Columbus, Minnesota

Meeting

The Columbus Economic Development Authority discussed a proposal from Anna Tanski Consulting to provide a tourism strategic planning process for a fee of $15,000, plus mileage and lodging. The board also received updates from the Columbus Tourism Committee and a recap of the Minnesota Tourism Association summit. A conceptual tourism attraction involving Dambo Troll sculptures was presented with estimated costs of $300,000 to $600,000, but no funding decision was made. No formal actions were taken on any item.

• Tourism Strategic Planning Consultant Proposal – $15,000 fee – Anna Tanski Consulting
• Conceptual Dambo Troll sculpture attraction – estimated cost $300,000‑$600,000
• Columbus Tourism Committee update
• MNTA Summit recap – identified potential tourism consultants
• Old business – comprehensive bylaw amendments and business surveys

Park Board

Council

The City Council approved a variance and preliminary plat for the LaMeyer Estates subdivision at 14561 Furman Street NE. The body also extended a professional services agreement for the new City Hall project and tabled an ordinance regarding deer season rifle restrictions.

• Approved variance for shared-driveway easement at 14561 Furman Street NE
• Approved preliminary plat for LaMeyer Estates (two rural residential lots)
• Approved $4,500 agreement extension with Wold Architects for City Hall Project
• Tabled Ordinance 26-08 regarding 2026 deer season rifle restrictions
• Approved payment #1 for Notre Dame Street Mill and Overlay Project

Park Board

The Park Board is reviewing an agreement with the Forest Lake Area Fastpitch Association for dugout construction. The meeting also includes a draft of the Columbus Parks and Trails Master Plan to establish long-term goals for maintenance, recreation, and natural area preservation.

• Agreement with Forest Lake Area Fastpitch Association for dugouts on Fields 2, 3, and 4
• FLAFA contribution of $10,000 per field in exchange for 3-year exclusive rental rights
• Draft Columbus Parks and Trails Master Plan outlining goals for funding and infrastructure
• Proposed expansion of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure in the freeway district
• Granting of concession rights to FLAFA from 2026-2028 with Columbus Lions right of first refusal

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission recommended approval of an ordinance to increase mailed notice requirements to 1,250 feet for Conditional Use Permit applications in the Rural Residential (RR) District. The body also reviewed a conceptual plan for a 39-lot residential development and conducted staff training on zoning authority.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance Amendment 26-XX to expand public hearing notice requirements to 1,250 feet in the RR District
• Recommended approval of Driveway Design and Access Standards ordinance amendment
• Discussion of Thurnbeck Construction 4th Addition concept plan for 39 single-family lots near Furman Street NE and 165th Avenue NE
• City Council report on approval of Fishing for Life Conditional Use Permit with a required Severe Weather Response Plan
• Planning and Zoning 101 training presentation from the MN DNR

Council

The Columbus City Council will approve a consent agenda that includes bill payments totaling $129,950.03 and a supplemental payment list. Council members will also consider a conditional use permit application from Jusczak Companies to construct a trucking maintenance facility with office space and controlled‑access parking at 14925 Hornsby Street NE. No public comments were received during the public forum.

• Approval of bill payments totaling $129,950.03
• Approval of supplemental bill payment list
• Conditional Use Permit for Jusczak Trucking at 14925 Hornsby Street NE
• Payment to LARKIN HOFFMAN for city retainer $6,000.00
• Payment to Metropolitan Council Waste Water Service $6,088.51

Council

The council will present a review of the 2027 City Budget and discuss anticipated increases in wages, law enforcement and fire department contracts, insurance costs, and reduced capital funds. Follow‑up budget discussions are scheduled for August 4, September 1, and a final budget presentation is set for December 9, 2026. The meeting also includes a proposal to restrict dogs in City Park and the City Hall campus on September 19, 2026, and a request for direction on the Sunrise River Watershed Management Organization re‑joining the Lower St. Croix Partnership.

• Review of the 2027 City Budget
• Anticipated budget increases: wages and benefits, law enforcement contract, fire department contract, insurance costs, reduced capital funds
• Dog restrictions for the Fall Fest on September 19, 2026 (service dogs exempt)
• SRWMO request to re‑join the Lower St. Croix Partnership, which distributes approx. $1.3 M state grant funds every two years
• Estimated cost of SRWMO staff attendance at partnership meetings: $690 per year

Council

The City Council is meeting to approve two resolutions for the sale of city-owned property to Steven R. and Patricia M. Saunders. The proposed sales involve land located at the intersection of Highway 97 and Interstate 35.

• Resolution 26-16: Sale of approximately 7.71 acres at the northeast quadrant of Highway 97 and Interstate 35
• Resolution 26-17: Sale of land at the northwest quadrant of Highway 97 and Interstate 35

Council

The City Council approved a Conditional Use Permit for a church and religious programming facility at 8220 Lake Drive NE. The approval requires the applicant to develop an Emergency Response and Severe Weather Response Plan. The Council also reviewed a payment summary for city bills and payroll.

