Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 01/06/2014

Home

at that time. He confirmed that the tree book was developed around 2003 and encouraged Board Members that are not familiar with the book to review the information. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Max, Board Member Hiatt, Stodola, Bentz, Lewis, Prendergast, and Valentine. Voting No: None. Absent: None. 5.02: Subcommittee Updates City Planner Anderson presented the staff report. • Tree Sale Subcommittee Chairperson Max stated that at the last meeting he had proposed to conduct the pre -sale option as they had done in the past and then work with one, or both, of the local nurseries where residents could pick up their purchase. He stated that he visited Anoka/Ramsey Farm and Garden and that business is interested in tying that sale to the time when the nursery conducts their bare root sale. He noted that he had not yet been to Green Valley nursery to determine their level of interest. He stated that at this time it appears the sale will be able to continue in this manner. City Planner Anderson provided additional background information on the event. He noted that the big box stores also carry trees in their landscaping centers at very competitive prices, which has provided customers with the ability for one stop shopping. City Councilmember Letourneau noted that it seems the times have changed and perhaps this is not something the public is interested in anymore. Chairperson Max stated that in his opinion, people are buying trees and he would prefer that residents buy local and not from the big box stores that may not offer the most appropriate varieties of species. Board Member Stodola noted that in the past, there were a lot of homes being built in Ramsey and more trees were needed, so as the times have changed the sales have dwindled. He noted that perhaps the construction market is increasing and the tree purchases may as well. Board Member Valentine noted that there is a very low downside to continuing the event, as the event not only encourages tree planting but also could assist in bringing in additional sales to local nurseries. Board Member Lewis noted that the tree sales decreased dramatically once the link to the elementary school activity ended. He stated that perhaps the new approach will help to revive the event in some form. City Planner Anderson stated that there will need to be some finality to this item soon in order to advertise in the March/April newsletter, noting the deadline of the first week in February for that information. Chairperson Max confirmed that Anoka/Ramsey Farm and Garden will proceed with the event. Environmental Policy Board / January 6, 2014 Page 3 of 5