Columbus public meetings in 2025

Council

The Columbus City Council will adopt routine agenda items, hear a public forum, and vote on several proposals including liquor license approvals, a budget amendment for the Sunrise River WMO, a senior/community center rental policy, and a planning commission chair appointment. Reports from the city engineer, attorney, mayor, personnel committee, planning commission, parks board, public works, and city administrator will be presented. A closed‑session meeting will consider the sale of city‑owned real property identified as PID 24-32-22-12-0005 and PID 24-32-22-11-0006.

• Public Hearing: Liquor License Approvals for Holiday, Love’s and Running Aces
• Sunrise River WMO 2026 Budget and JPA Amendment
• Senior/Community Center Rental Policy
• Planning Commission Chairperson Appointment
• Closed‑session sale of city‑owned real property PID 24-32-22-12-0005 and PID 24-32-22-11-0006

Council

The City Council will review and vote on a variance application that seeks to reduce the required lot width from 220 feet to 165 feet for a property at 7523 165th Ave NE. The Council will also consider extending the review period for the Preliminary Plat to 120 days. In addition, the Council will approve a series of payments totaling $145,746.67 for city invoices and contracts.

• Approve payments for invoices totaling $145,746.67, including Amazon purchases, payroll, and vendor services
• Decide whether to deny or approve the variance to reduce lot width from 220 ft to 165 ft for the McClure Acres site
• Consider extending the Preliminary Plat review period to 120 days as recommended by the Planning Commission
• Approve Upper Cut Tree Service contract for tree removal on Vassar St ($5,800) and on 157th Ave NE ($12,500)
• Approve payment to Centerpoint Energy for gas utility services ($288.95, $122.18, $303.64, $157.91)

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority will review a cooperative agreement for the Minnesota Technology Corridor and a concept for Bare Home expansion. The body will also address the resignation of Commissioner Karen Fleming and discuss tourism and business surveys.

• Minnesota Technology Corridor Cooperation Agreement for a corridor study
• Bare Home Expansion Concept
• Resignation of Commissioner Karen Fleming
• Comprehensive Bylaw Amendments
• Business Activity Report

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing a request from Brown Beagle LLC to extend construction deadlines for a three-phase industrial park development. The commission is also considering whether to prohibit or require separate permits for cannabis-related businesses at the site.

• Brown Beagle Industrial Park CUP Amendment for 13654 West Freeway Dr Ne
• Proposed deadline extensions: Phase 1 to Dec 31, 2025; Phase 2 to June 30, 2027; Phase 3 to Dec 31, 2028
• Recommendation to approve Ordinance 25-04: Fence Regulations
• Continued public hearing for McClure Acres Preliminary Plat and Variance (7523 165th Avenue NE)

The Commission denied the variance request for McClure Acres and approved the preliminary plat with easement‑based revisions, voting 4‑0. The discussion on the Brown Beagle Industrial Park conditional use permit amendment was postponed to the January 7, 2026 meeting, also by a 4‑0 vote. The consent agenda and adjournment were each approved unanimously.

• Approved McClure Acres preliminary plat, denied variance (4-0)
• Postponed Brown Beagle Industrial Park CUP amendment discussion to Jan 7, 2026 (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Council

The Columbus Council will review and approve payments totaling $93,175.57 for the month of December 2025, including invoices for city operations, utilities, and payroll.

• Approve $48,631.66 in vendor invoices
• Approve $18,774.01 in electronic payments
• Approve $25,769.90 in payroll
• Approve $11,482.14 in MN Deed payments
• Approve $12,551.11 in MNSPECT contract services

The council unanimously approved a $3,600 LATV bookkeeping contract, adopted the 2026 final budget and associated property‑tax levy resolutions, and endorsed the Camp 3 Road detour plan with a $50,000 road‑rehabilitation appropriation. It also authorized the city to abate a public‑nuisance violation at 16235 Cornell St NE, while the fence‑regulation ordinance was tabled for further review.

• Approved $3,600 LATV bookkeeping services agreement (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026 Final Budget (Resolution 25‑20) (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Preliminary Tax Levy (Resolution 25‑21) (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 HRA Property Tax Levy and Budget (Resolution 25‑22) (unanimous)
• Tabled Ordinance 25‑04 (Fence Regulations) for further review (unanimous)
• Approved Camp 3 Road detour plan and $50,000 appropriation for road rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Approved declaration of public nuisance and city‑performed corrective work at 16235 Cornell St NE (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing a proposal to subdivide a 13.67-acre property at 7523 165th Ave NE into two residential lots. The body is also considering a variance to reduce the lot width of one lot from 220 feet to 165 feet to accommodate an existing septic system.

