Little Canada public meetings in 2025

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will meet for a workshop session. The primary topic for discussion is the Administrator Review.

• Administrator Review

Planning Commission

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. There are no specific projects, ordinances, or decisions listed for action.

Parks and Recreation

The Little Canada Parks & Recreation Commission will consider staff reports on parks maintenance, the community garden, the recreation coordinator update, commission terms and reappointment, and updates on the community building TAC, 35E pedestrian bridge, and 2026 SMART goals. The meeting also includes a commissioner report from the Art in the Park sub‑committee and routine approvals of minutes.

• Staff Report – Parks Maintenance Review
• Staff Report – Community Garden Review
• Staff Report – Recreation Coordinator Update
• Staff Report – Commission Terms and Reappointment Process
• Staff Update – 35E Pedestrian Bridge

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will vote to adopt the final 2026 budget and levy. A public hearing will consider the 2026 Country Drive improvement project and a temporary easement acquisition. The council will also approve a joint powers agreement with South Central Service Cooperative for a new health‑insurance plan and consider Ordinance 921 that amends code chapters for massage and complementary health practices. Additionally, the council will accept the resignation of Recreation Coordinator Emelie Lindabaur and authorize advertising for the vacancy.

• Improvement hearing for the 2026 Country Drive Project and temporary easement acquisition
• Adopt final 2026 budget and levy
• Approve Joint Powers Agreement with South Central Service Cooperative for health‑insurance plan
• Ordinance 921 amending City Code chapters 2202 & 2203 for massage businesses and complementary alternative healthcare practices
• Accept resignation of Recreation Coordinator Emelie Lindabaur and authorize advertising the position

The Little Canada City Council approved the final 2026 tax levy and general‑fund budget, each by a 5‑0 vote. It also adopted a resolution ordering the Country Drive rehabilitation project and authorizing plans, specifications, and a temporary easement. Additional actions included approving the consent agenda, adopting a city‑paid long‑term disability premium, and accepting the resignation of the recreation coordinator.

• Approved 2026 tax levy (Resolution 2025‑12‑176) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved 2026 budget (Resolution 2025‑12‑177) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Ordered Country Drive rehabilitation project and easement acquisition (Resolution 2025‑12‑175) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved consent agenda (Resolution 2025‑12‑178) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Adopted city‑paid long‑term disability premium policy (Resolution 2025‑12‑179) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Accepted resignation of Recreation Coordinator and authorized advertising (Resolution 2025‑12‑180) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Tabled massage‑business ordinance to Dec 17 2025 – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved salary wage schedule for 2026 (Resolution 2025‑12‑177) – Ayes 5, Nays 0

City Council

The Little Canada City Council workshop will discuss proposed amendments to the zoning code to allow accessory dwelling units. The meeting is scheduled for December 3, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Center Conference Room. No decisions are noted; the agenda calls for discussion of the ADU code changes.

• Zoning code amendments for accessory dwelling units

The Little Canada City Council approved staff‑proposed changes to exterior building‑material specifications and to revert building‑height measurement standards to the pre‑2021 rules. Council reached consensus to allow only one rental license per property with an ADU and to prohibit ADUs from being used as Airbnb rentals. Staff will apply the existing rental‑licensing program to enforce these limits. No vote tallies were recorded.

• Approved exterior material specification changes (consensus)
• Approved revert to pre‑2021 building height measurement standards (consensus)
• Limited ADU rentals to one license per property (consensus)
• Prohibited ADU use as Airbnb rentals (consensus)

Planning Commission

The Little Canada Planning Commission will adopt the meeting agenda, approve the previous meeting minutes, and hear reports from staff and commissioners. A 15‑minute public comment period is provided for residents to address issues not on the agenda. No specific policy decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Adopt agenda
• Approve minutes
• Public comment (up to 15 minutes)
• Reports from staff
• Reports from commissioners

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will consider items on the consent agenda and vote on several contracts, licenses, and agreements. It will adopt the 2026‑2035 Capital Improvement Plan and the 2026 council meeting schedule. A closed‑session will be held to review counteroffers for the Little Canada Road Improvement Project easement acquisition.

• Adopt 2026‑2035 Capital Improvement Plan
• Approve temporary liquor license for Little Canada Recreation Association event Jan 9‑10, 2026
• Approve new animal control impound services contract
• Approve agreement and amendment with Xcel Energy for banners on light poles
• Closed‑session review of counteroffers for easement acquisition of Little Canada Road Improvement Project

The council adopted the 2026‑2035 Capital Improvement Plan, approved the consent agenda items, and accepted the community‑building TAC report authorizing an RFP for engineering and design services. It also adopted the 2026 City Council meeting schedule.

