City Council Workshop
Regular MeetingOakdale, MN · September 10, 2024
Minutes
WORKSHOP MINUTES
OAKDALE CITY COUNCIL
SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
The City Council held a workshop on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at Oakdale City Hall, 1584
Hadley Avenue North, Oakdale, Minnesota. The meeting began at 5:24 PM.
Present: Mayor Kevin Zabel
Council Members: Noah Her
Jake Ingebrigtson
Andy Morcomb
Susan Willenbring
City Staff Members: Christina Volkers, City Administrator
Sara Ludwig, City Clerk
Brian Bachmeier, Consulting City Engineer
Andy Gitzlaff, Community Development Director
Melanie Lee, Human Resources Director
Nick Newton, Police Chief
Lori Pulkrabek, Communications Manager
John Stark, Special Projects Manager
Kyle Stasica, Finance Director
Ryan Stuart, Captain
Kevin Wold, Fire Chief
Others Present: Kari Moore, Guest (Council Candidate)
TOUCH A TRUCK – COUNCIL PARTICIPATION WITH COMMUNITY
MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION – HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR
Human Resources Director Melanie Lee began by thanking the Council for their support of the
full funding for the Human Resources Generalist position. She also thanked the Council for
their support of personnel Citywide.
City Administrator Chris Volkers stated that staff turnover is not a significant issue, and as of
October 14th, the Management Team will be fully staffed for the first time in quite some time.
In response to Council Member Morcomb’s question about whether Oakdale is more desirable
to candidates than other surrounding cities, Ms. Lee stated that from the recruitment process,
she knows that the City has a strong reputation and a good culture that people want to be a
part of. She added that the City is known for being stable and treating employees well.
In response to Mayor Zabel’s question about the HR-specific Strategic Plan action items, Ms.
Lee stated that a couple new committees are forthcoming.
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SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
PAGE TWO
Ms. Volkers mentioned that the timing of other Strategic Plan action items has been adjusted
to fit staff capacity, but an update will be brought to workshop in November. The tracking
document for any outstanding action items will be shared with the Council at that time.
In response to Council Member Willenbring’s question, Ms. Lee explained that NeoGov is an
online hiring and recruitment portal, and that the City will eventually implement onboarding
and performance modules as well from NeoGov.
TIF SPENDING PLAN FOR DISTRICTS 1-4 AND 1-6 UPDATE
Community Development Director Andy Gitzlaff explained that this discussion will address Tax
Increment Financing (TIF), State law related to TIF, the TIF Spending Plan approved back in
November 2022, and a current redevelopment project located at the Economic Development
Authority (EDA)-owned parcels adjacent to Tanners Lake.
Special Projects Manager John Stark reviewed basic TIF terminology and explained the “but-
for” test. Essentially, before creating a TIF district, a local government must find that in its
opinion the subsidized development would not have happened but for the use of TIF.
In response to Council Member Ingebrigtson’s question about a past proposed TIF project that
ended up not moving forward, Mr. Stark said that the project likely did not meet the “but-for”
test because possibly it was for an affordable housing project.
Mr. Stark then went over the real-world test that investors use to determine if it makes
financial sense to invest in TIF projects.
Council Member Her asked if developers can use new market tax credits along with TIF credits
to advance a project. Mr. Stark noted that staff typically will work with developers to explore
funding options to fill the financial gap before TIF is considered.
Mr. Stark reviewed the general TIF concept in terms of base taxes, in-district and out-of-district
redevelopment costs, and TIF administration costs. He noted that a redevelopment TIF district
can be up to 25 years. When a TIF district is established or modified, an informational letter
is sent to other taxing jurisdictions within the district. Mr. Stark stated that it is possible that
the other taxing jurisdictions are against the TIF district, but he has never personally seen that
happen.
In response to Council Member Her’s question about how the developer gets paid during the
TIF redevelopment timeframe, Ms. Volkers explained that the property taxes are paid to the
County by the developer, the County sends a check to the City for its share first, then the
developer is paid from what is left.
Mr. Stark suggested that the City collect TIF administration and pooling (out-of-district) costs.
Just like the proposed property tax levy, once the TIF administration and pooling percentages
are set at the time of the TIF district creation, they can only decrease, not increase.
WORKSHOP MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
PAGE THREE
Mr. Stark reviewed the Tanners Lake redevelopment project timeline dating back to 2008.
Ms. Volkers pointed out that it made financial sense to have the City provide a loan to itself to
pay for the costs of the purchase/demolition of two vacant restaurants on the original site.
Finance Director Kyle Stasica went over the TIF Spending Plan for Districts 1-4 and 1-6, which
was approved by the City Council in November 2022. He noted that if the TIF funds go unused
in the Tanners Lake redevelopment area by the end of 2025, any remaining funds would need
to be either returned to Washington County as “surplus TIF” (with 34.5% reallocated to the
City) or used in full for affordable housing after January 1, 2026.
