Anoka City Council
Regular MeetingAnoka, MN · May 16, 2022
Minutes
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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MEETINGS OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
MAY 16, 2022
CLOSED EXECUTIVE SESSION 6:00 P.M.
Council Executive Session Room
PURSUANT TO MINNESOTA STATUTES §13D.05, SUBD 3, ( C) FOR THE
PURPOSE OF DISCUSSING POTENTIAL REAL ESTATE TRANSACTION RELATED
TO CITY OWNED RESTAURANT PAD BEHIND CITY HALL
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS 7:00 P.M.
1. CALL TO ORDER
Following a closed session pursuant to State Statute 13D.05 subd. 3(c) for the purpose of
discussing potential real estate transactions related to City-owned restaurant pad behind
City Hall, Mayor Rice called the regular meeting of the City Council to order at 7:00
p.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
2. ROLL CALL
Present at roll call: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and Wesp.
Staff present: City Manager Greg Lee; Public Services Director Mark Anderson; Police
Chief Eric Peterson, Police Captain Andy Youngquist; Communications Manager Pam
Bowman; Finance Director Brenda Springer; Director of Community Development Doug
Borglund; Senior City Planner Clark Palmer; and City Attorney Scott Baumgartner.
Absent at roll call: None.
3. COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1 April 25, 2022, Worksession.
May 2, 2022, Regular Meeting.
Councilmember Wesp April 25, 2022, Worksession, corrected the minutes to
show Joe Anderle as Park Board member and not Chair.
Motion by Councilmember Wesp, seconded by Councilmember Barnett, to
approve the April 25, 2022, Worksession, as corrected.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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Motion by Councilmember Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to
approve the May 2, Regular Meeting minutes as presented.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
4. OPEN FORUM
4.1 Proclamation; National Public Works Week.
Public Services Director Mark Anderson said each May Public Works Week
highlighted their team’s work in maintaining public infrastructure. He shared
about the important work done by the Public Works Department that included
building and cemetery maintenance, special events, engineering, fleet and parks
maintenance then shared a slideshow highlighting their important work. Started
in 1960, National Public Works Week (NPWW) calls attention to the importance
of public works in community life and recognizes the professionals who serve the
public every day.
Mayor Rice read the proclamation into the record and spoke about how Public
Works employees take ownership for what they do in helping the residents of
Anoka.
Councilmember Weaver shared that Public Service Worker Colin Houge will be
retiring this week after 34 years and thanked him for his service then shared his
appreciation for the entire department’s work.
Councilmember Barnett said she was impressed with their motivated staff who
were creative and work hard to save taxpayer dollars by doing as much work as
possible inhouse and rarely engaging contractors for the many special projects
that they have.
Councilmember Skogquist noted the City has many unique events that are usually
in the evenings and on weekends outside of regular hours and complimented staff
on their hard work.
Councilmember Wesp highlighted the important tasks Public Works does at the
Mississippi and Rum Rivers installing the boards and docks which is critical to
the community.
4.2 Swearing in of Officer Nathaniel Birkner and Police Activity Update.
Police Chief Eric Peterson shared background on Officer Birkner, stating he was
hired on January 24, 2022 and recently completed field training. Prior to being
hired as a police officer, Officer Birkner held a position with Anoka as a full-time
police security officer and was a graduate of Anoka High School and during
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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college completed a 400-hour internship with the department. Chief Peterson
thanked Officer Birkner and his family then issued the oath of office.
Officer Birkner thanked the Council and staff for their support and said he has
enjoyed being able to know everyone in the City.
Councilmember Barnett said the City fully supports their police officers and
thanked for his service.
Mayor Rice agreed and thanked Chief Peterson for introducing officers to the City
in this manner.
Councilmember Skogquist noted many other cities don’t get to experience such a
positive culture and thanked Officer Birkner for choosing Anoka.
Councilmember Weaver agreed, stating the City Council fully supports their
officers.
Chief Peterson shared an update on police activity that included new Technician
Kelly Kirchner who recently started. He noted the department receives over
22,000 calls for service and that technicians do the support work for all those calls
and thanked them for their work. He spoke about the minor and moderate
flooding potential last week due to high river levels that were threatening trails
and how Public Works worked to close those trails and protect the lift stations.
He said the river was expected to crest tomorrow at 11 feet and that staff would
continue to monitor the situation. He spoke about construction on Highway 10
and their work to monitor for issues with cut-through traffic, adding accidents
have been minimal and that officers have been able to navigate the City easily.
