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Otsego Township Planning Tactics April 1989Township prepared by: 7' Northwest Associated Consu)tants,lnc. 24 April T0: RE: FiI�E N0: 1989 northwest associated Otsego Town Board Gtsego Planning Commission Planning `1'art:ics Study 175.G1 A4adam and Gentlemen: consultants, inc This letter transmits the report summarizing the study which our office has conducted on the planning and development problems and opportunities of the Township. In this regard, the Township officials and the community ar_e to be commended for their foresight in recognizing that Otsego is at <i very critical crossroads in its history and futus-e. To date, Lhe Town has been extremely fortunate in its development. To a significant degree, Wright County officials have contr_.ibited to i,he positive aspects of the situation. The community has, however, grown rapidly and is now to a point of major urbanization. In order for the Town to maintain its quality of 1_i.fe into the future, it must take on a more urban character_ of responsibility, and go beyond the bounds of county and .Mural township focus. Simultaneously, the agricultural base of then jurisdiction must be recognized, accommodated and protected. `i'he commissioning of this Planning Tactics Study is based upon this critical recognition of the community's future. Iri this regard, this study has involved and included meeting with community leaders in order to gain a perspective and insight into what the Town wants to achieve and how such objectives are to be approached. Simultaneously, a professional evaluation has been conducted to provide an objective assessment and analysis. Through this combination of ideas, it is hoped that a progressive planning program which is responsive to Township needs can be agreed upon and initiated. 4601 excelsior blvd., ste. 410, minneapolis, mn 55416 (61 Z) 9Z5-94Z0 fax 9Z5-Z7Z 1 Otsego Town Board Otsego Planning Commission 24 April 1989 Page Two We are greatly appreciative of our in the definition and organization program. We look forward to being o efforts are initiated and progress. e Respectfully yours, NORTHWEST ASSOCIA G David R. Li t, AICP ?resident cc: Jerome Perrault, Clerk Jim Barthel, Treasurer Elaine Beatty, Assistant Clerk William Radzwill, Attorney Peter Raatikka, Engineer f being able to assist the Town of a long range planning further service as the work 0 E N O O O A O ^yam O O c0" =r �rDrD N a't Z 0 J n s Introduction The Otsego Township community is situated geographically in a prime position where development pressure has occurred and can be expected to continue. This community of some 7,000 present residents is located on the edge of Wright County bordering the growth center of Elk River to the north and adjoining Hennepin County and the formal Twin Cities Metropolitan Area to the east. Enhancing the geographic positioning is the high level of access to the Metropolitan Area provided by Highways 101, 10 and I-94. As a consequence of these factors, the community is a prime target for development. Simultaneously, however, approximately three -fourths of the community at present remains in agricultural -type use. Farming activities due to predominantly good soils is a viable and likely long-term utilization of a majority of the Township. As a consequence, one very fundamental challenge to the community will be a balancing of urban and rural activities allowing each to function in an harmonious fashion with the other. The Otsego community has been positively guided by Wright County comprehensive planing over the years. This has resulted in a relatively confined concentration of urban scale development which has taken advantage of natural amenities and simultaneously located on poorer quality agricultural soils. The scope and intensity of development has now, however, reached a threshold where unless action is taken, major problems may result. Of primary concern is groundwater pollution along with other basic concerns related to land use harmony, street systems, tax base and the like. In a progressive and practical fashion, the Township officials have recognized the state of the community and its future and are taking positive steps to confront development issues and opportunities. One very basic move in this regard is the initiation of this Planning Tactical Study. This effort involves the identification of community problems and needs from a Township official as well as professional perspective. This approach is seen as providing a comprehensive evaluation of the community as seen very importantly through the eyes of the citizenry, as well as a technical "outside" view. From this very sound basis, an issue summary and comprehensive phased work program has been defined. This program outline is intended to serve as a guideline as well as checklist for tasks which need to be pursued by the community. It furthermore provides a priority listing suggesting matters which require immediate attention and also indicates a total listing of tasks which are required for a complete growth management program. 1 fit Credits Fundamental to the analysis of needs and the assembly of a responsive planning and development program for the Township is the perspective of the community leadership. As part of the Otsego Planning Tactics Study, a broad cross section of individuals were consulted on their views as to needs and opportunities of the Town. While time limitations and scheduling conflicts prevented reaching every possible contact and source, it is believed that those individuals with whom discussions were held provided the necessary local insight which was being sought. Those individuals contributing to this report were: Town Board: Township Planning Commission: Township Treasurer: Township Clerk: Asst. Township Clerk: Township Maintenance: Township Attorney: Township Engineer: Wright County Planning and Zoning: Norm Freske, Chair Douglas Lindenfelser, Supervisor Floyd Roden, Supervisor Glen Benson Nancy Duerr Larry Forunier Jim Kolles Randy Pouliot I.G. Roskaft Carl Swenson Jim Barthel Jerome Perrault Elaine Beatty Dave Chase William Radzwill Radzwill Law Office Lawrence G. Koshak, P.E. Hakenson, Anderson and Associates Tom Salkowski, Administrator Charles Davis, Environmental Health Specialist Wright County Public Works: Wayne Fingalson, Engineer -Highways Dave Montiebellow, Engineer -Highways It has been through the assistance of these interviews that this report was made possible. The cooperation and contribution of those involved is greatly appreciated. 