Waite Park public meetings in 2023

City Council Work Session

The City Council will discuss staff findings regarding traffic speeds and resident requests for a stop sign on 2nd Avenue South. The Council will also conduct interviews with two candidates for the Assistant Fire Chief position.

• Review of traffic concerns and speed enforcement on 2nd Avenue South
• Interviews for the Assistant Fire Chief position

Public Notices of Ordinance Amendments

The Waite Park City Council is proposing an ordinance to adopt the Minnesota State Fire Code, including amendments and appendices. The ordinance would establish enforcement, definitions, penalties, and repeal conflicting ordinances. This is a draft to be proposed at the December 18, 2023 meeting.

• Adopts Minnesota State Fire Code per Minn. Stat. § 299F.011
• Requires KNOX® brand key boxes at main entrances of structures
• Adopts Appendices B, C, D on fire-flow, hydrants, and apparatus access roads
• Violations punishable by fine and/or up to 90 days imprisonment
• Repeals conflicting ordinances

City Council Agendas

The City Council will consider the final 2024 tax levy, budget, and capital improvement plan. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding changes to the Appendix B fee schedule.

• Final 2024 Tax Levy & Budget/Capital Improvement Plan
• Public Hearing for Appendix B Fee Schedule changes
• Ordinance 101 - Fire Code
• Purchase of Bobcats and attachments
• Approval of 2024 union and non-union salary schedules

Public Notices of Ordinance Amendments

The Waite Park City Council is proposing a draft ordinance that updates the city's Schedule of Fee Charges, covering administrative penalties, permits, licenses, and utility rates. The document lists specific fees for violations, building and mechanical permits, park rentals, and water/sewer services, with some fees increasing in 2025. This is a proposed ordinance to be considered at the December 18, 2023 meeting.

• Administrative penalties for most code violations set at $100, with repeat violations within 24 months doubled
• Park rental fees for residents increase from $65 in 2024 to $75 in 2025; non-residents from $150 to $160
• Building permit fees based on valuation, e.g., $17 for first $500, with higher tiers up to $4,024.10 for $1,000,000+
• Water service fee $46 per quarter, with tiered usage rates; sanitary sewer service fee $55 per quarter
• Liquor license fees: on-sale liquor $2,800, off-sale $100, brew pub on-sale $500

City Council Work Session

The City Council will discuss proposed changes to the 2024 fee schedule and utility rates. The work session also includes a review of the building inspection services contract renewal and proposed fire ordinance amendments.

• Review of proposed 2024 fee schedule and utility rates
• Renewal of building inspection services agreement with Code Consulting Professionals
• Discussion of proposed amendments to the Fire Ordinance
• Presentation by the Convention and Business Bureau on 2023 activities and 2024 plans
• Update on EPA requirements for lead and copper water service line tracking

City Council Agendas

The City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding the 2024 Budget and Levy. The agenda also includes resolutions for the 2023 Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Strategic Plan.

• Public Hearing: 2024 Budget and Levy
• Resolution for three solar facility setback variances (Tom & Susie Ardolf)
• Adoption of 2023 Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Map
• Adoption of 2023 Strategic Plan Final Document
• Approval of SEH Design Services Agreement for 2024 & 2025 CIP street projects

City Council Work Session

The City Council will receive an update from BKV regarding the facility needs assessment for a new public safety facility site selection and design. Staff will also discuss proposed reductions to the 2024 budget and review gambling donation requests.

• Update on public safety facility site selection and design by BKV
• Review of 2024 proposed budget including recent staff reductions
• Discussion of gambling donation requests for formal budget approval in December
• Department activity updates

City Council Agendas

The City Council will hold public hearings regarding unpaid city charge assessments and a currency exchange license renewal. The Council will also consider a conditional use permit for a school at 108 6th Ave N.

• Public Hearing: Proposed assessment of unpaid city charges
• Public Hearing: Unbank Company LLP 2024 currency exchange license renewal
• Conditional Use Permit: Establishing a school at 108 6th Ave N
• Consideration of hiring a Community Service Officer candidate
• Consideration of a Fire Service Agreement

Civil Service Board

The Civil Service Board is meeting to conduct police officer interviews. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other business listed.

• Police officer interviews

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing variance requests for a potential solar electric generating facility on Ardolf Acres. The commission will also consider the 2023 Waite Park Comprehensive Land Use Plan for a recommendation to the City Council.

• Variance requests from Tom & Susan Ardolf to reduce setback requirements for a solar and wind electric-generating facility
• Consideration of the 2023 Waite Park Comprehensive Land Use Plan
• Welcome of new Planning Commission member Don Blonigen

City Council Work Session

The City Council will conduct interviews with four engineering firms regarding water treatment facility improvements. The session also includes a review of the annual street capital improvement plan and a discussion regarding a proposed fire services contract with the City of St. Cloud.