Chief Peterson said staff continues to meet with MnDOT to address any concerns.
He spoke about the May 14 incident currently under investigation resulting from a
body being recovered from the Mississippi River who has since been identified
then spoke about reasons why these incidents can occur. Chief Peterson
highlighted May 15 as Police Officer Memorial Day to honor those who have lost
their lives or become disabled in the line of duty and thanked the Council and
public for their continued support as they worked to fulfill their duties.
Councilmember Weaver thanked the police, fire, and first responders from both
Anoka and Champlin who responded to the river incident.
4.5 Highway 10 Anoka Construction Update.
Mr. Anderson shared an update on construction status that included the project’s
hotline contact information then reviewed current and upcoming closures,
temporary signals, and further communications regarding the project updates.
Councilmember Weaver shared a resident’s concerns with the published detour
and Metro Transit bus route change that has resulted in almost 2,000 vehicles
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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passing his house during rush hour on Park Street and said this road was too
narrow for this volume of traffic which included buses and other large vehicles.
He shared his frustrations with MnDOT using Park Street to detour from Green,
State, and Franklin Lane and said this alternative was unacceptable.
Councilmember Skogquist asked if the northwest corner westbound lane on Ferry
and 47 was closed and limited detours through residential neighborhoods and
asked if they should detour up Ferry Street instead. He said buses should not be
using this route and should instead use Ferry Street then go west.
Mr. Anderson said he would contact MnDOT and work on a solution right away.
OTHER INFORMATION UNDER OPEN FORUM
Mike Clark, 512 River Lane, said he was one of two seasonal employees affected
by the proposed Charter amendments and would have had to make a choice
between serving on the Park Board and working at the golf course, which he has
done for over 25 years. He thanked the Charter Commission for voting 15-3 in
favor of the amendment and thanked staff for their hard work on this amendment
as well as their work at the golf course. He shared his respect for staff and said he
hoped the Council will adopt the Charter amendment.
Brad Johnson, 10410 Holly Street, Coon Rapids, said he was a Coon Rapids
Councilmember but grew up in Anoka and recognized the importance of public
officials supporting police. He spoke about the Anoka Community Anti-Crime
Commission that began in the late 1980s that allowed residents and criminal
justice partners to discuss important issues then spoke about the need for a new K-
9 officer with the upcoming retirement of K-9 Bravo and presented a $500
contribution from his family to support those efforts.
Chief Peterson thanked Mr. Johnson for his donation and said they have received
donations from many others then shared how Anoka began the K-9 program in
1967 and how the role has changed over the decades.
Mr. Johnson said it was Anoka’s foresight that helped spur other departments to
include K-9s on their police forces.
Councilmember Wesp said he serves on the Joint Law Enforcement Council
which works together to achieve high level law enforcement to serve the residents
of the County in a respectful and judicious manner and said the County Attorney
was instrumental in helping purchase K-9 Bravo. He stated that Mr. Johnson’s
Grandfather was instrumental in creating the Anti-Crime Commission and
thanked Mr. Johnson and his family for their donation.
Councilmember Wesp referred to concerns on 5th Avenue regarding the
reconstruction project and boulevard tree removal.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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A resident on Lincoln Avenue, asked how a tree on Harrison Street by St.
Stephen’s Church could remain but another tree three feet away was removed,
leaving just one remaining.
City Manager Greg Lee said a tree removal plan is created for each project that
identifies which trees can be saved and which trees need to be removed as part of
the project. He said the tree removal could be due to storm sewer or other water
services that are underground but would follow up.
5. PUBLIC HEARING(S)
5.1 Amending Charter, Section 2.02, Boards and Commission.
a. ORD/Amending City Charter; Section 2.02 Boards and Commission, Relating
to Seasonal Workers Serving on Boards and Commissions.
(1st Reading)
Mr. Lee said at the Council meeting in March, the Council requested the
Charter Commission discuss whether or not employees (seasonal) should be
allowed to serve on a City Board/Commissions and also to discuss whether or
not City Councilmembers should be allowed to serve on the Charter
Commission. Currently there is a conflict between the Charter and the City’s
Personnel Policy Manual relating to employees serving on a
Board/Commission that states no member of the Council or employees of the
City shall be a member of any board or commission so established except as
an ex officio member. Members of boards, commissions and committees,
including the HRA, shall be appointed by a majority vote of the City Council.
