Afton public meetings in 2022
54 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Meeting
The Afton City Council adopted the 2023 budget and tax levies, approved a comprehensive plan amendment to allow two dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C Zone, and passed a one-year moratorium on THC product sales. The council also accepted site improvements for two subdivisions, approved a retaining wall material at 4102 River Road, and designated Majestic Pines Trail as a restricted road for construction vehicles.
- Adopted Resolution 2022-61 approving the 2023 Budget and Resolution 2022-62 approving the 2023 Tax Levies
- Adopted Resolution 2022-63 approving a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to allow two dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C Zone (3-1 vote)
- Adopted Ordinance 05-2022 placing a one-year moratorium on sale, testing, manufacturing, and distribution of THC products
- Accepted site improvements for St. Joseph Pines Subdivision (680 Neal Avenue) and Afton Business Park Subdivision (Hudson Road and Manning Avenue), reducing escrow/letter of credit amounts
- Approved PerMar security system upgrade for City Hall at a cost not to exceed $6,000
City Council
The Agriculture Preservation Committee will review and discuss multiple data sets mapped by the Washington Conservation District to identify and prioritize quality agricultural land for preservation. The committee may also discuss whether mapping multiple data sets on one map would be helpful. No decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion item.
- Review of agricultural land data sets mapped by the Washington Conservation District at no cost
- Discussion of maps showing parcel size, crop productivity index, 2021 crop data, highly erodible land, land protection score, and regenerative agriculture opportunities
- Potential discussion of combining multiple data sets on a single map
- Approval of minutes from May 12, 2022 meeting
City Council
The Afton Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will meet remotely to review 2022 well water testing results for nitrates and coliforms, discuss follow-up on data from Afton Boulevard, and receive updates on perfluorochemicals (PFC) and stream monitoring. The committee will also discuss ideas for 2023 meetings, including whether to meet via Zoom or in person and the day and time of meetings.
- Review of 2022 well testing data for nitrates and coliforms, including follow-up on Afton Boulevard data
- Update on perfluorochemicals (PFC) contamination
- Discussion of 2023 meeting format: Zoom vs. in-person, day of week, and time
- Updates on watershed district management organizations and citizen monitoring programs
- Potential update of the Natural Resources Inventory (NRI)
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held public hearings on two items: a proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment to allow two dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C zone (failed on a 3-3 vote) and an ordinance amendment to allow larger ground-mounted residential solar arrays (recommended for approval 5-1). The commission also discussed groundwater protection and received a summary of recent City Council actions.
- Comprehensive Plan amendment to allow two dwelling units in commercial buildings in VHS-C zone failed 3-3
- Ordinance 04-2022 to allow larger ground-mounted residential solar arrays recommended for approval 5-1
- Public comment opposed comp plan change, citing sewer capacity and single-application benefit
- Solar array request from resident on 10-acre property for 3,000 sq. ft. array
- Discussion on 'fully screened' definition for solar arrays
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee will meet remotely and in person on November 30, 2022, to discuss park dedication funds, roadside cleanup, Town Square Park, bike trails, levee plantings, and MOOWD. The agenda includes approval of the October 26 minutes and several project updates.
- Park Dedication Fund balance of $338,372 as of November 1, 2022
- Town Square Park skating rink proposal (30x60, estimated $7,597.69) from D-1 Rinks
- Ballpark fencing and pickleball court updates
- Bike trails: Share the Road signs and working group proposal
- Roadside Cleanup (CARD program) update
Meeting
The Afton City Council voted to direct the city attorney to prepare a resolution for a 12-month moratorium on the sale of THC edibles, to be considered for approval at the December 20, 2022 meeting. The council also discussed a required upgrade to the City Hall security system, tabled that topic to the December meeting, and directed staff to bring a resolution restricting construction vehicles on Majestic Pines Trail without a city permit. Additionally, the council approved up to $3,000 for fencing along the western boundary of the wastewater treatment site to address trespassing from the Belwin Oxbow Trails.
- 12-month moratorium on THC edible sales directed for December 20 vote
- City Hall security system upgrade tabled to December 20 meeting
- Construction vehicles restricted on Majestic Pines Trail without city permit
- Up to $3,000 approved for fencing along western boundary of wastewater treatment site
- No update available on Afton entrance signs
Meeting
The Afton City Council approved several items including up to $2,500 for an ice rink in Town Square Park, a minor subdivision and variance, a nature center ordinance amendment, and 2023 liquor licenses for Afton House and Lumberyard Pub. They also tabled a retaining wall variance for more engineering plans and sent draft solar and comprehensive plan amendments to the Planning Commission for public hearings.
