Bemidji public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several permit requests and a zoning map amendment. The body will also discuss an ordinance text amendment regarding cannabis zoning and land use.

• Public hearing: Ordinance Text Amendment for Article X, Section 28-429 Cannabis Zoning and Land Use
• Public hearing: Rezone and Conditional Use Permit Requests for Parcel 80.03760.00 (Vision Properties of Bemidji)
• Public hearing: Interim Use Permit Request for Parcel 80.04204.00 (First City Cannabis)
• Public hearing: Conditional Use Permit Requests for Parcel 80.03761.00 (Kodiak Builders)
• Public hearing: Conditional Use Permit Requests for Parcel 80.00083.00 (Tamarack Woods Apartments)

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The board will review the proposed 2026 Sanford Center Operating Budget and examine October financials from ASM Global. The meeting also includes reports from the General Manager and subcommittees.

• Review of 2026 Sanford Center Operating Budget
• October financials from ASM Global for the Sanford Center

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will vote on the final 2026 municipal budget along with several other resolutions and ordinances. Items on the consent agenda include large financial claims, license renewals, and board appointments. A public hearing will consider the 2026‑2030 Capital Improvement Plans for the city and the Sanford Center. Ordinances amending cannabis business registration and related fee schedules will receive final readings.

• Claims submitted by Finance Officer for $1,110,348.52
• Claims submitted by ASM Global for the Sanford Center for $154,078.07
• Resolution approving 2026 City pay scale and benefit contribution levels
• Resolution restricting parking on Pine Ridge Avenue NW
• Resolution approving final 2026 budget

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will approve its agenda and consider the postponed minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting. It will discuss member retention, elect officers on January 8, 2026 with new positions beginning February 12, 2026, and address expiring positions and recruitment for an open non‑city‑resident seat. The commission will also review comprehensive planning and upcoming events.

• Approval of agenda and postponed minutes from November 13, 2025
• Election of officers – January 8, 2026; new positions start February 12, 2026
• Positions expiring December 31, 2025 (Charles Biberg, Lisa Weiskopf, Anna Carlson, Jordan Lutz)
• Recruitment for an open non‑city‑resident position, term expires December 31, 2027
• Comprehensive planning discussion

Parks and Trails Commission

The Bemidji Parks and Recreation Commission will open the meeting at 4:30 PM on December 9, 2025. Commissioners will approve the minutes from the October 14, 2025 meeting. The public may comment on agenda items, with a three‑minute limit per speaker. The commission will give updates on recreation (staffing, Loon Country Arts, programs, Region 2 Arts Grant) and on parks and trails.

• Approval of October 14, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comments (3‑minute limit per speaker)
• Recreation updates: staffing, Loon Country Arts, programs and events, Region 2 Arts Grant
• Parks and Trails updates

General

The council reviewed the preliminary 6% levy for 2026, which would total $8,957,121, and debated options ranging from 3% to 6%. Members expressed differing priorities on funding levels, recreation budget, and potential property sales. No consensus was reached, and staff were asked to provide detailed budget options for the next meeting.

• No substantive decisions made; staff directed to return with specific budget options

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will conduct a Truth-in-Taxation hearing for the 2026 budget and levy, and hold public hearings on ordinances amending cannabis business registration and fee schedules.

• Claims submitted totaling $3,245,438.33
• Approve 2026 Business and Liquor License renewals
• Approve Change Order No. 1 for Park Avenue NW Reconstruction
• Public Hearing on ordinance amending City Code Chapter 12 - Cannabis Business Registration
• Final Reading of ordinance amending fee schedule for 2026

The Bemidji City Council approved the 2026 fee schedule for cannabis and hemp business registrations, passing Ordinance No. 224 with a roll‑call vote. The council also adopted the compensation and classification study results for the 2026 payroll. All consent agenda items and routine approvals were adopted, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved October 20, 2025 minutes (yeas: Prince, Peterson, Dickinson, Rivera, Eaton, Thayer; abstain: Fiskevold Gould)
• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (unanimous roll‑call vote)
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 items (yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould; abstain: Peterson)
• Passed Ordinance No. 224 amending 2026 cannabis and hemp registration fee schedule (yeas: Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould)
• Approved publication of a summary of Ordinance No. 224 (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved compensation and classification study results for 2026 payroll (yeas: Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Eaton, Peterson, Thayer, Rivera)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Community and Police Advisory Board

The board will meet to discuss administrative matters including membership recruitment and meeting frequency. The agenda also includes a review of the summer picnic and a discussion on outreach.

• Board membership and recruitment
• Meeting frequency
• Summer picnic review
• Outreach discussion

General

The City Council held a work session on November 24, 2025 to review the HRDC Comprehensive Plan update. Councilmembers gave feedback on the proposed priority areas, stakeholder list, and data accessibility, but did not formally adopt any items. No substantive actions were approved or denied. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Bemidji Planning Commission will hold public hearings on several land‑use requests. These include conditional use permits for Kodiak Builders and Tamarack Woods Apartments, an interim use permit for First City Cannabis, a rezoning and conditional use request by Vision Properties of Bemidji, and an ordinance amendment to cannabis zoning regulations. The commission will consider each request and any public comments before making decisions.

• Public Hearing: Conditional Use Permit for Parcel 80.03761.00 – Kodiak Builders
• Public Hearing: Conditional Use Permit for Parcel 80.00083.00 – Tamarack Woods Apartments
• Public Hearing: Interim Use Permit for Parcel 80.04204.00 – First City Cannabis
• Public Hearing: Rezone (Zoning Map Amendment) and Conditional Use Permit for Parcel 80.03760.00 – Vision Properties of Bemidji
• Public Hearing: Ordinance Text Amendment for Article X, Section 28-429 Cannabis Zoning and Land Use

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The Sanford Center Advisory Board will meet to review monthly financial reports and receive updates from the General Manager. The meeting consists primarily of routine reports and administrative approvals.

• Review of September financials from ASM Global for the Sanford Center
• October update from the General Manager

The board approved the meeting agenda by unanimous consent. It directed the marketing committee to shift to quarterly meetings starting in 2026 and to reestablish finance and operations committees for consistent oversight. The board recommended that ASM lead the creation of a dedicated outside sales position for statewide and national conference outreach and supported a joint meeting with the Visit Bemidji Board to define shared roles. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous motion.

• Agenda approved by unanimous consent
• Marketing committee to shift to quarterly meetings beginning 2026
• Finance and Operations committees to be reestablished and scheduled for 2026
• Recommended ASM create a dedicated outside sales position (no vote recorded)
• Supported organizing a joint meeting with Visit Bemidji Board (no vote recorded)
• Adjournment motion approved unanimously

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will review presentations on 100-year-old buildings and discuss a draft letter regarding the Old New Bemidji Hotel Mural. The meeting will also address a follow-up with the State Historic Preservation Office and a proposal for a memorial at the Pumping Station 1909.

• Review presentations on 100-year-old buildings
• Draft letter to Patterson's regarding 100-year-old building
• Old New Bemidji Hotel Mural discussion
• SHPO Follow Up
• Pumping Station 1909 memorial proposal

The Heritage Preservation Commission accepted the agenda and the minutes from the October 21, 2025 meeting. It approved “Option 2” on page 7 for the 1909 Pumping Station monument project for 2026. The commission voted to draft a letter to Miller’s of Patterson’s Clothing requesting an application for a 100‑year‑old building on Third Street. It also decided not to meet in December, set the January 20, 2026 agenda, scheduled the February 17, 2026 annual meeting, and adjourned the session.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of October 21, 2025 meeting (motion carried)
• Accepted “Option 2” for 1909 Pumping Station monument (motion carried)
• Approved drafting a letter to Miller’s of Patterson’s Clothing (motion carried)
• Decided not to meet in December (motion carried)
• Set January 20, 2026 agenda (motion carried)
• Scheduled February 17, 2026 annual meeting (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will consider a consent agenda with claims, business licenses, and special event permits, as well as a public hearing on a 2026 fee schedule amendment. The body will also discuss contracts for police vehicles and solar arrays at city facilities.

• Claims totaling $1,629,009.42
• Claims for Sanford Center totaling $67,598.07
• Public hearing on amending the 2026 fee schedule
• Consideration of a contract for 2026 police patrol vehicles
• Consideration of solar developer contracts for city facilities

The council adopted the 2026 fee schedule amendment and voted to increase long‑term rental business license renewal fees by 10%. It authorized the mayor and city manager to finalize a solar contract with Wolf Track Energy for the Water Treatment Plant Phase 2 (up to $160,000) and another contract for four city locations (up to $552,000). The consent agenda items, including claims, licenses, special event permits, police vehicle purchase, and memoranda of understanding, were approved unanimously.

• Approved 2026 fee schedule amendment (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved 10% increase to long‑term rental business license renewal fees (Yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)
• Authorized contract with Wolf Track Energy for Water Treatment Plant solar array, not to exceed $160,000 (Yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson)
• Authorized contract with Wolf Track Energy for solar arrays at four city sites, not to exceed $552,000 (Yeas: Eaton, Prince, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould; Nays: Peterson)
• Approved consent agenda items, including $1,629,009.42 finance claims and special event permits (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved purchase of 2026 police patrol vehicles (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved MOU between MN DOT and the City of Bemidji (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved policy regarding Minnesota paid family leave (unanimous voice vote)

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will review the recap of its Annual Report presented to the City Council on November 3, 2025. The body will discuss member retention, recruitment for a non-city resident position, and comprehensive planning updates.

• Recap of Annual Report from November 3, 2025
• Recruitment for open non-city resident position expiring 12/31/2027
• Comprehensive Planning Updates
• Discussion of positions expiring December 31, 2025

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider three resolutions: an interim use permit for Northwest Tire on Parcel 80.04492.00, a variance request by Erik Thorson on Parcel 80.00537.00, and a conditional use permit for Peterson Sheet Metal on Parcel 80.06760.00. Staff will also present a director's report and a site analyst and enforcement report.

