Empire public meetings in 2025

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a variance for a parcel split at the northwest corner of PID #120170026013. The commission will also consider a metes & bounds subdivision application for the proposed water tower parcel identified by the same PID. Additionally, the commission will receive information from Retrofit Environmental regarding site selection for a business location.

• Public hearing on variance for parcel split at northwest corner of PID #120170026013
• Consideration of metes & bounds subdivision application for proposed water tower parcel (PID #120170026013)
• Presentation from Retrofit Environmental on site selection for a business location

The commission voted 5-0 to recommend approving a variance for a parcel that lacks direct road frontage until future development. It also voted 5-0 to recommend approving the metes and bounds subdivision for the same parcel. A motion to close the public hearing passed unanimously.

• Recommended approval of variance for parcel split (5-0)
• Recommended approval of metes and bounds subdivision (5-0)
• Motion to close public hearing (5-0)

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will approve the agenda and consent items, hear a visitors forum, and hold a public comment meeting on the adoption of the 2026 budget. It will consider Resolution 2025-11B to certify unpaid utility charges, a fire‑contract meeting with the City of Farmington, and a vacancy appointment for the Planning Commission. The council will also review a subdivision transfer at 19151 Biscayne Ave and an amendment to Business Regulations (Ordinance 2025‑6).

• Public Comment Meeting on Adoption of 2026 Budget – Draft Budget Presentation
• Consider Adoption of Resolution 2025-11B, Certifying Unpaid Utility Charges
• Consider Adoption of Ordinance 2025-6, amending Ordinance No. 280 (Business Regulations)
• Consider Adoption of Resolution 2025-11A, approving subdivision and building rights transfer at 19151 Biscayne Ave
• Meeting with City of Farmington regarding Fire Contract – December 9 at 6:30 PM

The Empire City Council approved the agenda and consent items unanimously. It adopted Resolution 2025-11A to approve a subdivision and building‑rights transfer at 19151 Biscayne Ave, and adopted Ordinance 2025-6 amending business regulations for lower‑potency hemp retailers. The council also certified unpaid utility charges, posted a vacancy for the Planning Commission and appointed Jared Sachs on an interim basis.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, bill list, profit & loss) (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-11A for subdivision at 19151 Biscayne Ave (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2025-6 amending business regulations for hemp retailers (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-11B certifying unpaid utility charges (5-0)
• Approved posting of Planning Commission vacancy and interim appointment of Jared Sachs (5-0)
• Recommended posting special meeting with City of Farmington (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will consider a subdivision and a building rights transfer agreement for a property at 19151 Biscayne Ave. The meeting will also include planning updates.

• Consider Metes & Bounds Subdivision at 19151 Biscayne Ave.
• Consider Approving Building Rights Transfer Agreement for New Parcel Split at 19151 Biscayne Ave.
• Planning Updates

The commission voted 5‑0 to approve the subdivision of 19151 Biscayne Avenue, adding a 33‑foot ghost‑platted easement on the north side for future road use. They also voted 5‑0 to approve the transfer of the existing building right to the new parcel. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved 19151 Biscayne Ave subdivision with 33‑ft ghost easement (5‑0)
• Approved building rights transfer agreement for the new parcel (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (5‑0)

Empire City Council

The City Council will discuss the adoption of a Pedestrian & Bicycle Plan and amendments to the Empire Personnel Policy. The body will also review a potential ice arena partnership and a maintenance program agreement with Dakota County.

• Adoption of Pedestrian & Bicycle Plan
• Amendments to the Empire Personnel Policy
• Amendment to JPA with Dakota County for SSTS Pump Maintenance Programs
• Revised Metes & Bounds Subdivision Application
• Appointment of Jeff Hince as Snow Removal Backup

The council approved the final Pedestrian & Bicycle Plan and several other items. Motions on the agenda, consent agenda, snow‑removal backup, a revised subdivision application, personnel policy amendments, a septic‑system JPA amendment, and adjournment all passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved Jeff Hince as snow‑removal backup (5-0)
• Approved Revised Metes & Bounds Subdivision Application (5-0)
• Approved amendments to the Personnel Policy (5-0)
• Approved amendment to JPA with Dakota County for septic‑pump maintenance (5-0)
• Approved Pedestrian & Bicycle Plan (5-0)
• Approved adjournment (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will discuss zoning information for 20941 Chippendale Ave., review amendments to a Metes & Bounds subdivision application, consider a draft pedestrian and bicycle plan, and receive an update on the AUAR water tower site.

• Discussion on zoning information at 20941 Chippendale Ave.
• Review of amendments to a Metes & Bounds subdivision application.
• Consideration of a draft pedestrian and bicycle plan.
• Update on the AUAR water tower site.

The commission approved the recommended amendments to the Metes & Bounds Subdivision Application with a unanimous 4‑0 vote. It advised the property owner seeking commercial rezoning at 20941 Chippendale Ave. to consider other sites, noting spot‑zoning concerns. The draft Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan was posted online for City Council review, and updates on the water‑tower AUAR and purchase agreements were provided. The meeting adjourned at 8:37 PM.

