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March 13,2012 <br /> Council Business <br /> 1. Consideration to Authorize Use of Community Reinvestment Funds for Treating Council Business <br /> 1.Consideration to <br /> Emerald Ash Borer. Report No. 12-064. Authorize Use of <br /> Community <br /> Councilmember Bauman reported that she was under the understanding that the total cost to Reinvestment Funds for <br /> Treating Emerald <br /> treat the EAB was $72,400. Ash Borer.Report No. <br /> Director Breuer reported that at the worksession the cost was estimated at $73,000; stating 12-064. <br /> there would be some savings in seasonal staff if done over a two year period. Councilmember <br /> Bauman reported that the City treated EAB in 2010, and plans to treat again in 2012. Experts <br /> have reported that trees with a diameter less than 18.5 inches may only require treatment <br /> every three to four years. It was reported that Ramsey County has chosen to wait four years, <br /> and some cities have chosen to wait three years. Councilmember Bauman reported that she <br /> would prefer treating over three to four years. Councilmember Bauman also stated that she is <br /> not in favor of funding the EAB treatment with Community Reinvestment Funds, as <br /> suggested amending the General Fund. Councilmember Samuelson questioned the balance of <br /> the Community Reinvestment Fund. Director Breuer stated that the balance is approximately <br /> $5,000,000, noting that the EAB costs would be paid from interest earnings. <br /> Councilmember Burg reported she feels that a two year cycle is preferred, in order to save the <br /> most ash trees. <br /> Councilmember Bauman requested that Assistant to the City Manager Johnson explain the <br /> Community Reinvestment Fund. Mr. Johnson explained that the Community Reinvestment <br /> Fund is used to cover unexpected expenses; such as storm clean-up. <br /> Councilmember Bauman stated she feels the City can wait, as Ramsey County has deferred <br /> their treatments. <br /> Councilmember Jacobsen questioned what cities are treating currently. Director Breuer <br /> responded that almost every nearby city is treating to some extent. <br /> Mayor Jacobsen questioned if the practice of using Community Reinvestment Funds is <br /> appropriate. Assistant to the City Manager Johnson responded that it has been used in the <br /> past; both in 2010 and 2011. <br /> Motion by Councilmember Burg seconded by Councilmember Samuelson to accept the <br /> recommendation to consider the authorization to use Community Reinvestment Funds <br /> for the chemicals and supplies needed for Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)treatment,the <br /> Forestry Technician and seasonal maintenance staff who will be injecting the trees. <br /> 3 Ayes,2 Nays-Motion Carried <br /> Ayes: Councilmembers Burg,Samuelson and Jacobsen <br /> Nays: Mayor Jacobsen,Councilmember Bauman <br /> 2. Consideration to changes to City code, Chapter 2, Article 4. Report No.12-065. <br /> Councilmember Burg recommended that Council soften the language regarding attendance, <br /> suggesting that the Council could address attendance issues. Also it was recommended that 2. Consideration to <br /> changes to City code, <br /> term limits be reconsidered. Chapter 2,Article 4. <br /> Mayor Jacobsen stated that he feels twelve years is an adequate term limit, noting that Report No.12-065. <br /> commissioners can reapply after a one year absence. Councilmember Burg clarified that the <br /> Planning Commission is the only commission currently allowing twelve years; the other four <br /> commissions have a nine year term limit. Councilmember Jacobsen stated that he agrees with <br />