Lonsdale City Council Approves Quick Trip Land Sale Amid Community Excitement
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
11/07/2024
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Recording Published:
11/07/2024
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Duration:
32 Minutes
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Rice County
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Towns:
Lonsdale
- Meeting Overview:
The Lonsdale City Council, in their recent meeting on November 7, 2024, approved a purchase agreement for Quick Trip to acquire two parcels of city-owned land for $290,500. This deal, involving a primary store location and an additional parcel for signage, is anticipated to bring economic benefits and development opportunities to the community. The agreement also includes stipulations to ensure neighborhood compatibility and prevent competing fuel businesses on the site for 50 years.
One council member highlighted the financial advantages of the Quick Trip agreement, noting that the sale price exceeded the city’s original purchase costs. Quick Trip’s due diligence included community assessments and aesthetic evaluations to ensure that the proposed development complements the surrounding area. Specific conditions were laid out, such as traffic routing from 15th Avenue or Commerce Drive and no access from Connecticut Drive Southeast.
The council expressed enthusiasm about Quick Trip’s reputation as a good community partner, citing the company’s contributions to local events and parks. The agreement’s acceptance deadline is set for November 16, with no brokers involved in the transaction. The council was aligned in authorizing the sale.
Beyond the Quick Trip agreement, the council focused on the development of approximately two acres of land adjacent to Quick Trip. Interest from various businesses, including senior housing and hotels, was noted. One council member acknowledged Quick Trip’s positive influence, stating, “they’re such a good neighbor,” and praised the progress achieved over the past two years. While concerns about competition affecting local businesses like Jesse Martyr’s were mentioned, the potential enhancement of local services and offerings was underscored.
The conversation also touched on the financial aspects of the land purchase, clarifying that funds were sourced from the police station fund. The council unanimously approved Resolution 2024-47, which facilitated this transaction. The meeting then moved to department reports, where updates on the 2025 million overlay project were provided. Survey work is underway, with plans to present findings at the December meeting. There was mention of collaboration with groundwater modeling consultants for the Wellhead protection plan, which will be submitted to the Department of Health after incorporating council feedback.
Supply chain issues affecting the booster station project were discussed, particularly delays related to the control panel. Construction is expected to begin early next year, contingent on receiving a firm schedule from the contractor. Another department official reported on the recent elections, commending the election team for processing over 2,600 voters, with 2,195 at the Lonsdale precinct.
Expressions of gratitude towards election workers were shared, with a council member commending their exceptional service. The liquor store’s operations were also discussed, including an upcoming holiday wine tasting event. A council member noted a forthcoming Economic Development Authority meeting, while another reflected on the recent election results, candidly expressing disappointment but acknowledging the city’s strong financial standing and potential tax decrease.
Tim Rud
City Council Officials:
Kevin Kodada, Cindy Furrer, Scott Pelava, Brian Wermerskirchen
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
11/07/2024
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Recording Published:
11/07/2024
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Duration:
32 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Rice County
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Towns:
Lonsdale
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