Agenda - Public Works Committee - 10/18/2022

Home

Parks Superintendent/Interim Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood reviewed information on Emerald Ash Borer (EAB), the damage EAB does to trees, and provided photographic examples. He noted that although some trees can, and will be treated, most of the diseased trees would be removed. He provided details on replanting and the funds available through the community forestry fund. He reviewed the benefits provided by boulevard trees, which he believes add tremendous value. He stated that in January, the Committee agreed that it would add value to plant boulevard trees along the barren side of Sunwood Drive and directed staff to prepare an RFP that separated the costs of City owned and privately owned properties. He noted that he has not yet completed development of the RFP but still believes he could meet the timing desired to plant in spring of 2023. He noted that no action is necessary for the EAB update and advised that will continue to be an issue in the community. He confirmed the education to private property owners is a part of the City's EAB policy and plan. Councilmember Woestehoff agreed that the more EAB is talked about, the better the results will be as there is interest in the topic by the public. He stated that perhaps staff could reach out to the known tree contractors that frequently work in Ramsey to provide educational material too in attempt to stop the spread. Parks Superintendent/Interim Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood replied that most tree contractors should be aware of EAB and how to handle that issue but agreed it could be helpful for staff to spread that education as well. Councilmember Woestehoff noted that the City website provides locations for ash tree disposal locations and asked if licensed contractors could also be listed. Parks Superintendent/Interim Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood replied that the City tends to shy away from advertising for businesses but noted that he will follow up to determine if that would be a possibility. Chairperson Riley stated that perhaps there could be an article in the Ramsey Resident to better educate residents as well. Councilmember Musgrove asked if the City would still address the boulevard trees on the City property, even if there is not a response from the private property owner. Parks Superintendent/Interim Assistant Public Works Director Riverblood stated that the RFP will be clearly issued with part A and part B, which would separate the City and privately -owned segments. He noted that when private properties develop, they are required to plant the boulevard trees and complete the streetscaping. He was hopeful that the developer owning the private property would see the opportunity for cost -savings to join in on this project while also improving the aesthetics of their property. Chairperson Riley asked if there would be benefit for the City to complete the boulevard tree planting and assess that cost. Public Works Committee / September 20, 2022 Page 3 of 6