Afton public meetings in 2023
56 substantive meetings from 2023, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Meeting
The City Council approved the final 2024 budget and tax levies following a public hearing regarding property valuations. The council also passed ordinances regarding cannabis use in public spaces and snow disposal, and denied a waiver for a short-term rental moratorium.
- Adopted 2024 Final Budget (Resolution 2023-57) and 2024 Final Tax Levies (Resolution 2023-58)
- Passed Ordinance 12-2023 extending the moratorium on THC product sales, testing, and manufacturing
- Approved $6,612.00 payment to Geislinger and Sons for erosion control repairs
- Adopted Ordinance 13-2023 prohibiting cannabis use in public places and spaces
- Adopted Ordinance 14-2023 prohibiting the hauling and disposal of snow onto Afton property
Meeting
The Council discussed a proposal for wine tastings at farm wineries and reviewed potential business uses for the Marine Services District. Members also addressed extending a THC product moratorium and reviewing the City Code.
- Discussion of Cody Kaye's proposal for wine tastings at farm wineries
- Review of plumbing contractor and large animal vet clinic proposals at 599 Manning Avenue
- Proposed extension of moratorium on sale, testing, manufacturing, and distribution of THC products
- Plan to initiate an RFP process for engineering services after the first of the year
- Direction for staff to clarify DNR hunting regulations regarding Steamboat Park
Meeting
The Afton City Council approved levee erosion repairs up to $10,000 and hired the firm of Eckberg Lammers as the new prosecution attorney. Other items included approving liquor license renewals for local businesses and purchasing a speed trailer.
- Approved levee repairs not exceeding $10,000
- Hired Eckberg Lammers as new prosecution attorney
- Approved 2024 liquor license renewals for Afton House Inn and Lumberyard Pub
- Purchased TraffiCalm TC Mini Trailer System speed trailer for $8,633
- Adopted Resolution requesting flashing pedestrian crosswalk signs near Afton-Lakeland School
Meeting
The Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss infrastructure and utility matters. The agenda includes a review of a waterboil on the levee and stormwater system cleaning.
- Possible addition of two homes to city sewer system on River Road South
- Review of waterboil on the levee
- Stormwater system cleaning
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee is meeting to discuss groundwater and environmental updates. The body will review a final report on well testing for nitrates and coliforms and discuss preliminary plans for 2024.
- Final report on well testing for Nitrates and coliforms
- Kelles Creek update
- Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) status update
- Updates from Washington Conservation District and South Washington County Watershed District
- Updates from Middle St. Croix Water Management Organization and Valley Branch Watershed District
Parks Committee
The committee is reviewing updated levee planting proposals following a denied CPL Grant. The discussion includes various combinations of lettered areas to reach a minimum size of one acre.
- Review of proposed levee restoration areas A through H
- Discussion of area sizes ranging from 0.1 to 0.7 acres
- Proposal to reapply for the CPL Grant by November 9th
Meeting
The Planning Commission reviewed a variance request for an accessory building and discussed updates to the city's land use code. The commission recommended approval for a specific residential garage project to be sent to the city council.
- Recommended approval of variance for a 2,000 square foot garage at 12671 10th St S
- Discussion of reorganized land use code codified up to 2022 with a public hearing scheduled for December
Meeting
The Council discussed ordinances regarding cannabis use in public spaces and the provision of an ice rink at Town Square Park. They also reviewed recommendations for promoting small scale agriculture and addressed fire department concerns regarding private driveway bridge capacities.
- Discussion of cannabis regulations in public spaces
- Support for a 2023/2024 winter ice rink in Town Square Park
- Review of small scale agriculture promotion recommendations
- Safety discussion regarding private driveway bridges and large emergency vehicles
Meeting
The Council held a work session to discuss several items, including the 2024 proposed budget and Town Square Park improvements. They also reviewed a request from Afton House regarding turf replacement on 33rd Street.