• Approval of Conditional Use Permit for Fishing for Life at 8220 Lake Drive NE
• Approval of $250,985.37 in total payments, including $188,528.85 for invoices and $23,312.78 for electronic payroll
• Payment of $136,993.25 to Anoka County Treasury Office for 2nd Qtr 2026 L/E contract
• Payment of $22,123.12 to Goodmanson Construction Inc for tennis court resurfacing project 25-02
• Payment of $9,500.00 to LB Carlson LLP for progress billing through April 2026

The council unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Jusczak Trucking’s maintenance facility at 14925 Hornsby Street NE. They also adopted Ordinance 26-06, updating driveway and access standards in the city code. The council directed staff to prepare the required public hearing and notice for a capital improvement bond to fund a new City Hall building. All actions were approved by unanimous voice or roll‑call votes.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Jusczak Trucking at 14925 Hornsby St NE (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved Ordinance 26-06 amending driveway and access standards (unanimous roll‑call)
• Directed staff to prepare Capital Improvement Bond public hearing for new City Hall (unanimous voice vote)
• Directed staff to publish notice and schedule public hearing for the City Hall bond (unanimous voice vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission reviewed a conditional use permit for a truck parking facility and a residential subdivision request. The body voted to recommend approval to the City Council for both the truck facility and the LaMeyer Estates subdivision projects.

• Recommended conditional approval for truck maintenance and parking facility at 14925 Hornsby Street NE
• Recommended approval of a variance for a 66-foot public right-of-way easement at 14561 Furman Street NE
• Recommended approval of the Preliminary Plat for LaMeyer Estates at 14561 Furman Street NE
• Discussion of a draft ordinance amendment to Section 7A-803 regarding driveway design requirements

Council

The council discussed the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office quarterly report and a proposed two‑year crime‑technology pilot. It postponed the Fishing for Life Conditional Use Permit to allow additional neighbor notification. Staff presented cost estimates for a new City Hall ($6.8‑$7.2 M) and a full renovation ($4.8‑$5.6 M) but took no formal action. The council also approved a temporary liquor license for the Lions Club Fall Fest and recognized Public Works Director Jim Windingstad’s 20 years of service.

• ACSO quarterly report on crime‑technology pilot (no decision)
• Tabled Fishing for Life Conditional Use Permit for 8220 Lake Drive NE
• City Hall project cost estimates: $6.8‑$7.2 M for new facility, $4.8‑$5.6 M for renovation
• Resolution 26-10: temporary on‑sale liquor license for Columbus Lions at 16319 Kettle River Blvd NE
• Resolution 26-09 recognizing Jim Windingstad’s 20‑year service

The council approved the Planning Commission’s recommendation to issue a Conditional Use Permit for Fishing for Life’s church at 8220 Lake Drive NE, with required emergency response conditions (4‑1). It also adopted an 18‑day early voting location, amended the Minnesota Investment Fund loan to $850,000 for Bare Homes, and declined to waive municipal tort liability limits, each by unanimous vote.

• Adopt agenda with addition of Item C.5, Resolution 26-13 (5‑0)
• Approve Consent Agenda (5‑0)
• Approve Findings of Fact and Conditional Use Permit for Fishing for Life at 8220 Lake Drive NE (4‑1)
• Approve Resolution 26-12 designating city as 18‑day early voting location (5‑0)
• Approve not waiving municipal tort liability limits (5‑0)
• Approve Resolution 26-13 amending loan to $850,000 for Bare Homes (5‑0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission unanimously approved a Conditional Use Permit for a truck maintenance facility at 14925 Hornsby Street NE. The commission also approved a Conditional Use Permit for a nonprofit fishing ministry at 8220 Lake Drive NE. A separate trucking permit request was tabled for further review.

• Approved CUP for nonprofit fishing ministry at 8220 Lake Drive NE
• Approved CUP for truck maintenance facility at 14925 Hornsby Street NE
• Tabled CUP for truck maintenance facility at 14925 Hornsby Street NE
• Approved City Council approval of electrical substation zoning text amendment
• Approved City Council approval of CUP for Asphalt Specialties

The commission unanimously adopted the Findings of Fact and recommended that the City Council conditionally approve the Jusczak Trucking Conditional Use Permit for a secured truck‑parking and office facility at 14925 Hornsby Street NE. It voted 4‑1 to recommend approval of a variance relieving the 66‑foot easement requirement for the LaMeyer Estates subdivision at 14561 Furman Street NE. It also approved a recommendation to approve the preliminary plat for the LaMeyer Estates subdivision, passing 3‑2. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Adopt Findings of Fact & recommend conditional approval of Jusczak Trucking CUP (14925 Hornsby St NE) – vote 5-0
• Adopt Findings of Fact & recommend variance approval for 66‑ft easement at 14561 Furman St NE – vote 4-1
• Adopt Findings of Fact & recommend approval of Preliminary Plat for LaMeyer Estates at 14561 Furman St NE – vote 3-2
• Adjourn meeting – vote 5-0

Council

The City Council is discussing options for City Hall, including a new build, total renovation, or addressing only pressing needs. The body is evaluating a budget-neutral financing plan involving property sales and bond redirections. A decision on the project option is recommended by June 10.

• New City Hall build estimates: $6.8 million to $7.2 million
• City Hall complete renovation estimates: $4.8 million to $5.6 million
• Proposed sale of three city properties to net $1.7 million
• Potential redirection of Bond 2018A, 2020A, and 2021A payments
• Discussion on use of $8,200 in charitable gambling proceeds from Forest Lake Youth Services

Council

The City Council will consider a consent agenda to approve payments for a range of vendors and payroll. The total amount slated for approval is $80,715.01, covering invoices such as Amazon supplies, Anoka County aerial imagery, and legal services. Approval will also release electronic payroll payments of $21,482.41.

