CCWS 04-17-2000 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION - APRIL 17,2000 3 . will ultimately f10w to the Mississippi River and beyond. We expect that our neighbors will share this intention with us. 3) Opportunities to ensure ecological diversity, provide water quality improvement, advocate environmental education and otherwise improve the natural beauty of our City should be actively encouraged. 4) Natural vegetation should be allowed to flourish and encouraged as a method of slowing rapid runoff, preventing erosion, improving water quality and enhancing wildlife habitat. Our trail systems should be used to enhance the natural characteristics of an area and maintained to minimize human impacts on the water resources. Councilmember Larson commented on the Task Force's work to-date. He made a suggestion that the Task Force consider addressing more stormwater runoff issues, regardless of their source, prior to it entering the water system. Councilmembers sought clarification of several items of Goal #4, specifically as it relates to trail surfaces and natural vegetation; ongoing water quality issues and how the City assigns responsibility for follow up. Mr. Aiken sought further direction and specific actions to pursue. . Mayor Probst complimented the Task Force on their work to-date. Mayor Probst requestcd specific items be addressed by the Task Force (i.e., stronger words regarding street sweeping with priority given to streets around water bodies due to their immediate impact on water quality; and attempting to control types of fertilizer used in community). Mayor Probst requested that the Task Force prioritizc the order in which items need to be implemented; and offer more specifics on cost ramifications, in order for their timely incorporation into the City's budget process. Mr. Aiken stated that the Task Force, prior to their next meeting, would need to formulate specific direction to provide focus and detail for the process. Mr. Aiken stated that the citizen participation issue is the most complex initiative and the City would have a whole range of options to supporting citizen activities (i.e., cable news items; City newsletter; and seasonal mailing in quarterly utility billings). Councilmember Larson suggested that the Task Force's final goals state "water bodies of Arden Hills," and not specific lakes; and he also questioned the Task Force's use of".. .and cxceed..." going beyond standards, since it has cost ranlifications, and suggested that perhaps the goals state that the City should at least meet standards. .