Northfield public meetings in 2023

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission is meeting to discuss the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and the 2024 Human Rights Commission Work Plan. The body will also review the Human Rights Award and city code related to the commission.

• 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
• Human Rights Award
• 2024 Human Rights Commission Work Plan
• City Code related to HRC

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will review the 2023 Year End Stormwater Report, the Partners in Energy Phase 2 Report, and a draft Comprehensive Plan Engagement Plan. The body will also discuss the 2024 Work Plan and receive staff updates.

• Stormwater 2023 Year End Report
• Partners in Energy Phase 2 Report
• Comprehensive Plan Community Engagement Plan (draft)
• 2024 Work Plan discussion
• Staff updates

The Environmental Quality Commission approved the meeting agenda and the November 15, 2023 minutes. The commission received presentations on stormwater, energy partnerships, and the Comprehensive Plan update.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved November 15, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Received 2023 Year End Stormwater Report
• Received Partners in Energy Phase 2 Report
• Received Comprehensive Plan update
• Received 2024 Work Plan draft update
• Reviewed 2023 Work Plan achievements
• Adjourned at 7:16 p.m. (5-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will review a recommended property disposition policy and a resolution to dedicate public revenue for the Local Housing Trust Fund. The board will also consider a 2023 budget amendment and receive several organizational updates.

• 2023 HRA Budget Amendment
• Recommended Property Disposition Policy
• Resolution authorizing dedicated public revenue for the Local Housing Trust Fund
• Strategic Plan Update
• Updates from Rice County Habitat for Humanity, Star Fish Project, and Three Rivers Community Action on Spring Creek II

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved a resolution to amend the 2023 HRA budget. The board also approved minutes from three previous meetings (October 5, October 16 work session, and November 2). A proposed Property Disposition Policy was discussed but no action was taken; a subcommittee will continue review. Other items were presentations and updates only.

• Approved Resolution 2023-122 for 2023 HRA Budget Amendment (4-0)
• Approved October 5, 2023 HRA meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved October 16, 2023 HRA Work Session meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved November 2, 2023 HRA meeting minutes (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Discussed Property Disposition Policy; no decision, subcommittee to meet

Charter Commission

The Northfield Charter Commission is meeting to discuss draft ordinances amending City Charter Section 3.5 and Section 3.9. These items follow previous discussions held by the City Council on December 5.

• Discussion on draft ordinance amending City Charter Section 3.5
• Discussion on draft ordinance amending City Charter Section 3.9

The Charter Commission discussed proposed amendments to Charter Sections 3.5 and 3.9, then voted 6-0 to withdraw both proposals.

• Withdrew proposed amendments to Charter Sections 3.5 and 3.9 (6-0)

Arts & Culture Commission

The Arts & Culture Commission will review the public art planning process, discuss integration of art into the Bridge Square redesign, and consider a nomination for the 2024 Living Treasure Award. The meeting will also include staff updates on public art and creative placemaking.

• Discuss Public Art Planning Process
• Discuss Public Art Integration into Bridge Square redesign
• 2024 Living Treasure Award nomination
• Staff Report on Public Art and Creative Placemaking
• Northfield Poetry Newsletter DEC 2023

The Arts & Culture Commission voted unanimously to recommend Judy Saye-Willis for the 2024 Living Treasure Award. Commissioners also discussed public art opportunities, including integration into the Bridge Square redesign and a potential partnership with artist Marlena Myles. The meeting included approval of the agenda and previous minutes.

• Approved agenda for December 11, 2023 meeting (7-0)
• Approved minutes of November 13, 2023 meeting (7-0)
• Approved recommendation of Judy Saye-Willis for the 2024 Living Treasure Award (7-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will review a proposed Property Disposition Policy. The board will also receive updates from several community housing organizations and a strategic plan update.

• Consideration of the Recommended Property Disposition Policy
• Strategic Plan Update
• Rice County Habitat for Humanity Update
• Star Fish Project Presentation
• Updates from Northfield Union of Youth, Community Action Center of Northfield, and Three Rivers Community Action regarding Spring Creek II

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will discuss a Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction at 212 Division Street South, the former Archer House site. They will also receive an update on the Bridge Square design and plans. Other items include approval of November 1 meeting minutes and commissioner reports.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction at 212 Division Street South (former Archer House site)
• Bridge Square design and plans update, including 60% plan set and SHPO comments
• Approval of November 1, 2023 HPC meeting minutes

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction at 212 Division Street South (former Archer House site) with an amendment removing section D-VIII of Exhibit B concerning balconies and screen. The vote was 4-3. The Commission also received presentations on the Bridge Square design update and a historical/archaeological survey, but took no action on those items.

• Approved HPC Resolution #2023-020 as amended (remove section D-VIII of Exhibit B) for Certificate of Appropriateness at 212 Division Street South (4-3)
• Approved November 1, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved agenda as amended to move public comment (7-0)
• Extended meeting through conclusion of business (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider adopting the 2024 budget, tax levy, and capital improvement plan, along with approving street reconstruction bonds and several charter amendments.

• Approval of 2024 Budget and Tax Levy (9.0% increase)
• Adoption of 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Public hearing on Street Reconstruction and Overlay Plan (SROP) and bond issuance
• Approval of lease agreements with local non-profits totaling $1,937,083.70
• Consideration of two Charter Amendment resolutions for public hearings

The City Council adopted the 2024 budget, tax levy, and capital plans, including a 9.0% levy increase. They also approved street reconstruction bonds totaling $11 million and approved several policy updates and lease agreements.

• Approved 2024 Budget (7-0)
• Approved 2024 Tax Levy 9.0% increase (7-0)
• Approved 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan (7-0)
• Approved 2024-2028 Capital Equipment Plan (7-0)
• Approved Street Reconstruction and Overlay Plan and $11M bonds (7-0)
• Approved EDA and HRA tax levies (7-0 each)
• Postponed Charter Amendment votes (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (7-0)

Park & Recreation Advisory Board

The board will receive an informational presentation regarding the Riverside Lions and Northfield Area Veterans Memorial Park Master Plan update. Staff will also provide reports on parks, the ice arena and pool, and recreation.

• Riverside Lions and Northfield Area Veterans Memorial Park Master Plan Update
• December 2023 Park Report
• December 2023 Ice Arena and Pool Report
• December 2023 Recreation Report

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board approved the agenda and October 2, 2023 meeting minutes. The board also heard informational presentations from FiftyNorth and received a master plan update for the Northfield Area Veterans Memorial Park.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved October 2023 PRAB minutes (5-0)
• Extended meeting time (5-0)
• Heard FiftyNorth informational presentation
• Heard Veterans Memorial Park master plan update

Economic Development Authority

The Northfield Economic Development Authority will hear a year-end presentation from Riverwalk Market Fair and consider a related services contract for 2023-2025. Also on the agenda are an introductory presentation from Mercado Local, a report on the MCCD Open to Business program, and review of October 2023 financials. Public comment is open for any topic.

• Riverwalk Market Fair 2023 end-of-season presentation and services contract 2023-2025
• Mercado Local introductory presentation by University of Minnesota research assistant Jesús Soto
• MCCD Open to Business quarterly report (Q3 2023)
• October 2023 EDA financials and loan report
• Future meeting schedule discussion

The Economic Development Authority approved the creation of a three-person committee to explore partnerships with Mercado Local. The board also approved the meeting agenda and the October 2023 meeting minutes.

• Approved October 2023 EDA meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved creation of Mercado Local partnership committee (6-0)
• Approved extending meeting until conclusion of business (6-0)
• Approved adjournment of meeting (6-0)

Human Rights Commission

The Northfield Human Rights Commission will meet to approve minutes from the October 25, 2023 meeting and discuss plans for the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

• Approval of October 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration
• Staff updates
• Commission member reports

City Council

The City Council will hold a closed session to develop offers for purchasing the Northfield Ice Arena at 1280 Bollenbacher Drive. The regular meeting agenda includes the adjournment of the session.

• Closed meeting to consider offers for Northfield Ice Arena
• Purchase of real property at 1280 Bollenbacher Drive

The City Council voted to close the meeting to discuss offers for the Northfield Ice Arena property at 1280 Bollenbacher Drive. The meeting was extended to complete the discussion and then adjourned.

• Closed meeting to consider offers for Northfield Ice Arena property (7-0)
• Extended meeting until discussion completed (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:44 p.m. (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss the Ames Mill Dam Removal feasibility study and bid advertisements for the Honeylocust Drive East Cannon River Trail connection. The body is also deciding on currency exchange license renewals and the certification of 2023 delinquent bills.

• Disbursements totaling $2,151,700.59
• Final payment and assessments for Bluff View Street and Utility Improvements Project
• Currency exchange license renewals for Northfield Financial, LLC and Servicios Latinos Menas, LLC
• Ames Mill Dam Removal Feasibility Study Option 3 - Long Rock Rapids
• Honeylocust Drive East Cannon River Trail (ECRT) Connection Project bids

The City Council approved plans to advertise bids for the Honeylocust Drive East Cannon River Trail connection and authorized a feasibility study for the Ames Mill Dam removal. The council also certified delinquent property taxes and approved currency exchange license renewals.

• Approved plans and bid advertisement for Honeylocust Drive East Cannon River Trail connection (5-2)
• Approved Ames Mill Dam removal feasibility study Option 3 and Phase 2 exploration (7-0)
• Certified 2023 delinquent charges to 2024 property taxes (7-0)
• Approved 2024 Currency Exchange License renewals for two businesses (7-0)
• Approved November 7 and 14, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved $2,151,700.59 in disbursements (7-0)
• Approved Mayoral appointments to boards and commissions (7-0)
• Approved designation of polling locations and write-in vote counting resolution (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Northfield Planning Commission will review a study on State Highway 246 and traffic analysis for Lincoln Parkway. The agenda also includes a reading assignment for the Land Development Code and a draft of the Comprehensive Plan Update.

• Review of TH 246 Corridor Study and Lincoln Parkway/Dresden Road traffic analysis
• Reading assignment for the Land Development Code
• Discussion of the Comprehensive Plan Update draft
• Staff updates on Bridge Square comments and Ames Mill Dam Removal Feasibility Study

The Planning Commission voted 4-2 to approve a resolution requiring that future staff materials include a clear problem statement grounded in public input and city policy, and that options analysis describe how each option aligns with best practices and city policies. The commission also unanimously approved two motions regarding the Comprehensive Plan update: one requesting that the Planning Commission review focus group questions before they are asked, and another asking consultants to make raw data transparent and available as soon as possible. No public comment was received.

• Approved resolution requiring staff materials include problem statement and options analysis (4-2)
• Approved motion to have PC review focus group questions before Comprehensive Plan outreach (6-0)
• Approved motion to request raw data transparency from Comprehensive Plan consultants (6-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will meet to approve minutes from October 2023 and discuss the 2024 work plan. The meeting includes a public comment period and reports from staff and board members.

• Approval of October 18, 2023 EQC Meeting Minutes
• Discussion regarding the 2024 Work Plan
• Review of the 2023 Work Plan
• Staff Updates
• Board Member and Commissioner Reports

The Environmental Quality Commission discussed potential topics for the 2024 Work Plan, including Zero Waste Plan continuation, urban forestry, Inflation Reduction Act events, and electric vehicle chargers. No substantive decisions were made; the only votes were to approve the agenda, previous minutes, and adjourn.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved October 18, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned at 7:41 p.m. (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will receive updates on redevelopment projects at 5th & Washington and 5th & Water Street. The body will also review the final budget, Capital Improvement Plan, and Capital Equipment Plan.

• Redevelopment projects update for 5th & Washington and 5th & Water Street
• Review of Final Budget
• Review of Capital Improvement Plan
• Review of Capital Equipment Plan

The City Council held a work session to discuss redevelopment projects at 5th & Washington and 5th & Water Streets, as well as the Ames Mill Dam Reconstruction and Bridge Square. The group also reviewed the final budget, capital improvement, and equipment plans for 2024. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn.

