Public Meetings - Rochester, Minnesota

The Music Board convened on March 24, 2026, at 4:02 PM in City Hall Room 246. Members discussed significant staffing changes, the upcoming summer concert season, parking and accessibility challenges, volunteer needs, and survey incentive strategies. The meeting was adjourned at 5:09 PM.

Note on date discrepancy: The agenda, minutes, and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on March 24, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. CT. However, the user-provided date for this summary is March 25, 2026. This summary uses the user-provided date but notes the inconsistency. The Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) met to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a window replacement project, appoint members to an awards committee, receive public comments, and hear project updates. The meeting included a vote on the window project and establishment of an ad hoc awards committee. Consent Calendar - Minutes of February 24, 2026: Approved by unanimous consent as the official record. Public Comments & Testimony - Barry Skolnick: Expressed support for the HPC awards program, urging recognition of preservation efforts. Also urged the commission to develop a detailed plan and timetable for addressing the backlog of properties on the landmark inventory list, noting that property owners deserve to know their status. - Barb Hudson: Applauded the awards program for public education. Urged the commission to move forward on the Indian Heights designation, stating she was told by city council members that the commission is “dragging our feet” and asked for concrete dates. - John Kruesel (first appearance): Supported reinstating awards and suggested that Barb Hudson and Barry Skolnick deserve recognition. Teased a discovery by historian Bunny Kettlekamp about a historic bell. - Bunny (Sean) Kettlekamp: Presented a historical article revealing that the bell from the old fire hall (part of the restored clock at Broadway and 4th Street) was cast in 1887, earlier than the 1899 fire hall construction. She suggested the HPC could examine the bell for markings to confirm this history. - John Kruesel (second appearance, granted 30 seconds via suspension of rules): Noted that the fire chief, Eric, is excited about the bell discovery and that the bell is still at the fire station. He suggested the bell itself could be a landmark item. Discussion Items - 5.A. Certificate of Appropriateness – 433 9th Ave SW, Window Insert Replacement: - Staff report by Molly Patterson-Lundgren: The property is contributing to the Pill Hill Historic District (Tudor Revival style by architect Harold Crawford). The applicant proposes replacing 40 window inserts (sashes) with custom casement windows that match original patterns and sizes. The existing frames and trim would remain. Staff noted that windows are a character-defining feature, and that the proposal is a major alteration. The Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation were cited, particularly Standard 1 (minimal changes to materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships). Staff did not make a recommendation but asked the commission to decide if the change is minimal. - The commission suspended rules to allow the applicant, Austin Ryan, to answer questions for 10 minutes. Key points from the applicant: - Windows are custom, high-end, matching sash ratios and grille patterns. - Energy savings: 28,000 BTU/hr heat load reduction (2.4 tons), based on Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry calculations. - Existing bedroom windows do not meet egress code; casement windows improve safety. - The applicant stated the city’s process was not collaborative and caused a delay of over 60 days. - After questions, Commissioner Poirier moved to approve with two parts: (1) approve the certificate of appropriateness based on minimal changes, (2) recommend that staff treat similar window replacement projects as minor alterations if the applicant makes a reasonable effort to preserve historical integrity. - Discussion: Commissioner Shabel opposed the second part, arguing that it would pre-judge future applications and might violate the UDC. Commissioner Zastrow (Chair) noted the second part might not be germane to the current application. - Commissioner Koestler moved to amend by striking the second part. The amendment passed 5-2-1 (Poirier and Tator opposed; Gandhi absent). - The amended motion (approval only) then passed unanimously (7-0, Gandhi absent). - 5.B. HPC Annual Awards Committee Appointments: - Chair Zastrow nominated Commissioners Boeddeker and Wassmer to the newly formed ad hoc Awards Committee, with Boeddeker as chair. The committee will develop a proposal for reinstating the HPC awards program, possibly in time for Heritage Preservation Month. The commission approved the nomination by voice vote. Other Business - Project Updates (Molly Patterson-Lundgren): - Indian Heights: A grant application to the Minnesota Historical Society is being submitted (due April 10) to fund a consultant to determine National Register eligibility, with