06-9755r
RESOLUTION NO. 9755
RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF CLEAN LAKES AND RIVERS
WHEREAS, the citizens of Richfield place a high value on our area lakes and rivers;
and,
WHEREAS, clean water is a significant part of what makes Minnesota a great place
to live and economic development thrives where water is clean, safe and healthy; and,
WHEREAS, our lakes and rivers are a tremendous local asset for swimming,
fishing, drinking, tourism and property values; and,
WHEREAS, just 10% of Minnesota's rivers and streams and 16% of our lakes have
been tested to determine if they meet water quality standards; and
WHEREAS, thus far 40% of all waters tested violate water quality standards and
therefore are classified as 'impaired'; and,
WHEREAS, the federal Clean Water Act requires that we test our waters, determine
the sources of pollution and enact a clean-up plan; and,
WHEREAS, sound science must be used in the development of these pollution load
assessments and clean-up plans; and,
WHEREAS, local residents, businesses, and governments must be included in
building the plans for how impaired waters should be addressed in their area; and,
WHEREAS, local residential and business development can be impeded if our
polluted lakes and rivers are not cleaned up; and,
WHEREAS, the environmental infrastructure cities need to build to address these
problems are an unfunded mandate; and,
WHEREAS, polluted lakes and rivers are a statewide problem that calls for
statewide attention and a statewide funding source;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City of Richfield calls on the
legislature to pass the Clean Water Legacy Act (SF 762) and provide $40 million in general
fund and bonding resources to assist cities in meeting new wastewater and storm water
infrastructure costs, empower local stakeholders to develop clean up plans, and implement
restoration activities to return Minnesota's lakes and rivers to a clean and healthy state.
Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota hi ,25th day of April,
2006. r
ATTEST:
~.., ,~
Nan~ty Clerk