Mr. Gitzlaff provided details about the current Tanners Lake redevelopment project, noting
that an exclusive rights agreement with the developer was signed in August 2023, and the
City and developer have been working through both the site design and financial components.
The proposed site plan was reviewed. It includes an apartment building, rental townhomes,
and a central lakeside amenity building, as well as a boardwalk/trail and dock. Mr. Gitzlaff
noted that a public easement would be needed over the boardwalk.
Ms. Volkers asked who would be responsible for the maintenance and ownership of the
boardwalk area. Mr. Gitzlaff said it would be the management company.
In regards to the current trail network to the south of this project, Mr. Gitzlaff stated that the
Bus Rapid Transit line extends along the entire southside of the lake and onto the new bridge
over Highway 120 which includes a new trail, but does not make a full circuit northbound to
the west of Tanners Lake.
In response to Council Member Willenbring’s question about the blue triangle in the lower
righthand side of the site plan, Mr. Gitzlaff said that is a surface water pond. There are also
proposed underground stormwater tanks that would be below the parking lot.
Council Member Her asked about the shared access with Lakeview Terrace that would be
needed as part of this project. Mr. Gitzlaff pointed out the property line which splits the
proposed redevelopment site, and access points.
In response to Council Member Ingebrigtson’s question about obtaining needed approvals by
year-end, Mr. Gitzlaff noted that the City Council could approve all land use applications
(planned unit development rezoning, site plan, plat, and development agreement) before then
and include a couple conditions of approval that might take additional time – demonstrated
site control and access, for example.
To follow up, Council Member Her asked if the Lakeview Terrace shared access agreement
would be required to move this project forward. Mr. Gitzlaff confirmed, but said that the
developer could propose an alternative site configuration.
WORKSHOP MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
PAGE FOUR
Mr. Gitzlaff pointed out that the land use approvals and financial approvals are mutually
exclusive, but both need to happen for the project to ultimately be successful.
POLICE PATROL PILOT SCHEDULE
Police Chief Nick Newton began by stating that transparency within the Police Department is
of the utmost importance. He highlighted the fact that police departments across the nation
are struggling with recruitment and retention.
In response to Mayor Zabel’s question about a known ratio for retiring licensed officers versus
incoming candidates, Chief Newton said that there is not a ratio to contextualize the problem.
He added that now more than ever, there is extremely low enrollment of law enforcement
students pursuing a police officer career.
Chief Newton stated that he would like to create a Cadet Program to grow the Community
Service Officers into police officers as the Police Department is expected to hire 4-6 police
officers next year.
As a Police Department, staff brainstormed creative ways to attract and retain personnel
without financially-impacting the City or reducing services to residents while also creating a
better work-life balance for the police officers. Chief Newton proposed a patrol pilot schedule
that incorporates three paid wellness hours per pay period. In addition to wellness hours, the
schedule creates a rotation that ensures police officers have every other weekend off to
create a better work-life balance.
Mayor Zabel asked for further rationale behind not utilizing sign-on bonuses as a way to attract
personnel as the problem starts with recruiting candidates. Chief Newton agreed that there is
a place for that strategy, but said that it can also cause tension among the police officers.
Ms. Volkers noted that training of a new police officer is extremely expensive and extensive
so when new hires leave after 1-2 years that is money and time wasted.
Chief Newton stated that the Police Department would like to try a unique approach for
recruitment and retention, that will also boost morale, before utilizing hiring and structured
retention bonuses.
In response to Council Member Ingebrigtson’s question about the timing of monetary
bonuses, Chief Newton said that he is not concerned with trying a different approach first.
Mayor Zabel shared his appreciation for this proposed pilot schedule, but surmised that
monetary bonuses are likely inevitable given the law enforcement staffing climate.
Council Member Morcomb pointed out that the research suggests that retention in this
industry is not necessarily monetarily-driven.
Council Member Ingebrigtson was supportive of the proposed pilot schedule.
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SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
PAGE FIVE
In response to Council Member Her’s question about how three paid wellness hours were
determined, Chief Newton explained that additional hours would have caused an issue with
union contracts and three hours is reasonable and manageable.
Chief Newton reported that the Police Department was part of the League of Minnesota Cities
Insurance Trust and Benchmark Analytics for public safety agency study in which the results
show that departments that set themselves apart, or do not have retention problems, are
ones that have good cultures. Ms. Volkers added that the Oakdale Police Department has a
strong reputation when it comes to its culture.
Mayor Zabel expressed his discomfort with personnel and operational decisions coming
before the Council, but agreed in this instance it does make sense to get Council’s feedback.
He inquired if this type of scheduling program could be crafted into a formal City Policy to be
used at the discretion of Ms. Volkers for the entire City.