• Interviews with four engineering firms for water treatment facility improvements
• Review of the annual street project capital improvement plan and 5-year plan
• Discussion of a proposed fire service contract with the City of St. Cloud
• Departmental activity updates

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review a land purchase agreement for 1450 Parkway Drive and consider requests for proposals regarding the water treatment facility. The agenda also includes a $12,000 charitable donation request and various license approvals.

• Consider Miller Purchase Agreement for 1450 Parkway Drive land purchase
• Consider RFPs for the Water Treatment Facility
• $12,000 charitable donation request to Great Theatre
• Approval of LRIP Resolution and Application
• Tobacco and off-sale beer license approvals

City Council Work Session

The City Council will interview Donald Blonigen for the open position on the Planning Commission and may decide to appoint him at a later meeting.

• Interview applicant for Planning Commission position

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review and vote on approving the consent agenda, including a donation resolution, an engineering agreement for the 15th Ave N Trail, firefighter appointments, funds transfer, rural tax rates, and bills. The council also plans to appoint two new police officers.

• Approve Resolution Accepting Donations To The City
• Approve Engineering Agreement - 15th Ave N Trail
• Approve Appointment Of 2 Police Officers

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit request from St. Robert Bellamine Church to allow for a school in an R-1 residential district. The meeting also includes a review of the previous meeting's minutes and staff updates.

• Conditional Use Permit: School at 108 6th Ave N (St. Robert Bellamine Church)
• Review of September 12, 2023, meeting minutes
• Overview of audio/video equipment

Park Board

The Waite Park Park Board is meeting for a regular session. The agenda consists of standard procedural items like approving the agenda and prior minutes, followed by discussion items including grants, park updates, a comprehensive plan update, park upgrades, and a Babe Ruth update. No specific action items or dollar amounts are listed.

• Approve agenda for October 4, 2023
• Approve August 2, 2023 Park Board minutes
• Discussion items: Grants, AMP, Landscape Coordinator, Park Updates, Comp Plan Update, Park Upgrades, Babe Ruth Update

City Council Agendas

The Waite Park City Council is holding a special meeting to present the city's Comprehensive Plan. The presentation is open to members of the City Council, Planning Commission, Park Board, and the community.

• Comprehensive Plan Presentation

City Council Work Session

The City Council will meet to review the final drafts of the city's strategic plan and comprehensive plan. Consultants will be present to discuss the documents and answer council questions before a public hearing is held on October 2nd.

• Review of Master Strategic Planning Document
• Review of Tactical Plan Living Document
• Review of Draft Comprehensive Plan (September 2023)

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review the 2024 General Fund preliminary budget and levy. The agenda also includes a request for a quarrying permit extension and a review of a new plat.

• 2024 General Fund Preliminary Budget & Levy
• Five-year extension request for Interim Use Permit for quarrying/mining (MTL Partners/Johnson Materials Inc.)
• Review of Preliminary and Final Plat - Park Square Plat 5 (Coborn's Inc.)
• Closed session to discuss labor negotiations strategy

City Council Work Session

The City Council will hold a work session to review the preliminary budget for the 2024 fiscal year. This meeting is focused on the initial budgetary review process.

• 2024 Preliminary Budget Review

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review several consent agenda items, including the termination of a joint powers agreement with ISD 742 for the School Resource Officer Program. The meeting also includes discussions on a violent offenders task force agreement and a legislative proposal.

• Termination of the JPA with ISD 742 regarding the School Resource Officer Program
• Approval of Central Minnesota Violent Offenders Task Force Joint Powers Agreement
• Temporary gambling permit for Pheasants Forever at 500 Division St.
• Approval of trading in plow truck #441
• Review of Flaherty & Hood legislative proposal and agreement

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a preliminary and final plat for Park Square Plat 5 and a five-year interim use permit extension for mining. The commission will also consider variance requests related to solar electric-generating facilities.

• Preliminary and Final Plat review for Park Square Plat 5 (Coborn’s Incorporated)
• 5-year Interim Use Permit extension for extractive use and mining (MTL Partners & Johnson Materials, Inc.)
• Variance requests to reduce solar facility setbacks (Thomas L. Ardolf Revocable Trust & Susan R. Ardolf Revocable Trust)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will review three architectural firms for a new Public Safety Facility design. Staff will also provide an update on the cannabinoid ordinance and discuss legislative changes affecting school resource officers.

• Review of three architectural service proposals for a Public Safety Facility
• Update on the city's cannabinoid ordinance
• Discussion regarding legislative impacts on school resource officer staffing

City Council Agendas

The City Council will consider requests for proposals for a new public safety facility and review various employee job descriptions. The agenda also includes discussions on park building improvements and a lease extension for 602 3rd St S.

• Consider RFPs for the Public Safety Facility
• Review of employee positions including Mechanic, HR Generalist, and Police Administrative Assistant
• Discussion of Park Building Improvements
• Consider lease agreement extension for 602 3rd St S building
• Resolution regarding Industries West Plat 5 final plat

The City Council selected a design firm for a new public safety facility and approved several infrastructure and personnel updates. The council also approved a land plat for industrial development and a resolution supporting a new Scientific and Natural Area.