• Work session held on 5th & Washington redevelopment (discussion only)
• Work session held on 5th & Water redevelopment (discussion only)
• Work session held on Ames Mill Dam Reconstruction (discussion only)
• Work session held on Bridge Square (discussion only)
• Work session held on The Archer project (discussion only)
• Work session held on 2024 Budget, CIP, and Equipment Plans (discussion only)
• Meeting adjourned at 8:57 p.m. (7-0 vote)

Arts & Culture Commission

The Arts & Culture Commission will discuss the public art planning process and review a draft mural funding match. The meeting also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approval of October 9th, 2023 draft minutes (Item 23-15861)
• Discussion of Art in City Hall (Item 23-15872)
• Discussion of Public Art Planning Process (Item 23-15883)
• Review of Percent for the Arts Funding Match for Mural (Item 23-15894)
• Staff report on Public Art and Creative Placemaking (Item 23-15905)

The Arts & Culture Commission approved using $5,000 in city funds to partially finance a mural in the Northfield Community Recreation Center's 'The Oasis' space. The group also discussed a five-to-ten-year public art plan and the Arts Guild taking over the City Hall gallery.

• Approved $5,000 for library mural (10-0)
• Approved agenda (10-0)
• Approved October 9 minutes (10-0)
• Discussed 5-10 year public art plan
• Discussed Arts Guild partnership for City Hall exhibits
• Discussed public art placemaking photo project

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will approve meeting minutes and discuss proposed amendments to Charter Section 3.5 regarding remote appearances. The body will also review policies and rules of decorum.

• Approval of September 14, 2023 meeting minutes
• Committee report on Charter Section 3.5 remote appearance amendment
• Committee report on Charter Commission policies and rules of decorum
• Discussion on Charter provisions for citizen petitions

The Charter Commission approved an amendment to Charter Section 3.5 (6-0) to base the procedure for filling a city office vacancy on the state candidacy filing deadline. It also adopted policy updates including new Sections 8 and 9 and City Rules of Decorum (5-0-1). Commissioners discussed but did not vote on a proposed amendment to Section 3.9 regarding the acting mayor language.

• Approved amendment of Charter Section 3.5 (6-0)
• Adopted policy updates – Sections 8 and 9 and City Rules of Decorum (5-0-1)

Library Board

The Library Board will discuss and potentially update the library's mission, vision, and values statements. They will also receive an update on the library's strategic plan and circulation data. Public comment is permitted on any topic, including agenda items, subject to time limits.

• Discuss and update Library Mission, Vision, and Values Statements
• Receive Library Strategic Plan Update including October 2023 circulation data
• Public comment period for up to 2 minutes per speaker
• Approval of October 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Board member and commissioner reports

The Library Board approved the agenda and October meeting minutes. The board also voted to eliminate the December meeting due to a city event and Winter Walk. Staff reported on circulation, teen activities, and upcoming fundraising events.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved October minutes (6-0)
• Eliminated December meeting (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

City Council

The Northfield City Council will consider creating a new Redevelopment Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district and approve a consent agenda including $5.8 million in disbursements and various permits and resolutions.

• Approval of disbursements totaling $5,821,294.40
• Consideration of a new Redevelopment Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District
• Consideration of a Conditional Use Permit for Off-Street Parking at 212 Division St. S.
• Consideration of Riverwalk Market Fair License Agreement for Temporary Use of 115 5th Street
• Consideration of Resolution Accepting Public Improvements for TH 3 Traffic Signal Improvements Project

The City Council voted 7-0 to adopt Resolution 2023-100 approving the Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) for the Northwest Development Area. The consent agenda, including $5.8 million in disbursements, police report, fiber-optic update, and other routine items, was also approved unanimously. A public hearing was held on creating a TIF district for The Archer project, but no decision was made.

• Adopted Alternative Urban Areawide Review for Northwest Development Area (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $5,821,294.40 in disbursements, meeting minutes, board appointments, Shade Tree Program bonding, Helmsley Trust donation, conditional use permit for parking at 212 Division St. S., Riverwalk Market Fair license, and TH 3 traffic signal final payment (7-0)

Park & Recreation Advisory Board

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board will hear an informational presentation from FiftyNorth Executive Director Kerry Hjelmgren. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes, public comment, board member reports, and staff updates on parks, ice arena, pool, and recreation. No decisions or votes are scheduled.

• Informational presentation by FiftyNorth Executive Director Kerry Hjelmgren
• Staff reports on parks, ice arena and pool, and recreation (November 2023)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will hear a presentation on the Northcountry Cooperative Foundation's revised concept plan. The board will consider entering into a Memorandum of Understanding with NCF. Additionally, they will discuss and make a recommendation on the HRA Land Disposition Policy.

• Northcountry Cooperative Foundation Revised Concept Plan presentation
• Consideration of Memorandum of Understanding with Northcountry Cooperative Foundation
• HRA Land Disposition Policy discussion and recommendation
• Attachments include 2021 Housing Report, technical assistance findings, and HUD manufactured home rule

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved a six-month Memorandum of Understanding with the Northcountry Cooperative Foundation. The board also established a subcommittee to develop a land disposition policy.

• Approved entering into a Memorandum of Understanding with Northcountry Cooperative Foundation for 6 months (4-1)
• Formed a subcommittee (Crow, Gerdes, Nystrom) to develop land disposition policies
• Approved agenda changes (5-0)
• Rescheduled December 7, 2023 meeting to 4:00 PM

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will review resolutions for repairing windows and brickmold at the Lawler Building and for new construction at the former Archer House site. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and public comment.

• Approval of October 12, 2023 HPC Meeting Minutes
• Certificate of Appropriateness for windows and brickmold repair at 416 Division St. S
• Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction at 212 Division Street South
• Public comment period for residents
• Staff and commissioner reports

The Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for window and brickmold repair/replacement at 416 Division Street South (Lawler Building) unanimously. A vote on a Certificate of Appropriateness for new construction at the former Archer House site (212 Division Street South) was delayed until the next meeting by a 5-0 vote with one abstention. The meeting agenda and October 12 meeting minutes were also approved.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved October 12, 2023 HPC meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for Windows & Brickmold Repair/Replacement at 416 Division St. S Lawler Building (6-0)
• Delayed vote on Certificate of Appropriateness for New Construction at 212 Division St. S (former Archer House site) until next HPC meeting (5-0, 1 abstain)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will discuss and organize the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration and consider nominations for the Human Rights Award. They will also assign 2024 subcommittees. The meeting includes public comment periods and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• 2024 MLK Jr. Celebration planning
• Human Rights Award discussion
• 2024 subcommittee assignments
• Approval of September 2023 meeting minutes

The Human Rights Commission approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes. The group agreed to extend the deadline for the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Award nominations to November 9, 2023, and discussed logistics for the January 15, 2024, celebration.

• Approved agenda and September 27, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Extended MLK Human Rights Award nomination deadline to November 9, 2023
• Scheduled 2024 MLK celebration at Emmaus Baptist Church
• Commissioner Wornson to arrange St. Olaf Gospel Choir participation
• MLK subcommittee to meet on November 3, 2023, to discuss event details

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will approve meeting minutes and review financial reports for September. The board will also discuss the progress of the 2021-2024 Strategic Plan and review a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) request for the Archer House redevelopment project.

• Approval of August and September 2023 EDA meeting minutes
• Review of September 2023 EDA financials and loan report
• Update on the 2021-2024 Strategic Plan progress
• Review of TIF request for Archer House redevelopment project
• Discussion of future EDA meeting schedule

The Economic Development Authority approved a motion of support for the City Council to consider a Tax Increment Financing request for the Archer House redevelopment project. The board also approved the August and September meeting minutes and set the next meeting date.

• Approved August and September EDA meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved motion of support for Archer House TIF request (6-0)
• Set future EDA meeting schedule
• Adjourned meeting at 7:30 p.m. (6-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two variance requests for the property at 212 Division St. S. One request seeks a height variance, and the other seeks a front setback variance. The board will consider these requests after receiving public comment.

• Public Hearing for Variance Request for Height at 212 Division St. S. (ZBA Res. 2023-002)
• Public Hearing for Variance Request for Front Setback at 212 Division St. S. (ZBA Res. 2023-003)

The Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved two variance requests for a property at 212 Division Street South: one for a height variance and one for a front setback variance. Both motions passed 7-0. No public comment was received.

• Approved height variance at 212 Division St. S. (7-0)
• Approved front setback variance at 212 Division St. S. (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for off-street parking. The body will also review TIF plan compliance and a comprehensive plan update.

• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit for off-street parking at 212 Division St. S.
• Affirming TIF Plan compliance with Comprehensive Plan
• Review of 246 Corridor Study and Lincoln Pkwy/Dresden Road Traffic Analysis
• Comprehensive Plan Update discussion
• Land Development Code reading assignment

The Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for off-street parking at 212 Division Street South and affirmed that a TIF plan for the Archer TIF District complies with the Comprehensive Plan. The commission also scheduled further review of the 246 Corridor Study and Lincoln Parkway traffic analysis for November.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit Option C for off-street parking at 212 Division St. S. (7-0)
• Approved Affirming TIF Plan Compliance with Comprehensive Plan for Archer TIF District (7-0)
• Approved adding 246 Corridor Study and Lincoln Pkwy/Dresden Road Traffic Analysis to November 16 agenda (7-0)
• Approved September 21, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will approve minutes from its September meeting and review its 2023 work plan, including flyers about responding to climate change and an open house.

• Approval of September 20, 2023 EQC Meeting Minutes
• Review of 2023 EQC Work Plan
• Review of 'Responding To Climate Change' Flyer
• Review of 'PiE-MN-Northfield-Open House' Flyer

The Environmental Quality Commission approved the meeting agenda and the September 20, 2023 minutes. Staff provided updates on climate initiatives, including the Inflation Reduction Act public forum and the District Energy System study.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved September 20, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss the 2024-2025 budget and long-range financial forecasts. The body is also considering a sidewalk removal for the Wall Street Road Improvement Project and a design agreement for the Mill Towns State Trail.

• Disbursements totaling $1,090,494.90
• Removal of sidewalk on north side of Wall Street Road from Spring Creek Road to Fourth Street
• Professional Service Agreement with I&S Group Inc. for Mill Towns State Trail design
• Decommissioning Agreements for DivoCSG 17 LLC, MN CSG 2019-77 LLC, and SV CSG Northfield, LLC
• Review of Lincoln Parkway Pedestrian Walking and Biking Study by Greenvale Elementary School

The City Council approved Option 3B for the Wall Street Road Improvement Project, removing a sidewalk on the north side. The meeting was extended past 9:00 p.m. to continue budget discussions.

• Approved Option 3B for Wall Street Road Improvement Project (6-1)
• Extended meeting until business is complete (7-0)
• Approved October 3, 2023 City Council Meeting Minutes (7-0)
• Approved October 10, 2023 Work Session Minutes (7-0)
• Approved disbursements totaling $1,090,494.90 (7-0)
• Directed staff to keep CIP projects for future discussion
• Approved Joint Powers Agreement for Absentee Voting Administration (7-0)
• Approved Voting Operations Agreement between Rice County and City of Northfield (7-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

This Housing & Redevelopment Authority meeting is a work session with only procedural items: call to order, roll call, and adjournment. No specific decisions or discussions are listed in the agenda.

• Work session (TMP-05761) — no further details provided

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority held a work session to discuss housing policy dynamics, including property disposition, funding requests, and fair housing. The board selected the St. Paul HRA disposition policy as a starting point for review.

• Board selected St. Paul HRA disposition policy as a starting point for review
• Board member James Crow to consolidate feedback into one document
• Staff to bring consolidated document to next HRA meeting

Heritage Preservation Commission

The commission will consider two Certificates of Appropriateness: signage at 420 Division St S (Morris Building) and windows at 519 Division St S (Armory). They will also continue a pre-application design review for new construction at the former Archer House site. The rest of the agenda is routine approvals and reports.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 420 Division St S (Morris Building)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for windows at 519 Division St S (Armory)
• Continued pre-application design review for new construction at former Archer House site
• Staff updates and commissioner reports

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for windows at the Armory (519 Division St S) by a 4-1-1 vote, and unanimously approved signage at the Morris Building (420 Division St S). The Commission also held a continued pre-application design review for the Archer House redevelopment but took no vote, instead offering comments to the developer. Minutes from September 6, 2023, were approved as amended, and the meeting was extended to finish business.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for windows at 519 Division St S (Armory) (4-1-1)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 420 Division St S (Morris Building) (6-0)
• Continued design review discussion for Archer House redevelopment; no action taken
• Approved September 6, 2023 meeting minutes as amended (6-0)
• Extended meeting to finish business (6-0)

Library Board

The Northfield Library Board will approve minutes from September, discuss climate change as the 'Discussion of the Month,' and receive a strategic plan update. The meeting is held at City Hall.

