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07 01 2025 City Council MinutesCITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS DAKOTA COUNTY STATE OF MINNESOTA Minutes of the Regular Meeting Held Tuesday, July 1, 2025 Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regular meeting of the City Council, City of Mendota Heights, Minnesota, was held at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights, Minnesota. C�l�IfIILC�Z� [77�]�17 Mayor Levine called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Councilors Lorberbaum, Paper, Mazzitello, and Maczko were also present. Councilor Paper left the meeting at 8:03 p.m. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Council, the audience, and staff recited the Pledge of Allegiance. AGENDA ADOPTION Mayor Levine presented the agenda for adoption. Councilor Mazzitello moved adoption of the agenda. Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 PUBLIC COMMENTS Bob Klepperich, 1092 Vail Drive, commented about bikes on the trail system and asked for a campaign to clarify City policies related to the right -of --way for bikers versus walkers and electric bikes on the hails. He commented that while there are many responsible bike riders, there are also those racing at high speed on bikes with disregard for those walking or mowing lawns. He asked if there were regulations for electric bikes. He stated that there should be polite reminders and possibly policies developed if none exist. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Levine presented the consent agenda and explained the procedure for discussion and approval. Councilor Lorberbaum moved approval of the consent agenda as presented, pulling item b. a. Approval of June 17, 2025, City Council Minutes c. Acknowledge Minutes from the May 27, 2025, Planning Commission Meeting d. Approve Resolution 2025-34 Proclaiming July 2025 as "Parks and Recreation Month" e. Approve Resolution 2025-35 for a Joint Powers Agreement with the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program f. Approve Bank Account Changes g. Approve May 2025 Treasurer's Report h. Approval of Claims List Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 PULLED CONSENT AGENDA ITEMS B) ACKNOWLEDGE THE JUNE 17, 2025, COUNCIL WORK SESSION MINUTES Councilor Lorberbaum commented that she was not present at the meeting and will be abstaining from this vote. Councilor Mazzitello moved to approve THE JUNE 17, 2025, COUNCIL WORK SESSION MINUTES. Councilor Paper seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Abstain: 1 (Lorberbaum) PRESENTATIONS A) RECOGNITION AND PRESENTATION OF LIFE SAVING AWARD Ralph Heussner commented that he and his wife have been residents for 40 years, and on June 4`h• he collapsed while mowing the lawn. He stated that he has no memory of that day or the week that followed, and all the information came from his wife and medical providers. He was told that most people do not survive a cardiac arrest at home, and that he had died and came back. He stated that without the first responders, the quick action of his neighbor, and the CPR knowledge of his wife, he would not be back. He also thanked those who had sent him notes in his recovery. He thanked everyone who helped bring him back. Police Chief Kelly McCarthy provided information on the medical response call of a male having a heart attack that first responders responded to on June 4, 2025. First responders worked alongside friends and neighbors in delivering life-saving interventions. Carol Heussner expressed gratitude for the service the first responders provided to save her husband. PUBLIC HEARING No items scheduled. NEW AND UNFINISHED BUSINESS A) CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS FY2024 AUDIT REPORT Caroline Stutsman, BerganKDV, presented the Annual Audit Review for 2024, reporting a clean, or unmodified opinion. Ju/y 1, 2025, d4endota Heights Ciry Council Page l of 12 Councilor Mazzitello thanked Finance Director Kristen Schabacker for her wonderful work. Mayor Levine echoed the thanks to Finance Director Kristen Schabacker and her team. B) CITY COUNCIL GOVERNING PRINCIPLES City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider Resolution 2025-41, establishing City Council governing principles. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2025-41 ESTABLISHING CITY COUNCIL GOVERNING PRINCIPLES. Councilor Lorberbaum seconded the motion. Further discussion: Councilor Lorberbaum asked and received confirmation that this information would be posted on the website for all to see. Councilor Maczko thanked City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson for drafting the document and capturing the comments and discussion of the Council. Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 C) RESOLUTION 2025-36 APPROVING A PRELIMINARY PLAT OF MCMILLAN ESTATES TO SUBDIVIDE THREE (3) EXISTING PARCELS INTO SIX (6) SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL PARCELS LOCATED AT 1707 DELAWARE AVENUE AND ITS ADJACENT VACANT PARCELS OWNED IN COMMON (PLANNING CASE 2025-03) Community Development Manager Sarah Madden provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider Resolution 2025-36, approving a Preliminary Plat of McMillan Estates, Mayor Levine acknowledged that there has been a public hearing on this topic, and many written comments have been received. Councilor Mazzitello asked and received confirmation that the City's deadline to act on this application is August 19t . He asked about the process that would be followed if the preliminary and final plats are approved, and if there are additional wetland impacts proposed in the building process of the homes. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that if they get to the building permit phase and the homeowner realizes that there would be additional wetland impacts, the homeowner would need to apply for their own wetland permit application. She commented that, because there would be no more exemptions available, mitigation would need to then be provided. Councilor Mazzitello asked if there is a timeframe between preliminary and final plat, meaning that there would be a set time within which the final plat would need to be presented if the preliminary plat is approved. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden stated that the preliminary plat would be valid for one year before it expired. She stated that within that timeframe, the final plat would need to be presented, or an extension could be requested. July 1, 1025, Mendota Heights Czry Council Page 3 of 12 Councilor Paper referenced proposed condition nine and asked the process to have land rather than a fee for park dedication. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that the default process would be a land dedication, but staff did not recommend land dedication because of a lack of planning for park property in this area. She commented that often the City accepts cash in lieu of land for park dedication. Councilor Maczko stated that his concern would be that they approve the plat, which shows driveways and building pads, and asked if it would be the responsibility of the City to ensure that it could be constructed to prevent the situation that a future lot owner must later deal with wetland impacts that could exist. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden stated that staff did ask the applicant to consider driveway and grading impacts that may be relevant for wetland impacts. She commented that the plan prepared is a result of that conversation. She commented that two of the wetland impact areas are related to driveways. She stated that if a future property owner chooses to modify that plan, they would need to provide the necessary data to support that type of application. Councilor Maczko asked if the width of the driveway and grades are shown in the plan to ensure that someone could develop where the plat states they could. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden stated that the location of the driveways and contour information is shown on the plat, and the minimum driveway width is shown. Councilor Maczko commented that lots five and six seem to be of concern. He asked if these homes would be sprinkled because of the longer cul-de-sac. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that home details are not required as part of a preliminary plat. She stated that there is water service and extension provided for a new fire hydrant on the new cul-de-sac. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that he was not able to find a requirement that the Orchard homes must be sprinkled. He stated that it could be added as a requested condition if desired. He stated that 20-foot-wide driveways were required for Sunfish Lake, but the Fire Code has been updated, and one - and two-family homes are now exempt from that requirement. He stated that the Council could make the requirement that the homes be sprinkled due to the length of the cul-de-sac. Councilor Maczko referenced condition 15, which was added by the Planning Commission, related to the public right-of-way. He stated that they do not know if that property would be developed and asked if they should require that. He noted that they are in the process of recodification of the City Code, which would solidify the 500-foot maximum length for a cul-de-sac and could prevent the northern property owner from developing off Delaware. He stated that, from a public safety point of view, he does not like long cul-de-sacs. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden provided additional details on the requirements for platting and planned connection. She explained that if the 500-foot language is further solidified in the City Code, related to cul-de-sac length, the property to the north could request a variance to extend the right-of-way, or they could construct an L-shaped road, which would extend and connect to Delaware. Jule 1, 2025, Mendota Heights City Council Page 4 of 12 Councilor Maczko commented that it was a reasonable decision in the past to bring the existing cul-de- sac to the property line, which provided for the opportunity of this property owner to develop, and would think it makes sense to do the same in this scenario to protect the rights of the northern property owner to develop. Councilor Lorberbaum commented that this is a preliminary plat, and there are conditions placed on the approval that must be met for the final plat. She referenced the issue of tree preservation and asked if the applicant must attempt to show tree removal and replacement, even though they will not be building the individual homes. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden confirmed that it is accurate. Councilor Lorberbaum referenced lot six, noting that there is no guuantee that the driveway will be in the proposed location, although she recognized that it would be the most feasible location. She stated that a driveway in that location may harm the roots of trees on a neighboring property and asked if that is allowed. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden explained that the City reviews the width, location, and grade of a driveway, and a driveway permit can include tree mitigation measures. She stated that the City does not review that level of impact to trees when reviewing a driveway permit. Councilor Lorberbaum asked if lot six would not be viable if there is no other placement for the driveway that would not impact neighboring trees. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that lot six meets all City requirements under the preliminary plat application. She stated that based on the urban forest preservation ordinance, staff would attach condition 16 to any applicable permits. Councilor Lorberbaum restated that the city, in its approval, is saying that the lot is a viable lot. Community Development Manager restated that the lot meets the minimum dimensional standards of city code. Councilor Maczko asked if the driveway could be moved closer to the wetland to avoid damage to trees. He recognized that trees of neighbors that could be impacted. He recognized that someone has the right to develop a property, but did not believe they have the right to impact someone else's property. He stated that they should address the concern now, as they do not want damage to private property. He stated that there is a way that could be rectified through the development, as the driveway could be moved over, which would require wetland mitigation that could be provided by the developer, but perhaps not by individual property owners. He recognized that not all future property owners complete their own due diligence and often just trust their realtors. He did not want to be in a situation where someone would need a variance because they could not build according to the plans. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that the driveway going back to the home pad would follow the natural ground, and a certified arborist would provide protection measures for any trees that may be impacted. He stated that the driveway meets the requirements of the City Code, and a condition has been added that a certified arborist would need to review and approve the impact. He stated that the developer could also approach the neighboring property owner with an offer of settlement as well. July 1, 2025, Mendota Heights City Council Page 5 of 12 Councilor Maczko commented that he would like the details hashed out in the final plat to address this concern. He stated that there is a right to develop, but he also wants to ensure that what is planned could be constructed, so the onus is not passed to an unsuspecting property owner. Mayor Levine asked if there is a place to do that in the resolution. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that the City can place a condition upon a preliminary plat related to wetland impacts and mitigation. She stated that condition 16 addresses those concerns. She stated that a timeline for the development of the individual homes is not required at this time in the process, and the level of impact to the wetlands has been shown as required. Mayor Levine restated that the city can put in a condition, because it is not known exactly where the driveway is going to go. Councilor Lorberbaum recognized that lot six is viable even though there is a concern with harm to trees on a neighboring lot not in the development. City Attorney Amy Schmidt stated that by approving the preliminary plat, the Council is not saying this is a buildable lot as presented, but instead meets the dimensional requirements of the City Code and based upon the information provided and reviewed. She stated that all of the information is public and would continue to be available. She stated that it is important to note that it is not the duty of the City to protect every property owner into the future. The application is designed to review and approve whether all requirements of the preliminary plat have been met. She stated that conditions could be placed upon the preliminary plat approval to ensure that those could be addressed by the time of the final plat. Public Works Director Ryan Ruzek stated that the developer could be asked to mark out the property line every 50 feet, and if there are significant trees on the neighboring property, an assessment could be done before the final plat. Mayor Levine commented that the Council has read the written comments and hopes that all questions have been answered. She stated that the applicant would be invited to speak, and if a resident had a new concern or information, they could also speak. Spencer McMillan, applicant, stated that he had sent a letter related to the extension of the right -of --way. He stated that in regard to park dedication, land versus fee, and noted that a requirement for land would place a burden on the development. He explained that this process started 18 months ago with three lots to minimize impacts to the wetland and land, but that was not allowed by City Code. He stated that the requirements to build the cul-de-sac added a large cost, which then led to this development proposal. He stated that they are investing in the infrastructure, and the six lots support the cost to construct the cul-de- sac. He commented that they are dedicating all the land for the construction of the cul-de-sac, along with the right-of-way to Dakota County along Delaware. He noted that there are 5.5 acres of wetland on the property as well, so, along with the dedicated land as mentioned, additional park dedication would impact the viability of the project. He stated that the home on lot six would be further away from the existing homes than the existing homes are from each other. He stated that they tried to minimize impacts to the wetlands and follow all requirements of the City Code, July 1, 2025, Mendota Heights Ciry Council Page 6 of 11 Councilor Mazzitello thanked the applicant for his letter, which mentions that the dedication of the right- of-way to the northern property would adversely impact his proposed subdivision, and asked for more information. Mr. McMillan stated that he has three young children, and he would like them to grow up and build a home at the end of the cul-de-sac. He stated that if the cul-de-sac were extended north, that would impact the viability and value of their property. He stated that it is not their intention