Anoka City Council
Regular MeetingAnoka, MN · April 1, 2024
Minutes
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
APRIL 1, 2024
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Rice called the regular meeting of the City Council to order at 7:04 p.m., followed
by the Pledge of Allegiance.
2. ROLL CALL
Present at roll call: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Scott, Skogquist, Weaver, and Wesp.
Also present: City Manager Greg Lee; Police Chief Eric Peterson; Police Captain Andy
Youngquist; Assistant City Engineer Ben Nelson; HRA Executive Director Darin Berger;
Public Works Director Mark Anderson; Community Development Director Doug
Borglund; Senior City Planner Clark Palmer; City Attorney Scott Baumgartner; and
Utility Director Del Vancura.
Absent at roll call: None.
3. COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1 February 26, 2024, Worksession.
March 18, 2024, Regular Meeting.
Councilmember Skogquist noted two names were omitted from the February 26
worksession which were Mike Briggs on Pages 4 and 5 and Liquor Store
Operations Manager Kevin Morelli on Page 5.
Motion by Councilmember Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
approve the minutes of the February 26, 2024, Worksession and the March 18,
2024, Regular Meeting as corrected.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
4. OPEN FORUM
Items 4.2 and 4.3 were heard at this point in the agenda.
4.1 Update; QCTV’s Activities.
QCTV Executive Director Karen George provided an update on QCTV
programming and their 2024 strategic plan. She noted their participation in the
Heart Safe Community with both an AED in studio and on field trucks then
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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shared about the JPA with Anoka, Andover, Champlin, and Ramsey and their
work on behalf of all four cities. She said QCTV was a proud collaboration that
employed 9 full time and 24 part time employees who cover events then spoke
about strategic planning that initiated in 2012. She shared key performance
indicators from 2023 that included 610,000 engaged online, 238 community
programs, and 197 City programs such as live government meetings. Ms. George
shard about closed captioning and candidate forums then shared their 2024 annual
objectives that included live and local expansion and website rebuild.
Seamus Burke, QCTV Communications Social Media Coordinator, shared further
about programs offerings such as The Post, City Matters, bulletin board and live
and local programming. He shared about live City meetings, election forums,
Anoka Halloween Festival coverage, and What’s My Job features.
Ms. George shared the total investment in capital equipment was over $2 million
with $550,000 for Anoka only then spoke about the CIP grant to member cities of
$20,000 annually.
Mr. Burke shared the number of city meetings totaling 194 with all four cities
then shared about the upcoming relaunch of website. He spoke about website
traffic and YouTube views, and sports streaming through YouTube for greater
bandwidth that was resulting in more viewers. He shared statistics on increased
users and accounts across all platforms, threads accounts, and increased Instagram
presence then shared about their national and regional awards and the 2023 top
Anoka stories.
Ms. George shared about proposed legislation with MACTA and the League of
Minnesota Cities that would provide equal access to broadband which would
takes franchise ability and do the same thing with broadband. She spoke about
the need for equitable access for all while leaving full local control of rights-of-
way and how municipalities could better serve their communities and capture
revenue through either franchise or PEG fee. She thanked Anoka for 40 years of
leadership and direction and thanked staff for their work.
Councilmember Skogquist thanked Ms. George for her wonderful leadership and
said QCTV was fiscally responsible and thanked staff for their work to meet the
changing need through social media and sharing stories. He noted this work was
paid for by fees and it was important to understand the same wiring was in the
ground and the corresponding fees whether the infrastructure was cable or
broadband.
Councilmember Weaver shared his appreciation for the live and streaming sports
coverage QCTV provided.
4.2 Presentation of Civilian Services Award for Life Saving and Police Activity
Update.
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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Police Captain Andy Youngquist presented the Civilian Service Award to Adam
Longberg, Kristian Manthey, and Brian Pender for their life saving response and
action that saved a man suffering a cardiac arrest. He shared that on January 21,
2024, at approximately 9:30 p.m., Anoka patrol officers were dispatched to the
Anoka Ice Arena for a male who collapsed. Shortly after, it was reported that CPR
was being done. Dispatch was also made aware that the bystanders had retrieved
and were using one of the AEDs from the facility. Upon arrival of officers,
bystanders were still providing CPR after shocking the victim once. Officers took
over medical care and the male began breathing on his own. Officers checked the
victim’s pulse and found that he now had a strong pulse. Officers continued care
until the arrival of Allina paramedic who took over the scene. At this point the
victim was conscious and talking before being transported to the hospital. The
three bystanders provided CPR and AED use before the arrival officers. These
bystanders did exactly what we teach in our CPR classes. Even with the swift
response from out officers, the outcome could have been gravely different had the
bystanders not taken the quick action they did. He stated because of their quick
thinking, courage and willingness to go to the aid of another in distress, Mr.