• Selected BKV Architectural Firm for Public Safety Facility design (unanimous)
• Approved Baker Tilly recommendations for 7 employee position job reviews (unanimous)
• Approved $42,715 for park building roof, siding, and door repairs (unanimous)
• Approved 12-month lease extension for 602 3rd St S building
• Approved preliminary and final plat for Industries West Plat 5 (unanimous)
• Approved 8/7/23 Council Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Emergency Management JPA (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution Declaring Support for Glacial Lakes Trail (unanimous)

Civil Service Board

The Civil Service Board is meeting to conduct police officer interviews. This is the sole item on the agenda, indicating the board is in the process of evaluating candidates for a position.

• Police officer interviews

Planning Commission

The commission held a public hearing regarding proposed changes to the city's mining and extractive use ordinance. The amendments include new limits on the number of active permits, project term caps, and requirements for noise studies and groundwater impact studies.

• Proposed 20-year hard cap on new mining projects
• Limit of six active Interim Use Permits at any one time
• Maximum of 500 acres allowed for active mining/quarrying permits
• Requirement for annual noise studies at the owner's expense, if requested by the City
• Requirement for groundwater impact studies by professional hydrogeologists for certain projects

The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding the preliminary and final plat for Industries West Plat 5, a 6.11-acre industrial parcel. While staff recommended approval subject to parkland dedication fees, the minutes do not record a final vote or formal decision on the plat.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 14, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved March 14, 2023 minutes (unanimous)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will discuss potential ordinances regarding cannabis use in public spaces and a possible moratorium on cannabis sales. The session also includes reviews of a drone ordinance, park concessions, and the implementation of a new employee pay plan.

• Review of proposed city ordinance for cannabis use in public spaces
• Discussion of a potential moratorium on selling cannabis
• Proposal for a small concession building at Rivers Edge Park
• Consideration of a draft drone ordinance
• Review of recommendations regarding employee job description appeals

Public Notices of Ordinance Amendments

The Waite Park City Council is considering an ordinance amendment to update the local sales and use tax provisions, including extending the tax's termination date to October 17, 2037, or until $20 million is collected for a new public safety facility. The tax rate remains 0.5% and applies to retail sales and use within the city. The amendment also clarifies definitions, transitional rules, and license denial for delinquent taxes.

• Extends local sales and use tax termination date to October 17, 2037, or until $20 million is collected
• Tax rate remains 0.5% on retail sales and use within city limits
• Funds to finance construction and equipping of a new public safety facility
• Includes transitional rules for contracts and leases before April 1, 2023
• Authorizes license denial for businesses with delinquent city taxes

City Council Agendas

The City Council will consider a new pay plan structure and implementation via Memorandums of Agreement with several collective bargaining units. The agenda also includes a review of the 2022 audit and proposed amendments to local sales and use tax Ordinance 85.

• Consideration of new pay plan structure and implementation
• Proposed amendments to Local Sales & Use Tax (Ordinance 85)
• Review of 2022 Audit and related fund transfers
• Approval of Water Treatment Facility Improvements RFP
• Approval of Babe Ruth Charitable Gambling Donation

The Council approved a new compensation structure for exempt and non-exempt employees and signed Memorandums of Agreement with four collective bargaining units. The 2022 Audit Report and related fund transfers were accepted. Additionally, the City declared a watering ban due to a severe drought.

• Approved 2022 Audit Report and fund transfers (unanimous)
• Approved new pay plan structure for non-exempt and exempt employees (unanimous)
• Approved Police Admin Memorandum of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Police Sergeants Memorandum of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Maintenance Worker Memorandum of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Police Officer Memorandum of Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Water Treatment Facility Improvements RFP (unanimous)
• Approved Babe Ruth Charitable Gambling Donation (unanimous)

Park Board

The Waite Park Park Board is holding a regular meeting with a standard agenda. Items include approving the agenda and prior minutes, followed by discussions on grants, the AMP program, landscape coordinator role, park updates, comprehensive plan update, park upgrades, and a Babe Ruth update. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Approve agenda and April 5, 2023 minutes
• Discussion on grants
• Park updates and upgrades
• Comprehensive plan update
• Babe Ruth update

The Park Board approved new rental rates for park facilities. The board also received updates on landscaping, trail maintenance, and Babe Ruth project fundraising.

• Approved resident rental rate increase to $75.00
• Approved non-resident rental rate increase to $160.00
• Approved August 2, 2023 agenda
• Approved February 1, 2023 minutes
• Approved April 5, 2023 minutes

City Council Work Session

The City Council will review a proposal for Stearns County to manage the city's emergency management services for 2024. The session includes a presentation by the Stearns County EMS Director regarding a draft Joint Powers Agreement. If approved, the agreement will be considered at the August 7 meeting.