• Adopted Resolution 2025‑11‑168 approving prior meeting minutes – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑11‑169 approving the consent agenda – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑11‑171 accepting the Community Building TAC report and authorizing an RFP – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑11‑172 approving the 2026‑2035 Capital Improvement Plan – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑11‑173 adopting the 2026 City Council meeting schedule – Ayes 5, Nays 0

City Council

The Little Canada City Council workshop will provide an update on the LUPE development's tax increment financing and conduit debt financing. Council members will discuss proposed amendments to the city code governing massage and complementary alternative health care practices. They will also consider amendments to the code for accessory structures.

• Update on LUPE Development Tax Increment Financing and Conduit Debt Financing
• Discuss city code amendments for massage and complementary alternative health care practices
• Discuss city code amendments for accessory structures

The City Council agreed to provide $200,000 in Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) to Lupe Development for its 106‑unit senior housing project at 99 County Road B East, and to forgo any Tax Increment Financing or tax abatements for the project. Council also approved a new license for complementary and alternative health care practices, modeled on the existing massage license and limited in number. The council decided to postpone further action on accessory dwelling unit (ADU) code amendments until the next workshop.

• Approve $200,000 LAHA funding for Lupe Development senior housing (consensus)
• Reject use of TIF or tax abatements for Lupe Development (consensus)
• Create new license for alternative health care practices with limits (consensus)
• Defer further discussion of ADU code amendments to next workshop (consensus)

Parks and Recreation

The Little Canada Parks & Recreation Commission will consider several staff reports, including an update on the 2026 fee schedule for park and recreation services. Other items include a review of the Farmer’s Market overview, the Wayfinding Sub‑Committee report, and the upcoming 2026 commission meeting calendar. The commission will also discuss the TAC report and related recommendations.

• Review and consider the 2026 Parks and Recreation fee schedule
• Discuss the Farmer’s Market overview for 2025
• Consider the Wayfinding Sub‑Committee report
• Review the TAC report and recommendation support
• Approve the 2026 Parks and Recreation commission meeting calendar

The commission approved the 2026 Parks and Recreation fee schedule, setting non‑resident rental fees at $150, $225, $275 and $175. It also voted to change the farmers market hours to 1 p.m.–5 p.m. and to remove the bike‑trail reference from the Spooner Park wayfinding sign. The commission supported the TAC final report and adopted the 2026 commission meeting schedule.

• Approved 2026 fee schedule with non‑resident fees $150, $225, $275, $175 (Ayes 7, Nays 0)
• Adjusted farmers market hours to 1 p.m.–5 p.m. (Ayes 7, Nays 0)
• Removed bike‑trail reference from Spooner Park wayfinding sign (unanimous approval)
• Supported the Community Building TAC final report and recommendations (Ayes 7, Nays 0)
• Adopted 2026 Parks and Recreation commission meeting schedule (Ayes 6, Nays 0, Abstain 1)
• Approved September 4, 2025 commission minutes (unanimously approved)

Planning Commission

The Little Canada Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to adopt the agenda and approve minutes from a previous session. The body will also discuss PC Case 1445 regarding accessory structures.

• Approval of PC Minutes 09-11-2025
• Discussion of PC Case 1445 - Accessory Structures
• Meeting at City Center Council Chambers, 515 Little Canada Road

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to adopt the agenda and approve the September 11, 2025 minutes. It then passed a motion recommending approval of several ordinance updates: reducing the rear attached‑deck setback to 20 feet, correcting Table 904‑6, adding corner‑side setbacks for detached accessory structures, removing the owner‑occupancy requirement for accessory dwelling units, and amending front‑garage‑door percentage limits for single‑family homes. The motion passed 7‑0. The meeting was adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

• Adopted the September 11, 2025 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the September 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of ordinance updates (deck setback to 20 ft, table correction, corner side setbacks, ADU owner‑occupancy removal, garage door amendment) – passed 7‑0
• Adjourned the meeting (motion passed)

City Council

The council will consider routine items on a consent agenda, including certification of unpaid utility and fine revenues, purchase of a Toolcat, and approval of a temporary liquor license and gambling permit for St. John’s Church. Staff reports will present a new liquor license for a bar at 2900 Rice Street, a feasibility study for 2026 Country Drive improvements, and a purchase of a generator for the fire station. The meeting will close with a closed‑session review of the final written offer for the Little Canada Road Improvement Project.

• Approve Purchase of Toolcat
• Approve Temporary Liquor License & Exempt Gambling Permit for St. John’s Church (effective Nov 23, 2025)
• Approve Certification of Unpaid Utility Bills, False Alarm Fees and Administrative Fines to 2026 payable property taxes
• Accept Feasibility Report and Call for Improvement Hearing for 2026 Country Drive Improvements
• Purchase Building Generator for Little Canada Fire Station

The council adopted the October 8, 2025 meeting minutes and the consent agenda, which included approvals for utility bill certifications, a toolcat purchase, a temporary liquor license for St. John’s Church, and a grant. It also approved new on‑sale and Sunday liquor licenses for Alex Chang’s Treasure Bar and Restaurant at 2900 Rice Street, Suite 360, contingent on required documents and fire inspection. The feasibility report for the 2026 Country Drive improvements was accepted and a hearing was scheduled. Finally, the council approved a $45,675 low‑bid purchase of a building generator for the fire station.