Longberg, Mr. Manthey, and Mr. Pender certainly saved life of another and for
their heroic actions, they were being awarded the Anoka Police Civilian Service
Award for Life Saving.
Tim Kelsey, Anoka, shared what he experienced and thanked everyone for their
work to save his life that day, then encouraged everyone to be trained in AED use
and chest compressions which resulted in allowing him to continue to enjoy his
life and family.
A round of applause was offered by all present.
Police Chief Eric Peterson said he was pleased this event went so well and
encouraged everyone to take part in CPR and AED classes as their actions could
save a life.
Councilmember Weaver shared how Mr. Kelsey has been active in Waterfowl for
Warriors for 13 years and thanked everyone for their work that day saving his life.
Councilmember Skogquist commented how people never know if they’re the type
of person to help when needed and thanked everyone involved for stepping up
that day.
4.3 Presentation; Allina Heart Safe Community Designation.
Chief Peterson shared that in 2016 the City Council passed a resolution to support
the City of Anoka being designated as a Heart Safe Community. This designation
aims to increase survival rates of sudden cardiac arrest by helping communities
assess their preparedness for cardiac emergencies and finding gaps where
improvements can be made. Heart Safe Designation is reached by acquiring
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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points or ‘heartbeats’ based on population size. Heartbeats are given for
community awareness programs, CPR training, AED placement and mapping,
access to rapid emergency services and progressive hospital systems, and
development of community heart healthy activities. The Anoka Police and
Anoka-Champlin Fire Departments worked jointly to accomplish the City of
Anoka being designated a Heart Safe Community. All criteria were met and in
May of 2023 the City of Anoka received the designation of being Heart Safe
Community. In doing so, it has not only made our first responders, but also our
community members, better prepared to handle cardiac emergencies. Renee
Hamdorf is the Heart Safe Communities Coordinator representing Allina Health
will present to the City Council the City of Anoka the designation of being a
Heart Safe Community.
Officer Austin Orrin further shared about this important designation and criteria
that included AED mapping, access to services, and work with the Anoka-
Champlin Fire Department to receive this designation, adding first responders and
the community will now be better prepared to respond if needed.
Renee Hanford, Allina, shared Mr. Kelcey was proof of how Heart Safe
communities work then shared how sudden cardiac arrest occurs 350,000 each
year in this country and how early intervention before responders arrive was
critical. She said she was proud to present this award to Anoka.
Dr. Charles Licht, EMS Director of Allina, said this effort began 20 years and was
pleased to see the progress, adding sudden cardiac arrest killed more people than
lung and breast cancer combined. He shared the availability of a donated AED
for Anoka and encouraged anyone to contact them to obtain one.
Mayor Rice spoke about the survival rates before and after AEDs and what an
effective tool this was if used and the importance of knowing where they are
located in buildings.
Dr. Licht spoke about Take Heart America survey that showed a more than
doubled survival rate since 2010 that included bystanders, first responders, and
hospital personnel as a team.
Mayor Rice accepted the plaque on behalf of the City. A round of applause was
offered by all in attendance.
The Council took a brief recess.
Councilmember Weaver asked for an update on 5th Avenue speeding concerns.
Chief Peterson shared work to enforce speeding on 5th Avenue, specifically
during rush hour, which was key. He said staff was also working to consider Safe
Routes to Schools options as a possibility.
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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Councilmember Weaver said the Safe Routes to Schools would allow for a speed
indicator on 5th Avenue which would be great.
Assistant City Ben Nelson said Safe Routes to Schools wouldn’t apply to this
route as it was an Anoka County road but that staff was working on dynamic
speed signs and additional signage now to help address speeding.
OTHER INFORMATION UNDER OPEN FORUM
None.