• Preliminary Plat for McClure Acres at 7523 165th Ave NE
• Variance request to reduce lot width from 220' to 165' for Lot 2, Block 1
• Public hearing for Ordinance 25-04 regarding fence regulations (continued to Nov 19)
• Discussion on shared driveway and private roadway ordinances
• Proposed Resident Animal Ordinance Survey

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the consent agenda and meeting minutes. It voted to continue the McClure Acres preliminary plat and variance hearing at the December 17, 2025 meeting. The commission also unanimously recommended Ordinance 25-04, the Fence Regulations, be sent to the City Council for approval. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved consent agenda and meeting minutes (4-0)
• Continued McClure Acres preliminary plat and variance hearing to Dec 17, 2025 (4-0)
• Recommended Ordinance 25-04 Fence Regulations to City Council (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Council

The City Council will hear an update and a proposed cooperative agreement for the Minnesota Technology Corridor (MTC). The agreement involves the City of Columbus, Forest Lake, Hugo, Lino Lakes, Anoka County and Washington County to jointly procure an engineering firm for a needs‑assessment study and strategic plan. Council members will discuss forming a committee to create an RFP, set a cost‑sharing formula, and select a consultant, with timelines extending to May 31 2026. No funds have been spent on the project to date.

• Proposed cooperative agreement among six municipalities/counties for MTC study
• Formation of a committee to develop an RFP and select a consulting firm
• Timeline: representatives selected by Dec 31 2025; first meeting by Jan 31 2026; RFP language by Mar 31 2026; consultant selected by May 31 2026
• Determination of a cost‑sharing formula for the consultant’s contract before issuing the RFP
• No money has been expended on the project so far

Council

The Columbus City Council approved Resolution 25‑15, adopting the NW Quad Comprehensive Plan amendment that changes the land‑use designation from general commercial to mixed‑use high density. It also adopted Ordinance 25‑05, amending Chapter 7A of the city code to reflect the new zoning. Additional actions included several fund transfers, approval of a performance‑review policy, and authorization of a letter of credit hold for the Brown Beagle project.

• Approval of Resolution 25‑15 adopting the NW Quad Comprehensive Plan amendment (land‑use change to mixed‑use high density)
• Approval of Ordinance 25‑05 amending Chapter 7A zoning regulations
• Transfer of $42,949.46 from Bond Reserve Account (375) to Bond 2014A Account (314)
• Transfer of $48,000 from General Fund (100) to Park Capital Fund (403) for the Tennis Court Project
• Adoption of Performance Review Policy 25‑03 for mandatory performance reviews

The council voted 3‑1 to appoint Karen Fleming to the vacant City Council seat. It also unanimously approved the assessment of $2,098.87 in delinquent water and sewer charges, awarded the Managed IT Services contract to Metro Sales, Inc., adopted Ordinance 25‑06 amending Certificate of Occupancy requirements, and approved a Letter of Support for the Otter Lake Road Extension Project.

• Appointed Karen Fleming to vacant council seat (3-1)
• Approved assessment of $2,098.87 delinquent water/sewer charges (unanimous)
• Awarded Managed IT Services contract to Metro Sales, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25-06 amending Certificate of Occupancy requirements (unanimous)
• Approved Letter of Support for Otter Lake Road Extension Project (unanimous)

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority is holding a special meeting to discuss a vacancy within the EDA and the Tourism Board.

• EDA Vacancy Discussion
• Tourism Board Discussion

Council

The City Council is reviewing a payment summary for approval. The meeting includes a list of bills, electronic payments, and payroll for city staff.

• Total payments for approval: $150,211.87
• Goodmanson Construction Inc: $85,167.50 for tennis courts resurfacing project 25-02
• MNSPECT LLC: $12,607.45 for contract services
• MN DEED: $11,482.14 payment
• Metropolitan Council: $5,818.82 for waste water service

The City Council approved the process for filling the vacant council seat and ordered an abatement for a trash violation at 16235 Cornell Street. It also approved several fund transfers, a performance‑review policy, and adopted the NW Quad Comprehensive Plan amendment along with a zoning ordinance amendment. All actions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved process to accept resumes and letters of intent for the vacant City Council seat (unanimous)
• Approved abatement of the public nuisance at 16235 Cornell St (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of outstanding escrow balances for development agreements to expense accounts (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $42,949.46 from Bond Reserve Account (375) to Bond 2014A Account (314) (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $48,000 from General Fund (100) to Park Capital Fund (403) for the Tennis Court Project (unanimous)
• Approved Performance Review Policy 25-03, Mandatory Performance Reviews (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25-15 adopting the NW Quad Comprehensive Plan amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 25-05 amending Chapter 7A zoning regulations (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is conducting a public hearing for Ordinance 25-04 to update city fence regulations. The proposed changes establish standards for materials, height, and permit requirements.

• Public hearing for Ordinance 25-04 regarding fence regulations
• Proposed requirement for Zoning Permits for all new or altered fences
• Proposed 6-foot height limit for residential fences
• Proposed 4-inch ground clearance for solid fences to allow water drainage
• Prohibition of corrugated metal, sheet plastic, plywood, and pallets for fencing

The commission approved the consent agenda, which included the meeting agenda and minutes, with a unanimous 5‑aye vote. It voted to continue the public hearing on Ordinance 25‑04 (Fence Regulations) to the November 19, 2025 meeting, also by a 5‑aye vote. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved consent agenda (including agenda and minutes) – vote 5-0
• Continued Ordinance 25-04 Fence Regulations hearing to Nov 19, 2025 – vote 5-0
• Adjourned meeting – vote 5-0

Council

The Columbus City Council will determine how to appoint a replacement for the seat vacated by Janet Hegland, including options such as a special election or public applications. Council members will also review adjustments to the 2026 Preliminary Budget, noting a final levy increase of 2.0% and contract cost changes. Finally, staff will discuss continuing the DDA job classification and compensation study into 2026.

