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parcel, especially if it is near a school or in an area where there is identified need for open space. <br /> Non Conforming Uses <br /> Any existing non - conforming uses or illegal activities need to be evaluated. There may be <br /> structures present or current usage of the property which isn't allowable under zoning laws. <br /> Structures may need to be removed. If there is currently illegal activity such as camping or other <br /> unauthorized use of the site, this activity will need to be stopped. The site may be a "trouble <br /> area" with a history of illegal activities and vandalism. Also, we must be sure that the proposed <br /> use is consistent with zoning laws or the ability exists to change the parcels zoning. It may <br /> involve considerable time and money to change these established uses.. <br /> Neighborhood Concerns / Safety Issues <br /> Neighboring residents may have concerns regarding the current condition of the parcel or with <br /> the. City's proposal for future use. The level of resistance to City plans and the cost and ability to <br /> alleviate the neighborhood concerns needs to be evaluated. Neighbors may consider the parcel to <br /> be a nuisance due to factors such as objectionable odors and/or mosquitos from stagnant water or <br /> "weed seeds" blowing into their yards. Safety concerns must also be considered. These might <br /> include attractive nuisances such as a deep holes that children could fall into, dead trees which <br /> may pose a hazard to the public or adjacent property, and/or a deep body of water. <br /> 2. USE OF PARC L IF ACCEPTED <br /> The main goals for the use of these parcels, if accepted, are preservation and enhancement of <br /> their natural resource values, stormwater quality enhancement, nature oriented recreational <br /> opportunities, and to provide natural environment education opportunities. Parcels which would <br /> meet preservation and enhancement goals would include sites containing a delineated wetland, <br /> sites containing T &E species or prime habitat for such species, sites which would serve to link <br /> natural habitats or provide a travel corridor for wildlife, or sites that possess valuable historic <br /> plant communities such as old growth forest. Stormwater quality enhancement goals could be <br /> addressed on sites containing delineated wetlands as well as other parcels which could provide <br /> opportunities for stormwater detention/retention or that might serve as a link between existing <br /> segments of open storm drainage systems. Nature oriented recreation goals could be met by <br /> parcels which would provide hiking trails, vista views, links to existing trails and the pedestrian <br /> and bike path systems, or links to existing parkland. Natural environment educational goals <br /> would be met by a site possessing features which would provide a unique educational <br /> opportunity, especially if they were located near a school. Parcels would need to be evaluated by <br /> staff to plan the most appropriate uses based on site factors and City goals and policies. <br /> 5 <br />