Ms. Volkers stated that potential and current employees appreciate the current flex and
telecommute City policies so adding this type of scheduling policy would be beneficial.
To the Mayor’s point about personnel and operational decisions coming before the Council,
Ms. Volkers said this discussion was about transparency.
Council Member Ingebrigtson reiterated his support for the proposed pilot schedule.
Mayor Zabel stated that if personnel and operational decisions need to come before the
Council, he would advocate for a City policy that is broad and can be applied Citywide. Council
Member Ingebrigtson agreed.
Council Member Morcomb pointed out that the City departments are very unique so an
overarching City policy might be difficult to apply.
Council Member Willenbring stated that this scheduling program may only apply to certain City
jobs. Council Member Ingebrigtson agreed philosophically, but noted that in this job market it
is easier for staff to leave for other organizations that may offer these types of incentives.
Mayor Zabel clarified that he is not advocating that this type of scheduling program be applied
Citywide, but that a formal policy be in place so that Ms. Volkers and the Department Heads
have the ability to apply it in real-time, to any department, as needed.
The City Council was supportive of the proposed patrol pilot schedule. Staff was asked to
return to a Workshop meeting in about six months to provide feedback about the pilot.
Mayor Zabel asked if staff should explore a Citywide policy that could be used at Ms. Volkers’
discretion. Council Member Her was supportive of applying the scheduling program to public
safety, but was unsure about Citywide application. Council Member Morcomb would like to
wait for the results of the proposed pilot schedule before making a decision about Citywide
WORKSHOP MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
PAGE SIX
application. Ms. Volkers noted that it would be beneficial to wait and see the results from this
pilot prior to looking into expanding it Citywide.
OTHER
In reference to the current proposed levy being approved tonight, Mayor Zabel asked if the
Council has any interest in increasing it from 6.11% to anywhere from 6.3% to 6.5% in order
to provide an extra cushion in case something unforeseen changes within the budget.
Council Members Willenbring, Ingebrigtson, and Morcomb were supportive of leaving the
proposed levy as is at 6.11%.
RECESS FOR REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 6:54 PM
WORKSHOP RECONVENED AT 8:34 PM after the Economic Development Authority Meeting
ADMINISTRATOR UPDATE
Ms. Volkers noted that the approved agenda preparation and management software
implementation has not gone as planned and staff sent a termination letter to the vendor
earlier this month to cancel the agreement.
Ms. Volkers reported that union negotiations have started and will be ongoing for the next few
months.
In reference to the September 24, 2024 City Council meetings, Ms. Volkers and Mayor Zabel
will be out of town. Both agendas will be light so the workshop meeting will start at 6:00 PM
instead of 5:00 PM.
PROPOSED UPDATES TO CITY POLICY MIS-021: SOCIAL MEDIA
Communications Manager Lori Pulkrabek stated that this policy was reviewed earlier this year
and it was determined that updates are needed, including to Section 5.10. She noted that
legal counsel has reviewed the proposed changes to this policy.
Section 5.10 gives the City’s social media managers the ability to hide social media comments
that fall under certain categories. Ms. Pulkrabek explained that these types of comments are
rare, but do occur, and it would be helpful if the social media managers had the ability to hide
such comments.
In response to Council Member Her’s question, the proposed changes do not infringe on First
Amendment rights.
Mayor Zabel pointed out that the proposed bullet point under Section 5.10, “comments
completely unrelated to the topic of the post or forum” is subjective. He added that as long as
the comment is not illegal, threatening, or obscene then the public has the right to post it.
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SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
PAGE SEVEN
It was Council Member Ingebrigtson’s opinion that a City employee should not be subjected
to personal ridicule for being in a photo in relation to their job.
Mayor Zabel noted that a City employee has the option to respond to the comment from their
personal social media account if they choose. Ms. Volkers noted that a City employee would
likely not do that.
Referencing a specific incident, Ms. Volkers stated that this City employee did not ask for that
photo to be posted to social media, but was in the photo as part of their job, therefore, they
do not deserve that kind of treatment or ridicule.
Mayor Zabel would be more comfortable if the phrase “completely unrelated” is clarified.
Ms. Pulkrabek said that there was a proposed category within Section 5.10 related to
“personal attacks”, but legal counsel advised removing it.
In reference to the same specific incident above, Mayor Zabel was unsure how commenting
about an individual in a photo would be considered “unrelated” to the post. Ms. Volkers stated
that the nature of the comment was irrelevant to the content of the photos.
Regarding a question posed by Ms. Volkers, the Council was supportive of not requiring City
employees to be in work-related photos or at least getting their permission prior to posting a
photo that would include them, if Ms. Volkers thought that was necessary. This operational
decision is up to the City Administrator.