• Decide appointment process for the vacant council seat (options: special election, letters of intent, public applications)
• Review 2026 Preliminary Budget adjustments, including a 2.0% levy increase and fire/law enforcement contract increase of $61,000
• Note ACSO contract revision from $531,089 to $547,973, adding roughly $17,000 to the budget
• Consider ongoing approval/implementation of the DDA job classification and compensation study
• Budget includes $81,000 reduced transfers to Capital Fund Accounts and $46,000 allocated to restore them by 2027

Council

The City Council is reviewing a payment summary for approval totaling $199,986.94. The agenda also includes minutes from a joint meeting regarding a wireless antenna request and discussions on updating the farm animal ordinance.

• Approval of $197,223.57 in invoices and $2,763.37 in electronic payments
• Payment of $193,830.00 to Metropolitan Council-SAC
• Public hearing for Verizon wireless small cell antenna at 15201 Zurich St Ne
• Discussion on rewriting the farm animal ordinance to clarify code and animal units
• Approval of September 17, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes

The council adopted the agenda and consent agenda, then approved the amended 2026 Anoka County Sheriff’s Department contract for $547,973. It also approved an extension of the Saunders purchase closing date to March 2, 2026, authorized a Verizon small‑cell interim use permit at 15201 Zurich Street NE, and approved a five‑year Lions Club lease renewal. Additionally, the council approved a $28,160 soil‑boring contract with a $5,000 contingency and set the agenda for the November 4 workshop meeting.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved amended Anoka County Sheriff’s Department contract – $547,973 (unanimous)
• Approved extension of Saunders Purchase Agreement closing date to March 2, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Verizon Small Cell Interim Use Permit at 15201 Zurich Street NE (unanimous)
• Tabled Minnesota Association of Small Cities membership decision until Nov 12, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Lions Club lease renewal 2025‑2030 at $1,200 annual rent, 2% increase (unanimous)
• Approved soil‑boring proposal from AET – $28,160 plus $5,000 contingency (unanimous)

Council

The Columbus City Council will discuss the city's priorities for the 2026 legislative session, including strategies to address fiscal disparities. They will review the Hornsby Street Project bonding bill and ongoing lobbying for project funding. A discussion with Larkin Hoffman on costs and charges for service options will also be held.

• Fiscal Disparities Relief – discussion of needs and lobbying strategies
• Hornsby Street Project Bonding Bill – discussion of funding efforts and lobbying
• Costs and Charges for Services Options – discussion with Larkin Hoffman

Planning Commission

The Columbus City Council and Planning Commission held a joint meeting to discuss a proposed rewrite of the farm animal ordinance. The group debated how to balance animal welfare with neighborhood impacts, specifically regarding the definition of animal units, minimum lot sizes, and the use of a simple zoning permit process.

• Public hearing for Verizon small cell antenna at 15201 Zurich St NE
• Discussion on rewriting the farm animal ordinance
• Review of Planning Commission meeting minutes from September 17, 2025
• Interactive technology meeting format used
• Running Aces Fall Fest movie rescheduled due to weather

The commission approved the consent agenda unanimously. It voted to recommend the Verizon Small Cell Installation interim use permit and text amendment to the City Council, with all members voting Aye. The commission also scheduled a public hearing for Ordinance 25-03 to update fence regulations, again with unanimous support. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved consent agenda (all present Aye)
• Recommended approval of Verizon Small Cell Installation IUP and Text Amendment to City Council (all present Aye)
• Called public hearing for Ordinance 25-03: Fence Regulations (all present Aye)
• Adjourned meeting (all present Aye)

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority approved a preliminary 2026 budget of $87,900 and adopted bylaw amendments clarifying qualifications for at‑large members. It also cancelled the October 2025 ColumBiz event and will conduct a business survey for future programming, while reviewing member responsibilities and interview questions for a new at‑large seat.

• Approval of preliminary 2026 EDA budget – $87,900 (motion by Fleming)
• Adoption of bylaw amendments to Sections 2.1 and 4.3 specifying at‑large member qualifications
• Cancellation of the October 3, 2025 ColumBiz event and plan for a 2026 business survey
• Approval of August 21, 2025 EDA meeting minutes
• Discussion of EDA member vacancy and review of interview questions

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda and the August 21, 2025 meeting minutes. Commissioners Hanegraaf, Huntosh, Fleming, and Lattin voted to delegate EDA candidate interviews to Commissioners Huntosh and Fleming, with a recommendation to be returned at a future meeting. Staff were directed to plan a spring evening social meeting at Running Aces. Comprehensive bylaw amendments were deferred and the next meeting was set for December 18, 2025.