• Approved October 8, 2025 meeting minutes (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adopted consent agenda items including utility bill certifications, toolcat purchase, temporary liquor license for St. John’s Church, and grant (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved new on‑sale and Sunday liquor licenses for Alex Chang’s Treasure Bar, 2900 Rice St., Suite 360, subject to documents and fire inspection (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Accepted feasibility report and called for improvement hearing for Country Drive project (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved purchase of building generator for fire station at $45,675 (4 ayes, 0 nays)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council meeting on October 22, 2025 will include a workshop discussion of the 2026 water, sewer, and stormwater rates. The council will also review the 2026‑2035 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the items are for discussion only.

• Discuss 2026 Water, Sewer and Stormwater Rates
• Discuss 2026‑2035 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)

The Little Canada City Council reviewed the 10‑year Capital Improvement Plan for 2026‑2035, including Fund 400, Fund 450, Stormwater Fund 603, and Water/Sewer Fund 604. The Finance Director presented proposed 2026 utility rate increases: 13.11% water rate hike, 10.0% recommended increase, 8.0% sewer increase, and 5.0% stormwater increase. No motions, votes, or approvals were recorded during the workshop meeting.

City Council

The City Council will review a new liquor license application and proposed parking restrictions on two streets. The body is also considering grant applications for a trail project and county funding.

• New liquor license for El Parian Restaurant at 2900 Rice Street, Suite 310
• Proposed no parking restrictions on Costa Lane
• Proposed no parking restrictions on Condit Street
• Grant Navigator Program application for Labore Road Trail project
• 2026 SCORE Grant application to Ramsey County

The council adopted the September 24, 2025 meeting minutes and the consent agenda, which included grant applications and voucher approvals. It approved on‑sale intoxicating and Sunday‑sales liquor licenses for El Parian Restaurant at 2900 Rice Street, Suite 310. The council also approved year‑round no‑parking signs for Costa Lane (12 a.m.–6 a.m.) and all‑day no‑parking signs for Condit Street. All actions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved September 24, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items including vouchers and grant applications (5‑0)
• Approved new on‑sale intoxicating and Sunday‑sales liquor licenses for El Parian Restaurant (5‑0)
• Approved installation of “No Parking – 12:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m.” signs on Costa Lane year‑round (5‑0)
• Approved installation of “No Parking Any Time” signs on Condit Street (5‑0)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will hold a closed‑session workshop to review the final written offers for the Little Canada Road Improvement Project. The meeting is scheduled for October 8, 2025 at 6 p.m. in the City Center Conference Room. No other agenda items are listed.

• Review final written offers for the Little Canada Road Improvement Project (closed session)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding street improvements. The body will consider the adoption of 2025 assessments for the project on County Road D.

• Public hearing to adopt 2025 assessments for Street Improvement Project on County Road D

The Little Canada City Council approved Resolution No. 2025-10-155, adopting the assessment roll for Improvement No. 2025-PW 39 County Road D. The resolution sets the interest rate at 4.85% and certifies the assessments to Ramsey County property taxes for a 10‑year repayment beginning in 2026. The assessment hearing was closed after a motion by Councilmember Kwapick, seconded by Miller. No written objections to the assessment were received.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2025-10-155 approving the assessment roll for Improvement No. 2025-PW 39 County Road D (4‑0)
• Set interest rate for the assessments at 4.85%
• Certified assessments to Ramsey County property taxes for 10‑year repayment starting 2026
• Closed the assessment hearing following motion by Kwapick, seconded by Miller

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will hold public hearings to adopt 2025 assessment rates for street improvement projects on Maple Leaf Court, Stoneridge Court, and Nadeau Road.

• Public hearing for 2025 street improvement assessments
• Maple Leaf Court improvement assessment
• Stoneridge Court improvement assessment
• Nadeau Road improvement assessment

The City Council adopted assessment rolls for the Maple Leaf Court, Stoneridge Court, and Nadeau Road improvements, setting interest rates at 4.85% and certifying the assessments to Ramsey County property taxes for ten‑year repayment. No written objections to the assessments were received. The City Engineer agreed to reassess the north‑side street frontage for 2885 Country Drive.

• Adopted assessment roll for Improvement No. 2025-PW79 Maple Leaf Court (4-0)
• Adopted assessment roll for Improvement No. 2025-PW80 Stoneridge Court (4-0)
• Adopted assessment roll for Improvement No. 2025-PW41 Nadeau Road (4-0)
• City Engineer agreed to reassess street frontage for 2885 Country Drive

City Council

The Little Canada City Council meeting on October 2, 2025 includes a community building discussion and a presentation from the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) with a recommendation. Standard agenda items such as roll call and staff reports are also scheduled. No specific actions or decisions are detailed in the agenda.

