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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION SEPTEMBER 20, 2010 5 service has been excellent. The Eureka staff is knowledgeable and the City has received positive comments from residents. Councilmember Holden stated that Eureka recycles items that other companies do not. She believed we should compare the level of service as well as cost. Mayor Harpstead agreed that the City receives a high level of service and that Eureka recycles more materials than other companies. He added that he would like to see them recycle plastic bags. Chris Goodwin, Eureka Recycling, explained that they can't take plastic bags at this time because once they're wet it takes a long time for them to dry and they can't be recycled while wet. Mayor Harpstead asked about any composting plans for the future. Chris Goodwin explained that the PCA is looking for comments from cities regarding organic materials. Currently if a company wants to begin handling organic materials, they must go through the very extensive landfill approval process. There is only one organic processing center in the state at this time. Councilmember McClung stated he would be in favor of the 2 one -year extensions or the contract amendment to extend the contract for three years but he would like to review cost comparisons. Chris Goodwin stated that Ramsey County has a source for cost comparisons for cities. Councilmember Holden suggested it would be helpful to educate residents about recycling and she suggested that Eureka add info on a regular basis to the City's newsletter. There was a unanimous Council consensus to direct staff to explore extending the contract with Eureka while providing cost comparisons and composting information. 2.D MnIDOT I -694 Improvement Project follow up from public hearing Public Works Director Maurer explained that the City has until October 25 to act on the matter of Municipal Consent. He further explained that the Transportation Commission can ignore a city's denial of municipal consent and move forward. He suggested a better scenario would be for the city to deny the consent with conditions. He further explained that he and Civil Engineer Kris Giga had met with Mn/DOT, Ramsey County, and Shoreview. A letter from Mn/DOT was included in the Council packet. Mayor Harpstead asked if Shoreview has concerns about any of the proposed changes. Public Works Director Terry Maurer stated that Shoreview is relying on Ramsey County to make sure appropriate improvements are made so there is no adverse impact to Shoreview