St. Francis public meetings in 2024
45 substantive meetings from 2024, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding an amendment to the cannabis zoning code and 2024 code revisions. The body will also review minutes from the October 16, 2024 meeting.
- Public hearing on Cannabis Zoning Code Amendment
- Public hearing on 2024 Code Revisions
City Council
The City Council will consider a second reading of an ordinance to regulate cannabis business registration. The meeting also includes discussions on memoranda of agreement for police officers and sergeants, as well as the Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer and Municipal Water Plan.
- Second reading of ordinance to regulate Cannabis Business Registration
- Memorandum of Agreement for LELS 319 Police Officers
- Memorandum of Agreement for LELS 411 Sergeants
- Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer and Municipal Water Plan
- Resolution 2024-46 establishing 2025 polling locations and mail ballots
The St. Francis City Council adopted Ordinance 338 regulating cannabis businesses and approved a resolution for its publication. It also approved two memoranda of agreement extending holiday hours for police officers and sergeants, and approved the comprehensive sanitary sewer and municipal water plan. All votes were unanimous 5-0.
- Adopted Ordinance 338 regulating cannabis business registration (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-47 for summary publication of Ordinance 338 (5-0)
- Approved Memorandum of Agreement for LELS 319 Police Officers extending holiday hours to 8 hours on Christmas Eve (5-0)
- Approved Memorandum of Agreement for LELS 411 Sergeants extending holiday hours to 8 hours on Christmas Eve (5-0)
- Approved Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer and Municipal Water Plan (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including polling locations, hiring, equipment trade-in, and pay applications (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (7 roll-call votes)
City Council
The council will hold a public hearing on the proposed 2025 budget and consider resolutions to certify taxes payable in 2025 and adopt the budget. Other business includes second reading of a fee schedule ordinance, approval of police labor agreements, and first reading of a cannabis business registration ordinance. The council will also discuss Highway 47 reconstruction and other items.
- Public hearing on 2025 Proposed Budget with Resolution 2024-42 (tax certification) and Resolution 2024-43 (budget adoption)
- Second reading of Ordinance 337 amending the city fee schedule (Chapter 2-9-1)
- Approval of LELS 319 (Police Officers) and LELS Local 411 (Sergeants) labor agreements
- First reading of Ordinance 338 to regulate cannabis businesses (Chapter 6, Section 13)
- Discussion of Hwy 47 Reconstruction – City Infrastructure
The St. Francis City Council adopted the 2025 budget and certified taxes payable in 2025, both by a 3-1 vote with Councilmember Vogel dissenting. The council also approved a fee schedule update, police union contracts, a legislative services agreement for Highway 47 reconstruction, and a first-reading cannabis business registration ordinance. A public hearing on the budget included a resident's concern about a property tax increase.
- Adopted Resolution 2024-42 certifying taxes payable in 2025 (3-1)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-43 adopting the 2025 budget (3-1)
- Adopted Ordinance 337 amending the fee schedule (4-0)
- Approved Resolution 2024-44 for summary publication of Ordinance 337 (4-0)
- Accepted LELS 319 union labor agreement for police officers (4-0)
- Accepted LELS Local 411 labor agreement for sergeants (4-0)
- Approved legislative services agreement with Lockridge Grindle Nauen for Hwy 47 reconstruction (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 338 first reading to regulate cannabis businesses (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (9 roll-call votes)
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will hold second readings on an ordinance removing taxicab regulations from city code and an ordinance rezoning 3503 Bridge St NW from B-1 to the Rum River Preserve Planned Unit Development. New business includes a Communication Strategic Plan and a first reading of a fee schedule amendment. Consent agenda items include a compensation study implementation and financial policies.
- Ordinance 335: Removing Chapter 6-13 Taxicabs from City Code (2nd reading)
- Ordinance 336 & Resolution 2024-41: Rezoning 3503 Bridge St NW to Rum River Preserve PUD (2nd reading)
- Ordinance 337: Amending fee schedule (1st reading)
- Communication Strategic Plan discussion
- Consent agenda: Compensation Study Phase I Implementation, Financial Policies
The St. Francis City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance 335 removing taxicab regulations from city code and Ordinance 336 rezoning 3503 Bridge St NW from B-1 to the Rum River Preserve PUD. They also approved the Communication Strategic Plan and the first reading of a fee schedule update. No public comments or hearings were held.
- Adopted Ordinance 335 removing Chapter 6-13 Taxicabs from City Code (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-40 authorizing summary publication of Ordinance 335 (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 336 rezoning 3503 Bridge St NW from B-1 to Rum River Preserve PUD (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-41 authorizing summary publication of Ordinance 336 (5-0)
- Adopted the Communication Strategic Plan (5-0)
- Adopted first reading of Ordinance 337 amending fee schedule (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will meet on November 12, 2024 at 5:30 PM. After routine items, the council will conduct a canvass of the 2024 General Election results. No other business is listed.
