Rick Chase

The work session focused on an update regarding the zoning and subdivision ordinance overhaul, a project aimed at aligning zoning codes with the city's comprehensive plan to improve usability and simplicity. Discussion topics included the transition from planned unit development processes to base zoning districts, the creation of specific lot size subareas for residential districts, the modification of front setback standards, and considerations regarding minimum driveway lengths to accommodate modern vehicle dimensions.

The meeting included a discussion regarding a potential grant agreement for a local small business, the Mad Hatter Bakery and Cafe, specifically to cover the cost of installing necessary kitchen ventilation equipment. The board reviewed the program's requirements, which involve retroactive reimbursement upon completion of work to ensure compliance and fraud control. Additionally, the owner provided information about the business's background and its role in the community.

This document outlines the City of Edina's mission to deliver effective public services, maintain infrastructure, provide premier facilities, and guide development to enhance residents' health and quality of life. The vision positions Edina as a leading, progressive urban community that balances heritage with future-readiness, offering a high quality of life. The strategic direction is structured around four budget pillars: ensuring a Strong Foundation through asset and infrastructure maintenance, providing Reliable Service to meet community needs, fostering a Livable City through sustainable development, and promoting community cohesion as Better Together. These are further guided by values emphasizing Engagement, Equity, a Health-in-All Policies approach, Stewardship for long-term value, and Sustainability for future generations.

The Safe and Equitable Mobility Action Plan (C-MAP) for the City of Edina is a long-term strategy designed to reduce serious and fatal traffic crashes on all roadways. The plan outlines policy revisions, infrastructure improvements, and education strategies to enhance safety for all road users, including pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and drivers. It emphasizes equity by ensuring safety improvements benefit communities most impacted by crashes, with a strategic goal of achieving a 50% reduction in traffic fatalities by 2035 and zero traffic fatalities by 2050.

The meeting focused on the potential use of spark funding for a project at 4925 Eden Avenue, where the Starling restaurant is located. The proposal involves expanding the restaurant's on-site parking to address customer demand, with an estimated cost of $750,000. Key discussion topics included the potential structure of the financial support, involving a combination of a forgivable loan and a traditional, repayable mortgage loan, as well as the necessity for site plan amendments and further engineering approvals. The economic development manager noted that the spark funding program has a year-end deadline for project completion and fund expenditure.