Consider Request from City of Anoka to Establish No Wake Zone on Mississippi River During High Water Levels

The City has received a request from the City of Anoka to establish a temporary slow-no-wake zone along a portion of the Mississippi River during high water levels in order to prevent erosion issues, prevent damage to docks, and promote public safety. The slow-no-wake zone would only come into effect during high water times when the elevation exceeds 834 feet above sea level as measured at the Anoka-Champlin Bridge of 169/Ferry Street.

The City of Champlin has also been active in these discussions and appears to be supportive of this request. Staff will be reaching out to the cities of Coon Rapids and Brooklyn Park for a status update as well. Staff has discussed with staff from the City of Dayton, which discussions will continue based on Ramsey Council direction this evening. For the ordinance to be enforceable, it is important for the City of Dayton adopt the same ordinance.

Primary enforcement would come from the Anoka County Sheriff's Office; however, Ramsey Police Officers and other peace officers (including DNR Conservation Officers) would be authorized to enforce this ordinance.

Notification has not yet been provided. If approved, Staff would notify properties with shoreline on the Mississippi River of the intent to adopt this ordinance.

Alternative #1 - Adopt the ordinance as presented. Staff does find some merit in this ordinance, as there are demonstrated, isolated erosion issues along the corridor. These issues are magnified during high water levels, when the water levels exceed existing erosion control protective measures (existing vegetative cover, rock, rip-rap, etc.). Additionally, this is a temporary measure that only goes into effect when necessary and allows the communities to react in a regular, predictable, and quick manner when these issues arise.

Alternative #2 - Adopt the ordinance with amendments. This alternative would be based on discussion.

Alternative #3 - Do not adopt the ordinance. This ordinance is not required at this time, but would provide some additional protections to property owners along the river from damage to their shoreline during larger high water events.

Preparation of this ordinance is being handled as part of normal Staff duties.

Staff recommends approval of Ordinance #14-12.

Motion to introduce Ordinance #14-12 establishing a slow-no-wake zone on the Mississippi River during high water events.