Anoka City Council

October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 1 of 18 WORKSESSION OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL ANOKA CITY HALL CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION ROOM OCTOBER 27, 2025 1. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Skogquist called the worksession meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. 2. ROLL CALL Present at roll call: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and Weaver. Staff present: City Manager Greg Lee; Assistant City Manager Amy Oehlers; Communications Manager Pam Bowman; Community Development Director Doug Borglund; Public Services Director Lisa LaCasse; Police Chief Andy Youngquist; Public Works Director Mark Anderson; Public Works Supervisor Jon Holmes; City Attorney Scott Baumgartner. Absent: None. 3. COUNCIL BUSINESS and/or DISCUSSION ITEMS Item 3.5 was heard at this point in the agenda. 3.1 Discussion: Code of Conduct Policy, Code of Ethics Policy, Vision Statement, and Mission Statement. Assistant City Manager Amy Oehlers shared a background report stating that at the May 27, 2025, worksession, the Council formed a working group to review and draft new documents related to the Code of Ethics Policy. Previously, drafts have been reviewed by the City Council and comments solicited from City Boards and Commissions, as well as Attorney Scott Lepak. The Council directed that the working group consist of Councilmember Rostad, City Attorney Scott Baumgartner, City Manager Greg Lee, and Assistant City Manager Amy Oehlers. The working group was tasked with incorporating comments from Board/Commission members, when possible and appropriate, as well as those from Attorney Lepak. The working group was also tasked with reducing the document size and considering developing separate documents. The working group met and developed drafts of the Code of Conduct Policy, Code of Ethics Policy, Vision Statement, and Mission Statement. The Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics Policy are proposed to be two separate documents. Both of the policies do have a signature page for elected officials and board/commission members; however, the signature simply means that the member acknowledges receiving a copy of the policies. The policies also state that if a member refuses to October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 2 of 18 sign and submit this page to the City Administration office, staff will make a notation in the member’s file detailing the date and method the document was provided to the member and their refusal to sign and return the document. The Council should discuss the draft policies and statements and provide direction on whether the draft policies and statements should be formalized and placed on a future agenda for adoption. Mayor Skogquist thanked staff for their work, as it is important to have something to point to when situations arise. Councilmember Campbell said he liked separating the policies and the acknowledgement of receipt. He spoke about retaliation being subject to sanctions, but referred to the section about reports being investigated promptly, and asked who would do that investigation. He suggested forming a group, such as a retired attorney or someone appointed by the Council, to create a board of ethics. For example, while he was not sure we should go that far, it shouldn’t be the Council’s responsibility to investigate. Mayor Skogquist noted that the last policy said the Council would investigate reports. City Attorney Scott Baumgartner said he supported having an independent group, but said it would be difficult to find someone to do administrative hearings and suggested contacting the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) or another mediation group to see if they would do this work. Mr. Lee said staff will check with the LMC first; otherwise, they will work with a private mediation group to keep everything neutral. Councilmember Weaver suggested adding a section that addresses social media and how any board member, commissioner, staff, or elected official should not be a moderator or administrator on any social media pages, as that provides someone the opportunity to eliminate the voices of detractors. Mayor Skogquist said he is the moderator of a community page and felt this could be a slippery slope, as there are rules that we can’t delete comments from pages, as they are free speech, and said that it is not the role of the government to say one can’t be involved in something. Councilmember Weaver said the individuals who have been eliminated from the community page should be reinstated. Councilmember Rostad said they addressed social media in the policies. Ms. Oehlers referred to that section and said the policy requires that anyone commenting on social media had to be clear that they were an elected official, board/commission member, or in leadership. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 3 of 18 Councilmember Weaver agreed but felt that someone who’s stating something against the page shouldn’t be eliminated. Councilmember Scott asked about personal social media pages and how this could apply to elected and appointed officials, and how the policy can be adapted to the ever-changing social media. Councilmember Weaver said social media can be like a cancer, but that we need to be above it. Councilmember Rostad confirmed that Mayor Skogquist was not the only moderator of the community page. Mayor Skogquist said there were other moderators and that he doesn’t engage in discussions, adding their page was a private page and that government can’t tell newspapers, for example, what to do and shouldn’t be allowed to tell private groups what to do either. He said those interested could form their group and noted that while the code outlines how we should act and that he wasn’t sure it was even enforceable. Councilmember Weaver commented on the more on the ethical side of social media, and having the ability to eliminate detractors is a great tool to have. Mayor Skogquist asked how this was different if the moderator was a political ally, adding that social media was part of the world and we need to adapt. Joelle Alvord, Anoka, thanked staff for adding social media to the policy, but asked how some define refraining from sharing unfavorable personal commentary because what’s unfavorable to one may not be unfavorable to another. She said the language should be clearer and agreed that individuals should identify themselves with their titles when posting online. Councilmember Scott understood that section of the policy to be not attacking someone personally and not necessarily the issue being discussed. Ms. Alvord said she understood the language to be something unfavorable about people and added that it is okay for people to disagree. Councilmember Scott said he felt the language was intended to keep social media postings professional and concurred that it was fine to disagree. Councilmember Rostad shared comments about how her family had been brought into social media and singled out, and felt that some level of privacy for family is needed. She referred to the violence that occurred in June with the Hortmans and Hoffmans, and how no one deserves their personal backgrounds pulled into something because of one entity. She said she doesn’t care if people post about her, but no one should bring her family into it, as they didn’t run for office. She said there have been memes created and unfavorable postings regarding her, which was fine, but asked where do they cross the line is crossed. She stated she has saved screenshots just in case and said social media shouldn’t keep someone October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 4 of 18 from running for public office or serving, and agreed the language could be clearer and thanked staff for the great job they have done already. Mr. Baumgartner, this sounds like we’re trying to focus on the position and not the person, and alleviate personal attacks and think we can word that better, but understand people will do what they’re going to do. Mr. Boho said his risks are his own, but was concerned about his family and disagreed with Councilmember Weaver, adding we shouldn’t have to put this in writing, as it is a privilege to hold office, and with that comes a higher standard. He said he felt Mayor Skogquist should just step back from this role and hold himself to a higher standard than he did about the open forum section and why a dialogue shouldn’t occur. Mayor Skogquist said the goal is to be clear we’re not going to make decisions or debate and argue during open forum, adding Anoka is pretty accommodating during open forum compared to other cities, but trying to limit it to items on the agenda. Mr. Boho said that if this language is directed to boards/commissions, it seems like a missed opportunity to allow people to speak. Mayor Skogquist suggested a separate policy could be created for an open forum for boards/commissions. Councilmember Scott asked if the intent is that a board member can allow an item to be added to a future agenda. Mr. Baumgartner agreed with adding an item to a future agenda but felt that work sessions or boards/commissions are more communicative, while a Council agenda is more formal, and agreed that distinction could be made regarding public forums. Mayor Skogquist referred to language about not using City resources to publish controversial positions and asked if this would limit the City from taking an official position on a topic such as the sale of cannabis or liquor, or if it is intended more for individuals using City resources. Ms. Oehlers said the intent was for individual Councilmembers to use City resources. Councilmember Scott asked if that language still applies, should a Councilmember want to learn more about charitable gambling, for example. Councilmember Weaver said it is important that Councilmembers can go to staff to get clarification on a topic to help form an opinion. Ms. Oehlers said the language isn’t intended for the Council, asking for more information, but is directed towards asking staff to post something against another member. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 5 of 18 Councilmember Campbell said the language may be too detailed and suggested language instead that Councilmembers may not use staff to engage in political campaigns. Councilmember Rostad said she understood that Councilmembers may ask for more information and election and campaigning, but that response should not be on a faster track just because she was a Councilmember. Mayor Skogquist said he liked the simplicity of Councilmember Campbell’s suggestion and then referred to Page 64 and suggested removing “debate and” from the text. He spoke about the term relations in some sections and thought it should be more specific to include parents, and then have it be consistent throughout. Council consensus was to make the suggested changes for Council review, then include the documents on the next Council agenda for adoption. 