5. PUBLIC HEARING(S)
5.1. On-Sale Wine and 3.2 Malt Liquor License; Herban Wolf LLC, 1918 1st Avenue,
Anoka.
RES/Approving an On-Sale Wine and 3.2 Malt Liquor License; Herban Wolf
LLC, 1918 1st Avenue, Anoka.
RESOLUTION
Councilmember Scott stated that due to a conflict of interest as landlord of the
building address that he will be abstaining from participation on this item.
City Manager Greg Lee shared an application for an On-Sale Wine & 3.2 Malt
Liquor License has been submitted by Herban Wolf LLC, 1918 1st Avenue (dba
as Herban Wolf Deli). Staff is in the process of conducting the necessary
background investigations and inspections and approval of this license will be
contingent upon successful investigations and inspections.
Mayor Rice opened the public hearing at 7:44 p.m.
Lindsey Belanger, Herban Wolf Deli, shared their desire to keep the offerings
small but wanting to be able to offer beer or wine with their sandwiches. She said
they do not anticipate being part of the social district this year and will work to
expand into evening hours.
Being no further comments Mayor Rice closed the public hearing at 7:45 p.m.
NOTE: By motion from Councilmember Wesp, which was seconded by Councilmember
Weaver, and by a unanimous vote of the Council, agenda item 9.1 was moved up on the
agenda and acted upon at this point.
Motion by Councilmember Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Weaver, to
adopt a resolution approving the Issuance of an On-Sale Wine & 3.2 Malt Liquor
License (with Strong Beer) to Herban Wolf, LLC, dba; Herban Wolf Deli 1918
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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1st Avenue, Anoka, Minnesota, contingent upon successful investigations and
inspections.
Councilmember Weaver encouraged the public to visit Urban Wolf Deli. Mayor
Rice agreed, stating they had a great menu with great selections.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Skogquist, Weaver, and
Wesp voted in favor. Councilmember Scott abstained. Motion carried.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Councilmember Wesp, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to approve
Consent Agenda Items 6.1 through 6.7 as presented.
Mayor Rice noted a correction may be needed regarding the licensee name on the
massage therapy license.
6.1 Approve Verified Bills.
6.2 Revising and Setting Council Calendars.
6.3 Issuance of a Tree Care/Arborist License; Back Forty Outdoor Services, LLC.
6.4 Issuance of a Tree Care/Arborist License; Premium Tree Protection, LLC.
6.5 Issuance of a Temporary On-Sale Liquor License; Organization of Liberians in
Minnesota (OLM), Katja Hutter Memorial Service, at Anoka Armory, April 27,
2024.
6.6 U.S. Highway 10/169 Improvement Project; Approve Change Orders Number 73
and Number 76.
6.7 Issuance of a Massage Therapist License for Sam Fassler of Lotus Massage
Therapy, 229 Jackson Street, #130.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
7. REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
None.
8. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATION
None.
9. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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9.1 RES/Approving an On-Sale Wine and 3.2 Malt Liquor License; Herban Wolf
LLC, 1918 1st Avenue, Anoka.
ACTED UPON AFTER PUBLIC HEARING
9.2 RES/Approving a Quit Claim Deed; 1900 South Ferry Street.
RESOLUTION
HRA Executive Director Darin Berger shared a background report stating the City
of Anoka Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) purchased and
demolished the rental property that had been foreclosed upon at this address in
2011 for $235,000. This was part of a concerted effort to clean up the Ferry Street
corridor. The City further improved the City’s gateway by buying the Riverplace
Counseling Center properties and moving that organization to Highway 10. Since
that time, the HRA has held this property in anticipation of the City of Anoka
implementing their West Rum River Trail as part of the Riverwalk Plan. The City
was recently notified of a partially awarded grant for $200,000, making this plan
more of a reality. On March 4, Council voted 4-0 to award a contract to Sunram
Construction for the base bid amount and all 5 alternate bid options. Funding for
the budget gap will come from an internal loan from AMU reserves – paid back
through the levy. Construction will include all main trail and decorative concrete
elements that help build cohesion and connection to downtown and the existing
Rum River Trail behind City Hall, which brings elements to Ferry Street. The
following additional language has been added to ensure this happens: “For park-
related purposes only with said use restriction lasting for a period of twenty (20)
years from the filing of this deed.”
