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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL — JANUARY 8, 2024 26 Councilmember Fabel noted Mr. Kelliher had received thanks from the City Council before based on his contributions to the community. He stated Mr. Kelliher made accusations this evening against Councilmember Rousseau that were offensive and inaccurate. He believed these actions were reasons why he was not able to be a good Commission member. He explained he wanted to affirm the respect he has for Councilmember Rousseau and commented on the wonderful work she has done as the liaison with the PTRC and Planning Commission, working positively with members from both genders. Mayor Grant thanked Mark Kelliher for all of the great work he has done. He stated it was his understanding Mr. Kelliher obtained $130,000 in funding to remove buckthorn from the City. Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen reported the funding was part of the bonding bill and the City would find out more about this in April. Mayor Grant commented on the time Mark Kelliher and other residents have spent removing buckthorn from City property. Councilmember Holden explained based on Councilmember Fabel's comments, he must know everything that happens and he has read every email. She stated she was uncertain as to the communication between Councilmember Rousseau and Mr. Kelliher. She believed Mr. Kelliher deserved a thank you based on his years of service and noted no one has had a problem with him in years past. She hoped Mr. Kelliher would keep up the great work in removing buckthorn in the community. MOTION: Councilmember Fabel moved and Councilmember Rousseau seconded a motion to Accept Resignation Of Parks, Trails And Recreation Committee Member. The motion carried (5-0). H. Motion To Accept Resignation Of Planning Commissioner Councilmember Holden read Planning Commission Chair Paul Vijums' letter of resignation in full for the record. Mayor Grant requested Councilmember Holden provide staff with a copy of this letter. Councilmember Rousseau thanked Paul Vijums for his service. She noted there were a couple of challenging meetings and the last one ended up being a request from some of the Commissioners that a new facilitator should come in. She indicated Vice Chair Wicklund would have done a great job, but he serves as the JDA Chair and noted Commissioner Weber would be willing to help going forward. Councilmember Monson thanked Paul Vijums for his service. She stated she was disappointed in his resignation noting he was requested to step aside as Chair to allow for somebody else, but she understood he had other opportunities. Councilmember Holden indicated Paul Vijums has been the Chair for several years and with one complaint he was now replaced. She explained the entire Planning Commission recommended he serve as the Chair for three more years in November and now he has resigned. She believed Mr. Vijums has always been very attentive to the Planning Cases. She noted the trouble did not arise