• Community Building Discussion
• Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) presentation and recommendation (PDF)
• Staff Reports

The joint workshop on Oct 2, 2025 featured presentations and discussion about the proposed community building, its design, possible vendor use, programming space, and related park amenities. Council members and staff exchanged views on coffee carts, portable vendor infrastructure, recreation space, tennis and basketball courts, public bathrooms, and funding options. No formal motions, votes, or approvals were recorded; the council noted that funding mechanisms will be discussed further at a later time.

Parks and Recreation

The Little Canada Parks and Recreation Commission will hold a joint workshop with the City Council and the Community Building Technical Advisory Committee. The agenda includes a community‑building discussion and a presentation with recommendations from the Technical Advisory Committee. No formal decisions or votes are listed; the meeting is primarily for discussion and information sharing.

• Community Building Discussion
• TAC Presentation and Recommendation
• Joint workshop with Parks & Recreation Commission, City Council, and Community Building Technical Advisory Committee

The joint workshop of the City Council, Parks Commission and Community Building Technical Advisory Committee reviewed the community‑building design, vendor options, programming space, courts, bathrooms and financing options. No formal actions, approvals, denials or votes were recorded. The council noted that funding mechanisms will be discussed at a later date.

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will consider an interim use permit for cannabis retail at 75 Little Canada Road W. The meeting also includes approval of vouchers, a Country Drive sidewalk proposal, and a grant application for Labore Road improvements.

• Interim Use Permit for Cannabis Retail at 75 Little Canada Road W.
• Approval of Country Drive Sidewalk Proposal
• Grant application for Local Road Improvement Program funds for Labore Road
• Adoption of 10% Charitable Gambling Use Of Funds Policy
• Approval of Community Support Program

The council adopted the September 10, 2025 meeting minutes and approved several resolutions, including an interim use permit for a cannabis dispensary at 75 Little Canada Road West, a grant application for the Labore Road improvement, a finance policy for charitable gambling funds, and a community support program using those funds. All actions were approved unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved September 10, 2025 meeting minutes (Resolution 2025-09-146) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved interim use permit for cannabis dispensary at 75 Little Canada Road West (Resolution 2025-09-147) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved consent agenda (Resolution 2025-09-148) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Authorized submission of Labore Road grant application to 2025 Local Road Improvement Program (Resolution 2025-09-149) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Adopted 10% charitable gambling use of funds policy (Resolution 2025-09-150) – Ayes 5, Nays 0
• Approved community support program utilizing 10% fund beginning Jan 2026 (Resolution 2025-09-151) – Ayes 5, Nays 0

Planning Commission

The Little Canada Planning Commission will review PC Case 1446, an interim use permit application for 75 Little Canada Road West. The commission will also discuss rescheduling the October meeting and review staff feedback on accessory structures under PC Case 1445. Routine items include adopting the agenda and approving the minutes from the August 14, 2025 meeting.

• PC Case 1446 – Interim Use Permit for 75 Little Canada Road West
• Reschedule of the October meeting
• PC Case 1445 – Discussion and feedback on accessory structures
• Adopt agenda
• Approve minutes from 08-14-2025

The commission voted 8‑0 to recommend approval of an interim use permit for a retail cannabis dispensary at 75 Little Canada Road West, subject to specific zoning and state cannabis regulations. The commission also unanimously rescheduled the October 9, 2025 meeting to October 23, 2025. Earlier, the agenda and the August 14, 2025 Planning Commission minutes were each approved unanimously.

• Approved interim use permit for retail cannabis dispensary at 75 Little Canada Road West (8‑0)
• Rescheduled October 9, 2025 meeting to October 23, 2025 (8‑0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved August 14, 2025 Planning Commission minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to adopt the 2026 preliminary budget and levy. The body will also consider several city contracts, liquor licenses, and road project modifications.

• Adoption of 2026 Preliminary Budget and Levy
• Purchase of a new fire truck
• New on-sale and Sunday liquor licenses for Bailey Hall Event Center at 2900 Rice Street
• Lease buyout MOU for 2884-2886 Centerville Road
• Decertification of Tax Increment Financing District 5-1

The council adopted the August 27 meeting minutes and the consent agenda. It authorized a $1,331,640 purchase of a new fire engine from MacQueen Equipment with a 50% prepayment and accepted a $356,181 donation from the fire department toward that purchase. The council also approved an 11.56% increase to the 2026 property tax levy, new liquor licenses for Bailey Hall, a $41,251.76 landscaping contract for City Hall, and the decertification of Tax Increment Financing District 5‑1.

