Anoka City Council

April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 1 of 18 REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL ANOKA CITY HALL CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS APRIL 21, 2025 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Skogquist 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 Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Also present: Public Works Director Mark Anderson; Assistant City Engineer Ben Nelson; Finance Director Brenda Springer; HRA Executive Director Darin Berger; Police Chief Andy Youngquist; Senior City Planner Clark Palmer; Community Development Director Doug Borglund; Public Services Administrator Lisa LaCasse; City Attorney Scott Baumgartner; Utility Director Del Vancura. Absent at roll call: None. 3. COUNCIL MINUTES 3.1 April 7, 2025, Regular Meeting. Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to approve the minutes of the April 7, 2025, Regular Meeting as presented. Vote taken. All ayes. Councilmember Weaver abstained. Motion carried. 4. OPEN FORUM 4.1 Police Activity Update. Police Chief Andy Youngquist shared the backgrounds of each individual, then issued the oaths of office to Patrol Officer Raghde Villordo-Flores, Sergeant Eric Algiers, and Captain Brent Solei. He thanked Council for the opportunity to hold these oaths, as it shows the City’s support and value of each member. Councilmember Rostad thanked the officers for their service. Councilmember Weaver said it was great to see the audience present for this event and encouraged them to stay for the upcoming agenda item for K-9 Bravo. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 2 of 18 Councilmember Scott congratulated the team and thanked Chief Youngquist for growing members internally within the department, then asked what unit Officer Villordo-Flores served. Officer Villordo-Flores said he was stationed at Fort Hood in several different troops. Councilmember Campbell thanked Chief Youngquist for hiring great people for the department. Mayor Skogquist asked each why they chose to work in Anoka. Captain Solei shared how he started as a security officer and returned after two years at another agency because of Anoka’s culture, work ethic, and variety. Sergeant Algiers said he started as a security officer then returned because of the department’s administration and officers. Officer Villordo-Flores shared that he was a CSO before becoming an officer, which he believed shows how important the culture is in Anoka. He said this is a great place to work and that he was lucky to be chosen to serve. Mayor Skogquist thanked everyone for sharing their reasons and said he was pleased to have them in Anoka. Chief Youngquist said he was excited about the department and promotions and said it was important to have good leaders in place and that he was working to continue the strong record of hiring good candidates. 4.2 Proclamation; Tree City USA and Arbor Day, April 25, 2025. Public Services Administrator Lisa LaCasse shared a background report stating the proclamation recognizes the achievement of the Tree City USA Award from the National Arbor Day Foundation for the 44th consecutive year and highlights the importance of Arbor Day. Communities attain Tree City USA status by meeting four core standards of sound urban forestry management that include maintaining a tree board, having a community tree ordinance, spending at least $2 per capita on urban forestry, and celebrating Arbor Day. For 2025, the City of Anoka will celebrate Arbor Day on April 25 from 9 a.m. to noon at Green Haven Golf Course, where a total of 102 trees of varying species will be planted to replace over 100 ash trees that will be removed by the end of winter 2026. The diseased ash trees have significantly impacted the beauty of the course. Public Services staff have assisted in the removal of 67 diseased trees so far. She shared the backgrounds of the City’s tree care specialists and noted this is the highest number of inspectors on staff to date, and said they are available to inspect private trees as well. She shared 681 new trees will be planted by December 2025 through a grant program to address Emerald ash borer impacts, then spoke about tree removals since January 2025 that included 67 Green Haven and 100 boulevard trees. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 3 of 18 Mayor Skogquist read the Proclamation in full into the record then referred to the Tree City USA flag and how Anoka values this designation. He said Arbor Day is a creative way to get the community involved in this important program and encouraged the community to attend. OTHER INFORMATION UNDER OPEN FORUM Paul Justin, Billy’s, spoke about the road closure and changing Jackson Street from a two-way to a one-way, and the resulting impacts, such as missed garbage pickups, people going the wrong way, parking confusion, and citations issued due to no parking violations. He requested the City return the traffic to last year’s plan and said he was unsure why so much parking was needed for the north side. Mayor Skogquist said the goal was to create a social environment in the downtown area through partial street closures as well as address safety concerns with pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicles and that staff has made some adjustments for access already based on feedback. Councilmember Weaver commented on the proposed map originally shared by staff and how it doesn’t follow what was agreed to by the bar owners, and suggested the barriers be 14-20 feet from Billy’s. He said they currently don’t work for their location and shared a photo that showed truck deliveries actually close Jackson Street, and noted others are not pleased. He said this is concerning because if property owners are being