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MEMORANDUM To:City of Saint Anthony Village City Council From:Jeremy Gumke, Public Works Director and Zach Lundberg, Public Works Superintendent Date:October 10, 2023 City Council Meeting Request:Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan – Informational Review BACKGROUND City staff has been working with the city engineering firm WSB, to compile an Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Management Plan. Staff received the final version very recently, and will be utilizing the information and recommendations to guide routine operations and project prioritization going forward. The objective behind drafting the plan is to inform the City’s EAB efforts from best practices over the coming 5- 10 year timeframe. Having a plan in place also makes the City eligible for grant funding for EAB management. For example, the City recently was awarded a grant from Hennepin County for tree removals and replacements. The project submitted was for removals and stump grindings by a contractor, as well as replacement trees for our Public Works staff to install at around 20 locations in the Hennepin County portion of the city on city property, or within city right-of-way. The total value of the project is $28,040, with the city being responsible for matching 25%, or $7,010. Staff is presented this plan to the Parks & Environmental Commission for review at their September 18, 2023 meeting. The commission asked if a contractor could be identified to provide a discounted rate for property owners to treat and manage privately-owned trees. Staff is working with WSB to explore options. STAFF RECOMMENDATION No staff recommendation is offered as this is presented to the Council for informational purposes to be utilized for future policy discussions as the Council desires