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Minutes <br /> City Council Regular Meeting <br /> Monday,April 27,2026, 6:00 PM1. c> City Council Chambers 2780 Kelley Parkway, Orono, MN 55356 <br /> The Council discussed the item and asked questions of staff. <br /> Ricks moved,Schwingler seconded,to approve amending the 2026 Insurance Fund budget as <br /> recommended by staff in Exhibit A of the meeting packet. VOTE: Ayes 5,Nays 0. <br /> PARKS REPORT <br /> 7. Community Tree Planting Update <br /> The City Council received an update on a$75,000 Minnesota Depai intent of Natural Resources(DNR) <br /> Community Tree Planting Grant supporting the removal of hazardous ash trees impacted by Emerald Ash <br /> Borer and the planting of about 150 new,climate-resilient trees in the parks and trail corridors. The two- <br /> year project will begin in 2026. <br /> PUBLIC WORKS REPORT <br /> 8. Water Softener Resin and Flow Meter at Navarre Water Plant <br /> Council reviewed long-term options for the water softening system, including significant repair costs <br /> versus discontinuing the softening service. Following discussion,Council voted 5-0 to direct staff to <br /> develop a plan to discontinue softening operations, including public engagement, evaluation of resident <br /> impacts, and consideration of resident support options during the transition. <br /> Persian moved,Benson seconded,to direct staff to develop a plan to discontinue water softening <br /> operations at the Navarre water plant,including looking into assisting residents served by that <br /> plant to potentially get a softener for their private residence. VOTE: Ayes 5,Nays 0. <br /> CITY ADMINISTRATOR/ENGINEER REPORT <br /> 9. Hackberry Park Revitalization Project(24-028)Design Update <br /> The 95%completed park plans were presented, outlining requested upgrades to fields,drainage, <br /> accessibility,and amenities. After addressing concerns related to fencing,tree removal, and parking, <br /> Council voted 3-2 to proceed with bidding the project,including the pavilion/restroom and basketball <br /> court,while strategically shifting perimeter parking to a future 2028 road project. <br /> Persian moved, Schwingler seconded,to move forward with the Hackberry Park design as <br /> presented,waiting on the grass pavers and with alternates for the picnic shelter and basketball <br /> court. VOTE: Ayes 3,Nays 2(Benson and Ricks). <br /> 10. 2026 Street Improvement Project(26-001) -Award <br /> Council voted 5-0 to awarded the 2026 Street Improvement Project. Work includes North Arm Drive and <br /> North Arm Lane reconstruction and widening,along with improvements on Willow Drive north of <br /> County Road 6 in coordination with the City of Medina. Stormwater and utility work are also included. <br /> Bids came in below estimates,allowing the City to proceed under budget. <br /> Page 2 of 3 <br />