affected by this action, we have to adjust and suggested putting the barriers on the center stripe based on the April 9 staff map. Mr. Justin said they have lost parking in front of their building due to this change, and other bar owners not on Jackson Street don’t think it’s fair either as the City is allowing more space for some business owners than others. He added that recreational games don’t all have to be located on Jackson Street. Councilmember Weaver said if bar owners are not happy with the plan, they won’t participate next year, and that the entire program could fail. He said we shouldn’t allow the barriers at all and added that we can’t pick and choose between business owners and felt we were setting up the social district to fail. Mayor Skogquist said the goal was to increase space outside the parklets but provide one-way access when the social district is open. He said he understood the concerns but said we need to balance everyone’s concerns and create more social spaces and limited spaces. He said he appreciated the feedback and that staff will try to make the area more accessible for larger trucks during deliveries but said it is difficult to change the plan based on only a few people’s input. He said staff will review this further for any suggestions. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 4 of 18 Councilmember Weaver said he didn’t think these were changes occurring mid- stream because the social district doesn’t open until May 1, and can still be done. He commented on others in the area not wanting to give up their parking either. Mr. Justin shared concerns from his patrons about parking and said no one is pleased with the current state of Jackson Street. Councilmember Scott said the social district is an example of a successful district to allow movement in the area with a social cup and the jersey barriers provide space for meeting as a group for games or music. Councilmember Weaver said the current plan is not working because cars have to back up to get out of the way, and that traffic doesn’t flow well. He said he felt the directive was different than proposed and that the minimum width was 14-20 feet and was unsure if the direction changed based on staff or Mayor Skogquist, but noted there are five Councilmembers present. Mayor Skogquist responded that it was the City Manager’s job to manage day-to- day operations of the City and encouraged Council to share their input with the manager. 5. PUBLIC HEARING(S) None. 6. CONSENT AGENDA Councilmember Scott acknowledged Commissioner Brewer’s recent passing. He shared his condolences and thanked her for her service to the City. Mayor Skogquist said Commissioner Brewer was a former teacher and active on the Planning Commission and said he appreciated her communication style, research, intellect, and input and how she was never afraid to be the lone vote on an item. Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. 6.1 Approve Verified Bills. 6.2 Revising and Setting Council Calendars. 6.3 Issuance of a Tree Care/Arborist License; EHE Tree Service, Becker, Minnesota. 6.4 Acknowledge Vacancy on Planning Commission; Karna Brewer. Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 5 of 18 7. REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS 7.1 Park Board Item: 7.1.A. Recommendation to Rename Station Park after K-9 Bravo. Ms. LaCasse shared a background report stating K-9 Bravo was born on December 21, 2016, in the country of Slovakia and came to the United States on December 12, 2017, when he became a member of the Anoka Police Department. K-9 Bravo was a “dual purpose” K-9 trained in tracking, criminal apprehension, and narcotics detection. K-9 Bravo was partnered with Sgt. Jake Sorteberg, who has been with the Anoka Police Department since May 2012. K-9 Bravo received multiple recognitions and awards for his heroic efforts at the local, regional, and national levels. He received the K-9 Purple Heart, the Minnesota Medal of Honor from the Minnesota Chiefs of Police Association, and the Medal of Valor from the United States Police K-9 Association. Additionally, he was honored with the United States Police K-9 Case of the Year award. Retired K-9 Bravo passed away on January 24, 2025, due to untreatable medical issues. He was a beloved member of the police family—an exceptional partner not only to Sgt. Sorteberg but also to the entire Anoka Police Department. Bravo was cherished by the community, and the outpouring of empathy following his in the line of duty injury was unprecedented. Hundreds of dog toys, blankets, and "get well" gifts flooded the department from around the world. At the Regular Council Meeting on February 3, 2025, Chief Peterson informed the Council and the public that Bravo had passed away on January 24, 2025, due to health reasons. During his report, he highlighted Bravo’s numerous accolades. Following the Chief’s remarks, Councilmember Scott and Mayor Skogquist suggested the creation of a dog park in Bravo’s memory and proposed that this idea be considered by the Park Board. At the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board’s regular meeting on March 18, 2025, staff presented the idea of renaming a park or creating a dog park in Bravo’s honor. There was minimal discussion regarding the creation of a dog park, as previous proposals for dog parks had revealed that adjacent neighbors were not supportive of the concept. Staff suggested several parks—Brisbin, Rudy Johnson, Elm Street, and Station Park—as potential candidates for renaming. Ultimately, the Park Board voted to rename Station Park Bravo Park. The request to rename Station Park is consistent with the purpose and objectives outlined in the policy. K-9 Bravo satisfies the name criteria under item 3.3 as an “acknowledgment of sustained/outstanding contribution made to the city… by enhancing the life and/or wellbeing of City residents”. Minimum expense would occur to replace the existing Station Park sign, and staff requested approval to rename Station Park in honor of the late K-9 Bravo. She added that nature was very important to Bravo and that this park was adjacent to a conservation easement, so while limited, some improvements could be done. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 6 of 18 Councilmember Scott said he served on the Park Board and with the NorthStar train going away, consideration of this park as a hub is important, as it is along a walking path to the downtown area and would be a beautiful park to honor Bravo. Chief Youngquist thanked the Park Board for championing this idea as Bravo was a true hero. Sergeant Sorteberg thanked the Park Board for this honor and felt it was an excellent way to honor this hero. He shared how Bravo was a one in a million and an asset to the City, and felt he brought the City together and made connections. He said he was excited to see what happens with this park and loved the vision and thanked everyone for their work, adding that proximity to the river was great as Bravo loved the water. Councilmember Campbell thanked Sergeant Sorteberg for caring for Bravo. Mayor Skogquist said this park was already a default area for dogs and felt it was a fitting location, then thanked Sergeant Sorteberg for being Bravo’s handler, as he was a great connection for the department and the City as a whole. Councilmember Rostad thanked Sergeant Sorteberg for sharing Bravo with the community. Chief Youngquist shared that they will work to commission a memorial for Bravo similar to the one on Kings Island Park. Sergeant Sorteberg said Bravo passed away on January 25 and that their call number was 29, similar to the park address which was fitting. Motion by Councilmember Weaver, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to rename Station Park to Bravo Park. Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried. Councilmember Weaver thanked Michelle Gregerson for this idea. 8. PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATION None. 9. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS 9.1 RES/2025 Street Surface Improvement Project – Lund Boulevard and McKinley Street, Approve Bids, Award a Construction Contract, and Authorization to Execute Agreements. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 7 of 18 RESOLUTION Assistant City Engineer Ben Nelson shared a background report stating on March 3, 2025, City Council approved the plans and specifications, authorized the advertisement for bid, and set the bid date for the 2025 Street Surface Improvement Project – Lund Boulevard and McKinley Street. The Street Surface Improvement Program involves the reconstruction of street surfaces, including bituminous pavement, minor replacement of the concrete curbs and gutters, sidewalks, spot watermain repairs, traffic control, and storm sewer drainage improvements only as necessary. As part of the sidewalk work, all pedestrian ramps will be reconstructed to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards. The spot watermain repair work will address malfunctioning gate valves and broken access valve boxes. He shared the roads included in the 2025 Street Surface Improvement Project and said the park improvements at George Enloe Park include the resurfacing of two parking lots located off McKinley Street and Weaver Boulevard. Based on Council discussion on March 3, 2025, regarding the designation of bike lanes along McKinley Street, the existing drive lanes will be increased from 10 feet to 11 feet. This adjustment will accommodate 5-foot bike lanes on both sides of the road. The existing parking lane will remain on the south side of the road at a width of 7 feet. The eastbound bike lane will be adjacent to the drive lane with a 3-foot buffer zone separating it from the parking lane. Previously, the drive lanes were proposed to be 10 feet wide with 6-foot bike lanes. It shall be understood, located within the project limits is Metropolitan Council’s sanitary sewer interceptor pipe and force mains. The resurfacing work associated to McKinley Street will require for the interceptor manhole sewer casting to be removed and reinstalled with new cast supplied by Metropolitan Council. Metropolitan Council, as the owner of this interceptor line in the City, the council will require the City of Anoka to enter into Cooperative Construction Agreement to permit the work, even for something this minor. Based on previous City Council action, bids for this project were received on April 8, 2025, with both a Base Bid and an Alternate Bid. He outlined the scope of the Base Bid and Alternate Bid and said the City received a total of six bids with amounts ranging from $2.3M to $2.8M. Based on the low bids from Park Construction Company for the base and alternate bids, the total project cost is $2,626,733. This amount includes a 5% construction contingency and 10% for engineering, legal, administrative, and fiscal costs. The total project cost, based on the engineer estimate was $2,798,343. The revised project cost, based upon Park Construction Company’s bid, represents a reduction of approximately $100,000 or 4%, compared to the feasibility estimate. It should be noted that the reduction in the overall project cost based on the low bid will result in savings to the city’s State Aid MSAS Construction Funds. He added that the total estimated costs based on the low bid are broken down by Street Reconstruction Storm Sewer Sanitary Sewer Water System Electrical System Park Improvements. Councilmember Scott thanked staff for including fire hydrant painting in the area as they are older and in need of paint. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 8 of 18 Mayor Skogquist asked if Park Construction has done projects in Anoka before. Mr. Nelson said no, but that they have been in business since the 1920s and are well established, and have done good work in other communities based on letters of recommendation. Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to adopt a resolution for the 2025 Street Surface Improvement Project – Lund Boulevard and McKinley Street; approve bids and award a construction contract to Park Construction Company in the amount of $2,284,114.97. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Motion carried. 9.2. ORD/Accepting Offer for Vacant Lot at River Avenue and Madison Street. 1st Reading HRA Executive Director Darin Berger shared a background report stating the Council began marketing a long-vacant City-owned lot at River Avenue and Madison Street in the fall of 2024. After reviewing offers and undergoing multiple Council readings, an initial sale attempt in December 2024 failed due to not reaching the required 4/5 majority vote by Council. At the January 27, 2025, worksession, Council discussed improving the sale process by setting a $200,000 minimum bid, requiring design renderings before bids, considering sealed bids, increasing public notice, and adding design guidelines to the real estate brochure. Following these updates, the lot was re-marketed and resulted in two offers. At the March 24, 2025, worksession, Council chose to proceed with a $250,000 offer. A draft purchase agreement has been included in your packet for your reference. The details of the home to be built and additional items listed in the real estate addendum used will be included in the development agreement to be signed on or before closing. He shared a concept of the proposed home to be built and said the City would agree to sell the lot for $250,000 to Amanda Baker if approved. Councilmember Scott thanked staff for the time on this site and said the goal was to get the property off City ownership and that he thought the corner lot would be good for a future parking lot through park capital funds but the timing didn’t work so this was a great opportunity instead. He said he felt the home would be a nice statement piece and help inspire other development in the area. Councilmember Weaver stressed the need to be transparent, outlined three bids, the flyer shared, and how another home style was submitted as well as a third, which didn’t complete the process, so it was started over. He referred to the addendum and said we need to confirm whether the selected bid met the requirements. He shared comments about how both proposed homes may or may not have met the requirements, and how the intent was for a single-family home and that there was discretion outlined in the addendum, and the home being April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 9 of 18 considered is not a Craftsman-style home. He spoke about the proposed price differences, the lack of brick and proposed setbacks offsetting the living area and how the garage would be located in the front yard. He shared further comments on the criteria and what he felt qualified as the best use and said the zoning was R-3 and could be rezoned, but the adopted Comprehensive Plan was guided for R- 1. He referred to the “string test” and setbacks of 35 feet but said the plat has a 25-foot setback and the house wouldn’t fit on the lot. He referred to the garage location and how the lot has two front yards and the offer accepted only had 6.5 criteria checked, while the higher offer had 8 criteria checked and said he couldn’t support a lesser offer, then shared concerns about the possibility of a lawsuit. Councilmember Scott clarified that the addendum regarding construction of a single-family home shall be traditional such as a Craftsman-style home, but doesn’t have to be and the maximum use of the lot with the structure as either a 2- story or 1.5- story was be permissible. Councilmember Weaver said we’re leaving $53,000 on the table by accepting the lower offer, adding the other offer could be closed within a week. Mr. Berger stated both were cash offers, and one was willing to close as soon as possible. Councilmember Rostad said the Council conducted a blind bid process to ensure we would just review the house elements and agreed the terms shall versus should provide directives, such as a Craftsman, but added we don’t have final renderings now, She said the addendum required a high percentage of brick and stone and felt the second house had a dominating garage feature, adding the maximum use of the house should be a 2-story to meet that element too. Councilmember Campbell said this has been his most difficult decision so far, adding the process has been confusing and adoption of the criteria was not very clear. He said both renderings had minor issues but felt they would be worked out at the Planning Commission and that he felt both were acceptable but the majority of Council felt this offer fit the criteria and that we need to have a better process moving forward. He said he may have voted differently a few weeks ago, but his opinion has changed since March due to the economy, and if we delay action, it could result in fewer offers, and that we agreed to accept this offer. He said, while not the highest bid this is a very good price for a residential lot and even if not as high as last year, this sale will provide funds for the City. Mayor Skogquist said this was first reading of the purchase agreement and that the item was discussed at the worksession where consensus of the majority of Council was to move forward, adding this action would require a development agreement too. City Attorney Scott Baumgartner said because there are certain contingencies, the Council wants those