- Approved up to $2,500 for ice rink materials in Town Square Park
- Approved Charles and Susan Hipp minor subdivision at 1217 Indian Trail South
- Approved Nickolas and Jennifer Tamburo variance at 14648 57th Street South
- Tabled Ziton variance at 4102 River Road for retaining wall replacement
- Approved 2023 liquor licenses for Afton House and Lumberyard Pub
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission discussed and recommended approval of a variance for a home addition, a lot line rearrangement, and a draft ordinance amendment to allow larger ground-mounted residential solar arrays. They also considered a Comprehensive Plan amendment to allow two dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C zone and a definition for 'Nature Center' in the zoning code.
- Nickolas & Jennifer Tamburo variance application for a 7-foot side setback at 14648 57th Street South
- Susan and Charles Hipp minor subdivision for lot line rearrangement at 1217 Indian Trail South
- Draft amendment to Solar Energy System ordinance to allow up to 3,000 sq. ft. ground-mounted residential solar arrays on lots up to 10 acres
- Draft language for Comprehensive Plan amendment to allow two dwelling units in commercial buildings in VHS-C zone
- Ordinance amendment defining 'Nature Center' as an allowed use with conditional use permit, permitting fee charging
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee will meet remotely and in person to approve the September minutes and discuss several park-related items, including the park dedication fund balance of $338,365, Town Square Park improvements, the pollinator trail at City Hall, bike trails, and levee plantings. The agenda includes no formal votes or public hearings; it is a working session for ongoing projects.
- Park Dedication Fund balance of $338,365 as of October 1, 2022
- Town Square Park: skating rink options, ballpark fencing, pickleball court design
- Pollinator Trail at City Hall: 3,500 prairie plugs and 25 trees/shrubs to be installed
- Bike trails: Washington County survey and connection with Afton
- Levee plantings: funding logistics with Corps of Engineers
Meeting
The Public Works Committee will discuss whether the City should continue maintaining the shared driveway serving 14865 and 14877 50th Street, which was renamed 50th Street Court in 2006. The committee will also review a long-term wastewater treatment system maintenance plan, consider renting stalls at the Public Works Garage to Tri County Services, and discuss speed limits on unposted rural streets.
- Shared driveway at 14865 and 14877 50th Street: decide if City maintains it as public roadway
- Long-term wastewater treatment system maintenance plan
- Rental of stalls at Public Works Garage to Tri County Services
- Speed limits on unposted rural streets
City Council
The Afton Planning Commission and Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee are holding a joint meeting to discuss groundwater protection priorities and efforts. The agenda includes only this discussion item, with no formal decisions or votes scheduled.
- Discussion of Groundwater Protection Priorities and Efforts
Meeting
The Afton City Council approved variances for two new houses on River Road and tabled a retaining wall replacement request pending more information. The council also approved a $500 donation to Community Thread and a pension benefit increase for firefighters. Several items were continued to future meetings, including a nature center definition and dwelling units in commercial buildings.
- Approved variance for O'Connor new house at 3786 River Road, allowing slope disturbance and reduced lot size (Resolution 2022-49)
- Approved variance for Lenzen/Lakkundi new house at 4500 River Road South, allowing grading on slopes over 12% (Resolution 2022-50)
- Tabled Ziton retaining wall replacement at 4102 River Road pending DNR and engineering review (Resolution 2022-51)
- Approved $500 donation to Community Thread from council contingency fund
- Approved Resolution 2022-53 increasing firefighter pension benefit from $4,350 to $4,775 per year of service
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee met to review the 2022 well testing program, discuss perfluorochemical (PFC) concerns, and address citizen concerns about chemical use and water monitoring. The committee also discussed potential future activities like a wastewater tour and updates from various watershed organizations. The meeting was largely informational with no formal actions taken beyond approving the agenda and minutes.
- Well testing: 110 test kits sent, 14 positive coliform results from July 19 collection
- PFC update: acceptable threshold lowered, questions from residents during sample drop-off
- Citizen concerns: Roundup and lawn chemical use, excessive water use by Woodbury and Bailey nurseries
- Wastewater tour for community considered for 2023
- Valley Creek water clarity monitoring continues weekly
Meeting
The City Council met for a special meeting to review financial records. The council voted to adopt the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021.