• Amazon inspection stickers – $31.98
• Anoka County Treasury aerial imagery – $1,000.00
• Faymoville Family Trust escrow refund – $2,426.45
• Larkin Hoffman legal matters (case 02-CV-26-3170) – $2,404.00
• Wage Works HCFSA admin fee (Visa card) – $55.00

The council unanimously adopted the meeting agenda and the consent agenda. It voted to table the Fishing for Life conditional use permit request until the June 10 meeting to allow additional outreach. The council also approved the agenda for the June 2 work meeting and unanimously recognized Public Works Director Jim Windingstad for 20 years of service.

• Adopted May 27 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)
• Tabled Fishing for Life conditional use permit until June 10 (unanimous)
• Approved June 2 work meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 26-09 recognizing Jim Windingstad (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of Draft Ordinance 26-XX, adding Electrical Substations and Associated Public Utility Facilities as a Conditional Use in the Commercial/Industrial‑Light district. The commission also heard a concept plan for an 8.78‑acre site at 13472 West Freeway Drive NE, but took no formal action. A public hearing on the Preliminary Plat “LaMeyer Estates” was postponed, and revisions to the driveway access standards ordinance were discussed without a vote.

• Approval of Draft Ordinance 26-XX to allow Electrical Substations and Associated Public Utility Facilities as a Conditional Use in the C/I‑Light zoning district
• Presentation of a concept plan and development proposal for 8.78 acres at 13472 West Freeway Drive NE (no formal action taken)
• Postponement of the public hearing for the Preliminary Plat “LaMeyer Estates” application
• Discussion of revisions to the proposed driveway access and apron standards ordinance amendment (no formal action taken)
• Public hearing on the ordinance amendment received no public comments

The commission approved the Findings of Fact and recommended a conditional use permit for Fishing for Life at 8220 Lake Drive NE, with the recommendation sent to the City Council. The commission also tabled the recommendation on the Jusczak Trucking conditional use permit until the June 3, 2026 meeting, requesting additional operational details. Both actions passed unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 6, 2026 Planning Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Findings of Fact and recommended conditional use permit for Fishing for Life (unanimous)
• Tabled recommendation for Jusczak Trucking conditional use permit until June 3, 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Boards

The City of Columbus is accepting applications for residents to serve on various advisory boards and committees. The agenda provides the application forms and instructions for interested candidates.

• Application forms available for City Planning Commission
• Application forms available for Columbus Fall Fest
• Application forms available for Park Board
• Application forms available for Public Works Advisory Board
• Application forms available for Economic Development Authority

Park Board

The Park Board will meet to receive updates on dugout construction schedules and tennis court progress. The agenda also includes a discussion regarding the Columbus Park Cleanup Day and the introduction of an Associate Planner.

• Dugouts construction schedule update
• Tennis court update
• Columbus Park Cleanup Day
• Introduction of Associate Planner

Council

The Columbus City Council is scheduled to approve payments totaling $167,802.67 for the month of May 2026, covering city operations, payroll, and various service contracts.

• Payroll and benefits: $24,307.75 for staff and $4,141.84 for insurance premiums
• Engineering services: $22,100.00 for water tower geotechnical work
• Road and utility projects: $1,800.00 for frost boil repairs and $5,782.00 for Notre Dame Street milling and overlay
• Legal services: $6,000.00 retainer for Larkin Hoffman
• Solid waste and utilities: $107.38 for ACE Solid Waste and $1,199.78 for recycling newsletter printing

The council unanimously approved Ordinance 26-05, which adds electrical substations and related utility facilities as a conditional use in the Commercial Light Industrial district. It also approved a Conditional Use Permit for Asphalt Specialties and authorized the Invisible Wounds Project to conduct raffles at Running Aces. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Ordinance 26-05 (electrical substations as conditional use) – unanimous
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Asphalt Specialties – unanimous
• Approved Resolution 26-08 authorizing Invisible Wounds Project raffles – unanimous

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing a non-binding concept plan to subdivide an 8.78-acre parcel into five lots for Outdoor Innovations Landscaping and other industrial users. Staff noted that landscaping businesses are not currently permitted in the Light Industrial district, meaning the project would require a zoning amendment or rezoning.

• Concept review for 13472 W. Freeway Drive NE involving a 5-lot subdivision
• Proposed use of a landscaping business, excavating company, cabinet shop, and general contractor operations
• Discussion of required access improvements including a SB right turn lane and NB left turn lane on W. Freeway Drive NE
• Proposed zoning text amendment to allow electrical substations as a Conditional Use in the C/I-Light District
• Discussion of updated driveway apron and access standards to reduce gravel migration and safety hazards

Council

The City Council will discuss remodeling or new construction options for City Hall and decide whether to allow rifles for deer hunting in 2026. The body will also discuss the strategic use of $471,600 in Hotel & Lodging Tax revenues.

• City Hall project presentation by Wold Architects regarding remodeling vs. new construction
• Proposed ordinance to either allow or restrict rifles for the 2026 deer season
• Discussion on using $23,580 (5% administrative portion) of Hotel & Lodging Tax for a tourism consultant
• Review of $448,020 (95% portion) of Hotel & Lodging Tax for tourism and marketing
• Water system facility tour for City Council

Council

The Columbus City Council approved a payment summary totaling $154,660.42 for invoices and payroll. The body also approved the City acting as the applicant for a Minnesota Investment Fund loan for the Bare Home expansion project.

