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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026/03/23 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - City Council - RegularAGENDA MARCH 23, 2026 6:00 p.m. Economic Development Authority meeting – Council Chambers 1.Call to order. 2.Approve agenda. 3.Minutes. a.EDA meeting minutes of March 2, 2026 4.Consent item. a.Resolution establishing EDA bank signatories 5.Public hearings – none. 6.Regular business – none. 7.Communications and announcements – none. 8.Adjournment. 6:15 p.m. City council meeting – Council Chambers 1. Call to order. a.Roll call. b.Pledge of Allegiance. 2. Approve agenda. 3. Presentations. a.Recognition of retirement of Westwood Hills Nature Center Secretary and Program Aide Carrie Mandler b.Proclamation observing Unity Day on March 25, 2026 c.Recognition of donations 4. Minutes. a.Joint meeting minutes of February 9, 2026 b.Special city council meeting minutes of February 10, 2026 c.City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 d.Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 e.City council workshop meeting minutes of February 26 and 27, 2026 f.City council meeting minutes of March 2, 2026 g.Closed executive session meeting minutes of March 2, 2026 5. Consent items. a.Resolution recognizing retirement of Carrie Mandler b.Resolution accepting city manager's performance evaluation c.Resolution approving 2026 - 2028 Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) #206 labor agreement d.Approve ladder truck replacement e.Resolution accepting donations to the city to support the fire department f.Resolution authorizing donation of office supplies g.Resolution authorizing city bank signatories h.Approve extension of Achromatic 6013 approvals for 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road - Ward 4 Agenda EDA, city council and special study session meetings of March 23, 2026 i. Approve Letter of Intent for 4300 36 1/2 Street - Ward 2 j. Approve bid for 2026 Alley Reconstruction project (4026-1500) - Ward 3 k. Resolution authorizing final payment for Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project (2122- 1806) - Ward 1 l. Approve professional services agreement for Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project (4028-1100) - Ward 2 m. Resolution appointing Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission members n. Resolution authorizing application for the Met Council Municipal Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program o. Resolution approving a gambling premises permit - Heroes Helping Heroes p. Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments q. Approve temporary extension of licensed premises - Copperwing Distillery 6. Public hearings - none. 7. Regular business. a. Safe Streets Action Plan 8. Communications and announcements – none. 9. Adjournment. Following city council meeting – Special study session – Community Room Discussion items 1. Vision 4.0 Strategic Priorities 2. Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 3. Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Written report 4. Elections and voter services update Members of the public can attend St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority and city council meetings in person. At regular city council meetings, members of the public may comment on any item on the agenda by attending the meeting in-person or by submitting written comments to info@stlouisparkmn.gov by noon the day of the meeting. Official minutes of meetings are available on the city website once approved. Watch St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority or regular city council meetings live at bit.ly/watchslpcouncil or at www.parktv.org, or on local cable (Comcast SD channel 14/HD channel 798). Recordings of the meetings are available to watch on the city's YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/@slpcable, usually within 24 hours of the meeting’s end. City council study sessions are not broadcast. Generally, it is not council practice to receive public comment during study sessions. The council chambers are equipped with Hearing Loop equipment and headsets are available to borrow. If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call 952.924.2505. Meeting: Economic development authority Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 3a Unofficial minutes EDA meeting St. Louis Park, Minnesota March 2, 2026 1. Call to order President Farris called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. a.Roll call. Commissioners present: Daniel Bashore, Jim Engelking, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Nadia Mohamed, President Yolanda Farris Commissioner absent: Paul Baudhuin Staff present: city manager (Ms. Keller), deputy city clerk (Ms. Scott-Lerdal), human resources director (Ms. Vorpahl) 2.Approve agenda. It was moved by Commissioner Budd, seconded by Commissioner Brausen, to approve the agenda as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Commissioner Baudhuin absent). 3. Minutes. a.EDA meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 It was moved by Commissioner Mohamed, seconded by Commissioner Bashore, to approve the EDA meeting minutes of Feb. 17, 2026, as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Commissioner Baudhuin absent). 4.Consent items. a.Approve EDA disbursements b.EDA Resolution No. 26-06 approving preliminary development agreement with Sentinel Management Company for redevelopment of the Wooddale Station site - Ward 2 c.EDA Resolution No. 26-07 approving collateral assignment and subordination agreement related to the Terasa redevelopment - Ward 4 It was moved by Commissioner Budd, seconded by Commissioner Brausen, to approve the consent items as listed and to waive reading of all resolutions. The motion passed 6-0 (Commissioner Baudhuin absent). Economic development authority meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3a) Page 2 Title: EDA meeting minutes of March 2, 2026 5. Public hearings – none. 6. Regular business – none. 7. Communications and announcements – none. 8. Adjournment. The EDA meeting adjourned at 6:02 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Yolanda Farris, president These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a city staff person. Meeting: Economic development authority Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 4a Executive summary Title: Resolution authorizing EDA bank signatories Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution authorizing Economic Development Authority (EDA) bank signatories. Policy consideration: Does the EDA wish to approve the bank signatories for each bank account? Summary: The city has one EDA checking account at US Bank. The EDA checking account is used for EDA vendor payments. Banking procedures require EDA approval by resolution when adding or removing signers from a bank account. The following signatories are recommended for each bank account: City EDA accounts Karen Barton, community development director Check signer Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Check signer Joe Olson, deputy finance director Primary authority Gavin Shubert, senior accountant Secondary authority Financial or budget considerations: The actions recommended will ensure that the city is compliant with banking and audit requirements. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Tiffany Stephens, financial analyst Reviewed by: Joe Olson, deputy finance director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Economic development authority meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4a) Page 2 Title: Resolution authorizing EDA bank signatories EDA Resolution No. 26-____ Authorizing bank signatories Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park has one Economic Development Authority (EDA) checking account at US Bank for business needs; and Whereas, it is necessary to update the current bank signatories, Now therefore be it resolved by the board of commissioners of the St. Louis Park Economic Development Authority that approval is hereby given to authorize the following EDA bank signatories on the US Bank account. City EDA accounts Karen Barton, community development director Check signer Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Check signer Joe Olson, deputy finance director Primary authority Gavin Shubert, senior accountant Secondary authority Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the Economic Development Authority March 23, 2026: Karen Barton, executive director Yolanda Farris, president Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Presentation: 3a Executive summary Title: Recognition of retirement of Westwood Hills Nature Center Secretary and Program Aide Carrie Mandler Recommended action: Read resolution and present plaque to Carrie for her years of service to the City of St. Louis Park. Policy consideration: None. Summary: City policy states that employees who retire or resign in good standing with over 20 years of service will be presented with a resolution from the mayor, city manager and city council. Carrie will be in attendance for the presentation at the beginning of the meeting. The mayor is asked to read the resolution for Carrie in recognition of her years of service to the city. Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Resolution attached to item 5a Prepared by: Barb Lamfers, human resources technician Reviewed by: Stacy M. Voelker, administrative coordinator Nikki Friederich, recreation superintendent Mark Oestreich, Westwood Hills Nature Center manager Jason T. West, parks and recreation director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Presentation: 3b Executive summary Title: Proclamation observing Unity Day on March 25, 2026 Recommended action: Mayor to read proclamation observing “Unity Day” in St. Louis Park on March 25, 2026. Policy consideration: None. Summary: Unity Day is a grassroots celebration originating with the St. Louis Park Aquila Elementary Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). The intention of the day is to place emphasis on the unity found within community and celebrate by participating in a visual way. On Unity Day, residents are encouraged to wear orange and black, the official school colors of the St. Louis Park school system, as a symbol of community. Unity Day also reflects the continued challenges experienced by St. Louis Park residents as a result of Operation Metro Surge. Aquila Elementary School is centered in the focus of Unity Day, shining a light on the community’s work to organize with and support Aquila residents, children, their families and educators. Local businesses participated in a design process to support the work of community organizers in response to ongoing need caused by Operation Metro Surge’s impact. The resulting visual design is of an oriole in orange and black that features the words “Strength, Community, Love”. The design is included within the proclamation by permission of the artists, who are parents of Aquila Elementary students: Ross Teichner, Kristin Cook, Monica Goutsos and Asia Hill-Dant. This proclamation was requested by Aquila PTO President Diane Jackson and supported by the city council. Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement. Supporting documents: Proclamation Prepared by: Amanda Scott-Lerdal, deputy city clerk Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3b) Page 2 Title: Proclamation observing Unity Day on March 25, 2026 Proclamation Observing “Unity Day” on March 25, 2026 Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is a diverse community enriched by residents of various backgrounds, cultures, faiths and perspectives, all of whom contribute to the unique fabric of our city; and Whereas, we believe that our greatest strength lies in our unity, and that by fostering an environment of mutual respect, understanding and kindness, we build a more resilient and prosperous future for all; and Whereas, we remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring that every individual feels safe, valued and heard; and Whereas, Unity Day in St. Louis Park serves as a call to action for all citizens to reach out to their neighbors and celebrate the common values that bind us together as one people; and Whereas, by standing together in solidarity, we demonstrate that a community united by empathy and cooperation can overcome any challenge and achieve lasting progress; and Whereas, residents of St. Louis Park are encouraged to wear the colors of orange and black on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, to participate in a visual expression of our unity, Now therefore let it be known that the mayor and city council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, hereby honor March 25, 2026, as “Unity Day” in our community. Wherefore, I set my hand and cause the Great Seal of the City of St. Louis Park to be affixed this 23rd day of March 2026. _________________________________ Nadia Mohamed, mayor Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Presentation: 3c Executive summary Title: Recognition of donations Recommended action: Mayor announce and express appreciation for the following donations to the city and listed on the consent agenda. From Donation For Canadian Pacific Kansas Railway (CPKC) Has Heart $10,000 Donation to support the fire department with improving access to cardiac emergency response equipment, treatment and care F45 Training $3,500 Donation of used fitness equipment including kettle bells, weighted bars, dumbbells, resistance bands and push- pull sleds Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement. Supporting documents: None. Prepared by: Amanda Scott-Lerdal, deputy city clerk Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 4a Unofficial minutes City council and school board joint meeting Feb. 9, 2026 The meeting convened at 6:00 p.m. Council members present: Jim Engelking, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Yolanda Farris, Paul Baudhuin, Mayor Nadia Mohamed Council members absent: Daniel Bashore City staff present: Kim Keller, city manager School board members present: Vice Chair Celia Anderson, Treasurer Patrick Baldwin, Chair Virginia Mancini, Clerk Taylor Williams, Director Colin Cox, Director Susie Kaufman, Director Sarah Davis School board members absent: none School system staff present: Dr. Carlondrea Hines, superintendent; Jazmin Hankerson, executive assistant Following a land acknowledgement recognizing the Dakota and Ojibwe peoples, brief introductions occurred where each elected official shared why they chose to run for office in 30 seconds or less. Workshop Topics: 1.2026 Legislative priorities Community Schools Initiative The school district presented its priority to advocate for removal of Title 1 requirements from state statute 124D.231 regarding full-service community school grants. Currently, only Title 1 schools can apply for community school grants which provide wraparound services including medical care, mental health services, nutrition assistance and immigration support. The district identified Peter Hobart and Aquila Elementary as qualifying Title 1 sites but seeks to expand community school services to other district locations. Removing the Title 1 restriction would allow more schools to access funding for student and family support services. The district requested city support through partnerships, funding assistance for community mental health services, volunteer programs and legislative advocacy. City Legislative Priorities The city presented three legislative priorities with potential crossover benefits for the school district. Gun safety measures focus on addressing statewide preemption laws that restrict local gun control measures. The city seeks opportunities to support bipartisan legislation and coalition building with other municipalities. Broadband access legislation aims to modernize City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4a) Page 2 Title: Joint meeting with city council and school board on February 9, 2026 local franchising tools and ensure equitable broadband deployment while maintaining funding streams for public access television. The Professional Advancement Grant funding initiative would provide dedicated funding for public education and government programming to strengthen community communications channels. 2. How we heal Response to Immigration Enforcement Both entities discussed their responses to recent federal immigration enforcement activities affecting the community. The city formed a coalition of 13-19 regional mayors focusing on public safety, local control and economic stability concerns. The city developed community resource lists, provided business outreach and rental assistance and plans to adopt a resolution affirming community values. The school district implemented safety protocols, passed a resolution protecting student and family data, denied access to federal agents without judicial warrants and offered e-learning options during quarter 3. Both organizations emphasized coordination with STEP for streamlined family assistance and acknowledged significant budget impacts from unplanned response activities. Citing a conflict of interest, Commissioner Davis removed herself from discussion on this agenda item. Community Healing Activity A facilitated brainstorming session generated ideas for community healing organized around three themes: acknowledge, repair and renew. Participants identified potential actions including community listening sessions, artwork projects, restorative practices, leveraging grassroots infrastructure, supporting community reintegration and building on crisis-generated community connections. The exercise focused on generating ideas for small actions with big impact rather than evaluating feasibility. The meeting adjourned at 7:33 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Nadia Mohamed, mayor These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a city staff person. Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 4b Unofficial minutes Special city council meeting St. Louis Park, Minnesota Feb. 10, 2026 1. Call to order. Mayor Mohamed called the meeting to order at 6:15 p.m. Mayor Mohamed provided an overview of the council's study session discussion on Feb. 2, 2026, regarding federal immigration operations. She explained the purpose of tonight's special meeting to consider a resolution affirming the city's commitment to safety and respect for rights and dignity of all people. a. Pledge of allegiance Mayor Mohamed led the Pledge of Allegiance, noting its significance in current circumstances and emphasizing the words "liberty and justice for all." b. Roll call Council members present: Jim Engelking, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Yolanda Farris, Paul Baudhuin, Mayor Nadia Mohamed Council members absent: Daniel Bashore Staff present: City manager (Ms. Keller), deputy city manager (Ms. Walsh), city attorney (Ms. Heine), city clerk (Ms. Kennedy), deputy city clerk (Ms. Scott-Lerdal) 2. Approve agenda. It was moved by Council Member Budd, seconded by Council Member Farris, to approve the agenda as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Council Member Bashore absent). 3. Presentations - none. 4. Minutes. a. Special study session meeting minutes of February 2, 2026 It was moved by Council Member Farris, seconded by Council Member Brausen, to approve the special study session meeting minutes of Feb. 2, 2026, as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Council Member Bashore absent). City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4b) Page 2 Title: Special city council meeting minutes of February 10, 2026 5. Consent items – none. 6. Public hearings – none. 7. Regular business. a. Resolution affirming the city's commitment to safety and to respect for the rights and dignity of all people Mayor Mohamed read the complete resolution aloud before opening council discussion. Council Member Brausen expressed gratitude for community engagement and stated that federal enforcement tactics are not making the community safer but causing distress and trauma to residents, businesses, schools and children. He noted the need for the federal government to cease these actions so the community can focus on repair and renewal. Council Member Farris discussed her personal work providing services to affected communities including diapers and other necessities. She described the fear experienced by children and adults and emphasized the need for community support during this difficult time. Council Member Baudhuin supported the resolution while acknowledging its limitations in addressing police department involvement with federal enforcement. He noted the strain on law enforcement relationships and legal constraints preventing municipal action against federal agents. He referenced Martin Luther King Jr.'s Letter from Birmingham Jail regarding civil disobedience and called for pushing legal boundaries to protect residents from what he characterized as tyranny. Council Member Budd clarified that the resolution represents the council's passionate objection to current conditions but is not a solution to all community concerns. She acknowledged receiving many suggestions from residents and emphasized the need to consider multiple approaches to address housing stability and other issues while listening with an open mind. Council Member Engelking acknowledged community anger and described his own actions including guarding a local restaurant. He emphasized that community action is unlimited while council powers are limited and shared an anecdote about federal agents seeking police assistance but being refused help. He requested community patience with police as they navigate different and challenging situations and urged residents to support businesses aligned with community values. Mayor Mohamed expressed pride in the community's unified response and emphasized that resistance must not adopt the tactics of oppressors. She discussed the importance of maintaining empathy while holding people accountable and stressed that criticism should be delivered respectfully without dehumanizing others. Ms. Keller provided a verbal report on city actions taken in response to federal immigration operations. She outlined three criteria guiding city efforts: measurable impact, within city authority, and focused on those most directly impacted. Actions include developing community resources with trusted messengers, supporting local businesses, monitoring nonprofit needs, City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4b) Page 3 Title: Special city council meeting minutes of February 10, 2026 establishing protocols for city staff encounters with federal agents, pursuing legal remedies through coalitions and lawsuits, and tracking expenses for potential reimbursement. Mayor Mohamed opened the public comment period. Lynette Dumalag recommended reviewing mutual aid agreements with other law enforcement agencies and suggested using land use powers including potential development and construction moratoriums as economic pressure tactics. Andrew Barone supported the resolution but emphasized need for faster police learning and more concrete actions beyond the resolution's words. Lindsay Keogh, Inglewood Ave. S., appreciated community unity and the proposed resolution but requested additional creative resistance measures and separation ordinances to address community distrust of police. Derek Fradenburgh, 4900 Cedar Lake Road S., thanked council for advocacy efforts but stated the resolution is insufficient without a strong separation ordinance legally limiting police cooperation with immigration enforcement and establishing reporting protocols. Matt Kinney, 9115 34th St. W., proposed shutting off flock camera data sharing agreements with 83 organizations statewide due to concerns about potential unofficial sharing with sympathetic agencies. Chad Luck, who identified as a former St. Louis Park resident, requested an eviction moratorium citing shelter-in-place impacts on essential workers and economic disruption to local businesses. Corinne Klatzko, 2500 Inglewood Ave. S., expressed support for police officers helping federal agents. She stated federal law supersedes state law, acknowledged tactical concerns and suggested focus on criminals rather than all undocumented individuals. Elizabeth Stroder expressed feeling that the city is not adequately protecting vulnerable residents, particularly Black and Brown immigrants who served as essential workers during COVID-19. She called for separation orders and police protection of residents rather than federal agents. Paula Engelking, 3944 Ottawa Ave. S., requested stronger enforcement of traffic violations against federal agents and creative accountability measures while supporting community resistance efforts. Senator Ron Latz, St. Louis Park, commended city actions and announced upcoming state legislative proposals including lawsuits against federal agents violating federal law, protected spaces, anti-masking requirements for law enforcement, and civil causes of action for failure to provide aid. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4b) Page 4 Title: Special city council meeting minutes of February 10, 2026 Wendy Weiner Runge, 2808 Inglewood Ave. S., shared that she represents the Jewish community and stated that 38% of residents in the Minneapolis area are also Jewish residents. She expressed safety concerns due to crime surge while supporting legal immigration processes and community safety for all legal residents. Ian McConnell, Texa-Tonka neighborhood, shared that he is a pastor and a parent. He described fear in his neighborhood and emphasized community unity while requesting assurance that local law enforcement and council will support residents over federal agents in future confrontations. Marilyn Klug stated that she serves on the St. Louis Park community housing team. She reported increasing eviction cases and described outreach efforts to connect tenants with resources, including STEP's new crisis rent assistance program starting Feb. 1, 2026. Rebecca Asheim Keller, Brookside neighborhood, requested separation agreements, cessation of flock camera usage and artificial intelligence data gathering, public disclosure of federal requests, civilian violation reporting resources, and enforcement of traffic laws against federal agents. Matt Reed, Colorado Ave. S., requested improved communication including daily or weekly statements through social media platforms where most residents receive information, noting a perceived delay in the city’s response to recent events. Thomas Hines, Ward 2, discussed a recent incident in the Knollwood area and requested limits on police protection of federal agents. He stated that local police should not impede community observers and should make federal agents use their own resources for protection. Representative Larry Kraft of St. Louis Park thanked council for the resolution and encouraged continued citizen pressure on elected officials while noting Minnesota's inspiring national impact through nonviolent protests and community care. Jonathan Sulman, 3317 Huntington Ave., stated that he represents the Jewish community tradition of welcoming strangers. He praised Jewish community leadership in supporting immigrants and condemned federal agents' actions while supporting stronger city measures. It was moved by Council Member Brausen, seconded by Council Member Engelking, to adopt Resolution No. 26-025 affirming the city's commitment to safety and to respect for the rights and dignity of all people. The motion passed 6-0 (Council Member Bashore absent). Council Member Baudhuin clarified his earlier comments about legal limitations and thanked residents for their democratic engagement while advocating for rethinking mutual aid agreements and other policies. Council Member Farris thanked attendees and former elected officials for their participation and reminders about available power and community support. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4b) Page 5 Title: Special city council meeting minutes of February 10, 2026 8. Communications and announcements – none. 9. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Nadia Mohamed, mayor These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a city staff person. Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 4c Unofficial minutes City council meeting St. Louis Park, Minnesota Feb. 17, 2026 1. Call to order Mayor Mohamed called the meeting to order at 6:21 p.m. a. Roll call. Council members present: Daniel Bashore, Jim Engelking, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Paul Baudhuin, Yolanda Farris, Mayor Nadia Mohamed Council members absent: none Staff present: administrative services director (Ms. Brodeen), community engagement coordinator (Mr. Coleman), finance director (Ms. Cruver), engineering director (Ms. Heiser), City manager (Ms. Keller), police chief (Mr. Kruelle), city attorney (Mr. Mattick), deputy engineering director (Mr. Sullivan), race, equity and inclusion director (Ms. Yang) 2. Approve agenda. Ms. Keller noted that a member of the public wished to comment on item 5e and recommended that the council remove it to become item 7c. Mayor Mohamed indicated this motion would be taken during the consent items. It was moved by Council Member Baudhuin, seconded by Council Member Farris, to approve the agenda. The motion passed 7-0. 3. Presentations. a. Proclamation observing Ramadan Council Member Brausen read the proclamation observing the beginning of Ramadan. The proclamation recognized the Muslim community as an integral part of the diversity within the City of St. Louis Park. In 2026, Ramadan begins with the sighting of the crescent moon on Feb. 17, 2026, and continues for one lunar month until March 19, 2026. The proclamation acknowledged that many St. Louis Park homes host iftars and encouraged all people to learn about their Muslim neighbors and break negative stereotypes about the Islamic faith in furtherance of the city's commitment to leadership in race, equity and inclusion. Mayor Mohamed offered greetings to all Muslims in St. Louis Park and beyond for Ramadan Mubarak and Ramadan Kareem. She described Ramadan as a month of peace, intentional reflection and setting intentions for goals to accomplish while refraining from negatives. She City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4c) Page 2 Title: City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 noted that this year's Ramadan begins during a difficult time for Somali Muslim communities and characterized the month as one of reflection, peace and healing for all. Council Member Brausen noted that the city council agenda included online resources about the history of Islam in the United States, Ramadan community events and Islamic Minnesota nonprofits. b. Recognition of donations Mayor Mohamed recognized Carl Lundstrom for donating $20 for the park enhancement program at Westwood Hills Nature Center and Bob Fields for donating two prints by wildlife artist Jim Hautman to display at Westwood Hills Nature Center. Council Member Engelking noted that Jim Hautman has won the federal duck stamp national competition seven times. The Westwood Hills Nature Center was honored by the level of this artwork donation. 4. Minutes. a. City council meeting minutes of February 2, 2026 It was moved by Council Member Budd, seconded by Council Member Bashore, to approve the minutes of the city council meeting on Feb. 2, 2026, as presented. The motion passed 7-0. 5. Consent items. a. Resolution No. 26-026 approving funding for community education programs b. Resolution No. 26-027 accepting donations to the city to support Westwood Hills Nature Center programs c. Approve city council travel for National League of Cities Congressional Cities Conference 2026 d. Resolution No. 26-028 authorizing final payment for 2024 Cedar Lake Road Improvement project (4023-1100) - Ward 4 e. Resolution authorizing agreement with MnDOT for TH 169 and Cedar Lake Road Project - Ward 4 f. Resolution No. 26-029 authorizing participation in Hennepin County Auto Theft Task Force g. Approve replacement of Vactor sewer cleaner with freightliner chassis (unit 1629) Council Member Engelking expressed support for item 5a to approve funding for community education programs, emphasizing the importance of supporting schools and education to keep connections solid. Council Member Bashore expressed gratitude for city support and staff support for travel to the National League of Cities Congressional Cities Conference 2026 referenced in item 5c. He noted City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4c) Page 3 Title: City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 he looked forward to networking with other municipal leaders, meeting with state representatives and getting to know his fellow colleagues better. Council Member Baudhuin commented on item 5f regarding the Hennepin County Auto Theft Task Force, noting that St. Louis Park ranks sixth in the metro area for car theft. He emphasized that the task force would help address car theft. He reminded residents to lock their car doors and not leave keys in running vehicles. Council Member Brausen remarked on item 5d, noting that parts of the 2024 Cedar Lake Road Improvement Project will be completed in the upcoming season. He anticipated a busy construction season along Cedar Lake Road for the third year in a row with possible additional construction on the west end at Highway 169, pending approval of the MnDOT agreement under regular business. He encouraged residents to be patient throughout the process. It was moved by Council Member Baudhuin, seconded by Council Member Brausen, to move consent item 5e to regular business as item 7c and approve the consent items as amended; and to waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances. The motion passed 7-0. 6. Public hearing – none. 7. Regular business. a. First reading of ordinance amending Chapter 2 of the city code related to boards and commissions Mr. Coleman presented the staff report. The presentation highlighted three notable changes resulting from a comprehensive staff review undertaken to address inconsistencies in language and alignment identified through prior 2025 amendments. The first proposed change was removal of standalone purpose sections from the Human Rights Commission and the Environment and Sustainability Commission, on the basis that their powers and duties sections already fully described their purpose and that the extra sections created redundancy. The second proposed change was removal of the qualified voter requirement from all boards and commissions, which staff identified as an inequitable barrier for active residents who are not eligible voters, particularly the immigrant community. The change was described as expanding civic participation and aligning with the city's racial equity and inclusion commitments. The third proposed change was streamlining the Board of Zoning Appeals membership section by removing language duplicated in the Planning Commission requirements. Because the same seven Planning Commission members have also served on the Board of Zoning Appeals since 2021, the change ensures membership updates apply automatically to both bodies and clarifies that stipend payments are not duplicated. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4c) Page 4 Title: City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Council Member Budd asked whether the removal of purpose statements was generated by the commissions themselves. Mr. Coleman confirmed it was not and explained it arose from staff review seeking consistent language throughout the chapter. Council Member Bashore asked whether staff had considered expanding or retaining purpose statements as a guidepost for commissioners. Mr. Coleman explained that the advisory nature of each commission is universal, and that the goal was to simplify and maintain consistent language. Ms. Keller added that the powers and duties sections for each commission are individualized and serve the guidance function Council Member Bashore described. Council Member Baudhuin asked whether the city code changes affect commission bylaws. Mr. Coleman confirmed the changes concern the city code only and that commissions retain the ability to amend their bylaws. He noted future conversations would provide more context around what that could look like. Council Member Brausen, who previously served on the Human Rights Commission and was the first chair of the Environment and Sustainability Commission, stated that he did not believe purpose statements needed to be in the city code and that adequate mechanisms exist for commissions to receive direction. He noted that the Environment and Sustainability Commission had previously returned to council with proposals far beyond the city's scope and that the annual commission review process provides a mechanism for council to give direction. Council Member Bashore, having served on the Human Rights Commission, expressed a preference for more expansive purpose statements as a guiding tool and noted they could offer helpful flexibility if a commission's focus needed to shift. He stated he would defer to other mechanisms if the code was not the appropriate place. Council Member Budd stated strong support for purpose statements remaining in the code, citing feedback from boards and commissions that they lacked clarity of purpose. She noted their value when reviewing candidates during interview panels and stated that powers and duties sections are too detailed to serve that function. She stated she would not support the motion as presented but would support advancing the changes while retaining the existing purpose statements until commissions have an opportunity to weigh in. Council Member Engelking stated that understanding the "why" behind each commission is critically important, whether that resides in the code or in a working document for each commission. Council Member Baudhuin stated that while a clear purpose is essential for commissions, he preferred it not be placed in the city code in order to give commissions more autonomy and nimbleness. He indicated he would vote in favor of the motion and committed to following up with commissions to ensure they have what they need to develop clarity and direction. Council Member Budd noted that amending bylaws is a more burdensome process than the current code structure. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4c) Page 5 Title: City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 It was moved by Council Member Brausen, seconded by Council Member Baudhuin, to approve the first reading of the ordinance amending various sections of chapter 2 of the city code related to boards and commissions, and to set the second reading for March 2, 2026. The motion passed 5-0 (Council Members Budd and Bashore opposed). b. Resolutions No. 26-030 and 26-031 authorizing agreements for Greenway-Cedar Trail Connection and Streambank Restoration project (4025-2000) - Ward 2 Mr. Sullivan presented the staff report. The project involves construction of approximately a quarter-mile paved multiuse trail adjacent to Minnehaha Creek. It will connect the Cedar Lake Regional Trail to existing trail networks near the Municipal Service Center and Methodist Hospital. The Minnehaha Creek Watershed District would design and construct the trail, then transfer ownership and maintenance to the city upon completion. Streambank restoration is also included. Two resolutions were before the council: a cooperative construction agreement with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed establishing a 50/50 cost share and allowing subordinate agreements and property negotiations, and a license agreement with the Metropolitan Council and Hennepin County Regional Rail Authority for a 20-to-30-foot portion of trail on rail corridor property. The city's Capital Improvements Projects amount was $300,000. The engineer's estimate is $415,000, representing the city's 50 percent share of an approximately $800,000 total project cost, reduced from over $1,000,000 by a $200,000 Hennepin County grant. Tree removal is planned prior to March 31, 2026, to minimize impacts on migrating bats, birds and bee species. Construction is expected to occur in summer and fall 2026. No public comment was received. Council Member Engelking commended the Engineering Department for managing a complex multi-partner project and described the trail as providing both improved access to the Cedar Lake Regional Trail and a connection to a scenic portion of Minnehaha Creek. He expressed wholehearted support. Council Member Baudhuin described the area as a hidden gem and expressed support for any effort to make it more accessible. Council Member Budd expressed support, specifically noting appreciation for the project being 50 percent funded by an outside entity. Council Member Farris noted she had not visited the area and looked forward to doing so upon completion. Council Member Bashore noted he walks by the area regularly via the Cedar Lake Regional Trail and expressed excitement for the improved connection. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4c) Page 6 Title: City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 It was moved by Council Member Engelking, seconded by Council Member Bashore, to approve the resolutions for the Greenway to Cedar Trail Connection and Streambank Restoration Project, City Project No. 4025-2000. The motion passed 7-0. c. Resolution No. 26-032 authorizing agreement with MnDOT for TH 169 and Cedar Lake Road Project - Ward 4 Ms. Heiser presented the staff report. The project is MnDOT-led and involves replacement of a traffic signal at the intersection of TH 169 and Cedar Lake Road that is 38 years old, having been built in 1988. The city is responsible for a cost share of approximately $561,000, to be funded through state aid funds, water utility funds for a hydrant replacement and general obligation bonds for the sidewalk component. A key outcome of city advocacy with MnDOT is the inclusion of a new sidewalk on the east side of Jordan Avenue from the TH 169 button hook off-ramp to Cedar Lake Road. MnDOT agreed to narrow lane widths on that segment to accommodate the sidewalk, at a cost to the city of just under $37,000. This was a significant improvement over a prior effort a decade ago when MnDOT declined to reduce lane widths, which would have cost the city approximately $750,000. Additionally, MnDOT is reducing the bridge over TH 169 from four lanes to three, repurposing the space to create a 7.5-foot shoulder on the north side and a 6.5-foot shoulder on the south side to improve pedestrian conditions on the bridge. The Cities of St. Louis Park and Minnetonka both advocated for more, but it would be outside of the scope for this project. MnDOT is planning a full bridge replacement project in 2035, at which time, additional bicycle and pedestrian improvements could be included on a wider bridge. A public meeting was held on Jan. 26, 2026, attended by approximately 14 people. Council Member Brausen confirmed that the sidewalk cost is just under $37,000 and noted that approximately ten years ago, during the Cedar Lake Road rebuild, a standalone city-funded sidewalk along the Jordan Avenue ramp had been estimated at $300,000–$400,000 (later clarified by Ms. Heiser to be closer to $750,000 at that time). He expressed support for the improvement and encouraged continued pursuit of safety enhancements at the intersection, specifically suggesting consideration of a no-right-turn-on-red sign to slow northbound TH 169 traffic turning east onto Cedar Lake Road. He noted the presence of a crosswalk to the east and a crossing guard serving the school. Ms. Heiser confirmed that crosswalk paint is being added on the east leg and on the Park Spanish Immersion Elementary school driveway leg as part of the project. Council Member Baudhuin asked about the extent of the sidewalk. Ms. Heiser confirmed it runs from the exit ramp where traffic comes off the highway north to Cedar Lake Road, connecting to the existing pedestrian network. Council Member Baudhuin asked whether bike infrastructure was included. Ms. Heiser confirmed there is no bike infrastructure on Jordan Avenue in this project and that bike improvements are planned as part of the 2035 bridge replacement, which would require widening the bridge for an all-ages-and-abilities facility. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4c) Page 7 Title: City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Council Member Baudhuin noted the sidewalk was discussed with the neighborhood as part of the 2025 pavement management process. He stated he would accept a sidewalk over nothing and expressed a desire for improved bike infrastructure in and out of the neighborhood in the future. Council Member Bashore asked about the City of Minnetonka's involvement. Ms. Heiser explained that the city boundary runs through the middle of TH 169, that Minnetonka approved the agreement at their Feb. 5, 2026, city council meeting and is paying their share, and that no separate agreement with Minnetonka is needed. Mayor Mohamed noted agreement with Council Member Brausen's observation about vehicles failing to stop before turning right at the intersection. Council Member Baudhuin expressed general support for the project. Mayor Mohamed opened the public comment period. Sylvie Hyman, 9200 West 28th Street, stated that Jordan Avenue is the only legal access to and from her dead-end street and that she has been advocating for a sidewalk since moving there. She expressed strong excitement about the sidewalk improvement, noting nine children on her street attend Park Spanish Immersion Elementary and will eventually use the sidewalk and bike lanes on Cedar Lake Road to travel to St. Louis Park Middle School. Her primary concern was the pedestrian crossing distance at Cedar Lake Road, which she noted would exceed 40 feet under the current MnDOT plans. She stated that a narrowed crossing distance or safety island would significantly improve safety for children walking to school and expressed doubt that most parents on her street would permit children to walk to school with the current crossing design. She also noted the continued need to push MnDOT on safety improvements, acknowledging the progress made while calling for more. Mayor Mohamed closed the public comment period. Ms. Keller clarified for the record that the motion before the council was to adopt the agreement as currently drafted and that comments regarding future safety improvements would be addressed through separate future processes. It was moved by Council Member Brausen, seconded by Council Member Farris, to approve the resolution authorizing the agreement with MnDOT for TH 196 and Cedar Lake Road Project – Ward 4. The motion passed 7-0. 8. Communications and announcements – none. Ms. Keller announced that on Feb. 23, 2026, the city council would not be convening for its study session meeting but would instead hold its annual retreat workshop on Feb. 26 and 27, 2026. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4c) Page 8 Title: City council meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Council Member Baudhuin noted that Feb. 19, 2026, is the Day of Remembrance for Japanese American incarceration. This was the date in 1942 upon which President Franklin Roosevelt signed the executive order authorizing the internment of American citizens of Japanese heritage. Council Member Bashore announced that the Bronx Park Neighborhood Association will host a Winter Fun Day on Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at Dakota Park in Ward 1, with yard games and treats. Mayor Mohamed extended Ramadan Mubarak and Ramadan Kareem greetings to all Muslims in St. Louis Park and beyond and acknowledged Ash Wednesday, recognizing that Christians are entering the season of Lent. She reflected on the significance of the Day of Remembrance for Japanese American incarceration, noting that this history was not taught to her until college. She emphasized the importance of governments and residents learning from and acknowledging this period of history in light of present-day parallels. 9. Adjournment. The meeting adjourned at 7:28 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Nadia Mohamed, mayor These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a city staff person. Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 4d Unofficial minutes Special study session meeting St. Louis Park, Minnesota Feb. 17, 2026 The meeting convened at 7:35 p.m. Council Members present: Mayor Nadia Mohamed, Daniel Bashore, Jim Engelking, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Yolanda Farris, Paul Baudhuin Council Members absent: none Staff present: city manager (Ms. Keller), city attorney (Mr. Mattick), administrative services director (Ms. Brodeen), community engagement coordinator (Mr. Coleman), finance director (Ms. Cruver), engineering director (Ms. Heiser), police chief (Mr. Kruelle), engineering project manager (Mr. Sullivan), racial equity and inclusion director (Ms. Yang) Guests: George Harris, Ellen Harvey, Hilda Mercedes and Nicole Osuna: Calyptus Consulting Group Inc. Discussion items 1. Consider Study Session Topic Proposal: Separation Ordinance Mayor Mohamed introduced the item and provided context, noting the topic arose from community concerns about immigration enforcement activity. She clarified that the purpose of the discussion was not to debate the merits of the proposal but to determine whether a majority of the council wished to place it on a future study session agenda. Ms. Keller added that staff provided a preliminary report and that the police chief and city attorney were present for any clarifying questions. Council Member Bashore presented the proposal, which he had advanced with Council Members Engelking and Baudhuin. He outlined three areas for potential study: formally limiting St. Louis Park Police Department cooperation with federal immigration enforcement, establishing formal reporting protocols for city employees encountering federal immigration agents and limiting the use of city resources and property by federal immigration authorities. Council Member Bashore noted that based on the staff report, the city was already performing well on the reporting protocol element. He acknowledged ongoing community concerns reflected in dozens of personal emails and calls he had received from residents and referenced a disconnect between official police communications and what some community members reported experiencing. Council Member Engelking supported the proposal as timely. He expressed concern about federal immigration enforcement operating outside the rule of law and framed the separation ordinance as a potential long-term protective tool for the community. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 2 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Council Member Baudhuin stated that while he had much to say about the merits, the question before the council was simply whether to explore the topic. He noted he had received at least 56 emails from residents on the subject and expressed his belief that there was a resident mandate to study the issue thoroughly. Council Member Brausen expressed hesitation. He stated he wanted to take every available action to address immigration enforcement impacts in the community but questioned whether a separation ordinance would have meaningful practical effect. He referenced prior guidance from the city attorney about enforceability and concerns from the police chief about operational implications, including whether the city could legally prohibit a federal officer from utilizing city property for a lawful purpose. He was reluctant to commit significant staff time to the study when staff were already focused on responding to urgent community needs. Council Member Budd stated she believed the topic merited further discussion. She emphasized her confidence in the police department's policing culture and did not want her support for additional discussion interpreted as a lack of confidence in the department. She noted that a discussion would also provide the council with an opportunity to share the investments the city has made in officer training and de-escalation, which the public may not fully understand. Mayor Mohamed noted that at least four council members had expressed support for further discussion at a future study session. She cautioned that any ordinance would be a declaration of values with limited enforcement ability and that residents should not expect it to prevent a federal agent from being present in public spaces. She suggested a late-March or April 2026 timeline would be appropriate given the council's existing schedule. She expressed her own investment in establishing long-term parameters to prevent a recurrence of the circumstances experienced over the prior weeks. Council Member Baudhuin acknowledged that enforceability would need to be a central part of the study session discussion. He also noted that residents had expressed interest in the ordinance as a long-term measure regardless of current enforcement levels. Council Member Budd added that a study session would allow the public to learn more about the city's existing policing practices and training investments. Ms. Keller confirmed that the city attorney and police chief would need to participate in any study session and that staff would work to schedule the next discussion in the timeline suggested. Council Member Baudhuin asked that the Police Advisory Commission also be engaged and kept informed of the process. 2. Title VI and Language Access Plan update Ms. Yang presented the staff report. She noted that the council had approved a Title VI plan in 2022, which was primarily focused on the engineering department's compliance with Federal Highway Administration and Department of Transportation requirements. Following a review at the September 2025 Race Equity and Inclusion System study session, the city decided to expand the plan and hired Calyptus Consulting Group Inc. to assist. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 3 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Mr. Harris provided background on his firm, noting it had operated since 1992 with extensive Title VI and civil rights experience, including work with the Department of Justice, Minneapolis Housing Authority, Met Council and various transit agencies and state governments. Mr. Harris summarized the key elements of Title VI compliance, including assurances of compliance, organizational structure, public notices, complaint procedures, language access, staff training, public participation, data collection, contractor compliance and program review. He noted the city's 2022 plan was a reasonable starting point but required updates for consistency and expansion. Mr. Harris described the work completed since November 2025, including a review of all federal grant obligations, interviews with all city departments, benchmarking against 18 other Minnesota cities and an assessment of the current plan. He noted that city staff expressed enthusiasm for the work and were eager for training. Mr. Harris outlined nine key areas of recommended change: • Updating the plan to reflect current executive orders on language assistance • Equity analysis and disparate impact • Ensuring federal regulatory references were current • Developing a citywide Title VI notice and posting strategy • Improving complaint procedures including the city managing its own complaints • Updating the language access plan to identify priority languages and client-facing materials requiring translation • Standardizing assurance clauses in service contracts • Establishing performance measures • Expanding staff training including onboarding and refresher formats • Updating the public participation section to incorporate existing city tools such as the Engage platform Mr. Harris noted that the city's public outreach efforts were among the best he had encountered and complimented the police department for already having a Title VI policy and training course in place. Ms. Yang noted the next step would be a final report to council at the end of March 2026. Council Member Brausen thanked the consulting team and noted the city was already doing many of the important things required under a Title VI plan. He asked how the city could enforce Title VI protections against the federal government given the current political environment. Mr. Harris acknowledged the challenge. He explained that his team had adopted strategic language adjustments, such as using the term "language assistance" rather than "limited English proficiency" because the current federal administration had removed that terminology from federal websites and guidance. He explained this approach was intended to avoid drawing unwanted scrutiny while still achieving compliance goals. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 4 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Ms. Osuna added that cities needed to be strategic under the current administration, finding ways to remain in compliance while continuing to serve the community, and that the same work could continue under different framing. Council Member Brausen acknowledged that and clarified that his question was directed at a separate opportunity: the formal Title VI complaint procedure available through the Office of Rights and Civil Liberties at the Department of Homeland Security, which allows anyone to file civil rights violation complaints against DHS. He noted similar complaint mechanisms existed through the Departments of Education, Labor and Transportation and suggested this could be a vehicle for community members to report ICE-related civil rights violations. Mayor Mohamed thanked the consulting team and staff, noting the work reflected the city's ongoing effort to remain in compliance while staying true to its values. She observed that the item was informational and that she looked forward to the final report. 3. Neighborhood grant program discussion Mr. Coleman presented a mid-program update on the neighborhood funding program. He noted two motivating factors: a November 2025 study session conversation about program implementation and the fact that the council had a similar conversation almost exactly one year prior. Mr. Coleman identified two policy considerations for discussion: 1. Does the council support the strategies outlined in the report to: a. Increase the number of active neighborhood groups in the city; and b. Increase overall program spending so that the appropriated funds are fully utilized and whether there were any changes to the program the council wanted to see. Results and Learnings Mr. Coleman reported that the most effective action taken to increase neighborhood participation was leveraging council member connections, which led to two neighborhoods reorganizing. He noted that tabling at events, while useful, has proven less effective for recruiting new leaders than identifying those already in volunteer leadership positions such as block captains. He reported that the city has been working with the police department, which manages the block captain program, to use that network for outreach. He described the neighborhood networking meetings as beneficial but noted care was needed to ensure that the conversations remained productive. Mr. Coleman noted that overall program participation and dollars spent declined in 2025 compared to prior years due to fewer registered neighborhoods. However, he highlighted that the utilization rate of funds actually allocated to neighborhoods remained consistent at 43%, compared to a historical average of 45% since 2019. Strategies Going Forward Mr. Coleman outlined strategies for increasing active neighborhoods including one-on-one outreach through block captains and council member connections, promotion at city events, City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 5 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 introduction of a mentorship model suggested by a neighborhood leader at a networking meeting and providing additional support to emerging groups. For increasing program spending, he described exploring uses for unused funds, offering capacity-building workshops for leaders, supporting interpretation and translation services and providing additional funding for community organizing opportunities relevant to current federal administration activity. He noted that unused funds would return to the city's fund balance. Council Member Engelking disclosed that dissatisfaction with the 2025 changes to the neighborhood program was among his motivations for running for office. He challenged the characterization of the previous grant model as competitive, arguing that since neighborhoods never requested all available funds, it was not truly competitive. He also questioned the utility of the utilization rate statistic, arguing that the more meaningful figure was the total dollars reaching communities, which dropped from over $11,000 to approximately $6,300 in 2025. He noted that neighborhoods routinely built slack into budget requests to avoid coming up short, which explained part of the apparent underutilization. He proposed setting a minimum grant of $2,000 for all neighborhoods regardless of tier. Council Member Budd agreed with Council Member Engelking's concerns about the statistics. She stated that neighborhood associations represented one of the city's most strategic initiatives for public safety, noting that residents she spoke with during her campaign felt safer when they knew their neighbors. She reported that in Ward 3, active neighborhood groups had declined from five of seven to one of seven during her time in office. She proposed raising the floor to $3,000 for the lowest tier given the surplus in the program budget. She also called for an analysis of record to establish a clear public purpose framework, which she believed would expand eligible spending options for neighborhood groups. She supported continuing the neighborhood networking meetings and suggested that demonstrating responsiveness to challenges identified in those sessions would build trust with neighborhood leaders. Council Member Budd asked Mr. Mattick to comment on the concept of establishing a clear public purpose framework. Mr. Mattick explained that the neighborhood funding program lacked explicit statutory authorization, meaning the city's authority to operate it derives from general police powers rather than a specific statute. He noted this made the public purpose analysis especially important. He described the three-part legal test applied by the courts: whether spending benefits the community as a whole, whether it is directly related to the functions of government and whether the expense primarily benefits a private interest. Mr. Mattick emphasized the question of food expenditures, noting the Office of the State Auditor has a number of opinions and guidance around the topic of when purchasing food satisfies a legitimate public purpose. Generally, food for council meetings was prohibited, food for employee recognition was allowed with limitations, and hosting events around a mealtime simply to justify food reimbursement was not permitted. He acknowledged that staff had worked with neighborhoods in 2025 to structure event submissions in ways that could accommodate food where appropriate and that the answer had not been a flat “no” but required case-by-case review. He cautioned against repackaging social events under a different label solely to satisfy criteria. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 6 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Ms. Keller confirmed that staff had been able to work with neighborhood associations in 2025 to accommodate food in eligible contexts and referenced page 4 of the report on that point. Council Member Baudhuin questioned the framing around statutory authorization, asking whether the absence of explicit authorization was the same as prohibition. Mr. Mattick clarified that cities, as creatures of the state, are permitted to do only what they are authorized to do, and the absence of authorization functions as a prohibition. He added that the cleanest legal basis is a specific statutory reference and that relying on general police powers or public health and safety requires a more detailed justification. Council Member Baudhuin asked about the National Day of Racial Healing event where food was provided. Mr. Coleman clarified that the food at that event had been donated, not purchased with public funds. Council Member Baudhuin stated he understood the legal framework but remained frustrated by the restrictions on food given his belief, informed by academic study, that sharing food is a powerful community-building act. He noted there was language in the report suggesting that if an event itself serves a public purpose, food can be considered a permissible expense, and asked Mr. Mattick to clarify. Mr. Mattick confirmed that an event serving a public purpose does not automatically make all associated expenses permissible and cited alcohol as an example of something the state auditor had categorically excluded regardless of event purpose. Council Member Brausen expressed appreciation for the discussion. He suggested that incorporating a structured public safety education component into every neighborhood event could satisfy the public purpose requirement in a way that would also justify food as an attendance incentive. He proposed that staff develop a menu of educational topics that could be offered at neighborhood events, such as responses to federal actions, available resources, crime prevention or land use processes. He stated he believed food necessary to attract attendance to a public safety education event could be justified to the state auditor on that basis. Council Member Brausen expressed support for giving the tiered system more time to work. He noted that the decline in participation among lower-income neighborhoods reflected socioeconomic pressures and urged council members to take a direct role in identifying future leaders. He suggested simplifying the reimbursement process and raised the issue of a former Blackstone neighborhood leader who had been required to provide his social security number to be reimbursed. He offered to personally act as a fiscal agent for any neighborhood association to facilitate pass-through funding, acknowledging his willingness to accept the associated IRS exposure. Mayor Mohamed spoke at length and acknowledged her position as less popular. She noted she had grown up in St. Louis Park and had never participated in a neighborhood gathering, reflecting her view that the program had historically not reached all parts of the community. She stated that neighborhood associations had often operated in selective ways and that the City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 7 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 tiered model was designed to begin addressing equity gaps, even if those goals had not yet been achieved in one year. She argued it was unreasonable to expect a quick turnaround on something that had been struggling for decades and cautioned against arguing over public purpose restrictions when the city has legal obligations to steward taxpayer dollars responsibly. Mayor Mohamed supported the current framework requiring events to meet public purpose criteria and opposed using public funds for what she characterized as private backyard gatherings, regardless of how such spending might be reclassified. She stated that money not being spent was not lost and could potentially be redirected toward intentional city-led community gatherings that met the required legal standards. She acknowledged that the food restrictions have personal impacts, citing a mayor's gathering she had hosted where she paid $300 out of pocket because city funds could not be used. She expressed a desire to invest more in the program but not at the cost of legal compliance. Council Member Farris commented that in her 13 years of living in St. Louis Park, she had never heard of neighborhood associations, nor had she been invited to participate and did not know who her block captain was. Mayor Mohamed redirected the audience to refrain from side conversations and noted the discussion was a council conversation. Council Member Bashore thanked Mr. Coleman for the presentation. He agreed that reaching unorganized neighborhoods should be a priority and stated that the 2025 changes to the funding structure without a corresponding intentional effort to engage those communities was a missed opportunity. He expressed support for more strategies to increase outreach. He acknowledged the legal constraints around public purpose and stated he was willing to accept more risk than the mayor on that question. He suggested exploring a dynamic funding model where tiered limits applied at certain points in the year but remaining funds could be made available to any neighborhood later in the year if still unspent. Council Member Engelking proposed maintaining the tiered structure but raising the floor so that tier 3 neighborhoods received a minimum of $2,000, with staff determining appropriate escalators for tiers 1 and 2. He observed that the current structure had resource-starved active neighborhoods and noted that tier 1 neighborhoods actually had less access to funds under the new model than under the previous $3,000 maximum. Ms. Keller suggested that if a majority of council wished to raise funding levels, staff could prepare a budget proposal for consideration in the 2027 budget cycle. For 2026, she noted some possibilities might exist within the already-allocated $50,000 budget but that analysis would be needed in consultation with finance and program staff. Mayor Mohamed asked why the council would allocate more money if current allocations were not being fully spent. Ms. Keller clarified that the concern was ensuring sufficient funds would be available if outreach efforts were successful and additional neighborhoods organized throughout the year. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 8 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 Council Member Engelking offered to personally make a donation to the city to cover any overage above $50,000 if the new floor resulted in higher spending, framing it as a way to eliminate budgetary concern as an obstacle. Council Member Baudhuin stated he supported raising the floor but emphasized that money was not the core reason the program was struggling and that larger structural questions needed to be addressed. Mayor Mohamed asked whether there was council interest in directing staff to conduct the funding analysis. A majority expressed interest. Council Member Budd asked about changing the eligibility guidelines to allow more flexibility. Council Member Bashore supported changing the guidelines, noting they were too stringent and questioning whether staff had consistently worked with neighborhoods on making food expenses eligible. Mr. Mattick noted that while the public purpose framework allowed some flexibility on educational programming, the IRS paperwork requirements were not negotiable and could not be waived regardless of council preference. Mr. Coleman noted that staff would take the feedback provided and work to incorporate it moving forward. He also noted that the annual neighborhood program training is set for March 5, 2026. Lastly, he stated that staff would continue to refine the program for equity, accessibility and impact. Written reports 4. Development update - Q1 5. Advisory commissions communications to city council - workplan updates Council Member Budd asked about the process for submitting comments on the written work plan reports included in the agenda. Ms. Keller indicated council members should send comments to her and to Mr. Coleman and staff would determine the appropriate next step. Council Member Bashore noted that one work plan item referenced participation in the Vision 4.0 process with a timeline of Q3 2025 and asked whether it was still current. Mr. Coleman clarified that the item was carried over and that the advisory communication form identified specific new items the commission was seeking approval to add to the work plan. The meeting adjourned at 9:36 p.m. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4d) Page 9 Title: Special study session meeting minutes of February 17, 2026 ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Nadia Mohamed, mayor These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a city staff person. Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 4e Unofficial minutes City council workshop St. Louis Park, Minnesota Feb. 26 and 27, 2026 February 26, 2026: The workshop convened at 4:04 p.m. at Westwood Hills Nature Center. Council members present: Mayor Mohamed, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Paul Baudhuin, Daniel Bashore, Jim Engelking Staff present: City manager (Ms. Keller), deputy city manager (Ms. Walsh), organizational development coordinator (Ms. Smith) Guest: Dave Unmacht, consultant Mayor Mohamed welcomed the city council members to the workshop. Ms. Smith presented on the True Colors inventory and how our colors show up in decision- making and under stress. The council participated in a conversation regarding their personality assessments and communication styles. Mr. Unmacht presented on the concept of local government governance along with roles and responsibilities and facets of a premier council. Following his presentation, city council norms were reviewed and discussed. One norm was added to read, "Do assume staff are providing their best recommendation and have good intentions.” The council and Mr. Unmacht discussed what is working and what opportunities exist between council and staff interactions. Staff’s professionalism and responsiveness was noted, as well as the thoroughness of agenda packets and the pre-meeting question and answer protocol. Opportunities to continue strengthening the relationship include encouraging both staff and council to ensure clarity of inquiries before spending staff time creating a response. Council members also encouraged each other to be mindful of the power dynamic inherent in being a council member and to ensure staff members are not put on the spot or in difficult positions when questions are asked during council meetings. The workshop adjourned at 7:50 p.m. February 27, 2026: The workshop convened at 8:15 a.m. at STEP Council members present: Mayor Mohamed, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Paul Baudhuin, Daniel Bashore, Jim Engelking Staff present: City manager (Ms. Keller), deputy city manager (Ms. Walsh), organizational development coordinator (Ms. Smith), finance director (Ms. Cruver), administrative services director (Ms. Brodeen), engineering director (Ms. Heiser), communications and technology director (Ms. Smith), parks and recreation director (Mr. West), public works director (Mr. Hall), City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4e) Page 2 Title: City council workshop meeting minutes of February 26 and 27, 2026 community development director and interim building and energy director (Ms. Barton), city clerk (Ms. Kennedy), fire chief (Mr. Hanlin), police chief (Mr. Kruelle), human resources director (Ms. Vorpahl) Guests: Todd Graham, Metropolitan Council; Edwin Nelson and Nadia Akhtar, TerraLuna Collaborative; Rochelle Younan-Montgomery, The Reset. Following brief welcome from Ms. Laura Smith at 8:15 a.m., city council members and city leadership staff participated in the following workshop discussion topics: Facilitated conversation with consultant – current and future demography of St. Louis Park community Mr. Graham presented demographic forecasts for the Twin Cities region and St. Louis Park. The region expects to gain 660,000 people and 320,000 households between 2020-2050. Growth is slowing due to declining birth rates and limited domestic migration. The senior population (65+) will double by 2030 and continue growing. St. Louis Park specifically will gain approximately 19% population growth with most increases in older age groups. Senior citizens over the age of 65 will grow by 73% while other age groups show minimal growth. Mr. Graham explained workforce shortages will persist for 15 years as the traditional working- age population remains flat. Foreign-born workers and delayed retirement will help fill employment gaps. Housing demand will shift toward apartments and condos which will comprise 52-61% of new construction while single-family homes will be only 30-35% of new units. Council members asked questions about household definitions, housing supply constraints and regional economic impacts. Mr. Graham clarified that demographic trends drive housing demand patterns rather than local zoning restrictions alone. Strategic priorities discussion Mr. Nelson and Ms. Akhtar facilitated discussions on strategic priorities derived from the Vision 4.0 community engagement process. Five draft priority areas were presented: welcoming and vibrant community, safe and connected community, diverse affordable housing options, natural spaces and environmental stewardship, and good governance. Council discussed including good governance as a strategic priority rather than treating it as an overarching value that belonged in a mission or vision statement. Environmental stewardship was discussed as potentially needing expansion to reflect the city's leadership in sustainability initiatives. Council members completed individual reflection exercises and used a scale rating system to indicate support levels for each priority. Most priorities received middle-to-high ratings, indicating general support with reservations requiring discussion. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4e) Page 3 Title: City council workshop meeting minutes of February 26 and 27, 2026 The session transitioned into carousel-style small group discussions where council members rotated between stations to refine priority language. Staff facilitated conversations focused on what resonates with council members, identifying missing or problematic words, and determining necessary changes for council support. The goal was to produce revised priority statements that council could support. The council engaged in extensive discussion to develop strategic priority statements. Staff facilitated small group conversations with council members to refine language and concepts. The process involved council members working with staff to develop five strategic priority areas. Each group presented their priority statement for council feedback using an informal scale to gauge support levels. The good governance priority generated discussion about fiscal responsibility language. The final draft statement read: “A city that delivers reliable services, operates transparently, uses all city resources sensibly and responsibly, and builds strong relationships with residents " The draft welcoming and safe community priority was refined to: "An inclusive, equitable and vibrant city where everyone feels safe and experiences a strong sense of belonging." The draft environmental stewardship priority became: "Advance sustainable practices that care for people and the planet, including well-maintained parks and natural resources." The draft infrastructure priority was stated as: "Safe and reliable infrastructure that connects neighborhoods, people and places " The draft housing priority was titled "Diverse, affordable and dignified housing options" with the statement: " A range of quality, affordable and attainable housing options for all residents and people who want to reside here.” Council members noted the value of working directly with staff during the priority development process and felt the iterative approach helped move toward consensus efficiently. As next steps, the consultants will refine the draft priority language for readability and return to council at a future meeting for further review and discussion. Facilitated Training with Consultant – REI Topic "Difficult Conversations and Hurt vs. Harm" Ms. Younan-Montgomery led a training session on accountability practices and managing difficult conversations. The session included mindfulness exercises with guided meditation and breathing techniques. Council members participated in group discussions about times they feel most supported by colleagues and how they typically respond to challenges or criticism. The training covered the reset method focusing on inner change as prerequisite for outer change. Components included rest and recharge, explore values, simplify, embrace boundaries and truth-telling. Ms. Younan-Montgomery facilitated exercises where participants mapped accountability breakdowns and distinguished between hurt and harm in interpersonal situations. Council City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4e) Page 4 Title: City council workshop meeting minutes of February 26 and 27, 2026 members identified patterns where accountability breaks down, including people going quiet which can result in breakdown of trust, deflection and disengagement. The session concluded with introduction of restorative dialogue techniques using the "open the front door" method for structured difficult conversations. Debrief And Farewell The retreat concluded with closing remarks and distribution of evaluation surveys. Participants reflected on the collaborative process and strategic priority development work. The workshop was adjourned at 2:45 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Nadia Mohamed, mayor These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a city staff person. Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 4f Unofficial minutes City council meeting St. Louis Park, Minnesota March 2, 2026 1. Call to order. Mayor Mohamed called the meeting to order at 6:18 p.m. a. Pledge of allegiance b. Roll call Council members present: Daniel Bashore, Jim Engelking, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Yolanda Farris, Mayor Nadia Mohamed Council members absent: Paul Baudhuin Staff present: city manager (Ms. Keller), deputy city clerk (Ms. Scott-Lerdal), human resources director (Ms. Vorpahl) 2. Approve agenda. It was moved by Council Member Farris, seconded by Council Member Brausen, to approve the agenda as presented. The motion passed 6-0 (Council Member Baudhuin absent). 3. Presentations. a. Proclamation observing Women’s History Month Council Member Budd read the proclamation observing Women's History Month. The proclamation recognized the leadership and contributions of women in the community, highlighting that the City of St. Louis Park has elected three women. Mayor Mohamed is the first woman of color elected as the city’s mayor and is the first elected Somali American mayor in the United States. The proclamation also acknowledged the ongoing inequities women face while encouraging recognition of women's daily contributions. Mayor Mohamed commented on the importance of women in local government and the influence of their leadership in advancing policy and accomplishing goals. Council Member Brausen agreed and wished a happy birthday to his wife. b. Proclamation observing World Lymphedema Day Council Member Brausen read the proclamation observing World Lymphedema Day on March 6, 2026. The proclamation noted that lymphatic diseases affect 10 million Americans and 170 City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4f) Page 2 Title: City council meeting minutes of March 2, 2026 million people worldwide, with no cure available and treatment focused on reducing swelling and preventing complications. Sharon Guffan, who requested the proclamation, provided public comment. She defined lymphedema as a long-term condition causing swelling in arms or legs when the lymphatic system is damaged or blocked. She emphasized the importance of public awareness and expressed gratitude to Mayor Mohamed and the council for the proclamation. Ms. Guffan announced a Lymphedema Education Day at St. Louis Park Library on March 9, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. 4. Minutes – none. 5. Consent items. a. Approve city disbursements b. Adopt ordinance amending St. Louis Park city code chapter 2 regarding boards and commissions c. Approve Human Rights Commissions and Community Technology Advisory Commission workplan additions d. Approve amendment to 2026 social services award for St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP) e. Resolution No. 26-033 approving preliminary development agreement with Sentinel Management Company for redevelopment of the Wooddale Station site - Ward 2 f. Resolution No. 26-034 approving collateral assignment and subordination agreement related to the Terasa redevelopment - Ward 4 g. Resolution No. 26-035 authorizing final payment for the 2025 Pavement Management Project (4025-1000) -Ward 4 h. Resolution No. 26-036 to prioritize federal congressionally directed spending requests It was moved by Council Member Budd, seconded by Council Member Bashore, to move consent item 5b to regular business as agenda item 7a, to approve the consent agenda as amended; and to waive reading of all resolutions and ordinances. The motion passed 6-0 (Council Member Baudhuin absent). 6. Public hearings – none. 7. Regular business. a. Adopt Ordinance No. 2702-26 amending St. Louis Park city code chapter 2 regarding boards and commissions Council Member Budd explained her opposition to the ordinance, stating she would vote against it because it removes purpose statements from some commissions. Council Member Bashore discussed a small subgroup meeting that occurred after the first reading where commissioners expressed desire for more clarity and guidance from the council. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4f) Page 3 Title: City council meeting minutes of March 2, 2026 He noted the possibility of consolidating documents including bylaws and expressed discomfort passing the ordinance without a clear path for where purpose statements should reside. Council Member Brausen moved approval of the ordinance. He noted the staff report indicated continued exploration of clearer purpose statements and their appropriate location outside city code. Council Member Brausen felt staff had heard the concerns and that passing the ordinance would not discard their work on other changes to make the code language related to boards and commissions more consistent. Council Member Engelking seconded the motion. He agreed that every board and commission should have purpose statements to provide direction and energy for their important work. He noted that only two commissions currently have purpose statements in code while five do not. Council Member Engelking suggested purpose statements should be more prominent and accessible than city code, perhaps in work plans. Council Member Budd expressed disappointment that boards and commissions input was not sought for this decision and suggested incorporating their feedback on purpose statements since they understand the work being done. Mayor Mohamed noted her agreement with having purpose statements but not necessarily in city code. It was moved by Council Member Brausen, seconded by Council Member Engelking, to adopt the ordinance amending St. Louis Park city code chapter 2 regarding boards and commissions. The motion passed 4-2 (Council Members Bashore and Budd opposed, Council Member Baudhuin absent). 8. Communications and announcements. a. Minnetonka Boulevard twin homes project status - Ward 1 Council Member Brausen noted an item on the consent agenda, which approved a $50,000 increase to the social services award for the St. Louis Park Emergency Program. Closed Executive Session It was moved by Council Member Brausen, seconded by Council Member Budd, to close the meeting pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13D.05, subd. 3. The motion passed 6-0 (Council Member Baudhuin absent). The city council entered closed executive session at 6:37 p.m. pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13D.05, subd. 3 to conduct the city manager’s annual performance review. The city council exited closed session at 9:01 p.m. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4f) Page 4 Title: City council meeting minutes of March 2, 2026 9. Adjournment. The city council returned to regular session at 9:10 p.m. and the meeting adjourned at 9:11 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Nadia Mohamed, mayor These minutes were created with the assistance of a generative AI transcript service, then edited and finalized by a city staff person. Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Minutes: 4g Unofficial Minutes Closed Executive Session St. Louis Park, Minnesota March 2, 2026 Closed executive session The city council met in closed executive session pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13D.05, subd. 3 to conduct the city manager’s annual performance evaluation. Mayor Mohamed called the closed executive session to order at 6:37 p.m. Council members present: Mayor Nadia Mohamed, Daniel Bashore, Jim Engelking, Sue Budd, Tim Brausen, Yolanda Farris Council members absent: Paul Baudhuin Staff present: City manager (Ms. Keller), HR director (Ms. Vorpahl) Guest: Georgine Madden, Consultant The city council exited the closed session at 9:01 p.m. ______________________________________ ______________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Nadia Mohamed, mayor Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5a Executive summary Title: Resolution recognizing retirement of Carrie Mandler Recommended action: Read resolution and present plaque to Carrie for her years of service to the City of St. Louis Park. Policy consideration: None. Summary: City policy states that employees who retire or resign in good standing with over 20 years of service will be presented with a resolution from the mayor, city manager and city council. Carrie will be in attendance for the presentation at the beginning of the meeting. The mayor is asked to read the resolution for Carrie in recognition of her years of service to the city. Financial or budget considerations: None applicable. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Barb Lamfers, human resources technician Reviewed by: Stacy M. Voelker, administrative coordinator Nikki Friederich, recreation superintendent Mark Oestreich, Westwood Hills Nature Center manager Jason T. West, parks and recreation director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5a) Page 2 Title: Resolution recognizing retirement of Carrie Mandler Resolution No. 26 - __ Recognizing the contributions and expressing appreciation to Carrie Mandler, Westwood Hills Nature Center secretary/program aide Whereas, Carrie Mandler was born and raised in St. Louis Park and began her employment with the city on January 27, 1986, and has served the Parks and Recreation Department for 40 years. She began her career as the department secretary, serving in that role for five years, and for the past 35 years has served as the Secretary/Program Aide at Westwood Hills Nature Center; and Whereas, Carrie has been a long-time and valued team member who demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving the community of St. Louis Park throughout her four decades of service; and Whereas, Carrie provided exemplary customer service to thousands of visitors, assisting community members both over the phone and in person and assuring that every interaction created a welcoming and positive experience for all; and Whereas, Carrie’s passion for her work, loyalty to Westwood Hills Nature Center and dedication to the residents and visitors of St. Louis Park helped create a warm and inviting environment that encouraged people of all ages to connect with nature and one another; and Whereas, Carrie is only the third staff member to hold this position at Westwood Hills Nature Center, contributing to the stability, continuity and success of the nature center and the department for 40 years; and Whereas, Carrie’s knowledge, kindness and steady presence have supported generations of staff, volunteers and community members and helped make Westwood Hills Nature Center a special place for learning, exploration and connection to nature; and Whereas, Carrie’s service has left a lasting impact on the Parks and Recreation Department and the St. Louis Park community. Now therefore be it resolved that the city council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, by this resolution and public record, would like to thank Westwood Hills Nature Center Secretary/Program Aide, Carrie Mandler, for her great contributions and her over 40 years of dedicated service to the City of St. Louis Park and wish her the best in her retirement. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5b Executive summary Title: Resolution accepting city manager's performance evaluation Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution accepting the city manager’s annual performance evaluation and adjusting compensation effective March 7, 2026. Policy consideration: Does the council want to formally accept the annual performance evaluation and adjust the compensation of the city manager? Summary: On Monday, March 2, 2026, the council met in a closed executive session pursuant to M.S. 13D.05 to evaluate the city manager’s performance. Consultant Georgine Madden facilitated the evaluation discussion. The city council reviewed and discussed the results of the evaluation and determined that the city manager’s annual performance was above average. It was also determined that the city manager’s compensation should be adjusted 3.5%, effective March 7, 2026, and 3.5% effective Jan. 1, 2026, from the 2025 salary. The car allowance for the city manager contained in the employment agreement remains in effect and unchanged. Financial or budget considerations: Salary increases are included in the 2026 general budget. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Rita Vorpahl, HR director Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5b) Page 2 Title: Resolution accepting city manager's performance evaluation Resolution No. 26-___ Accepting the annual city manager evaluation and adjusting compensation effective January 1, 2026 Whereas, the city council provides an opportunity to hold an annual evaluation of the city manager; and Whereas, on March 2, 2026, a closed executive session of the council was held to discuss the annual performance evaluation, Whereas, the city council has agreed that City Manager Kim Keller’s annual performance was above average; Now therefore be it resolved that the City of St. Louis Park City Council hereby: • Accepts the annual performance evaluation of the city manager; and • Confirms a salary of $262,396 for the city manager (based on 2,080-hour year), not including car allowance. This is a 7.0% increase to the city manager’s 2025 salary and 3.5% is effective January 1, 2026, and the remaining 3.5% is effective March 7, 2026. The car allowance of $500/month continues to apply as compensation per the employment agreement. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5c Executive summary Title: Resolution approving 2026 - 2028 Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) #206 labor agreement Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution approving labor agreement between the city and the LELS #206 bargaining group, establishing terms and conditions of employment for three years from Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2028. Policy consideration: Does the city council approve the labor agreement between the city and the union? Summary: Staff have been in active negotiations with the police officer’s union group for several months. We are pleased to bring this contract before the council for approval. Items listed follow the approved compensation plans, budget discussions and is a three-year contract effective Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2028. Our discussions in negotiations were productive and resulted in this agreement. Financial or budget considerations: The amount recommended has been included in the 2026 budget and will be used to develop the 2027-2028 budgets. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Discussion Resolution Prepared by: Rita Vorpahl, HR director Reviewed by: Cheyenne Brodeen, administrative services director Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5c) Page 2 Title: Resolution approving 2026 - 2028 Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) #206 labor agreement Discussion Background: The city and the police officer union group have negotiated and come to agreement on the following changes to the contract: • Duration of three years (Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2028) • General wage increases of 3.5% for 2026, and 3% for 2027 and 2028, which is consistent with the general wage increase for non-union employees • Minnesota Paid Leave language premium split 50/50 between the employer and the employee • Standardized language has been updated across the contract • General Salary Adjustment (GSA) language has been added to on call, uniform and special assignment pay • Shift differential language has been added Next steps: Staff recommends approval. All items noted above are included within the 2026 budget. More details are available upon request; the proposed contract is on file with the city clerk. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5c) Page 3 Title: Resolution approving 2026 - 2028 Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) #206 labor agreement Resolution No. 26-____ Approving labor agreement between the City of St. Louis Park and Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) Local #206 January 1, 2026 – December 31, 2028 Whereas, the city and the union have reached a negotiated settlement covering the terms and conditions of a labor agreement as permitted by the State of Minnesota Public Employees Labor Relations Act; and Whereas, the city council may enter into such agreements as authorized by its charter, Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of the City of St. Louis Park that the mayor and city manager are authorized to execute a collective bargaining agreement, City Contract No. 031-26 between the City of St. Louis Park and LELS #206, effective January 1, 2026, through December 21, 2028. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5d Executive summary Title: Approve ladder truck replacement Recommended action: Motion to approve the purchase of one Select Series Metro 100’ Quint aerial apparatus from Fire Safety USA, Inc. through Sourcewell cooperative purchasing program in the amount of $1,488,555.00, inclusive of a trade-in credit of $315,000.00 for the current ladder truck, consistent with the proposal dated Feb. 19, 2026. Policy consideration: Does the city council authorize the fire department to order a replacement aerial apparatus consistent with the adopted Capital Improvement Plan? Summary: The fire department is requesting authorization to order a replacement ladder truck consistent with the city’s adopted Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The current unit is a 2015 E- ONE aerial apparatus that has reached and exceeded its expected service life as a primary front-line apparatus. The unit has begun experiencing increased maintenance costs, reliability concerns and reduced operational dependability consistent with aging aerial apparatus. The purchase is being made through the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing program, a Minnesota-based public procurement cooperative authorized under Minnesota Statutes §471.59 and §471.345. Sourcewell competitively solicits and awards contracts on behalf of participating government agencies. Utilizing Sourcewell satisfies statutory competitive bidding requirements and allows the city to leverage nationally negotiated pricing concessions without conducting a separate local bid process. Financial or budget considerations: The gross price of the new ladder truck is $1,803,555.00 which is reduced by a trade-in value of $315,000.00 for the current ladder truck, bringing the net purchase price to $1,488,555.00. The current 2028 CIP budget had estimated the replacement cost to be $1,591,135.00. Placing the order now aligns delivery with the budgeted year and under the budgeted amount. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. Supporting documents: Discussion, Fire Safety USA contract Prepared by: Peter Hanlin, fire chief Reviewed by: Tiffany Stephens, financial analyst & interim deputy finance director Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5d) Page 2 Title: Approve ladder truck replacement Discussion Background: The current unit is a 2015 E-ONE aerial apparatus that has reached and exceeded its expected service life as a primary front-line apparatus. The unit has begun experiencing increased maintenance costs, reliability concerns and reduced operational dependability consistent with aging aerial apparatus. The proposed replacement is an E-ONE Select Series Metro 100’ Quint straight-stick aerial apparatus. The new unit will increase aerial reach from 78 feet to 100 feet while maintaining full quint functionality, including a pump, water tank, hosebed, ground ladders and aerial device. It will remain a maneuverable single-axle configuration that is appropriate for the city’s street network and will meet the requirements of NFPA 1900, Standard for Firefighting Vehicles (2024 edition). The apparatus will be equipped with a 450-gallon water tank and a 1,500 gallon- per-minute fire pump. The additional aerial height enhances the department’s ability to effectively serve multi-story residential buildings, mixed-use redevelopment and commercial structures throughout the community. Financial or budget considerations: The proposal identifies a 24-month build timeline. Placing an order now aligns delivery with the budgeted 2028 CIP replacement year. Early authorization secures a production slot and mitigates continued price escalations in the fire apparatus market. The gross price of the new ladder truck is $1,803,555.00 which is reduced by a trade-in value of $315,000.00 for the current ladder truck, bringing the net purchase price to $1,488,555.00. The current 2028 CIP budget had estimated the replacement cost to be $1,591,135.00. 1 FIRE APPARATUS PURCHASE CONTRACT AGREEMENT This Agreement (“Agreement”) is made this 24th day of February 2026, by and between Fire Safety USA, Inc., 3253 19th Street NW, Rochester, MN, 55901, (hereinafter ''Company'') and the St. Louis Park Fire Department, (MN) (hereinafter ''Buyer''). 1.) Purchase: The Company agrees to sell, and the Buyer agrees to purchase, the fire apparatus and equipment described in the Company's Proposal and the Specifications attached hereto and hereby incorporated by reference (the "Apparatus"), all in accordance with the terms and conditions of this Agreement. Changes to the Specifications attached hereto will only be executed by the Company if documented by a Change Order signed by both parties. In the event of any conflict between the Company's Proposal and the Buyer's Specifications, the Company's proposal shall prevail. The Buyer desires to purchase the Apparatus through the Sourcewell purchasing program. 2.) Purchase Price: New E-One Metro 100 Select Aerial Fire Apparatus, Per Proposal: $1,803,555.00 The Buyer agrees pay a total purchase price of One Million Eight Hundred Three Thousand Five Hundred Fifty-Five Dollars. ($1,803,555.00) Trade-In_Allowance: Buyer shall transfer to Fire Safety USA a 2016 E-ONE HP78 as a trade-in upon delivery of the new Metro 100 ladder. Seller agrees to apply a trade-in allowance of $315,000.00 toward the Base Purchase Price. Adjusted Purchase Price After Trade-In Credit: Original Purchase Price: $1,803,555.00 Less Trade-In Allowance: $315,000.00 Net Purchase Price: $1,488,555.00 In the event the trade-in value is reduced for any reason prior to transfer, the St. Louis Park Fire Department agrees to remit the difference as part of the final payment. Unless otherwise specified, this Purchase Price is exclusive of all Federal, State or local taxes of any nature. Any such taxes are the sole responsibility of the Buyer unless specifically added to the Purchase Price, at which time they will be paid by the Company; provided, however, if the Buyer claims the Order is exempt from any tax, Buyer agrees to furnish the applicable exemption certificate to the Company and to hold the Company harmless from any damage which may result from the Company ultimately having any such tax assessed against it. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5d) Title: Approve ladder truck replacement Page 3 2 PAYMENT TERMS Buyer agrees that the terms of payment shall include 90% due before the truck leaves the manufacturing facility and 10% remainder due on delivery day. 3.) Pre-Build: A pre-build conference will be conducted to ascertain and confirm customer requirements with respect to the Apparatus ordered by Buyer. 4.) Delivery: The company shall keep the buyer updated throughout the build process with anticipated build times and estimated delivery dates. It is agreed that such delivery is subject to delays caused by war, acts of god, hurricane, labor shortages or strikes, inability to obtain materials, and other causes reasonably beyond the control of the Company and that the Company will not be liable for, and this Agreement may not be terminated on account of, such delays. Buyer will be notified no less than fourteen (14) business days in advance of the delivery date. 5.) Final Inspection - Customer Factory Inspection: If requested at time of order, Buyer will have up to ten (10) business days from the notified completion date to conduct Buyer’s final factory inspection. Otherwise, delivery will be deemed to occur on the notified inspection date. In the event that Buyer fails to make inspection of the Apparatus on the notified completion date (or within the ten (10) business day period thereafter, if applicable), Company reserves the right to arrange for shipment of the Apparatus to the dealer by the drive-away service of Company’s choice, and to charge the Customer the full invoice price for the Apparatus, which shall be paid for in the manner specified in paragraph 2. 6.) Buyer’s Cancellation for Convenience. If Buyer tenders any cancellation hereunder, Buyer shall lose their 5% down payment as well as accept delivery of all products which are completed at the time of cancellation. Those products which constitute work-in-process inventory at the time of cancellation shall be paid for by Buyer at a price equal to the completed percentage of the product multiplied by the price specified in Paragraph 2. Buyer also shall pay promptly to Company the costs of settling and paying claims arising out of the termination of work under Company’s subcontracts or vendors, plus an additional 15% of the contract price to defray Company’s accounting, legal, and clerical costs arising out of the cancellation. 7.) Title: The Company and Buyer agree that the Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin shall remain with the Company until the Company has been paid in full. Provided that the Company has been paid in full, the Certificate of Origin shall remain with the Company until the Apparatus leaves Company premises in the physical custody of the Buyer. Certificate of Origin will be sent to customer within ten business days after pick up of vehicle. Upon pick up by Buyer, responsibility for title application, ownership and risk of loss shall pass from Company to Buyer. 8.) Warranty: The Company warrants each new Apparatus manufactured against defects in material and workmanship for a period of one year from the in-service date per the Warranty Registration Card. Warranties beyond one year may be applicable to certain components of the Apparatus as described in the Statements of Warranty previously provided to the Buyer. This warranty is in favor of the original user/purchaser, in accordance with the Company's preprinted Statements of Warranty which are either attached to the Agreement or have otherwise been delivered to Buyer. Buyer hereby acknowledges receipt of the Company's preprinted Statements of Warranty. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5d) Title: Approve ladder truck replacement Page 4 3 With respect to any Apparatus not manufactured by the Company, such items shall not be warranted by the Company but shall be subject to the warranty provided by the manufacturer. These warranties are in lieu of all other warranties, whether express or implied, and THE COMPANY EXPRESSLY DISCLAIMS ALL OTHER SUCH WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. 9.) Notices: The parties to this Agreement designate St Louis Park Fire Department as representative of the Buyer and Fire Safety USA, Inc. as representative of the Company for purposes of all communications regarding this Agreement. 