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Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee – March 19, 2024 Page 2 <br /> <br />Greg Rubenstein, Arden Hills Foundation (the Foundation), stated he was speaking in the place <br />of Foundation Member Arlene Mitchell. He noted the Foundation had been in place since 2012. <br />He explained the group was comprised of resident volunteers that help manage donations provided <br />to the Foundation that in turn are donated to the City to help with expenses related to various <br />projects. He noted various companies have donated money to the Foundation and that the group <br />also receives donations for items such as remembrance benches and plaques that are located around <br />the city, and he briefly discussed the process. <br /> <br />Mr. Rubenstein requested the PTRC and Parks staff share suggestions regarding where donations <br />and items could be deployed. He stated that it was possible the Foundation could provide <br />donations that could be applied toward 2024 projects and urged the PTRC to let the Foundation <br />know of their needs. He recited several more examples of past donations related to City parks and <br />scholarships for Arden Hills residents. <br /> <br />Committee Member Olson asked for clarification regarding the reference to current park, trail <br />and related balances. <br /> <br />Mr. Rubenstein stated that the amount referenced was the money allocated toward that fund, but <br />the Foundation has received additional funding for other things that have yet to be allocated. <br /> <br />A short discussion ensued about the specifics of how some of the funds were allocated for past <br />projects. <br /> <br />Committee Member Dietz said it was his understanding that they could propose what the donated <br />funds could be used for and then the Foundation authorizes it. <br /> <br />Mr. Rubenstein confirmed that is correct. He asked if the PTRC has a budget. <br /> <br />Councilmember Rousseau stated that the PTRC does not have a budget. <br /> <br />A discussion ensued regarding streamlining the process and options for purchasing items. <br /> <br />Recreation Supervisor Johnson stated that perhaps the PTRC could have an account at <br />Beisswenger’s and this could address the money transaction issue. <br /> <br />Committee Member Anderson asked for clarification on the role of the PTRC regarding making <br />recommendations, such as to the City Council, and how the approval process works. <br /> <br />Recreation Supervisor Johnson indicated the City Council would approve installation of items. <br /> <br />Committee Member Olson asked if the Foundation has ever held a fundraiser. <br /> <br />Mr. Rubenstein stated he has not been involved in one but the group has been around longer than <br />he has, and he did not know the answer. <br /> <br />Committee Member Jacobson asked if the funds generally available are $2,300. She asked if the <br />need for benches was lower. <br /> <br />