• Resolution: Interim Use Permit for Northwest Tire, Parcel 80.04492.00
• Resolution: Variance Request for Erik Thorson, Parcel 80.00537.00
• Resolution: Conditional Use Permit for Peterson Sheet Metal, Parcel 80.06760.00
• Director's Report (staff)
• Site Analyst and Enforcement Report (staff)

The Planning Board approved three planning cases. It granted an Interim Use Permit for Northwest Tire at 840 Industrial Park Dr SE (Resolution 2025-24). It approved two variances for Erik Thorson at 2114 Birchmont Dr NE (Resolution 2025-25). It also approved a Conditional Use Permit for Peterson Sheet Metal at 3728 Bemidji Ave N (Resolution 2025-26). All motions passed by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved Resolution 2025-24 for Interim Use Permit for Northwest Tire (voice vote, unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-25 for two variances for Erik Thorson (voice vote, unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-26 for Conditional Use Permit for Peterson Sheet Metal (voice vote, unanimous)

Charter Commission

The Bemidji Charter Commission will meet on November 5, 2025 at City Hall. The commission will discuss several items including the Merit Hearing Board, proposed amendments to Sections 6.01 and 6.02 of the city charter, the appointment of independent legal counsel, a governance model, and the future meeting schedule. No decisions are indicated as finalized in the agenda.

• Discuss Merit Hearing Board
• Discuss charter amendment to Section 6.01
• Discuss charter amendment to Section 6.02
• Discuss appointment of independent legal counsel
• Discuss governance model and future meeting schedule

City Council

The City Council will review final assessment rolls for the 2025 Street Renewal and Park Avenue NW Reconstruction projects. The body will also vote on various business and liquor license renewals and approve several sets of claims.

• Claims submitted by Finance Officer for $1,218,152.59
• Claims submitted by ASM Global for the Sanford Center for $150,488.66
• Final Assessment Roll for 2025 Street Renewal Project (City Project 25-01)
• Final Assessment Roll for 2025 Park Avenue NW Reconstruction Project (City Project 25-02)
• Claims submitted by Finance Officer to VisitBemidji for $51,865.43

The council adopted assessment rolls for the 2025 Street Renewal Project and the 2025 Park Avenue NW Reconstruction Project, setting 30‑year payment terms at 4.4% interest. A consent agenda covering multiple claims, licenses, a change order, a pension amendment, a memorandum, and a gambling premises permit was approved. All motions passed unanimously except one abstention on a small claim item.

• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (claims, licenses, change order, pension, memorandum, gambling permit) – unanimous roll call vote
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 claim for VisitBemidji ($51,865.43) – yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould; abstain: Peterson
• Adopted Resolution 6670: Assessment roll for 2025 Street Renewal Project, 30‑year amortization at 4.4% interest – unanimous roll call vote (Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould)
• Adopted Resolution 6671: Assessment roll for 2025 Park Avenue NW Reconstruction Project, 30‑year amortization at 4.4% interest – unanimous roll call vote (Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Eaton, Peterson, Thayer, Rivera)
• Approved agenda as presented – unanimous voice vote
• Approved September 22, 2025 minutes – unanimous voice vote
• Approved amendment to agenda – unanimous voice vote
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous voice vote

General

The Bemidji City Council will hold a work session to review the 2024 financial year-end and consider a resolution to designate fund balances. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2025, at 5:30 PM at City Hall.

• Review 2024 Financial Year End Review
• Consider Resolution Designating Fund Balances

The council adopted Resolution No. 6667 to designate fund balances, with all members voting in favor. The motion to adjourn the meeting was also passed by unanimous voice vote. Both actions were recorded as unanimous decisions.

• Adopted Resolution 6667 designating fund balances (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three permit requests. The requests are an interim use permit for NorthWest Tire (Parcel 80.04492.00), a variance for Erik Thorson (Parcel 80.00537.00), and a conditional use permit for Peterson Sheet Metal (Parcel 80.06760.00). Staff will provide an update on the Development Code review.

• Interim Use Permit Request – NorthWest Tire, Parcel 80.04492.00
• Variance Request – Erik Thorson, Parcel 80.00537.00
• Conditional Use Permit Request – Peterson Sheet Metal, Parcel 80.06760.00
• Development Code Review – staff update

The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of an interim use permit for Northwest Tire at 840 Industrial Park Dr SE. It also voted to recommend approval of a variance for Erik Thorson at 2114 Birchmont Dr NE. Both recommendations will be forwarded to the Planning Board for a final decision on November 10, 2025.

• Recommend approval of Interim Use Permit for Northwest Tire (parcel 800449200); vote unanimous (5 ayes, 0 nays)
• Recommend approval of variance for Erik Thorson (parcel 800053700); vote unanimous (5 ayes, 0 nays)

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The Sanford Center Advisory Board will meet to review August financial reports from ASM Global. The board will also address an update regarding approved bylaws.

• August Financials from ASM Global for the Sanford Center
• Approved ByLaws update

The Sanford Center Advisory Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the September 24, 2025 minutes. The board heard financial updates, a bylaws update noting City Council approval of revised bylaws, subcommittee reports, and a general manager report, but no new resolutions were adopted. Action items were assigned for accounting, committee recruitment, and scheduling future meetings.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved September 24, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to adjourn (unanimous)

Charter Commission

The Bemidji Charter Commission will meet on Oct. 22, 2025 to consider several topics. Commissioners will discuss the Merit Hearing Board, proposed amendments to Charter Sections 6.01 and 6.02, the appointment of independent legal counsel, a revised governance model, and the schedule for future meetings. No formal actions are listed; the agenda indicates discussion only.

• Discuss Merit Hearing Board
• Discuss Charter Amendment to Section 6.01
• Discuss Charter Amendment to Section 6.02
• Discuss Independent Legal Counsel
• Discuss Governance Model

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will consider new applications for designating 100‑year‑old buildings and decide whether to reschedule the decal presentation. The meeting also includes follow‑up with the State Historic Preservation Office, discussion of the Old New Bemidji Hotel mural, and a proposal for a memorial at the 1909 Pumping Station.

• New applications for 100‑year‑old building designations
• Reschedule of the decal presentation
• Follow‑up with the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)
• Discussion of the Old New Bemidji Hotel mural
• Proposal for a memorial from the salvaged 1909 Pumping Station

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved its meeting agenda and accepted the September 23, 2025 minutes. No new applications or decisions were made on old‑business items such as the 100‑year building projects. The commission adjourned the meeting and scheduled the next session for November 18, 2025.

• Approved agenda (carried)
• Approved September 23, 2025 minutes (carried)
• Adjourned meeting (carried)

General

The Public Affairs Committee will hold a vote to elect its chair. It will also discuss matters related to the Volunteer Firefighters Relief Association. No other business is listed.

• Election of Public Affairs Committee chair
• Discussion of Volunteer Firefighters Relief Association

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will consider approving claims totaling $1.94 million, renewing business and liquor licenses, and adopting assessment rolls for two street renewal projects. The body will also discuss a rail corridor soil clean-up project and potential closed session regarding litigation.

• Claims submitted totaling $1,871,213.36
• Claims submitted by ASM Global for Sanford Center totaling $74,259.37
• Public hearing on 2025 Street Renewal Project assessments
• Public hearing on 2025 Park Avenue NW Reconstruction Project assessments
• Consideration of award for Bemidji Rail Corridor Soil Clean-up Project

The council voted to postpone the adoption of the assessment roll for the 2025 Street Renewal Project (25-01) until the November 3 regular meeting. It also postponed the adoption of the assessment roll for the 2025 Park Avenue NW Reconstruction Project (25-02) until November 3. Both motions were carried by roll‑call vote.

• Approved agenda as presented (Yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)
• Approved September 8 and 15 minutes (Yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Peterson)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (Yeas: Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera)
• Tabled Resolution adopting assessment roll for 2025 Street Renewal Project (25-01) until Nov 3 (Yeas: Dickinson, Prince, Eaton, Peterson, Thayer, Rivera)
• Tabled Resolution adopting assessment roll for 2025 Park Avenue NW Reconstruction Project (25-02) until Nov 3 (Yeas: Rivera, Peterson, Dickinson, Thayer, Prince, Eaton)

Parks and Trails Commission

The Bemidji Parks and Recreation Commission will review and discuss the proposed fees and charges for 2026. Commissioners will consider the lease agreement for the historic Carnegie Library with the Loon Country Arts Collective. A capital improvement program (CIP) discussion and updates on recreation programming and parks and trails are also on the agenda.

• Review and discuss 2026 fees and charges
• Loon Country Arts Collective lease for the historic Carnegie Library
• Capital Improvement Program (CIP) discussion
• 2025 and proposed 2026 recreation programming
• Parks and Trails updates

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider an ordinance to amend the zoning map for Parcel 80.03316.00 (S&D Glass). The board will also hold a discussion regarding vacant, dilapidated, and storm-damaged properties.

• Zoning map amendment for Parcel 80.03316.00 - S&D Glass
• Discussion on storm damaged, dilapidated, and vacant properties

The board approved Ordinance No. 222, changing the zoning of parcel 800331600 from R‑5 High‑Density Residential to B‑2 General Commercial. The ordinance was adopted by a unanimous vote of all six present members. The board also approved publication of a summary of the ordinance, again unanimously. Earlier agenda and minutes were approved by unanimous voice votes, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes of Aug 11, 2025 meeting (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Ordinance No. 222 rezoning parcel 800331600 to B‑2 General Commercial (unanimous yeas: Thayer, Eaton, Rivera, Dickinson, Peterson, Prince)
• Approved publication of summary of Ordinance No. 222 (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Sustainability Commission

The Bemidji Sustainability Commission will review old business items, including a McKinstry overview of prospective services, preparation of the annual report for November 3, 2025, and upcoming engagement opportunities for comprehensive planning. New business will focus on member retention and recruitment, the election of officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary) to be held on January 8, 2026, and reports on the MNDNR ReLeaf Grant for parks and planning. The meeting also includes a public comment period and updates on upcoming events.

• McKinstry – Overview of prospective services (presented by Adam Seidel)
• Annual Report preparation scheduled for Monday, November 3, 2025 at 6 pm
• Upcoming engagement opportunities for Comprehensive Planning (Anna)
• Election of officers – Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary – set for January 8, 2026
• Report on MNDNR ReLeaf Grant for Parks and Planning (Melissa)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding unpaid special charges, civil fines for property violations, and the formation of a police drone program. The body is also considering several infrastructure purchases and project change orders.