- Discussion of 2024 budget items including pay adjustments and Public Safety Aid Funds
- Review of Afton House request to replace grass with permeable artificial turf on 33rd Street
- Discussion regarding use of SLFRF funds and Fire Department Capital Expenditures
- Review of the U of M Study for Town Square Park improvements
Meeting
The City Council approved amendments regarding exterior storage and shoreland vegetation protection. The council also addressed several land use applications, including a lot line rearrangement and a conditional use permit for a roadside stand.
- Approved Ordinance 11-2023 regarding exterior storage and definitions
- Approved Resolution 2023-41 for a roadside sales stand at 4433 Pateley Bridge Avenue South
- Approved Resolution 2023-42 for an Xcel Energy security fence at 12511 Hudson Road South
- Approved cleaning and pumping of wastewater treatment facility tanks up to $10,000
- Approved Ordinances 09-2023 and 10-2023 regarding shoreland vegetation preservation
Parks Committee
The Parks Committee is holding a public meeting as a tour of Mount Hope Cemetery at the west end of Upper 34th Street. The agenda contains no other business items; it is a site visit only.
- Tour of Mount Hope Cemetery, located at the west end of Upper 34th Street across from 15606 Upper 34th Street
Meeting
This is a procedural meeting of the Afton Public Works Committee. The agenda lists only a call to order, committee business with the city engineer, and adjournment, with no specific action items or discussion topics provided.
- Meeting with City Engineer under Committee Business
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held public hearings and voted on several land-use items. It recommended approval of a roadside honey stand, an Xcel Energy fence replacement, and a lot line rearrangement with a garage variance, but denied two proposed ordinance amendments. The commission also failed to recommend a shoreland vegetation ordinance due to a tie vote.
- Conditional use permit for roadside honey stand at 4433 Pateley Bridge Avenue South — recommended approval
- Conditional use permit for Xcel Energy to replace 8-foot fence with 10-foot fence at 12511 Hudson Road South — recommended approval
- Minor subdivision and variance for lot line rearrangement at 16530 Swede Hill Drive South — recommended approval
- Variance for 1,300 sq ft garage at 16530 Swede Hill Drive South — recommended approval (3-2-1)
- Ordinance amendments on shoreland vegetation (Ords 09-2023, 10-2023) — failed 3-3; exterior storage ordinance amendment — recommended denial 6-0
Parks Committee
The Parks Committee is reviewing a proposal to restore a 0.15-acre portion of the Afton Levee along the St. Croix River to native prairie. The project, led by the Washington Conservation District, would be funded through a Conservation Partners Legacy Grant and includes prescribed burning, seeding, and volunteer planting. The committee is also considering a letter of support from the Army Corps of Engineers and a land manager approval form.
- Proposed 0.15-acre prairie restoration on Afton Levee along the St. Croix River
- Grant request includes $7,300 for contractor site prep and seeding, $11,000 for live plants, and $2,500 volunteer match
- Restoration methods include prescribed burn, invasive species management, and interseeding
- Project would benefit endangered rusty patched bumble bee and other pollinators
- Army Corps of Engineers letter supports the project and notes it aligns with ongoing native vegetation study
Meeting
The City Council held a work session to discuss developing a structured process for addressing code violations. Members also discussed amending industrial zone uses and reviewed preliminary elements of the 2024 budget.
- Direction for City Attorney, staff, and Planning Consultant to develop a code enforcement plan
- Proposed ordinance amendment to add athletic training center use to industrial zones
- Discussion regarding adding medical and dental clinics to industrial zone uses
- Review of preliminary 2024 budget elements and upcoming levy approval timeline
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will meet to discuss old business including the 2023 well testing program for nitrates and coliforms, an update on Kelles Creek from a VBWD/Barr Engineering meeting, and items for Afton's monthly newsletter. They will also receive updates from various watershed districts and the City Council. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and new business items.
