Marine on St. Croix public meetings in 2025

City Council

The City Council will consider approving the hiring of HKGi as the consultant for the 2028 Comprehensive Plan update, with an estimated budget of $60,000‑$80,000. Council members will also vote to approve plans and specifications for the 2026 Street Project and authorize solicitation of quotes. Additional agenda items include an ice‑rink grant proposal, liquor‑license renewals, and setting the 2026 levy.

• Approve hiring HKGi as consultant for the 2028 Comprehensive Plan update ($60,000‑$80,000 budget)
• Approve plans and specs for the 2026 Street Project and authorize solicitation of quotes
• Consider Katy Kalt’s Ice Rink Grant proposal
• Renew liquor licenses for Brookside, Surf Yogurt Shop, and Pete's Pizza
• Set the 2026 levy

The Marine on St. Croix City Council approved a $1,177,006.13 levy for 2026, a 4.43% increase over 2025. It also approved the engineering plans and specifications for the 2026 Street Project and authorized solicitation of quotes. Council members voted to have the city cover 100% of the Minnesota paid‑leave premium in 2026, shifting to a 50/50 split with employees in 2027. Additional actions included re‑appointing Anna Hagstrom to the Planning Commission and recognizing two citizens of the year.

• Re‑appointed Anna Hagstrom to the Planning Commission for a three‑year term (motion passed)
• Approved plans and specs for the 2026 Street Project and authorized solicitation of quotes (motion passed)
• Approved city to cover 100% of paid‑leave premium in 2026, with a 50/50 split starting 2027 (3‑yes, 1‑no, motion passed)
• Approved consent calendar items including minutes, reports, and several licenses (motion passed)
• Approved the 2026 levy of $1,177,006.13, a 4.43% increase over 2025 (motion passed)
• Recognized Mike Lammi and Charlotte Wilcox as the 2025 Citizens of the Year (motion passed)
• Approved the meeting agenda as amended (motion passed)
• Adjourned the council meeting at 8:32 pm (motion passed)

Planning Commission

The Marine on St. Croix Planning Commission will review information from HKGi and Bolton Menk about the 2050 Comprehensive Plan update. It will discuss a recommendation to the City Council for selecting a planner. The commission will also set a timeline for the plan update and consider the projected budget of $60,000 to $80,000.

• Review information from HKGi and Bolton Menk on the 2050 Comprehensive Plan
• Planner selection – recommendation to City Council
• Set timeline for the 2050 Comprehensive Plan update
• Budget estimate for the plan update: $60,000‑$80,000
• Discuss requirements of the Metropolitan Council’s Imagine 2050 guide

The Marine on St. Croix Planning Commission reached consensus to recommend HKGi as the city's consultant for the comprehensive planning process. Chair Hagstrom and Vice Chair Smitten will draft a recommendation memo to the City Council. The commission plans to present an initial timeline to Council at a joint workshop in early 2026.

• Recommend HKGi as city consultant for comprehensive planning process (consensus)
• Draft recommendation memo to Council (assigned to Chair Hagstrom and Vice Chair Smitten)
• Present initial timeline to Council at joint workshop in early 2026

City Council

The Marine on St. Croix City Council will review the proposed Year 2026 budget changes. Council members may discuss additional budget adjustments. The council will set the 2026 levy at the December 11 meeting.

• Review Proposed Year 2026 Budget changes
• Council Comments and Proposed Additional Changes
• Set the 2026 Levy at the December 11 City Council Meeting

The council discussed the 2026 proposed budget, noting the cell tower rent increase to $18,000 and a possible $3,000 audio‑visual cost. With no further changes, the council agreed to approve a final levy of $1,177,066.13 at the December 11 meeting. A motion to adjourn was passed unanimously.

• Approve final levy of $1,177,066.13 (consensus) to be enacted at Dec 11 meeting
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss housekeeping amendments to the Zoning Code and provide feedback on proposed standards. The body is also reviewing the Comprehensive Plan and preparing for a workshop on December 8.

• Proposed standards for single-unit dwellings, including a potential 900 square foot minimum size
• Proposed prohibition of shipping containers and limits on temporary storage units (PODS/MODS)
• New proposed use for principal community-scale solar and size limits for accessory ground-mounted systems
• Review of updated cannabis regulations based on 2025 Minnesota Statutes
• Discussion on legislative protections for buildings in Historic Riverway Districts

