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solution staff had brought to the Council to cover the salary for the proposed employee. <br />Mayor Jacobsen indicated the trees in the City parks were in poor condition, many were in need of pruning and <br />treatment. Parks & Recreation Director Breuer stated the current staffing level of the Parks Department did not <br />allow for proper maintenance of the City's parks. Councilmember Burg explained she was a certified arborist <br />and has done trimming. She commented that the lives of plants and trees would be lengthened by being <br />properly trimmed and maintained. <br />Councilmember Bauman stated if this position were to move forward, she wanted to see proof or <br />documentations that the trees were healthier to ensure the position was worthwhile. <br />Councilmember Strub supported the position and recommended staff move forward. <br />Councilmember Burg agreed. <br />Staff was directed to begin drafting a job description with a target hiring date of November 2014 for the parks <br />maintenance /forester position. <br />Highway 96 Municipal Consent Discussion <br />Public Works Director Wyffels stated the County was seeking municipal consent from the Council for the <br />Highway 96 bridge project over I35W. He discussed the proposed diverging diamond interchange (DDI) <br />design and stated the County has submitted final plans to MnDOT for approval. He noted a public hearing on <br />the project would be held on July 8, 2014 to allow the Council to take public testimony. <br />Beth Engum, Ramsey County, further reviewed with the Council the DDI design, the interchange functionality, <br />and funding for the Highway 96 bridge. She discussed the project timeline in detail along with the cost sharing <br />between Arden Hills and New Brighton. She provided further comment on the municipal consent process. <br />Councilmember Strub wanted to see strong pedestrian and bicycle safety. Ms. Engum discussed the flow of <br />traffic further with the Council. <br />Public Works Director Wyffels commented the City was hoping to keep its expense for this project to <br />$300,000. <br />Worksession adjourned at 6:25 pm <br />