Afton, Minnesota

City Council

The Afton City Council will review the June 2026 financial reports. The agenda includes the Balance Sheet, Statement of Changes in Fund Balances, and the Revenue and Expenditures report for the General Fund. No prominent transactions were noted for the month.

• Balance Sheet for June 30, 2026 showing fund assets and liabilities
• Statement of Changes in Fund Balances YTD June 30, 2026
• Revenue and Expenditures summary for the General Fund
• No significant transactions reported for June

City Council

City Council

The Afton City Council will review a Conditional Use Permit for a Bed and Breakfast at 13885 44" Street South (Resolution 2026-34). It will also continue discussion of a variance and minor subdivision for 3403 Pennington Avenue South, and consider draft ordinance amendments on accessory building size and aircraft take‑offs/landings. Additional items include engineering updates, a final plat for Afton Farms/Longview Farms, a tree donation for Town Square Park, and renewal of a retirement compensation plan.

• Conditional Use Permit for Bed and Breakfast at 13885 44" Street South – Resolution 2026-34
• Variance and Minor Subdivision Application for 3403 Pennington Avenue South (continuation to Aug 18)
• Draft Ordinance Amendment on Accessory Building Size
• Draft Ordinance Amendment on Aircraft Take‑Offs and Landings
• Afton Farms/Longview Farms Final Plat – Resolution 2026-35

Meeting

The Communications Task Force met to discuss Comcast's Mn BEAD funding and Afton's build-out plan, a Washington County monopine tower, and potential future fiber-to-the-home providers.

• Comcast meeting to discuss Mn BEAD funding and build-out plan
• Washington County monopine tower height incompatibility with cellular build-out
• Verizon, ATT, and T-mobile contacted by Washington County regarding tower
• Discussion on bringing in two fiber to the home providers for next meeting
• Meghan Shea from Comcast to act as liaison

Parks Committee

The Parks Committee will review a proposal to create a separate 501(c)(3) public charity that would solicit private donations for the city’s parks department. The memorandum outlines the legal structure, required IRS classifications, and potential concerns such as organizational independence, conflicts of interest, and compliance with disqualified‑person rules. The committee will consider whether to proceed with forming the supporting organization and how to address the identified issues.

• Proposal to form a 501(c)(3) supporting organization for the parks department
• Discussion of IRS classification under Section 509(a)(3) Type I relationship
• Review of potential conflicts of interest for city‑appointed board members
• Consideration of compliance with disqualified‑person rules (Section 4946)
• Evaluation of governance structure and oversight requirements

Meeting

The Heritage Preservation/Design Review Commission will hear updates on the Township Hall Project, including its federal nomination, grant status, and clean‑out progress. The commission will also receive a status update on the MNHS Legacy Grant application and an update on the HPC Scavenger Hunt planned for Strawberry Fest.

• Township Hall Project – federal nomination update
• Township Hall Project – grant status update
• Township Hall Project – clean‑out of the Town Hall update
• MNHS Legacy Grant Application – update
• HPC Scavenger Hunt at Strawberry Fest – update

Planning Commission

The commission will hold public hearings on two Conditional Use Permit applications: one for a bed‑and‑breakfast at 13885 44" St S and another for an arts and crafts studio and retail business at 3343 St. Croix Trail South. It will also consider a variance and minor subdivision request to split the property at 3403 Pennington Avenue South into one additional lot. New business includes draft ordinance amendments to increase the maximum size of storage sheds to 300 sq ft and to address take‑offs and landings of aircraft in the city.

• Conditional Use Permit for a bed‑and‑breakfast at 13885 44" St S (Rural Residential district)
• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit for an arts & crafts studio and retail business at 3343 St. Croix Trail South
• Variance and Minor Subdivision application to subdivide 3403 Pennington Avenue South into one additional lot
• Draft ordinance amendment to allow storage sheds up to 300 sq ft and remove door‑size cap
• Draft ordinance amendment to address aircraft take‑offs and landings in Afton

Meeting

The Internet Connectivity Task Force will hold its regular meeting, approve the agenda and minutes, recap the previous meeting, and hold a discussion with a Comcast representative about broadband service options. No formal decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Recap of the June 15, 2026 meeting
• Discussion with Comcast representative

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss potential changes to the use of rifles for deer hunting. A resident has submitted a request for the city to maintain current regulations for safety reasons.

• Discussion of potential changes to rifle use for deer hunting

City Council

The City Council will hear Fire Chief Rob Corey and District Accountant Nicole Runge present the proposed 2027 Lower St. Croix Valley Fire District budget. The proposal calls for a $130,000 (14.54%) increase in the overall fire district levy and a $57,813 (15.46%) increase in Afton’s share. Council members will discuss the budget items and consider ways to reduce the projected increase. Fire Board members will attend, with Kevin Johnson joining remotely.

