Public Meetings - Eagan, Minnesota

The Advisory Parks Commission met on February 23, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Moonshine Park. The agenda was amended to move the Parks Division Presentation (item 7A) to the presentations section. Minutes from the January 26, 2026 meeting were approved. No visitors were heard. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Approved as amended. - Approval of Minutes: Approved from the January 26, 2026 meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - None. Discussion Items - Playground Replacements 2026: Assistant Director Jared Flewellen presented options for two playground replacements. For Paradox Path Park (oldest playground, installed 2001), staff recommended relocating the playground from the north end to a flat south end site and targeting ages 2-5 (due to proximity to larger parks). Option 2 was preferred, with modifications to include a playhouse. Over 30 public comments were received. For Walnut Hill Park (installed 2003, larger park on Lexington Avenue), nearly 100 public comments were received; Option 2 was overwhelmingly favored but noted for heavy overhead play. Staff is working with the vendor to adjust. The budget is $80,000 per playground plus a $5,000 Dakota County grant for an ADA-accessible swing. A motion to approve the staff recommendation for relocating the Paradox Path playground passed unanimously. - Public Art 2026: Director Andrew Pimental presented the Art on Loan program selections for the next two-year cycle. From 33 applications, five pieces were initially selected, but one was withdrawn. The four recommended pieces are: "Cherry" by Shunghi Min (Civic Center Park), "Animal Imagined" by Isaac Kidder (Wescott Library), "Shift in Harmony" by Ryan and Jim Peterson (City Hall patio), and "House Tree" by John Camrith (Civic Arena). A 30-day public comment period begins, followed by City Council approval. Installation is expected in June/July. - Parks Division Presentation: Parks Superintendent Chris Fleck provided an overview of the parks and forestry divisions, including organizational structure, seasonal hiring (approximately 300 seasonal employees department-wide), and upcoming capital projects. Major projects discussed: Goat Hill Park artificial turf system (palletized tiles for the hockey rink, order placed), Moonshine Park composite decking and fishing pier (with $60,000 DNR grant), Northview Tennis Court complex (11 courts, cost-share with School District 196, 11 bids received, construction to begin spring 2026), Quarry Park restroom building (four restrooms, including an oversized ADA-accessible one, near existing building), and a new female veteran statue for the Egan Tribute and Memorial Plaza (fundraising underway, goal $35,000, installation target May 2026). Spring and summer priorities were outlined. Key Outcomes - Approved relocation of Paradox Path Park playground to the south end, with a new age 2-5 structure (motion carried unanimously). - Public art selections move to a 30-day comment period and then to City Council for final approval. - Noted that Goat Hill artificial turf system is on order, with installation planned for spring 2026. - Northview Tennis Court project is proceeding with bids received; construction will be coordinated with the school district. - Quarry Park restroom building design is finalized; construction will begin in spring 2026. - Seasonal hiring is underway; the department expects to hire approximately 300 seasonal staff. Round Table & Staff Reports - Commissioners expressed excitement about upcoming projects, especially Goat Hill and the new playgrounds. Commissioner DeMart Delay thanked staff for public art selection participation. - Assistant Director Jared Flewellen provided a departmental update on seasonal hiring, noting a rebound in applicants after COVID, and the upcoming final phase of the Eagan Community Center construction project (expected April 2026). Spring and summer camp registrations are open with availability. The meeting adjourned after the staff report.