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Skogquist, to
adopt a resolution approving a quit claim deed, 1900 South Ferry Street.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Scott, Skogquist, Weaver,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
Mayor Rice noted the HRA conducted many programs and encouraged the
community to explore them.
Councilmember Weaver thanked the HRA for the sale price of $1 for this parcel
which could have been much larger and will result in a great improvement to this
City through their investment.
9.3 RES/2024 Street Renewal Project – Franklin Area Phase II; Approve Bids and
Award a Construction Project.
RESOLUTION
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
Page 8 of 14
Assistant City Engineer Ben Nelson shared a background report stating on
February 5, 2024, City Council approved the construction plans & specifications,
authorized advertisement for bid, and set a bid date for the 2024 Street Renewal
Project - Franklin Area Phase II. The Street Renewal Program involves the total
reconstruction of the roads, including the replacement of the concrete curb and
gutters, bituminous pavement, sidewalks, street lights, driveways, sanitary sewer,
watermain, service laterals, storm sewer, electrical components, and boulevard
restoration/landscaping. The roads that are included in the 2024 Street Renewal
Project – Franklin Area Phase II. The 2024 SRP project is approximately 0.87
miles of full reconstruction, finishing the renewal of the Franklin Area
neighborhood. He shared the total project cost of $2,344,500, funding options,
and the schedule and said the bid was less than budgeted.
Councilmember Weaver confirmed the map was not showing closure of West
Main Street.
Councilmember Skogquist said he was pleased to see the bids were under budget
then asked about the street improvement funds and remaining bonding amounts.
Mr. Nelson said he will follow up but noted bonding was covering this project as
well as the 2023 projects and included sufficient funding if bids had been higher.
Motion by Councilmember Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
adopt a resolution for the 2024 Street Renewal Project – Franklin Area Phase II;
Approve Bids and Award a Construction Contract.
Councilmember Scott said he was pleased to see this project occur as it was a
long time coming for this neighborhood and would be done before Anoka
Halloween events.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Scott, Skogquist, Weaver,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.4 RES/Rum River Woodbury House Riverbank Stabilization Project; Approve
Plans and Specification, Authorize Advertisement for Bid and Set a Bid Date.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Nelson shared a background report stating at the December 16, 2021,
Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources (BWSR) Board Meeting, the
Board made a motion to allocate the FY2022 Clean Water Competitive Grants
and the City of Anoka was awarded $1,008,820 from this grant that fully funded
the Rum River Woodbury House Riverbank Stabilization Project. The deadline
for completing work with the grant funds is December 31, 2024. This past
February, the City requested a grant extension and on March 14, 2024, BWSR
approved the grant amendment request. The new deadline for completing work is
December 31, 2025. On February 22, 2022, City Council adopted a resolution
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
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approving a Clean Water Fund Grant Agreement (Grant Agreement #C22-7034),
ordering the project and authorized the preparation of plans and specifications for
the Rum River Woodbury House Riverbank Stabilization Project. At the
December 11, 2023 work session meeting, staff provided council an update on the
project status that included the architectural history findings, site access
alternatives, current design, bank stabilization methods, regulatory permitting, and
an updated project schedule. He shared the final riverbank stabilization design in
detail and said After the work is completed, the riverbank will be replanted with a
variety of native grasses, shrubs, and native trees within the TRM and erosion
control blanket. Vegetated riprap will be planted with live stakes (willow cuttings)
and bioengineering of live plant material (i.e. willow cuttings stakes, cedar
revetment, etc.) will be planted within the TMP to provide additional slope
stabilization and erosion control. He reviewed the plans, bid process, and bid date
then spoke about the financial impact of $253,000 with the City’s local
contribution to the 25% grant match. He outlined the schedule and said after the
work is completed, the riverbank will be replanted with a variety of native
grasses, shrubs, and native trees within the TRM and erosion control blanket.
Vegetated riprap will be planted with live stakes (willow cuttings) and
bioengineering of live plant material (i.e. willow cuttings stakes, cedar revetment,
etc.) will be planted within the TMP to provide additional slope stabilization and
erosion control.