• Public hearing on the proposed Bemidji Police Department Drone Program
• Claims submitted by Finance Officer totaling $3,383,785.02
• Purchase of portable generator for Sewer Department ($68,461.41) and GPS Rover & Tablet ($41,780.50)
• Change orders for Middle School Drive NW & Hannah Avenue NW Reconstruction (Project 23-05)
• Resolution ordering feasibility report for 2026 Street Renewal Project (Project 26-01)

The council approved the Consent Agenda items, including several financial claims, purchases, and resolutions. They adopted Assessment Roll Resolution No. 6661 for unpaid special charges and Resolution No. 6662 for civil fines, both by unanimous voice vote. A public hearing on the police department's drone program was held with no comments received. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items – approved by roll call vote (7 yeas)
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 items – approved by roll call vote (6 yeas, 1 abstention)
• Adopted Assessment Roll for Costs Associated with Unpaid Special Charges (Resolution 6661) – unanimous voice vote
• Adopted Assessment Roll for Costs Associated with Civil Fines for Property-Related Violations (Resolution 6662) – unanimous voice vote

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The board will meet to discuss draft bylaws and review financial statements from July 2025. The agenda also includes reports from the general manager and subcommittees.

• Review of draft bylaws
• July 2025 financial statements

The advisory board approved the agenda and the August 27 minutes unanimously. It voted to let staff incorporate feedback and submit revised bylaw language to the City Council. The board also moved the November and December meeting dates to Nov. 19 and Dec. 17, respectively, and then adjourned.

• Approve agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approve August 27, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Authorize staff to revise bylaws for Finance, Operations, and Marketing committees (unanimous)
• Move November meeting to Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025 (unanimous)
• Move December meeting to Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Community and Police Advisory Board

The board will conduct its regular meeting, approve the agenda and prior meeting minutes, and discuss upcoming topics. No specific resolutions or contracts are listed.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes
• Discussion of upcoming topics

General

The Bemidji City Council will meet to discuss an update regarding Minnesota Department of Transportation State Highway 197. The meeting will be held at City Hall with a remote option available for the public.

• MnDOT TH 197 Update
• Councilmember Thayer attending remotely
• Public access to meeting via web link

The Bemidji City Council held a work session and received an MnDOT update on the Trunk Highway 197 project, including schedule changes and construction plans. Council members discussed options for standard versus decorative light poles, with most favoring the standard, cost‑saving option. No formal vote on lighting was taken. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

General

The Bemidji City Council will meet to set the preliminary tax levy for 2026 and establish a Truth in Taxation hearing date. The body will also consider grant authorizations and a closed session regarding litigation with Northern Township.

• Preliminary tax levy for taxes payable in 2026
• Grant submission to Bernicks Family Foundation for the Recreation Department
• FY2026 Traffic Safety Officer/DWI Officer Grant-MN DPS resolution
• Closed session regarding boundary adjustment litigation with Northern Township (File Numbers OAH 71-0330-40846 and OAH 71-0330-40869)

The council approved a 6% preliminary property tax levy for 2026 and scheduled the Truth in Taxation hearing for December 1, 2025. They authorized the Recreation Department to submit a grant application to the Bernick’s Family Foundation. They approved execution of a state grant that could reimburse $146,493.82 for a dedicated DWI enforcement officer. They adopted a resolution rejecting a settlement offer from Northern Township with specific wording changes.

• Added resolution rejecting Northern Township settlement offer to agenda (unanimous voice vote)
• Authorized Recreation Department grant submission to Bernick’s Family Foundation (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved execution of MN Dept. of Public Safety DWI officer grant, reimbursement $146,493.82 (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved preliminary 2026 tax levy at 6% (Yeas: Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson; Nays: Peterson) and set Dec. 1, 2025 hearing
• Adopted amended resolution rejecting Northern Township settlement offer (Yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Bemidji Planning Commission will convene to approve meeting minutes and consider a public hearing regarding a rezoning request for Parcel 80.03316.00 owned by S&D Glass. The meeting will also include a review of the 2026 meeting calendar.

• Approval of July 24, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
• Public Hearing: Rezone Request for Parcel 80.03316.00 - S&D Glass
• Review 2026 Meeting Calendar
• Upcoming Meeting: October 23, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the July 24 minutes by unanimous voice votes. It voted to recommend approval of S&D Glass’s rezoning request from R‑5 to B‑2 for parcel 800331600, with four Ayes and no Nays. The recommendation will be considered by the Planning Board at its October 14 meeting. Commissioners also set the December 2026 planning commission meeting for Tuesday, December 22, 2026.

• Agenda approved by unanimous voice vote
• July 24 minutes approved by unanimous voice vote
• Recommended approval of rezoning request (4‑0 roll call)
• Set December 2026 planning commission meeting date to Dec 22, 2026
• Meeting adjourned (motion carried)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will consider several old‑business items, including new applications for 100‑year‑old building status. They will also follow up on the State Historic Preservation Office matters and discuss the Old New Bemidji Hotel mural and Pumping Station storm damage. New business includes a Warroad Celebration item.

• Review new applications for 100‑year‑old building designation
• State Historic Preservation Office follow‑up by City Manager and members
• Discussion of Old New Bemidji Hotel mural
• Discussion of Pumping Station (1909) storm damage
• Consideration of Warroad Celebration

The commission voted to cease preservation of the 1909 Pumping Station, opting only to salvage its sign and stone blocks. It approved the Lincoln School (402‑404 Lincoln Ave SE) application and accepted Lois J. Jenkins’s 100‑year‑old building application at 606 Lincoln Ave SE. The meeting time was changed to 4:30 pm on the third Tuesday of each month, and October 14 was set to present three historic decals to the applicants.

• Ceased preservation of Pumping Station 1909, approved salvaging sign and blocks (carried)
• Approved Lincoln School (402‑404 Lincoln Ave SE) application (carried)
• Approved Lois J. Jenkins’s 100‑year‑old building application at 606 Lincoln Ave SE (carried)
• Set October 14 to present three historic decals to applicants (carried)
• Changed meeting time to 4:30 pm on the third Tuesday of each month (carried)
• Approved agenda (carried)
• Approved minutes from August 19, 2025 (carried)

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will consider a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety to fund traffic safety enforcement projects. Several items will be approved through a consent agenda, including financial claims, special event permits, and utility connection charges. New business includes resolutions to partner with UFCW 1189 Liquor Store and Uniformed Firefighters Local 2302 for 2025‑2027 agreements. A closed session is scheduled to discuss pending litigation with Northern Township.

• Approve grant agreement with MN Dept. of Public Safety for traffic safety enforcement projects (Item 9)
• Approve resolutions declaring costs to be assessed and set public‑hearing dates for City Projects 25-01 and 25-02 (Items 10‑11)
• Approve tree‑trimming quotes: Wood Chucks Tree Service $56,000 and Jake's Stump Grinding $50,000 (Items 14‑15)
• Approve MOU with Beltrami County for Tactical Medical Support (Item 17)
• Consider resolutions approving agreements with UFCW 1189 Liquor Store and Uniformed Firefighters Local 2302 for 2025‑2027 (Items 22‑23)

The council approved the Consent Agenda items, including $2,352,759.07 in finance claims, business licenses, event permits, and several contracts. They appointed Ashton Loebs to the Heritage Preservation Commission. Resolutions 6648 and 6649 were adopted, approving labor agreements with UFCW 1189 for the liquor store (2025‑2027) and with Uniformed Firefighters Local 2302 (2022‑2027).

• Approved Consent Agenda #1 (multiple items) – yeas: Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 appointing Ashton Loebs to the Heritage Preservation Commission – yeas: Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Eaton, Thayer, Rivera; abstain: Peterson
• Approved Resolution 6648 – UFCW 1189 liquor store agreement (2025‑2027) – yeas: Rivera, Peterson, Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Thayer, Prince, Eaton
• Approved Resolution 6649 – Uniformed Firefighters Local 2302 agreement (2022‑2027) – yeas: Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson, Prince
• Approved minutes from August 18, 2025 council meeting – yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson
• Approved agenda amendment to add Ashton Loebs appointment – yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson
• Closed meeting for pending litigation – yeas: Fiskevold Gould, Eaton, Rivera, Peterson, Prince, Dickinson, Thayer

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will review a proposed amendment to the city’s bylaws that adds the phrase “or their designee” after “The City Manager…”. The amendment was moved at the August meeting and is already reflected in the current bylaws. The commission will also discuss other pending bylaw changes, provide updates on the tree inventory app training, and receive updates on the MPCA LCA grant and upcoming climate‑action planning activities.

• Proposed bylaws amendment adding “or their designee” after “The City Manager…”
• Discussion of other proposed bylaw amendments
• Recap of August 15 tree inventory app training
• MPCA LCA Grant update
• Upcoming EV Car Show on Oct 2, 4:00‑6:00 pm at Beltrami Electric Cooperative

Public Arts Commission

The Bemidji Public Arts Commission will meet to discuss two specific art projects. The body will also address new membership and commission awareness.

• Discussion of mural on Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Discussion of Peace Pole

Parks and Trails Commission

The commission will meet to discuss the future direction and current updates regarding city parks and trails. The meeting includes time for public comment on agenda items.

• Discussion on the future of parks and trails
• Parks and trails updates

General

The Bemidji City Council will consider the 2026 Financial Management Plan during this meeting. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Review and discussion of the 2026 Financial Management Plan

The Bemidji City Council held a work session to discuss the 2026 preliminary levy, reviewing storm‑related costs, reserve needs, and possible levy percentages. No levy amount was adopted; staff were asked to prepare a range of preliminary levy options and comparative data for the council. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The City Council will review bids and quotes for storm restoration at the Sanford Center. The body will also consider a closed session regarding pending litigation with Northern Township over boundary adjustment petitions.

• Claims submitted by Finance Officer in the amount of $2,102,239.60
• Claims submitted by ASM Global for the Sanford Center in the amount of $44,540.01
• Claims submitted by Finance Officer to VisitBemidji in the amount of $75,686.99
• Resolution amending taxicab fares for First City Taxi
• Amendment to the lease and purchase agreement with BNSF for Rail Corridor Parcel

The council approved the amended lease and purchase agreement with BNSF for the rail corridor parcel. It also approved the bids and quotes for the Sanford Center storm‑restoration project. All items on both consent agendas were adopted, and the meeting was closed for pending litigation before reconvening and adjourning.

• Approved amended lease and purchase agreement with BNSF for rail corridor parcel (7 yeas: Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould)
• Approved Sanford Center storm‑restoration bids and quotes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (7 yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 items (6 yeas, 1 abstain: yeas – Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould; abstain – Peterson)
• Approved meeting agenda as presented (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes from July 28 and August 4 meetings (unanimous voice vote)
• Closed meeting for pending litigation discussion (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The board will review financial statements for May and June and follow up on a previous special meeting. Discussions include proposed by-law updates and scheduling for the business plan and budget.

