Marine on St. Croix public meetings in 2021

City Council

The City Council will decide on the final 2022 levy and proposed reserve funds. The body is also reviewing a conditional use permit for a bathroom installation at 871 Judd Street and discussing cell tower proposals.

• Conditional Use Permit for bathroom and coffee bar at 871 Judd Street
• Approval of Final 2022 Levy
• Approval of Proposed Reserve Funds
• Cell tower proposals discussion
• Liquor, cigarette, and STR license renewals

The City Council approved the 2022 levy at $982,063.74, a 4.22% increase over 2021, and approved the 2021 reserve fund proposal. They also approved a conditional use permit for an accessory apartment at 871 Judd Street, a final payment to Dresel Contracting, and authorized negotiations with Vinco for a cell tower contract. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 2022 levy at $982,063.74 (4.22% increase) (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 reserve fund proposal (unanimous)
• Approved CUP for accessory apartment at 871 Judd Street (unanimous)
• Approved final payment of $27,976.87 to Dresel Contracting (unanimous)
• Authorized communications committee to negotiate cell tower contract with Vinco (unanimous)
• Approved American Legion Post 48 as new pull tab vendor for Brookside Bar and Grill (unanimous)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, treasurer's report, bills, and license renewals (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review the proposed budget for the year 2022. The council is scheduled to set the 2022 levy at a subsequent meeting on December 9th.

• Review of proposed Year 2022 Budget
• Truth in Taxation discussion

The City Council reviewed and made changes to the proposed 2022 budget, including increasing consultant funds, adding a maintenance gate, using ARP funds for school water and HVAC, and increasing legal fees. They reduced or eliminated several capital items, such as the fire truck, pickleball, trails, and EV charger, and changed the pickleball line item to recreational infrastructure. The final levy will be approved at the December meeting.

• Increased consultant line item from $5,000 to $9,000 for Planning Commission support on solar and 5G.
• Agreed to use 2021 surplus to purchase a mechanical gate for the maintenance shop (approx. $14,000) and reduce 2022 budget by $15,000.
• Agreed to use $70,000 in ARP funding for school water system and HVAC computer replacement.
• Increased legal fees line item to $20,000 for 2022 due to trial costs.
• Budgeted $5,000 for fireworks in 2022, with additional funds from P&R community events fund if needed.
• Reduced fire truck allocation to $0, with stipulation to add back in 2023.
• Changed pickleball line item to recreational infrastructure and reduced to $5,000.
• Reduced trails and open space line item to $1,000.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing a conditional use permit for a bathroom and coffee bar in a new garage at 871 Judd Street. The body will also discuss DNR feedback on the Zoning Code and a general Work Plan.

• Public hearing for conditional use permit for an accessory apartment at 871 Judd Street
• Discussion of DNR feedback on Zoning Code
• Review of Planning Commission Work Plan
• Proposed zoning updates regarding solar glare, lighting nuisances, and driveway standards

The commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory building at 871 Judd St., subject to conditions in Section 506.5(5) of the code. The decision was made after discussion about a DNR comment on accessory apartments, but the commission followed the city attorney's advice to administer the ordinance as written. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were discussions or informational.

• Approved conditional use permit for bathroom in accessory building at 871 Judd St. (unanimous)
• Approved October 26 minutes as drafted (unanimous, Spisak abstained)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:12 pm (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing on zoning code amendments and consider a variance request for a home at 360 Robert Street. The body will also discuss CARES funding and review resident survey results.

• Public hearing regarding Zoning Code Amendments
• Variance request for a single-family home at 360 Robert Street
• Discussion of CARES Funding
• Review of Resident Survey Results
• Update on $600,000 Charter School Program Grant request for Marine Village School

The council approved a variance to build on a nonconforming lot at 360 Robert Street, with all five members voting in favor. Scott Spisak was appointed to the Planning Commission. The zoning code update was sent back to the planning commission to address DNR comments, and a vendor change for Brookside pull tabs was postponed to December.

