06. Heinisch Property Donation Staff Report
Date of Meeting: April 3, 2024
For: Honorable Mayor and Council
From: Kyle Morell, City Administrator
Subject: Heinisch Property Donation
Background:
Sharon Price, Senior Property Acquisition Manager with Washington County Public Works,
called me on Monday. She explained that the Joyce A. Heinisch Trust had left 240.36 acres of
land in Scandia to Washington County Parks to establish a public park. The land in question is
highlighted in blue on the attached map. The areas in pink are staying with the family.
The property was placed into a Conservation Easement in 2011 with the Minnesota Land Trust.
This easement prohibits development, the establishment of new right-of-way across the
property, topographical and surface alteration, and vegetative management (except when
removing invasive species or farming). The Trust intends to keep the property in the Easement.
I have a copy of the easement documents if the Council is interested in reviewing them.
The property and its location do not fit into the County’s park plan. They are wondering if the
City would consider taking the property. I stated I would bring the issue to the Council for
consideration. I am unsure if there is a time frame within which we must respond. I am unsure
if we can accept a part of the property instead of all the property. Sharon is looking into these
questions for us.
This is being presented for review and discussion. If the Council wishes to discuss this item
further, I will do my best to gain answers to any questions the Council has at this time. If the
Council does not wish to accept the property, I will notify the County as such.
Attachments:
Heinisch Trust Property