The council approved Resolution 2813 for the preliminary plat and Public Utility Board plan concerning Hardwood Estates’ second subdivision. This development involves 27 single-family home lots, responding to the current demand for such housing in the area. The Economic Development Authority (EDA) is prepared to advance this phase, having received a recommendation from the planning commission. The council’s discussion highlighted the exclusion of twin homes due to insufficient market interest. A motion to approve the resolution was passed without opposition.

Amidst the council’s agenda, public concerns about noise pollution from the Cannon Valley Fairgrounds were raised. Jan Fenner, a concerned resident, addressed the council, citing potential violations of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s noise area classifications. Fenner argued that the activities at the fairgrounds, including go-kart racing and motocross, generate noise levels that may exceed residential standards if audible from nearby homes. She emphasized the city’s responsibility to regulate land use activities to comply with state noise standards. The council acknowledged these concerns and is expected to consider them in future discussions on zoning amendments with the Cannon Valley Fair Board.

In other community matters, David Kajawa from Three Rivers presented an overview of services for older adults in Cannon Falls. He detailed the nonprofit’s initiatives, such as the chore and homemaker program and Meals on Wheels service, and introduced a new caregiver respite program designed to provide needed breaks for caregivers. Kajawa highlighted a seasonal increase in requests for assistance, particularly for yard work and in-home cleaning, and made an appeal for volunteers to support these efforts. Flyers with contact information were offered to those interested in volunteering or needing services.

The meeting also reviewed various items under the consent agenda, including adjustments to claims, meeting minutes, hiring authorizations, and amendments to agreements. Notably, an amendment to an escrow agreement increased the threshold from $30,000 to $100,000, intended to streamline approvals for significant projects by covering anticipated expenses and staff reimbursements more efficiently.

Updates from the city’s finance committee included a review of the senior center’s funding request and a detailed breakdown of the budget process. The committee emphasized the importance of aligning budget development with city priorities to ensure effective resource allocation. This approach aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of the budget structure as the process progresses.

The council was informed of several ongoing projects, including the near completion of the 23-24 street project and the active construction phase of Hardwood Estates. The rapid pace of development in the housing market was an unexpected yet welcome indicator of local economic vitality.

Library updates included the progress of the Integrated Library System (ILS) migration, which experienced some delays due to the switch to a new service requiring FCC approval. Despite these challenges, the process is expected to be completed by July 1. Residents were reminded to update their email information to receive notifications, and a new library catalog URL was announced.

Further community engagement was encouraged through the summer reading program, “Read Around the World in 80 Days,” which will begin next Tuesday. The program is open to all ages, featuring reading challenges and activities aimed at promoting literacy and community involvement.

The meeting also included discussions on upcoming tree care initiatives, with Warrior Tree Care set to remove 17 dead ash trees, and a coordinated effort with MDOT to apply permanent striping on Fourth Street. Clarifications were sought regarding parking lot striping near the winery, which requires further coordination with service providers.

The Chief of Police provided details about the Memorial Day parade, reassuring residents that street closures would not be necessary and traffic would be managed with a rolling roadblock. This approach aims to minimize disruptions while ensuring public safety during the event.

In staffing matters, the council approved the hiring of a licensed permit technician to handle zoning and licensing tasks, including mobile food units and farmers markets. Additionally, three new firefighters were introduced, including the city’s first female firefighter.