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<br />. <br /> <br />Anderson presented maps to the EPB members. These maps were put together by the <br />DNR. <br /> <br />Coordinator Anderson stated that Mr. Rehder provided him with a similar map for Oak <br />Grove with differences and comparisons. Ramsey has an ordinance that outlines the <br />control measures for the Dutch elm and oak wilt disease programs. Coordinator <br />Anderson stated the ordinance is clear that after giving proper notification, the City has <br />the authority to go out and tag diseased trees and mandate their removal. If a property <br />owner fails to remove the diseased trees, the City can have them removed and collect the <br />cost through an assessment process. However, Ramsey's program has always been <br />conducted on a voluntary basis. . <br /> <br />Coordinator Anderson explained that there has always been cost-share funding available <br />for communities to help offset the cost of removal up to 50%, with limits of $500 for <br />removal, and $500 for mechanical or chemical controls. The federal dollars for cost <br />share monies are no longer available. The state made a number of changes effective in <br />July of this year. To be eligible for state funding, the City must shift the program to a <br />proactive measure, following up to verify that diseased trees have been removed. After <br />that, the homeowner can be reimbursed if cost-share funding is available. <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />Coordinator Anderson indicated on the maps where the proposed oak wilt management <br />zones are located. He explained that the DNR has created different management zones. <br />Ramsey is in a suppression zone. That means that Ramsey's program has been effective <br />in the past. However, it is also a negative because the eligibility for cost share dollars <br />would drop from 50% to 35%. The fungicide injections are no longer eligible for cost <br />share. The question is does the City want to takethe next step by shifting to a proactive <br />program to remain eligible for any cost-share funding that may be available. That would <br />mean actually enforcing the ordinance as it is written rather than continue with a <br />voluntary participation type of program. <br /> <br />Mr. Rehder stated that when it comes to removal, assessment is a last resort to citizens. <br />The new statutes that the state is proposing refers to not only Dutch elm and oak wilt, but <br />other diseases and pests. The statue will cover emerald ash borer and gypsy moth as <br />well. <br /> <br />Coordinator Anderson stated he met with Susan Berks with the DNR. Ramsey's <br />ordinance is very specific to Dutch elm disease and oak wilt. She suggested changing the <br />ordinance language to cover a broader spectrum. <br /> <br />Chairperson McDilda asked Coordinator Anderson how much money is being spent for <br />removal. <br /> <br />. <br /> <br />Coordinator Anderson stated that last year, 2006, was a down year for participation. He <br />stated th~t typically, Ramsey receives about $10,000. He stated most of those monies <br />have been expended over a two year period. <br /> <br />Environmental Policy Board! April 2, 2007 . <br />Page 80f 14 <br />