The council’s discussion on resolution 2025-257 focused on backing a study for a new passenger rail service championed by All Aboard Minnesota, a nonprofit organization. This proposed service aims to connect St. Paul and Kansas City, with Faribault as one of its stops. A spokesperson explained that the resolution is a request for the state to apply for federal funds for this study. Crucially, no financial commitment from the city is involved at this stage. The resolution aligns with two active bills in the House and Senate Transportation Committees, which are set to be reviewed in the upcoming legislative session. Despite some council members expressing skepticism about the rail service’s feasibility due to regulatory and financial challenges, the resolution was approved after assurances that no immediate financial obligations would be incurred by the city.

Another agenda item was the approval of resolution 2025-262, which allows Michelle Keller, representing Fable Green, to establish the city’s first cannabis micro business. Located at 151230th Street Northwest, this business has received state approval and meets zoning and planning requirements. Heather Selecta informed the council that upon completing necessary building improvements, the business would qualify for further state inspections and licensing. The council recognized the establishment of this cannabis micro business as a notable development for Faribault, signaling support for diversification in the local economy.

In addition to these key resolutions, the council addressed several other topics. Resolution 2025-263 granted a new on-sale liquor license to the Depot Restaurant LLC, which is undergoing a change in ownership. Both the new owner, Tony, and the current owner, Jeff, were present during the meeting. The council approved the liquor license following a successful background check and insurance verification, with fees prorated for the remainder of the year.

Resolution 2025-260 concerned a variance request for a small dwelling unit on Central Avenue. The request, submitted by North Johnson of Farbo Downtown Central LLC, sought approval for a residential unit no smaller than 368 square feet. This variance was necessary due to a fire code violation discovered during the property’s platting process, which would create a smaller apartment size. City planner Leslie McGill Reos explained that the variance aligns with the comprehensive downtown master plan and supports the trend of micro apartments in the area. The council confirmed that the proposed unit size met the required standards and approved the variance.

In the meeting’s public comments section, Faribault resident Vicky Olsen voiced her concerns about a proposed data center near the city limits. She warned of potential adverse effects, including risks to the local well water supply, land pollution from wastewater, increased electric costs, and noise pollution. Olsen stressed, “You cannot promise me that these machines won’t decrease our well water supply,” highlighting her apprehension about the project’s potential impact on the community. She urged the council to consider the long-term implications of their decisions.

The council also reviewed a $10,000 funding agreement for consulting services related to establishing a land trust, listed as item 6L on the consent agenda. The funding would facilitate consulting services essential for forming the trust to address housing issues in Faribault. However, some council members expressed reservations about the process and the partnership with other organizations, leading to a motion to table the discussion until further clarity could be obtained. The debate underscored differing opinions on the urgency and necessity of proceeding with the funding agreement. Some council members emphasized the need to address housing concerns, calling it “the number one issue in Faribault,” while others cautioned against rushing into decisions without a comprehensive understanding of the implications.