• Review of Emergency Management Proposal and draft Joint Powers Agreement
• Administrative update on Strategic Plan and next steps
• Update on Sales Tax Legislation and Public Safety
• Discussion regarding BNSF Restrictive Covenants
• Update on Fire Study

Public Notices of Ordinance Amendments

The Waite Park City Council will consider a draft ordinance that replaces Chapter 33 of the city code to regulate public rights-of-way. The new rules would require permits for excavation and obstruction, set fees, and establish registration for utility and telecom companies. This is a proposal for discussion at the July 17, 2023 meeting, not yet a final decision.

• Replaces Ordinance 33 to administer and regulate public rights-of-way
• Requires permits for excavation and obstruction in rights-of-way
• Sets fees for excavation and obstruction permits, including degradation fees
• Establishes registration requirements for utility and telecom users
• Defines small wireless facilities and collocation rules

Public Notices of Ordinance Amendments

The Waite Park City Council is considering a draft ordinance that would require newly installed utility facilities in public rights-of-way to be placed underground, with exceptions for technical infeasibility, temporary service, and certain wireless facilities. The ordinance also allows the city to require undergrounding for permanent replacements or relocations under certain conditions.

• New ordinance (No. 33A) requiring underground placement of utility facilities in public rights-of-way
• Exceptions for above-ground meters, transformers, street lighting, and small wireless facilities
• City may require undergrounding for permanent replacements or relocations if it promotes safety or development
• Temporary above-ground service allowed up to 3 months during construction, 7 months for soil conditions
• Developers must submit written agreements with utility users before final plat approval

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review draft ordinances regarding right-of-way and the undergrounding of utility facilities. The meeting also includes several consent agenda items related to licensing, appointments, and city contracts.

• Discussion of Draft Ordinance 33 regarding Right of Way
• Discussion of draft ordinance for undergrounding of utility facilities
• Approval of temporary gambling application for the Church of St Joseph
• Appointment of Anthony Nohava to Police Cadet position
• Approval of service agreement with John Hammond

The City Council approved two ordinances to manage utility and fiber placement in the right-of-way and designate areas for underground utilities. The Council also approved several consent items, including police appointments and business licenses.

• Approved Ordinance 33 Right-of-Way and Summary Publication (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 33A Public Property & Improvements and Summary Publication (unanimous)
• Approved Police Sergeant Appointments (4-1)
• Approved A4, LLC Tobacco License (unanimous)
• Approved Friends Bar 2AM Liquor License Renewal (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Anthony Nohava to Police Cadet (unanimous)
• Approved Service Agreement with John Hammond (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills as presented (unanimous)

City Council Work Session

The Waite Park City Council will hold a work session to review a pay plan. Baker Tilly is scheduled to present the plan to the Council.

• Presentation of pay plan by Baker Tilly

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review submitted bids for the 2023 Street Improvements project. The council will determine whether to proceed with the lowest presented bid.

• Consideration of 2023 Street Improvement Bids

The City Council approved a bid from MN Paving and Materials for 2023 street improvements. The project will be funded through TIF, sales tax, and general fund dollars.

• Approved $2,486,454.84 bid from MN Paving and Materials for 2023 Street Improvements (unanimous)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will discuss the new adult-use cannabis laws, their impact on Waite Park, and potential registration fees for cannabis businesses. Staff will also address staffing challenges in both the police and fire departments.

• Discussion of new adult-use cannabis law impacts
• $500 initial retail registration fee for certain cannabis businesses
• $1,000 renewal registration fee for cannabis businesses
• Fire department staffing recommendations
• Police department recruitment challenges

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review a Request for Proposal for a new public safety facility and an owners representative agreement with Custom Builders. The agenda also includes a hotel/motel license application from Siya Hospitality LLC and a contract authorization for an ADA Transition Plan.

• Siya Hospitality LLC Hotel/Motel License Application
• Request for Proposal (RFP) for Public Safety Facility
• Owners Representative Agreement with Custom Builders for Public Safety Facility
• Authorization of SEH contract for ADA Transition Plan completion
• Purchase of tandem chassis for 2024 budget

The City Council authorized a contract for an ADA Transition Plan and approved the RFP and owners representative agreement for a new public safety facility. Council also approved a hotel license for Siya Hospitality LLC and authorized the purchase of a tandem chassis for the 2024 budget.

• Approved Siya Hospitality LLC Hotel/Motel License application (Unanimous)
• Authorized contract with SEH, Inc. for ADA Transition Plan (Unanimous)
• Approved RFP for Public Safety Facility (Unanimous)
• Approved Owners Representative Agreement with Custom Builders for Public Safety Facility (Unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of Tandem Chassis for 2024 Budget (4-1)
• Authorized Public Works Director to impose a watering ban if extreme drought is proclaimed (Unanimous)
• Approved 6/5/23 Council Meeting Minutes and Performance Measures Program Resolution (Unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills as presented (Unanimous)

Civil Service Board

The Civil Service Board is meeting to conduct interviews for Police Sergeants and Officer positions. This is a personnel selection meeting, not a policy or legislative session.