• Approved August 27 meeting minutes (Resolution 2025-9-133) (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (Resolution 2025-9-134) (5-0)
• Authorized $1,331,640 fire engine purchase with 50% prepayment (Resolution 2025-9-136) (5-0)
• Accepted $356,181 fire department donation for engine purchase (Resolution 2025-9-137) (5-0)
• Approved on‑sale and Sunday liquor licenses for Bailey Hall (Resolution 2025-9-138) (5-0)
• Adopted 2026 preliminary levy $5,499,154 (11.56% increase) (Resolution 2025-9-139) (5-0)
• Approved zero bonded‑debt levy tax for 2026 (Resolution 2025-9-141) (5-0)
• Approved $41,251.76 City Hall landscaping contract (Resolution 2025-9-142) (5-0)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will hold a workshop meeting to discuss the 10% Fund policy. Council members will also review the preliminary 2026 budget and levy proposal. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Discussion of 10% Fund policy
• Review of 2026 preliminary budget and levy

The council agreed to continue using the city’s 10% Fund to pay $19,000 for the Canadian Days fireworks display. For 2026 they approved using the fund to cover half of the city’s contribution to Northeast Youth & Family Services and to provide five $1,000 grants to other nonprofits. The council also approved adding $50,000 to the 2026 levy for future debt payments and adopting a preliminary levy rate of 11.56%. Staff were tasked with drafting a financial policy for the 10% Fund and developing an annual community‑support program.

• Continue $19,000 fireworks funding from 10% Fund (consensus)
• Pay 50% of NYFS contribution in 2026 using 10% Fund (consensus)
• Allocate $5,000 for five $1,000 nonprofit grants (consensus)
• Add $50,000 to 2026 levy for future debt payments (consensus)
• Adopt preliminary levy at 11.56% for 2026 (consensus)
• Staff to draft financial policy for 10% Fund (assigned)
• Staff to develop annual community support program (assigned)

Parks and Recreation

The commission approved the July 2, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Staff will proceed with converting the bocce ball courts at Lower Spooner Park into green space. The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. after a motion by Commissioner Watrud.

• Approved July 2, 2025 Parks & Recreation Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Staff will move forward with converting bocce courts into green space
• Meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. (motion by Watrud, seconded by Mui)

City Council

The council adopted the minutes of recent meetings and approved front and rear setback variances for 2975 Arcade Street. It adopted the consent agenda, which includes voucher approvals, partial payments to contractors, and acceptance of a Ramsey County grant. The council also authorized the Little Canada Road Improvement Project and a contract amendment with Bolton & Menk. All resolutions passed unanimously (4‑0).

• Approved minutes of August 13, 2025 meetings (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved rear setback variance for 2975 Arcade Street (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved front setback variance for 2975 Arcade Street (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adopted consent agenda (vouchers, partial pay requests, grant) (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Authorized Little Canada Road Improvement Project (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved contract amendment with Bolton & Menk for 2026 road improvements (4 ayes, 0 nays)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council will hold a workshop to review the proposed budget and levy for 2026. The meeting includes a closed session to discuss property at 2884-2886 Centerville Road.

• Review of 2026 Proposed Budget and Levy
• Closed session to discuss 2884-2886 Centerville Road

The City Administrator and Finance Director briefed the council on the 2026 budget and levy, noting a proposed 10.23% levy contingent on a building‑inspection contract with another city, and a 10.76% levy if that contract does not proceed. Council members discussed the figures but made no changes to the preliminary budget. By consensus, the council decided to adopt the higher 10.76% levy rate as a fallback. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Consensus to set preliminary levy at 10.76% if inspection contract fails (no vote tally recorded)

City Council

The City Council is holding a workshop meeting to discuss the 2026 budget. No other formal decisions or actions are listed on the agenda.

• 2026 Budget Discussion

The council agreed to move about $700,000 from the General Fund safety margin into the Capital Improvement Plan budget and to reduce the safety margin below the current 2.5%. Council members also decided to keep Northeast Youth & Family Services support in the General Fund and to conduct a compensation study in 2026 using fund‑balance money.

• Reallocate ~$700,000 from General Fund safety margin to Capital Improvement Plan budget (consensus)
• Reduce General Fund safety margin below 2.5% (agreed)
• Leave Northeast Youth & Family Services support in General Fund (no change)
• Approve 2026 compensation study funded by the fund balance (consensus)

Planning Commission

The commission unanimously approved its agenda and the July 10 meeting minutes. It then approved variances allowing a two‑story home on the existing foundation at 2975 Arcade Street. Finally, it approved an interim use permit for a retail cannabis dispensary at 2864 Middle Street, subject to listed conditions.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved July 10, 2025 minutes (5‑0)
• Approved variance for 2975 Arcade St rear and front setbacks (5‑0)
• Approved interim use permit for cannabis dispensary at 2864 Middle St (5‑0)

City Council

The council adopted a consent agenda that approved vouchers, scheduled a closed workshop, appointed Ryan Anderson as Public Works Streets & Fleet Supervisor, and authorized design services and 2024 CIP funds (5‑0). It reappointed Alexis Lum to the Youth Planning Commission and appointed Annika Watrud to the Parks and Recreation Commission, each for a one‑year term (5‑0). It approved Right‑of‑Way Plat 1 and Plat 2 for a future road project (5‑0). Finally, it decertified TIF District 7‑2 and authorized staff to close out the district, retaining about $43,000 in pooled funds (5‑0).