• Overall fire district levy increase of $130,000 (14.54%) for 2027.
• Afton’s allocated levy increase of $57,813 (15.46%).
• Major cost additions: expanded ambulance duty pay (+$55,000), crew compensation (+$47,000), audit & accounting fees (+$8,000), insurance (+$10,000), equipment/uniforms (+$12,000), ambulance replacement contribution (+$13,000), ambulance training (+$4,000), dues & subscriptions (+$5,000), ambulance provision aligned with higher billings (+$28,000).
• Reductions offsetting costs: removal of full‑time chief extra compensation (-$51,000), cleaning staff reduction (-$4,000), ambulance vehicle & equipment maintenance reduction (-$3,000).
• A $67,500 reduction would be needed to keep the increase within a 5% limit.

Meeting

The Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss speed limits and infrastructure concerns. The body will review trail erosion, pavement cracking, and the Putnam Bridge.

• Speed limits on Valley Creek Trail, 42nd Street, and Oakridge Trail South
• Valley Creek Trail shoulder erosion and warranty items
• Cracking at the north end of Afton Creek Preserve approaching Odell
• Putnam Bridge

Parks Committee

The Afton Parks Committee will review the draft plan for Herreid Park that was postponed from the May meeting. It will also hear the current Park Dedication Fund balance of $391,901 and consider a donation request. Additional items include a continued discussion of the park donation policy, the 2026‑2027 priority parks focus, and a proposal for a modest neighborhood park on the Aftonwood parcel.

• Park Dedication Fund balance reported as $391,901
• Review of the Herreid Park draft (moved from May meeting)
• Continuation of discussion on the park donation policy
• Priority Parks Focus 2026/2027 – tree replanting, trail work, native planting
• Park request from Aftonwood Neighborhood for a low‑impact family park

City Council

The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will review updates on several ongoing projects, including the Kelle’s Creek bank stabilization and floodplain forest restoration in Steamboat and Carver Parks, the 2025 Resilient Communities Project, and land rehabilitation west of City Hall. The committee will also receive reports on regional trail plans, well‑testing for nitrates and coliform bacteria, and upcoming natural‑resources outreach activities. No formal approvals are scheduled; the meeting is for information sharing and planning.

• Kelle’s Creek Bank Stabilization and Floodplain Forest Restoration in Steamboat and Carver Parks – project update
• 2025 Resilient Communities Project – presentation update
• Land Rehabilitation Project on city property west of City Hall and City Entryway – volunteer planting events
• Regional Trails planning: Battle Creek to St. Croix River and Stillwater to Afton
• Well testing for nitrates and coliform bacteria in 2026 – sample kits ready, collection dates scheduled

Meeting

The commission held a public hearing and voted to recommend approval of a Conditional Use Permit for an arts & crafts studio and retail business at 3343 St. Croix Trail South. The commission also reviewed a draft ordinance amendment to increase the maximum size of storage sheds from 160 to 300 square feet and remove the door‑size cap, and agreed to forward the draft to the Planning Commission for feedback. Staff presented a draft amendment concerning aircraft take‑offs and landings, noting concerns and a recommendation to prohibit them, but no action was taken.

• Conditional Use Permit approved for arts & crafts studio at 3343 St. Croix Trail South
• Draft ordinance amendment to allow storage sheds up to 300 sq ft and eliminate door size cap
• Draft ordinance amendment on aircraft take‑offs and landings with staff recommendation to prohibit

Planning Commission

The Afton Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit to convert the former Barber Shop at 3343 St. Croix Trail into an arts and crafts studio and retail business. The commission will also consider draft ordinance amendment language on accessory building size limits for lots under 5 acres and draft amendment language on aircraft take‑offs and landings in Afton. An update on City Council actions from the May 19, 2026 meeting will be presented.

• Conditional Use Permit application for 3343 St. Croix Trail – arts and crafts studio and retail use
• Draft ordinance amendment on accessory building sizes for lots less than 5 acres
• Draft ordinance amendment on take‑offs and landings of aircraft in Afton
• Update on City Council actions from the May 19, 2026 Council meeting
• No remote Zoom participation; meeting livestream available via Vimeo link

City Council

The Afton City Council will meet to approve routine claims and transfers, discuss a proposed rezoning for a 94-acre property, and consider a contract extension for waste services. The meeting will also include reports on public safety and infrastructure.