• Approved agenda (4 aye votes)
• Approved August 21, 2025 EDA minutes (4 aye votes)
• Delegated EDA candidate interviews to Commissioners Huntosh and Fleming, recommendation to be brought back at a future meeting (4 aye votes)
• Directed staff to coordinate a spring evening social meeting at Running Aces (4 aye votes)
• Deferred comprehensive bylaw amendments to a future meeting (4 aye votes)
• Scheduled next EDA meeting for December 18, 2025 (4 aye votes)

Council

The Columbus City Council will hear the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office third‑quarter 2025 activity report. After the report, Council will vote on the 2026 law‑enforcement contract. The contract includes a 5% annual wage increase for deputies and several cost adjustments for the sheriff’s services.

• 5% wage increase for deputies (2026 contract year)
• Squad cost increase from $50,000 to $55,000
• Overtime allowance raised to 10 hours per month (from 7 hours)
• Equipment replacement budget raised to $1,000‑$1,500
• Health and dental premiums increased by 5%

The council voted unanimously to approve the 2026 Anoka County Sheriff’s Office law‑enforcement contract for the City of Columbus at $531,089.00. It also approved making Christmas Eve a full‑day holiday, called a special meeting for 2026 legislative priorities, and adopted the Hidden Park Comprehensive Plan amendment and related rezoning ordinance. Minutes for the June, July, and September regular meetings were approved.

• Approved 2026 Anoka County Sheriff contract ($531,089.00) – unanimous (Lattin, Wendell, Hegland, Busch, Hanegraaf)
• Amended city holiday schedule to make Christmas Eve a full‑day holiday – unanimous (Lattin, Wendell, Hegland, Busch, Hanegraaf)
• Called special council meeting for 2026 legislative priorities on Oct 20 2025, 5:30 PM – unanimous (Lattin, Wendell, Hegland, Busch, Hanegraaf)
• Approved Hidden Park Comprehensive Plan amendment (Resolution 25‑14) – unanimous (Lattin, Wendell, Hegland, Busch, Hanegraaf)
• Approved Hidden Park rezoning ordinance (Ordinance 25‑02) – unanimous (Lattin, Wendell, Hegland, Busch, Hanegraaf)
• Approved June 25 2025 regular meeting minutes – unanimous (Lattin, Wendell, Hegland, Busch, Hanegraaf)
• Approved July 23 2025 regular meeting minutes – unanimous (Lattin, Wendell, Hegland, Busch, Hanegraaf)
• Approved September 24 2025 regular meeting minutes – unanimous (Busch, Hegland, Wendell, Lattin, Hanegraaf)

Council

The City Council will receive a presentation from the Minnesota Association of Small Cities regarding membership benefits. Additionally, the Anoka County Highway Department will provide updates on three specific infrastructure projects.

• Presentation by MN Assoc. of Small Cities Executive Director Cap O'Rourke
• Review of Potomac Project open house comments
• Detour plan for Lake Drive/Kettle River Blvd Roundabout Project
• Project update for the Lexington Avenue Project

Council

The commission reviewed a concept plan for a 200‑unit, 5.3‑acre apartment complex on Hornsby Street but took no formal action. It evaluated a variance request to subdivide 14561 Furman Street for an ADA‑compliant residence and declined the request. It discussed draft changes to the city’s fence regulations, including setbacks and material standards, and deferred a vote. It recommended approving Verizon Wireless’s small‑cell interim use permit and accompanying text amendment for a site at 15201 Zurich Street.

• Valera Apartment Complex concept: 200‑unit, 5.3‑acre site on Hornsby Street
• LaMeyer variance request for subdivision of 14561 Furman Street
• Proposed fence ordinance revisions (setbacks, materials, arterial road exemption)
• Verizon Small Cell IUP and Text Amendment for 15201 Zurich Street
• Consent agenda approval (meeting agenda and September 3 minutes)

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission discussed a new 200‑unit, 5.3‑acre apartment concept on Hornsby Street, a variance request for 14561 Furman Street, and revisions to fence regulations. It also reviewed Verizon Wireless’s application for a small‑cell antenna at 15201 Zurich Street and recommended approval of the interim use permit and accompanying text amendment.

• Valera Apartment Complex concept: 200‑unit, four‑story market‑rate building on 5.3‑acre city‑owned site on Hornsby Street
• LaMeyer variance request to subdivide 14561 Furman Street for an ADA‑compliant residence (frontage below 220 ft requirement)
• Proposed fence ordinance changes: added setbacks, material clarifications, removal of arterial road exemption for height restrictions
• Verizon Small Cell Interim Use Permit and Text Amendment for 15201 Zurich Street (proposed 10‑year term, conditions listed)
• Consent agenda approval (meeting agenda and September 3, 2025 minutes) by motion of Kim

The Commission approved the consent agenda and the September 17, 2025 Planning Commission minutes by unanimous roll‑call vote. It then held a public hearing on a Verizon wireless small‑cell IUP at 15201 Zurich St NE and, with no public comments, decided to keep the request with the Planning Commission for two weeks of review before forwarding findings to the City Council. No other actions were taken.

