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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—FEBRUARY 10, 2014 8 Patricia Jacobsen, 3530 Ridgewood Road, supported the City's trails but opposes the franchise fees. She recommends Old Snelling be replaced prior to the City considering new trails. She feels that infrastructure needs are more important than parks and trails. Robert Jacobsen, 3530 Ridgewood Road, loves the City's parks and the wildlife within them. He recommends that the City move Old Snelling higher up on its priority list. He suggests that the City further pursue the endowment idea for bettering its parks and trails. He fears that the franchise fees will only continue to rise as utility rates increase in the coming years. There being no further comments, Mayor Grant closed the public hearing at 8:57 p.m. Councilmember Holden was disappointed by the emails and calls she had received from residents prior to this evening. However, she was pleased with the constructive comments received this evening. She reported that the Council has not decided on the franchise fees and would continue to take comments from the public for the next two weeks. She expressed concern that those on public assistance would still be responsible for paying the franchise fees. Mayor Grant discussed the economic downturn and how this has impacted the residents of Arden Hills. He reported that he has heard these concerns from residents and wants to acknowledge them. He reviewed the expense of replacing Old Snelling noting that the City is applying for bridge funding to assist with reducing the expense of this roadway. He understands that the roadway is in poor condition. He explained that the County Road E bridge over Old Snelling would be replaced in 2015. He thanked everyone again for their comments this evening and for the respectful manner in which the comments were presented. Councilmember Werner went on record stating that he is opposed to the franchise fees as it is a regressive fee. Mayor Grant discussed the Arden Hills Foundation and noted that this is a new organization. Councilmember McClung asked if the same presentation would be provided at the February 24, 2014, City Council meeting. Mayor Grant was in favor of having the full presentation made again at the next meeting to all for a full public dialogue. Councilmember McClung was pleased that the Council would be holding two public hearings to take comments on this issue. He appreciated the number of conversations he has had with residents regarding this matter. 8. NEW BUSINESS None. 9. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. B-2 County Road E Feasibility Report