a focus on indigenous perspectives (traditional cultural place). - Downtown Historic District Vision Plan: The plan will be reviewed by the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (meeting April 13). - Future meeting dates: Next meeting April 28 in the council chamber; May 19 meeting will be in a different location (room 104 or Development Services) due to a scheduling conflict. - Commissioner Kessler's notice: She is working on a plan to address the landmarking backlog and will present it at the next meeting. Commissioner Poirier also requested to discuss the window review process at a future meeting. - History Fact of the Month: Commissioner Kessler presented on Bridge 89188 (7th Street Bridge over the Zumbro River near Silver Lake). Designed in 1953, completed in 1956, it is one of two bridges in Rochester with a variable depth fascia girder (the other was replaced in 1997). The bridge was listed as eligible for the National Register in 2014 for its highly artistic value. Restoration in 2019 included repainting the original dark green railing. Key Outcomes - Certificate of Appropriateness approved (unanimous, 7-0) for 433 9th Ave SW window replacement, with findings that the proposal meets the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Rehabilitation and design guidelines, specifically minimal changes to materials, features, spaces, and spatial relationships, and that existing historic window openings will remain. - HPC Awards Committee established with Commissioners Boeddeker (chair) and Wassmer. The committee will bring a proposal to a future meeting. - Future discussion scheduled: Commissioner Kessler will present a landmarking backlog plan at the next meeting (April 28). Commissioner Poirier will request discussion on potentially treating window replacements as minor alterations. - Grant application for Indian Heights to be submitted by April 10, pending city council approval.

The Sustainability and Resiliency Commission met on March 23, 2026, to discuss the natural gas franchise fee engagement, appoint members to support 2026 sustainability events, and receive staff updates. The meeting lasted from 4:31 p.m. to 5:57 p.m. with eight members present and one absent. Consent Calendar - Approved the February meeting minutes unanimously (8 ayes, 0 nays, 1 absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open comment period. Discussion Items - Natural Gas Franchise Fee Engagement (Old Business): Staff (Kayla) presented an overview of a potential natural gas franchise fee on Minnesota Energy Resources bills. Three fee structures were discussed: a flat monthly fee ($2 residential, $5 commercial; estimated $1.1–1.4M annual revenue), a per-therm fee (3 cents/therm; estimated $3.1M annual revenue), and a tiered flat fee ($2 residential, $5/$15/$120 commercial based on size; estimated $1.1–1.4M annual revenue). The engagement period ends March 28, 2026, with a city council study session scheduled for April 13, 2026. Commissioners shared feedback: Brian Morgan expressed strong support for the per-therm fee, citing fairness and behavior change; Seth Behrends noted potential disproportionate impact on low-income apartment dwellers under a flat fee; Stewart Rassier preferred the per-therm or tiered fee, emphasizing community benefit allocation; Amanda Holloway urged fairness and equity but noted only 4% of peer cities use per-therm; Liam Arroyo advocated for per-therm to incentivize conservation; Terri Kinzy warned of public pushback due to rising natural gas prices and distrust after the sports center debate, urging specific program details. - 2026 Sustainability Events – SRC Participation (New Business): Commissioners discussed staffing two events: Arbor Day Celebration (Friday, April 24, 2026, 11 a.m.–1 p.m., at McQuillan Field Park) to assist with stormwater mini-golf activities, and Earth Fest (Saturday, May 2, 2026, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., at St. Mary’s University) to staff a city sustainability table. Multiple commissioners volunteered for Arbor Day (Terri, Brian, Seth, Dan, and others) and Earth Fest shifts. - Staff Updates: Staff announced the rebranding of the Healthy Air and Homes Initiative to “Healthy Home Helpers,” updates on the Air Quality Alliance (including a participatory science component), a $50,000 Healthy Institutional Communities Award for a “Move to the Market” program, and a survey for the Rochester Regional Sports Center programming. The spring Adopt-a-Drain program and upcoming candidate training events were also highlighted. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously approved the February meeting minutes. - No formal action was taken on the natural gas franchise fee; the discussion will inform a recommendation letter to city council at the next meeting. - Commissioners volunteered to staff the Arbor Day and Earth Fest events; staff will coordinate schedules via email. - Staff will present a draft recommendation report on the franchise fee at the April commission meeting, with the final city council session on April 13, 2026. - The meeting adjourned at 5:57 p.m.

