09-16-25 - PTRC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Parks, Trails & Recreation Committee – September 16, 2025 Page 11 Committee Member Johnson said they should have to replace the trees. She said builder’s costs are high. As we talk about this, she wants to make sure we’re balancing both sides. As we start to think about Rice Creek Commons, we’re trying to figure out affordability and density. She shared about another city that was sued because of a tree tax. There are a couple of other cities in the same situation. Arden Hills just needs to balance those things. Committee Member Jacobson repeated that typically trees are planted with a guarantee, regardless of what the City requires. The committee agreed it is a balancing act to keep in mind. Parks and Recreation Supervisor Skalicky said the City Council approved the purchase of a tree to be planted in memory of Melissa and Mark Hortman. There will be a plaque that will be funded by a donor. Committee Member Hilding said there is a program where people can sponsor or memorialize loved ones on a park bench. He wondered if there was a similar program for planting a tree. Parks and Recreation Supervisor Skalicky said there isn’t currently, but that is a vision for the future. The sponsorship policy and the application have been approved. There are a couple of missing marketing pieces. The sponsorship program is open for applications. Committee Member Rogers asked what the sponsorships are for. Parks and Recreation Supervisor Skalicky said she doesn’t have one specific thing in mind. The Sponsorship Policy was born because another Commission was asking for donations. The City is not allowed to solicit donations. However, we can encourage businesses to sponsor events. Committee Member Olson said sharing the sponsorship program at the EDC Business Event may be a good way to encourage participation. 6. NEXT MEETING A. Tuesday, October 21, 2025 ADJOURNMENT Chair Dietz adjourned at 7:56 pm.