Council Member Morcomb stated that his inclination is to lean toward freedom of speech, but
in the specific incident identified City employees cannot defend themselves on the City’s social
media platform. Council Member Ingebrigtson added that the City has a responsibility to
protect its employees from abuse.
Council Member Morcomb cautioned that the way the proposed language reads now could
cause issues if future social media managers take liberties on which comments get hidden.
Council Member Ingebrigtson suggested using words like “harassment” and “abuse” to clarify
the intent; however, Ms. Volkers cautioned against this given that these words have legal
definitions.
Mayor Zabel stated that if the specific incident had occurred in-person, this Council discussion
would not be happening as there is no recourse in that environment; and in his opinion, that
same standard should apply to the social media environment.
Ms. Volkers noted that legal counsel gives the City advice, but it is ultimately up to the City’s
discretion whether to follow it.
WORKSHOP MINUTES
SEPTEMBER 10, 2024
PAGE EIGHT
Mayor Zabel suggested rewording the second bullet point as “direct threats to persons, their
well-being, or property”. The Council was supportive.
Council Member Willenbring clarified that under Section 5.10, the comments would be hidden
from the post, not deleted. Mayor Zabel added that the commenter would still be able to see
their comment even if it has been hidden.
Council Member Willenbring suggested that the direct links to the City’s social media accounts
not be included in the policy as they could change from time and time and require updating.
Mayor Zabel mentioned using the term “including, but not limited to” instead. The Council
agreed.
Mayor Zabel asked that the specific job title, i.e. Communications Manager, not be used, but
instead “City Administrator or designee” for final decision on complaints. Ms. Volkers agreed.
COUNCIL TOPICS
Ms. Volkers will send to the Council requests that were received from an Oakdale
condominium community related to an associated ongoing development proposal.
Mayor Zabel said that the Environmental Management Commission (EMC) would like to host
an Eco Fair in the spring of 2025 and asked if the Council would be comfortable setting aside
funds so they can start the planning process. In response to Council Member Willenbring’s
question, Mayor Zabel explained that the Eco Fair would provide an opportunity for residents
to learn more about opportunities available to them whether it be grant opportunities or ways
to be more environmentally-conscious. Ms. Volkers added that the Eco Fair may coincide
with the Arbor Day Tree Giveaway which might move to the North Fire Station so as to provide
a drive through experience. The Eco Fair would be held across the street at Castle Elementary.
Mayor Zabel noted that the funding would be for renting the space, tables and chairs,
personnel costs, possible light refreshments, etc.
Council Member Her clarified that if any other advisory body wants to do a similar event, the
same conversation about funding would take place.
In response to Council Member Willenbring’s question about the EMC members volunteering
at the Eco Fair, Mayor Zabel confirmed that is the expectation.
The Council was supportive of setting aside $2,500 from the Special Projects Fund for this
event.
ADJOURNMENT
The workshop was adjourned at 9:04 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Sara Ludwig, City Clerk
Agenda
AGENDA
City Council
Workshop Meeting
September 10, 2024
Hadley Conference Room
5:00 PM
5:00 PM Touch a Truck – Council Participation with Community
5:20 PM Management Discussion – Human Resources Director
5:40 PM TIF Spending Plan for Districts 1-4 and 1-6 Update
6:05 PM Police Patrol Pilot Schedule
6:55 PM Recess for Regular Meeting
Continue after Regular City Council Meeting, Hadley Conference Room
Proposed Updates to City Policy MIS-021: Social Media
Administrator Update
Council Topics
COUNCIL MEMORANDUM
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Melanie Lee, Human Resources Director
Date: September 10, 2024
Subject: Management Discussion – Human Resources Director
BACKGROUND
Discussion will be held with Human Resources Director Melanie Lee to discuss items of interest and
current happenings with an opportunity for Council to ask questions regarding the Human
Resources Department.
Below are some suggested topics as time allows:
1. Department staffing
a. Hiring of a Human Resources Generalist (HRG) in July has increased the
department’s capacity. The HRG has been able to learn more about the City’s
processes regarding hiring, recruitment, compensation, and wellness. Ms. Eineke
has caught on quickly and is eager to use her talents and skills to enhance and
improve the employee experience.
b. The Human Resources Director has been able to refocus on areas such as policy
analysis and drafting, personnel-intensive situations, and evaluating current
programs or missing opportunities to help develop and support employees.
2. Hiring and recruitment
a. Internal – Through reorganization to better serve the community or vacancies due
to resignations or retirements, the City has had many employees take new roles
within the organization since late 2023.
b. External – The City has welcomed nine new employees to the City since the first of
the year due to retirements, resignations, and new positions.
c. The HR Department is currently in the final recruitment phases for four positions.
