Public Meetings - Eagan, Minnesota

On December 16, 2025, the Eagan City Council held its second meeting of the month and final meeting of the calendar year at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting featured a continued Truth in Taxation public hearing on the proposed 2026 budget and property tax levy, adoption of a substantial consent agenda, approval of housekeeping amendments to city code Chapter 11, and a comprehensive guide plan amendment for a small infill residential development. The council heard public comments from three residents, engaged in extended discussion on the budget process, and ultimately approved a general fund budget of $60,254,400 with an 8.9% levy increase. Consent Calendar - A. APPROVE Minutes: Regular Council Meeting minutes from December 2, 2025, approved. - B. Personnel Items: Memorandum of Agreement approved. - C. APPROVE Check Registers: Check summaries for November 28 and December 5, 2025, approved. - D. APPROVE Contracts: Contracts as presented approved. - E. ADOPT Resolution to Accept Donations: Donations accepted. - F. ACCEPT Resignation: Resignation of an Advisory Parks and Recreation Commissioner accepted. - G. APPROVE Plans and Specifications for City Contract 26-03, Northview Tennis Courts: Plans approved and authorization to advertise for bids granted. - H. APPROVE Final Payment to River City Erectors for City Contract 24-67 (Work Scope 5A), City Project 1557: Final payment approved. - I. APPROVE Change Order No. 7 for Eagan Community Center Reinvestment Project (1576): Change order approved. - J. APPROVE assessment agreements for Local Affordable Housing Aid projects: Assessment deferral agreements for 3670 and 3673 Widgeon Way approved. - K. APPROVE Change Order No. 3, Contract 25-10, Argenta Trail: Change order approved. - L. APPROVE 2026 Sperry Tower Lighting Schedule: Schedule approved. - M–R. RECEIVE Draft Feasibility Reports for Street Improvement Projects: Draft feasibility reports for six projects (Ames Crossing 1627, Blackhawk Oaks 1628, Blackhawk Road/Blue Cross Road 1629, Cliff Lake Road/Rahn Road 1631, Meadowlark Road/Kathryn Circle 1632, Suncliff 1633) received and public hearings scheduled for January 20, 2026. - S. ADOPT Safe Streets 4 All Action Plan: Action plan adopted via resolution. - T. APPOINT an In-House Administrative Hearing Officer: Appointed to conduct appeals related to massage establishment/therapy license denials or revocations. - U. APPROVE Easement Vacation and Final Plat: Woods of Witham Lane 2nd Addition approved. - V. AUTHORIZE submittal of FY2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Application: Application authorized and resolution adopted. - W. APPROVE Request for Proposals for planning consultant services for the 2050 Comprehensive Plan: RFP approved. - X. APPROVE Resolution Directing the City Clerk to Issue 2026 Alcohol Licenses: Resolution approved. - Y. EXTEND deadline for payment under the stipulated settlement: Extension granted. All consent agenda items were adopted unanimously by voice vote with no discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Lopak (Eagan resident): Asked how the city tracks actual budget versus spending throughout the year and how procurement decisions (e.g., vehicle replacement) are made. He also asked whether surplus funds return to the general fund or carry forward. His questions were answered later in the meeting by staff. - Jason Nord (Kerasway resident): Expressed concern about the cumulative effect of multiple years of high tax levy increases (7% in 2020, 5.4% in 2021, 3.9% in 2022, then 6%, 6.9%, 8%, and now 8.9%) relative to household income growth. He stated he could afford his own increase but worried about affordability for the middle class. He requested that the council reset expectations for 2027 and consider trimming the current levy if possible. - Bob Richardson (4280 Blackhawk Road resident, age 81): Spoke in support of the comprehensive guide plan amendment for 4290 Blackhawk Road, stating his own smaller lot had not attracted development interest. He asked for consideration of changing his lot to R1 zoning so he could build a garage, noting he was told his current non-conforming use prevented expansion. Mayor and staff acknowledged the issue and suggested he could petition for a guide plan change. Discussion Items - 2026 Budget and Tax Levy (Continued Truth in Taxation Hearing): - City Administrator Diane Miller summarized the nine-month budget process (April–December). - Finance Director Josh Feldman presented drivers of the 8.9% levy increase: personnel costs (80% of General Fund, including 3% COLA, 10% health insurance increase, and two new positions minus 0.6 FTE), Minnesota Paid Leave, Dakota 911 dispatch increases, IT costs (new Draft One software for police), 2050 Comprehensive Plan costs, building operations increases, community center bonds (1.9% of the 8.9% increase), and capital levy adjustments. Public safety aid is phasing out from $3.2M in 2023 to zero by 2028, with tax levy replacing about half the original amount. Since 2018, the fire department transitioned from part-time volunteer to full-time, resulting in a 353% increase in calls for service but halved response times (from 15 to 6 minutes). The council explored the impact of a hypothetical $2M cut, which would mean elimination of 23 positions (7 police, 9 fire, 1 mechanic, 1 GIS, and others) and a reduction of the average annual tax increase on a $425,000 home from $143 to $82. - Mayor and Council asked detailed questions about the relationship between fire and police call volumes, staffing levels, and service quality. Fire Chief Searle explained that quicker response times have saved lives (citing a recent child rescue) and lowered homeowners insurance rates (Eagan has an ISO rating of 2, saving a $400,000 homeowner about $1,500 per year compared to a community with a rating of 6–7). Police Chief Amari noted the department is authorized for 79 officers but currently has 70, leading to overtime costs; he did not request additional sworn officers this year. - Councilmember Bachin and others defended the budget as necessary to maintain high service levels and long-term investments. The Mayor acknowledged that the council cannot easily make large cuts late in the process but committed to reviewing affordability metrics for 2027. - Chapter 11 Ordinance Amendments (Old Business): - City Planner Schultz explained seven minor housekeeping corrections to the zoning code (e.g., clarifying deck setbacks and cross-references). The Planning Commission recommended approval on November 25, 2025. No public comment was offered; the council approved the amendments after brief discussion about the requirement for a public hearing. - Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment – Blackhawk View/Melvin Moore (New Business): - Staff presented a request to change the land use designation from High Density (HD) to Medium Density (MD) for 0.82 acres at 4290 Blackhawk Road. The property is currently zoned Agriculture with a single-family home built in 1956. The applicant (Maurer, represented by civil engineer Mark Anderson) proposes seven small single-family detached homes on approximately 36-foot-wide lots (4,700–6,000 sq ft each), with a shared driveway and two phases. The surrounding area includes apartments, duplexes, and single-family homes. Staff noted that the current High Density designation assumed possible expansion of adjacent apartments, which never occurred; the Medium Density proposal (8.5 units/acre) is more compatible with existing development. The council discussed the unusual downzoning but concluded it was appropriate for the site. The Mayor noted the Met Council must approve any comprehensive plan amendment. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Adopted unanimously. - 2026 Budget and Tax Levy: - Public hearing closed. - Motion by Councilmember Bachin, seconded, to adopt the 2026 General Fund budget of $60,254,400 and a final levy of $57,540,700 (8.9% increase). Approved by voice vote (all in favor). - Chapter 11 Ordinance Amendments: Approved by voice vote. - Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment: Motion to direct staff to submit to the Metropolitan Council a comprehensive guide plan amendment changing the land use designation from High Density to Medium Density for 4290 Blackhawk Road. Approved by voice vote. - Meeting Adjourned: Motion carried at approximately 8:30 PM. Next Steps - Staff will prepare the formal budget adoption documents. - The comprehensive guide plan amendment will be forwarded to the Metropolitan Council for approval; the applicant will then pursue planned unit development zoning and final plat. - The City Council will revisit fund balance allocation at a future meeting (likely February or March 2026). - Public hearings for six street improvement projects are scheduled for January 20, 2026.

The Eagan City Council met on December 2, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting included the swearing-in of Police Chief Salim Omari, adoption of the consent agenda, public hearings on the 2026 budget and tax levy and the 2026 fee schedule, and action on a dog licensing ordinance amendment and a conditional use permit for an animal dermatology clinic. Councilmember Hansen was absent due to a family death. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from November 3, 10, and 18, 2025 meetings. - Approved personnel items including memoranda of agreement. - Approved check registers for November 14 and 21, 2025. - Approved contracts, donations resolution, lease extension with Great River Energy (10-year term), 2026 capital improvement plans for vehicles, equipment, and facilities. - Approved 2026 enterprise fund budgets (utilities, Cascade Bay, Civic Arena, Community Center) and special revenue fund budgets (Tree Mitigation, Cedar Grove Parking Garage, Opioid Crisis Prevention, Sustainability, E-TV, Local Housing Aid). - Ratified 2026 Eagan Convention and Visitors Bureau budget. - Approved multiple change orders, final payments, encroachment agreement, surplus declarations, liquor license manager change, resolution for Dakota County CDA to administer affordable housing funds, 2026 waste abatement grant, lease amendment with Fairview Health Services, appointment of hearing officer for massage therapy licensure, purchase agreement and quiet title action for right-of-way, and acceptance of Minnesota Department of Public Safety grant of $626,200 for the Dakota County Drug Task Force. - All consent items were approved unanimously. Public Hearings & Testimony - 2026 Budget and Tax Levy Adoption: Public hearing opened. One resident, Jason Nord (Cares Way), expressed concern that the 8.9% tax levy increase was unaffordable for residents, noting that incomes are not rising as fast. He suggested cutting $2 million from the budget, possibly by reducing staff, though he acknowledged the city's good management. Another resident, Ian Hill-Rud, asked whether more people work in Eagan than live there and how redevelopment of commercial sites (e.g., former Thomson Reuters) will affect tax burden. A third attendee asked for more detailed budget information online. A former city employee, Cameron, asked about the role of AI in the budget (referring to police report-writing AI). The council continued the hearing to December 16, 2025, to allow Councilmember Hansen to participate and to avoid conflict with Dakota County's truth-in-taxation hearing. - 2026 Fee Schedule Adoption: No public testimony. The council closed the hearing and adopted the fee schedule. Discussion Items - Swearing-In of Police Chief Salim Omari: Chief Omari, Eagan's seventh police chief, was sworn in after a brief ceremony. He holds a BA in criminal justice and a master's in police leadership, previously served with Bloomington and St. Paul Police, and was selected by peers for the Kremmi Leadership Award. The mayor and council welcomed him. - Ordinance Amendment – Dog Licensing (Chapter 10): Staff proposed changing the license period from expiring on February 20 of even-numbered years to a two-year term from the date of issuance to improve compliance. The council approved the amendment unanimously. - Conditional Use Permit – Animal Dermatology Clinic: Applicant Dr. Lisa Ryder and Dr. Sarah Bancroft proposed a specialty veterinary dermatology clinic at 2795 Pilot Knob Road, within the Neighborhood Business zone. The clinic would occupy about half of an existing 14,500 sq ft office building, with no exterior changes, outpatient only, and no outdoor exercise area. The Planning Commission recommended approval on November 25, 2025. Council approved subject to conditions in the Planning Commission minutes. Key Outcomes - 2026 Budget and Tax Levy: Public hearing continued to December 16, 2025, for formal action. The proposed general fund budget is $46 million (9.3% increase), with a tax levy increase of 8.9% (driven by personnel costs, health insurance, new positions, AI software, state mandates, and capital investments). Without the new community center bonds, the levy increase would be 7%. The average home value rose 3.2% to $425,000, resulting in a projected city tax increase of 9.8% on the average home ($1,454 to $1,542). The council directed staff to provide dollar breakdowns of levy drivers for the next meeting. - 2026 Fee Schedule Adopted: Notable fee changes include: park and trail dedication fees up 4%; daily admission at Cascade Bay up $1; Civic Arena hourly rates up $5; utility rates increased (water 2.5%, sewer 9.8%, street lighting 1.5%, storm drainage 13%); average household utility bill up 7.2% ($4.72/month, of which $0.46 is a state-mandated safe drinking water fee); new fingerprinting fee of $20 for residents/$30 for non-residents. All unanimously approved. - Dog Licensing Ordinance: Amended to allow two-year licenses from issuance date. - Conditional Use Permit: Approved for animal dermatology clinic at 2795 Pilot Knob Road, with conditions.

The Eagan Advisory Planning Commission met on November 25, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The commission considered three items: a comprehensive guide plan amendment for a small infill housing development, a conditional use permit for a specialty animal dermatology clinic, and a series of housekeeping amendments to the city code. All three items were approved unanimously by the commission. Items Approved on Consent (Agenda and Minutes) - The commission approved the agenda (7-0) and the minutes of the previous meeting (6-0, with one abstention from Vice Chair Schwanke, who was absent at the prior meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the visitors to be heard or during any of the public hearings on the three agenda items. Discussion Item A: Blackhawk View – Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment - Applicant: Melvin Moore, represented by Joe Mauro of Sambotech. - Proposal: Amend the Comprehensive Guide Plan land use designation for 0.82 acres at 4290 Blackhawk Road from High Density (HD) to Medium Density (MD) to allow development of seven single-family detached dwellings on small lots (net density 8.5 units/acre). The property currently contains a single-family home built in 1956. - Staff Presentation: Planner Pam Studziak explained that the change would allow a density of 4–12 units/acre, compatible with surrounding uses. The site is a small infill parcel in a largely developed area (over 95% developed). The concept plan shows two phases, with the existing home remaining until phase two. The change would require subsequent rezoning and planned development zoning to accommodate deviations from standard lot sizes and setbacks. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Block expressed general support for the land use change but noted reservations about the concept and phasing. Commissioner Walsh asked about park dedication timing and tax impacts. The applicant clarified that the existing homeowner would remain during phase one. - Outcome: The commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of the comprehensive guide plan amendment from HD to MD. The item is scheduled for the City Council on December 16, 2025. Discussion Item B: Animal Dermatology Clinic – Conditional Use Permit - Applicant: Dr. Joel Griffies, DVM, represented by Dr. Lisa Ryder and Dr. Sarah Bancroft. - Proposal: Obtain a conditional use permit to operate a specialty animal dermatology clinic (outpatient only) in an existing 14,535 sq. ft. office building at 2795 Pilot Knob Road, Suite 300. The property is zoned Neighborhood Business, which allows animal clinics as a conditional use. No exterior changes are proposed; interior tenant improvements will be made. - Staff Presentation: Planner Thomas noted that the use is compatible with the area and the building is currently vacant. Three conditions from the staff report would apply if approved. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners asked about the types of animals treated (cats and dogs primarily) and the nature of the practice (allergies, autoimmune diseases, ear disease). Commissioner Wegener shared personal experience with the specialty and expressed support for increased competition in the area. - Outcome: The commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of the conditional use permit with the conditions in the staff report. The item is scheduled for the City Council on December 2, 2025. Discussion Item C: Ordinance Amendment – Housekeeping Changes to Chapter 11 - Applicant: City of Eagan. - Proposal: Approve an ordinance amendment to City Code Chapter 11 to clarify language, correct formatting, and ensure consistency with Minnesota statutes. The changes include correcting deck setback language and aligning rooftop solar setbacks with state building code. No new policies are introduced. - Staff Presentation: Planner Studziak reviewed the table of affected sections, which had been discussed at an August 26 workshop. - Commission Discussion: No questions or discussion. - Outcome: The commission voted 7-0 to recommend approval of the ordinance amendment. The item is scheduled for the City Council on December 16, 2025. Key Outcomes - Item A (Blackhawk View): Recommended approval of comprehensive guide plan amendment (7-0). City Council hearing December 16. - Item B (Animal Dermatology Clinic): Recommended approval of conditional use permit with staff conditions (7-0). City Council hearing December 2. - Item C (Ordinance Amendment): Recommended approval of housekeeping amendments (7-0). City Council hearing December 16. - Next meeting: December 18, 2025, with a workshop and year-end review.