Councilmember Weaver noted this was the most historic property in Anoka and
stressed the importance to retain this site and was pleased to see care included for
the stone trail and arch bridge but suggested including language in the resolution
to ensure final completion of these features and elements to recognize this
historical trail. He said he was pleased to see the project would begin in
November after the boating season but said sand will need to be removed from the
causeway to avoid obstruction in the river next year.
Mr. Nelson said the DNR permit requires all material in the causeway to be
removed.
Councilmember Skogquist asked about proposed language to be included
regarding the restoration of historic stonework. Mr. Lee suggested the language
be included instead in the specifications.
Mr. Nelson said staff will ensure language is added to the project specifications
when the contract is awarded.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Weaver, to adopt
a resolution for the Rum River Woodbury House Riverbank Stabilization Project;
Approve Plans & Specifications, Authorize Advertisement for Bid, and Set Bid
Date as Amended to Include Additional Language Regarding Preservation of the
Historic Trail.
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
Page 10 of 14
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Scott, Skogquist, Weaver,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.5 RES/Approving Social District Maintenance Management Plan 2024.
RESOLUTION
Community Development Director Doug Borglund shared a background report
stating during the 2022 Minnesota Legislative Session as part of the Omnibus
Liquor Bill that was signed into law. The Liquor Bill included a special provision
only for the City of Anoka enabling the City to establish something called a
“Social District”. A “Social District” is specific area, which allows people to
purchase and drink beer, wine, or a cocktail from a licensed business and walk
through a defined area of the city including public areas such as sidewalk or street
or participate in a district event/activity. Adoption of Social District regulations
enables the City of Anoka to issue a Social District license to any holder of an on-
sale liquor license who’s on-sale premises within or contiguous with the premises
of the Social District. As well, the City of Anoka must establish management and
maintenance plans for the Social District and post these plans, along with a
rendering of the boundaries of the social district and days and hours during which
alcoholic beverages may be consumed in the District, on the website for the City
of Anoka. The Social District must be maintained in a manner that protects the
health and safety of the general public. He reviewed the amended 2024 Social
District Managements and Maintenance Plan in detail that included one change to
note that expanded the district to the south side of East Main Street.
Councilmember Weaver spoke about the businesses’ input regarding participation
and suggested a hybrid option to accommodate their wishes. Mr. Borglund spoke
about work to keep businesses involved throughout this process and how one
business shared a lot of concern which resulted in the poll which was helpful.
Councilmember Skogquist said he was more supportive of Map 2 as it was
important to be clear about the boundaries then suggested trying to include logical
locations such as the Bridge Square parking area and tunnel as well. He said if
businesses are concerned they can post individual signage that they are not
participating in the social district, adding the less confusion the better and felt the
half block between Main Street and Monroe Street was most logical.
Councilmember Weaver said he would like to see us react when needed so the
Police Department has all the tools for effective and aggressive enforcement
regarding cups and cans littering and suggested a tiered license system especially
since district ends at 10:00 p.m. He said this district was a privilege for the City
and bar owners to create an entertainment district but there needs to be personal
responsibility by owners to address trash.
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
Page 11 of 14
Councilmember Scott agreed this was a benefit we were providing and there were
natural sip and stroll areas along the river and supported expanding the map to
include the tunnel to safely cross Main Street.
Chief Peterson agreed policing the district and having tools to identify and
address gross infractions by owners will be important but added policing the
entire area will be very difficult as there will always be someone who doesn’t
abide by the rules and leave the social district with cups.
Councilmember Weaver agreed but said the result is having Public Works clean
the lots which is a huge cost and burden and prevents other City work and will
have to be addressed with the owners to maintain a positive visual impact in the
community.
Mayor Rice said the responsibility should fall on door security at establishments.
Councilmember Scott said adequate trash receptacles need to also be available
and picked up regularly.
Mr. Borglund shared the trash management plan will include 20 receptacles.
Mr. Lee said Council will be reviewing liquor licenses and considering possible
increases to match neighboring cities and is scheduled for mid-summer to better
understand impacts and costs of the district.
Councilmember Skogquist said it will be important to monitor beverages coming
into the area and other factors that could be tied to a tiered licensing system,
adding we will have a whole year to monitor and adjust.
Motion by Councilmember Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
adopt a resolution approving Social District Maintenance and Management Plan
2024, with the boundary extensions down for 2nd and 3rd and Bridge Square
parking area and tunnel access south of Main Street as outlined in Map 2.