• Approved recommendation for Metes & Bounds subdivision amendments (4-0)
• Recommended Mr. Pierson consider alternative properties (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Empire City Council

The council will discuss several contracts and agreements, including a purchase of land owned by the Finnegan Trust for a proposed water tower. They will also review a memorandum of understanding for easements on the same parcel, and consider a contract with the Dakota County Sheriff's Office for a full‑time deputy. Additional items include a fee waiver for a tournament, a resignation, and scheduling matters.

• Consider purchase of property owned by David J. & Karen I. Finnegan Trusts (proposed water tower site)
• Consider adopting resolution for a purchase agreement for the water tower property
• Consider approving MOU with Lindsey F. Schumann Trust for easement to the water tower parcel
• Consider 2026‑2027 contract with Dakota County Sheriff's Office for a full‑time deputy
• Consider waiving Stelzel Field fees for the Invisible Wounds Tournament (Sept 12, 2026)

The council adopted Resolution 2025-11A, approving the subdivision and building‑rights transfer for 19151 Biscayne Ave. It also adopted Ordinance 2025‑6, amending business regulations for hemp retailers. The council certified unpaid utility charges and appointed Jared Sachs to fill a Planning Commission vacancy on an interim basis. A draft 2026 budget was presented for future adoption at the December 9 meeting.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-11A for subdivision at 19151 Biscayne Ave (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 2025-6 amending business regulations for hemp retailers (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-11B certifying unpaid utility charges (5-0)
• Approved vacancy posting and interim appointment of Jared Sachs to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, bill list, budget comparison) (5-0)

Empire City Council

The City Council will discuss updates to the city's zoning and subdivision ordinances and the adoption of an engineering design manual. The body is also considering a resolution supporting the CSAH 46 expansion and safety project.

• Ordinance No. 430: Amended Subdivision Ordinance
• Ordinance No. 2025-5: Amendments to Ordinance No. 400 (Zoning Ordinance)
• Resolution 2025-10A: Support for Dakota County's LRIP application for CSAH 46 expansion
• Off-Sale 3.2 Percent Malt Liquor License Renewal for Kwik Trip Inc.
• Proposed contract for a full-time deputy

The council approved the amended Subdivision Ordinance (Ordinance No. 430) and adopted amendments to the Zoning Ordinance (Ordinance No. 2025-5). It also adopted the Engineering Design Manual and approved a letter of credit reduction for Deer Creek and DNH Empire LLC. All motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda – motion carried 5-0
• Approved consent agenda items – motion carried 5-0
• Adopted Resolution 2025-10A supporting LRIP for CSAH 46 project – motion carried 5-0
• Approved Letter of Credit reduction for Deer Creek 1st Addition – motion carried 5-0
• Adopted Ordinance No. 430 (amended Subdivision Ordinance) – motion carried 5-0
• Adopted Engineering Design Manual – motion carried 5-0
• Adopted Ordinance No. 2025-5 (amendments to Zoning Ordinance) – motion carried 5-0
• Approved Letter of Credit reduction and Stormwater Access Agreement for DNH Empire LLC – motion carried 5-0

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will hold two public hearings to consider amendments to the Subdivision Ordinance and the Zoning Ordinance. The meeting will also include a discussion on site plan reviews for properties in the AG District and follow-up items regarding a Conditional Use Permit for Kwik Trip.

• Public Hearing #1: Amendments to Ordinance No. 430 (Subdivision Ordinance)
• Public Hearing #2: Amendments to Ordinance No. 400 (Zoning Ordinance)
• Discussion: Site Plan Review for Properties in the AG District
• Discussion: Kwik Trip CUP Follow-Up Items

The commission voted 5-0 to close the public hearing. It then voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the proposed amendments to Ordinance No. 430 (Subdivision Ordinance) and Ordinance No. 400 (Zoning Ordinance). The commission also recommended that the city send a letter to the property owner east of the Kwik Trip site requesting feedback on screening concerns. The meeting was adjourned after a motion to adjourn passed.

• Motion to close public hearing – carried 5-0
• Motion to recommend approval of Ordinance No. 430 and Ordinance No. 400 amendments – carried 5-0
• Recommendation to send a letter to the property owner east of Kwik Trip requesting screening feedback – adopted
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – carried

Empire City Council

The council adopted the proposed 2025 tax levy (Resolution 2025-9A) and approved the IUP for Vertical Bridge’s telecommunications tower with required RF testing. They also approved a large gathering permit for the Farmington Rotary Club, a hold‑harmless agreement, and adopted camera use, access credential, health insurance renewal, and firearms ordinance amendments. All motions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Adopted Resolution 2025-9A, adopting proposed 2025 tax levy (5‑0)
• Approved IUP for Vertical Bridge tower with RF testing conditions (5‑0)
• Approved large gathering permit for Farmington Rotary Club, contingent on application updates (5‑0)
• Approved Hold Harmless Agreement for Farmington Rotary Club event (5‑0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-9B documenting indemnification coverage for Rotary event (5‑0)
• Approved draft Empire Camera Use Policy (5‑0)
• Approved draft Empire Access Credential Policy (5‑0)
• Adopted amendments to the City firearms ordinance (5‑0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will consider a request from Bart Winkler of Deer Creek Development to build a fence along the north property line of a corner lot. It will also review three draft zoning ordinance amendments: one addressing temporary sales trailers for new housing developments, one setting ground‑cover requirements for disturbed areas, and one updating the subdivision ordinance.

