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Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee – March 19, 2024 Page 7 <br /> <br />Councilmember Holden explained a pollinator initiative at wineries in Oregon in which an old <br />whiskey barrel that is cut in half is rented by a business that plants pollinators specifically. She <br />stated that the PTRC could request the Arden Hills Foundation purchase barrels and then solicit <br />businesses to rent the barrel and plant pollinators, not just any plants. <br /> <br />A discussion ensued regarding this potential initiative. <br /> <br />Councilmember Holden stated that Arden Hills and specifically the 2,000 acres including <br />TCAAP is second in the state for bird watching. She urged the group to check out the Audubon <br />Society’s website. <br /> <br />Councilmember Holden noted in closing that the reason Lindey’s Park has not been further <br />developed is that Bethel University had previously donated money and requested the location be <br />a site for college students to utilize the area for frisbee golf and rugby. <br /> <br />F. Work Group Updates 1:12:53 <br /> <br />Chair Anderson stated the various groups were in beginning stages and asked if anyone wanted <br />to provide an update or add anything. <br /> <br />Youth Committee Member Edgar asked if any action was needed regarding the work tracker <br />spreadsheet. <br /> <br />Committee Member Jacobson shared information regarding the rain garden work group. She <br />noted the group met with Public Works Director Swearingen regarding rain gardens, noting he <br />requested the group assist with an inventory in general and also the evaluation of specific <br />problem rain garden locations. She stated this process was currently being developed, noting the <br />assistance of Night to Unite block captains may be helpful. <br /> <br />A discussion ensued regarding rain gardens, including how to identify potential problems within <br />a rain garden itself, and how to engage the community. <br /> <br />Committee Member Olson noted Lake Johanna Fire Department’s initiative to keep fire <br />hydrants clear which basically was “show us your fire hydrant” and suggested something similar <br />for rain gardens. <br /> <br />A discussion continued regarding rain gardens and potential options for community outreach. <br /> <br />Council Liaison Rousseau suggested that once a plan for rain gardens comes together, the <br />PTRC make a motion to bring forward a formal, comprehensive plan to the City Council. <br /> <br />A discussion ensued about the issue of maintenance of rain gardens. <br /> <br />Committee Member Olson stated that she and Committee Member Rogers had discussed <br />2024 community outreach events, specifically the Lions Club event and how the PTRC could <br />support such an event. She noted the event could include food trucks and a bounce house. She <br />also said they will bring their 2025 mission to the next meeting. <br />