Public Meetings - Eagan, Minnesota

The Eagan City Council held a special workshop meeting on March 11, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Eagan Municipal Center. The council heard presentations on the Community Conversations student conference, the draft Climate Action Plan, the Parks Master Plan update, and a proposed alternative landscaping ordinance amendment. No formal actions were taken on these items; the council directed staff on next steps. Consent Calendar - There was no consent calendar. The council adopted the meeting agenda unanimously (motion, second, no opposition). Public Comments & Testimony - No visitors to be heard on items not on the agenda. Discussion Items Community Conversations – Student Conference - Sarah Aylig (as transcribed), with consultants Paula and Robin from the Finding Human Institute, reported on the first Community Conversation held February 19 at Black Hawk Middle School. The initiative asks: "What can we each do to ensure Eagan is an inclusive community where everyone thrives?" - Students from Two Rivers High School and Eagan High School shared their experiences. Evangeline Fuentes said she valued the small group because of deeper connections. Olivia Conavati called it "an amazing opportunity to hear from peers." Gabriella Wallace appreciated the personal conversations. Henry Stein said he learned how to improve his own community in Mendota Heights. Jay Wynn said it was insightful to discuss what makes a city lovable. - Osvaldo, an Eagan High School student, described his experience as a first-generation Latino student, saying Eagan has become a "safe haven" for Latino people and emphasized the need for more diversity and affordable housing. A second student echoed the need for affordable housing and diverse housing types to attract young people. - Consultant Paula noted that some expected student participation from Eagan and Burnsville did not materialize because of fear of "being on a list" after recent national events, a drop in student attendance and participation in DEI activities, the cold weather, and busy schedules. - The next community conversations will be hosted in homes, with a public spring summit on April 3. Climate Action Plan Update - Director Andrew Pimentel, Jillian, and Ted Redman of Pale Blue Dot presented the draft Climate Action Plan after about 14 months of work. Engagement included 960 participants, eight community meetings, two online surveys, 64 planning team members, and five foundational research documents. - Survey data: 85% of respondents were concerned about climate change; 77% agreed the city should prepare for impacts; 75% agreed the city should reduce emissions; 72% agreed the city should be a leader; 88% observed impacts; 79% said they were personally impacted. - The plan sets three overarching goals: 55% reduction in community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 2035, 100% renewable electricity for municipal buildings by 2035, and net zero emissions by 2050. Sector goals include a 48% transportation/land-use emissions reduction, 117% increase in transit commuters, 15% electric vehicle registration, 4% population density increase, 60% buildings/energy emissions reduction, 23% waste emissions reduction, 10% water sector reduction, and 10% tree canopy increase. - Emissions: baseline year 2014; 2022 emissions were just over one million metric tons. Successful implementation would reduce emissions to 567,000 metric tons by 2035 (a 55.7% reduction), avoiding over 4.2 million metric tons cumulatively. - Public review: 51 website visitors, 19 individuals reviewed the plan, and 18 reviews were received; none disagreed with the plan overall; 80% agreed completely with sector focuses; 65% agreed completely with plan strategies. - Councilmembers discussed implementation timelines, partnerships, and cost/savings methodology. The mayor asked how many strategies have clear city champions; Jillian said fewer than 20% require heavy outside partnerships and a public dashboard is planned. - Next steps: incorporate feedback; SEAC will consider the final plan April 8; council action scheduled April 15. Parks Master Plan Update - Andrew Pimentel and Kevin Clark of HKGA presented the 10-year Park Master Plan update. The plan is transitioning from a growing to a mature system focused on asset replacement and maintenance. - Existing conditions: 95% of residents rated parks/recreation as good or excellent; 89% live within a 10-minute walk of a park; Eagan ranks in the top quartile for park acres per 1,000 residents and residents per park. - About 80% of playgrounds will reach 20 years old within 10 years; 60% or more will need replacement. The city replaces roughly two playgrounds per year, and some assets have exceeded expected lifespan. The city is building a GIS inventory with condition ratings. - Council discussion included concerns about maintaining park ratios if population density increases, the possibility of a soccer dome/field house, and volunteer opportunities. Andrew cited recent successes: shelters, the all-play playground, splash pad, public art, and Goat Hill. - Next steps: focus groups, online engagement (Social Pinpoint), and community center intercepts; a joint APRC/council presentation in September/October and formal adoption in November/December. Alternative Landscaping Ordinance Review - Jill (as transcribed) presented a draft ordinance to comply with 2023 state law (Minn. Stat. § 412.925) allowing managed natural landscapes. The city's existing ordinance—limiting non-turf to 50% and requiring a 3-foot turf/fence buffer—is inconsistent with state law. - The draft defines managed natural landscapes, creates a five-year registration with a site plan, species list, and maintenance plan, and allows city abatement of unmanaged vegetation or noxious weeds. Registrations can be revoked after two abatements in five years, with a two-year ineligibility and cost assessment. - Councilmembers expressed frustration with the state law's limits, especially the lack of buffer standards and potential for invasive weeds. Councilmember Bachman said the law is "dumb" and asked about an 8-inch maintained buffer adjacent to property lines and structures; staff agreed to ask the city attorney about that and about property transfers. - The council asked staff to bring the answers to the April work session (April 1) and to place the ordinance on the second April council agenda for action. Staff will also develop a communications plan but may wait until after summer lessons. Key Outcomes - Adopted the agenda unanimously; no visitors were heard. - Climate Action Plan: council feedback will be incorporated; SEAC review April 8; final council action April 15. - Parks Master Plan: continued community engagement; final presentation and adoption later in 2025. - Landscaping ordinance: staff to research two legal questions and return to council in April; then proceed with adoption.