The Eagan City Council met at 6:30 PM on February 17, 2026, at the Eagan Municipal Center. Mayor [Name] presided, with Councilmember Fields absent. The council adopted the agenda and consent agenda, held a public hearing on a one-year moratorium for data centers, briefly convened as the Economic Development Authority (EDA), received administrative updates, and heard public comments regarding a potential ICE detention center. The meeting adjourned without a closed session. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (3-0) the following items: approval of minutes, personnel items, check registers, contracts, a resolution to accept donations, a temporary beer and wine license (with fee waiver) for the Eagan Athletic Association, a directive to prepare an ordinance amendment for massage license appeal hearings, updates to the Pavement Management Program, final payment for Contract 25-13 (Eagandale Sanitary Sewer Replacement), plans and specifications for three street improvement contracts (26-01, 26-02) and traffic signal revisions (24-10), a resolution for State Aid Bond payment release, an amendment to the Business Assistance Policy’s table of financial assistance programs, and a directive to prepare an ordinance amendment regarding cryptocurrency ATM machines. Public Comments & Testimony Public Hearing – Data Center Moratorium - Leo Caravello (Eagan resident) expressed concerns about water consumption, energy use, pollution, and lack of community benefit. He proposed lowering the moratorium threshold from 20 megawatts (MW) to 5 MW and increasing the residential setback from 500 feet to one mile. - Jacob Steen (Larkin Hoffman, representing OpaDan, owner of an existing data center at 3621 Argenta Trail) thanked staff for the redline language but argued that regulating power usage as a proxy for zoning exceeds city authority under Minnesota law. He requested striking the language limiting approved existing data centers to 9 MW. - Bill Jaco (Eagan resident) supported Caravello’s comments and called for a full ban on AI centers, citing noise and pollution from diesel backup generators and long-term planning risks. - Susan Johnson (33-year Eagan resident) applauded the council for being the first Minnesota city to slow large data centers and urged continued public follow-through on the study. Visitors to Be Heard (Non-Agenda Items) - Nancy Lepink (Eagan resident) urged proactive measures to prevent a federal detention center in Eagan. She presented a draft resolution opposing such facilities, calling for community hearings and direct engagement with property owners. - Matthew Shands (Eagan resident, 27 years) provided a list of 17 industrial properties for sale or lease that could be converted into a detention center. He cited other cities successfully opposing similar facilities and asked the council to act preemptively. - Deborah Huganen (30-year Eagan resident) supported the proactive stance and noted many residents are afraid to speak but share the same concerns. Discussion Items Data Center Moratorium (Public Hearing and Council Deliberation) - Staff Presentation: City Administrator Diane Miller and Community Development Director Jill Hootmacher explained the proposed interim ordinance (moratorium) to study data centers, cryptocurrency mining, and AI operations. The draft ordinance restricts new or expanded data centers using more than 20 MW or located within 500 feet of residential properties. It exempts improvements to existing approved data centers up to 9 MW. The one-year moratorium expires February 17, 2027, unless lifted earlier by the council. - Council Discussion: Mayor [Name] expressed support for the redline language (clarifying the 9 MW exemption) and declined proposed changes to lower thresholds, stating the goal was to implement the moratorium quickly and study impacts. He emphasized that smaller existing data centers (four in Eagan, all at or below 20 MW) would not be affected and that the study would inform future regulations on water, noise, and energy use. Councilmember Backen clarified that the motion included the redline language. - Vote: Motion to close the public hearing and adopt the ordinance (adding Section 12.09 to City Code) passed 3-0. Administrative Agenda – City Council Comments (Detention Center Context) - Mayor [Name] addressed community anxiety about Operation Metro Surge and rumors of a federal detention center. He stated the city has no knowledge of any proposal for a detention center in Eagan and reaffirmed the city’s commitment to public safety and constitutional rights. He outlined two scenarios: if the federal government itself acquires property (supremacy clause applies) or if a private developer seeks to build a detention center (city land-use process applies, including public hearings). The city pledged to use all lawful tools to preserve community character while respecting federal authority. Key Outcomes - Data Center Moratorium: Ordinance adopted (3-0) establishing a one-year moratorium on new or expanded data centers over 20 MW or within 500 feet of residential uses, with a 9 MW exemption for improvements to existing approved centers. - Economic Development Authority (EDA) Meeting: The council, sitting as the EDA, adopted the EDA agenda and consent agenda (amendment to the Business Assistance Policy and approval of January 20, 2026 EDA minutes) and adjourned. - Visitors to Be Heard: No immediate action taken. City Administrator received the draft resolution and property list for future consideration. The city will continue to monitor any potential detention center proposals and engage the community. - Next Steps: Staff will conduct a study on data centers and report recommendations to council before the moratorium expires. The council may hold future discussions on the detention center issue.

