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ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION—JUNE 10, 2024 7 Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen reported Arden Hills only had the ICWC crews on the weekends. Councilmember Monson stated she was skeptical about continuing to put money into this. She indicated half of the trees and shrubs have died or were in decline. She explained she was having a hard time with understanding why they should be maintained instead of removed. Public Works Director/City Engineer Swearingen indicated years ago trees were removed and not replaced. However, after receiving direction from the Council, the trees along the Highway 96 corridor were replaced. He stated he was trying to find solutions in order to react to the comments being received from Council and residents. Councilmember Monson anticipated that it would continue to be difficult to maintain the trees along this corridor. She suggested a solid plan be created to address how many trees should be planted and maintained going forward and how much it will cost. Councilmember Rousseau asked how many trees were surviving and doing well. Assistant Public Works Director Miller explained of the 213 trees, 110 were in decline. He estimated the 25 of the 30 that were recently inspected as needed to be replaced were due to emerald ash borer. Mayor Grant asked if the Council wanted to replant the trees along the trees along Lakeshore Place. Councilmember Monson stated she would only support this if the City was required per the agreement. Mayor Grant indicated he could support the tree replacement on Lakeshore Place. Councilmember Rousseau stated she could support the tree placement on Lakeshore Place as well. Mayor Grant asked if the Council could support the tree placement along Lakeshore Place. Councilmember Monson indicated she would only support this if required by the agreement. Councilmember Rousseau believed the City was exceeding its requirements for this roadway and she was not in favor of it. Councilmember Holden stated she supported the replanting because the homeowners purchased homes along this roadway and MNDOT came in and significantly increased the level of traffic on Highway 10. She suggested at least half of the trees be replaced. Councilmember Fabel agreed the trees should not be replaced. Councilmember Holden commented if nothing was done the trees will die and more plants will be required to be purchased.