- Canvass 2024 General Election Results
The St. Francis City Council held a special meeting to canvass the 2024 General Election results, approving them unanimously. The results confirm Mark Vogel as the newly elected mayor and Amy Faanes and Joe Muehlbauer as councilmembers. The meeting was procedural, with no other substantive decisions made.
- Approved special city council agenda (5-0)
- Canvassed 2024 General Election results (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
City Council
The St. Francis City Council is holding a special meeting primarily to canvass the certified results of the 2024 General Election. This is a procedural step to officially confirm vote totals.
- Canvass 2024 General Election Results
The St. Francis City Council unanimously approved the canvass of the 2024 General Election results, confirming Mark Vogel as mayor and Amy Faanes and Joe Muehlbauer as councilmembers. The meeting was procedural, with no other substantive decisions made.
- Approved special city council agenda (5-0)
- Canvassed 2024 General Election results (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (2 roll-call votes)
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will approve consent agenda items including contract renewals and personnel updates. The body will hold a public hearing on special assessments and consider removing the city's taxicab ordinance.
- Embedded Systems Contract Renewal
- Rink Management Agreement
- Oak Grove Water/Wastewater Service Agreement
- Removal of taxicab ordinance (Ordinance 335)
- Rum River Preserve of St. Francis PUD (Ordinance 336)
The St. Francis City Council voted 4-1 to approve the separation of firefighter Jon Faanes, who had been below the 20% call attendance requirement for three consecutive quarters. The council also approved the first reading of the Rum River Preserve PUD, a $2.1M donation to the Ambassadors, and tabled a compensation study discussion to a future work session.
- Approved separation of firefighter Jon Faanes (4-1)
- Approved $2.1M donation to St. Francis Ambassadors (3-2)
- Tabled compensation study discussion to work session (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-38 for special assessments (5-0)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 336 for Rum River Preserve PUD (5-0)
- Approved preliminary grading agreement for Rum River Preserve (5-0)
- Scheduled special meeting to canvass election results Nov 12 (5-0)
- Reopened and closed special assessment at 23462 University Ave (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (12 roll-call votes)
Parks Commission
The Parks Commission will meet to review updates on the Re-Leef Grant and the ice rink warming house. The body will also hold discussions regarding Rum River Park and disc golf.
- Re-Leef Grant update
- Rum River Park discussion
- Ice Rink/Warming House update
- Disc Golf discussion
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to review several local updates and requests. The meeting includes discussions on a cannabis and THC ordinance and tobacco product licensing.
- Cannabis & THC Ordinance
- Tobacco Product License
- Time Capsule update
- Donation request from Ambassadors
During the work session, the City Council reached consensus to gather items for a community time capsule, fund a $1,400 donation for the Ambassadors float from the liquor store fund, update tobacco store distance requirements, and move forward with a cannabis and THC ordinance allowing one non-municipal retailer alongside a potential municipal dispensary.
- Directed staff to reach out to groups and individuals for time capsule items
- Agreed to provide a $1,400 donation for the Ambassadors float from the liquor store fund
- Consensus to update tobacco ordinance with a tobacco store definition, no store limit, and distance requirements of 1,000 feet from schools and 500 feet from daycares
- Consensus to move forward with cannabis and THC ordinance changes limiting non-municipal retailers to one store and matching tobacco distance requirements
Economic Development Authority
The St. Francis Economic Development Authority will elect its officers, approve minutes from May 3 and August 22, 2023, adopt the agenda, and consider a Letter of Intent from NorthShore Development along with the 2023 Annual Report.
- Letter of Intent – NorthShore Development
- 2023 Annual Report
- Approval of EDA minutes – May 3, 2023
- Approval of EDA minutes – August 22, 2023
- Election of officers
City Council
The City Council will conduct a public hearing and second reading for an interim ordinance to prohibit cannabis businesses within the city. The body will also review a code enforcement extension request and police department reports.
- Second reading of Ordinance 334 prohibiting cannabis businesses
- Authorization to post for part-time Training Captain position
- Stahl Construction Pay Applications No. 13
- Code Enforcement Extension Request
- Police Department 3rd Quarter report
The St. Francis City Council adopted Ordinance 334, an emergency interim ordinance prohibiting cannabis businesses in the city and establishing a study period, with a 5-0 vote. The council also approved a code enforcement extension for a property owner until January 10, 2025, with an alternate date of May 1, 2025, for weather-related delays. The consent agenda, including the resignation of Captain Zach Goers and authorization to post for the position, was approved 5-0. No other substantive decisions were made.