• Request by Bart Winkler (Deer Creek Development) to build fence on north property line of corner lot
• Draft zoning ordinance amendment to address temporary sales trailers for new housing developments
• Draft zoning ordinance amendment to address ground cover on disturbed areas
• Draft amendments and updates to the subdivision ordinance

The commission approved the zoning review application for Bart Winkler's proposed 6‑foot white vinyl fence along the western lot lines of Lots 1 & 2, Block 1 of the Deer Creek Subdivision. The motion was made by Elizabeth Haas, seconded by Gina Maunu, and carried unanimously 5‑0. The commission scheduled public hearings for three draft zoning ordinance amendments on October 7, but took no action on those items. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved fence zoning review application (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will convene to approve the agenda and consent items, including minutes and financial reports. The council will consider approving Mobile Food Unit (MFU) Licenses and discuss the rental of Stelzel Fields. The meeting also includes committee reports and a presentation from Dakota County Assessing Services.

• Approve Mobile Food Unit (MFU) Licenses
• Discuss rental of Stelzel Fields
• Draft Camera and Key Policies
• Placement of temporary promotional sign at Stelzel Fields
• Update on Draft Pedestrian & Bicycle Plan

The Empire City Council approved its agenda, a seasonal mobile food unit license for GRK Inc., and a $37,762.50 quote from McNamara Contracting to reclaim and pave a 1,325‑ft trail section. The council also approved a temporary promotional sign for the Farmington Rotary Club at Stelzel Fields. The meeting was adjourned after all motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved Mobile Food Unit license for GRK Inc. (seasonal) (5-0)
• Approved McNamara Contracting trail reconstruction quote of $37,762.50 (5-0)
• Approved temporary promotional sign for Rotary Club at Stelzel Fields (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss the draft 2026 Budget and supplemental information. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Draft 2026 Budget and Supplemental Information

The council discussed draft budget updates, recommended meetings with Farmington and the Sheriff’s Office, and proposed removing several capital outlay items. They also suggested moving the $230,000 cold‑storage expense to the purchase‑of‑investments line. The only formal action recorded was the motion to adjourn, which was seconded and carried.

• Motion to adjourn approved (no vote tally provided)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will consider a telecommunications tower application and a zoning review for a proposed new home. The meeting is scheduled for September 2, 2025, at Empire City Hall.

• IUP Application: Vertical Bridge for Telecommunications Tower at 2180 200th Street W
• Zoning Review Application: Proposed New Home at 2280 210th Street E

The commission recommended and approved the interim use permit (IUP) for Vertical Bridge’s telecommunications tower at 2180 200th Street W, adding a condition for post‑construction RF radiation testing. The recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council for consideration at its September 23 meeting. The commission also approved the zoning review application for a new home at 2280 210th Street E. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved IUP for telecommunications tower at 2180 200th Street W with radiation testing condition (3-0)
• Recommendation to City Council for tower consideration forwarded to September 23 meeting (3-0)
• Approved Zoning Review Application for new home at 2280 210th Street E (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Empire City Council

The council will present and discuss the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026. The agenda includes a budget presentation and supplemental information. No other actions or decisions are listed.

• 2026 Budget Presentation
• Supplemental Information on the 2026 budget

The council reviewed the draft 2026 budget and noted the pending fire contract and a $31,886 increase in the sheriff deputy contract. Council members requested more detail on services provided by the sheriff’s department. The council recommended holding a special workshop to discuss the sheriff contract before it is considered. No formal votes were recorded.

• Recommended a future special workshop to discuss the sheriff contract (no vote recorded)

Empire City Council

The council approved the $50,000 proposal from Advanced Light and Sound to install security cameras and a card‑access system at City Hall, the Public Works Building, and Stelzel Fields. It also approved a temporary sales trailer zoning permit, adopted the draft AUAR and mitigation plan, and authorized Aflac withholding plans for employees. All motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, MFU licenses, bill list, budget report, celebration contributions) (5-0)
• Approved temporary sales trailer zoning permit with operating‑hour conditions (5-0)
• Approved draft AUAR and mitigation plan documents (5-0)
• Approved security camera and card‑access system quote from Advanced Light and Sound ($50,000 total) (5-0)
• Approved Aflac employee withholding plans effective Dec 1, 2025 (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will hold a continued public hearing for a telecommunications tower at 2180 200th Street W and review a site plan for a pole building at 1701 220th Street E. The meeting will also include a review of a zoning application for a temporary sales trailer and a request for information on a property.