• Approval of September 13, 2023 Library Board minutes
• Discussion of the Month: Climate Change
• September Strategic Plan Update
• September 2023 Circulation report

The Library Board approved the meeting agenda and September draft minutes. The board discussed climate change's impact on the library budget and staff provided updates on circulation and the Strategic Plan. The meeting adjourned at 7:28 p.m.

• Approved agenda as printed (5-0)
• Approved September 2023 draft minutes without change (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:28 p.m. (4-1)

City Council

The City Council will review the 2024-2025 budget and long-range financial planning forecast, including draft capital improvement and equipment plans. They will also discuss a potential shared parking management solution and hear about MACTA advocacy planning efforts.

• Presentation and discussion of shared parking management solution with Interstate Parking
• Discussion of 2024-2025 Budget and 2025+ Long Range Financial Planning Forecast
• Review of 2024-2028 draft Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Capital Equipment Plan (CEP)
• Introduction of MACTA (Minnesota Association of Community Telecommunications Administration) advocacy planning efforts

The Council reviewed presentations on MACTA advocacy, shared parking management solutions, and the 2024-2025 budget. No substantive policy decisions were made; budget discussions will continue at the October 17th meeting.

• Approved motion to extend the meeting until complete (7-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting at 8:58 p.m. (7-0)

Arts & Culture Commission

The Arts & Culture Commission will discuss and provide input for the city's 2045 Comprehensive Plan. They will also receive a staff report on public art and creative placemaking. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes, public comment, and commissioner reports.

• Provide input for the 2045 Comprehensive Plan
• Staff report on public art and creative placemaking

The commission approved the meeting agenda and previous minutes with 6-0 votes (one member absent). They discussed providing input for the city's 2045 Comprehensive Plan and received staff updates on public art projects. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved October 9, 2023 agenda (6-0)
• Approved September 11, 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:25 pm (6-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority is meeting in closed session pursuant to Minnesota statute to develop or consider offers or counteroffers for the purchase of real property at 307 Sumner Street East. No other items are on the agenda.

• Closed session to develop or consider offers for 307 Sumner St. E.

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority convened a closed session under Minnesota statute to discuss offers or counteroffers for the purchase of 307 Sumner Street East. No open-session votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned without public action.

• Convened closed session to consider offers/counteroffers for 307 Sumner St. E. (no vote recorded)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Northfield Housing & Redevelopment Authority will discuss HRA funding and identified priorities, including Resolution 2022-085 and related attachments (ARPA emergency housing, playground assistance, MOU with CAC, state affordable housing aid amounts, and Fund 295 report). The board will also consider a draft agenda for the 2023 HRA work session. After approving the September 7, 2023 minutes and hearing public comment, the meeting will receive staff updates on outstanding housing-related items and board member reports.

• Approval of September 7, 2023 HRA meeting minutes
• HRA Funding and Identified Priorities (Resolution 2022-085 with attachments on ARPA emergency housing, playground assistance, MOU with CAC, state affordable housing aid, and Fund 295 report)
• Consideration of draft agenda for 2023 HRA Work Session
• Public comment opportunity (2 minutes per speaker, sign-up required for agenda items)
• Staff updates on outstanding HRA/City housing-related items

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved a resolution to purchase a property at 307 Sumner St. E. for $137,250. The board also approved the September 7, 2023 meeting minutes and adjourned the October 5, 2023 meeting.

• Approved HRA Resolution 2023-004 for property at 307 Sumner St. E. (5-0)
• Approved September 7, 2023 HRA meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:26pm (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will vote on awarding the sale of general obligation bonds for street and equipment projects. The body is also reviewing feasibility reports and designs for several road improvement projects and a preliminary plat for Cedar Meadows.

• Awarding of $7,880,000 General Obligation Street Reconstruction, Abatement and Equipment Bonds, Series 2023B
• Disbursements totaling $2,037,434.53
• Public hearing call for the creation of a new Redevelopment Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District
• Feasibility reports for 2024 Jefferson Parkway West and College Street/Water Street projects
• Preliminary Plat for Cedar Meadows

The City Council approved a $7.35 million bond sale for street reconstruction and authorized plans for two road improvement projects. They also directed staff to pursue a specific design option for the Wall Street Road Improvement Project.

• Approved $7.35M GO Street Reconstruction Bonds (7-0)
• Directed staff to pursue Option 3B for Wall Street Road (7-0)
• Authorized plans for Jefferson Parkway West Mill and Overlay (7-0)
• Authorized plans for College Street and Water Street reconstruction (6-1)
• Approved Cedar Meadows Preliminary Plat with cost-sharing amendment (7-0)
• Approved September 19, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved disbursements totaling $2,037,434.53 (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:57 p.m. (7-0)

Park & Recreation Advisory Board

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board will review staff reports on summer activities and the ice arena and pool. The meeting includes approval of minutes from a previous session and a public comment period.

• Approval of September 11, 2023 PRAB Meeting Minutes (23-14921)
• Recreation report on summer activities (BC 23-0152)
• Staff reports on October 2023 Park, Ice Arena, and Pool activities

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board met on October 2, 2023, and took only procedural actions: approving the agenda and the September 11 meeting minutes, both unanimously. No substantive decisions (e.g., approvals, denials, or policy actions) were made. The board heard a presentation on summer recreation activities and staff reports, but took no votes on those items.

• Approved October 2 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 11 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:34pm (unanimous)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to discuss planning for the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration, the Human Rights Award, and a governance update including review of current bylaws. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from July and August 2023 and public comment. No formal decisions are scheduled; items are for discussion only.

• Discussion of Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration planning
• Discussion of Human Rights Award
• Review of Board and Commission Governance Update with current HRC bylaws
• Approval of July 26, 2023 HRC meeting minutes and August 23, 2023 work session minutes
• Open public comment period (2 minutes per speaker)

The Human Rights Commission approved the agenda and minutes from previous meetings. The group also approved a deadline for submitting nominations for the 2024 Martin Luther King Jr. Human Rights Award.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved July 26, 2023 minutes (4-0)
• Approved August 23, 2023 work session minutes (4-0)
• Approved MLK award nomination deadline of Oct 31, 2023 at 8:00 p.m. (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:01 p.m. (4-0)

City Council

The Northfield City Council will hold a special work session to review updates on two redevelopment projects at 5th & Washington Street and 5th & Water Street. The meeting includes a video playback of a previous work session and project pages.

• Review of 5th & Washington Street redevelopment project
• Review of 5th & Water Street redevelopment project
• Video playback of July 18, 2023 Council work session
• Project pages for 5th & Washington and 5th & Water redevelopment

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will review a downtown parking study and related presentations on parking economics. The meeting is a standard regular agenda with open public comment.

• Presentation on Parking Economics and Supply, Demand and Management
• Review of 2022 Downtown Parking Study by CHS Consulting
• Discussion on shared parking and off-street parking reform
• Open public comment period available
• Adjournment

The Economic Development Authority held a joint meeting with the Planning Commission to review a presentation on parking economics. No public comment was received, and the meeting was adjourned at 8:03 p.m.

• Approved agenda (11-0)
• Extended meeting by 30 minutes (11-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:03 p.m. (11-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss the Comprehensive Plan update and a draft Community Engagement Plan. They will also receive a legislative session update from Council Member Davin Sokup and a Land Development Code reading assignment. Routine items include approval of August minutes and staff updates.

• Comprehensive Plan update and discussion of a draft Community Engagement Plan (attached)
• Legislative session update from City Council Member Davin Sokup
• Land Development Code reading assignment (Chapter 34)
• Staff updates including Bridge Square comments from SHPO, Ames Mill Dam removal feasibility study, TH 246 corridor study, Lincoln Parkway traffic analysis, and CHS Northfield Parking Study Phase 1
• Approval of August 17, 2023 meeting minutes

The Planning Commission approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes. Staff presented updates on the Comprehensive Plan update and the Land Development Code reading assignment. The commission established a subcommittee to assist with the community engagement plan.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved August 17, 2023 minutes (5-2 abstentions)
• Established subcommittee for Comprehensive Plan update (Kuhlmann, Stager, Menard, Thorstensson)
• Discussed Comprehensive Plan update and community engagement plan
• Discussed Land Development Code reading assignment
• Received staff updates on Bridge Square, Ames Mill Dam, TH 246, and parking studies
• Received reports on MNDOT conversation
• Adjourned at 8:08pm (7-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will hold a regular meeting including approval of minutes, public comment, and discussion items. Key agenda items include a recap from the Partners in Energy Workshop 3 and an update on the 2023 Work Plan, which involves urban forest management and carbon capture considerations.

• Partners in Energy (PiE) Workshop 3 recap with notes, slides, and open house proposal
• 2023 Work Plan update including Urban Forest Management Plan preview and trees/CO2 review
• Approval of August 16, 2023 meeting minutes
• Staff updates and board member/commissioner reports
• Open public comment period for residents

The Northfield Environmental Quality Commission held a regular meeting with no substantive votes. Commissioners discussed the Zero Waste Plan, received a recap of the Partners in Energy workshop, and heard updates on the Urban Forestry Asset Management Plan and organic waste pilot. Only procedural items (agenda and minutes) were approved.

• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)
• Approved August 16, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

City Council

The Northfield City Council will consider adopting 2024 utility rates, approving a $18.24 million bond issuance for utility improvements, and setting a date for a public hearing on the preliminary 2024 General Fund budget.

• Approval of 2024 utility rates
• Issuance of $18,240,000 General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds
• Setting date for public hearing on 2024 General Fund Budget
• Adoption of 2023 total tax levy
• Consideration of Trunk Highway 246 Corridor Study

The City Council approved the sale of $17.24 million in General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds for utility improvements. The Council also adopted a proposed 2024 General Fund Budget and a proposed 2023 tax levy payable in 2024.

• Approved sale of $17,240,000 General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds (7-0)
• Approved proposed 2024 General Fund Budget and set public hearing for Dec 5, 2023 (6-1)
• Approved proposed 2023 tax levy payable in 2024 (7-0)
• Approved disbursements totaling $1,135,528.91 (7-0)
• Approved 2024 utility rates (7-0)
• Approved 2024 City Council meeting schedule (7-0)
• Approved liquor violation agreements (7-0)
• Approved resolution supporting International Day of Peace (7-0)

Charter Commission

The Northfield Charter Commission will discuss several old business items, including a committee report on Charter Section 3.5 regarding vacancies in the council or mayor's office, and a review of charter commission policies covering citizen comment and rules of decorum. They will also consider remote appearance at meetings, charter provisions on citizen petitions, and the use of committees for commission business. No final decisions are noted; these are discussion items only.

• Committee report on Charter Section 3.5 – Vacancies in the Council or Office of Mayor
• Review of Charter Commission policies including citizen comment and staff liaison resolution, and draft rules of decorum
• Discussion of remote appearance at charter commission meetings
• Charter provisions on citizen petitions
• Use of committees for charter commission business

The Northfield Charter Commission voted to allow commissioners to attend meetings remotely with advance notice, using city technology and staff support. The commission also adopted a new citizen comment policy and created a technical advisor role. Several agenda items, including charter section 3.5 and citizen petitions, were postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (6-0-1)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (6-0-1)
• Approved remote attendance policy for commissioners (7-0)
• Approved citizen comment policy with amendments (6-1)
• Approved technical advisor policy (7-0)
• Postponed discussion on Charter Section 3.5
• Postponed discussion on citizen petitions

Library Board

The Library Board will hold a presentation and discussion to update the library's mission, vision, and values statements. Staff will provide updates on the strategic plan and August circulation statistics. The meeting also includes approval of previous minutes and public comment.