• Approved consent agenda (aye votes from Snell, Ostwald, Heinen, Bautch, Wood)
• Approved September 17, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes (part of consent agenda)
• Deferred Verizon small‑cell IUP request for two weeks of Planning Commission review

Council

The Columbus City Council will consider approving the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan and the 2026 Preliminary Budget. Staff is requesting approval of a contract renewal for human resources consulting services.

• 2026 Capital Improvement Plan with $1,060,764 in transfers
• 2026 Preliminary Budget with a 3.4% levy increase
• Contract renewal with Career Enhancement Options, Inc. for $9,900
• Housing and Redevelopment Authority budget reduced to $5,000
• Approval of Professional Services Agreement with CEO

The council approved the 2026 Capital Improvement Plan, the 2026 Preliminary Budget and associated tax levy resolution, and set the final budget hearing for Dec. 10, 2025. It also approved a new HR consulting contract, a SCADA system upgrade costing $25,262, and the Oct. 7 workshop agenda with suggested changes. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Preliminary Budget and Resolution 25-12 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 25-13 setting Dec. 10, 2025 final budget hearing (unanimous)
• Approved Career Enhancement Opportunities contract (unanimous)
• Approved SCADA system upgrade proposal for $25,262 (unanimous)
• Approved City Council Workshop agenda for Oct. 7, 2025 with changes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission will discuss a proposal by Velair Development for a four-story, 200-unit market-rate apartment building on a city-owned 5.31-acre site along Hornsby Street NE. The meeting also includes a discussion on updating the city's residential farm animal ordinance.

• Velair Apartment Complex Proposal (Hornsby Street NE)
• Discussion: Residential Farm Animal Ordinance update
• Discussion: Fencing Regulations update
• Approval of August 6, 2025, Planning Commission Minutes
• Interactive technology meeting format

The commission approved the consent agenda, which included the meeting agenda and the September 3, 2025 minutes, by a 4‑aye, 0‑no, 1‑abstain vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting passed unanimously with five ayes. The commission discussed a proposed 200‑unit apartment complex, a variance request for a Furman Street property, and draft fence‑regulation changes, but took no formal action on any of those items.

• Approved consent agenda (4-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Park Board

The Park Board will discuss several maintenance and planning updates. The meeting includes a review of the 2026 budget and an update on the Park Master Plan.

• 2026 Budget Review
• Park Master Plan Update
• Tennis court color recommendation
• FLAFA dug out cover discussion
• Maintenance report

Council

The City Council will hold a special meeting to discuss the 2026 Budget and Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• 2026 Budget and CIP discussion

Council

The Columbus City Council will review and approve a total of $246,418.65 in bills, including $204,949.97 for invoices and $24,005.28 for payroll. The agenda also lists payments for utilities, services, and the 2025 Fall Festival.

• Bills to be approved for payment: $204,949.97
• Payroll City Staff: $24,005.28
• Total to be approved for payment: $246,418.65
• Fall Festival 2025 payments: $3,850.00
• North Hornsby Reconstruction: $165.00

The council voted unanimously to keep electronic poll pads for primary and general elections. It also adopted the amended agenda, approved the consent agenda, and scheduled a joint council‑planning commission meeting on Oct. 1 to discuss the Large Farm Animal Ordinance and an entertainment concept. A special meeting for the 2026 budget discussion was set for Sept. 15, and the August 27 minutes were approved with corrections.

• Adopted September 10 amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)
• Approved joint Council‑Planning Commission meeting on Oct 1 (unanimous)
• Called special Sept 15 meeting for 2026 budget discussion (unanimous)
• Approved continuation of electronic poll pads for elections (unanimous)
• Approved August 27, 2025 minutes with corrections (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the August 6, 2025 Planning Commission minutes. No formal actions were taken on the residential farm animal ordinance or fencing regulation discussions. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved meeting agenda and August 6, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Council

The City Council is meeting to approve a total of $87,877.91 in payments, including staff payroll and various vendor invoices. The agenda also includes a review of a previous meeting's minutes and a discussion regarding a development agreement amendment for Camping World.

• Approval of $87,877.91 in total payments, including $29,762.44 for staff payroll
• Payment of $6,000.00 to Larkin Hoffman for a city retainer
• Payment of $11,482.14 to MN DEED for CDAP-18-0075-H-FY19
• Payment of $2,310.00 to Ninja Anywhere for Fall Fest 2025 event
• Discussion of Camping World Interim Use Permit and Development Agreement amendment

The council unanimously approved the first two items on the consent agenda and adopted two resolutions to rezone parcels for the Metropolitan Council. It also approved an amendment to Ordinance 14‑320 to meet state water‑use requirements. The Career Enhancement Options contract was tabled, a Constitution Week proclamation was adopted, and the city authorized an appraisal and a Letter of Intent for the sale of Hidden Park property.