• Continued public hearing for telecommunications tower at 2180 200th Street W
• Site plan review for pole building at 1701 220th Street E
• Review of zoning application for temporary sales trailer in Deer Creek 1st Addition
• Request for information on PID #120190003015 (Ebrima Jallow)

The commission closed the public hearing on the proposed telecommunications tower and voted to revisit the application at the September 2 meeting. It approved the placement of a temporary sales trailer in Deer Creek 1st Addition with operating hour and deadline conditions. It also approved a zoning permit for a pole building at 1701 220th Street E. The commission asked the tower applicant to submit digital maps and a 30‑day timeline extension request.

• Closed telecom tower public hearing (motion carried 4-0)
• Deferred telecom tower review to September 2 meeting (motion carried 4-0)
• Recommended approval of temporary sales trailer with conditions (motion carried 4-0)
• Approved temporary sales trailer placement (motion carried 4-0)
• Approved pole building zoning permit at 1701 220th Street E (motion carried 4-0)
• Requested applicant send digital maps and submit 30‑day timeline extension (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn carried (vote tally not recorded)

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will review the consent agenda, including minutes and a cash balance report. Committee reports will cover maintenance, law enforcement, park and recreation, engineering, and planning topics. The council will discuss a proposal from Barr Engineering for Empire Lake surface water and groundwater monitoring and a city of Rosemount comprehensive plan amendment. A budget workshop is scheduled for Tuesday, August 26.

• Consider Food Truck License for Bourbon Butcher (10/11/25 at 19151 Biscayne Ave)
• Consider Approving Proposal from Barr Engineering for Empire Lake surface water and groundwater monitoring
• Review City of Rosemount proposed comprehensive plan amendment
• Budget Workshop scheduled for August 26, 2025
• Planning Commission meeting on August 19, 2025 at 8 PM

The council approved the meeting agenda and a food‑truck license for Bourbon Butcher. It also approved Barr Engineering’s proposal for Empire Lake surface water and groundwater monitoring and endorsed a “no comment” recommendation on Rosemount’s Aspen Fields comprehensive plan amendment. A budget workshop was recommended and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved Food Truck License for Bourbon Butcher (4-0)
• Approved Barr Engineering water monitoring proposal (5-0)
• Approved ‘no comment’ on Rosemount comprehensive plan amendment (5-0)
• Recommended Budget Workshop as a special work session (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The commission will discuss a concept sketch plan for the Cahill/Rother property located at 20649 Chippendale Ave. It will consider a proposed comprehensive plan amendment from the City of Rosemount concerning Aspen Fields. The agenda also includes a brief item about the Empire Celebration scheduled for Thursday, August 7, from 6 to 8 PM.

• Review concept sketch plan for Cahill/Rother property (20649 Chippendale Ave.)
• Consider comprehensive plan amendment from City of Rosemount for Aspen Fields
• Discuss Empire Celebration event scheduled Thursday, August 7, 6‑8 PM

The Planning Commission discussed a concept plan for the 40‑acre Cahill/Kontinakis property and recommended that the developer submit a Site Plan Review Application. The commission gave a “no comment” recommendation on the proposed comprehensive‑plan amendment for the 10‑acre Aspen Fields parcel in Rosemount. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made, seconded, and adopted.

• Recommended developer submit Site Plan Review Application for Cahill/Kontinakis project (no vote recorded)
• Recommended “no comment” on Rosemount Aspen Fields comprehensive‑plan amendment (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn adopted (motion passed, seconded by Elizabeth Haas)

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will discuss several items, including a proposed amendment to the Public Nuisance Ordinance (Ordinance No. 2025‑4). The council will also receive an update on a telecommunications tower proposal at 2180 200th St. W and consider consulting Owl Engineering for its review. Additional items include a letter of credit reduction for Deer Creek 1st Addition and reports from engineering and law‑enforcement committees.

• Consider adopting Ordinance No. 2025‑4, amending Ordinance No. 281 (Public Nuisance Ordinance)
• Update on proposed telecommunications tower at 2180 200th St. W; consider consulting Owl Engineering
• Consider Letter of Credit Reduction for Deer Creek 1st Addition
• Engineering Report (maintenance, sewer, water, road and bridges)
• Deputy Martin's report on trailer data at 197th St. and Biscayne Ave

The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2025-4, amending the public nuisance ordinance to permit native landscaping on private property. It approved a $462,179 reduction to the Deer Creek 1st Addition letter of credit. The council also approved hiring Owl Engineering for a telecom tower application review and kept the 30 MPH speed limit on 197th St. W. from Biscayne Ave. to State Highway 3.

• Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-4 amending public nuisance ordinance (5-0)
• Approve reduction of Deer Creek 1st Addition letter of credit by $462,179 (5-0)
• Approve consulting with Owl Engineering for telecom tower application review ($8,500 fee) (5-0)
• Keep 30 MPH speed limit on 197th St. W. from Biscayne Ave. to State Highway 3 (4-1)
• Provide no comment on Lakeville comprehensive plan amendments (5-0)
• Approve agenda (5-0)
• Approve consent agenda (5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (5-0)

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will convene to approve the agenda and discuss potential funding sources for future street reconstruction projects. The meeting includes a public forum for residents to address local topics.

• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Public visitors forum
• Discussion on funding for street reconstruction projects
• Review of franchise fees and special assessments
• Adjournment

The council asked staff to obtain funding‑impact scenarios that combine special assessments and franchise fees. It then recommended that staff work with the city attorney to complete draft franchise agreements and fee ordinances for electric and natural‑gas utilities. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Requested funding‑impact scenarios for projects using special assessments and franchise fees (no vote recorded)
• Recommended staff work with the city attorney to draft franchise agreements and fee ordinances for electric and natural‑gas utilities (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn carried 5‑0

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will hold a continued public hearing regarding a telecommunications tower application. The body will also discuss landscaping at Deer Creek First Addition and review proposed comprehensive plan amendments from the City of Lakeville.

• Public hearing for IUP to allow telecommunications tower at 2180 200th Street W
• Request for information on PID #120190003015 (Ebrima Jallow)
• Discussion on landscaping and vegetation at Deer Creek First Addition / Feely Solar Fields
• City of Lakeville proposed comprehensive plan amendments

The commission voted 5‑0 to continue the public hearing on the Vertical Bridge telecommunications tower application to the August 19 meeting, then rescinded that motion and reopened the hearing for comment. It also voted 5‑0 to recommend that the City Council have a consulting engineer review the tower application, to have the east side of the Deer Creek First Addition mowed, and to have staff contact the Feely solar developers about weed control. Additionally, the commission voted 5‑0 to decline commenting on Lakeville’s proposed comprehensive‑plan amendments and adjourned the meeting.

• Continue public hearing for Vertical Bridge telecom tower IUP application to Aug 19 (5‑0)
• Rescind continuation and reopen public hearing for comment (5‑0)
• Recommend City Council engage consulting engineer to review tower location and health studies
• Recommend mowing east side of Deer Creek First Addition property
• Recommend staff contact Feely solar developers to mow weeds around fenced areas
• Recommend no comment on Lakeville comprehensive‑plan amendments (5‑0)
• Adjourn meeting (5‑0)

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will meet to approve minutes, bills, and a cash balance report. The body will also consider a conditional use permit amendment for the Minnesota Cambodian Buddhist Society and an amendment to a hiring date.

• Approve minutes for June 24 and July 1 meetings
• Approve bill list and cash balance report
• Consider CUP amendment for Minnesota Cambodian Buddhist Society (2955 220th Street East)
• Consider approval of Final AUAR Order for NW Empire
• Consider amending hire date for Dan Corrigan to July 7

The City Council voted unanimously to approve a conditional use permit amendment allowing a residential addition and a new cultural center for the Minnesota Cambodian Buddhist Society. It also approved the final AUAR order and scoping document for the Northwest Empire area, and amended the hire date for employee Dan Corrigan. All items were adopted with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda, including minutes and cash report (4-0)
• Approved CUP amendment for Minnesota Cambodian Buddhist Society (4-0)
• Approved final AUAR order and scoping document for NW Empire (4-0)
• Amended Dan Corrigan's hire date to July 7 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will hold two public hearings to review land use applications. The body is considering a tower construction project and an amendment for a residential and cultural center addition.

• Public hearing for telecommunications tower at 2180 200th Street W
• Public hearing for residential building addition and cultural center at Cambodian Buddhist Temple (2955 220th Street E)

The Planning Commission voted 5-0 to continue the public hearing on the proposed 165.5‑foot telecommunications tower at 2180 200th Street West to the next meeting on July 15. It also voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the conditional use permit amendment for the Cambodian Buddhist Temple at 2955 220th Street East, allowing a 1,210‑sq‑ft residential addition and a new 9,000‑sq‑ft cultural center. The meeting was adjourned at 9:32 PM.

• Continue telecom tower public hearing (motion carried 5-0)
• Close public hearing on temple CUP amendment (motion carried 5-0)
• Recommend approval of CUP amendment for Cambodian Buddhist Temple (motion carried 5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (motion carried)

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will consider a conditional use permit amendment for Glenhaven Events submitted by Dreamerick LLC. They will also review a proposal for a special workshop on franchise fees and set a tentative schedule for a budget workshop and adoption. Additional items include an engineering report, a FYI on Charter Communications cable rate changes, and routine reports and approvals.

