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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL — AUGUST 28, 2023 4 <br />was further discussed. She reported the County was pursuing curbside food scrap collection and <br />should be up and running in the next couple of years. She explained drop off organics would <br />continue to be an option for Arden Hills residents. <br />Councilmember Monson asked if contract cities received the same appropriate response model <br />for 911 services. <br />Ramsey County Commissioner Frethem reported this was the case. <br />Councilmember Rousseau stated she would like to learn more about the workforce initiatives <br />being pursued by the County. <br />Mayor Grant requested further information regarding the HRA levy. <br />Ramsey County Commissioner Frethem stated the HRA levy was proposed to be $11 million <br />for 2024 and it was noted this was a separate levy from the County's general tax levy. <br />Mayor Grant questioned what the County's levy increase would be for the coming year. <br />Ramsey County Commissioner Frethem estimated the levy increase to be 6.75% for 2024. She <br />commented on how the County would be using cannabis dollars to assist with buying down the <br />tax levy in future years. <br />Councilmember Monson spoke to the benefits of organics recycling and stated she appreciated <br />having residential organics recycling when she lived in Minneapolis. <br />Ramsey County Commissioner Frethem discussed the numerous ways organics recycling would <br />benefit residents and the environment. <br />Councilmember Rousseau asked if the County had funding set aside for Lake Johanna <br />Boulevard. <br />Ramsey County Commissioner Frethem reported the County was trying to schedule a <br />worksession meeting with the City to discuss the preferred design plans for the Lake Johanna <br />corridor. <br />6. STAFF COMMENTS <br />A. Transportation Update <br />Public Works Director Swearingen provided the Council with an update on the Lexington <br />Avenue project. He reported Lexington Avenue was now open to traffic but will have intermittent <br />outside lane closures as the contractor completes trail and restoration work. He noted Red Fox <br />Road would be closed on the west side of the intersection of Lexington Avenue on September 5 <br />for concrete panel work. <br />