Public Meetings - Rochester, Minnesota

Note: The agenda and minutes list the meeting date as October 14, 2026, but the provided date for this summary is October 18, 2026. The meeting was called to order at 4:32 p.m. and adjourned at 5:56 p.m., lasting approximately 1 hour 24 minutes. The commission heard a comprehensive sustainability data update and discussed the process for updating community-led tactics in the Sustainability and Resiliency Community Work Plan (SRCWP). Consent Calendar - September Meeting Minutes: Approved unanimously by 8 ayes, with Stewart Rassier absent. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public wished to speak during the open comment period. Discussion Items - 2026 Sustainability Data Update (Item 5.A): Staff presented an overview of existing sustainability dashboards and data sources. Key highlights included: - SRCWP: 83% of tactics completed, 18 not yet started, none on hold. The public-facing website is expected by end of 2026. - B3 Benchmarking (City Buildings): Energy use decreased 5.7% from baseline (2018) in 2025, with 11.9 million KBTU less used than 2024. Energy-related greenhouse gas emissions fell 20.2% from baseline (reduction of 4,659 metric tons). Staff noted square footage of city facilities has increased and are investigating the disparity between energy and emissions reductions. - Green Star Cities: The city significantly reduced natural gas consumption, expanded EV fleet (from 8 to 15 EVs), tripled trees planted in 2025 vs. 2024, and increased renewable energy generation capacity by about 7% community-wide. - Regional Indicators: Community-wide emissions show a downward trend since 2007 (baseline). 2025 data update expected by end of November, with a presentation to the commission early 2027. - Energy Integration Committee (EIC): Updated action plan for 2026 focusing on decarbonization, renewable energy, resilience, thermal energy networks, and transportation. The plan is a guiding framework, not adopted by governing boards. - City Council Action Plan: Responsible environmental stewardship priorities include fleet electrification, building efficiency, tree canopy, waste/recycling, and exploring a natural gas franchise fee. Staff report quarterly on municipal and community emissions. - Commission members discussed baseline year alignment, fleet tracking improvements (devices to be installed in 25% of vehicles by end of 2026), and the need to promote successes like solar projects (100% funded by state and federal grants) to council and public. - SRCWP Community-Led Tactics Reporting Process (Item 5.B): The commission reviewed a proposed process to update the 48 community-led tactics (reduced from 103) in the SRCWP. The chair demonstrated how to use a shared spreadsheet, including adding stories and qualitative data from local organizations. Four volunteer leads were identified for each of four groups of 12 tactics. Members also discussed using AI for initial research and the importance of highlighting community efforts. The due date for updates is Tuesday, November 10, 2026, in advance of the November 12 meeting. Key Outcomes - September minutes approved (unanimous). - No action taken on the 2026 Sustainability Data Update (informational). - Community-led tactics volunteers: Seth Behrends, Casey McQuade, Ruby Truong, and others volunteered to lead updates. Amy Caucutt will assist with contacting organizations. The chair will also contribute to multiple tactics. - Staff updates included: next meeting (November 12) will focus on native pollinators with Parks and Forestry; solar projects at 16 city facilities are underway with 100% funding; Garden Grants available through December 31; Arbor Day (April 30, 2027) and Earthfest (May 1, 2027) dates set; and a smart salting webinar on November 9. - Commission comment: Brian Morgan proposed inviting Leadership Greater Rochester groups to present their community impact projects at the November or December meeting. The chair agreed to follow up and consider agenda time. - Meeting adjourned at 5:56 p.m.

The Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Commission met on October 13, 2026. The agenda originally listed October 12, 2026. Six commissioners were present; three were absent. The meeting included public comments, approval of the consent agenda, and informational updates on the ADA Transition Plan and winter trail maintenance. Consent Calendar - Minutes of September 14, 2026: Approved unanimously. - Place and Flow Streets document: Received for informational purposes; no action taken. Public Comments & Testimony - Lee Schneider, representing We Bike Rochester, expressed full support for e-bikes and opposed any restrictions on their use on trails. He inquired about the timeline for separated bicycle routes through downtown, specifically First Avenue. - Barry Skolnick expressed concerns about fast-moving e-bikes and scooters on trails, stating they made him feel uncomfortable as a pedestrian. He criticized the agenda for being too vague to permit informed public comment and urged the commission to make materials more user-friendly, particularly for seniors. Discussion Items - Public Works ADA Transition Plan Update: Amy Keofsky and Tyler Spies presented the update. The plan is required under Title II of the ADA and was last updated in 2013. The presentation covered sidewalk improvement districts (SID), pedestrian ramp replacements, sidewalk gap fill, and accessible pedestrian signals (APS). Key points: - The city maintains 600 miles of sidewalk and 6,500 pedestrian ramps. - SID funding increased ramp replacement from about 5 per year (with $50,000 annually) to 110-120 per year (with $1.4 million annually). - The sidewalk gap fill program identifies missing sidewalk segments under 600 feet; homeowners are assessed 100% of construction costs (typically $5,000-$15,000 assessed over five years). - APS signals are installed at 75 of 156 traffic signals; full upgrade expected by 2045 at the current pace. - Commissioners questioned the homeowner assessment policy for sidewalk gaps, the cost burden on property owners, and whether a property owner would have any incentive to consent to sidewalk construction. - Winter City Trail Maintenance Update: Dan Plizga and Mike Schaber presented the update. Key points: - The city plows about 45 miles of trails (out of over 100 total paved miles) in winter. - A publicly available map shows maintained routes; unmarked segments are private responsibility. - No salt or sand is applied except on selected downtown paths; drainage issues can create icy patches. - Discussion included a potential pilot program for walk-to-school and transit-access routes, and the need to replace narrow legacy bridges to accommodate snow removal equipment. - Commissioners asked about clearing the Douglas Trail (state-owned, not currently plowed) and about the city’s sand/salt distribution stations. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously (6-0, with 3 absent). - Staff will investigate obtaining permission from the state to maintain the Douglas Trail segment from Valley High to Dakota; if allowed, prioritization among other routes would be discussed. - Staff will release the draft ADA Transition Plan and survey for public feedback later in October; a city council study session is planned for November. - The next meeting is scheduled for November 9, 2026. - The meeting adjourned unanimously.

The Rochester City Council held a study session on October 12, 2026, covering a report from the Rochester Olmsted Youth Council (ROYC) on their trip to Germany, an update on Parks and Recreation marketing efforts, and a discussion on council rules and policy items. Rochester Olmsted Youth Council Trip to Germany ROYC members Alex Yavchev and Isha Kumar presented on their experiences in Moosburg, Munster, and Sarbeck, Germany. They highlighted exchanges with a German youth parliament, Munster's bicycle infrastructure (100,000 daily cyclists), and Sarbeck's renewable energy output (400% of local electricity needs). Council members commended the presentation and discussed the value of cultural exchange and youth voice in government. Parks & Recreation Marketing and Awareness Jenna Bowman presented an update on the use of a $55,000 contingency fund approved for marketing. A community survey of 1,000 residents showed 40% rely on word of mouth, and awareness of indoor programming lags awareness of parks. Financial barriers were noted, with 54% of households under $40k citing cost as a barrier compared to 12% over $160k. Staff proposed spending the remaining $27,000 on a newsletter, targeted mailings, and a 'Meet Me' voucher program. Councilmembers called for stronger metrics to track return on investment and stressed separating marketing strategies from access and equity barriers. Council Rules and Policy Items City Administrator Alms led discussions on several governance topics: - Travel Budget: Staff proposed moving from strict per-member budget allocations to a more flexible model. Councilmember Wall and Palmer expressed caution regarding self-regulation, while Councilmember Keene supported increased flexibility. Staff will bring back options. - Council Staffing Model: A debate emerged on whether the Mayor's assistant role should provide broader support to council. Council President Schubring sought balance, Councilmember Palmer argued the offices are separate, and Mayor Norton noted the position is a city employee. Staff was asked to clarify specific needs before proceeding. - Boards and Commissions: Staff reviewed appointment structures. Council President Schubring requested an ordinance change for the Airport Commission to allow any council member to be appointed instead of mandating the 'council member at large'. Staff will draft the amendment. Key Outcomes - Staff will develop clearer metrics for Parks marketing and report back on outcomes. - Staff will draft alternative options for the council travel budget resolution. - An ordinance amendment will be prepared to change the Airport Commission appointment language. - Further discussion on council staffing was deferred pending a clearer definition of council needs. - Judge Lund's civility presentation was postponed to 2027.

The Rochester City Council held its regular session on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Government Center Council Chamber. Mayor Norton was absent; all six council members were present. The meeting covered consent items, two public hearings on zone changes, and three major reports including Link BRT business support, the Silver Lake sediment removal and dam modification project, and the Zumbro River siphon replacement. The council also heard a first reading of the 2027 Master Fee Schedule. Consent Calendar - F.1: Minutes of September 21, 2026, accepted. - F.2: Accounts payable of $102,812,920.24 approved. - F.3: Mayoral appointments to boards and commissions approved (Tim Nela, Andrew Knauff, Ruby Truong). - F.4: Repeal of Chapter 5-9 (Circuses and Similar Shows) adopted. - F.5: Election judges for November 3, 2026 General Election approved. - F.6: Capital Projects Semi-Annual Transfer of Funds resolution adopted. - F.7: 2026 Water Utility Capital Budget Amendment ($1,573,300) approved. - F.8: Natural gas supply contract for Mt. Simon Station authorized. - F.9: Agency agreement with MnDOT for 18th Avenue SW Reconstruction approved. - F.10: $65,000 contract with EverStrive Solutions for strategic planning facilitation. - F.11: $1,417,717.20 amendment with Kimley-Horn for Link BRT construction management. - F.12: $57,056 electrical installation contract for hoop building at Maintenance Center. - F.13: $79,620 contract amendment with WHKS for Silver Lake sediment removal final design. - F.14: $43,770 contract amendment with WHKS for Zumbro River siphon final design. - F.15: $434,856 amendment with Bolton & Menk for 18th Avenue SW design. - F.16: City-owner contract and technical services for KLIMT Apartments public improvements. - F.17: City-owner contract and technical services for Harter’s Disposal watermain. - F.18: City-owner contract and technical services for The Eden Apartments public improvements. All consent items were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Mr. West Lund questioned the influence of billionaires in local politics, citing Bloomberg interns and funding from outside groups like Indivisible and the Walton-backed No Kings rallies. - Joe Christensen expressed safety concerns for bicyclists after a recent fatality, and noted multiple vehicle-into-building incidents around the city. - Kevin Patton opposed bike lanes and traffic changes (Broadway, Elton Hills Drive, 3rd Avenue/6th Street) and announced he is selling his holdings and leaving Rochester due to what he called reckless spending and tax increases. - Brenda Quay (Chief Manager of MF DT Roch MF LLC, developer of The KLIMT Apartments) complained that the city now requires a city-owner contract six months into the project, despite city staff telling them in writing in December 2025 that no such contract was needed. She stated they were systematically abused for building workforce housing and will never develop another multifamily project in downtown Rochester. - Craiglin opposed the Silver Lake Dam removal, citing a budget increase from $15 million to $24 million, questioning flood control fund use, and arguing the HPC failed to preserve the historic dam. - Molly Dennis noted October 5 is National Bullying Prevention Day and raised concerns about data request transparency, stating she has been waiting since August 5 for a simple count of Night to Unite events. - Abe Sauer hoped the city would not require businesses to match grants from Link BRT contingency funds, as businesses have no extra money. Discussion Items - Authorizing Use of Unallocated Link BRT Project Contingency Funding for Business Forward (H.1): Strategic Communications Director Jenna Bowman presented a request for up to $500,000 in additional funding for business support along the Second Street corridor during Link BRT construction. To date, $231,000 of an initial $350,000 has been spent, with $119,000 remaining. The new funds would cover business support, marketing, and construction mitigation – but not direct cash payments due to state and federal restrictions. Assistant City Administrator Ryan Yetzer explained that the city cannot make direct payments under Minnesota’s public purpose doctrine and federal grant rules. Councilmembers raised concerns about a 10% matching requirement discussed for one business, equity across 95 businesses, and the need for clear accountability and reporting. Councilmember Palmer questioned the lack of a coordinated plan, noting lessons from earlier projects. After discussion, the motion passed unanimously. - Contract Award: Silver Lake Sediment Removal and Dam Modification - Project No. J4889 (H.2): Public Works staff (Aaron Luckstein and Matt Crawford) presented the $18,937,132.74 contract with Rachel Contracting, LLC. The project includes dam modification (converting low-head dam to rock arch rapids for safety and fish passage), dredging, north shore trail extension, future pedestrian bridge pier, and east shoreline improvements. The engineer’s estimate was $21 million. Funding sources include $2.368 million from LSOHC, $3 million from RPU, $11 million from flood control reserves, $4.3 million stormwater utility, and $730,000 from 2023 flood control funds for alternative dredging. Crawford detailed the dam’s history and flood control limitations. Councilmember Palmer questioned using flood control and stormwater funds for a dam that does not itself provide flood storage. Councilmember Wall asked about remaining flood control reserves (approx. $2M after). Councilmember Doring clarified that the dam modification improves flood passage and does not violate historic preservation. Councilmember Keene emphasized the logic of bundling the project. The motion passed 6-1, with Councilmember Fredericks voting nay. - Contract Award: Upgrade/Replace Zumbro River Siphon at Silver Lake and Sewer Extension - Project No. J7829 (H.3): Matt Crawford presented the $8,241,235.20 contract with Carl Bolander & Sons Co. The project includes a larger sewer siphon under Silver Lake, a 60-inch sanitary sewer along 7th Street, and a roundabout at 7th and 11th Avenue to replace an old traffic signal. The engineer’s estimate was over $9 million; total project budget including contingencies is $10.7 million. Councilmember Palmer raised concerns about traffic impacts during construction, especially access to the Silver Lake Pool. Crawford indicated the 7th Street/11th Avenue intersection will be closed for 6-8 weeks in August-September, but two lanes will be maintained to the pool. Councilmember Miller asked about trail improvement opportunities within the closure area; staff said it could be considered via a change order. Councilmember Fredericks noted other areas with no trails at all. The motion passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda Approved unanimously. - Zone Change G.1 (75th AZ, LLC): Approved directing the City Attorney to prepare an ordinance for first reading. - Zone Change G.2 (Stencil Group/Forte Senior Living): Approved 3.83 acres rezoning from MX-S to R-3, directing ordinance preparation. - H.1 (Link BRT Business Forward Funding): Approved up to $500,000 in contingency funds. - H.2 (Silver Lake Dam and Dredging): Approved contract award (6-1). - H.3 (Zumbro River Siphon and Sewer Extension): Approved contract award unanimously. - Ordinance First Reading: 2027 Master Fee Schedule received and filed. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30 PM.

The Rochester Planning & Zoning Commission met in the Council/Board Chambers at the Government Center. The agenda and minutes are dated September 30, 2026, with a 5:00 p.m. start listed; the designated meeting timestamp is October 1, 2026, at 11:00:00 UTC, and this summary uses that date. Commissioner Ruchi Gupta chaired. Commissioners present were Jeremy C Andrist, Jens P Boyum, John Eischen, Ruchi Gupta, Jonathon P Krull, and Nicolas B.C. Yost; Abdimajid (Axe) M Ahmed, Robert A Cline, and Lisa Ross were absent. The Commission approved the order of agenda and consent calendar unanimously, then by unanimous votes forwarded recommendations to the City Council on all five reports-and-recommendations items and the zone change, adopted one conditional use permit, and adjourned. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes and video of the September 16, 2026 Planning & Zoning Commission meeting as the official record. Motion by Jens P Boyum, second by Jonathon P Krull, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Kelly Rae Kirkpatrick (1107 East Center Street) spoke during the open comment period. She expressed support for using land stewardship as the starting point for development and requested that the Commission bring forward legislative changes on land stewardship before development. She said Rochester is the second largest city in the state geographically with roughly one-third of Minneapolis's population, and questioned who pays for infrastructure and why suburban sprawl continues. She cited the 2026 surface water management plan, Olmsted County soil and environment resources, and the recently amended Unified Development Code as available tools. She advocated designing with the watershed, evaluating downstream and cumulative impacts, and using an avoid, minimize, and mitigate hierarchy. She referenced London Brook Ponds, the Manor Hills lawsuit, and the Dell Web senior housing development as case studies. She stated the goal was not to prevent development, because housing is desperately needed, but to prevent avoidable environmental problems by making the land itself the starting point. - Richard Nohner, whose property is immediately east of the Eastwood zone-change site, spoke at the 6A public hearing. He did not oppose the zone change but expressed concern about traffic conditions on Eastwood Road, citing increased traffic from the 230-unit Rosewood apartments across the street, no shoulders, hills, near-miss accidents about once a week, speeding, and poor visibility at the Felty Way intersection. He asked the city to examine speed control, safety improvements, and related access issues. - Matt Kuehl (8192 County Road 5, Pine Island, representing Kuehl LLC) spoke at the 6B public hearing regarding Birchwood Cottages. He stated his LLC owns 10 acres and VOA owns 40 acres north of the subject parcel. He expressed concern that the development plan leaves his property without access because a cell tower blocked the normal property-line access and the water main alignment shifted access. He said he had raised the issue at a July 30 public meeting and received no further correspondence. He said he would be watching the development to ensure access is maintained. Reports and Recommendations - 5.A Graham Acres (CD2026-021PLAT) – DR Horton, Inc. – Minnesota: Staff recommended approval with two conditions. The request is a major land subdivision on 185 acres into 580 single-family residential lots and six outlots in the R-2 Low Density Residential Small Lot district. The project's lot mix includes 177 lots at 65 feet wide, 245 at 50 feet wide, and 158 at 40 feet wide, totaling 580. The plan also includes a nine-acre city park to be dedicated to the Rochester Parks Department. DR Horton representative Mike Suel expressed agreement with the staff report and noted the company is currently building in Badger Hills. The Commission unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval with conditions. - 5.B Westbury Second (CD2026-022PLAT) – Bigelow Homes: Staff recommended approval with five conditions to subdivide 24.6 acres into 115 residential lots and one outlot. Applicant representative Kyle Skov (WHKS & Co.) said the first Westbury subdivision is under construction, Bigelow Homes expects to start construction next year, and the company is partnering with the city on funding. The Commission unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval with five conditions. - 5.C Danielson Farm (CD2026-023PLAT) – Anthony Properties: Staff recommended approval with four conditions to subdivide 26.56 acres at the northeast corner of 55th Street NW and 18th Avenue NW into one lot, two outlots, and right-of-way for 18th Avenue NW and an internal collector road. The conditions include completion of public facilities or a development agreement, civil grading and stormwater plan approvals, discussion with the city engineer about a 72-foot right-of-way for Lemongrass Drive NW, and dedication of a 30-foot sanitary sewer utility easement adjacent to the south property line of Lot 1, Block 1 and Outlot B. Applicant representative Ryan Schoenfelder (WSE Engineering) said Anthony Properties accepts the conditions. The Commission unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval. - 5.D Pebble Creek Seventh (CD2026-024PLAT) – DRP MN 3, LLC/Lennar Homes: Staff recommended approval as a final plat with two conditions. The agenda and minutes describe 100 single-family residential lots on 14.98 acres in R-2 and MXS districts; the transcript specifies 5 single-family lots and 95 townhome lots, for 100 total lots. Staff reported the overall Pebble Creek development is estimated at 1,080 units, or about 2.8 dwelling units per acre. Conditions require a city-prepared maintenance declaration as specified in the development agreement and dedication of 6.9 acres of parkland/easement to the satisfaction of Parks and Recreation. Ryan Schoenfelder, representing the applicant, said wetlands on the site were determined incidental in November 2025 and are not protected, and said construction plans for this phase are approved. The Commission unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval. - 5.E Vacation Petition (CD2026-006VAC) – DRP MN 3, LLC: Staff recommended approval to vacate an approximately 440-foot-long segment of Town Square Place NW and adjoining public utility easements platted as part of Pebble Creek Fourth. Applicant representative Ryan Schoenfelder said the vacation is needed to facilitate a utility easement along 61st Avenue and realign the road for future development. The Commission unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval. Public Hearings - 6.A Zone Change CD2026-003ZC – Joseph Sveen: Staff recommended approval of a request to rezone an approximately 15,000-square-foot lot at the southeast intersection of Eastwood Road SE and Hillcrest Court SE from R-1 Mixed Single-Family to R-2 Single-Family Small Lot. Staff found the request was not spot zoning, was consistent with R-2 to the east, permitted low-density residential uses, and furthered comprehensive plan goals for housing diversity and infill development. The applicant was not present. Richard Nohner's public testimony is summarized above. The Commission unanimously forwarded a recommendation of approval to the City Council. Note: the motion as transcribed reads 59,000 square feet, while the agenda and staff materials state approximately 15,000 square feet. - 6.B Conditional Use Permit CD2026-014CUP – Widseth (Birchwood Cottages): Staff recommended approval with conditions for construction of a 230-bed memory care facility in an R-2 zoning district at the southeast intersection of 50th Avenue NW and Feather Grass Place NW. The Planning & Zoning Commission is the approval body. Staff recommended 10 conditions, including striking a bike-parking condition because bike parking was included in the site plan, and replacing a required traffic study with a condition requiring an updated site plan showing a new right-of-way easement for a public road on the northern portion of the site, as requested by Public Works. Applicant representative Vanessa Hines (Widseth) said the city requested an easement for a future road, not immediate construction, and cost and responsibility would be addressed in the development agreement. Matt Kuehl's public testimony is summarized above. After discussion, the Commission unanimously adopted the resolution approving the CUP with the facts and findings outlined in the September 30, 2026 Community Development presentation. Other Business - Desmond McGeough gave a City Council recap from the September 21, 2026 meeting: the proposed airport quarry conditional use permit was continued to mid-November after the applicant agreed to allow more time to develop specific answers. - The next Planning & Zoning Commission meeting will be held October 28, 2026; no applications were scheduled for October 14. - A brief discussion was held about the cell tower referenced in the 6B access issue; staff explained that the tower caused the access offset. Key Outcomes - All votes were unanimous among the six commissioners present; Commissioners Ahmed, Cline, and Ross were absent. - The Commission forwarded recommendations of approval to the City Council for Graham Acres (2 conditions), Westbury Second (5 conditions), Danielson Farm (4 conditions), Pebble Creek Seventh (2 conditions), the Town Square Place NW vacation, and the Eastwood zone change. - The Commission adopted the conditional use permit for Birchwood Cottages with conditions. - The meeting adjourned unanimously after the other business.

