The meeting opened with public input, where several citizens expressed concerns about the Cannon Valley Fair’s request for a text amendment to permit motorized racing within city limits. Paul Anderson, representing a group opposed to the fair’s request, cited multiple issues, including alleged bypassing of city and state regulations by the fair board and racetrack. He emphasized that, as a district fair, the Cannon Valley Fair should not have the same privileges as a county fair. Anderson highlighted noise ordinance violations, which he claimed had been disregarded for most of the year, and referenced a Minnesota Supreme Court case where a city had to compensate a property owner due to decreased property values from noise pollution.

Kurt Basel followed Anderson, reiterating concerns about noise and environmental impacts of the racetrack. Basel criticized the fair board’s assurances about minimal noise, disputing claims made about the types of vehicles allowed on the track. He pointed out that these vehicles possess significant horsepower and can reach high speeds, raising further concerns about their environmental impact. Basel stressed the need for the city to enforce noise regulations and questioned whether similar projects would be considered in other parts of town, underscoring that residents in urban expansion areas should not be treated differently.

During council business, the discussion on the Cannon Valley Fair’s application was a focal point. A council member pointed out the need for a resolution from the entire fair board rather than a single representative, highlighting the risk involved in making a decision without proper authority from the fair board. The council debated whether to table the application or follow the Planning and Zoning commission’s recommendation for a vote. The consensus leaned towards tabling the application to give the fair board time to formalize their decision and documentation. Subsequently, the council voted to table the application.

Attention then shifted to the Beth Rock Church’s application for a zoning text amendment. The church sought to amend the zoning code to permit religious institutions in the B2 District through a conditional use permit (CUP). The Planning Commission had already recommended approval of this amendment. A council member expressed gratitude for the thorough preparation provided by staff regarding the zoning regulations and surrounding community practices. With no discussion against the application, a council member moved to approve the text amendment, mentioning the positive public input received. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

The meeting proceeded with reports on various projects. A council member reported on the Joint Powers Trail Board meetings, noting ongoing discussions about slope failures and project repairs, along with a grant application aimed at addressing these issues. Another council member provided updates on construction projects, including Third Street and John Bir Park. Information was shared on the construction status of dugouts and street paving in the Hardwood Estates neighborhood.

Additionally, the staff member in charge of licensing mentioned preparations for sending out renewals for liquor and tobacco licenses, encouraging local businesses to respond promptly. The police chief addressed an oversight regarding the San Valley Art Fair, which had not been included in the previously approved list of street closures for events. The chief sought the council’s direction on whether to approve the street closure for the fair, emphasizing that this event had been held for several years without issue. The proposed closure would impact Veterans Lane for the setup and operation of the fair. Following this discussion, a motion was made to approve the street closure for the San Valley Art Fair, which was seconded and passed without objection.

With no further items to discuss, a motion to adjourn was made and promptly seconded, leading to the meeting’s closure.