- Well testing program for nitrates and coliforms - 2023 report
- Kelles Creek update from VBWD/Barr Engineering meeting August 24, 2023
- Newsletter items: well testing results, Save our Bees, tree planting, septic system maintenance, rain barrels
- Natural Resources Inventory - City Council looking into grants
- Updates from Washington Conservation District, South Washington County Watershed District, Middle St. Croix WMO, Valley Branch Watershed District
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held a public hearing on a Conditional Use Permit for a short-term rental at 15711 Upper 34th St. After hearing from the applicant and neighbors, the commission voted 4-3 to recommend approval with conditions, including reduced parking and additional screening. The commission also discussed but took no action on a fertilizer ordinance, and received updates on shoreland ordinance amendments and a River Road easement.
- Conditional Use Permit for short-term rental at 15711 Upper 34th St. recommended for approval (4-3) with conditions: max 5 overnight parking, max 8 total vehicles, screening on southern boundary and along 34th St., guest information on parking and narrow roads
- Public hearing on CUP drew opposition from neighbors citing traffic, noise, privacy, and safety concerns
- Discussion of ordinance protecting groundwater from fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides – no action taken
- Shoreland ordinance amendments on tree protection deferred pending legal advice; public hearing planned for October
- River Road easement status: condition for building permit not yet completed; owners not building until spring
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee will meet remotely and in person to discuss several park-related items, including the Park Dedication Fund balance, a tree donation request, levee plantings, the CARD program, and Town Square Park. The agenda includes approval of minutes from the July 26 meeting and other routine business.
- Park Dedication Fund balance of $311,550 as of July 1, 2023
- Tree donation request in memory of a loved one
- Levee plantings awaiting Corps of Engineers authorization
- Town Square Park five-year plan discussion
- CARD program review
Meeting
The Public Works Committee is meeting to review road maintenance plans, including a $95,000 allocation for roads, and to discuss progress on brushing cleanup from spring storms. They will also cover private road signs, a sweeping grant, crackfill updates, septic checks, and a garage rental.
- Review road spreadsheet and road budget plans
- Progress on brushing cleanup from spring storms
- Discuss private road signs on 50th Street Court
- Update on sweeping grant
- $95,000 for roads update
Meeting
The Afton City Council approved amendments to the solar energy systems ordinance and updated the building permit fee schedule. The Council also authorized a technical services agreement with the Washington Conservation District and established new administrative civil citations.
- Approved Ordinance 04-2023 amending solar energy system screening requirements
- Adopted Ordinance 05-2023 authorizing administrative civil citations for City Code violations
- Established a schedule of civil fines via Resolution 2023-32
- Approved Technical Services Agreement with Washington Conservation District up to $2,500
- Adopted Ordinance 06-2023 updating building permit fees, including a $140 flat fee for most small projects
Meeting
The Planning Commission voted to amend the Solar Energy Systems Ordinance regarding ground-mounted arrays. The commission also discussed draft amendments for shoreland tree protection and replacement.
- Adopted amendment to Solar Energy Systems Ordinance 04-2023 regarding ground-mounted solar capacity and screening
- Discussed draft Shoreland Ordinance amendments including potential $2,000 civil penalty fees per illegally removed tree
- Reviewed updates on groundwater protection and well sealing information
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee is meeting to discuss well testing for nitrates, phosphates, and coliforms, receive a delayed update on perfluorochemicals (PFCs), and hear reports from various watershed districts. The agenda also includes items for the city newsletter and a natural resources inventory grant update. This is a regular working meeting with no major decisions expected.
- Well testing program for 2023 report
- PFC update from VBWD/Barr Engineering meeting
- Newsletter items: well testing results, Save our Bees, tree planting, rain barrels
- Natural Resources Inventory grant update
- Watershed district updates from Washington Conservation District, South Washington County, Middle St. Croix, Valley Branch
Meeting
The City Council held a work session to review projected costs for the wastewater system and an overview of the 2024 budget. The Council also discussed potential regulations for cannabis use in public spaces following new state legislation.