• Consider CUP Amendment for Glenhaven Events (Dreamerick LLC)
• Consider Special Workshop to Discuss Franchise Fees
• Tentative Budget Workshop and Adoption Schedule
• Engineering Report
• Charter Communications – Cable Channel Rate Changes (FYI)

The council approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It then approved a Conditional Use Permit amendment allowing Dreamerick LLC to build a 6,757‑sq‑ft wedding barn at Glenhaven Events, also unanimously. The council later approved the employment agreement for Dan Corrigan as the public works maintenance employee, again with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, bill list, budget report) (5-0)
• Approved CUP amendment for Dreamerick LLC wedding barn (5-0)
• Approved employment agreement for Dan Corrigan, public works maintenance (5-0)
• Recommended special workshop on franchise fees (no vote recorded)
• Recommended schedule for budget adoption (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) amendment. The commission will also receive an AUAR and development update.

• Public hearing for CUP amendment for new accessory building and phasing of improvements at Glenhaven Events (1595 220th Street East)

The commission voted 5-0 to close the public hearing on the CUP amendment for Glenhaven Events. It then voted 5-0 to recommend approval of the amendment for Dreamerick LLC’s new wedding barn, contingent on a letter of credit for removal of existing structures. The commission also voted to adjourn the meeting.

• Motion to close public hearing carried 5-0
• Motion to recommend approval of CUP amendment for Glenhaven Events (Dreamerick LLC) carried 5-0
• Motion to adjourn carried (vote count not recorded)

Empire City Council

The City Council will review a food truck license application and discuss franchise fees for electric and natural gas utilities. The meeting also includes updates on the Dakota Area Transfer and a proposed comprehensive plan amendment from the City of Rosemount.

• Food truck license for MN Juicy Lucy's Catering
• Proposed Comprehensive Plan Amendment from City of Rosemount regarding Dakota East Technology Park
• Update on Dakota Area Transfer (3358 165th St E.)
• Discussion on franchise fees for electric and natural gas utilities
• Information on native landscaping regarding Nuisance Ord. No. 281

The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, which included a food‑truck license for MN Juicy Lucy’s Catering. Council members recommended proceeding with a Wi‑Fi installation at Stelzel Fields. They also adopted a “No Comment” position on Rosemount’s Dakota East Technology Park comprehensive plan amendment. The council asked staff to schedule a special work session to develop franchise‑fee ordinances for utilities.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items, including food‑truck license for MN Juicy Lucy’s Catering (5-0)
• Recommended proceeding with Wi‑Fi installation at Stelzel Fields (no vote recorded)
• Adopted “No Comment” on Rosemount Dakota East Technology Park amendment (5-0)
• Requested a special work session on utility franchise‑fee ordinances (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Planning Commission heard presentations on future expansion concepts at the Dakota County Transportation Campus, a Rosemount comprehensive plan amendment, and updates on local planning items. No substantive actions were taken; the only decision was to adjourn the meeting.

• Motion to adjourn approved (no vote recorded)

Empire City Council

The City Council will discuss updating public land regulations and filling city positions. The body is also reviewing a proposal for Wi-Fi at Stelzel Fields and a commission appointment.

• Adoption of Amended Ordinance No. 265 (Public Land Regulations)
• Proposed Wi-Fi connection at Stelzel Fields
• Appointment of Lisa Klemmensen to the Recreation Commission
• Acceptance of Tony Casalenda's resignation
• Posting of a job opening for a Maintenance Worker

The council adopted Ordinance No. 265, which prohibits parking in city parks after they close. Council members also appointed Lisa Klemmensen to the Recreation Commission and accepted the resignation of employee Tony Casalenda. Motions to approve the agenda, consent items, a maintenance worker job posting, and to adjourn were also passed.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Appointed Lisa Klemmensen to Recreation Commission (5-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 265 (parking ban after park hours) (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Tony Casalenda (4-1)
• Approved posting job opening for Maintenance Worker (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire City Council

The City Council will review a planning amendment for a Waste Management compost site and updates to ordinances establishing the Planning and Recreation Commissions. The body will also consider several business licenses and a cost-share agreement with Dakota County for election services.

• IUP Amendment for Waste Management Compost Site at 16470 Blaine Ave.
• Amended Ordinances No. 130 and 140 establishing Planning and Recreation Commissions
• Final payment to McNamara for 194th Street Gate project
• Cost share agreement with Dakota County for election hardware and software
• One day food truck license for HaDa Foodie LLC and seasonal license for The American Dream Machine, LLC

The council approved a one‑day food‑truck license for HaDa Foodie LLC and a seasonal license for The American Dream Machine. It also approved the final payment to McNamara with a two‑year warranty bond, the IUP amendment for the Waste Management compost site, and the draft order and scoping documents for the Northwest AUAR. Ordinances establishing the Planning Commission (No. 130) and the Recreation Commission (No. 140) were adopted, and a temporary on‑sale liquor license for the Rotary Club of Farmington and a cost‑share agreement for election equipment were approved.

