead Vice-Chair, Commissioner Buck Malick Secretary-Treasurer, Commissioner Steve DeLapp There being no nominations from the floor, Commissioner Howe, moved, Commissioner Blue seconding, approval of the 1998 slate of officers presented by the Nominating Committee. The motion was unanimously adopted. FINANCIAL REPORTS Herricks reported that she is working with Jackie Dissing, the computer consultant engaged by the Commission to search out the problem we have in our Quickbooks program. We anticipate a solution by end of January with upgraded reports provided at the February meeting. Commissioner Mallally moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding, the staff recommendation that the Admin/Finance Committee meet in advance of the February, 1998 BAC meeting for a normal mid-year evaluation of our financial status and to recommend, if needed, any adjustments to our FY 1998 budget. Unanimously adopted. # • - '5 - Boundary Commission Minutes - December 4, 1997 ADJOURNMENT Commissioner Malick moved adjournment and the meeting adjourned at 3:35 p.m. Res ectfully submitted, Rosie Herricks, Office Manager ATTENDANCE COMMISSION MEMBERS WISCONSIN MINNESOTA Harold Craig Suzanne Blue Bill Howe Steve DeLapp Buck Malick Jim Fitzpatrick Bob Mullally Robin Grawe Wayne Tomfohrde Judy Kinkead STAFF Dan McGuiness, Administrative Director Jim Harrison, Public Affairs Director Eric Macbeth, Technical Director Rosie Herricks, Office Manager GUESTS Mark Aumann, Rep. Ron Kind's Office, Eau Claire, Wisconsin Tiffany Thibideau, Congressman Gil Gutknecht, Rochester, Minnesota Terry Moe, Wisconsin DNR, La Crosse, Wisconsin Marcella Jerome, Minnesota DNR, St. Paul, Minnesota Lawrence Landherr, Minnesota PCA, Rochester, Minnesota Tom Clarke, Sierra Club, Scandia, Minnesota • S MN-WI Boundary Area Commission BULK RATE 619 Second Street U S. POSTAGE Hudson, WI 54016 PAID HUDSON, WI PERMIT NO 207 • 4 -Dti -Pwhar® City Administrator City of Oak Park Heig is • P.O. Box 2007 Oak Park Heights q 55082 2.'": ,: z: CITY 1(L!!11 �' ... OAK PARK HEIGHTS 9� • � � 14168 N. 57th Street •Box 2007 •Oak Park Heights,MN 55082 • Phone: (612) 439-4439 •FAX 439-0574 '4,111 February 2, 1998 Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission 619 Second Street Hudson, Wisconsin 54016-1576 • To whom it may concern: I would like to request that the Bayport Prison Stormwater Reconstruction be added to the next agenda for the St: Croix Regional Committee. Please let me a know if that - is possible. Very truly yours, tecL(,Cotta David Beaudet Oak Park Heights City Councihnember DB/mdm Tree City U.S.A. Enclosure 10 MINNESOT -WISCONSIN BOUNDARY ARit COMMISSION "Y 619 SECOND STREET < " 'E^+ HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 full) MN Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 WI Telephone 612.436.7131 EMAIL mwbac@mail.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 NOTICE OF MEETING ST. CROIX REGIONAL COMMITTEE DATE: Wednesday, January 14, 1998 TIME: 2:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. DEC 3 11991 PLACE: City Council Chamber Hudson City Hall 505 3rd Street Hudson, WI 54016 Phone: (715) 386-4765 PROPOSED AGENDA 2:30 p.m. 1. Call to order and announcements 2: Approval of meeting notes and agenda* 2:35 p.m. 3. Comments on General Management Plan/Environmental Assessment for Upper St. Croix National Scenic Riverway* 3:00 p.m. 4. St. Croix Basin Planning Team "No Net Increase" recommendation* 3:15 p.m. 5. Minnesota PCA general discharge permit* 3:30 p.m. 6. Rush City wastewater treatment plant expansion plan - status report 3:45 p.m. 7. NSP Allen S. King plant air emission permit proposal* 4:15 p.m. 8. Resolution in support for a Western Prairie Habitat Restoration Area* 4:30 p.m. 9. Riverway scenic vistas—St. Croix Falls Hwy. 8 sign - status report 4:45 p.m. 10. Viking Voyageur gas transmission line Riverway crossing proposal* 5:15 p.m. 11. Public forum 5:30 p.m. 12. Adjournment Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 47 APE MINNESOTA- SCONSIN BOUNDARY A COMMISSIONIVA 619 SECOND STREET, HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 174;40;) Serving Our Sponsor States on the St. Croix Minnesota Telephone and Mississippi Rivers since 1965 Wisconsin Telephone (612)436-7131 1715) 386-9444 Office Hours: 8 A.M.-5 P.M. Monday-Friday March 26, 1993 Ms. La Vonne Wilson MAR ; 0 1993 City Administrator City of Oak Park Heights 14168 North 57th Street ----- Oak Park Heights, MN 55082 Dear Ms. Wilson: For more than 15 years the local units of government along the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway have been interpreting, administering and enforcing special regulations governing land use within the legal boundaries of "the riverway" along this 52 mile corridor. For many of us, the use of zoning as a riverway land use management tool has been a difficult and confusing project at times, due to the number of agencies involved, the complexity of the rules, and the inherent difficulties in implementing a zoning program that has rules more stringent than those which exist in adjacent areas. We understand it would be helpful to have available for local government officials and landowners, a straight-forward guide to the Riverway program, the agencies and program staff involved, and the process by which decisions are made. We have accepted this challenge and are preparing both a local government guide and a landowners guide. We want the guides to, above all else, be useful and helpful to you. Therefore, before we begin we want your help in determining what should be in the guide, who it should be written for, and how to best assure it will be used. As a first step, Tracey Mofle of our staff will be contacting you by telephone in the next few days to arrange a personal visit to your office to get your response to a few key questions, as well as to visit informally with you about the guides. We will be arranging visits between April 5 and April 23, 1993 . I hope you will take this opportunity to assist us in developing a guide that will be useful to you, it's main audience. Sincerely, r7L Dan McGuiness Administrative Director Encl: List of sample questions you may be asked • 411 MWBAC LCMR Local Government Guide Questionnaire 1. In your department, who fields the majority of the questions from the general public regarding development and zoning issues along the St. Croix Riverway? 2 . What main problems or obstacles do you encounter when approaching development issues along the St. Croix Riverway? What information would you like included in the Local Government Guide to address these issues? 3 . Who (agencies, organizations) would you suggest we include as information sources in the Local Government Guide? 4. If you were writing the Local Government Guide, at what technical level would you write? 5. Who from your department would you suggest to review the rough draft of the Local Government Guide? MWBAC General Questions 1. From a professional and a non-professional viewpoint, what do you envision as the MWBAC's main role? 2 . Would you value training workshops put on by the MWBAC on issues such as Riverway Development, Landscape Architecture, Waste Disposal, and Interpretation of Riverway Zoning Ordinances? What suggestions do you have for this type of program? MINNESO1WISCONSIN BOUNDARY AI. COMMISSION 619 SECOND STREETe-L'reMI �'�j HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 IMO I) ?iso• • MN Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 WI Telephone 612.436.7131 EMAIL: mwbac@mail.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 NOTICE OF MEETING ST. CROIX REGIONAL COMMITTEE 24 ! DATE: Wednesday, December 3, 1997 J TIME: 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. PLACE: City Council Chamber Hudson City Hall 505 3r+ Street Hudson, WI Phone: (715) 386-4765 PROPOSED AGENDA 2:30 p.m. 1. Call to Order- Commissioner Jim Fitzpatrick, Chair 2. Review and Recommendations re: Rush City, MN Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion Plan 2A. Report on Interagency Consultation by St. Croix River Basin Water Resources Management Planning Team - Jim Harrison, MWBAC Staff 2B. Comments by Other Interested Parties 2C. Adoption of Recommendations for Full Commission Consideration on December 4, 1997 • 4:00 p.m. 3. Adjournment • Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 •=...... MINNESWISCON IN BOUNDARY AR*COMMISSION •• .•4� 619 SECOND STREET r� �1 I HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 , i C�1I, MN Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 WI Telephone 612.436.7131 EMAIL mwbac@mail.