The Planning Commission approved the agenda and the October 28 minutes. Commissioners reached consensus to remove the 900‑sq‑ft minimum for single‑unit dwellings and to allow temporary storage of shipping containers for up to 45 days with resident notification. The commission directed Beth Richmond to revise the solar accessory‑structure language and asked Chair Hagstrom to consult the city attorney on cannabis regulations. A public hearing on the proposed zoning changes was scheduled for January 27.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved October 28 minutes (motion carried)
• Commission directed Richmond to revise solar accessory‑structure standards and wording
• Chair Hagstrom to consult city attorney on cannabis regulations
• Consensus to remove minimum 900‑sq‑ft size requirement for single‑unit dwellings
• Consensus to allow temporary storage of shipping containers up to 45 days, remove one‑unit limit, and require resident notification
• Set public hearing for Jan 27 on zoning ordinance modifications (unanimous)

City Council

The council voted to accept the proposed alignment for the Millstream Watershed 90% plan, allowing the project to move forward. Council also postponed action on the Bell Pole timber‑sale contract until terms are revised, passing the motion 4‑1. The council approved the consent calendar items, declared a plow surplus, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved Watershed Millstream 90% plan alignment (unanimous)
• Postponed Bell Pole timber‑sale contract pending term revisions (4-1)
• Approved consent calendar items (minutes, reports, etc.)
• Declared plow surplus
• Adjourned meeting at 8:30 pm

Economic Development Authority

The board voted to accept the proposed lease amendment for the Marine Village School, pending final approval of the financial numbers. They also authorized the City Administrator to transfer utility invoicing ownership to the City of Marine, subject to the lease execution. Both motions passed with four affirmative votes and one abstention.

• Accepted proposed lease amendment (contingent on final approval) – passed (4 yes, 1 abstain)
• Authorized City Administrator to transfer utility invoicing ownership to City of Marine – passed (4 yes, 1 abstain)

City Council

The council approved adding a new “no investment” column to the CIP spreadsheet. It also approved renaming the maintenance shop to the public works facility and separating it from the Lost 40 land. A site visit to the facility will be scheduled, and the Lost 40 will be discussed with residents for future use. The council added a Village Greenspace category and adjourned the workshop.

• Approved addition of a “no investment” column to the CIP spreadsheet (all in favor)
• Approved renaming the maintenance shop to public works facility (all in favor)
• Approved separating the public works facility from the Lost 40 land (all in favor)
• Approved scheduling a site visit of the public works facility (all in favor)
• Approved discussing the Lost 40 land with residents for future use (all in favor)
• Approved adding a Village Greenspace category, including the gazebo (all in favor)
• Motion to adjourn passed (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Marine Planning Commission will review several ongoing items, including corrections to the zoning code, proposed legislative protections for buildings in the Historic Riverway District, lot area requirement standards, solar-related matters, and a statement/background briefing from Met Council Systems via HKGI. No final actions are indicated; the agenda lists topics for discussion and possible future decisions.

• Zoning Code Errata Corrections
• Legislative Protections for Buildings in Historic Riverway Districts
• Lot Area Requirements
• Solar
• Met Council Systems Statement/Background Info from HKGI

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the agenda as drafted. They also unanimously approved the minutes from the September 30, 2025 meeting. The commissioners then unanimously moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:21 p.m. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 30 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Marine on St. Croix City Council will meet to approve routine items, receive updates from committees and staff, and consider a conditional use permit for a long driveway at 601 6th Street. The agenda includes final payment for the 2025 street project and discussion of future capital improvement planning.

• Final payment #4 for 2025 Street Project contractor
• Conditional Use Permit for 220-ft driveway at 601 6th Street
• 2026 Street Improvement Project design update (Chestnut Street, Fifth Street)
• Cell tower screening recommendation (fence with slats)
• Highway 95/243 roundabout construction planned spring 2026

The council approved a $6,002.27 final payment to Valley Paving along with Change order #2 for the 2025 street project. It also approved a Conditional Use Permit for a driveway at 601 Sixth St for Aaron Nesser and Heidi VanDixhorn‑Nesser. The agenda was amended to remove a citizen consideration and add Change order #2 under Roads, and the consent calendar items were approved. The meeting was adjourned at 8:20 pm.

• Approved agenda amendment removing Liz Kelly from citizen considerations and adding Change order #2 under Roads (all in favor)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for driveway over 200 ft at 601 Sixth St for Aaron Nesser and Heidi VanDixhorn‑Nesser (all in favor)
• Approved final payment of $6,002.27 to Valley Paving and Change order #2 for 2025 street project (all in favor)
• Approved consent calendar items: minutes of 9/11/25, Treasurer’s Report of 9/25, list of bills for 10/9/25, Public Works Maintenance Report, Planning Commission minutes (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:20 pm (all in favor)

Meeting

The Afton City Council granted variances for the Herreid addition project, allowing a two‑stall garage and related structures. St. Croix County approved a side‑yard setback variance for Anthony Lodge’s garage, and the Osceola Village Board unanimously approved a CUP for Sam Schillace’s storage shed. The commission also approved the previous meeting minutes unanimously and adjourned the session.