• Approved Consent Agenda items 1 & 2 (bill payments) – unanimous
• Approved Resolution 25‑10 to rezone Hidden Park parcel from Park to Rural Residential – unanimous
• Approved Resolution 25‑11 to rezone Block 2‑Lot 1 from General Commercial to Mixed Use – High Density – unanimous
• Approved amended Ordinance 14‑320 (restricted sprinkling hours) – unanimous
• Tabled Contract Renewal for Career Enhancement Options, Inc. – unanimous
• Approved Proclamation 25‑01 designating September 17‑23, 2025 as Constitution Week – unanimous
• Authorized City Administrator to engage an appraiser for Hidden Park property – unanimous
• Approved submission of a Letter of Intent to VELAIR Properties for purchase of Hidden Park property – unanimous

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda and the June 12, 2025 minutes. Commissioners voted to amend the EDA bylaws to clarify qualifications for at‑large members. The October 2025 ColumBiz event was cancelled and a 2026 preliminary budget of $87,900 was approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved June 12, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Approved bylaw amendments to clarify at‑large member qualifications (7-0)
• Cancelled October 2025 ColumBiz event (consensus)
• Approved 2026 EDA budget $87,900 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Council

The council unanimously approved the Tennis Court Improvement Project (Alternate Bid 1) for $126,500 and an interfund loan of $48,000 to cover the funding gap. The loan will be repaid from the sale of Hidden Park property or park dedication fees. Council also agreed to hold Ordinance 14-320 over until the next meeting for language revisions. The agenda was adopted unanimously.

• Adopted agenda (unanimous Ayes)
• Held Ordinance 14-320 over for revisions (no vote recorded)
• Approved Tennis Court Improvement Project – $126,500 (unanimous Ayes)
• Approved interfund loan – $48,000 to cover project gap (unanimous Ayes)

Planning Commission

The commission approved its consent agenda unanimously. It then recommended approval of the Hidden Park Comprehensive Plan Amendment and rezoning, also unanimously. A second recommendation approved the NW Quad Lot 1, Block 2 Comprehensive Plan Amendment and rezoning with a unanimous vote. The meeting was adjourned by a 3‑0 vote.

• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Hidden Park Comprehensive Plan Amendment and rezoning (4-0)
• Recommended approval of NW Quad Lot 1, Block 2 Comprehensive Plan Amendment and rezoning (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Park Board

The Special Park Board approved its agenda unanimously. It then passed a motion to recommend to the City Council the replacement of the existing tennis courts with one tennis court and two dedicated pickleball courts, with a vote of 4‑1 (Ray, Messina, Bodene, Norling aye; King nay). The board also noted a $47,000 funding gap for the project but did not make a funding decision. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Agenda approved (all members aye)
• Recommend to Council replacing tennis courts with one tennis and two pickleball courts (4‑1 vote)
• Meeting adjourned (all members aye)

Council

The council adopted the meeting agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It rescheduled the August 5 workshop to August 4 and approved its agenda. Councilmembers appointed Andy Heinen to the Planning Commission. Finally, the council authorized the $318,490.82 order for a new Mack snowplow truck.

• Adopted meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Rescheduled City Council Workshop to Aug 4, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved agenda for Aug 4 workshop (5-0)
• Appointed Andy Heinen to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Authorized order of Mack Granite 42FR SA snowplow truck for $318,490.82 (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on July 16, 2025 to consider a comprehensive plan amendment and rezoning of Lot 1, Block 2 NW Quad from Commercial to Mixed‑Use High. No members of the public requested to speak, and the chair closed the hearing at 7:02 p.m. No vote or formal decision was recorded.

Park Board

The Park Board approved its agenda and the minutes from the May 20 meeting unanimously. It voted to table the recommendation on the tennis and pickleball court configuration and bid award until additional survey input is reviewed. The Board also approved a proposal to support one dugout cover project in 2025 and authorized the purchase of up to four new trash receptacles for $1,000.

• Approved agenda (King, Bodene, Norling aye)
• Approved May 20 minutes (King, Bodene, Norling aye)
• Tabled court configuration and bid recommendation pending survey results (King, Bodene, Norling aye)
• Approved dugout cover support proposal contingent on $10,000 contribution (King, Bodene, Norling aye)
• Authorized purchase of up to 4 trash receptacles for $1,000 (King, Bodene, Norling aye)

Council

The council adopted the July 9 agenda, adding the supplemental bill list and removing item D.4b (DDA Classification and Compensation Plan) for later review. The motion passed unanimously with five ayes. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved July 9 agenda with removal of D.4b DDA Classification and Compensation Plan (5-0)

Council

The council adopted the agenda with the Planning Commission Report moved to Item C.1. It approved the Rybak site‑plan addition at 13915 Lake Drive. It also approved a 10‑year term for Camping World’s interim use permit, adding fire‑lane language and a renewal option. Consent agenda items B.1, B.6 and B.7 were approved while B.2‑B.5 were tabled.