1 4 'V Y "�' COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVES INTRODUCTION As acknowledged in the Credit Section of this report, community Leaders and Town and County staff were consulted as a means of identifying the scope of issues which currently confront the Township. This Chapter of the Planning Tactics Study is devoted to a summary of these comments and concerns which were raised. While the various individuals making comment had different approaches and highlighted differing specific concerns, there were a number of basic, underlying themes throughout the discussions which took place. These were: 1. Sanitary waste 2. Agricultural preservation protection 3. Storm drainage 4. Diversified and increased tax base 5. Property maintenance 6. Street system 7. Coordinated/quality growth management 8. Community facilities 9. Independent control 10. Funding 11. Community identity 12. Neighboring community relations 13. Environmentally sensitive areas With the noted exception of the sanitary -waste issue, the foregoing list is not seen as an indication of priorities. Rather, it is evident that Township leaders recognize a broad and comprehensive perspective of issues which presently confront the community and require attention. In this regard, however, it is admitted that a sense of direction and organization is presently lacking. This is most evidently recognized and acknowledged by the undertaking of this Planning Tactics Study. There is, however, strong consensus on the goal to properly manage probable growth and development and to maintain and, where possible, enhance the quality of life offered in Otsego Township. Prior to proceeding with a further definition and review of the Township issues as viewed by its leaders and staff, additional explanation and qualification is required. In the paragraphs which follow, the comments which were received have been generalized so as not to credit any one individual with a particular statement or opinion. It should be noted, however, that there was a strong degree of consensus among those interviewed on the issues and needs of the Township. While such agreement is not totally uncommon, it does signal a very positive situation. Note should also be made that the focus. of the 5 discussion and hence this chapter of the Tactics Report is negative, dwelling on the problems of the community. This negative theme and characterization of the community should not be interpreted as the prevailing opinion of the Township. To the contrary, the community leadership and staff view Otsego as offering a unique and quality living environment. The objective in identifying Otsego's problems is to insure that these problems are properly addressed and resolved so that the benefits offered are maintained and increased. The identification of each and every issue raised as part of the interviews with community representatives also is not attempted by this report. Such would be beyond the scope and purpose of this effort. The issues which are raised are a broad categorization of topics receiving attention. Identifying and dealing with this more basic framework of concerns will facilitate the organization of responses which in the long run will comprehensively address all concerns, including the sub - issues. ISSUES 1. Sanitary Waste A paramount concern of nearly every person interviewed was the threat of ground water pollution due to possible wide spread septic system failure. According to the Township Engineer, the possibility of such an occurrence is a realistic situation due to soil conditions and water tables. Additionally, the very evident development density which has been experienced, while offering some advantages, also intensifies the potential pollution problem and makes the pollution threat wide spread plus costly. In a very progressive and positive move, Township officials and staff have begun to explore possible means to start addressing the sanitary waste disposal issue. On an initial basis, formal discussions have been held with the City of Elk River concerning the potential of utilizing the City's waste treatment facilities. While the feasibility of such an arrangement is far from completion, the pursuit of this possible option is a highly positive step in the right direction. Beyond simply the treatment facility issue is the need to define the possible placement of trunk facilities for optimum service capability and lateral extension, the system funding methods, and the formulation of subdivision development policies and regulations necessary for a future public system installation and operation. The point in this regard is that the issue of a sanitary waste system is complex and far reaching, involving many diverse elements which must be coordinated and focused. As was noted previously, this is seen as the highest priority concern of the Township. Such an emphasis is considered appropriate, given the fact that a do nothing approach could be catastrophic in terms of general public health, as well as on an individual basis financially crushing to the point of people literally loosing their homes and major personal investments. 2. Agricultural Preservation/Protection While acknowledging that residential development and urban growth is the primary target of concern, a basic premise of future efforts by the Town has been stressed as agricultural preservation and protection. This use which constitutes approximately seventy-five percent of the community is viewed as a fundamental land use which is not to be unduly infringed upon or threatened. This includes both large, as well as small scale, non-agricultural use. Relative to large scale residential development, a need is seen to define an urban/rural border line which will serve to concentrate non-agricultural development in areas of existing concentrations and/or areas of marginal agricultural soils. Additionally, scattered "hobby farm" development in the rural sections of the Township has been termed a waste of valuable resources if it occurs on prime agricultural land. Moreover, the scattered development of individual residences has also been raised as a problem and has been suggested as a future situation to be generally discouraged. 