Residents from North Creek and Country View communities voiced strong opposition to the proposed addition of 125 new homes, citing significant safety and infrastructure challenges. Many residents, including longtime community members, raised concerns about the potential increase in traffic, the strain on existing infrastructure, and the impact on local wildlife habitats. Dyce Mallery, a resident of Country View, highlighted the emotional distress caused by the development, particularly the projected influx of over 250 vehicles that could exacerbate safety issues at the community’s single entrance and exit.

Concerns were also raised about the lack of prior investment in the park’s infrastructure by the current ownership group, who had managed the park for only a short period. The residents’ skepticism was fueled by the perceived neglect of existing amenities, such as inadequate snow removal and infrastructure maintenance.

The council members, while discussing the conditional use permit (CUP) for the expansion, emphasized the importance of legally binding criteria to ensure that the developer follows through on their commitments. These criteria included the installation of a chain-link fence along certain property boundaries and improvements to community infrastructure like driveways, signage, and playground equipment. The council sought to balance the interests of current residents with the property rights of the owners, acknowledging the limited discretion they had in approving the CUP.

The meeting also addressed the concerns of residents like Jelene Christensen, who pointed out potential safety issues with the placement of a basketball court near a creek and the only access road. She, along with others, raised questions about the adequacy of storm shelters, expressing doubts about their capacity to accommodate an increased number of residents. Additional worries about aesthetic changes imposed on existing homes and the potential for increased crime with new residents were also discussed.

Council members responded to these concerns by outlining the conditions attached to the CUP, including the requirement for a key box for emergency access at the gate and the installation of fencing along property lines. The city attorney clarified that the conditions must be reasonably related to the application and align with zoning ordinances.

Apart from the North Creek development, the council meeting featured a presentation from the Friends of the Lakeville Arts Center. Parks and Recreation Director Joe Massi introduced Bob Ericson, who highlighted the significant growth and opportunities created by the Arts Center, including a new gas kiln funded by a $10,000 contribution from Minnesota Energy Resources. This kiln is the first of its kind in Dakota County and is intended to support the local community of potters. The Arts Center’s recent expansion has led to a 155% increase in class registrations, enabling more performing and visual arts classes and strengthening partnerships with various arts organizations.

Recognition was also given to Joe Massi for his decade of service as the Arts Center manager, with a plaque presented to him by Ericson. Upcoming events at the center, such as the Youth Art Exhibit and a new downtown Art Crawl, were announced.

The council meeting also included the reading of the Minnesota School Bus Driver Appreciation Day Proclamation, recognizing the critical role of school bus drivers in safely transporting students across the state. The proclamation emphasized their dedication to safety, contributing to education, and the environmental benefits of school buses.

Fire Chief Meyer presented the Fire Department’s annual report, noting the transition to a hybrid model incorporating full-time firefighters to improve response times and efficiency. The report highlighted a significant reduction in call-outs and detailed various fire prevention activities, training efforts, and community engagement initiatives undertaken by the department.

The meeting concluded with the approval of the consent agenda, which included resolutions amending the Lakeville Fire Leaf Association bylaws and approving charitable gambling for the Eastview Hockey Association. The council also considered a preliminary plat for Air Lake Development, with plans for Dakota Electric Association’s relocation to Lakeville.