to extend the cul-de-sac north, and he did not believe it was a requirement of the City Code or under Minnesota State law. Jim Kolar, 1695 Delaware, stated that he has always been supportive of the development and would plan to match the density, but this would hold him hostage on the back portion of his property. He stated that the right-of-way extension would be 88 feet. He commented that statements have been made that access to his property could come from Delaware, but he did not believe that to be the case. He believed that the alternative was unreasonable, as a 1,200-foot roadway would be required to support four homes. He stated that the developers of Ridgewood were required to extend that nub, which provided Mr. McMillan to extend to his property, and was asking for the same opportunity to be provided to his property. He stated that if the cul-de-sac were extended north to the Bader property and touched on Foxwood, potentially through an emergency gate, that would solve the issue of public safety concerns. He stated that an L roadway would require his home to be torn down. He stated that this would leave him as the only undeveloped ten -acre parcel, and the back portion would become landlocked. He stated that the 88-foot right-of-way would harmonize the interests of everyone. He referenced the statement that the extension would devalue the McMillan property, but noted that Mr. McMillan is doing the same to the properties currently on the cul-de-sac, which will be extended for his development. He stated that failure to plan for this connection would significantly devalue his property and the ability to develop the property. He stated that if he is provided with the right-of-way extension, he would do the same if/when his property is developed. He stated that although the Council is not required to do certain things, they are also not precluded from doing so. He asked the Council to balance the rights of all parties. Mike Bader, 1297 Knollwood Lane, commented that his parents purchased the property on Delaware and were held hostage by the poor planning of Foxwood. He stated that the ability to develop is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and makes sense. He stated that private landowners should have the right to develop their property. He echoed the comments of Mr. Kolar and asked the Council to make up for previous mistakes in Foxwood, which limited the ability of other properties to develop. Shawn Fahnhorst, 1767 Ridgewood Drive, stated that he has been advocating for the mitigation of disruptions in the neighborhood by the dedication of public space. He suggested perhaps a multi -modal trail which could run along the street. He stated that he would be willing to offer part of his front yard to continue the trail to Marie Avenue. John All eikert, 1737 Delaware Avenue, stated that the Council has a moral and ethical responsibility to the citizens now and the citizens of the future. He stated that lot six will clearly have a negative impact on the property values of the surrounding neighbors. He commented that people purchased their lots looking out onto the grasslands. He asked if the proposed driveway would be at grade level, noting that the lot floods. Mayor Levine thanked everyone who provided public input throughout the review process. Councilor Mazzitello stated that there was a recent development that was controversial with neighboring property owners. He stated that there is a luxury of time as the deadline is in the middle of August. He July 1, 2025, Mendota Heights City Council Page 7 of 12 asked if the Council would be interested in following a similar process to table the request and have a subcommittee of the Council meet with the residents and then approach the developers with an ask to determine if there is a middle ground. He commented that process made the previous apartment project better as the concerns of the residents were met and the developer was allowed to construct their project. Councilor Maczko stated that, from his perspective, it would be the neighborly thing to do. He was unsure of the level of neighborhood and developer interaction that had occurred. He stated that it is clear that the developer has the right to develop the property, but neighbors do have concerns. He believed that there is a responsibility to ensure the plans can be constructed as presented. He did not believe a developer has the ability to physically impact things on neighboring properties, such as trees. He stated that if there are conditions for lot six, those should be memorialized to ensure future property owners could find that information. He stated that he would like to find something that everyone could accept and feel okay about, and would be open to the process described by Councilor Mazzitello, Councilor• Lorberbaum commented that she had met with several neighbors, and they would like the opportunity to speak with Mr. McMillan and discuss this matter. She also supported the concept proposed by Councilor Mazzitello. She stated that the Planning Commission did a wonderful job and understood their role that they must approve something if the plan follows ordinances, but it also hurt their hearts to vote yes. She stated that two weeks ago, draft revisions to the city's subdivision code were discussed by the City Council. She reiterated that the purpose of the subdivision ordinance is to safeguard the best interests of the city, to assist the subdivider in harmonizing their interest with those of the city, provide for an attractive, orderly, economic, and safe development of land and urban services and facilities, and to protect the character and symmetry of the neighborhoods in the city while preserving and enhancing the value and economic use of property. Councilor Paper commented that he is