7 3. Storm Drainage A highly common situation resulting in the transition of an area from rural to urban is storm water drainage problems. As natural drainage flows are disputed, unanticipated problems are found to occur. Major problems with storm runoff have apparently been experienced by Otsego in the past. While these major problems have at least partially been responded to, concern exists over continuing and growing problems. The need for a comprehensive analysis and system to address storm drainage was commonly cited by those officials making comment. 4. Diversified and Increased Tax Base A subject receiving universal attention as a major problem of Otsego is its lack of a strong and diversified tax base. The agricultural use and single family residential development offers limited financial resources from which the Township can draw upon for responding to needs and services which are required by a 7,000 person community. 5. Only very limited commercial development, consisting primarily of highway service type faces exists today in the Township. An opportunity is, however, seen in the access and exposure provided by Highway 101 for the creation of a commercial/industrial development area which can contribute not only services but also tax base. It is recognized by most, however, that the extent of possible commercial industrial development is tied closely to the provision of urban service, most notably sanitary sewer. Property Maintenance Undoubtedly one of the major attractions drawing development to Otsego is its "open" development character with relatively large size lots. While a vast majority of community residents take great pride in the maintenance and upkeep of their yards and buildings, a number abuse the situation by literally creating junk yards. These unsightly situations have a highly negative impact upon the character of the community plus serve to threaten the property value of neighbors. Moreover, some situations pose public health and safety concerns. A continually re -occurring theme throughout the discussion of the community with its leaders was the need to forcefully address property clean up. 9 10 Beyond the very clear situations of property maintenance abuse, however, is the general issue of "acceptable" outside storage limits plus outbuildings and home occupations. Comments from community officials pointed to the construction of major accessory buildings which become converted to home occupation uses. If handled and maintained properly, these are not viewed as a problem. However, there are again cases known which have gotten out of hand and are creating problems for neighborhoods throughout the community. Regulations which properly define the bounds of storage and non-residential activities and which are enforced was cited as a critically needed mechanism to maintain and enhance the community. ,��,: �:. 6. Street System The community's street system involves three governmental jurisdictions. Besides the local Township roads are the Wright County and MnDOT highways. Comments were received pertaining to each element of the system. Relative to Highway 101, it is generally viewed as a highly positive asset, although one which requires upgrading. This highway provides access via Highway 10 and I-94 to the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. It therefore is the life line of Otsego which is primarily a bedroom community. Additionally, Highway 101 provides access plus critical exposure for commercial industrial development which is viewed as a much needed service and tax base of the Town. 11 Current MnDOT plans for the upgrading of Highway 101 are therefore seen as positive for Otsego. A problem has, however, been identified in the fact that the highway upgrade is being handled by MnDOT's District 5 Golden Valley office rather than the District 3 Brainerd Office. The issue in this regard is one of priority which will be assigned to the project due to the competition demands of other projects within the Metropolitan Area. Community leaders express the need to promote and achieve the highway upgrade as quickly as possible. The Wright County highways, which exist within the Township, were highly complimented as well constructed and maintained facilities. Some concern does exist relative to uncontrolled access on these major carriers as well as the need to insure their upgrade when volumes so dictate. In general, however, issues cited were more long term than current. Township roads, as they exist today, were cited as having some problems. These problems have apparently, however, been considered and are now being addressed through an organized improvement program. Through this phased approach, the Township should be able to progressively attend to problems and eventually make system -wide upgrades. 12 Beyond the jurisdictional elements of the Otsego street and road system, a number of more generalized issues were identified as matters requiring attention. A serious need is seen to define in advance the network of major "collector and arterial" routings which serve to provide logical and necessary access and connections from one part of the community to others. The lack of such a system classification and designation has been a major issue in the review of recent subdivision requests. Related to this classification matter and also previously cited in regard to the County roads is the issue of direct access onto major carriers. If future safety and functional problems are to be avoided, major streets within the community should have limited access. This will also serve to minimize residents' complaints if proper design is followed at the subdivision approval stage of the process. According to local officials, to achieve this end, however, the system needs identification prior to development occurring. As part of advanced planning, community leaders believe the Town needs a clear policy on cul-de-sac streets. While such streets are highly marketable from a developer/realtor standpoint and are also attractive to buyers, they typically represent a public safety and maintenance nightmare. So as to avoid continuing controversy, a policy eventually enacted by Ordinance is seen as needed so that the "ground rules" are firmly in place as developers initiate the subdivision process. 