The Eagan City Council held a brief regular meeting on March 4, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting consisted mainly of approving a consent agenda with numerous routine items, followed by three public hearings, and concluded with administrative remarks. No old business, new business, or other agenda items were discussed. The meeting adjourned after a unanimous vote. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from previous meetings (January 21, 2025 amended; December 3, 2024 amended; February 4, 2025; February 11, 2025 special; February 18, 2025) - Approved personnel items - Approved check registers for February 14 and February 21, 2025 - Approved contracts - Approved a change of manager for on-sale wine and beer liquor license for Carbone's Pizzeria (1665 Yankee Doodle Road) - Approved a change of manager for on-sale liquor license for Southern Social (1940 Rahncliff Court) - Approved a change of manager for off-sale 3.2 malt liquor license for Speedway 4049 (4200 Sibley Memorial Highway) - Approved a change of manager for off-sale 3.2 malt liquor license for Speedway 4182 (1406 Yankee Doodle Road) - Approved Change Order No. 2 for the Eagan Community Center Reinvestment Project (1576) - Approved 4th Quarter 2024 Financial Report - Received a petition to vacate drainage and utility easements, Lot 1, Block 1, YMCA 2nd Addition - Approved a temporary on-sale liquor license and waiver of license fee for Trinity School at River Ridge - Approved a temporary on-sale liquor license for Twin Cities Goodtime Softball League - Approved a temporary on-sale liquor license for the University of Minnesota - Directed preparation of an ordinance amendment to City Code Chapter 5 to authorize pull-tab dispensing devices and electronic gambling in on-sale liquor licensed establishments and allow payout by staff - Directed preparation to repeal an ordinance in City Code Chapter 6, Sec 6.30 related to mechanical amusement devices Public Comments & Testimony - Jane Tunset, president of the Townhomes of Widgeon Woods Homeowners Association, expressed gratitude to the council and staff (Josh Feldman and Jill Hootmacher) for their assistance in restructuring the Housing Improvement Area application, stating the financing option was essential for needed improvements. Public Hearings - Certification of Delinquent Nuisance Abatement Bills: The city has 17 properties with delinquent false alarm invoices totaling over $5,200 and 9 properties with delinquent nuisance abatement invoices totaling over $9,400. The council approved the final assessment roll and authorized certification to Dakota County for collection with property taxes. No public comment. - Certification of Delinquent Utility Bills: Approximately 767 utility bill accounts are delinquent. The council approved certification to the county. No public comment. - Townhomes of Widgeon Woods Housing Improvement Area (HIA): The council heard a presentation from Community Development Director Jill Hootmacher. This was a resubmission after the HOA requested restructuring to allow property owners to prepay their share and avoid interest costs, requiring a new ordinance and restarting the 45-day objection period. The project involves renovation of siding, decks, porches, and railings for 33 units at a total estimated cost of $2,560,000 (including financing). The housing improvement fee was stated as not less than $6,882 and not to exceed $452 per unit per year (the transcript contains an apparent inconsistency; the fee range was presented as such). Homeowners may prepay $82,500 per unit by August 25, 2025 to avoid bond interest. Petitions of support were signed by approximately 75% of owners. The council adopted the ordinance establishing the HIA and a resolution imposing the improvement fee, and authorized publication of a summary ordinance. One public comment speaker (Jane Tunset) spoke in support. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved consent agenda (all items listed above). - Unanimously certified delinquent nuisance abatement bills and delinquent utility bills. - Unanimously adopted Ordinance establishing the Townhomes of Widgeon Woods Housing Improvement Area and Resolution imposing an improvement fee, with publication of a summary ordinance. - Meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Advisory Parks Commission met on February 24, 2025, at Moonshine Park to receive presentations on parks maintenance and forestry operations, discuss recreational facility updates, and determine the 2025 playground replacement location. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the meeting agenda as printed. - The commission approved the minutes from the November 18, 2024, meeting as printed. - The commission approved the workshop minutes from January 27, 2025, as printed. Public Comments & Testimony - No visitors were heard. Presentations - Parks Maintenance Division – Parks Maintenance Supervisor Cole Barda presented an overview of the division's seasonal workload. The team maintains approximately 450 acres of green space, 98 miles of boulevard, 43 playgrounds, and numerous athletic fields. In winter, they manage 10 boarded rinks, 8 pleasure rinks, and plow 21 parking lots. The division has 10 full-time staff and 40–50 seasonal employees (30–35 in summer). Cole highlighted challenges including seasonal hiring consistency and the timing of spring startup. He noted that 15 of 20 seasonal employees returned this year. - Forestry Division – Forestry Supervisor Adam presented on the forestry team, which includes 5 full-time staff and 10–12 seasonal employees. Key responsibilities include horticulture, invasive plant management, tree disease monitoring, and public outreach. In 2024, the team planted 158 trees in parks and 350 seedlings for woodland restoration. They received about 1,045 phone calls generating 841 work orders. Adam discussed tree diseases: Dutch elm disease is minimal (one tree per year), oak wilt still affects 120–150 trees annually, and emerald ash borer (EAB) is at the peak of the death curve. The city treats about 400 ash trees and offers a cost-share reimbursement program for private ash tree removal. Discussion Items - Recreational Facilities Update – Parks Superintendent Chris Fleck provided updates on three projects: - Goat Hill Ice Rink: Opened to the public; remaining punch list items will be completed this summer. - Art House: Interior work is ongoing with polished concrete floors, tile, and mechanical systems. 40 geothermal wells (each 220 feet deep) are being drilled. A ribbon cutting is planned for June 3, with summer camps starting June 16 and a full grand opening on September 13. - Community Center: Construction continues with challenges from cold weather and maintaining operations during renovations. The project is on a two-year timeline. - Playground Replacement Update – Director of Parks and Recreation Andrew Pimental announced a change from the previously discussed South Oaks playground. After last month's public meeting, staff paused and evaluated other options. The 2025 replacement will be at Cedar Pond Park, a smaller space that can be fitted with comparable play value. Letters to nearby homeowners will go out by the end of the week. The commission discussed how to evaluate replacement needs, including potential point systems and demographic data. It was noted that the 10-year parks master plan (currently in development) will help guide future decisions. - Staff Report – Andrew Pimental highlighted several items: - Eagan Civic Arena's bumper cars have been popular; expanded schedule expected after hockey season. - A federal voucher program for LED lighting upgrades ($131,000) may be frozen due to executive orders, but a city sustainability fund can cover the cost if needed. - Seasonal hiring is underway for about 200 positions at Cascade Bay and 50 for recreation. - Market Fest is continuing indoors; Earth Week is April 19–26, and the spring festival at Holtz Farm is coming up. - The parks master planning process is on schedule: inventory and analysis are complete, needs assessment and community engagement will run May through September, and the draft plan is expected for commission review in October/November. - Round Table – Commissioners expressed gratitude to staff for their presentations and to the public for participation in the South Oaks open house. They thanked Adam and Cole's teams for their year-round work. One commissioner noted receiving many follow-up questions from the South Oaks neighborhood about the playground decision. Key Outcomes - The commission acknowledged the change in the 2025 playground replacement location from South Oaks Park to Cedar Pond Park (no formal vote required; staff will proceed with design and community notifications). - The commission received and thanked staff for presentations on parks maintenance and forestry operations. - The commission was informed of the passing of former parks director Ginbra, who served the city from 1980 to 2005, and expressed condolences. - The meeting was adjourned.

