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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—OCTOBER 9, 2023 3 commonality. She indicated she attended the JDA meeting and listened to the comments. While she understood there were disagreements, she appreciated the measures that have been taken to solve the TCAAP problem. She indicated none of the Councilmembers were responsible for what Ramsey County does, but she appreciated the dialogue that has been held. She was of the opinion the higher density was a moral imperative. She believed it was very important to provide people with affordable stable housing. She indicated this was the key to strong families and neighborhoods as well as being the key to a successful community. She anticipated the Council would be smart enough to find solutions, if traffic were to become a concern. She urged the Council and the City's residents to continue to work together and be civil. Donna Wiemann, 1406 Arden View Drive, explained at the JDA meeting last week a resident stated she would be happy to spend more in taxes in order to have more affordable housing on TCAAP. She urged the Council to keep in mind that more taxes may not be something that everyone could afford to pay. She reported according to the Met Council 6.9% of Arden Hills residents earn less than $34,000 a year. She discussed how residents would be impacted by the 1% sales tax increase that would go into effect on January 1, noting residents would also be impacted by the free breakfast/lunch program being created for all public schools. She asked the Council to not forget how these new programs and additional taxes would impact 6.9% of the residents of Arden Hills. 4. RESPONSE TO PUBLIC INQUIRIES None. 5. PUBLIC PRESENTATIONS None. 6. STAFF COMMENTS A. Transportation Update Assistant Public Works Director Miller reported Lexington Avenue was open to traffic and would have intermittent outside lane closures as the contractor finishes the trail and sidewalk construction. He noted this work would continue through the fall until the work is completed. Assistant Public Works Director Miller stated the roundabout at County Road E and Old Snelling was open to traffic in all directions, but was an active construction site. He indicated the final paving for Old Highway 10 was completed last week. He noted the roundabout would be paved the week of October 16, weather permitting. He urged vehicles passing through the site to pay close attention to the posted signage and heavy equipment. Councilmember Holden requested a "Bump" sign be posted on County Road E where the pavement was milled and overlayed. Assistant Public Works Director Miller explained he would look into this.