07-28-14 Special WS - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—JULY 28, 2014 5 The Council discussed the street frontage along Carroll's and agreed to install trees and lights but no sidewalk at this time. The Council discussed the proposed assessment schedule. The Council agreed to hold the Public Hearing and the Assessment Hearing on the same night. Councilmember Holmes asked why all properties in the B-2 district would be assessed for the Pine Tree Drive sidewalk. Public Works Director Maurer commented that 900 feet of sidewalk on the west side of Pine Tree Drive past Country Financial would be assessed to all properties as recommended by the City Attorney. Councilmember Holmes questioned why the City would be assuming the entire expense for the trees. She proposed that the City pursue the cheaper lighting option as this would free up funding to cover the other expenses for the B-2 project. Councilmember Holden inquired who would care for the trees after they were planted. Public Works Director Maurer reported that the trees would be the responsibility of the property owner but would come with a two year warranty. He commented that the City would be responsible for maintaining the medians. He anticipated that the City would provide pruning services for the trees along County Road E as the City wanted these trees to be well-maintained and healthy. Councilmember Holden believed that the trees should be viewed in the same manner as the lights and for this reason, should be assessed and maintained by the City. Further discussion ensued regarding the proposed B-2 assessments. Mayor Grant questioned why the City should upgrade and enhance the entire B-2 corridor and then put in cheaper lights. Councilmember Holmes stated that Option 2 was an attractive economical option. She believed that the residents wanted the Council to spend tax payer dollars wisely. Public Works Director Maurer discussed the differences between the two streetlight options. Councilmember Holden supported the more expensive lighting as the fixtures looked much nicer and would be in place for the next 40 to 50 years. Councilmember McClung supported either lighting option. Councilmember Werner commented that the more expensive lights in St. Anthony were very attractive.