City Council Meeting Date: May 5, 2026
To: Mayor and City Council
City Administrator
From: Andrew Tussing, Streets and Parks Manager
Title
Consideration of Resolution Accepting Tree Donation for City Parks and Street Rights-of-Way.
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council approves accepting a donation from the Loren Dean and Betty Ann Reichert Charitable Fund.
Note: requires 2/3 majority approval per State Statute 465.03.
Summary Report:
The City of Northfield has been offered a generous donation in the amount of $125,000 to support the planting of trees throughout the community. This contribution is being made by Karl Reichert on behalf of the Loren Dean and Betty Ann Reichert Charitable Fund.
The funds will be dedicated to the replacement of expired or declining trees, as well as the planting of new trees within the City's park system and along public street rights-of-way.
This contribution will enhance the City's urban forest, improve environmental sustainability, and provide long-term aesthetic and community benefits. Staff recommend acceptance of the donation and authorization to allocate the funds toward tree procurement, planting, and associated maintenance in accordance with City standards and priorities.
The City currently maintains an inventory of 1,048 ash trees on public property. Of these, 360 trees are scheduled for replacement utilizing grant funds secured by the City, and 160 trees have been treated to mitigate the impacts of emerald ash borer. An additional 69 trees will be removed in coordination with planned roadway improvement projects, and 37 trees are scheduled for removal by a contractor without replacement due to site constraints and conflicts.
Following these actions, a total of 422 ash trees remain unaddressed. The proposed donation will provide a funding source to support the phased replacement of these remaining trees, with priority given to trees located within City parks.
2024 Minnesota Statutes
465.03 GIFTS ...
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