City Council Meeting Date: November 7, 2023
To: Mayor and City Council
City Administrator
From: Charlie Fredericks, Streets & Parks Manager
Shelley Evanson, Horticulturist
Title
Consider Approval of Shade Tree Program Bonding Grants (MN DNR).
Body
Action Requested:
The Northfield City Council is asked to consider a motion to approve an application for the Shade Tree Program Bonding Grants (MN DNR).
Summary Report:
The DNR has a total of $10,063,000 available in bond dollars ($8,400,000 in general obligation bonding and $1,663,000 general fund bonding) to fund projects managing forest pest and disease through community forestry activities on public or tribal lands.
To aid in the management of the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) infestation in Northfield, we are proposing to apply for $255,690 in funding for costs associated with the removal of over 200 infected ash trees. These funds would allow us to remove infected trees that are declining in health prior to the trees becoming a safety risk.
"strategic actions to replace trees lost to forest pests, disease, or storm; or to establish a more diverse community forest better able to withstand disease and forest pests."
Staff did submit this application by the deadline. This is being brought after submission. With transitions staff who lead the effort were not aware of the policy to bring before applying or the first meeting after if not able to be done prior.
Staff also applied for a ReLeaf Community Forestry Grant (MN DNR) in the amount of $448,737 but the grant was not awarded.
Alternative Options:
There is no direct local cost for the grant so we are not recommending alternate approval.
Financial Impacts:
The grant amount requested is $255,690.
There is no City match tied to this grant.
Tentative Timelines:
October 2, 2023: Grant Application
November 6, 2023: Expected notification of award
January 2024 - June 2027: Work associated with grant, if awarded