- Adopted Ordinance 334, emergency interim ordinance prohibiting cannabis businesses and establishing a study period (5-0)
- Approved code enforcement extension until January 10, 2025, with alternate date of May 1, 2025 for weather delays (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including resignation of Captain Zach Goers and authorization to post for Training Captain (part-time) (5-0)
- Approved regular city council agenda (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission
The St. Francis Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on the Rum River Preserve Planned Unit Development. The meeting also includes routine business such as adopting the agenda, approving minutes from the September 18, 2024 meeting, and a period for public comment. No other specific decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Public hearing – Rum River Preserve Planned Unit Development
- Approval of minutes from the September 18, 2024 meeting
- Adoption of the meeting agenda
- Public comment period
- Routine items (call to order, roll call, regular business)
The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding the Rum River Preserve Planned Unit Development (PUD). Commissioners discussed concerns regarding traffic, pedestrian safety, and the inclusion of multiple drive-thrus before voting to recommend approval of the project with conditions and findings of fact provided by City Staff.
- Approved agenda (6-0)
- Approved September 18, 2024 minutes (6-0)
- Recommended approval of Rum River Preserve PUD with conditions (6-0)
- Adjourned meeting (6-0)
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will hold a regular meeting to approve or discuss several items, including a site plan for the First Baptist Church expansion and an interim use permit amendment for site grading at the Richard D. Schroeder Advanced Ammunition Range. The meeting will also include a public hearing and reports from city departments.
- First Baptist Church Expansion – Site Plan (Resolution 2024-35)
- Grading Interim Use Permit Amendment for Richard D. Schroeder Advanced Ammunition Range (Resolution 2024-36)
- Change Orders – City Hall / Fire Station Project
- Rivers Edge 5th Drainage and Utility Vacation
- Tow Services RFP
The St. Francis City Council approved a site plan for the First Baptist Church expansion and an interim use permit amendment for site grading at the Richard D. Schroeder Advanced Ammunition Range. Both resolutions passed unanimously. The council also approved the consent agenda, which included several routine items, and scheduled a work session for November 12.
- Approved First Baptist Church expansion site plan (5-0)
- Approved interim use permit amendment for site grading at Richard D. Schroeder Advanced Ammunition Range (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, hiring, policy manual, change orders, plats, election judges, towing RFP, and claims (5-0)
- Scheduled work session for November 12 at 5:30 pm at Community Center
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission
The St. Francis Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a Grading Interim Use Permit Amendment. Commissioners will also discuss the First Baptist Church Expansion site plan. Routine items include adopting the agenda and approving minutes from the July 17, 2024 meeting.
- Public hearing on Grading Interim Use Permit Amendment
- Review of First Baptist Church Expansion – Site Plan
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will vote on two emergency interim ordinances. Ordinance 333 temporarily prohibits the issuance of new licenses to sell tobacco products. Ordinance 334 temporarily bans the operation of cannabis businesses in the city and creates a study period. The council will also consider routine consent‑agenda items such as minutes, construction pay applications, and a joint powers agreement update.
- Ordinance 333 – interim ban on new tobacco‑product licenses
- Ordinance 334 – interim ban on cannabis businesses and study period
- Change Orders – City Hall / Fire Station Project
- Stahl Construction – Pay Applications No. 12 – labor & material
- URRWMO Joint Powers Agreement Update
The City Council adopted Ordinance 333, an emergency interim ordinance temporarily prohibiting new tobacco sales licenses, by a 4-1 vote. A separate interim ordinance to prohibit cannabis businesses was continued to the next meeting for a required public hearing. The consent agenda, including pay applications and change orders, was approved 5-0 after discussion.
- Adopted Ordinance 333, interim tobacco license moratorium (4-1)
- Continued cannabis business interim ordinance to next meeting (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including pay applications and change orders (5-0)
- Approved regular meeting agenda (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will consider preliminary approval of the proposed 2025 tax levy and set a date for the budget public hearing. Members will also discuss a moratorium on CBD and THC. Other business includes adjusting the tax levy for bonded indebtedness.
- Resolution 2024-33: Preliminary approval of proposed 2025 tax levy
- Resolution 2024-32: Adjusting debt service tax levy for bonded indebtedness
- CBD/THC Moratorium discussion
- Resolution 2024-31: Declaring surplus property
- Change orders for City Hall / Fire Station Project
The City Council approved a preliminary 2025 tax levy and set a public hearing for December 2, 2024, with a 3-1 vote (Robinson dissenting). The council also approved a resolution adjusting the debt service tax levy for bonded indebtedness. A change order for the City Hall/Fire Station project was tabled to allow staff to negotiate with the contractor. The council discussed a CBD/THC moratorium and scheduled a work session for October 28.
- Adopted Resolution 2024-32 adjusting the debt service tax levy for bonded indebtedness (4-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-33 preliminary approval of 2025 tax levy and setting budget public hearing for Dec. 2 (3-1)
- Approved consent agenda items A-B and D-H (4-0)
- Tabled change order for City Hall/Fire Station project to next meeting, directing staff to negotiate with contractor (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will hold a second reading for an ordinance to amend the Rivers Edge Planned Unit Development. The body will also review a compensation study and job description updates. Other items include police policy approvals and construction pay applications.