elements included in a development agreement to highlight April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 10 of 18 provisions such as the City’s right to repurchase the lot if not developed as intended. Councilmember Weaver said if all elements are not followed, what are the challenges, and are there concerns about not accepting the highest bid. Mr. Baumgartner said self-imposed restrictions are placed by the Council and this is more of a guidance than a binding agreement. He said there was no contract in place with any proposed buyer, so there is no potential breach of contract outside of an estoppel, but the promise has to be specific and shown to be determinantal, and stated he didn’t believe there was any cause of action by either party at this time. Motion by Councilmember Rostad, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to hold first reading of an ordinance to convey real property at 18XX River Avenue to Amanda Baker. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, and Scott. Councilmember Weaver voted nay. Motion carried. 9.3. ORD/Approving Lease Agreement with The Tavern at Green Haven, LLC. 1st Reading Finance Director Brenda Springer shared a background report stating the lease agreement with The Tavern at Green Haven expires at the end of 2025 and Jason Tollette is requesting an extension of the agreement. Mr. Tollette has recently secured an agreement for services at the Edinburgh Clubhouse in Brooklyn Park. In this agreement, the City of Brooklyn Park retains control of the banquet center at Edinburgh. Mr. Tollette is offering the same option to the City of Anoka in the Green Haven Lease Agreement for services. Mr. Tollette has also indicated that he would be agreeable to simply extending the current lease agreement, should the City of Anoka not be interested in taking on the operations and management of the banquet center. In addition to extending the agreement termination to December 31, 2027, Section 3 added a 3% rent escalator clause per year, Section 4 added a City profit share of 5% of sales revenue between $950,000 and $1,150,000 (max $10,000) and Section No. 7 was added that makes The Tavern responsible to ensure that their employees obtain “Responsible Beverage Server Training.” 7. All employees of Tenant responsible for serving adult beverages to customers, including alcohol and THC beverages, shall annually attend and successfully complete Responsible Beverage Server Training, providing a certificate of completion to Landlord. Staff is recommending that Council consider extending the current lease agreement at this time. Further, staff recommends that the lease agreement be extended to the end of 2027. This would give the City the necessary time to fully analyze and study the financial impacts of an option where the City takes on the operation of a banquet center. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 11 of 18 Councilmember Scott said this was reviewed with the City Manager on how to get this lease to a better place than it was before, as it was more competitive, and thanked Councilmember Weaver for his creativity, especially regarding the profit- sharing suggestion to help the City while still being fair to Mr. Tollette. Councilmember Rostad asked if this is a typical percent profit sharing. Ms. Springer said yes, adding that’s how the original lease was set up based on sales but there was no minimum or maximum so it was switched to CAM charges to assure we were meeting costs. then added that this will benefit both parties when the tenant is successful. Mayor Skogquist said he appreciated the escalation clause, percentage rent, and CAM charges all being included and liked the language regarding if the City invests then we’ll see investment coming out for the building for example. He thanked staff and Councilmembers Scott and Weaver for establishing this lease. Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to hold first reading of an ordinance approving a lease extension agreement between The Tavern at Green Haven, LLC and the City of Anoka Relating To The Food & Beverage Services At Green Haven Golf Course & Event Center. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Motion carried. 9.4. RES/Adopting 2025 City Goals. RESOLUTION Ms. Springer shared a background report stating at your goals session on February 10, 2025, the City Council reviewed and discussed the goals of each Councilmember for 2025-2026. Based on the discussion, the City Council goals for 2025-2026 are established in the proposed resolution. Staff will provide the City Council with a goals status report throughout the year. She also shared the 2025-2026 goals and 2024 accomplishments from Boards and Commissions and City departments and asked Council to adopt the resolution. Mayor Skogquist said this was a good way to hold us accountable on progress, such as fiscal responsibility, for example. Councilmember Rostad thanked the Boards and Commissioners for putting their information forward, as their feedback helped create these goals. Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to adopt a resolution adopting the 2025-2026 City goals as presented. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 12 of 18 Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Motion carried. 