• Preliminary Plat of 4 Lots and Conditional Use Permit for Shared Driveways on 94 Acres at East End of 10th Street
• One-Year Extension of Contract with Highland Sanitation for Solid Waste and Recycling Services
• Draft Amendment to Firearms Discharge Ordinance
• 2026 Crack Fill and Micro Surface Road Maintenance Projects
• Public Input on any issue of city responsibility

Meeting

The Afton City Council adopted Resolution 2026-28 to approve a preliminary plat for four lots on a 94‑acre parcel at the east end of 10th Street, and Resolution 2026-29 to approve a conditional use permit for shared driveways on the same parcel. The council also approved a draft amendment increasing allowed shed size to 300 sq ft. It awarded the 2026 micro surface road project to Fahrner for $249,000 and extended the solid‑waste contract with Highland Sanitation for one year, now ending June 30, 2027. Finally, the council revised the Minnesota Paid Leave Policy premium contributions to .44% for employees and .22% for the city.

• Approval of preliminary plat for 4 lots on 94 acres at east end of 10th Street (Resolution 2026-28)
• Approval of conditional use permit for shared driveways on the same 94‑acre parcel (Resolution 2026-29)
• Award of 2026 micro surface project to Fahrner for $249,000
• One‑year extension of solid‑waste contract with Highland Sanitation, now expiring June 30, 2027
• Revision of MN Paid Leave Policy premium contributions to .44% employee, .22% city

Meeting

The Heritage Preservation/Design Review Commission will consider exterior modifications for a rental house and a wellness building. The body will also discuss historical markers, the Township Hall project, and a historic farmhouse on 45th Street parkland.

• Design review for 15965 32nd Street: paint color (Porpoise by Sherwin Williams), two exterior doors, and Onyx Black roof shingles
• Design review for 3185 St. Croix Trail: addition of a 4-season porch to the Life Wellness Building
• Discussion of historic farmhouse on 45th Street parkland based on a Phase 1 archaeological survey
• Review of historical markers for Putnam House/Red House and Asa Tracy House
• Discussion of Township Hall project federal nomination and grants

City Council

The council will examine the University of Minnesota Capstone Team draft report on the neighborhood trails planning process, focusing on pages 1‑5 and the executive summary. Discussion will cover the draft vision, public‑engagement recommendations, and a suitability analysis tool. Staff may also begin a conversation about next steps, such as continuing the Greenway Corridors Working Group or forming a standing committee. The City Administrator will provide general project updates.

• Review pages 1‑5 and executive summary of the Capstone Team draft report
• Discuss draft vision for the neighborhood trails project
• Consider recommendations from the Public Engagement Plan
• Evaluate the suitability analysis tool for potential trail areas
• Debate next steps: Greenway Corridors Working Group vs. standing committee

Parks Committee

The Afton Parks Committee will discuss the current balance of the Park Dedication Fund, which is $391,593. It will review the draft plan for Herreid Park presented by Elissa Thompson and hear naming suggestions for the new park. The committee will also consider the Park Donation Policy related to a donation from Mark and Barbara Russo for Dave Clymer.

• Park Dedication Fund Balance: $391,593
• Review of Herreid Park draft (presented by Elissa Thompson)
• Naming ideas for Herreid Park
• Discussion of Park Donation Policy (donation from Mark & Barbara Russo for Dave Clymer)

Meeting

The Afton City Council approved the work‑session minutes from the previous meeting. Council members heard a draft final report from the University of Minnesota Capstone Team on a neighborhood trails planning process. No other updates or actions were taken before the council adjourned.

• Approve City Council Work Session Minutes
• Presentation of University of Minnesota Capstone Team draft report on neighborhood trails planning

City Council

The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will discuss updates on several ongoing projects, including bank stabilization, floodplain restoration, and regional trail plans. Members will review the schedule and logistics for 2026 well testing for nitrates and coliform bacteria, with kits to be distributed in May and sample collection on June 9 and 16. Additional items include land‑rehabilitation planting dates and content for the monthly newsletter.

• Kelle’s Creek bank stabilization and floodplain forest restoration in Steamboat and Carver Parks
• 2025 Resilient Communities Project update
• Land rehabilitation project west of City Hall with planting deliveries May 7 (Levee) and May 19 (City Hall)
• Regional Trails planning: Battle Creek to St. Croix River and Stillwater to Afton
• Well testing for nitrates and coliform bacteria in 2026 – kits in May, collections June 9 and 16

Planning Commission

The commission held public hearings on a variance request for an accessory building at 5698 Oakridge Court South and on a preliminary plat for a four‑lot subdivision of a 94.4‑acre property at the east end of 10" Street. It recommended denial of the Oakridge variance and recommended approval of the subdivision plat with conditions. New business included discussion of accessory‑building size rules for parcels under 5 acres and the City Council chambers audio/visual system. The commission also reviewed its policy for handling new substantive information submitted at meetings.

