Res 2013-31
RESOLUTION NO. 2013-31
RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE IMPROVEMENTS TO SPRINGBROOK NATURE
CENTER ASSOCIATED WITH THE SPRING (SANCTUARY PROTECTION &
RENEWAL INTO THE NEXT GENERATION) PROJECT AND SUPPORTING THE
REQUEST TO THE STATE OF MINNESOTA FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center is a 127-acre City of Fridley park that provides
year-
round opportunities to experience and learn about nature; and is an environmental education
center that serves school groups, community organizations and families; and
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center serves the people living in the north suburban area
with enjoyable and educational programs, hands-on exhibits and nature center facilities; and
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center SPRING Project will enhance this park as a learning
center for people from the metropolitan area, the State of Minnesota, and the City of Fridley; and
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center SPRING Project includes facility improvements that
will provide spaces for education, health and wellness, community gatherings, celebrations; and
business meetings and
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center SPRING Project will create public spaces that
minimize future operating and environmental costs through design and technology
improvements;
and
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center SPRING Project has been developed with the input
of citizen groups, environmentalists, City officials and architects to preserve the Springbrook
experience for future generations; and
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center Foundation is a local non-profit organization
dedicated to supporting the overall planning, development and management of the Springbrook
Nature Center; and
WHEREAS, the Springbrook Nature Center Foundation has committed to taking the lead in
raising the balance of the SPRING project costs from private sources; and
WHEREAS, the increased operating costs associated with the Springbrook Nature Center
SPRING Project will be covered through a combination of additional program revenue and funds
provided by the Springbrook Nature Center Foundation; and
WHEREAS, the recent legislative shifts in government aides, levy limits and real estate tax
changes make it impossible for the City council to pass on tax increases to Fridley property
owners for the future development and future maintenance of this regional facility;
Resolution No. 2013-31 Page 2
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Fridley City Council supports the
improvements included in the Springbrook Nature Center SPRING Project and recognizes the
positive impact this project will have upon the citizens of the northern Twin Cities metropolitan
area.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Fridley supports the
application to the State of Minnesota for $5.5 million of financial assistance with the
Springbrook Nature Center SPRING Project.
PASSED AND ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FRIDLEY THIS
TH
24 DAY OF JUNE 2013.
_____________________________________
SCOTT J. LUND – MAYOR
ATTEST:
_______________________________________
DEBRA A. SKOGEN – CITY CLERK