3. Ongoing priorities
a. Monitor proposed and changing legislation for compliance
b. Continuing to find ways to listen to and leverage employee ideas and suggestions
c. Staying apprised of emerging trends regarding pay, benefits, and workplace health
d. Being a trusted resource for staff on people-related questions and situations
4. Major activities and initiatives
a. Finalize personnel policy changes and updates
b. Fully implement NEOGOV for hiring managers and staff
c. Develop ongoing staff training, development, and learning opportunities
d. Modernize and streamline on and off boarding processes
e. Manage all benefits including annual changes, education, open enrollment
f. Resource for all employees for all things HR
COUNCIL MEMORANDUM
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Andrew Gitzlaff, Community Development Director
Date: September 10, 2024
Subject: TIF Spending Plan for Districts 1-4 and 1-6 Update
BACKGROUND
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is a financing tool authorized by State law that allows an authority to capture
and use most of the increased local property tax revenues from new development within a defined
geographic area for a defined period of time. In general, tax increment revenues are used to pay for
eligible project costs which encourage creation or retention of jobs, redevelop blighted areas or polluted
sites, and construction of housing. This revenue tool allows the City to address blight, contamination,
housing, or redevelopment needs for the parcels in the TIF district for a specified period of time. The
revenue generated is first used to pay debt service on outstanding bonds, interfund loans, and developer
pay-as-you-go notes (PAYGO). A portion, but not all, of the remaining revenues can be used to participate
in other eligible development projects and City initiatives through pooling.
At the November 22, 2022 City Council meeting, the Council approved a TIF Spending Plan for Districts
1-4 (Eastwood Village) and 1-6 (Presbyterian Homes), which contain unobligated tax increment revenues
to take advantage of recently enacted special legislation that provides the City with greater flexibility on
the use of TIF funds to promote construction and job creation. Without this special legislation, pooling
from these districts would be limited to only affordable housing projects. The funds, approximately $2.1
million, must be expended by December 31, 2025, on an eligible private development project or they will
revert back to the original TIF fund or the taxing authorities. In those discussions, we referred to these
funds as “surplus TIF”.
The TIF Spending Plan identified a number of potential projects. The redevelopment of the City’s Economic
Development Authority (EDA) owned parcels adjacent to Tanners Lake is the most viable project. It meets
the “but for” test which means that development would not occur without TIF. The EDA-owned parcels are
also within an existing TIF district which allows additional funding opportunities and affords the City the
opportunity to recoup the costs for land acquisition and site assembly.
Staff has been working with a developer to advance a project at Tanners Lake since early 2023. At the
workshop, staff will provide an overview of the TIF financial tool, an update on the TIF Spending Plan
implementation, and the status of the priority redevelopment project adjacent to Tanners Lake.
COUNCIL DIRECTION REQUESTED
General update will be provided by City staff.
Attachment
Presentation Slides
TIF Refresher
and Project Update
Tanners Lake Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District
September 10, 2024
Some Terminology
• Base Taxes: The pre-existing taxes and tax allocations in a TIF District that must continue to be honored
during the life of the district
• Tax Increment: The new taxes (above the base) paid by the developer/owner of a redevelopment project
• Redevelopment Costs: Those costs which are typically incurred in developing a site that previously housed
other uses (such as land acquisition, demolition, construction of structured parking, and extraordinary
environmental and site costs) – these are costs typically not incurred when developing “greenfields”
• Tax Increment Financing: A financing tool allowed by the State of Minnesota (since 1975) to allow the use of
Tax Increment as a funding source to reimburse Redevelopment Costs – can run up to 26 years
• In-District TIF: 75-100% of the TIF funds must be used in the area that was identified as being substandard
and in need of redevelopment
• Out-of-District TIF (also called “pooling”): 0-15% of the TIF that can be used for Redevelopment costs in other
areas of the City
• TIF Administration: 0-10% of the TIF can be used to reimburse the City/EDA for administrative costs related to
TIF Districts (such as staff and consultant costs for: managing redevelopment areas, computing and
distributing TIF, providing TIF reports to the Office of the State Auditor and other related activities)
1
The “But-For” Test
Legislative Definition & Test
• Before creating a TIF district, a local government must find that in its opinion the subsidized
development would not have happened but for the use of TIF
• There are two basic components to the required but-for finding:
• The development would not happen solely through private investment in the "reasonably
foreseeable future.“
• The induced development will yield a net increase in market value for the site compared to the likely
development that would occur without TIF.
Real World Test
• Certificate of Deposit ROI – current 6-month CD rates are 5.35% with no risk
• Stock Market ROI – Dow Jones Industrial Average Annual Rate of returns:
6-month = 5.38% 1 year = 17.37% 5 year = 10.89% 10 year = 11.8%
• Development ROI – The Return on Investment for developers and their investors has to be competitive
with other investment options or else they would be better off just investing their funds in other ways.