• Proposed By-Law Updates
• Business Plan and Budget Dates
• May and June Financial Statements
• August General Manager Update

The Sanford Center Advisory Board approved the meeting agenda as presented with a unanimous vote. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from the June 25 and July 11 meetings. No substantive motions were taken on bylaw changes, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• June 25 & July 11 minutes approved (unanimous)
• Meeting adjourned (unanimous)

Parks and Trails Commission

The commission will receive updates on parks, trails, and recreation. Members will discuss the cost recovery policy, fall programming, and youth recreation scholarships.

• Cost Recovery Policy and Fall Programming
• Youth Recreation Scholarships
• Resignation of Commissioner Heinonen

General

The Bemidji City Council will meet on August 25, 2025 at City Hall. The agenda includes a discussion of a storm recovery update. No other decisions or actions are listed on the agenda.

• Storm Recovery Update – discussion
• Councilmember Peterson attending remotely via Webex under Minnesota Statutes §13D.02

The council voted to adjourn the work session at 6:50 p.m. by unanimous voice vote. The meeting included updates on storm debris cleanup, repairs to the Sanford Center and other city buildings, and a financial summary indicating about $4.4 million in storm‑related costs with expected state reimbursement. No other formal actions or votes were recorded.

• Adjourned work session (unanimous voice vote)

General

The City Council will hold a special meeting to consider a closed session. The discussion concerns pending litigation regarding consolidated boundary adjustment proceedings involving Northern Township and the City of Bemidji.

• Discussion of Office of Administration File Numbers OAH 71-0330-40846 and OAH 71-0330-40869

The council voted unanimously to close the meeting for a closed‑session discussion of pending litigation concerning the consolidated boundary adjustment with Northern Township. After the closed session, the meeting was reopened and adjourned by unanimous voice vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Closed meeting to discuss pending litigation (unanimous voice vote)
• Reopened meeting at 8:15 p.m.
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The commission is meeting to review new applications for 100-year-old buildings and discuss the New Bemidji Hotel mural. Members will also address storm damage at Pumping Station 1909 and WPA stairs at Cameron Park.

• New applications for 100 Year Old Buildings
• New Bemidji Hotel Mural quotes and versions
• Pumping Station 1909 storm damage
• WPA Stairs at Cameron Park
• SHPO follow-up with City Manager

The Heritage Preservation Commission accepted the printed agenda and the July 2025 minutes. It voted to table any further discussion of WPA‑related projects until March 2026. The meeting was then adjourned at 4:12 pm.

• Accepted printed agenda (carried)
• Accepted July 2025 minutes (carried)
• Tabled further discussion of WPA projects until March 2026 (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:12 pm (carried)

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will consider a resolution establishing taxicab fares for Ride Away, LLC. The meeting also includes several consent agenda items such as approving claims, quotes for the Sanford Center, a special event permit for the high school parade, and a change order for the wastewater treatment plant clarifier project. A report on the police department’s security camera program will be presented, and a professional services agreement for a middle school reconstruction will be discussed as new business.

• Resolution establishing taxicab fares for Ride Away, LLC
• Approve Change Order No. 5 for WWTP Final Clarifier Project – City Project 23-03
• Approve quotes for Sanford Center: $6,961.42 (Zepole Restaurant Supply) and $1,148.66 (Uline)
• Approve special event permit for Bemidji High School Homecoming Parade (Sept 21)
• Consider professional services agreement for 2027 Middle School Drive NW Reconstruction – City Project 27-02

The council approved the consent agenda items, including various financial claims and permits. It authorized a professional services agreement up to $67,000 for the concept phase of the 2027 Middle School Drive NW reconstruction project. The council also approved a special event permit for the Fall Food Festival and voted to hold a closed session to discuss pending litigation.

• Approved consent agenda items (claims, quotes, permits, resolutions) – Yeas: Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Eaton, Peterson, Thayer, Rivera
• Authorized professional services agreement with KLJ up to $67,000 for concept phase of 2027 Middle School Drive NW reconstruction – Yeas: Rivera, Peterson, Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Thayer, Prince, Eaton
• Approved special event permit for Fall Food Festival (Sept 18‑21) – Yeas: Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould, Prince
• Approved motion to close meeting for pending litigation on boundary adjustment – Yeas: Fiskevold Gould, Eaton, Rivera, Peterson, Prince, Dickinson, Thayer
• Approved agenda as presented – Yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson
• Approved June 23, 2025 minutes – Yeas: Prince, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson (Rivera abstained)
• Approved July 7 and July 21, 2025 minutes – Yeas: Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould
• Adjourned meeting by unanimous voice vote

General

The Bemidji City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the sale of a city-owned lot in the South Shore Addition. Councilmember Peterson will attend remotely.

• Public hearing on sale of Lot 1, Block 3, South Shore Addition
• Vote to approve findings for the property sale
• Vote to authorize transfer of real property
• Councilmember Peterson attending remotely via WebEx

The Bemidji Economic Development Authority held a public hearing on the proposed sale of Lot 1, Block 3 in the South Shore Addition. Commissioners voted to approve the findings supporting the sale and then adopted a resolution authorizing the transfer of the property to KLC Holdings, LLC. Both motions passed with unanimous yeas.

• Approved findings for sale of Lot 1, Block 3 to KLC Holdings, LLC (yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)
• Authorized transfer of Lot 1, Block 3 to KLC Holdings, LLC (yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson)

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will review a proposed amendment to its bylaws regarding the citizen comment period. Members will also discuss a request to encourage the City Council to adopt water surface use management.

• Proposed Bylaws Amendment regarding citizen comment procedures
• Citizen request for Council to adopt water surface use management
• Tree Inventory update
• Comprehensive Planning recap of Nymore Community Picnic
• Planning Board meeting and MCAP discussion

Public Arts Commission

The Bemidji Public Arts Commission will meet to discuss several art projects and administrative matters. The agenda includes discussions on a mural for the wastewater treatment plant and a peace pole.

• Discussion of by-laws
• Mural on Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Peace Pole
• Member recruitment

Planning Board

The Bemidji Planning Board will meet to consider several variance requests and a preliminary Planned Unit Development request. The meeting will also include staff reports and a public comment period.

• Variance requests for Parcel 800267700, Parcel 800628000, Parcel 800103600, and Parcel 800167100
• Preliminary Planned Unit Development request for Parcel 800034499
• Withdrawn consideration of resolutions for Parcel 800267700
• Public comment period for visitors with business before the board
• Director's and Site Analyst reports

The Planning Board approved a Preliminary Planned Unit Development for parcel #800034499, striking condition #7 with a 6‑1 vote. It also approved a variance and an interim‑use permit amendment for Voyageurs Expeditionary School (parcel #800628000) requiring water‑usage monitoring and an 8‑foot fence, each passing 6‑1. Three sign‑standard variances for parcel #800103600 were adopted unanimously. An OHWL setback variance for parcel #800167100 was also approved unanimously.

• Approved Preliminary Planned Unit Development for parcel #800034499, removing condition #7 (6-1)
• Approved variance for Voyageurs Expeditionary School (parcel #800628000) with water‑monitoring condition (6-1)
• Approved interim‑use permit amendment for Voyageurs Expeditionary School (parcel #800628000) with water‑monitoring condition (6-1)
• Approved three sign variances for parcel #800103600 (7-0)
• Approved OHWL setback variance for parcel #800167100 (7-0)

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will consider a resolution adopting the city's 2025‑2029 Capital Improvement Plan during a public hearing. The meeting also includes consent agenda items such as payments to ASM Global for the Sanford Center, a $255,454 HVAC contract for the History Center, and several special event permits. Additional items include a donation acceptance resolution and a surplus equipment disposal authorization.

• Approve $165,019.80 claim from ASM Global for the Sanford Center
• Approve $255,454 bid to Naylor Heating for History Center HVAC improvement
• Approve special event permits for Bemidji Downtown Alliance, Headwaters Alliance, and Bemidji State University Alumni
• Public hearing to adopt the 2025‑2029 Capital Improvement Plan
• Approve $54,429.63 claim to VisitBemidji

The council adopted the city’s 2025‑2029 Capital Improvement Plan by unanimous roll‑call vote. The council also approved the meeting agenda, the June minutes, and two consent agendas covering financial claims, permits, contracts and donations. All consent agenda items passed with roll‑call votes, with one member abstaining on the second consent agenda.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved June minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (Yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 items (Yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould; Abstain: Peterson)
• Adopted 2025‑2029 Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous roll‑call vote)

General

The Bemidji City Council will meet to receive information from the Sustainability Commission. No specific actions or votes are listed, so the council is likely discussing the commission's reports or recommendations. The meeting otherwise follows standard procedural items.

• Sustainability Commission presentation

The City Council held a work session and heard a presentation on the Green Steps sustainability program. Council members discussed the need for staff to coordinate the program and agreed that the city manager will provide staffing options. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Bemidji Planning Commission will hold public hearings on variance, conditional use, and preliminary planned unit development requests for five separate parcels. Each hearing will consider applications submitted by private owners or developers. The commission will also note that one previously scheduled hearing was withdrawn.

• Public hearing: Variance and Conditional Use Permit Requests for Parcel 800267700 – Michael Ettesvold (withdrawn)
• Public hearing: Variance and Interim Use Permit Amendment Requests for Parcel 800628000 – Voyageurs Expeditionary School
• Public hearing: Preliminary Planned Unit Development Request for Parcel 800034499 – Marco McLane Development representing Greater Bemidji
• Public hearing: Variance Request for Parcel 800103600 – Carl Johnson representing 4th Street Lodge
• Public hearing: Variance Request for Parcel 800167100 – John Hamrin

The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of the variance request for Voyageurs Expeditionary School at 3724 Bemidji Ave N, with a 5‑0 vote. It also recommended approval of the interim use permit for the same site, adding a condition for an 8‑foot fence, with a 5‑0 vote. Additional recommendations approved were a preliminary Planned Unit Development for 101 Minnesota Ave NW (5‑0), a sign‑signage variance for 4th Street Lodge (4‑0‑1 abstention), and a shoreline setback variance for John Hamrin at 1725 S Lake Living Dr SW (5‑0). All recommendations will be considered by the Planning Board at its meeting on August 11, 2025.