- Discussion of increasing monthly sewer fees from $50 to $55 per unit in 2024
- Review of 2024 budget preparation and projected expenditure impacts
- Legislative update regarding broadband expansion funding and street improvements
- Discussion on establishing public space regulations for cannabis use
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting to discuss park dedication fund balance, tree donations, levee plantings, and the Town Square Park master plan. The committee will review a professional services proposal from WSB & Associates for creating a master plan for Town Square Park, with a base fee of $11,600 plus optional services. The meeting will be held remotely via Zoom and in person.
- Park Dedication Fund balance of $310,191 as of June 1, 2023
- WSB proposal for Town Square Park master plan: base scope $11,600, optional services from $800 to $3,000
- Levee plantings: CPL grant application, Army Corps of Engineers approval needed
- Tree donation discussion
- Review of June 28, 2023 minutes
Meeting
The City Council held a work session to review updates to the building permit fee schedule and proposed ordinance revisions for commercial uses in industrial zones. Members also discussed regulations regarding shipping container storage and residential trailer parking.
- Proposed $140 flat fee for most small projects, with reroof, siding, demolition, and window fees ranging from $140 to $500
- Staff recommendations to allow veterinary clinics in industrial zones
- Discussion on allowing temporary shipping container storage with a specific timeline
- Review of ordinance language regarding dog boarding grooming and animal training facility requirements
City Council
The committee will review a report from a subgroup focused on supporting small-scale agricultural uses. Members will discuss options to promote local farms, including potential new markets and event ideas.
- Report from the subcommittee on supporting small scale agricultural uses
- Discussion on reinstating a downtown Farmer's Market
- Proposal for an 'Afton Open Farm Day'
- Proposal for an 'Old Village Night Market'
- Discussion regarding direct sales of farm products and refrigeration requirements
Meeting
The Afton City Council approved amended use permits for the Eastern Twin Cities Islamic Center and a preliminary plat for Capital Enterprise LLC. The council also authorized new warning signs on 30th Street and moved forward with a native prairie vegetation pilot project subject to specific conditions.
- Approved amended Conditional Use Permit for Eastern Twin Cities Islamic Center at 12585 Hudson Road S
- Approved preliminary plat application for Capital Enterprise LLC at 4857 Manning Ave S
- Authorized installation of warning and advisory speed signs on 30th St west of Trading Post Trail
- Approved native prairie vegetation pilot project subject to grant funding and Army Corps of Engineers approval
- Appointed Lori Jean Swanson to the Parks Committee
Parks Committee
The Parks Committee is being asked to recommend whether the Wildheisen Preliminary Plat at 4857 Manning Avenue should meet its park dedication requirement with a $30,000 cash payment or by dedicating land. The subdivision would create four lots on 67 acres, adding three dwelling units. The recommendation will guide the city's decision on the plat.
- Park dedication fee of $30,000 or land dedication for Wildheisen Preliminary Plat at 4857 Manning Avenue
- Subdivision of 67-acre parcel into four lots, adding three dwelling units
- No planned trails along 50th Street or parks in the area
- Existing house on one proposed lot
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held public hearings and recommended approval of two items: an amended conditional use permit for the Eastern Twin Cities Islamic Center to add a 13,000-square-foot gymnasium and classrooms, and a preliminary plat for a four-lot subdivision at 4857 Manning Ave S. The commission also discussed draft ordinance amendments and groundwater protection measures.
- Recommended approval of amended CUP for Eastern Twin Cities Islamic Center (13,000 sq ft addition)
- Recommended approval of Wildheisen preliminary plat at 4857 Manning Ave S (4 lots, 3 new dwellings)
- Discussed draft exterior storage ordinance amendment (further council discussion)
- Discussed higher penalties for illegal tree removals (city attorney research)
- Discussed solar energy systems ordinance amendment (public hearing in August)
Meeting
The Afton City Council met to discuss several ordinance amendments regarding exterior storage, shoreland protection, and solar energy. The council also addressed maintenance for Mount Hope Cemetery and the Steamboat Park parking lot.