- Adoption of the 2021 Audit Report
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss ideas and inspiration for Afton T-Ball, as well as potential park amenities. The agenda includes a presentation on Lumion video rendering to explore storytelling for park projects. The committee will consider various equipment and facility options, including play equipment, outdoor fitness, shelters, dog parks, and splash pads.
- Discussion of Afton T-Ball ideas and inspiration
- Lumion video rendering presentation on storytelling
- Review of play equipment, outdoor fitness, and shelters
- Consideration of dog parks, splash pads, and sports equipment
Meeting
The City Council approved the 2023 budget and tax levies, which include a 4.37% levy increase. The council also authorized a fee increase for trash disposal and approved a minor subdivision for lot line rearrangements.
- Approved 2023 Budget and tax levies (4.37% levy increase)
- Approved 18.4% increase in monthly residential and commercial trash disposal fees for 2023
- Approved Minor Subdivision for lot line rearrangements at 15901 Putnam Boulevard South and 2573 Stagecoach Trail
- Approved bridge safety inspection proposal not to exceed $2,450.00
- Appointed Susan Loomis to Natural Resources & Groundwater Committee and Nicholas Livingston to Parks Committee
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held a public hearing and recommended approval of a minor subdivision application by Tim Rivas/Brown Trout LLC to rearrange lot lines on four parcels, reducing the number of lots from four to three. The commission also discussed groundwater protection strategies and the use of virtual meeting options.
- Public hearing and recommendation for Brown Trout LLC lot line rearrangement at 15901 Putnam Boulevard South and 2573 Stagecoach Trail
- Discussion on groundwater protection scoring and collaboration with NRGC
- Update on City Council actions from August 16, 2022
- Discussion on virtual meeting requirements for public commissions
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss park projects, including the Park Dedication Fund balance, Town Square Park fencing, Meadow Ridge pollinator project, Pollinator Trail at City Hall, and bike trails. The agenda includes approval of minutes and a memo on the fund balance. The meeting will be held remotely and in person via Zoom.
- Park Dedication Fund balance of $334,406 as of August 1, 2022
- Fence proposal for Steamboat Park at $22,886 from Midwest Fence
- Discussion on Town Square Park fencing and roofing repairs
- Update on Pollinator Trail at City Hall and proposed fencing budget
- Bike trail mapping and Share the Road signs discussion
Meeting
The City Council updated the speed limit on Odell Avenue to 30 mph and approved a simple subdivision at Trading Post Trail. The council also continued a variance application for River Road pending specific written confirmation from the applicants.
- Adopted Resolution 2022-40 changing the speed limit on Odell Ave to 30 mph
- Approved Resolution 2022-41 for a simple subdivision at 2771 and 2783 Trading Post Trail
- Approved a two-year extension of a Variance and Conditional Use Permit for 3185 St Croix Tr
- Continued the O’Connor variance application on River Road until the September meeting
- Appointed Elissa Thompson to the Natural Resources & Groundwater committee
Meeting
The Council reviewed several adjustments to the 2023 preliminary budget, including changes to patrol funding and road repair accounts. These revisions resulted in a projected overall property tax levy increase of 4.52%. Discussions also covered cemetery restoration, sewer operations, and county assessment costs.
- Increased extra patrols line item by $5,000 to $10,000
- Created a major road repair account with $40,000 from interest and ARPA funds
- Projected overall property tax levy increase of 4.52%
- Discussed annual $9,000 payments for Mt. Hope Cemetery restoration
- Discussed $15,000 budget line item for local sewer operations
Meeting
The City Council discussed the preliminary 2023 budget and directed staff to use one-time funds to keep the tax levy increase below 5%. The body also approved the purchase of a surplus skidsteer and adopted a resolution for temporary parking restrictions on River Road.
- Purchase of a 2019 DNR surplus skidsteer loader for $7,000
- Resolution 2022-38 authorizing temporary No Parking signs on northern River Road during community events
- Discussion of 2023 preliminary budget and use of ARPA funds to limit tax levy increases
- Proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment to allow up to two dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C zone
- Review of mid-year finances noting building permit revenue was substantially above budget
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will meet remotely to discuss old and new business, including well testing for nitrates and coliforms, an update on perfluorochemicals (PFCs), and citizen monitoring programs. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the June 14, 2022 meeting and updates from various watershed organizations.
