05-21-13-WS Draft Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—MAY 21, 2012 8 Parks and Recreation Director Olson explained that it has not been the City's practice to replace every tree in the City lost to Oak Wilt and Dutch Elm's Disease. Mayor Grant recommended this be reviewed on a case by case basis. This would assure that trees would be replaced when needed. Councilmember Holden asked if the chemical treatments were harmful to the bee population. Parks and Recreation Director Olson explained she was unaware of any harmful effects from Tree-Age. The treatment did not affect water quality either. She was uncertain the affect it would have on the bee population. Councilmember Holden questioned if the City would support the use of Tree-Age on private trees throughout the City. Parks and Recreation Director Olson indicated the City could have a list of certified vendors available for homeowners to contact to provide the chemical treatment or remove the infected tree. Councilmember Tamble commented the State was taking a "wait and see" approach. The City could do the same and remove trees once they have deteriorated. Mayor Grant summarized that the Council was not in favor of treating the City's ash trees. Councilmember Holden supported allowing residents to treat their affected trees and if not successful, the trees were to be removed within 30 days. She was not in favor of soil drenching. She questioned if the City should be involved in creating a list of contractors and requiring them to obtain a license from the City. Parks and Recreation Manager Olson stated the Council could elect to not proceed with a licensing process. The City could, however, provide a list of certified contractors that could provide services to Arden Hills residents. She reiterated that City Staff would not be making a recommendation based on any of the contractors, simply creating a list of contractors who are properly insured and certified. Councilmember Holden was not in favor of providing a list of preferred contractors. Instead, the City should be creating a list of recommended questions the residents should be asking of their contractor. This would better inform the public on the issues. Parks and Recreation Director Olson thanked the Council for their input this evening. She explained she would be making revisions based on the Council's comments this evening and bring this back to the Council for approval at a future meeting. D. Online City Video Tour Community Development Director Hutmacher stated at a recent National League of Cities conference, a Councilmember spoke to representatives from CGI Communications. CGI offers to