- Approved Gopher State Seal Coat Inc bid of $13,206.52 for 2023 street crackfill project
- Selected Septic Check as wastewater treatment facility operator at a first-year cost of $31,200
- Authorized $4,500 for maintenance and restoration of Mount Hope Cemetery
- Approved replacement of arborvitae at Steamboat Park parking lot not to exceed $1,500
- Referred Solar Energy Systems Ordinance Amendment to the Planning Commission for a public hearing
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee met to approve minutes and discuss the 2023 well testing program for nitrates, phosphates, and coliforms. The committee received an update on Perfluorochemicals (PFC) from a previous meeting with VBWD and Barr Engineering. Members also discussed educational resources for the city newsletter and the status of the Natural Resources Inventory grant application.
- 2023 Well Testing Program for Nitrates, Phosphates, and coliforms with volunteer assignments for June 20 and 27
- Update on Perfluorochemicals (PFC) regarding the April 12, 2023 meeting with VBWD and Barr Engineering
- Discussion of Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) grant application status
- Review of newsletter items including low-mow lawns, tree planting, pollinators, and rain barrels
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission discussed three draft ordinance amendments: one on exterior storage (including shipping containers and vehicle/trailer storage), one on shoreland tree protection and replacement, and one on solar energy systems. The commission provided feedback but took no final votes; the items are still in draft form for future consideration.
- Draft exterior storage ordinance: shipping containers as permanent accessory structures, RV parking in RR/Ag districts, vehicle/trailer storage in VHS-R and VHS-C districts
- Draft shoreland ordinance: fines for illegal tree removal at least $2,500 per tree, applied to contractor and property owner
- Draft solar ordinance: remove 120% of actual usage limit, keep 40kW max capacity, define 'fully screened' as 90% screened year-round
- Commission suggested deed restrictions for tree maintenance in perpetuity
- Next meeting moved to June 26 due to July 4 holiday
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from the April 26 meeting, and to discuss business items related to Town Square Park and the Levee. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.
- Discussion of Town Square Park
- Discussion of Levee
Meeting
The Public Works Committee is meeting to discuss two items: the request for proposals (RFP) process for a wastewater treatment system operator and an update on brush cleanup. No decisions are listed on the agenda; these are discussion items.
- Wastewater Treatment System Operator RFP Process
- Brush Clean-up Update
Meeting
The City Council approved several land use items, including a front porch variance and short-term rental permit. The council also adopted the 2040 Comprehensive Plan and updated the city fee schedule regarding sewer connections.
- Variance for a front porch at 4524 River Road South
- Short term home rental license for 12740 22nd Street South
- Xcel Energy staging area permit at 12511 Hudson Road South
- Authorization for 2023 crack fill and street patching projects
- Adoption of the 2040 Comprehensive Plan
Meeting
The Public Works Committee is meeting to conduct a road tour, review and update the road spreadsheet, discuss summer crack sealing, and receive a flood and bushing update. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.
- Road tour
- Review and update road spreadsheet
- Discuss summer crack sealing
- Flood and bushing update
City Council
The Afton Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will hear a presentation from the Valley Branch Watershed District on its makeup and goals, and discuss the 2023 well testing program for nitrates, phosphates, and coliforms. The PFC update is delayed until the June meeting. The committee will also review newsletter items and updates from various watershed organizations.
- Presentation by VBWD Engineer Barr Engineering on watershed makeup and goals
- Well testing program for 2023 for nitrates, phosphates, and coliforms
- PFC update delayed until June meeting
- Newsletter items: well testing, low-mow lawns, tree planting, pollinators, rain barrels
- Natural Resources Inventory update
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held public hearings on three land use applications. The body voted to recommend approval for a short-term home rental license, a historic porch variance, and an energy substation expansion, each with specific conditions. The commission also discussed groundwater protection strategies and received an update on city council enforcement actions.
- Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for short-term rental at 12740 22nd St S with conditions prohibiting RVs and field access
- Recommended approval of variance for front porch at 4524 River Rd S with condition requiring DNR approval
- Recommended approval of Conditional Use Permit for Xcel Energy expansion at 12511 Hudson Rd S
- Discussed groundwater protection items including well capping and limiting lawn chemical use
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee is reviewing the successful skating rink season, discussing fence removal and potential t-ball field changes at Town Square Park, and planning next steps for the CARD program and bike trail connections. They are also considering community surveys and maintenance plans for levee plantings.
- Skating rink season complete; exploring social media and website promotion
- Discussion on removing industrial fence at Town Square Park; considering ornamental shrubs and short backstop fence
- Potential right-sizing baseball field to t-ball field
- CARD program: forming sub-committee to create work plan and budget
- Washington County to use Stagecoach Trail as North/South connector to Afton
Meeting
The Council approved a $100,000 contract with Tri-County to clean up debris from trees and limbs fallen in city right-of-ways following a recent storm. Additionally, the Council allocated $7,000 to the snow and ice account to address unplanned expenses for tree clearing and storm damage.
- $100,000 authorization for Tri-County to clean up debris from damaged trees in street right-of-ways
- $7,000 allocation to the snow and ice account for storm damage and tree trimming
- Approval of street signage installation for 50th Street Court South
- Authorization of $371.43 for participation in the East Metro Water Resources Education Program for 2023
- Denial of a proposal to remove fencing at Town Square Park
Meeting
The City Council held a work session to review the Middle St. Croix Regional Trail master planning process and discuss storm damage cleanup costs. The Council also received updates on St. Croix River flood projections and sanitary sewer service extensions.
- Middle St. Croix Regional Trail master planning presentation
- Discussion of storm damage cleanup costs and state emergency funding
- St. Croix River flood level projection update
- Sanitary sewer service extension request west of Pennington Avenue
- Proposed clarification to the Solar Energy Systems ordinance
Meeting
The Public Works Committee is reviewing three proposals for operating the city's wastewater treatment facility, lift stations, generators, and flood pump. The committee will also receive updates on storm cleanup, flood preparations, the 2023 public works budget, and the city hall security system. The agenda is primarily informational and discussion-oriented, with no final decisions listed.
- Review of proposals for wastewater treatment facility operation: Petersen Onsite, Natural Systems Utilities, and a third proposer
- Petersen Onsite proposal includes annual management fees totaling $32,870 and routine maintenance costs of $91,922.69
- NSU proposal estimated at $3,037.04 per month for basic services
- Storm event cleanup update
- Flood preparations update
City Council
The Afton Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee (NRGC) is meeting to discuss and review several environmental items, including the 2023 well testing program for nitrates, phosphates, and coliforms, an update on perfluorochemicals (PFCs), and a discussion of Afton Ordinance Chapter 10 on the environment. The committee will also hear reports from various watershed districts and consider items for the city newsletter. This is a regular working meeting with no final decisions expected on the agenda items.
- Well testing program for 2023 for nitrates, phosphates, and coliforms
- PFC update from VBWD/Barr Engineering meeting and MDH
- Discussion of Afton Ordinance Chapter 10: Environment
- Newsletter items including low-mow lawns, pollinators, and rain barrels
- Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) report
Meeting
The City Council approved an ordinance to allow dwelling units in commercial buildings within the VHS-C district. They also authorized a 3.5% pay adjustment for several city staff positions and approved a variance for a retaining wall replacement at 4102 River Road.
- Ordinance 02-2023: Dwelling units in commercial buildings (VHS-C zone)
- Resolution 2023-15: Retaining wall replacement at 4102 River Road
- 3.5% pay adjustment for City Clerk, Office Assistant, Public Works Supervisor, and seasonal staff
- Hiring of Paul Sundstrom as part-time public works employee at $20/hr
- Funding for a concrete pad for a donated picnic table in Steamboat Park
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee is meeting to discuss well testing for nitrates and coliforms, an update on perfluorochemicals (PFAS), and the Kelle's Creek septic system inspection program. They will also review the Natural Resources Inventory and updates from various watershed districts.