- Ordinance 332: Rivers Edge 7th Addition PUD Amendment (2nd Reading)
- Resolution 2024-30: Summary publication of Ordinance 332
- Stahl Construction Pay Applications No. 11
- 2025 HVAC Contract
- Compensation Study Overview
The St. Francis City Council approved the second reading of Ordinance 332 amending the Rivers Edge Planned Unit Development and authorized summary publication. They also approved revised job descriptions and authorized filling the Office Assistant/Accounting Clerk position. The consent agenda was approved, including a Lexipol policy and training agreement. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a presentation on a compensation study and a request from ACEIT for a future presentation.
- Adopted Ordinance 332 amending Rivers Edge PUD (4-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-30 authorizing summary publication of Ordinance 332 (4-0)
- Approved revised job descriptions and authorized filling Office Assistant/Accounting Clerk position (4-0)
- Approved consent agenda including Lexipol agreement and firefighter hiring (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to review a concept plan for 3503 Bridge Street NW. Members will also discuss the 2025 HVAC contract, facility technician considerations, and the levy portion of the 2025 budget.
- Concept plan for 3503 Bridge Street NW
- 2025 HVAC contract discussion
- 2025 budget levy portion
The City Council held a work session and reached consensus on several items, though no formal votes were taken. They supported a concept plan for 3503 Bridge Street NW that keeps commercial development along Bridge Street with residential behind it, including a drive-thru and the current parking design. They also agreed to move forward with a 2025 HVAC services contract with Yale Mechanical, authorized staff to hire a Facility Technician, and decided to proceed with the 2025 levy without using reserve funds for now.
- Supported 3503 Bridge St NW concept plan with commercial frontage and residential behind (consensus)
- Approved moving forward with 2025 HVAC contract with Yale Mechanical (consensus)
- Authorized staff to hire a Facility Technician (consensus)
- Agreed to proceed with 2025 levy without drawing from reserves at this time (consensus)
Parks Commission
The St. Francis Parks Commission will meet to receive updates on the dog park and the hockey rink/warming house. The commission will also discuss two grant opportunities, the Releaf Grant and the EAB Grant, that could fund park projects. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.
- Dog Park Update
- Hockey Rink/Warming house update
- Releaf Grant discussion
- EAB Grant/Parks discussion
City Council
The City Council will hold public hearings regarding the 2025-2029 CIP and the Rivers Edge 7th Addition development. The body will also review a concept for 3503 Bridge Street and discuss labor negotiation strategies in a closed session.
- Public hearing and approval of CIP 2025-2029
- Rivers Edge 7th Addition: Ordinance 332, Resolution 2024-28, Resolution 2024-29, and Development Agreement
- Concept review for 3503 Bridge Street
- Turtle Ponds Revised Development Agreement
- Change orders for City Hall / Fire Station Project
The City Council approved the 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan and advanced the Rivers Edge 7th Addition by adopting the first reading of Ordinance 332, vacating an easement, approving the final plat, and approving the development agreement. A concept review for 3503 Bridge Street was discussed but not decided, with further discussion scheduled for a work session. The meeting also included a closed session for labor negotiations.
- Approved 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Plan (4-0)
- Adopted first reading of Ordinance 332 amending Rivers Edge PUD (4-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-28 vacating drainage and utility easement (4-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-29 approving final plat for Rivers Edge 7th Addition (4-0)
- Approved Development Agreement for Rivers Edge 7th Addition (4-0)
- Approved consent agenda items B-L (4-0)
- Approved consent agenda item A (3-0-1, Vogel abstained)
- Recessed to closed session for labor negotiations (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council is holding a special meeting to conduct interviews to fill a vacancy on the council.
- City Council interviews to fill vacancy
The City Council held interviews with three applicants to fill a vacancy on the council. Following the interviews, the council voted to appoint Mark Vogel to the seat for the remainder of the term ending December 31, 2024.
- Approved special City Council agenda (4-0)
- Appointed Mark Vogel to the vacant City Council seat (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission
The St. Francis Planning Commission is meeting to consider a public hearing on an amendment to the Rivers Edge Planned Unit Development (PUD) and to review a concept for the Hiller property. The agenda also includes routine items such as approving minutes and public comment.
- Public hearing on Rivers Edge PUD Amendment
- Concept review for Hiller Property
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will hold a regular meeting to approve the consent agenda, which includes payment of claims for construction and sewer maintenance. The council will also discuss a new compensation study and hold a public hearing. Additionally, the police department will present its quarterly report for the second quarter.
