Council approves seeking estimates for wetland delineation; Sharon Park expansion and new bath house to be explored

Bob Lan of Apex Engineering told the council there are three Pelican Rapids sites with wetlands or water features that should be delineated before development: vacant Ridge Crest lots, a city-owned tract east of Old Fergus Road, and Sharon Park adjacent to the Pelican River. He estimated the combined delineation work for all three areas at about $5,000 and asked the council if they wanted staff to obtain quotes.

Council voted to move forward with seeking estimates. Members asked about the timeline (Bob hoped for completion in the fall), vendor experience (Apex has worked with similar projects and the city may use in-house crews), and the role delineation plays in enabling future lot splits or campground expansion.

On Sharon Park specifically, staff described a plan to add roughly seven campsites (expanding site numbers to 18) if wetlands are delineated and fill is feasible; the council discussed potential sewer cost implications and accessibility improvements. The bath house on the site is in poor condition; council directed staff to pursue grant opportunities and to include a new bath house footprint in grant planning, with an eye to ADA accessibility and storm-shelter specifications.

Next steps: staff will seek quotes for wetland delineation, prepare grant-ready plans and cost estimates for campground expansion and bath house replacement, and return with specifics and funding options.