• Police Sergeants & Officer Interviews

City Council Work Session

The City Council will meet for a work session to discuss the timeline and requirements for a public safety facility Request for Proposals (RFP). Additionally, Shane Zart from the Coalition of Greater MN Cities will provide a legislative recap and hear member concerns.

• Discussion regarding the RFP process and timeline for the public safety facility
• Legislative recap and discussion with CGMC representative Shane Zart

City Council Agendas

The City Council will discuss establishing a Juneteenth holiday for various city employees and authorize advertisements for bids on the 2023 Street Project. The agenda also includes reviewing communication proposals and a gambling donation request.

• Authorization of advertisement for bids for the 2023 Street Project
• Consideration of Juneteenth holiday resolutions for union and non-union staff
• Review of AllState Communication proposals for City Hall and Public Works upgrades
• Consideration of Granite Table gambling donation request
• Approval of hiring process for four full-time police officer vacancies

The Council approved a comprehensive plan to advertise for bids on multiple street and alley improvements. They also passed resolutions to recognize Juneteenth as a paid holiday for city employees. A request for a $3,000 donation to Granite Table was discussed but no action was taken.

• Authorized advertisement for bids for 2023 street projects (unanimous)
• Approved Juneteenth as a paid holiday via MOAs for non-union, maintenance, and police employees (unanimous)
• Approved 5/15/23 Council Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Sergeant Promotional Process (unanimous)
• Approved removal of 'No Parking' sign at 346 2nd Ave NE (unanimous)
• Approved AllState Communication Proposals (unanimous)
• Approved hiring process for 4 full-time officer vacancies (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills (unanimous)

Civil Service Board

The Civil Service Board is meeting to conduct police officer interviews. The agenda contains only this single item, with no other business listed.

• Police officer interviews

City Council Work Session

The City Council will review proposed amendments to the right-of-way ordinance regarding utility requirements. Discussion also includes development updates from Sand Companies for 10th Avenue South, planned 2023 street projects, and cloud-based server options for city security.

• Review of proposed Right of Way (ROW) ordinance amendments
• Sand Companies update on development along 10th Avenue South
• Discussion of proposed 2023 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) street projects
• Follow-up discussion on All State Communications security system and cloud-based server options

City Council Agendas

The City Council will consider summer hour memorandums for police and maintenance employees. The agenda also includes an emergency repair for the Park Press lift station and a police officer cadet hire.

• Summer hours MOUs for Police Administration and Maintenance employees
• Emergency repair for Park Press Lift Station
• Additional Police Officer Cadet hire under Pathways To Policing Program
• Electrical Inspector contract approval
• Ruwac CB201H2 Vacuum purchase request

The City Council approved emergency repairs and a pump replacement for the Park Press Lift Station. They also authorized the funding of an additional police cadet and approved summer 4/10 work schedules for certain employees.

• Approved $37,000 for Park Press Lift Station wet well repair and pump replacement (Unanimous)
• Approved funding for a second police officer cadet under the Pathways to Policing program (Unanimous)
• Approved Police Sergeant job description with 3 years experience and supervisory qualifications (4-1)
• Approved summer 4/10-hour shift schedules for Non-Licensed Essential and Maintenance Worker bargaining units (Unanimous)
• Approved Electrical Inspector Contract (Unanimous)
• Approved Public Works Seasonal Hire (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Ruwac CB201 H2 Vacuum (Unanimous)
• Approved street painting (Unanimous)

Civil Service Board

The Civil Service Board is meeting to discuss hiring steps for two Police Officer openings. The agenda contains only this single discussion item, with no other business listed.

• Discussion of hiring steps for two Police Officer openings

City Council Work Session

The City Council and staff will participate in a mobile work session consisting of a tour of local public safety facilities. The agenda is limited to the scheduled tour itinerary.

• Public safety facility tour

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review the police chief selection process and award bids for the 5th Street Extension. The agenda also includes a license application for Coratel Hotel and a resolution regarding 'No Mow May'.

• Award bids for 5th Street Extension
• Coratel Hotel license application
• Police Chief selection process staff report
• Resolution to consider 'No Mow May'
• Temporary liquor license and fee waiver for Family Fun Fest

The City Council voted to deny a license application for the Coratel Hotel following previous code and operational violations. The Council also appointed Anthony Reznicek as the new Police Chief, pending a background check.

• Denied Coratel Hotel license renewal (2-3)
• Appointed Anthony Reznicek to Police Chief position, Pay Grade 13, Step 3 (4-1)
• Approved 3/20/23 Council Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Temp Liquor License & Fee Waiver for Family Fun Fest (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution Accepting Donations to the City (unanimous)
• Approved Seasonal Worker List (unanimous)

City Council Agendas

The Board of Appeal & Equalization will meet to determine if taxable property has been properly valued and classified. The board is reviewing a possible written appeal from Mark Rodenwald regarding parcel 98.60815.0050.

• Property valuation appeal for Mark Rodenwald, PID 98.60815.0050

The Board of Appeal and Equalization reviewed two property valuation appeals and accepted recommendations to make no changes to the property values. Stearns County Assessors provided an overview of 2023 city assessments, noting a total estimated market value of $1,064,000,000.

