One of notable topics was the proposal from Brickmore Property Group to fill the long-vacant former Rainbow Foods space with a new grocery store. Lauren Robinson, a Project Director with Brickmore, described progress made in collaboration with city staff, particularly regarding the facade improvements and site upgrades. The new tenant, Super Marcato Lomma Bonita, a family-owned Hispanic grocery chain, plans to establish a full-scale grocery store in Richfield. Robinson highlighted that Lomma Bonita has four existing locations in the Twin Cities and views Richfield as an ideal market for their expansion.

Robinson discussed changes in the development schedule and budget, explaining that while they initially aimed for a late-year opening, the timeline has shifted due to various site improvements and other approvals. The projected budget for the project has increased from $3.6 million to approximately $4.2 million, reflecting new compliance measures and upgrades to the property. These upgrades include improved entry islands off of 66th Street, landscaping enhancements, and the installation of bike racks and a pedestrian walkway from the bus stop to the grocery entry.

There was extensive dialogue among council members regarding traffic flow and parking lot connections. Concerns were raised about the connection between the grocery store parking lot and the mall parking lot. Robinson responded that the design aims to create a holistic center approach, allowing for flexibility in parking between the two lots. Additionally, the incorporation of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations was discussed, with Robinson stating that Brickmore supports the initiative and has engaged with third-party providers to explore installation options.

The council also deliberated on the public safety budget, highlighting the need for additional staffing to support both traditional policing and alternative response programs. The proposed budget included the addition of two police officer positions, which sparked debate among council members. Some members supported the addition, stressing the importance of maintaining adequate staffing levels for public safety. However, concerns were raised about the feasibility of filling these new positions, especially since there are currently unfilled roles within the department.

One council member articulated apprehensions about the implications of adding these positions in light of existing vacancies, questioning whether the city could realistically hire for these new roles. There was also a broader concern regarding budget allocations, as public safety funding has been increasing disproportionately compared to other departments. Another council member acknowledged the necessity of police officers but also called for a balanced approach, suggesting that more of the overall budget increase be directed towards alternative response programs, community service officers (CSOs), and crime prevention efforts.

The meeting included input from a social worker embedded in the police department, who shared insights about the necessity of police presence during calls, citing instances where the absence of officers could have resulted in dangerous situations. This comment illustrated the complex dynamics at play between traditional policing and alternative response models. The Chief of Police provided an update on recruitment efforts.

The city’s 2023 annual financial audit was another major topic of discussion. The audit, conducted by Bergen KDV, resulted in an unmodified audit opinion, the highest level of assurance regarding the city’s financial statements. The audit revealed that the city’s general fund experienced an increase in its total fund balance, which rose by just under $500,000, reaching nearly $11.5 million, representing approximately 40% of the general fund expenditures based on 2023 spending levels. Revenues increased by $1.3 million, driven by property taxes and miscellaneous revenues, while licenses and permits saw a decrease due to reduced building activity.

Expenditures for the general fund rose by 5.6%, driven by salary increases across departments and specific equipment purchases in the fire department and recreation services. The discussion also covered tax capacity rates, enterprise funds such as the liquor fund and the water and sewer utility fund, and a broader analysis comparing Richfield’s financial metrics against statewide averages.

The council also celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month with a proclamation recognizing the period from September 15 to October 15, 2024. Miguel Hernandez, representing the Hispanic community, expressed gratitude for the proclamation and dedicated it to his parents, emphasizing the importance of heritage, culture, and the immigrant experience in shaping Richfield. He highlighted the contributions of Hispanic business leaders and their role in mentoring and supporting the community.

The meeting concluded with various administrative matters, including budgetary resolutions and labor agreements. The council adopted the proposed budget and tax levy for the upcoming year, as well as authorized budget revisions for various departments. Additionally, a contract with Teamsters Local 320 regarding the lieutenants’ bargaining unit for January 1, 2024, through December 31, 2025, was approved, which included wage adjustments and increased vacation sell-back hours.