• Adopted agenda with Planning Commission Report moved (4 ayes)
• Approved Consent Agenda items B.1, B.6, B.7; tabled B.2‑B.5 (4 ayes)
• Approved Rybak Site Plan Review for addition at 13915 Lake Drive (4 ayes)
• Approved Camping World IUP termination after 10 years with renewal option and fire‑lane language (4 ayes)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved its meeting agenda and the June 4, 2025 minutes. It approved the Rybak Site Plan Review for 13915 Lake Dr NE. By consensus the commission will pursue a one‑year Interim Use Permit for the backyard wedding venue at 7507 180th Ave NE. The meeting was adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

• Approved meeting agenda (Snell Aye, Ostwald Aye, Wood Aye)
• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (Snell Aye, Ostwald Abstain, Wood Aye)
• Approved Rybak Site Plan Review as presented (Snell Aye, Ostwald Aye, Wood Aye)
• Agreed by consensus to pursue a one‑year Interim Use Permit for backyard weddings at 7507 180th Ave NE
• Motion to adjourn carried (Snell Aye, Ostwald Aye, Wood Aye)

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda and the amended April 15, 2025 meeting minutes. Commissioners approved and sent a restructuring petition to the City Council recommending the board be reduced from seven to five members. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Agenda approved (all commissioners voted aye)
• April 15, 2025 minutes approved with name correction (Fleming, Lattin, Hegland, Huntosh, Hanegraaf aye; Busch, Wendell abstained)
• Restructuring petition forwarded to City Council to change EDA board to five members (Huntosh, Busch, Hegland, Wendell, Lattin, Fleming, Hanegraaf aye)
• Meeting adjourned (all commissioners voted aye)

Council

The council adopted the June 11 agenda with the supplemental bill list and a resignation letter. It approved consent agenda items 1 (bill payments), 5 (Resignation of Brenda Oswald) and 6 (Supplemental Bill List) by a 5‑aye vote. Councilmember Hegland moved to hold over the Camping World Interim Use Permit amendment; the motion was seconded by Mayor Hanegraaf, but no vote tally was recorded.

• Adopted agenda with supplemental bill list and resignation letter (5‑aye)
• Approved consent agenda items 1, 5, and 6 (bill payments, resignation, supplemental list) (5‑aye)
• Motion to hold over Camping World IUP amendment (made by Hegland, seconded by Hanegraaf; no vote recorded)

Planning Commission

The Commission approved its meeting agenda and the May 21, 2025 minutes, each with three Ayes. It then voted to recommend approval of the NW Quad Preliminary and Final Plat. The meeting was adjourned after a unanimous vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (Bautch, Snell, Wood – Aye)
• Approved May 21, 2025 minutes (Bautch, Snell, Wood – Aye)
• Recommended approval of NW Quad Preliminary and Final Plat (Bautch, Snell, Wood – Aye)
• Adjourned meeting (Bautch, Snell, Wood – Aye)

Council

The council adopted the meeting agenda and approved the consent agenda items, including bill payments and minutes. It approved the extension of the Lions Club lease in the Public Works Building for five years at $1,200 per month with a 2% annual increase, not to exceed 3%. The council reported that the Planning Commission approved the EquipmentShare conditional use permit/planned unit development with a required noise study condition.

• Adopted agenda (items B4, B5, D7 added; C3 moved to C2) – motion carried with all Ayes
• Approved consent agenda items 1‑5 (bill payments, minutes, Planning Commission chair, resignation) – motion carried with all Ayes
• Approved Lions Club lease extension: 5‑year term, $1,200 first‑year rent, 2% annual increase, max 3% – motion carried with all Ayes
• Reported Planning Commission approval of EquipmentShare CUP/PUD with added noise‑study condition

Planning Commission

The commission approved the meeting agenda, the May 7 minutes, and the EquipmentShare.com PUD CUP hearing minutes. Robin Wood was appointed Chairperson and Susan Bautch Vice Chairperson. The commission recommended approval of the EquipmentShare.com PUD CUP with new noise‑monitoring conditions. Discussion of the Northwest Quad 35‑acre plat was postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (3-0)
• Approved May 7, 2025 Planning Commission minutes (3-0)
• Approved EquipmentShare.com PUD CUP hearing minutes (3-0)
• Appointed Robin Wood as Chairperson (3-0)
• Appointed Susan Bautch as Vice Chairperson (3-0)
• Recommended approval of EquipmentShare.com PUD CUP with added conditions (3-0)
• Continued Northwest Quad 35‑acre plat discussion to June 4, 2025 meeting (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Park Board

The board approved the meeting agenda and the March 25, 2025 minutes. No formal decisions were made on the dugout donation, tennis‑court project, park maintenance budget, master plan, or Hidden Park. The board will continue discussions at the July 15 meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved March 25 minutes (3-0-1)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Council

The council adopted the meeting agenda and consent items unanimously. It approved Love’s updated screening plan with conditions. Council rejected the $28,239.28 two‑generator proposal and approved a single generator for City Hall at a cost of $14,330. It also approved acceptance of a donated welcome sign.

• Agenda adoption approved unanimously (5-0)
• Consent agenda items (bill payments, prior minutes, commission resignation) approved unanimously (5-0)
• Love’s Updated Screening Plan approved unanimously (5-0)
• Two‑generator proposal ($28,239.28) rejected (2-3)
• Single generator proposal ($14,330) approved (4-1)
• Resolution 25-05 accepting donated sign approved (4-1)

Planning Commission

The Columbus Planning Commission met on May 7, 2025 to consider a Planned Unit Development Conditional Use Permit for an equipment‑rental facility at 14045 Lake Drive. Commissioners and the applicant presented information and answered questions. No vote or formal decision was recorded in the minutes.

