City Council Meeting Date: September 6, 2016
To: Mayor and City Council
City Administrator
From: Monte Nelson, Chief of Police
Title
Consideration of a new Ordinance Restricting Fishing on the West Riverwalk Area.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council is asked to discuss and approve Second Reading of a new Ordinance Restricting Fishing on a small section of the Riverwalk Area as approved and/or amended.
Summary Report:
Fishing along the Cannon River in downtown Northfield is a longstanding tradition, yet, over the years, there have been a few problems caused by fishing activity. Staff proposes a new ordinance to restrict fishing in one section of the Riverwalk to help alleviate on-going issues in that area, for public safety reasons.
At the August 2 City Council meeting, the Council discussed and approved the First Reading of a proposed ordinance to prohibit fishing on a small section of the west Riverwalk area. Council directed staff to seek input/approval from the Minnesota DNR regarding the ordinance.
Patricia Watts, Enforcement Policy/Legal Analyst for Minnesota DNR was contacted. The DNR agreed to the limited restriction of fishing "from" City right of way and suggested several language changes. See the attached email from Watts and the August 16 staff report for more details.
At the August 16 City Council meeting, this proposed ordinance was discussed for approval of Second Reading. Council voiced concern over the proposed ordinance and directed staff to research the subject and bring back additional info and options. Specifically, the Council asked for:
- Options for an adjusted No Fishing Zone, in particular a smaller zone referenced to the light pole nearest the Lily Padio property boundary.
- Options related to limitations based on "Times" (matching restaurant hours) and/or "When Persons Present" language.
Staff identified hours of operation for Froggy Bottoms and Lily Padio, relayed the Council requests to both C...
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