General TIF Concept
2
General TIF Concept
General TIF Concept
3
Tanners Redevelopment Project Timeline
2008: City receives Special Legislation for Tanners Redevelopment & funds the
purchase/demolition of two vacant restaurants on the site; City provides loan to itself to
pay costs
2008-12: Housing bubble burst & Great Recession results in several unsuccessful
proposals
2013: City gets Special Legislation for 10-year extension of Tanners TIF timeframe
2014-21: Four development proposals are considered by the City, but none progress
2017: The City officially adopts Tanners TIF District and Plan
2022: City launches reinvigorated developer search process and City Council approves
use of pooled TIF
TIF Spending Plan Districts 1-4 and 1-6
• In 2021, the Minnesota Legislature adopted a new law that provides temporary
flexibility in the use of TIF funds until December 31, 2025
• This legislation allows the use of otherwise unobligated TIF Funds from any TIF
District(s) to be spent in other Districts in a city – essentially allowing 100% pooling
• In November 2022, the City adopted “spending plans” for TIF Districts 1-4 and 1-6
(Eastwood Village and Presbyterian Homes) to allow funds in those Districts to be
spent for eligible projects in the city (including Tanners Lake)
• As of August 2024, the balance of funds in those Districts is approximately
$2,160,000
• If unused in the Tanners Redevelopment Area by the end of 2025, any remaining
funds would need to be either:
1. Returned to Washington County as “surplus TIF” – they will reallocate 34.5% to
Oakdale ($729,385)
2. Use it for Affordable Housing after 1/1/26
4
Tanners Redevelopment Project
• City advertised property
and solicited proposals
from developers – starting
in mid-2022
• City entered into an
Exclusive Rights
Agreement with Developer
in August 2023
• City and Developer have
been working through both
the site design and
financial component
Tanners Redevelopment Project
5
Outstanding Items
• Land Use Approvals Needed • Financial Approvals Needed
• City Council approval of PUD • Tanners TIF District Plan
rezoning, site plan, plat, and Amendment
development agreement • City EDA approval of Definitive TIF
• As condition of approval, Agreement – includes purchase
developer must demonstrate site price for City land and site
control and access (Lakeview assembly costs
Terrace shared access • City EDA and Developer closing
agreement, MnDOT access on EDA owned land
permit)
• If accesses cannot be obtained
site plan will need to be
reconfigured
Questions and Comments?
6
COUNCIL MEMORANDUM
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Nick Newton, Police Chief
Date: September 10, 2024
Subject: Police Patrol Pilot Schedule
BACKGROUND
Police Department’s across the nation are struggling with recruitment and retention. Similar to other
agencies in Minnesota, the Oakdale Police Department is concerned with filling future anticipated
vacancies. Currently, Minnesota has approximately 10,500 licensed officers and an estimated 2,000 or
more are eligible for retirement in 2025. With nearly 20% of licensed officers in Minnesota eligible for
retirement, coupled with the lack of law enforcement students pursuing a police officer career, agencies
will be vying for the same few eligible candidates.
Recently, it took the Oakdale Police Department almost one full year to fill two vacancies due to lack of
candidates. While the Police Department is adequately staffed as of September, 2024, next year the
Department anticipates adding positions, and have two planned retirements. Furthermore, with
incentives being offered for lateral recruits, the Department anticipates a likelihood of officers potentially
leaving for the promise of higher pay and other career enriching opportunities. The Police Department
anticipates the need to hire four to six officers in 2025. Within the current market, police departments
are working to set themselves apart and attract new recruits and retaining staff. In light of the anticipated
hiring challenges ahead, the Oakdale Police Department is proposing a pilot schedule that incorporates
wellness hours. In addition to wellness hours, the schedule creates a rotation that ensures officers have
every other weekend off to create a better work-life balance.
COUNCIL DIRECTION REQUESTED
The City Administrator and legal counsel have reviewed the proposed pilot program. The City Administrator
is recommending support for the proposal and efforts in this regard. Staff will review the proposal with
Council, in detail, and requests feedback from Council.
COUNCIL MEMORANDUM
To: Honorable Mayor and City Council
From: Lori Pulkrabek, Communications Manager
Date: September 10, 2024
Subject: Proposed Updates to City Policy MIS-021: Social Media
BACKGROUND
City Policy MIS-021: Social Media was approved by the City Council in 2021. Some information in that
policy, such as website URL and social media account list, is outdated and requires updating for accuracy.
Additionally, social media platforms are always evolving, introducing new features, and changing user
behaviors.
Social media has changed the way that people communicate. This powerful tool can be a great resource
for two-way engagement. While social media offers several benefits, government use of social media is
subject to First Amendment freedom of speech protections, and proper use is critical to avoid exposure
to liability. An updated social media policy is recommended to ensure compliance and best practices.
COUNCIL DIRECTION REQUESTED
Staff is requesting direction on whether to move forward with the proposed changes to City Policy MIS-
021: Social Media.
