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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION February 5, 201414 Norm Schiferl , Saint Paul-Ramsey County Department of Public Health, discussed the Ramsey County requirements for yard waste and source separated organics collection. He commented that the expectation was not to technically have this completed curbside, but to make the service available for residents. He indicated the County would continue to work with each municipality to make this a reality. He reported there were efforts being made to make commercial organic waste pickups more viable as well. He estimated that 25-30% of waste was organic material and the hope was to divert this material from landfills. Commissioner Bartel questioned how organic materials would be brought to the drop off site. John Springman , Saint Paul-Ramsey County Department of Public Health, reported the County dropped off at the Lake Johanna Boulevard compost site. He discussed the hours of operation for the composting sites noting these hours would need to be adjusted to allow for year round organics drop off. Commissioner Bartel inquired how often the County would be providing pickup of the organic materials. Mr. Springman indicated the County was planning to provide weekly pickup. Commissioner Hames asked who would be responsible for plowing the compost site in the winter months. Mr. Springman explained that the County had finalized a contract with local vendor for all Commissioner Hames questioned if any of the other County compost sites were located adjacent to residential areas. She expressed concern with the organic material attracting wildlife, in particular coyotes. Mr. Springman stated that there were several other sites in proximity to residential areas, but commented that the County would be regularly removing the collected organic materials and noted the materials would be taken off site to be processed at another location. He stated the organic matter would be collected in containers that would be locked. Vice Chair Thompson opened the public hearing at 8:16 p.m. Vice Chair Thompson invited anyone for or against the application to come forward and make comment. Jill Cornick , New Brighton resident, asked how many containers would be placed at the compost site. She inquired if the County would have additional staff onsite. Mr. Springman reported one container would be on site, but the size may be increased based on how popular the program becomes. He commented that the site would have two workers. Ms. Cornick questioned what size bags would be offered to residents.