7. Coordinated/Quality Growth Management As a result of its geographic position and the related urbanization which has taken place to date, there is recognition that continued growth will be experienced by Otsego Township. In general, there is a consensus that the development which has been experienced for the most part has been positive. Guided generally by the Wright County Comprehensive Plan, the major urbanization has occurred on the agriculturally marginal soils plus concentrated in the northeast corner of the community where there are good County and State highways. There is, however, very major concern that improperly planned, control and regulated ongoing development could pose significant problems for Otsego in the future. The preservation of agricultural lands, a functional street system, tax base diversification, public utility servicing all relate to this issue. "Leap -frog, detached rather than contiguous development, such as Island View Estates, was also frequently cited in this regard. Most officials have, therefore, acknowledged the need to greatly expand upon the present Wright County Comprehensive Land Use Plan and to plan and organize the community on a much more detailed basis. Besides defining an urban/rural border, a Township plan must begin to address sub -standard housing, resubdivision, commercial/industrial development standards, park and recreation facilities, floodplain development and protection, street systems, and community facilities and services. 14 Due to the urbanization focus of the northeast portion of the community, the applicability of County development regulations have also been questioned. This is not a criticism of the County Ordinances as it is recognized that their focus is rightfully directed at rural area activities. If the Township is going to address urban scale development, it is logical to conclude, however, that urban type standards are required. 8. Community�Facilities As a factor of community pride and identity, a concern of many Town officials is the Township Hall. Not only is this facility old and outdated, it is a poor meeting and working environment, even lacking in air conditioning. Its size also has presented problems in the past, in that it has been too small to house a number of public hearings and meetings. The pursuit of a new hall facility was therefore suggested as a prime concern. 15 / I � , I ON I •.W •� � PUVIUNDUND R^�Yr7,7`r��•e.�..` C1NDE ACCESS otsego county park .� .� "`=^M• PICNIC AREA -•,'. HIKING TRAIL wrfpht IMF county pallet daPtrtmtnt . f i � t �y iF ¢k PI . r `.,'r OF i ' :` .!y, .. uei4. 1�. r am' :•"�! '`';1.r _ d�*09 _ .1, .� Vie•. --: _ 9. Independent Control Due to its existing urbanization plus the size and extent of potential problems, a majority of those persons interviewed cited the need for the Township to take on an increasing amount of responsibility for its own future. In this regard, services from the County, while viewed as positive, were acknowledged as limited. Reference was also made of a similar position being taken by the County Board. The possible addition of increasing responsibilities was, however, viewed as a move which should be phased plus highly coordinated with County staff. Operating in such a fashion, gaps in service could likely be avoided and a more orderly transition experienced. The focus of areas in which Township responsibility was identified as building and environmental code enforcement and planning and zoning. Of special note were comments made regarding the review and processing of development and zoning requests. Both the Planning Commission and Town Board were seen as needing advanced copies of proposals for adequate review time. Professional review assistance was also cited as a need in major projects being proposed. As noted previously, an expanded Comprehensive Plan, as well as more urban -oriented codes, were items suggested. These again were viewed in relationship to the Town taking on more independent accountability and responsibility for its future. This was also seen as required in order to assure all problems are properly addressed as the Township will likely have to take on both administrative and financial obligations for correction of problem areas and issues. Underlying the theme of independent control was the very intense position that the legal basis of the community needs to be changed and strengthened. The purpose of this change is basically to provide the Town with the means and capability (legal and financial) to respond to the complex and major development problems which it confronts. Major work, including exploration of incorporation, has already taken place and continuing efforts are being made with the State Legislature. It is assumed that some major progress will in fact be achieved by the end of the current legislative session. The need to continue pursuit of expanded legal capabilities was noted as a subject to be monitored and its importance resting upon the progress by the current effort. 10. Funding Tied very closely to its expanded legal status and independent control is the issue of increased non -local funding sources which can be obtained in assisting the 7,000 person Otsego community in meetings its increasing and 17 complex urban needs. A major number of Township officials stressed this matter as a basic key to the future of the community. Again, it appears that some progress is likely on this matter through the assistance by the current State Legislature. The opinion was however expressed that further research needs to be done to identify any and all possible sources of funding assistance. 