9.5. RES/Approving Budget Adjustments and Rollovers. RESOLUTION Ms. Springer shared a background report stating the Council has the authority to revise the 2024 budget by transferring unencumbered appropriations from one office, department or agency to another, by increasing the total appropriations to the extent of actual revenues, by appropriating for unexpected emergency expenses or by carryover for incomplete projects. After reviewing the actual activity for the year ending December 31, 2024, and speaking with department heads, the proposed resolution describes the proposed amendments to the 2024 budget and the 2025 budget, respectively. The resolution does impact the overall total budgeted expenditures in 2024. It also impacts the overall budgeted expenditures in 2025. Expenditure budgets in the general fund are being reallocated between departments within the fund. The total budget requested for carry over is $474,000, and consists of a bucket truck for electric, decorative fence for the cemetery, Public Works alarms and card access for building improvements and a greens mower for golf, which are requested to be carried over for receipt and payment of asset or completion of the project in 2025. Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to adopt a resolution authorizing revision of 2024 budget department and carryover to 2025. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Motion carried. 9.6 ORD/Zoning Map Amendment; Rezoning to B-1; 1125 W. Main Street. 1st Reading Senior City Planner Clark Palmer shared a background report stating the subject property located at 1125 West Main Street/Property ID 35-32-25-44-0006 & 35- 32-25-44-0005 is owned by the City of Anoka. The site was purchased using RALF Funds and remains following the reconstruction of Highway 10. The site must now be sold, and the funds returned to the Met Council. Further, the City Council has provided direction to City staff to sell this property in 2025. According to the 2040 Comprehensive Land Use Plan, the site is designated as General Commercial. However, the current zoning classification is Manufacturing (M-1), which is not appropriate for this property. The proposal is to rezone the site to (B-1) Highway Commercial. Before listing the property for sale, it is necessary to position the site for its highest and best use going forward. The goal of this zoning amendment is to allow for more suitable commercial use. The site is not appropriate for industrial types of land use. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 13 of 18 Mayor Skogquist said this makes sense as there are some uses that would not be as well suited for this site, and felt this would be very logical, then referred to the RALF funds. He said these funds were given by the Metropolitan Council and there is a hope for changes to the use of those funds, such as building bridges across the Mississippi River. Mr. Nelson said we had three sites total for the Highway 10 project and this was the last remaining site as part of the RALF funding. Motion by Councilmember Rostad, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to hold first reading of an ordinance approving a zoning map amendment rezoning to B-1 Highway Business. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Motion carried. 9.7 RES/Variances for Setback and Impervious Lot Coverage; 537 North Street. RESOLUTION Mr. Palmer shared a background report stating Perry and Lori Flesner, owners of 537 North Street, are seeking (1) a setback variance and (2) an impervious lot coverage variance for a new building addition to their home. The addition will expand the home and enclose an indoor swimming pool. The location of the addition, in the rear yard, was previously improved with an outdoor pool and deck surround, which was demoed last year. At the March 4 Planning Commission meeting, the applicant appeared requesting approval of an approximate 1,900 square-foot building addition, with a proposed side-yard setback of 4.8 feet and impervious lot coverage of 42.6%. This would have required approval of a variance of 5.2 feet from the minimum 10-foot side-yard setback and a variance of 7.6% above the maximum lot coverage of 35%. The Planning Commission had some concerns about the extent of the variances and asked the applicant to try to reduce the size of the addition to minimize the need for variances. The item was postponed. The applicant revised their plans and appeared before the Planning Commission again at their April 1 regular meeting. The size of the addition was reduced to approximately 1,800 square feet (-100 sq. ft), increasing the side-yard setback to 6.8 feet (+2 feet) and impervious lot coverage to 41.8% (-0.08%). The applicant is therefore requesting the following variances: 1. 2. A variance of 3.2 ft. from the minimum side yard setback of 10 feet, for a proposed setback of 6.8 feet from the westerly side lot line. A variance of 6.8% from the maximum impervious lot coverage of 35%, for a proposed impervious lot coverage of 41.8% of the total lot area. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the variances, finding that there were physical circumstances unique to the property warranting approval of the variances, including: • The property’s location and proximity to Hwy 10 and loud traffic noise • A large, illuminated billboard sign adjacent to the property • Existing egress window at rear of dwelling • Existing April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 14 of 18 rock wall in rear yard • The addition would replace an in-ground pool and deck surround. Councilmember Campbell thanked the Planning Commission for coming up with a plan and vision for the homeowners. Mayor Skogquist thanked the applicants for investing in Anoka and complimented them on maintaining their property so well. Motion by Councilmember Rostad, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to adopt a resolution approving variances for setback and impervious lot coverage, 537 North Street. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Motion carried. 10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. 