Agenda - Council - 08/25/2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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5.03: Protect Community Forests for Community Resiliency Grant Opportunity Senior Planner Anderson presented the staff report. He stated that the Minnesota Depailiuent of Natural Resources (MN DNR) has issued a Request for Applications (RFA) for a new grant opportunity aimed at reducing the impacts of Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) through tree management and maintenance, education, and engagement efforts that will enhance community forest health and resiliency. There is a total of $1,700,000 available to fund projects that manage and/or reduce the impacts of EAB through forestry activities on public, non -State lands, and residential land for low-income residents. There is no minimum amount that must be requested, and matching funds are not required. Chairperson Fetterley stated that this is a wonderful opportunity. She asked if the City would be able to decide how funds are allocated between City property and residents and whether guidelines would be set up for applicants. Senior Planner Anderson stated that the City would need to outline those details in the grant application. He commented that there will need to be coordination with Public Works, but ideally, a large portion of the funds would be set aside for private property. He commented on the frequency with which he receives requests from residents asking for help with diseased tree removal. Chairperson Fetterley asked if residents who have already removed trees could request assistance for replanting. Senior Planner Anderson replied that, per the grant, the City would need to replace each removed tree with a new tree planted on site. He did not think they would want to open it up to requests for additional tree planting on private property where no tree removal occurred. Chairperson Fetterley agreed that this would be a great program that could provide assistance to residents in the community. Board Member Burgess stated that this is an exciting opportunity, as this is a large issue in the community. Board Member Hagerty commented that his son removed two diseased trees from his own property and is waiting to grind the stumps because of the cost. He appreciates the opportunity for the grant to assist residents in removing dead trees. He commented that he is impressed with the number of grants the City receives and how they advertise those opportunities to residents. Motion by Board Member Hagerty and seconded by Board Member Burgess to recommend City Council authorize staff to apply for the Protect Community Forest for Community Resiliency. Motion carried. Voting Yes: Chairperson Fetterley, Board Member Hagerty, Burgess, Houts, Payne, and Salami. Voting No: None. Absent: Board Member Bernard.