The Eagan City Council held its second regular meeting of February 2025 on Tuesday, February 18, at 6:30 PM in the Eagan Municipal Center. Councilmember Fields was absent, and City Administrator Diane Miller was unable to attend (assistant city administrator Sarah Ang led the meeting). The council approved a lengthy consent agenda and conducted one significant old business item: the award of $18,250,000 in General Obligation Tax Abatement Bonds for improvements to the Community Center and utility systems. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the January 21 regular meeting, January 21 EDA meeting, and January 28 special council meeting. - Approved personnel items. - Approved check registers for January 31 and February 7, 2025. - Approved contracts. - Approved changes of manager for several liquor licenses: Applebee’s (on-sale), Cub Foods (off-sale 3.2 malt), Walmart 1786 (off-sale), Merwin Liquors (off-sale), Costco 1363 (off-sale), Kwik Trip 662 (off-sale 3.2 malt), and West End Trap Club (on-sale 3.2 malt). - Waived license, permit, and rental fees for Eagan’s Juneteenth event. - Approved plans and specifications for two 2025 Street Improvement contracts (25‑01 and 25‑02) and scheduled bid openings. - Approved Change Order No. 1 for Contract 24‑20 (Large Diameter Sewer CCTV – Area 3). - Awarded Contract 25‑09 (2025 Well Rehabilitations) and Contract 25‑06 (2025 Sanitary and Storm Sewer Pipe Lining). - Approved acceptance of a Heritage Lane Highway Easement from Dakota County, a final plat for Lawrence Addition, and a final plat/planned development/easement vacation for Yankee Heritage 28 (21st Century Bank). - Canceled the February 25 Advisory Planning Commission meeting. - Adopted a resolution calling for a March 4, 2025 public hearing on establishing a housing improvement area (Townhomes of Widgeon Woods). - Authorized the City Attorney to acquire a right‑of‑way/drainage/utility easement from Gopher Resource, LLC at Highway 149 & Yankee Doodle Road. - Directed preparation of ordinance amendments to City Code Chapter 2 regarding departmental control and appointments. - Approved an on‑sale and Sunday liquor license for Residence Inn Eagan (CNTL Catering, LLC). - Declared miscellaneous city property as surplus. - (All consent items were approved unanimously, per the mayor’s call.) Discussion Items - Bond Sale – $19,370,000 G.O. Tax Abatement Bonds, Series 2025A (Old Business) The council received bids for bonds to finance improvements to Eagan’s Community Center and utility systems. Tammy Umdahl of Northland Securities presented the results: 11 bids were received; the low bid came from Fidelity Capital Markets (Boston, MA). Moody’s affirmed the city’s AAA rating. Because the bid included a premium, the final par amount was reduced from $19,370,000 to $18,250,000. The true interest cost was 3.67% (the cover bid was 3.665%). The council voted unanimously to adopt a resolution awarding the bonds to Fidelity in that amount. Key Outcomes - Bond award: Approved resolution awarding $18,250,000 in General Obligation Tax Abatement Bonds, Series 2025A, to Fidelity Capital Markets at a true interest cost of 3.67%. - Consent agenda: Approved unanimously, covering all routine items listed above. - Council comments: Councilmember Backer congratulated the Eagan Fire and Community Development departments for their “Souper Bowl” food drive, noting the city broke a record for the largest single‑organization contribution to Eagan’s Open Door food shelf. - Adjournment: Meeting ended with a motion to adjourn, seconded, and carried.

The Sustainable Eagan Advisory Commission (SEAC) met on February 11, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The primary focus was a presentation on the draft Climate Action Plan (CAP) by lead consultant Ted Redmond of paleBLUEdot LLC. The commission also received subcommittee updates and staff reports. No public comments were made. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to adjourn. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Climate Action Plan Update (Presentation): Ted Redmond presented an overview of the draft CAP, which was developed over 12 months through community engagement, including eight meetings, two surveys, and a 64-member planning team. Key findings from a community survey showed 77% support for Eagan preparing for climate change (resilience), 75% for reducing emissions, and 72% for Eagan being a leader in climate action. The plan covers eight sectors (transportation, land use, buildings and energy, waste management, water/wastewater, food and agriculture, green space/ecosystems, health and safety, economy) with 24 strategies and 74 detailed actions. Overarching goals include a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2035 (from 2014 levels), 100% renewable electricity for municipal buildings by 2035, and net-zero emissions by 2050. Redmond noted that Eagan's goals align with those of other leading cities and with IPCC science-based targets. The next steps are public input through community meetings on February 19 and March 5, an online survey open through March 10, and equity listening sessions. - Old Business – Subcommittee Updates: - Education Subcommittee (Commissioner Basatka): Reported on the January 30 waste reduction session, which had 44 attendees. Feedback was positive, with microphones noted as an area for improvement. Upcoming sessions include EV Academy, food waste, trees/green yard, and solar academy, with student presenters lined up. - Website Subcommittee (Commissioner Robochar Anderson): Updates are ongoing, with a focus on integrating a sustainability dashboard that will align with the CAP's launch. - Climate Action Plan Subcommittee: The final planning meeting is scheduled for February 13, followed by a public comment period from February 13 to March 10. The subcommittee will shift to supporting implementation of the CAP. - Staff Reports (Jillian, Sustainability Coordinator): - Advisory commission application period opens for expiring terms; deadline March 21, interviews April 8. - The Eagan-Inver Grove Heights Watershed Management Organization is updating its 10-year plan and will seek input from SEAC. - 2025 sustainability priorities include finalizing the CAP, launching implementation, improving municipal fleet and facilities, and recruiting a part-time sustainability specialist. - The city’s race equity initiative, Community Conversations, continues with spring events; flyers were distributed. Key Outcomes - Approval of Agenda: Motion and second; approved unanimously (noted agenda had incorrect year but was corrected). - Approval of Minutes: December 10, 2024 minutes approved unanimously. - Adjournment: Motion and second; approved unanimously at an unspecified time. - No formal votes were taken on the Climate Action Plan; it is progressing to public input phase. The commission will support implementation moving forward.