• Herreid addition variances granted by Afton City Council (outcome: granted)
• Anthony Lodge side‑yard setback variance granted by St. Croix County (outcome: granted)
• Sam Schillace CUP approved unanimously by Osceola Village Board (outcome: approved)
• Minutes of July 29, 2025 approved unanimously (outcome: approved)
• Meeting adjourned at 2:56 p.m. (motion carried)
• Mildon House rebuild discussion tabled to next meeting (outcome: tabled)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for a driveway exceeding 200 feet. The body will also discuss ongoing zoning code updates and historic district protections.

• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit: driveway longer than 200 feet at 601 6th St.
• Discussion on legislative protections for buildings in Historic Riverway Districts
• Review of lot area requirements
• Discussion on solar regulations
• Review of draft zoning code errata corrections

The commission approved the amended agenda and the minutes from the August 26 meeting, both unanimously. It granted a conditional use permit for a driveway longer than 200 feet at 601 6th St, subject to conditions listed in the report. The commission also recommended using wooden slat screening for the cell tower, noting durability and low maintenance. The meeting was adjourned at 7:45 pm by unanimous vote.

• Approved agenda amendment (unanimous)
• Approved August 26 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 200‑ft driveway at 601 6th St (unanimous)
• Recommended wooden slat screening for cell tower (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:45 pm (unanimous)

City Council

The Marine on St. Croix City Council will vote on the maximum levy for the 2026 budget. The meeting also includes a public hearing on an alley vacation for Pat and Sherri Broshar, a septic request from Jake White, an update on the Marine Mills Folk School and a new executive director, and proposed amendments to the tree ordinance.

• Alley Vacation Public Hearing – Pat and Sherri Broshar
• Jake White – Septic Request
• Marine Mills Folk School – update and introduction of new executive director
• Proposed Tree Ordinance Amendments
• Set Maximum 2026 Levy

The council approved the meeting agenda unanimously. It voted to deny the alley vacation request for 450 Chestnut Street (5‑0). It approved in principle Jake White's sewer‑service project on Robert Street unanimously. It also granted the assistant clerk two weeks of paid maternity leave unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Denied alley vacation request for 450 Chestnut St (5‑0)
• Approved in principle sewer project for Jake White on Robert St (unanimous)
• Granted assistant clerk two weeks paid maternity leave (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Marine on St. Croix Planning Commission will discuss two new applications: a conditional use permit for a long driveway at 601 6th St. and a request to vacate an alley at 450 Chestnut St. The meeting will also include updates on historic building protections, lot area requirements, solar regulations, and zoning code corrections.

• Conditional Use Permit for driveway longer than 200 feet at 601 6th St. (SFU District)
• Request to vacate alley at 450 Chestnut St. (SFU District)
• Legislative protections for historic buildings in Riverway Districts
• Zoning code errata corrections including setback and height standards
• Solar regulations discussion for ground-mounted arrays

The Planning Commission approved the agenda and the June 24 minutes. A public hearing was scheduled for September 30 at 7 pm to consider the conditional use permit for a driveway longer than 200 feet at 601 6th St. The commission also voted to draft a memo supporting staff’s recommendation against vacating the alley at 450 Chestnut, with a 5‑1 vote. Consensus was reached to move forward with several zoning‑code errata corrections.

• Agenda approved (unanimous)
• June 24 minutes approved (motion carried, Hagstrom abstained)
• Public hearing set for Sept 30, 7 pm on 601 6th St. driveway permit (unanimous)
• Draft memo opposing vacating 450 Chestnut alley approved (5‑1)
• Zoning code errata corrections to be drafted (consensus)
• Adjourned (unanimous)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will review a proposal to amend the lease agreement with Marine Village School (MVS). The proposal suggests the EDA assume responsibility for routine operations and maintenance costs and apply this change retroactively for the first three years of the lease.

• Proposed retroactive coverage of $149,000 in O&M costs for the first three years of the lease
• Proposed EDA assumption of routine O&M costs estimated at $50,000-$55,000 per year
• Review of MVS outstanding lease balance of approximately $146,973
• Discussion of MDE Lease Aid estimated at $150,000 for the 2025-2026 school year
• Review of the $750,000 remaining principal on the school building bond

City Council

The Marine on St. Croix City Council will decide on a driveway encroachment agreement for 620 Chestnut Street and approve a $35,319.83 payment to Valley Paving. They will also discuss storm response, public safety planning, and grant applications for trails and floodplain resiliency.