- Approval of Stahl Construction Pay Applications No. 10 for Labor & Material
- Review of City Hall/Fire Station Drainage Basin Fencing
- Approval of routine sewer system cleaning (Jetting) and Televising
- Discussion of Compensation Study
- Review of Police Department Policy Manual
The St. Francis City Council approved a compensation study from Abdo at a cost not to exceed $16,300, with all four members present voting in favor. The council also approved its consent agenda, which included prior meeting minutes, Stahl Construction pay applications, a police policy manual, election judge appointments, and payment of claims. No members of the public spoke, and there were no public hearings or old business items. The rest of the meeting consisted of reports and updates, including the police department's second-quarter report and the new City Hall/Fire Station project.
- Approved the regular meeting agenda (4-0)
- Approved the consent agenda, including July 1 minutes, Stahl Construction Pay Applications No. 10, police policy manual, election judges, and payment of claims (4-0)
- Approved a compensation study from Abdo at a cost not to exceed $16,300 (4-0)
- Adjourned the meeting at 6:29 p.m. (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss a resident utility matter identified as item 23211 Pederson. This meeting is scheduled for July 1, 2024, at the St. Francis Area Schools District Office.
- 23211 Pederson Resident Utility Discussion
The St. Francis City Council reached consensus at its July 1, 2024 work session to move forward with a third option in which the City would find a contractor so the resident at 23211 Pederson Drive can connect to City water after their well failed. No formal vote was recorded. Staff said the process would take 90 to 120 days and that Phase 1 costs would be split 60%/40%, with a rough estimate of about $250 a month per household over a 10-year assessment. Public Works Director Carpenter said he would get contractor bids and bring the information back for discussion of assessments.
- Reached council consensus to move forward with the third option: City finds a contractor for the resident at 23211 Pederson to hook up to City water
- No formal vote recorded; item was a work session discussion
- Staff to obtain contractor bids and bring information back for assessment discussion
City Council
The City Council will address several items via the consent agenda and new business. A public hearing regarding the 2nd Addition of the Rivers Edge Development has been cancelled.
- Authorization to purchase SCBA Compressor
- Dellwood River Park Riverbank Stabilization Project final pay estimate
- Change orders for City Hall / Fire Station Project
- Update to City Hall facility hours
- City of St. Francis Outlot Rain Garden Project
The City Council approved a grant agreement for a rain garden project at an outlot near 225th Street and updated City Hall operating hours. A public hearing for the Rivers Edge Development was cancelled. The council also approved a consent agenda covering previous minutes, police policies, and various payments.
- Approved updated City Hall hours (4-0)
- Approved grant agreement for Outlot Rain Garden Project (4-0)
- Cancelled public hearing for Rivers Edge Development easements
- Approved consent agenda including SCBA compressor purchase and Dellwood River Park payment (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will hold a work session to discuss the city budget and levy. Other discussion topics include city hall hours, facility technician considerations, and a compensation study.
- City Hall Hours Discussion
- Facility Technician Considerations
- Budget and Levy Discussion
- Compensation Study
The City Council reached a consensus to adjust City Hall hours and directed staff to gather more information regarding a potential facility technician position and a compensation study. Council members also reviewed the 2025 budget and levy, requesting further analysis on the impact of using reserve funds to offset potential tax increases. No final legislative actions were taken during this work session.
- Reached consensus to adjust City Hall hours
- Tabled discussion on creating a Facility Technician position
- Directed staff to analyze impact of using reserves on 2025 levy
- Scheduled August work session for budget discussions
- Supported maintaining 3% COLA pending contract negotiations
- Directed staff to obtain cost estimates for a compensation study
City Council
The City Council will consider a second reading of an ordinance to allow clinics and offices in the I-1 district. The meeting also includes a discussion regarding a vacancy on the City Council following the resignation of Robert Bauer.
- Resolution 2023-24: Quicksilver Street Surface Improvement contract award
- Public Hearing: Vista Prairie at Eagle Point Conduit Bond revenue note approval
- Ordinance 331: Zoning amendment for clinics and offices in the I-1 district
- Resolution 2024-26: Declaring a City Council vacancy due to Robert Bauer's resignation
- Authorization to purchase gear extractors
The City Council unanimously approved a host agreement for the Vista Prairie at Eagle Point senior housing conduit bond, clarifying that St. Francis assumes no financial liability. They also passed Ordinance 331 to allow medical, dental, and therapeutic clinics in the I-1 zoning district. Additionally, the Council declared a vacancy following Councilmember Robert Bauer's resignation and scheduled a special meeting to fill the seat.
- Approved Resolution 2024-25 for Vista Prairie senior housing bond host agreement (5-0)
- Approved Ordinance 331 allowing clinics in I-1 district (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-24 authorizing publication of Ordinance 331 (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-26 declaring Council vacancy due to Bauer resignation (5-0)
- Approved Consent Agenda including Stahl Construction payments and Quicksilver Street project (5-0)
- Scheduled Special Meeting for July 29 to fill Council vacancy
- Scheduled Work Session for July 1 to discuss well water issues
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
City Council
The council will consider a zoning ordinance amendment for the I-1 Clinic district and a preliminary plat for Patriot Parkway. The meeting also includes a consent agenda covering animal control, firefighter hiring, and surplus property disposal.