• Presentation and discussion to update Library Mission, Vision, and Values Statements
• Staff update on August Strategic Plan and circulation statistics
• Approval of draft minutes from August 9, 2023
• Public comment period for up to two minutes per speaker

The Library Board approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting. The board discussed the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan and received updates on staff, circulation, and community programs.

• Approved agenda amended to remove SELCO presentation (5-0)
• Approved August 9, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:18 PM (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session to discuss pending litigation. The session is conducted pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(b).

• Discussion of David L. Ludescher v. Rhonda Pownell and Lynette Peterson
• Discussion of Todd Zehnder and five other named Plaintiffs v. City of Northfield (Rice County District Court File No. 66-CV-23-2047)

The council held a closed session under Minnesota Statutes §13D.05 to discuss legal strategy in two pending lawsuits. No substantive decisions were made during open session; the only votes were to enter closed session and to adjourn.

• Approved closed session (6-0) to discuss legal strategy for pending litigation
• Adjourned closed session (7-0)

City Council

The Northfield City Council will hold a worksession on the 2024-2025 budget and discuss feasibility studies for the Ames Mill Dam removal, Jefferson Parkway West Mill and Mill Towns Trail improvements, and the College Street and Water Street areas reconstruction project. These are discussion items; no final decisions are scheduled at this meeting.

• Update on Ames Mill Dam Removal Feasibility Study
• Discussion of Jefferson Parkway West Mill and Mill Towns Trail Improvements Project Feasibility Report
• Discussion of College Street and Water Street Areas Reconstruction Project Feasibility Report
• 2024-2025 Budget Worksession

The City Council directed staff to set the 2024-2025 preliminary levy at 11.5% after discussing four options. The council also received updates on the Ames Mill Dam removal feasibility study, Jefferson Parkway/Mill Towns Trail improvements, and College/Water Street reconstruction projects, but took no action on those items.

• Directed staff to set preliminary levy at 11.5% for 2024-2025 budget (6-0, with one absent)

Arts & Culture Commission

The Commission will discuss the Artists on Main Street program and a report regarding the 1 percent fund. Members will also review the 2024 Living Treasure Award and a staff report on Public Art and Creative Placemaking.

• Artists on Main Street program discussion
• 2024 Living Treasure Award Public Art Review Committee (PARC) review
• Public Art 5-Year Creative Placemaking Plan subcommittee discussion
• 1 percent report 2023
• Staff report on Public Art and Creative Placemaking

The Arts & Culture Commission appointed three members to the 2024 Living Treasure Award Public Art Review Committee. A four-member subcommittee was also established to discuss the Public Art 5-year Creative Placemaking Plan. The commission discussed the Artists on Main Street program but reached no decision.

• Approved Commissioners Granquist, Anderson and Tassava to serve on the 2024 Living Treasure Award Public Art Review Committee (8-0)
• Approved a subcommittee of Commissioners Brophy, Granquist, Anderson and Velazquez to discuss Public Art 5-year Creative Placemaking Plan (8-0)
• Approved the agenda (8-0)
• Approved August 14, 2023 minutes with wording changes (8-0)

Park & Recreation Advisory Board

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board will meet to approve a temporary frisbee golf course for Hauberg Woods Park in 2024 and 2025. The meeting includes the approval of previous minutes and an informational presentation on the proposal.

• Approval of July 10, 2023 PRAB Meeting Minutes
• Informational presentation on temporary frisbee golf course in Hauberg Woods Park
• Consideration of disc golf course proposal for Hauberg Woods
• Staff reports for September 2023 Park and Recreation
• Public comment period available

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board approved a temporary 5-hole frisbee golf course at Hauberg Woods Park for summers 2024 and 2025. The motion also revised the Capital Improvement Plan timeline to include professionally designed installation in 2024, in partnership with the Cannon River Valley Disc Golf Club.

• Approved temporary 5-hole disc golf course at Hauberg Woods (all in favor)
• Revised CIP timeline to include professional design and installation in 2024 (all in favor)
• Approved September 11, 2023 agenda (all in favor)
• Approved July 11, 2023 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved adjournment at 7:12pm (all in favor)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will hold a regular meeting to consider the 2024 HRA budget and a request from Northcountry Cooperative Foundation for an exclusive, non-binding contract. A presentation on the 2023 Summer Intern Report will be given, and staff will provide updates on housing-related items. Public comment is invited.

• 2024 HRA Budget (draft with housing authority and Local Housing Trust Fund program criteria attached)
• Consideration of Northcountry Cooperative Foundation's request for an exclusive, non-binding contract
• 2023 Summer Intern Report presentation including solar-related attachments
• Staff updates on outstanding HRA/City housing items
• Future meeting schedule for 2023 and 2024

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved the 2024 HRA budget and extended the meeting time to 8:00 PM. The board sent a contract request to the city attorney for revisions and received updates on housing projects.

• Approved 2024 HRA Budget (6-0)
• Extended meeting time to 8:00 PM (6-0)
• Sent contract request to city attorney for revisions
• Approved August 3, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:00 PM (6-0)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will review a proposed Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at the Holland Block and discuss design review for new construction at the former Archer House site. The meeting also includes a presentation on 5th Street and Washington Street redevelopment and the commission's annual report.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 115 5th St W (Holland Block)
• Continued discussion for design review at former Archer House site
• Presentation on 5th St and Washington St redevelopment
• Review of 2023 HPC Annual Report
• Commissioner shadowing reports and updates

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at the Holland Block and approved the HPC Annual Report. The meeting agenda was amended to remove a presentation on 5th St and Washington St redevelopment.

• Agenda amended to remove 5th St and Washington St redevelopment presentation (6-0)
• Agenda approved as amended (6-0)
• August 2, 2023 HPC minutes approved as amended (6-0)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 115 5th St W approved (6-0)
• HPC Annual Report approved as amended (5-1)
• Meeting extended through completion of agenda (6-0)
• Meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m. (5-1)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a work session regarding the 2024-2025 budget. This meeting includes a budget retreat scheduled for September 5, 2023.

• 2024-2025 Budget Worksession

The City Council held a work session on the 2024-2025 budget, discussing long-range levy forecasts and debt. No formal decisions or votes were taken on the budget; council directed staff to gather additional information for the next session.

• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider the 2024 Northfield Area Fire & Rescue budget and a currency exchange license for Northfield Financial, LLC. The body will also review a proposal to vacate drainage and utility easements in Lubber’s Commercial Addition.

• Approval of disbursements totaling $2,603,548.75
• 2024 Northfield Area Fire & Rescue Service Budget and Capital Improvement Plan
• Public hearing and license approval for Northfield Financial, LLC at 650 Professional Drive
• Public hearing and first reading of Ordinance 1060 to vacate easements in Lubber’s Commercial Addition
• Stormwater Maintenance Agreement with St. Olaf College

The City Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included $2.6 million in disbursements, the 2024 Fire Department budget and capital improvement plan, and a contract for the 2022 Storm Damage Repair Project. They also approved a currency exchange license for Northfield Financial LLC and passed the first reading of an ordinance vacating drainage and utility easements in Lubber’s Commercial Addition. All votes were 7-0.

• Approved consent agenda including $2,603,548.75 in disbursements, 2024 Fire & Rescue Service Budget and CIP, storm damage repair contract, CDBG subrecipient agreement, and St. Olaf College stormwater agreement (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-079 granting a currency exchange license to Northfield Financial LLC at 650 Professional Drive (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 1060 vacating drainage and utility easements within Block 2, Lots 9-10 of Lubber's Commercial Addition (7-0)

City Council

The Northfield City Council will meet in a closed session to discuss pending litigation. The matter involves petitioners, including Todd Zehnder and others, against the City of Northfield and specific city officials.

• Closed session regarding litigation involving Todd Zehnder, Linda Zehnder, Joseph Grundhoefer, Jodi Grundhoefer, Richard Jackson, and Donna Jackson

The city council met in closed session to discuss pending litigation. It authorized Flaherty & Hood to defend the city and individually named officials in the lawsuit brought by Todd Zehnder and others over a street petition. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Authorized Flaherty & Hood to defend City and named officials in Zehnder street petition lawsuit (6-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will discuss the proposed 2024 budget, review July 2023 financials and loan reports, and receive a quarterly report from the MCCD on business development. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and future meeting schedules.

• 2024 EDA Budget discussion with attachments
• July 2023 EDA financials and loan report
• MCCD Open to Business Report (Q2 report and contract amendment)
• Approval of July 24, 2023 EDA meeting minutes
• Future meeting schedule review

The Economic Development Authority voted 5-0 to approve the final 2024 budget after a presentation from staff. Members also received the July 2023 financial summary and loan statement, and heard a quarterly update from the Metropolitan Consortium of Community Developers on the Open to Business program.

• Approved 2024 EDA budget (5-0)
• Approved July 24, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss infrastructure funding, public safety, and various city contracts. Key items include a proposal for general obligation bonds and safety improvements for Minnesota Trunk Highway 3.

• Proposed issuance of $7,880,000 in General Obligation Street Reconstruction, Abatement and Equipment Bonds, Series 2023B
• Approval of disbursements totaling $862,070.41
• Resolution recommending safety and accessibility improvements to Minnesota Trunk Highway 3 (TH3)
• Contract award for Miscellaneous Storm Structure Repair Project (STRM2023-K35)
• License agreement for deck encroachment at 2304 Greenfield Drive West

The City Council approved a resolution for the issuance and sale of $7,880,000 in General Obligation bonds. The council also passed a resolution recommending safety and accessibility improvements to Minnesota State Trunk Highway 3.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $862,070.41 in disbursements (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-076 for $7,880,000 in General Obligation bonds (5-1)
• Approved Resolution 2023-077 recommending safety improvements to Minnesota State Trunk Highway 3 (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Northfield Planning Commission will review proposed amendments to the Residential Rental Licensing Code and consider a preliminary plat for the Cedar Meadows development. The meeting also includes public comment and staff updates.

• Presentation on Residential Rental Licensing Code amendments
• Consideration of Preliminary Plat for Cedar Meadows
• Review of proposed Short Term Rental Ordinance
• Discussion of Inclusionary Housing Ordinance
• Review of CHS Northfield Parking Study Phase 1

The Planning Commission approved the resolution for the Cedar Meadows Preliminary Plat with conditions. The commission also received a presentation on proposed Phase II amendments to the Residential Rental Licensing Code.

• Approved Preliminary Plat for Cedar Meadows with conditions (4-1)
• Approved amended July 20, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved amended agenda (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is holding a closed meeting to develop or consider offers for the purchase of real property. The discussion focuses on the Northfield Ice Arena.

• Purchase of real property located at 1280 Bollenbacher Drive (Northfield Ice Arena)

The City Council held a closed meeting to develop or consider offers or counteroffers for the purchase of real property located at 1280 Bollenbacher Drive (Northfield Ice Arena). No substantive decisions or vote outcomes regarding the property purchase were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved motion to close the meeting at 12:10 p.m. (5-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting at 1:55 p.m. (5-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will review its 2023 work plan and discuss an outline for a climate change newspaper series. The meeting will also include the approval of previous minutes and public comment periods.

• Approval of July 19, 2023 EQC Meeting Minutes
• 2023 Work Plan Update
• Climate Change Newspaper Series Outline
• Staff Updates
• Board Member and Commissioner Reports

The Commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from July 19, 2023. Members reviewed the 2023 Work Plan and guidelines for a Northfield News opinion piece series. No other substantive votes were taken.

• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)
• Approved July 19, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a budget retreat presentation regarding the 2024-2025 budget. The session includes a review of a budget request memo from NAFRS.

• 2024-2025 Budget Retreat Presentation
• NAFRS Budget Request memo

The City Council held a work session to review the upcoming budget timeline and key milestones. Discussions included utility rate increases, staffing requests, and potential city-wide levy increases.