open to that idea, as it resulted in a better project in the end. He stated that he would prefer to accept the parkland dedication, which could create a nature trail in an incredible area. Mr. McMillan stated that he is fully in support of the concept as he wants to work with neighbors and would like to collaborate. City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson commented that they would need to determine who on the Council would be a part of the discussions. She noted that in the case of the Plaza, they had two Council members. She noted that there is an August 1911 deadline for this application review. Councilor Mazzitello stated that part of the reason they are redoing Title 1 I is to align the Zoning Code with the Comprehensive Plan. He stated that there are at least three policy statements within the Comprehensive Plan related to future planning, proper planning for future growth and development, and connectivity. He stated that the Comprehensive Plan trumps city code. Councilor Mazzitello moved to table CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION NO. 2025-36 TO THE AUGUST 6, 2025, COUNCIL MEETING AND SCHEDULE A MEETING BETWEEN RESIDENTS AND THE DEVELOPER BETWEEN THEN AND NOW TO WORK OUT THE ISSUES. Councilor Lorberbaum seconded the motion. Further discussion: Mayor Levine appreciated all the comments that had been made and believes that this will result in a better product for the community. July 1, 2025, A�endota Heights City Council Page 8 of 12 Ayes: 5 Nays: 0 D) RESOLUTION 2025-37 APPROVING A VARIANCE TO ALLOW FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FENCE EXCEEDING 6-FT IN HEIGHT FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1341 CHERRY HILL ROAD (PLANNING CASE 2025-07) Community Development Manager Sarah Madden provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider Resolution 2025-37 approving a variance to allow the construction of a nine - foot fence on the properly located at 1341 Cherry Hill Road, Mayor Levine acknowledged that it would only be a portion of the fence that exceeds nine feet and noted that the condition sufficiently addresses the tapering. Councilor Mazzitello asked about the distance of the taper and how that would be regulated. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden explained that the Planning Commission discussed this, noting different methods of taper that could be chosen. She stated that the Council could further define that within a condition if desired. She stated that the applicant agrees with the taper method but was unsure what that would look like until information is provided by the contractor. Councilor Mazzitello asked how the distance of 15 feet was determined. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden explained the methodology of her recommendation. Councilor Maczko stated that he would prefer to respond to the taper suggested by the applicant, as it would be hard to dictate what would look right and determine what that distance would be. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden stated that when there is a taper, it is typically terraced, but that can vary, and that is why the condition was not specified. Mayor Levine commented that staff and the Planning Commission did a great job. She stated that the proposed fence will be an improvement over what currently exists. Danny Michel, applicant, stated that he originally requested the nine -foot fence but prefers the taper method as discussed by staff. He stated that it would perhaps make sense to have a straight-line taper to match the contours of the property. He stated that he is not planning to have the taper along the length of his property and would like to taper after the 15 feet, perhaps to the midline, and then have six-foot fencing. Councilor Mazzitello stated that staff would then decide through the fence permit if the taper is reasonable. Councilor Lorberbaum moved to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2025-37 APPROVING A VARIANCE TO ALLOW FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A FENCE EXCEEDING 6-FT IN HEIGHT FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1341 CHERRY HILL ROAD. Councilor Mazzitello seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 July 1, 1025, Mendota Heights City Council Page 9 of 12 E) RESOLUTION 2025-38 APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT FOR GLENN BARON (REPRESENTING THE HEIGHTS RACQUET & SOCIAL CLUB) FOR THE OUTDOOR COMMERCIAL RECREATION USE LOCATED AT 1415 MENDOTA HEIGHTS ROAD (PLANNING CASE 2025-08) Community Development Manager Sarah Madden provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider Resolution 2025-38 approving a Conditional Use Permit Amendment for the outdoor commercial recreation use located at 1415 Mendota Heights Road, Councilor Maczko asked and received confirmation that the parking would be paved and striped. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2025-38 APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT FOR THE OUTDOOR COMMERCIAL RECREATION USE LOCATED AT 1415 MENDOTA HEIGHTS ROAD (PLANNING CASE 2025-08). Councilor Maczko seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 F) RESOLUTION 2025-39 APPROVING A VARIANCE TO THE REAR YARD SETBACK TO ALLOW FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW THREE -SEASON PORCH ADDITION LOCATED AT 2150 AZTEC LANE (PLANNING CASE 2025-09) Community Development Manager Sarah Madden provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider Resolution 2025-39, approving a variance request at 2150 Aztec Lane, Councilor Maczko commented that he lives in a similar neighborhood with lots platted under the current minimum requirements. He stated that he does have a four -season porch on his home, which also encroaches on the back setback. He asked if a variance was previously approved for the deck and addition on this property. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that she was unable to find prior record of variance approvals for this address. Shes e she did find a building permit record that the addition was constructed in 1978 or 1979, and a variance may not have been required at that time. Councilor Maczko stated that some of the Friendly Hills properties in his neighborhood back up to marshland that will never be developed. He stated that this property similarly backs up to the CDA property, which may not be developed. He stated that he wanted to ensure that this approval would not violate any past variance conditions. Councilor Mazzitello recognized that there are new impervious surface rules adopted with the Zoning Code and recognized the work of Planning Commissioner Johnson to ensure that this request would be compliant. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2025-39 APPROVING A VARIANCE TO THE REAR -YARD SETBACK TO ALLOW FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF ATHREE-SEASON PORCH ADDITION LOCATED AT 2150 AZTEC LANE (PLANNING CASE 2025-09), Councilor Lorberbaum seconded the motion. July 1, 2025, Me�adota Neig/its Czty Com�cil Page /0 of 12 Further discussion: Mayor Levine commented that she is pleased to see residents improving their properties and neighbors supporting that action. She recognized that this is a process, but noted that the Council wanted to provide an opportunity for residents to improve their homes and maintain the character of these areas. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 G) RESOLUTION 2025-40 APPROVING A MRCCA PERMIT AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT APPLICATION FOR NORTHERN STATES POWER COMPANY (XCEL ENERGY) TO ALLOW FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW 24-FOOT X 24-FOOT CONCRETE PAD FOUNDATION AND PREFABRICATED STRUCTURE AT THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 800 SIBLEY MEMORIAL HIGHWAY (PLANNING CASE 2025-10) Community Development Manager Sarah Madden provided a brief background on this item. The Council was being asked to consider Resolution 2025-40, approving a MRCCA Permit and Conditional Use Permit (CUP) Amendment for Northern States Power Company (Xcel Energy) to allow site improvements at the property located at 800 Sibley Memorial Highway, Councilor Maczko asked what the building will look like. Grant Pinska, Xcel Energy, commented that the building would be like other buildings on the site and would be almost completely screened from most residential properties. He stated that it would be a metal frame building painted blue. Councilor Maczko commented that he is unhappy with the fence that was put on the other side of the property. NIr. Pinska replied that it is part of the electrical portion of the site. Councilor Lorberbaum asked for information on the red circles shown on one of the maps. Community Development Manager Sarah Madden replied that it is a utility map. Councilor Mazzitello moved to adopt RESOLUTION NO. 2025-40 APPROVING A MISSISSIPPI RIVER CORRIDOR CRITICAL AREA (MRCCA) PERMIT AND AMENDED CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) TO XCEL ENERGY AND FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 800 SIBLEY MEMORIAL HIGHWAY (PLANNING CASE 2025-10), Councilor Maczko seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS City Administrator Cheryl Jacobson announced upcoming community events and activities. July 1, 2025, A4endota Heights City Council Page 11 of L2 COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilor Maczko recognized the lifesaving awards that were presented tonight and recognized the value that the public safety team provides to the community. He recognized that the early intervention efforts of the spouse and neighbor made all the difference, also noting the quick response of a paid -on -call firefighter who lives in the area. He encouraged all residents to become CPR knowledgeable and stop to help a neighbor in need. He stated that he also shares the concern related to trail bikes, noting that he had a near miss on a trail with children on motorized bikes on the trail. He stated that electric motors will need to be addressed, as it is creating a hazard on the trails. He stated that he received many phone calls when the speed limit on 62 was increased and encouraged residents to attend or watch the July 15s' Council meeting, where MnDOT will provide information on their practice to set speeds. Councilor Lorberbaum recognized an Islamic holiday observed on July Su. She encouraged everyone to come watch the fireworks on July 4' and reminded residents of the reason for the holiday. Councilor Mazzitello complimented the Planning Commission for its large agenda and thoughtful discussion the previous week. He also recognized the work of Community Development Manager Sarah Madden for her outstanding work on the many planning cases. He stated that while he enjoys the controlled fireworks displays, he cautioned residents against using fireworks on their personal property or in their neighborhoods, as some pets and veterans do not enjoy those sounds. He commented that 56 people signed the Declaration of Independence, some of whom are well known and others who are not, providing additional information on six lesser -known signers. Mayor Levine acknowledged all of those who were involved in the lifesaving award presentation and event. She also recognized the heavy lift of staff in the items presented tonight. ADJOURN Councilor Mazzitello moved to adjourn. Councilor Maczko seconded the motion. Ayes: 4 Nays: 0 Mayor Levine adjourned the meeting at 8:56 p.m. Stephanie A, Levine Mayor ATTEST: Nan y Bauer City Clerk July /, 2025, Mendota Heights Ciry Council Page 12 of 12