Mayor Rice said he supported using the tunnel and signage to safely cross Main
Street.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Scott, Skogquist, and Weaver
voted in favor. Councilmember Wesp voted nay. Motion carried.
9.6 RES/Supporting Retention of City Zoning Authority.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Borglund shared a background report stating as the City Council is aware
there have been a number of bills circulating in the legislative process this year in
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
Page 12 of 14
St. Paul at the State Capitol. Many of the bills that have been proposed take stock
in advancing efforts to increase production of affordable housing supply and
construction. Many of these proposed preemption bills are focused on addressing
affordable housing both rental and ownership across the State and would preempt
local zoning and land use regulations. The City of Anoka as a community and its
housing stock is already near 50% rental and 80% of its housing stock is already
affordable. Anoka has small lots already. Anoka has higher in density already.
Anoka’s market rate rent can be considered affordable. Anoka’s home values are
affordable overall. The results could include loss of local control including the
ability for communities and its citizens across the State to provide public input as
part of the development approval process. The proposed laws are of preemptive
nature to say the least and would include many mandates that may not be realistic,
practical, and costly.
Councilmember Scott recognizes what the Legislature was trying to accomplish
by creating more affordable housing options but supported the resolution as
proposed to allow more local control.
Motion by Councilmember Wesp, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to adopt a
resolution Supporting Retention of City Zoning Authority.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Rice, Councilmembers Scott, Skogquist, Weaver,
and Wesp voted in favor. Motion carried.
10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
11. NEW BUSINESS
11.1 Approve Revision to Anoka Municipal Utility Rules and Regulations Amending
Section 1008; Solar Installs Above 40kW with Max 39.9kW System Inverter Rate
Policy.
AMU Director Del Vancura shared a background report stating per our MMPA
Purchased Power Agreement and per State Statute, Distributed Generation Solar
producers below 40kW will be net metered by AMU. Solar system technology
has developed a way to use inverters with nameplate ratings over 40kW to be
used with any smaller size system by using an inverter device programmed to
limit total system output. Inverters must be limited to a max output of 39.9kW to
be compliant. AMU needs a policy in place to address systems that produce more
than the allowed 39.9kW onto the AMU grid and put the utility in violation of the
39.9kW net metering cap. He shared Supplements A and B of the DER System
Limitation Device Agreement in detail and asked Council to approve the revisions
as proposed.
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
Page 13 of 14
City Attorney Scott Baumgartner spoke about Supplement B violations for
customers going over the 40kW and the default possibilities that customers could
violate multiple times while not being consecutive. Mr. Vancura explained a
customer would have to be multiple consecutive violations before any disconnect
based on their inverter and if not then we just pay them the tariff rate.
Mayor Rice noted that could be a substantial penalty in itself and if a customer
accidently goes over the rate is much lower.
Mr. Baumgartner wanted it noted a customer could have multiple violations
within a year with a built-in penalty if multiple occurrences during the year. Mr.
Vancura said the penalty structure was reviewed through MMUA as well.
Mayor Rice said the typical homeowner won’t be able to produce that much
energy anyway but changes were causing greater demand and the only way to
manage changes was to start to allow people to generate their own solar energy if
they choose. He said this could effectively reduce or eliminate their electric bill
and take some burden off of the City.
Mr. Vancura said those customers who have acreage will be able to go over
100kW and then enter into a contract with the MMUA.
Motion by Councilmember Weaver, seconded by Councilmember Wesp, to
approve the revision to Anoka Municipal Utility Rules and Regulations
Amending Section 1008; Solar Installs Above 40kW with Max 39.9kW System
Inverter Rate Policy as presented.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Mr. Vancura said this policy will be presented at the MMPA meeting as a model
for other providers.
12. UPDATES AND REPORTS
12.1 Legislative Discussions and Update.
None.
12.2 Tentative Agenda(s).
The Council reviewed the tentative agendas of the upcoming Council meetings.
12.3 Staff and Council Input.
None.
April 1, 2024 (Regular)
Page 14 of 14
ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Wesp made a motion to adjourn the Regular Council meeting.
Councilmember Scott seconded the motion.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Time of adjournment: 8:54 p.m.
Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc.
Approval Attestation:
Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk
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