• Approval of $154,660.42 in bills and payroll
• Approval of Bare Home expansion MIF loan
• Hiring Simon Johnson as seasonal public works employee at $18/hour
• Acceptance of $535,000 LRIP grant for North Hornsby Street
• Termination of Forest Lake Area Cable Commission accounting services

The council unanimously approved Resolution 26-06, allowing the city to act as applicant for a $1.6 million MIF loan for Bare Home, Inc., and Resolution 26-07 supporting a job‑creation fund application. It also adopted Ordinance 26-04 extending commercial‑vehicle restrictions on Camp 3 Road, and approved the award of the Notre Dame Street project to North Valley, Inc. for $558,886.70. Additional actions included setting the May 5 work‑meeting agenda, entering closed session to consider a property sale, and directing the administrator to negotiate that sale.

• Approved Resolution 26-06 for $1.6M MIF loan for Bare Home, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 26-07 supporting job‑creation fund application (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 26-04 extending road restrictions on Camp 3 Road (unanimous)
• Approved award of Notre Dame Street Project to North Valley, Inc. for $558,886.70 (unanimous)
• Approved work‑meeting agenda for May 5, 2026 (unanimous)
• Entered closed session to consider sale of city‑owned property (unanimous)
• Directed City Administrator to negotiate property sale per closed‑session limits (unanimous)

Council

The Local Board of Appeals and Equalization will meet on April 20, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. to hear resident concerns about property valuations and classifications for the 2026 assessment, which affect 2027 tax payments. Staff will present a report, followed by the City Assessor’s report, after which the board will decide whether to uphold or adjust each valuation or classification. The meeting may be reconvened if additional time is needed, but must conclude by May 31.

• Call to Order and adoption of agenda
• Staff Report presentation
• City Assessor Report presentation
• Board of Appeals and Equalization hearing on property valuations
• Adjournment

The Board of Appeal and Equalization approved its agenda after a motion by Councilmember Lattin‑Anglin and a second by Fleming, with all five members voting aye. No formal appeals were filed, and the board heard the assessor’s report on three parcels. The meeting was then adjourned by a motion from Fleming, seconded by Lattin‑Anglin, with unanimous approval.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Meeting

The Columbus Economic Development Authority will review a proposal to allocate the 5% administrative portion of the city’s $471,600 hotel and lodging tax—about $23,580—for hiring a consultant to develop a tourism and promotions strategy. The board will also receive updates on the upcoming ColumBiz “After Hours” event at Running Aces Casino, Hotel and Racetrack scheduled for April 23, 2026. Additional old‑business items include comprehensive bylaw amendments, a business survey, and tourism board formation.

• ColumBiz “After Hours” event on April 23, 2026, 4‑6 pm at Running Aces Casino, Hotel and Racetrack
• Hotel & Lodging Tax revenue totals approximately $471,600; 5% ($23,580) may be used for administrative purposes
• Proposal to use the $23,580 admin allocation for a tourism‑focused consulting contract
• Formation of a Columbus Tourism Board with initial members Aaron Bedessem and Lynn Carver‑Quinn
• Old business: comprehensive bylaw amendments, business survey, and tourism updates

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission approved its consent agenda, including the meeting agenda and prior minutes. It voted to recommend conditional approval of a Conditional Use Permit for Asphalt Specialties Co. to operate a contractor shop with an accessory yard at XXXX 137th Ave NE (PID 33-32-22-24-0016). The commission also held a concept presentation by Jusczack Trucking for a proposed trucking office, parts counter, and repair facility on a 20‑acre parcel at 14925 Hornsby St NE, but took no formal action. A City Council liaison provided an update on recent council actions.

• Approval of consent agenda (agenda and March 25th minutes)
• Conditional Use Permit recommendation for Asphalt Specialties Co. at XXXX 137th Ave NE (PID 33-32-22-24-0016)
• Concept presentation – Jusczack Trucking on 20‑acre parcel at 14925 Hornsby St NE (no action)
• City Council liaison report on recent council actions
• Public open forum received no comments

The commission unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the April 15, 2026 agenda and the April 1, 2026 meeting minutes. No formal actions were taken on the presented development concepts or ordinance amendments. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved Consent Agenda (including April 15 agenda) – unanimous (5-0)
• Approved April 1, 2026 Planning Commission minutes – unanimous (5-0)
• No formal action on Jusczack Trucking concept presentation
• No formal action on zoning text amendment for electrical substations
• No formal action on driveway apron and access standards amendment discussion
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous (5-0)

Council

The City Council is meeting to approve payments for 2025 and 2026 invoices, as well as city staff payroll. The agenda consists of payment summaries and minutes from a previous meeting.

• Approval of 2025 invoices totaling $240,242.37, including $188,760.87 for City of Forest Lake Fire Department operating expenses
• Approval of 2026 invoices totaling $108,836.20
• Approval of electronic payroll payments totaling $20,041.53
• Payment of $38,858.50 to Bolton & Menk Inc for Notre Dame Street mill and overlay
• Payment of $13,568.97 to MNSpect for contract services

The council unanimously approved several actions, including terminating accounting services for the Forest Lake Area Cable Commission, authorizing the city to apply for a Minnesota Investment Fund loan for the Bare Home expansion, accepting a $535,000 Local Road Improvement Program grant for North Hornsby Street, and hiring seasonal public works employee Simon Johnson at $18 per hour. All votes were 4‑0 in favor. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Terminated Forest Lake Area Cable Commission accounting services effective April 8, 2026 (4‑0)
• Approved city participation as applicant for Minnesota Investment Fund loan for Bare Home expansion (4‑0)
• Accepted $535,000 LRIP grant for North Hornsby Street improvements (4‑0)
• Hired Simon Johnson as seasonal public works employee at $18/hour (4‑0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items (bill payments, minutes, corrections) (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Council

The council will consider concept plans and cost estimates for renovating or rebuilding City Hall, with total project costs ranging from $4.1 million to $6.6 million. Staff will present the timeline for the 2027 budget process and discuss financing options for upcoming capital projects. An update on the proposed Connexus Substation location and its zoning implications will be reviewed. Council will also discuss Bare Home’s request for a $1.6 million Minnesota Investment Fund loan and related conditions.