- Ordinance 331: Amending Zoning Code to allow clinics and offices in the I-1 district
- Resolution 2024-22: Preliminary plat for Patriot Parkway development
- Resolution 2024-21: Final plat for the Village of St. Francis City Hall Addition
- Resolution 2024-20: Declaring and authorizing disposal of surplus property
- Hiring of a part-time firefighter
The St. Francis City Council approved the first reading of Ordinance 331, which would allow clinics and offices, including medical, dental, and therapeutic, as a permitted use in the I-1 district. The council also adopted Resolution 2024-21 approving the final plat for the Village of St. Francis City Hall Addition and Resolution 2024-22 approving the preliminary plat for the Patriot Parkway development with conditions and findings of fact. All votes were 5-0. Councilmember Robert Bauer announced his resignation will be coming shortly as he will be moving.
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 331 allowing clinics and offices as a permitted use in the I-1 district (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-21 approving final plat for the Village of St. Francis City Hall Addition (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-22 approving preliminary plat for Patriot Parkway development with conditions and findings of fact (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including Resolution 2024-20 declaring surplus property and authorizing disposal (5-0)
- Approved the regular meeting agenda (5-0)
- Adjourned the meeting (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will conduct second readings for amendments to the solar farm zoning ordinance and the recreational motor vehicles ordinance. The council is also scheduled to review the 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report.
- Ordinance 329: Solar farm zoning amendment in the I-2 District
- Ordinance 330: Recreational motor vehicles ordinance amendment
- Review of the 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report
- Change orders for the City Hall/Fire Station Project
- Dollar General #23780 tobacco license renewal
The St. Francis City Council approved the 2023 annual financial audit and passed second readings of ordinances amending zoning codes for solar farms in the I-2 district and updating regulations for recreational motor vehicles. The Council also accepted the consent agenda, which included items on a new dog park, streambank stabilization, and event permits, and scheduled a budget work session for June 24.
- Approved regular City Council agenda (4-0)
- Approved consent agenda including dog park, recycling grant, fireworks and dance permits (4-0)
- Accepted 2023 Annual Comprehensive Financial Audit (4-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 329 allowing solar farms in the I-2 district and Resolution 2024-18 for summary publication (4-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 330 amending Chapter 7-3-6 on recreational motor vehicles and Resolution 2024-19 for summary publication (4-0)
- Scheduled a budget work session for June 24, 2024, at 5:30 p.m.
- Adjourned the meeting at 7:00 p.m. (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will conduct public hearings regarding a zoning ordinance amendment and a preliminary plat. The agenda also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.
- Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Clinics in I-1 District
- Patriot Parkway Preliminary Plat
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will hold a work session to discuss several items. The agenda includes discussions regarding the Dog Park, an Oak Grove Request, and various project updates.
- Dog Park
- Oak Grove Request
- Project Updates
Parks Commission
The Parks Commission will receive an update regarding the hockey rink and warming house. The commission will also hold a discussion about a dog park.
- Update on Hockey Rink/Warming House
- Dog Park Discussion
City Council
The council will conduct first readings for ordinances regarding solar farms and recreational motor vehicles. A public hearing is scheduled for the Vista Prairie at Eagle Point Conduit Bond. The agenda also includes several equipment purchases and personnel resignations.
- First reading of Ordinance 329 to allow solar farms in the I-2 District
- Public hearing for Vista Prairie at Eagle Point Conduit Bond
- First reading of Ordinance 330 regarding recreational motor vehicles
- Authorization to purchase a mobile radio and three thermal imagers
- Change orders for the City Hall/Fire Station Project
The City Council approved a zoning amendment to allow solar farms in the I-2 district and authorized a donation for the Pioneer Days festival. Council members also approved a conduit bond for the Vista Prairie at Eagle Pointe project and a first reading of an ordinance regulating golf carts on city streets. Additionally, the council scheduled a public works work session for May 13.
- Adopted Resolution 2024-15 for Vista Prairie conduit bond (5-0)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 329 for solar farm zoning (5-0)
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 330 for golf cart regulations (5-0)
- Accepted Pioneer Days donation request (3-1-1)
- Accepted resignation of Community Development Director (4-1)
- Approved purchase of hot patch trailer (5-0)
- Scheduled public works work session for May 13
🗳️ How they voted — 1 divided vote
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Solar Farm Zoning Ordinance Amendment. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from December 20, 2023.
- Solar Farm Zoning Ordinance Amendment
City Council
The City Council will consider a memorandum of understanding with LELS 411 Sergeants and a resolution supporting federal appropriations. The council will also review the final plat for the Serenity at Seelye Brook subdivision. Consent agenda items include street sweeping, dust control, and police policy updates.