• Recommend approval of variance for Voyageurs Expeditionary School (5-0)
• Recommend approval of interim use permit for Voyageurs Expeditionary School with 8‑ft fence condition (5-0)
• Recommend approval of preliminary Planned Unit Development for 101 Minnesota Ave NW (5-0)
• Recommend approval of signage variance for 4th Street Lodge (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Recommend approval of OHWL setback variance for John Hamrin deck (5-0)

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The Sanford Center Advisory Board will approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the June 25 and July 11 meetings. The board will review May 2025 financial statements and hear a proposal to update by‑laws. It will also receive a business plan and budget timeline report and a report from the general manager.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of June 25 and July 11 meeting minutes
• Introduction of John Drum (ASM Global)
• Review of May 2025 financial statements
• Proposed by‑law updates (special meeting follow‑up)

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will vote on several financial and contractual items, including a $2.84 million claim from the finance officer and a $69,197 claim from ASM Global for the Sanford Center. They will consider a resolution rejecting all bids for City Project 25-03 and approve agreements for an EV charger site and professional services for project 25-05. New business includes a professional services agreement for the North Lake water and sewer extension and a resolution to extend the local emergency declaration.

• Approve $2,844,814.10 claim submitted by Finance Officer
• Approve $69,197.30 claim submitted by ASM Global for the Sanford Center
• Resolution rejecting all bids received for City Project 25-03
• Approve OTP Site Host Agreement for EV charger at South Shore
• Consider professional services agreement for North Lake Bemidji Water & Sanitary Sewer Extension Project (City Project 25-07)

The council authorized a professional services agreement with Bolton & Menk for up to $351,000 to design and bid the North Lake Bemidji Water & Sanitary Sewer Extension Project (City Project 25-07). It also extended the local emergency declaration through August 21, 2025, and approved the consent agenda items, including finance claims and special event permits, by unanimous voice vote. The meeting was then closed to discuss pending litigation concerning the consolidated boundary adjustment with Northern Township.

• Authorized professional services agreement with Bolton & Menk up to $351,000 (Yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)
• Extended Local Emergency Declaration until Aug 21, 2025 (Yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson)
• Approved Consent Agenda items, including $2,844,814.10 finance claims and special event permits (unanimous voice vote)
• Closed meeting to discuss pending litigation on boundary adjustment (Yeas: Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson, Rivera, Fiskevold Gould)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Bemidji Heritage Preservation Commission will meet on July 15, 2025 to consider several ongoing preservation matters. Items include a review of media coverage and applications for 100‑year‑old buildings, a follow‑up with the State Historic Preservation Office, discussion of the Old New Bemidji Hotel mural, the 1909 Pumping Station, and the WPA stairs at Cameron Park. No decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Review media splash and other applications for 100 Year Old Buildings
• State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) follow‑up
• Discussion of Old New Bemidji Hotel mural
• Consideration of Pumping Station 1909
• Review of WPA Stairs at Cameron Park

The Heritage Preservation Commission moved to accept the printed agenda with an added report from the City Clerk, and the motion carried. The commission also approved the May 20, 2025 minutes as printed, and that motion carried. The meeting was then adjourned at 4:35 pm.

• Approved agenda with added City Clerk report (carried)
• Approved May 20, 2025 minutes as printed (carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:35 pm (carried)

Planning Board

The Bemidji Planning Board will meet on July 14, 2025 to review two pending applications. It will consider a resolution for an interim use permit for parcel 800556900 owned by Hanson Contracting LLC. It will also consider a resolution for a variance request affecting parcels 800009300 and 800009401 submitted by Marco McLane Development on behalf of Security Bank. The agenda also includes staff reports and a public comment period.

• Resolution for Interim Use Permit – Parcel 800556900 – Hanson Contracting LLC
• Resolution for Variance – Parcels 800009300 & 800009401 – Marco McLane Development (Security Bank)

The board approved Resolution 2025-18, granting an interim use permit to Hanson Contracting, LLC for more than two temporary storage containers and semi‑trailers at 3426 Irvine Ave NW. The board also approved Resolution 2025-19, granting a variance for side‑yard setbacks, off‑street parking, loading and surfacing standards for parcels on Paul Bunyan Dr NW for Security Bank USA. Both motions passed with unanimous affirmative votes. The agenda amendment and minutes approval were also adopted unanimously, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda amendment (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes from June 9, 2025 meeting (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Resolution 2025-18: interim use permit for Hanson Contracting, LLC (7-0 roll call)
• Approved Resolution 2025-19: variance for Security Bank USA parcels (7-0 roll call)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

General

The Bemidji Sanford Center Advisory Board will meet on July 11, 2025 at City Hall. The agenda includes routine items such as calling the meeting to order and approving the agenda, followed by a review of the board’s bylaws. The board will discuss its strategic objectives and develop an action plan. No specific contracts, rezoning, or dollar amounts are listed.

• Call meeting to order
• Approval of agenda
• Review of bylaws
• Discussion on strategic objectives of the board
• Development of action plan

The board approved converting the Finance, Marketing, and Operations ad‑hoc committees into standing committees that will meet monthly and be co‑chaired by a board member and a staff member. It adopted new procedures requiring written General Manager reports to be submitted three days before meetings and a standardized agenda format. The board added an October 1 deadline to the bylaws for the annual business plan and budget and directed the Finance Committee to begin its review. Additional actions were approved to improve email communication, vet marketing content, and request a full storm‑damage assessment and budget estimate.

• Convert Finance, Marketing, Operations committees to standing committees (agreed)
• Require written GM reports submitted three days before meetings (adopted)
• Standardize agenda to include committee reports, strategic discussion, and GM Q&A (adopted)
• Add October 1 deadline to bylaws for annual business plan and budget (adopted)
• Improve email communication and meeting notice procedures (adopted)
• Implement vetting protocol for marketing and social‑media content (adopted)
• Request full storm‑damage assessment and budget exposure (adopted)
• Approve meeting agenda (unanimous) and adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will review updates on ongoing sustainability projects, including a work session, GreenStep Cities participation, the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership, and comprehensive planning. It will also consider a citizen‑submitted bylaw amendment request and a request for public comment on Planning Case SUB-2025-002, a preliminary Planned Unit Development for the railroad corridor. The meeting will conclude with standard procedural items and adjournment.

• Citizen Comment – Bylaw Amendment
• Request for Comment – Planning Case SUB-2025-002 Preliminary Planned Unit Development (PUD) – Railroad Corridor
• Work Session for Sustainability Efforts (Jordan)
• GreenStep Cities presentation (Anna)
• MN Climate Adaptation Partnership update (Linda)

City Council

The City Council will discuss a storm response update and a resolution to extend a local emergency declaration. The body will also review various claims, business licenses, and event permits.

• Claims submitted by Finance Officer totaling $1,938,042.73
• Street striping quote for Sir Lines-A Lot for $33,174.40
• Resolution extending local emergency declaration
• Special event and liquor licenses for the Bemidji Dragon Boat Festival
• Settlement and release agreement between the City and William Batchelder

The council approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from May 5 and May 12 by unanimous voice votes. All items on Consent Agenda #1 and the single item on Consent Agenda #2 were approved, with two members abstaining on separate agendas. The council adopted a resolution extending the local emergency declaration until July 22, 2025, also by unanimous voice vote. A motion to hold a closed session on pending litigation was approved unanimously, after which the meeting was reopened and adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda as presented (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved May 5 and May 12 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items, including $1,938,042.73 finance claims and related items (approved; Dickinson abstained)
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 $42,118.24 Visit Bemidji claim (approved; Peterson abstained)
• Adopted Resolution No. 6633 extending local emergency declaration to July 22, 2025 (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved motion to close meeting for pending litigation discussion (unanimous voice vote)
• Reopened meeting at 8:45 p.m. (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:46 p.m. (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Bemidji Planning Commission will conduct two public hearings. One is for an interim use permit request on Parcel 800556900 submitted by Hanson Contracting LLC. The other is for a variance request on Parcels 800009300 and 800009401 submitted by Marco McLane Development on behalf of Security Bank.

• Public Hearing – Interim Use Permit Request, Parcel 800556900, Hanson Contracting LLC
• Public Hearing – Variance Request, Parcels 800009300 & 800009401, Marco McLane Development (Security Bank)

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The Sanford Center Advisory Board will meet on June 25, 2025 at City Hall. The board will consider routine items including approval of the agenda, approval of minutes from February 26 and April 23, 2025, and approval of the March and April 2025 financial statements. The meeting will also include a work‑session discussion, subcommittee reports, and a report from the general manager. Members will attend in person and via Webex, and the public can monitor the meeting online.

• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes from February 26, 2025
• Approve minutes from April 23, 2025
• Approve March 2025 financial statements
• Approve April 2025 financial statements

The board approved the meeting agenda. It also approved the February 26, 2025 minutes with a name correction and the April 23, 2025 minutes summary. All three motions passed unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 26, 2025 minutes with name correction (unanimous)
• Approved April 23, 2025 minutes summary (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

General

The City Council will meet to receive an update on the Neilson Reise facility use and grants. The body will also hold a discussion regarding city operations.

• Neilson Reise Facility Use/Grant Update
• City Operations Discussion

The council unanimously approved an amendment to the agenda to add storm response updates and a resolution extending the local emergency declaration. Resolution No. 6630 extending the emergency declaration until July 7, 2025 was adopted by unanimous voice vote. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Amended agenda to add storm response updates and emergency declaration extension – passed unanimously (voice vote)
• Adopted Resolution No. 6630 extending local emergency declaration until July 7, 2025 – passed unanimously (voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting – passed unanimously (voice vote)

Charter Commission

The Bemidji Charter Commission will meet to elect its officers and consider the retention of independent legal counsel. The commission will also take public input regarding charter amendments.

• Election of officers
• Discussion on retaining independent legal counsel
• Public input on charter amendments

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will review ongoing historic preservation matters. Topics include a 100‑year‑old building review, a media splash, SHPO follow‑up, the New Bemidji Hotel mural, the 1909 pumping station, and WPA stairs at Cameron Park. The meeting also includes routine agenda and minutes approval.

• Review of 100‑year‑old building applications
• SHPO follow‑up discussion
• Old New Bemidji Hotel mural consideration
• Pumping Station (1909) review
• WPA stairs at Cameron Park review

General

The Bemidji City Council will hold a closed session to develop or consider offers and counteroffers for the purchase or sale of real or personal property located in the Plat of South Shore, Lot 1, Block 3. The discussion will be conducted under Minnesota Statutes Section 13D.05, Subd. 3(3). The remainder of the meeting includes the usual call to order, reopening, and adjournment.