11. Community Identity Although pride in Otsego was strongly stated by its leadership, there exists a need to more clearly establish its identity. Time and time again it was stated that Otsego is part of another jurisdiction such as the County, School Districts or the like. Moreover, there is no element or factor strongly identifying Otsego as one community. As a means to build and enhance community pride, some mechanism is viewed as essential which provides independent identity. A separate post office was one common suggestion raised as at least an initial possibility to achieve this end. 12. Neighboring Community Relations While note being classified as a problem, the need to maintain good relations and communications with bordering communities was cited as a concern. Primary in this regard was the City of Elk River. Due to this geographic proximity of Elk River to the urbanized portions of Otsego, cooperative efforts benefiting both communities are seen as possible. Simultaneously, Town officials noted the need to work with Dayton, Frankfort Township, and Albertville in growth management concerns. 13. Environmentally Sensitive Areas Natural areas and amenities of the community, notably the river frontages, were suggested as topics of concern due to their attractiveness for urban -oriented development. A strong need was expressed to properly regulate and control development in these areas so that the amenity and natural beauty is maintained. Vegetation removal as well as erosion problems were stated as problems already encountered and situations to be avoided in the future. Other environmental topics discussed as issues were floodplain management and proper utilization and naturel wetland protection. Sludge disposal from the Metro Area or neighboring cities was yet another environmental issue identified. - - - ---�-^Rrr �, . _ `y ` Y y'._ �� i i!ti ...�.'w�i SUMMARY Again, it is noted that the preceding discussion has emphasized the problems of Otsego and therefore its negative aspects. It is further emphasized that this is not the general characterization of the Town. The community boasts many fine neighborhoods and homes at all market ranges, as indicated by the photos on the following page. So as to maintain a positive living environment, community officials, however, recognize that problems must be confronted and resolved. The preceding paragraphs simply serve to identify those concerns which are foremost in the minds of the community leadership. 19 a kiowl,ubmt_ I _ i i� �� � � ����4 Professional Views INTRODUCTION As part of a Planning Tactics Study, it is typical for Northwest to provide an additional "professional" perspective of issues which are found to exist in a community. This is accomplished through a review of plans and ordinances. plus comprehensive field inspections of the jurisdiction. These efforts were in fact undertaken as part of Otsego's Planning Tactics Study. A somewhat uncommon situation, however, resulted. It was found that community leaders had at least in a broad sense, identified the vast majority of possible concerns. In fact, from a physical planning perspective, no new additional topic areas were identified. This suggests that the community leadership is very much in tune with its constituency and environment for which it is responsible. The Planning Tactics Study work of Northwest did, however, reveal three topics which are viewed as worth of comment. These are identified in the following section. ISSUES 1. Community Income Levels While income levels and poverty are a social issue typically a responsibility of County government, there appears to be a relatively high degree of problem concentration in the Township. This factor was noted also by County officials as it relates to the ability of persons to take on required upgrades of their property. As a practical matter, this situation needs to be recognized and considered as plans and projects are pursued. Failing to do so will result in major implementation problems which will delay overall progress of the Town. 2. Resident Communication The scope and depth of community officials perspective and understanding of the Township problems was noted earlier as highly complete. Given the unique operation of township government, as well as a general need for community support, informing and maintaining communication with residents is seen as essential if progress is to be made in the major effort to resolve community problems. It is of major importance, therefore, that all residents clearly understand the "State of the Township" and the issues which are posed. Moreover, the detailed ramifications of the current problems 22 3. USE be broadly understood and accented. If such a recognition can be achieved, it will greatly facilitate the necessary agreement on the approach and means to resolve problems. Continuing Development Pressure As stated in the Introduction to this report, Otsego's geographic positioning and related very positive access have played a major role in the development which has taken place. To be recognized, however, is that development is market driven at many levels of influence. The national, state and regional economy are most certainly primary forces which have an impact on Otsego. As part of this situation, there are, however, sometimes highly unique factors which influence the market and development pressure which may be experienced by a community. From the professional experience which Northwest has both throughout the Metropolitan Area as well as Wright County, a situation has been identified which is seen as having a significant impact on the future of Otsego and the extent to which development pressure will be felt. This special situation is the Twin Cities Metropolitan Council's Metropolitan Urban Service Area policy or MUSA, as it is commonly called. In summary, this is the area within the core metropolitan region where the Metropolitan Council will allow urban sanitary sewer service and which as a consequence, is the area where development will focus in the Twin Cities. Generally defined, the MUSA is the area within the Interstate 494/694 beltline and immediately bordering areas. The formal bounds of the MUSA was last comprehensively established in the late 1970's and very early 1980's. Since defined, the area has been expanded in size to only a very minor degree. Simultaneously, however, during its eight to ten year existence, the vacant, developable land has been quite rapidly absorbed. A point has therefore now been reached where a very limited amount of land is available for development and much of which is owned and programmed for urbanization. Both the established commitments resulting in lack of land availability, and increasing per acre price due to market supply and demand are forcing development interest to look beyond the formal Metropolitan Area for development opportunities. Many of the eastern Wright County cities and townships are, as a consequence, experiencing a surge in development interest and actual growth. Due to its location and access, Otsego can expect some of this growth pressure. 