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<br /> Arden Hills Parks, Trails and Recreation Committee Meetiug Minutes <br /> February 24, 2004 <br /> Page 5 of8 <br /> . <br /> Mr. Moore stated that he would keep the Committee updated noting that this is a very positive <br /> and huge project for the City as it serves a large number of the surrounding neighborhoods and <br /> Communities in addition, with would resolve the safety issues. <br /> B. Xcel Enefl!V - Clear Cuttin!! Floral Park & Surroundin!! Area <br /> Mr. Moore stated that Xcel Energy would be in the area clear cutting. He reviewed their policies <br /> noting that it states that they can clear cut in any of their easements, throughout the State of <br /> Minnesota. He indicated that it is their plan to clear cut everything in the easements including <br /> any branches from a trees outside the easement that extend out over their easement. He stated <br /> that the branches would be cut back to the trunk of the tree. He stated that City Staff and Xcel <br /> have walked and talked the area with the homeowners adding that they homeowners are aware <br /> that they would be in the area working. He stated that they would also spray a growth retardant <br /> within the easement so that nothing will grow in that area. He stated that he wanted the <br /> Committee to be aware adding that Floral Park would be impacted significantly by the clearing <br /> and reviewed with the Committee. <br /> Chair Henry noted that this is the same thing that happened along the Diagonal Trail. Mr. Moore <br /> confirmed and reviewed the areas affected with the Committee. <br /> . Chair Henry asked if there is anything fairly significant that should be addressed in Floral Park to <br /> avoid being cut down. Mr. Moore stated there are some very significant oak trees in the park that <br /> they are concerned about and reviewed. He noted that in the past Xce1 Energy did not notify the <br /> local government agencies of their plans adding that they are not required to notify the Cities. He <br /> stated that the positive news here is that they did notify the City and the affected residents this <br /> year. He noted that the negative here is that there is nothing the City can do to stop them from <br /> cutting, as it is their property. He noted that Eagle Scout Mathew Hudson would be installing up <br /> to twenty- five birdhouses in the park to be used as habitats for the birds. <br /> The Committee held a general discussion regarding the possibility of placing a trail in the area. <br /> Mr. Moore agreed that it could be a possibility noting that they should keep in mind the number <br /> of residents in the area. He eXplained that most of the residents are not used to having trails in <br /> the area and the increased foot traffic could be an issue. He suggested that they review the area <br /> once the work is completed. <br /> Tom Moore - Recreation Update <br /> Mr. Moore provided the Committee with an update on tile Recreation activities. He reviewed the <br /> following items: <br /> . 2004 tree sale is under way. He reviewed with the Committee and encouraged the <br /> Committee, as individuals, to consider a donation. He noted that last year the PTRC <br /> . Committee did purchase a tree for the park. He stated that information about the tree sale <br />