• Approved consent agenda items (vouchers, workshop, Ryan Anderson appointment, design services) – 5-0
• Reappointed Alexis Lum to Youth Planning Commission for one year – 5-0
• Appointed Annika Watrud to Parks and Recreation Commission for one year – 5-0
• Approved Right‑of‑Way Plat 1 and Plat 2 for upcoming road project – 5-0
• Decertified TIF District 7‑2 and authorized staff to close out the district – 5-0
• Approved minutes of July 23, 2025 regular meeting – 5-0

City Council

The City Council will hold a workshop meeting to receive an update on the Little Canada Road Project. The session includes a closed discussion regarding easement acquisitions.

• Little Canada Road Project update
• Easement acquisition discussion

The council heard a project update from the City Engineer, who said design is about 60% complete and construction is slated for 2026‑2027. Funding includes $7 million in grants and $500,000 from MNDOT, with the remaining cost split between the city and Ramsey County. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

City Council

The council approved three zoning code amendments—Ordinance 915, 916, and 917—covering driveways, parking, storage, and pedestrian access, each passing with a 4‑0 vote. They also adopted a consent agenda that approved vouchers, donations, a boardwalk grant, gambling and liquor licenses, and a grant for the Lupe Development project, also 4‑0. Additional actions included a special home occupation permit for Lake Phalen Rowing Club, a $155‑per‑year benefit increase for the Little Canada Fire Relief Association, and acceptance of the second‑quarter financial report, all approved unanimously.

• Adopted Ordinance 915 (driveways, parking, storage, pedestrian access) – 4‑0
• Adopted Ordinance 916 (revising required driveway and parking setbacks) – 4‑0
• Adopted Ordinance 917 (amending definitions related to driveways, pavement, parking) – 4‑0
• Approved consent agenda items (vouchers, donations, boardwalk grant, gambling and liquor licenses, Lupe Development grant) – 4‑0
• Approved special home occupation permit for Lake Phalen Rowing Club at 2612 Edgerton Street – 4‑0
• Increased Little Canada Fire Relief Association benefit by $155 per year – 4‑0
• Accepted the 2nd quarter financial report – 4‑0
• Accepted resignation of Joe Steele – 4‑0

Planning Commission

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the May 8, 2025 Planning Commission minutes. It then approved Ordinances 915, 916, and 917 with the change to remove the parking‑pad requirement for recreational vehicles, passing 7‑0. The meeting was adjourned at 8:11 p.m.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• May 8, 2025 minutes approved (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinances 915, 916, 917 with removal of parking pad requirement for recreational vehicles (7-0)
• Meeting adjourned (motion passed)

City Council

The council voted 5‑0 to adopt the minutes of the June 23 regular meeting, the June 23 workshop, and the June 27 special meeting. It also voted 5‑0 to approve the consent agenda, which includes approval of the vouchers and a joint City Council‑Parks Commission workshop scheduled for Oct. 2, 2025.

• Approved June 23, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda (5-0) – approved vouchers and scheduled Oct. 2 joint workshop

City Council

On July 9, 2025, the Little Canada City Council met in the Conference Room at 515 Little Canada Road. Council members and staff discussed the recent League of Minnesota Cities conference, new legislation allowing virtual attendance, and an onboarding session with HueLife. The meeting concluded with adjournment at 7:29 p.m. and no decisions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Parks and Recreation

The commission unanimously approved the June 5, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to continue the Reach for Resources contract into 2026 was seconded and passed with a 6‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Approved June 5, 2025 Parks & Recreation minutes (unanimous)
• Approved continuation of Reach for Resources contract for 2026 (6-0)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council voted 4‑0 to adopt Resolution No. 2025‑6‑101, granting preliminary approval for issuing conduit revenue bonds to finance a senior housing project by Lupe Development. The resolution also authorizes the developer to submit a bonding‑authority application by the June 30 deadline. Council members noted the arrangement creates no direct liability for the city.

• Adopted Resolution No. 2025‑6‑101 granting preliminary approval of conduit revenue bonds (4‑0)

City Council

The council agreed to postpone the 2027 street improvement projects so the city can fund the $11 million Little Canada Road improvement project. Council members also voted to support Lupe Development's request for conduit debt financing and scheduled a special meeting on June 27, 2025 to adopt a resolution. Additionally, the council approved an initial $200,000 tax‑increment‑financing (TIF) district for the senior housing project, with a later review after grant funding is known.

