Minutes - Council - 03/27/2007 - Laserfiche WebLink

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intended to promote environmental awareness and provide an opportunity for residents to purchase trees from local growers. Additionally, the City utilized the Expo event to formally recognize Arbor Day, which is one of the criteria for maintaining Ramsey's designation as a 'Tree City USA'. Mr. Anderson explained due to a number of factors, including the loss of the elementary school as a co-sponsor, and the conflicts with other city-sponsored events, staff and the Environmental Policy Board have discussed putting the Environmental Expo on hold for 2007. Both staff and the EPB see this as an opportunity to revamp the Expo event so that it is bigger and better in 2008. It is important to note that this is a one-year postponement of the event, not an elimination of the Expo. Environmental Coordinator Anderson indicated in lieu of the Environmental Expo, staff is planning a formal Arbor Day event that will include both interested city officials and residents. The focus of this event will be boulevard tree plantings in two locations along Sunwood Drive between Sunfish Lake Boulevard and St. Francis Boulevard. The intent will be to have nearby residents, as well as city officials, actively involved in the plantings along with staff. Throughout the event, staff can demonstrate proper planting techniques for residents and discuss the benefits that trees provide. Mr. Anderson stated the Arbor Day planting will allow the City to maintain its designation as a Tree City USA while also encouraging public participation in enhancement and appreciation in the City's streetscape. The date and time is yet to be determined, but is likely to be either the early evening of Friday April 27, which is the official date of Arbor Day in Minnesota, or possibly Saturday, April 28. Mayor Gamec inquired about the scheduled ~ate for the Spring Recycling event. Environmental Coordinator Anderson replied the Spring Recycling event is scheduled for April 28th. Information was included in the latest issue of the Ramsey Resident and an informational postcard will be distributed in mid-April. Case #4: Consider Authorizing the Official Mapping or a Portion or the Northwest River Crossing and the use or RALF Funds to Purchase Property within the Northwest River Crossing Corridor Moved up in the agenda as Case No. A to precede Case No.1. Case #5: Consider Adopting Resolution in Support or The City or Ramsey Foundation, Inc. Interim City Administrator Nelson reviewed that the City Council was provided with an update of the current work and status of The Ramsey Foundation at the January 30,2007 work session. At that time, Council directed staff to draft a resolution in support of the Foundation. The resolution has been prepared for Council's consideration. Councilmember Elvig requested clarification that the City will not financially support The Ramsey Foundation with this resolution, but will show support for the activities of the Foundation. City Council I March 27, 2007 Page 9 or 19