The Eagan City Council held its regular meeting on November 18, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting included a public comment period moved to the beginning for the group Communities United Against Police Brutality, who spoke about the death of Kingsley Bimpong during an encounter with Eagan police. The council listened but did not respond due to ongoing litigation. Following public comments, the council conducted a swearing-in ceremony for two new firefighters, approved a consent agenda with numerous routine items, considered old business on a bond sale, and addressed three new business items: a preliminary subdivision, a comprehensive guide plan amendment for a residential treatment facility, and a conditional use permit for truck parking. Recognitions and Presentations - Swearing-In of Firefighters: Fire Chief Hugo Soyle presented Nick Kindelspire and Conner Gross for badge pinning and swearing-in. Kindelspire has 10 years of experience in Fargo and 12 years in the National Guard; Gross has experience in Hastings and 10 years as an infantry officer. Both were sworn in as Eagan firefighters. Public Comments & Testimony - Michelle Gross (President of an organization and retired nurse): Criticized the police response to Kingsley Bimpong, stating that officers had proper training to provide medical care but chose not to act. She urged the council to create consequences for the officers involved. - Cynthia (Community member and volunteer with Minnesota Freedom Fund): Called the death a failure of systems, noting that officers muted body cameras and failed to provide care. She demanded termination of all involved officers. - Aquanette Early (Eagan resident and social policy worker): Expressed heartbreak over the incident, describing officers' actions as abandonment. She insisted the council use oversight to hold all parties accountable and enforce policy compliance. - Cindy Devinish Hall (Eagan resident and taxpayer): Requested removal of the officers involved, an independent investigation, and updated training to prevent future deaths. - Lavelle Oaks (Organizer with Tone Up and Rebuild Nation): Stated that the incident highlights systemic racial bias in policing, and urged the council not to wait for change. The mayor concluded the public comment period, noting the council could not respond due to litigation but appreciated the comments. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent agenda with one change: moving visitors to be heard to the beginning. Items approved included: - Approval of minutes - Personnel items (including appointment of new police chief Salim Omari to be sworn in December 2) - Approval of check registers - Approval of contracts - Resolution to accept donations - Contract with Vermont Systems for park & recreation software - 3rd Quarter Financial Report - Joint Powers Agreement for Dakota County Drug Task Force grant - 5-Year Capital Improvement Plan for Parks (2026-2030) and 2026 implementation - Resolution for off-site gambling application for Eagan Lions Club - Declaration of surplus city property - Resolution updating polling location name - Change Order No. 1 and final payment for Cedar Grove Parking Garage Landscaping - Encroachment agreements for 4320 Trenton Trail and 4742 Oak Cliff Drive - Cooperative Construction Agreement with MnDOT, Dakota County, and Inver Grove Heights - Plans & specifications for 2026 Water Quality Improvements - Final payment for 2025 Water Quality Improvements - Acknowledgment of completion of MCES Building Expansion - Railroad crossing repair agreement - Final payments and change order for Eagan Art House - Cancellation of December 9, 2025 special council meeting - Premises permit for Eagan Hockey Association - Off-sale liquor license for Merwin Liquors Eagan - Direction to prepare ordinance amendment to change dog licensing period Discussion Items Old Business: Bond Sale - Resolution approving sale of $1,315,000 General Obligation Housing Improvement Bonds, Series 2025B: Finance Director Josh Miller and municipal advisor Jessica Green presented the results. Four bids were received; RW Baird was the low bidder. True interest cost is 4.82%, below the estimated 5.57%. The bonds will finance improvements in the Widgeon Woods housing improvement area. The council approved the resolution, with Councilmember Hansen noting the use of Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) funds to provide interest-free deferred assessments for low- and moderate-income homeowners. New Business Item A: Preliminary Subdivision – Woods of Witham Lane 2nd Addition - Request: To adjust the property line between two lots at 4070 Dodd Road and 654 Witham Lane, transferring 0.2 acres to enlarge the northern lot. No grading or development is planned. - Decision: Approved unanimously, with conditions listed in the October 28 APC minutes. Vacation of drainage easements will be handled at final plat. New Business Item B: Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment, Rezoning, and Preliminary Planned Development – Eagan Hope and Wellness - Request: Change land use from QP (Quasi Public) to RC (Retail Commercial), rezone from PF (Public Facility) to PD (Planned Development), and approve a preliminary planned development for a 16-bed residential treatment facility at 1581 Century Point. The Metropolitan Council approved the land use amendment on July 2, 2025. - Details: The 0.6-acre site will have a two-story building with 13 parking stalls (7 required). Several deviations are requested for setbacks and building materials. Staff noted the intended residential character of the facility. - Public Comment: Patricia Pascuzzi expressed support for transitional housing but requested details on management and funding to ensure success. - Council Response: The mayor explained that the council's purview is limited to land use; operational details are regulated by state agencies. The applicant (Aisha Nur of Eagan Hope and Wellness) stated the facility will be licensed by DHS and Minnesota Department of Health, and Dakota County has approved a statement of need. - Decision: Approved in three separate motions: (1) Comprehensive Guide Plan Amendment (unanimous), (2) Rezoning (unanimous), (3) Preliminary Planned Development subject to APC conditions (unanimous). New Business Item C: Conditional Use Permit – 10 Roads Express - Request: Allow overnight parking of 20 trucks and 10 trailers at 3321 Mike Collins Drive, replacing a prior CUP that allowed only passenger vehicle storage. - Details: The 2.35-acre site is zoned I-1 (Industrial). Screening with a 6-foot chain link fence with slats will be installed. - Decision: Approved unanimously, subject to APC conditions. Key Outcomes - Public Comments: The council listened to community concerns about police accountability but did not respond due to litigation. - Bond Sale Approved: $1,315,000 in General Obligation Housing Improvement Bonds sold at a true interest cost of 4.82%. - Land Use Approvals: All three new business items approved unanimously. - Upcoming Events: Tree lighting ceremony on December 2 at 4:30 PM at the community center.

The Advisory Parks Commission met on November 17, 2025, at Moonshine Park, with the meeting called to order at 6:00 PM. The agenda included presentations from the Sustainability and Recreation divisions, along with routine approvals, round-table comments, and staff reports. No public comments were made, and no old or new business was discussed. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved unanimously. - Minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting approved unanimously. Presentations - Sustainability Division Presentation – Sustainability Coordinator Gillian Catano presented the Sustainable Eagan initiative and the newly adopted Climate Action Plan. She reported that 88% of survey respondents have noticed climate change, 80% feel personally impacted, 84% expressed some level of concern, and approximately 76% want the city to take action. The plan aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 55% by 2035 and achieve net zero by 2050, aligned with Minnesota's Climate Action Framework. Catano highlighted key data: municipal emissions are highest from facilities and electricity; community-wide emissions are highest from electricity and gas. She noted that summer temperatures in Eagan could be 10.5°F warmer by the end of the century, akin to Oklahoma's current climate. Current projects include Earth Week (653 participants, 92 volunteers, 24 partners), Sustainable Eagan Academy (12 adults and 8 students certified), a business outreach pilot visiting 78 businesses, and fleet electrification with 8 EVs and 14 charging ports. An electric mower is planned for 2027. - Recreation Division Presentation – Recreation Superintendent Tanya Mozingo and supervisors Holly Champlin, Mike Ramirez, and Nikki Hoseman (newest team member, four weeks on the job) presented program highlights. Preschool enrollments include 60 preschoolers and 84 parent-child participants. Camp Run served 20 children using CDBG grant funds. The teen planning committee held 11 meetings, planned 8 events, and engaged over 274 teens. The farmers market drew over 25,000 attendees with an average of 2,200 per week; the fall market at Goat Hill Park averaged 733 attendees per night. Special events from May 18 to October 7 drew over 12,000 attendees, including Big Rig Rally (1,400), Food Truck Festival (6,000), and theater in the park (525). Tennis camps grew to 201 participants (up from 158 in 2024). The Eagan Art House, opened June 16, hosted 177 classes and camps with 1,000 students in its first quarter; the Art Block celebration drew 700 people. Upcoming events include the Winter Art Sale on November 22 and summer 2026 registration opening February 5. Round Table - Commissioners shared positive feedback on the Art House, Harvest Festival, and the breadth of recreation programs. One commissioner noted the quality of parks and recreation opportunities after getting a puppy, praising city staff. Another appreciated youth programs similar to the former Eagan Teen Advisory Board. Staff Reports - Assistant Director of Parks and Recreation Jared Flewellen reported on the Quarry Park (also referred to as Cory Park in the transcript) shelter building open house held before the meeting, which was lightly attended. A survey was also promoted via neighborhood letters and social media. Questions included sustainability options for the building. The building will remain in use through next summer before renovation begins. He also reminded the commission of the Winter Art Sale on November 22 and indoor markets at the ECC every other Wednesday starting November 19. Key Outcomes - Agenda approved unanimously. - Minutes approved unanimously. - No old or new business was brought forward. - No formal votes were taken on presentations or staff reports. - Meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Eagan City Council held a special workshop meeting on November 10, 2025, at 5:30 PM. The meeting included a public comment period and three substantive agenda items: the 2026 Eagan Convention and Visitors Bureau (ECVB) budget, feedback on a consultant request for proposals (RFP) for the 2050 Comprehensive Plan, and an update on the Highway 3 Corridor Study. Council members discussed future plans, provided direction, and expressed varying levels of support for regional planning requirements. Public Comments & Testimony - Sally Smith (resident) expressed strong opposition to a warehouse and data center development at the corner of Mickey Google and L (part of the Thompson Reuters redevelopment). She stated that the development is "monstrous," much larger than anticipated, and that the council "overdid what the people in the neighborhood wanted." She requested information on the project's size and utility impacts. Discussion Items - 2026 Eagan Convention and Visitors Bureau Budget: - Brent Corey and Shana Kiana of ECVB presented the proposed 2026 budget, highlighting a new AI-driven website launching January 1, 2026, featuring a custom ChatGPT for Eagan information. They reported record increases in advertising (7%, pushing campaigns past $500,000) and promotions (15% increase). The combined advertising and promotions budget matches ECVB's entire 2016 operating budget. - Key initiatives include hosting the Ethiopian soccer tournament (45 teams, 8 days) over July 4th weekend, potentially generating 1,500–3,000 room nights, and hosting the largest group tour "fam tour" in Eagan's history, incorporating attractions like Paisley Park. - Council Member Sabine asked about security of the AI tool; ECVB assured vendor protection. Council Member Fields inquired about the Canadian travel market; ECVB noted current sales missions to Manitoba and potential to expand to Saskatoon. Council Member Bizal noted a small miscellaneous income line item that more than quadrupled due to leftover pandemic funds being invested in advertising. - The budget is expected to appear on a future consent agenda. - 2050 Comp Plan Consultant Feedback: - Staff (presented by a city planner) reviewed the timeline for the 2050 Comprehensive Plan update, required by the Metropolitan Council with a December 31, 2028 deadline. The system statement from the Met Council sets a 974-unit affordable housing allocation (up from an earlier 647) and requires guiding land at 10 units per acre by 2040. Strategies discussed include medium-density redevelopment along arterials, redevelopment of Class C offices, and revising density categories. - The RFP is to be released in early January 2026, with two phases of public engagement (summer 2026 and summer 2027). The budget includes $85,000 in 2026 with additional funding in 2027. - Council Member Bakken expressed skepticism about Met Council projections, citing concern that Eagan’s population is near carrying capacity (around 80,000) and that continued densification may change the suburb's character. He asked staff to add an appendix noting his disagreement with regional assumptions. Other council members acknowledged the need to comply but reiterated the plan is a guide. - Council unanimously supported the project components, made no changes to the draft RFP, and directed staff to place the RFP on the December agenda for approval. - Highway 3 Corridor Study Update: - Joe DeVore of KLJ Engineering presented an update on the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) study for the 12.5-mile corridor from Rosemount to Inver Grove Heights. Phase one public engagement (about 300–350 in-person contacts, 500 online interactions) is complete. Key issues in Eagan include crashes at three major intersections (Cliff Road, Red Pine Lane, and Diffley), a constrained railroad bridge, and limited right-of-way for multimodal improvements. - Council Member Fields recommended reaching out to parents at Red Pine Elementary and other nearby schools, as they frequently use Highway 3. Council Member Sabina noted the perilous conditions for bicyclists and pedestrians on the narrow section between Diffley and Cliff, and difficulty making left turns near St. Thomas Beckett Church. - Concepts under consideration include roundabouts, grade separation at Cliff Road, and potential four-lane expansion (though full expansion is unlikely). A flashing yellow arrow and ADA improvements at Red Pine Lane are planned for next summer. The study will develop recommendations through concept analysis and a second phase of public engagement. Key Outcomes - The ECVB 2026 budget was presented and will be placed on a future consent agenda for approval. - Council directed staff to proceed with the 2050 Comprehensive Plan RFP, placing it on the December 2, 2025 agenda for consideration of approval. Council supported the identified project components and deliverables, with Council Member Bakken requesting a note of disagreement with Met Council projections. - For the Highway 3 Corridor Study, council asked staff to include outreach to parents of students at local elementary schools. No formal vote was taken; staff will incorporate feedback into ongoing concept development.

The Eagan City Council met on Monday, November 3, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Eagan Municipal Center. The meeting included consent agenda approvals, three public hearings on easement vacations, and six new business items including several land use permits and a parking easement amendment. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Council approved the consent agenda en bloc, including: minutes of Oct 7, Oct 14, and Oct 21 meetings; personnel items; check registers for Oct 17 and Oct 24; contracts; donations; a contract with Fire Protection Services and 2025 Fire Department budget amendment; transfer of fund balance reserves to Civic Arena Enterprise Fund; senior citizen special assessment deferment at 4253 Braddock Trail; final payments for six Community Center contracts (24-116, 24-94, 24-133, 24-121, 24-131, 24-120); Change Order No. 6 for Eagan Community Center Reinvestment Project (1576); resolution supporting Dakota County's 5-Year Transportation CIP (2026-2030); final payments for Contract 25-16 (bituminous pavement surface treatment) and Contract 24-14 (2024 streetlight improvements); MOA with Dakota County CDA for income verification services for Townhomes of Widgeon Woods HIA; adoption of amended General Fund Balance policy; and scheduling a public hearing for Dec 2, 2025 on the 2026 Fee Schedule. Public Comments & Testimony - During the third public hearing (excess right-of-way sale), a resident asked about tax implications. The mayor confirmed the land stays in Eagan and would yield about $20 per year in property tax. - During the Viking Lakes IUP, a public commenter asked whether Vikings would maintain security; the applicant confirmed the site is fenced, gated, and patrolled by campus security. - During the Renaissance Adult Day Care CUP, a public commenter asked whether a fence is required between the building/parking and Yankee Doodle Road; staff said no fence is required because no outdoor use is proposed. - During the Rivian CUP, a public commenter asked about spent battery storage and fire prevention; applicant noted lithium-ion batteries are replaced and shipped out the same day and the building has an ESFR fire suppression system. Discussion Items - Public Hearing A – Woods of Witham Lane Easement Vacation: Staff explained the vacation would allow replatting of two properties. No objections were received. Council closed the hearing and continued the item to final plat. - Public Hearing B – Hilltop Plaza Easement Vacation: The property owner (QuikTrip) requested vacation for replatting. No objections. Council closed and continued. - Public Hearing C – Excess Right-of-Way Sale in SW Eagan: QuikTrip submitted a letter of intent to purchase city-owned right-of-way vacated by MnDOT. Council closed the hearing, declared the right-of-way surplus, and authorized sale. - IUP – Viking Lakes / MV Ventures: Staff recommended approval of a two-year extension for temporary outdoor storage (tractors, trailers, ticket huts, turf materials) at 686 O'Neill Drive. Councilmembers expressed concern that the use was becoming permanent and encouraged a long-term storage solution. Applicant discussed future development plans. Motion approved unanimously. - CUP – Renaissance Adult Day Care: A for-profit adult day care would operate in the existing Oak Hills Church building at 1570 Yankee Doodle Road. Councilmember Backen raised potential property tax implications for tax-exempt church property; applicants said they had already consulted the county assessor and would handle any tax liability. Approved unanimously. - CUP – Crunch Fitness: A 24-hour fitness club in the former Kowalski's store at 1646 Diffley Road. Discussion covered 24-hour operations, existing seasonal sales permits (expired), and lighting/photometric plan requirements. Approved unanimously. - CUP – Davey Tree: Contractor's yard with outdoor mulching and landscaping at 3300 Terminal Drive. Staff presented noise study requiring mitigation (quieter electric grinder and 305-foot earthen berm). Councilmember Fields asked about limiting hours to 8 a.m. to reduce noise for nearby seniors; the applicant indicated noise would be below road noise after mitigation. Approved unanimously. - CUP – Columbia Business Center / Rivian: Outdoor storage of 82 electric vehicles at 3374 Columbia Drive. Discussion included EV battery storage/fire safety and charging stations (private use). Approved unanimously. - Parking Easement Amendment – Eagan Central: Amended reciprocal parking easement to allow potential future subdivision/development while retaining 583 parking stalls (vs. 456 before) and releasing city's 90-stall cross-parking obligation. Councilmembers expressed support. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda unanimously. - Closed and continued the three easement vacations; authorized sale of the SW Eagan right-of-way. - Approved all six new business items unanimously (IUP, four CUPs, and parking easement amendment). - Adjourned with no closed session.

The Eagan Advisory Planning Commission met on October 28, 2025, at 6:30 PM in the Eagan Municipal Center. The commission considered eight public hearing items, all of which received recommendations for approval. Votes ranged from 7-0 to 6-0-1, with one abstention. The meeting lasted approximately three hours and adjourned after all items were addressed. Public Comments & Testimony - Item E (Eagan Hope and Wellness): Josh Oxendale, owner of Klikatsky and Sons Funeral Home (1580 Century Point), expressed concerns about construction traffic blocking Century Point and the risk of utility cuts that previously caused flooding and reputational harm. Max Balin, president of the Cameron Court HOA (1638 Donald Court), asked about the type of residents (court-ordered, criminal background), security measures, and guarantees for neighborhood safety. Discussion Items - Item A – Viking Lakes (IUP Renewal): MV Ventures requested a two-year renewal (to October 31, 2027) of an interim use permit for temporary outdoor storage of equipment related to the Magic of Lights event and Vikings practice facility. Items include trailers, ticketing huts, turf infill, and storage containers. The site is well screened by topography. No public comments were received. (Presentation by Chris Schultz) - Item B – Woods of Witham Lane 2nd Addition (Preliminary Subdivision): Jonathan Kretman requested a boundary adjustment between two developed lots at 4070 Dodd Road and 654 Witham Lane. Approximately 0.2 acres would shift to the northern lot. A shed will be relocated before final plat. No new development. (Presentation by Katie Dudziak) - Item C – Renaissance Adult Day Care (CUP): David and Brooke Baker requested a conditional use permit to operate an adult day care for up to 40 participants (age 55+) at Oak Hills Church (1570 Yankee Doodle Road). Hours are Monday–Friday, no building modifications, and parking conflicts with church are minimal. (Presentation by Katie Dudziak) - Item D – Crunch Fitness Center (CUP): Reid Traphagan (J Plus Architects) requested a conditional use permit for a 24-hour health and fitness club at the former Kowalski's (1646 Diffley Road). The use is not listed in the Neighborhood Business district but is considered similar. Conditions address parking (155 required, 151 existing + 4 added in loading dock), landscape restoration (dead trees, emerald ash borer, berm plan), and a sidewalk gap. No public comments. (Presentation by Sarah Thomas) - Item E – Eagan Hope and Wellness (Rezoning & Preliminary PD): Daniel Murrow (MJ Studio Architects) and Aisha Norah (owner) requested a rezoning from Public Facility to Planned Development and a preliminary PD for a 16-bed intensive residential treatment center on 0.6 acres at 1581 Century Point. Deviations include setbacks (building, parking, trash enclosure) and building materials (less than 65% Class I). Conditions include landscaping, lighting, and stormwater. 24-hour supervision, fence, and security egress provided. Public comments noted. (Presentation by Sarah Thomas) - Item F – Davey Tree (CUP): Travis McDonald (Davey Tree) and Jennifer Haskamp (consultant) requested a conditional use permit for a contractor’s yard with mulching and commercial landscaping at 3300 Terminal Drive. Noise mitigation requires a 12-foot berm and replacement of a rotor chopper with a quieter electric colorizer. Above-ground fuel tank removed. Hours of operation for heavy machinery amended to 7 AM–7 PM. Conditions also address dust, fencing, and Knox lockbox. No public comments. (Presentation by Sarah Thomas) - Item G – 10 Roads Express (CUP): John Eubanks (on behalf of Wayne Hooverstall) requested a conditional use permit for outdoor storage of 20 trucks and 10 trailers at 3321 Mike Collins Drive. The site previously held Carvana; the new use is a truck and trailer maintenance facility for USPS mail hauling. All six performance standards are met. No public comments. (Presentation by Chris Schultz) - Item H – Columbia Business Center (CUP): Joe Bergman (Endeavor Development) requested a conditional use permit for outdoor storage of 82 electric vehicles at 3374 Columbia Drive, associated with a Rivian repair and showroom facility. The south lot and east side are used; parking supply is sufficient with employee overflow possible. Conditions include screening, landscaping, and maintaining fire suppression. No public comments. (Presentation by Katie Dudziak) Key Outcomes - Item A: Approved 7-0 to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 3, 2025). - Item B: Approved 7-0 to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 18, 2025). - Item C: Approved 7-0 to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 3, 2025). - Item D: Approved 7-0 to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 3, 2025). - Item E: The rezoning motion (7-0) and preliminary PD motion (6-0-1, with one abstention) were both approved to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 18, 2025). - Item F: Approved 7-0 to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 3, 2025). Condition 17 was amended to read: "Hours of operations for heavy machinery use shall be limited to 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily." - Item G: Approved 7-0 to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 18, 2025). - Item H: Approved 7-0 to recommend approval to City Council (scheduled November 3, 2025). - The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30 PM.

The Eagan City Council met on October 21, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Eagan Municipal Center. The agenda included a recognition of retiring Police Chief Roger New, approval of a consent calendar with numerous routine items, six public hearings (including certification of delinquent lodging taxes and final assessments for five street improvement projects), and adoption of a resolution supporting suburban transit. One property owner filed a written objection to an assessment, triggering a potential appeal. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss litigation and a property purchase. Recognition and Presentations - The Council recognized Police Chief Roger New on his retirement after 31 years of service to the city. Chief New was appointed chief in 2018 and was praised for his leadership, compassion, and community engagement. Council members and staff expressed gratitude for his dedication. His retirement is effective November 30, 2025. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the September 9, 2025 special council meeting and October 8, 2025 special council meeting (police chief interviews). - Approved personnel items. - Approved check registers for October 3 and October 10, 2025. - Approved contracts. - Approved donations. - Extended deadline for payment under a stipulated settlement. - Approved a change of manager for the off-sale 3.2 malt liquor license at Kwik Trip 179, 4600 Slater Road. - Approved final payment for City Contracts 24-57 and 24-50 for the Eagan Art House project. - Adopted a resolution authorizing commitment of increased funds for a new citation software program. - Awarded Contract 26-04 for Chloe Lane Sanitary Lift Station Rehabilitation. - Adopted a resolution approving an off-site gambling application for the Eagan Lions Club for the Viking Lakes Winter Skoltice. - Approved resolution authorizing issuance and sale of approximately $1,325,000 Taxable General Obligation Housing Improvement Area Bonds, Series 2025. - Adopted resolution authorizing the execution of the First Amendment to the Housing Improvement Area Development Agreement with Townhomes of Widgeon Woods. - Approved Change Order No. 16 for the Eagan Art House project. - Amended the 2025 Eagan TV (PEG Fee) CIP to purchase and install Cablecast Broadcast Servers. Public Hearings - Delinquent Lodging Tax Certification: The Council certified delinquent lodging tax bills totaling approximately $16,000 against a budget host that had not remitted taxes since December 2023. The amount will be added to property taxes for collection. The public hearing was closed and the certification authorized unanimously. - Final Assessments for Five Street Improvement Projects (Items B-F): The Council conducted a combined public hearing for Projects 1371 (Erin Drive/Erin Lane), 1566 (Birch Park/Windcrest/Denmark Ave/Deerwood Dr), 1569 (Harvey 1 & 2/Burrview Acres/Hwy 55 Frontage/Cherrywood), 1571 (Ridgecliffe 1st/Berkshire Ponds/Parkridge/Safari/Covington Ln), and 1573 (Sunset/Northview Meadows/Overview Estates/Saddle Horn/Daniel Dr/Lexington Pointe Pkwy/Patrick Rd). The five projects covered nearly 12 miles of streets and involved almost 1,400 properties. Total project cost was slightly over $6 million, with $1.4 million assessed to property owners. The city will cover $4.7 million. During the hearing, a property owner from the Harvey/Highway 55 Frontage area (Project 1569) objected to the assessment, arguing his property (currently residential but guided commercial) receives no benefit from the frontage road. He filed a written objection, preserving his right to appeal to Dakota County District Court. The Council closed the hearing and approved all five assessment rolls unanimously, with the objection noted. Legislative / Intergovernmental Affairs Update - Resolution Supporting Transit: Councilmember Hansen, who serves on the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) board, presented a resolution urging the Minnesota Legislature, Governor, and Metropolitan Council to preserve and strengthen suburban transit services. The resolution opposes proposals to eliminate suburban transit providers and merge them into Metro Transit, citing local control and the need for stable funding. The resolution was adopted unanimously after a brief discussion emphasizing local control. Closed Session - The Council entered a closed session, not adjourning the meeting, to discuss two matters pursuant to attorney-client privilege: (1) litigation related to a case filed by the next of kin of Kingsley Bimpong against three city officers, and (2) a proposed purchase of excess right-of-way near the corporate boundary with Burnsville for the Metcalf development. The meeting was to be adjourned after the closed session. Visitors to Be Heard - No members of the public spoke on items not on the agenda. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the consent agenda and all consent items. - Delinquent lodging tax certified for collection. - Final assessments for five street improvement projects approved (with one objection filed, triggering potential appeal). - Resolution supporting suburban transit adopted unanimously. - Closed session conducted for legal and real estate matters.