• Approval of driveway encroachment agreement for 620 Chestnut Street
• Approval of $35,319.83 payment to Valley Paving for road work
• Discussion on storm response and summer public safety plan implementation
• Consideration of Ordinance 190 to establish a new cemetery subdivision
• Approval of Brookside easement and storage agreements

The council accepted the amended agenda and approved several agreements, including the Hess driveway encroachment and the Brookside easement. It authorized Contractor Pay Request #3, paying $35,319.83 to Valley Paving. Ordinance 190 adding to Oakland Cemetery and an extension of the dog park through September 30 were also approved. A public hearing to vacate 450 Chestnut alley was scheduled for September 11.

• Approved amended agenda (all in favor)
• Approved Michael and Denise Hess driveway encroachment agreement (all in favor)
• Approved Brookside easement and storage agreements (all in favor)
• Approved Contractor Pay Request #3 to Valley Paving for $35,319.83 (all in favor)
• Approved Ordinance 190, adding to Oakland Cemetery (all in favor)
• Extended dog park through September 30 (motion carried)
• Approved Consent Calendar (all in favor as amended)
• Set public hearing to vacate 450 Chestnut alley for September 11 (all in favor)

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority reached consensus to move forward with a revised lease that would have the City assume operating expenses and offset the school's $147,000 rent balance with an estimated $149,000 adjustment. Members will reconvene in three weeks to review draft lease changes. The board adjourned by consensus.

• Consensus to move forward with lease restructuring proposal (no vote tally recorded)
• Schedule follow‑up meeting in three weeks to review draft lease changes

Meeting

The Lower St. Croix Management Commission Partnership Team approved the April 29, 2025 minutes unanimously. No new land‑use permits, variances, or other substantive actions were decided at this meeting; the team only reviewed prior outcomes for Spiritus LLC, Swanson, and Mildon projects. The meeting was adjourned at 3:39 p.m.

• Approved April 29, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:39 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request to vacate an alley at 450 Chestnut St. and a conditional use permit for a driveway at 601 6th St. The body will also discuss zoning code corrections and legislative protections for historic riverway buildings.

• Conditional Use Permit for a driveway longer than 200 feet at 601 6th St.
• Request to vacate an alley at 450 Chestnut St.
• Proposed zoning code errata corrections including manufactured home definitions and setback rules.
• Discussion on legislative protections for buildings in Historic Riverway Districts.
• Review of solar regulations and ground-mounted array standards.

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will introduce the new Executive Director of MVS. The body will review MVS operations and financials halfway through the agreement period and discuss potential adjustments to the agreement.

• Introduction of Dr. Curtis Windham as MVS Executive Director
• Review of MVS operations and issues
• Financial review of the EDA and MVS
• Discussion of potential adjustments to the MVS agreement

The council agreed to continue discussions with Marine Village School about the city potentially assuming some operating expenses. Council members Dan Willenbring and John Goodfellow were assigned to lead this effort. The Minnesota Department of Education will permit the landlord to forgive $59,000 in back rent, and the school plans to repay the arrears by the end of 2025.

• Agreed to continue discussions with Marine Village School on possible City assumption of operating expenses
• Assigned Dan Willenbring and John Goodfellow to lead the exploration of City assistance
• Minnesota Department of Education will allow landlord to forgive $59,000 back rent
• School plans to repay arrears by end of 2025

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a discussion document regarding the acquisition of the Harris Millstream property. The document outlines potential benefits related to resource management, recreation, economics, and historical preservation.

• Discussion of Harris Millstream property acquisition

The council approved the payment of $128,569.88 to Valley Paving for the 2025 street project and authorized the preparation of plans and specifications for the 2026 road project. It also approved a $800 pop‑up dog park in Bullis Park and gave final approval for a bathroom accessory building permit at 300 Nason Hill Rd. Additionally, council members reached a majority consensus to move forward with the Phase 2 grant application for the Hollow Management Plan.

• Approved bathroom accessory building permit at 300 Nason Hill Rd (all in favor)
• Approved payment $128,569.88 to Valley Paving for 2025 street project (all in favor)
• Authorized preparation of 2026 road project plans and specifications (all in favor)
• Approved pop‑up dog park in Bullis Park, not to exceed $800 (all in favor)
• Approved agenda amendment moving Glacial Hills Trail item to beginning of council reps (all in favor)
• Approved consent calendar minutes (all in favor)
• Majority consensus to move forward with Hollow Phase 2 grant application (no formal vote recorded)
• Approved library logo change to recognize indigenous community (all in favor)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure. The body will also discuss zoning code corrections, solar regulations, and historic riverway protections.

• Public hearing for a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure at 300 Nason Hill Rd.
• Discussion on legislative protections for buildings in Historic Riverway Districts
• Review of lot area requirements
• Discussion on solar energy regulations
• Review of Zoning Code Errata Corrections

The Planning Commission approved its agenda and the May 27 minutes, both unanimously. It then approved the conditional use permit for a bathroom accessory structure at 300 Nason Hill Rd, also unanimously. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 27 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for bathroom accessory at 300 Nason Hill Rd (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will swear in a new member, select an acting mayor, and review council committee assignments. The body will also consider a contractor payment to Valley Paving for the 2025 Street Improvement Project and discuss a draft fireworks ordinance.