The Citizens Advisory on Transit (CAT) met on March 19, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. in City Hall Room 104. Although a quorum was not met – only three of seven members were present (Jesse O'Driscoll, Parker M Acree, Derek S Aiono) – the committee heard informational reports and discussed proposed Spring 2026 service changes in a non‑voting session. Members gave informal verbal support for the changes, which are scheduled to take effect April 26, 2026. Reports - January 2026 Transit Report (Informational): Staff presented the monthly performance report, noting that fixed‑route ridership in January 2026 was slightly higher than in January 2025, with a trip completion rate of 99.96% (six missed trips). Revenue riders per vehicle revenue hour stood at 6.4, up from 5.73 in January 2025, but still well below the target of 15. Paratransit (ZIPS) ridership was lower than last year, partly due to a new subcontractor. Financial data were described as not yet fully accurate because some expenditures had not posted. The report is provided two months after the reporting month. Discussion Items - Fall 2025 Service Changes Update: Staff recapped the adjustments made in November 2025, driven by a reduction in state/federal funding from 95% to 85% of operating costs, requiring a larger local match. Four routes (103, 202, 217, 309) were discontinued; evening service frequency was reduced from every 30 minutes to every hour; and four routes were realigned. After the changes, riders per revenue hour increased from 7 to 8, and cost per rider decreased from $24 to $21. Customer feedback highlighted the elimination of service to the VA clinic on Route 206 (only 19 riders in all of 2025) and the closure of a stop at Broadway and Center Streets (later reinstated). Minor timing adjustments were also made on Route 116. - Proposed Spring 2026 Service Changes: Staff presented a comprehensive set of changes based on community engagement (online survey, ride‑alongs, virtual and in‑person sessions). Key proposals include: - Northeast: Combine Routes 101 and 206 into a new bidirectional Route 120 running every 20 minutes (improving frequency from 30 minutes). Realign Routes 102 (to peak‑only) and 116 to cover lost areas. The northern end of Route 101/206 was shortened due to very low boarding (average one boarding per day at three stops). - Southeast: Reduce Route 203 frequency from every 30 minutes to every 30 minutes peak / 60 minutes off‑peak, due to the end of a park‑and‑ride agreement with RCTC and low midday demand. - Southwest: Convert Loop Routes 306 and 307 to bidirectional service, cutting travel time to the mall from 23 to 15 minutes. - Northwest: Combine Routes 409 and 418 into a new route running every 20 minutes. Realign Route 411 to end at Walmart North instead of Target North, and adjust Route 413 to serve IBM. Discontinue Route 505 (shopper route running only Tuesdays and Fridays, costing $200,000/year) because all its stops are served by other routes. The overall effect will be a reduction from 26 routes to about 24, but with improved frequency on key corridors. After the changes, 14% of Rochester residents (up from 3%) and 50% of jobs (up from 29%) will be within a 20‑minute or better service. - Weekend service: Reduce operating hours by one hour in the morning and two hours in the evening on weekends. - Implementation date: April 26, 2026. - Committee Feedback: Members asked clarifying questions about operational costs, nightlife service (suggesting late‑night weekend service), and the new Link BRT system. They expressed general support for the proposals, noting the careful balance between cost savings and service improvement. Key Outcomes - No formal vote due to lack of quorum. The committee gave an informal verbal endorsement, and a motion to formally indicate support for the changes passed unanimously among those present. Staff will proceed with implementation on April 26, 2026. - Future Agenda Items: Staff will invite Matt Lynch to present on a DOT grant (likely at the May meeting). Committee discussed potential updates on the confidential bidding process for a new transit operator (five bids received) and new federal CDL English‑proficiency requirements; staff will follow up. Members also suggested drafting a procedure for ad‑hoc virtual meetings and will consult with the city attorney. - The meeting adjourned without further business.

Board members present: Brian, Emily, Laura, Connie, Adam, Nick, Ryan, Mary Best. The meeting covered updates from Friends of the Library and the Library Foundation, approval of the consent agenda and annual report, detailed discussion and amendment of a parking pilot, and final approval of the strategic plan. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved as presented (motion by Laura Lascani, second by Connie). - Consent agenda approved (motion by Nick, second by Ryan). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. The chair asked for community members to address the board, and none responded. Updates and Reports - Friends of the Library: Val Kalaswski, President, reported that the Friends donated $80,000 from the bookstore and a total of $384,000 in value from book sales and partnerships. They saved the library $140,000 last year by offering quality donated books for the collection. - Library Foundation: Brenda Kardok, Executive Director, reported raising over $30,000 in sponsorships from their annual fundraiser. They obtained $5,000 grants for a new multi-sensory play area and $12,000 in other grants. They are adding ad hoc committees to explore staff health care and will adopt a strategic plan aligned with the library's goals. Two new board members were found, but one or two more are still needed. - Policy Committee: Presented on four policies, noting a sentence about equity was removed from one policy (consistent with other policies). The changes will be available for records and identification next month. - Circulation/Statistics update: The library director noted that circulation is down for physical and digital items, possibly because the collection has 41,000 fewer titles. However, foot traffic and program attendance are up significantly, partly due to the February opening of the C Library (last year opened March 1). There was discussion about the need for deeper analysis and the correlation between collection size and circulation. Discussion Items - Annual Report: The library director presented the state-mandated annual report used to compile statistics. Approved by motion (moved by Mary Best). - Parking Pilot: The pilot is funded by Friends and Foundation money and runs June 1 to August 31, 2026. It proposes free validation for a second hour of parking (up to $3) in the Civic Center ramp, requiring a library card checkout. An amendment was made to remove the proposed addition of bus passes to avoid confounding data (the pilot's original question was about parking). The survey questions were deferred for future finalization. Discussion included marketing strategies (school flyers, city channels, downtown alliance) and concerns about comparing data due to downtown construction. The pilot also includes investigating a potential API to show ramp space availability on the library website. - Strategic Plan: Final draft presented with minor changes: separating satellite establishment from downtown modernization, and adding multicultural programming to the goal under Operations ("expand multilingual services and multicultural programming and co-create solutions/programming with partners to dismantle barriers to access"). A board member noted the importance of inclusive language for future branches and satellites. Approved with amendments. Key Outcomes - Annual report adopted unanimously. - Parking pilot approved with an amendment to remove bus passes (motion passed, all in favor). Survey questions will be finalized at a future date. - Strategic plan approved as amended (including multicultural programming). - The meeting adjourned (motion by Laura, second by Ryan).

[Note: The agenda and minutes list the meeting date as March 17, 2026, but the instructed date is March 18, 2026.] The Police Policy Oversight Commission (PPOC) met on March 18, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. at the Rochester Police Department North Station. The meeting included a presentation on the RPD Professional Standards Manager's role and complaint statistics, a discussion of the ordinance that creates the PPOC, and planning for future policy reviews. Consent Calendar - Approve Minutes: The minutes from the December 9, 2025, meeting were approved as amended, removing Commissioner Bruce Snyder from the vote under Old Business. Motion passed unanimously (5 ayes, 2 absent). - Adopt Agenda: The agenda was adopted unanimously (5 ayes, 2 absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public were present. Policy Review - No policies were scheduled for review. Commissioner Linda Parker requested that Policy 413 (Immigration) be reviewed at the next meeting. Rochester Police Department Updates - Presentation by RPD Professional Standards Manager Mike Hartley: Mr. Hartley outlined his background and the role of the Professional Standards Manager in ensuring accountability and transparency. He reported that in 2025, the Rochester Police Department had approximately 65,000 calls for service. Out of these, there were 8 formal complaints: 3 sustained (involving two officers) and 5 unfounded. None of the complaints were for excessive force. Mr. Hartley emphasized that the low number of complaints reflects a culture of professionalism and accountability. He also explained the process for filing complaints and the importance of signed complaints per state statute. - Presentation by Captain Paul Gronholz on Policy 300 (Use of Force): Captain Gronholz detailed the use-of-force documentation process, including incident reports and 'Response to Resistance' (R2R) forms. He explained that any use or show of force (e.g., pointing a firearm) must be documented and reviewed by sergeants, lieutenants, and himself. The data is used for training and is published on the department's public dashboard. He confirmed that there were no excessive force complaints in 2025. Discussion Items - Ordinance Review (Old Business 7.A): The commission discussed the city ordinance (Section 213) that establishes the PPOC, including its duties and composition. Key points: - The 2022 version attached to the agenda was outdated; a 2024 update removed the reference to the Human Rights Commission (which no longer exists) and changed the composition to one NAACP recommendation and six at-large members. - Commissioner Snyder suggested adding a representative from a disability organization. - The commission debated the second sentence of Section 213.2A, which allows the PPOC to review incidents where a member of the public alleges a policy violation. Several commissioners expressed concern that this conflicts with the Minnesota Data Practices Act and that the PPOC is not the appropriate body to review individual incidents. Captain Gronholz and Mr. Hartley noted that the department already has internal review processes and that the PPOC's value lies in providing independent community feedback on policies. - The commission agreed to provide the City Attorney's Office with a bulleted list of proposed ordinance changes at the next meeting. - There was discussion about the PPOC's 'rules and regulations' (set by the City Council) versus the ordinance; the commission is awaiting guidance from the mayor and council on potential changes. Key Outcomes - Votes: - Approve minutes: Passed unanimously (5 ayes, 2 absent). - Adopt agenda: Passed unanimously (5 ayes, 2 absent). - Adjourn: Passed unanimously (6 ayes, 1 absent). - Next Steps: - The commission will prepare a bulleted list of proposed ordinance changes for the next meeting. - The RPD will present on ALPR policies (427 and 804) and Policy 413 (Immigration) at the next meeting. - The commission continues to await clarification on whether they can modify their own rules and regulations. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned at an unspecified time following a motion and second.

The Rochester City Council met on March 16, 2026, to address a consent calendar, hear public comment, receive the city administrator's report, conduct a public hearing for a $750 million conduit bond issuance on behalf of Mayo Clinic, approve bid advertisements for infrastructure projects, and adopt second readings of ordinances. Councilmember Miller and Mayor Norton were absent; Council President Schubring served as acting mayor. Public Comments & Testimony - Molly Dennis spoke during the open comment period, criticizing the city for allegedly blocking residents' feedback, threatening her and her family, and restricting access to government information. She stated that this censorship erodes representational democracy and urged the council to be transparent and pro-community engagement. No council response was given. City Administrator's Report - City Administrator Alison Alms reported that public works teams responded to a snowstorm that delivered 15 inches of snow, operating 45 pieces of equipment 24/7 since Sunday. She thanked residents for patience and cautioned about travel. - Upcoming events were announced: Mindfulness Nature Walks at Quarry Hill Nature Center on March 21, April 18, and May 23 (free, ages 18+, 9:30-11:30 a.m.); open houses on March 24 for Superior Drive NW/26th Street NW reconstruction, 2nd Street SE/16th Avenue SE sanitary sewer project, and 9th Avenue SE traffic management; and a street sweeper naming contest (submissions by March 25 via RochesterMN.gov). Consent Calendar - Items F1 through F9, F12 through F15, and F17 through F27 were approved unanimously. Councilmember Wall noted a 34% savings ($163,000) on a bid awarded that evening, commending staff and building partners. Discussion Items Public Hearing: Mayo Clinic Conduit Bond Issuance ($750 million) - Staff introduced a resolution authorizing the issuance of general obligation revenue bonds (conduit financing) on behalf of Mayo Clinic for capital projects, including renovations and upgrades. The city has no liability; Mayo Clinic has a double-A rating and is financially stable. The bonds align with the city's Bold Forward Unbound vision and provide economic benefits. - Applicant