He said current policy language states that employees will have the
opportunity to be considered for openings on City advisory boards and ad hoc
committees within some parameters. He said at the Charter Commission
meeting on April 20, 2022, the Charter Commission voted to recommend that
the Charter be amended per the City Council’s suggestion to allow seasonal
employees to serve on boards and commissions.
b. ORD/Amending City Charter; Section 2.02 Boards and Commission, Relating
to Councilmembers Serving on the City Charter Commission.
(1st Reading)
Mr. Lee said at the March 28, 2022, worksession, City Council discussed this
topic and consensus of the Council was that Councilmembers should not be
allowed to serve on the Charter Commission. The City Council requested this
be reviewed by the Charter Commission which was discussed at their April
20, 2022, meeting. He said at that meeting the Charter Commission voted to
recommend the amendment to the City Charter to not allow City
Councilmembers to serve on the Charter Commission.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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Mayor Rice opened the public hearing at 8:04 p.m.
Former Councilmember Pierce applauded the wisdom in amending this
language and spoke about the importance of integrity and ethics in Anoka and
the need to avoid language that would accommodate a personal friend.
Charter Commissioner Mike Ericson said he voted against the proposed
amendment as this could allow undue for the influence by any employee,
regardless of their position, and said if the City has having difficulty getting
people to serve on boards and commissions, they should increase recruitment
efforts instead of amending Charter language.
Being no further comments Mayor Rice closed the public hearing at 8:07 p.m.
NOTE: By motion from Councilmember Skogquist, which was seconded by
Councilmember Weaver, and by a unanimous vote of the Council, agenda items 9.1
and 9.2 was moved up on the agenda and acted upon at this point.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist,
Weaver and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
Motion by Councilmember Weaver seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to
hold first reading of an ordinance amending the Anoka City Charter, Section
2.02, Boards and Commissions.
Mayor Rice said he was not concerned about any potential conflict of interest
because check and balances were monitored by the Council.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Councilmember Skogquist voted nay. Motion carried.
Councilmember Barnett said this was brought forward as a result of the City
of Ramsey having a Councilmember serving on both their Council and
Charter Commission and the potential concerns that could result and while she
believed there has not been a concern of this happening in Anoka this
language would confirm that this would not be an issue in the future.
Councilmember Skogquist said he believed there was enough ambiguity in the
current language but agreed it should be clarified.
Motion by Councilmember Skogquist seconded by Councilmember Barnett,
to hold first reading of an ordinance amending the Anoka City Charter,
Section 2.02, Boards and Commissions.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist,
Weaver and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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6. CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Wesp seconded by Councilmember Barnett, to approve
Consent Agenda 6.1 through 6.3 as presented.
6.1 Approve Verified Bills.
6.2 Revising and Setting Council Calendars.
6.3 Highway 10 Rum River Bridge and Corridor Project; Approve Change Order
Number 2 with the State of Minnesota Department of Transportation.
Councilmember Skogquist clarified candidate filing closes at 5:00 p.m. on May
31.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
7. REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
7.1 Waste Reduction and Recycling Board (WRRB) Annual Report.
WRRB Chair Cheryl Knapek shared a presentation on the Board’s work which
outlined the new service provider and transition with Ace Solid Waste and
highlighted the 2022 recycling rates. She outlined the 2021 accomplishments that
included a smooth transition with the new provider, earning a park bench for their
recycling efforts, implementation of the organics recycling program, purchase of a
second recycling can collection trailer, and enhanced communications. She
outlined the 2022 goals that included an expanded organics program, MN Green
Corps member, a City-managed little free library, research for a City-wide garage
sale and a potential future City recycling center. She outlined more about the MN
Green Corp member supervised through Anoka County and their work with
multi-family units then spoke about 2022 SCORE funding, annual collection and
recycling events, tonnage goals, recycling events, and marketing and education
and thanked the Council for their support.
Councilmember Skogquist thanked the Board for their work and creativity that
occurred at the City’s many events and educating residents on ways to change
habits to make an impact.
Councilmember Weaver thanked the Board for their donation of can collections
for the Waterfowl for Warriors.
Councilmember Barnett thanked the Board for their work on keeping recycling
rates down while providing the best service.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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Councilmember Skogquist asked if the contract covers multi-family units and if
separate billing occurred for contamination fees. Communication Manager Pam
Bowman explained how the City bills for service but not contamination fees
which is done through the provider which has helped reduce staff time and ensure
payment.
8. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATION
None.
9. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
9.1 a. ORD/Amending City Charter; Section 2.02 Boards and Commission, Relating to
Seasonal Workers Serving on Boards and Commissions.
b. ORD/Amending City Charter; Section 2.02 Boards and Commission, Relating to
Councilmembers Serving on the City Charter Commission.
ACTED UPON AFTER PUBLIC HEARING
9.2 RES/Approving State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreement with the City of Anoka on
Behalf of its City Attorney and Police Department.
RESOLUTION
Chief Peterson shared a background report stating this resolution would renew a joint
powers agreement with the MN Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Criminal
Apprehension (BCA) and the City of Anoka on behalf of its City Attorney and its Police
Department. This resolution also provides for the renewal of the Court Data Services
Subscriber Amendment to the Criminal Justice Data Network (CJDN) for which the City
of Anoka is eligible.
Motion by Councilmember Weaver seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to adopt a
resolution approving the State of Minnesota Joint Powers Agreements with the City of
Anoka on Behalf of its City Attorney and Police Department.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.3 RES/City of Anoka Request for an Amtrak Stop at the NorthStar Station.
RESOLUTION
Community Development Director Doug Borglund shared a background report stating
the City has been planning for an Amtrak stop since the adoption of the Anoka Station
Plan in 2012. Staff has been interacting with Amtrak from the Chicago Illinois office and
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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based on conversations have indicated there is support for a stop. Staff will need to
assemble a package of information to be submitted to start the process with Amtrak and
sample information and directions have been provided by Amtrak. As part the submittal
packet to Amtrak is the need for a resolution approved by the City Council stating its
request and support for a stop at the NorthStar Station.
Councilmember Wesp shared history about the importance of trains through Glacier Park
and how stops, lodges, and towns were constructed as a result and with current
technology and online tickets the need for whistlestops has grown. He said trains allow
for travel in ways other modes do not and said he fully supported this effort and thanked
Councilmember Weaver for this idea and work.
Councilmember Weaver shared more about how whistlestops operate and what a great
adventure train travel was and supported the creation of whistlestop in Anoka as well.
Councilmember Skogquist thanked everyone for the energy on this project, stating it
would be a great amenity for Anoka and would not cost much but help create a
destination place for Anoka.
Edward Burns, 549 Tyler Street, said he was a retired railroad worker then shared a
history of the railroad and how stops were created and the precedent for suburban stops.
He said he supported the creation of a whistlestop in Anoka and noted Amtrak would
have to consider many logistics as this process moved forward and offered his assistance
in these discussions.
Councilmember Barnett said while these experiences are good, she felt a whistlestop was
only novel and that since we do not know the actual costs and projected revenue stream,
we should not further subsidize railroad infrastructure and said she would rather invest in
other modes of transportation.
Motion by Councilmember Weaver seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to adopt a
resolution supporting the request for an Amtrak stop at the NorthStar Station.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Skogquist, Weaver and Wesp voted
in favor. Councilmember Barnett voted nay. Motion carried.
9.4 RES/Final Plat; Homestead at Anoka 3rd Addition.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Borglund shared a background report stating in 2014, Homestead at Anoka 2nd
Addition was approved which encompassed 9.25 acres of land within Phase 2 of
Volunteers of America’s (VOA) project. The area included four lots and the platted of
right-of-way along 5th Avenue. This created what is now known as Outlot B and is the
subject property proposed to be developed. Outlot B is 2.51 acres in size and owned by
the City. On July 19, 2021, the City Council approved a Planned Residential
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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Development Amendment, Conditional Use Permit, and Site Plan Review to construct
Phase 3 of VOA senior care campus consisting of 80 senior independent living residential
units. The project is located southeast of the existing facility at the corner of Grant Street
and 5th Avenue or legally described as Outlot B. The proposed final plat will legally
describe Outlot B as Lot 1, Block 1, Homestead at Anoka 3rd Addition. The final plat
will be recorded at the time the City closes on the property.
Motion by Councilmember Weaver seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to adopt a
resolution for approval of Homestead of Anoka 3rd Addition final plat.
Councilmember Weaver stated the park dedication of $203,000 for this large
development would be a nice infusion into the park capital fund and hoped concerns with
parking would be addressed.
Mayor Rice said the continuum of care concept will continue as baby boomers age as it
allows people to age in place and is good for the community.
Councilmember Skogquist inquired about the opening timeline. Mr. Borglund said the
applicant plans to close at the end of June and that staff is already reviewing proposed
building plans.
