The meeting commenced with a public hearing on tax abatement bonds, specifically bond series 2025 A. The council sought to borrow $1,050,000 through these bonds, supported by the city’s tax levy. The initiative aimed to abate property taxes collected from Larpenter Manor, allowing the city to redirect funds to support the bond. It was clarified that residents and owners of Larpenter Manor would not experience changes, as the tax restructuring would not increase their taxes. Instead, it involved a redistribution of tax revenues. No comments were received during the hearing, and the council members regarded the tax abatement as straightforward. The resolution to approve the property tax abatements passed unanimously.

Following this, the council held another public hearing regarding the renewal of the Comcast franchise agreement. The existing agreement, initially rewritten in 2017, was set to expire in 2027. However, through negotiations by the Nine North Communications Commission, an extension was proposed for an additional five years. The extension ensures Comcast’s continued obligation to provide equal access across Falcon Heights, even in financially challenging circumstances. A motion to adopt the ordinance extending the Comcast franchise agreement to June 30, 2032, was unanimously approved.

The council also addressed several significant items on the consent agenda. These included general disbursements through June payroll, totaling $25,004.18, and wire payments of $16,164.98. Additionally, the consent agenda included the approval of a stormwater maintenance agreement with the Rice Creek Watershed District, aimed at managing water generated around a community park with plans for a new retaining pond. The approval of a Be Active, Be Green bench grant application was another topic of discussion, with the city seeking to acquire three more benches for Grove Park, known for their durability. Concerns about the leasing of Grove Park from the University of Minnesota were raised, but there was optimism for a long-term lease to support the grant application.

The council then moved on to policy items, including Ordinance 2,505, which updates the city commissioner code. This ordinance originated from discussions during the 2025 budget process, where compensating city commissioners was considered. The ordinance outlined an additional budget of $21,000 for commissioner compensation, with a voluntary payment option of $50 per meeting attended. The idea is to incentivize participation, making it more accessible for younger members or those with childcare responsibilities. Amendments included a stipulation for commissioners to take a year off before reapplying, aiming for equitable practices, and the reintroduction of youth commissioners. The ordinance passed unanimously.

In a discussion about July 4 holiday hours, the council considered starting the holiday on July 3 at 1 PM, noting that July 4 falls on a Friday. This proposal was not a formal resolution but a policy suggestion to align holiday schedules with staff needs while maintaining operational efficiency. The council agreed on the practicality of incorporating similar language into future personnel policy updates for summer holidays.

Further reports included updates on the state fair task force meeting, which discussed improvements for the upcoming fair, such as widening the North Gate entrance and adding a metal detector to alleviate long lines. Increased police presence was also planned. The task force expressed openness to a joint powers agreement with Falcon Heights, similar to arrangements with Saint Paul and Roosevelt. Additionally, residents were encouraged to register their gardens for the upcoming garden walk.

The council discussed Unity Day, scheduled for July 6, intended to restore community relationships. Activities on July 7 will include a barbecue at City Hall, hosted by Valerie Castillo, commemorating her son Philando’s death in 2016. These events aim to foster unity among residents. Mayor Linehan provided updates on the Minnesota League of Cities annual conference and the city’s ice cream social on July 17, noting the benefits of hosting it at City Hall.