• Approval of Contractor Payment #1 to Valley Paving
• Discussion of Firework/Mortar Draft Ordinance
• Watershed Land Swap Proposal and MillStream Project presentation
• Review of Conditional Use Permit for a bathroom at 300 Nason Hill Road
• Regional Reciprocal Fire Service Agreement

The Council appointed Dan Willenbring as the new council member, filling the open seat for a term ending Dec 31, 2026. The Council also appointed Ward as acting mayor, declared a 2003 Spartan Gladiator truck surplus, approved a $376,024.02 payment to Valley Paving, approved the Millstream Advisory Committee members, and approved Dan Willenbring as an EDA member and assistant treasurer. A motion to appoint Chris Mowery to the Council failed.

• Appointed Dan Willenbring to City Council (term until Dec 31 2026) – all in favor
• Appointed Ward as acting Mayor – all in favor
• Declared 2003 Spartan Gladiator truck surplus – all in favor
• Approved payment #1 to Valley Paving $376,024.02 – all in favor
• Approved Millstream Advisory Committee members – all in favor
• Approved Dan Willenbring as EDA member and assistant treasurer – all in favor
• Motion to appoint Chris Mowery to Council failed (Miller yes; Goodfellow, Ward, Nyenhuis no)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure and an interim use permit for outdoor cannabis cultivation. The body will also discuss legislative protections for buildings in Historic Riverway Districts.

• Conditional Use Permit: Bathroom in Accessory Structure at 300 Nason Hill Rd.
• Interim Use Permit: Outdoor Cannabis Cultivation at 17977 St. Croix Trail N. (Joshua Rutherford)
• Discussion on Legislative Protections for Buildings in Historic Riverway Districts

The commission approved the agenda and the minutes (amended to note a garage variance) unanimously. A public hearing was scheduled for June 24, 2025 to consider a conditional use permit for installing a bathroom in an accessory structure at 300 Nason Hill Road. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 7:30 pm.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• Minutes approved with amendment (garage variance note) unanimously
• Public hearing set for conditional use permit for bathroom at 300 Nason Hill Rd on June 24, 2025 – approved unanimously
• Consensus to submit facts and findings reports to the assistant clerk before each meeting
• Adjournment approved unanimously

City Council

The City Council will hear an appeal of a zoning violation order for four shipping storage containers at 17977 St. Croix Trail, with staff recommending the order be upheld. The Council will also consider approval of agricultural code amendments, a variance request at 360 Robert Street, and a consent calendar including a $5,000 donation to the Fire and Rescue Department and a one-day liquor license for a street dance. Other items include a garbage proposal recommendation, a public safety plan approval, and a draft fireworks ordinance.

• Appeal hearing for zoning violation order at 17977 St. Croix Trail regarding four commercial storage containers
• Approval of agricultural code amendments following Planning Commission recommendation
• Variance requests (lot size, garage placement) at 360 Robert Street
• Acceptance of $5,000 donation to Fire and Rescue Department
• One-day liquor license request for a street dance

The council approved the amended agenda, added a liquor‑sale/off‑sale license for 11 Judd Street pending background check, and split the city’s garbage contracts—Gene’s Disposal for residential service and Waste Management for commercial service starting Jan 1 2026. Council members voted to order the removal of four shipping containers at 17977 St. Croix Trail N within 30 days, with enforcement steps if not complied. Ordinance 187 regulating chickens was also approved. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved agenda amendment adding IT to Clerks and Mayors notes, removing fireworks ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved on‑sale/off‑sale liquor license for 11 Judd Street, contingent on background check and state approval (unanimous)
• Approved split garbage contracts: residential to Gene’s Disposal, commercial to Waste Management for three years starting Jan 1 2026 (unanimous)
• Ordered removal of four shipping containers at 17977 St. Croix Trail N within 30 days, with enforcement if not complied (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 187 regulating chickens within the city (unanimous)

Meeting

The commission approved the minutes from October 29, 2024 unanimously. The partnership team granted a conditional use permit for the Haus lift project in the Riverway, subject to Riverway conditions. The meeting was adjourned at 8:49 p.m.

• Approved October 29, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Granted conditional use permit for Haus lift project with Riverway conditions (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three items: two variances for home construction on a nonconforming lot and a front-yard garage at 360 Robert St.; a variance for a garage addition within the side yard setback at 375 Judd St.; and proposed amendments to agricultural regulations. The Commission will also consider an Interim Use Permit for outdoor cannabis cultivation at 17977 St. Croix Trail N. and discuss legislative protections for historic riverway districts.

