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<br />Ms. Groth stated that as part of the design, they planned that if the maintenance fell behind or <br />wasn't being taken care of, it could eventually grow over and appear as though it had never <br />existed. She stated that there are neighboring community members that have offered support in <br />the maintenance, as well as the family of the child who was lost has also offered to be <br />responsible for maintenance and upkeep. <br /> <br />Councilmember Elvig stated that he appreciates that the people present are so motivated and <br />asked how the funds are to be raised for the memorial. <br /> <br />Ms. Groth stated that the memorial is specifically for one child, but also will honor all children <br />lost. She stated that, as far as funds go, people have been reluctant to donate to a project that has <br />not yet received approval from the City. She stated that if the Council approved this, they could <br />approach organizations and reach beyond Ramsey for funds. <br /> <br />Councilmember Jeffrey stated that he thinks some discussion needs to happen on a public policy <br />level on the proper location for this kind of memorial. He stated that he received a call from <br />someone whose property abuts the first site that doesn't agree with its placeJllent. He asked if <br />there was precedent for "adopt-a-spot" areas with these types of improvements. He stated that he <br />understands the reasoning for this spot because it is very close to where this child lost his life, <br />but he thinks there should be discussion on the proper location. He stated that perhaps the Park <br />and Recreation Commission should discuss the issue and make a recommendation to the <br />Council. <br /> <br />Councilmember Dehen stated that there is also some policy discussion that should take place <br />regarding who qualifies. He stated that after the Twin Towers went down there was a flood of <br />money pouring in for the people that lost their lives, but the problem is you have people going <br />off and serving in the military and they are not being compensated. He asked how you decide <br />what type of thing to compensate or what group gets to put up a memorial and what group <br />doesn't get to put up a memorial. He stated that he feels there should be a policy discussion on <br />this whole issue. He asked about the irrigation needed for the site. <br /> <br />Management Intern Haugen stated that prior to the latest proposal, they didn't know if the plants <br />would need a lot of water, but with the most recent plans, irrigation is not a concern and won't be <br />needed. <br /> <br />Councilmember Dehen asked if Parks Supervisor Riverblood checked into the viability of the <br />plants without an irrigation system. <br /> <br />Parks Supervisor Riverblood stated that they will be fine without irrigation but it will need quite <br />a bit of work during the establishment period. <br /> <br />Management Intern Haugen stated that he has researched what policies other cities have for <br />monuments and memorials and can make that available for the Council to review. <br /> <br />Councilmember Dehen asked about the plaque, what it will say and whether there is an approval <br />process on what it says. <br /> <br />City Council Work Session I February 24, 2009 <br />Page 3 of7 <br />