3.2 Discussion: Special Events Items. Communications Manager Pam Bowman shared a background report stating that in April Council discussed the special event permitting process. The Council provided direction on the process, which has proven helpful, and since then, staff continue to see new situations arise and would like the City Council’s feedback and additional direction. 1. Revenue Sharing – Applicants of for-profit entities are required by ordinance to indicate on their permit application a local charity in the trade area (Anoka, Andover, Champlin, Coon Rapids, and Ramsey) and a percentage of net revenue in which they wish to donate to that charity. While they indicate the charity on their application, some do not specify a percentage, and we do not have a follow- up process in place to learn if the charitable organization received the donation. Would Council like the entity to be required to specify the amount/percentage of the donation and/or require event organizers to provide the City with documentation of the donation? Mr. Lee said that if the purpose of special events should be to benefit the City somehow, we could charge more for the permit and then donate back to organizations we want to support. Councilmember Weaver shared concerns about the trade area reference, as he felt the events should benefit Anoka charities only. Ms. Bowman said the ordinance would need to be updated in that case, then referred to the annual food truck festival as that event's benefits Feed My Starving Children (FMSC), based in Coon Rapids. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 6 of 18 Mayor Skogquist said this charity support was put in place for the car show and the farmer’s market, and was 80% supported at one point, and that the fee needs to cover the costs for using public space. He asked how we cover police costs, and that this should be more like charitable gambling by either providing documentation or going into an Anoka fund to donate back. He noted Coon Rapids requires 90% of earnings to go towards their city foundation. Councilmember Weaver said if we implement a 10% requirement on gambling, we will be surprised by the amount of revenue generated, and that while we might need staff to oversee this will be very lucrative. Councilmember Scott said we need to ensure Anoka gets some of the proceeds to try to cover our costs while softening the impact for FMSC, for example. Mayor Skogquist suggested 10% of the profits go to the City’s special events funds to offset the costs, and a second 10% goes to an Anoka organization, with the remaining to the group then stressed the need for proof of those payments, which will impact staff. Councilmember Weaver said he would like to see 80% of the proceeds stay in Anoka. Councilmember Campbell asked how much organizations make now. Ms. Bowman said she doesn’t really know but estimated $5,000. Mr. Lee noted that many organizations do in-kind services, too. Mayor Skogquist noted the organization's profits are different than charitable gambling as they aren’t posted publicly. Councilmember Weaver believed there were some standards in place for non- profits to use regarding costs and fees. Councilmember Scott said we want to avoid loopholes, such as a nonprofit paying a nonprofit. Councilmember Rostad asked what type of nonprofit determines what can be done. Mr. Baumgartner said the general requirement is that what an organization takes in has to be spent; otherwise, it is taxable. Mayor Skogquist asked if we have looked at other cities that have numerous events on how they handle events such as Stillwater, St. Paul, or White Bear Lake. Ms. Bowman noted the food truck organizers are adamant that their event supports FMSC and asked if the Council was okay with that. Councilmember Weaver said they are actually paying FMSC to clean up for them as their October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 7 of 18 donation, and felt that was fine. Polic Chief Andy Youngquist added that FMSC also helps with wristbands and other tasks. Councilmember Weaver said the food truck festival is a business, though, and is not just a fundraiser. Councilmember Rostad suggested different criteria for those events that are for-profit. Councilmember Scott said the food truck festival raised money to provide 55,000 meals for FMSC, so we will have to be careful how we do this. Mayor Skogquist suggested phasing the approach. Councilmember Weaver suggested meeting with Jess from the Food Truck Festival to discuss our concerns. Council consensus was to find a way to better track event proceeds to recoup City costs and focus proceeds on Anoka-based organizations. 2. Back-to-Back Events – Public Services is challenged by back-to-back events. While organizers of both separate events are paying to have the event space, it needs to be clean. The first day, event areas have left behind broken glass, debris, parking ramps have been filthy, trash receptacles are full both inside and outside the event area, and on Main Street, staging portable restrooms is difficult regardless of whether the organizers are using the same portable service provider. The second day event organizer must deal with these issues, which can result in complaints from event participants and detract from the event. Does Council want to continue to allow multiple events scheduled on the same weekend back-to-back back i.e., Vintage Fest and Great Pumpkin Expo? If yes, should there be a requirement for the events to coordinate or share costs for street sweeping (contracted with city or private vendor), supplemental trash/recycling services (private vendor), and portable toilets (private vendor)? Currently, the Anoka Food Truck Festival is the only event that contracts with the City for street sweeping, and should all large events, such as Vintage Fest and Anoka Riverfest & Craft Fair, be required to contract street sweeping with the City or a private vendor and should street sweeping be a requirement for events that use Areas B, C, D or E? Councilmember Scott said he supported multiple events on the weekend and suggested premiums for popular weekends, as we need to cover our shared costs, and was fine having two groups share those costs, but we should have a minimum standard in place. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 8 of 18 Councilmember Weaver said the Pumpkin Expo event needs to be on a specific weekend, and Vintage Fest needs to be moved to another weekend. Ms. LaCasse said the Pumpkin Expo is a sanctioned event and can’t compete with other events, so it has to be held the first Sunday in October, but she was not sure if Vintage Fest could change either. Mayor Skogquist commented about the parameters needed for clean-up and that rates charged be based on our schedule and the need to make organizers clean up. Councilmember Rostad asked for the staff’s recommendation. Public Works Supervisor Jon Holmes said events need to come with a fee, but noted it is difficult to get staff to also work weekends. He said there was trash everywhere with the last back-to-back events, likely due to Vintage Fest, which was relayed to staff. Councilmember Scott complimented staff on the clean-up from the Grand Day parade. Ms. LaCasse said staff scheduled a crew to begin clean-up at 3:00 a.m. Mayor Skogquist suggested that if street sweeping is not done, it needs to be charged back to the event. A discussion was held regarding the rate charged. Councilmember Scott said organizations could be charged the appropriate deposit to cover that. Councilmember Weaver agreed but said we’ll still have messy streets to clean up. Ms. LaCasse suggested that for Areas C, D, and E, either contract with the City or a private vendor to sweep the areas, including Main Street and the parking areas. Councilmember Scott suggested that approved contractors be provided to ensure the work is good. 3. Street Closures – Street closure requests are becoming more frequent, and some vary from the designated downtown areas A, B, C, D, and E. How should staff address these street closure requests, and should there be additional fees? Example: St Patrick’s Day Run has requested multiple short term road closures along the race route. Mr. Lee shared concerns about closing roads for the St. Patrick’s Day event, as that affects taxpayers’ access and will likely be problematic. Ms. LaCasse said the community is used to accommodating street closures for Halloween, but said this request is because they want more exposure. Councilmember Scott said he understands building a brand, but said the trail is long and that they want to go through downtown to provide exposure, and October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 9 of 18 suggested the bridge over Highway 10. Chief Youngquist said he spoke with the group and supported keeping the route all on the trail. Council consensus was not to support public street closures and determine less impactful routes, and use other areas in the City, such as River Avenue at Aikin Park. 4. 60-Day Notice for Applications – Because there have been several instances where permit applications are submitted to staff less than 60 days before the event as required by ordinance, staff would like to send notices to applicants of the known events planned for 2026, reminding them their application will not be processed unless it is received a minimum of 60 days before the event date. This year, some applications were received 30 days or less before the event date. It takes time to process a permit, review by various departments, obtain all required information, meet with applicants, and send it to the Council for final approval. Staff would like approval to deny an application if not received within the required 60-day notice – no exceptions. When received late, staff experience pressure to rush through the process, often resulting in mistakes and misinformation. All applications should receive the same thorough review and processing time. Does Council agree with staff’s notification to applicants and denial if not received a minimum of 60 days before the event? Councilmember Scott agreed but suggested creating automated messaging to inform the groups first. Councilmember Weaver suggested that this same process be in place for temporary liquor licenses, too. Council consensus was to support staff to require a minimum of 60 days for special event processing. 5. Last Minute Event Logistical Changes – Public Services has received change requests (day before or same day as events) which has or could result in overtime and redirecting staff away from regular duties. When event organizers make these last-minute adjustments, this shouldn’t result in costs to the taxpayers. Does Council agree with staff applying these additional costs accordingly? Council consensus was to charge the organizations any additional costs incurred, as their changes shouldn’t cost the taxpayers money. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 10 of 18 6. City Services Fees and Revenue – Anoka has attracted numerous events in the past several years, and we continue to receive inquiries about organizers wanting to host their events here. With the increase in events and an increase in requests to waive fees for non-profits, our costs are not being fully covered. These events should not be covered by taxpayers. While we don’t want costs to be a deterrent to event organizers, how can we ensure we cover our costs and start earning revenue? Councilmember Weaver said some events generally have minimal revenue, adding Riverfest, Halloween, and the car show are exempt from event fees now. Mayor Skogquist said some events require a simple permit when renewing, but that it is different from what it was 15 years ago, and suggested outlining which groups are exempt from a fee and not waiving anyone else. Ms. Bowman said staff charges $50 for those types of events, noting Alexandra House fee is waived. Councilmember Weaver asked if we require an event permit at the ice arena. Ms. LaCasse said that only if using City property. 7. Noise Ordinance – Staff recently approved a simple permit application for caroling at the corner of 2nd Avenue and Main Street. Are we following the proper procedure as it relates to the noise ordinance? Mr. Lee said that any time amplified sound is used, a simple permit should be required, and no two permits should be issued for the same area. Mr. Baumgartner cautioned against two organizers racing to obtain their permit, resulting in Anoka Halloween not receiving theirs, and suggested creating a priority criteria process. Mr. Lee agreed and suggested that exempt organizations have priority. Chief Yougnquist said it is always difficult to enforce complaints from individuals with PA systems and what is reasonable and what can be cited because of First Amendment rights. Mr. Baumgartner said we can regulate time, place, and manner. Council consensus was to require a permit for any amplification. 8. Special Event Policy & Ordinance Update - Based on the direction and feedback given, the Special Events Policy and Ordinance will be updated accordingly. Those documents will be brought to the Council at a future date for final approval. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 11 of 18 9. 2026 Sponsorships – Staff is preparing sponsorship packages to support 2026 City events such as Rockin’ on the Rum, July 3rd Fireworks, and the Tree Lighting. We are approaching our solicitation differently to save time and money by combining details into a single solicitation. Four levels will range from $500- $5,000 or more. 10. Anoka Halloween Inc. - As Anoka Halloween Inc. adds new activities and works to expand event offerings such as the Great Pumpkin Expo, additional costs come into play. Does Council wish to continue providing City services to these new events at no cost to Anoka Halloween Inc. or pursue discussion with event organizers to recuperate some or all of City costs, or seek additional sponsorships? Should the City continue to provide cash donations to Anoka Halloween, Inc. in addition to support services? Ms. LaCasse noted the outlined costs do not include Anoka Police or Fire Department costs and that room rentals and park fees are also waived, then shared that costs from the Grand Day parade have more than doubled since 2017. She said staff understands this is our identity, but wanted to ensure they’re addressing the costs correctly as the City arranges for up to 50 portable toilets and has staff in place all day supporting public safety, as there are not enough volunteers, then work to clean up and address the increased number of pedestrian gates. Mayor Skogquist said it is good to learn these costs and asked to see the increased costs to public safety as well. Ms. LaCasse noted the City also gives a $2,500 cash donation to Anoka Halloween. Mayor Skogquist asked if this is viewed as a City event because people see this as Anoka, then shared that Ramsey spends more than this on their one-day Happy Days event, and that this is well worth the costs, but that we should work to identify more sponsorships. He said that could be part of a fund created as part of charitable gambling to help supplement these costs. Councilmember Weaver said the marketing for Anoka Halloween is a bargain, and we need to ensure it remains successful. Council consensus was to continue to support Anoka Halloween. 3.3 Discussion: Northstar Transit Service. Mr. Lee shared a background report stating that on August 18, 2025, the City Council discussed the operations of the Northstar Commuter Rail Service. On August 28, 2025, a meeting of cities that host a station on the Northstar Commuter Rail Service was conducted. On September 22, 2025, the City Council reviewed the input received on August 28, 2025, from cities that host a station on October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 12 of 18 the Northstar Commuter Rail Service line. On September 12, 2025, the City Manager received a letter from the Metropolitan Council stating that they cannot continue as the intermediary with BNSF on the transition of the Northstar Commuter Rail Service to bus service. Councilmember Weaver said the last day of the train operation is the January Vikings game and that the legislature doesn’t convene until February, so there will be a gap. Mr. Baumgartner said the difficulty is that there will likely be no special legislation, so this is a forgone conclusion, so the only thing that will stop this is litigation, and that may not even be enough. He said the Fridley City Attorney is already working with BNSF, Coon Rapids doesn’t really have large impacts, and Ramsey is working on creating a new crossing. Mayor Skogquist said the elevator shaft will have to be removed and rehabbed to make it accessible, and we need an answer on the federal funding needed to build