• Variance application for an accessory building at 5698 Oakridge Court South – recommendation to deny
• Preliminary plat review for a 4‑lot subdivision of a 94.4‑acre property at the east end of 10" Street – recommendation to approve with conditions
• Discussion of accessory‑building size limits on lots less than 5 acres
• Council Chambers audio/visual system and microphone use
• Planning Commission response policy when new substantive information is provided at a meeting

Meeting

The commission held a public hearing on a preliminary plat for a 94.4‑acre property at the east end of 10th Street, proposing four lots with shared private driveways. After discussion, the commission voted to recommend approval of the plat with conditions, including removal of public walking trail easements. The commission also considered options for accessory building size flexibility on lots under 5 acres and reviewed audio/visual upgrades for council chambers. No other reports or presentations were made.

• Preliminary plat for a 4‑lot subdivision (94.4 acres) at east end of 10th St S, with shared driveways and a proposed conservation easement
• Motion to recommend approval of the plat with a friendly amendment removing trail easements
• Discussion of possible changes to accessory building size limits on lots less than 5 acres in Agricultural and Rural Residential zones
• Consideration of upgraded microphones for council chambers to improve sound quality
• Request for Planning Commission feedback on accessory building flexibility options

City Council

The Afton City Council work session will discuss how to respond to the 2025 state law allowing rifles for deer hunting, including possible city ordinances and the formation of a deer‑management working group. Council members will also review the commercial solid waste and recycling contract with Highland Sanitation, which expires in June 2026, and consider extending it while planning an RFP. Additional topics include changes to the MN Paid Leave employee premium, adding bereavement leave, and how to regulate ultralight aircraft in the city.

• Deer hunting firearms regulation and creation of a deer‑management working group
• Commercial solid waste service contract expires June 2026; extension and future RFP planning
• Proposed change of employee MN Paid Leave premium from 0.33% to 0.44% of gross pay
• Consideration of adding two days of bereavement leave to personnel policy
• Discussion of a temporary moratorium and possible standards for ultralight aircraft permits

Meeting

The Afton City Council discussed a range of items, including forming a deer‑hunting task force, seeking competitive bids for commercial solid waste services, and revising employee payroll contributions for the state paid‑leave program. It also approved additional bereavement leave, a city logo rendering, and funding for a St. Croix River workshop, while adopting an adopt‑a‑drain program and amending the ordinance to prohibit ultralight aircraft operations.

• Amend ordinance to prohibit take‑offs and landings of ultralight aircraft in the city
• Create a deer hunting and management task force to meet 4‑6 times over the next six months
• Conduct an RFP for commercial solid waste and recycling services for downtown Old Village and Afton Marina
• Revise MN Paid Leave employee premium contribution to 0.44% of gross pay
• Add up to five days of paid bereavement leave for city employees

City Council

The City Council is reviewing proposals for 2026 structure inspections and road maintenance. This includes potential closures and repairs for pedestrian bridges and street surfacing projects.

• Proposal for $24,000 to CBS Squared for 2026 Structure Inspections
• Proposal for $10,000 to CBS Squared for 2026 Road Maintenance work
• Estimated costs for crack filling 16.17 miles ($130,000) and microsurfacing 6.62 miles ($304,000)
• Two road patching requests for $10,000 each on Quadrant/53rd Street South
• Proposed closure of the pedestrian bridge at Putnam Boulevard for evaluation

Meeting

The council voted 4-0 to deny a variance request for an 1,800‑sq‑ft accessory garage at 5698 Oakridge Court South. It also approved a $24,000 contract for 2026 structure inspections and a $10,000 patching project on Quadrant/53rd Street South. Additionally, the council adopted a resolution to approve a minor subdivision at 1010 Stagecoach Trail South, pending clarification of a 33‑foot right‑of‑way requirement.

• Denial of variance application for accessory building at 5698 Oakridge Court South
• Approval of CBS2 proposal for $24,000 to perform 2026 structure inspections
• Approval of $10,000 patching work on Quadrant/53rd Street South
• Approval of minor subdivision at 1010 Stagecoach Trail South with ROW condition
• Closure of Putnam Blvd pedestrian bridge until safety assessment is completed

Parks Committee

The Parks Committee will review a sketch plan to subdivide a 94.4‑acre property at the east end of 10" Street into four lots. The committee will also consider the Park Dedication Fund balance of $390,396.00, a proposed park donation policy, a donation from Mark and Barbara Russo for Dave Clymer, and naming ideas for Herreid Park.

• Sketch plan review for a 4‑lot, 94.4‑acre subdivision (PIDs 05.028.20.44.0004, 05.028.20.43.0001, 08.028.20.11.0001, 08.028.20.12.0002)
• Park Dedication Fund balance: $390,396.00
• Proposed park donation policy
• Park donation from Mark and Barbara Russo for Dave Clymer
• Naming ideas for Herreid Park

Meeting

The Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss road reviews, bridge reports, and specific infrastructure repairs. The body will evaluate current maintenance projects and security needs for city facilities.