The Sustainable Eagan Advisory Commission (SEAC) held its regular monthly meeting on February 10, 2026, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The primary agenda item was a presentation by representatives from the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) covering transit services, ridership trends, and the agency’s sustainability progress. The commission also received updates on the clean energy definition, upcoming community events, and climate action plan milestones. Consent Calendar - Roll Call: Commissioners Raker, Hook, and Patrick were absent. - Approval of Agenda: Approved unanimously by voice vote. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the December 29, 2025 special meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the “Visitors to Be Heard” portion. Presentations: MVTA Transit Updates - Fixed Route Services: MVTA provides fixed-route bus service (larger buses on regular schedules) and on-demand microtransit (Connect). From 2024 to 2025, overall MVTA ridership increased by nearly 8%, with express routes growing over 10%. Eagan-specific routes saw a 7% increase, with routes 4fun and 436 showing substantial gains. - Connect Microtransit: This on-demand, $3-per-ride service operates within Eagan’s city limits. In 2025, Eagan Connect ridership grew 6.4% over the previous year, with an average daily ridership of 161 trips. About 47% of riders said they would have used Uber/Lyft otherwise; 20% reported household income under $15,000. The average wait time is 21 minutes. The service is ADA-compliant; one in ten riders has a disability. - Event Services: MVTA offers round-trip service for $6 to events such as the State Fair, Vikings games, and concerts, serving as an introduction for first-time transit users. - Sustainability Performance: MVTA’s first sustainability plan (2023) was recognized as “most transformative” by the FTA. In 2025, transit use avoided 2.9 million kilograms of CO₂e (roughly 3,000 metric tons), equivalent to taking one car off the road for 7.5 million miles or the carbon absorbed by 3,000 acres of forest. MVTA is adding 7 hybrid-electric buses, deploying electric Connect vehicles (e-Jess), and planning EV charging stations at park-and-rides. - Future Service Changes (March 2026): Route 442 will be replaced by Route 440; Route 445 will be rerouted to stop at the Eagan Community Center (based on city partnership); Route 489 may be reduced due to low ridership but similar service exists on enhanced Route 436 (which now includes airport access via Eagan Transit Station). Discussion & Q&A - EV Performance in Cold Weather: The e-Jess vehicles have performed well in snow and cold, though large doors can let in cold air. Heaters are powerful, and range has not been an issue even in bitter cold. - Rider Experience: A commissioner shared that a Connect trip once took 45 minutes when a direct drive would be 10 minutes. Staff recommended using the “arrive by” feature to better match schedules, as the algorithm can account for a desired arrival time. - Barriers to Transit Use: Main barriers include unfamiliarity, infrequent service (hourly vs. 30-minute), and confusion about MVTA being part of the public transit system (some think it’s a premium service). Travel training, event services, and partnerships with schools and employers are key strategies to attract new riders. - Partnerships & Incentives: Employers can offer subsidized Metropasses; the University of Minnesota provides a universal transit pass to students/faculty. MVTA works with Enjoy Eagan and local businesses on marketing and service planning. - Other Questions: Bike racks fit two bikes (standard size; oversize e-bikes may not fit). Any items that a rider can carry are allowed. Children under 10 are not recommended to ride alone; all vehicles have cameras. - Clean Energy Definition: Commissioner Robichot asked about the council’s consideration of the working definition of “clean energy.” Staff reported the definition was presented to the council with no feedback received, so it is considered accepted. The definition will be added to the city’s sustainability website. Key Outcomes - The agenda and minutes were approved unanimously. - No formal votes were taken on the MVTA presentation; it was informational. - The commission acknowledged the clean energy definition as accepted and endorsed its inclusion on the city website. - Staff announced that SEAC members with expiring terms received reapplication instructions; applications close end of March. - The Sustainable Eagan Academy’s first session had over 50 attendees; next session is February 26, 2026. - The second annual Eagan Earth Day celebration will be on April 18, 2026, with events throughout April. - The climate action plan continues progress: a resident/business resource webpage has been added; an alternative fuels fleet plan is near finalization; the city was accepted into Xcel Energy’s Partners in Energy program; a communications campaign will launch around Earth Month. - The meeting adjourned on a motion and second, with all in favor.

The Eagan City Council met on February 2, 2026, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting included the swearing-in of five new police officers, adoption of a consent agenda, six public hearings (five street improvement projects and one right-of-way vacation), a conditional use permit for outdoor storage, and a significant segment of visitor comments regarding immigration enforcement and community safety. The mayor also delivered remarks on the city's measured response to Operation Metro Surge. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes, personnel items, check registers, contracts, and donations. - Amended the 5-Year Public Works Capital Improvement Plan (2026–2030) and awarded a contract for South Treatment Roof Replacement. - Approved Change Order No. 9 for the Eagan Community Center Reinvestment Project (1576). - Amended the 5-Year Parks & Recreation Capital Improvement Plan (2026–2030) and awarded a contract for Northview Park Tennis Courts Improvements. - Item I was pulled. - Approved Change Order No. 2 and final payment for Contract 25-09, 2025 Well Rehabilitation Project. - Cancelled the public hearing for February 3, 2026, to certify delinquent nuisance abatement bills. - Approved an amendment to the 2026 Fee Schedule. - Scheduled public hearings for March 3, 2026, to certify delinquent utility bills and delinquent nuisance abatement bills. - Approved plans and specifications for Contract 26-12, 2026 Street Maintenance (crack sealing, sealcoating, striping) and scheduled a bid opening. - Adopted the amended Investment Policy. - Approved a resolution to direct staff and the city attorney’s office to prepare an ordinance for a moratorium on data centers and cryptocurrency mining and schedule a public hearing. Public Comments & Testimony - Amina (representing Somali American Leaders Table – SALT) urged the council to publicly speak out against the federal government’s dehumanizing rhetoric and immigration enforcement actions. She described the fear within the Somali community, noting that approximately 60% of Somali Americans are U.S.