the ramp. And at a minimum, we should share these concerns before they close the station. He said there needs to be leadership at the Metropolitan Council and at Anoka County, and not close anything until their direction is received. Councilmember Weaver asked if any MnDOT partnerships could be created. Mr. Borglund responded to the last discussion with Amtrak regarding the infrastructure, and that they were not very forthcoming. Councilmember Campbell suggested sending a letter with our questions and a deadline, and if not, we will have to consider legal steps for February. Mr. Baumgartner said a lawsuit will put them on pause and agreed on a letter of agreement that outlines repayment. He said the elevator rehab could be negotiated with BNSF, along with the rest of the infrastructure; otherwise, we can state that they had had us construct something that is no longer usable. Community Development Director Doug Borglund said he has met with BNSF and can set up another meeting. Mayor Skogquist said he liked the concept of a timetable and not having taxpayers cover these costs. Mr. Baumgartner said there is no grant or repayment option, but added there could be a declaration about real property outside of the ramp declared, which is not functioning through no fault of our own, but noted we’ll have to designate the intended purpose of the funds. Mayor Skogquist referred to another program about density requirements and whether that would trigger anything. Mr. Borglund said that replacing the rail with a bus line would still be in play. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 13 of 18 Councilmember Campbell said the Met Council has reached an agreement with Big Lake and Elk River for bus service. Councilmember Weaver asked if this is an action item or not. Mayor Skogquist said it should be an action item for 30 days; otherwise, there could be an injunction. Councilmember Weaver said we need to be prepared should that happen. Mayor Skogquist said, while the creation of the Northstar took a long time, the unwinding is going fast, and we need to look at the agreements and support the City Attorney working to stall and get answers, or wait until the next session. He commented about how the Met Council is a government agency, but is not being transparent. Councilmember Rostad asked if this could be considered a breach of contract. Mr. Baumgartner said our agreement is done, built, and paid for, and we could show our impacts if closed, and suggested that questions be answered and confirmed by the Met Council. Mayor Skogquist suggested requiring 60 days for a response. Mr. Lee said they will answer immediately and sign a waiver to close, and likely say the north tower and platform will be gone, but that we can keep the south tower. 3.4 Discussion: Chapter 54, Article VIII: Display of Flags or Similar Objects or Displays on City-Owned Property. Mr. Baumgartner shared a background report stating pursuant to Council direction, staff was requested to make certain revisions to Chapter 54, Article VIII Display of Flags or Similar Objects or Displays on City-owned property. He detailed the proposed revisions to the ordinance in detail and requested Council feedback. He spoke about how chalk would be acceptable if limited to sidewalks and trails with horizontal surfaces explored. Councilmember Scott asked about horizontal areas in roundabouts, such as plazas, and how a ledge would be above ground level, and if parking lots would fit this criteria as well. Council consensus was to support staff recommendation regarding horizontal surfaces exposed to the elements and bring forward a code amendment at the next Council meeting. 3.5 Discussion: Pending Premise Permit Application; Our Lady of Epiphany Foundation. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 14 of 18 Councilmember Weaver said he understood this item had been tabled and wouldn’t be discussed until after review of the ordinance. Mayor Skogquist said Council tabled discussion of the ordinance, but that this item was just a consideration of the Our Lady of Epiphany Foundation’s application. Councilmember Weaver disagreed. Ms. Oehlers shared a background report stating that it has been requested by two Councilmembers that this item be added to the worksession agenda. Staff is requesting direction from the Council on how to proceed with the pending premise permit application from Our Lady of Epiphany Foundation for gambling activities at 201 Tavern & Grill. The applicant does not meet the City Code requirement of having their main physical office location in the City of Anoka for the previous two years. Main physical office location means the physical site for the organization’s headquarters or the registered business office of the organization, which is located within the City and has been located within the City for at least two years immediately preceding the application, and which is the physical site where the organization regularly holds its meetings and conducts its activities, other than lawful gambling and fundraising. Post office box numbers do not qualify as the main physical office location. Accordingly, and upon direction from City Council, staff proceeded with our normal process of contacting local organizations regarding the opportunity to obtain a premises permit for gambling activities at 201 Tavern & Grill. Following our normal process, which has been in place for over a decade, letters were sent to our known local nonprofits regarding this opportunity, requesting that they notify the City if they are interested in pursuing this