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 NOTICE OF COMMISSION MEETING DATE: Thursday,December 4, 1997 TIME: 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. PLACE: Conference Room, AmericlNN Motel 1819 Old West Main, Red Wing, Minnesota Phone(612) 385-9060 PROPOSED AGENDA ** =Action Items 1:00 p.m. 1. Call to Order and Announcements -Harold Craig, Chair A. Approval of Minutes of Last Meeting** B. Approval of the Agenda** C. Administrative Director's Report 1:15 p.m. 2. Mississippi River Regional Committee Reports A. Update from November 18-19 UMRBA and GLC Meetings B. Sponsorship of Publication"Mississippi Monitor"** 2:00 p.m. 3. St. Croix River Regional Committee Reports A. Lower St. Croix Coop. Management Structure Options** B. Riverway Scenic Vistas - St. Croix Falls Highway 8 Sign** C. St. Croix River Association Personal Watercraft Resolution** D. Rush City Wastewater Treatment Plant EAW** 2:45 p.m. 4. Public Forum 3:00 p.m. 5. Proposed MWBAC 1998-1999 Work Program A. Overview from Strategic Planning Workshop B. Authorization to Distribute for 45-Day Review/Comment** 3:30 p.m. 6. Administrative and Financial Reports A. Election of Officers for 1998 (Nominating Comm.)** B. Mid-Year Financial and Administrative Reports C. Other Reports 4:00 p.m. 7. Adjourn SPECIAL NOTICE The MWBAC will hold its annual Strategic Planning Workshop on Wednesday,December 3,1997, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and on Thursday,December 4,1997, from 8:00 a.m.to 11:30 a.m. at the Conference Room,AmericlNN Motel,1819 Old West Main,Red Wing,Minnesota. This workshop is open to the public. Call the MWBAC office for more information. :^- w bs MIlNNESOTA-!SCONSIN BOUNDARY AA COMMISSION _- ,, , �` , /��' j loll A 619 SECOND STREET, HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 .('� -i�l�i) Serving Our Sponsor States on the St. Croix '4.;;I:.-43.0' Minnesota Telephone and Mississippi Rivers since 1965 Wisconsin Telephone (612)436-7131 17151 386-9444 Office Hours:8 A.M.-5 P.M.Monday-Friday FAX(715)386-9571 MINUTES OF MN-WI BOUNDARY AREA COMMISSION MEETING OCTOBER 9, 1997 PHIPPS CENTER FOR THE ARTS HUDSON, WISCONSIN CALL TO ORDER AND ANNOUNCEMENTS Chair Harold Craig called the meeting to order at 9:10 a.m. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner DeLapp moved, Commissioner Mullally seconding, approval of the minutes of the August 12, 1997 Commission meeting. Unanimously approved. APPROVAL OF THE CONSENT AGENDA Commissioner Blue moved, Commissioner Malick seconding, approval of the consent agenda. Unanimously approved. APPROVAL OF THE REGULAR AGENDA Commissioner Howe moved, Commissioner Kinkead seconding, approval of the regular agenda. Unanimously approved. Commissioners and staff extended words and applause of recognition to Staff member Jim Harrison as recipient of the 1997 John Wesley Powell Award. Staff member Dan McGuiness read a letter of appreciation and recognition received from the director of the U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey(USGS) to Jim for his dedicated support to the critical environmental programs associated with the St. Croix and Mississippi Rivers. Harrison displayed the plaque awarded to him and read a brief passage from an autobiography written on John Wesley Powell that demonstrated Powell's dedication and influence on future conservation efforts of this nation's natural resources. Commissioner Kinkead moved, unanimous seconding, recognition of the honor it is for the MN-WI Boundary Area Commission to have Jim Harrison as a staff member. Motion passed unanimously. Chair Craig recognized and introduced guests in attendance. • • Boundary Area Commission Minutes - October 9, 1997 Administrative Director's Report Administrative Director McGuiness,highlighted current events from his report of activities in our two river valleys and in the life of the Commission. They included: • Several tasks related to five separate contracts for work on both rivers have been completed under the direction of Technical Director Eric Macbeth and with the help of Dan Seifert and Pat Gostovich. • Office Manager Rose Herricks led staff motivation efforts to prepare the BAC office for its October 9 and 10th Open House. Accomplished was a major office clean-up and locating of a temporary storage area for our archival materials before being moved to permanent state storage. Commissioner and public Open House invitations were extended. • The next issue of the St. Croix River Stewards Journal will be a 25th Anniversary Souvenir edition in honor of the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway federal designation in 1972. • Dan McGuiness has participated in several field trips, including one on the Cannon River backwaters to look at potential projects for habitat restoration, and the Vermillion river and backwaters of Pool 3 to look at river conditions. Both were assessed as potential routes for future public field trips. • McGuiness attended the Rivers Council of Minnesota annual meeting in Moorhead from which a report on the state of Minnesota's Rivers is being developed. • McGuiness was part of a tour hosted by the World Wildlife Fund that visited the EMTC in Onalaska,the Whitewater Watershed, Weaver Bottoms, and the Kinnickinnic River Priority Watershed Project. Guests included people from several European countries. • Efforts are underway to urge federal agencies who sit at the Upper Mississippi River Basin Association table to sign federal memorandums of agreement, acknowledging that the UMRBA is the appropriate forum for coordination of federal/state policy and issue on the Upper Mississippi River. It appears from discussion at the September UMRBA meeting,progress is being made in that direction, and the intent of a Joint Governors' Proclamation(provided to Commissioners) can then be implemented. 2 • 11111 Boundary Area Commission Minutes - October 9, 1997 ST. CROIX RIVER ISSUES AND REPORTS Commendation from National Park Service On behalf of the National Park Service and Regional Director, William Schenk, St. Croix Riverways Superintendent Tony Andersen presented an award of appreciation to the MN-WI Boundary Area Commission for its dedicated work in the preservation and protection of the St. Croix River. Chair Craig expressed appreciation for the award on behalf of the Commission. Resolution -25th Anniversary of Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway Commissioner Kinkead referred to a draft Resolution for full Commission consideration to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Lower St. Croix River Act of 1972. Commissioner Kinkead moved, unanimous seconding,to adopt the Resolution (attached) and forward it to appropriate officials of our sponsor states and the National Park Service, and to encourage other organizations and governmental bodies to adopt a similar expression of recognition and commitment. Commissioner DeLapp noted that a similar resolution was denied by Washington County. Motion passed unanimously. Lower St. Croix Planning Task Force Update and Preliminary Statement Commissioner Malick, and Chair of the Lower St. Croix Task Force, updated Commissioners on the status of the Cooperative Management Plan . He stated the next workbook for public comment and review will give more detailed descriptions of management plan alternatives and is expected to be distributed in January, 1998. One issue being discussed by the Task Force is possible changes in riverway management structure. This could involve the relationship of the Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission(MWBAC )to the management partnership, including staffing for the Lower St. Croix Management Commission(LSCMC). The working draft of the Task Force chapter on this matter says that there currently seems to exist public confusion as to the roles of these two commissions. Malick referred to supplemental information distributed to Commissioners, that included the riverway management structure Task Force discussion materials from their August and September meetings. It also included a recommendation that the MWBAC go on record, in terms of the pending evaluation of Management Structure Options for the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, that the Lower St. Croix Planning Task Force and Planning Team should withhold any recommendations regarding this aspect of the new Cooperative Riverway Management Plan until the States of Minnesota and Wisconsin have officially committed to provide full-time management staffing for their Riverway jurisdictions; and, further, that the MWBAC be officially consulted by their 3 • Boundary Area Commission Minutes - October 9, 1997 sponsor states regarding any proposed changes in the relationship and responsibilities of the MWBAC to Riverway management prior to final decision-making at the Task Force level. Commissioner Kinkead emphasized her concern that the question of confusion over the roles of the MWBAC and LSCMC was no longer a significant issue and it ought to be dropped. She also observed that Riverway management staff for the state managing agencies thus far has been on a part-time basis and that it would be desirable to get a full-time staff funding commitment by the states. Steve Johnson,MN Department of Natural Resources, asked that it be recognized that the 1976 Master Plan recommended full-time staffing by state managing agencies, and despite persistent requests for this funding, only part-time state funds have been granted. He also emphasized that the Task Force is still in the process of detailing the range of management alternatives and that no alternative has been chosen at this point in the process. He asked the Commission for clarification on what direction it is asking the Task Force to take as the process for the management plan proceeds. Commissioner Malick responded that the MWBAC would suggest that the Task Force and Planning Team not move to the selection of a preferred alternative until the MWBAC has been consulted by their sponsor states regarding any proposed relationship and responsibilities of the MWBAC to Riverway management. Commissioners went on to discuss concerns and questions regarding management role confusion vs. issue viewpoint differences, and funding allocations should management structure be changed. Commissioner Malick suggested that this issue be referred to the St. Croix Regional Committee for their consideration and recommendation. Commissioner Fitzpatrick moved, that the recommendation"that the MWBAC go on record,in terms of the pending evaluation of Management Structure Options for the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway,that the Lower St. Croix Planning Task Force and Planning Team should withhold any recommendations regarding this aspect of the new Cooperative Riverway Management Plan until the States of Minnesota and Wisconsin have officially committed to provide full-time management staffing for their Riverway jurisdictions; and, further, that the MWBAC be officially consulted by their sponsor states regarding any proposed changes in the relationship and responsibilities of the MWBAC to Riverway management prior to final decision-making at the Task Force level," be forwarded to the St. Croix Regional Committee for further discussion. Commissioners commented on BAC public perception and the importance of fulfilling our designated role in relationship to Riverway management responsibilities. 4 • • Boundary Area Commission Minutes - October 9, 1997 McGuiness stated that it is appropriate for the MWBAC to be forthright in its role and dedication to the St. Croix Riverway, and that 1994 recommendations for St. Croix River stewardship and management from the LCMR report, included pursuing full-time staffing from its state managing agencies. Commissioner Mullally seconded the motion of Commissioner Fitzpatrick adding that this also be put on the agenda of the MWBAC December workshop. Motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Grawe moved that the MWBAC thank Commissioner Malick for his dedicated work thus far on the Lower St. Croix Task Force, and enthusiastically encourage his future efforts. Unanimously seconded and passed. • Other St. Croix River Reports Commissioner Howe requested more information on proposed utility crossings involving the St. Croix and Upper Mississippi Rivers. Commissioner Fitzpatrick stated that there has been minimal need for St. Croix Regional Committee involvement in the planning processes to this point, but the Committee will be more involved in the review process of these crossings within the framework of its next Committee meeting. McGuiness stated that discussion has been held with other staff and commissioner members regarding a number of issues that have arisen that might justify requesting a meeting of the Interstate Law Consistency Task Force. Commissioners discussed and suggested additional issues. Among the issues listed were: • Zebra mussel transport laws • Slow no-wake application • Boat,noise, speed, covered docks • Personal watercraft • Spills • Municipal-owned land,but located across the river in other state. Liability responsibility. • Consistent enforcement of laws It was cautioned not to put too many items on the agenda and be aware that some are being addressed by other agencies. 5 Boundary Area Commission Minutes- October 9, 1997 Commissioner Fitzpatrick moved,Commissioner Mullally seconding,that the MWBAC formally invite the states of Minnesota and Wisconsin to set up a meeting of the Law Consistency Task Force to address some or all of the issues identified by the MWBAC, and to invite any additional agencies that may have beneficial educational information to contribute to these issues. Motion passed unanimously. (Commissioner Kinkead explained she would be leaving the meeting to attend to a personal commitment.) PUBLIC FORUM Barbara Young, Taylors Falls,MN, and Victor Layton, St. Croix Falls,representing a group of citizens from Minnesota and Wisconsin, expressed concern about the lack of vegetation and proliferation of signs in the highway 8 corridor entering Wisconsin. Distributing photos,Young specifically noted a large, yellow billboard advertising a local motel,that is visible from several miles within the St. Croix Riverway, and viewed as a distraction for residents and visitors to the St. Croix Valley. She requested that a representative of the MWBAC help facilitate a meeting with the city of St. Croix Falls and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation to see if a regulation tourism sign could be used in its stead. It is feared that this type of billboard sign may be precedent setting. Both citizens stated there are public documents that would indicate misrepresentation in regard to a variance granted that set size limitations. Tony Andersen, Superintendent of the National Park Service, also verified that the sign is visible from the St. Croix Riverway, and commented that the Park Service has invested heavily to protect the scenic value of the riverway.. He noted,however, the sign itself is not located in NPS jurisdiction. Harrison stated that this corridor has been the subject of discussion before with the WI Department of Transportation in regard to its open cut design, and potential erosion problems that could result and effect the St. Croix River. Commissioner Fitzpatrick moved, Commissioner Mullally seconding,that this issue be forwarded to the St. Croix Regional Committee, and that the committee gather together the parties involved with this issue to discuss and explore resolution options. Discussion followed regarding issues affecting scenic vistas. Included were regulations to control proliferation of signs, establishing coordinated communication policies with DOTs as they plan projects in areas that would involve the Riverway, or are visible from the Riverway but not within its boundaries, and putting these issues of scenic vistas before the Lower St. Croix 6 • i Boundary Area Commission Minutes- October 9, 1997 Task Force as it works to update the Management Plan. Discussed also was the legality of challenging the variance granted for this particular sign. It was suggested that this concerned group pursue this issue with area legislatures, and get feedback from local tourism departments. The motion passed unanimously. Tom Clarke, Sierra Club, expressed his disappointment that the Lower St. Croix Technical Committee has not been holding public meetings. He has always found these meetings informational, and a means of public accountability for the Lower St. Croix managing agencies. He feels there are a number of issues not being addressed that involve care of the Lower St. Croix Riverway. Harrison responded that a decision was made back in 1996,by some members of the LSCMC, that it would allow the public to focus its attention on the frequent meetings of the Lower St. Croix Task Force,whose purpose