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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—OCTOBER 14, 2013 10 gateway sign be about 50% larger, roughly 15 feet wide by 9 feet tall at the highest point. Mr. Higgins estimated that this sign would cost approximately $24,070 to manufacture and install. Public Works Director Maurer indicated that staff also met with Mr. Tamble at the site to discuss landscaping around the sign. With the natural setting and lack of water for an irrigation system, Mr. Tamble is suggesting limestone rock outcroppings cascading down the slight incline from the sign location with some plants and shrub material that are more draught tolerant. Mr. Tamble estimates $7,500 should be budgeted for landscaping. This cost would be reduced with City crews' help. He requested the Council discuss the matter further and direct staff on how to proceed. Councilmember Werner asked if the sign would be slanted to face the west for viewing. Public Works Director Maurer discussed how the sign would be positioned at the intersection. He explained that some of the vegetation would have to be cleared out and mowed down to assist in making the sign more visible. Councilmember Holmes commented that she was not in favor of putting a sign at this corner of the intersection given the poor visibility. She recommended the sign be located near the office building. Councilmember McClung opposed the gateway sign and expressed concern with the growing size, scale and expense of the project. He suggested that the expense for the sign be invested in the City's parks. Councilmember Holden supported the gateway signs as they assisted in branding the City of Arden Hills and were a priority for the Council. She suggested the sign be placed near the office building as the area was already mowed. Mayor Grant wanted to see the gateway sign move forward, however, he was not convinced this corner of the intersection was the proper location. He stated he was surprised by the proposed expense. Councilmember Werner indicated that the south side of the intersection may be a better fit for the gateway sign. The sign would be in a manicured location and the size could be reduced. Councilmember Holden suggested the sign proceed on the south corner of the intersection to assure it could be completed yet this fall. Public Works Director Maurer estimated the cost for the gateway sign would be reduced by half if the sign were moved to the south corner of this intersection. He commented that the sign would have to be pushed back from Cleveland Avenue to assure that sight lines were clear. MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Mayor Grant seconded a motion to proceed with a 6' x 10' gateway sign and landscaping on the south corner of County Road E-2 and 35W for a cost not to exceed $17,000. The motion carried (4-1) (McClung opposed).