• Approved variance to build on nonconforming lot at 360 Robert St. (5-0)
• Appointed Scott Spisak to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Sent zoning code update back to planning commission to address DNR revisions
• Postponed Brookside pull tab vendor change to December
• Postponed CARES funding discussion to December
• Postponed resident survey results discussion
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, treasurer's report, and bills
• Adjourned at 8:19pm

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a variance request to build a new home and garage on a nonconforming lot at 360 Robert St. The body will also discuss zoning code updates and review an applicant for the commission.

• Public hearing for variance to build a home on a 22,499 square foot lot at 360 Robert St. (minimum required is 30,000 square feet)
• Setting a public hearing for a conditional use permit for a garage bathroom at 871 Judd
• Review and discussion of Zoning Code Section 507.5 regarding conditional uses in the St. Croix Urban Residential District
• Review of Planning Commission applicant Cecily Harris

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of a variance for new home construction on a nonconforming lot at 360 Robert St. The lot is smaller than the city's minimum requirement, but the commission found the variance would not alter the character of the district. The commission also set a public hearing for a conditional use permit request at 871 Judd St. and discussed updates to the zoning code.

• Recommended approval of variance for new home at 360 Robert St. (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Nov. 30 on CUP for accessory apartment at 871 Judd St. (unanimous)
• Approved September minutes as amended (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to approve a new ordinance regulating the placement and design of wireless communication towers and right-of-way permits. The body is also discussing zoning code updates and public safety and road reports.

• Adoption of Ordinance No. 159 regarding Wireless Communication Towers
• Scheduling of Zoning Code Public Hearing for Nov. 10 at 7:00pm
• Approval of a one day liquor license and Village Hall Rental Waiver request
• Approval of Trails, Open Space and Natural Resources Committee applicants
• Approval of road project change order and contractor payment

The council unanimously adopted Ordinance 159, replacing the old wireless communication antenna and tower regulations with a new Section 408. They also conditionally approved the release of a Request for Proposals for a cell tower, contingent on city attorney review, and set a public hearing for zoning code amendments. Additionally, they waived the Village Hall rental fee and approved a one-day liquor license for a New Year's Eve fundraiser.

• Adopted Ordinance 159, Wireless Communication Towers (5-0)
• Conditionally approved release of cell tower RFP, contingent on city attorney review (5-0)
• Set public hearing for zoning code amendments for Nov 10 (5-0)
• Waived Village Hall rental fee for New Year's Eve fundraiser (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Brookside Bar and Grill on Dec 31 (5-0)
• Approved Planning Commission applicant process with interviews (5-0)
• Approved no-cost change order for road construction (5-0)
• Approved contractor payment No. 7 of $97,050.69 (5-0)

Planning Commission

The City Council and Planning Commission are meeting for a workshop to discuss planning frameworks and operational roles. The session focuses on the Metropolitan Land Planning Act, the Comprehensive Plan, and the establishment of work plans.

• Discussion of Metropolitan Land Planning Act (Stat 473)
• Review of Comprehensive Plan and implementation
• Establishment of Planning Commission and City Council work plans
• Process and qualifications for seating new Planning Commission members

The City Council and Planning Commission held a workshop to discuss the role of the Commission, the disconnect between the Zoning Code and Comprehensive Plan, and the formation and effectiveness of citizen committees. They also reviewed the process for seating new Commission members, with differing views on whether the Commission should vet applicants or if appointments should be open to the community. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was adjourned after discussion.

• Adjourned the workshop at 7:33pm (motion by Nyenhuis, second by Roden, passed unanimously).
• Discussed the Planning Commission's advisory role and the priority of the Comprehensive Plan over Zoning Ordinance.
• Reviewed the 2009 Citizen Committee resolution and the formation of committees like the infrastructure and school committees.
• Discussed the need for annual workshops between the Council and Commission to align priorities.
• Considered the process for appointing new Commission members, with no consensus reached.
• Noted the Commission's work plan and the desire for an official document listing priorities.

City Council

The City Council and Planning Commission held a workshop to discuss the disconnect between the Zoning Code and the Comprehensive Plan. Members debated the purpose and effectiveness of citizen committees and the process for appointing new Commission members.