• Micro Surfacing Year One Assessment
• Crackfill Project for 2026
• Valley Creek Public Works Garage Security
• Boundary fence replacement on East Side of Wastewater Treatment Site
• Caution/Warning signage at the curve near 60" Street and Oakgreen Avenue

City Council

The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will review a sketch plan for a four‑lot subdivision covering 94.4 acres at the east end of 10th Street (PID#s 05.028.20.44.0004, 05.028.20.43.0001, 08.028.20.11.0001, 08.028.20.12.0002). The meeting also includes updates on Kelle’s Creek bank stabilization, the 2025 Resilient Communities Project, a land‑rehabilitation project west of City Hall, and regional trail plans. Additional items cover prescribed burns, well testing for nitrates and coliform bacteria, and newsletter content.

• Sketch Plan Review for 4‑lot subdivision of 94.4‑acre property east of 10th Street (PID#s listed)
• Kelle’s Creek Bank Stabilization and Floodplain Forest Restoration in Steamboat and Carver Parks
• 2025 Resilient Communities Project update
• Land Rehabilitation Project on city property west of City Hall and City Entryway
• Regional Trails planning: Battle Creek to St. Croix River and Stillwater to Afton

Meeting

The Planning Commission reviewed a variance request for a detached garage and a sketch plan for a 4-lot subdivision. The body also discussed procedures for handling new information provided by applicants during meetings.

• Recommended denial of variance for a 1,800 ft2 detached garage at 5698 Oakridge Court South
• Reviewed sketch plan for a 4-lot subdivision of 94.4 acres at the east end of 10th Street
• Discussed City Attorney advice to recommend denial of applications when substantive information is not provided in the initial packet

Planning Commission

The Afton Planning Commission is reviewing a variance request for an 1,800 sq ft accessory building at 5698 Oakridge Ct S. The applicant proposes a 50-foot side-yard setback, which is less than the 100-foot requirement for structures over 1,500 sq ft. Staff and neighbors have raised concerns about the structure's visibility and potential impact on neighboring properties.

• Variance request for 1,800 sq ft accessory building at 5698 Oakridge Ct S
• 50-foot side-yard setback requested (vs. 100-foot requirement)
• Concerns about visibility and impact on neighboring properties
• Structure does not meet 200-foot setback from on-site well
• Neighbor questionnaire contains factual inconsistencies

Meeting

The Afton City Council authorized a $500 payment to the Afton‑Lakeland PTO for its school carnival, using funds from the city’s Charitable Gaming Account. Council members also discussed proposals for monthly vegetation maintenance of downtown medians and City Hall plantings, noting that Horticulture could not submit a proposal because it involved herbicides. The council decided to defer further action on the vegetation maintenance request to the April 21 meeting.

• Approve $500 contribution to Afton‑Lakeland PTO school carnival (Charitable Gaming Account)
• Discuss monthly vegetation maintenance for two downtown medians and City Hall shrubs
• Request Willow River proposal for weed control without herbicides
• Horticulture did not submit a proposal due to herbicide restrictions
• Defer vegetation maintenance item to April 21 Council meeting

City Council

The Afton City Council will consider two matters: approving a contract with Willow River for monthly weed control and seasonal plant‑bed maintenance on St. Croix Trail medians and City Hall, and authorizing a $2,000 contribution to the Afton‑Lakeland PTO for its school carnival using charitable gaming funds.

• Willow River contract for monthly median and City Hall plant‑bed maintenance, total $3,374
• Seasonal services include weed control, two pre‑emergent herbicide applications, and spring/fall clean‑ups
• Monthly maintenance scheduled May‑September; spring and fall clean‑ups billed at $75 per man‑hour
• Request for a $2,000 city contribution to the Afton‑Lakeland School Carnival
• Contribution to be funded from the city’s Charitable Gaming account, which has a $3,655 balance

Meeting

The Greenway Corridors Working Group will review the status of the neighborhood trails planning process. Members will hear a presentation from a University of Minnesota capstone project that includes a survey and recommendations. The group will then discuss next steps based on feedback from the City Council.

• Update and review neighborhood trails planning process status
• Presentation from University of Minnesota capstone project on survey and recommendations
• Determine next steps based on City Council feedback

City Council

The Afton City Council will hear a presentation by the University of Minnesota Capstone Team on the Neighborhood Trails Planning Project. Staff will propose changing videographer compensation from $30 per hour to a flat $125 per meeting, with an hourly rate of $35 for additional services. The Council will discuss options for increasing the maximum size of storage sheds from 160 square feet to 300 or 400 square feet. The City Administrator will provide routine updates on projects and needs.

• Presentation by U of M Capstone Team on Neighborhood Trails Planning Project
• Proposal to change videographer pay to a flat $125 per meeting (hourly $35 for extra services)
• Discussion of raising storage shed size limit from 160 sq ft to 300 or 400 sq ft

Meeting

The City Council received a presentation from a U of M Capstone Team on neighborhood trails planning priorities. The Council also agreed to change the contracted videographer's pay to a flat rate per meeting. Other agenda items were not discussed due to time constraints.