- Well testing program for nitrates and coliforms for 2023
- PFAS update and definition of PFCA
- Kelle's Creek Septic System Inspection Program report
- Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) update with cost increase of 5-10%
- Updates from watershed districts including Adopt a Drain program
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission voted 6-2 to recommend approval of an ordinance amendment adding zoning regulations for dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C District, contingent on Met Council approval of the Comprehensive Plan amendment and clarification of fire code exit requirements. The commission also held a pre-application discussion on a Belwin Conservancy Conditional Use Permit and elected officers.
- Ordinance Amendment Ord 02-2023: zoning regulations for dwelling units in commercial buildings in VHS-C District, recommended 6-2
- Belwin Conservancy Conditional Use Permit pre-application discussion for operations at all Belwin sites
- Election of officers: Kris Kopitzke as Chair, Doug Parker as Secretary; Vice Chair tabled
- Groundwater Protection document sent to city council for future action
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee will meet remotely to review and provide feedback on a proposed site plan for the Belwin Oxbow Trails Hiking Area, located north of City Hall and west of St. Croix Trail. The plan includes trails, a parking lot, picnic areas, a shelter, and a restroom. Belwin staff will present the plan, and if acceptable, Belwin may proceed with a grant application.
- Proposed site plan for Belwin Oxbow Trail Area north of City Hall and west of St. Croix Trail
- Plan includes parking lot, open play area, picnic area with shelter, restroom, and smaller picnic area
- Site is 52.7 acres, with 27.6 acres owned by Belwin Conservancy and 25.1 acres by the city
- Proposed boardwalks/floating bridges over wetlands
- Belwin may apply for a grant if plan is approved
Parks Committee
The Parks Committee is reviewing a proposed site plan for the Oxbow Trails Hiking Area, presented by Belwin staff. The plan includes trails, parking, a picnic shelter, restroom, and play areas. If approved, Belwin may apply for a grant to fund the improvements. The committee is asked for feedback, not a final decision.
- Proposed site plan for Oxbow Trails Hiking Area at 2398 Stagecoach Tr. S. in Afton
- Includes parking lot, open play area, picnic area with shelter, restroom, and small picnic area
- Possible boardwalk/floating bridge locations shown on plan
- Belwin may pursue grant application if plan is acceptable
- Site includes 52.7 acres, with 27.6 owned by Belwin and 25.1 by city
Meeting
The Afton City Council adopted Ordinance 01-2023, amending the Short Term Home Rental Ordinance with changes to suspension and revocation rules. The council also approved speed limit resolutions for 30th and 50th Streets, moved forward with a grant application for electric vehicle charging stations, and supported a conservation easement on a 40-acre parcel.
- Adopted Ordinance 01-2023 amending Short Term Home Rental Ordinance with revised suspension/revocation language
- Adopted Resolution 2023-11 setting speed limits at 45 MPH on 30th Street and parts of 50th Street, and 35 MPH on another segment of 50th Street
- Approved grant application for electric vehicle charging stations (2-1 vote)
- Adopted Resolution 2023-13 supporting a conservation easement on a 40-acre parcel at east end of 45th Street (PID# 26.028.20.32.0001)
- Appointed Jacob Edwards to the Planning Commission for a 3-year term
Meeting
The City Council held a work session to review a proposed site plan for the Belwin Oxbow Trails Hiking Area, including a trail plan, parking lot, picnic areas, and restroom. The Council agreed to consider funding a portion of the grant match for the improvements. Separately, staff requested Council feedback on an EV charging station grant application that would cover up to $7,500 for a single-port station or $15,000 for a dual-port station, with a 20% city match. Council members asked for additional cost and operational details to be provided at the next meeting.
