Anoka City Council
Regular MeetingAnoka, MN · January 20, 2026
Minutes
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 1 of 14
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
JANUARY 20, 2026
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, Scott, and Weaver.
Also present: City Manager Greg Lee; Finance Director Brenda Springer; Assistant City
Engineer Ben Nelson; Police Chief Andy Youngquist; Community Development Director
Doug Borglund; Senior City Planner Clark Palmer; City Attorney Scott Baumgartner;
and Electric Utility Director Del Vancura.
Absent at roll call: Councilmember Rostad.
3. COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1 January 5, 2026, Special Worksession.
January 5, 2026, Regular Meeting.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to
approve minutes of the January 5, 206, Special Worksession and the January 5,
2026, Regular Meeting as presented.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
4. OPEN FORUM
4.1 Police Activity Update.
Police Chief Andy Youngquist shared an update regarding new Patrol Officer
Josh Morrow, who will be filling one of the three current vacancies, and then
shared his background, which included nine years of experience. He relayed
information about a concerning incident regarding a possible warrant and knife
use that occurred at a local hotel and resulted in hitting a police officer, causing a
concussion. He said Anoka faces challenges regarding individuals who were
chronically homeless or had mental health or chemical dependency issues, and the
legal threshold needed for officers to respond included these individuals being a
danger to themselves or others. He said staff were working with Anoka County
and other organizations to address this gap that occurs, but said it is difficult to do
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
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so. He then spoke about the staff’s work in the interim with individuals in light of
the impending cold weather forecast.
Councilmember Weaver asked if staff had spoken with Anoka County Attorney
Brad Johnson about how to fill this gap, then shared about an incident that
included indecent exposure to a minor and ways we can address this. Chief
Youngquist said staff have worked to engage local legislation over the past five
years to address this gap, such as exploring funding for the former Miller building
to provide more beds for individuals, but noted this is a societal issue and was
outside what the Police Department could do, and that they will continue to work
to address it.
Councilmember Weaver suggested reaching out to legislators to help, adding that
someone is going to get hurt and it will reflect badly on everyone.
Chief Peterson shared a statement that was shared on the City’s website and social
media statement regarding current immigration enforcement occurring in the
State, and clarified the department’s role in how officers do not enforce federal
criminal law or immigration law. He said their officers are dedicated to public
safety while upholding the trust of the community and are legally required to
provide public safety to all people. He said the public is encouraged to remain
peaceful and safe and follow law enforcement, noting this continues to be a fluid
situation and that staff are working to be collaborative during this time.
OTHER INFORMATION UNDER OPEN FORUM
Ellen Hadley, Anoka, thanked Chief Youngquist for his statement, then asked for
written responses to questions regarding political shootings earlier this year and
how the City intends to protect the community, and what appropriate actions
residents should follow should they encounter masked individuals outside a
school, worship service, local food shelf, or when approaching people in their
cars. She said this activity has occurred in Anoka and said we need to protect
citizens from armed, masked individuals.
Joelle Alvord, Anoka, thanked the earlier speaker for her comments, then said her
statements in the January 5 minutes were incorrect regarding organized hauling
and the ballot question, and explained how the Council moved the question to the
August election and created a new question for the November election.
Carolyn Smith, Anoka, said the unprecedented surge of immigration enforcement
activity in the City has resulted in wrongful arrests, entering homes without
warrants, and other activities, and asked what Anoka was doing to help educate
residents about their rights, and suggested the City share more about what
resources are available for residents afraid to leave their homes during this time.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
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Eric Kittelson, 700 Bunker Lake Boulevard, spoke about an incident that occurred
on their business property that resulted in a recreational vehicle being abandoned,
and how the City will not address this by towing the vehicle off his property. He
shared that he was told by officers that towing would occur, but that it hasn’t
happened yet, and in fact would not be occurring, and wanted direction.
Mayor Skogquist said staff will follow up with Mr. Kittelson regarding his
concerns.
Marissa Caroll, Anoka, said she was concerned about current immigration
enforcement and how her neighbors were terrified and harassed by the
Department of Homeland Security, and asked what can be done because people
are afraid to go to work, run errands, or attend places of worship, even when they
were citizens. She asked about next steps and a call for unity as the current
activity is causing fear, grief, and rage.
Mayor Skogquist encouraged an online caller to contact the City Council directly
with their comments, as their voice was unable to be heard in the Chambers.
