The council addressed a request from Shanner Pizza Grill to lower the fees associated with a series of false alarms that occurred throughout the year, totaling $3,500 due to 20 false alarms. Dale Hy, representing the business, explained the technical issues with their security system, such as a faulty sensor and lack of communication from vendors, which contributed to these alarms. Hy proposed capping the fees at $125 per occurrence, reducing the total to $2,015. He emphasized the financial burden these fees had imposed on the business, given their long-standing operation in Coon Rapids without prior incidents.

Council members engaged in a thorough discussion on the matter, debating the implications of altering the fee structure. While there was sympathy for Shanner Pizza Grill’s predicament, concerns were raised about setting a precedent that might encourage future requests for fee reductions. Some members suggested alternative solutions, like extended payment terms, to balance leniency with maintaining the integrity of the existing fee structure. Additionally, the police chief highlighted the broader impact of false alarms, such as potential officer complacency and resource diversion from more urgent calls.

Ultimately, the council voted in favor of adjusting the fees to the proposed $2,015, with two dissenting votes expressing concerns about the decision’s precedent-setting nature. The discussion concluded with the clarification that the adjusted fees would apply only to past occurrences, reverting to the standard fee schedule for any future incidents.

In another key agenda item, the council approved a contract with Forte for a much-needed technology upgrade in the city council chambers. The upgrade, estimated at $133,538.72, aims to enhance the audio-visual capabilities of the chambers, addressing ongoing audio issues and integrating modern digital technology. The council was informed that the project should commence by the end of October, with completion anticipated by year-end. Council members agreed on the necessity of the upgrade, as the current technology had been in place since 1996, and the improvements are expected to benefit both council meetings and other events held in the chambers.

Additionally, the meeting covered the introduction of an ordinance to restrict parking on a 225-foot stretch of 89th Avenue, prompted by resident concerns over visibility, snow plowing, and emergency vehicle access. Despite only two resident responses—one supporting and one opposing the measure—the council deemed the restriction necessary for safety reasons.

The council also addressed the urgent appointment of election judges for a special primary election in district 34B, scheduled following a gubernatorial writ of special elections. The city clerk emphasized the tight timeline and proposed hourly salaries for the judges, which the council approved with appreciation for the volunteers’ contributions to the electoral process.

During the open mic segment, a resident expressed gratitude for the city’s support of the sustainability garden tour, highlighting increased participation and the significance of native gardening for pollinator preservation. The meeting closed with updates on community events, including the last concert in the park and the upcoming National Night Out.