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4 <br />Mission and Vision <br />Parks, Trails and Recreation Department Mission Statement <br />The Arden Hills Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to serving the people of Arden Hills by <br />providing a comprehensive, well maintained system of parks, trails and open spaces and a balanced <br />program of affordable recreation activities. <br />Parks, Trails and Open Space Plan Vision <br />This plan envisions a comprehensive parks, trails and open space system designed to meet current and future <br />community needs. Resources will be directed toward improving trail connections, renovating parks and acquiring <br />open space land in a manner consistent with residents’ commitment and pride in their parks, trails and open <br />spaces. Many regional projects will be accomplished through partnerships with other units of government, <br />business, service, education and non-profit groups and the people of Arden Hills. <br />Funding <br />The Parks, Trails and Open Space Plan establishes a need for park and trail improvements and acquisition <br />over the next 20 years. A long-term commitment of funding and personnel is needed to achieve the vision <br />of this plan and the community. Partnerships with other government agencies, schools, and the private <br />sector will help fund and build larger improvements. The following funding sources are recommended, along <br />with continued community and political support for parks and recreation. <br />• Annual City capital improvement funds <br />• Federal and State grants <br />• Cooperative funding of state and county trails <br />• Partnerships with community groups and institutions <br />• Private sector support <br />• Park and trail dedication from new development <br />• Additional set asides of open space land at TCAAP <br />Major Goals and Opportunities <br />• Complete trail connections and expand trail use opportunities <br />• Revitalize underutilized parks <br />• Advocate for dedication of public lands in TCAAP, consistent with the Vento Re-use Master Plan <br />• Ensure permanent access and parking for all major parks <br />• Enhance natural areas and opportunities for passive uses <br />• Secure funding to ensure that the vision is achievable <br />• Enhance partnerships with businesses, institutions and agencies <br />• Increase visibility and access to parks and trails <br />• Continue to evaluate and respond to changing demographic and recreational needs