• Two variances at 360 Robert St. (nonconforming lot size, front-yard garage) requested by Jake White
• Variance at 375 Judd St. for garage addition within side yard setback, requested by Mark and Jamie Callies
• Amendments to agricultural regulations in the city code (definitions, chickens, livestock, seasonal produce stands)
• Interim Use Permit for outdoor cannabis cultivation at 17977 St. Croix Trail N. (SC-RR District) by Joshua Rutherford
• Legislative protections for buildings in historic riverway districts

The commission approved two variances at 360 Robert Street for lot‑size and a front‑garage, with one commissioner abstaining. It also adopted amendments to the agricultural zoning and city codes, including a new passive‑solar greenhouse provision, and sent the changes to the City Council for recommendation. Both the agenda and prior meeting minutes were approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:07 p.m.

• Approved two variances at 360 Robert St. (lot size and front garage) – all in favor, White abstained
• Approved amendment adding “passive solar” greenhouse language and striking prior noise/light limits – vote 5‑2
• Approved agricultural zoning and city code amendments for City Council recommendation – unanimous among voting members (5 aye, one any)
• Approved agenda as amended – unanimous
• Approved February 25, 2025 minutes – unanimous
• Approved March 25, 2025 minutes – all in favor, Smitten abstained
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

City Council

The City Council will hear an appeal regarding a denied public hearing for an Interim Use Permit for outdoor cannabis cultivation at 17977 St. Croix Trail N. They are also set to vote on a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory building at 675 Pine Cone Trail, discuss a draft fireworks ordinance, and award a garbage/recycling contract. Reports include a summer public safety plan and updates on various city projects.

• Appeal for 17977 St. Croix Tr. N concerning outdoor cannabis cultivation IUP
• Conditional Use Permit (bathroom in accessory structure) at 675 Pine Cone Trail – recommended approval
• Draft Consumer Operated Mortar Fireworks Ordinance
• Garbage/Recycling Contract Award
• 2025 Summer Public Safety Plan & Recommendations

The City Council approved the meeting agenda, a Conditional Use Permit for 675 Pine Cone Trail, and a $10,477.29 construction contingency for the Village Hall restoration. Council members also voted to create a Millstream Amenities committee and to table the garbage service proposals until May for further comment.

• Approved agenda amendment (all in favor)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 675 Pine Cone Trail (all in favor)
• Created Millstream Amenities committee (all in favor)
• Approved $10,477.29 construction contingency for J White Builds bid (all in favor)
• Tabled garbage service proposals until May (no vote recorded)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for a bathroom at 675 Pine Cone Trail. The body will also review preapplications for a garage variance and cannabis cultivation.

• Public hearing: Conditional Use Permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure at 675 Pine Cone Trail
• Preapplication: Variance for garage addition within side yard setback at 375 Judd St.
• Preapplication: Interim Use Permit for outdoor cannabis cultivation at 17977 St. Croix Trail N.
• Application: Lot size and garage placement variances at 360 Robert (public hearing set for April 29)
• Discussion: Agriculture in Riverway Districts (public hearing set for April 29)

The commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit for a bathroom at 675 Pine Cone Trail. It also set public hearings for a variance at 375 Judd St., two variances at 360 Robert St., and agricultural code updates, all for April 29. Additional actions included assigning commissioners to review a cannabis cultivation permit and adopting wording changes to the draft agricultural amendments.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use permit for bathroom at 675 Pine Cone Trail (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for variance at 375 Judd St. for April 29 (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for two variances at 360 Robert St. for April 29 (Warren yes, Casey yes, Hagstrom yes, Henry yes, White abstain, Carr yes)
• Set public hearing for agricultural amendments for April 29 (unanimous)
• Agreed to change “right to garden” clause wording: strike “hobby”, replace with “seasonal produce stand sales” (consensus)
• Agreed to clarify accessory structure square‑footage exemption applies only to farms of 10+ acres (consensus)
• Chair will assign two commissioners to review cannabis cultivation interim use permit (no vote recorded)

City Council

The City Council approved the purchase of a new fire apparatus and ruled a property at 17977 St. Croix Trail North in violation of zoning codes. The body also updated city administration titles and discussed the Marine Village School's $100,000 debt to the city.

• Approved purchase of a 2025 Fouts Four fire truck for $343,000
• Declared 17977 St. Croix Trail North in violation of zoning code and ordered remediation
• Adopted Resolutions 031325-01, 02, and 03 to segregate City Clerk and Treasurer duties
• Approved Chris Vance as a probationary public safety member
• Reported Marine Village School is in arrears with the City for over $100,000

Economic Development Authority

The Marine on St. Croix EDA will review a proposed Land Management Agreement with Marine Village School to designate approximately 1.6 acres of EDA-owned land as a Minnesota School Forest. The agreement outlines responsibilities for educational programs, maintenance, and annual reviews. No final decision is scheduled at this meeting; the item is under discussion.

