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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—SEPTEMBER 9, 2013 2 that the Council consider the three year trade in cycle for the zero-turn mowers to assure that repairs are covered under warranty. Mayor Grant asked what the Public Works expenditures were for 2013. Public Works Director Maurer estimated the 2013 expenditures to be $76,000, and other than the potential purchase of the mowers, he has no other large purchases planned for the rest of the year. Mayor Grant questioned if the City is still contemplating the purchase of a dump truck from the County. Public Works Director Maurer stated that the County is not selling any single axel dump trucks this year. For this reason, the City will not be purchasing a dump truck. He is waiting to hear from a representative at the County regarding when a truck might be available for the City. Mayor Grant requested further information on the mower purchase. Public Works Director Maurer discussed the matter in further detail. He noted that he is proposing the purchase of the mowers this year to assure they are always under warranty. Additionally, a three year purchasing cycle would maximize trade in values. He explained that the seasonal employees are hard on the machines and having the warranty maintenance and the loaner mowers have greatly benefited the City. He then discussed the EPA regulations. Councilmember Holden asked if the City could forego the use of seasonal employees. Public Works Director Maurer did not see this as an option as the Public Works Department does not have enough staff to complete the park mowing through the summer months without the assistance of seasonal employees. Mayor Grant asked how the Council wanted to proceed with this matter. Councilmember McClung found this request to be similar to the Fire Department's request for their breathing apparatuses. He stated that the EPA regulations will impact the City and he supported the proposed purchasing schedule. Councilmember Holden did not support the three-year purchase cycle. She is in favor of purchasing the mowers at this time, but wants to hear back from staff before any future mowers are purchased. It was the consensus of the Council to move forward with the purchase of two new Toro "zero turn" mowers. Councilmember Holmes asked about the need for generators for the City's lift stations during emergency situations. She questioned if the City's three generators are enough to support the City's 13 lift stations.