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ARDEN HILLS SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION — SEPTEMBER 9, 2024 7 Mayor Grant agreed Council should see examples. His concern is the residents selected a design for Freeway Park that is multi -age and well thought out. He thinks the natural parks cater more to younger children. Councilmember Monson thought that was a good point. She thought the concept experiment they are conducting at the Council level may help determine if another location might be a better fit. Mayor Grant thought maybe the answer is Sampson Park. Councilmember Monson agreed Sampson Park would be a great location for a nature park. She is discussing this because the residents specifically requested something completely different between the two locations. Councilmember Holden noted her discussions at Nite to Unite were with a lot of residents who have small kids. She doesn't think there are a lot of families running from park to park. She thought maybe the older kids do, but crossing County Road E is difficult. She didn't hear the request for different concept designs out of her discussions. Mayor Grant asked if Councilmember Holden is in favor of the modular designed park. Councilmember Holden said she is willing to see a nature -based concept plan by November. She wants Freeway Park to have something next year. Mayor Grant said the hard -court improvement will make sure that park gets something. Councilmember Holden stated a three -year -old isn't going to be interested in a hard -court. Mayor Grant summarized that Arden Oaks will move forward, as well as Freeway Park fencing and hard -court. A work session discussion is forthcoming regarding what features could be included in a composite nature park. He wondered if there is a list of residents who attended the open house. Staff confirmed there was a sign in sheet. Councilmember Holden said there is a neighborhood email. Bryce Shearen said he would need a couple weeks to pull some examples together and he will send it to staff as soon as possible. Public Works Director and City Engineer Swearingen requested specific direction. He asked if the nature options should be brought to Council in a work session or should the information be sent in an email prior to public engagement. Mayor Grant wants Council to have a chance to look at what the options are. Councilmember Holden asked what the budget amount is, that we are requesting options for.