11. NEW BUSINESS 11.1 Anoka Community Center; Authorize Feasibility Study and Execution of Agreement with HKGi. Ms. LaCasse shared a background report stating pursuant to a resolution adopted by City Council on August 7, 2023, the City of Anoka purchased the real property at 2939 6th Avenue, formerly known as Miller Manufacturing or the Lakeland Tool and Engineering, Inc. site. At the goals session Meeting on February 10, 2025, the Council introduced and discussed the goal of exploring future uses for the Miller Manufacturing property along Grant Street, including its feasibility as a community center. Councilmembers expressed interest in exploring whether the facility could house court sports, such as pickleball and volleyball, as well as be used as a community space for seniors, including classrooms or banquet rooms. Discussion included the need for indoor spaces for soccer and other field activities. In 2024, Hoisington Koegler Group, Inc. (HKGi) was contracted by the City of Anoka to update the Anoka TOD Station Area Plan, which was subsequently approved by the City Council in December 2024. During the plan update and through public engagement events hosted by the city, discussions emerged about incorporating a community center within the TOD Station Area. As a result of the goal session discussion, staff were directed to solicit a proposal for a multi-phase feasibility study regarding the development of a community center—either through the renovation of the Miller Manufacturing building or on property within the TOD. Due to HKGi’s familiarity with the area and its involvement in the TOD Plan, staff requested their services to complete the proposed feasibility study. Based on Minnesota State Statute, the City Council April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 15 of 18 may act on its own initiative to propose a local improvement and order a feasibility report. The feasibility report will examine the scope of the proposed community center, explore the reuse of the building, develop concepts and estimated costs, and assess the feasibility and general cost-effectiveness of the community center. Based on City Council goals, a proposal and contract agreement has been received to study the feasibility of establishing a community center in the City of Anoka. The first step in this process is to approve the agreement. It is recommended that Public Service staff be authorized as the designated agents (authorized representatives) to execute the contract agreement with HKGi. Furthermore, the authorized representatives for the City of Anoka will maintain the authority to execute any amendments to said agreement and will direct the City of Anoka to enter into any necessary agreements for the project. For the successful completion of the project, staff recommends that the City Council designate Lisa LaCasse (or her successor) and Ben Nelson (or his successor) as the authorized representatives. The estimated cost provided by HKGi for the community center feasibility study is $45,000. Since funding for the study was not included in the 2025 budget, it will be proposed to the City Council tonight during Item 9.5 RES/Approving Budget Adjustments and Rollovers to increase the 2025 budget by $45,000. This amount would be financed and paid for using the General Fund Balance. If the proposed budget adjustment for the study was not approved in Item 9.5, further direction will be required by the City Council this evening to identify an alternative funding source for the feasibility study. The City Council should note that in February 2026, the City will need to refinance the current temporary abatement bonds. This process will require the city to buy down the bonds using the unspent bond proceeds allocated for demolition. The bonds will then be converted into long-term tax abatement bonds to cover their costs, along with any renovation expenses. Ehlers is currently assessing the available abatement capacity to determine the maximum size of the abatement bond that could be issued. Staff requested the City Council to review, discuss and provide direction to staff with regard to the feasibility study. If the City Council directs staff to proceed, the designated representatives will execute the proposed agreement with HKGi on behalf of the City. Councilmember Campbell said when the building was purchased, there was no environmental study outside of soil borings for outside, but that nothing was done regarding possible impacts from lead paint, pipes, oil tanks etc., and noted that could be costly later and should be considered now. Mr. Nelson shared that soil borings were done onsite prior to purchase but no Phase I analysis was done by the City before or after the purchase, and the feasibility does not include any of that analysis at this time. Mayor Skogquist said the analysis will first include whether this site is feasible for a community center, and if so, then the next step would be costs such as environmental. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 16 of 18 Councilmember Scott said the City purchased this site with a bond, which still has to be paid and its impacts in the TOD area now that the NorthStar is changing. He said Gramercy had a plan for the area but that was paused due to rising interest rates and that a potential community center in Anoka has been considered in the past and whether we would benefit from one here or another location has been discussed. He said this is a big space that could be repurposed, but the location is central to the City with multiple ways to access and sufficient parking and could begin development in the area by others. He said there aren’t many options for the community now, especially in the winter, for young families, and that this could result in job retention in Anoka and keep the community vibrant and strong. He said we need to ensure a revenue stream pays for the bond and any renovation and that we could consider a holistic membership overall, such as the