ADMINISTRATION- Bob Therres, Public Services Manager/Asst City Manager
Title
RESOLUTION OF COMMITMENT BY THE BLAINE CITY COUNCIL TO PROCEED WITH WETLAND RESTORATION OF THE BLAINE WETLAND SANCTUARY (BWS)
Background
Based on information that the City has received and recent discussions that have taken place, the City Council has directed that a resolution be brought forward for the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary (BWS). The attached resolution for Council consideration and action directs that the wetland restoration be completed as approved by the regulatory agencies. It also directs that a decorative fence and gate be placed in the maintenance access area of the BWS.
Recommendation
By motion, adopt the resolution completing the wetland restoration at the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary.
Body
WHEREAS, the City of Blaine has obtained approximately 500 acres of wetland property starting in the 1980’s with the goal to develop a wetland complex open to the residents of Blaine; and
WHEREAS, the wetland property has been re-named the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary (BWS); and
WHEREAS, the City has had the opportunity to restore a portion of the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary and create a wetland bank at the same time that would allow for the continued restoration and improvements to the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary; and
WHEREAS, the City has obtained permits from the Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) and the Army Corp of Engineers to restore the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary and create wetland credits; and
WHEREAS, the City has been informed that failing to restore the wetlands as originally approved will result in the loss of all wetland credits, with an estimated value of approximately $7 million, which would force the City to find alternative sources of funds; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Blaine City Council hereby confirms its commitment to restore the wetlands in the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary as was originally submitter and approved. The City Council also directs that a decorative fence and gate be installed on City right-of-way in the area by the maintenance access to prevent unauthorized access to the Blaine Wetland Sanctuary from this area.
Passed by the City Council of the City of Blaine this 17th day of May 2018.