• Staff recommended 2024 utility rate increases for water (20%), wastewater (2%), storm water (15% through 2028), and garbage (1%)
• City is considering a city-wide levy increase of 7.8%, 10.4%, or 12.7%

Arts & Culture Commission

The Arts & Culture Commission will discuss the 2024 Art in City Hall and Living Treasure Award processes, review a potential public art integration for Bridge Square, and consider a partnership with the International Cello Institute.

• Discuss 2024 Art in City Hall Process
• Consider Approval of Request for Partnership from International Cello Institute
• Discuss 2024 Living Treasure Award Process
• Discuss Potential Public Art Integration into Bridge Square redesign
• Staff Report on Public Art and Creative Placemaking

The Arts & Culture Commission approved a request from the International Cello Institute to partner for an Our Town Grant application (5-0). They discussed the 2024 Art in City Hall process, the Living Treasure Award, and public art integration into Bridge Square redesign, but took no votes on those items.

• Approved International Cello Institute partnership for Our Town Grant application (5-0)
• Approved July 10, 2023 ACC minutes with corrections (5-0)

Library Board

The Northfield Library Board will discuss the update process for the library strategic plan. The meeting also includes staff updates, board member reports, and public comment. No votes or decisions are scheduled; it is primarily a discussion and update meeting.

• Discussion of Library Strategic Plan update process
• Staff update including June Director's Report and July 2023 Circulation data
• Presentation on 2024 Rice County budget
• Public comment period for any topic up to 2 minutes per speaker

The Northfield Library Board met August 9, 2023. They approved the agenda and previous meeting minutes, heard presentations on new library materials and a grant for hotspot/laptop lending, and discussed forming a committee to review the strategic plan at its midpoint. Staff updates covered circulation, ebooks, and community outreach. No binding decisions on policy or spending were made.

• Approved August 9 agenda (4-0)
• Approved July 12 meeting minutes without change (4-0)
• Discussed forming committee for strategic plan mid-point review (no vote)

City Council

The City Council will meet in closed session to discuss pending and threatened litigation involving Mayor Rhonda Pownell and City Clerk Lynette Peterson, as well as a separate matter involving six named council members and petitioners.

• Closed meeting regarding litigation in the matter of David L. Ludescher v. Rhonda Pownell and Lynette Peterson
• Closed meeting regarding threatened litigation in the matter of Todd Zehnder, Joseph Grundhoefer, and petitioners v. City of Northfield and council members
• Meeting held at City Hall, 801 Washington Street, Northfield, MN 55057

The City Council held a closed session to discuss pending litigation and then voted unanimously to authorize the city attorney to defend Mayor Rhonda Pownell and City Clerk Lynette Peterson in a lawsuit filed by David Ludescher. The council found the allegations concern only official actions taken on behalf of the city. They also discussed threatened litigation from a petition group.

• Closed meeting for litigation strategy (6-0)
• Authorized Flaherty & Hood to defend mayor and city clerk in Ludescher lawsuit (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss the sale of general obligation utility revenue bonds and a downtown redevelopment project. The body is also reviewing zoning changes, cannabis regulations, and city branding.

• Sale of $18,300,000 General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds for Utility Improvements Series 2023A
• Second reading of Ordinance 1057 regarding cannabis social hosts and public use prohibitions
• Rezoning of 440 Water Street North from Industrial to Neighborhood General 2
• Zoning map amendment to add Neighborhood Center Floating District to 1000 Division Street South
• Approval of disbursements totaling $3,217,582.07

The City Council approved the sale of $18.3 million in General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds for utility improvements. The council also authorized a downtown redevelopment project and approved modifications to the Transit Hub building exterior.

• Approved $18.3M General Obligation Utility Revenue Bonds (6-0)
• Approved preliminary authorization for a Downtown Redevelopment Project (6-0)
• Approved modified Option 4 for Transit Hub building exterior (6-0)
• Approved Replace as consultant for City Branding Initiative (6-0)
• Approved disbursements totaling $3,217,582.07 (6-0)
• Approved temporary liquor license for Tanzenwald Brewing Company for Sept 21, 2023 (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 440 Water Street North from Industrial to Neighborhood General 2 (6-0)
• Approved adding Neighborhood Center Floating District to 1000 Division St. S. (6-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will review proposed ordinance amendments related to the Residential Rental Licensing Code. The board will also consider a $8,479.88 grant request from Rice County Habitat for Humanity for Ford Street invoices. Additionally, staff will provide updates on outstanding housing-related items.

• $8,479.88 grant request from Rice County Habitat for Humanity for Ford Street invoices
• Proposed ordinance amendments related to the Residential Rental Licensing Code
• Review of Short Term Rental Ordinance draft
• Review of Tenant Protection Ordinance draft
• Review of Inclusionary housing ordinance draft

The HRA approved an $8,479.88 grant to Rice County Habitat for Humanity to cover building permit fees for a quad home on Ford Street. The vote was 4-0 with one abstention and one member not present. Other agenda items, including a Habitat proposal for HRA land, proposed ordinance amendments for rental licensing, and the draft 2024 HRA budget, were discussed but no decisions were made.

• Approved $8,479.88 grant to Habitat for Humanity for Ford St. permit fees (4-0-1, 1 abstention, 1 not present)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission is meeting to consider certificates of appropriateness for signage at two locations. The body will also review a draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area and hear a presentation from the Rice County Historical Society.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 317 Division St S (French Building)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 425 Division St S (McClaughry Block)
• Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area
• Presentation from the Rice County Historical Society

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved three certificates of appropriateness for signage at 317 and 425 Division Street South, and a resolution supporting the Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area as amended. All votes were 5-0. The commission also heard a presentation from the Rice County Historical Society and received staff updates.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 317 Division St S – French Building (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 425 Division St S – McClaughry Block (5-0)
• Approved Resolution HPC Res. 2023-015 supporting Draft AUAR for Northwest Area as amended (5-0)

Human Rights Commission

The Northfield Human Rights Commission will meet to approve minutes from the previous month and receive a staff report on the Take Pride Act. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 26, 2023, at 6:00 PM in City Hall.

• Approval of June 28, 2023 HRC Meeting Minutes
• Staff report on the Take Pride Act
• Open public comment period available

The Human Rights Commission voted 4-0 to request the City Council pass a resolution supporting the 2023 International Day of Peace celebration on September 21. They also approved adding a review of the commission's bylaws to the September 27 meeting agenda. The August meeting was cancelled due to no pressing items.

• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved June 28, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved motion to request City Council pass resolution supporting 2023 International Day of Peace (4-0)
• Approved motion to add review of HRC bylaws to September 27, 2023 agenda (4-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will hear a presentation on the draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) for the Northwest Area and consider EDA Resolution 2023-002. The board will also review June 2023 financials and the draft 2024 EDA budget. Public comment is accepted on any agenda item.

• Presentation and discussion of draft AUAR for the Northwest Area
• Consideration of EDA Resolution 2023-002
• Review of June 2023 EDA Financials and Loan Report
• Presentation and discussion of 2024 Draft EDA Budget
• Future meeting schedule update

The Economic Development Authority voted 5-0 to approve Resolution 2023-002 endorsing the draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area, a planning document that assesses environmental and infrastructure impacts. The board also approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the June 26, 2023 meeting. Staff presented the June 2023 financials and the draft 2024 EDA budget, with formal budget adoption expected in August.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved June 26, 2023 EDA meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved EDA Resolution 2023-002 on the Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the preliminary plat for Cedar Meadows, hear a presentation on the Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area, and consider a resolution requesting the City Council prioritize improvements to Trunk Highway 3 as part of the Riverfront Enhancement Action Plan. Other agenda items include approval of minutes from June 15, 2023, and staff updates.

• Public Hearing for Preliminary Plat Request for Cedar Meadows (PC M2023-0112)
• Presentation and Comments on Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area (PC Res. 2023-008)
• Consider Resolution Requesting City Council Prioritize Improvements to Trunk Highway 3 (PC Res. 2023-009)
• Approval of June 15, 2023 meeting minutes
• Staff updates including parking study and links to planning resources

The Northfield Planning Commission voted 5-1 to approve a resolution supporting the Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) for the Northwest Area. It also approved a separate 5-1 resolution requesting the City Council prioritize improvements to Trunk Highway 3 in the Riverfront Enhancement Action Plan. A vote on the Cedar Meadows preliminary plat was postponed 6-0 to the August 17 meeting. Routine items such as the agenda and prior minutes were unanimously approved.

• Approved PC Resolution supporting Draft AUAR for Northwest Area (5-1)
• Approved PC Resolution requesting City Council prioritize Trunk Highway 3 improvements (5-1)
• Postponed vote on Cedar Meadows Preliminary Plat to August 17 meeting (6-0)
• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved June 15, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will hear a presentation and take comments on the Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review for the Northwest Area. They will also discuss the 2023 Work Plan Update and a monthly opinion piece for the Northfield News. No final decisions are scheduled; these are discussions and updates.

• Presentation & Comments on the Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) for the Northwest Area
• 2023 Work Plan Update
• Northfield News Monthly Series Opinion Piece
• Consider approval of June 21, 2023 meeting minutes

The Environmental Quality Commission approved a resolution to move forward with the Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUAR) for the Northwest Area, with amendments recommending deferral until the City Council adopts the new Comprehensive Plan. The commission also received updates on the 2023 Work Plan and energy workshops.

• Approved resolution to move forward with the Northwest Area AUAR as amended (7-0)
• Approved June 21, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to review the 5th & Water Street Redevelopment and Riverfront Action Plan implementation. The meeting will also cover other redevelopment projects.

• Work session on 5th & Water Street Redevelopment and Riverfront Action Plan
• Discussion of other redevelopment projects

The City Council held a work session on the 5th & Water Street redevelopment and Riverfront Action Plan implementation. Council members provided feedback on initial plans and next steps for staff and consultants. The meeting recessed at 8:54 p.m.

• Recessed at 8:54 p.m. (7-0)

Charter Commission

The Northfield Charter Commission will meet to approve the July 13, 2023 agenda and minutes from May 11, 2023. The body will discuss citizen petition provisions and the use of committees for commission business.

• Approval of July 13, 2023 Meeting Agenda (Item 23-12851)
• Approval of May 11, 2023 Charter Commission Meeting Minutes (Item 23-12862)
• Discussion on Charter Provisions on Citizen Petitions (Item 23-12906)
• Discussion on Use of Committees for Charter Commission Business (Item 23-12917)
• Committee Report on Charter Section 3.5 (Item 23-12884)

The Charter Commission approved the agenda and minutes, excused three absent members, and adjourned after citizen comment and discussion items were all postponed to a future meeting with full attendance. No substantive decisions were made on charter amendments, remote meeting rules, or committee policies.

• Excused absences of Commissioners Jensen, Oney, and Heisler (unanimous)
• Approved July 13, 2023 meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved May 11, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:31 PM (3-0, one abstention)

Library Board

The Library Board will discuss a draft Library Values Statement and an update to the 2024 appointment process. The meeting also includes a discussion of a resolution affirming support for the Freedom to Read and Library Bill of Rights.

• Discussion of Draft Library Values Statement
• 2024 Board and Commission Appointment Process Update
• Approval of Revised Programming Policy
• Resolution Affirming Support of the Freedom to Read and Library Bill of Rights
• Staff updates on May and June 2023 circulation

The Library Board approved a new library Vision Statement, revised the Programming Policy with specified language changes, and affirmed commitment to the Freedom to Read and Library Bill of Rights. The board also passed a resolution to bring the affirmation before the Northfield City Council for approval. All votes were unanimous (5-0) with two members absent.

• Approved draft library Vision Statement (5-0)
• Approved revised Programming Policy with specified language change (5-0)
• Affirmed commitment to Freedom to Read and Library Bill of Rights statements (5-0)
• Passed resolution to bring Freedom to Read affirmation before Northfield City Council (5-0)

City Council

The City Council is meeting in a closed session under state statute to discuss labor negotiations strategy. No other business is on the agenda.

• Closed meeting pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.03, subd. 1 for labor negotiations strategy

The City Council met in a closed session to discuss labor negotiations strategy. The meeting was called to order and adjourned without any public action or votes on agenda items.