23 This economic situation is highlighted first as a means to understand why Otsego has and will likely continue to grow. It is, however, also noted as a situation which requires constant monitoring. For whatever reason, should there be a change in the Metropolitan Council's MUSA policy, it will likely have a major market effect upon Wright County and specifically Otsego. This most certainly would affect the Township's planning and development policies and problems and the priorities which have or will be assigned to various activities. 24 Strategic Plan INTRODUCTION In private business and public administration today, the fashionable term for organizing and coordinating goals, work efforts and budgets is strategic planning. This concept recognizes that time and resources are limited and as a consequence must be "strategically" focused in order to achieve a desired end in the most efficient and economical means possible. Simultaneously, there must be a comprehensive identification of activities so that when first priority items are achieved, direction is provided to continue a progressive and complete response by going on to next level priority items. Otsego most certainly faces the need for a strategic plan in undertaking its responsibilities and a response to the issues and opportunities it confronts. Based upon the foundation of needs established in the two preceding chapters of this report, a work program and priorities are suggested in the paragraphs and the pages which follow. the purpose of this material is to establish a basis of discussion and the eventual formal establishment of an action program on the part of the Town Board. Furthermore, it is assumed that once a priority listing of activities is agreed upon that funding resources will be identified and to the extent possible, activities initiated. Organizationally, the work activities have been broadly categorized into first and second priority items. The main focus of attention is devoted to the first priority matters which Township officials will likely further define in terms of importance and need. A lesser amount of attention at this point in time is given to those activities which are classified as second priority matters. The rationale for this approach is that second priority matters are likely to change over time. When the opportunity to address these second priority issues arises, they will as a consequence need to be re-evaluated. FIRST PRIORITY ACTIVITIES By being assigned a first priority designation, it is not implied that an activity, need, or undertaking will be totally resolved. More commonly, a first priority activity will strive to partially resolve an issue and serve as a basis for continuing and on -going efforts. Again, this approach is seen as critical, given both time and financial constraints. Moreover, it is once again emphasized that Township officials should review these suggested activities and if believed necessary, make modifications which are seen as possibly more responsive to community needs. 1. 2. 3. Legal Status In order to create a more competent basis from which to deal with community problems, the current legislative enabling act efforts must be forcefully continued. It is only through an increased power base that a realistic means to deal with problems will become available. Beyond the current legislative efforts and session, however, continuing attention needs to be devoted to identifying additional capabilities for the Township. This likely will include both legislative measures, as well as the Municipal Commission. The Town Board and Township Attorney carry the primary responsibility for this activity. Ordinance Formulation and Enactment While also needing attention from a perspective of scope and detail, Otsego does have a Comprehensive Land Use Plan in place to generally guide development. This framework should suffice on a temporary basis and as a result priority is suggested to be initially focused upon the upgrading of ordinances which govern the community. Furthermore, continuing development pressure which at present is mostly "in -fill" needs to be responded to in an appropriate fashion. In this regard, the Wright County Zoning and Platting Ordinances require expansion and enhancement in order to deal with urban concerns and related performance standards. As a consequence, development regulation formulation is seen as deserving an extremely high priority. In this regard, a further delay in attending to ordinance matters is seen as only furthering and intensifying growth problems which have already become evident. Besides zoning and subdivision regulations which are seen as primary concerns, signs, property maintenance, environmental safety and others are also seen as requiring attention for a comprehensive addressing of community issues. The Board, Planning Commission, Attorney, Planner, and Engineer all need to be involved in the ordinance formulation process. Simultaneously, Wright County staff and officials also would be expected to have contributions and participation. Comprehensive Plan A matter which cannot go unattended for too long of a time is an expanded Comprehensive Plan that treats not use, but also transportation and a full range of facilities and services. Such a framework is achieve agricultural protection premature or improperly placed community urban service area and improvement implementation, and preservation, development and to lay the basis for only land community needed to to avoid define a possible 27 4. 5. 