Councilmember Weaver spoke about how the VOA does amazing work then shared
about his mother’s experience with their great staff and caregivers and said the City was
fortunate to have the VOA in Anoka.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.5 RES/Development Agreement; VOA Anoka AH GP LLC, VOA Phase 3.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Borglund shared a background report stating the City has entered into a purchase
agreement with The Homestead at Anoka, Inc. At the time of closing on the development
property, the development obligations will be transferred to VOA Anoka AH GP, LLC
who for the purpose of financing of the project and development. (NOTE: The same
people involved under a different LLC names). Staff along with the City Attorney have
drafted a Development Agreement between the City of Anoka and VOA Anoka AH GP,
LLC, which encompasses the construction of an 80-unit senior residential building
including all necessary site improvements on a 2.51-acre site being sold to Homestead at
Anoka, Inc from the City of Anoka. He outlined the agreements several points of interest:
and said the resolution authorizes the City Attorney to make necessary adjustments based
on Homestead at Anoka, Inc./VOA Anoka AH GP, LLC comments that may be
forthcoming. It there are any changes that would alter the intent of the agreement. The
agreement would be brought back to the City Council for review and consideration.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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Motion by Councilmember Skogquist seconded by Councilmember Barnett, to adopt a
resolution approving a development agreement VOA Anoka AH GP LLC, VOA Phase 3.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.6 RES/VOA Assignment and Amendment to Purchase Agreement.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Borglund shared a background report stating the City of Anoka entered into a
purchase agreement with The Homestead at Anoka, Inc. (VOA) for the sale of a 2.51-
acre site in the City of Anoka, State of Minnesota (“Property”), allowing VOA to
construct an 80-Unit Senior Residential Building, with an effective date of November 10,
2021. For the purpose of financing and construction, The Homestead at Anoka, Inc. is
requesting to assign the purchase agreement for the Property to VOA Anoka AH GP,
LLC. Through the assignment, VOA Anoka AH GP, LLC, will assume all rights and
obligations of The Homestead at Anoka, Inc. under the Purchase Agreement, and The
Homestead at Anoka, Inc. will be relieved of the same. Further, the amendment includes
a new closing date of June 30, 2022
Motion by Councilmember Barnett seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to adopt a
resolution approving the VOA assignment and amendment to purchase agreement.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.7 RES/Official Intent to Reimburse City for 2022 SSIP and SRP Costs in 2023 with Tax
Exempt Obligations Issued by the City.
RESOLUTION
Finance Director Brenda Springer shared a background report stating on February 22,
2022, City Council approved the plans and specifications, authorized the advertisement
for bid, and set the bid date for the 2022 Street Renewal Project - Swede Town Phase II.
The Street Renewal Program involves the complete reconstruction of the streets,
including the replacement of the concrete curb & gutters, bituminous pavement,
sidewalks, street lights, driveways & concrete aprons, sanitary sewer, watermain, service
laterals, storm sewer, and boulevard restoration. On this same date City approved the
plans and specifications, authorized the advertisement for bid, and set the bid date for the
2022 Street Surface Improvement Project. On April 18, 2022, City Council approved bids
and awarded the construction contracts for the 2022 SSIP and SRP. She said the City will
be using general funds to initially pay for the construction and then bond for the funds in
2023 and reimburse general funds. She stated in 2022, the City will be bonding for both
the remaining cost of the Law Enforcement/Animal Containment facility ($4M) and the
expansion for the water treatment plant associated with Wells 6 & 8 ($6M). Ms. Springer
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
Page 12 of 15
noted the City would remain under the $10 million in bonds for fiscal year 2022, so they
can be bank certified, which allows for a lower interest rate on the bonds and that the City
will bond for the street projects in January 2023. Staff is recommending the City Council
approve a resolution adopting a statement of official intent to reimburse original
expenditures.
Motion by Councilmember Barnett seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to adopt a
resolution declaring the official intent of the City of Anoka to reimburse for 2022 street
surface improvement and renewal project costs with the proceeds of bonds to be issued
by the City.
Mayor Rice asked if there are other ways to pay for this or if bonding is the only option.
Ms. Springer outlined possible other funding sources but said there was not enough in the
street renewal fund for this project but noted the fund would be reviewing more in the
future to better understand what is available each year for each project.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.8 RES/Conditional Use Permit for Online Auto Sales Office and Showroom – 901 W. Main
Street.