- Well testing for nitrates and coliforms in 2022
- Perfluorochemicals (PFC) update
- Wastewater tour for community
- Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) update
- Citizen monitoring: Valley Creek water clarity and Algae Alert Network
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission reviewed two draft ordinance amendments regarding zoning definitions. Staff proposed a definition for 'Nature Center' uses and a change to simple subdivision rules to allow lot line rearrangements for non-conforming parcels. The Commission provided feedback on the Nature Center definition but expressed reluctance to change simple subdivision requirements, suggesting fee reductions or size limits instead.
- Draft ordinance amendment to define 'Nature Center' use in the Zoning Code
- Draft ordinance amendment regarding simple subdivisions for lot line rearrangements
- Agriculture Preservation Committee report on ag land preservation tools
- Discussion on Zoom meeting requirements for committee members
- Groundwater protection prioritization including planting lists and well testing
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting remotely and in person to discuss park business, including the park dedication fund balance, Town Square Park updates, roadside cleanup, the Meadow Ridge Pollinator Project, a pollinator trail at City Hall, bike trails, and volunteer recognition. The agenda includes approval of the June 22, 2022 minutes. The meeting is largely a working session with no major decisions listed.
- Park Dedication Fund balance of $334,116 as of July 1, 2022
- Town Square Park updates (bandshell painting, picnic shelter staining, wasp spraying, cooler enclosure, lighting upgrades)
- Roadside cleanup discussion
- Meadow Ridge Pollinator Project update
- Bike trails development with three route levels
Meeting
The City Council denied a conditional use permit for the Kaye Hill Farm subdivision at 1754 Neal Ave. The council also adopted speed limit changes on Oakgreen Ave and authorized staff to seek quotes for Town Square Park improvements.
- Denied Resolution 2022-33 regarding a conditional use permit for 1754 Neal Ave
- Adopted Resolution 2022-37 changing the speed limit on Oakgreen Ave
- Authorized staff to obtain price quotes for Town Square Park fencing and basketball court replacement
- Appointed Jill Livingston to the Heritage Preservation Commission through March 31, 2025
- Appointed Ann Dieperink and John Kollmer to the Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee through March 31, 2025
Meeting
The Planning Commission reviewed an application to amend the Kaye Hill Farm Planned Agriculture Unit Development. The body also discussed potential groundwater protection priorities for future focus.
- Recommended approval of a conditional use permit for an amendment to the Kaye Hill Farm PAUD at 1754 Neal Ave
- Proposed groundwater protection measures including a moratorium on automated irrigation for new construction
- Discussion of septic tank inspection criteria and roadway salting practices
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting remotely and in person to discuss several park-related items, including the park dedication fund balance, the Meadow Ridge project, a pollinator trail at City Hall, bike trails, roadside cleanup, Town Square Park, and native gardening initiatives. The agenda lists these as business items for discussion, with no decisions specified.
- Park Dedication Fund Balance
- Meadow Ridge Project
- Pollinator Trail at City Hall
- Bike Trails
- Roadside Cleanup
Meeting
The City Council approved a Conditional Use Permit for a nature center with hiking and mountain biking trails at 2167 Oakgreen Ave. The body also established new speed limits on Division Street and Croixview Ave S and approved several infrastructure repairs.
- Approved nature center CUP at 2167 Oakgreen Ave with usage limits and traffic sign conditions
- Resolution 2022-35: Speed limits set to 45 mph on Division Street and 25 mph on Croixview Ave S
- Approved gazebo repairs at Town Square Park not to exceed $4,800 and picnic shelter work not to exceed $2,600
- Approved short-term rental license for Chad Fredkove at 13288 10th St S
- Accepted bid from Farner Asphalt LLC for the 2022 street crackfill project
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee is meeting to discuss upcoming well testing for 2022 and review previous testing results. The committee will also receive updates on various watershed districts and citizen monitoring programs.
- Well testing for 2022
- Well testing for Nitrates and coliforms from 2020 and earlier
- Perfluorochemicals (PFC) update
- Updates on Washington Conservation District, South Washington County Watershed District, Middle St. Croix Water Management Organization, and Valley Branch Watershed District
- Valley Creek Water Clarity Monitoring and Algae Alert Network updates
Meeting
The Planning Commission reviewed three land-use applications. It recommended approval for a nature center and a short-term rental license, while rejecting a request to amend a planned agricultural unit development.