• Review of proposed Land Management Agreement for a 1.6-acre School Forest on EDA-owned land (Block 39, Marine)
• Agreement between Marine on St. Croix EDA and Marine Village School for Minnesota School Forest designation
• School would need DNR approval and maintain forest management plan; activities require EDA permission
• Annual review of agreement by both parties; terminable with 60 days written notice
• Legal description includes Lots 7, 8, 10-12 and portions of alleys and streets in Block 38-39

City Council

This is a City Council workshop, not a regular meeting, where councilmembers will discuss several topics submitted by Councilmember Ward, including the status of an encroachment agreement and enclosure construction, proposed music permits for the season, parking issues, a motorcycle corral proposal, plans for a public engagement meeting, a request for shade devices, and an update on fencing. No formal votes are expected.

• Status of Encroachment Agreement/Enclosure construction
• Proposed music permits for season May 31 – Oct. 5
• Parking discussion
• Motorcycle Corral Proposal
• Shade Devices Request and Fencing Update

Planning Commission

The Marine on St. Croix Planning Commission will review draft zoning amendments for agricultural uses as the moratorium nears its May expiration, and consider two preapplications: a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure at 675 Pine Cone Trail and a variance for lot size at 360 Robert. The commission will also continue discussions on legislative protections for historic riverway districts and hear chair comments on best practices for facts and findings reports.

• Discuss draft amendments to agricultural-use zoning code, including definitions, permitted uses, and standards for seasonal produce stands, chickens, and beekeeping
• Preapplication for Conditional Use Permit: bathroom in accessory structure at 675 Pine Cone Trail (SC-UR District) – Jeff and Gail Hudson
• Preapplication for Variance: lot size at 360 Robert (SFU District) – Jake White
• Continue old business on legislative protections for historic riverway districts
• Chair comments on best practices for facts and findings reports

The Planning Commission scheduled a public hearing for March 25, 2025, to consider a conditional use permit for a bathroom in an accessory structure at 675 Pine Cone Trail. They also discussed a variance request for lot size at 360 Robert St., assigning commissioners for a site visit and requesting additional testing. The commission reached consensus on several agricultural code amendments, including definitions and regulations for chickens, livestock, and produce stands, with further drafting to be done by staff.

• Set public hearing for CUP at 675 Pine Cone Trail for March 25, 2025 (unanimous)
• Assigned commissioners for site visit and Facts and Findings report on 675 Pine Cone Trail
• Assigned commissioners for site visit on 360 Robert St. variance request
• Requested applicant at 360 Robert St. verify county regulations on wetland and perc testing
• Reached consensus on agricultural code amendments (definitions, chickens, livestock, produce stands)
• Tabled beekeeping regulations until later
• Directed staff to draft amendments for March meeting review

City Council

The City Council will hold a zoning violation hearing for property at 17977 St. Croix Trail N regarding commercial storage pods. Staff recommends the council determine the storage violates zoning ordinances. The council will also consider approving the 2025 street project bid, a revised fee schedule, and a garbage service RFP. Updates from the Planning Commission include ongoing work on updating the zoning code for agricultural uses and historic building protections.

• Zoning violation hearing for 17977 St. Croix Trail N (commercial storage pods)
• Approval of 2025 Street Project Bid
• Approval of 2025 Revised Fee Schedule
• Planning Commission update on agricultural zoning code update and historic building protections
• Approval to go out for Garbage Service Request for Proposals

The Council awarded the 2025 street improvement project to Valley Paving for $626,526.99, with a change order reducing the total to $579,580.69. A zoning violation hearing for 17977 St. Croix Trail N was postponed to March 13, 2025, to allow the full council to vote. The Council also approved participation in the Washington County Tree Steward Program, accepted the 2024 annual report, and approved new probationary fire department members.

• Awarded 2025 street improvement bid to Valley Paving for $626,526.99 (all in favor)
• Accepted change order #1 reducing street project cost by $46,946.30 (all in favor)
• Postponed zoning violation hearing for 17977 St. Croix Trail N to March 13, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved participation in Washington County Tree Steward Program (all in favor)
• Approved Noah Brace, Kerstin App, and Shawn Otto as probationary fire members (all in favor)
• Accepted 2024 annual report (unanimous consent)
• Approved service agreement with Bolton & Menk contingent on City Attorney review (all in favor)
• Approved new plat name 'thiyóšpaye' for Mill Site property (unanimous consent)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission and City Council are meeting to discuss the 2025 work plan and the working relationship between the two bodies. The session focuses on developing standards for agriculture in Riverway Districts and addressing commercial activity in residential areas.

