06-08-2016
Chanhassen Environmental Commission (EC)
Regular Meeting
June 8, 2016
Members Present: Don Vasatka, David Hess, Balakrishna Chintaginjala, Charlotte Chappell, Bill Chappell,
Wayne Benbow
Members Absent: Matthew Myers
Guests Present: Kate Aanenson, Community Development Director, AICP
Staff Present: Krista Spreiter, Natural Resources Technician
Minutes: May minutes were approved.
Comprehensive Plan Visioning Update presentation: Kate Aanenson introduced herself as the Community
Development Director for the City. She gave a Summary of the Comprehensive plan including the strengths that
were expressed as a part of the resident survey and how the City plans to incorporate these strengths moving
forward.
Kate then discussed the critical issues identified by the City Council to be addressed within the Comprehensive
plan including the Hwy 101 corridor between Pioneer Drive and Hwy 61, the Lifestyle Center, Water
Conservation, the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, and Emerald Ash Borer. Other issues to be addressed
include Downtown development and re-development, In-fill developments, and infrastructure.
Kate then discussed population and land use in Chanhassen. Chanhassen’s population just reached 25,000 people
recently. She then went into more detail regarding Chanhassen’s demographics including its again population,
projected population growth, land use, etc. David asked if there were any plans for developing the Prince and
Gorra properties.
Water Wise presentation: A background was given on the Water Wise program, how it was started, and need.
A brief description and discussion was made on where Chanhassen’s water comes from, and the state of aquifers
that are drawn from in the Metro Area. Current program components were presented, including the new rebate
programs for WaterSense ‘smart’ irrigation controllers. The areas that the programs hopes to cover and move
forward with in the future were presented, including encouraging more stormwater re-use projects, increased
education through community events and social media, and continuing with incentives for purchasing water-
conserving fixtures and appliances and adopting water-saving practices.
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July 3 business expo planning: The commission discussed what the booth would provide in regards to hand-
outs and display. It was decided that 5-gallon buckets would be used. Wayne suggested using different colors to
represent summer vs. indoor use. It was decided that they would be displayed in two separate pyramids to display
summer usage vs. winter or domestic use if there is room at the booth, in case multiple colors are not available.
The commission discussed how/where to obtain buckets. Don looked at some options on-line, however large
quantities were required for purchase at the preferred rate. A few commissioners said they had seen them at
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Menards for a fairly reasonable price, and Don stated they are available at Home Depot as a 20 pack for $55.
Approximately 20 buckets are needed.
Don asked if we could incorporate an irrigation schedule as one of the brochures at the table. The other handouts
to be given are information on Water Wise program opportunities including the rebate program and tips on water
conservation, both indoors and out. Toilet dye kits, candy, and seed bracelets were decided on as giveaways. A
display was discussed. Krista will make up some visuals to include on a poster board for a table tripod and ask
Amy to create a poster. Wayne suggested that two of the themes/graphics focus on potable water as a limited
resource and the smart controller rebate. Krista will also provide handouts. Jill will obtain buckets and seed
bracelets. Candy will be given out as a prize for answering trivia questions (provided by Krista). Don will
spearhead the coordination of the booth, and organizing shifts over e-mail.
Fall Volunteer Event: Last year’s acorn collection as the Fall project was discussed. This being decided that
something different would be done this year. Don discussed the purpose of the event, and what had been done in
the past. It was decided that three ideas would be voted on over e-mail. If commissioners have an idea, they are to
e-mail this to Jill.
General Discussion: None.
Meeting adjourned at 8:00 pm
Minutes prepared by Krista Spreiter
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