- MOU between City of St. Francis and LELS 411 Sergeants
- Resolution 2024-13: Support for Federal Appropriations request
- Resolution 2024-14: Final plat for Serenity at Seelye Brook Subdivision
- 2024 Street Sweeping and Dust Control Maintenance
The City Council approved the final plat for the Serenity at Seelye Brook subdivision and adopted a resolution requesting federal appropriations for road projects. The council also approved an update to the collective bargaining agreement for LELS 411 Sergeants.
- Approved final plat for Serenity at Seelye Brook subdivision (4-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-13 requesting federal appropriations for Cree to Ambassador and Ambassador to 241st (4-0)
- Approved update to the collective bargaining agreement for LELS 411 Sergeants (4-0)
- Approved consent agenda including 2024 street sweeping and dust control maintenance (4-0)
- Approved City Coalition letter opposing state legislation to restrict local zoning authority (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (6 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will review a consent agenda including street maintenance and police incentives. New business includes the Bottle Shop Fiber Optic Project and the Annual Audit Report.
- 2024 Street Consortium Asphalt Maintenance
- Pioneer Days Fireworks Contract with Northern Lighter Pyrotechnics, Inc (NLP)
- Bottle Shop Fiber Optic Project
- Annual Audit Report
- Police Department Retention Incentive – Non Union
The City Council approved a contract for fiber optic installation at the Bottle Shop. Council members also discussed a resident's request to allow golf carts on city streets and decided on the format for the upcoming annual audit report.
- Approved $76,245.21 bid from Telcom Construction for Bottle Shop fiber optic project (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including payment of claims and fireworks contract (5-0)
- Decided annual audit report presentation in May will be conducted in-person
- Directed staff to research potential ordinance changes for golf cart use on city streets
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
City Council
The Council will consider several items in the consent agenda, including construction change orders and personnel updates. New business includes an audit of portable audio/video recorders.
- Change Orders for City Hall / Fire Station Project
- Stahl Construction Pay Applications No. 6
- Resolution 2024-12 Establishing Municipal State Aid Streets
- Portable Audio/Video Recorder Audit
The St. Francis City Council approved its consent agenda 4-0, covering the March 4 minutes, change orders and pay applications for the City Hall/Fire Station project, police and public works personnel items, a municipal state aid street resolution, and payment of claims. The council also voted 4-0 to accept the police department's portable audio/video recorder audit, which Chief Schwieger said found no discrepancies and compliance with state statute. No public hearings, old business, or special business were held, and the meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m. Councilmember Kevin Robinson was absent.
- Approved the regular City Council agenda (4-0)
- Approved the consent agenda, including March 4 minutes, City Hall/Fire Station change orders, Stahl Construction pay application No. 6, police and public works personnel items, Resolution 2024-12 establishing municipal state aid streets, and payment of claims (4-0)
- Accepted the police portable audio/video recorder audit results, with no discrepancies found (4-0)
- Adjourned the meeting at 6:04 p.m. (3-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
City Council
The council will consider the second reading of Ordinance 328 regarding City Code administration. The agenda also includes discussions on a fire services study and a public safety antenna for City Hall and the Fire Station.
- Second reading of Ordinance 328 (Amending Chapter 2 Administration)
- City Hall / Fire Station Public Safety Antenna discussion
- Fire Services Study
- Approval of Lucas Device purchase
- Police Department Policy Manual update
The City Council adopted an ordinance to update the city code's administration chapter. The council also approved two bids for public safety and fire services projects. A 2023 annual report for the city liquor store was reviewed.
- Adopted Ordinance 328 amending Chapter 2 Administration of the City Code (4-0)
- Approved $27,033 bid from Mobile RA for public safety antenna at City Hall Fire Station (4-0)
- Approved $49,900 bid from Triad Paradigm for joint fire services study with the city of Bethel (4-0)
- Approved February 20, 2024 City Council Minutes (4-0)
- Approved purchase of Lucas Device (4-0)
- Approved Police Department Policy Manual (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (5 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will begin with a walkthrough of the new City Hall Fire Station at 3750 Bridge St NW. The subsequent work session at the Community Center will include discussions regarding police personnel, pensions, and multi-family housing use of TIF.
- Walkthrough of New City Hall Fire Station (3750 Bridge St NW)
- Police Department Personnel discussion
- Pension discussion
- Multi-family housing and use of TIF discussion
City Council
The St. Francis City Council will process final payments for road reconstruction projects that affect local travel routes. Members will also review an ordinance updating city code administration and vote on liquor license approvals for Chester’s Small Town Tavern & Eatery. Finally, the council will receive 2023 annual reports from public works and police departments.