- Recommended approval of a nature center with hiking and mountain biking trails at 2167 Oakgreen Ave S
- Recommended approval of a Type D short-term rental license at 13288 10th St S
- Denied a Conditional Use Permit to create a 5-acre agricultural lot at 1754 Neal Ave
- Proposed conditions for the nature center include a 25-person capacity limit and a 3-year permit renewal cycle
- Proposed ordinance amendment to add a definition for 'Nature Center' to the zoning code
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss several park-related projects and funds. Key topics include the Park Dedication Fund balance, the Meadow Ridge Project, a pollinator trail at City Hall, bike trails, roadside cleanup, Town Square Park, and long-term goals. The meeting will be held both remotely via Zoom and in person due to COVID-19.
- Park Dedication Fund balance: $336,593.00 as of May 1, 2022
- Meadow Ridge Project: tree removal and controlled burn
- Pollinator Trail at City Hall: replacing deer-damaged trees, adding native plants
- Bike trails: mapping, signage, potential rental bikes
- Town Square Park: discussion of upgrades and removal of freezer in gazebo
Meeting
The Council met with the Washington County Sheriff to discuss speeding, noise, and zoning enforcement. Members also reviewed a proposal for luxury garage condos on Hudson Road and a request regarding residential units in the Old Village area.
- Meeting with Sheriff Starry regarding speeding, noise, and zoning enforcement
- Interview of Kelly & Lemmons and Eckberg Lammers for prosecution services
- Presentation of luxury garage condo proposal at 14386 Hudson Road
- Discussion of two residential units vs one unit in a commercial building in the VHS-C zone
- Approval of 'No Parking' signage at the Putnam Boulevard closure
Meeting
The City Council approved a resolution for Five Oaks Farm regarding a subdivision at 120 and 502 Stagecoach Trail. They also passed an ordinance to clarify the timeline for implementing variances.
- Resolution 2022-29: Approved amendment for Five Oaks Farm subdivision at 120 and 502 Stagecoach Trail
- Ordinance 01-2022: Approved to clarify the timeline for implementation of a variance
- Resolution 2022-28: Approved as part of the consent agenda for 4M Fund Transfers
- Bridge project: Scheduled to begin after school is out
City Council
The committee discussed a draft report on agricultural land preservation and reached a consensus to submit it to the City Council. Members discussed land classification impacts on taxes and potential funding for land surveys. A memo from the City Administrator noted that the City Council approved a no-cost mapping analysis of quality agricultural land from the Washington Conservation District.
- Review of Afton Ag Land Preservation report (v 1.5)
- Discussion of zoning ordinance changes to facilitate ag land preservation
- Proposed mapping analysis of quality ag land provided at no cost by Washington Conservation District
- Discussion of agricultural easements and the need for outside funding sources
Meeting
The Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss updates on the Critter Crossing Phase 2 project, pavement preservation methods, a wastewater treatment system RFP, and a review of street conditions. They will also evaluate unimproved streets and consider coring to assess pavement depth. The agenda includes routine administrative items and project updates.
- Update on Critter Crossing Phase 2 at St. Croix Trail and Valley Creek
- Discussion of micro-surfacing and slurry surfacing for road pavement protection
- Update on RFP for wastewater treatment system and sewer collection management
- In-depth review of PWCOPS spreadsheet
- Inspection and evaluation of all streets not recently improved
Meeting
The Planning Commission met to discuss a groundwater protection presentation, a variance for a new house on River Road, and an ordinance amendment. The commission voted to deny a request to amend a subdivision resolution for Five Oaks Farm and failed to recommend approval for the River Road variance.
- Public hearing for Thomas and Joalyce O’Connor variance application regarding a new house on River Road property
- Denial of recommendation for Five Oaks Farm amendment to Resolution 2020-13 at 120 and 502 Stagecoach Trail
- Recommendation to approve ordinance amendment clarifying the timeline for variance implementation
- Groundwater protection workshop presentation by Angie Hong of Washington County Conservation District
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting remotely and in person to discuss several park-related items. Business includes reviewing the Park Dedication Fund balance, deciding on future meeting formats, and getting updates on the Meadow Ridge Project, City Hall Project, bike routes, and recycling bins. The committee will also consider long-term planning.
- Park Dedication Fund balance of $352,876.00 as of April 1, 2022
- Discussion on future meetings: Zoom or in person
- Meadow Ridge Project update (tree removal underway)
- Bike route maps expected this summer
- Recycling bins for Town Square Park, with Washington County covering installation costs
Meeting
The City Council met for a special meeting to conduct a performance review of the City Administrator. The council also reviewed proposals for municipal legal services.
