Jesse Dickson

The agenda for the meeting includes reviewing and approving the agenda itself, reviewing and taking action on the minutes from the January 6, 2026 regular meeting and the February 17, 2026 concurrent special meeting with the City Council. Key Old/New Business items for discussion include the 2026 Planning Commission Work Plan and Staff Project List, and review/discussion regarding Corner Lot Requirements. The January 6, 2026 meeting minutes involved the election of the Chair and Vice Chair, approval of previous minutes, and the approval of Planning Case No. 25-12 with preliminary conditions, including a condition related to open space calculation. The January meeting also involved approval of the 2026 Planning Commission Work Rules and scheduling changes for future regular meetings. The February 17, 2026 special meeting workshop focused on reviewing and discussing 2025 projects and the 2026 Planning Commission work plan and staff project list, with discussions covering the upcoming 2050 Comprehensive Plan, code updates, and infrastructure projects like the water treatment facility update.

The meeting commenced with the Mayor addressing recent discriminatory statements made online by formerly associated persons, affirming that such content is unacceptable and violates city values. The council then approved amendments to the agenda, adding discussions on an offsite gambling permit application and a city agreement for park programs. The consent agenda was largely approved, with item C, the Good Stewart grant agreement pertaining to the Edgewater park project, pulled for separate discussion due to concerns regarding a potential future sale of the property and associated commitment timelines (a 6 to 10-year obligation). A citizen spoke passionately in favor of moving forward with the Edgewater park improvement grant, citing community benefits and grant requirements. The council expressed internal debate between supporting the community improvement project and addressing long-term financial concerns.

The meeting convened to address a request for a Substantially Similar Use Determination for a property at 2378 Wilshire Boulevard. The proposal involves reusing an existing vacant building for office space, which is a permitted use, but also incorporating flexible space for community and corporate special events, networking, and meetings, which is not explicitly listed under the office definition. Staff noted that this type of multi-use, flexible space is becoming common. The applicant detailed plans for interior and exterior remodeling, including adding windows, improving the parking lot for code and ADA compliance, upgrading technology (screens, Wi-Fi), and installing new amenities like a coffee bar and built-in seating. Discussion confirmed the property is ineligible for a liquor license unless special event permits are secured via a 501c3 sponsor or caterer. Capacity for special events will be determined based on final layouts meeting assembly standards. A resident inquired about the repair of a boundary fence adjacent to residential property, which staff confirmed is required by code and included in the plans. The commission members expressed positive sentiment toward the plan to repurpose the building.

The council meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the agenda, including a minor typo correction. Key discussions involved citizen comments regarding a downtown commercial property owner's request to enter a purchase agreement for two adjacent city-owned lots for expansion and beautification, which the council agreed to review through their standard proposal process. The Police Department provided the January 2025 activity report, noting typical activity, a significant recent snowfall handled without major issues, and the need to hire a new officer following a resignation. The LMCD representative updated the council on new boat rental rules effective for the 2025 season and streamlined code updates for watercraft for hire focused on passenger safety and leveling the regulatory field. Furthermore, updates were provided on local conservation efforts, including combating invasive carp populations in Harrison's Bay which might involve bow fishing, and coordinating dock placement for the Minnetonka Flats project.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the consent agenda, which covered the payment of claims, approval of the October 22nd regular meeting minutes, a gambling permit for American Legion Post 398, and several contract/ordinance amendments regarding electrical permitting and fees to align with the State of Minnesota standards. Further consent items included approving permits for a 2024 tree lighting event and payments for construction projects. Student Senate representatives provided updates on school activities, including the addition of a Unified Club, the success of 'Be the Change' week focusing on mental health awareness, and staff appreciation efforts. Athletics updates noted football's 5-3 record and playoff run, volleyball's 20-8 season, and achievements in soccer, swim/dive, and tennis. Cross country runners earned several All-Conference recognitions, and two students received All-State recognition. Arts updates included success at State Fair competitions, rehearsals for the Grand View Middle School musical "Newsies Junior," and the continuation of the band's mattress sale fundraiser. Academics highlights featured four National Merit Semifinalists and 60 total AP Scholars, along with the district ranking in the top 10 for MCAS scores. The council then canvassed the municipal election results of November 5th, declaring the results. Council Member Pew reported on a Veterans Day luncheon at the Glasby Center, noting the presence of representatives from all five military branches, and an update on a grant proposal submission for website development.