• Discussion on updating the Short Term Rental and Wireless Communications ordinances
• Review of the 2009 Citizen Committee resolution
• Debate over whether the Planning Commission or City Council should vet applicants for Commission seats
• Proposal to hold annual workshops between the Council and Commission to align priorities

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss several land-use requests, including a variance to build a home on a non-conforming lot. The body will also address committee liaison appointments and historic preservation planning.

• Variance request for 360 Robert St. to build a home and garage on a 22,499 square foot lot (30,000 sq ft required)
• Preapplication for variance to build accessory building without primary structure at 750 Judd
• Preapplication for conditional use permit for a garage bathroom at 871 Judd
• Discussion of $2,500 allocated for Historic Preservation
• Public hearing setting for 360 Robert St.

The Planning Commission set a public hearing for October 26th on a variance request to build a single-family home on a non-conforming lot at 360 Robert Street. The commission also discussed two pre-applications: a variance for an accessory structure at 760 Judd and a conditional use permit for a bathroom in a garage at 871 Judd, but took no formal action on either. New business included discussions on council-committee liaisons, historic preservation planning, and a potential wetland setback ordinance.

• Set public hearing for Oct. 26 on variance for single-family home at 360 Robert St. (unanimous)
• Approved August 31 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 8:14 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission and City Council will hold a workshop to review a list of 22 identified items for zoning code updates. These items include gaps in the current code and suggestions for better alignment with the community's Comprehensive Plan.

• Proposed driveway standards requiring a maximum grade of 2 percent within 50 feet of intersecting roads
• Review of solar glare language and ground-mounted array accessory use
• Proposed lighting nuisance modifications including parking lot direction and LED/neon restrictions
• Review of tree preservation permits for slopes over 12% and areas near blufflines
• Proposed updates to exterior color guidelines for the Village Center and Limited Industry districts

The joint workshop reviewed proposed zoning code amendments and discussed priorities, but no formal decisions were made. The group identified solar language, comprehensive plan consistency, and residential care facilities as potential top priorities, though official priorities were deferred due to absent council members. The wireless communications ordinance was noted as complete and ready for city approval.

• Workshop closed at 8:50pm (all in favor)
• Wireless communications ordinance noted as complete and ready for approval
• Priority setting deferred due to two council members absent

City Council

The City Council and Planning Commission held a joint workshop to review and prioritize updates to the zoning code. Discussions focused on lot size requirements, solar language, and consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. No final priorities were set due to absent members, though several specific code definitions and requirements were debated.

• Proposed review of minimum lot size requirements (currently 30,000 sq ft)
• Discussion on updating solar language and vegetative cutting permits
• Proposed updates to the zoning map to correct errors
• Review of trash enclosure requirements for residential and commercial districts
• Proposed wireless communications ordinance ready for City approval

City Council

The City Council will determine the maximum 2022 levy and set the Truth in Taxation meeting date. The body will also review a wireless communications ordinance and consider several license requests.

• Set Maximum 2022 Levy
• Wireless Communications Ordinance/RFP
• Short-Term Rental License Request from Christine Maefsky
• Liquor License Request from Anna Hagstrom
• EV Charger Proposal from Green Step Cities

The City Council approved a maximum 2022 property tax levy of $1,071,063.71, a 13.66% increase over 2021, and set the Truth in Taxation meeting for December 2. They also approved a short-term rental license for Christine Maefsky, a combination liquor license for Anna Hagstrom, a one-day liquor license for the October 2 Streetdance, and hired Rob Powell as a public works employee. Several other items were approved, including a music permit, a basketball gym rental, and a park rental fee waiver.

• Set maximum 2022 levy at $1,071,063.71 (13.66% increase) (5-0)
• Approved short-term rental license for Christine Maefsky (5-0)
• Approved combination liquor license for Anna Hagstrom, contingent on state approval and prorated fee (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for October 2 Streetdance (5-0)
• Approved Rob Powell as new public works employee with one-year probation (5-0)
• Approved music permit for Jody Nyenhuis on September 21 (4-0, mayor abstained)
• Approved $500 season rental fee plus $125 key deposit for men's basketball gym use (5-0)
• Waived park rental fee for Christ Lutheran Church 911 memorial (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to discuss a variance inquiry for the property at 360 Robert St. The commission will review site plans, wetland reports, and septic system evaluations for the location.