• Denied value change for parcel 98.60568.0374 (Jud Zellner) (5-0)
• Denied value change for parcel 98.60815.0050 (Rodenwald Properties LLC) (5-0)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will discuss a housing development proposal from Sand Companies that may require city financing. The session also includes reviews of a water study regarding future development needs and a facility needs study for public safety construction.

• Sand Companies housing development proposal
• Review of SEH water study on existing and future resources
• Review of Facility Needs Study regarding public safety facility options

City Council Work Session

The City Council and Civil Service Board will conduct interviews for the Police Chief position using four different panels. The session includes a community meet and greet and a council discussion regarding next steps in the selection process.

• Police Chief candidate interviews with four separate panels
• Community Police Chief Meet and Greet
• City Council discussion on candidate selection next steps

Park Board

The Waite Park Park Board is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes, then discuss various park-related topics including grants, the AMP program, landscape coordinator, park updates, comprehensive plan update, park upgrades, and a Babe Ruth update. The agenda is mostly discussion items with no specific actions or dollar amounts listed.

• Grants discussion
• AMP program update
• Landscape Coordinator report
• Park updates and upgrades
• Babe Ruth update

The Park Board approved the April 1, 2023 agenda and the February 1, 2023 minutes. No substantive policy or funding decisions were made during the meeting.

• Approved April 1, 2023 agenda
• Approved February 1, 2023 minutes

City Council Agendas

The City Council will review a rezoning and variance request for 20 12th Ave N to expand the parking lot at Ultimate Sports Bar & Grill. The meeting also includes several consent agenda items regarding local business applications and city resolutions.

• Rezoning and variances for 20 12th Ave N (Ultimate Sports Bar & Grill parking lot expansion)
• Temporary gambling application for St Cloud Stand Down at Moose Lodge
• Strong beer and Sunday liquor sale for Yamato Sushi House
• 1-year lease-purchase term for new mobile radios
• Resolution to adopt Stearns County Hazard Mitigation Plan

The City Council approved the rezoning of 20 12th Ave N from residential to commercial to allow for a 45-stall parking lot expansion. Two variances were also granted to reduce landscaped setbacks and fencing requirements. Additionally, the council approved several consent items, including a PFA class action lawsuit and a hazard mitigation plan.

• Approved rezoning of 20 12th Ave N from R-1 Single Family Residential to B-2 Commercial/General Business District (Unanimous)
• Approved variance to reduce landscaped setback between B-2 and R-1 districts from 15 feet to zero feet (Unanimous)
• Approved variance to reduce minimum screening/berming height to zero feet for the western frontage along 12th Avenue North (Unanimous)
• Approved joining PFA's Class Action Lawsuit (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution to Adopt Stearns County Hazard Mitigation Plan (Unanimous)
• Approved Temp Gambling Application for St Cloud Stand Down at Moose Lodge (Unanimous)
• Approved Strong Beer & Sunday Liquor for Yamato Sushi House (Unanimous)
• Approved 1-Year Lease-Purchase Term for New Mobile Radios (Unanimous)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will receive updates on The Ledge's 2023 season, including staffing and maintenance. Staff will also discuss software and equipment proposals for city facility security and the next steps in public safety facility reviews and the Police Chief hiring process.

• Update on The Ledge operations, bonding request, and sponsorship program
• Proposal to upgrade All State Communications security cameras and key fob access
• Review of timeframe for public safety facility tours and designs
• Update on the Police Chief hiring process assisted by Mercer Group

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request to rezone 20-12th Ave N from residential to commercial use. The proposal includes converting the property into a parking lot with approximately 45 stalls to reduce on-street parking. Additionally, the applicant seeks variances to reduce required landscaping setbacks and screening requirements.

• Rezoning of 20-12th Ave N from R-1 Single-Family Residential to B-2 Commercial/General Business
• Variance to reduce 15-foot landscaped setback requirement to zero feet
• Variance to reduce screening/berming requirements from 3.5 feet to zero feet
• Proposed construction of a parking lot for Ultimate Sports Bar & Grill

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended that the City Council approve the rezoning of 20-12th Ave N from residential to commercial use. The commission also recommended approval of two variances to allow for a zero-foot landscape setback and the removal of fencing on the western side of the proposed lot.

• Recommended approval of rezoning 20-12th Ave N from R-1 Single-Family Residential to 8-2 Commercial/General Business District (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of variance to reduce landscape setback from 15 feet to zero feet (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of variance to reduce minimum screening height from 3.5 feet to zero feet on the west side facing 12th Ave N (Unanimous)
• Approved the meeting agenda (Unanimous)

Civil Service Board

The Civil Service Board is meeting to review applications and resumes for the Police Chief candidate position. This is a closed personnel review session, not a public decision-making meeting.

• Review of Police Chief candidate applications and resumes

City Council Work Session

The City Council and staff will conduct a mobile tour of three public safety facilities. The public is welcome to attend but must provide their own transportation and lunch. A detailed schedule is provided in an attached document.

