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Council weighs trail adjacency and wetland buffers as part of Forgent review
Summary
Staff and commissioners discussed a public regional trail on Dayton Parkway and an employee trail inside the enhanced wetland buffer; members raised liability concerns about public access close to industrial activity and asked staff to consult the watershed district on buffer impacts.
During the Forgent concept discussion members considered trail and wetland buffer issues adjacent to the site. Staff said the city plans a regional trail on the west side of Dayton Parkway and that the project includes an enhanced wetland buffer and a potential employee trail on the east side.
A staff member cautioned the council about liability and proximity to industrial activities, saying, "I just don't want the public getting too close to industrial activities... I just don't want the city to have the liability." The staff member also said, "There's a phrase for an attractive nuisance," underscoring concerns about public trails adjacent to private industrial operations.
Consultants recommended the city coordinate with the watershed district to confirm what can be placed in the enhanced wetland buffer and suggested low‑impact, mown or signed paths, limited seating or other modest amenities rather than paved, heavily used trails. Staff said they will review buffer rules with watershed staff and return with recommendations as part of project permitting.
