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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—FEBRUARY 24, 2014 6 Eszter Varga, 4268 Norma Avenue, noted that she is a 15 year resident of Arden Hills. She supports the City's parks and trails and expressed concern regarding their current condition. However, she suggested that the Council seek alternative funding sources and not proceed with franchise fees. She was surprised by how much the City was spending on PMP projects on a yearly basis given the condition of the City's streets. Russell Bertsch, 4419 Amble Circle, believed the franchise fees should be viewed as another City tax. He reviewed the recent rise in the water bills, utility bills, etc. and explained that residents were tapped out due to the number of increases. He recommended that Arden Hills not follow along with the surrounding communities and pursue other options for funding sources instead of the franchise fees. He supported a small increase in property taxes as a long term solution as this would greater benefit the community and its residents in the long run. He encouraged the Council to look long term. Jim Hanton, 3945 Rolling Hills Road, reported that he is a 28 year resident of Arden Hills in the Valentine Hills neighborhood. He stated that the parks and trails in Arden Hills have been a huge part of his family's life. He explained that he still enjoys using the trails with his wife. He does not object to the franchise fees and sees it as a tool that would assist the City in financing park improvements. John Van Valkenburg, 1475 Royal Lane, indicated that he is the Chair of the Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee (PTRC) and he supports the franchise fees. He understands that parks, trails and roads are in need of additional funding. He is pleased that 100% of the generated franchise fees would be given to the City of Arden Hills. He then read a written statement from John Peck, former PTRC Chair. Mr. Peck supported the proposed franchise fees as it would provide the City with a steady funding stream to complete improvement projects. In addition, Mr. Peck believed that although the franchise fees are a tax that could be viewed as regressive, he wanted the franchise fees to move forward. Tim O'Malley, 1851 Gramsie Road, thought the City had great parks and trails. He had safety concerns with the condition of some of the City's trails, especially near Lindey's. He expressed concern with the length of time it would take for the City to repair Old Snelling. He was uncertain if the City should proceed with a franchise fee and believed it was regressive. He recommended that the City keep the option on the table, while also pursuing other funding options to improve safety on the City's trails. Matt Trites, 1850 Indian Place, indicated that he serves on the PTRC. He appreciates the Council's willingness to take public comment regarding franchise fees. He believes Arden Hills' residents appreciate the City's parks and trails and wants to see them improved, however, he does not support franchise fees. He does not feel that Xcel Energy or the Council is being transparent enough regarding the franchise fees. He suggested that the City pursue a levy for park improvements. Jeff Krenz, Boston Scientific, 4100 Hamline Avenue, discussed the energy usage at Boston Scientific. He explained that Boston Scientific is working to reduce its energy use and explained that the $33,000 per year franchise fee would greatly impact his department.