Paul Gorman (Chief Investment Officer and Treasurer, Mayo Clinic) stated the funds would help build the best hospital in the world, noting Mayo's recent Newsweek ranking as 1 hospital for the eighth consecutive time. He emphasized financial strength and patient-first values. - No public testimony was offered. Council questions clarified the public benefit (tax-exempt financing for Mayo, job creation), the city's role (no direct financial benefit), and the policy change on conduit fees (new policy adopted after this application, so not applicable). - A motion to adopt the resolution passed unanimously. H1: Bid Advertisement for 65th Street NW and Fairway Drive Roundabout - Staff described a mini-roundabout to address sight distance issues and speeding, with construction planned for summer 2026. Engineering services were donated in-kind by the original firm due to design errors in the prior road reconstruction. - Councilmember Palmer voted no, citing frustration with the engineering error and traffic disruption. The motion passed 5-1, with Palmer opposing. H2: Bid Advertisement for Reconstruction of Superior Drive NW and 26th Street NW - Staff explained a hybrid approach (partial reconstruction, preservation of curb and sidewalk) due to poor soils and compaction issues from the original 2000s construction. No special assessments were levied because it is not a full reconstruction per policy. - Councilmember Palmer raised concerns about the lack of special assessments and soil conditions, but staff assured subdrains and proper design. Councilmember Wall praised staff responsiveness to a resident inquiry. The motion passed unanimously. H3: Contract Amendment with Tool Design Group for Sixth Avenue West Design - Staff noted that an RFP was issued, and Tool Design Group was selected after a competitive process. The amendment covers full design and construction administration for the Reimagining Sixth Avenue West project. - Councilmember Palmer voted no, citing the $1.4 million cost and lack of competitive bidding (though staff clarified an RFP was used). The motion passed 5-1, with Palmer opposing. It was noted that construction on Sixth Avenue may continue through 2030 due to Mayo's West Tower crane. Ordinance Second Readings - K1: Film Permit Ordinance – Creating Chapter 5-24 of the city code relating to film permits. Passed unanimously. - K2: Rezoning (13 acres near Highway 63 and 60th Street SW) – From AG Agriculture to R1 Mixed Use Single Family. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda and consent calendar unanimously. - Adopted a resolution authorizing the issuance of $750 million in conduit bonds for Mayo Clinic (unanimous). - Approved bid advertisement for the 65th Street NW/Fairway Drive roundabout (5-1). - Approved bid advertisement for Superior Drive NW/26th Street NW reconstruction (unanimous). - Approved a contract amendment with Tool Design Group for Sixth Avenue West design (5-1). - Adopted second readings of ordinances on film permits and rezoning (both unanimous). - The meeting was adjourned.

The Charter Commission of Rochester, Minnesota, held a meeting on March 11, 2026, to welcome a new member, approve previous meeting minutes, and discuss two major items: the review of the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor and City Administrator, and the process for determining ward boundaries. No public comments were received. All actions were taken with 12 members present and 3 absent (Marcia Marcoux, Fran Bradley, Hasn Mir). Consent Calendar - Welcome of New Member: Commissioner John Wade was formally welcomed to the Commission. - Approval of Minutes: The meeting minutes of November 20, 2025, were approved unanimously (12 ayes, 3 absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the open comment period. Discussion Items - Review of Mayor and City Administrator Roles (Item 5.A): The Commission discussed a document from the Mayor containing approximately 20 questions seeking clarification on the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor and City Administrator as defined in the charter. Members debated the appropriate scope of their review and whether certain questions were legal interpretations better addressed by the City Attorney. A motion was made to table the item and send the document to the City Attorney for comment, then distribute it to the full body. This motion was amended to continue the item to the next regular meeting (May 2026) to allow the City Attorney adequate time to provide feedback. The amended motion passed unanimously. - Ward Boundary Process Discussion (Item 6.A): The Commission discussed the charter's provisions for ward boundary determinations, including their compliance with Minnesota Statute 204B.135 and the backup process that could allow two individuals to make final decisions. A motion to continue the discussion to the next regular meeting was denied (0-12-3). A second motion to continue the discussion to the September 2026 meeting, giving the City Attorney additional time due to an April trial and other commitments, was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - The Mayor/City Administrator roles review will be continued to the May 2026 meeting. The City Attorney will review the Mayor's comments and provide feedback to the Commission beforehand. - The ward boundary discussion will be continued to the September 2026 meeting. - The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Commission met on March 10, 2026, to receive an informational update from Lime on 2025 performance and plans for 2026. Public comment highlighted safety concerns and enforcement gaps, followed by detailed discussion on parking, technology, and collaboration. The commission took no formal votes on the Lime program. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the minutes of February 9, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - John Kruesel emphasized the need for comprehensive injury data involving Lime scooters and bicycles, arguing current data is incomplete due to HIPAA and lack of incident reporting from clinics. He stressed that Rochester, as an international destination, must do more than give the impression of safety. - Kim Federson shared a personal account of a September 25, 2025, crash into a parked Lime scooter on a bike path, resulting in a broken elbow, finger (requiring surgery), toe, and soft-tissue damage, $35,000 in medical costs, three months off work, and difficulty caring for her young children. She noted Lime’s responses were polite but resulted in no accountability. She questioned Lime’s environmental claims, estimating that 20,500 unique riders receiving two warnings before fines allows 56,000 improper parkings versus only 78,000 trips per year. Discussion Items - Lime Update: 2025 in Review and Vision for 2026 – James Tierney (Operations Associate, Minneapolis) and Kelly Harup (Senior Government Relations Coordinator, Columbus, OH) presented: - 2025 ridership: 160,826 trips (21% increase from 2024), 95,000 car trips saved, 253,966 miles traveled (38% increase), 28,545 unique riders, 18 trips per hour. - Lifetime environmental impact: over 175,000 car trips saved in Rochester. - Lime Pass and Lime Prime subscription programs: $425,246 saved across 77,969 trips in 2025. - 2026 plans: new parking locations, physical parking corrals, outreach/education (helmet giveaways, first ride academies, parking wardens), and CAPTCHURE – an AI tool requiring riders to upload a live photo at trip end to verify proper parking. Progressive enforcement: two warnings, then fines, then bans. Reporting via QR code on scooters and help-rochester@lime.email; average response time under one hour. - Commissioner Discussion and Questions: - CAPTCHURE process: Warnings are issued per incident; if a rider fails to take a photo or parks improperly, a manual review escalates to fines/bans. Commissioners asked about efficiency and whether a second report from a civilian adds a second warning. - Parking infrastructure: Discussion of geo-fenced no-parking zones along multi-use paths, mandatory parking zones with vertical elements (e.g., delineators) achieving over 90% compliance. City staff noted work on a GIS layer for no-parking zones and a communications plan on shared-path courtesies. - Co-location with bike racks and daylighting intersections proposed to improve visibility and parking compliance. - Future technology: Lime Location Engine (GPS enhancement) and Lime Vision 2.0 (camera-based detection) are not planned for Rochester until at least 2027; commissioners urged earlier consideration. - Enforcement: Lime can warn, fine, and ban users but cannot enforce city code (e.g., sidewalk riding). Rochester Police can issue tickets, but it’s difficult to catch riders in the act. Coordination with RPD is ongoing. - Age verification: Riders must be 18; account creation via email. Lime confirmed an ID scan feature exists in some markets but may not be active in Rochester; commissioners expressed interest in enabling it for better enforcement. - Accessibility: Lime Access program (50% off for low-income riders) and scooters with seats are not yet legal in Minnesota due to state statute; Lime is lobbying for legislative change. - Data requests: Commissioners asked for data on trip start/stop locations, Lime Pass usage, and incident data. Lime agreed to provide follow-up information. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously approved the consent agenda (February 9, 2026 minutes) and the meeting agenda. - No formal actions were taken on the Lime program; the discussion was informational to gather feedback. - Staff will: - Provide requested data (trip origins/destinations, Lime Pass usage, incident reports). - Explore activating ID scanning technology and report back. - Continue coordinating with Rochester Police on enforcement and safe path use. - Consider physical parking infrastructure and vertical elements for parking zones. - Next meeting scheduled: Monday, April 13, 2026.