• City Hall renovation concepts with total project costs from $4,116,000 to $6,574,000
• 2027 budget timeline presentation and financing options for 2027‑2028 capital projects
• Update on proposed Connexus Substation location and associated zoning considerations
• Bare Home request for a $1.6 million interest‑free MIF loan, plus $100,000 city RLF contribution and $12,000 escrow fee
• Discussion of conditions for city to act as sponsor/applicant for the Bare Home loan

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Conditional Use Permit for Asphalt Specialties Company to operate a contractor shop with a yard on 137th Ave NE. The application includes a 48' x 48' office and a 50' x 64' shop on a vacant 3.18-acre lot.

• Conditional Use Permit for Asphalt Specialties Company at 137th Ave NE
• Public hearing scheduled for April 1, 2026
• Proposed 23 parking spaces and 24 trees
• Review by Rice Creek Watershed District and Fire Marshal
• Site to be served by private well and SSTS

The commission approved its consent agenda, including the meeting agenda and the March 25, 2026 minutes, by unanimous vote. In a public hearing, no comments were received. The commission approved the Findings of Fact and unanimously recommended a conditional use permit for Asphalt Specialties Co. at XXXX 137th Ave NE, subject to stated conditions. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 25, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended conditional use permit for Asphalt Specialties Co. (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council

The City Council will vote on several consent‑agenda items to approve payments for invoices from 2025 and 2026, including $11,463.57, $3,247.74, $8,215.83, and $213,332.22 for payroll and services. The council will also consider Dimke Holdings, LLC’s preliminary and final plat request to combine two parcels at 14328 Lake Drive into a single 10.68‑acre lot zoned Light Commercial/Industrial.

• Approve payment of $11,463.57 for 2025 invoices (Badger Meter, League of MN Cities, etc.)
• Approve payment of $3,247.74 for 2025 supplemental check items
• Approve payment of $8,215.83 refund to Lakes Center for Youth Family
• Approve payment of $213,332.22 for 2026 invoices and payroll (including Anoka County Treasury, utility services, and employee contributions)
• Review Dimke Holdings, LLC preliminary and final plat to combine parcels at 14328 Lake Drive (≈10.68 acres, Light Commercial/Industrial)

The council approved the renewal of three liquor licenses, a Conditional Use Permit for Urban Companies LLC, and the 2026 recycling schedule. It also approved bond fund transfers and closures, a salary increase for the Finance Director, additional compensation for the Assistant City Administrator, and the hiring of Lilian Kletter as Planning Technician. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved renewal of 3.2 Off‑Sale liquor license for Holiday Station Store #2746408, Loves Travel Stop #832, and On‑Sale licenses for Running Aces Casino (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Urban Companies LLC at 13960 Lake Drive NE (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)
• Approved agenda for April 7, 2026 City Council Work Meeting (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)
• Approved 2026 Recycling Events and Schedule (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)
• Approved transfer of $152.88 from Bond Fund 314 to Bond Reserve Fund 377 (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)
• Approved closure of Bond Fund 314 and Bond Fund 310 (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)
• Approved salary adjustment for Finance Director Cheryl Jenkins to $134,000 retroactive to Jan 1 2026 (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)
• Approved hiring of Lilian Kletter as Planning Technician at $29.21/hour (Lattin‑Anglin Aye, Wendell Aye, Fleming Aye, Busch Aye, Hanegraaf Aye)

Park Board

The Columbus Park Board will discuss several ongoing projects and updates. Topics include the dugout agreement with FLAFA and its construction schedule, a tennis court update, plans for a Columbus Park Cleanup Day, and an associate planner update. The board will also consider any other items raised by the public that are not on the agenda.

• Dugouts – agreement with FLAFA and construction schedule
• Tennis court update
• Columbus Park Cleanup Day
• Associate planner update
• Other items not on the agenda

The board unanimously approved its agenda and the minutes from the February 10, 2026 meeting. Members voted to allow the Columbus Lions to move forward with a freestanding “Give a Book/Take a Book” library in Columbus City Park. The board instructed the FLAFA representative to work with Public Works to purchase dugout materials. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Agenda approved (All in favor)
• Minutes of 02-10-2026 meeting approved (All in favor)
• Columbus Lions library project allowed to proceed (All in favor)
• FLAFA representative directed to coordinate dugout material purchase with Public Works
• Meeting adjourned (All in favor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved a preliminary plat that consolidates two parcels into the Dimke Addition at 14328 Lake Drive NE. It voted to continue the Conditional Use Permit application for Urban Companies LLC at 13960 Lake Drive NE, deferring final approval to the next meeting. The commission also heard a concept presentation from Fishing For Life but took no formal action.