• Mobile tour of three public safety facilities
• Public welcome but must provide own transportation and lunch

City Council Agendas

The Waite Park City Council will consider consent agenda items including an on-sale and Sunday liquor license for Ippen Ramen, a 2023 street project engineering services proposal, renewal of the Violent Offender Task Force joint powers agreement, a 2023 Pathway to Policing grant, a fire department SCBA purchase, and a 2-year lease-purchase for new mobile radios. Regular agenda items include approving bills and a WACOSA proclamation.

• Approve on-sale and Sunday liquor license for Ippen Ramen
• Approve 2023 Street Project engineering services proposal
• Renew Violent Offender Task Force (VOTF) joint powers agreement
• Approve 2023 Pathway to Policing grant
• Approve fire department SCBA purchase and 2-year lease-purchase for new mobile radios

The City Council approved several items via a consent agenda, including liquor licensing and public safety grants. The council also appointed a new member to the Planning Commission and approved the payment of bills.

• Appointed Richard Staudinger to the Planning Commission (Unanimous)
• Approved On-Sale & Sunday Liquor for Ippen Ramen (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Street Project Engineering Services Proposal (Unanimous)
• Approved renewal of Violent Offender Task Force Joint Powers Agreement (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Pathway to Policing Grant (Unanimous)
• Approved Fire Department SCBA purchase (Unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills as presented (Unanimous)

City Council Work Session

The council will discuss a MnDOT intersection control study for Highway 23 and Bel Clare Drive, review its impact on future development, and consider signing off on the recommendations. They will also hear a funding request from Granite Table, a regional organization seeking support from six cities, and interview candidates for a Planning Commission vacancy.

• Review of MnDOT intersection control study for Trunk Highway 23 and Bel Clare Drive
• Granite Table overview and funding request from six cities
• Interviews for one Planning Commission opening with three candidates

Civil Service Board

The Civil Service Board is meeting to discuss the Police Chief Recruiting Timeline. This is the sole item on the agenda.

• Discussion of Police Chief Recruiting Timeline

Public Notices of Ordinance Amendments

The Waite Park City Council is considering amendments to Ordinance Section 52.45, which regulates mining and extractive uses. The changes include new limits on permit terms, additional application requirements, and updated performance standards. A public hearing was held by the Planning Commission on February 14, 2023, and the amendments are proposed for the February 21, 2023 council meeting.

• Amendments to Section 52.45, Mining and Extractive Uses
• New 20-year total project term limit for interim use permits approved after Feb 21, 2023
• Requirement for groundwater impact study by certified hydrologist for projects impacting groundwater
• Annual noise study required at City's discretion, with costs reimbursed by operator
• Performance bond required for reclamation, based on acreage assessment

City Council Agendas

The Waite Park City Council will vote on proposed amendments to Section 52.45 of the city code, which regulates mining and extractive uses. The Council will also authorize advertisement for bids for the 5th Street South Extension project and approve a resolution establishing procedures for a temporary snow emergency.

• Ordinance amendment to Section 52.45, Mining and Extractive Uses
• Authorize advertisement for bids for 5th Street South Extension
• Approve resolution for temporary snow emergency procedures
• Approve temporary gambling permit for The INDY Foundation
• Approve bills and other business

The City Council approved amendments to the mining and extractive uses ordinance and established procedures for a temporary snow emergency. Council also authorized bids for a road extension funded by a developer.

• Approved ordinance amendments for mining and extractive uses (3-1)
• Approved resolution for temporary snow emergency from Feb 22 to Feb 25 (unanimous)
• Authorized advertisement for bids for 5th Street South extension (unanimous)
• Approved 1/18/23 and 2/6/23 Council Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved temporary gambling permit for INDY Foundation (unanimous)
• Approved payment of bills as presented (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Waite Park Planning Commission will consider amendments to Section 52.45 of the city code regarding mining and extractive uses. The agenda also includes approval of 17 sets of minutes from meetings dating back to October 2020. No other substantive items are listed for discussion or decision.

• Ordinance amendments to Section 52.45, Mining & Extractive Uses
• Approval of minutes from 17 prior meetings (Oct 2020 – Sep 2022)

The Planning Commission approved proposed amendments to Section 52.45 regarding mining and extractive uses. The recommendation includes a request for the City Council to specifically reconsider the 20-year project term limit and the requirement for annual noise studies.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes for items 7-17 from April 13, 2021 - September 13, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved ordinance amendments for mining and extractive uses with requests for Council to review the 20-year term and annual noise study requirements (unanimous)

City Council Work Session

The City Council will discuss the police department's staffing plan amid retirements and new hires, and consider having Stearns County serve as the city's emergency manager. They will also hear an introduction of the new public works supervisor and discuss STARail's improvement plans for the rail museum site on 3rd Street North.