- Resolution 2024-09 adopting the Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan
- Change orders for the City Hall / Fire Station Project
- Final payments for Poppy Street and 229th Lane Reconstruction and the 2023 Street Rehabilitation Project
- Ordinance 328, first reading to amend Chapter 2 Administration of city code
- Resolution 2024-11 approving an on-sale liquor license with Sunday sales and a 2 AM cutoff for Chester's Small Town Tavern & Eatery
The City Council adopted an ordinance amending the city code regarding department administration. The council also approved a consent agenda including a liquor license for Chester's Small Town Tavern & Eatery and an ash borer management plan.
- Adopted Ordinance 328 amending City Code Chapter 2 Administration, Section 5 (5-0)
- Approved liquor license, Sunday sales, and 2 AM license for Chester's Small Town Tavern & Eatery (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-09 Emerald Ash Borer Management Plan (5-0)
- Adopted Resolution 2024-10 appointing election judges for Feb 29 Special Primary (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda items including police equipment and street project payments (5-0)
- Decided by consensus not to invite an election integrity group for a presentation
🗳️ How they voted (3 roll-call votes)
Parks Commission
The commission will discuss the history of parks in St. Francis and future planning strategies. The meeting also includes routine approval of minutes from November 2023.
- History of Parks in St. Francis
- Planning Strategies
City Council
The City Council will consider a property tax abatement for Vista Prairie and two readings of code revisions. The agenda also includes an amendment to allow educational facilities in the B-1 District.
- Tax abatement for Vista Prairie (Resolution 2024-07)
- 2023 Code Revisions: Ordinance 325 and Ordinance 326
- Educational Facility Zoning Ordinance Amendment: Ordinance 327
- Real Property Transfer From EDA (Resolution 2024-08)
- Appointment of Election Judges (Resolution 2024-04)
The City Council unanimously approved a property tax abatement for the Vista Prairie development and adopted two code revision ordinances. A proposed amendment to allow educational facilities in the B-1 zoning district was denied 3-2. The Council also approved a $90,024.51 bid for the new City Hall Fire Station's security system and a police union MOU.
- Approved Vista Prairie tax abatement (Resolution 2024-07) (5-0)
- Denied Ordinance 327 allowing educational facilities in B-1 District (3-2)
- Adopted Ordinance 325 modifying zoning code divisions (5-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 326 modifying subdivision code (5-0)
- Approved Electro Watchman bid of $90,024.51 for fire/security system (5-0)
- Approved MOU with LELS 319 Police Officers (4-1)
- Approved consent agenda including election judges and rental licenses (5-0)
🗳️ How they voted (8 roll-call votes)
City Charter
The Charter Commission will meet at the Community Center located at 23340 Cree St NW. The agenda includes a call to order, roll call, and approval of the agenda and previous minutes.
- Approval of January 23, 2023 minutes
City Council
The City Council will review first readings for several city code and zoning ordinance updates. The consent agenda includes various administrative actions, personnel hiring authorizations, and project payments.
- Ordinance 325: Modifying divisions of the Zoning Code
- Ordinance 326: Modifying Chapter 11 of the City Code
- Ordinance 327: Amending zoning to allow educational facilities in B-1 Districts
- Authorization to hire part-time Firefighters, Captains, and Lieutenants
- Change orders for the City Hall / Fire Station Project
The City Council approved two ordinances modifying the Zoning Code and the City Code regarding subdivisions. A proposed amendment to allow educational facilities in the B-1 District was continued to the next meeting for further discussion.
- Adopted Ordinance 325 modifying Zoning Code Divisions 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, and 9 (4-0)
- Adopted Ordinance 326 modifying Chapter 11 Subdivisions in the City Code (4-0)
- Continued discussion on Ordinance 327 regarding educational facilities in the B-1 District to the next meeting (4-0)
- Approved consent agenda including Resolution 2024-03 declaring surplus property (4-0)
🗳️ How they voted (4 roll-call votes)
City Council
The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding the approval of the ADA Transition Plan. The council will also consider 2024 appointments and the resignation of Assistant Fire Chief Joe Lawrence. Additionally, the DNR ReLeaf Community Forest 2023 Grant Program is listed under new business.
- Public hearing for ADA Transition Plan approval
- Resolution 2024-01 regarding 2024 council appointments
- Acceptance of Assistant Fire Chief Joe Lawrence's resignation
- DNR ReLeaf Community Forest 2023 Grant Program discussion
The City Council approved a plan to make existing facilities ADA compliant and accepted a DNR ReLeaf Community Forest grant for tree removal and replacement. The council also approved the consent agenda, including 2024 appointments and the resignation of the Assistant Fire Chief.
- Approved Resolution 2024-02 adopting an ADA Transition Plan (5-0)
- Approved DNR ReLeaf Community Forest Grant Program for over $140,000 plus a $42,500 in-kind match (5-0)
- Approved consent agenda including Resolution 2024-01 for 2024 appointments (5-0)
- Accepted resignation of Assistant Fire Chief Joe Lawrence (5-0)