• Closed meeting held for labor negotiations strategy (6-0)
• Meeting adjourned (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss step increases for licensed police officers and ordinances regarding the public use of cannabis. The body is also reviewing several zoning changes and infrastructure projects, including storm structure repairs and street improvements.

• Resolution authorizing step increases for licensed police officers
• Disbursements totaling $2,389,868.48
• First reading of Ordinance 1058 to rezone 440 Water Street North from Industrial to Neighborhood General 2
• First reading of Ordinance 1059 to add Neighborhood Center Floating District to 1000 Division Street South
• Ordinance 1057 prohibiting the use of cannabis in public

The City Council approved modified step increases for licensed police officers to aid retention. They also advanced first readings of an ordinance prohibiting public cannabis use and updating social host rules, and an ordinance rezoning 1000 Division Street South for a neighborhood center. The consent agenda, approved 6-0, included $2.39M in disbursements, budget amendments, liquor licenses, and other routine items.

• Approved modified step increases for licensed police officers (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance prohibiting public cannabis use and updating social host rules (6-0)
• Approved first reading of zoning map amendment for 1000 Division Street South to add Neighborhood Center Floating District (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $2.39M disbursements, budget amendments, liquor licenses, and other items (6-0)

Arts & Culture Commission

The Northfield Arts & Culture Commission will consider approving three public art recommendations: Hispanic Heritage Month Art Banners design, Wandering House Sonic Archive Placards, and Artists on Main Street 2023. The commission will also discuss upcoming priorities for public art and creative placemaking. Public comment is allowed at the start of the meeting.

• Approve Public Art Review Committee selection for winning Hispanic Heritage Month Art Banners design
• Approve recommendations for Wandering House Sonic Archive Placards
• Approve recommendations for Artists on Main Street 2023 selections
• Discuss upcoming priorities for Public Art and Creative Placemaking
• Staff report on Public Art and Creative Placemaking

The Arts & Culture Commission approved three recommendations from the Public Art Review Committee: a winning Hispanic Heritage Month banner design, Wandering House Sonic Archive placards, and eight proposals for Artists on Main Street 2023 (5-0-1). Commissioners discussed future priorities including a mural policy and a five-year public art plan. Staff updates and commissioner reports were presented.

• Approved PARC winning design for Hispanic Heritage Month Art Banners (6-0)
• Approved PARC recommendations for Wandering House Sonic Archive Placards (6-0)
• Approved PARC recommendations for Artists on Main Street 2023 (5-0-1, Woodstrup abstained)
• Approved June 12, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)

Park & Recreation Advisory Board

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss updates on the Riverfront Enhancement Action Plan and the Ames Park master planning, and review the Capital Investment Plan focusing on park maintenance programming. They will also hear an update on the 2024 board and commission appointment process. The meeting includes public comment and approval of June 5, 2023 minutes.

• Riverfront Enhancement Action Plan - Riverside/Lions and Ames Park Master Planning Update
• Review of Park and Recreation Capital Investment Plan: Park Maintenance Programming
• 2024 Board and Commission Appointment Process Update
• Approval of June 5, 2023 meeting minutes
• Staff updates from Park, Recreation, and Community Ed

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will consider approving a $4,000 grant to Restore Recovery for rental assistance, purchasing the property at 308 Cherry Street North, and evaluating a request from Northcountry Cooperative Foundation for an exclusive non-binding contract. The board will also review the CDBG FY 2022-2023 budget and discuss the Local Housing Trust Fund and budget preparation.

• Approve $4,000 grant to Restore Recovery for security deposit and first month's rent for two tenants
• Purchase real property at 308 Cherry Street North
• Consider Northcountry Cooperative Foundation's request for an exclusive, non-binding contract
• Review Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) FY 2022-2023 budget status
• Discuss Local Housing Trust Fund and budget preparation

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved two substantive actions: a $4,000 grant to Restore Recovery for security deposits and first month's rent for two tenants, and the purchase of real property at 308 Cherry Street North. The board also heard public comments regarding Aspen Park zoning concerns and discussed a manufactured housing tour, but took no action on those topics.

• Approved $4,000 grant to Restore Recovery for deposit and first month's rent for two tenants (5-0)
• Approved purchase of real property at 308 Cherry Street North (5-0)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Commission will review a Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at the Bjoraker Building. Members will also conduct a pre-application design review for new construction at the former Archer House site.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 422 Division St S - Bjoraker Building
• Pre-Application Design Review for New Construction at the former Archer House site
• Rice County Archaeology Survey staff update

The Commission approved a resolution for relocated and new signage at the Bjoraker Building. The body also held a pre-application design review for new construction at the former Archer House site, which required no formal action.

• Approved HPC Resolution for relocated and new signage at 422 Division Street, Farmstead Bike Shop and Raven's Nest Cafe (6-0)
• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved June 7, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will consider adopting a Fair Housing Statement recommended by a joint subcommittee of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and the Human Rights Commission. They will also receive an update on a request from the Beyond the Land Acknowledgement Statement Committee seeking partnership with Native communities and discuss board and commission member roles and appointment processes. Other items include a staff report on the Take Pride Act and a subcommittee update on Pride in the Park.

• Consideration of Northfield's Fair Housing Statement
• Update on request from Beyond the Land Acknowledgement Statement Committee for partnership with Native communities
• Discussion of board and commission member roles and appointment processes
• Staff report on the Take Pride Act
• Pride in the Park Subcommittee update

The Human Rights Commission approved a Fair Housing Statement to replace annual resolutions, rescinded a prior motion seeking partnership with Native communities, and recommended the City Council provide more clarification on non-voting board members. No substantive decisions were made regarding youth voting rights or board interview processes.

• Approved Fair Housing Statement (5-0)
• Rescinded motion seeking Native community partnership (5-0)
• Recommended City Council clarify non-voting member roles (4-1)
• Recommended City Council require additional interviewers for appointments (4-1)
• Recommended City Council train members on reviewing applications (4-1)
• Agreed to no regular meetings in July and August 2024
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved April 26, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will discuss updates to the Riverfront Enhancement Program and revised criteria for the Facade Improvement Program. The board will also review May 2023 financial and loan reports.

• Riverfront Enhancement Program Update
• Revised Facade Improvement Program Criteria (2024-2026)
• May 2023 EDA Financials and Loan Report

The EDA approved revisions to the Facade Improvement Program criteria, removing the minimum project cost requirement while maintaining the 30% grant amount. Two Riverfront Enhancement grants were reported as approved earlier for Betteroutthere, LLC and Full Potential Therapy, LLC. The board also received financial reports and staff updates.

• Approved the agenda (4-0)
• Approved May 22, 2023 EDA meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved revised Facade Improvement Program criteria (4-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will discuss updates to their 2023 work plan and a proposed opinion piece for the Northfield News on pollinator plantings and climate change. They will also receive an update on the 2024 board and commission appointment process. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as approval of minutes and public comment.

• 2024 Board and Commission Appointment Process Update
• 2023 Work Plan Update
• Northfield News Monthly Series Opinion Piece on pollinator plantings and climate change

The Commission approved the June 2023 Northfield News opinion piece regarding pollinator plantings. Members received updates on the 2023 Work Plan, including plastic reduction efforts and the upcoming Inflation Reduction Act Public Forum. Staff reported that the city received an award in the 2023 Minnesota GreenStep program.

• Approved the meeting agenda (6-0)
• Approved May 17, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved June 2023 Northfield News Opinion Piece on pollinator plantings (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will review several items including a professional services agreement for the 2045-Horizon Comprehensive Plan and various community solar garden permits. The meeting also includes a public hearing regarding a new liquor license for Lagom Café LLC at 1011 St. Olaf Avenue.

• Disbursements totaling $1,003,995.04
• Professional services agreement with Stantec Inc. for the 2045-Horizon Comprehensive Plan
• Conditional Use Permits for three 1MW community solar gardens
• Public hearing for a liquor license at 1011 St. Olaf Avenue
• Wall Street Road Improvements Project feasibility report and plans

The City Council approved the feasibility report for the Wall Street Road Improvements Project and granted a conditional use permit for a 1MW community solar garden. They also approved a new liquor license for the Ole Store Restaurant and the first reading of an ordinance allowing the municipal liquor store to sell edible cannabinoid products.

• Approved Wall Street Road Improvements Project feasibility report and plans (7-0)
• Approved conditional use permit for 1MW Community Solar Garden for SV CSG Northfield, LLC (7-0)
• Approved On Sale and Sunday Liquor Licenses for Lagom Cafe LLC dba The Ole Store Restaurant (7-0)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance 1056 to allow municipal liquor store to sell edible cannabinoid products (7-0)
• Approved disbursements totaling $1,003,995.04 (7-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Stantec Inc. for 2045-Horizon Comprehensive Plan (7-0)
• Approved temporary liquor license for Imminent Brewing, LLC for July 29, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved conditional use permits for 1MW community solar gardens for MN CSG 2019-77 LLC and DivoCSG 17 LLC (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider zoning map amendments for two properties. The body will also receive staff updates, including a parking study for downtown Northfield.

• Public hearing and consideration of a zoning map amendment for 440 Water Street North
• Public hearing and consideration of a zoning map amendment for 1000 Division Street South
• Review of the CHS Northfield Parking Study Phase 1 and downtown parking takeaways
• Update on the 2024 Board and Commission appointment process

The Planning Commission approved two zoning map amendments: changing 440 Water Street North from industrial to highway commercial and adding a Neighborhood Center Floating District to 1000 Division Street South. The commission also approved the minutes from previous meetings.

• Approved minutes from May 18, 2023 work session (5-0)
• Approved minutes from May 17, 2023 meeting (5-0)
• Approved minutes from April 20, 2023 meeting (4-1)
• Approved zoning map amendment for 440 Water Street North (4-1)
• Approved zoning map amendment for 1000 Division Street South (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:08 PM (5-0)

Library Board

The Northfield Library Board will hold a regular meeting to approve previous minutes, receive a presentation, and hear public comment. The main business items are an update on the 2024 board and commission appointment process and a discussion of a draft Library Values Statement. Staff updates include circulation reports for May 2023, the director's report, and a Poet Laureate report.

• Discussion of draft Library Values Statement (item 4)
• Update on 2024 Board and Commission Appointment Process (item 3)
• Presentation (item 2)
• Staff updates including circulation data and director's report (item 5)

City Council

The City Council will review the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for the year ending December 31, 2022. Members will discuss draft 2024-2028 Capital Improvement and Capital Equipment Plans. The body will also review amendments to cannabis laws and municipal liquor store sales.

• Annual Comprehensive Financial Report for year ended December 31, 2022
• Review of 2023 Laws of Minnesota, Chapter 63 regarding cannabis laws and liquor store sales
• Discussion of 2024-2028 Draft Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Discussion of 2024-2028 Draft Capital Equipment Plan (CEP)

The council received a draft audit report, reviewed changes to cannabis laws affecting the municipal liquor store, and discussed five-year capital improvement and equipment plans. No votes were taken.

• No formal votes taken; all items were discussion only

Arts & Culture Commission

The Arts & Culture Commission will consider approving Public Art Review Committees for two specific projects. The meeting also includes a mid-point report on Arte en Acción and a final report from the Poet Laureate.

• Approval of Public Art Review Committee for Hispanic Heritage Month Art Banners
• Approval of Public Art Review Committee for Wandering House Sonic Archive Placards
• Arte en Acción mid-point report
• Poet Laureate Report 2016-2023
• 2024 Board and Commission Appointment Process Update

The Arts & Culture Commission approved two Public Art Review Committees to select banners for Hispanic Heritage Month and placards for the Wandering House Sonic Archive. The meeting also approved previous minutes and received reports on the interim Poet Laureate and upcoming artist calls.