Council

The council approved the Love’s Travel Stop site plan, adding four fuel dispensers. It also authorized Bolton & Menk to solicit bids for the City Park tennis court reconstruction and delayed a decision on a City Hall backup generator while exploring grant options. Additionally, the Lakner’s Woodland Ponds Second Amendment Development Agreement was approved, and the agenda and consent agenda were adopted.

• Approved Love’s Site Plan expansion (four fuel dispensers) – vote 5-0
• Authorized Bolton & Menk to advertise and solicit bids for City Park tennis court reconstruction – vote 5-0
• Delayed decision on City Hall backup generator, directing staff to explore county grant options – vote 5-0
• Approved Lakner’s Woodland Ponds Second Amendment Development Agreement – vote 5-0
• Adopted meeting agenda as presented – vote 5-0
• Approved consent agenda items (bill payments, prior minutes) – vote 5-0

Planning Commission

The commission approved its agenda and the corrected minutes from the April 2 meeting. It voted to recommend approval of Love’s Travel Stops’ minor expansion site‑plan review, which adds four fuel pumps and includes conditions. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (Wood – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Snell – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)
• Approved April 2, 2025 minutes with corrections (Wood – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Snell – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)
• Recommended approval of Love’s Travel Stops site‑plan review (Wood – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Snell – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)
• Adjourned meeting (Wood – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Snell – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority approved its meeting agenda and the January 16, 2025 minutes. Commissioners elected Janet Hegland as Vice President and Karen Fleming as Treasurer. The board directed staff to research and incorporate bylaw amendments. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved the April 15, 2025 agenda (all four present voted aye)
• Approved the January 16, 2025 meeting minutes (all four present voted aye)
• Elected Janet Hegland as Vice President (all four present voted aye)
• Elected Karen Fleming as Treasurer (all four present voted aye)
• Directed staff to research and incorporate bylaw amendments (all four present voted aye)
• Adjourned the meeting (all four present voted aye)

Council

The council approved the $1,401 construction cost and maintenance agreement for a new streetlight at Lake Drive and Crossways Lake Drive. It also approved a $16,628.94 transfer from Fund 150 (Parks) to Fund 403 (Parks Capital) and the payment of a $16,628.94 invoice to Olson Power and Equipment. All motions passed with unanimous affirmative votes.

• Approved $1,401 streetlight construction and maintenance agreement (unanimous ayes)
• Approved transfer of $16,628.94 from Fund 150 to Fund 403 (unanimous ayes)
• Approved payment of $16,628.94 Olson Power and Equipment invoice (unanimous ayes)
• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous ayes)
• Approved consent agenda items, including bill payments and prior meeting minutes (unanimous ayes)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the March 19, 2025 minutes by unanimous roll‑call vote. It also voted to continue discussion of the Loves Travel Stop site plan review at the April 16, 2025 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned at 6:55 p.m.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous roll‑call)
• Approved March 19, 2025 Planning Commission minutes (unanimous roll‑call)
• Continued discussion of Loves Travel Stop site plan review to April 16, 2025 (unanimous roll‑call)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:55 p.m. (unanimous roll‑call)

Council

The council adopted the amended agenda, removing several items, with a unanimous 5‑aye vote. The consent agenda bill payments were approved unanimously. The council also approved an amendment to the Lakner’s Woodlands Ponds Development Agreement, removing escrow and future petition provisions, with a 5‑aye vote.

• Adopted amended agenda removing B2, B3, D7 items (5‑aye)
• Approved consent agenda bill payments (5‑aye)
• Approved amendment to Lakner’s Woodlands Ponds Development Agreement removing escrow and petition provisions (5‑aye)

Park Board

The board voted to approve the meeting agenda and the minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting, with all members in favor. No formal decisions were made on dugout funding, park maintenance, the master plan, or the tennis court project. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (Ray, Messina, Bodene, Norling all aye)
• Approved Jan 21 2025 minutes (Ray, Messina, Bodene, Norling all aye)
• Adjourned meeting (Ray, Messina, Bodene, Norling all aye)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved its agenda, the March 5 meeting minutes, and the Davey Tree Care Co CUP public hearing minutes. Members discussed Policy 24-01 and asked the assistant planner to bring it to City Council for possible change. The commission then recommended approval of the MTW Truck Wash site plan review. The meeting was adjourned at 7:02 p.m.

• Approved meeting agenda (Snell – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Wood – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)
• Approved March 5, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes (Snell – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Wood – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)
• Approved March 5, 2025 Davey Tree Care Co CUP public hearing minutes (Snell – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Wood – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)
• Recommended approval of MTW Truck Wash site plan review (Snell – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Wood – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)
• Requested Assistant Planner Hahn to bring Policy 24-01 to City Council for review
• Adjourned meeting (Barrette – Aye; Snell – Aye; Bautch – Aye; Wood – Aye; Carver-Quinn – Aye)