The meeting initially focused on the Planning Commission, where the council interviewed several candidates and discussed their potential contributions to the commission. Various individuals expressed their interest in serving on the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission’s role, recently highlighted in the Wall Street Journal, is important for guiding the city’s growth, with a focus on aligning ordinances and variances with residents’ needs. The candidates included new applicants and incumbents, each bringing unique expertise to the table, from architecture and urban planning to community service and environmental stewardship.

Among the standout candidates were Mallorie Shower, Ryan Graham, and Jamie Corell, who collectively emphasized the need for sustainable growth and thoughtful planning. Mallorie Shower, a recent addition to the community, stressed the importance of preserving Victoria’s identity while balancing economic growth and environmental considerations. Ryan Graham, with a background in architecture, underscored the need for design practices that support local growth, while Jamie Corell, a long-time resident, advocated for a diversified tax base to support community expansion.

In the council’s deliberations, there was a strong inclination towards integrating fresh perspectives alongside the valuable experience of incumbents. The council highlighted the importance of rotating positions to allow more community members the opportunity to contribute to the commission’s work. Ultimately, Aaron Croth was appointed to the Planning Commission for a three-year term, followed by Ryan Graham, who was also unanimously appointed. Discussions continued regarding the final appointments, with consideration given to the strong qualifications of all candidates.

Another major topic of discussion was the proposed land exchange involving Tamarak Properties, part of the broader Arborita Transportation plan. This exchange is set to address both property and environmental impact concerns, particularly with the Rusty Patch Bumblebee population. City Engineer Cara Garen and City Planner Brian McCan outlined the specifics, including the Highway 5 Improvement project and changes to access points to the Arboretum, which would affect the Rolling Acres Road and Highway 5 intersection.

The proposed land exchange involves the city selling land near Lake Tamarak to Carver County, which would then transfer it to the University of Minnesota. This arrangement aims to create new habitats for the affected bumblebee population, requiring collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and Fish and Wildlife. The Executive Director of the Arboretum, Andrew Ginsky, elaborated on plans for the property, emphasizing the need to preserve land for conservation and public accessibility, in line with existing efforts to maintain the city’s rural charm.

A public hearing on the vacation of drainage and utility easements and right of way for Tamarak properties was also held. Residents expressed concerns about the environmental implications of these actions, particularly regarding local wildlife. James Cardwell, a resident near the Tamarak properties, highlighted issues with easement three, questioning the necessity of certain developments that could harm conservation efforts. Another resident, Tina Puls, supported the conservation of the property, emphasizing its importance for the local bee population.

The council moved to adopt the resolution vacating the easements, fulfilling the necessary voting requirements. This decision paves the way for a purchase agreement to sell the Tamarak properties at appraised value to Carver County for the highway improvement project. The city engineer clarified that the agreement would not involve a cash transaction but would result in a credit against future project costs. A motion to approve the purchase agreement, subject to modifications by the city attorney, passed unanimously.