• Approved agenda for June 12, 2023 meeting (7-0)
• Approved May 8, 2023 minutes (7-0)
• Approved Public Art Review Committee for Hispanic Heritage Month banners (7-0)
• Approved Public Art Review Committee for Wandering House Sonic Archive placards (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:32 PM (7-0)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The commission will decide on a Certificate of Appropriateness for proposed signage at 409 Division St S (Wheeler Building) and continue a discussion on revising signage regulations within the historic district. They will also receive an update on the 2024 board and commission appointment process and hear staff and commissioner reports.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 409 Division St S (Wheeler Building) – HPC Resolution 2023-011
• Continued discussion on signage regulations within the Historic District
• 2024 Board and Commission Appointment Process Update
• Commissioner shadowing reports from Planning Commission and HRA meetings

The commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at the Wheeler Building, 409 Division St S, by a 7-0 vote. They also continued discussions on signage regulations within the historic district, with further refinements expected in coming months.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 409 Division St S (Wheeler Building) (7-0)
• Continued discussion on signage regulations, no final decision reached

City Council

The City Council will review budget requests and contract bids for infrastructure improvements. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding tax abatements for park improvements and discussions on pedestrian studies.

• Disbursements totaling $1,553,123.93
• Contract award for Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvements Project
• Public hearing and contract award for Babcock Park Warming House/Pavilion and field updates
• Contract award for 2023 Reclamation and Overlay Project
• Temporary liquor license for Keepsake Cidery for July 20, 2023

The Council approved a $1.55M disbursement and awarded the 2023 Reclamation and Overlay Project contract by a 5-1 vote, after declaring a petition against the project insufficient by the same margin. They also unanimously approved property tax abatements and a construction contract for Babcock Park improvements. Consent items included a temporary liquor license for Keepsake Cidery and several Juneteenth-related labor agreements with police and operating unions.

• Approved Consent Agenda including $1,553,123.93 disbursements, temporary liquor license for Keepsake Cidery, and Juneteenth MOAs with LELS Sergeants Unit 331, LELS Patrol Unit 293, IUOE General Unit, and IUOE Utility Unit (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-049 for property tax abatements for Babcock Park warming house/pavilion construction and field updates (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-050 accepting bids and awarding contract for Babcock Park Warming House/Pavilion Construction and Field Upgrades (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-051 declaring insufficiency of petition (5-1, Ness dissenting)
• Approved Resolution 2023-052 accepting bids and awarding contract for 2023 Reclamation and Overlay Project (5-1, Ness dissenting)
• Heard presentation from Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation regarding 2024 budget request of $5,000 (discussion only)
• Received update and gave input on Lincoln Parkway Pedestrian and Walking Study by Greenvale Elementary (discussion only)
• Council recessed twice and extended meeting until 9:15 p.m.

Park & Recreation Advisory Board

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board will discuss financing options for the Park and Recreation Capital Investment Plan and review staff reports on parks, recreation, and community education.

• Discussion of Park and Recreation Capital Investment Plan financing options
• Review of June 2023 Park Report
• Review of June 2023 Recreation Report
• Review of June 2023 Community Ed Report
• Approval of May 1st, 2023 PRAB Meeting Minutes

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board held a regular meeting on June 5, 2023, approving the agenda, previous minutes, and adjournment without any substantive decisions. The main agenda item was an update and discussion on financing options for the Park and Recreation Capital Investment Plan, but no action was taken on the matter.

• Approved agenda with amendment to add Open Public Comment (7-0)
• Approved May 1, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Approved adjournment at 7:25pm (7-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will consider and possibly approve the purchase of 308 Cherry Street via Resolution 2023-0472. They will also receive an update on the 2024 Board and Commission appointment process and hear staff updates on outstanding housing-related items. Public comment is allowed on agenda items.

• Consideration and possible approval of purchasing 308 Cherry Street (Resolution 2023-0472)
• Update on the 2024 Board and Commission appointment process and vacancies
• Staff updates on HRA/City housing-related items
• Approval of May 4, 2023 HRA meeting minutes
• Commissioner training series update

City Council

The City Council will review bids and pending actions for the 2023 Reclamation and Overlay Project, including a resolution and a reverse referendum petition. The meeting includes discussion of project process and alternate options, such as removing Heritage Street and Lincoln Street from the project.

• Resolution for 2023 Reclamation & Overlay Project
• Bid tab (STRT2023-A69)
• Reverse referendum petition received
• Letter of deficiencies
• Alternate option map removing Heritage St and Lincoln St

At a special work session, the Northfield City Council reviewed bids for the 2023 Reclamation and Overlay Project and discussed options including awarding the bid as-is, seeking a change order, or rejecting bids. No formal vote was taken, but the council reached consensus to present the award of the bid as-is at the June 6 regular council meeting.

• Discussed 2023 Reclamation and Overlay Project bids and pending actions; no formal vote taken.
• Reached consensus to present award of the bid as-is at the June 6 Council Meeting.
• Adjourned by unanimous vote (7-0).

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will consider adopting a Fair Housing Statement recommended by a joint subcommittee of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Human Rights Commission. Commissioners will also receive an update from the Beyond the Land Acknowledgement Statement Committee on seeking partnerships with Native communities. Other agenda items include discussion of member roles and appointment processes, and a Pride in the Park subcommittee update.

• Consider Fair Housing Statement as recommended by the Joint Subcommittee of the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Human Rights Commission
• Update from the Beyond the Land Acknowledgement Statement Committee Seeking Partnership with Native Communities
• Discussion about member roles and appointment process in boards and committees
• Pride in the Park Subcommittee Update

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will review updates regarding the Northfield Comprehensive Plan and Riverfront Enhancement processes. The board will also review April 2023 financials and economic development project updates.

• Northfield Comprehensive Plan and Riverfront Enhancement Process update
• April 2023 EDA Financials and Loan Report
• Economic Development Project Updates
• Future meeting schedule

The Economic Development Authority approved the agenda and the April 24 meeting minutes. The board received updates on the Comprehensive Plan and Riverfront Enhancement, and reviewed financial reports. No substantive actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (6-1)
• Approved April 24 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Received Comprehensive Plan update
• Received Riverfront Enhancement update
• Reviewed April 2023 financials
• Reviewed April 2023 loan report
• Reviewed EDA future meeting schedule
• Adjourned at 7:18pm (7-0)

Planning Commission

The Northfield Planning Commission will hold a work session to review the Riverfront Enhancement Action Plan, focusing on community engagement and findings.

• Riverfront Action Plan update and discussion (Item 23-11761)
• Community engagement overview and findings

The Planning Commission held a work session to review updates on the Riverfront Action Plan. Consultants presented community engagement data and design ideas. No formal decisions were made during this session.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider conditional use permits for three separate 1MW community solar garden projects proposed by MN CSG 2019-77 LLC, DIVOCSG 17 LLC, and SV CSG Northfield LLC. The commission will also discuss proposed Bridge Square plans and receive staff updates including a downtown parking study. The meeting includes routine approvals of minutes and public comment periods.

• Public hearing for conditional use permit for 1MW community solar garden by MN CSG 2019-77 LLC
• Public hearing for conditional use permit for 1MW community solar garden by DIVOCSG 17 LLC
• Public hearing for conditional use permit for 1MW community solar garden by SV CSG Northfield LLC
• Presentation and discussion of proposed Bridge Square plans
• Staff updates including downtown Northfield parking study

The Planning Commission approved conditional use permits for three 1MW community solar garden projects in Northfield. The approvals included specific changes to permit conditions regarding wildlife corridors and access points.

• Approved PC Res. 2023-002 for MN CSG 2019-77 LLC (7-0)
• Approved PC Res. 2023-003 for DIVOCSG 17 LLC (7-0)
• Approved PC Res. 2023-004 for SV CSG Northfield LLC (7-0)
• Approved April 20, 2023 PC Meeting Minutes (7-0)
• Approved agenda for May 18, 2023 meeting (7-0)
• Closed public hearing for MN CSG 2019-77 LLC (7-0)
• Closed public hearing for DIVOCSG 17 LLC (7-0)
• Closed public hearing for SV CSG Northfield LLC (7-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will review a draft revision of the Sustainable Building Policy and the 2021-2022 Annual Report of the Carbon Reduction Fund. The meeting also includes a 2023 work plan update and a monthly opinion piece on climate change.

• Draft revision of Sustainable Building Policy
• Annual Report of Carbon Reduction Fund (2021-2022)
• 2023 Work Plan Update
• Northfield News Monthly Series Opinion Piece

The commission unanimously approved a revised Sustainable Building Policy and supported a high-level study on a District Energy System. Other actions included approving a draft Green Book for the Green Welcome Packet and an opinion piece by the youth representative. All votes were 8-0.

• Approved agenda as amended (8-0)
• Approved April 19, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved supporting a high-level study for a District Energy System (8-0)
• Approved draft revision of Sustainable Building Policy (8-0)
• Approved draft Green Book for Green Welcome Packet (8-0)
• Approved youth representative's opinion piece for Northfield News (8-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider several items including annexation resolutions with Greenvale Township and feasibility reports for upcoming road projects. The agenda also includes a discussion on the Downtown Flood Study Phase 2 and a parklet installation proposal.

• Disbursements totaling $1,068,282.57
• Annexation resolutions for Hauberg Woods and Water Tower Property with Greenvale Township
• Resolution of support for Post Holdings Inc pedestrian crossing improvements on TH 19
• Feasibility report for 2024 College Street and Water Street areas reconstruction
• Feasibility report for 2024 Jefferson Parkway West mill and overlay project

The council approved a consent agenda that included $1,068,282.57 in disbursements, two orderly annexation resolutions with Greenvale Township, and a temporary liquor license. They unanimously supported a pedestrian crossing improvement resolution for Trunk Highway 19 and ordered feasibility reports for the 2024 College Street/Water Street reconstruction and Jefferson Parkway West mill/overlay projects. After debate, they authorized a parklet at the northwest corner of Fifth and Division Street through Fall 2023 on a 6-1 vote, with Council Member Ness dissenting. The council also discussed Phase 2 of the Downtown Flood Study but took no action.

• Approved Consent Agenda including $1,068,282.57 disbursements, orderly annexations for Hauberg Woods and Water Tower Property, and temporary liquor license for Chapel Brewing (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-044 supporting Post Holdings pedestrian crossing improvements on TH 19 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-045 ordering feasibility report for 2024 College Street and Water Street Areas Reconstruction (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-046 ordering feasibility report for 2024 Jefferson Parkway West Mill and Overlay and Mill Towns Trail Improvements (unanimous)
• Authorized parklet installation at NW corner of Fifth and Division Street through Fall 2023 (6-1; motion to deny failed for lack of a second)

Charter Commission

The Charter Commission will consider a resolution recommending a procedure for City Council action on charter provisions. They will also discuss remote meeting appearances, a committee report on Charter Section 3.5, a review of commission policies, and a conduct policy. Citizens may comment.

• Resolution on procedure for City Council action on charter provisions (6.A)
• Discussion of remote appearance rules for meetings (6.B)
• Committee report on Charter Section 3.5 (6.C)
• Committee report on review of Charter Commission policies (6.D)
• New business: Charter Commission Conduct Policy (6.E)

The Charter Commission directed City Administrator Martig to research how to implement remote participation in meetings with minimal staff work and expense, passing 5-1. They also approved the agenda and previous meeting minutes. A citizen accused the mayor of falsifying documents, but no action was taken. Discussion continued on updating charter vacancy rules.

• Approved May 11, 2023 meeting agenda (6-0)
• Approved March 9, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Directed City Administrator to return with specifics on remote participation requirements (5-1)
• Continued discussion on Charter Section 3.5 vacancy rules; no vote taken

Library Board

The Northfield Library Board will discuss and update its mission, vision, and values statements and consider an interim appointment for the Poet Laureate. The meeting will also include a report from the Poet Laureate and staff updates.

• Discuss and update Library Mission, Vision, and Values Statements
• Poet Laureate Interim Appointment
• Northfield Poet Laureate Report April 2023
• Staff Update: Pride scholarship, Directors report, and circulation statistics
• Board Member and Commissioner Reports

The Library Board approved the interim Poet Laureate candidates nominated by Rob Hardy (4-0). The board also approved the amended meeting agenda and the April 12 minutes (3-0, with one member not present). A discussion on updating the library's mission, vision, and values statements was held, with two more sessions planned.