-born, and that current enforcement has caused residents to stay home, avoid school, and seek grocery deliveries. She emphasized that silence from elected officials is perceived as agreement. - Caitlin Werberton, a resident, echoed Amina’s concerns and shared that she had witnessed ICE interactions at the Cedar Grove Town Centre earlier that evening. She asked the council to provide more detail on the “seen and unseen” actions the city is taking. - During the public hearing on street improvement projects, Sylvia Hakala (resident of 4561 Lake Park Drive) asked about parking availability and access to her property during construction of Project 1639. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Remarks on Immigration Enforcement: The mayor addressed the council and public, noting that the city is aware of community concerns regarding Operation Metro Surge. He explained that the council is being “measured and thoughtful” rather than reactive, and that passing symbolic ordinances without enforceability could waste staff time and potentially inflame tensions. He mentioned ongoing coordination with mayors in Dakota County, discussions with the regional council of mayors, and a meeting held two weeks prior with the Somali community. He stressed that the city is fully engaged but that individual cities are limited in their ability to affect federal operations. - Street Improvement Projects (1634, 1635, 1636, 1638, 1639): Public Works Director Ben presented the five projects, totaling 4.65 miles affecting 535 properties in the southwest quadrant. Estimated total cost is $3.1 million, with $1.8 million covered by the city and $1.3 million assessed to properties. Residential assessments range from $2,300 to $2,900 per property, with first-year principal and interest around $650–$700. Construction is expected to take 3–4 weeks per neighborhood, with access maintained. The council approved the projects after hearing public comment. - Vacation of Meadow View Road Right-of-Way and Easement: Public Works Director Mathis explained that the vacation is needed to facilitate a property sale. The right-of-way is remnant from an old cul-de-sac; no objections were received. The council approved the vacation. - Conditional Use Permit for Hempel Company (2945 Commers Drive): City Planner Schultz presented a request for a 16,000-square-foot fenced outdoor storage area for empty pallets (stored no higher than 10 feet) and overnight parking of three semi-tractor trailers. The property is in an I-1 Industrial zone. The Advisory Planning Commission recommended unanimous approval. Conditions include installation of two prefabricated metal staircases over existing jersey barriers for fire egress and recording of a prescriptive easement for vehicular access if properties are sold. The council approved the permit. Key Outcomes - Police Swearing-In: Five new officers were sworn in: Sophia Legare, Allison Alessi, Shreyas Pothini, Cody Smith, and Frederick Van Tiem. Chief Omari presided. All five are graduates of the Pathways to Policing program. - Consent Agenda: Adopted unanimously. - Street Improvement Projects: Approved as presented, with detailed plans and specifications authorized. - Vacation of Meadow View Road Easement: Approved. - Conditional Use Permit: Approved with conditions from the APC minutes. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting concluded without a closed session. The motion to adjourn carried.

Date: January 27, 2026, at 6:30 PM Location: Eagan Municipal Center Building The Advisory Planning Commission convened to consider a conditional use permit (CUP) for outdoor storage of empty pallets and semi-trailers at 2945 Commers Drive, and to approve the 2026 meeting schedule. The meeting was called to order, and the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting were approved unanimously (5-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the Visitors to Be Heard or the public hearing portions of the meeting. Discussion Items - Conditional Use Permit (CUP) – Eagan Business Commons - Applicant: Brandon Champeau, Executive Vice President of Hempel Real Estate, representing the property owner. - Location: 2945 Commers Drive (Lot 2, Block 1, Eagan Business Commons). - Request: Approval of a CUP for outdoor storage of approximately 16,000 square feet of empty pallets within a fenced enclosure, plus three semi-tractor trailers parked on an adjacent paved area. - Staff Presentation: Mike Schultz (City Planner) presented the proposal. The site is 7.24 acres with a 100,000 sq. ft. industrial building. Outdoor storage has historically occurred on the property. The applicant is formalizing the use. The proposed fenced area is at the southwest corner of the building, with pallets stored in two piles not exceeding 10 feet in height. Trailers will be parked outside the fence. The proposal includes a cross-access easement between the subject property and the adjacent property to the south (also owned by the applicant). Six additional deciduous trees will be planted for screening. Staff confirmed all six performance standards in city code are met. The proposal does not trigger stormwater management requirements. - Applicant Comment: Mr. Champeau stated that the request is straightforward, and the area has been used for outdoor storage prior to their ownership. They seek to formalize the approval. - No questions from the commission or public. - Approval of 2026 Meeting Dates - Staff requested the commission adopt the schedule of 2026 Advisory Planning Commission meetings (second Tuesday of each month, except December 22nd). The December date was noted as a Tuesday; no change was needed. Key Outcomes - Conditional Use Permit Approved (5-0) - Motion by Secretary Wagner, seconded by Vice Chair Schwanke. The motion recommended approval with eight conditions (as listed in the motion). The matter will be forwarded to the City Council for final action on Monday, February 2, 2026. - 2026 Meeting Dates Approved (5-0) - Motion by Secretary Wagner, seconded by Vice Chair Schwanke. The schedule includes meetings on: February 24, March 24, April 28, May 26, June 23, July 28, August 25, September 22, October 27, November 24, December 22, and January 26, 2027. - Adjournment – The meeting was adjourned after no further business.