• Approval of Preliminary Plat for Dimke Addition, 14328 Lake Drive NE (parcel consolidation of ~29.68 acres)
• Continuation of Conditional Use Permit request for Urban Companies LLC, 13960 Lake Drive NE (contractor shop) pending further review
• Public hearing on Dimke Addition received no public comments
• Discussion of Fishing For Life concept proposal (no formal action taken)
• No Planning Commissioners report presented

The commission approved its consent agenda and the March 4 minutes unanimously. No public comments were received on the conditional use permit request. The commission voted to approve the Findings of Fact and recommend conditional approval of a Contractor Shop with accessory Contractor Yard at 13960 Lake Drive NE to the City Council. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved consent agenda (Snell – Aye; Heinen – Aye; Foss – Aye; Wood – Aye)
• Approved March 4, 2026 Planning Commission meeting minutes (Snell – Aye; Heinen – Aye; Foss – Aye; Wood – Aye)
• Recommended conditional approval of a Contractor Shop CUP at 13960 Lake Drive NE (Snell – Aye; Heinen – Aye; Foss – Aye; Wood – Aye)
• Adjourned meeting (Snell – Aye; Heinen – Aye; Foss – Aye; Wood – Aye)

Council

The Columbus City Council approved a conditional use permit amendment for Holiday Station Store at 9444 Lake Drive NE to add an automated car wash. The Council also approved the rezoning of a 34.65‑acre parcel at the northeast corner of 145th Avenue NE and Hornsby Street NE from General Business to Light Industrial, contingent on Metropolitan Council review. Additional actions included establishing a Personnel Committee, transferring $10,294.18 to the Park Capital Fund, and adopting the 2027 Sunrise River Watershed Management Organization budget.

• Conditional Use Permit Amendment for Holiday Station Store, 9444 Lake Drive NE (car wash addition)
• Rezoning of 34.65‑acre parcel at 145th Ave NE & Hornsby St NE to Light Industrial with Comprehensive Plan amendment
• Ordinance 26‑02 establishing a Personnel Committee
• Transfer of $10,294.18 from General Fund to Park Capital Fund for tennis court project
• Approval of 2027 Sunrise River WMO budget, city share $11,479

The council conditionally approved Dimke Holdings’ preliminary and final plat to combine two parcels at 14328 Lake Drive. It also approved the Notre Dame Street mill and overlay project and authorized advertising and taking bids, directing staff to include the City Hall driveway approach in the base bid. Council expressed consensus support for staff to prepare an ordinance designating part of Camp 3 Road as a no‑truck route.

• Adopted the March 11, 2026 agenda (Wendell, Fleming, Busch, Hanegraaf – Aye)
• Approved the consent agenda (Wendell, Fleming, Busch, Hanegraaf – Aye)
• Conditionally approved Dimke Addition preliminary and final plat (Wendell, Fleming, Busch, Hanegraaf, Lattin‑Anglin – Aye)
• Approved Notre Dame Street mill and overlay project and authorized bids (Wendell, Fleming, Busch, Lattin‑Anglin, Hanegraaf – Aye)
• Directed staff to revise bid structure to include City Hall driveway approach in the base bid (unanimous)
• Supported staff preparation of ordinance to make part of Camp 3 Road a no‑truck route (consensus support)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a preliminary plat for the Dimke Addition and a conditional use permit for Urban Companies, LLC. The body will also discuss a concept proposal for Fishing For Life.

• Public hearing: Dimke Addition Preliminary Plat at 14328 Lake Dr. NE
• Public hearing: Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Urban Companies, LLC. at 13960 Lake Dr. NE
• Discussion: Concept Proposal for Fishing For Life

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the February 4, 2026 minutes. It then unanimously recommended approving the Dimke Addition preliminary plat, which combines two parcels into a single lot without increasing density. The commission also unanimously voted to continue the conditional use permit request for Urban Companies, LLC until the March 18, 2026 meeting. No formal action was taken on the Fishing For Life concept proposal.

• Approved agenda and February 4, 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Dimke Addition preliminary plat (unanimous)
• Continued Urban Companies, LLC Conditional Use Permit request until March 18, 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Council

The Columbus City Council will discuss a proposed $1.6 million Minnesota Investment Fund loan for Bare Home and review a proposal for engineering design services for a new 500,000-gallon water tower.

• Bare Home seeking $1.6 million DEED loan
• City to discuss loan terms and administration agreement
• City Hall renovation update presented by Wold Architects
• Water tower design proposal from Bolton & Menk ($169,700)
• City to discuss use of $100,000 Revolving Loan Fund

Council

The council is reviewing development plans for a site at 9444 Lake Dr NE submitted by Holiday Stationstores LLC. The proposal includes demolition of existing structures and the construction of a nested QSR (Quick Service Restaurant) and car wash.

• Proposed development at 9444 Lake Dr NE by Holiday Stationstores LLC
• Demolition of existing building, fueling canopy, and propane tank
• Construction of a 1,458 sq. ft. car wash
• Site disturbance area of approximately 4.44 acres

The City Council approved several actions, including a Conditional Use Permit amendment for a car wash at 9444 Lake Drive NE, rezoning of a 34.65‑acre parcel at 145th Avenue NE and Hornsby Street NE to Light Industrial pending Metropolitan Council review, and the establishment of a Personnel Committee. The Council also transferred $10,294.18 to the Park Capital Fund, adopted the 2027 Sunrise River Watershed Management Organization budget, and authorized purchase of park signage for pet waste. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit amendment for Holiday Station Store at 9444 Lake Drive NE (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning and Comprehensive Plan amendment (Ordinance 26-03) for 34.65‑acre parcel at 145th Ave NE & Hornsby St NE to Light Industrial, contingent on Metropolitan Council approval (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 26-02 establishing the Personnel Committee (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $10,294.18 from General Fund to Park Capital Fund (unanimous)
• Approved 2027 Sunrise River Watershed Management Organization budget, city share $11,479 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of twenty park signs for pet waste, cost $375 (unanimous)
• Approved March 3, 2026 Work Meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 26-04 supporting Hornsby Street Road Project bonding bill request (unanimous)

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority is meeting to finalize details for an upcoming ColumBiz event and receive updates on the newly formed Tourism Board. The body will also consider approving meeting minutes from January 15, 2026.