6. A Comprehensive Plan will be a time consuming process which likely needs to be approached in stages and phased. Both Township and County officials and staff will have to participate. Sanitary Waste System To a major extent, the planning and development of some form of sanitary sewer system is an independent effort which can proceed, to a large degree, as a separate activity. As a result, the present discussions with Elk River on cooperative treatment facilities must be continued. It is also possible to do trunk line location and routing analysis and related planning. An overall system plan must, however, be recognized as a dependent upon and related to a general Comprehensive Plan as this will define development patterns, density and extent of geographic need. Given, however, the seriousness of the potential pollution problems which could surface, any and all work which is presently possible on a system should be actively pursued at this time. The Board, Engineer and Attorney are the primary people to be involved. Storm Drainage System As in the case of a sanitary waste disposal system, a long term and comprehensive storm drainage system is dependent upon the details provided by a general Comprehensive Plan. In the interim, however, priority problems should be identified and related corrective measures pursued. The only precaution at this point is to maintain flexibility to the extent possible for the creation of a comprehensive long range system. The Township Engineer quite naturally plays the major role in this undertaking. Township Administration In cooperation with the Wright County staff and officials, a detailed analysis needs to be completed which defines in precise terms where problems presently exist in administration and servicing of the Township. From such a basis, action can be taken which will likely lead to the Township taking over and assuming an increasingly independent servicing role. It is stressed, however, that such responsibility should be phased for both technical, as well as financial reasons. The Town Board, Clerk, Treasurer, Assistant Clerk and Attorney would be the primary individuals participating in this activity. 7. Outside Funding Assistance As a means to enhance the response to community problems, an investigation of all possible funding sources needs to be pursued. Some activity is presently underway in this regard as it pertains to the Township's legal status. Other sources such as Farmer's Home Administration, Minnesota Department of Energy and Economic Development, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the like should be contacted for possible assistance which they may have available. The assignment of this responsibility is seen as a Board determination. It may, however, involve a variety of staff and professionals. 8. Newsletter Community knowledge and awareness of problems and activities cannot be stressed sufficiently as part of a total Township planning and development program. An informed citizenry will greatly assist in acceptance of work which needs to be undertaken, as well as the measures which are utilized to resolve problems. A community newsletter is viewed as one very effective means to achieve this end. Although some cities and local units have very sophisticated, quarterly communications, most started with a very basic and simple letter type format. Otsego is seen as having the ability and certainly the need, to initiate a direct citizen communication program. As time and experience evolve, the formality and style of presentation could advance. However, what is seen as important at this stage is to begin such a communication effort and start the very fundamental job of educating the public to the issues and happenings in the community. The Assistant Clerk would be the likely individual assgned to coordinate this program with support being provided by other Township, as well as, County staff. SECOND PRIORITY ACTIVITIES Beyond those activities which take precedent and are seen as commanding initial primary focus of Town officials, there are other very important and related activities which also demand attention. As time, funding and opportunity allows, the Township needs to begin addressing these matters. These eventual undertakings are viewed as contributing to the overall and long term advancement of the community. 1. Community Identity Through the combined efforts of residents, the means to bolster and activity which is not only is also required if Otsego is fashion. Such identity is both Township officials and community identity is a goal worthy of pursuit, but which to mature in a positive an important contributor to 2. 3. community pride which in turn works toward the maintenance and upgrading of the Town. Efforts toward achieving community identity should begin with a working committee of residents and officials. This committee should be charged with identifying any and all means whereby Otsego's recognition can be enhanced. Subject to the approval of the Town Board, this same group could be responsible for actively pursuing efforts and mechanisms necessary for achieving community identity. Neighboring Community Relations Communications between bordering and overlapping units of government is critical for the proper functioning and harmony of all governments involved. Various means should as a consequence be identified whereby Otsego officials make known to their neighbors, as well as the School Districts, County and State Agencies, the plans and activities which are being undertaken. Simultaneously, Otsego needs to be aware of the other jurisdictions' plans and programs. A very high priority in this regard and, in fact, already on- going is the contact with Elk River, Dayton, Albertville, Frankford Township and Monticello Township should not, however, be overlooked. Also, the School Districts should be kept abreast of community plans so that they can adequately program and plan. Due to the formal, close tie with Wright County, its officials and departments are another critical communication priority. The Town Board will likely have to take on primary responsibility for contacts with the County, as well as Elk River. The Planning Commission is, however, seen as a viable group to be assigned other community and agency relation responsibilities. Economic Development Promotion The financial resources and tax base of the Township have been cited as an area of concern. Moreover, with the potential of public sewer availability, plus programmed improvements to Highway 101, it is not too early to give serious thought to the organization and pursuit/promotion of economic development within Otsego. Beyond the general and technical planning which must go into such an undertaking, is the need to program assistance mechanisms, as well as promotional contacts which will serve to identify and attract investment into the community. Also highly important at the outset is to define the type, scale and quality of development which is to be pursued. This consideration is critical in that some commercial/industrial developments could result in more problems then benefits. 