• Approved amended agenda (3-0, 1 not present)
• Approved April 12, 2023 Library Board minutes (3-0, 1 not present)
• Approved interim Poet Laureate candidates (4-0)

City Council

The Northfield City Council will review updates to the Emergency Operations Plan and discuss police officer recruitment and retention. The meeting also includes a work session on the Riverfront Action Plan and a governance effectiveness review.

• Emergency Operations Plan Update
• Riverfront Action Plan Update and Discussion
• Police Officer Labor Force Availability Discussion
• Governance Effectiveness Review
• Board Commission Youth Involvement Comparison

The City Council held a work session to discuss updates on the Emergency Operations Plan, police recruitment and retention, and the Riverfront Action Plan. No formal votes were taken on these items.

• Discussed Emergency Operations Plan updates (2023)
• Discussed police officer labor force availability and recruitment
• Discussed Riverfront Action Plan progress
• Discussed board and commission governance effectiveness review
• Agreed to form a governance review committee
• Adjourned meeting at 8:58 p.m. (7-0 vote)

Arts & Culture Commission

The Arts & Culture Commission will discuss the design development of Bridge Square and review the April 2023 report from the interim Poet Laureate. The body is also set to approve funding for Hispanic Heritage Month banners and review staff updates on public art signs.

• Discuss Bridge Square Design Development
• Review Northfield Poet Laureate Report April 2023
• Approve 1% for the arts funding for Hispanic Heritage Month Banners
• Review staff updates on public art and creative placemaking
• Review proofs for new signs for The Gardens

The Arts & Culture Commission approved $1,500 for the design of Hispanic Heritage Month banners. The commission also appointed two interim Poet Laureates and reviewed design proposals for Bridge Square Park.

• Approved $1,500 in 1% for the arts funding for Hispanic Heritage Month Banner artist (7-0)
• Approved appointment of Becky Boling and D.E. Green as interim Poet Laureates (7-0)
• Approved May 8, 2023 agenda (7-0)
• Approved April 10, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority is holding a closed meeting. The body will develop or consider offers and counteroffers for the purchase of real property.

• Purchase of real property located at 308 Cherry Street North

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority met in a closed session under Minnesota law to develop or consider offers for the purchase of real property at 308 Cherry Street North. No votes or public decisions were recorded; the meeting adjourned after the closed session.

• No substantive decisions made during public portion; closed session held for property negotiation strategy

Housing & Redevelopment Authority

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority will receive a presentation on the Northcountry Cooperative Foundation (NCF) Concept Plan. The board will also approve previous meeting minutes and receive staff updates on housing-related items. Public comment is invited on any agenda or non-agenda topic.

• Presentation of Northcountry Cooperative Foundation (NCF) Concept Plan
• Approval of April 6, 2023 HRA meeting minutes
• Staff updates on outstanding HRA/City and housing items (including Commissioner Training Series and Stantec response)

The Housing & Redevelopment Authority approved a motion to move forward with a limited, non-binding exclusive development agreement with Northcountry Cooperative Foundation for a proposed 50-100 home co-op project. The board also approved the April 6, 2023 meeting minutes and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved April 6, 2023 HRA meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved motion to move forward with non-binding exclusive development agreement with Northcountry Cooperative Foundation (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:33pm (6-0)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a work session to discuss the proposed rehabilitation of Bridge Square, including a review of design letters and comments from the State Historic Preservation Office.

• Discussion of proposed rehabilitation of Bridge Square (TMP-99001) with review of 106 Group design letter, HPC comments on Concept Plan 3.10.22, and SHPO comments.

The Heritage Preservation Commission held a work session to discuss the proposed rehabilitation of Bridge Square. The design team presented a plan for the project, which is currently about 40% developed and estimated to be completed in July. The commission discussed the integration of open green spaces and pedestrian safety.

• Discussed proposed Bridge Square rehabilitation plans (work session)
• Presented design plan estimated for completion in July 2023
• Commissioners raised concerns about proposed pergola design

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will consider seven Certificates of Appropriateness for changes to historic properties, including a deck, steps, an accessory structure, a demolition, and three signage requests. Public hearings and consent agenda items are also scheduled.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for minor amendment of deck at 300 Division St S. (Jacob Sitze Building)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for steps at 302 Division St S. (Fire Station and City Hall)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for accessory structure at 519 Division St S. (Northfield Armory)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for demolition of deck at 411 Division St S. (Hamre Building)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for signage at 508 Division St S. (Onstad Building 2), 502 Division St S. (Holland Block), and 105 5th St E. (McClaughry Tenement)

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved six Certificates of Appropriateness for minor projects, including decks, pergolas, and signage, at 519 and 411 Division St S. and 508, 502 Division St S., and 105 5th St E. The meeting also approved the agenda and minutes.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (6-0)
• Approved pergola at 519 Division St S. (6-0)
• Approved demolition of deck at 411 Division St S. (6-0)
• Approved signage at 508 Division St S. (6-0)
• Approved signage at 502 Division St S. (6-0)
• Approved signage at 105 5th St E. (6-0)

City Council

The City Council is holding a closed meeting to evaluate the performance of City Administrator Ben Martig. This session is conducted pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(a).

• Performance evaluation of City Administrator Ben Martig

The City Council met in closed session on May 2, 2023, to evaluate the performance of City Administrator Ben Martig under Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, subd. 3(a). The meeting was closed because Mr. Martig did not request it be open. No substantive decisions or votes on policy were made; the only actions were procedural motions to close and adjourn.

City Council

The Council will consider action on the evaluation of City Administrator Ben Martig, including potential salary adjustments. They will also discuss approving the transit hub building exterior and authorizing plans and specifications, and review the proposed 2024-2025 budget timeline. Consent agenda items include $1,402,559.56 in disbursements, temporary liquor licenses, and a banner policy amendment adding Hispanic Heritage.

• Consider action on City Administrator Ben Martig performance evaluation (Res. 2023-041)
• Approve transit hub building exterior and authorize plans and specifications
• Disbursements totaling $1,402,559.56
• Temporary liquor licenses for Defeat of Jesse James Days
• Amend Public Works Policy 9.01 to add Hispanic Heritage banner type

The Council unanimously approved a two-step salary increase for City Administrator Ben Martig, moving him to Step 8 of pay grade AA, after a closed performance evaluation. Other actions included approving the consent agenda with items such as disbursements, temporary liquor licenses for the Defeat of Jesse James Days Committee, and miscellaneous/concessions licenses for FiftyNorth Popcorn Wagon and Northfield Youth Baseball Association. The Council also approved the transit hub building exterior design and authorized preparation of plans and specifications. The quarterly police report was presented and the proposed 2024-2025 budget timeline was discussed without a vote.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, disbursements totaling $1,402,559.56, temporary liquor licenses, miscellaneous licenses, banner policy amendment for Hispanic Heritage, and professional service agreement with JLG Architects (7-0)
• Approved Resolution 2023-041 increasing City Administrator Ben Martig's salary to Step 8 of pay grade AA, effective May 2, 2023 (7-0)
• Approved transit hub building exterior design and authorized preparation of plans and specifications (7-0)

Park & Recreation Advisory Board

The Northfield Park & Recreation Advisory Board meets May 1, 2023 to consider the Northfield Soccer Association's request to transfer maintenance of Spring Creek Soccer Fields back to the city. The board will also receive updates on riverfront enhancement plans for Central Riverfront and Riverside/Lions and Ames Park, and discuss Bridge Square design development.

• Consider approval of Northfield Soccer Association turning back maintenance of Spring Creek Soccer Fields to the city.
• Riverfront Enhancement Action Plan – Central Riverfront update.
• Riverfront Enhancement Action Plan – Riverside/Lions and Ames Park master planning.
• Discuss Bridge Square design development.
• Staff reports on parks, recreation, and community education.

The Park & Recreation Advisory Board voted 6-1 to approve the Northfield Soccer Association's request to return maintenance of Spring Creek Soccer Fields to the city, with an estimated annual cost of $20,000. The decision transfers responsibility for mowing and upkeep from the association to the city's Streets and Parks Department.

• Approved Northfield Soccer Association turning back maintenance of Spring Creek Soccer Fields to the city (6-1, enactment M2023-075)

Human Rights Commission

The Human Rights Commission will meet to discuss member roles and the appointment process for boards and committees. The meeting includes a review of the Council-approved Board and Commission Rules of Business.

• Discussion of member roles and appointment process in boards and committees
• Review of Board and Commission Rules of Business (Council Approved Version 04-04-23)
• Review of HRC Request Seeking Partnership with Native Communities (02-10-22)

The Human Rights Commission continued a discussion on youth voting rights and appointment processes. The group voted to continue the discussion at the next meeting and requested Mayor Pownell attend to provide additional information. The meeting also approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved March 22, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Continued discussion on youth voting rights and appointment processes (4-0)
• Requested Mayor Pownell attend next meeting to provide information (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:03 p.m. (4-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will review financial reports and several business programs. The meeting includes a presentation on the Riverwalk Market Fair 2023 start of season and consideration of a micro-grant application for Minnesota Soulstice, LLC.

• Riverwalk Market Fair 2023 Start of Season Presentation
• Micro-Grant Application for Minnesota Soulstice, LLC
• University of Minnesota Extension: Business Retention & Expansion program update
• Review of the Façade Improvement Grant Program
• MCCD Open to Business Report

The EDA voted 5-0 to approve a micro-grant application for Minnesota Soulstice, LLC to enhance the interior and exterior of the business' building. Other agenda items were presentations or discussions with no formal votes, including updates on the Riverwalk Market Fair, the University of Minnesota Extension business retention program, and the Façade Improvement Grant Program.

• Approved micro-grant for Minnesota Soulstice, LLC (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review the 2022-2024 work plan and a draft scope of services for the Comprehensive Plan Update. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and a public comment period.

• Approval of March 16, 2023 ZBA Meeting Minutes
• Review of 2022-2024 Planning Commission Work Plan
• Review of Comprehensive Plan Update Scope of Services
• Public Comment period (2 minutes per speaker)
• Staff updates include CHS Northfield Parking Study

The Planning Commission approved amended 2022-2024 Action Plan after voting to add reviews of parking minimums, the Climate Action Plan, and inclusive zoning regulations. A subcommittee was formed to continue work on the Comprehensive Plan update, but no decision on that plan was made. All votes were 6-0.

• Approved agenda as amended (6-0)
• Approved March 16, 2023 ZBA meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved March 16, 2023 Planning Commission minutes (6-0)
• Added review of parking minimum regulations to work plan (6-0)
• Added Climate Action Plan to work plan (6-0)
• Added consideration of inclusive zoning regulations to work plan (6-0)
• Approved 2022-2024 Planning Commission Action Plan as amended (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:06 p.m. (6-0)

Environmental Quality Commission

The Environmental Quality Commission will receive presentations on Partners in Energy 2.0 and proposed updates to the Sustainable Building Policy. They will also review the 2023 work plan and discuss a No Mow May opinion piece for the Northfield News. The meeting includes public comment and staff updates.

• Presentation on Partners in Energy 2.0 support
• Presentation on recommended updates to the Sustainable Building Policy
• 2023 Work Plan update and Green Book draft review
• Northfield News monthly series opinion piece on No Mow May

The Environmental Quality Commission voted 8-0 to approve a Memorandum of Understanding for the next phase of the Partners in Energy program. They also approved an opinion piece promoting No Mow May, with recommended changes. Commissioners received updates on the 2023 Work Plan, including plastic reduction, urban forestry, and climate action tracking.

• Approved agenda as presented (8-0)
• Approved March 15, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Approved moving forward with Partners in Energy 2.0 Memorandum of Understanding (8-0)
• Approved No Mow May opinion piece with recommended changes (8-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:38 p.m. (8-0)

City Council

The City Council will meet to discuss the framework for Northfield branding and review brand survey results. The session includes a review of Resolution 2022-054.

• Branding Advisory Committee Engagement Session
• Review of Resolution 2022-054
• Discussion of Framework for Northfield Branding
• Review of Brand Survey Results

The City Council held a work session on the Northfield branding project. The meeting was extended past its scheduled end time to allow for the full discussion. The council voted to adjourn the meeting at 9:41 p.m.

• Extended meeting until completion (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:41 p.m. (7-0)