• Variance inquiry for 360 Robert St. involving owner Barros and buyers Strandemo & Corby
• Review of Wetland Delineation Report from Jacobson Environmental
• Review of Septic System Site Evaluation by Brian Humpal
• Review of Notice of Decision from Washington Conservation District
• Approval of July 27 meeting minutes

The Planning Commission held a pre-application meeting for a variance request at 360 Robert St. to build a house on a non-conforming lot. No formal decision was made; the commission assigned Commissioners Casey and Henry to work with the applicants and provided guidance on the variance process. The meeting also included updates on a zoning ordinance workshop and wireless ordinances.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Assigned Commissioners Casey and Henry to variance request for 360 Robert St.
• Approved minutes of July 27 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 8:20 pm (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will meet to review the proposed budget for 2022. The meeting includes a period for questions and comments regarding the budget proposal.

• Review of 2022 Proposed Budget

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a proposed ordinance to repeal and replace Section 408 of the Code of Ordinances to regulate telecommunications tower facilities. The body will also receive updates on the Marine Village School charter application and various committee reports.

• Proposed Wireless Communication Tower Ordinance regarding siting, design, and setbacks
• Marine Village School update regarding Minnesota Department of Education charter school status
• Washington County Historical Society funding request
• Contractor pay request approval for Roads
• Memorial request from Dwight Gibson

The City Council approved hiring Carly Kehoe to assist with the RFP process for the wireless communications ordinance, at a cost not to exceed $6,500. The council also approved a $64,821.12 contractor pay request for Dresel Contracting and a $3,000 donation to the Washington County Historical Society. Several items were discussed but not decided, including a proposed classic car show and a memorial request.

• Approved hiring Carly Kehoe for RFP assistance, not to exceed $6,500 (4-0)
• Approved contractor pay request #6 to Dresel Contracting for $64,821.12 (4-0)
• Approved $3,000 donation to Washington County Historical Society (4-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, treasurer's report, and bills (4-0)
• Approved agenda as drafted (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss final changes to proposed 4G and 5G wireless communication ordinances. The body intends to recommend drafts of these ordinances to the city council.

• Final changes to proposed 4G & 5G wireless communication ordinances
• Recommendation of ordinance drafts to council

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended adoption of the 4G Wireless Communication Tower Ordinance and the 5G Right of Way and Small Cell Ordinance to the City Council. The commission also recommended parallel steps, including developing an RFP for tower sites and hiring a consultant, with an estimated cost of $3,344–$4,560. No final decisions were made; the ordinances await City Council action.

• Recommended 4G Wireless Communication Tower Ordinance to City Council (unanimous)
• Recommended 5G Right of Way and Small Cell Ordinance to City Council (unanimous)
• Recommended developing an RFP for tower sites and hiring a consultant (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 27 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

Leslie MacKenzie will present a review of priority projects related to the GreenStep Cities program. The presentation covers energy efficiency for public buildings, electric vehicle charging, dark sky lighting, and water safety.

• Review of B3 Building Benchmarking for tracking energy and water usage
• Discussion of RETAP energy assessments for city buildings
• Proposal for an electric vehicle (EV) charging station installation
• Dark Sky lighting ordinance review and educational campaign
• Clean, safe water and septic system education

City Council

The City Council is discussing wastewater system capacity, including potential new connections and the status of city-owned individual sewage treatment systems. The body is reviewing infrastructure upgrades and the management of the wastewater reserve fund.

• Proposed P1 main lift station upgrades costing approximately $424,000
• Increase of new connection fee from $7,500 to $9,400
• Review of 10 city-owned individual sewage treatment systems (ISTS) that are too costly to connect
• Proposal to transfer ownership of city-owned systems to residents upon drainfield replacement
• Plan to perform sump pump inspections for inflow and infiltration (I&I) in 2021

The City Council approved the creation of a Trails, Open Space and Natural Resources Committee, amended to include a Planning Commission member. The council also approved a $3,000 change order for Dresel Contracting to delay the final wear course on roads until September, and approved $600 for music at the Marine Mills event. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were reports or discussions.