• Closed session to consider offers or counteroffers for property in the Plat of South Shore, Lot 1, Block 3

The Bemidji Economic Development Authority closed the meeting by unanimous roll call vote, then reopened it to accept a Letter of Intent to purchase Lot 1, Block 3, Plat of South Shore. The acceptance removed the carrying‑costs term and was approved by unanimous roll call vote. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Closed meeting per Minnesota Statutes §13D.05, Subd. 3 (3) (unanimous roll call vote)
• Accepted Letter of Intent to purchase Lot 1, Block 3, Plat of South Shore, removing carrying‑costs term (unanimous roll call vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The City Council will consider an ordinance to add a section on charter violations to the Council-Manager Charter. The body will also review a series of grant agreements and financial claims via the consent agenda.

• Finance Officer claims totaling $2,563,135.40
• Ordinance amending the City of Bemidji Council-Manager Charter regarding charter violations
• Change Order #2 for the Cameron Park Restroom Project for $1,000
• Grant agreement with Minnesota Department of Transportation for IIJA Discretionary Grant Assistance
• Closed session regarding boundary adjustment litigation with Northern Township

The council approved the meeting agenda and both consent agendas, the latter including multiple financial claims and grant agreements. A proposed amendment to the City Charter (Section 12.17) failed, receiving only one yea vote. The council entered a closed session to discuss pending litigation and later adjourned the meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented – unanimous voice vote
• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (including $2,563,135.40 finance claims, grant agreements, etc.) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 item (Visit Bemidji claim $1,185.25) – Yeas: Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson; Abstain: Peterson
• Rejected Ordinance to amend Charter Section 12.17 – Yeas: Rivera; Nays: Prince, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson
• Closed meeting for pending litigation – unanimous roll call vote
• Reopened meeting at 9:15 p.m. after closed session
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous voice vote

Sustainability Commission

The Bemidji Sustainability Commission will review several ongoing sustainability initiatives. Topics include a work session on sustainability efforts, a draft letter to communicate GreenStep Cities participation in the city newsletter, updates from the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership, and several comprehensive planning items such as local food initiatives and a housing study. The commission will also consider information about the APA National Conference.

• Draft letter for GreenStep Cities inclusion in City Newsletter (GreenStep Cities)
• Work session for sustainability efforts (Jordan)
• Updates from the MN Climate Adaptation Partnership (Linda)
• Comprehensive planning updates: other updates (Anna), local food initiatives (Lisa), housing study (Melissa)
• Discussion of APA National Conference (Melissa)

Parks and Trails Commission

The commission will receive updates on the Bemidji Hashtag Sign, Algoma Park, and the Cameron Park Project. Members will also discuss the Intersection Project to establish a ride date and consider changes to the meeting schedule.

• Updates on Bemidji Hashtag Sign
• Updates on Algoma Park
• Updates on Cameron Park Project
• Intersection Project ride date establishment
• Review of meeting schedule and time

Planning Board

The Bemidji Planning Board will meet to discuss a variance request and a permit revocation. The board will also receive an update regarding the Wolfe Center.

• Resolution to revoke an Interim Use Permit for South Car Savings (Parcels 800422900 & 800423000)
• Variance request for Parcel 800167100 (John Hamrin)
• Wolfe Center update for Parcel 800097900 (Reed Olson)

The Planning Board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the May 12, 2025 minutes. It also approved the consent agenda, which included a resolution to revoke an interim use permit for parcels 800422900 and 800423000. Finally, the board voted to adopt Resolution 2025-16, granting three variances for an attached lakeside deck on parcel 800167100, 1725 S Lake Living Dr SW.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved May 12, 2025 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved consent agenda items, including revoking interim use permit for parcels 800422900 & 800423000 (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-16 granting three variances for an attached lakeside deck on parcel 800167100, 1725 S Lake Living Dr SW (Ayes: Prince, Fiskevold Gould, Peterson, Dickinson, Rivera, Eaton, Thayer; Nays: none)

General

The Bemidji City Council special meeting on June 9, 2025 will consider a resolution. The resolution would certify the match portion of the city's application and authorize submission to Minnesota Housing's 2025 Housing Infrastructure Grant Program.

• Resolution to certify match portion of application and authorize submission to Minnesota Housing's 2025 Housing Infrastructure Grant Program

The council adopted Resolution No. 6625 to certify the $500,000 match portion and authorize submission to Minnesota Housing’s 2025 Housing Infrastructure Grant Program. The resolution passed by unanimous voice vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting also passed by unanimous voice vote.

• Adopted Resolution No. 6625 certifying $500K match and authorizing grant submission (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding a possible charter amendment and consider an ordinance to add charter violations to the Council-Manager Charter. The body will also review claims and special event permits.

• Claims submitted by Finance Officer totaling $1,119,362.28
• Claims submitted by ASM Global for the Sanford Center totaling $39,684.85
• Claims submitted by Finance Officer to VisitBemidji totaling $33,405.75
• Ordinance amending the City of Bemidji Council-Manager Charter Chapter 12
• Special event permits for 10th Anniversary Shaynowishkung, Nature Neighbors Event, and First City Antique Flea Market

The council approved a special event permit for the Ojibwe Forests Rally street race and a temporary off‑premises alcohol permit, both by unanimous voice vote. The proposed charter amendment ordinance was tabled after a roll‑call vote. Consent agenda items, including several financial claims and donations, were approved, and the Safer Grant was removed for further review.

• Approved Special Event Permit for Ojibwe Forests Rally race – unanimous voice vote
• Approved Resolution 6624: Temporary off‑premises alcohol permit for the rally – unanimous voice vote
• Tabled Ordinance amending City Charter Chapter 12 (Section 12.17) – Yeas: Rivera, Thayer, Eaton, Fiskevold Gould; Nays: Prince, Dickinson, Peterson
• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (financial claims, donations, event permits) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 claim for Visit Bemidji ($33,405.75) – Yeas: Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson; Abstain: Peterson
• Removed Safer Grant from Consent Agenda at staff request – no vote recorded
• Approved agenda as presented – unanimous voice vote
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous voice vote

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The Sanford Center Advisory Board will meet to review March 2025 financial statements. The agenda includes a board work session and reports from the general manager and subcommittees.

• Review of March 2025 Financial Statements

Community and Police Advisory Board

The board will review expectations for upcoming picnics and outreach group presentations. Members will also discuss two current vacancies on the board.

• Recap of April meeting discussion on board expectations
• Outreach expectations for upcoming picnics
• Status of outreach group presentations
• Discussion of two board vacancies

General

The Bemidji City Council work session will consider the HDRC Greater Housing Infrastructure Grant. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• HDRC Greater Housing Infrastructure Grant

The council expressed general support for the Greater Minnesota Housing Infrastructure Grant and decided to refer the proposal to the next meeting for a formal vote, pending detailed financial analysis. A motion to adjourn the work session was carried by unanimous voice vote.

• Agreed to refer HRDC Greater Minnesota Housing Infrastructure Grant proposal to next meeting for formal vote (no recorded tally)
• Motion to adjourn meeting carried by unanimous voice vote

General

The Bemidji City Council will consider the OTP Site Host Agreement and review the authority of the Bemidji Economic Development Authority (BEDA). The council will also hold a closed session to develop or consider offers and counteroffers for the purchase or sale of property located in the Plat of South Shore, Lot 1, Block 3. No other items are listed.

• Review and potentially adopt the OTP Site Host Agreement
• Discuss the authority and role of the Bemidji Economic Development Authority (BEDA)
• Closed session to develop or consider offers or counteroffers for the purchase or sale of property in the Plat of South Shore, Lot 1, Block 3

The Bemidji Economic Development Authority approved an agreement with Otter Tail Power Company to install and maintain an electric‑vehicle charging station at the Sanford Center. The board voted to keep the current reactive approach to its activities until further clarity on housing authority leadership. The meeting was closed to consider offers on a parcel in the Plat of South Shore and then adjourned.

• Approved Otter Tail Power EV charging station agreement (Yeas: Peterson, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson; Absent: Thayer, Fiskevold Goud)
• Maintained current reactive approach for BEDA activities (consensus, no formal vote recorded)
• Closed meeting to develop/consider offers for Parcel No. 80.05983.00 in Plat of South Shore (unanimous roll call vote)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Bemidji Planning Commission will meet to conduct a public hearing regarding a variance request. The request concerns Parcel 800167100 and was submitted by John Hamrin.

• Public hearing: Variance request for Parcel 800167100 (John Hamrin)

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the April 24, 2025 minutes. It then voted to recommend approval of a variance request for parcel 800167100 at 1725 S Lake Irving Dr SW, citing the conditions and findings of fact. The recommendation will be considered by the Planning Board at its June 9, 2025 meeting.

• Approved agenda (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved April 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Recommended approval of variance for parcel 800167100 (4-0 vote)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Bemidji Heritage Preservation Commission will discuss several ongoing preservation topics, including the 1909 Pumping Station, follow‑up with the State Historic Preservation Office, and updates on historic structures. The commission will also review and approve three submission packages and receive updates on the Old New Bemidji Hotel mural and the WPA Diamond Point Bridge.

• Pumping Station 1909
• SHPO Follow Up
• Review and Approve Three Submissions
• Old New Bemidji Hotel Mural
• Update on WPA Diamond Point Bridge

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved the meeting agenda as written and carried the motion. It also approved the minutes from the April 15, 2025 meeting with corrections. The commission then adjourned the meeting. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved agenda (carried)
• Approved minutes of April 15, 2025 (carried)
• Adjourned meeting (carried)

City Council

The City Council will review a bid for the Middle School Drive & Hannah Avenue NW Reconstruction Project and consider an ordinance to amend the city zoning map. The body will also evaluate the performance of the City Manager.

• Claims submitted by Finance Officer for $1,367,162.16
• Claims submitted by ASM Global for the Sanford Center for $66,916.66
• Ordinance amending the Zoning Map in the Development Code
• Bid award for Middle School Drive & Hannah Avenue NW Reconstruction Project (City Project 23-05)
• MOU with Beltrami County regarding Fern Street Recycling Site

The council unanimously approved the award of the $4,351,818.40 bid to Reierson Construction for the Middle School Drive & Hannah Avenue NW Reconstruction Project and authorized the City Manager to sign the street‑light agreement with Ottertail Power. Ordinance No. 221 amending the zoning map was adopted with all present members voting yeas. The council approved a salary increase for City Manager Rich Spiczka and extended his termination benefits, each passing with recorded yeas and nays. Additional actions included approving the consent agenda items, a special‑event permit with police and signage requirements, and finance claims totaling $1,367,162.16.