RESOLUTION
Senior City Planner Clark Palmer shared a background report stating Star Auto Sales
Inc./Eugene DuBois is seeking approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the
property located at 901 W. Main St., Bay 1 (eastern most garage bay). The applicant
wishes to establish a “small specialized online auto sales office and showroom” use. He
noted in 2021 the City Council passed an ordinance amendment to the B-1 Highway
Business District allowing the use with a CUP with specific CUP standards written into
the ordinance. He outlined the specific standards in detail and said the applicant is
returning with an application for a CUP for 901 W. Main Street, Bay 1. Staff finds the
applicant’s plans comply with the conditions and noted the applicant is required to
maintain compliance with the conditions, otherwise the CUP may be revoked by the City
Council. Mr. Palmer said the Planning Commission reviewed the application and held a
public hearing at its regular meeting on May 3, 2022. The Planning Commission
recommended approval of the CUP subject to the conditions set forth in City Code as
well as the additional condition of approval that the applicant shall obtain building permit
if required.
Councilmember Wesp asked if the Anoka Ramsey Automotive was relocating from the
first bay. Mr. Palmer said the business owner was retiring and that the applicant was
interested in Bay 3 but it had already been rented so they would occupy Bay 1 instead.
Councilmember Skogquist shared concerns about potential outdoor storage but felt this
will work because it is enclosed and was operated by appointment only.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
Page 13 of 15
Motion by Councilmember Wesp seconded by Councilmember Weaver, to adopt a
resolution approving a conditional use permit, 901 West Main Street, Bay 1, based on the
outlined condition.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.9 RES/Third Amendment to Purchase Agreement; Ryan Companies US Inc.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Borglund shared a background report stating on February 18, 2020 the City approved
a purchase agreement with Ryan Companies for the sale of a 14-acre parcel at the
northwest corner of & 7th Avenue and Bunker Lake Boulevard. Due to COVID-19, the
state of retail, and the City’s desire to an obtain a grocery retailer on the 14-acre site at 7th
Avenue and Bunker Lake Boulevard. On July 6, 2020 the City Council approved the First
Amendment that included additional time is being requested by the buyer which would
extend the time period to May 2021. He outlined other portions of the amendment and the
resulting extensions said the City and Ryan Companies US Inc. have executed a purchase
agreement for $3.28 per square foot, $142,857.00 per acre, or a total of $2,000,000.00.
No changes to the purchase price have been discussed with this proposed amendment.
Mayor Rice commented the tax base outweighs the purchase price and while land costs
were high, he was excited to get this site moving forward and realize the tax base it
creates.
Councilmember Barnett said she was willing to hold the price and added she was excited
for the project as it would be the best fit for the site but noted the request was a lot.
Mr. Lee said staff supported staying with the price but suggesting putting the applicant on
notice that in 10 months if a project is not done then the City will have to adjust to move
them forward.
Councilmember Skogquist agreed this was a low price but said the City was doing so to
try to reach a good end result and if not could be reevaluated then.
Motion by Councilmember Barnett seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to adopt a
resolution adopting the third amendment to the purchase agreement; Ryan Companies
US, Inc.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Barnett, Skogquist, Weaver and
Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
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11. NEW BUSINESS
None.
12. UPDATES AND REPORTS
12.1 Update/Reminder; Highway 47 (Ferry Street) and BNSF Railroad Crossing Open
House Reminder, May 25, 2022, Anoka Hennepin Education Service Center.
Mayor Rice shared the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) would
be hosting the Highway 47 (Ferry St) and BNSF Railroad Crossing Project Open
House on May 25, 2022. The meeting will be held at the Anoka Hennepin
Education Service Center located at 2727 Ferry Street (Door #7). The State has
worked in partnership with Anoka County and City of Anoka in the planning of
this project for both, the community and region. At the open house, the public will
meet project representatives, view alignment alternatives options, and other
informational materials. The public is welcome to attend this open house any time
during the event.
12.2 Legislative Updates.
Mr. Lee said this agenda item allowed for the opportunity to discuss any bills of
significance or direction from the Council during the legislative session then
shared the social district bill had been forwarded to conference committee as part
of the omnibus bill and that staff would provide an update when available.
12.3 Tentative Agenda(s).
The Council reviewed the tentative agendas of the upcoming Council meetings.
12.4 Staff and Council Input.
Councilmember
ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Wesp made a motion to adjourn the Regular Council meeting.
Councilmember Skogquist seconded the motion.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Time of adjournment: 9:20 p.m.
Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Approval Attestation:
May 16, 2022 (Regular)
Page 15 of 15
Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk
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