Minutes - Environmental Policy Board - 02/12/2024

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like to hold the distribution event earlier than in past years and has selected Wednesday, May 1, 2024 as the date for distribution. The distribution would run from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Public Works Campus. Commissioner Heifner volunteered to assist with the distribution event. He asked if there is educational material that is provided to residents about composting. Senior Planner Anderson replied that there is some educational material provided to those purchasing compost bins. He stated that for Ramsey residents he does provide more information on the organics drop off program. He noted that most residents just want to pop in to pick up their items. 6. BOARD / STAFF INPUT Senior Planner Anderson commented that Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is in full swing, noting that Public Works has removed 12 to 24 ash trees recently and more have been marked for removal. He stated that staff is attempting to remove as many of the infected trees as possible before May 1st when the adult borers become active, and the spread can become worse. He stated that he receives about 12 calls a week from residents concerned with EAB infestation in their trees. He noted that he does meet with those residents to look at their trees and make the determination if desired. He commented that EAB has been found city-wide and commented that if residents desire protection of their ash trees, they should begin treatments as soon as leaf -on conditions begin. Commissioner Heffner asked if the warmer weather will quicken the pace for that May 1st date. Senior Planner Anderson commented that staff follows the U of M guidance, but confirmed that if the weather holds up with the warmer temps that will most certainly expedite that timeline. Commissioner Fetterley commented that she did notice the stumps along Sunwood and asked if the stumps would also be removed and whether those trees would be replanted. Senior Planner Anderson confirmed that staff would be grinding out those stumps along Sunwood and would replant where it makes sense. He commented that there are stretches were the boulevard is too narrow and trees should have never been planted to begin with. He commented that the City will utilize the community forestry fund for the trees that will be replanted. He noted that planting would likely not take place until the fall in order to better plan the replanting locations. Senior Planner Anderson noted that at the next meeting will be elections for Chairperson and Vice Chairperson and reminded the Board of the limitation for a member to only serve two consecutive terms as Chairperson. He noted that Chairperson Moore would then not be eligible for Chair for the next terms. 7. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Board Member Bernard and seconded by Board Member Fetterley to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 7:08 p.m. Environmental Policy Board / February 12, 2024 Page 3 of 4