This special workshop meeting of the Eagan City Council was held on February 11, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at the Eagan Municipal Center. It included a joint session with state legislators, an informational concept plan review for the former Blue Cross Blue Shield headquarters site, a Funfest update from the volunteer-run nonprofit committee, and approval of revised council meeting dates. No public hearings or formal votes were taken on the concept plan or Funfest items. Agenda Amendment - The council agreed to add an item to approve revised regular and special city council meeting dates for January 2025 through 2026, due to a formatting error that omitted some meeting dates. Joint Meeting with Eagan Legislators - State Senators Jim Carlson (SD 52) and Aaron McQuaid (SD 56), and Representatives Liz Reyer and John Hewitt attended. Sen. Carlson chairs the Elections Committee; Sen. McQuaid serves on education, state/local government, and human services committees; Rep. Reyer serves on Capital Investment, Health, and Commerce. - Ann Finn of the League of Minnesota Cities (LMC) said LMC represents 841 of Minnesota's 856 cities. She highlighted LMC's 14 priorities, focusing on housing (supporting local decision-making), a bonding bill, public safety (EMS and public safety duty disability), and adjustments to earned sick and safe time and paid family leave. She noted the league is analyzing federal executive orders affecting cities. - Patty Nauman of Metro Cities (legally the Association of Metropolitan Municipalities) said Metro Cities represents cities in the seven-county metro and lobbies the legislature and the Metropolitan Council. Metro Cities supports state-local housing partnerships, local tools, bonding, fixing the construction sales tax exemption, and funding for local inflow/infiltration work. - Tom Poole of the Municipal Legislative Commission (MLC), a coalition of 18 suburban cities, said MLC supports transportation programs, economic development funds, a robust and regionally balanced bonding bill, and local option sales tax reforms. He expressed opposition to tax equalization requirements and supported flexibility for trails/parks funding and an inflation factor. On housing, MLC wants to work with stakeholders on condominium reform, TIF pooling, and zoning code updates while preserving local decision-making. - Legislators and council members discussed housing policy. Sen. Carlson said he does not want the legislature to make local zoning decisions, citing neighborhood concerns over school conversions. Sen. McQuaid supported local control but noted he supports HOA reform and is concerned about parking mandates, and he has signed on to a bill addressing apartment rent price-fixing by Rent Pages. Rep. Reyer emphasized that policy (not budget) is the likely low-hanging fruit in a tied House, and she discussed concerns about federal funding uncertainty and data centers. - The Mayor noted that density does not always equal affordability, citing Eagan and Lakeville experiences. Council members asked about state demographic trends and EMS funding. Sen. McQuaid mentioned a proposed cell phone user fee to fund EMS response. Concept Plan: Blue Cross Blue Shield Site - Planning Manager Mike Schultz presented the concept plan for approximately 42.5 acres (excluding the northern soccer-field parcel). Inland Development Partners (Tom Shaver and Steve Schwonke) proposes a 282,000-square-foot production/cold warehouse/office building on the northern 25 acres, requiring a comp plan amendment from major office to industrial. The southern 16 acres (including the daycare) is proposed for future residential (townhomes/multifamily) in roughly five years. - The applicant said the facility would employ about 650 people across three shifts: 320 on first shift (5:30 a.m.–2 p.m.), 300 on second shift (3 p.m.–11:30 p.m.), and the remaining approximately 30 on third shift (8:30 p.m.–5 a.m.). Inbound truck traffic is estimated at 17 trucks/day and outbound at 15 trucks/day, using standard 18-wheelers. The building height would stay within the I1 code limit of 40 feet. The daycare would be maintained as a recruitment/retention tool. - Council members raised concerns about the industrial use's compatibility with existing residential areas, especially the proposed southern residential buffer. Councilmember Bachin suggested complementary commercial/office uses as a buffer instead of residential, and the Mayor expressed concern about residential abutting industrial. Councilmember Fields (remote) said Blackhawk Road and Highway 13 is a difficult intersection and urged routing truck traffic away from Blackhawk. Councilmember Hanson asked about noise/aromas and grease processing; the applicant said no detectable aromas but will follow up on food processing details. - Staff noted an environmental assessment (EAW or AUR) would likely be required. No formal action was taken; the applicant indicated they will consider the feedback before deciding whether to file an application. Funfest Update - Funfest committee volunteers Andy (board member), Marie Olson, and Brent Corey presented. Funfest is run by a nonprofit, not the city, with a board of 11. The city provides about $55,000 in-kind sponsorship for fireworks, public safety, and porter pies. Corporate sponsorships target $40,000–$45,000 annually. The parade is a loss leader. The ambassador program provides scholarships: $2,000 for high school and $1,000 for middle school students, and about $21,000 annually supports community groups including Lions, Legion, police explorers, and Scouts. - The board considered four options: eliminate carnival, keep carnival with security, move the event to Viking Lakes, or disband the nonprofit. The board chose to keep the carnival and invest in additional security. New measures for 2025 include: adding five additional unarmed security personnel per night, a carnival preview day on July 2 from 4–8 p.m. (for families without music/beer), staggering closing times (beer last call at 10 p.m., music/food trucks at 10:30, carnival at 11), focusing marketing more on Eagan residents rather than the seven-county metro, and developing bilingual (Spanish and Somali) communication plans. The committee also asked the city to align communications so the public understands the nonprofit/city partnership. - Council members asked about carnival revenue (net about $10,000), revenue variability due to weather, and exit-staggering logic. They generally supported the plan. Key Outcomes - Approved the revised regular and special city council meeting dates January 2025 through 2026 (motion carried unanimously). - No votes were taken on the BCBS concept plan or Funfest proposals. The BCBS applicant will use council feedback to decide whether to file a formal application. The Funfest committee will implement its 2025 changes and report back.