• Approved one‑day food‑truck license for HaDa Foodie LLC and seasonal license for The American Dream Machine (5‑0)
• Approved final payment to McNamara with 2‑year warranty bond (5‑0)
• Approved IUP amendment for Waste Management compost site (5‑0)
• Approved NW AUAR draft order and scoping documents (5‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 130 establishing Planning Commission (5‑0)
• Adopted Ordinance 140 establishing Recreation Commission (5‑0)
• Approved temporary on‑sale liquor license for Rotary Club of Farmington (5‑0)
• Approved cost‑share agreement with Dakota County for election equipment (~$10,500) (5‑0)

Empire Planning Commission

The commission closed the public hearing on the Waste Management IUP amendment with a 5‑0 vote. It then voted 5‑0 to recommend approval of the amendment, noting a berm height limit of six feet. The commission chose to table comment on Rosemount’s proposed Dakota East Technology Park comprehensive‑plan amendment until the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned by motion.

• Closed public hearing on Waste Management IUP amendment (5-0)
• Recommended approval of Waste Management IUP amendment (5-0)
• Tabled comment on Rosemount Dakota East Technology Park comprehensive‑plan amendment (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Empire City Council

The council adopted amended Ordinances 220, 265, 400, 415, 450 and new Ordinance 280. It also approved the publication summaries for those ordinances. The council clarified that the contract administration fee will cover city staff time only. Food truck licenses for six vendors were approved and the application fee was waived.

• Adopted Amended Ordinances 220, 265, 400, 415, 450 and New Ordinance 280 – motion carried 4-0
• Approved publication summaries for Ordinances 220, 265, 400, 415, 450, 280 – motion carried 4-0
• Clarified contract administration fee use: designated for city staff time, not consultant expenses – consensus reached
• Approved food truck licenses for six vendors and waived application fee – motion carried 4-0
• Approved consent agenda (minutes, bill list, budget comparison) – motion carried 4-0
• Approved meeting agenda – motion carried 4-0
• Adjourned meeting – motion carried 4-0

Empire Planning Commission

The commission closed two public hearings and unanimously recommended approval of the draft ordinance amendments covering timelines, park dedication, model homes, district changes, water tower exemptions, and abandoned pool definitions. It also unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 280 that regulates business registration, including cannabis, alcohol, and adult uses. Additionally, the commission approved a new single‑family home at 1245 210th Street W and adjourned the meeting.

• Closed public hearing #1 – motion carried 5-0
• Recommended approval of draft ordinance amendments – motion carried 5-0
• Closed public hearing #2 – motion carried 5-0
• Recommended adoption of Ordinance No. 280 – motion carried 5-0
• Approved new home proposal at 1245 210th Street W – motion carried 5-0
• Adjourned meeting – motion carried 5-0

Empire City Council

The council approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda, including the 2024 audited financial report. It voted to incorporate the Nielsen/Stonex parcels into the AUAR study area. The council also approved continuing streetlights on 199th Street under the Pre‑Pay option and agreed to accommodate a disc‑golf beginners program at the River Preserve.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda, including 2024 audited financial report (5-0)
• Included Nielsen/Stonex parcels in AUAR (5-0)
• Continued 199th Street streetlights under Pre‑Pay Option (5-0)
• Agreed to accommodate Disc Golf Beginners Program at River Preserve
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire City Council

The council approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda items, including minutes and budget comparison, with unanimous votes. They approved a $19,900 contract for Braun Intertec to perform nine soil borings at the proposed water tower site. The council adopted Resolution 2025-3A, vacating a section of 164th Street after a petition from the landowner, also unanimously. All motions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (minutes, bill list, budget comparison) (5-0)
• Approved Braun Intertec soil borings contract ($19,900) (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-3A vacating a section of 164th Street (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will receive information on a proposal from Tom's Live Market. It will review proposed amendments to Ordinance 430 – the Subdivision Ordinance and to other Empire ordinances. The commission will also consider cancelling the April 1, 2025 meeting.

• Information on proposal from Tom's Live Market
• Proposed amendments to Ordinance 430 – Subdivision Ordinance
• Proposed amendments to other Empire ordinances
• Consideration of cancelling the April 1, 2025 Planning Commission meeting

The commission voted 5‑0 to cancel the scheduled April 1, 2025 Planning Commission meeting. No other actions were approved or denied; the commission will hold public hearings on ordinance amendments at the April 15 meeting. The meeting was adjourned after the motion to cancel passed.

• Cancel April 1, 2025 Planning Commission meeting (5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (motion carried)

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will review a request to rezone 7 acres and expand mining operations for McNamara Contracting. The body will also consider a conditional use permit amendment for the Toro site. Other items include law enforcement statistics and a 194th Street gate update.

• Ordinance No. 2025-3 to rezone 7 acres from AG to ME (McNamara Contracting)
• IUP for McNamara Contracting to continue and expand Section 5 & Section 6 Mine
• CUP Amendment for grounds equipment research and testing at 18010 Chippendale Ave. (Toro Site)
• Update on 194th Street Gate and adjacent property
• Law enforcement statistics reports for January and February 2025

The Empire City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2025-3 to rezone a 7‑acre parcel from agricultural preserve to mineral extraction. The council also approved an IUP amendment for McNamara Contracting to expand mining on about 141 acres and a CUP amendment for Toro to enlarge its equipment research site to 113.51 acres. All three actions passed unanimously.