opportunity. The deadline for that notification was October 23, 2025. Staff responded to the organizations, providing them with the contact information for 201 Tavern & Grill, and also informed 201 Tavern & Grill of the organizations that have expressed interest and provided them with the contact information for the organization. The City was contacted by four local organizations: ACBC Food Shelf: This organization has informed the City that they are interested in this opportunity and plan to move forward to obtain the proper gambling license(s) necessary from the Gambling Control Board should they be given the opportunity by 201 Tavern & Grill to conduct gambling activities at their establishment. American Legion: This organization initially expressed an interest, but after speaking with 201 Tavern & Grill regarding the gambling activities needed at that establishment, they informed staff that they feel that would be too much for them to pursue at this time. Anoka Area Hockey Association: This organization has expressed an interest in continuing to hold a premises permit and conduct gambling activities at 201 Tavern & Grill. Anoka Area Ice Arena Association: This organization has informed the City that they are interested in this opportunity. Anoka Ramsey Athletic Association: This organization has informed the City that they are interested in this opportunity. As Council is aware, staff is working with Attorney Scott Lepak on revisions to the City code relating to charitable gambling. Staff is asking for direction from the City Council regarding the current pending application from our Lady of Epiphany Foundation. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 15 of 18 Councilmember Rostad asked about Attorney Lepak’s direction. Ms. Oehlers said he recommended that staff continue with the 30-day process, which was done, and that it was the Council’s discretion to grant the waiver, and if not, the location would not have gambling, adding that we have organizations that have expressed an interest in this location. Councilmember Campbell said we have four organizations eligible who have expressed interest, and if we’re following the current ordinance, we have to give priority to the first-tier organizations that are eligible. Ms. Oehlers agreed but noted that ACBC Food Shelf would first have to obtain a State license. Councilmember Rostad said the establishment should have control over who they choose. Mayor Skogquist said the intent is good, but how the ordinance is written is difficult because the organization may be granted a waiver if no others have expressed interest, and now, we have three organizations that aren’t Anoka- focused in order for the bars to continue to provide gambling. He said when we do grant a waiver, it used to come back for renewal every two years, but that changed at the State level, so these permits are now perpetual unless the organization does something wrong. He said he wanted this brought forward because we need to get this right and provide the Foundation with a response regarding a waiver. Councilmember Weaver said the waiver talks about a two-year permit location in Anoka, and that’s not correct in this case, and that he wants to review the entire ordinance first because we don’t know the percentages given to local charities or if we even want to charge a fee. He said we need to have an Anoka-first platform and doesn’t think 201 Tavern will lose gambling in the meantime. He noted Coon Rapids doesn’t allow Anoka organizations in their city and felt that was not fair, and supported tabling this until we get through this. Councilmember Campbell said we can’t tell 201 Tavern who they have, but agreed it was premature to act on the application if we intend to revise the ordinance. Councilmember Rostad said she was in favor of reviewing the ordinance but noted several charities now have zero dollars coming back to Anoka, and because one organization made an application, they shouldn’t be punished, so she was in favor of granting the waiver and still revising the ordinance so everyone is held to the same standard. Councilmember Scott referred to the two-year review and felt we should act on this application now, adding that there are problems with the current ordinance, and as a fully developed City, it is difficult to find options for revenue building. He said he is not inclined to grant the waiver and that we should return to the October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 16 of 18 intent of the ordinance, and while we won’t tell 201 Tavern who to choose, there are other organizations interested in this site and supported not granting the waiver at this time. Gloria Nelson, 201 Tavern, said McGillicuddy’s has the St. Paul Lions providing gambling activities and didn’t think this request would be a concern and felt like they were being punished because of their gambling volume. She said the groups interested aren’t in a position to conduct the gambling they want to provide and felt like they were being backed into a corner. Darin Crasper 201 Tavern, said they have nothing against the other organizations and no concerns with Anoka Hockey but they don’t want to conduct the additional gambling they want to offer. He said Anoka Hockey Arena won’t work due to a conflict of interest, and Wheelhouse won’t drop their bingo, and we shouldn’t have to, so we need a larger group to support us. He said it is hard enough operating a business in Minnesota, and that we look to local government to support us, which you did, and now they are asking to let us do what we want and create more revenue for the City. He felt the reason for the denial was ridiculous and asked why they can’t have who they want in their business. Councilmember Scott said our position is to look out for the citizens of Anoka and not just one business, and compared it to cannabis, liquor, and gambling, which can have negative repercussions, so we offer charitable proceeds to make up for that. He said if there is an impact on Anoka, it should have a benefit for Anoka as well, and agreed the ordinance needs improvement, but we still have to have guardrails in place in the meantime. He said he didn’t want to imply that we are telling you how to run your business, but he also doesn’t want to see someone from another state coming in and benefiting from Anoka. Mr.Crasper said it should be his choice and that the current group is no longer a fit and that he understands the money should remain in Anoka but noted there are many not from Anoka in place now which ultimately creates more revenue for the City. Mayor Skogquist clarified that the City doesn’t receive sales tax but only property taxes, adding that while Anoka is rich in civics, events, and culture that bring people to Anoka, we also have a lower median income with many exempt properties. He said that while these outside organizations add to the City, it is not necessarily Anoka, and that the ordinance states we can deny a waiver, and that it will be important to gather everyone’s views at the next worksession. Mr. Crasper asked about the item before the Council. Mayor Skogquist said staff was asking about the process, and the consensus was not to support a waiver at this time and that this will be further discussed at the November worksession. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 17 of 18 Councilmember Rostad said we have organizations taking advantage of the process and making money without oversight that is not staying in the community, and that everyone who has a license should have the same level of scrutiny with no grandfathering rights. A member of the audience said everyone has been pretty vocal as long as the revenue stays in Anoka, but that it is unfair to grant a waiver and have 75% of the revenue remain in Anoka because maybe they can’t meet the requirements if changed. He said a trade area is too vast an area and that he just wants to ensure the proceeds stay in Anoka. Councilmember Rostad said there is no reason we couldn’t have a provision ordinance that any organization could be held to. Mayor Skogquist said he was not sure, as the State grants the licenses. Alyssa Neidenfuehr, Our Lady of Epiphany Foundation, asked how we would be treated differently, as there are very few organizations already compliant, and Mr. Lepak stated a waiver is allowed at Council discretion. She said three organizations in place are all sports-related, and that there is so much more to Anoka, and that the money generated is only 48% in Anoka and not primarily Anoka organizations. Gloria Nelson said this is an unfair process because we are a larger venue with more revenue and are being focused on, adding charitable gambling is important and that the money should go to the community. Jay Tomaszewski, Our Lady of Epiphany Foundation stated multiple Councilmembers said you don’t want to tell 201 Tavern what to do, but you ultimately are doing that. He said this is government overreach as this is a private enterprise, adding the City Attorney recused himself due to a conflict of interest, and there are other organizations in place, not from Anoka. He said even the State thinks this is concerning, and if you want to be transparent, you have to be consistent. Ms. Oehlers clarified that there are three establishments from outside Anoka in place that followed the process, and that no local organizations responded during that 30-day process before receiving a waiver. Mayor Skogquist acknowledged the comments shared but said we discovered something that needs to be addressed, and that the City is a lot different than it was in 2009, and suggested the speaker talk to Coon Rapids, which has almost a monopoly in place. He said Anoka is more open than neighboring cities, which has caused problems, and we need to do what’s best for Anoka, and that he wasn’t hearing a consensus to grant a waiver at this time, but review this and the entire ordinance at the next worksession. October 27, 2025 (Worksession) Page 18 of 18 Councilmember Weaver said he hopes to see good suggestions from staff and encouraged the audience to attend the worksession for further discussion. Mr. Lee said this topic will be held at the November 24 worksession, and depending on Council direction, an ordinance amendment could be brought forward in December and effective by January 2026. He said staff was not administratively involved in overseeing gambling, but was doing so by design, and noted we could charge up to 10% of charitable funds, which should be considered if staff is going to have to review and analyze reports. Mayor Skogquist agreed, stating Why have an ordinance if we aren’t going to enforce it. 9. OTHER BUSINESS Councilmember Rostad thanked all involved for their work on the Anoka Halloween events and all the cleanup work done as well. A discussion was held on media outlets that highlighted Anoka Halloween. 10. ADJOURNMENT Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to adjourn the Worksession at 8:36 p.m. Motion carried. Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off Site Secretarial, Inc. Approval Attestation: Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk