Greg Boatman

The Crow-Hassan Master Plan, developed by Three Rivers Park District, is designed to define the unique characteristics of Crow-Hassan Park Reserve and ensure its continued relevance for future generations. Key focus areas include preserving the park's ecologically significant natural resources, such as prairies, wetlands, savanna, and woods, which support diverse habitats and wildlife. The plan also aims to serve current visitors while respectfully integrating new users, providing opportunities for recreation and quiet reflection within its natural setting.

The meeting addressed a variance request related to Bluffland Overlay District Standards for a property located at 13118 Ottawa Drive. Discussions covered slope protections, setbacks from the Credit River, and concerns about the structural integrity of existing retaining walls. The applicant sought a variance from Bluffland standards to repair aging walls and address issues with the deck footings. The commission discussed drainage, the definition of a bluff, and the height of the wall in relation to engineering standards.

The plan provides a framework to guide future natural resource management within the City of Savage, ensuring sustainability and a balanced approach between recreational use and environmental preservation. It focuses on urban forestry, natural areas, parks, trails, turf management, water resources, and wildlife. Key goals include implementing best management practices, promoting sustainability and climate resilience, enhancing community involvement, and securing funding through donations and grants. The plan also emphasizes education, partnerships, and continuous improvement to adapt to emerging pest impacts, climate change, and continued growth.

The City Council meeting included presentations from the police department, recognizing citizens for life-saving actions, and a proclamation celebrating Black History Month. The Communications Department provided an overview of their activities, highlighting their various communication tools and accomplishments, including the use of social media, the City Connection newsletter, and Savage TV. The liquor operations were also discussed, including sales figures, THC sales, and the Loyalty Rewards program.

The City Council meeting addressed several key items, including a public comment period where concerns were raised about rights violations and privacy. The agenda was approved, and minutes from the previous meeting were also approved. The council discussed and approved a consent agenda that included personnel actions, mining permits for Prior Lake aggregates, a contract for the water treatment plant filter media rehabilitation project, and a capital budget request for the highway 13 reconstruction project. Additionally, the council considered a PUD amendment and site plan for a Quick Trip building addition, a PUD amendment for a Rivers of Life memory care facility, and a purchase agreement for a land sale to Bond Dakota LLC. They also approved a resolution for a forfeited vehicle to be declared surplus and a short-term rental license. A presentation was given regarding fire station number one, and a change order was requested for building repairs and updates to the kitchen, day room, and exercise room. Funding for these projects was discussed, involving public safety aid dollars and an interfund loan from the water sewer fund.