• Discussion on homesteading, livestock, beekeeping, and chicken limits in Riverway Districts
• Review of ticketed events and commercial activity in residential districts
• Planning for legislative protections in Historic Riverway Districts
• Review of 2050 Met Council population projections
• Proposed updates to solar ordinances and lighting nuisance codes

City Council

The City Council and Planning Commission hold a joint workshop to discuss their working relationship, the 2025 work plan, and several policy topics. Key discussions include potential revisions to agricultural uses in the Riverway districts, protections for historic riverway buildings, and regulations for ticketed events in residential areas. The group also reviews Council member attendance at Planning Commission meetings and population projections from the Met Council. No votes are expected; this is a discussion session.

• Review of City Code Chapter 2 regarding Planning Commission membership and bonds
• Discussion on allowing homesteading and small-scale income generation in agricultural districts
• Consideration of a historic preservation ordinance for Riverway buildings
• Proposed regulations for ticketed events in residential districts
• Update on 2050 Met Council population projections affecting Marine on St. Croix

City Council

The City Council held a workshop to discuss various topics, including council policies, city priorities, a fireworks ordinance, and the allocation of a $5,000 donation. No formal votes were taken; decisions were limited to assigning liaisons and scheduling future discussions. The donation was suggested for either the Village Hall project or as seed money for the Mill Stream project, but no final decision was made.

• Discussed creating an SOP for Council rules (no vote)
• Agreed to keep fireworks ordinance as ongoing discussion (no vote)
• Turned over Parks and Rec liaison to Goodfellow; Ward and Goodfellow to be watershed liaisons (consensus)
• Agreed to make community events a citizen committee, pending proposal (consensus)
• Discussed $5,000 donation allocation, no decision (no vote)

Planning Commission

The Marine on St. Croix Planning Commission will review its 2025 work plan, focusing on a moratorium for agricultural uses in Riverway districts, protections for historic buildings, and zoning updates. The meeting includes discussions on cannabis/hemp ordinances and a regional trail plan, with no formal decisions scheduled.

• Agricultural moratorium in Riverway districts (expires May 2025)
• Legislative protections for historic Riverway buildings
• Cannabis/hemp business ordinances (recommended for City Council approval)
• Glacial Hills Regional Trail long-range plan (seeking municipal support)
• Zoning code errata corrections (e.g., 80-foot setback in SFR District)

The Planning Commission held a workshop and reached consensus on draft amendments to agricultural regulations in Riverway districts, including allowing seasonal produce stands and chickens in all residential districts. They also discussed a timeline to have revisions ready for Council approval by May 8, with a public hearing in late April. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only votes were to approve the agenda, previous minutes, and adjournment.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved Nov 26, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Dec 18, 2024 workshop minutes (unanimous)
• Consensus to allow seasonal produce stands as permitted with standards in all residential districts
• Consensus to permit chickens (with standards) in all residential districts
• Consensus to change definition of Seasonal Produce Stand
• Adjourned at 8:43 pm (unanimous)

City Council

The Marine on St. Croix City Council will consider approving plans and specifications for the 2025 Street Improvement Project and authorizing advertisement for bids. The council will also appoint EDA members, accept a $5,000 donation from Tim and Susan Palmer, and reappoint Kristina Smitten to the Planning Commission. Updates will be given on Red Bridge monitoring, the Village Hall remodel, and the Glacial Hills Trail Plan.

• 2025 Street Improvement Project – approve plans, specs, and authorize bid advertisement; bid opening Jan. 15
• Acceptance of $5,000 donation from Tim/Susan Palmer
• Re-appointment of Kristina Smitten to Planning Commission (3-year term)
• Designation of official depository, newspaper, legal firm, engineer, and planner
• Appointment of EDA members and assignment of new members

The City Council unanimously approved the agenda, designated official roles (acting mayor, meeting date, newspaper, bank, legal firm, engineer, planner, and rules), reappointed Kevin Nyenhuis and Wendy Ward to the EDA, appointed John Goodfellow to the EDA, and reappointed Kristina Smitten to the Planning Commission for a 3-year term. Council also established committee assignments by consensus and approved the consent calendar, including a $5,000 donation to be discussed at a workshop.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Designated official depository, legal firm, engineer, planner, and rules (unanimous)
• Reappointed Kevin Nyenhuis and Wendy Ward to EDA (unanimous)
• Appointed John Goodfellow to EDA (unanimous)
• Reappointed Kristina Smitten to Planning Commission for 3-year term (unanimous)
• Established council committee assignments by consensus
• Approved consent calendar including $5,000 donation (unanimous)