Attachment
Proposed Revision to City Policy MIS-021: Social Media with Tracked Changes
Standard Operating Policy
City of Oakdale
Policy Number: MIS-021
Pages: 4 and 1 attachment
Subject: Social Media
Approved: 2021 Amended: 09/2024
1.0 Policy Statement
1.1 The City of Oakdale supports the use of social media to advance the goals of the City
and its commissions and boards. The City of Oakdale will determine, at its discretion,
how its social media sites will be designed, implemented, and managed as part of its
overall communication and information sharing strategy.
2.0
2.1
3.0
Purpose
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To communicate requirements regarding the use of social media sites and increase
awareness of acceptable conduct of covered persons, as defined in this policy, when
interacting on the City’s social media sites.
Scope
3.1
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This policy applies to any existing or proposed social media site sponsored,
established, registered, or authorized by the City of Oakdale. The City’s social media
accounts are exclusively the following:
City of Oakdale Facebook account at www.facebook.com/cityoakdalemn
Oakdale Recreation Facebook account at www.facebook.com/oakdalefun
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Oakdale Fire Department Facebook account at www.facebook.com/OakdaleFD
City of Oakdale Twitter/X account at www.twitter.com/oakdalemn
Oakdale Police Department Twitter account at www.twitter.com/OakdaleMN_PD
City of Oakdale Instagram account at www.instagram.com/oakdaleminnesota
City of Oakdale YouTube account at https://www.youtube.com/
channel/UCvlFuTV1kNtQ5pLU4GaV_2w?view_as=subscribes@CityOfOakdaleMN
City of Oakdale LinkedIn account at www.linkedin.com/company/oakdalemn
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City of Oakdale NextDoor account at www.nextdoor.com/city/oakdale--mn
https://nextdoor.com/agency-detail/mn/oakdale/city-of-oakdale-1
Oakdale Police Department NextDoor account at https://nextdoor.com/agency-
detail/mn/oakdale/oakdale-police-department-2/
The City reserves the right to shut down any of its social media sites or accounts for
any reason without notice.
The City reserves the right to add more social media accounts as approved.
3.2 The City does not create, collect, disseminate, or regulate use of any other social media
accounts, including the personal accounts of its elected officials and staff. Questions
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regarding the scope of this policy should be directed to the City’s Communications
ManagerSpecialist.
4.0 Definitions
4.1 Social media site: aAn internet site or application where users create and share
content and participate in online communities and conversations in the form of a page,
profile, account, group, or other presence. These include, but are not limited to, blogs,
forums, chat sites, Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram, Nextdoor, LinkedIn, Reddit,
YouTube, and TikTok. This policy includes emerging new web-based platforms
generally regarded as social media or having many of the same functions as those
listed.
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4.3
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Covered persons: Covered persons, for purpose of this policy, means all City
representatives, including its employees and other agents of the City, such as
independent contractors, elected officials, and members of City commissions and
boards.
Social media manager: aAny authorized cCity employee or agent with administrator
access who, when posting or responding to a post, appears to be the City social media
4.4
5.0
account owner.
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Approval: Where “authorized” or “approve” or “approval” or “approved” is referenced
within this policy, the City’s Communications ManagerSpecialist will review and
recommend to the City Administrator.
Rules of Use
5.1
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The City of Oakdale intends to use social media sites as follows:
To supplement information from other City communication sources such as the
City’s website;
To disseminate information as quickly as possible, such as emergency
information;
To facilitate two-way communication, promote transparency and social
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5.2
5.3
engagement in local government; and
To broadcast the City’s messages to the widest possible audience.
City social media managers are responsible for managing City social media sites.
Facilities or departments wishing to have a new social media presence must initially
submit a request to the Communications ManagerSpecialist in order to ensure social
media accounts are kept to a sustainable number and policies are followed. All
approved sites will be clearly marked as the City of Oakdale site and will be linked with
the official City website (www.ci.oakdale.mn.us)(www.oakdalemn.gov). No one may
establish social media accounts or websites on behalf of the City unless authorized in
accordance with this policy.
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5.4 The City’s social media sites must conspicuously display or link to a public notice that
informs the public of the purpose of the social media presence and the terms one
agrees to in accessing, using, or posting to the City’s social media site. (sSee page 54).
5.5 Administration of all City social media sites will comply with applicable laws,
regulations, and policies as well as proper business etiquette and practices.
5.6 The City of Oakdale wishes to establish a positive and informative social media
presence. Covered persons have the responsibility to use the City’s social media sites
in an efficient, effective, ethical, and lawful manner pursuant to all existing City
policies.
5.7
5.8
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City social media sites covered by this policy will not be used by covered persons for
private or personal purposes or for the purpose of expressing private or personal views
on personal, political, or policy issues, or to express personal views or concerns
pertaining to City employment relations matters.