Councilmember Scott thanked the public for their comments and explained how
the City works with State and local counterparts, and the importance of good
relationships within our departments. He said Anoka officers were not going to
infringe on First Amendment rights, adding their training was second to none. He
referred to Flock cameras' data, which was owned by the City and never sold to
third parties or used for immigration purposes, then spoke about promoting
community strength and public education. He referred to the Human Rights
Commission, where people could report concerns for the record, then encouraged
the public to reach out to their legislators with concerns about policies instead of
local government, and encouraged everyone to continue to support local
businesses.
Councilmember Campbell shared resources for those afraid to leave their homes
and said schools were working with non-profits and other agencies as well.
Mayor Skogquist shared a statement from Councilmember Rostad regarding
current immigration enforcement activities and the need for due process and
safety for all, and not fear in everyday life. The statement said that
Councilmembers have to uphold their oath and would support the City moving
forward with an ordinance that would free this activity from occurring near
schools and other locations, and said she had full confidence in Anoka police
officers.
Mayor Skogquist shared comments around immigration activities occurring near
schools and encouraged the public to look for the resources being offered and to
continue to report instances they see publicly.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
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5. PUBLIC HEARING(S)
5.1 Awarding the Sale of Taxable General Obligation Temporary Tax Abatement
Refunding Bonds, Series 2026A.
Finance Director Brenda Springer shared a background report stating the City
Council has determined that it is necessary to refinance the City’s $10,765,000
Taxable GO Temporary Tax Abatement Bonds, Series 2023B, to fund the
purchase of 2939 6th Avenue Miller Manufacturing Building. The City will be
issuing a new three-year Taxable General Obligation Temporary Tax Abatement
Refunding Bonds, Series 2026A bonds. The City has retained Ehlers and
Associates as its independent municipal advisor for the bonds and asked that
Council consider the proposals and award the sale of the bonds.
Mayor Skogquist opened the public hearing at 7:48 p.m.
Being no comments, Mayor Skogquist closed the public hearing at 7:48 p.m.
NOTE: After a motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, Item
9.1 was moved up to this point in the agenda.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Councilmember Weaver asked about the differences in the bond amounts that
went from $10,765,00 to $11,800,000 and if the difference was due to accrued
interest. Ms. Springer said that was correct, noting the City has not levied
anything for these bonds.
Councilmember Weaver said these bonds haven’t cost the City anything yet, but
that costs occur every day as we still have the building in place. He said if
passed, we will accrue another $1.2 million in interest, and said this property
needs to get back on the tax rolls, and asked that staff follow up on any
opportunities.
Councilmember Campbell noted this topic has been scheduled for the February
worksession for further discussion.
Mayor Skogquist said the City has never received a proposal for this property and
noted Councilmember Weaver wanted to tear the building down to lessen the
value of the property, and that we need to discuss how to use this building in the
future to service the current debt on the property. He said there was a unanimous
vote of the Council at that time to never consider any offer to the City.
Councilmember Weaver disagreed, stating that, as he understood it, people were
interested in this site and would support selling it even if the price was a little less
than offered.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
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Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
adopt a resolution Awarding The Sale Of Taxable General Obligation Temporary
Tax Abatement Refunding Bonds, Series 2026a, In The Original Aggregate
Principal Amount Of $11,815,000; Fixing Their Form And Specifications;
Directing Their Execution And Delivery; And Providing For Their Payment.
Councilmember Campbell noted that this action has to occur because we have to
approve the debt.
Upon a roll call vote: Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and Mayor Skogquist
voted in favor. Councilmember Weaver voted nay. Motion carried.
NOTE: After a motion by Councilmember Weaver, seconded by Councilmember Campbell,
Item 9.2 was moved up to this point in the agenda.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Ms. Springer shared a background report stating the City is refinancing its
General Obligation Tax Abatement Bonds, Series 2023A, that were issued in the
amount of $10,765,000 for the acquisition and demolition of the Miller Building.
At the time of issuance, the City held the required public hearing on the parcels it
would abate the City’s portion of the taxes from to cover the principal on the prior
bonds. The City is now issuing a second temporary Tax Abatement Bond for $12
million to refinance the prior bonds. Since the par amount of these bonds is larger
than the par amount of the prior bonds, a new public hearing has to be held
regarding the tax abatement. Following is a listing of the Property Identification
Numbers (PINs) in which the City will abate its portion of taxes. The parcels
listed are parcels that were listed in the hearing for the prior bonds and were listed
in the public hearing notice as required by Statute. These parcels are not currently
located in a Tax Increment Financing district, nor are they expected to be
redeveloped anytime in the near future. It should be noted that notification to
these property owners is not required, as there is no difference in tax impact
compared to other parcels within the City. In order to issue the Bonds, after the
public hearing, the City is required to adopt a resolution that describes the public
purpose for granting the abatement and the requisite findings.
Councilmember Weaver noted the resolution includes PINs and not actual
addresses and said the addresses should be listed for transparency, then shared
concerns about abatement bonds in the event of a default by the City.
Councilmember Scott noted Councilmember Weaver voted for this item the last
time with the address listing and asked if this was different than the last time. Ms.
Springer said no, adding that property owners will have no idea, as nothing has
changed.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 6 of 14
Councilmember Weaver said Councilmember Scott thinks he wants to default, but
said we shouldn’t pay a lot of taxes on a poor building and that this building needs
to be razed, adding that while he originally voted to approve, concerns have arisen
since that time.
Mayor Skogquist said if we don’t refinance now, we could default, and said we
don’t want to get rid of an asset. He said it was prudent to refinance now as it
would result in a much lower rate form 5% to under 4%.
Councilmember Campbell said he was in favor of selling the property, but said we
have to pay the debt, as there is no other alternative.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to
adopt a resolution approving property tax abatements.
Councilmember Campbell noted that this action has to occur because we have to
approve the debt.
Upon a roll call vote: Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and Mayor Skogquist
voted in favor. Councilmember Weaver voted nay. Motion carried.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Weaver asked questions on Item 6.1 regarding three bills totaling $4,000
for sign rentals for Garfield Street closure signs and asked when the rental amount would
be equivalent to buying the signs, especially if we are not doing the trail connection for
some time. Assistant City Engineer Ben Nelson replied that some of the costs were
related to the warning notification, and the advanced amount was for daily sign rental for
approximately 12 dozen signs, including barricades, which were to remain until March or
April while waiting for MI Homes to begin their project, and then be returned. He said if
we were to purchase signs, it would cost approximately $5,400, and that we’re currently
paying $1,200-$1,300 a month. He noted the City doesn’t have a sign department to
make specific signs and noted these were custom signs, but added that we are using our
own jersey barriers.
Mayor Skogquist said he could support staff analyzing this for cost efficiencies, but noted
sign storage would have to factor into this analysis as well.
Councilmember Campbell asked about Item 6.8, as some of the downtown businesses
were concerned that this location would be a smoke shop and not a convenience store that
sells tobacco.
Wayne Senior, applicant, said this site has been vacant for some time and that, because
there are no convenience stores downtown, he wanted to provide grocery items to the
public, including the area’s seniors. He shared examples of some of the grocery items
that would be sold, which may include delivery, and that this location would not be a
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
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tobacco store. He then asked if the cameras by the bridge were operable, as they’ve had
people parkouring from roof to roof. Chief Youngquist said he would meet with the
applicant to review his concerns.
Mayor Skogquist thanked the applicant for proposing this use for area residents and
referred to the history of incidents with tobacco stores downtown that included not
renewing one license and resulted in prohibiting them in the downtown area, and
confirmed that products would only be sold from behind the counter.
Councilmember Weaver said he liked the idea of a convenience store and was pleased to
learn this would not be a tobacco store, but asked if the current definition was sufficient
to prohibit these stores. Community Development Director Doug Borglund confirmed
that tobacco shops are prohibited in the downtown area, and any current ones were
grandfathered in, but no new ones would be allowed. He shared the definition, which
included more than 50% of gross revenue from tobacco products, which should address
the concerns from the past.
City Attorney Scott Baumgartner clarified that while it is difficult to define all instances
in a City code outside of prohibiting tobacco in its entirety, he felt the language was as
strong as possible to address the Council’s concerns.
Mr. Nelson shared about the proposed parking lot repaving, which was scheduled
sometime in the next 5-10 years.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Cambpell, to approve
Items 6.1 through 6.8 of the Consent Agenda.
6.1 Verified Bills.
6.2 Revising and Setting Council Calendars.
6.3 Recommendation on Approval of an LG220 Raffle Permit for the Church of St.
Stephen at St. Stephen Church on February 14, 2026.
6.4 Approve Temporary On-Sale Liquor License; Church of St. Stephen, Mardi Gras
Celebration on February 14, 2026.
6.5 Rum River Woodbury House Riverbank Stabilization Project; Approve Change
Number 2.
6.6 Anoka Dispensary; Approve Change Orders Number 16, 20-25, 31, 32, and 34.
6.7 Recommendation on Approval of an LG220 Bingo and Raffle Permit; Anoka
Auxiliary 102 American Legion, March 28 and November 14, 2026.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 8 of 14
6.8 Issuance of a Tobacco License for SGH, LLC dba Rum River Market, 6 Bridge
Square.
Vote taken. Ayes: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers; Campbell, Rostad and Scott.
Councilmember Weaver voted nay. Motion carried.
7. REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS, AND COMMISSIONS
None.
8. PETITIONS, REQUESTS, AND COMMUNICATION
None.
9. ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
9.1 RES/Awarding the Sale of Taxable General Obligation Temporary Tax
Abatement Refunding Bonds, Series 2026A.
ACTED UPON AFTER PUBLIC HEARING
9.2 RES/Approving Property Tax Abatements.
ACTED UPON AFTER THE PUBLIC HEARING
9.3 RES/2026 Street Overlay Project; Receiving Feasibility Report and Calling of
Public Improvement Hearing.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Nelson shared a background report stating a resolution was adopted by City
Council on December 1, 2025, authorizing the preparation of a feasibility report
for the 2026 Street Overlay Project. The 2026 project is proposed to be
approximately 4.2 miles of partial street resurfacing that was previously
reconstructed during the 2000 through 2004 Street Renewal Projects. Partial
resurfacing of a road comprises milling the existing bituminous pavement and
overlaying the existing surface with a new top bituminous asphalt surface. This
process rejuvenates the asphalt condition, provides structural benefits, and
provides a new, smooth roadway for the traveling public. An informational
meeting was held at Green Haven Golf Course and Event Center on January 14,
2026, for the 2026 Street Surface Improvement Project. This meeting was to
further educate the neighborhood on our Street Overlay Program (SOP) and to
receive feedback from the benefiting property owners. Approximately 17 people
attended the meeting and overall were in favor of the project. He shared the
project webpage as another way for residents to obtain information about the
Street Overlay Project (SOP) and for the City to receive feedback from the
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
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benefiting property owners that was open until January 30, 2026. He said the
feasibility report outlined the proposed improvements, estimated costs, and
recommended property special assessments. The roads that are to be included for
study within the 2026 SSIP Feasibility Report were shared, and the estimated total
project cost of the 2026 Street Overlay Project was $1,199,000, which included
15% for construction contingency, engineering, legal, administrative, and fiscal
costs. He shared the estimated costs and funding, which included special
assessments, franchise fees, bond proceeds, and licenses/permits fees, and then
shared the project schedule.
Councilmember Weaver noted he lives on one of the streets proposed for this
project and asked if he could vote on the item. Mr. Baumgartner said no
disqualifying conflict existed.
Councilmember Scott confirmed the ADA improvement and concrete curb
replacement, and how most repairs would be minor, but not full curb replacement.
Mr. Nelson explained that if there were missing concrete or snowplow concerns,
replacement would occur, but only as necessary, which would be the same
process for pedestrian ramps that pose any trip hazards.
Councilmember Weaver asked if another letter would be sent with specific
assessment amounts. Mr. Nelson confirmed that per statute, written notice,
publication, and hearing occur that include a general letter regarding assessment
payment options, but that another would occur with specific amounts.
Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
adopt a resolution for the 2026 Street Overlay Project; Receiving Feasibility
Report and Calling of Public Improvement Hearing.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and
Weaver voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.4 RES/2026 Street Overlay Project; Calling of Assessment Hearing.
RESOLUTION
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to
adopt a resolution for the 2026 Street Overlay Project; Set Assessment Hearing,
September 17, 2026.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and
Weaver voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.5 RES/2026 Street Surface Improvement Project; Receiving Feasibility Report and
Calling of Public Improvement Hearing.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 10 of 14
RESOLUTION
Mr. Nelson shared a background report stating a resolution was adopted by the
City Council on November 17, 2025, authorizing the preparation of a feasibility
report for the 2026 Street Surface Improvement Project. The 2026 project is
proposed to be approximately 1.1 miles of street resurfacing for the
neighborhoods Mineral Ponds and Sandra Terrace. Reconditioning of a road
comprises a full-depth reclamation of existing bituminous pavement and
underlying aggregate base material, and paving a new bituminous asphalt surface.
An informational “neighborhood” meeting was held at Green Haven Golf Course
and Event Center on January 14, 2026, for the 2026 Street Surface Improvement
Project. This meeting was to further educate the neighborhood on our Street
Surface Improvement Program (SSIP) and to receive feedback from the benefiting
property owners. Approximately 15 people attended the meeting. Overall, the
residents were in favor of the project. The feasibility report outlines the proposed
improvements, estimated costs, and recommended property special assessments.
The roads that are to be included for study within the 2026 SSIP Feasibility
Report are shown on the 2026 SSIP Project Mineral Ponds & Sandra Terrace -
Proposed Project Location Map Exhibit, and the estimated project cost of the
2026 Street Surface Improvement Project was $1,394,400, which included 15%
for construction contingency, engineering, legal, administrative, and fiscal costs.
He shared the total estimated costs and funding, then stated what the typical 80-
foot residential lot would pay. He said the annual payment for an $2,730
assessment would be approximately $619 and a total principal plus interest of
$3,095.
Mayor Skogquist confirmed that only residential properties were included in this
project scope.
Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
adopt a resolution for the 2026 Street Surface Improvement Project; Receiving
Feasibility Report and Calling of Public Improvement Hearing.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and
Weaver voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.6 RES/2026 Street Surface Improvement Project; Calling of Assessment Hearing.
RESOLUTION
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to
adopt a resolution for the 2026 Street Surface Improvement Project; Set
Assessment Hearing.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and
Weaver voted in favor. Motion carried.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 11 of 14
NOTE: After a motion by Mayor Skogquist, seconded by Councilmember Scott, Item 9.9 was
moved up to this point in the agenda.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
9.7 ORD/Amending City Council Salaries.
(1st Reading)
City Manager Greg Lee shared a background report stating that pursuant to
Section 2.17 Salaries of the City Charter, the City Council is to review the Mayor
and City Council salaries in June of every odd-numbered year. At the June 23,
2025, worksession, the Council discussed and reviewed the salaries. Direction
was given to staff to bring forth an ordinance amending the Mayor and City
Council salaries, providing for a cost-of-living increase (COLA) for 2026 and
2027, which coincides with the COLA increases given to staff. The Council also
requested that there be included reimbursement for out of pocket-expenses
expended by the Mayor or City Councilmembers for mileage relating to
attendance at conferences, seminars, and meetings other than City-held meetings.
He said increases in salaries would not go into effect until after the next General
Municipal Election. Should this increase be approved, the increase will
commence on January 1, 2027. In the future, this type of ordinance will be
brought forward within 60 days from the time the Council reviews the salaries
(June of odd-numbered years) to provide direction to staff.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to hold
first reading of an ordinance Establishing Salaries For Mayor And City Council
Pursuant To Section 2.07 Of The Charter Of The City of Anoka.
Councilmember Weaver asked about the per diem for expenses and how he has
chosen personally not to be reimbursed. He said he has never voted for a raise
before and won’t be voting for it this evening, adding it was not about the money
but about doing the work for the residents.
Mr. Lee said no per diems have occurred yet, adding there is no out-of-state travel
unless approved by him, and noted per diems were usually for mileage
reimbursement to an event, which he fully supported the Council attending
seminars.
Mayor Skogquist said he usually doesn’t submit per diem reimbursements either,
but agreed it was appropriate to reimburse members for parking fees, for example.
Councilmember Campbell noted that any per diem would appear in the agenda’s
verified bills for transparency for the public.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, and Scott
voted in favor. Councilmember Weaver voted nay. Motion carried.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 12 of 14
Mayor Skogquist noted Councilmember Weaver voted in favor of a salary
increase last time.
9.8 RES/City of Anoka Supporting a New State-Supported Rail Service Between St.
Paul and Fargo, ND.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Borglund shared a background report stating that The Borealis was a new
daily passenger train connecting St. Paul, Milwaukee, and Chicago. This round-
trip service began on May 21, 2024. Operating along a portion of the 411-mile rail
corridor shared with Amtrak’s long-distance Empire Builder, the Borealis
provides both rural and urban communities with an additional option for safe,
reliable transportation. With late-morning departures and early-evening arrivals in
St. Paul and Chicago, the service offers greater flexibility, more convenient travel
times, and improved on-time performance for both passenger and freight
operations. The Borealis service is a partnership among the Illinois, Wisconsin,
and Minnesota Departments of Transportation, with funding support from the
Federal Railroad Administration. Amtrak operates the service. The Twin Cities–
to–Fargo/Moorhead corridor is identified as a priority intercity passenger rail
route in the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s 2025 State Rail Plan. It is
also recommended in the Federal Railroad Administration’s Amtrak Daily Long-
Distance Service Study. A proposed second Borealis state-supported passenger
rail line would extend from St. Paul to Fargo/Moorhead, with the potential for a
station stop in Anoka. The City of Anoka continues to support passenger rail
transportation and the ongoing use of the existing Anoka rail station. Expanded
passenger rail service would benefit residents and businesses throughout the
northwest metro area.
Councilmember Weaver said this was a huge undertaking and thanked Mr.
Borglund for his work, then referred to the City’s current TOD area, the Miller
building, and the potential for this venture. He said the Borealis was bigger than
the NorthStar train and had the potential to provide energy to the development
area once finalized.
Mayor Skogquist said he contacted Representatives Stephenson and Koegel and
met with the Transit Authority, MnDOT, Amtrak, and other stakeholders to create
this momentum, and that this felt positive, especially as owners of the ramp to
create agreements for its use.
Mr. Borglund added that the key was negotiations between Amtrak and BNSF to
create a service, obtain right-of-way, maintain a structure, and transfer an asset to
MnDOT for its maintenance. He said Anoka needs to keep in these discussions
and provide support as these entities work on this concept.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 13 of 14
Councilmember Scott said we have a potential developer looking at the parking
lot on the north side for possible retail/commercial development, such as a coffee
shop, which would be beneficial.
Motion by Councilmember Weaver, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to adopt
a resolution supporting a new State-supported rail service between St. Paul,
Minnesota, and Fargo, North Dakota.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and
Weaver voted in favor. Motion carried.
9.9 RES/Assignment and Amendment to Development Agreement; South Street
Addition.
RESOLUTION
Senior City Planner Clark Palmer shared a background report stating that in 2018,
the City of Anoka approved the subdivision (South Street Addition) of City-
owned land located at the northwest corner of South Street and 8th Avenue, which
created four (4) new lots for the development of single-family homes. In 2021, the
City of Anoka approved a purchase agreement and development agreement with
Patriot Builders II. Inc. for the development of the lots. The agreement specified
the requirements for the development, including the minimum home value, style
of home, and exterior finishes. Since 2021, three of the four lots have been
developed with single-family homes in accordance with the agreement.
Currently, the Developer seeks to sell the last remaining undeveloped lot (742
Washington St. or Lot 2, Block 1, South Street Addition) to a new party for
development of the lot. Pursuant to Section 5.1 of the agreement, the developer is
prohibited from transferring property and/or assigning the agreement unless
approved by the City of Anoka. The new developer is Hung Ly and Thao Duong,
and Mr. Ly is an architect and owner/operator of HL Architects. Mr. Ly has
prepared and submitted building plans for the development of the lot, which are
included in the packet along with the assignment and amendment to the
agreement which accomplishes two things: 1. The Developer (as the “Assignor”)
assigns its interests in the Agreement to the Hung Ly and Thao Duong (the
“Assignee”), only as it pertains to Lot 2, Block 1, South Street Addition. 2.
Section 8.5 (a) (Notices and Demands) of the Agreement, as it relates to Lot 2,
Block 1, South Street Addition, is amended to list the Assignee as the developer.
Councilmember Weaver confirmed that the Council had previously approved a
home to be constructed on this property. Mr. Palmer explained that this was the
third time a home had been approved by Council for construction at this site, then
shared past proposals in detail and reasons why they didn’t come forward, and the
reason for this proposal today.
Mayor Skogquist thanked the applicants for their interest in building in Anoka.
January 20, 2026 (Regular)
Page 14 of 14
Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
adopt a resolution for approval of assignment and amendment to development
agreement.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Scott, and
Weaver voted in favor. Motion carried.
10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None.
11. NEW BUSINESS
None.
12. UPDATES AND REPORTS
12.1 Tentative Agenda(s).
The Council reviewed tentative agendas.
12.2 Staff and Council Input.
Councilmember Weaver asked for an update on the recently served lawsuit. Mr.
Baumgartner said he was currently reviewing the lawsuit and would provide an
update to the Council once complete.
13. ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Scott made a motion to adjourn the Regular Council meeting.
Councilmember Campbell seconded the motion.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Time of adjournment: 9:03 p.m.
Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off-Site Secretarial, Inc.
Approval Attestation:
Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk
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