is to work on the update of the Lower St. Croix Management Plan. New decisions on management issues of the Lower St. Croix have been suspended pending the outcome of this plan. Moe, Chair of the LSCMC,noted that he did not favor continuing meetings at first because of workload constraints for his agency,but that Technical Committee workshops are still being held. Steve Johnson, Minnesota DNR spokesperson for its representative to the LSCMC, stated that Technical Committee meetings should be ongoing, and that the LSCMC Tech Committee and the LSC Task Force serve different roles. Harrison recommended that this question be brought up at the October 30th LSCMC annual meeting. MISSISSIPPI RIVER ISSUES AND REPORTS Environmental Management Program Report to Congress-Update on Report and Meetings Dan McGuiness referred to results from five public meetings sponsored by the Corps of Engineers during its 30-day comment period on the public review draft of the Environmental Management Program-Report to Congress (EMP-RTC). McGuiness commended the Corps on its fine job of summarizing and tabulating information collected from the public survey distributed at the meetings. Commissioners recognized the significance of this information as a tabulation of only those present at these public meetings, and the limitations of its overall statistical validity. • 7 i • Boundary Area Commission Minutes - October 9, 1997 Also discussed was how future recreational use could impact the Mississippi River, and to include in the EMP-RTC a statement that expresses the need to recognize the values of recreational use on the Mississippi. Commissioners agreed that public involvement and input in discussions of recreational use are important, and they suggested various options the MWBAC could explore to act as a facilitator for such discussions. Ratify BAC Comments on EMP Report to Congress Commissioner Howe moved, Commissioner Grawe seconding that the BAC ratify the Mississippi River Regional Committee comments as submitted on September 5, 1997, and that by transmittal of the minutes of this meetings such ratification become a matter of public record. Motion passed unanimously. Upper Mississippi/Illinois Navigation Study Process and Schedule McGuiness asked Commissioners to factor in opportunities to be a part of this navigation study process when the BAC plans its 1998 and 1999 work plan. He provided a copy of slides the Corps used in a status report of the study it presented at the Governor's Liaison Committee in September. Also noted were significant dates when key reports,preferred plan, and draft reports are expected to be released, as well as public meetings and comment dates. McGuiness will prepare a master two-year calendar for the Navigation Study so that the BAC can see when and where it will have the opportunity to be involved in reviewing and commenting on specific study reports as well as the draft final report. The Commission adjourned for lunch break. MISSISSIPPI RIVER-BAC WORK PROGRAM ISSUES 1997 Public Information and Education Campaign for the Upper Mississippi River-Status Report McGuiness gave a status report on the 1997 public information and education campaign for the Upper Mississippi River(as earlier approved by the Commission.). Events and actions completed, in-progress, or being planned were provided. • Commissioners offered revisions to an invitation to four BAC-sponsored workshops being planned,two in each state, to present information about the natural and cultural history of the Upper Mississippi. The workshops are designed to summarize current research,management and river projects, and to have meaningful discussion with citizens about the river. It was agreed to headline the invite to read"The Natural and Cultural History of the Upper Mississippi River 8 ! • Boundary Area Commission Minutes- October 9, 1997 and Some Concerns about Its Future." Issues to be addressed will be listed, and pre-registration encouraged. Commissioner Mullally moved, Commissioner DeLapp seconding,that the BAC refer additional strategy to urge Congress to approve the EMP Report to Congress to the Legislative Affairs Committee for review and recommendation at the December strategic planning retreat and BAC meeting. The Legislative Affairs Committee should also propose a strategy for working with our Legislative Advisory Committees and Governors in each state to assure their support as well. Motion passed unanimously. Mississippi Monitor Status Commission Chair Craig and other Commissioners questioned the value and appropriateness of the BAC's continued use and affiliation with the Mississippi Monitor, a newsletter created, published and distributed by American Rivers. Content and purpose of this publication were of particular concern, Commissioners citing factual errors contained in articles, along with journalistic style and techniques that did not seem appropriate for Commission affiliation. The BAC is using a portion of funds received from a McKnight Foundation grant,to be a contributing publisher of this newsletter. This publication is meant to inform the public about events and issues affecting the Mississippi River. Discussed were options relative to the Monitor that could be taken to address this matter. The BAC could work with American Rivers and McKnight Foundation to modify the content and style of the Mississippi Monitor, or to discontinue our association with the Monitor. If the BAC choose the latter, it would be necessary to find a different means of communication. The value of association, for the BAC, is economic efficiency in reaching a larger audience. The advocacy roles of both the BAC and American Rivers were discussed, recognizing that American Rivers' role and style may be important and valuable for their needs,but detrimental to the BAC. Commissioner Mullally moved,Commissioner Grawe seconding,that the MWBAC send a written letter to American Rivers regarding their reasons and desire to severe its working relationship with the Mississippi Monitor. Emphasized was the important role of the BAC to get accurate information to the public, and maintain its independent voice,but also maintain its credibility to its constituency . A question was raised as to whether the BAC could do this more effectively within the Mississippi Monitor, or should the BAC explore other media avenues to express its independent voice. It was suggested that we share our concerns with the McKnight Foundation and seek their input about our options. It was noted that both McGuiness and Chair Craig have had conversations with 9 • • Boundary Area Commission Minutes - October 9, 1997 Scott Faber, editor of the Mississippi Monitor, on their concerns about articles that have appeared in the newsletter, and our relationship with it. Commissioner Mullally moved,Howe seconding,that the MWBAC table the decision to severe its relationship with the Mississippi Monitor until its December meeting. This will provide an opportunity to discuss our concerns with the McKnight Foundation, and obtain more information on this issue. The question was called. The motion passed with 8 ayes, and 1 nay. McGuiness noted that we need to be in communication with McKnight about receiving our second year of grant funding. He suggested it may be appropriate at that time to relate to McKnight our concerns about the Mississippi Monitor and ask if McKnight has any suggestions on how to use next year's allotted funds. Harrison reiterated the importance of getting useful,balanced, accurate information to the public, and encouraged the BAC to work with American Rivers to provide that through the Monitor newsletter. Commissioners commented on the benefits of using honest, open approaches to presenting public information and emphasized the need to relate that to American Rivers as one of the publishers of the Mississippi Monitor. OTHER REPORTS AND DECEMBER MEETING/WORKSHOP PLANNING December Meeting/Workshop Planning Commissioner Mullally, Chair of the'Admin/Finance Committee, reported that the committee addressed planning for the BAC December meeting/workshop. Commissioner Mullally moved,Commissioner DeLapp seconding, that the MWBAC approve the Admin/Finance recommendation for inclusion of the following three issues in the agenda for the December 3 and 4th Strategic Planning Workshop: 1. A two year projection of work activity,to coincide with the overall schedules for the Navigation Study effort,the St. Croix planning activities, and to include planning for how to address our 2000-2001 budget request. 2. To examine our legislative mandate (our mission statement,in effect) in light of contemporary issues. (How can we remain relevant? How are we perceived by others in 1997 terms?) 3. A discussion about transitions in staffing,workload allocation and staff structure, as we begin to plan for potential staff retirements. 10 • S Boundary Area Commission Minutes - October 9, 1997 Motion passed unanimously. Commissioner Mullally reported that a nominating committee for next year's BAC appointments has been chosen and met once. Commissioner Mullally also directed Commissioners' attention to an amendment to the Operating Procedures Manual regarding Commissioner travel authorization beyond the area of jurisdiction and concern that was adopted by the Admin/Finance Committee on October 8, 1997. A copy of this amendment will be on file in the BAC office. There being no further business the meeting was adjourned at 2:20 p.m. Respectfully submitted, ssie Meschievitz Clerical Assistant ATTENDANCE COMMISSION MEMBERS WISCONSIN MINNESOTA Harold Craig Suzanne Blue Bill Howe Steve DeLapp Bob Mullally Jim Fitzpatrick Wayne Tomfohrde Robin Grawe Buck Malick Judy Kinkead STAFF Dan McGuiness,Administrative Director Jim Harrison, Public Affairs Director Rose Herricks, Office Manager Eric Macbeth, Technical Director Jessie Meschievitz, Clerical Assistant GUESTS Tony Andersen,National Park Service, St. Croix Falls Mark Aumann,U.S. Congresseman Ron Kind, Eau Claire, WI Tom Clarke,River Alliance of Wisconsin, Osceola, WI Shirley Fredrickson, Senator Alice Clausing,Menomonie, WI Randy Hanson, Hudson Star Observer,Hudson, WI Mark Herwig, Izaak Walton League,Minneapolis, MN Steve Johnson,MN DNR, St. Paul,MN Victor Layton, St. Croix Falls, WI Terry Moe, WI DNR, La Crosse, WI Rita O'Connell,MPCA, St. Paul,MN Barbara Young, Taylor Falls,MN 11 • • • i-- ---1 )17-5,1==W- - Minnesota-Wisconsin -7 .--s Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission � .�__-- 619 Second Street \)10S0 2 ''"' U.S.POSTAGE Hudson, WI 54016 NOV20'91 rt it" • 0 .55 `eMETER 1AE j.832650 • fitS1 C19489 Mike R.c,bert._on City Administrator City :,f Oak Park Height P.O. Box 2007 Oak Park Heights MN 55'72 Enclosure 12 MINNESO ISCONSIN BOUNDARY A COMMISSION "��`- = 619 SECOND STREET `m �!C� t' `rr]] HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 %Of) MN Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 WI Telephone 612.436.7131 EMAIL: mwbac@mail.state.wi.us 715.386.9444 NOTICE OF MEETING ST. CROIX REGIONAL COMMITTEE DATE: Wednesday, November 19, 1997 TIME: 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. PLACE: Bayport Marina 200 5th Avenue South Bayport, MN 55003 NOV - 6 Mgr Phone: 612.439.2040 (lV, • PROPOSED AGENDA 1:30p.m. 1. Call to order and announcements 2. Approval of meeting notes and agenda* 1:35 p.m. 3. Lower St. Croix Cooperative Management Plan management structure options* 2:00 p.m. 4. Riverway scenic vistas—St. Croix Falls Hwy. 8 sign* 2:30 p.m. 5. Western Wisconsin Prairie Project* 3:00 p.m. 6. MWBAC research project updates 3:45 p.m. 7. St. Croix River Association personal watercraft resolution* 4:00 p.m. 8. St. Croix River Crossing Proposals - Status Reports 4:15 p.m. 9. Public forum 4:45 p.m. 10. Projected 1998-99 MWBAC St. Croix River work program 5:30 p.m. 11. Adjournment Serving our sponsor states on the St. Croix and Mississippi rivers since 1965 Enclosure F • MINNESOTA-WISCONSIN BOUNDARY AREA COMMISSION , 619 SECOND STREET, HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1576 �ti�( Serving Our Sponsor States on the St. Croix aa'� Minnesota Telephone and Mississippi Rivers since 1965 Wisconsin Telephone (612) 436-7131 Memorandum (715) -9444 Office Hours:8 A.M.-5 P.M.Monday-Friday FAX(715)386-9571 Date: December 13, 1996 To: Interested Parties, Urban Growth Management Meeting November 21, 1996 From: Dan McGuiness, Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission Re: Results of Meeting and MWBAC Urban Growth Policy Statement Thank you for your interest in the results of the meeting we had with nearly 100 people from Minnesota and Wisconsin in Hudson, Wisconsin on November 21, 1996. The discussion there helped us obtain a better understanding of issues we face as this bi-state area continues to grow. We also gained a better appreciation of what the participants believed to be the reasons people like being here and the values you want to protect now and in the years to come. As I promised, I am providing some early feedback to you from the meeting. The attached 8-page printout summarizes the results of participant's "votes"on the 34 questions they were asked at the meeting, as recorded by the computer. Of course this does not include any of the information which was generated by the many statements made, questions asked, or discussions held at the meeting. Nor_does it contain the answers to the questions broken out by the demographic indicators you provided(such as "where you live,where you work, or what role you play.) We will be working on a follow-up report later, using that information. The information provided also helped our Commission as it finalized its charter version of its own Urban Growth Management Policy Statement, a copy of which is enclosed for your information. It was adopted by unanimous vote of the Commission at its regular public meeting on December 5, 1996. As we continue to review the information which came out of the November 21, 1996 meeting, and as we begin to apply our Policy Statement,we will be considering how best to proceed to help facilitate continued discussions, communications and coordination across state lines in the Lower St. Croix River Valley. Watch for further information in future issues of the St. Croix River Stewards Journal or contact us if you would like more information. Encl: 2 documents : _ r• LE DEC 161996 • U ft • • a Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission's Interstate Forum on Growth Management in Lower St. Croix River Valley I T I November 21, 1996 I Prepared EXPRESS Technology 730 Second Ave. S., Suite 281 •Minneapolis, MN 55402 (800)456-7044 fax (612) 371-9189 I ' • • ISlide 20 SLIDP20 Which of the following is your favorite local football team? 1. Wisconsin Badgers Id 4.71 %, � � 2. Minnesota Gophers I 11.76 -- II 3. Green Bay Packers 42.35 4. Minnesota Vikings 23.53 5. Minnesota Fighting Pike 17.651 ill *_. Slide 30 SLIDE 30 raffIZONEZ What's your favorite season in the St. Croix Valley? 1 18.39 o e ' $ter nim 1. Fishing 2. Hunting 8.05 3. Road Construction 9.20 4.They're all beautiful 64.371 ElSlide 40 Residence t Which of these best describes where you live? 1 swer . a> 1. Washington County, MN al 34.21 W tESEMOM 2. Chisago County, MN 3. Polk County, WI 1.32 4. St. Croix County, WI32. 89 5. Pierce County, WI 21.05 fl ---- - - _---.-- 6. Other 10.53 Slide 50 Role in Planning cn` What is your role with respect to local/ regional planning issues? i ill nsw-676oth= 1. Elected official (from county, city, town or township) VI 30.59j. 2. Manager, planner or staff(from county, city, town or township) 18.82 - 3. Represent non-profit organization 7.06 4. Represent business/industry 3.53 5. Citizen 35.29 II6. Other 4.71 Slide 80 Setting In what setting do you live? 1 l '-'72T85E7 1. Farm ( 6.41'Xis11 esu 2. Rural 1 29.49 3. Small town 1 56.41 illSummary Grouped by Slide Number III li • • , , f4.Twin Cities suburb I 7.691 Slide .. 70 length of Residence , . How long have you lived in your current county of residence? 1 ;,_1,�,;� ,o /1. 0-5 years EZ127.59 •° 2. 6-10 years 8.05 3. Over 10 years 64.37 Slide 80 Job Location , ftgugsfigttal Where do you work? k li ..j, ;;.„), 7:_011.Washington County, MN _A 25.00 °.•.5' c31es' 2. Chisago County, MN . 3. Polk County, WI 4.17 4. St. Croix County, WI 22.22 a 5. Pierce County,WI 23.61 6. Other Wisconsin location 1.39 7. Other Minnesota location 23.61 1 Slide so c'i',FSp lat"" flm' Has the quality of life in the area in which you live changed or has it stayed the same in the alpast three years? hr igT, 1. Improved - ifs 25.56 1,t " ' II 2. Deteriorated 137.78 3. Stayed the same 36.67 0 Slide 100 si MF 100 trfamitaal Has the quality of life in the Lower St. Croix Valley changed or has it stayed the same in the I past three years? 11 1. Im roved El 12.09 EENAMEZ ri 2. Deteriorated I 72.53 3. Stayed the same I 15.38 Slide 110 ELIDE 110 111 EMZEI Which most contributes to the quality of life in the Lower St. Croix Valley today? 11 a _+-� y 1. Natural environment (lakes, rivers, parks) 60.49 J, `a 9 moss 2. Jobs/economic opportunity 3.70 3. Quality, affordable housing 10 4. Safety (low crime rate, etc.) 3.70 5. Quality education I 1.23 IIISummary Grouped by Slide Number 2 a ' • 410 _ 3.70 6. Friendly people, neighborliness 23.70 7. Rural (or small town) lifestyle 11 Slide 120 SLIDE 120 Which most contributes to the quality of life in the Lower St. Croix Valley today? 19.54 ��v .F:t,, �7[ �7.::1. Natural environment(lakes, rivers, parks) 6.90 2. Jobs /economic opportunity III .90 3. Quality, affordable housing 162.30 4. Safety (low crime rate, etc.) 2.304 8.05 5. Quality education II6. Friendly people, neighborliness 48.0 1 7. Rural (or small town) lifestyle 111 Slide 130 SLIDE130 pry What is the most pressing problem facing the Lower St. Croix Valley right now? 1 11 1+y° 8.43'%. ; - I �et�,, c �'��1. Increased cost of public services/facilities 50.60 3.61 . Loss of open spaces/urban sprawl _ 3. Lack of good-paying jobs 10.84 j 4.Transportation /highways/congestion 12.05 5. Environmental pollution/degradation 1.201,ziarl 1111 6. Quality of education - -. - 1.20 7. Housing costs /affordability 8. Social conditions 9.64 j9. Loss of farmland 2.41 1 Slide 140 SL1DE140 What is the most pressing problem facing the Lower St. Croix Valley right now? I _ ;. , . < o �/;� 9.76�:S.ir.1m 11. Increased cost of public services/facilities 19.29 2. Loss of open spaces/urban sprawl 3. Lack of good-paying jobs 3.66 4.Transportation /highways/congestion 9.76 5. Environmental pollution /degradation 29.27 3.66 ill 6. Quality of education 3.66 7. Housing costs/affordability 1 1.22 10 8. Social conditions 18 22 111 19. Loss of farmland Slide 150 SLIDE150 ill =Naar In your opinion, has growth in the Twin Cities been good for the Lower St. Croix Valley? iiSummary Grouped by Slide Number ._. .. �........y A..... -+Ns:s"-?rP.'-s.3...s:.[:.,�"+D`.r`SK W. -•'_','^',>. _ - t ._.�.,aP.cr�4:. • • s ""' : .1. Yes El 22.47a Insgi 2. No 52.81 1 3. Uncertain 24.72 Slide 160 SLIDE160 - j•,,�, Has growth in the Valley itself been good for the Lower St. Croix Valley? II ,►x1",-'rte o- <1. Yes It 28.09 2. No 62.92 3. Uncertain 8.99 Slide 170 SLIDE 170 - 0t ,?r.7t% Which of the following best characterizes urban sprawl? ll 1 , o "'1. Scattered housing in rural areas EZI 19.78 V -;�v4(-= 2. Continued TC suburban development 19.78 I3. Large-scale subdivisions in the rural area 35.16 4. Year-round housing development around lakes or rivers 1.10 5. Housing developments at the edge of small towns/cities 8.79 i6. Loss of farmland 7.69 7. Strip commercial and roadside development 6.59 8. None of the above . - 1.10 Slide 200 SLIDE200 1LfrirM What is your opinion of whether or not the Lower St. Croix Valley is experiencing urban sprawl from the Twin Cities? +:_,r t r? 1. No,there is little urban sprawl 0 3.33 ` 2.Yes, there is urban sprawl but it is not a major problem f 21.11 3. Yes,it is occurring and is a major problem ( 75.56 Slide 210 sl mF210 EZOIRM For those that believe urban sprawl is occurring,what's the most serious problem it is causing? Tilrafirrne 1. Highway/traffic congestion 2.27 - '.&Yetea.. 2. Environmental pollution/degradation 13.64 3. Loss of farmland 11.36 4. Loss of open spaces 25.00 5.Abandonment of central cities I 13.64 6. Increased costs for schools/other services 10.23 7. Destruction of rural lifestyle- sense of community 21.59 8. Other 2.27 Summary Grouped by Slide Number _ 4 .t. • . Slide 220 SUDE220 - : ; ,4,,s[.: 1 %CTi�:.. .� Which of these would you prefer regarding the future of the Lower St. Croix Valley? r 36.67 A. 1":. �a3'es -41-in ,61,71c41. Stay the same - retain small town character 5.66 2. Encourage growth -with few constraints . 3. Encourage growth -within constraints la B 89 4. Other Slide 230 SUDE230 What growth is most important to the Valley? iv- 26.76 :.:: '��` 1. Housing - -- - - ------ ---- - 73.24 2. Jobs Slide 240 SUDE240 BfaMEDZ Which transportation strategy would best meet the needs of the Lower St. Croix Valley? il."4, 6101. Expand highway connections to the Twin Cities 12.94IN: € �:_ 2. Expand highway connections among free-standing cities 2.35 3. Better maintain the highways and roads we have now 5.88 4.Add park and ride lots, including alternative transportation 56.47 1 5. Promote greater use of telecommunications 2.35 iI 6. Promote exclusive lanes for buses, vans and carpools 9.41 17. Discourage commuting and don't build any more roads (or bridges) 10.59 Slide 260 SLIDE260 lErcK{14 , Which of the following most reflects your feelings about the need to preserve farm areas (agricultural land)? :1.All farm areas should be,preserved f` 17.95 2.The best farm areas should be preserved I 61.54 3. If there is a market, farm land can be developed 20.511 Slide .330 SUDE33 PO Which of these natural resources needs the most attention? 34.67�, f., ,7; . 7 1. The St. Croix River iSE12. The streams (Apple, Willow, Kinnikinnick) that are part of the watershed ( 18.67 3. Woodlands 2.67 4. Productive agricultural land 14.67 5. Lakes and wetlands 20.00 6. Other 9.33 5 Summary Grouped by Slide Number 1 • • . Slide 340 SUDE3d Iplaw;; What strategy do you prefer for protection of the natural habitat? in1. Public aquisition al 8.86A_ 'Q#es`;t. 2. Zoning 27.85 IN 3. Land trust ownership 11.39 I 4. Land trust easements 32.91 5. Private stewardship 16.46 IN 16. Other 2.53 Slide 350 SUDE35 . 11 _. +' itts Who should have primary responsibility for protection of the natural environment? al : a 1. Public groups 40.51 °le . '.Sfq("=1:',' 2. Private groups 3.80 3. Non-profit groups 17.72 PI4. Partnerships 37.97 ISlide 360 SLIDE36 --0 r $, How important is it that we continue to have an ongoing dialogue on these issues? glImIZSIK 1.Very important DM 73-33'.N. aisattr.z 2. Important . - 12.00 3. Somewhat important 8.00 4. Not important 6.67 Slide .370 SUDE37 . an-��; At what level should a potential dialogue continue? . W 1. State-to-state 8.70 ; 2. Region-to-region 18.84 3. County-to-county 11.59 4. Other 60.87 Slide 380 SLIDE38 What is the preferred way to proceed? / 7.:t,r,;';:'.--0 ^-• 1.A formal organization is required Et 3.95 a. 2.An informal partnership is all that is necessary I 13.16 3.A joint powers agreement to plan is needed I 30.26 4.A joint powers agreement to review/comment is needed I 15.79 5. On specific issues only 13.16 6. Not sure 23.681 SummaryGrouped by Slide Number 6 1 • • . -Slide _ _390 S/�E39 i on What is the most effective role the BAC should play? v Ia• OPS7.1 A facilitator between the public and existing organizations LW 45.3334 F.5'-Yofesr,- 1 2.A partner with existing organizations 26.67 3.A provider of technical assistance I 4.A provider of information 9.33 5. It should not be involved 8.00 6. Not sure 10.67 ISlide 400 SLIDE40 bll ,xa7Z:71Y. Do you feel your voice was heard at this meeting? k >~ 1. Strongly agree 23.44 'f7.: _: 1 2.Agree 45.31 3. Uncertain 21.88 1 4. Disagree 6.25 iii 5. Strongly disagree 3.13 .k Slide .410 SLJDE410 I. offiwi Should the Stillwater bridge be built? II a . 17 ._-11P1 11. Yes IM 50.56 s.: 2. No 49.44 Slide 420 SL IDE420 1 wt " estio °' Are you reading the McDonnell series in the St. Paul paper? 1 a ,;r. rt 1. Yes 65.8812: �K 2 2. No 34.1 1111 Slide 430 SLIDE430 FEMIN,M1 If it was available, would you use light rail? 1 I. k„i,f.:(401titarTil1. Yes El 65.00 _. al 2. No 35.00 iSlide 510 SLJDES1 Population growth is a problem for the region. II R.nsweis � _ 1. Strongly agree 46.15 s: 'cit=" , 2. Agree I 29.67 3. Uncertain 7.69 Summary Grouped by Slide Number 7 1 ill • • 1 4. Disagree 9.89 1 5.Strongly disagree 6.59 TIO . E 1 PIA I ..,,,Jill I ill gi i ' Yii.i.---- - -,.;,,-,-, - - - - -- - - ii _.. , III , . 3 ILI IA '- „ t } 1111 Summary Grouped by Slide Number 8 1 • • Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission Policy Statement on Urban Growth Management Adopted by unanimous vote on December 5, 1996 L Some of what have we learned: A. Urban growth is clearly going to happen. It will mean there will be more people, requiring more households, and more employment opportunities, in an area encompassing the traditional seven-county Twin Cities Metropolitan Area of Minnesota, and counties adjacent to this Area, including counties across the St. Croix River in Wisconsin. Information obtained from recent sources tells us, for example: 1. In the next 25 years (1995 to 2020) the seven-county Twin Cities Metropolitan Area will grow by 650,000 people, a 28% increase in population. This will require 330,000 more households and 380,000 more jobs. (See Growth Options, Metropolitan Council January, 1996) 2. During the period 1990 to 2010 three contiguous counties across the St. Croix River from the Twin Cities (Polk, St. Croix and Pierce Counties) will grow by 31,535 people, a 27% increase in population. (See West Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission, 1995) B. Under current policy, most of the future urban growth will occur along the edges of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area and radiate beyond. In Wisconsin, this growth is projected to be the greatest in the western tier of townships and cities adjacent to the St Croix River. Because of the high numbers of people commuting from contiguous areas into the Twin Cities to work, access to highways and bridges connecting the two states will continue to greatly influence these growth patterns. Information obtained from recent sources tells us, for example: 1. About 80% (264,000 households) of the future urban growth in the seven- county Twin Cites Metropolitan Area will be located at its developing edges of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. (See Growth Options) 2. In 1990, 42% of the work force of St. Croix County commuted to the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area to their jobs. In 1990, 29% of Pierce County workers and 18% of Polk County workers commuted to the Twin Cities. In 1990 in Chisago County, Minnesota, also along the St. Croix River, 50% of the 1990 workers commuted to the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area to work. (See Growth Options) MWBAC Final version, December 5, 1996 1 • . 3. Replacement bridges, each with expanded traffic capacity, have been built across the St. Croix River at Prescott and Hudson, Wisconsin, and a new bridge is being proposed for completion before the year 2000 at Oak Park Heights, Minnesota. In addition, major highway expansion projects are being proposed east/west and north/south in St. Croix County and north/south in Pierce County, Wisconsin. (See MWBAC Project Files) 4. Households in suburbs generate almost two-thirds more vehicle hours of travel per person than households in a traditional community. (See Ewing et al in Common Grounc4 Wisconsin DNA 1995) C. Urban growth, under current policy and practice, is a threat to our environment and economy, and ultimately to our overall quality of life. It is expensive for government to extend services across large geographic areas. Urban "sprawl" results in conversion of thousands of acres of land formerly used for farming and natural habitat and causes fragmentation of remaining lands into parcels too small to farm and of reduced habitat value. Information obtained from recent sources tells us: 1. At an average net density of 2 housing units per acre, 132,000 acres (206 square miles) of land will be needed between 1995 and 2000 to provide for the 264,000 new households projected for the developing edges of the region. Currently, within the 3,000 square mile, seven county Metropolitan Area, development occupies about 750 square miles. (Others have suggested higher housing density averages should be used for analysis and . be recommended for planning and policy purposes.) (See The High Cost of Sprawl; Builders Association of the Twin Cities, April 1, 1996; Growth Options) 2. Unsewered large-lot developments have already consumed 130,486 acres of land within the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area, that could have been developed at higher urban densities and served by regional wastewater treatment systems. (See The High Cost of Sprawl Builders Association of the Thin Cities, April 1, 1996) 3. In Minnesota, 45% of our food production occurs in urban counties or counties adjacent to urban areas. In Wisconsin, 85% occurs in urban counties or counties adjacent to urban areas. (See Land Use Issues Facing Wisconsin, Strategic Growth Task Force, February, 1996) MWBAC Foal Version, December 5, 1996 2 * 4. Residential development costs more than $5,000 per unit of development (1994 dollars) compared to less than $1,000 per unit of development for manufacturing. (See Land Use Issues Facing Wisconsin) Agricultural land, on average, demanded $0.57 worth of services for every dollar generated, while residential developments demanded on average $1.03 for every dollar generated. (See American Farmland ?rust Common Ground, Wisconsin DNR, 1995) 5. From 1976-1991 there were 37,000 acres of agricultural land lost within the Lower St. Croix Watershed in both states. Of that, 31,000 was converted to urban land uses. (See MWBAC, 1994) The average size of the southern Wisconsin woodlot is currently 47 acres. Consequently, many area-sensitive interior dependent songbird species are decreasing in frequency and undergoing population declines. (See Wisconsin's Biodiversity, Wisconsin DNR, May, 1995) 6. Remnant natural areas cover about six percent of the land originally occupied by natural communities in the Anoka Sand Plain - St. Croix Valley Region in Minnesota. (See Minnesota County Biological Survey. Minnesota DNR, 1995) II. These are issues we believe to be of concern and importance: A. The results of urban growth, only partially described above, give rise to well-documented and inter-related concerns that are economic, environmental, and social. (See Land Patterns, 1000 Friends of Minnesota, Springy ) We believe, important issues include: 1. Policies which encourage urban growth to occur in ever-widening circles around our core cities require tremendous outlays of public capital per unit of development, for utility and transportation infrastructure and for the land upon which to build it. 2. Policies which encourage urban growth outward from core cities and places of employment encourage continued use of private automobiles, the need for larger roads and more and larger bridges, and a growing rate of consumption of fossil fuels. MWBAC Final Yam, December 5,1996 3 3. Policies which divert the expenditure of public capitol in support of sprawl at the edges, and away from restoration of the urban core, result in population loss in core cities as those who can leave, do so at the earliest opportunity. This results in higher concentrations of poverty in core cities and, finally, an ever-increasing tax burden for those property owners remaining. Such policy only encourages even more exodus from the inner cities, loss of community connections, and a continuing spiral of economic problems. 4. Policies which result in the continual carving of large parcels of farmland into a sea of evenly-spaced two, five, and ten acre lots, removes that land from useful crop or food production, change the character of the countryside, remove the source of food even further from local consumers and markets, and virtually assure that the land will never be restored for agricultural uses. 5. Policies which result in continual carving of large parcels of woodland, grasslands, and wetlands into a sea of two, five, and ten acre lots fragments our natural habitat, increase the rate and impacts of excessive surface water runoff, disturb natural groundwater recharge patterns, and reduce the overall biological diversity of the region. 6. Policies which support or enable urban sprawl, encourage fragmentation and, in some cases total destruction, of rural agricultural communities and their rural character. These same policies, augmented by other larger regional and national economic forces, encourage constant movement and resettlement of individuals and families in new settings but not new "communities" in the true sense of the word. This has resulted in profound changes in personal and family life, loss of extended family and community cohesion, and even economic losses and new social costs only recently well understood. (See Another Turn of the Crank Wendell Beny, 1995) B. The creators of policies which support or enable urban sprawl and which perpetuate it, include federal, state and Iocal government entities, nonprofit organizations, private corporations, and private citizens. Therefore, any efforts to dramatically influence the future direction of these policies requires working in the demon-making arenas of government, non profit, and private sectors of society. (See Creating Successful Communities, Conservation Foundation, 1990) MWBAC Foal Venial, December 5, 1996 4 • • IQ. In response to these trends and issue, we support and offer the following "Guiding Principles": A. That the landscape of the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area and surrounding counties in Wisconsin and Minnesota is comprised of three forms: (1) lands that are unused for human purposes, often described as "open space" or "natural habitat"; (2) lands that are used by humans for various uses, such as agriculture, residential development, commercial development, etc.; and (3) lands that are misused by humans, that is, used, but for damaging purposes, or not used with care. (See Berry, 1995) B. That any lands now unused (natural and native habitats) should not be converted to human uses. Such lands comprise perhaps as little as 6% of the total landscape and.provide refuge for some of the most diverse plant and animal life remaining in the region's ecosystem. Such lands, where they are in public ownership, should be inventoried and cared for as part of our common wealth. Where such lands are in private ownership, those private owners should be advised of the special nature of their lands, provided with technical assistance and information, and be encouraged to be good stewards of the resources in their care. (See Minnesota County Biological Survey and Wisconsin Division of Resource Management) C. That private citizens, as the primary owners of title to those lands classified as used have a right to their use, but a responsibility for their care. Much can be done by farmers who farm with care; developers who design and build with concern for the people, community, and the natural environment; and residents and business owners who use their property carefully. D. That non profit organizations, such as local land trusts can play a vital role in creating public/private partnerships for land protection - to own, manage, or provide help - to private landowners in the protection of lands with special ecological and cultural significance. E. That local government has the leadership responsibility for overall land use planning and that such planning should be done, as much as possible, in the context of building cohesive communities of people who know and help one another, not simply creating locations for people to live and work. To be truly effective in this effort, many aspects of local planning must be done in coordination with neighboring units of government. In the Lower St. Croix Valley, this must include communication and coordination within each state and across the state boundaries of Minnesota and Wisconsin. MWBAC Final Version, December 5, 1996 5 • . F. Where we can identify lands that have been, or are, being misused, local governments, nonprofits and private interests, as appropriate, should take the primary responsibility to design plans for the restoration of such lands. 1. All local comprehensive land use planning should include steps which result in an inventory of such lands and recommendations for their restoration. 2. Such misuses as leaking landfills, hazardous waste dumps, or badly deteriorated neighborhoods, should be identified as part of local land use planning efforts and public funds (federal, state and local) should be directed toward their restoration to a condition enabling productive economic use, or, if more appropriate, for open space/natural habitat. G. Government tax policies, plans, and programs which directly support, encourage, or in effect subsidize, urban sprawl and lay the cost burden of development on people in core cities should be opposed or modifications suggested. Devices such as impact fees, transfer of development rights (TDRs) and modifications in property tax policies should be explored as alternatives. H. Proposals that will receive our strong support, be they offered by private, nonprofit, or public agents, will be those that carry us toward the ecological and cultural idea of local adaptation; those that encourage the formation of adequate local cultures; and those that encourage spontaneous and natural quality control as the preferred option over regulation (for neither consumers nor workers would want to see the local economy destroy itself by abusing or exhausting its resources.) (See Berry, 1995) Where such natural quality control does not prevail, regulations should be promulgated to assure such care in the public interest. IV. What we will do to support these principles: A. We will foster these principles in our own ongoing and normal work with private landowners, nonprofits, and government entities as we communicate with them through our St. Croix River Stewards Journal, through personal communications, by offering the use of our Stewardship Library, and by providing periodic training workshops and field trips for citizens, nonprofit organizations and government officials. MWBAC Final Version, December 5, 1996 6 S B. We will use these principles as guide posts when we review and comment on government, nonprofit and private projects specifically within the boundaries of the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway and, where needed, within the more extensive boundaries of its watershed, when we determine that programs or projects within the watershed may have direct or secondary impacts on the quality or character of the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway or the values for which it was designated. C. We will use these principles to guide us as we continue to facilitate communication across state boundaries and among federal, state, regional and local jurisdictions and to encourage coordinated policy development and planning activities among them. D. We will use these principles as we explore the potential for developing more formalized planning and coordination between and among the units of government in the Lower St. Croix watershed, either as part of our existing interstate compact or through a new and separate agreement. E. We will encourage others to adopt these principles, or similar ones, as guide posts to use in their decision-making as well. F. We will periodically revisit this statement to consider appropriate revisions, additions or deletions. Such efforts will always take place in the public arena, with public involvement encouraged. • Note: Reference documents and files cited herein are on file and available for public review in the offices of the Minnesota-Wisconsin Boundary Area Commission, 619 Second Street, Hudson, Wisconsin. MWBAC Final Version, Decanber S, 1996 7 z< ... MINNESOTA-WISCONSIN BOUNDARY A I f • F. 619 SECOND STREET '' 6 19nn rr����� ift, HUDSON, WISCONSIN 54016-1 ' . AUG i; 1';rl nom; �(- MN Telephone FAX: 715.386.9571 =lephone 651.436.7131 EMAIL: mwbac@mwbac.state.wi.0 715.386.9444 August 13, 1999 Re: September 18, 1999, The St. Croix River Expo: Encouraging StewardshipTM Dear Official: You are one of a select number of policy-level civic leaders personally invited to the St. Croix Falls high school for the 1999 St. Croix River Expo on Saturday, September 18. If you cannot attend,please delegate another leader so that your government unit is well represented. The enclosed flyer describes highlights of the free family day. 47 display booths with river basin stewardship themes are already registered. You see that after delivering a keynote talk at 9:00, former Senator Gaylord Nelson will present awards to the school kids from surrounding districts with the best watershed stewardship posters. Next comes the part perhaps most valuable to you -information sessions delivered before and after lunchtime about subwatershed-level land and water planning and the recently revised management plans for the Upper and Lower St. Croix Riverways. The core purpose of the Expo is to motivate key citizenry in the 7760 square mile St. Croix River watershed to create or implement at least four subwatershed plans. The Expo is intended to inform and enthuse thousands of your constituents and neighbors. Planning grants will be mentioned. At 3:30 the Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua will perform dramatic musical numbers from St. Croix Wild River in the 2400-seat gym. Ted Mondale,Metropolitan Council Chair, is the after- dinner speaker for the fall meeting of the 230-member St. Croix River Association, catered by the Dalles House Restaurant Limited numbers of reservations for both are still available. This will be a watershed event, in both senses of the term. I do hope that you can be present. Registration is not required except that if you desire Chautauqua or dinner tickets, do not delay. C I rdially, 1 pati.ck Clarence W. 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