No City social media site may be used by covered persons to disclose private or
confidential information. No social media site should be used to disclose sensitive
5.9
information.
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Outside of situations of disaster, no City social media site will be used for transaction
of City business. In the event a user initiates a request, application, or question through
social media that affects cCity business or requires another cCity policy or process to
be followed, that user will be contacted by phone, email, or other channels as soon as
reasonably possible Iif comments are allowed, in the event of a question of general
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interest, a response may be given in comments, the initial post may be edited, or a
subsequent post may be created to include the information.
5.10 City of Oakdale’s social media managers will not edit any posted comments. However,
comments posted by members of the public may be removed if they fall into at least
one of the following categories:
Obscene or pornographic content
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Direct threats to persons or property
Material asserted to violate the intellectual property of another person
Private, personal information about a person published without his/her consent
Information that compromises a public safety security system
Libelous or defamatory comments
Content encouraging or promoting illegal activity
Statutorily private, confidential, or nonpublic data
Commercial promotions, or spam, or phishing
Comments completely unrelated to the topic of the post or forum
Hyperlinks to material that falls into one of the foregoing categories
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5.11 A member of the public whose comment is removed may appeal the removal of the
comment and seek reconsideration of its removal by contacting the City to discuss the
decision to remove the comment with the Communications Manager. If unresolved,
the Communications Manager will discuss the appeal with the City Administrator, and
a decision will be made by the City Administrator.in writing and explaining how the
comment does not fall into one of the categories for removal. A written response will
be provided as soon as reasonably possible.
5.12 When possible, comments that are removed for falling under one of the categories in
5.10 will be hidden or archived for availability upon data request. A member of the
public who disputes the legality of any portion of this policy may dispute the particular
portion in writing. The City should acknowledge the claim promptly and, upon
consultation of the city administrator and city attorney, respond to the claim
6.0
6.1
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concerning legality of the policy portion as soon as reasonably possible under the
circumstances.
Guidelines for Elected Officials
Elected officials shall not use official City social media sites for campaigning purposes.
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6.3
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Elected officials shall not post comments or links to any content that endorses or
opposes political candidates or ballot propositions, including links to an elected
official’s campaign site.
Elected officials must be mindful that posting content on professional social media
accounts regarding City-related matters could inadvertently result in the violation of
Minnesota Open Meeting Laws if sufficient numbers of other public officials engage on
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the post, resulting in a quorum. If this occurs, the online conversation should
immediately cease with no further posts by the officials.
It is anticipated that from time to time, elected officials will have access to information
that is considered privileged or confidential under Minnesota State Statutes. Elected
officials must not reveal any confidential or privileged information about the City, its
constituents, its employees, or contractors on social media sites.
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6.5
7.0
It is best practice for elected officials to redistribute (share, retweet, etc.) posts from
the official City social media sites. While not all content and City-related
announcements will be shared on the official City social media sites, it is best practice
to allow City social media managers to create content, answer questions, and manage
constructive conversations.
Data Ownership and Retention
7.1 All communications or messages within social media sites covered by this policy
composed, sent, or received on cCity or personal equipment are the property of the
City and will be subject to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. This law
classifies certain information as available to the public upon request. As no
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transactions of cCity business shall be conducted through social media accounts
(outside of disasters), in accordance with the City’s records retention schedule, the City
shall retain all social media messages only until read.
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PUBLIC NOTICE
City of Oakdale Social Media Disclaimer
The purpose of the City of Oakdale’s social media presence is to provide members of the
community with information. All content of this site is public and is subject to disclosure
pursuant to the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. Please be aware that anything you
post may survive deletion, whether by you or others. Do not post sensitive or personally
identifiable information, such as social security numbers.
Following or tagging persons or organizations is not an endorsement by the City and is only
intended as a means of broadening communication. The City is not responsible for content
found at links to third parties, nor the views or opinions expressed by third-party comments.
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Please be advised that comments falling into the following category or categories may be
removed:
Obscene or pornographic content
Direct threats to persons or property
Material asserted to violate the intellectual property of another person
Private, personal information about a person published without his/her consent
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Information that compromises a public safety security system
Libelous or defamatory comments
Content encouraging or promoting illegal activity
Statutorily private, confidential, or nonpublic data
Commercial promotions, or spam, or phishing
Comments completely unrelated to the topic of the post or forum
op Hyperlinks to material that falls into one of the foregoing categories
Should your comment be removed by the City and you believe it does not fall into one of the
above categories, contact the City Communications Manager to discuss the decision to
remove the comment.in writing and explain the basis for the challenge in detail.
If you have any questions about the City of Oakdale’s social media sites, contact the City
Communications Manager at 651-730-2722.
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By accessing, using, or posting to this City of Oakdale social media site, you acknowledge you
have been advised of the foregoing.
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