23:45The most prominent topic of discussion centered around the proposed changes to Garden Street. Residents had previously voiced concerns about the original plan, which involved the installation of a center median. This layout was criticized for potentially obstructing driveway access and exacerbating snow accumulation issues, which could hinder parking during winter months. During the meeting, residents like West Lud Dragon expressed a preference for bump outs, which they believed would better accommodate the needs of the 19 homes relying on driveway access. Dragon emphasized that the median would become a “snow blockage,” complicating winter navigation.

30:14Lori Ludwig and other residents echoed these sentiments, praising the council’s willingness to reconsider the project after initial feedback seemed overlooked. Ludwig noted that neighborhood residents had conducted door-to-door outreach to gather opinions, revealing widespread opposition to the center median. Another resident, Mary, supported the bump out option, highlighting the heavy traffic and bicycle use on Garden Street. She argued that a median would impede bicyclists and compromise safety, particularly for those without driveway access. Cindy Blick, a long-time area resident, pointed out the lack of crosswalks and expressed that bump outs could help slow traffic near parks.

43:09The council deliberated on various layout options, ultimately favoring option three, which incorporates bump outs at key intersections. The city’s engineering representative explained that bump outs are typically placed in high pedestrian traffic areas, such as near schools and parks, to enhance safety. This design decision was informed by traffic data indicating that Garden Street handles approximately 4,000 vehicles daily, a volume less than that of busier streets like Center Street. Council members considered winter parking concerns, suggesting that parking bans could be limited to snow emergencies, a practice already in place in the downtown area.

The alignment of resident feedback with the council’s decision to proceed with layout option three, excluding bump outs at Fourth North, marked a significant instance of civic engagement influencing municipal decision-making. The council acknowledged the importance of listening to community concerns, reiterating their commitment to adjusting plans in response to resident input.

07:57Beyond the Garden Street discussions, the council approved the vacation of a street right-of-way for GMG Rentals Incorporated. The proposal involved vacating a section of 16th North Street, which GMG Rentals aims to develop. Utility companies affected by this decision, including the electric department and Comcast, raised no objections. The council approved the request unanimously, subject to the preparation and filing of a vacation plat, a $2,090 fee, and notification regarding utility relocation costs.

13:22The council also granted a conditional use permit for a special purpose fence at the National Guard Readiness Center. This permit allows the installation of a seven-foot chain-link fence topped with barbed wire, consistent with previous military installation approvals. The Planning Commission’s recommendation for approval with specific conditions was upheld by the council.

15:33In terms of business operations, the council renewed an interim use permit for a gunsmithing business on North Washington Street. The business had operated without complaints since its initial permit in 2020, and the council approved the continuation for five years under similar conditions.

21:32Infrastructure projects received attention as well. The council awarded a contract to Mr. Paving and Excavating for the 2025 airport apron expansion and airfield pavement maintenance project. Although the bid exceeded the engineer’s estimate, federal and state funding will cover significant portions of the costs. Similarly, a contract for the 2025 airport fuel system replacement project was awarded, focusing on site work for the fuel system.

56:33The council addressed cannabis regulations by adopting ordinance number 2025-99, which governs cannabis licensing, including the number of licenses, fees, and operating hours for events. The council also established fund 254 for local affordable housing aid.

01:01:15Finally, a joint powers agreement with the Port Authority of St. Paul was approved, allowing River Haven to secure a loan for clean energy construction through the Minnesota Property Assessed Clean Energy program. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss offers for the city’s purchase of real property.