- Council agreed to consider funding a portion of the grant match for the Belwin Oxbow Trails project
- Mayor prioritized boardwalks across the wetland area if funding is limited
- EV charging grant covers up to $7,500 for a single-port station or $15,000 for a dual-port station, with a 20% city match
- Council requested price quotes, electrical service costs, and operating/maintenance info for EV stations by the Feb. 21 meeting
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will meet to discuss the 2023 well testing program for nitrates and coliforms, receive an update on perfluorochemicals (PFC), and review other natural resource items. The agenda includes reports on the Natural Resources Inventory (NRI), Kelle's Creek septic system inspection program, and updates from various watershed districts. This is a regular working meeting with no major decisions expected.
- Well testing program for nitrates and coliforms for 2023
- Perfluorochemicals (PFC) update
- Natural Resources Inventory (NRI) update
- Kelle's Creek Septic System Inspection Program report
- Updates from watershed districts and conservation groups
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission held a public hearing on a proposed ordinance amendment to strengthen enforcement of short-term home rental rules, and voted to recommend approval with additional conditions. The commission also discussed a draft ordinance to allow dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C district, which will go to the City Council for further review.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 01-2023 amending Section 12-232 Short Term Home Rental
- Motion to recommend ordinance approval with attorney review of advertising enforceability and added septic inspection requirement (passed 6-2)
- Discussion of draft ordinance for dwelling units in commercial buildings in VHS-C district
- Oath of office administered to new commission member Marc Porupsky
Parks Committee
The Afton Parks Committee will meet remotely and in person to approve the November 30, 2022 minutes and discuss several park-related items. Key business includes reviewing the Park Dedication Fund balance of $305,250 as of January 1, 2023, and discussing roadside cleanup, Town Square Park, bike trails, and levee plantings. The meeting is open to the public via Zoom.
- Park Dedication Fund balance: $305,250 as of January 1, 2023
- Town Square Park: hockey rink installed, programmable lights purchased, warming house setup, restroom left open, mini zamboni and skating aid obtained
- Bike trails: map completion and possible extension along the dike discussed
- Levee plantings: Army Corps of Engineers approved plan, funding may be available from conservation groups
- Roadside cleanup: item on agenda for discussion
Meeting
The Public Works Committee will review and discuss a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) for operating the city's wastewater treatment facility and maintaining lift stations and the flood pump. The discussion will focus on ensuring all responsibilities and performance standards are included in the RFP. Proposals are due by January 27, 2023.
- Discuss draft RFP for operation of the City Wastewater Treatment Facility and lift stations
- Options for salt/sand container at Village Garage
- Discuss adding speed limit signage to 50" and 30" streets
- Brushing on Afton Hills Court
Meeting
The Afton Planning Commission discussed draft zoning standards allowing up to two residential dwelling units in commercial buildings in the VHS-C zone, including location, bedroom limits, and conditional use permits. No formal action was taken; the discussion was to guide future drafting of regulations. The meeting also included a groundwater protection update and was otherwise procedural with no public hearings or new business.
- Discussion of draft zoning standards for two dwelling units in commercial buildings in VHS-C Zone in downtown Old Village area
- Commission agreed dwelling units should not be in basements, could be on main floor rear, and require a Conditional Use Permit
- Suggested one off-street parking space per dwelling unit and one-year maximum lease term
- Groundwater Protection subgroup met with Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee to develop scoring spreadsheet
- Council member provided update on December 20 city council actions
City Council
The Natural Resources and Groundwater Committee will meet to elect officers, approve minutes, and discuss old business, including deciding when to test wells for nitrates and coliforms and whether funding is available. They will also receive updates on perfluorochemicals, the Natural Resources Inventory, and various water management organizations.
- Decision on timing of well testing for nitrates and coliforms
- Determine funding availability for well testing
- Update on perfluorochemicals (PFC)
- Election of officers for 2023
- Discussion of joint PC/NRGC meetings from 2022