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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL FEBRUARY 24, 20144 None. 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS A.Franchise Fees Mayor Grant stated that this was the second public hearing to discuss potential franchise fees in Arden Hills. He appreciated the discussion on this topic and for the numerous comments gathered at the previous Council meeting. He reported that 22 residents spoke at the public hearing on February 10, 2014. He noted that a presentation by staff will be given regarding franchise fees and comments will be taken afterward. City Administrator Klaers indicated that the City Council requested that staff include information on the City Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) in their presentation. Further, staff will discuss why the City is exploring options for generating additional revenues. The presentation th made this evening is the same as the presentation made on February 10. He explained that the information in this report was previously reviewed by the Council at work sessions in 2013. City Administrator Klaers explained that the City was no longer generating Park Dedication Funds to assist with park and trail improvements. He noted that the proposed franchise fees could assist the City with improvements in these areas, in addition to street improvement projects. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson explained that the City was spending approximately $1 million each year on street and utility infrastructure improvement projects. While these improvements are necessary, it leaves limited funds t trails. Public Works Director Maurer street projects as proposed for the next 20 years. Park and Recreation Manager Olson noted that the City has 14 parks and open spaces. She discussed a list of typical park improvements. She stated that play structures are replaced on a 20 year cycle. The expense for these structures ranges from $40,000-100,000 and the structures need to be brought into compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. She reported that the City has 11 play structures to maintain. The enhancements planned for Freeway Park were reviewed. Further discussion ensued regarding the expense of hard court and ball field reconstruction. Dog parks were also mentioned as a potential park improvement. Park and Recreation Manager Olson reported that Arden Hills has 17 miles of City maintained concrete, bituminous and natural trails. The Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee has recommendrail system. Eight miles of this system were given a high priority for safety reasons. She indicated that the cost to construct a six foot concrete sidewalk is approximately $500,000 per mile and $800,000- $1.25 million for an 8 to 10 foot bituminous trail per mile. Director of Finance and Administrative Services Iverson reviewed the balances of the Park Reserve Fund along with the PIR and Capital Reserve funds. She explained how PIR funds were