• Approved Trails, Open Space and Natural Resources Committee (unanimous)
• Approved $3,000 change order #1 for Dresel Contracting (unanimous)
• Approved $600 for music at Marine Mills event (unanimous)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, treasurer's report, and bills (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to hold public hearings and consider recommendations for two ordinances regarding wireless communication. These include regulations for 4G towers and right-of-way/small cell 5G installations.

• Public hearing on Wireless Communication Ordinance (4G - Towers)
• Public hearing on Right of Way and Small Cell Ordinance (5G)
• Proposed repeal and replacement of Section 408 of the Zoning Ordinance
• Proposed requirement for towers to be setback from property lines by an amount equal to the structure's height
• Proposed requirement for towers to be designed to accommodate at least one other array of antennas for co-location

The Planning Commission held public hearings on June 29, 2021, for the proposed Wireless Communication Ordinance (4G towers) and the Right of Way and Small Cell Ordinance (5G). No formal action was taken on the ordinances; the hearings were closed unanimously. The commission also approved the minutes from the May 25 meeting.

• Closed the public hearing on the Wireless Communication Ordinance (4G) at 8:54 pm, motion passed unanimously.
• Closed the public hearing on the Right of Way and Small Cell Ordinance (5G) at 9:14 pm, motion passed unanimously.
• Approved the minutes of the May 25 meeting, with Commissioner Hagstrom abstaining.

City Council

The City Council held a public hearing and approved the reissuance and amendment of $900,000 Lease-Revenue Bonds for the Marine Community School. This action reduces interest rates on the bonds and allows the project to be subleased to eligible 501(c)(3) non-profits.

• Approval of $900,000 Lease-Revenue Bonds (Marine Community School), Series 2019 reissuance
• Amendment to reduce interest rates on bonds R-3 through R-30
• Approval of Contractor Pay Request #5 for roads
• Park Rental Waiver Request for Paddle Craft Show
• Discussion of Wireless Communications Public Hearing scheduled for June 29

The City Council approved the reissuance of $900,000 lease-revenue bonds for the Marine Community School, which will reduce the interest rate and save approximately $87,000. They also approved a $116,124.26 pay request to Dresel Contracting for road work, and agreed to delay the final asphalt wear course until September to prevent damage from motorcycle kickstands. The council approved a vinyl wrap mural on a utility box at 710 Broadway St., waived the Burris Park rental fee for a Paddle Craft Show, and voted not to waive tort liability, among other actions.

• Approved reissuance of $900,000 school bonds (5-0)
• Approved $116,124.26 pay request to Dresel Contracting (5-0)
• Consensus to delay final asphalt wear course until September
• Approved utility box vinyl wrap at 710 Broadway St. (5-0)
• Waived Burris Park rental fee for July 6 Paddle Craft Show (4-0, mayor abstained)
• Voted not to waive tort liability (5-0)
• Approved billing sewer repair costs to responsible resident (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes and bills (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to conduct a final review of 4G and 5G wireless communications ordinances. The proposed Wireless Communication Tower Ordinance establishes regulations for the siting, design, and permitting of telecommunications facilities.

• Final review of 4G & 5G wireless communications ordinances
• Proposed requirement for conditional use permits for all towers
• Proposed tower setback requirement equal to the height of the structure
• Proposed 6-foot security fence and screening requirements for tower bases
• Proposed co-location requirements for antennas on towers

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to present the draft 4G Wireless Communications Ordinance and 5G Right of Way and Small Cell Communications Ordinance for public review at a June 29 public hearing. During discussion, citizens and a council member raised concerns that setback restrictions in the 4G draft would exclude most of Marine from tower placement, but the commission decided to move forward with the draft while directing staff to ask the city attorney questions on remaining issues. The commission also agreed to return to in-person meetings starting in June, using the Meeting Owl for remote attendance, and approved the April 27 meeting minutes as drafted.

• Approved presenting draft 4G and 5G wireless ordinances for public review at June 29 hearing (5-0)
• Directed staff to ask city attorney questions on remaining ordinance issues
• Agreed to return to in-person meetings starting in June with Meeting Owl for remote attendees
• Approved April 27 meeting minutes as drafted (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will review a school update regarding a charter school application timeline and a wine license request. The meeting also includes a report on the 2020 Fire and Rescue annual operations.