- City Administrator performance review conducted in closed session
- Selection of firms for municipal legal services interviews on May 4
Meeting
The City Council approved several land-use items including a wireless tower antenna array and a garage variance. Most notably, the council approved rezoning 14698 Afton Boulevard to Agricultural and granting a conditional use permit for a farm winery to allow wholesale hard cider sales.
- Dish Network antenna array addition at 12501 Hudson Road South
- Garage variance for 12770 4th Street South
- Rezoning of 14698 Afton Boulevard from Rural Residential to Agricultural
- Farm winery conditional use permit for 14698 Afton Boulevard
- Small gatherings and events conditional use permit for 3390 St. Croix Trail
Meeting
The committee will review several local infrastructure items, including street light updates, culvert issues, and bridge replacements. The meeting also includes discussions on stormwater surveys and a request for proposals regarding sanitary sewer system management.
- Shared driveway off 50th street
- 22nd street culvert issue
- Valley Creek Trail bridge replacement update
- RFP for sanitary sewer system management
- Review of Public Works Capital and Operating Costs Spreadsheet
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held public hearings and recommended approval of several land-use applications, including a garage setback variance, a rezoning to allow a farm winery, a conditional use permit for events, and a cell tower antenna addition. They also discussed a draft ordinance amendment clarifying variance implementation timelines.
- Recommended approval of variance for 960 sq ft garage at 12770 4th St (85 ft setback vs 105 ft required), 5-1
- Recommended approval of rezoning 26.46-acre orchard at 14698 Afton Blvd from Rural Residential to Agricultural, 6-0
- Recommended approval of conditional use permit for farm winery at 14698 Afton Blvd, with conditions (no retail or tastings), 6-0
- Recommended approval of conditional use permit for events at 3390 St. Croix Tr, limited to 50 guests, no amplified music, 15 large events/year, 6-0
- Recommended approval of Dish Network antenna co-location at 12501 Hudson Rd S after landowner consent obtained
Meeting
The City Council held a work session to set priority goals for 2022 and discuss various city policies. The Council also addressed pending litigation regarding tree removals and considered changes to the subdivision process.
- Closed session discussion of pending litigation regarding illegal tree removals at 1073 Indian Trail Path
- Discussion of Ag Preservation Committee tools for preserving agricultural land
- Agreement to develop a policy for objective, non-political City Newsletter articles
- Direction to draft an ordinance amendment for small lot simple subdivisions
Parks Committee
The committee is reviewing updates regarding waste management services and recycling options. The discussion includes evaluating vendor costs for bin servicing and exploring dual-deposit bin replacements.
- Evaluating Highland's ability to service recycling bins and associated costs
- Reviewing quotes for Vancouver Series dual-deposit trash and recycling bins
- Inquiry with CleanRiver regarding dual-sided deposit bins for existing pads
Meeting
The City Council approved a proposal to upgrade internet service in four underserved areas using a combination of City and County ARPA funds. The body also selected MSA for planning services and adjusted election ward boundaries based on 2020 Census data.
- Approved $100,000 for Comcast internet upgrades in Trading Post Trail, Valley Creek Trail, Swede Hill Drive, and Ozark/Oxbow areas
- Established a 20 MPH speed limit on 50th Street South and River Road South east of Quadrant Avenue South
- Selected MSA firm for planning services (lead planner rate $90/hr)
- Adopted Resolution 2022-20 to re-establish election ward boundaries and polling places
- Authorized agricultural land mapping analysis at a cost not to exceed $2,500
City Council
The Agriculture Preservation Committee is reviewing various mechanisms to protect agricultural lands in Afton. Members are evaluating options such as purchasing easements, mitigation strategies, and zoning incentives to establish a formal preservation plan.
- Discussion of purchasing agricultural easements from landowners
- Review of 1:1 mitigation and development right transfers
- Evaluation of PLCD incentive and requirement provisions
- Proposal for a City Agricultural Preservation Fund via tax or levy
- Consideration of an Agricultural Easement-Ag Zoned Land bonus PID
Parks Committee
The committee will discuss the Meadow Ridge Project, the City Hall Project, and bike routes. The meeting also includes discussions on long-term planning and future meeting formats.
