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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL – FEBRUARY 8, 2021 4 after taking a closer look at City Code requirements, he understood the City would require 444 caliper inches of tree replacement or a payment in lieu that totaled $50,958.60. Councilmember Holden asked if any of the Ash trees on his property had been treated for EAB. Ryan Hyllested, Kimley Horn, suspected none of the Ash trees had been treated because they are on private property. Councilmember Holden discussed the City’s efforts to address EAB. She indicated she did not have a problem not counting the Ash trees on this property. Councilmember McClung commented he would like to see the Ash trees replaced with some other type of tree. He explained this was the purpose of the tree preservation Ordinance. He discussed the trail that was being put in as part of their park dedication fees. He indicated he could support waiving a portion of the applicant’s fees, but could not give on both park dedication fees and the tree replacement requirements. He recommended that if the City wants to maintain its tree preservation Ordinance going forward, the Council would have to adhere to the requirements for this development. Councilmember Holmes asked if the developer was willing to offer to the City the $50,000 payment for tree mitigation. Community Development Manager/City Planner Mrosla stated it was his understanding the applicant has agreed to this amount. Mr. Brewer explained he believed the number was somewhere between $20,000 and $50,000. He commented with PUD’s there was typically some level of flexibility, but indicated he would be willing to support the $50,000 number. Todd Novaczyk, representative of the applicant, stated the $50,000 would be a strain on the project and overall feasibility. He requested the City Council consider something else in lieu of the trees. He suggested the trail land be dedicated to the City as partial payment of tree fees. He explained this would provide a benefit to the City while not adversely impacting the developer’s budget. Councilmember Holmes commented she believed the $50,000 was an acceptable amount. She indicated the required park dedication was less due to the trail. She explained she saw both sides of the story regarding the Ash trees and understood they had to be removed. She stated a significant number of trees was being removed from this property and for this reason, she recommended the developer be required to pay $50,958.60. Councilmember Holden asked how the City defined “public good”. Community Development Manager/City Planner Mrosla stated according to City Code, public good was when a project was done for the benefit of the community, such as allowing for LEED certification.