• Charter School application status update from Win Miller
• Wine License Request from David Heieren
• 2020 Annual Report for Public Safety/Fire and Rescue
• Public Hearing regarding School Bond Re-issuance
• $10,000 state grant awarded for fire gear laundry equipment

The council approved a $176,066 payment to Dresel Contracting for road work and passed resolutions to refinance the school bond, potentially saving $87,430 over 28 years. They also set a public hearing for June 10 on the bond reissuance and authorized legal assistance up to $5,000. A motion to form a multi-town task force on river wake issues was withdrawn in favor of a council consensus to support the group's formation.

• Approved $176,066 pay request to Dresel Contracting (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 210513-01 calling for public hearing on lease-revenue bond reissuance (5-0)
• Authorized Taft Law to assist with bond reissuance, not to exceed $5,000 (5-0)
• Set public hearing for June 10, 2021 at 7:00pm for bond reissuance (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, treasurer's report, bills, and other items (5-0)
• Council consensus to support formation of multi-town task force on river wake issues (motion withdrawn)

City Council

The Marine on St. Croix City Council is holding a workshop to review an updated Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for roads, presented by the City Engineer. The agenda includes a review, questions and comments, and adjournment, with no formal decisions listed.

• Review of updated Roads CIP by City Engineer

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to review proposed wireless communications ordinances. The body will also set a date for a public hearing regarding these regulations.

• Review of Wireless Communications Ordinances
• Setting a public hearing date for wireless ordinances
• Proposed tower setback requirements equal to the height of the structure
• Proposed requirement for towers to accommodate at least one other array of antennas for co-location
• Proposed 12-month deadline for removal of abandoned or unused towers

The commission discussed the 4G wireless ordinance draft and 5G right-of-way ordinance, including buffer zones, CUP criteria, and FCC authority. It initially set a May 25 public hearing but rescinded that motion, then unanimously set the hearing for June 29, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Set public hearing for 4G Wireless and 5G Right of Way ordinances for June 29 (5-0)
• Rescinded earlier motion to set hearing for May 25 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of March 30 meeting (3-0-2 abstentions)

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss a lot line adjustment on Rosabell Street and a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory building. The body will also receive a proposal regarding wetland and tree preservation.

• Lot line adjustment request for Mary Petersen on Rosabell Street
• Conditional Use Permit for a bathroom in an accessory building at 983 Rosabell
• Wetland and Tree Preservation Proposal from John Goodfellow
• Discussion on adding Marine Elementary School to long/short term goals
• Update on Covid Fiscal Recovery Fund

The City Council approved a second lot line adjustment for Mary Petersen at 980 Rosabell Street, as drafted by Landmark Surveying. It also approved a conditional use permit for Eric Larsen to add a bathroom in an accessory building at 983 Rosabell Street, as recommended by the Planning Commission. The Council passed a motion stating that current zoning, wetland, and watershed regulations substantially cover natural resource protections, effectively denying a request for further review. The downtown street project is set to begin April 12th.

• Approved the agenda with an amendment to add Win Miller to Citizens Considerations.
• Approved the lot line adjustment request for Mary Petersen, 980 Rosabell Street, as drafted by Landmark Surveying.
• Approved a motion that current City Zoning, Wetland Conservation District, and Watershed District rules substantially cover natural resource protections.
• Approved the Conditional Use Permit for 983 Rosabell Street for a bathroom in an accessory building.
• Approved the consent calendar, including minutes, treasurer's report, bills, and planning commission minutes.
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:33pm.

City Council

The Marine on St. Croix Board of Appeal and Equalization approved two property valuation reductions recommended by the city assessor. The first reduced the value of a vacant lot in Jackson Meadow owned by Greg and Barb Johnson from $180,400 to $130,000. The second reduced the value of 461 Second Street, owned by Curtis and Jennifer Bois, from $741,100 to $718,000. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved valuation reduction for Greg and Barb Johnson's vacant lot (PID 12.031.20.24.0046) from $180,400 to $130,000 (unanimous)
• Approved valuation reduction for Curtis and Jennifer Bois' property at 461 Second Street from $741,100 to $718,000 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is reviewing a Conditional Use Permit request to install a 36-square-foot bathroom in an existing accessory building. The commission is recommending that the City Council approve the request provided the building is not rented separately and does not contain kitchen facilities.