golf course and that he supported this study to be able to consider the possibilities and if not, there could be other areas this could be done. Councilmember Rostad said the aquatic center serves the south portion of the City, and this could serve the north portion, adding there are limited opportunities to use the space now in place. She said there are not a lot of gathering spaces for events for pickleball courts and maybe we could transition them from the senior center to accommodate them. She said this site would be close to transit should the NorthStar train remain, and that the previous Council purchased the site for a reason for $11 million and we need to do something with it. Joelle Alverud, Anoka, said when the property was purchased, it was to convert it to taxable space and said this would result in zero taxes if made into a community center. She suggested the City approach Jam Hops or Urban Air to create space for families and let them spend the money, adding the goal is for the City to be profitable. She said money is tight and that while she loves the idea, we could profit more by letting others do the work to determine the possibilities, not us. Councilmember Scott said that while no new taxes would occur, we would collect on rental fees. Councilmember Weaver said he liked the idea but felt we didn’t have the base to do this then referred to Lino Lakes, who had to close their community center after the YMCA left. He said we don’t have any community partners, such as ARAA and can’t afford improvements at the golf course now, and that now is not the time and felt the building should come down. He said this is a tired building that will cost us more to rehab than to build something new. Councilmember Rostad asked what staff hears regarding amenities and needs. Ms. LaCasse said there have always been discussions about facilities but there are always concerns about what we can and can’t afford and the tax base in the City. She said we need to know what is feasible and should learn quickly if this could be done here and that only Council can decide what is a good use of funds and April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 17 of 18 that this could be a good approach without getting people too excited about the possibilities and if proved to be feasible then we could do an environmental study. Councilmember Scott said Council approved a study for the golf course that cost twice as much as this and said the Miller building was appraised for more than we purchased it for so we don’t want to tear it down unless there is a viable plan for the entire area. He spoke about potential senior housing in the area and the need to know what could be the anchor now, since the train station likely won’t be there so what will draw development now. Councilmember Campbell said it would be wonderful to have this but he didn’t think we could afford to convert this building into a community center but would be in favor of the study to see if this is something that would pay for itself and if not then we tear it down and move on and if so look at a private partnership such as the YMCA. Councilmember Scott compared this to a cannabis study to gain an understanding for possibilities. Mayor Skogquist spoke about a potential partnership with athletic associations as space is needed and we should look at uses for this site, including a community center. He said either way, we have to deal with this property and noted $9 million is a lot to start with. He said the worst thing we can do is demolish an asset that could have been used, and he didn’t want to have a similar thing happen like the parking ramp. Motion by Mayor Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to execute the agreement with HKGi. Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, and Scott. Councilmember Weaver voted nay. Motion carried. 12. UPDATES AND REPORTS 12.1 Tentative Agenda(s). The Council reviewed the tentative agendas of the upcoming Council meetings. 12.2 Staff and Council Input. Mr. Nelson shared that the boards were installed on the dam, and the recreational pool is now usable, adding that this is quite early in the season for this work. Ms. LaCasse said staff is usually dealing with high water with ice out, and because of the mild winter, the boards could be installed earlier as well as installing the port of Anoka for access as early as this weekend, and boat slips will be next. April 21, 2025 (Regular) Page 18 of 18 Chief Youngquist invited the Council to the annual awards banquet tomorrow evening at Anoka High School. Mayor Skogquist shared about the River Avenue lot and the comprehensive plan and zoning match as low density and requested the Council consider a worksession agenda item for discussion. Councilmember Scott noted he would be abstaining from any discussion regarding this area. Council consensus was to schedule this item for discussion at a future worksession. Mayor Skogquist shared an update on the proposed jail expansion and the State’s study on regionalization of jails and how the number of beds needed is lower than originally thought. He said while they were redoing estimates, he asked for Council consensus to continue the process for possible alternate locations for the County to consider. Councilmember Scott shared the Fire Board’s consensus on the expense sharing model at 50/50 on fixed and proportional, which will come before the Council for formal approval later this year. ADJOURNMENT Councilmember Scott made a motion to adjourn the Regular Council meeting. Councilmember Rostad seconded the motion. Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried. Time of adjournment: 9:33 p.m. Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. Approval Attestation: Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk