Public Meetings - Shakopee, Minnesota

The Shakopee City Council held a regular meeting on April 1, 2025 at City Hall. The agenda included a consent agenda with routine items, public comments regarding Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters, a removed consent item for the Palomino Trail final plat, and a recess for the Economic Development Authority (EDA) meeting. Key topics included health concerns about utility meters, approval of a 83-lot subdivision, updates on the Foundry entrepreneur program, and preliminary plans for Canterbury Park area development. Consent Calendar - 5.a: 2024 Year-end General Fund Transfers and Assignment of Fund Balance - 5.b: Joint Powers Agreement for Roadway Pavement Maintenance - 5.c: Hiring of Park Foreperson - Public Works - 5.d: Park Restroom Cleaning Contract - 5.e: State legislation on Revoking City Zoning Authority and Public Participation in Zoning Decisions under the guise of Affordable Housing Legislation (approved a resolution of opposition) - 5.f: Change Orders for Windermere Park Submitted by Loeffler - 5.g: Approve the City Council Meeting Minutes - 5.h: Accept Donation from Shakopee Youth Baseball Association (Resolution R2025-044) Public Comments & Testimony - David and Jeannie Gavin, residents of 613 Fourth Avenue East, spoke against the mandatory installation of AMI meters by Shakopee Public Utilities. They cited health concerns from radio frequency radiation, a medical necessity letter from their physician, and questioned the utility's authority. They requested: (1) allow customers to keep analog meters, (2) notify customers of this option, (3) suspend penalties threatened (a $100/month fine for three months then service shutoff), (4) the council to investigate and compel policy changes. - Council members and staff discussed the utility's three offered options (outside meter installation, trenching to the alley) and the utility board's decision. Attorney Thompson will research the council's legal jurisdiction over the utility's actions. The council will report back. Discussion Items - Palomino Trail Final Plat (Item 5.i) – Councilor Whitney requested this item be removed from consent for discussion. Staff presented the plat: 83 single-family lots on 31.77 acres west of Windermere Way and south of Highway 169. Key discussion points included: trail easements along the bluff (two lots affected), stormwater management via a natural ravine, connections to the city trail system, and lot shapes. The council approved Resolution R2025-045 approving the final plat, with conditions that the trail and stormwater concerns be addressed. Economic Development Authority Meeting - The City Council recessed to hold the EDA meeting. The EDA approved its consent agenda (minutes and bill list). - Entrepreneur Program Update – The Foundry program now has 35 members, approximately 50% female and 50% male founders. New companies added: Hardcore Peanut Butter (developing allergen-free peanut butter), Heart Glass (women's swimwear), NOL (patented swaddling product), and Michela Mancini (industrial design with manufacturing help). Success stories: Steelhead Outdoors (product in Scheels, seeking larger space), Mommy Solutions (healthcare startup of the year), Pelva Health (raised $500,000). The program will partner with Beta Minnesota, the state accelerator, to provide pitch workshops and access to startup events. - Canterbury Southeast Village Development – Staff presented conceptual plans for a 28-acre area south of the amphitheater, owned by the EDA. Proposed uses include a new-to-market hotel, entertainment venue, housing, and retail/restaurants with an urban streetscape. Live Nation and Canterbury are cooperating. A feasibility study will be conducted, funded from Canterbury TIF administrative dollars. Hotel demand survey indicates potential for 4,000 room nights from local employers and amphitheater attendees. The EDA will bring a proposal back for council action. Key Outcomes - Council directed legal counsel to investigate the city's jurisdiction over Shakopee Public Utilities' AMI meter decisions and report back at a future meeting. - Approved the final plat of Palomino Trail (Resolution R2025-045). - EDA will proceed with soliciting proposals for a feasibility study on the Canterbury Southeast Village development. - Council adjourned to April 15, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of discussions, decisions, or public comments can be generated.

The Shakopee Planning Commission held a regular meeting on March 7, 2025, at 7:05 PM at City Hall. The commission addressed several land-use items including a rezoning for a Metropolitan Council sewer venting facility, annexation and zoning of Jackson Township properties, and a preliminary plat for a new subdivision. Key decisions included unanimous approval of the rezoning, continuation of the annexation public hearing, and a recommendation to deny the preliminary plat due to insufficient information. Consent Calendar - Minutes from January 2025: Approved with one abstention (Commissioner Robbins, who was not present in January). Election of Officers for 2025 - Chair: Josh Forsythe re-elected. - Vice Chair: Commissioner Sandu elected. - Second Vice Chair: Commissioner Redding elected (after initial nominee Commissioner Robbins was ineligible due to less than one full year of service). Public Hearings & Testimony Item 6b – Rezoning 6100 Co Rd 101 E (B-1 to I-2) - No public testimony was offered. The applicant (Metropolitan Council) described the project: a sewer air venting and treatment system to mitigate pipe corrosion and odors. The system will be partially solar-powered, with no on-site employees. Item 6c – Annexation, Zoning, and MUSA Amendment (Jackson Township Properties) - Cheryl Weber (property owner on 125th Street) expressed opposition, stating the 2040 Comprehensive Plan shows her area as green space, annexation would increase taxes without benefits (no new services), and residents do not want to be forced out. - Mary Zilgy (Melcher family) voiced concerns about environmental impact on wildlife (deer, fox, owls, turkeys, coyotes) and fear that utility lines through their property would harm the wooded area. She asked that her elderly parents be allowed to remain. - Frank Weber (husband of Cheryl) stated he was told property taxes would increase 250% with no new services, and questioned why the city cannot leave their properties as an island like other unannexed parcels. - Commissioners asked staff about tax impact estimates and alternative utility routes; staff indicated those details would be provided at the continued hearing. Item 6d – Preliminary Plat of Richland Court - Brian Mont (adjacent property owner) criticized the neighborhood meeting held on New Year’s Eve at 7:00 PM, stating it was poorly attended and rushed. He argued that 10 homes are too dense for the area (previous approval was for 6 lots), and expressed concerns about drainage impacts on his yard and downstream properties. - Mark Boldwin stated the proposed homes (15 feet apart, $500,000-$600,000) do not fit the neighborhood character of larger luxury homes and raised traffic concerns. - Cindy Mont said she had fought earlier proposals and believed the property was limited to 5 or 6 lots. She argued the developer bought the property knowing the previous density limits and should not now request more. - John Green asked for clarification on how a 6-lot approval was possible in 2012 under the same zoning, suggesting missing information. - Applicant Matt Loger acknowledged the neighborhood meeting was poorly timed but said he was trying to meet city timelines. He stated he would consider building fewer homes. Discussion Items Item 6b – Rezoning to Heavy Industry (I-2) - Staff explained the 5.86-acre site at 6100 County Road 101 E is currently zoned Highway Business (B-1) but guided by the 2040 Comprehensive Plan for industrial use. The rezoning brings it into compliance. The Metropolitan Council plans to install a sewer air venting and treatment system, with structures up to 20 feet tall. No variances are anticipated. The commission asked why I-2 was needed when utility uses are permitted in B-1; staff cited comprehensive plan consistency and site constraints (shoreland overlay, utility corridors). All commissioners expressed satisfaction after applicant clarified the project’s purpose. Item 6c – Annexation and Zoning - Staff presented the proposal to annex 11 parcels (61 acres) north of County State Aid Highway 78, zone them Agricultural Preservation (AP), and amend the Metropolitan Urban Service Area (MUSA) to allow development. The annexation is the final step in Area A of the 2002/2018 Orderly Annexation Agreement with Jackson Township. The public hearing was opened but not closed; the commission voted unanimously to continue it to April 3, 2025, to allow more time for information gathering and resident input. Item 6d – Richland Court Preliminary Plat - The proposal is for 10 single-family lots on 4.38 acres (net density 3.62 acres after excluding stormwater and wetland outlots, meeting the R1B requirement of 3–5 units per net acre). Staff noted the site has a long history: rezoned to R1B in 2006, a 6-lot preliminary plat approved in 2012 (not finalized), and numerous extensions. The current applicant seeks 10 lots to cover road improvements and Scott County access requirements. Commissioners debated the conflict between the zoning (which allows 10 lots) and neighborhood character. Several commissioners expressed discomfort with the rushed neighborhood meeting and insufficient information about why 6 lots were previously acceptable. After discussion, the commission voted 6-0 to recommend denial of Resolution R2025-003 to the City Council, citing insufficient information to make an informed decision. Commissioner Robbins noted they were not acting vindictively but needed more data on density reduction options and Metropolitan Council flexibility. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved (January 2025 minutes). - Elections: Chair – Josh Forsythe; Vice Chair – Commissioner Sandu; Second Vice Chair – Commissioner Redding. - Rezoning (Item 6b): Motion to approve ordinance 02025-007 (rezone 6100 Co Rd 101 E from B-1 to I-2) passed 6-0. Forwarded to City Council for March 18, 2025 meeting. - Annexation (Item 6c): Public hearing opened and continued to April 3, 2025 Planning Commission meeting. No action on merits. - Preliminary Plat (Item 6d): Motion to recommend denial of Resolution R2025-003 (Richland Court preliminary plat) passed 6-0. Forwarded to City Council with the recommendation. The commission cited insufficient information, particularly regarding density alternatives and legal implications. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:30 PM, with next regular meeting scheduled for April 3, 2025 at 7:00 PM. Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting occurred on March 6, 2025, but the user instruction specified the date as March 7, 2025. This summary uses the provided date per instruction.

The Shakopee Board of Adjustment and Appeals held a regular meeting on Thursday, March 6, 2025, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting covered routine approvals, the election of officers for 2025, and adjournment. Consent Calendar - Minutes from January 2025: The board approved the minutes from the January meeting. Commissioners Sandu, Ranowa, and Sapova abstained, as they were not present at the January meeting. The motion passed with the remaining commissioners voting in favor. Discussion Items - Election of Officers for 2025: The board elected officers for the year. Ashley Sapulvegal (Commissioner Sapova) was nominated and unanimously approved to continue as Chair. Commissioner Ranowa was nominated and unanimously approved as Vice Chair. Commissioner Weiler was nominated and unanimously approved as Second Vice Chair. Key Outcomes - Approved Minutes: The January 2025 minutes were approved with three abstentions. - Elected Officers: Chair – Ashley Sapulvegal, Vice Chair – Commissioner Ranowa, Second Vice Chair – Commissioner Weiler. All elections were unanimous. - Next Meeting: The board adjourned to the next regular meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 2025, at 7:00 PM.

The Shakopee Economic Development Authority (EDA) held its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting consisted of routine approvals including the agenda, consent business (meeting minutes), and the EDA bill list, followed by adjournment to the next regular meeting. Consent Calendar - The EDA approved the agenda on a motion by Mr. Larkin, seconded by Mr. Jelaney, with all in favor. - The consent business, which included approval of the EDA meeting minutes from the last meeting, was approved on a motion and second, with all in favor. Reports - EDA Bill List: No questions were raised, and the list was acknowledged without further action. Key Outcomes - The EDA approved the agenda and consent business unanimously. - A motion to adjourn to April 1, 2025, at 7:00 PM was made, seconded by Mayor Lehman, and approved unanimously.

The Shakopee City Council held a regular meeting on March 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting included approval of a consent agenda, public comment, and discussion of two major items: an update on the US 169 Safe Road Zones study and an amendment to the Bluff View Planned Unit Development (PUD). The council also received reports from liaisons and addressed other business. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda en bloc, including: Wetland Replacement Plan for CSAH 78 and CH 79 Roundabout Improvement Project; Certification of Delinquent Sewer and Storm Drainage Accounts; 3-Year Renewal for Esri Software Licenses; City Council Meeting Minutes; Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources' Environmental and Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant Application; Purchase of refrigerated evidence locker; Change Order for CIP Project BA24-004 (PW LED Lighting Conversion); Purchase of 2 Modular Vehicle Barrier Trailers with Modular Vehicle Barriers; Update of a Gambling Premises Permit for the Shakopee Trap Club. Public Comments & Testimony - A representative from the Canterbury Crossings HOA board addressed the council about two issues in their neighborhood: (1) vehicles parking inside a city-owned roundabout/cul-de-sac, causing confusion and damage, and (2) a request for crosswalks near a bus stop at the entrance. The representative asked for "No Parking" signage or removal of the interior curb to deter parking. The mayor recommended referring the matter to the Traffic Safety Committee (Traffic Review Board) for further study, noting that the undeveloped parcel nearby will eventually become a four-story cooperative building with on-site parking. The resident agreed to send staff a photo of the interior curb. Discussion Items 10.a US 169 Safe Road Zones Study Update - Staff provided an update on a $92,000 education grant and a $52,800 enforcement grant (originally requested $26,000, doubled due to low applicant interest). The grants, awarded by the Minnesota Department of Transportation and Department of Public Safety, must be spent by June 30, 2025. - The project focuses on US 169 from County Road 69 to the Bloomington Ferry Bridge, which carries 50,000 vehicles per day. Crash data from 2019-2023 showed 640 total crashes (1 fatal, 9 serious injury, 62 minor injury). Police responded to over 2,400 incidents along US 169 in 2023; fire responded to nearly 80. - The education component will fund a traffic safety study to analyze crash causes (e.g., pavement condition, winter ice buildup) and a public awareness campaign targeting speed and distraction. Enforcement efforts have already resulted in 310 traffic stops (190 for speed) since August 2024, spending $15,000. - The safety analysis will be completed within 2 months, with final recommendations to inform MnDOT's 2028 pavement rehabilitation project. Council members expressed support and noted interest in specific ramp issues (e.g., Marshall Road off-ramp). 10.b Amendment of PUD 10 (Bluff View) & Amendment of Preliminary Plat of Bluff View Addition - The applicant, Summergate Development (DR Horton), proposed amending the previously approved 2022 PUD and preliminary plat to include more diverse lot sizes: 247 single-family lots, with 118 at 42 feet wide (for slab-on-grade homes in the low $400,000s) and 52-foot lots for villa products. The original plan had larger lots. - The project is the final phase of the Windermere neighborhood, adjacent to a city-owned bluff area. The developer will donate 24 acres of bluff open space, plus the city already acquired additional bluff land. A trail system is planned. Staff recommended approval. - Councillor Whiting expressed concern that the new layout encroached on the bluff and did not align with the original vision of a public boulevard along the bluff. Staff clarified that the homes are on flat land, not in the bluff, and the city retains significant open space and trail access. After discussion, the council voted to approve both the PUD amendment (ordinance O2025-001) and the preliminary plat amendment (resolution R2025-004). Both votes passed unanimously (5-0). Reports - Councillor Delaney reported on MLC leadership training, attending a mental health wellness fair, and plans for a 169 river crossing coalition meeting. Also noted SPU's AMI meter installation progress (200 electric meters installed, 760 remaining; 1,900 water meters remaining). - Councillor Whiting reported on MVTA's County Road 42 bus rapid transit study, which concluded low potential for Shakopee except a possible extension to Mystic Lake Casino. Also discussed STA efforts to become a direct recipient of federal transit funds. - Councillor Contreras mentioned an upcoming event on Friday. - Councillor Lara congratulated Shakopee High School boys hockey team on making state tournament for the first time in 20 years. - Mayor Lehman reported meeting with local business owners about the Hub, attending a Southern Valley Alliance presentation, and an intergovernmental working group meeting. - City Bill List (11.a) was approved without comment. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - US 169 Safe Road Zones Study: Staff will continue the study and report back with findings and recommendations within 2 months. - Bluff View PUD amendment (O2025-001) approved unanimously (5-0). - Bluff View preliminary plat amendment (R2025-004) approved unanimously (5-0). - Meeting adjourned to March 18, 2025 at 7:00 PM.

The Shakopee City Council met on February 18, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The meeting included special presentations, approval of a lengthy consent agenda, discussion of a removed development item, and reports on finances and parks and recreation. Special Presentations - 2024 Officer of the Year: Chief Tate presented Officer Seth Perrier with the award. Perrier received five peer nominations; highlights included treating people with respect and dignity, proactive policing leading to recovery of over $1,500 in pills, an AK-47, and a handgun. An email from a domestic situation victim praised his compassion. - Emergency Management Director Certificate: Captain Tim Nordstrom received the director practitioner certificate from Minnesota HSEM. The certificate requires over 100 hours of training; combined with a basic certificate, nearly 1,000 hours of personnel time. This supports transitioning emergency management from police to fire department. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved as amended with removal of item 6H (Bluffview PUD amendment). Items included: - 6A: Declare surplus equipment - 6B: Purchase of multiple trucks for public works, street park & facilities, and engineering - 6C: Monthly financial report for January 2025 - 6D: Approve plans and bidding for downtown ADA lighting and tree rehab (Phase 2) - 6E: Cannabis business licensing act? (mentioned but not detailed) - 6F: Ice resurfacer vehicle replacement - 6G: 2025 tree purchase orders - 6I: Cooperative agreement with Scott County for trail preventive maintenance - 6J: Cellular dialer and fire panel upgrades - 6M: DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant application - 6N: MPCA Implementation Grant for Community Resilience application - 6O: MPCA Planning Grant award - 6P: Engagement with CUTAC Rock for Economic Development and Bonding Council - 6Q: Approve meeting minutes - 6R: Consumption and display permit renewals for 2025 - 6S: Accept deed and approve right-of-way maintenance agreement (1030 Cubasu Avenue) - 6T: Appointments to boards and commissions - 6U: Purchase agreement for signal cabinet (Veerling Drive & Heather Street) - 6V: Contract with SEH for Condro Survey Fort Ruby River City Center - 6W: Amend 457 plan to include part-time fire truck fighters - 6X: DNR Legacy Expedited Project Grant award Business Removed from Consent Agenda - Item 6H – Bluffview PUD Amendment and Preliminary Plat: Councilmember Whiting removed this item. He expressed concern that the development uses the bluff line for backyards rather than preserving it for public view as previously discussed. Staff (Mr. Kerskey) presented maps showing the city will acquire bluff area parkland and a trail system. The proposal includes 247 single-family homes on narrower lots (some <60 ft wide) with 6-ft setbacks (vs. 7.5 ft required). Developer representative (Brian Tucker, Summergate) and builder (Mike Sewell, D.R. Horton) described three housing types: two-story traditional ($650-700k), freedom one-level (mid-$500s), and new cottage homes with one-car garage ($425k) or two-car garage ($475k). Council discussed affordability, land costs, and the balance between development rights and public access. Councilmember Lara made a motion to approve; Councilmember Whiting voiced disappointment and declined to support. City Administrator Reynolds advised tabling to allow a full council vote and prepare findings if needed. Motion was withdrawn; a motion to table to March 4, 2025 passed unanimously. Discussion Items - 9A – Monthly Financial Report (December 2024 Preliminary): Finance Director Reinhardt presented preliminary general fund results. Revenues at 110% of budget (+$3.7M), expenditures at 99% (under budget by $257,000). Net positive of $3.5M, expected to decrease slightly. Revenue highlights: property taxes exceeded due to TIF decertification and elimination of flight tax abatement; building permits for 12 commercial, 1 apartment, 63 townhomes, 271 single-family homes with total value of $322M (compared to $45M in previous year); investment earnings of $2.6M plus unrealized gain of $1.6M (total $4.2M). Expenditure notes: compensated absences liability increased by $786K due to new GASB standard and public safety staffing changes (expected one-time). Six departments slightly over budget (<1%). City likely has $2-2.6M available for one-time capital needs. Fund balance policy maintenance would require $1.3M reserve set-aside. - 9B – Parks and Recreation 2024 Annual Report: New Director presented department purpose, structure, and achievements. Key points: - Staff restructuring: Part-time fitness coordinator became full-time fitness supervisor; part-time recreation coordinator became full-time recreation specialist; new community outreach coordinator hired. - Operating cost recovery: 50% in 2024 (below historical 75% due to Sand Venture pool closure). Midwest average increase in expenses: Shakopee significantly lower than average. - Initiated CAPRA accreditation process (only 5 Minnesota cities accredited: Minneapolis, St. Paul, Rochester, Roseville). Currently in self-assessment phase; target hearing September 2026. - Community Center: Membership packages stable; indoor playground usage dropped after price increase (later reduced). Ice Arena visits increased year-over-year; summer 2025 has 18 tournaments booked (up from 13-14). Ice capacity nearly full. - Programs: Registrations increased across all categories. Summer day camp expanded to 10 weeks (95% filled in 2024). Aquatics lessons up despite Sand Venture closure. Special events: Happy Birthday America Parade (sponsored by Lions for 40+ years), Holiday Mini Golf (120 participants, added sensory-friendly session), Halloween event (free, at Huber Park). - Parks: First full year of dedicated pickleball at Lions Park; disc golf course renovation led to 8,200 rounds played (32 states represented). Park shelter rentals slight decrease due to floods. - Goals for 2025: Complete CAPRA self-assessment, revamp scholarship program, new cardio equipment, fitness court programming, and Sand Venture Aquatic Park reopening June 6, 2025. - Liaison Reports: - Councilmember Lara: Attended Main Street breakfast; chamber updates and lighting project discussion. - Councilmember Whiting: No reports. - Councilmember Delaney (SPU): Over 18,000 electrical units installed (2,000 remaining); solar access charge BIP review upcoming; met with GM on water treatment, AMI, solar. - Councilmember Delaney (169 Coalition): Attended Transportation Day at Capitol; advocated for bridge lighting, funding gap for Highway 13, BRT study (55 to 41 funded?); groundbreaking for 282/169 interchange in April; met with Commissioner Brennan on Marshall Road project and river crossing capacity. - Mayor Lehman: MLC breakfast (housing topic); met with residents on smart meter opt-out; met with Scott County on Marshall Road statistics and river crossing capacity—emphasized need for regional planning. - Administrator Reynolds: - Update on 169 study: kickoff occurred; detailed presentation planned for March 4, 2025. - Awards: Police Department received Commissioner's Circle of Excellence Award for Scott County Coordinated Response Program. - AGC Bridge Construction Award for pedestrian bridge over US 169; logo lighting delayed due to bureaucracy. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved as amended (all items except 6H). - Item 6H (Bluffview PUD) tabled to March 4, 2025, after motion was withdrawn due to potential 2-2 vote and need for full council. - Monthly financial report received and noted; staff will return with plan for excess funds. - Parks and Recreation annual report received with commendations. - Meeting adjourned at conclusion of business, with next regular meeting scheduled for March 4, 2025 at 7:00 PM.

The Shakopee City Council held a regular meeting and then recessed into the Shakopee Economic Development Authority (EDA). The agenda and transcript identify the meeting date as February 4, 2025, while the provided timestamp for these materials is 2025-02-06 13:00 UTC; this summary follows the supplied date. No official minutes were provided. The council approved an amended consent agenda, heard public comment, received a strategic plan update, discussed pawn shop fees and e-bike/motorized bicycle rules, and adjourned to February 18, 2025. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved, and item 10C, "Amend the Shakopee City Code by adding section 130.23 prohibiting camping on city-owned property and street right-of-way," was moved to the consent agenda. - The council approved the consent agenda by voice vote, including: declaring property and one vehicle surplus; LED lighting upgrades; a special event permit and temporary liquor license for the Shakopee Chamber & Visitors Bureau; plans/bidding for the Stagecoach Road Improvement Project and 2025 Pavement Rehabilitation Project; Kimley-Horn design services for Old Carriage Court; CTI council chambers broadcast equipment; the FEMA SAFER grant application; the Department of Energy Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant Award; the 2025 SCADA System Expansion; a fee schedule modification; the Scott County roundabout agreement; hiring a Community Outreach Coordinator at grade 160, step 4; gambling permits for the Shakopee Trap Club and AMVETS Post 1; and the camping prohibition amendment. - No items were removed from the consent agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Kayla Dornfeld and Tiffany Klingenberg, from Eagle Creek Boulevard addresses, described an informal, unfiled homeowners association created to maintain a shared private hill road serving about 10 homes. They said the association has no money, no legal documentation, and the city does not maintain the street or provide streetlights/plowing. They asked whether the city could take over the road or provide options. Staff responded that the road is private, no city utilities exist there, and extending sewer would be very expensive. Council members suggested searching title/county records, seeking legal counsel, and possibly petitioning for an improvement/assessment process. - Alex Averill, 395 Columbine Lane, asked about tree replanting after tree removals. Staff said removals include emerald ash borer-related safety work and a pruning contract is underway; a staff contact would provide replanting information. No action was taken. Economic Development Authority (EDA) Recess Meeting - The EDA approved its agenda and consent business. - Lease approvals by voice vote: - Bill Creek Boutique Fashion LLC (the former Z Dress space): one-year lease at $23,760. - Yummy Bites (Minneapolis coffee and treats shop): five-year lease with a starting annual rent of $39,060, one month free rent, an annual rent increase of $0.50 per square foot thereafter, and a five-year renewal option. The staff narrative described the lease as $18 per square foot with February and March rent-free, and also mentioned a "50% increase," while the approved motion specified $0.50 per square foot annually; the transcript contains this discrepancy. - Yummy Bites owners, a family originally from Iraq, described their late-night dessert/coffee concept, typical hours of 1 p.m. to midnight, and a planned opening after Ramadan, around mid-to-late April. - West-end land development/Cherney property disposition: staff presented an informational plan for the EDA to buy back an unused portion of the former Cherney property and resell it to a developer for a new industrial building. Staff estimated the market value at about $175,000 per acre, with roughly $100,000 in proceeds returning to the EDA real estate fund after the buyback. No formal action was taken; staff said it would return with a formal contract. Discussion Items 2025 City of Shakopee Strategic Plan Report - The city administrator reviewed the council-developed strategic plan, originally intended to run through 2024 and about 75% complete. COVID and missing baseline data on public events limited full implementation. - Financial stability: the city met the inflation-matching tax-rate goal every year from 2020 to 2024; adopted a long-term financial plan integrated into the budget since 2022; and increased non-property tax general fund revenue to nearly 50% of the fund. - Community strengths: average median income increased 18.2% by 2024; the economic assistance wage threshold was raised to at least $28/hour; achieved hourly wage was reported at $41.23; hotel average daily rate reached $104, though overnight stays have not fully recovered; event attendance data remains difficult to measure. Staff also noted 2024 was the city's lowest crime rate ever. - Effective public services: staff turnover excluding retirees was 6.4%, and under 10% including retirees; 60% of supervisor selections were internal candidates (target 50%); staffing studies were completed in 2022 and 2024; a 15-year infrastructure CIP was developed in 2023; staffing-level reviews continue for parks/recreation and public works. The only plan item not started was developing impact review processes to evaluate program effectiveness. - Communications: website translation and ADA upgrades, a strategic communications plan, and new branding were implemented. Survey results showed a 5% increase in confidence in city government and a 15% increase in the public's opinion of the city's image. Councilmember Contreras praised the communications work, especially without a local newspaper. - No formal action was taken; the report was presented for information and discussion. Pawn Shop Fees Discussion - Staff reported the fee is $1.50 per pawn transaction and has not changed for at least 20 years. Comparable city fees range from $0.60 to $3.00. In 2024, the city collected $10,942 in transaction fees, while the LeadsOnline monitoring system cost $4,620. Audits of both city pawn shops found no discrepancies. Staff recommended no change at this time. Councilmember Whiting said he was comfortable with the fee as cost recovery rather than a revenue source. No action was taken. E-bikes, Motorized Bicycles, and Foot Scooters - Staff explained state definitions: e-bikes have operable pedals, up to 250W motors, are allowed on trails and sidewalks by state statute, do not require a license, and require riders to be 15 or older. Motorized bicycles/mopeds can reach 30 mph, must be registered, cannot use sidewalks/trails, and require a driver's license/permit and helmet for under-18 riders. Motorized foot scooters can go 15 mph, cannot use sidewalks, require riders to be 12 or older and helmets under 18. - Police have received about six complaints over the summer, mostly about speed, and are conducting school education. Staff have not found other cities with specific ordinances. Council discussed pocket bikes and golf carts; Councilmember Contreras requested more information on golf cart permit rules and age restrictions, and staff agreed to provide it. No ordinance changes were made. Reports - Councilmember Delaney reported on a January 27 school board meeting: a proposal to modify learning structures drew a full house, and the school board delayed the vote until February 10. She also reported on transportation coalition activities, a chamber luncheon, Hockey Day Minnesota, and a public works award. - Councilmember Whiting reported on MVTA: he was elected vice chair; the board discussed a possible 99-year lease/sale of Apple Valley Transit Station property for transit-oriented workforce housing and trolley conversions; and operator awards were presented. - Mayor Lehman reported attending a police department retirement, the chamber event, and a legislative update with Representative Tabke. - The city bill list was presented with no questions. Key Outcomes - Approved the agenda and the amended consent agenda by voice vote, including moving the camping prohibition to consent. - EDA approved two lease agreements by voice vote: Bill Creek Boutique Fashion LLC at $23,760, and Yummy Bites at $39,060 with the terms noted above. - City Council heard the strategic plan report and took no formal action. - City Council took no action on pawn shop fees and no action on e-bike/scooter ordinances; staff will follow up on golf cart permit information. - Council adjourned to February 18, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

The Shakopee Economic Development Authority (EDA) held its regular meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM at City Hall, 485 Gorman Street. The board approved two leases for spaces in River City Centre, discussed a property disposition opportunity involving a parcel adjacent to the Cherney development, and approved the consent agenda and bill list. The meeting adjourned to March 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Agenda and Consent Business: The board approved the agenda and consent business, which included the approval of the previous EDA minutes, via a motion by Mr. Lehman and a second. The motion passed unanimously on a voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Yummy Bites Owners (Ali, Mohammed, and Hamza): The owners, refugees from Iraq who have operated a dessert and coffee shop in Minneapolis, expressed their desire to open a second location in Shakopee. They described their business model—open from 1 PM to midnight (later on weekends), serving sweet treats, milkshakes, flavored lattes, virgin mojitos, and more—and noted they already attract customers from Shakopee and surrounding suburbs. They stated their appreciation for America and the local community. Their presentation included samples for the board. Discussion Items - Lease Approvals for River City Centre (Item 4a): - Z Dress Space (Bill Cree Boutique Fashion LLC): Staff reported that the tenant had already executed the lease, paid the security deposit, and first month’s rent. The lease is for one year at an annual rent of $23,760. The board approved this lease via a motion by Mr. Lehman, seconded, with all in favor. - Yummy Bites (former Shakopee Market/Yummy Bites): A five-year lease with a five-year renewal option at $18 per square foot starting annual rent of $39,060, with one month of free rent (February or March) while preparing the space. Rent will increase by 50 cents per square foot each year. The tenant must use the EDA’s tenant plumber and mechanical contractor; the EDA will install signage. The owners aim to open after Ramadan (mid-to-late April 2025). The board approved via a motion by Mr. Lehman, seconded, all in favor. No opposition was voiced. - Property Disposition Discussion (Item 4b) – West End Land Development: - Staff presented a proposal to subdivide and sell a 4-acre parcel adjacent to the Cherney building (currently owned by Cabot Industries/Cabot Realty, Boston). The EDA would repurchase the land from Cabot at the original sale price ($3 per square foot, or about $150,000/acre) and immediately sell it to a new developer (Trident, who developed across the street) at market rate ($175,000/acre). The net proceeds ($100,000) would go to the EDA’s real estate fund. The developer plans an 81,000-square-foot industrial building for multiple tenants (some already interested). Design would be tilt-up concrete with windows, compatible with the Cherney building. The parcel was originally part of the Cherney abatement agreement but is not needed by Cabot. The board took no action; this was informational only, with a formal contract to be brought later. - EDA Bill List (Item 5a): No questions; approved via consent. Key Outcomes - Lease with Bill Cree Boutique Fashion LLC (Z Dress space): Approved unanimously. - Lease with Yummy Bites: Approved unanimously; opening anticipated April 2025. - Property Disposition: Discussion only; staff to prepare formal contract for future board action. - Adjournment: The board adjourned to March 4, 2025, at 7:00 PM, via motion by Mr. Lara, seconded, all in favor.