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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION — JANUARY 16, 2018 6 Councilmember Holden said she was concerned about the garden in front of the sign and the ability to maintain it. She wondered if it would be better to have grass instead of the plants. WSB & Associates Project Manager Steve Foss said the materials in the drawing are hardy and native but there could be a cost savings with a reduction in plantings and maintenance by narrowing or isolating the planting bed. City Planner Bachler noted that the irrigation system is an add-on item not included in the base cost. Councilmember McClung said as the City logo is a tree, he'd like to see trees behind the sign and lose the shrubs and perennials, which would also lower the need for irrigation. City Planner Bachler pointed out two potential cost reduction items; swapping out the stone veneer with a simulated stone patterned concrete and reducing the size of the sign to 22 feet. He noted that reducing the size of the sign also limits visibility. Councilmember Holden said she thinks it important that we have the sign because businesses have been wanting signs for years. She wondered if tree donations could come from the Friends of the Ramsey County Parks. Mayor Grant suggested money in lieu of trees, and asked if there would be any other unbudgeted sources. Councilmember Holmes wondered if the EDA Revolving Load Funds could be used. City Planner Bachler said those funds have not been allocated yet. Mayor Grant directed staff to come back to a future work session with funding options for the amount above the budgeted $80,000, and to not cheapen the sign down. J. Communications Work Plan (Discussed after Item IA) Communications Coordinator Dawn Skelly noted the three communications priorities the Council had decided on at the November 27 work session: the Admin Update, City Newsletter and Website redesign. The Admin Update has already seen some changes and will continue to be sent weekly. The Arden Hills Notes newsletter has been moved in house and staff recommended the Communications Committee serve in an advisory capacity as needed. Clean up will continue on the City website, while features and brand elements will be worked on with Civic Plus. The new site launch is scheduled for August 2019. Councilmember Holden wondered how much time the Arden Hills notes is taking the Communications Coordinator to compile and felt we should note in the newsletter that it is being put together by staff and not local volunteers. She also requested a short resident guide with common regulations be given to new residents.