The Eagan Advisory Parks Commission met on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at Moonshine Park. The meeting included a detailed water resources presentation, updates on 2026 playground replacements, the appointment of a new commissioner, and staff reports. All agenda items were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda: Moved and seconded; approved unanimously. - Approval of Minutes (November 17, 2025): Moved and seconded; approved unanimously. Presentations - Water Resources Presentation – Jenna Olson, Water Resources Manager: Jenna Olson presented an overview of the city’s water resources program, highlighting that Eagan has over 1,300 water bodies across 34 square miles and is about 70% developed. She noted that Eagan has monitored water quality since 1990 and has seen steady improvements: Fish Lake was removed from the impaired waters list in 2014, followed by Fitzlake and LeMay in 2023. Olson explained the city’s management strategies: constructed treatment systems (e.g., rain gardens, detention basins), in-lake treatments (alum applications), invasive species control (aquatic weed harvesting, goldfish removal, targeted herbicide), and fisheries management (stocking walleye, bass, and interlake transfers). She also discussed future goals: improving ADA access at existing piers, installing new fishing piers at Cliff Lake and Baroque’s Pond, and expanding community engagement through free tackle box stands and translated signage. Olson answered questions about coordination with the MPCA and DNR, the impact of extreme precipitation events, and the relative health of lakes like Cliff Lake. Commissioners commended the water resources staff for their expertise. Discussion Items - Playground Replacements 2026 Update – Jared Flewellen, Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation: Staff reported that two playgrounds will be replaced in 2026: Paradox Path Park (the oldest in the system) and Walnut Hill Park. An open comment period is running through February 15, 2026, and has already generated about 80 comments online. Paradox Path will be moved from the north side to a flatter area on the western side to meet ADA standards, requiring a 60x60 foot space. The playground will be designed for ages 2–5, as older children have nearby options at Upper Woodhaven Park and Destination All Play. Walnut Hill will remain a 5–12 age group playground. The budget per playground is approximately $75,000–$80,000, with fiber mulch surfacing used to meet ADA requirements. Paradox Path will be installed in summer 2026, Walnut Hill in fall 2026, and a grant from Dakota County will fund an accessible swing at Paradox Path. Commissioners discussed the trade-offs between play value and safety standards, and the need to diversify age groupings across parks. - Commissioner Resignation and Appointment: Commissioner Kevin Hamlin resigned effective December 1, 2025. The commission moved to appoint alternate Commissioner Nasek Naspik to a regular commissioner position. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously. The commission thanked Hamlin for his service since 2022. Round Table - Commissioners shared updates: deer were seen at the archery range; high praise for water resources staff; an MLK Day peace pole painting event at the Eagan Art House; and a question about the sauna at Lebanon Hills Park (a Dakota County facility). Staff Reports - Jared Flewellen reported that Commissioner Linda Klein received the Minnesota Recreation and Parks Association Commissioner Award on January 9, 2026. The winter season has been going well, with rinks closed only during extreme cold (wind chill below -15°F). Summer employment postings for approximately 280–300 positions will open soon. A bid for the North Park tennis collaboration with Independent School District 196 came in under estimate and will be presented to the City Council. The Eagan Art House experienced mechanical issues during extreme cold, forcing a closure on Saturday and cancellation of five programs, but temporary heat was installed and operations resumed. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the facility’s growing community use. Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved the agenda and November 2025 minutes. - Unanimously appointed Commissioner Nasek Naspik as a regular commissioner. - Playground replacement open comment period continues through February 15, 2026; final selection will be presented at the next commission meeting. - Staff will provide a full update on 2026 capital improvement projects at the February meeting. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:30 p.m.