• Delay 2027 street improvement projects to fund Little Canada Road project
• Support conduit debt financing request and schedule special council meeting June 27, 2025
• Approve initial $200,000 TIF district for 99 County Road B senior housing project

City Council

The council approved a tax increment financing (TIF) district of $200,000 for five years to support Lupe Development’s affordable senior housing project on 99 County Road B East. Council members also agreed to propose city contributions of 80% for employee‑only vision and dental insurance premiums and 50% for combined tiers, to be added to the 2026 budget and reviewed for a final decision. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved TIF district $200,000 for five years (consensus)
• Proposed city insurance contribution 80% employee‑only, 50% employee+ (pending final decision)

City Council

The council adopted the consent agenda, which included an off‑site gambling permit for Little Canadian Days, Inc. for August 1‑3, 2025, and approved several partial payments and a workshop call. It also approved a $2,000 onboarding contract with HueLife for the new City Administrator and authorized participation in the 2024 State Performance Measurement Program. All items were adopted unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved consent agenda items, including off‑site gambling permit for Little Canadian Days, Inc. (5-0)
• Approved vouchers (5-0)
• Approved call for June 23 workshop at 6:00 p.m. (5-0)
• Approved partial payment to Albrecht Company for Pioneer Park improvements (5-0)
• Approved partial payment to OMG Midwest for 2025 street improvement projects (5-0)
• Approved $2,000 onboarding services with HueLife for City Administrator (5-0)
• Authorized participation in 2024 State Performance Measurement Program (5-0)
• Approved minutes of May 28, 2025 meetings (5-0)

Parks and Recreation

The Parks & Recreation Commission approved the May 1 2025 commission minutes by unanimous vote. No other motions were adopted; the remainder of the meeting consisted of updates on art displays, the new Technical Advisory Committee, the 5 K Sap Run, natural resources planning, and various park projects. The meeting was adjourned at 8:05 p.m.

• Approved May 1 2025 commission minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The council adopted the May 14‑17 meeting minutes, accepted the annual comprehensive financial report, and approved the consent agenda items (vouchers, a temporary liquor license, and a public works resignation). It certified unpaid improvement costs at 3075 Spruce Street to 2026 property taxes, approved the City Administrator employment agreement, funded unbudgeted safety cameras, added a PERA phased‑retirement option to personnel policy, and authorized posting for a Public Works Maintenance I position. All resolutions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Adopted minutes of May 14‑17 meetings (5‑0)
• Adopted annual comprehensive financial report (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (vouchers, temporary liquor license, resignation) (5‑0)
• Certified unpaid Spruce Street improvement costs to 2026 property taxes (5‑0)
• Approved employment agreement for City Administrator Bryce Shearen (5‑0)
• Approved unbudgeted safety cameras (≈$5,000) (5‑0)
• Approved addition of PERA phased‑retirement option to personnel policy (5‑0)
• Approved posting of Public Works Maintenance I position (5‑0)

City Council

Mayor Tom Fischer and the City Council met for a workshop on May 28, 2025. Chief Don Smiley presented 2024 fire department statistics, staffing information, and financial details, including a $225,000 use of charitable gambling funds and a $1,100 budget surplus. No motions, votes, or formal actions were taken during the meeting.

City Council

The City Council and staff interviewed the four finalist candidates for City Administrator. After discussion, the Council reached a consensus to make an offer to Bryce Shearen for the position. No vote tally was recorded. The meeting adjourned at 3:21 p.m.

• Consensus decision to offer Bryce Shearen the City Administrator position

City Council

On May 16, 2025, the Little Canada City Council met at 2:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 515 Little Canada Road. The council reviewed the interview process and held one‑on‑one interviews with the four finalist candidates for city administrator. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded, and the meeting was adjourned at 5:00 p.m. A reception was held afterward at the Montreal Court community building from 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

City Council

The council adopted the minutes from prior meetings and approved a 2% increase to on‑sale liquor license fees. It also approved a minor subdivision and two variances for properties on Old County Road C, and adopted Ordinance 912 to amend fence regulations. Finally, the council accepted a $100,000 stewardship grant for Pioneer Park stormwater improvements.

• Approved April 23, 2025 and May 7, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Approved 2% increase to 2025 on‑sale liquor license fees (5‑0)
• Approved minor subdivision for 49 & 50 Old County Road C East (5‑0)
• Approved rear‑setback variance to 30 ft at 49 Old County Road C (5‑0)
• Approved lot‑depth variance to 125.4 ft at 49 Old County Road C (5‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 912 amending fence provisions in the zoning code (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items including staffing hires and a temporary liquor license (5‑0)
• Accepted $100,000 stewardship grant for Pioneer Park stormwater improvements (5‑0)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council heard an update from the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Department and the Acting City Administrator about license‑plate‑reader (LPR) cameras. The council reached consensus to support additional funding for three LPR cameras to be installed in 2025. No other actions were taken and the meeting was adjourned.

• Supported additional funding for three LPR cameras (consensus)

Planning Commission

The commission unanimously approved the April 10, 2025 Planning Commission minutes. It then approved the minor subdivision and related rear‑setback and lot‑depth variances for 49 Old County Road C (and 50 County Road C east) with a 9‑0 vote. The agenda was adopted as presented and the meeting was adjourned at 7:45 p.m. No other actions were taken.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved April 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved minor subdivision and variances for 49 Old County Road C (9‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council reviewed the applications and chose candidates 1, 2, 3, and 5 as finalists, with candidates 4 and 9 designated as alternates. Dr. Richard Fursman presented the interview schedule for May 16‑17. The council then adjourned the meeting after a motion by Kwapick, seconded by Miller.

• Selected candidates 1, 2, 3, 5 as finalists
• Selected candidates 4 and 9 as alternates
• Motion to adjourn passed

Parks and Recreation

The Parks & Recreation Commission unanimously approved the April 3, 2025 minutes. The commission expressed consensus support for all nine Art in the Park submissions. The commission reached consensus to hold the Ice Cream Social at Pioneer Park in 2025 and will review the location after the event.

• Approved April 3, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Supported all nine Art in the Park submissions (consensus)
• Approved moving Ice Cream Social to Pioneer Park for 2025 (consensus)

City Council

The council discussed a draft of the 2025‑2030 Strategic Plan and its progress‑reporting tool. Staff will bring a final version for adoption at the May 14 council meeting. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Planning Commission

The commission adopted the meeting agenda and approved the February 13, 2025 Planning Commission minutes unanimously. They voted 8‑0 to approve Ordinance 911, amending Chapters 904 and 915 of the Little Canada Zoning Code to update fence regulations. No other motions were decided at this meeting.

• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved February 13, 2025 Planning Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 911 to amend Chapters 904 and 915 of zoning code (8-0)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council adopted the March 26 meeting minutes and the consent agenda, authorized the Park View Court Association to join the city’s waste‑collection program, and approved a $165,900 contract with Berwald Roofing to replace the roofs of City Hall and the History Center. It also approved a new full‑time utility billing/administrative support specialist position and adopted several resolutions supporting state and regional legislation, including a tree‑planting grant application and the Equal Access to Broadband Act.

• Adopted March 26, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0)
• Adopted consent agenda (vouchers, resignation of utility billing clerk, seasonal staff hiring) (5‑0)
• Authorized Park View Court Association to join city organized waste‑collection program (5‑0)
• Approved roof replacement contract with Berwald Roofing for $165,900 (5‑0)
• Approved new utility billing/administrative support specialist job description and posting (5‑0)
• Authorized letter of support for tree‑planting grant application to Metropolitan Council (5‑0)
• Adopted resolution expressing concerns about statewide zoning preemption proposals (5‑0)
• Adopted resolutions supporting the Equal Access to Broadband Act and Ramsey County HRA expansion (5‑0)

City Council

The council agreed to create a full-time Utility Billing/Administrative Support Specialist position. It adopted updated language for City Code Chapter 805 governing mobile food and vending units. The council also approved the formation of a Community Building Technical Advisory Committee with specified members.

• Approved creation of a full-time Utility Billing/Administrative Support Specialist position
• Adopted updated City Code Chapter 805 language for mobile food and vending units
• Approved establishment of a Community Building Technical Advisory Committee

Parks and Recreation

The commission unanimously approved the March 6, 2025 meeting minutes. It also passed a motion to adopt a resolution of support for the Metropolitan Council community tree‑planting grant, with a 6‑0 vote. The director reported the grant application will be submitted to the City Council before the April 18 deadline. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved resolution supporting tree‑canopy grant (6‑0)

City Council

The Little Canada City Council adopted the March 25 meeting minutes and the consent agenda. It awarded the 2025 street‑improvement contract to OMG Midwest for $796,544.75, approved the booster station controls upgrade, the fire protection contract, a grant‑support resolution for the Thunder Bay Trail boardwalk, increased the fireworks contribution by $4,000, and adopted amendments to the waste‑service agreement and fee schedule. All votes were 4‑0 in favor.

• Approved March 25 meeting minutes (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adopted consent agenda items (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Awarded 2025 street improvements contract to OMG Midwest, $796,544.75 (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Awarded booster station controls upgrade to Telemetry & Process Controls, $43,548 (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved 2025 fire protection contract with Little Canada Fire Department (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved support resolution for Minnesota DNR grant for Thunder Bay Trail boardwalk replacement (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Approved $4,000 increase to city’s contribution for Canadian Days fireworks (4 ayes, 0 nays)
• Adopted ordinance amending fee schedule to add partial yard waste and bulky‑only rates (4 ayes, 0 nays)

City Council

The council agreed to send a resolution opposing three of the four housing‑related bills (Minnesota Starter Home Act, More Homes in the Right Places Act, Transforming Main Street Act). They will continue investigating the People Over Parking Act. The council also decided to send a letter supporting the Equal Access to Broadband Act. Additionally, they endorsed two independent funding requests from the Kids in Need Foundation and directed staff to work with legislative representatives.

• Send resolution opposing three housing bills (Minnesota Starter Home Act, More Homes in the Right Places Act, Transforming Main Street Act) – approved
• Continue investigation into People Over Parking Act – approved
• Send letter of support for Equal Access to Broadband Act – approved
• Support two independent funding requests from Kids in Need Foundation – approved
• Direct staff to work with legislative representatives on funding options – approved
• Council consensus to learn more about Ramsey County HRA levy expansion before considering support – approved