• U of M Capstone Team presentation on Neighborhood Trails Planning Project survey results
• Agreement to change videographer compensation to a $125 flat rate per meeting
• Agreement to set videographer hourly rate for additional services at $35/hr

Meeting

The Afton City Council approved a 3.5% salary increase for city staff, adopted the developer’s agreement for the Afton Business Park Second Addition, and approved a change to the firefighter relief association’s pension vesting schedule. The council tabled a minor subdivision application at 1010 Stagecoach Trail South and continued a variance application for an accessory building at 2249 Neal Avenue South to the next meeting. Additional discussion covered deer‑hunting authority and proposals for median maintenance.

• 3.5% pay adjustment for City Clerk, Office Assistant, Public Works Supervisor and seasonal staff
• Adoption of Developer’s Agreement for Afton Business Park Second Addition (300 Maple Court S and 377 Maple Court S)
• Resolution to change firefighter relief association pension vesting schedule to allow benefit increase at 110% funding ratio
• Tabled minor subdivision application for an additional lot at 1010 Stagecoach Trail South
• Continued variance application for accessory building at 2249 Neal Avenue South

City Council

The Afton City Council will meet to approve minutes and claims, discuss a developer's agreement for the Afton Business Park Second Addition, and hold a public hearing on an amendment to the Firearms Use, Discharge Ordinance to prohibit rifle use for deer hunting.

• Approval of minutes for February 17 and March 2 meetings
• Public hearing on amendment to Firearms Use, Discharge Ordinance
• Developer's Agreement for Afton Business Park Second Addition
• Resolution 2026-20 for minor subdivision at 1010 Stagecoach Trail South
• Resolution 2026-21 for LSCVFFRA Benefit Level and Vesting Changes

Meeting

The Heritage Preservation/Design Review Commission will consider two historical marker designs for the Putnam House and the Asa Tracy House. The commission will receive updates on the Afton Township Hall federal nomination and related grant information. Discussion will also cover the Village Online Walking Tour Phase 2 and the Valley Creek Driving Tour grant application.

• Putnam House historic marker design approved; metal plaque post drawing to be sent for pricing
• Asa Tracy House historic marker status; no new information on plaque mounting
• Afton Township Hall federal nomination; decision expected by February 16 and grant details to be provided in March
• Village Online Walking Tour Phase 2; cost estimate to be provided for website upgrade
• Valley Creek Driving Tour grant application due April 100

Parks Committee

The Parks Committee will review design notes for the 45th Street Park and discuss expanding the park bench donation policy. The committee will also receive an update on the Park Dedication Fund balance.

• Park Dedication Fund balance as of January 31, 2026: $390,500.00
• 45th Street Park design notes including multi-use trails, 3-5 gravel parking stalls, and rustic structures
• Proposed expansion of Park Bench Donation Policy to include trees, plantings, and boardwalks
• Discussion of memorial criteria and a 10-year maintenance donation renewal limit

Meeting

The Planning Commission reviewed two land-use applications. The body recommended approving a minor subdivision to create an additional lot and recommended denying a setback variance for a livestock barn.

• Recommended approval of minor subdivision to split 1010 Stagecoach Tr S into two lots (15.04 acres and 5 acres)
• Recommended denial of a 50-foot variance for a 2,400 sq ft livestock barn at 2249 Neal Ave S

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a request to create an additional lot at 1010 Stagecoach Trail South and a variance for an accessory building at 2249 Neal Avenue South. The body will also review highlights from the February 17, 2026, City Council meeting.

• Minor Subdivision Application to create one additional lot at 1010 Stagecoach Trail South
• Variance Application for an accessory building at 2249 Neal Avenue South
• Parkland dedication fee for 1010 Stagecoach Trail South estimated between $5,000 and $10,000

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss deer hunting plans and potential changes to accessory building size and quantity limits for lots under 5 acres. The body will also review proposed security improvements for City Hall and the transition to a .gov website domain.

• Proposed ordinance amendments for accessory buildings on lots less than 5 acres in RR and Ag zones
• Discussion of a Deer Management Working Group and a March 17 public hearing on prohibiting rifles for deer hunting
• Proposed security improvements for the city office
• Transition of city domain name to aftonmn.gov
• Coordination with Metro Bowhunters Resource Base (MBRB) for private property hunts

City Council

The City Council is reviewing proposals and resident feedback regarding deer hunting within Afton. Discussions include potential restrictions on rifles, the use of sharpshooters, and the implementation of Earn-a-Buck regulations.