The Eagan City Council met on February 4, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting included the swearing-in of three new police officers, approval of a consent agenda, public hearings on five street improvement projects, and a planned development amendment for a new Kwik Trip convenience store and car wash. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda in one motion, which included personnel items, check registers, contracts, change orders for the Eagan Art House (Change Order No. 9) and Goat Hill Phase 3 (Change Order No. 8), award of contracts for Sky Hill Athletic Courts rehabilitation and 2025 Water Quality Improvements, approval of plans and specifications for Argenta Trail Street Reconstruction, waiver of fees for Eagan Rotary Live to Give Walk and Eagan Kick Start Rotary Foundation’s 5K, a premise permit for AmVets Post 1 at Teresa’s Mexican Restaurant, an extension for a conditional use permit for Superior Automotive, authorization of a Dakota County CDA Redevelopment Incentive Grant application for the Thomson Reuters Campus Redevelopment, final payments for multiple contractors related to City Project 1557, declaration of surplus property, and scheduling of public hearings for March 4, 2025, to certify delinquent utility and nuisance abatement bills. Public Comments & Testimony - Colleen Van Blarkom (McDonald’s owner/operator, project 1371 Erin Lane): Asked about access during construction and whether projects would be simultaneous. - Peggy Crack (Lakeside Estates resident, project 1570): Asked how assessments are determined and divided among properties. - Ryan Grimwood (Lakeside Estates resident, project 1570): Questioned timing coordination with Dakota County’s planned bike path, on-street parking during construction, and whether old street signs could be retrieved. - Jim Johnson (Lakeside Estates resident, project 1570): Urged the council to consider organizing trash collection to reduce road wear and tear, noting his neighborhood’s success with a single hauler. - Ryan Frankie (Highway 55 resident, project 1569): Questioned whether crack sealing had been considered instead of a full mill and overlay, expressing concern about cost and resource use. - Ryan Grimwood (also spoke on Kwik Trip item): Expressed support for the redevelopment, noting the site has been vacant for years, and asked about clear sight lines for the proposed monument sign. - Emily Krimer (public): Asked why Kwik Trip is replacing the previous High-V proposal. - Jim Johnson (also spoke on Kwik Trip): Asked about LED lighting and whether it would have sharp cutoff to prevent glare. Discussion Items - Oath of Office for New Police Officers: Chief New introduced Officers Derek Nord, Chase Thomas, and Eric Collins. The officers were sworn in after their families pinned on badges. The chief also noted new police jackets, patches, and badges. - Street Improvement Projects (Five Public Hearings): Assistant City Engineer Ben Perke presented five projects (1371 Erin Drive/Erin Lane, 1568 Golfview Drive, 1569 Harvey/Burrview Acres/55 Frontage/Cherrywood, 1570 Lakeside Estates, and 1573 Sunset/Northview Meadows/Overview Estates/Saddle Horn/Daniel Drive/Lexington Pointe Pkwy/Patrick Rd). Total estimated cost: $5.1 million, with $3.7 million city cost and $1.4 million assessable to properties. Projects include mill and overlay (full-depth reclamation for Erin Drive), curb/gutter repairs, utility adjustments, signage replacement. No pedestrian improvements recommended for Daniel Drive or Golden Meadow Road due to resident opposition or engineering challenges. Assessments follow city policy (50-50 for low/medium density residential, 75% for high density, 100% for commercial). Construction expected summer 2025. - Planned Development Amendment – Kwik Trip: City Planner Schultz presented a proposal for a 9,125 sq ft convenience store with a 3,065 sq ft two-bay car wash and motor fuel station at 4198 Pilot Knob Road (Hilltop Plaza). The site previously had two retail buildings (one vacant, one housing MGM Liquor). Deviations requested: landscape setback of 4.7 ft (5 ft required), two freestanding signs (monument and pylon), reduced parking stall widths on north side, and a 181 ft setback for 24-hour operation (200 ft required). The Advisory Planning Commission recommended approval on January 28, 2025, with amended condition limiting car wash hours to 7 AM–10 PM (instead of requiring doors closed during cycles). Council discussed signage, lighting, and the change from the previous High-V proposal. The applicant (Lisa Watson, Kwik Trip) noted the project value near $10 million, new fuel tanks, and that car wash doors remain open for humidity/flow (automatically close at 40°F). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (voice vote, all ayes). - Street Improvement Projects (1371, 1568, 1569, 1570, 1573): Public hearings closed; motion to approve as presented and authorize preparation of detailed plans and specifications carried unanimously. Construction to be bid and awarded in March 2025, with work through summer. - Planned Development Amendment – Kwik Trip: Approved unanimously subject to conditions in the APC minutes, including the 7 AM–10 PM car wash operating hours restriction. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at approximately 8:00 PM.