The Eagan City Council held its regular meeting on January 20, 2026, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting included adoption of the consent agenda, annual organizational business, six public hearings for street improvement projects, a decision on a massage establishment license denial, an Economic Development Authority (EDA) organizational meeting, and public comments on immigration enforcement and street safety. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the January 6, 2026 regular meeting. - Approved personnel items, check registers, contracts, resolution to accept donations, a grant agreement with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry for the 2026 Building Official Training Municipal Grant, final payment for Contract 25-03 (2025 Citywide Trail & Parking Lot Improvements), award of Contract 26-07 (2026 Water Quality Improvements), amendment of the Public Works 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan 2026-2030 and approval of plans/specifications for Contract 26-10 (Sanitary Sewer Lining), and approval of plans/specifications for Contract 26-06 (2026 Well Rehabilitation Project). All items were adopted unanimously. Organizational Business - Acting Mayor: Councilmember Subpoena was appointed acting mayor for 2026, as requested by Mayor McGuire. (Unanimous) - Official Legal Newspaper: The St. Paul Pioneer Press was designated as the city's official legal newspaper for 2026 after receiving two proposals. (Unanimous) - City Depositories: Old National Bank and U.S. Bank Trust were designated as city depositories for 2026. (Unanimous) - City Council Meeting Dates: Approved the proposed 2026 meeting schedule with adjustments for precinct caucuses (Feb. 2), National Night Out (Aug. 3), primary election (Aug. 3), and general election (Nov. 2). (Unanimous) - Meeting Procedures: (1) Acknowledged Robert's Rules of Order and approved public participation guidelines; (2) Ratified the practice that at least two council members must request to place an item on the agenda. Both passed unanimously. - Committee Appointments: Approved appointments to council standing committees, advisory commissions, intergovernmental committees, and other committees for 2026, including a new addition of Councilmember Hansen to the Minnesota Climate Coalition. (Unanimous) Public Hearings & Testimony - Street Improvement Projects (1627-1633): Assistant City Engineer presented the annual street revitalization program. Over the past 35 years, 336 miles of roads have been improved at a cost of $109 million. For 2026, eight miles of roads and 1,099 properties are included, with total project costs estimated at $6.25 million (including $4.6 million in street improvement costs). Assessments range from $2,000-$2,700 for low-density residential properties. Construction is anticipated from May through fall 2026, with a final assessment hearing in October. One public commenter asked about assessment ratios for park properties; staff clarified that the city pays the assessed share for park land. A resident living on Blackhawk Road expressed safety concerns about cyclists and pedestrians on that busy road and requested improvements; staff agreed to evaluate options during design. - Other Business – Massage License Denial: The council considered adopting or overturning the hearing officer's decision denying a massage establishment license application by Linlan Lee for ELM Aromatherapy Eagan LLC at 1095 Diffley Road. The administrative hearing took place on January 5, 2026. Councilmember Bacon moved to adopt the hearing officer's decision, noting the administrative record was clear and the applicant had not met licensing requirements. The motion passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Visitors to Be Heard: Cameron, a member of the Eagan figure skating community, spoke about concerns regarding ICE enforcement, urging the council to pass a separation ordinance barring local police cooperation with federal immigration authorities, prohibit ICE/CBP use of city property, and issue a public statement. Mayor McGuire responded that the city has engaged directly with affected communities, including a meeting with about 40 Somali community members on January 18. He stated that the police chief has affirmed that Eagan police do not participate in immigration enforcement, only responding to public safety calls. He noted the council discussed separation ordinances but has questions about enforceability and prefers not to inflame rhetoric. He added that the city is considering a formal public statement but has prioritized one-on-one relationship-building. Councilmember Hansen added that the Somali community meeting included many who were afraid to come out, highlighting the need for trust. Another resident, Tom, asked about EDA officer positions (unpaid) and whether the public can serve on committees. Staff explained EDA powers under state statute. A second resident praised staff for help and reiterated safety concerns on Blackhawk Road, mentioning past near-misses with cyclists and vehicles; staff confirmed they will consider improvements in the project design. Key Outcomes - Street Improvement Projects: Approved all six projects (1627-1633) as presented and authorized preparation of detailed plans and specifications. (Unanimous) - Massage License Denial: Adopted the hearing officer's decision to deny the massage establishment license. (Unanimous) - Organizational Items: All annual organizational business items approved individually without opposition. Economic Development Authority (EDA) Meeting - The council reconvened as the EDA. Adopted the EDA agenda and consent agenda (including minutes from January 21, 2025). - EDA Officers: Elected President Mike McGuire, Vice President Mike Subpoena, Treasurer Gary Hanson, Executive Director Diane Miller, and Secretary/Deputy Executive Director Jill Hootmacher. (Unanimous) - Noted that the 2026 meeting schedule aligns with city council meetings and that the single-action process for combined EDA/Council resolutions will continue. No action required on those items. - Adjourned the EDA meeting.

The Eagan City Council held a special workshop on January 13, 2026, covering an ICE activity update from the police chief, a joint meeting with the city's state legislative delegation, an update from Wescott Library, and a discussion on land use and zoning for high-intensity technology uses (data centers and cryptocurrency mining). Several agenda items were informational, with policy direction given on technology uses. Consent Calendar - Agenda Amendment & Adoption – Mayor McGuire added an ICE update to the agenda after visitors to be heard. The Council voted unanimously (voice vote, all ayes) to adopt the amended agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the visitors to be heard section. ICE Activity Update - Chief Omari presented an overview of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Eagan. He clarified that local police are not federal immigration enforcement agents and cannot ask about immigration status. The department tracks ICE-related calls for service, estimating about 35 calls since early December 2025, including traffic stops, abandoned vehicles, fights, and protests. Four protests occurred in Eagan, including a December 23rd protest at a hotel and a student walkout at Eagan High School. Chief Omari emphasized community trust, neutrality, and public safety coordination with other Dakota County police chiefs. He noted that while Eagan has not seen large-scale incidents like Minneapolis, the daily impacts on community members are significant. He advised the council to help educate constituents on the limits of local police powers and the legality of federal actions. - Mayor McGuire asked about coordination with ICE officers; Chief Omari said they have requested collaboration but face challenges due to non-local directives. - Councilmember Sabina asked about firearm practices during federal traffic stops; Chief Omari declined to comment on specific federal tactics but reiterated that they cannot enforce immigration law. - The Council thanked Chief Omari and his staff for their work. Eagan Legislative Delegation - The Council met with state legislators: Senator Jim Carlson (retiring, undergoing cancer treatment), Representative John Hewitt (hard stop at 6:30 PM), Representative Liz Reyer (running for Senate), and Representative Bianca Virnig. Also present were representatives from the League of Minnesota Cities (Ann Finn, Owen Wirth), Metro Cities (Mike Lund), and the Municipal Legislative Commission (Tom Poe). - Mayor McGuire clarified that he did not sign a recent mayors' letter on fiscal responsibility/policy, stating the tone was too partisan for a non-partisan mayor. He also noted that the city does not have a formal legislative priority on gun safety, but he personally signed on to a Moms Demand Action letter. - Councilmember Bakken raised concerns about airborne lead exposure from Gopher Resources, requesting enhanced monitoring and a community health study. He asked legislators for state funding and agency support. Representative Virnig noted a meeting with MPCA and Department of Health scheduled for Friday, January 16. Senator Carlson expressed support for firearm safety legislation and ranked-choice voting. - The associations presented their 2026 priorities: League of Minnesota Cities highlighted housing/land use, bonding, and cannabis aid; Metro Cities focused on housing, transit funding, and Metropolitan Council coordination; MLC emphasized housing, public safety (increasing penalties for impersonating officers), and local sales tax authority. No formal votes were taken. Wescott Library Update - Amanda Feist, Wescott Library branch manager, reported on the impacts of Dakota County budget cuts. While hours and staff have not been cut, some services were reduced: free Chromebook/hotspot lending and access to the Hoopla e-book platform ended. The library is relying on Libby and eBooks Minnesota. Usage has grown (over 800,000 physical checkouts and 1.6 million digital items in 2025), and the library added self-service hours, but cleaning and maintenance have increased. New programs include prayer rugs, Narcan access, and hygiene kits. The Wentworth Library remodeling has pushed more visitors to Eagan, and Burnsville library will close for remodeling on April 1, 2026, which may further increase demand. No official action was taken. Land Use and Zoning for High-Intensity Technology Uses - Jill Hootmacher, Community Development Director, presented an overview of data centers and cryptocurrency mining. Eagan currently has four data centers (up to 20 megawatts), reviewed under warehouse zoning. Hyperscale data centers (100+ megawatts) are emerging and pose greater impacts on noise, water, and energy. Cryptocurrency mining has similar impacts but offers less local benefit. Staff proposed three policy questions: 1. Should the 2026 planning work plan be amended to include a data center ordinance amendment (including cryptocurrency mining)? 2. Should a moratorium (interim ordinance) be approved? 3. Should the business assistance policy be amended to remove data center/telco carrier hotel abatement priorities? - Council discussion: Council members expressed interest in studying the issue but were split on a blanket moratorium. Councilmember Bakken preferred to exempt smaller/enterprise data centers; Councilmember Fields wanted to ensure cryptocurrency mining is included. The Council agreed to ask the city attorney whether a tailored moratorium (e.g., over a certain megawatt size) is legally possible. The general sentiment was to study the issue, but final decision on moratorium deferred until legal advice is received. On the third question, the Council agreed to remove the two data center priorities from the business assistance policy, keeping only redevelopment/reuse. - Outcome: Council directed staff to add a data center ordinance amendment to the work plan (including both data centers and cryptocurrency mining) and to ask the city attorney the feasibility of a partial moratorium. The business assistance policy amendment was approved in principle. Key Outcomes - Agenda amended and adopted – unanimous voice vote. - ICE update – accepted as informational; no formal vote. - Legislative priorities – no formal votes; information shared and discussed. - Wescott Library update – accepted as informational. - Data center ordinance study – Council directed staff to amend the 2026 planning work plan to include a data center/cryptocurrency mining ordinance amendment. No moratorium was approved at this meeting; staff will return with legal advice on a possible scope-limited moratorium. - Business assistance policy – Council agreed to amend the policy to remove the data center and telecommunications carrier hotel priorities, retaining only redevelopment/reuse. Formal ordinance amendment to follow. - Next steps: The city attorney will report back on the legality of a partial moratorium; a February council meeting will address the moratorium decision. The business assistance policy amendment will be drafted for adoption. - Adjournment – unanimous voice vote around 8:30 PM (estimated).

The Eagan City Council held its regular meeting on January 6, 2026, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The council adopted the agenda, approved the consent calendar without discussion, and considered two major items: an ordinance amendment to allow places of worship in additional zoning districts and a conditional use permit for outdoor vehicle storage. Councilmember Blacken was absent. The meeting adjourned shortly after 7:00 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the December 16, 2025 regular council meeting. - Approved personnel items, check registers (two periods ending December 12 and December 19, 2025), and multiple contracts. - Adopted a resolution to accept donations. - Approved Change Order No. 1 for Northview Park Restrooms (City Contract 25-11) and Change Order No. 1 for LeMay Lake Fishing Pier (City Contract 25-15). - Approved an on-sale and Sunday liquor license for 721 Sports Bar and Lounge, Inc. - Approved the 2026 Fee Schedule for General Municipal Services & Materials Testing Services. - Received draft feasibility reports for five street improvement projects (Projects 1634, 1635, 1636, 1638, and 1639) and scheduled a public hearing for February 2, 2026. - Scheduled a public hearing for February 3, 2026, to certify delinquent nuisance abatement bills. - Received a petition to vacate excess right-of-way and easement at Meadow View Road (Lot 1, Block 1, United Stationers Addition). - Approved Change Order No. 8 for the Eagan Community Center Reinvestment Project (1576). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke on any agenda item. Discussion Items 1. Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 11 – Places of Worship City Planner Schultz presented a proposed ordinance to replace the term “church” with “places of worship” and to allow such uses in the Neighborhood Business (NB) and Business Park (BP) zoning districts, which previously did not permit them. The amendment, modeled after Apple Valley and Woodbury, establishes two thresholds: - Congregations with fewer than 100 persons in the assembly area, or occupying less than 40% of a multi-tenant building’s gross floor area, may operate as a permitted use (by right). - Congregations with 100 or more persons, or occupying 40% or more of a multi-tenant building, require a conditional use permit (CUP). The existing permitted uses in Public Facilities (PF) and Limited Business (LB) districts remain unchanged. Housekeeping corrections to numbering were also included. Councilmember Sabina noted that the ordinance text for conditional uses incorrectly wrote “less than 40%” when the intended threshold was “greater than 40%”; staff confirmed the error and clarified the intent. The council confirmed the standards align with federal land use law. The ordinance was approved unanimously (4-0). 2. Conditional Use Permit – UP Seneca LLC (1971 Seneca Road) The applicant, UP Seneca LLC, requested a CUP to create a 9,075 square foot fenced enclosure in the northeast corner of a 3-acre industrial parcel (zoned I-1) for overnight parking of vehicles used by two tenants. The property currently has a 41,000 square foot building built in 1967; no building changes are proposed. The enclosure would be accessed via the existing parking lot, with new paving, removal of a gravel driveway (to be replaced with turf), addition of 30 parking stalls, and landscaping along Seneca Road. Staff found all six review criteria satisfied. A condition prohibits outdoor storage or sale of vehicles outside the enclosure or inside the building. The applicant’s representative was not present; the council noted the CUP had no issues. Councilmember Sabina inquired why such uncontested CUPs could not be handled administratively; City Attorney Bauer explained it would require a code amendment. The CUP was approved unanimously (4-0). Key Outcomes - Unanimously approved the consent agenda (all items listed) – Motion by Councilmember Hansen, seconded by Councilmember Subpoena. - Approved Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 11 (places of worship) on a 4-0 vote – Motion by Councilmember Hansen, seconded by Councilmember Subpoena. - Approved Conditional Use Permit for UP Seneca LLC subject to conditions in the APC minutes – Motion by Councilmember Subpoena, seconded by Councilmember Hansen. Vote: 4-0. - No other business; meeting adjourned by unanimous consent.