• ColumBiz 'After Hours' event scheduled for April 23, 2026, at Running Aces Casino, Hotel and Racetrack
• Tourism Board update regarding new members Aaron Bedesem and Lynn Carver-Quinn
• Approval of January 15, 2026 meeting minutes

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda and the January 15 meeting minutes by unanimous roll‑call votes. Commissioners gave direction to finalize details for the upcoming ColumBiz “After Hours” event and to expand advertising. An update on forming a Columbus Tourism Board was discussed, and the next regular meeting was set for April 16, 2026. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Agenda approved (Huntosh motion, vote 4‑0)
• January 15 minutes approved (Lattin‑Anglin motion, vote 4‑0)
• Direction given to finalize ColumBiz event details and broaden advertising (no vote recorded)
• Meeting adjourned (Hanegraaf motion, vote 4‑0)

Council

The City Council will vote to approve a total of $139,795.55 in bill payments covering various city services. The payments include $31,583.00 to ZIEGLER INC for a Snowwolf Apex snow plow, $54,150.97 for multiple vendor invoices, and $42,265.08 in supplemental check payments. The meeting also adopts the agenda, approves the January 14, 2026 minutes, and presents the 2025 Code Enforcement Report.

• Approval of $139,795.55 in bill payments for city services
• $31,583.00 payment to ZIEGLER INC for a Snowwolf Apex snow plow
• $54,150.97 in vendor invoices including Companion Animal Control retainers and Centerpoint Energy gas utilities
• $42,265.08 in supplemental check payments
• $6,088.51 payment to Metropolitan Council Waste Water Service for March 2026

The council unanimously approved a $4,500 proposal from Wold Architects and Engineers to conduct a needs analysis for City Hall, including options for renovation or new construction. It also unanimously approved a waiver allowing a reduced 66‑foot right‑of‑way easement for a shared driveway at 14561 Ferman Street NE, subject to an access easement and maintenance agreement. Additionally, the council voted 4‑1 to submit a letter of support for Janet Hegland’s appointment to the Rice Creek Watershed District Board. All other agenda items, including the meeting agenda and consent agenda, were adopted unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Wold A&E City Hall needs analysis proposal, cost ≤ $4,500 (unanimous)
• Approved 66‑foot right‑of‑way easement waiver for 14561 Ferman St NE, with easement & maintenance agreement (unanimous)
• Approved letter of support for Janet Hegland’s appointment to Rice Creek Watershed District Board (4‑1)

Park Board

The Columbus Park Board will hold a hybrid meeting to discuss several items. Topics include an agreement with FLAFA regarding dugouts, an update on the tennis court, a review of the 2025 financial report, and other business. No formal decisions are noted in the agenda.

• Dugouts – Agreement with FLAFA
• Tennis Court Update
• 2025 Financial Report
• Other Business

The Park Board approved its agenda and the minutes from the November 18, 2025 meeting. Brad Norling was nominated and confirmed as the 2026 Chair, and Andrea Messina was nominated and confirmed as the 2026 Co‑Chair. The board also agreed to let the Columbus Lions move forward with a “Give a Book/Take a Book” free library project in the city park.

• Approved Park Board agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of 11-18-2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Appointed Brad Norling as 2026 Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Andrea Messina as 2026 Co‑Chair (unanimous)
• Allowed Columbus Lions to proceed with free library project (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission will consider two agenda items: approval of the January 7, 2026 meeting minutes and a Conditional Use Permit amendment for Holiday Station Stores, Inc. at 9444 Lake Drive NE. The amendment seeks to add an automatic car wash to the existing fuel station and convenience store within the Community Commercial (CC) zoning district and to bring the site into compliance with current City Code standards.

• Approve meeting minutes from the January 7, 2026 Planning Commission meeting
• Review and vote on the Holiday Station Store Conditional Use Permit amendment to add an automatic car wash at 9444 Lake Drive NE

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the agenda and the January 7, 2026 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved a Conditional Use Permit amendment to add a car wash at Holiday Station Stores, 9444 Lake Drive NE. The commission unanimously approved a Comprehensive Plan amendment and rezoning for the property at 9613 145th Avenue NE. No formal action was taken on the discussion of a future commercial kennel ordinance.

• Approved agenda and Jan 7 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit amendment for Holiday Station Stores car wash at 9444 Lake Drive NE (unanimous)
• Approved Comprehensive Plan amendment and rezoning for 9613 145th Avenue NE (unanimous)
• No action taken on Rural Residential Commercial Kennel policy discussion

Council

The City of Columbus is reviewing a geotechnical report for proposed street improvements along Notre Dame Street NE. The report details soil testing and pavement conditions for the 1.44-mile project from Kettle River Blvd to West Broadway Ave.

• Geotechnical report submitted for Notre Dame Street NE improvements
• 50 direct push borings and 15 pavement cores performed
• Project length: 1.44 miles from Kettle River Blvd to West Broadway Ave
• Proposed improvement method: mill and overlay
• Report prepared by American Engineering Testing, Inc.