• Awarded $4,351,818.40 contract to Reierson Construction (unanimous voice vote)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 221 amending the zoning map (yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson; absent: Fiskevold Gould)
• Approved City Manager salary steps F (effective 6/2/25), G (7/1/25), H (7/1/26) (yeas: Eaton, Prince, Peterson, Thayer, Dickinson; nays: Rivera; absent: Fiskevold Gould)
• Amended City Manager termination benefits to six months (yeas: Dickinson, Prince, Eaton, Peterson; nays: Thayer, Rivera; absent: Fiskevold Gould)
• Approved consent agenda items including $66,916.66 claim, business licenses, event permits, claim release, change order, MOU, and Resolution 6619 (unanimous voice vote)
• Passed Resolution 6620 approving special‑event permit with police presence and street‑closure requirements (yeas: Prince, Rivera, Thayer, Dickinson, Eaton, Peterson; absent: Fiskevold Gould)
• Approved finance office claims of $1,367,162.16 (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes from April 21, 2025, April 22, 2025 Board of Review, and April 28, 2025 Work Session (unanimous voice vote)

Public Arts Commission

The Bemidji Public Arts Commission will approve its agenda and minutes, review its annual report and the method of reporting to the City Council, and examine proposed updates to its policies, procedures, and by‑laws. It will also consider a $1,000 grant award for Region 2. The meeting includes a welcome to new member Sandy Henson.

• Approve meeting agenda and minutes
• Review and consider approval of policies and procedures
• Review and consider changes to commission by‑laws
• Discuss the annual report and reporting method to City Council
• Consider awarding a $1,000 grant to Region 2

Parks and Trails Commission

The Bemidji Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to discuss design and project updates for Algoma Park and Paul Bunyan Park. The body will also review design parameters and potential locations for a dog park.

• Algoma Park playground design
• Algoma Park pickleball project and agreement update
• Dog park design parameters and potential locations
• Landscaping improvements for the hashtag Bemidji sign at Paul Bunyan Park

Planning Board

The Bemidji Planning Board will review several land‑use applications, including an extension request for a conditional use permit and variance for the Gracewin Cooperative. It will also consider a variance request by Murray Surveying for Scott Grover, an interim use permit request by Vetter & Wald LLP for Northwest Tire, and a concept Planned Unit Development for the railroad corridor presented by Marco McLane Development on behalf of Greater Bemidji. Staff reports will be presented before the meeting adjourns.

• Extension request for a Conditional Use Permit and Variance – Parcel 800036100 – Gracewin Cooperative
• Variance request – Parcel 800306900 – Murray Surveying representing Scott Grover
• Interim Use Permit request – Parcel 800362900 – Vetter & Wald LLP representing Northwest Tire
• Concept Planned Unit Development request for Railroad Corridor – Parcel 800034499 – Marco McLane Development representing Greater Bemidji
• Director's Report and Site Analyst and Enforcement Report

The board unanimously approved a variance to reduce the high‑water setback for a garage at 5350 Elliot Rd NE (parcel 800306900). It also approved an interim use permit for a semi‑trailer storage site at 402 Paul Bunyan Dr SE (parcel 800362900). Finally, the board approved a concept Planned Unit Development for 101 Minnesota Ave NW (parcel 800034499) that includes a YMCA community wellness center.

• Approved variance for 5350 Elliot Rd NE (parcel 800306900) – unanimous vote
• Approved interim use permit for 402 Paul Bunyan Dr SE (parcel 800362900) – unanimous vote
• Approved concept Planned Unit Development for 101 Minnesota Ave NW (parcel 800034499) – unanimous vote

Work Session

The Bemidji City Council special meeting will review the city manager's performance under Minnesota Statute 13D.05, Subd. 3(A). Council members will discuss the evaluation findings and decide any related actions. The meeting is scheduled for May 12, 2025 at 6:00 PM in City Hall.

• Evaluation of the performance of City Manager under Minn. Stat. Sec 13D.05, Subd. 3(A)
• Summary of conclusions of evaluation of performance of City Manager
• Actions with City Manager related to evaluation of performance

The council voted to close the session under Minnesota Statute 13D.05 so it could conduct a performance review of City Manager Rich Spiczka. The meeting was later reopened and reconvened in closed session, and then adjourned after the review. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Closed meeting for City Manager performance review (7 yeas)
• Reopened and reconvened meeting in closed session (procedural)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Sustainability Commission

The Sustainability Commission will review recent Earth Day events, discuss ongoing sustainability projects, and consider a presentation from the Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership. The meeting also includes updates on GreenStep Cities, local food initiatives, and other planning items.

• Recap of Earth Day Luncheon and tabling at Sanford Health
• Work session request to place sustainability items on Council agenda
• Presentation of takeaways from Eric Howd’s GreenStep Cities thesis
• Draft letter to communicate GreenStep efforts in city newsletter
• Invitation for Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership team to present

General

The City Council is meeting as the Board of Review to hear the assessor's presentation and consider appeals. The meeting also includes the reconvening of a recessed meeting from April 22, 2025.

• Reconvene of recessed meeting from April 22, 2025
• Assessor's remarks and presentation
• Consideration of appeals

The Bemidji Board of Review approved new assessment values for 1005 Lake Blvd NE and 1415 Bixby Ave NE. It also approved no‑change recommendations for six other parcels. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved adjustment to $317,000 for 1005 Lake Blvd NE (Parcel 80.02486.00) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved adjustment to $203,1000 for 1415 Bixby Ave NE (Parcel 80.01474.00) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved no‑change for 3125 Bemidji Avenue (Parcel 80.06189.00) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved no‑change for 3217 Bemidji Avenue (Parcel 80.06199.01) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved no‑change for 3721 Birchmont Drive NE (Parcel 80.06278.00) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved no‑change for 3040 Birchmont Dr NE (Parcel 80.06247.00) – unanimous voice vote
• Approved no‑change for 2821 Whispering Ridge Dr NE (Parcel 80.06247.00) – unanimous voice vote
• Motion to adjourn carried by majority voice vote

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will consider several consent agenda items, including financial claims, special event permits, and contract awards. Council members will hear public input on a storm‑water permit, a liquor license expansion for outdoor dining, and an amendment to the city’s zoning map. An ordinance amending the Development Code will be read for the second time. Additional items include a consultant contract and a donation resolution.

• Public hearing and second reading of an ordinance amending the Bemidji Development Code zoning map (Item 18)
• Award of low‑bid contract to Quality Flow Systems for lift station refurbishment ($42,860) (Item 9)
• Award of low‑bid contract to Visu‑Sewer for 2025 sanitary sewer slip lining project ($119,750) (Item 10)
• Public hearing for Winkk Inc. (dba Keg N'Cork) seasonal expansion of liquor license for outdoor dining (Item 17)
• Public hearing regarding MS4 storm‑water pollution prevention program permit (Item 16)

The council approved the consent agenda items, including several financial claims, contracts, and resolutions. It unanimously approved a permit for Keg N’ Cork to expand its liquor license and allow street‑dining. The council also authorized staff and legal counsel to draft a response letter to Northern Township and gave a second reading to a zoning map amendment.

• Approved agenda amendment to discuss Northern Township response (Yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)
• Approved minutes from March 24 and April 7 meetings (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (Yeas: Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Eaton, Peterson, Thayer, Rivera)
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 claim for Visit Bemidji $31,376.93 (Yeas: Rivera, Dickinson, Fiskevold Gould, Thayer, Prince, Eaton; Peterson abstained)
• Approved Keg N’ Cork seasonal liquor license and street‑dining permit (unanimous voice vote)
• Authorized staff and legal counsel to draft response letter to Northern Township (Yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Fiskevold Gould, Prince, Rivera, Eaton; Dickinson absent)
• Second reading of zoning map amendment (Planning Case ZOA‑2025‑0002) presented
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

General

The Bemidji City Council will hold a closed session to develop or consider offers and counteroffers for the purchase or sale of real or personal property located in the Plat of South Shore, Lot 1, Block 3. The meeting will open, address this matter, then reconvene in an open session before adjourning.

• Closed meeting to consider offers or counteroffers for purchase/sale of property at Plat of South Shore, Lot 1, Block 3

The Bemidji Economic Development Authority held a special meeting on May 5, 2024. Commissioners voted unanimously to close the meeting at 7:30 p.m. under Minnesota Statutes §13D.05, Subd. 3(3). After receiving an offer for Parcel No. 80.05983.00 in the Plat of South Shore, the meeting was reopened at 8:00 p.m. and then adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Closed meeting at 7:30 p.m. per Statute §13D.05, Subd. 3(3) – unanimous roll call vote
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 p.m. – unanimous voice vote

General

The City Council will hold a work session to review updates regarding lead and copper. The body will also hold a discussion on the Open Forum Policy.

• Lead and Copper Update
• Open Forum Policy Discussion

The council expressed support for the city’s lead‑service‑line inventory and replacement planning, noting the need for grant funding of $2‑2.5 million. Council members agreed to continue developing a formal open‑forum policy, with staff and legal counsel providing input. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous voice vote.

• Supported lead service line inventory and replacement planning (no vote recorded)
• Agreed to continue developing a comprehensive open‑forum policy with staff and legal counsel input (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn carried by unanimous voice vote

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider three land-use requests, including a variance and an interim use permit. The body is also reviewing a concept Planned Unit Development for the Railroad Corridor.

• Variance Request for Parcel 800306900 (Scott & Leslie Grover)
• Interim Use Permit Request for Parcel 800362900 (Northwest Tire)
• Concept Planned Unit Development Request for Railroad Corridor - Parcel 800034499 (Greater Bemidji)

The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of three requests: a variance for 5350 Elliot Rd NE, an interim‑use permit for 402 Paul Bunyan Dr SE, and a concept planned‑unit‑development for 10th Minnesota Ave NW. All three motions passed with unanimous support and will be forwarded to the Planning Board for final decision at its May 12, 2025 meeting. No dissenting votes were recorded.