• Public hearing for Eric and Chrissi Larsen regarding a Conditional Use Permit for a bathroom at 983 Rosabelle St.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing and voted unanimously to recommend approval of a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure at 983 Rosabelle St. The commission also approved the minutes from the February 23 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended approval of the conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure at 983 Rosabelle St. (unanimous)
• Approved the minutes of the February 23 meeting as drafted (one abstention)

Planning Commission

The City Council and Planning Commission are holding a workshop to discuss draft ordinances for 4G and 5G wireless infrastructure. The session includes a presentation by Carly Kehoe of KPCG Group regarding the regulation of telecommunications tower facilities.

• Review of draft Wireless Communication/Tower Ordinance
• Proposed requirement for conditional use permits for all towers
• Proposed tower setback requirement equal to the height of the structure
• Proposed co-location requirements for wireless providers
• Proposed 12-month deadline for removal of abandoned or unused towers

The City Council and Planning Commission held a joint workshop to review draft ordinances regulating 4G and 5G wireless infrastructure. No formal decisions were made; the discussion focused on gathering feedback on draft language, including setbacks, tower siting, and design standards. The next steps are to refine the drafts, send them to the city attorney, and schedule a public hearing for May.

• No formal votes or decisions taken; workshop was for discussion only
• Councilmember Pardun requested changes to Section 14 to allow towers at compost site and increase setbacks
• Group agreed to get comments from Councilman Anderson before refining drafts
• Draft ordinances to be sent to city attorney after committee refinement
• Public hearing scheduled for May after planning commission review in April

Economic Development Authority

The City Council will review a proposal to increase cemetery prices and an update to the Economic Development Authority's scope of definition and authority. The body will also consider a Mutual Aid Agreement renewal and a MnDOT Landscape Program Agreement.

• Cemetery price increase proposal
• EDA scope of definition and authority update
• Mutual Aid Agreement renewal
• MnDOT Landscape Program Agreement
• Canadian Pacific Rail Line discontinuation filing notification

City Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss public safety agreements, road engineering updates, and cemetery fee adjustments. The body is also reviewing a partnership with MnDOT for roadside landscaping along Highway 95.

• Proposed Oakland Cemetery price increases: $800 for resident grave purchase, $1,000 for weekday full plot burial
• Proposed MnDOT Community Roadside Landscaping Partnership Program agreement for Highway 95 from Judd Street to Parker Street
• Renewal of Mutual Aid Agreement with fire departments in Washington County, MN and St. Croix County, WI
• Request for a Dark Sky Event by the Green Step Cities committee
• Notification of Canadian Pacific Rail Line Discontinuation Filing

The Marine on St. Croix City Council approved several items, including a mutual aid agreement with Minnesota and Wisconsin counties, acceptance of a $25,000 donation from the Marine Relief Association for the Fire Department, a cemetery rate increase, and a resolution for a MnDOT landscaping partnership. A motion to authorize a Dark Sky event at the school property failed for lack of a second and was withdrawn. The council also discussed a proposed dinosaur race event, Folk School lease renewal, and road project updates.

• Approved mutual aid agreement between Minnesota and Wisconsin counties (5-0)
• Accepted $25,000 donation from Marine Relief Association for Fire Department fund (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 20210311-01 for MnDOT community roadside landscaping partnership (5-0)
• Approved cemetery rate increase as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, treasurer's report, and bills (5-0)
• Motion to authorize Green Step Dark Sky event failed for lack of second; withdrawn

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a conditional use permit for a residential project and discuss the city's wireless communications ordinance. The body also intends to schedule a workshop with the City Council.

• Conditional Use Permit request for living space above a garage at 983 Rosabelle St.
• Discussion of the Wireless Communications Ordinance
• Planning of a City Council workshop for March 15-18
• High-level discussion of the RFP process

The Planning Commission scheduled a public hearing for March 30 to consider a conditional use permit (CUP) requested by Eric and Chrissi Larsen for a second-floor bathroom in the garage of a new home at 983 Rosabelle St. The commission also discussed progress on draft 4G and 5G wireless ordinances, setting a workshop with the City Council for March 16. Minutes from the January 26 meeting were approved.

• Set public hearing for March 30 on Larsen CUP (5-0, one inaudible)
• Scheduled wireless ordinance workshop with City Council for March 16 at 6:30pm
• Approved minutes of January 26 meeting (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss various committee reports, including cemetery price increases and 2021 events. The body is considering a payment to Dresel Contracting for the Village Center Revitalization Project and the adoption of a land acknowledgement.

• Payment of $17,079.96 to Dresel Contracting, Inc. for Village Center Revitalization Project
• Acceptance and allocation of an $8,365 check from Millstream Association
• Discussion of cemetery price increases
• Appointment of EDA Board members: Kevin Nyenhuis, Lon Pardun, Gwen Roden, Charlie Anderson, and Wendy Ward
• Proposed adoption of Land Acknowledgement for Traditional Indigenous Territory

The City Council approved payment #3 to Dresel Contracting for the Judd Street road project in the amount of $17,079.96. They also accepted an $8,365 donation from the disbanded Millstream Association for restoration of the Millstream, and approved adding Kevin Nyenhuis and Suzanne Dammann to the bank signature card. The meeting included updates on library, fire, and water projects, but no other major decisions were made.

• Approved payment #3 to Dresel Contracting for Judd Street project ($17,079.96) (5-0)
• Accepted $8,365 donation from Millstream Association for Millstream restoration (5-0)
• Approved adding Kevin Nyenhuis and Suzanne Dammann to bank signature card (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes, treasurer's report, bills, and reports (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will review mapping and discuss the work schedule for a new Wireless Communications Ordinance. The body will also address member terms, recruitment procedures, and the process for responding to resident inquiries.

• Wireless Communications Ordinance progress update and mapping review
• Discussion of PC Member Terms and recruitment process
• Response Process for Resident Inquiries
• Approval of November 24 minutes

The Planning Commission discussed the ongoing update of the city's wireless communications ordinance, with a consultant to submit a template by Feb. 1 and a joint workshop with the City Council planned for mid-March. The commission intends to review the ordinance for recommendation at its April 27 meeting, with approval expected by late May or early June. No formal decisions were made on this item. The commission also discussed formalizing the recruitment process for new members and improving resident communication, but took no action. The minutes from the November 24 meeting were approved.

• Approved minutes of November 24 meeting (4-0-2, with two abstentions)
• Discussed wireless ordinance update, no formal action
• Discussed member recruitment process, no formal action
• Discussed resident communication procedures, no formal action

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a request to film a music video involving a simulated police chase. The body is also discussing a trademark consulting agreement and a budget request from the Washington County Historical Society.

• Music video permit request for a production at 120 Judd St on January 30, 2021
• Trademark consulting agreement with Weaver Legal and Consulting LLC at a rate of $300 per hour
• Washington County Historical Society request for $15,000 for a new museum building
• Village Center Revitalization Project update with Stage 2 construction starting Spring 2021
• Designation of Security State Bank of Marine as the official depository

The Marine on St. Croix City Council approved a permit for Dan Rodriguez to film a music video on January 30th with a $50 fee, raised ice rink attendant pay to $10/hour, and made committee assignments. They also approved the consent calendar, selected Weaver Legal for logo trademarking, and discussed but did not waive late fees for utilities. The meeting included a closed session for a lawsuit, but no decisions were made on that matter.

• Approved music video permit for Dan Rodriguez with $50 fee (5-0)
• Raised ice rink attendant pay to $10/hour (5-0)
• Approved consent calendar including minutes and reports (unanimous)
• Approved Weaver Legal and Consulting for logo trademarking (unanimous)
• Appointed Councilmember Anderson as Marine Relief Association representative (5-0)
• Designated official depository, newspaper, legal firm, engineer, and meeting rules (5-0)
• Approved committee assignments for council members
• Tabled discussion on Washington County Historical Society budget request