4C Motion to Accept the Resignations of Bill Henry, Roger Williams, and Jim Crassweller from the Parks, Trails, and Recreation Committe

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Mr. Mayor: This past Friday, f informed Chair Henry that I planned to resign my position on the PTRC. Therefore, �lease consider this rtofice of as being effective immediately. Fran[cly, I'm tired of wasting my time, trying to make Arden Hills a better p�ace to live and wark. I've served on the PTRC for eight or so years and ha�e seen precious liitl� progress in advancing our system of parks and �rails. I've beer� particularly interes#ed in a modern and expanded traii system that will serve both recreational and transportation needs. At a time when the economy is ir� a tank and gas prices are h�gh, a safe traifs system is partic�larly relevant. Several years ago, I led a task force that prepared a core network ofi fraiis to meet #he needs of residents and a strortg link between exist�ng Arden Hills and TACCP. Not onfy does the city co�ncil seem disinterested in pursuing such a system, it is only when grants or some oth�r source of funds becomes a�ailable that ar�ything meaningful happens. The PTRC's refationship w�th �he city council is unproducfii�e and filled with acrimony. Council members seem una�fe to treai the PTRC (a city appointed entity), or its individual members as a serious means ofi garnering intelligent, wefl thought out solutions to issues. It is us�aally after the council, its staff or consu[tants, ha�e narrowed the choices and framed their opinion that the PTRC is called on to react. This re[ationship has been particulariy disappointing for me because of my pre�ious experience as a member of a ci#y councif that fully utilized tF�e talents of the �olunteer members of its councils and commissions. Due to the iack of challengers to incumbent council members, I see no char�ge on the horizon that makes me think I can make a meanin�ful contribufior� during the next two years. In addit�on, the progress on TCAAP is moving af a snails pace and I expect fittle or no opportunity for mean�ngful input an Arden Hills mosi exciting oppo�tunity. 1'�e enjoyed working with Michelle Olson o�er the years. Michelfe has a difficult position in that she has limited authority and reso�rces fo make things ha�per�. My resignatiort should in no way be interpreted as dissatisfaction wit� her per�ormance. The City of Arden Hills has been fort�nate, in my opinion, fo have had a group of people who �ad passion for parEcs, trails ar�d recreation. The co�ncil has squande�ed the opportunity for meaning�Ful inpufi and many members are tired of wasting their time. 1 suggest tha# in making future appaintments to the PTRC, the city council appoint people ha�ing Iow expectations so they won't be disappointed with the total lack of progress. Roger Williams