• Proposed rifle restrictions for deer hunting
• Discussion of Earn-a-Buck regulations
• Potential use of sharpshooters for population reduction
• Proposal to establish a Deer Management Working Group
• Review of city code regarding crossbow use

Meeting

The Afton City Council approved Resolution 2026-15, granting a Conditional Use Permit for a private riding stable at 13750 15th St S with added septic and public‑event conditions. It also adopted three resolutions (2026-16, 2026-17, 2026-18) approving the final plat and easement vacations for the Afton Business Park at 300 and 377 Maple Court. The council referred an amendment to the Firearms Use, Discharge ordinance that would prohibit rifles for deer hunting to a public hearing at the March 17 meeting. A discussion was held on allowing accessory dwelling units called “casitas” in the agricultural zone, but no action was taken.

• Resolution 2026-15: Conditional Use Permit for a private riding stable at 13750 15th St S, with septic sizing and no public events condition.
• Resolution 2026-16: Approval of Afton Business Park final plat at 300 and 377 Maple Court.
• Resolution 2026-17: Vacation of drainage and utility easements for the Business Park plat.
• Resolution 2026-18: Vacation of a portion of Maple Court S as dedicated on the Business Park plat.
• Referral of amendment to the Firearms Use, Discharge ordinance to prohibit rifles for deer hunting to a March 17 public hearing.

Meeting

The Heritage Preservation/Design Review Commission will meet to review design proposals for a new industrial building and exterior improvements to a local business. The body will also discuss historical markers and tourism projects.

• Design review for a planned new industrial building at 300 and 377 Maple Court South
• Design review for exterior improvements at 3335 St. Croix Trail South, including trim color change to black, an awning, and a new sign
• Discussion of historical markers for the Putnam House/Red House and Asa Tracy House
• Township Hall Project updates regarding federal nomination and grants
• Updates on the Village Online Walking Tour (Phase 2) and Valley Creek Driving Tour

Parks Committee

The Parks Committee will review the Park Dedication Fund balance of $388,026 as of Dec. 31, 2025. Members will discuss priority parks, focusing on Herreid Park’s conservation easement and possible passive‑park amenities, and Steamboat Park’s recent Releaf Grant application, which was not funded. The park bench donation policy is placed on hold pending a comparison with Woodbury’s program.

• Park Dedication Fund Balance: $388,026 (as of Dec. 31, 2025)
• Herreid Park: walk‑through of conservation easement and potential trails, parking, benches, signage
• Steamboat Park: Releaf Grant application unsuccessful; seeking other grant opportunities
• Park Bench Donation Policy: on hold until comparison with Woodbury program is completed
• Remote Zoom participation unavailable due to technical issues

Meeting

The commission held a public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit for a private riding stable at 13750 15th St S and voted to recommend its approval with specific conditions. Commissioners added a casita ordinance item for future city council consideration. The commission also reviewed the draft Agriculture Conservation Development ordinance and received an update on recent city council actions.

• Conditional Use Permit for private riding stable at 13750 15th St S – recommendation to approve with conditions (no commercial use, no organized events, exterior lighting plan, manure management plan, livestock ordinance compliance)
• Casita ordinance – added for discussion to allow secondary dwellings on large parcels, to be considered by city council
• Draft Agriculture Conservation Development ordinance – discussed; Minnesota Land Trust reviewing draft ordinance and conservation easement agreement
• Update on City Council actions – summary of the January 20, 2026 council meeting

Planning Commission

The commission will hold a public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit to create an indoor private riding stable on 13750 15" St S, a 30.8‑acre agricultural parcel. Commissioners will also review the draft Agriculture Conservation Development Ordinance and receive a summary of recent City Council actions. No new business is scheduled.

• Conditional Use Permit application for an indoor riding stable at 13750 15" St S (Agriculture district)
• Draft Agriculture Conservation Development Ordinance (old business)
• Update on City Council actions from the January 20, 2026 meeting

City Council

The City Council will consider variance and subdivision applications for properties on St. Croix Trail South and Maple Court. The body will also designate the city engineer and attorney, and discuss planning for 2026 street projects.

• Variance and minor subdivision applications for 3787 St. Croix Trail South and 4010 Penfield Avenue South
• Preliminary plat, easement vacation, and CUP applications for 300 and 377 Maple Court
• Planning for 2026 Microsurfacing and Street Crackseal projects
• Designation of City Engineer and City Attorney/Prosecution Attorney
• Proposed fire inspections program for commercial and industrial buildings

Meeting

The Afton City Council voted to deny both a variance request and a minor subdivision application for the parcels at 3787 St. Croix Trail South and 4010 Penfield Avenue South. The council also approved a preliminary plat, street easement vacation, and conditional use permit for 300 and 377 Maple Court. Additional actions included authorizing $2,000 for a road inventory update and beginning the process to change the city’s domain name to www.aftonmn.gov.