• Introduction of Zach Dubay as new Public Works Supervisor
• STARail discussion on improvements to the rail museum site on 3rd Street North
• Discussion on Stearns County serving as Emergency Manager for the city
• Police Department staffing plan discussion due to retirements and new officers

City Council Agendas

The Waite Park City Council will consider a consent agenda with multiple routine approvals, including 2023 property casualty insurance, a used vehicle for a trafficking task force investigator, a lease purchase for new mobile radios, and a temporary gambling license for St. Joseph Relief Association. The regular agenda includes approving bills and other business.

• Approve 2023 property casualty insurance
• Approve purchasing a used vehicle for trafficking task force investigator
• Approve lease purchase contract for new mobile radios
• Approve temporary gambling license for St. Joseph Relief Association
• Approve hiring process for full-time police officer

The City Council unanimously approved a consent agenda containing multiple administrative and equipment purchases. The council also voted unanimously to pay bills as presented.

• Approved 2023 Property Casualty Insurance
• Approved Annual Renewal of Lexipol Policy Manual Support
• Approved purchase of used vehicle for Trafficking Task Force Investigator
• Approved hiring process for Full-Time Officer
• Approved purchase of water analyzer
• Approved firefighter appointment
• Approved temporary gambling license for St. Joseph Relief Association
• Approved lease purchase contract for new mobile radios

Park Board

The Waite Park Park Board met on February 1, 2023, to elect its officers and approve the agenda and previous minutes. The board discussed a presentation from United Way regarding the Born Learning Trail, reviewed grant opportunities including AMP, and considered the appointment of a Landscape Coordinator. Additionally, the board addressed the Comprehensive Plan update and general park upgrades.

• Election of Park Board officers (Chair, Deputy Chair, Secretary)
• Approval of December 7, 2022, Park Board Minutes
• Born Learning Trail presentation by United Way
• Discussion of AMP grants and Landscape Coordinator position
• Review of Comprehensive Plan update and park upgrades

The board approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from December 7, 2022. No substantive policy or budget decisions were recorded during the meeting.

• Approved February 1, 2023 agenda
• Approved December 7, 2022 minutes

City Council Work Session

The Waite Park City Council is holding a special work session to meet with New West Presentations, Inc. to recap The Ledge Amphitheater's 2022 season and plan for 2023. The meeting is scheduled for January 23, 2023, at 3:00 PM at Waite Park Public Works, 670 17th Ave S, Waite Park, MN. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda; it is a discussion and planning session.

• Special work session with New West Presentations, Inc.
• Recap of The Ledge Amphitheater 2022 season
• Planning for 2023 season
• Meeting at Waite Park Public Works, 670 17th Ave S

City Council Work Session

The City Council will receive updates on the comprehensive plan and zoning, discuss desired qualities for the police chief search with Mercer Group, review progress on the mining ordinance, and consider sites for a public safety facility tour.

• Police chief search process with Mercer Group, including discussion of candidate qualities
• Update on comprehensive plan and zoning from SEH
• Continued discussion of mining ordinance; public hearing and council consideration expected in February
• Review of potential public safety facility tour sites

City Council Agendas

The Waite Park City Council will administer oaths of office for newly elected members and consider two conditional use permits: one for an animal hospital at 110 2nd St S and another for Schulte Transmission to relocate to 408 3rd St N. The council will also discuss a pay compensation plan proposal from Baker Tilly and make 2023 appointments. Several consent agenda items are up for approval, including a settlement agreement, a Tri-County Humane Society agreement, and a side-by-side vehicle purchase.

• Conditional Use Permit for Banfield Animal Hospital at 110 2nd St S (Marketplace)
• Conditional Use Permit for Schulte Transmission major automotive work at 408 3rd St N
• Consider Baker Tilly proposal for pay compensation plan
• Approve 2023 Axon body and mobile camera data storage renewal
• Approve settlement agreement (details not disclosed)

The Council approved conditional use permits for an animal hospital and a major automotive repair business. They also authorized a pay compensation market study using ARPA funds and confirmed the Acting Mayor appointment.

• Appointed Member Theisen as Acting Mayor (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for Banfield Animal Hospital at 110 2nd St S (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for major automotive repair at 408 3rd St N (unanimous)
• Approved $10,500 Baker Tilly Market Study using ARPA funds (unanimous)
• Approved 12/19/22 City Council Meeting Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Side by Side (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution Accepting Donations to the City (unanimous)
• Approved Tri-County Humane Society Agreement (unanimous)

City Council Agendas

The Stearns County Municipal League will meet on January 17, 2023, in Waite Park. Agenda items include approval of minutes, a treasurer's report, and committee reports from the Feedlot Review Committee and Region 7W Transportation Advisory Committee. The league will also set its next meeting date and location for May 16, 2023, in Kimball.

• Approval of minutes from previous meeting
• Treasurer's report including checking account balance and list of bills
• Feedlot Review Committee report (advisory body for feedlot conditional use permits)
• Region 7W Transportation Advisory Committee report (regional transportation planning)
• Setting next meeting: Tuesday, May 16, 2023, in Kimball