• Adopt Ordinance No. 2025-3 rezoning 7 acres from AG to ME (5-0)
• Approve IUP amendment for McNamara Contracting to expand mining (5-0)
• Approve CUP amendment for Toro to expand equipment research site (5-0)
• Approve meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approve consent agenda items (5-0)
• Adjourn council meeting (5-0)

Empire Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for 7 acres of land and two expansion requests. These include a mineral extraction operation and grounds research and testing.

• Rezoning of approximately 7 acres from AG to ME (McNamara)
• Issuance of IUP to McNamara Contracting for mineral extraction operation expansion
• CUP amendment for The Toro Company to expand grounds research and testing

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council will consider a development agreement with Deer Creek Dev LLC for the Deer Creek 1st Addition. It will also consider several zoning ordinance amendments, including a definition for lot coverage and performance standards for parking, and a plan for the Deer Creek Planned Unit Development. Additional items include a resolution to approve the final plat for Deer Creek 1st Addition and a presentation on the Dakota County Parks 2050 Vision Plan.

• Consider Approving Development Agreement between the City of Empire and Deer Creek Dev LLC for Deer Creek 1st Addition (H.1)
• Consider Adopting Ordinance 2025-2 to add a definition for lot coverage and amend parking performance standards (Planning Committee)
• Consider Adopting Ordinance No. 2025-1 to establish uses and performance standards for Deer Creek Planned Unit Development (Old Business G.2)
• Consider Adopting Resolution 2025-2D to approve Deer Creek 1st Addition Final Plat (Old Business G.1)
• Information presentation on Dakota County Parks 2050 Vision Plan (New Business H.2)

Empire Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding a conditional use permit for Glenhaven Events and changes to the city zoning ordinance. The body will also discuss updates to planning-related ordinances.

• Public hearing for CUP Amendment for proposed improvements at Glenhaven Events
• Public hearing for Zoning Ordinance amendment regarding lot coverage and impervious surface requirements
• Discussion on planning related ordinance updates

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will hold a joint discussion with the City Council. The session will focus on development scenarios and the process for the NW Area AUAR.

• Joint discussion on NW Area AUAR development scenarios and process

Empire City Council

The Empire City Council meeting will address routine items such as the consent agenda and committee reports. Council members will discuss several proposed actions, including a resolution to appoint Kennedy & Graven as the city’s civil legal services provider, a resolution on reimbursement‑bond compliance procedures, and an ordinance setting the regular meeting schedule. A joint planning commission meeting on AUAR land‑use scenarios will also be announced.

• Resolution 2025-1C – appoint Kennedy & Graven to provide civil legal services to the City of Empire
• Resolution 2025-1B – establish procedures for compliance with reimbursement bond regulations under the Internal Revenue Code
• Ordinance 110-A – set time, place, and summary publication for regular City Council meetings
• Liability Coverage Waiver Form – consider coverage from LMCIT
• Joint meeting with Planning Commission to discuss AUAR land‑use development scenarios

Empire Planning Commission

The Empire Planning Commission will review reported zoning violations at 17565 Biscayne Ave and discuss proposed amendments to Subdivision Ordinance No. 430. The body will also consider a proposal for a retail/AG storage building at Brand Farms. A final plat review for the Deer Creek Subdivision Phase 1 has been moved to February 4.

• Zoning ordinance violations at 17565 Biscayne Ave
• Proposed amendments to Ordinance No. 430 (Subdivision Ordinance)
• Retail/AG storage building proposal at Brand Farms
• Update on PID 123060001011
• Update on Building Rights Map and Database

Empire City Council

The City Council will swear in a new mayor and councilmembers and review financial reports for 2024. The body will consider approvals for a water tower and well site plan, a truck sale, and city hall door replacements.

• Consider approving site plan for proposed water tower and well
• Consider approving payment request #4 from McNamara Contracting Inc. for 2024 street improvements
• Consider approving sale of 2007 Sterling Truck L8500
• Consider proposal from O&L Door Systems for new doors at City Hall
• Resolution 2025-1A regarding appointments to city offices and positions

Empire City Council

The City Council will discuss the 2024 tax levy, the final 2024 city budget, and the Capital Improvement Plan. The body is also considering several ordinances regarding cannabis regulation and nuisance abatement. Other items include the adoption of a Park System Master Plan and 2025 employee contracts.

• Resolution 2024-12A (2024 Tax Levy) and Resolution 2024-12B (Final 2024 City Budget and CIP)
• Ordinance No. 2024-6 and Ordinance No. 287 regarding cannabis businesses and consumption
• Ordinance No. 2024-7 (Nuisance and Abatement Ordinance amendment)
• Adoption of the Park System Master Plan
• Engagement agreement with Abdo for the 2024 financial audit