The Eagan Advisory Planning Commission met on January 28, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Eagan Municipal Center. The primary agenda item was a public hearing and recommendation vote on a Planned Development (PD) amendment for a new Kwik Trip convenience store, motor fuel station, and car wash at 4198 Pilot Knob Road. The commission also approved the 2025 meeting calendar and received a notice that the February 25 meeting may be cancelled. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the agenda (motion by Vice Chair Whisnant, seconded by Secretary Whitfield) and the meeting minutes (motion by Secretary Whitfield, seconded by Member Schwanke) without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Rob and Julie Chapman (owners of MGM Eagan, the current tenant on the site) spoke to express their interest in the project timeline. They noted their lease runs through December 1, 2025, and asked when the redevelopment would occur. In response, Lisa Watson (Kwik Trip Real Estate Manager) stated that the project is planned for a 2026 build, and the tenant would not be asked to leave before the lease ends. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation: Pam Duziak (Planning Staff) presented the Kwik Trip proposal. Key details: - Site: 3.53 acres at 4160, 4168, and 4198 Pilot Knob Road (Lots 1, 2, and part of Lot 3, Hilltop Plaza). - Proposal: Demolish two existing retail buildings and construct a 9,125 sq. ft. convenience store with an integrated 3,065 sq. ft. double-bay car wash and a fuel canopy. - Zoning/Deviations: The site is zoned Planned Development (PD) – Neighborhood Business. Proposed deviations include parking stall widths (northern row at 9.5 ft instead of 10 ft), two freestanding signs (pylon and monument), a detached trash enclosure, and building signage on three elevations (code allows two). The fuel canopy and store exceed the 200-ft special use setback from residential, but the northeastern parking row is approximately 180 ft from the residential property line across Hilltop Lane. - Operations: Applicant initially requested 24-hour operation for all uses. Staff recommended limiting car wash hours to 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. (with the condition that car wash doors may remain open during operation, but close when temperature is 40°F or below) in exchange for not requiring closed doors at all times. - Other: The project is expected to create 25–30 permanent jobs; highway access improvements (right-turn lane on Pilot Knob Road) are included; stormwater will be handled on-site; and all existing trees will be removed, with a required tree inventory and preservation plan. - Commission Questions: - Member Block asked about the 200-ft special use setback and its relation to 24-hour operation. Staff clarified the measurement and that the deficit is only at the parking row. - Secretary Whitfield asked whether a similar Kwik Trip car wash existed elsewhere in Eagan and whether the current proposal could have retained the existing MGM business. Staff noted the other site is in an industrial district and did not involve a PD. - Member Schwanke sought confirmation that the lighting plan meets city standards (downcast fixtures, no off-site glare). Staff confirmed the photometric plan is acceptable. - Applicant Statement: Steven Lowe (Kwik Trip Project Manager) reiterated the request to allow open car wash doors when operating (with the 7 a.m.–10 p.m. hour limit) and expressed satisfaction with the staff report. Key Outcomes - Motion to Recommend Approval: Member Block moved to recommend approval of the PD amendment for the convenience store, fuel station, car wash, and pylon sign on the described site, with all staff conditions including the amendment to Condition 7 (car wash hours 7 a.m.–10 p.m. and doors may remain open during operation). The motion was seconded by Vice Chair Whisnant and passed unanimously (6–0). - Next Step: The item is scheduled for the City Council meeting on February 4, 2025. - Approval of 2025 Meeting Dates: The commission approved the following meeting dates (motion by Secretary Whitfield, seconded by Vice Chair Whisnant, 6–0): Feb 25, Mar 25, Apr 22, May 27, Jun 24, Jul 22, Aug 26, Sep 23, Oct 28, Nov 25, and Thursday, Dec 18 (corrected from the agenda’s erroneous Dec 18 to the correct Thursday, Dec 18), and Jan 27, 2026. - February 25 Meeting: Staff noted that a pending application submitted in December is incomplete and likely will be pushed to March, so the February 25 APC meeting will probably be cancelled (subject to City Council action).