The council unanimously approved amendments to the Planning Commission public‑hearing policy and the compensation policy for additional meetings. It also approved the Personnel Committee ordinance pending attorney review, canceled the February 3 workshop, and formally acknowledged Forest Lake’s conditional offer for a Deputy Fire Chief. Finally, the council authorized the City Engineer to prepare plans for a mill and overlay on Notre Dame Street, including a realignment at Kettle River Boulevard.

• Approved Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Policy 26‑01 amending Planning Commission Public Hearing Policy (unanimous)
• Approved Policy 26‑02 establishing compensation criteria for additional meetings (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 26‑02 establishing Personnel Committee, contingent on City Attorney review (unanimous)
• Canceled February 3, 2026 workshop due to no agenda items (unanimous)
• Acknowledged Forest Lake’s conditional offer for Deputy Fire Chief (unanimous)
• Authorized City Engineer to prepare plans/specifications for Notre Dame Street mill, overlay and intersection realignment (unanimous)

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda and the December 18, 2025 minutes. Commissioners elected Judy Huntosh as Vice President and Jennifer Lattin as Treasurer for 2026. The Authority adopted Resolution No. 26-01, creating a Tourism Board subcommittee to serve as the city’s tourism bureau. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved December 18, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Elected Judy Huntosh as Vice President (4-0)
• Elected Jennifer Lattin as Treasurer (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 26-01 establishing Tourism Board (4-0)

Council

The City Council approved the McClure Acres Preliminary Plat and a variance to reduce the lot width for the new lot at 7523 165th Ave NE. The council also adopted Ordinance Amendment 25-04 to update fence regulations, approved the 2026 utility fee schedule, and increased the stipend for appointed citizen members from $20 to $40 per meeting. Additional items included approving the 2026 meeting calendar, tabling an American Tower lease amendment with a $5,000 signing bonus, and postponing a St. Clair Lakes canoe‑access settlement amendment.

• Approval of McClure Acres Preliminary Plat and variance for lot width reduction at 7523 165th Ave NE
• Adoption of Ordinance Amendment 25-04 updating fence regulations
• Approval of Ordinance No. 26-01, the 2026 Fee Schedule (Sewer $2,485, Local Sewer $527, Water $1,887)
• Increase of stipend for appointed citizen members from $20 to $40 per meeting starting Jan 1 2026
• Tabled American Tower lease amendment adding a limited ROFR in exchange for a $5,000 signing bonus

The council approved several items, including a conditional use permit amendment for the Brown Beagle industrial park, a settlement to replace a canoe launch with a wooden dock at Howard Lake, and a $15,675 payment for tennis‑court improvements. It also adopted an amended lease with American Tower, authorized a revised City Planner job description and advertising, and approved the sale of city‑owned property PID 24‑32‑22‑11‑0011 to Velair Development Company. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved Brown Beagle Industrial Park CUP amendment (5‑aye)
• Approved Howard Lake DNR settlement agreement (5‑aye)
• Approved $15,675 payment for tennis‑court improvements (5‑aye)
• Approved amended American Tower lease (5‑aye)
• Approved amended City Planner job description and advertising (5‑aye)
• Approved closed‑session consideration of sale of PID 24‑32‑22‑11‑0011 (5‑aye)
• Approved purchase agreement with Velair Development for PID 24‑32‑22‑11‑0011 (5‑aye)
• Approved council liaison appointments for commissions and boards (5‑aye)

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission approved its consent agenda and held a public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit amendment for Brown Beagle Industrial Park, which seeks to extend the phased construction deadlines. The commission also discussed the McClure Acres preliminary plat, denying the requested variance and approving the plat with an easement solution. Finally, commissioners will elect a chairperson and vice‑chair for the upcoming term.

• Brown Beagle CUP amendment request to extend Phase 1 to Dec 31 2025, Phase 2 to Jun 30 2027, Phase 3 to Dec 31 2028 (13654 West Freeway Dr NE)
• McClure Acres preliminary plat approved with easement‑based solution; variance denied
• Election of Planning Commission chairperson and vice‑chair for the next year
• Approval of consent agenda (meeting agenda, minutes from Dec 3 2025)
• Public hearing on the Brown Beagle CUP amendment held with no public comments

The commission unanimously approved its consent agenda and appointed Robin Wood as chair and Kim Snell as vice chair for 2026. It also approved the Brown Beagle Conditional Use Permit amendment with staff‑recommended conditions. No public comments were received, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Appointed Robin Wood as Planning Commission Chair for 2026 (unanimous)
• Appointed Kim Snell as Planning Commission Vice Chair for 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Brown Beagle CUP amendment with conditions (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Council

The City Council will discuss a proposed Meeting Attendance Compensation Policy that would provide a $40 stipend for Council members attending special, committee, or approved external meetings. The policy would replace the current practice of leaving eligibility decisions to the City Administrator and Finance Director. Council members also receive $875 per quarter as regular compensation. In addition, the council will review the Personnel Committee’s scope and consider an ordinance to formalize it as a standing committee.

• Proposal to adopt a Meeting Attendance Compensation Policy with a $40 stipend per qualifying meeting
• Current compensation of $875 per quarter and $40 per extra meeting cited in the proposal
• Council asked to decide how qualifying meetings should be identified (by name or definition)
• Discussion of formalizing the Personnel Committee as a standing committee via ordinance
• Review of the Personnel Committee’s scope and composition after recent HR tasks