• Denied variance application at 3787 St. Croix Trail S (Resolution 2026-06)
• Denied minor subdivision application at 3787 St. Croix Trail S and 4010 Penfield Ave S (Resolution 2026-07)
• Approved preliminary plat and street easement vacation at 300 & 377 Maple Court (Resolution 2026-08)
• Approved conditional use permit at 300 & 377 Maple Court (Resolution 2026-09)
• Authorized up to $2,000 for a road inventory update

Meeting

The Heritage Preservation/Design Review Commission will meet to hear from a guest regarding indigenous history in Afton. The body will also discuss historical markers, the Township Hall project, and the commission's role in reviewing new commercial buildings in industrial zones.

• Presentation on Indigenous History in Afton by Sharyl Whitehawk
• Discussion of historical markers for Putnam House/Red House and Asa Tracy House
• Township Hall Project federal nomination and grants
• Village Online Walking Tour Phase 2 and Valley Creek Driving Tour
• Design review role for new commercial buildings in industrial zones

Parks Committee

The Parks Committee will review a priority list for 2026 park planning and discuss a policy for park bench donations. The body will also receive updates on the skating rink and the FSI Standard Urban Forest Grant.

• Review of Park Dedication Fund balance, reported as $386,786.00 as of November 30, 2025
• Discussion of Park Bench Donation Policy regarding memorials and locations
• Update on motion to Council regarding the skating rink
• Review of 2026 Park planning priority list
• Proposal to allow a bee area in Steamboat Park

City Council

The Agriculture Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss a draft Agriculture Conservation Development (ACD) ordinance. The proposed rules aim to preserve farmland by allowing landowners to subdivide property for residential use in exchange for placing at least 50% of the land into a permanent agricultural conservation easement.

• Draft Agriculture Conservation Development (ACD) ordinance
• Proposed requirement for 80-acre minimum tract size for ACD
• Proposed allowance of 4 lots per quarter-quarter section in exchange for 50% conservation easement
• Proposed creation of an Agriculture Conservation Development Overlay District
• Discussion of prohibiting feedlots within the ACD ordinance

Meeting

The City Council met with Washington County planning staff to provide feedback on potential routes for a regional trail between Battle Creek Regional Park and the St. Croix River. The Council also discussed the administration of deer hunt rules for the 2026 season.

• Review of regional trail segment options along Hudson Road and 40th Street/CR-18
• Discussion of 2026 deer hunt rules including Earn-a-Buck and weapon restrictions
• Postponed discussion on accessory building ordinance amendments for substandard lots

Meeting

The Afton Greenway Corridors Working Group will review the Greenway Corridor/Trail Planning Framework and discuss recommended changes and next steps. The group will receive an update on the Resilient Communities Project projects in cooperation with the University of Minnesota and discuss further actions for the regional trail planning process. The meeting will also set the date and time for the next working group session.

• Review Greenway Corridor/Trail Planning Framework – discuss recommended changes
• Update on Resilient Communities Project projects with the University of Minnesota
• Discuss next steps for the RCP effort and regional trail planning process
• Identify the next meeting date and time

City Council

The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will review updates on several ongoing projects, including the 2025 Resilient Communities Project and land rehabilitation west of City Hall. Members will discuss well testing for nitrates and coliform bacteria scheduled for 2026, as well as other items such as creek bank stabilization and cell tower considerations. The meeting also includes routine agenda approval, officer elections, and scheduling of the next meeting.

• 2025 Resilient Communities Project – update by Sven
• Land rehabilitation project on City property west of City Hall and City Entryway – update by Elissa
• Kelle’s Creek Bank Stabilization and Floodplain Forest Restoration in Steamboat and Carver Parks – update by Kim and Elissa
• Cell Towers in Afton – discussion led by Petra
• Well testing for nitrates and coliform bacteria in 2026 – discussion by committee

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding a preliminary plat, street vacation, and conditional use permit for a proposed business park. The body will also discuss a draft Agriculture Conservation Development Ordinance.

• Public hearing for Landspec 5 Afton preliminary plat and CUP at 300 and 377 Maple Court
• Proposed 125,600 sq ft multi-tenant business park building
• Request to vacate a 340-foot portion of Maple Court S
• Discussion of Draft Agriculture Conservation Development Ordinance

Meeting

The Planning Commission reviewed applications for a 125,600 ft2 multi-tenant business park. The body recommended approval of the preliminary plat, street vacation, and a Conditional Use Permit with specific modifications to the allowed uses and landscaping.

• Recommended approval of preliminary plat and street vacation for 300 and 377 Maple Court S
• Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for a 125,600 ft2 business park
• Removal of data center, medical/dental laboratory, research laboratory, and community solar from the CUP request
• Condition for a revised landscaping plan using native tree species
• Discussion of Draft Ag Conservation Development Ordinance