Adopt Resolution #21-347 Approving Record of Decision (ROD) and Negative Declaration for Trott Brook Crossing EAW

The purpose of this case is to approve the Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) for Trott Brook Crossing, previously referred to as Trott Brook North, for the properties generally between Variolite Street and Nowthen Blvd north of Trott Brook. The approximately 200 acre site was subject to an EAW under State Statute based on the number of units in the project.

Notification was provided in the EQB Monitor and a 30 day comment period was provided from September 28, 2021 to October 28, 2021. Copies of the EAW were provided to all people and parties on the official Environmental Quality Board (EQB) distribution list and hard copies were made available to the public at City Hall. It was also available online.

Additional notification was provided for other items related to this project, including the preliminary plat. Adoption of the item does not impact the decision related to the rezoning or preliminary plat. This is a standalone item related to environmental impacts.

The City Council previously directed the Applicant, TEG Land Holdings, LLC (dba Twin Cities Land Development/Sotarra) to prepare an EAW for the property. The City Council also directed the City to distribute the EAW consistent with State Statute. This is the last step in the EAW process, in which the City adopts a negative declaration, and states that an EIS is not required on the Subject Property. 

The attached Response to Comments, Findings of Fact and Record of Decision shows that the project will not create "significant environmental effects." The criteria are presented on Page 11 of the attached, and the document was reviewed by the City's Planning and Engineering Consultant, WSB, and reviewed by City Staff, the Applicant, and the Applicant's two engineering firms, Carlson McCain and Kjoljaug Environmental Services.

There is one item from the EAW, related to low density housing specifically, from the Metropolitan Council, that requires follow up. Staff is handling that item in another case. Since the item would not create significant environmental effects, the EAW should still be accepted as proposed. 

Alternative 1: Adopt Resolution #21-347 as proposed.
Alternative 2: Something else.

The Applicant is responsible for all costs associated with project review. The City utilizes WSB to help review, distribute, and follow proper procedure for the EAW as required under State Statute. All consulting time is charged to the Applicant as part of the project. 

Staff recommends adoption of Resolution #21-347 which includes making a negative declaration regarding the EAW, and adopting the formal findings of fact, and determining an EIS is not required.
 

Motion to adopt Resolution #21-347.