04-22-03 PTRC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Arden Hills Parks, Trails and Recreation Conunitlee Meeting Minutes 5 April 22, 2003 . Mr. Moore clarified that the City Finance Manager removed all park funding until the long-term plan is done. He reviewed the projects that were removed with the Committee. He explained that Council never saw the projects stating that the projects had been removed internally, before Council had an opportunity to review the Committee priorities. He further clarified that any projects would have to be paid from the Park Fund, as there are no funds available in the CIP. He stated that Staff has received the CIP sheets for the 2004 budget process adding that nothing more could be done for 2003. Council Liaison Grant asked which shelter would be the most critical to replace. Mr. Moore stated that it would be the shelter at Hazelnut. He explained that the shelter was built in 1942 noting that it was moved from the grade school to the current location. Chair Straumann suggested that the Committee review each structure and prioritize for replacement. Mr. Moore stated that the shelter at Hazelnut should be replaced adding that the new structure should be at Perry Park. He reviewed all locations with the Committee. Committee Memher Henry asked for clarification of the funding, how much the City raises in taxes from the residents each year and possible State funding. Council Liaison Grant explained that some funds flow from the State noting that Arden Hills does not receive much State funding. e Committee Memher Henry expressed concerns stating that it is his understanding that Arden Hills is one of the lower tax-based Cities in the metro area. He further stated that something has to give if the City is serious about continuing to attract new residents and keep them. Council Liaison Grant addressed the tax base concerns noting that it would not be a small increment increase for the taxes. Committee Member Henry asked how Vadnais Heights and other Cities fund their parks and trail systems. Committee Member Weaver asked if the Committee has done any research with other Cities to determine the funding process for their trail systems. Committee Member Henry clarified that this is what he is trying to determine. He stated that the City should find dollars to put into the Park Fund. Mr. Moore stated that many Cities bond the funds and reviewed the bond processes with the Committee. He suggested antenna and satellite lease rental as a potential revenue resource. Council Liaison Grant explained that he had tried to persuade City Council to place the Arden Hills antenna revenue into the Park Funds. He provided the Committee with an overview of the revenue from the antenna and cell site leases. Council Liaison Grant reviewed the Vento Plan with the Committee stating that there is a huge opportunity for the Committee to become involved in the installation project of the trail systems for the new post office. Committee Member Henry asked if the Council engages in any kind of planning that would raise and address revenue issues. .