Tom Coulter

The workshop meeting included discussions on several significant items. Finance Director Larkin reviewed a study regarding the estimated financial impact of a proposed 0.5 percent local option sales tax, emphasizing how revenue would be shared between residents and non-residents. City Administrator Statz discussed the necessity of funding a new Public Works facility planned for 2027. The Council also reviewed the draft strategic plan, focusing on strategic priorities, opportunities, and action strategies, with a goal to adopt it by the end of Quarter One. Furthermore, the proposed interview process for the Police Chief position, including considerations for internal versus external candidates and the timeline, was reviewed. Finally, the appointments for council liaisons to various commissions, committees, and boards were discussed.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of the agenda and providing updates during the Open Forum. Discussions on financials and claims involved reviewing quarterly reports, the Airport Fund balance, and confirming the City Administrator would continue to serve as the Airport Manager, allocating ten percent of his salary for the role. The commission addressed rental income from the six-stall t-hangar and noted the absence of property tax budgeting for hangars. The commission recommended the City Council approve the financials and claims list. Furthermore, updates were provided on the runway and taxiway extension grant funding, with the total MnDOT contribution at 90 percent of $1.77 million. A recommendation was made to downgrade internet service at the A/D building to achieve monthly savings. The commission postponed the setting of 2026 officer positions due to insufficient attendance. Regarding defaulted land leases, the commission recommended a motion to approve a letter from the City Attorney establishing deadlines for leaseholders to secure building permits by February 1, 2027, and setting a completion date one year thereafter. Finally, an extensive discussion on land lease rates for 2026 and 2027 led to a recommended 4.8 percent increase for both years, specifically raising the non-commercial hangar lot rate from $0.1170 to $0.1226 per square foot.

The agenda for the Economic Development Authority (EDA) meeting on March 2, 2026, included several action items. Key discussions revolved around the acceptance of the Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce 2025 Annual Report, an update on the Headwaters 123 Concept Plat, and the adoption of the 2026 Workplan. Updates were also scheduled from the City Engineer, Washington County regarding the Open to Business 2025 Summary Report, and the Forest Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.

The meeting began with the approval of the agenda. Discussions included comments from a resident regarding a strike against ICE and the City's potential participation. The Consent Agenda covered various items, including City Invoices, approval of previous meeting minutes (excluding item 7.e.), concession agreements, golf course fees, hiring recommendations for Deputy Fire Chief and Police Chief processes, and various contract payment requests. Item 7.e., the Beltz Park Volleyball Court Addition, was discussed separately regarding court placement relative to the baseball field and the use of liners. Under Regular Agenda items, the Council adopted Ordinance 766 regarding zoning text amendments for cannabis business buffers and granted an Interim Use Permit to Budding Measured Movement, LLC (dba Forest Lake Cannabis) for retail sales. The Council also adopted Resolution 01-26-26-03 and Ordinance No. 765 concerning amendments to Wireless Communication Tower standards, and adopted Ordinance No. 767 rezoning property for the Spikes and Houles Planned Unit Development. Further actions included updating street sign lettering standards and approving Resolution 01-26-26-04 authorizing the submission of a request to the Minnesota Legislature for a 0.5 percent Local Option Sales Tax to fund the Public Works Facility. Staff updates covered year-end financials, upcoming County Road 32 discussions, new hiring platforms, transportation service expansions, and Fire Department vehicle sales.

This document serves as a formal notice for the upcoming General Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Forest Lake Fire Department Relief Association. Key logistical details include the date, time, and location of the meeting. A note was included regarding the possibility of a quorum of the Forest Lake City Council being present during the meeting. Board members were instructed to notify the President of any required preparation items and the Secretary if unable to attend.