The Eagan City Council met on January 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting included recognitions for retiring staff and a community partner, annual organizational business, public hearings on four street improvement projects and an easement vacation, and approval of a preliminary subdivision for a data center. Recognitions & Presentations - Paula Nowariak Retirement: Recognized for 39 years of service to the City of Eagan, retiring as Administrative Analyst. Speakers included Parks Director Andrew Pimentel, former Parks Director Ken B. and Dorothy, and council members. She was praised for her dedication to recreation programs and community building. - Eagan Hockey Association (EHA) Partnership: Celebrated for contributing $1.3 million and extensive volunteer hours to the Goat Hill Park redevelopment, including a refrigerated rink and covered shelter. Council also acknowledged EHA's recent event honoring Natalie Darwitz. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously: minutes, personnel items, check registers, contracts, donations, Northview Park Restrooms contract, Goat Hill Phase 3 change order (No. 7) and final payments to Doug Speedling Builders (three contracts), Community Center Reinvestment change order (No. 1), Cliff Lake Road Televising contract, final payments for sewer lining and upsizing contracts, change orders for Holland Lake Lift Station, direction to prepare an ordinance amendment on managed natural landscapes, and adoption of a negative declaration for the Metcalf Park Environmental Impact Statement. Organizational Business (City Council) - Acting Mayor: Appointed Councilmember Cindy Fields as Acting Mayor for 2025. - Legal Newspaper: Designated the St. Paul Pioneer Press as the official legal newspaper. - Depositories: Designated Old National Bank and U.S. Bank Trust as city depositories. - Meeting Dates: Approved regular meeting dates (first and third Tuesdays at 6:30 PM with listening session at 6 PM) and special meetings (second Tuesdays at 5:30 PM) from January 2025 through January 2026, with adjustments for National Night Out and Veterans Day (moved to Monday). - Rules & Procedures: Adopted Robert's Rules of Order, approved guidelines for public participation, and ratified the rule that at least two council members must request an item for the agenda. - Committee Appointments: Approved standing committee, advisory commission, and intergovernmental committee assignments, keeping assignments consistent with the prior year. Public Hearings Street Improvement Projects (1566, 1567, 1571, 1572) - Overview: Four projects covering 6.76 miles and 834 properties with a total estimated cost of $4.9 million ($3.6 million city-funded, $1.3 million assessed). Residential areas assessed at 50%; commercial/industrial at 100%. Projects include mill and overlay, curb and gutter repairs, sidewalk/ramp upgrades, and utility adjustments. - Project 1571 (Force Away) : Included a drain tile system to address groundwater damage. The system (paid from city utility funds) would capture groundwater and provide optional sump pump connections for residents. Public comment: Several residents spoke against the drain tile, citing concerns about water being directed to low points, driveway disruption, and effectiveness. Council approved the project including the drain tile to protect public infrastructure and extend street life, avoiding larger future assessments. - Votes: Motion to approve projects 1566, 1567, and 1572 passed unanimously. Separate motion to approve project 1571 (with drain tile) also passed unanimously. Easement Vacation (Letendre Addition) - Proposed vacation of drainage and utility easements to allow replatting for a future development. No public objections. Council closed the hearing and continued the matter to the February meeting for final approval. New Business - Preliminary Subdivision – YMCA 3rd Addition: Approved creation of two lots on 22.1 acres at 550 Opperman Drive. Lot 1 (7.6 acres) retains the YMCA; Lot 2 (14.5 acres) will host a 61,519 sq ft data center (permitted use in I-1 zoning). The data center will have an approximate 10 MW load, generators, 71 parking spaces, and extensive landscaping. The Planning Commission recommended approval. Council approved subject to conditions in the APC minutes. Economic Development Authority (EDA) Organizational Business - Officers: Re-elected Mike McGuire as President, Cindy Fields as Vice President (new), Mike Subpoena as Treasurer, and reappointed Executive Director (City Administrator Miller) and Secretary/Deputy Executive Director (Jill Hoodmacher). - Meeting Schedule: Confirmed existing schedule coinciding with council meetings. - Single-Action Process: Confirmed continued process for joint council/EDA resolutions. Key Outcomes - All votes on the consent agenda, organizational business items, public hearing motions, and new business were unanimous. - Street improvement projects, including the Force Away drain tile, are approved to proceed to detailed design and bidding. - The preliminary subdivision for the YMCA data center parcel is approved. - EDA officers are set for 2025. - The meeting adjourned after the administrative agenda (no additional business or public comments).