The Rochester Public Utility (RPU) Board met on September 29, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. at the RPU Community Room, 4000 E River Rd NE. The Board recognized a retiring manager, approved a sizable consent agenda, awarded a construction contract for a new water booster station, authorized public notification of 2027 supplemental rate adjustments, reviewed 2027 legislative priorities, and discussed updates to the worker safety policy. All votes were unanimous. The meeting adjourned at 5:45 p.m. Recognition - Board President Malachi McNeilus and General Manager Timothy McCollough recognized Ryan Moore, Manager of Geographic Information Services, for 27 years of dedicated service. Moore grew the GIS function from a single position to a department of five professionals and integrated GIS with key operational systems (CIS, ERP, outage management, AMI, SCADA). The Board formally thanked Moore and wished him well in retirement. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of the August 25, 2026 Board meeting. - Reviewed accounts payable from August 12 to September 10, 2026, totaling $16,596,835.56. - Approved 2027 Board meeting dates. - Approved revised Board Policy 4: Board Organization. - Adopted a resolution authorizing purchase of five units of submersible switchgear from Border States Electric for $836,000. - Approved additional expenditure of $488,000 for the Country Club Road Water Main Extension Project (City Project J7862), increasing total authorized project expenditure from $1,200,000 to $1,688,000; approved corresponding $488,000 amendment to the 2026 Water Utility Capital Budget (including $113,000 for design from the Water Connection fund); recommended City Council approval of the second budget amendment; confirmed that previously approved agreements with Pulte Homes of Minnesota LLC and ML Group I LLC remain in effect. - Approved engagement with Baker Tilly US, LLP for financial audit and regulatory examination services for fiscal years 2026 and 2027, with an option to extend through fiscal year 2028. - Approved resolution authorizing Transaction Confirmation for Secondary Firm Natural Gas Supply for the future Mount Simon generating facility, recommending City Council authorize the contract with Constellation NewEnergy – Gas Division, LLC. - Approved additional expenditure of $158,958.80 for fuel nozzle replacement on Gas Turbine 2. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak. Discussion Items - Award Construction Contract for Kalmar Booster Station (Item 5.A): Assistant General Manager of Operations Todd Blomstrom presented. The project creates the 10th major water pressure zone for the growing western area. Only one bid was received from Rice Lake Construction Group of Deerwood, MN, for $2,540,300. The original budget placeholder for the project was $2.15 million; the total project cost, including design, administration, and construction, is now $3,235,300. A second budget amendment of $1,085,300 is required. Reasons for the single bid and cost escalation included: contractor capacity constraints, project complexity, location outside the metro area, and an initial estimate prepared quickly without a completed water system master plan. The Board discussed the need for future development fees for pumping stations to fund growth equitably. The motion passed unanimously. - Public Notification: 2027 Supplemental Electric and Water Utility Rate Adjustment (Item 6.A): Assistant General Manager of Administration Peter Hogan presented. The two-year general rates were set in 2025; no changes are proposed to the general rate structure. However, to achieve an effective 4% general electric rate increase, the Board authorized adjusting the power cost adjustment (PCA) to retain savings from Chero debt payoff for new debt service. The average residential electric customer impact is estimated to go from $6.12/month to $5.17/month (likely a net decrease or minimal increase? The transcript says "from $6.12 a month down to $5.17" but that may be a reduction; context suggests the PCA adjustment is meant to partially offset costs. Clarification: The speaker said "average residential customer on the electric side, going from $6.06 and twelve cents a month down to five dollars and seventeen cents" – this appears to be the reduction in PCA that will be retained? Actually, it's unclear. The summary should note the proposed 4% effective increase via PCA. Water rates are unchanged. A new "Large Load Computational Load" tariff was introduced: loads ≥2.5 MW trigger a cost/risk study; loads ≥5 MW require a separate electric service agreement. Miscellaneous fees updated, including involuntary disconnect fee reduced from $70 to $45 due to remote disconnect capabilities. The Board authorized public notification of the proposed changes; formal rate approval will be sought in October. - 2027 Legislative Priorities (Item 7.A): Informational only. General Manager McCollough outlined state and federal priorities. Key state issues: funding for lead service line replacement (current funds exhausted by early 2027), regional water supply resilience (education year as master plan completes by March 2027), large load legislation, net metering modernization, plug-in solar (aligning with City pilot), nuclear development, ECO Act reform to include demand response/solar, and transmission rights. Federal priorities: technology-neutral permitting reform (impacting North Hills Wind Project – no federal permits issued for wind since last year), lead service line funding, and positions aligned with American Public Power Association. Discussion covered the regional vs. Rochester-only water solution and risks to renewable energy goals if federal wind permits remain stalled. The Board expressed support for the direction; the legislative agenda will be coordinated with the City Council. - Board Policy 11: Worker Safety (Item 8.A): Assistant GM Blomstrom presented proposed changes to RPU Board Policy 11 (renamed "Safety Program" from "Worker Safety"). Key additions: stated goal of zero injuries, regulatory compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 (electric) and general industry, explicit stop-work authority for all employees, quarterly safety reporting to the Board (leading and lagging indicators), and provision for Board action if safety goals are not met. Board members provided input; the policy is expected to be brought for adoption at the next meeting. - General Manager's Report (Item 9): McCollough provided updates: customer survey results showed improved portal satisfaction but persistent affordability concerns (higher summer bills due to increased volume); record in-person lobby traffic (call volumes down 10%); Silver Lake Dam modification/dredging project to be considered by Council on October 5; lead service line replacement funds nearly exhausted; solar on public buildings event planned; Flux ERP project in design/configuration phase. Discussion followed on development lot delivery (better coordination with developers) and joint trench work progress (ahead of last year, with two NPL crews). Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (4.A–4.I): Approved unanimously. - Kalmar Booster Station (5.A): Approved resolution awarding contract to Rice Lake Construction Group for $2,540,300, approving second budget amendment to $3,235,300, recommending City Council approval, and authorizing project manager to proceed. Unanimous. - Public Notification of 2027 Rates (6.A): Approved resolution authorizing public notification of proposed rate adjustments. Unanimous. - Legislative Priorities (7.A): Reviewed; no action required. Board consensus to refine strategy as more information becomes available. - Worker Safety Policy (8.A): Board provided guidance; policy will return for formal adoption at next meeting. - Adjournment: Motion by Keane, seconded by Vaszily, unanimously approved at 5:45 p.m.

The Rochester City Council held a study session on September 28, 2026, from 3:30 p.m. to approximately 6:30 p.m. at the Government Center Council Chamber. The session covered three main topics: an update on housing access, a mode shift and transportation demand management overview, and a stormwater water quality treatment credit transfer policy update. No formal votes were taken; the council provided feedback and direction to staff for future action. Housing Access Update Staff from Community Development (Taryn Eadens and Irene Woodward) presented a comprehensive overview of housing context, needs, and policy options. Key data included: - Over 12,000 housing units built in the last 20 years; 2,600 for-sale lots platted and 3,400 rental units approved in the pipeline. - 4,700 single-family rentals (13% of single-family dwellings), with 6% corporately owned and 15% by non-local corporations. - 502 short-term rental units, half in single-family homes; majority are in lower-cost housing (affordable to 30-80% AMI). - Homeownership gap: 50 percentage point disparity between white households and households of color. Council members discussed three policy options for single-family rentals (no change, density caps, per-owner limits) and short-term rentals (no change, geographic limits, platform licensing requirements). Mayor Norton expressed concern about short-term rentals degrading neighborhood integrity. Councilmember Miller proposed escalating license fees for large rental portfolios to reinvest in neighborhoods. Councilmember Fredericks favored no changes, emphasizing the need for diverse housing options. The council leaned toward further exploring fee-based and administrative tools rather than outright prohibitions. For ADUs, staff noted only 10 permitted units and a $20,000 pilot program with low uptake; council members were split on removing the owner-occupancy requirement for R1 districts. From Plans to Practical Choice: Mode Shift and Transportation Demand Management Overview Matt Lynch, Mode Shift Coordinator, presented on implementing adopted plans to reduce single-occupancy vehicle trips. The problem statement, co-developed with partners (including DMC, Mayo Clinic, Rochester Public Schools, and others), highlighted that current travel patterns do not scale with growth and that options are fragmented. Data showed: - Drive-alone commuting down 10 points since 2013, but total drivers unchanged due to more people working from home. - A student fare pilot recorded 2,600 rides (70% during school peak hours) plus 1,050 rides in summer. - 13 modal count sites: 85% walking, 12% cycling, 2% scooting; one downtown location accounts for nearly half of all counts. - Bike to Work Day (June 23, 2026) saw 1,736 counts, 16% above June daily average. Council feedback included: Councilmember Keene emphasized planning ahead of gridlock; Councilmember Fredericks questioned cost-effectiveness of bike lanes; Councilmember Doring stressed connections for other destinations beyond downtown; Councilmember Miller asked for time-of-day and event parking coordination. The council supported continuing the data collection and bringing back an action plan in early 2027. A separate discussion on the Lime scooter contract was requested. Stormwater Water Quality Treatment Credit Transfer Policy Update Aaron Luxteen (Public Works) provided a brief update on the draft policy, which allows developers to purchase off-site stormwater treatment credits when on-site treatment is infeasible. Key features: voluntary participation, transfer ratios increasing with geographic distance, 0.1 of each transfer set aside for environmental benefits, and city-generated credits require council approval. The policy aims to support infill development and improve water quality. Staff will bring the policy and ordinance for approval at the October 19, 2026 council meeting. Council members expressed support, with Councilmember Keene noting the need to ensure localized impacts are considered. Study Session Schedule Staff announced the next study session on October 5, 2026, will include updates on the Red Owl and Time Theater history, youth council visit to Germany, parks and recreation marketing, and council rules. A closed session is planned for October 26, 2026. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. - Council provided direction to staff to refine housing policy options (single-family rentals, short-term rentals, ADUs) based on discussion, with emphasis on fee structures and administrative tools. - For mode shift, council affirmed the problem statement and directed staff to continue data collection and return with an action plan and recommendations in early 2027. A separate Lime scooter discussion will be scheduled. - The stormwater credit transfer policy will be brought forward for approval at the October 19 council meeting. - Next study session scheduled for October 5, 2026.

The Citizens Advisory on Transit (CAT) of Rochester, Minnesota, met on September 23, 2026, with all seven members present (Michael S. Schnell, Jesse O'Driscoll, Parker M. Acree, Derek S. Aiono, Kenneth D. Baerg, Kristin E. Buchholz, and Jennifer C. Karsner). The committee approved the July 10, 2026 minutes, reviewed the July 2026 Transit Report, voted to move its meetings to the second Thursday of each month from 3:30-4:30 p.m., heard a presentation on polling place changes, and received a financial outlook for Rochester Public Transit (RPT). Note: the agenda and minutes in the record list the meeting as September 11, 2026, at 12:00 p.m.; the official meeting date used here is September 23, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approval of the July 10, 2026 meeting minutes and video as the official record: motion by Kristin E. Buchholz, second by Parker M. Acree; approved unanimously. - Approval of the agenda as presented with no changes: motion by Parker M. Acree, second by Derek S. Aiono; approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were offered during the 15-minute open comment period. Discussion Items - July 2026 Transit Report (information item): Staff reported ridership at approximately 46%, down slightly due to typical summer reductions; roughly 500 daily trips with missed trips at about 1% of daily trips; and ridership per vehicle hour trending near 6 against a goal of 9. Zips microtransit ridership was consistent at about 4,600-4,800. Riders per vehicle hour came in at 2.1 versus a contractual target of 2.3, above the industry average of 1.5-2; staff cited St. Cloud (about 5) as an outlier serving a broader metro area with a dedicated paratransit facility. Staff noted ridership fell from over 2 million in 2019 partly because a park-and-ride lot was taken offline and privatized, but has increased from 2024 to 2025 and is trending above 2025. Members discussed express routes (550 and 115 run every 15 minutes during peak; the 120 runs north-south every 20 minutes); staff stated express routes cost about $1 million per year to run and that increased frequency means reduced stop coverage. This was the last month of the current report format. - Meeting Schedule Discussion (7.A): Members reported conflicts with the current Friday noon schedule, including a quarterly Area Transportation Partnership meeting (O'Driscoll) and employment in Austin, Minnesota (Karsner). A member noted that attendance rules do not allow virtual participation except for official CAT business or military service. Members noted the previous 5 p.m. time had low attendance, while the noon time has brought fuller, shorter (about 60-minute) meetings; some members stated evening meetings would be difficult due to family obligations, and one member said they would not attend more than two or three times a year if the schedule did not change. A motion by Jennifer C. Karsner, seconded by Derek S. Aiono, to meet on the second Thursday of each month from 3:30-4:30 p.m. was approved unanimously. - Review of Current Polling Places (7.B): A City Clerk's office representative explained that Rochester has about 40 active polling places, down from 44, partly because a 2025 state law established chain-of-custody requirements for electronic voting equipment that require secure, locked storage; several churches could not guarantee this. Other relocations included Old Fire Hall 2 (temperature and lighting problems, plus safety concerns for voters walking to cars in the dark) and the Olmsted County Historical Society (which charged about three times other sites), consolidated into the Edison Administrative Building. Consolidation also weighed turnout, facility size, parking, and keeping locations within their wards where possible. Committee members expressed concern that voters in precincts 1.3 and 1.4, described as potentially lower-income and higher-density, were reassigned to Sunset Terrace, creating a risk of disenfranchisement for residents without cars. Transit staff noted that some bus routes run every 30 minutes between affected locations and that fares are free for voters on election days. The Clerk's office will incorporate feedback and return in spring 2027 with a more robust resolution, with an eye to 2028. - RPT Financial Outlook, Performance, and Strategic Direction (7.C): Staff reviewed the outlook presented to the City Council in January 2026 and at the August 23 council study session. The transit reserve was $5.3 million; without operational changes, it would be exhausted by 2028. After operations reviews, the projected 2026 drawdown improved from $2.3 million to $0.8 million, but 2027-2028 will be heavy due to replacement of 22 vehicles (9 paratransit and 13 big buses). Staff noted RPT is unusual in relying solely on fares and advertising (about $1.30 per ride) rather than tax dollars. Fixed route needs about $350,000 more revenue to break even, and paratransit's goal is roughly double current performance; August ridership was trending toward a 685 mark against a goal of about 1.2. The reserve depletion timeline is now just under four years (around September 2030) after MnDOT local-share assumptions changed. New operator VIA began September 1 (day 11 at the meeting) and increased ridership in Sioux Falls by 23% in its first year. Partnerships include UMR (student fares covered by UMR, effective the prior week) and Rochester Public Schools (about 1,000-1,200 student rides per month, roughly 40 students, plus 60-80 adult rides per month). Upcoming actions include a December service change returning buses to 2nd Street from Central Park (the top complaint in prior surveys at 75-80%), an advertising RFP approved by the City Council (expanding from 16 wrapped buses out of 51 and one shelter ad), Link BRT in August 2027, and a Transit Development Plan in 2028. Staff explained that MnDOT funding requires replacing 40-foot buses with 40-foot buses and that procurement decisions are made three to five years in advance; on-demand/microtransit is a possible future option beyond three years. Members asked staff to add an educational item on express route options to a future agenda. Key Outcomes - Minutes and agenda approved unanimously. - Meeting schedule changed to the second Thursday of each month, 3:30-4:30 p.m. (motion by Jennifer C. Karsner, seconded by Derek S. Aiono; unanimous). - Staff will add an express route/transit education item to a future agenda. - City Clerk's office will return in spring 2027 with polling place recommendations incorporating CAT feedback. - Meeting adjourned unanimously (motion by Jennifer C. Karsner, seconded by Derek S. Aiono).

Note on Date Discrepancy: The agenda and minutes provided for this meeting list the date as September 22, 2026, but the meeting summary is generated using the date specified in the instruction (September 23, 2026). This discrepancy is noted for accuracy. The Rochester Heritage Preservation Commission met on September 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the Government Center Council Chamber. The meeting included public comments, approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness, discussion of a historic preservation inventory strategy, and updates on public engagement and the Indian Heights Park project. All seven voting members were present; non-voting member Valerie Wassmer was absent. Consent Calendar - Minutes of August 25, 2026: Approved by unanimous consent. Commissioner Koestler questioned the sufficiency of noting "discussions ensued" without details, but staff clarified that recordings serve as the official record. Commissioner Shabel noted that for contested hearings, a written summary of the commission's position should be prepared for city council. Public Comments & Testimony - Barry Skolnick: Requested monthly updates on the Hal Henderson project, noting 4,000 people are interested. He urged the commission to prioritize landmarking and awards over public relations, stating the HPC is the only entity that can do this work and is "woefully behind." He suggested community lecture series are secondary. - Barb Hudson: Asked about the Phase 1 report for Indian Heights Park and whether it is available to commissioners and the public. She inquired about the status of the grant application for a historic designation study, which was denied due to missing cultural information, and asked how the community can help. She requested timelines for local vs. cultural landmark designation and noted a lack of public information on the HPC website. - John Kruesel: Expressed frustration with lack of progress on Indian Heights Park and landmarking, attributing it to city administration not providing the commission with necessary tools. He requested a date-certain action plan for Indian Heights and suggested staff need more resources. He apologized for past remarks about staff member Molly. Discussion Items 5.A. Certificate of Appropriateness – Stopple Farm House - Staff Report (Molly Patterson-Lungren): Presented a COA for rehabilitation of the George Stopple Farmstead at the History Center of Olmsted County. The project includes masonry repointing, window repair/replacement, porch reconstruction, and reversible filling of a cellar stair access. The work is guided by Secretary of Interior Standards and has state funding requiring SHIPO review. Staff recommended approval. - Commission Action: Motion by Commissioner Poirier, seconded by Commissioner Koestler. Approved unanimously (7-0). 5.B. Historic Preservation Inventory Strategy – Commissioner Koestler Proposal - Staff Comments: Patterson-Lungren noted the proposal does not fully align with the UDC process (e.g., ordering of steps, treatment of districts). She provided a red-line version but had not discussed it with Commissioner Koestler due to scheduling and her hospitalization. She suggested the prioritization portion could be adopted informally, but formal adoption requires resolving conflicts. - Commissioner Koestler: Explained the proposal aims to create a prioritization system for the inventory list, define eligibility reports (currently not in UDC), and set a sustainable timeline for landmarking or removing properties within 10 years. She expressed frustration over nine months without a single landmark designation. She requested that the inventory list and Phase 1 reports be restored to the website, citing accessibility requirements. - Commission Discussion: Several commissioners supported the intent but wanted clarification on UDC conflicts and definitions. Chair Zastrow proposed a working meeting between staff and Commissioner Koestler to refine the proposal before next meeting. Commissioner Shabel suggested the document be non-binding guidelines. Commissioner Mutchler proposed starting with the historical context committee to test the process. No formal action was taken; the proposal will be revised and brought back. 7.A. Public Engagement & Education - Staff Presentation: Patterson-Lungren outlined a three-part program: outward information (e.g., Heritage Preservation Month), sharing stories of local landmarks, and building coalitions with partners like the History Center and library. Director Woodward noted ongoing conversations with city communications to standardize outreach across all boards and commissions. - Commission Feedback: Chair Zastrow emphasized capitalizing on media attention to inform the public and recruit commissioners. Commissioner Shabel suggested partnering with the Rochester Downtown Alliance. Staff will bring back more specifics by the end of the year. 7.B. Updates - Indian Heights Park: Staff reported that the Park Department is working on interpretive signage but the grant for a Dakota cultural eligibility study was denied. Staff will share the grant feedback with commissioners. The indigenous ethnographic study from 2025 is available. Commissioner Mutchler noted the study is linked in the March 4, 2025 Park Board minutes. No firm timeline for next steps. - Inventory List: Updated inventory and landmark lists are now available on the city website. Commissioner Koestler verified the landmark list link works but had difficulty finding the inventory list; staff will provide direct links. - HPC Awards Program: Commissioner Koestler, chair of the committee, had no update due to hospitalization. Key Outcomes - Approved: Certificate of Appropriateness for Stopple Farm House (unanimous). - Deferred: Adoption of Commissioner Koestler's inventory strategy proposal; staff and commissioner will meet to refine and bring revised version to October 27, 2026 meeting. - Continued: Public engagement and education outline to be developed with city communications and partners. - Next Meeting: October 27, 2026, in the City Council Chambers.