• Approved recommendation for variance at 5350 Elliot Rd NE (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation for interim use permit at 402 Paul Bunyan Dr SE (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation for concept PUD at 10th Minnesota Ave NW (unanimous)

Sanford Center Advisory Board

The Sanford Center Advisory Board will hold its regular meeting to approve the agenda, approve the February 26, 2025 meeting minutes, review the January 2025 financials, hear subcommittee reports, and receive a written update from the General Manager. No substantive policy decisions are listed.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of February 26, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of January 2025 financials
• Subcommittee reports
• Written General Manager update

The board approved an amendment to add a discussion on the committee's performance and future mission to the agenda. The minutes from the February 26 meeting were tabled for reconsideration in May. The board decided that all future meetings will take place at City Hall. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved amendment adding performance discussion item to agenda
• Approved tabling of February 26 minutes for May agenda
• Decided future meetings will be held at City Hall
• Approved adjournment of the meeting

Community and Police Advisory Board

The Bemidji Community and Police Advisory Board will review its presentation to the City Council, recap member expectations, discuss outreach groups reported since the January meeting, and consider board member attendance and meeting frequency for 2025. The board will also set the date for its next meeting. No formal resolutions are listed on the agenda.

• Overview of presentation to the City Council
• Advisory board expectations review
• Outreach groups discussion (held from January meeting)
• Board member attendance review
• Meeting frequency for 2025

General

The Bemidji City Council Board of Review will review the 2025 property assessments that are payable in 2026. County Assessor Kaleb Bessler will present the assessments, and property owners will have an opportunity to be heard. The assessor will recommend adjustments based on owner communications. After discussion, the council will vote to either accept the corrected assessments or recess the meeting for unresolved issues.

• Review and correct 2025 property assessments payable in 2026
• Presentation by County Assessor Kaleb Bessler
• Public hearing for property owners to request adjustments
• Assessor's recommendations for adjustments based on owner contacts
• Council motion to accept corrected assessments or recess meeting

The Bemidji City Council Board of Review voted to recess the April 22, 2025 meeting and reconvene on Monday, May 5 at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall. The motion was moved by Thayer, seconded by Eaton, and carried with five yeas.

• Recessed meeting to May 5, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. – motion carried (yeas: Peterson, Thayer, Rivera, Eaton, Dickinson)

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a seasonal liquor license expansion for Bar 209 and consider an ordinance to amend the city zoning map. The body is also reviewing a bid for the Park Avenue NW reconstruction project and a naming rights amendment for the Sanford Center.

• Bid award for 2025 Park Avenue NW Reconstruction (Project 25-02)
• Ordinance amending the Zoning Map in the Development Code
• Public hearing for Three Less One, Inc (dba Bar 209) seasonal liquor license expansion
• Contract for Ness Seal Coat to seal coat trails for $25,000
• Claims submitted by Finance Officer totaling $1,313,370.00

The council approved a $1,532,647.75 bid to Reierson Construction for the Park Avenue NW reconstruction project. It also approved a seasonal outdoor dining permit for Bar 209 (6‑1) and waived three‑quarters of the fees for seven temporary liquor permits for the Mississippi Music Summer Concert Series (5‑2). Additionally, the council adopted a naming‑rights amendment with Sanford through 2028 and passed a resolution approving the concert site and alcohol service (5‑2).

• Approved outdoor dining permit for Bar 209 (6-1)
• Approved 7 temporary liquor permits and waived three-quarters of $840 fees (5-2)
• Adopted Resolution 6614 approving site and alcohol for 2025 Mississippi Music concert series (5-2)
• Approved Sanford naming‑rights amendment through 2028 (unanimous)
• Awarded $1.53 M Park Avenue NW reconstruction contract to Reierson Construction (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The commission will discuss the Old New Bemidji Hotel Mural and follow up on SHPO matters. Members are scheduled to review three applications regarding 100-year-old buildings.

• Review of three applications for 100-year-old buildings
• Discussion of Old New Bemidji Hotel Mural
• Update on Pumping Station 1909
• SHPO follow up
• Open Meeting Law review

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved its agenda and the March 18, 2025 minutes. A subcommittee of Andy Mack, Chris Bell and Joan Dryer was created to prepare a presentation for the State Historic Preservation Office. Review of three 100‑year‑old structure applications was tabled until May 22. The next meeting was scheduled for May 20, 2025.

• Approved agenda (carried)
• Approved March 18, 2025 minutes (carried)
• Formed subcommittee (Andy Mack, Chris Bell, Joan Dryer) to work on SHPO presentation (carried)
• Tabled review of three 100‑year‑old structure applications until May 22
• Scheduled next meeting for May 20, 2025

Planning Board

The Bemidji Planning Board will review an extension request for a conditional use permit on Parcel 80.05971.00 submitted by the Beltrami County Housing & Redevelopment Authority. It will also consider interim use permit requests for The Design Store (Parcel 80.05694.00) and Torque Machinery (Parcels 80.04218.00 & 80.04218.01). A rezoning request for parcels 80.06891.00 and 80.06900.00 from HBS Properties, LLC will be discussed. Staff will present a Director's Report and a Site Analyst & Enforcement Report.

• Extension request for Conditional Use Permit – Parcel 80.05971.00 – BHRA
• Interim Use Permit request – Parcel 80.05694.00 – The Design Store
• Rezone request – Parcels 80.06891.00 & 80.06900.00 – HBS Properties, LLC
• Interim Use Permit request – Parcels 80.04218.00 & 80.04218.01 – Torque Machinery
• Director's Report and Site Analyst & Enforcement Report

The Planning Board approved an interim use permit for greater than two temporary storage containers at 2000 Division St W. It also approved a land‑use map amendment rezoning the parcels at 1202 Lakewood Dr NW from R‑2/R‑3 to R‑6 for a townhome community. A second interim use permit was approved for a sales and service business at 606 Railroad St SE. All three actions passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes.

• Approved interim use permit for >2 storage containers at 2000 Division St W (Resolution 2025-10) – vote 7‑0
• Approved rezoning of 1202 Lakewood Dr NW parcels to R‑6 multiple‑family district (Land Use Map Amendment) – vote 7‑0
• Approved interim use permit for ATV/boat/recreational vehicle sales at 606 Railroad St SE (Resolution 2025-11) – vote 6‑0‑1 (abstention: Prince)
• Approved extension request for conditional use permit for Parcel 80.05971.00 (Resolution 2025-09) – vote 7‑0

Parks and Trails Commission

The Parks and Recreation Commission will review a pickleball license agreement and appoint commissioners to a Pickleball Advisory Group. The body will also review intersection maps from the Intersection Committee and receive department updates.

• Review Pickleball License and Donation Agreement
• Appoint Commissioners to Pickleball Advisory Group
• Review Intersection Maps
• Department Updates
• Public Comments on Agenda Items

The commission approved the agenda as presented and accepted the March 13, 2025 meeting minutes with minor corrections. The downtown tree replacement project was approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
• Approved March 13, 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved downtown tree replacement project
• Motion to adjourn passed

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will consider items on two consent agendas, which bundle routine approvals into a single motion. Items include several financial claims, special event permits, service agreements, and a professional services amendment for a middle school project. The council will also discuss an engagement letter with Baker Tilly for a compensation study and the design and bidding of the TH 197 light pole replacement project. Public comment will be allowed, and upcoming meeting dates are announced.

• Approve Finance Officer claim for $1,075,295.62
• Approve ASM Global claim for Sanford Center for $147,110.14
• Approve Professional Services Amendment #2 for Middle School Drive NW & Hannah Avenue NW Project (City Project 23-05)
• Approve Award of Quote for 2025 Alley and Lot 7 Paving
• Consider design & bidding of TH 197 Light Pole Replacement Project and authorize Professional Services Agreement (City Project 25-06)

The City Council approved all items on Consent Agenda #1 and #2, including various claims, permits, and travel authorizations. It adopted a $49,600 contract with Baker Tilly Advisory Group for a classification and compensation study. The council also authorized design and professional services for the TH 197 light pole replacement project, hiring EAPC for $11,500. All motions were carried by unanimous voice votes except the Consent Agenda #2 vote, which recorded six yeas and one abstention.

• Approved Consent Agenda #1 items (7 yeas)
• Approved Consent Agenda #2 items (6 yeas, 1 abstain)
• Approved $49,600 Baker Tilly compensation study contract (unanimous voice vote)
• Authorized design and professional services for TH 197 light pole replacement ($11,500) (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes from prior meetings (unanimous voice vote)

Work Session

The Bemidji City Council will hold a work session on March 24, 2025. The council will review its Code of Conduct and discuss the submission of a SAFER grant application for fire services. No decisions are indicated beyond discussion.

• Review Code of Conduct
• Discussion of SAFER Grant Application for fire services
• Call to order and roll call (procedural)

The City Council held a work session on March 10, 2025. Council members discussed the code of conduct and a SAFER grant application for the fire department but took no formal action on either item. The meeting was adjourned by a motion from Peterson, seconded by Thayer, and carried by unanimous voice vote at 6:55 p.m.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous voice vote)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will approve the meeting agenda and the February 18, 2025 minutes. It will discuss old business items including the 1909 Pumping Station, updates to the city website and Facebook, and the status of 100‑year‑old buildings. In new business, the commission will consider having the City Manager contact the State Historic Preservation Office, sign‑up members to preservation email lists, and review a 100‑year‑old building application from the Northwest Minnesota Foundation.

• Approve agenda
• Approve February 18, 2025 minutes
• Discuss Pumping Station 1909
• Review 100‑Year‑Old Building Application (NWMF)
• City Manager to contact SHPO

City Council

The Bemidji City Council will approve a consent agenda of claims, permits, and resolutions, including a $1.87 million claims payment and agreements with labor unions for 2025-2027.

• Claims payment of $1,874,444.16
• Agreement with IUOE Local 49 for 2025-2027
• Agreement with LELS Police Local 126 for 2025-2027
• Agreement with LELS Sergeants Local 227 for 2025-2027
• 2025 Street Renewal Project bid award

Work Session

The Bemidji City Council will hold a work session on March 17, 2025 to consider an amendment to a purchase agreement with Timothy W. Mrazek. The amendment will be reviewed and a decision made during the meeting. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Amendment to purchase agreement with Timothy W. Mrazek

General

The Bemidji City Council work session will begin with standard roll call. The primary item is an update on the TH 197 Raise Grant Project. No other decisions or actions are listed on the agenda.

• TH 197 Raise Grant Project – status update