30 While the Town Board, Planning Commission and staff play parts in economic development measures, it is highly common for communities to establish a separate formal advisory body to deal with such concerns. The Township is thus encouraged to give thought to this work and the organization of how it will be addressed. 4. Community Facility Needs and Programming In contrast to other communities of populations in excess of 5,000 people, Otsego Township is lacking in community facilities and services provided. Park and recreational facilities are an evident community asset which is highly limited. The Town Hall and also possibly the maintenance building are also lacking per needs and acceptable working standards. The Town Board and staff, again possibly through a specific community facilities committee, needs to define the full range of capital needs of the Town and to draft a priority listing of actions and projects. This capital improvements program then needs to be scheduled for progressive funding so that over time the required facilities are provided. 5. Property Maintenance/Code Enforcement For obvious reasons, property maintenance and code enforcement is a matter of concern to the community and is an important factor contributing to community pride. Increased emphasis on these subjects is as a consequence viewed as necessary. Furthermore, while these issues are seen as critical, it must, however, be noted that action is in fact now being taken through Wright County. It is not therefore, a matter which is not receiving attention. These subjects, however, did not receive a first priority listing, at least for the time being, as preliminary work in the overall Township legal status, as well as structuring future administrative services and organization are required as first steps laying the ground work and means to more strongly and directly pursue property maintenance and code enforcement. This matter is raised, however, so that recognition of the problem is not lost and that measures are eventually taken to resolve what is seen as a major issue in the community. 31 CHECKLIST As a cross reference and as a means whereby a majority of the issues confronting the community, as identified through the interview sessions, can be summarized, a listing of topics is provided below. Again, it is seen that many of these matters will be attended to by undertaking the work efforts previously outlined in this chapter. This topical listing, however, will help focus attention and serve as a checklist of work assignments and accomplishments. In the review of this material, the reader is advised and cautioned that the topics are cited in no specific order and there is no implied or intended priority. o Preservation of agricultural farming areas. o Limitation on new subdivisions spreading beyond borders of existing urban development. o Prohibition of scattered development in prime agricultural areas. o Environmental protection erosion control. o Floodplain protection. o Enhanced legal 4- 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ity to charge developers for costs directly or indirectly generated by their projects. Increased local control over development approvals. Updated and detailed Comprehensive Plan. Development regulations problems and standards. State and Federal grants. Public sanitary sewer Public water system. which more adequately address urban Improved storm drainage controls and systems. o Paved streets in urban residential areas. o Pre -determined major road network providing movement. o Limitation of property access onto major roads. o Highway 101 upgraded to four lanes. for through 32 o Improved County Road 39/Highway 1U1 intersection. o Minimize cul-de-sac street development. o Updated street and public works equipment. o Expansion of the County parks. o Parks with ball fields and other active recreational facilities. o Bike paths and trails. o New Town Hall and meeting facilities. o A senior citizens community center o A post office in the town. o Library facilities within the town. o An elementary school within the town. o Increased police and fire service. o Establishment of churches and community organizations. o Increase property maintenance controls and enforcement. o Limitations on outside storage and home occupations. o Housing redevelopment rehabilitation. o Improved manufactured housing park development standards. o Increased tax base and economic development. o A "centralized" commercial or downtown area. o Wider variety of shopping facilities. o Closer availability of basic medical services. o Creation of industry and employment. o Improved communications with Wright communities. o City newsletter. o Signing identifying the town. County and surrounding 33 SUMMARY The preceding paragraphs are seen as major work efforts which will respond to the vast majority of issues which have been highlighted as confronting Otsego. It is more than likely that the listing of issues, as well as responding work tasks are, however, incomplete. As time goes on, if there are gaps in programming or new problems arise, these should be so noted and worked into a strategic planning process which should be done on a yearly basis. The information provided by this planning tactics study does, however, provide a starting point from which Township officials can undertake prioritizing discussions and eventual initiation of work. The very critical point in this regard is to get the process and program moving before existing problems intensify or are realized and the means to resolve such situations is compounded and complicated.