- Meadow Ridge Project discussion
- City Hall Project discussion
- Bike routes discussion
- Long-term planning discussion
Meeting
The City Council decided on several land-use variances and renewed a building inspection contract. The body also discussed groundwater protection and scheduled a work session to review contracted services RFPs.
- Approved vacation of drainage and utility easements for Rise at Afton Business Park (Resolution 2022-14)
- Approved variance for a new house at 14740 Valley Creek Trail South (Resolution 2022-15)
- Approved one-year variance implementation extension for 4102 River Road (Resolution 2022-16)
- Renewed building inspection services contract with Stensland Inspection Services through December 31, 2024 (Resolution 2022-17)
- Renewed 2022 liquor license for Lumberyard Pub
City Council
The committee is meeting to debrief a presentation on Dakota County's land conservation and discuss a proposed ordinance amendment from Cody Kaye. The proposal seeks to create a 'Farm Legacy' clause to allow smaller parcels for specialty crops like vineyards and orchards.
- Debrief of Al Singer's presentation on Dakota County Ag Preservation Program
- Discussion of Cody Kaye's proposed Farm Legacy Ordinance Amendment
- Review of specialty crop definitions and parcel requirements (minimum 5 acres)
- Discussion of potential property tax differentiation for land conservation
Meeting
The Commission recommended approval for vacating drainage easements in Afton Business Park and approving a residential variance at 14740 Valley Creek Trail S. A conditional use permit for wireless antennas at 12501 Hudson Rd S was tabled pending lease discussions.
- Recommended approval to vacate drainage and utility easements in lots 4 & 5 of Afton Business Park
- Recommended approval of a variance for a new house at 14740 Valley Creek Trail S
- Tabled wireless antenna application for 12501 Hudson Rd S until lease discussions are resolved
- Discussed potential new regulations for groundwater protection and climate change resiliency
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee will meet remotely via Zoom on January 26, 2022, to discuss several park-related items. They will review and potentially approve the minutes from the December 1, 2021 meeting, and then discuss Meadow Ridge, the Pollinator Trail at City Hall, bicycle routes, and 2022 priorities. The meeting is open to the public with instructions provided for remote participation.
- Discussion of Meadow Ridge project, following a grant submission with final approval anticipated in mid-December
- Pollinator Trail at City Hall, including a donated bench and additional trees
- Bicycle routes, with a map proposal being developed by Bjorn at Velo
- 2022 priorities for the Parks Committee
Meeting
The City Council approved a minor subdivision for a lot line rearrangement and a short-term home rental license. The body also designated city officials for 2022 and selected an auditing firm.
- Approved minor subdivision for lot line rearrangement at 13852 50th Street
- Approved conditional use permit for short term home rental license at 3602 St. Croix Trail
- Designated WSB as City Engineer for 2022
- Designated Holstad and Knaak, PLC as City Attorney and Prosecuting Attorney through January 31, 2023
- Accepted proposal from Oberloh and Oberloh, LTD for auditing services for fiscal years 2021, 2022, and 2023
City Council
The committee will hear a presentation and participate in a Q&A with Al Singer regarding the Dakota County Farmland and Natural Areas Preservation Program. Members will also work to identify and prioritize next action steps for the committee.
- Presentation and Q&A with Al Singer, Dakota County Ag Preservation Program
Meeting
The City Council held a work session to interview NAC and MSA for planning services. Members also discussed infrastructure projects, internet upgrades, and a new pedestrian crossing.
- Interviews with NAC and MSA regarding proposals for planning services
- Agreement to move forward with a pedestrian crossing at 31st Street and St. Croix Trail
- Discussion of federal infrastructure funding for Putnam Boulevard bridge and EV charging stations
- Discussion of using ARPA funds for internet upgrades in four areas
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held a regular meeting and recommended approval of a minor subdivision (lot line rearrangement) for the Birdie R. Meyer Trust and a conditional use permit for a short-term rental at 3602 St. Croix Trail. The commission also discussed groundwater protection and approved changes to the 2022 meeting schedule.
- Recommended approval of minor subdivision for Birdie R. Meyer Trust at 13852 50th St (lot line rearrangement, no new lots)
- Recommended approval of conditional use permit for short-term rental (Type D) at 3602 St. Croix Trail, with added health & safety inspection condition
- Discussed initiating groundwater protection and climate change resiliency efforts, possibly referring to City Council
- Approved moving July 4 and September 5 meetings to June 27 and August 29, 2022