10.) Waiver of Jury Trial: The parties to this Agreement agree that any dispute arising hereunder, if brought before a court having proper jurisdiction, shall be adjudicated in a bench trial and the parties expressly waive any right to have such matter(s) tried before a jury. 11.) Entire Agreement: This Agreement, including its attachments and exhibits, constitutes the entire understanding between the parties relating to the subject matter contained herein and supersedes all prior discussions and Agreements. No agent or representative of the Company has authority to make any representations, statements, warranties or Agreements not herein expressed and all modifications or amendments of this Agreement, including its attachments and exhibits, must be in writing signed by an authorized representative of each of the parties hereto. 12.) Acceptance by Company: This Agreement shall not constitute a valid and binding obligation of the Company until accepted in writing by an officer of the Company at its offices in Rochester, Minnesota. When requested by the Company, the Buyer shall furnish a satisfactory written opinion of the Buyer's attorney that the Buyer has the power to make the Agreement, that the individual signing is authorized to sign on behalf of the Buyer, and that this Agreement is a valid, legal and enforceable obligation of the Buyer. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, The Company and the Buyer have caused this Agreement to be executed by their duly authorized representatives as of the date set forth by each. BUYER: COMPANY: ST. LOUIS PARK FIRE DEPARTMENT, MN FIRE SAFETY USA, INC. By:___________________________________ By:______________________________________ Ryan Clarey, Fire Safety USA, Inc. Title:__________________________________ Title: Dealer Principal . Date:__________________________________ Date:_____________________________________ City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5d) Title: Approve ladder truck replacement Page 5 Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5e Executive summary Title: Resolution accepting donations to the city to support the fire department Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution accepting a monetary donation in the amount of $10,000 and of fitness equipment valued at $3,500 to the city for the fire department. Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to accept these donations? Summary: State statute requires city council’s acceptance of donations. This requirement is necessary in order to make sure the city council has knowledge of any restrictions placed on the use of each donation prior to it being expensed. The Canadian Pacific Kansas Railway (CPKC) Has Heart program assists communities with improving access to cardiac emergency response equipment, treatment and care. The CPKC Has Heart program has graciously donated $10,000 without restrictions. F45 Training is graciously donating miscellaneous fitness equipment such as kettle bells, weighted bars, dumbbells, resistance bands and push-pull sleds. The value of the used fitness equipment is estimated at $3,500, donated without restriction. Financial or budget considerations: None Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Sue Rasmussen, office assistant Reviewed by: Peter Hanlin, fire chief Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5e) Page 2 Title: Resolution accepting donations to the city to support the fire department Resolution No. 26 -__ Approving acceptance of donations to the City of St. Louis Park Be it resolved by the city council (the “city council”) of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota (the “city”) as follows: Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is required by state statute to authorize acceptance of any donation; and Whereas, the city council must ratify any restrictions placed on donations by the donors; and Whereas, the donation from Canadian Pacific Kansas City Railroad of $10,000 is given without restrictions; and Whereas, the donation of used fitness equipment from F45 Training is given with no restrictions, Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of St. Louis Park that these donations are hereby accepted with thanks and appreciation. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: Nadia Mohamed, mayor Kim Keller, city manager Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5f Executive summary Title: Resolution authorizing donation of office supplies Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution approving office supply donations valued at $3,287.31 to St. Louis Park Emergency Program (STEP), Holy Family Academy and Goodwill – St. Louis Park. Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to approve this donation? Summary: Although state statute is silent on requirements for local governments to approve in- kind donations that do not fall under the state’s definition of “surplus equipment” (i.e., electronic devices) to nonprofit organizations, city policy requires the city council to formally approve donations of all goods to nonprofit organizations. In December 2025, sustainability, solid waste and administrative staff collaborated on a “Winter Refresh” event that encouraged employees to collect excess (unused or no longer used for over a year) durable office supplies for internal reuse and potential donation. The purpose of the event was threefold: 1) to reduce the need to buy new durable office supplies; 2) to remind staff of the city’s Environmentally Preferred Purchasing policy (EP3), which details waste minimization purchasing strategies, and 3) to free up space in storage closets for more valuable uses. Over the course of the month, administrative staff at participating buildings cleaned out supply closets and collected over 175 excess items including binders, file sorters and letter trays. On Dec. 30, 2025, sustainability and solid waste staff hosted a swap “store” where all city staff could peruse the excess office supplies and take items they wanted for office reuse. Approximately 10 items were taken. The remaining items were inventoried and stored at the Municipal Service Center. Staff reached out to local nonprofit organizations and schools to see if they were interested in any of the items; of the dozen or so nonprofits contacted, STEP and Holy Family Academy were the only organizations interested in accepting the supplies. Upon council approval, these two organizations will receive file organizers, binders and additional miscellaneous office supplies for their own internal use with a total estimated value of $1,645.37. Almost all remaining items, valued at $1,641.94, will be donated to Goodwill – St. Louis Park. This leaves $31.50 worth of unusable items that will be sent to scrap metal recycling. Financial or budget considerations: None. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Annie Pottorff, sustainability specialist Reviewed by: Emily Ziring, sustainability manager Joe Olson, deputy finance director Karen Barton, community development director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5f) Page 2 Title: Resolution authorizing donation of office supplies Resolution No. 26- ____ Approving donation of excess office supplies to St. Louis Park Emergency Program and Holy Family Academy Be it resolved by the city council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota as follows: Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is required by city policy to authorize approval of any donations; and Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park adopted a revised Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy (EP3) in 2024 that encourages purchasing practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, minimize waste, increase energy efficiency, encourage recycled content and conserve water when possible and cost-effective; and Whereas, the Winter Refresh event directed employees to identify excess supplies, reuse supplies internally where possible to prevent unnecessary new purchases, and donate remaining supplies to promote reuse; and Whereas, a total of 184 excess office supply items with a collective value of $3,318.81 were collected; and Whereas, St. Louis Park Emergency Program and Holy Family Academy are interested in receiving 167 of the collected office supply items with an estimated collective value of $1,645.37; and Whereas, Goodwill stores accept office supplies, and donated items help fund services and programs that support job training and independence, Now therefore be it resolved by the city council of the City of St. Louis Park that this donation has been approved. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026 Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5g Executive summary Title: Resolution authorizing city bank signatories Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution authorizing bank signatories. Policy consideration: Does the council wish to approve the bank signatories for each bank account? Summary: The city has two checking accounts at US Bank: the main operating account and controlled disbursement account. The main operating account is used to receive payments and disburse payroll and electronic automatic clearing house (ACH) payments to vendors. The controlled disbursement account at US Bank is used for check payments to vendors. Since all the checking accounts are non-interest-bearing, the city also has a money market account that is used for short term interest earning potential. There is no check-writing associated with the money market account and all transactions are transfers between accounts or wires to and from other city investment accounts. Banking procedures require council approval by resolution when adding or removing signers from a bank account. The following signatories are recommended for each bank account: City operating, vendor, disbursement and payroll checking accounts Kimberly Keller, city manager Check signer Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Check signer Joe Olson, deputy finance director Primary authority Gavin Shubert, senior accountant Secondary authority Premier money market account Joe Olson, deputy finance director Primary authority Gavin Shubert, senior accountant Secondary authority Financial or budget considerations: The actions recommended will ensure that the city is compliant with banking and audit requirements. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Tiffany Stephens, financial analyst Reviewed by: Joe Olson, deputy finance director Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5g) Page 2 Title: Resolution authorizing city bank signatories Resolution No. 26-___ Authorizing bank signatories Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park has multiple accounts at US Bank for the city’s business needs; and Whereas, it is necessary to update the current bank signatories, Now therefore be it resolved by the St. Louis Park City Council that approval is hereby given to authorize the following bank signatories on the US Bank accounts. City vendor and payroll checking accounts Kimberly Keller, city manager Check signer Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Check signer Joe Olson, deputy finance director Primary authority Gavin Shubert, senior accountant Secondary authority Premier money market account Joe Olson, deputy finance director Primary authority Gavin Shubert, senior accountant Secondary authority Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5h Executive summary Title: Approve extension of Achromatic 6013 approvals for 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road - Ward 4 Recommended action: Motion to approve an extension of the approved conditional use permit and final plat for 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road until Feb. 20, 2028. Policy consideration: Should the city allow Joshua Aaron, owner of 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road, more time to record the final plat and commence construction for the Achromatic 6013, a multi-dwelling apartment redevelopment? Summary: Per city code, within two years of city council approval, final plats are required to be recorded and projects related to conditional use permits (CUPs) are required to have completed construction or show substantial and on-going progress with construction, or the approval will be revoked or canceled. Applicants/owners may request an extension of the approvals from the city council. Staff notes that the extension request was submitted in a timely manner as required by code. On Feb. 20, 2024, the city council approved the following resolutions: 1. Resolution No. 24-030, approving a final plat of Cedar Heights Estates. This plat combined both 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road into one lot. 2. Resolution No. 24-031, approving conditional use permit to construct the proposed apartment building known as Achromatic 6013. Mr. Aaron has been working on financing and requests additional time to complete this task. There is no public financial assistance involved with this development. Staff recommend the final plat and CUP approvals be extended to Feb. 20, 2028. Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood oriented development. Supporting documents: Extension request letter, exhibits, Resolution No. 24-030, Resolution No. 24-031. Prepared by: Gary Morrison, zoning administrator Reviewed by: Jennifer Monson, planning and economic development manager Sean Walther, deputy community development director Karen Barton, community development director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Cedar Heights Estates LLC 7600 West 14th Street, St. Louis Park, Minnesota 55426 (612) 419-6900 • cedarheightsestates@aol.com February 17, 2026 REQUEST BY EMAIL Gary Morrison Zoning Administrator City of St. Louis Park 5005 Minnetonka Blvd St Louis Park, MN 55416 Gary, I am writing to request an extension to the site approvals for the project at 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road, Achromatic 6013. The project was entitled in March of 2024 and we would like to extend the approvals as allowed. Throughout the intervening two years, we have made a good faith effort to bring the project to market, but the economics of the project have not proven out in the financing at that time. We continue to work through that effort and have some promising developments, but will require a little more time to have the project financials resolved. We are anxious to continue the project and bring the project to fruition; this extension would allow us to make the necessary adjustments to make that happen. Best, Joshua Aaron, President Cedar Heights Estates LLC City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5h) Title: Approve extension of Achromatic 6013 approvals for 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road - Ward 4 Page 2 Achromatic 6013 SITE PLAN APPLICATION 23-094.00 01.08.24 St. Louis Park, Minnesota ©2024 DJR CLIENT: CEDAR HEIGHTS ESTATES A4.2 Exterior Rendering City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5h) Title: Approve extension of Achromatic 6013 approvals for 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road - Ward 4 Page 3 City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5h) Title: Approve extension of Achromatic 6013 approvals for 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road - Ward 4 Page 4 City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5h) Title: Approve extension of Achromatic 6013 approvals for 6013 and 6019 Cedar Lake Road - Ward 4 Page 5 Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5i Executive summary Title: Approve Letter of Intent for 4300 36 ½ Street – Ward 2 Recommended action: Motion to approve a letter of intent (LOI) from Chinh Van and Thanh Nguyen related to the potential sale of Economic Development Authority (EDA) -owned property located at 4300 36 ½ Street. Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to enter into a LOI with Chinh Van and Thanh Nguyen related to the proposed sale of EDA-owned property at 4300 36 ½ Street? Summary: The EDA acquired 4300 36 ½ Street in 2022 for $1.79 million to create a commercial land trust with Partnership in Property Community Land Trust (PIPCLT). At the Oct. 6, 2025 study session, the city council decided that the commercial land trust was no longer feasible and expressed its desire to sell the property. Chinh Van and Thanh Nguyen submitted a LOI on March 6, 2026, to propose purchasing the EDA-owned property at 4300 36 ½ Street. The LOI states the buyers propose purchasing the property for $1.75 million after a 90-day due diligence period during which they would complete physical inspections, structural assessments, environmental analysis, review of title, survey and zoning, secure necessary financing and obtain all licenses and permits for the proposed use. The LOI also recognizes the property is owned by the EDA. The city attorney recommends the EDA transfer the property to the City of St. Louis Park prior to selling. The transfer is recommended when the city enters into a formal purchase agreement with a buyer, which is the next step in the sale process. The proposed purchase price is supported by two city-commissioned appraisals and a broker opinion of value (BOV). Day Group valued the property at $1.5 million, Valbridge at $1.76 million and Colliers’ BOV at $1.99 million. The prospective buyers are current St. Louis Park small business owners facing a potential displacement due to redevelopment and seeking to purchase their first commercial property and relocate their business. They plan to occupy a portion of the building and lease the remaining space. The proposed sale advances several city priorities and helps retain this business in St. Louis Park. Staff recommend approving the LOI. Pending the due diligence period, city legal counsel would begin drafting a purchase agreement for city council’s consideration. Financial or budget considerations: The property was originally acquired with funds from the city’s development fund and a grant from Hennepin County. Staff is working with the county to determine what, if any, of the grant needs to be repaid upon sale of the building. Any remaining sale proceeds would be returned to the development fund. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a broad range of housing and neighborhood oriented development. Supporting documents: Map Prepared by: Jennifer Monson, economic development manager Reviewed by: Sean Walther, deputy community development director; Karen Barton, community development director, EDA executive director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City of St. Louis Park Municipal Boundary 4300 36 1/2 St. Source: Hennepin County GIS 0 0.50.25 Mile Path: O:\Geo\Projects\Comm_Dev\SLP Properties\4300 36 1_2 Street\Pro\4300 36 1_2 Street.aprx Date Saved: 3/10/2026 10:46 AM Property Location The end user of this document agrees that these data have been created from information provided by various government and private sources at different moments in time and at various levels of accuracy. The City of St. Louis Park, MN is not liable or responsible for errors made by other entities when using these data. This document is provided "as-is" with no claim made to its accuracy or its appropriateness to an intended use. It is the responsibility of the end user to be aware of these limitations and to utilize the data in an appropriate manner. City of St. Louis Park, Department of Community Development ([F H O V L R U G783 ϰϭϱϬ ϰϮϮϭ ϰϮϭϱ ϰϯϯϱ ϰϮϬϬ ϰϰϯϬ ϰϯϬϬ ϰϯϬϴ ϰϯϬϱϰϯϬϵϰϯϭϯϰϯϭϳ ϰϯϮϬ 36 1/2 St. Exc e l s i o r B l v d . City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5i) Title: Approve Letter of Intent for 4300 36 1/2 Street - Ward 2 Page 2 Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5j Executive summary Title: Approve bid for 2026 Alley Reconstruction project (4026-1500) - Ward 3 Recommended action: Motion to designate IDC-Automatic LLC, the lowest responsible bidder and authorize execution of a contract with the firm in the amount of $421,067.40 for the 2026 Alley Reconstruction project no. 4026-1500. Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to proceed with construction of the 2026 Alley Reconstruction project? Summary: A total of eight (8) bids were received for this project. A summary of the bid results is as follows: Contractor Bid amount IDC-Automatic LLC $ 421,067.40 JL Theis, Inc. $ 433,000.42 New Look Contracting, Inc. $ 434,798.75 Concrete Idea Inc. $ 442,532.60 Blackstone Contractors, LLC $ 443,160.27 Pember Companies, Inc. $ 461,709.07 Create Construction LLC $ 503,952.70 Urban Companies LLC $ 649,129.65 Engineer's estimate $ 503,959.10 A review of the bids indicates that IDC-Automatic LLC submitted the lowest bid. IDC-Automatic LLC is a reputable contractor that has completed similar projects in the past. Staff recommend that a contract be awarded to the firm in the amount of $421,067.40. Financial or budget considerations: This project is included in the city's Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for 2026. The low bid is 20.9% lower than the CIP budget. Funding will be provided using franchise fees (pavement management fund) and stormwater utility funds. Additional information on the breakdown of the funding can be found later in this report. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. Supporting documents: Discussion Jan. 20, 2026 city council report Prepared by: Mark Elgaard, engineering project manager Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5j) Page 2 Title: Approve bid for 2026 Alley Reconstruction project (4026-1500) - Ward 3 Discussion Background: Year 2026 is the ninth year in a plan to reconstruct all gravel and bituminous alleyways to concrete pavement. This year's alley reconstruction project will be performed in the Oak Hill neighborhood and includes five alley segments approximately 1,800 feet (0.34 miles) in length. These five alleys have a mix of gravel and bituminous pavement surfaces. The project involves addressing stormwater runoff and constructing 10-foot-wide concrete alleys. There are 56 properties abutting the alleys that will be reconstructed as part of the project. The location of these alleys can be found on the map attached to the Jan. 20, 2026 council report: • Alley A - west of Oregon Avenue between 31st Street and Minnetonka Boulevard • Alley B1 - between Nevada and Oregon avenues south of Minnetonka Boulevard • Alley B2 – west of Nevada Avenue between 31st Street and Minnetonka Boulevard • Alley C1 – between Maryland and Nevada avenues south of Minnetonka Boulevard • Alley C2 – west of Maryland Avenue between 31st Street and Minnetonka Boulevard Bids for the 2026 Alley Reconstruction project were received on Feb. 26, 2026. An advertisement for bids was published in the St. Louis Park Sun Sailor on Jan. 29 and Feb. 5, 2026, and in Finance and Commerce on Jan. 29 through Feb. 4, 2026. In addition, plans and specifications are made available electronically via the internet on the city's OneOffice website. Information regarding this bidding opportunity was shared with three (3) minority associations and 39 Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBE) contractors. Due to new federal regulations, the Minnesota Unified Certification Program (MnUCP) directory for DBE certifications is being reevaluated. During this time, we do not have access to this directory, but there is an option for contractors/vendors to self-report DBE status to the city when downloading plans. Thirty-two (32) contractors/vendors downloaded plan sets. Seven contractors/vendors self-reported a DBE status as DBE, WBE (women-owned business enterprise), TGB (targeted group business enterprise), SBE (small business enterprise), MBE (minority-owned business enterprise), or a combination thereof. Present considerations: Staff have reviewed the bids and determined that IDC-Automatic LLC is the lowest responsible bidder. Based on the low bid received, cost and funding details are as follows: Cost type CIP Low bid Construction cost $532,000.00 $421,067.40 Engineering and administration $ 80,000.00 $ 80,000.00 Total $612,000.00 $501,067.40 Funding sources CIP Low bid Franchise fees (Pavement management fund) $397,800.00 $325,693.81 Stormwater utility $214,200.00 $175,373.59 Total $612,000.00 $501,067.40 Bid Analysis: The low bid is $110,932.60, or 20.9% lower than the CIP amount. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5j) Page 3 Title: Approve bid for 2026 Alley Reconstruction project (4026-1500) - Ward 3 Due to the nature of our construction projects, unexpected costs do come up. The capital funds have unobligated balances that can be used to handle cost overruns above and beyond the awarded bid. Next steps: Construction is anticipated to begin in May and should be completed by October 2026. Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5k Executive summary Title: Resolution authorizing final payment for Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project (2122-1806) - Ward 1 Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution accepting work and authorizing final payment in the amount of $6,639.89 for the Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project – City Contract No. 97-23. Policy consideration: Not applicable. Summary: On Aug. 21, 2023, the city council awarded a contract in the amount of $576,818.50 to New Look Contracting for the Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project (2122-1806). The project included replacement of 350 feet of sanitary sewer, removal of the bridge over the Dakota Park stormwater retention basin and creation of a new trail around the stormwater retention basin. The final contract amount, $663,989.16, is $87,170.66 (15%) more than the contract amount awarded. Details on the contract changes are included in the discussion section of this report. Financial or budget considerations: The final cost of the work performed by the contractor under contract no. 97-23 has been calculated as follows: Original contract (based on estimated quantities) $597,899.82 Change orders/ extra work + $66,089.34 Quantity overruns + $21,081.32 Final contract cost $663,989.16 Previous payments - $657,349.27 Balance due $6,639.89 This project was included in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Funding was provided by the following sources: sanitary sewer utility, storm sewer utility, park improvement funds and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The costs above the original budget will be covered with storm sewer and sanitary sewer utility funds. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. Supporting documents: Discussion Resolution Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, assistant city engineer Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director Tiffany Stephens, financial analyst & interim deputy finance director Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manger City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5k) Page 2 Title: Resolution authorizing final payment for Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project (2122-1806) - Ward 1 Discussion Background: The project scope in the Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project (2122- 1806) included: • Replacement of approximately 350 feet of sanitary sewer pipe that runs under the west softball field just north of the trail bridge. • Removal of the bridge that spans over a stormwater retention basin and creation of a new trail connection between the playground and the dog park using a trail reroute around the stormwater retention basin. These improvements were combined into one project due to their proximity to each other and to limit the impact on the park and ballfield. On Aug. 21, 2023, the city council awarded a contract in the amount of $576,818.50 to New Look Contracting. The final contract amount of $663,989.16 was 15% more than the original contract amount. The additional costs are the result of change orders and contract quantity overruns, which occurred when on-site conditions required more materials and work than anticipated during project development. This added $87,170.66 to the contract. The contract change orders and overruns are attributed to: • During the sanitary sewer replacement, excavation revealed a greater extent of poor, compressible peat soil than indicated in the original soil borings. To address these conditions, the contractor was required to furnish and place tire-derived aggregate (TDA) as lightweight fill above the new sewer pipe. This unforeseen condition necessitated a change order to allow construction to proceed. The cost was $47,186.22 and was paid for using sanitary sewer funds. • During the installation of the sanitary sewer, the existing manholes had infiltration of groundwater. The manholes joints were wrapped to stop the infiltration. This change order was necessary to prevent future groundwater intrusion. The cost was $3,000 and was paid for using sanitary sewer funds. • The installed storm sewer culverts required scour mats to prevent erosion. This change order cost was $2,400 and was paid for using storm sewer funds. • During topsoil replacement, the contractor was required to furnish additional topsoil because portions of the on-site material were found to be contaminated. Since all topsoil had originally been anticipated for reuse on site, a change order was necessary. The cost was$15,903.12 and was paid using sanitary sewer funds. • The project experienced quantity overruns due to adjustments to the project limits and impacts to the baseball field. The cost was $21,081.32 and was paid for using sanitary sewer funds. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5k) Page 3 Title: Resolution authorizing final payment for Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project (2122-1806) - Ward 1 Financial or budget considerations: Due to these contract changes and quantity overruns, the following are the increases/decreases to each funding source based on final contract costs: Constructions costs Low bid Final Sanitary sewer utility $323,946.25 $403,757.08 Stormwater utility $36,170.00 $46,703.21 Park improvement funds $155,782.25 $156,677.82 ARPA funds $60,620.00 $56,851.05 Total $576,518.50 $663,989.16 The final cost of the work performed by the contractor under Contract No. 97-23 has been calculated as follows: Original contract (based on estimated quantities) $597,899.82 Change orders/ extra work + $66,089.34 Quantity overruns + $21,081.32 Final contract cost $663,989.16 Previous payments - $657,349.27 Balance due $6,639.89 This project was included in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). Funding was provided by the following sources: sanitary sewer utility, storm sewer utility, park improvement funds and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The costs above the original budget are covered with storm sewer and sanitary sewer funds. Future budget considerations: The pedestrian bridge removal and new trail construction were completed as planned. However, the reconstructed sanitary sewer segment experienced unexpected settlement within a few months, despite the use of lightweight fill intended to reduce loading on the underlying peat soils. Additional soil borings and geotechnical analysis were conducted to identify the cause. It was determined that the peat in the area of settlement was 3 times deeper than where our original soil boring was taken. A condition that the contractor, our consultant and staff could not anticipate. The settlement was assessed to be acute in nature and not indicative of ongoing movement. Although the settlement is believed to have stabilized, the sagged section of pipe still requires ongoing observation and routine cleaning by public works to prevent potential blockages. Addressing the sag through a permanent repair is the best long‑term solution to ensure reliable service. City staff collaborated with the design consultant and contractor over several months to evaluate potential corrective measures. Using the additional soil borings and geotechnical analysis, we worked to identify the most effective repair strategy. This work resulted in a recommended approach to correcting the sag in the sewer line, with an estimated cost of approximately $350,000. Staff recommend that this repair be incorporated into a future Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and financed through sanitary sewer utility funds. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5k) Page 4 Title: Resolution authorizing final payment for Dakota Park Infrastructure Improvements project (2122-1806) - Ward 1 Resolution No. 26-____ Authorizing final payment and accepting work for the Dakota Park infrastructure improvements project City Project No. 2122-1806 Contract No. 97-23 Be it resolved by the city council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, as follows: 1. Pursuant to a written contract with the city dated August 21, 2023, New Look Contracting has satisfactorily completed the Dakota Park infrastructure improvement project, as per Contract No. 97-23. 2. The engineering director has filed her recommendations for final acceptance of the work. 3. The work completed under this contract is accepted and approved. The final contract cost is $663,989.16. 4. The city manager is directed to make final payment in the amount of $6,639.89 on this contract, taking the contractor's receipt in full. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: ________________________ ____________________________________ Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor Attest: ________________________ Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5l Executive summary Title: Approve professional services agreement for Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project (4028-1100) - Ward 2 Recommended action: Motion to authorize execution of a contract with WSB in the amount of $443,955 for the Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project (4028-1100). Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to approve a professional services contract with WSB for this project? Summary: In preparation for the Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project, staff sent out a request for proposals (RFP) for services including public engagement, feasibility and corridor study, concept design and preliminary design. Staff anticipate presenting the preliminary design to the city council for consideration in January 2027. If the council elects to proceed with the project, a future contract amendment will be needed to prepare final plans, bid documents and construction administration. Staff received four proposals; a summary is provided below: Consultant Proposal amount WSB $413,703 ($443,955 w/optional tasks) SEH $321,171 Bolton & Menk $382,547 Kimley Horn $474,089 While WSB’s proposal was not the lowest cost, staff believe the additional cost is justified by their strong technical expertise, comprehensive public engagement approach and demonstrated experience with complex stormwater and flood mitigation projects. These strengths reduce project risk and support the development of a more effective, well-supported design. Based on staff experience with similar projects of this size and complexity, the proposed cost is consistent with industry expectations and reasonable for the scope of work. WSB’s proposal also includes optional tasks totaling $30,252 that staff believe will add value; additional detail is provided in the discussion section of this report. Financial or budget considerations: The estimated total project cost is $15,737,500 and the city is actively seeking external funding to offset these costs. The professional services contract cost is within the CIP budget. Additional details are provided in the discussion section of this report. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. Supporting documents: Discussion, project map Prepared by: Aaron Wiesen, engineering project manager Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director; Tiffany Stephens, financial analyst and interim deputy finance director Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5l) Page 2 Title: Approve professional services agreement for Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project (4028- 1100) - Ward 2 Discussion Background: Staff are preparing for the Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project. The project includes work on Meadowbrook Road, Oxford Street, Edgewood Avenue, Cambridge Street and Louisiana Avenue. See the attached map for additional project details. These roadways were last constructed in 1973 and have significantly exceeded their design life. Full reconstruction is necessary because routine maintenance activities such as bituminous overlays and crack sealing are no longer cost-effective or sufficient to maintain the roadway. The existing condition and geometry of the roads pose challenges for people biking, walking and with limited mobility. There is an existing sidewalk, however, there are several gaps in the network. Many intersections along these corridors do not meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Currently, stormwater from the project area drains directly into Minnehaha Creek without treatment. Minnehaha Creek flows into the Mississippi River, which provides drinking water to nearly 20 million people and supports a diverse ecosystem. New stormwater infrastructure will remove pollutants before discharge into the creek, improving downstream water quality and habitat. The project will also incorporate regional flood protection measures to help move critical infrastructure, including Methodist Hospital and nearby public roadways, out of the flood risk area. Creating regional flood storage will support redevelopment as described in the Arrive + Thrive gateway plan. Project scope: The following improvements have been identified to be included in this project: • Replacement of 1.67 miles of roadway pavement • Construction of 0.75 miles of new sidewalk/trail • Construction of a roundabout at the intersection of Oxford Street and Louisiana Avenue • Installation of regional stormwater treatment and flood storage infrastructure • Crosswalk enhancements for people walking and rolling, including shorter crossing distances, raised pedestrian refuge islands and pedestrian-actuated flashing beacons • Replacement of 0.5 miles of watermain. • Replacing 0.3 miles of sanitary sewer forcemain • Replacing the deck on the Meadowbrook bridge over Minnehaha Creek • Modifications of existing sidewalks • Operational and access management improvements at intersections to enhance traffic efficiency and safety • Street lighting improvements • Public utility repair and replacement Community engagement: Community engagement is important for the city to plan for the future of this corridor. Staff will work with the consultant’s community engagement specialist to develop a community engagement and communications plan. The comments and suggestions provided by residents and business owners will help inform the design of the project. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5l) Page 3 Title: Approve professional services agreement for Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project (4028- 1100) - Ward 2 Present considerations: Staff recommend approval of this professional services contract to complete public engagement, a feasibility and corridor study, concept design and preliminary design. If the council elects to advance this project to construction, a future contract amendment will be needed to prepare final plans, bid documents and construction administration. Community engagement will inform corridor design. Through this process, alternatives will be refined and narrowed so the city council can approve a preferred preliminary layout prior to proceeding with final design. Once the preliminary layout is approved, the consultant will be able to provide a more accurate proposal for final design and construction administration services. A request for proposal (RFP) was sent to Kimley-Horn, Bolton & Menk, Inc., SEH and WSB. The table below summarizes the cost submitted with each proposal. Consultant Proposal Amount WSB $413,703 ($443,955 w/ optional tasks) SEH $321,171 Bolton & Menk $382,547 Kimley Horn $474,089 WSB’s proposal was $413,703; in addition, they proposed optional tasks totaling $30,252 that staff believe will add value to the project. The optional tasks include community surveys, interactive comment maps, pop-up engagements, a project helpline and the incorporation of public art into the engagement process. Staff recommend approving these optional tasks as a part of the contract, while reserving the ability to determine during the preliminary design process whether they will be necessary. The total recommended contract amount is $413,703 + $30,252 = $443,955. While WSB’s proposal was not the lowest cost submitted, staff believe the additional cost represents a strong value to the city and is justified based on the overall quality, depth and completeness of their proposal. Additional investment is warranted due to the firm’s depth of experience in stormwater management and flood mitigation, two critical components of this project. The corridor has known drainage challenges and requires careful planning to ensure improvements address both current infrastructure needs and long-term climate resilience. Coordination with Minnehaha Creek Watershed District is critical since they have indicated they would like to be a funding partner in the stormwater components of this project. WSB has extensive experience developing innovative stormwater solutions and integrating flood mitigation strategies into complex roadway projects. In addition, WSB proposed a comprehensive and proactive public engagement strategy that places a strong emphasis on outreach to corridor businesses and community members who will be directly affected by the project. WSB will deliver a public involvement and community outreach program that is transparent, accessible and grounded in the values and diverse perspectives of St. Louis Park. WSB will implement a layered strategy using traditional engagement, digital tools and in-person outreach to ensure broad participation. This includes business and stakeholder partnerships, neighborhood and targeted engagement, and art-based City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5l) Page 4 Title: Approve professional services agreement for Oxford Louisiana Area Infrastructure Investment project (4028- 1100) - Ward 2 engagement integration. Public involvement and community outreach tools include public open houses, community survey and comment maps, project helpline, pop-up engagements, business outreach and a communication plan. This level of engagement is expected to help identify issues early, build community understanding and reduce the likelihood of delays during design and construction. Staff believe WSB’s experience, technical capabilities and robust engagement approach will help reduce project risk, improve coordination among project partners and ultimately lead to a more effective and widely supported design solution. Given the complexity and importance of this corridor, staff believe the additional cost is an investment that will help position the city for a successful project outcome. Financial or budget considerations: This project is currently included in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) with construction anticipated in 2028 and 2029. The estimated project cost is $15,737,500. Current funding sources are municipal state aid, utility funds and general obligation bonds. Over the last several years, the city has been pursuing state and federal funding to assist with this project. Our current five-year CIP requires $6 million in external sources to fully fund this project. If we are unsuccessful in receiving state or federal funding, we would need to potentially increase taxes or delay the project. To date, the city has submitted this project for the following funding opportunities: 1. FY26 CDS federal funding: The city was awarded $250,000 through the FY26 CDS process; federalizing a project adds over $250,000 in costs. 2. State bonding: The city is requesting 50 percent of the project cost in state funding. Requested amount is $7,870,000. We presented at both the House and Senate bonding tour last fall. We will find out in May 2026 if we are included in this year’s bonding bill. 3. BUILD grant: The city has applied for the Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant to help reduce the amount of local funding required. We have requested 80% of the project construction cost, or $9,832,000. We will find out in August 2026 if we are selected for this grant. To support the city’s efforts to secure state and federal funding for this project, staff recommend proceeding with preliminary design. Completing preliminary design will refine the project scope, improve the accuracy of construction cost estimates and identify any right of way acquisition needs, positioning the project to be “shovel ready” should external funding become available. Advancing this work now also allows sufficient time for right of way acquisition, which typically requires at least one year to complete and must be finalized prior to starting construction. Awarding the consultant contract for preliminary design will ensure the project remains on schedule and competitive for outside funding opportunities. Next steps: The first phase of this contract will focus on developing a community engagement and communications plan, as well as conducting initial data collection. Staff anticipate that public engagement will begin in spring 2026 and continue through the summer and fall of 2026. 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Policy consideration: Does council wish to appoint the commissioners as recommended? Summary: The City of St. Louis Park is partially located within the Bassett Creek Watershed. In 1968, the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission (BCWMC) was established through a Joint Powers Agreement authorized under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103B to coordinate surface water management across nine member cities: Crystal, Golden Valley, Medicine Lake, Minneapolis, Minnetonka, New Hope, Plymouth, Robbinsdale and St. Louis Park. The BCWMC’s mission is to reduce flooding and improve water quality by working with member cities to implement the watershed management plan. Each member city appoints a Commissioner, an Alternate Commissioner and a representative to the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), with appointments approved by city council resolution. On April 17, 2023, city council appointed RJ Twiford as Commissioner, David Johnston as Alternate Commissioner and Erick Francis as the city’s TAC representative. Staff recommend reaffirming these appointments to continue the city’s participation in watershed planning, regional stormwater management and water quality protection efforts. The reappointment will remain effective until Jan. 31, 2029. Financial or budget considerations: None. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship. Supporting documents: Resolution Watershed district map Prepared by: Erick Francis, water resources manager Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director; Sarah Schweiger, engineering services manager Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5m) Page 2 Title: Resolution appointing Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission members Resolution No. 26-____ Appointing Commissioner, Alternate Commissioner and Technical Advisory Committee member to the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park is partially located in the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission area and is required under state law to manage its stormwater runoff; and Whereas, the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission has been organized under Minnesota State Statutes to manage the stormwaters of cities whose boundaries fall within the water management area; and Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park has adopted a Joint Powers Agreement joining the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission, Now therefore be it resolved by the city council that the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota: 1. Reappoints RJ Twiford as the Commissioner to the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission for a three-year term expiring January 31, 2029. 2. Reappoints David Johnston as Alternate Commissioner to the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission for a three-year term expiring January 31, 2029. 3. Reappoints Erick Francis as the Technical Advisor member to the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission for a three-year term expiring January 31, 2029. It is further resolved by the City Council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota, that the city clerk shall, within 30 days of its adoption, file a certified copy of this resolution with the Secretary of the Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamad, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk ?A@ ?A@ ?A@ £¤ £¤ £¤ GWX GWX GWX GWX \]^\]^\]^ GWXGWXGWX ?A@ ?A@                 Watershed Districts Date: 3/16/2026 Bassett Creek Minnehaha Creek p City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5m) Title: Resolution appointing Bassett Creek Watershed Management Commission members Page 3 Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5n Executive summary Title: Resolution authorizing application for the Met Council Municipal Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program Recommended action: Motion to adopt a resolution authorizing the application for – and, upon award, acceptance of the award – a grant for the Met Council Municipal Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program. Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to authorize an application for – and, upon award, acceptance of the award for eligible grant expenses to support the Met Council Municipal Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program? Summary: The Municipal I/I Grant Program provides grants to cities for capital improvements in municipal wastewater collection systems to reduce the amount of excessive clear water entering the council’s metropolitan sanitary sewer disposal system. The program utilizes state bond funds to support local projects that repair or replace public sewer infrastructure, aiming to reduce excess inflow and infiltration. During the 2025 legislative session, the Minnesota Legislature appropriated $9 million to the Met Council for this program. The 2025 Municipal I/I Grant Program will be effective Jan. 1, 2026, through Dec. 31, 2027. Funding is disbursed by the state on a reimbursement basis, which is expected to occur in 2028. Financial or budget considerations: Any grant funding received will assist with the project financial feasibility and offset the amount of city financial assistance needed for the project. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to continue to lead in environmental stewardship. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Clancy Ferris, legislative and grants analyst Reviewed by: Austin Holm, utilities superintendent Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5n) Page 2 Title: Resolution authorizing application for the Met Council Municipal Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program Resolution No. 26-__ Authorizing application for the Met Council Municipal Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program and accepting grant funds if awarded Whereas, the Metropolitan Council coordinates applications and distribute state bond funds for Inflow/Infiltration mitigation; and Whereas, the city council of St. Louis Park adopted the capital improvement projects for 2026 and 2027 sewer lining; and Whereas, sewer lining projects are a critical component to protect the city’s sanitary sewer system from Inflow/Infiltration and reduce expenses for sewer treatment by the Metropolitan Council; and Whereas, the City of St. Louis Park on behalf of its public works department desires to apply for, and upon grant application acceptance, enter into an agreement with the Met Council; and Be it resolved by the city council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota as follows: 1. That the City of St. Louis Park on behalf of its public works department apply for a grant and upon acceptance, enter into a grant agreement with the Met Council for the Municipal Inflow and Infiltration Grant Program 2. Mayor Nadia Mohamed and City Manager Kim Keller, or successors, are hereby authorized to execute such agreements and amendments as are necessary to implement the project on behalf of the city of St. Louis Park and to be the fiscal agent and administer the grant. Reviewed for administration: ____________________________________ Kim Keller, city manager Attest: ____________________________________ Melissa Kennedy, secretary Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: ____________________________________ Nadia Mohamed, mayor Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5o Executive summary Title: Resolution approving a lawful gambling premises permit - Heroes Helping Heroes Recommended action: Motion to adopt resolution approving issuance of a premises permit for lawful gambling to be conducted by Heroes Helping Heroes at Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes, 3401 Louisiana Avenue South. Policy consideration: Does the applicant meet the requirements for issuance of a lawful gambling premises permit? Summary: Heroes Helping Heroes applied for a gambling premises permit to conduct lawful gambling at Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes, 3401 Louisiana Avenue South. Gambling activities to be available include pull-tabs (paper), bar bingo, tipboards, paddlewheel, electronic pull-tabs and electronic linked bingo. The State Gambling Control Board is the licensing authority for the premises permit, however approval by the city is required to obtain the permit. Miranda Quandt is the gambling manager for Heroes Helping Heroes and will oversee the gambling operations at this location. The organization and gambling manager are experienced in gambling operations and are taking the necessary steps to ensure the requirements of M.S. Chapter 349 and city code chapter 15 are followed. The police department conducted a background investigation and found nothing that would preclude approval of the application. If the city council approves the application, a resolution of approval will be forwarded to the State Gambling Control Board. Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Resolution Prepared by: Amanda Scott-Lerdal, deputy city clerk Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5o) Page 2 Title: Resolution approving a lawful gambling premises permit - Heroes Helping Heroes Resolution No. 26-____ Approving issuance of a premises permit for lawful gambling to be conducted by Heroes Helping Heroes at Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes, 3401 Louisiana Avenue South Whereas, Minnesota Statutes Chapter 349 and St. Louis Park City Code chapter 15 provide for lawful gambling licensing by the State Gambling Control Board; and Whereas, a licensed organization may not conduct lawful gambling at any site unless it has first obtained from the State Gambling Control Board a premise permit for the site; and Whereas, the board may not issue a premises permit unless the organization submits a resolution from the city council approving the premises permit; therefore, Now therefore be it resolved by the St. Louis Park City Council that Heroes Helping Heroes meet the criteria necessary to receive a premises permit for 3401 Louisiana Avenue South, and the application is hereby approved. Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council March 23, 2026: Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor Attest: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5p Executive summary Title: Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments Recommended action: Motion to approve amendments to the licensed premises for Marriot Minneapolis West, Minneapolis Golf Club, Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes, Steel Toe Brewing and Yard House #8354. Policy consideration: Do the applicants meet the requirements to amend the licensed premises for the sale and service of alcohol to include temporary/seasonal outdoor spaces? Summary: In 2025, the city implemented a process for issuing annual commercial patio permits for temporary/seasonal outdoor spaces. Establishments that also hold liquor licenses are required to obtain approval of the temporary extension of their licensed premises to include the temporary/seasonal outdoor space. To date, the following establishments have applied for temporary extension of their licensed premises to include a temporary/seasonal outdoor space: Marriot Minneapolis West, Minneapolis Golf Club, Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes, Steel Toe Brewing and Yard House #8354. Applications from each of these establishments have been reviewed and approved by zoning, building and the city clerk’s office. If approved by the council, the proposed amendments to the licensed premises for the sale and service of alcohol will be valid for the duration of the commercial patio permits. If the license holders want to utilize the seasonal-use outdoor space in future years they will need to go through the permitting and premises amendment processes. Specific details of each premises amendment can be found in the discussion section of this report. St. Louis Park City Code Section 3-68 (a) states “each license shall be issued only for the exact rooms and square footage described in the application. A license is valid only in the compact and contiguous building or structure situated on the premises described in the license”. St. Louis Park City Code Section 3-106 states that “proposed enlargement or substantial alteration which changes the character of the licensed establishment or extension of a premises previously licensed shall not be allowed unless the city council approves an amendment to the liquor license”. All zoning and building requirements have been met and any additional SAC charges have been paid to the Met Council. The applicants have provided proof of liquor liability insurance to cover the additional temporary outdoor space. Staff recommend approval of the proposed premises amendments for Marriot Minneapolis West, Minneapolis Golf Club, Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes, Steel Toe Brewing and Yard House #8354. Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Discussion, maps of each proposed licensed premises extension Prepared by: Amanda Scott-Lerdal, deputy city clerk Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5p) Page 2 Title: Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments Discussion Marriot Minneapolis West: CSM Lodging Services. Inc., dba Marriot Minneapolis West and including Kip’s Pub, currently holds an on-sale intoxicating liquor license with Sunday sales. The license holder applied for an amendment to the existing licensed premises located at 9960 Wayzata Boulevard. The proposed amendment will add approximately 2,005 square feet of seasonal-use outdoor space and will provide occupancy for 68 additional guests. Minneapolis Golf Club: Minneapolis Golf Club, dba Minneapolis Golf Club currently holds a club on-sale liquor license. The license holder applied for an amendment to the existing premises located at 2001 Flag Avenue South. The proposed amendment will add approximately 1,600 square feet of seasonal-use outdoor space and will provide occupancy for 30 additional guests. Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes: Phillips Investment Co. dba Park Tavern Lounge & Lanes currently holds an on-sale intoxicating liquor license with Sunday sales. The license holder applied for an amendment to the existing licensed premises located at 3401 Louisiana Avenue South. The proposed amendment will add approximately 1,380 square feet of seasonal-use outdoor space and will provide occupancy for 34 additional guests. Steel Toe Brewing: Steel Toe Brewing dba Steel Toe Brewing LLC currently holds an on-sale brewers taproom license with Sunday sales. The license holder applied for an amendment to the existing licensed premises located at 4848 35th Street West. The proposed amendment will add approximately 1,249 square feet of seasonal-use outdoor space and will provide occupancy for 76 additional guests. Yard House #8354: Yard House USA, Inc. dba The Yard House #8354 currently holds an on-sale intoxicating liquor license with Sunday sales. The license holder applied for an amendment to the existing licensed premises located at 1665 Park Place Boulevard. The proposed amendment will add approximately 1,027 square feet of seasonal-use outdoor space and will provide seating for 44 additional guests. I I I I I I ;�. 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FLOOR PLAN KEY NOTES 0 EXISTING Ll6HTIN6 MOUNTED ON TOP OF PIER0 EXISTIN6 l"lALL SCONCE <e) EXISTING OVERHEAD STRIN6 Ll6HTS 0 4e" X 4e" TA6LE GI 2"1.5'H, l'IITH 215" CLEAR0 90" X 90" TABLE o 40.15"H l'IITH 9<1.15" CLEAR0 Sh' X 96" TABLE o 415"H l'IITH 40" CLEAR0 90" X 90" TABLE o 21.15"H l'IITH 26.15" CLEAR0 Sh' X 96" TABLE o 2e.5"H l'IITH 21" CLEAR0 LOUN6E SEATIN6 ARRAN6EMENT � PLANTER MARRIOTT MINNEAPOLIS WEST KIP'S PATIO ST, LOUIS PARK, MINNESOTA PRELIMINARY NOTFOR CONSTRUCTION - CS M 500 Washi_ngton Avenue South, Suite 3000 Minneapolis, MN 55415 Bus: (612) 395-7000 Fax: (612) 395-7002 DEVELOPING REAL ESTATE FOR PEOPLE, BUSINESS & COMMUNITIES SARA MARL.01"1 C.hec.k.ed 19\j, JOHN FERRIER Frojec.t Manc::1ger, MIKE 6EHLIN6 Date, AIJcSUST 14, 2025 Revisions oe.14.25 PERMIT SUBMITTAL P r o J e c. t N o. XX-XXXX Sheet Title ARC.HITEC.17JRAL SITE PLAN 4 PATIO FLOOR PLAN She e t No. Al.O City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5p) Title: Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments Page 3 6 Tables Total 4-5 Seats Per Table Minneapolis Golf Club - 2001 Flag Avenue South City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5p) Title: Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments Page 4 lAYERN Park Tavern 3401 Louisiana Avenue South City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5p) Title: Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments Page 5 J . 0 0 . ..LXX!J , l Z 'J: � (;"\ :J:, _, tv J) "!::' 11 fi\ 2 • ✓-V\-, '1-t\ (j\ � °' �' r-r-\ � 0 2 /\J q {;:> � "" � � ,' Steel Toe Brewing 4848 35th Street West City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5p) Title: Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments Page 6 P P P P P P BAR DINING #3 WINE ROOM BEER COOLER WOMEN MEN FAMILY RESTROOM JANITOR DINING #1 VESTIBULE FOYERHOSTESS DINING #2 RESTROOM VESTIBULE EXPO LINEKITCHEN PREP KITCHEN MOP SINK DELIVERY EMPLOYEE BREAK AREAWALK - IN COOLER WALK - IN FREEZER LIQUOR STOR. KITCHEN HALLWAY OFFICE DISH WASHING ICE DRY STORAGE I.T. CLOSET EMPTY KEG STORAGE EMPLOYEE MEN EMPLOYEE WOMEN PATIO WATER HEATER ROOM Drawing OVERALL FLOOR PLAN A1.1 ARCHITECTS PROJECT #: 1245 REVISION INFORMATION Restaurant #: Issue Date: 13Y0022 TENANT IMPROVEMENT THE SHOPS AT WESTEND 1665 PARK PLACE BLVD ST LOUIS PK, MN 5/20/13 I hereby certify that this plan, specification, or report was prepared by me or under my direct supervision and that I am a duly Licensed Architect under the laws of the State of Minnesota. Name: CRAIG D. OKA Date: ___________ License: __________ 5-20-13 41344 Signature: __________________________ A I A A R C H I T E C T U R E C R A I G D . O K A , 4875 E. LA PALMA AVE, STE. 607 A N A H E I M , C A 9 2 8 0 7 F A X : ( 7 1 4 ) 7 7 7 - 9 7 3 3 T E L : ( 7 1 4 ) 7 7 7 - 9 7 3 4 City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5p) Title: Approve temporary/seasonal premises amendments for liquor establishments Page 7 Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Consent agenda item: 5q Executive summary Title: Approve temporary extension of licensed premises – Copperwing Distillery Recommended action: Motion to approve temporary extension of the licensed premises for one-day events at Copperwing Distillery, located at 6409 Cambridge Street. Policy consideration: Does the applicant meet the requirements for temporary extension of their licensed premises for special, one-day events? Summary: Copperwing Distillery, located at 6409 Cambridge Street, has requested a temporary extension of their licensed premises for several one-day events. The “Outdoor Block Parties” are proposed to occur from 2 p.m. – midnight on the following dates: April 25, May 30, June 27, July 25, Aug. 22, Sept. 26 and Oct. 14, 2026. The current licensed premises does not include outdoor space, and the applicant has proposed expanding the licensed premises temporarily to the area immediately adjacent to the licensed premises for the events. None of the other businesses in or adjacent to the event will be open during the times requested and Copperwing has obtained permission from the property owner and these businesses. Copperwing has secured the required liquor liability insurance to cover the extended premises on the proposed event dates. All activities will take place off-street, and guests will be able to enjoy alcoholic and non- alcoholic beverages, food from up to two food trucks, outdoor games and music. Approximately 50-150 guests are expected to attend each event, and any amplified music will conclude by 9:00 p.m. Barriers around the event space will control entry and exit from the proposed area and all guests 21 years of age or older will be issued an identifiable marker such as a wristband to ensure no underage sales or consumption occurs. In addition to on-street parking, space will be available throughout the business center parking lot. The event area will consume about 18 of the approximately 340 available off-street parking spaces. Staff reviewed the request and found no concerns with the proposed plans, including the police and fire departments, who will ensure precautions for safety. Copperwing Distillery has successfully held similar events in the past with no major issues reported. St. Louis Park City Code Section 3-106 states that “proposed enlargement or substantial alteration which changes the character of the licensed establishment or extension of a premise previously licensed shall not be allowed unless the city council approves an amendment to the liquor license”. If approved, the temporary extension of the licensed premises will be valid only for the dates and times outlined in the request. Financial or budget considerations: Not applicable. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement. Supporting documents: Exhibit A – Event space map Prepared by: Amanda Scott-Lerdal, deputy city clerk Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 5q) Page 2 Title: Approve temporary extension of licensed premises – Copperwing Distillery Exhibit A – Event space map Meeting: City council Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Action agenda item: 7a Executive summary Title: Safe Streets Action Plan Recommended action: None at this time. This report is an overview of the draft Safe Street Action Plan and summary of community feedback. The city council will be asked to act on this plan at its meeting on April 6, 2026. Policy consideration: Does the city council wish to pursue the Safe Streets Action Plan to support the city in future safety-focused, multimodal transportation investments and policies? Summary: The Safe Streets Action Plan provides a comprehensive, data-driven framework to guide future safety investments, reduce traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries, and support multimodal transportation options throughout St. Louis Park with a goal of eliminating fatal and severe-injury crashes by 2050. The overarching goal of the plan is to reduce—and ultimately eliminate—severe and fatal crashes for all people using the transportation system. Safe access for all users is essential to a thriving community, and the draft plan outlines objectives, policies and recommendations that can guide future transportation investments. Together, these elements form a blueprint for addressing the locations with the most severe crashes and for implementing strategies and infrastructure improvements that enhance roadway safety. The Safe Streets Action Plan can help inform capital improvement planning and guide the pursuit of funding opportunities aimed at improving overall roadway safety at priority locations. Staff presented the draft Safe Streets Action Plan at the study session on March 9, 2026, and it is available for community feedback through March 23, 2026. This report summarizes the feedback received to date. Any additional feedback shared with staff before the upcoming council meeting will be included in this evening’s staff presentation. The council meeting will also provide an opportunity for in-person comments from community members. Financial or budget considerations: This planning study identifies long-term safety needs and potential improvements, none of which are currently funded. It outlines options to guide future transportation investment decisions and positions the city to pursue funding opportunities as they become available. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. Supporting documents: Discussion March 9, 2026 study session report Prepared by: Jack Sullivan, assistant city engineer Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 7a) Page 2 Title: Safe Streets Action Plan Discussion Background: In 2023, the City of St. Louis Park received a federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant to develop an action plan focused on improving roadway safety. Developing this plan positions the city to pursue future SS4A implementation grants that can fund safety improvements. A critical part of developing a Safe Streets Action Plan is improving safety, mobility and access to the transportation network, particularly for vulnerable roadway users and in underserved communities, providing equitable investment to places that need funding the most. The final plan recommends actions and policies to improve safety for all people using the road, including pedestrians, bicyclists, people using transit, people with disabilities, passengers and drivers. Information regarding this plan was shared with the city council in a written report at the March 9, 2026 study session. Present considerations: The draft Safe Streets Action Plan is open for public comment until March 23, 2026. Community feedback, along with council comments, will be used to refine the plan prior to plan adoption. To date, staff have received feedback from the community through the online comment form and from the city council during the study session on March 9, 2026. The following is a summary of feedback and key themes from both the council and the community. The council’s comments from the study session on March 9, 2026, included: • Expression of general support for the overall plan. • Requested data on the number of fatalities that have occurred on public roadways within the community, separated from serious‑injury crashes. • Awareness that many survey responses highlighted a strong desire for safer pedestrian and bikeway infrastructure to support more non‑automobile travel options. Community input to date highlighted both specific safety concerns at key locations and broader citywide issues related to traffic behavior, infrastructure and evaluation of safety initiatives. Key themes included: • High-risk locations: The intersection of Highway 7 and Texas Avenue is widely viewed as unsafe for people walking and biking and in need of further improvements. • Neighborhood safety: Residents want stronger safety measures on local streets, including the addition of stop signs where appropriate. • Speeding and enforcement: Many noted frequent speeding and unsafe passing, with calls for increased enforcement. • Education needs: There is a desire for more public education on how to use roundabouts correctly and yielding to pedestrians at intersections. City council meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 7a) Page 3 Title: Safe Streets Action Plan • Infrastructure appreciation: Community members expressed appreciation for recent crosswalk upgrades—such as rectangular rapid flashing beacons (RRFBs)—and for ongoing efforts to improve pedestrian and bicycle networks. • Traffic signal changes: Feedback on the removal of certain traffic signals was mixed. • Methodology questions: Some noted concerns that the High-Injury Network is based on roadway mileage rather than traffic volume. • Evaluating past initiatives: Desire for information on the effectiveness of previous safety initiatives, such as the citywide speed limit reduction. • Investment prioritization: There is interest in including a return-on-investment framework to help guide future safety investments. Next steps: The feedback received during the open comment period, the council study session, and the March 23, 2026, city council meeting will be considered in the development of the final report. The council report planned for April 9, 2026, will include a summary of all comments received and indicate whether and how each comment was incorporated into the final plan. The city council will be asked to take action on the final Safe Streets Action Plan at its meeting on April 6, 2026. Approval of the plan will include a resolution supporting the city’s goal of eliminating fatal and severe injury crashes by 2050. Meeting: Special study session Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Discussion item: 1 Executive summary Title: Vision 4.0 Strategic Priorities Recommended action: Provide final input into the draft vision 4.0 strategic priorities. Policy consideration: There is no policy question for the council to consider. This item is for discussion purposes only. Summary: The final Vision 4.0 engagement report was accepted by the city council on December 8, 2025. Through interviews with the facilitation team and discussions at their annual retreat in February 2026, the Council refined the Vision 4.0 themes and developed a draft set of strategic priorities. The goal of the March 23 Study Session is to get consensus on the final version that will be sent to an upcoming council meeting for final adoption. Following adoption, the consultants and staff will work together to develop a strategic plan with clear goals, timelines, and implementation steps. Financial or budget considerations: None at this time. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement. Supporting documents: Discussion, Study Session Pre-Read: Strategic Priorities, Priority statements progression Prepared by: Cheyenne Brodeen, administrative services director Sean Walther, deputy community development director Reviewed by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 1) Page 2 Title: Vision 4.0 Strategic Priorities Discussion Background: Since 1995, the City of St. Louis Park has demonstrated a deep commitment to engaging residents, community organizations, businesses and partners through three extensive ten‑year visioning processes. These efforts have been instrumental in shaping a vibrant, cohesive community and have led directly to operational changes and policy development. Operational changes have included revising council reports, budget discussions and communications to align with strategic priorities, while policies such as the city’s comprehensive plan, “Connect the Park” and the Climate Action Plan were informed and strengthened by visioning outcomes. Full reports from each of these visioning processes are available online through the City of St. Louis Park. Between March and September 2025, the city engaged approximately 1,600 residents through surveys and small group discussions. This outreach prioritized hearing from diverse voices, including youth, renters and BIPOC residents. Through this engagement, several high-level themes emerged: • Safety: Creating a community where all people in the area feel safe. • Infrastructure: Building and maintaining connected, reliable and people-first public spaces. • Sustainability: Leading as responsible stewards of our natural and financial environment. • Community and belonging: Fostering a vibrant, connected and inclusive community where everyone belongs. • Housing and affordability: Ensuring a diverse and attainable range of housing options for all. On Dec. 8, 2025, the city council was presented the final Vision 4.0 report, which provided a comprehensive overview of the engagement methods used, present community profile data highlighting who participated, underscored the key themes and feedback gathered, and offered data-driven recommendations to inform the next stage of the visioning process. On Jan. 20, 2026, the council held an initial facilitated discussion led by consultants, TerraLuna, to begin the process to begin determining the final set of strategic priorities. On Feb. 27, 2026, the council held an additional facilitated discussion during their annual retreat led by consultants, TerraLuna, to further refine the final set of strategic priorities. (Note: the draft minutes for this council meeting are included in the city council’s agenda packet for March 23, 2026. The minutes will be published once approved.) Present considerations: During this session, the council will provide final input into the final set of strategic priorities proposed by consultants, Terra Luna. This final set of strategic priorities were developed based upon input form the Feb. 27. 2026 annual council retreat. The final set of strategic priorities are included in this report as an attachment. Next steps: After today’s conversation the council will officially adopt the final set of strategic priorities at an upcoming council meeting. Staff will then develop an actional strategic plan that includes goals and metrics based upon the newly adopted set of strategic priorities. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 1) Page 3 Title: Vision 4.0 Strategic Priorities The following is an anticipated timeline of the next steps in the process: March 2026 The city council adopts new strategic priorities. March – June 2026 Staff, in collaboration with TerraLuna Collaborative, develop a strategic plan based upon new strategic priorities. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 1) Page 4 Title: Vision 4.0 Strategic Priorities Study Session Goal Come to consensus on the final strategic priorities after addressing any final issues. Strategic Priorities The City of St. Louis Park’s Strategic Priorities for 2026-2035 are: * Climate Leadership and Natural Spaces: Staff recommends shifting the language from “environmental stewardship” and “sustainable practices” to “climate leadership” to reflect the City’s ongoing climate action commitment and previous feedback that “stewardship” and “sustainability” language are too vague. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 1) Page 5 Title: Vision 4.0 Strategic Priorities This table summarizes the rationale for each priority and the edits made during and following the retreat. Strategic Priorities Rationale from Vision 4.0 and Edits A Welcoming and Safe Community: An inclusive, equitable, and vibrant city where everyone feels safe and experiences a strong sense of belonging. The community theme centers on inclusive gathering spaces, connection, and togetherness. The concept of safety reflects the importance of psychological safety— feeling included, experiencing a sense of belonging, and being free from the stress and risks associated with crime. The term vibrant reflects economic development as a driver of creating and sustaining “third places,” places other than homes and work for gathering. Edits: Council added the word “safe” to the title, and the word “equitable” to the description. Good Governance: A city that delivers reliable services, operates transparently, uses city resources responsibly, and builds strong relationships with residents. Establishing a Governance priority reinforces accountability and fiscal responsibility while providing staff with a clear anchor when their work does not align directly with other priorities. There is growing community sentiment around the prudent use of financial resources and maintaining affordability—for residents and businesses alike. Edits: Rather than the term “fiscal responsibility,” Council suggested language around “using resources responsibly and sensibly.” We suggest using “responsibly” only to keep this concise. Connected, Safe Infrastructure: Safe, reliable, and well- maintained infrastructure that connects neighborhoods, people and places. Community input also emphasized physical safety, particularly related to traffic, pedestrian infrastructure, and street lighting. Combining safety and infrastructure reflects this feedback and is consistent with themes identified in the Vision 4.0 Report’s Community Pillars section. Edits: Council wanted to emphasize that the infrastructure connected neighborhoods, so the placement of the word “neighborhoods” was shifted to after the word “connects.” There was some debate around whether the phrase “well-maintained” is needed—we suggest keeping it. We switched the order of “safe” and “connected” in the title so that “connected” led. Note that both the community and infrastructure priority have the word “safe” in the title. Diverse, Affordable, and Dignified Housing: A range of quality, affordable and attainable housing options. Affordable housing remains important; however, the community vision emphasized diverse housing options, inclusive of affordable housing, rather than affordability alone. Edits: Previously this ended with “for people who choose to live here.” Council suggested changing this to “for all residents and people who want to reside here.” To keep this concise, we suggest ending the sentence before describing what types of people the housing options are for. We also suggest removing the word “options” from the title but keeping it in the description. Climate Leadership and Natural Spaces: Climate leader that cares for the planet and maintains vibrant parks that connect people and nature. . Community input focused primarily on green space, parks, and access to nature. It also focused on sustainability and climate action. Edits: Council wanted to convey the idea of advancement in the sustainable practices, so suggested starting the description with the verb “Advance.” Since the other priorities do not begin with verbs, we suggest “Leader” to convey the concept of making advancements without using a verb. Importantly, staff recommend shifting the language from “environmental stewardship” and “sustainable practices” to “climate leadership” to reflect the City’s ongoing climate action commitment and previous feedback that “stewardship” and “sustainability” language are too vague. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 1) Page 6 Title: Vision 4.0 Strategic Priorities Priority statements progression TerraLuna provided staff with the table below to help show the progression of the draft strategic priority statements and highlighting additions. Staff has included it below for the council’s reference. Following the retreat, TerraLuna reviewed the output and is making recommendations that preserve the intentions while ensuring clarity and plain language. Priority Statements Version 1 Outputs from Retreat Recommendation 1. A. A Welcoming Community A welcoming and vibrant city where everyone feels safe and experiences a strong sense of belonging 1. B. A Welcoming and Safe Community An inclusive, equitable, and vibrant city where everyone feels safe and experiences a strong sense of belonging. (Retreat Output) 2. A. Good Governance A city that delivers reliable services, practices fiscal responsibility, operates transparen tly, and builds strong relationships with residents. 2. B. Good Governance A city that delivers reliable services, operates transparently, uses all city resources sensibly and responsibly, and builds strong relationships with residents. 2. C. Good Governance A city that delivers reliable services, operates transparently, uses city resources responsibly, and builds strong relationships with residents. 3. A. Safe, Connected Infrastructure Safe, walkable, and well- maintained infrastructure and neighborhoods that connect people and places. 3. B. Safe, Connected Infrastructure Safe and reliable infrastructure that connects neighborhoods, people and places. 3. C. Safe, Connected Infrastructure Safe, reliable, and well- maintained infrastructure that connects neighborhoods, people and places. 4. A. Diverse, Affordable Housing Options A range of affordable and attainable housing options for people who choose to live here. 4. B. Diverse, Affordable, and Dignified Housing Options A range of quality, affordable and attainable housing options for all residents and people who want to reside here. 4. C. Diverse, Affordable, and Dignified Housing Options A range of quality, affordable and attainable housing options. 5. A. Natural Spaces & Environmental Stewardship Well-maintained parks and natural spaces, supported by sustainable practices that care for people and the planet. 5. B. Natural Spaces & Environmental Stewardship Advance sustainable practices that care for people and the planet, including well-maintained parks and natural resources. 5. C. Climate Leadership and Natural Spaces Climate leader that cares for the planet and maintains vibrant parks that connect people and nature. Meeting: Special study session Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Discussion item: 2 Executive summary Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Recommended action: None at this time. This report is intended to provide an overview of the proposed Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project. This project will have a public hearing at the city council meeting on May 4, 2026. At the city council meeting on May 18, 2026, council will be asked to consider the following policy questions and take action on this project. Policy consideration: Does the city council support the preferred alternative design for the county’s Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project? Summary: Hennepin County is proposing to reconstruct Minnetonka Boulevard (County Road 5) between Highway 100 and Aquila Avenue in St. Louis Park in 2028 and 2029. They hired Alliant Engineering Inc. as their consultant to complete the project planning and engagement. Since 2025, engineering, communications and public works staff have been working with Hennepin County’s project team to develop a preferred design for this project. In addition to working with city staff, their project team has done extensive community engagement to help inform the recommended design. The planning phase to develop and evaluate alternatives for Minnetonka Boulevard is now complete. The project team has prepared a preliminary layout of the preferred alternative that will be presented at an open house on April 15, 2026, and a public hearing on May 4, 2026. Financial or budget considerations: Most of this project will be paid for by Hennepin County. The city’s portion of the project cost is included in the city’s capital improvement plan (CIP) and will be paid for using utility funds and general obligation bonds. A construction cost estimate is being finalized and will be provided as part of the public hearing staff report for May 4, 2026. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to providing a variety of options for people to make their way around the city comfortably, safely and reliably. Supporting documents: Discussion Location map Public engagement summaries Preliminary preferred layout Prepared by: Mark Elgaard, engineering project manager Reviewed by: Debra Heiser, engineering director; Jack Sullivan, assistant city engineer Approved by: Cindy Walsh, deputy city manager Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Page 2 Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Discussion Background: Minnetonka Boulevard, between Highway 100 and Aquila Avenue, is a concrete roadway with a four-inch bituminous overlay. Due to the bituminous overlays of this road, there are many locations where the curb is only one or two inches high. Constructed in 1956, the roadway is nearing the end of its useful life. Hennepin County plans to reconstruct the roadway because routine maintenance activities, such as bituminous overlays and crack seals, are no longer cost-effective. The current roadway design does not meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and does not adequately serve people walking, biking or those with limited mobility. The existing sidewalk facilities need repair, and many intersections along the corridor do not meet the requirements of the ADA. City staff has heard from the community that there are safety concerns for pedestrians crossing the road. The existing bike facilities consist of on-street bike lanes created by converting roadway shoulders and restriping them. These facilities do not meet the city council’s goal of providing “all ages, all abilities” bicycle infrastructure and community feedback has consistently indicated that riding directly adjacent to vehicle traffic is not perceived as comfortable or safe. City watermain and utility infrastructure under the road have experienced multiple failures over the last five years, including two instances that caused private property damage. For these reasons, the watermain is recommended to be replaced. Additionally, the county’s storm sewer system on Minnetonka Boulevard requires upgrade and expansion. Currently, stormwater is largely conveyed through the adjacent city system. This project will reconstruct the corridor’s storm sewer infrastructure and incorporate water quality treatment for roadway runoff. Project scope: The proposed improvements for Minnetonka Boulevard include the following: • New pavement, narrower lane widths and removal of the on-street bike lanes resulting in a narrower street • Crosswalk enhancements for people walking and rolling, including raised medians and user-activated flashing beacons • Improvements to the existing pedestrian and bike facilities that will connect to the new shared-use trails east of Highway 100 • Wider boulevards for planting trees • Storm sewer conveyance and treatment • City watermain replacement • City sanitary sewer rehabilitation • Possible relocation of above-ground utilities to below ground Concept design and evaluation: Upon completion of the initial public engagement and data collection efforts, the project team developed the following project visions from community feedback to help develop and evaluate corridor alternatives. • A safe and accessible bicycle and pedestrian corridor Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Page 3 Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 • A thriving business-supportive streetscape • A transit-friendly, people-centered public space The project team developed and evaluated numerous roadway and multi-modal alternatives for the Minnetonka Boulevard corridor, all of which included two lanes for vehicle traffic while offering different options to improve the bicycle and pedestrian experience in the project corridor. Twelve alternatives for bicyclists and pedestrians were evaluated, ranging from on- street unprotected bike lanes to behind-the-curb bike facilities. The alternatives were narrowed down to the following three, which best met the project goals. Alternative A: includes a one-way cycle track on both sides of the road running parallel to the sidewalk. The cycle track can be separated from the sidewalk to split around trees. This alternative is like the one constructed on Cedar Lake Road between Highway 169 and Louisiana Avenue. Alternative B: includes two shared-use trails, one on each side of the road. This alternative is like the one constructed on Minnetonka Boulevard east of Highway 100. Alternative C: includes a shared-use trail on one side of the road and a sidewalk on the other side. This alternative is like Louisiana Avenue between Highway 7 and 32nd Street. Public process: The county project team was intentional in trying to meet with and engage the public. The public engagement process started in the spring of 2025. Notifications were sent in many ways, including via letters, postcards, Next door, GovDelivery, social media and neighborhood signs. They also met with schools, businesses and neighborhood associations. To reach an audience that may not attend public meetings, the project team also attended St. Louis Park events such as National Night Out and Bike to Work Day. An online Story Map was also created so that stakeholders could provide feedback on the project website. There were three phases of engagement. See below to learn more about each phase. Phase 1 engagement – data collection phase (May 2025 – July 2025): The project team met with the community via pop-up events and visited schools, businesses and community groups. The project team also posted signage and notified residents and business owners by mail so they could provide written comments or submit comments via the online map and survey. Approximately 700 comments were received through Phase 1 of the engagement. Using the information gathered during Phase 1 engagement, the project team developed alternatives that reflected the project goals and feedback themes created from input from residents, businesses and community stakeholders. Please see the attached report summarizing the feedback received during this phase of engagement. Phase 2 engagement – alternative evaluation phase (August 2025 – November 2025): The project team re-engaged stakeholders to evaluate alternatives. In the summer of 2025, three potential roadway alternatives for the project were introduced to the public. They created an online input experience that allowed people to learn more Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Page 4 Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 about the roadway alternatives, rank them and provide location-specific comments as well as general feedback. Paper copies of the survey and flyers were also distributed to local businesses and organizations. An open house was held on Oct. 29, 2025, at the Lenox Community Center, and the project team also attended National Night Out on Aug. 5, 2025. During the second phase of engagement, stakeholders submitted feedback via comment cards, the Story Map, the project survey and in-person conversations. Nearly 400 comments were received during the Phase 2 engagement. Please see the attached report summarizing the feedback during this phase of engagement. Phase 3 engagement – alternative evaluation phase (December 2025 – present): The project team presented the three roadway alternatives to the city’s Environmental Sustainability Commission (ESC) on March 4, 2026. During the meeting, staff outlined the evaluation process, shared that Alternative B is the preferred option to advance into final design and explained how it best aligns with the project goals. The ESC provided feedback on the alternatives and asked questions about design considerations and environmental impacts. The project team will update the project website and Story Map to present the preferred alternative and hold an Open House on April 15, 2026, at the Lenox Community Center. The project team will present the preferred alternative, including the removal of the roundabouts as options at the Louisiana Avenue and Vernon Avenue/Lake Street intersections. Project information boards and staff will be present to discuss the preferred alternative. Preferred alternative: Alternatives A, B and C were presented for public consideration during the engagement process. Following a thorough evaluation of project goals, cross-city departmental collaboration and community input, the project team selected Alternative B as the preferred option to advance into final design. Key features of the preferred alternative are: • Reducing the width of the existing roadway • Replaces the existing sidewalks and on-street bike facilities with shared-use trails on both sides of the road • Preserves the widest boulevards on both sides of the road for snow storage, stormwater treatment and tree planting Preferred alternative details: on-street parking On‑street parking is currently prohibited along both sides of the roadway throughout the entire corridor, and these restrictions will remain in place. Preferred alternative details: enhanced multi-modal facilities Alternative B constructs 10-foot-wide shared-use trails on both sides of the roadway, creating a continuous connection from the Phase 1 trails east of Highway 100 to the North Cedar Lake Regional Trail near Aquila Elementary School. This design is also consistent with the proposed CP Regional Trail planned along Dakota Avenue. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Page 5 Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 This design provides additional separation for bicyclists from vehicle traffic, which advances the “all ages, all abilities” goal that both Hennepin County and St. Louis Park support. It also allows two-way bike traffic on both sides of the street, removing the requirement for bicyclists to cross the street to reach the appropriate one-way facility in Alternative A or to cross the road to reach the single two-way facility in Alternative C. The trails also provide additional space for pedestrians compared to the standard 6-foot sidewalk. This extra space allows wheelchairs and strollers to be used more comfortably. It also allows additional space to improve on ADA requirement minimums, allowing more room for turning radiuses of mobility devices and reducing the need for people to step or roll off the path while passing others. Having the shared-use trail allows pedestrians to wait closer to the road without blocking the bike facility while waiting to cross. With a separated facility like Alternative A, the pedestrian is either waiting in the bike facility or standing further back from the curb, which can reduce visibility of the individual for oncoming vehicle traffic. A back-of-curb facility like Alternative A can also reduce the amount of available space for transit stops. Having the shared-use trail further back from the curb allows for greater freedom in designing improved transit stops, as there is no need to work around a cycle track where people would be boarding and unloading into the back-of-curb facility. Preferred alternative details: Minnetonka Boulevard crossings We have heard from the community that there are safety concerns for pedestrians crossing the road. The preferred alternative will decrease pedestrian crossing distances by reducing the width of the road. Also, as part of the design, the county will be evaluating pedestrian refuges at key locations along the corridor, including user-activated flashing beacons midway between signalized intersections to enhance crossings. Preferred alternative details: storm sewer The project team has identified stormwater treatment opportunities to reduce runoff volume, remove pollutants and improve stormwater quality. The proposed plan reduces the impervious surface in the project area and constructs stormwater facilities to treat more runoff than required by the permitting agencies, meeting the city’s strategic priority of being a leader in environmental stewardship. Preferred alternative details: intersection evaluation There are five traffic signals on Minnetonka Boulevard; these are located at Texas Avenue, Louisiana Avenue, Hampshire Avenue, Dakota Avenue and Vernon Avenue/Lake Street. All intersections were reviewed for possible roundabouts or traffic signals. Here are the recommendations based on this evaluation: • Roundabouts were evaluated at all existing signalized intersections: Texas Avenue, Louisiana Avenue, Hampshire Avenue, Dakota Avenue and Vernon Avenue/ Lake Street. The only two were determined feasible early on in design: Vernon Avenue/Lake Street and Louisiana Avenue. These were shown to the public at the open house on Oct. 29, 2025. Further into design, it was determined that both roundabouts would result in significant Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Page 6 Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 property acquisition and have some operational challenges. As a result, they have been removed from consideration. • Traffic signals o The signal at Texas Avenue is recommended to be reconstructed. Additionally, the elevation of the intersection is being evaluated by the county to be lowered. This would improve sightlines for pedestrians, bicyclists and vehicles utilizing the intersection. Hennepin county is also exploring options to reduce pedestrian crossing distances and add green space in the area around the intersection. o Louisiana Avenue is the busiest intersection along the corridor, and while a roundabout is no longer feasible, there are still opportunities to change the intersection as part of this project. To help facilitate the discussion of the future of this intersection, the city is hiring a consultant to evaluate Louisiana Avenue between 23rd and 32nd streets. The Louisiana Concept Study will help determine what a future concept for the corridor could look like and if lanes could be removed at the Minnetonka Boulevard intersection which would allow for reduced crossing distances as well as permit additional space for future pedestrian and bicycle connections on Louisiana Avenue. o The Hampshire Avenue intersection was evaluated during the preliminary design process, and it was determined that it does not meet the warrants for a traffic signal. Hennepin County is proposing to replace the existing signal with a user- activated flashing beacon. This will ensure that pedestrians and bicyclists will still have an enhanced crossing on Minnetonka Boulevard between the signalized intersections. o Dakota Avenue has limited right of way available for large-scale adjustments to the intersection. With the proposed CP Regional trail along Dakota Avenue connecting to the county’s trails in the future, the county is exploring options to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists crossing the intersection. o The signal at Lake Street is being evaluated to improve coordination between the Highway 100 signals to the east while maintaining a high level of service. Hennepin County is also exploring options to reduce pedestrian crossing distances and add green space in the area around the intersection. Preferred alternative details: street trees Hennepin County’s arborist has completed a tree inventory in the project area. This inventory reviewed the size, species, health and condition of all the trees within the project limits. As a part of the design, the project team worked to preserve as many existing trees that may be removed by construction to the maximum extent possible. There are several trees that are likely to be removed due to construction operations such as watermain and shared-use trail construction, many of which are new plantings of 3 inches or less in diameter. However, the introduction of 8-foot boulevards along Minnetonka Boulevard will provide ample room for replanting trees and enable a greater variety of species to be planted. Coordinating work: city maintenance and operations The project team has discussed at length the three alternatives and the impact they would have on city maintenance and operations with the city’s public works, and parks and recreation staff. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Page 7 Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 While applying feedback and lessons learned from the maintenance and operations of sidewalks, cycle tracks and shared-use trails, Alternative B has the fewest impacts on city maintenance and operations and can be supported with existing staff and equipment for snow removal and solid waste collection. In addition, the inclusion of a boulevard between the curb and the shared-use trail reduces opportunities for delivery and service vehicles to use the bicycle facility for short-term parking. A boulevard also creates space for waste collection bins to be placed without impeding cyclists or waste collection staff, as with a back-of-curb bike facility. A more detailed breakdown of these lessons learned will be presented at the study session on March 23, 2026. Coordinating work: city utility replacement The most cost-effective time to replace underground utilities is when streets are being reconstructed. City staff have looked at the existing city utility infrastructure under this segment of Minnetonka Boulevard and asked that the county incorporate the following city utility work into their project: • The existing 12-inch watermain in this corridor was installed from 1951 to 1955. Due to break history and age, staff recommend replacing the watermain and water services within the right of way. The cost to replace the watermain is significantly cheaper during a road reconstruction project, as the road and concrete work are already included in the project. The watermain replacement will be paid for by the city with water utility funds. • The existing sanitary sewer system in this corridor will be rehabilitated as part of this project. The pipe is still in working condition and was inspected by the city’s public works staff early on in design. Some of the structures are made of block and are starting to deteriorate. These structures will be replaced with pre-cast concrete to extend the useful life of the system. Coordinating work: relocation of above-ground utilities to below ground City staff is currently working with Xcel Energy for a cost estimate to relocate their above- ground utility lines to below ground along Minnetonka Boulevard. The preferred alternative design can be built if the overhead utilities are not buried. In that situation, the poles would be relocated to the new boulevards. There are many benefits to relocating the above-ground utility lines to below ground in this corridor, including: • Visual aesthetics • Eliminates impacts to street trees due to trimming around overhead lines • Allows for more flexibility in tree species selection • Reduces the risk of potential outages during a storm • More room for snow removal and storage • More room for stormwater treatment in the boulevards The cost to underground the utilities varies depending on the type of facility on the poles. The cost to underground these facilities would be borne by the city, with the county’s share capped Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Page 8 Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 at $500,000, if the county commits funding to the work. For the Phase1 work, the costs are being covered by a surcharge added to all Xcel Energy customers, citywide. In addition to the public cost, there is also a private cost for homes or businesses to modify their wiring to accommodate underground service. City staff are expecting a cost estimate for this work from Xcel Energy and will be sharing it as part of the overall financial information at the public hearing on May 4, 2026. If this work is pursued, it will be completed separately by the utility companies in advance of the Hennepin County project. FY27 community project funding: City staff are pursuing additional funding to help cover city costs for this project. This includes submitting the project for FY27 Community Project Funding for the city’s share of the cost. Next steps: The proposed schedule is as follows: Council study session report March 23, 2026 Open House at Lenox Community Center April 15, 2026 Council public hearing May 4, 2026 Council project action May 18, 2026 Private utility relocations begin 2027 Construction 2028 and 2029 Count y Road 2 5 Minneton Hi g h w a y 1 0 0 S Highway 10 0 S Av e S rk Ce n te r B lvd 23 rd S tW Lake St W Loui s D a k o taA ve S Aqu il a Ave S BarryS t M o ntere y D r Fl ag 28th St W Walker St $+COUNTY 5 $+COUNTY 5 $+COUNTY 25 ÉÉMINNESOTA 100 ÉÉ MINNESOTA 7 ÉÉ MINNESOTA 7 ÉÉMINNESOTA 100 01169 01169 Xy l o n A v e Ve r n o n A v e S Minnetonka Blvd ST. LOUIS PARK CSAH 5 (Minnetonka Blvd) Phase 2 Reconstruction Project Attachment 01 | Project Location Map Disclaimer: This map (i) is furnished "AS IS" with no representation as to completeness or accuracy; (ii) is furnished with no warranty of any kind; and (iii) is not suitable for legal, engineering or surveying purposes. Hennepin County shall not be liable for any damage, injury or loss resulting from this map. Publication date: 10/16/2023 Data sources (if applicable): Hennepin ¯010.5 Miles Key Project Location Page 9 Minnetonka Boulevard Reconstruction Project background Minnetonka Boulevard was last reconstructed in 1956 and is nearing the end of its useful life. In addition, the corridor lacks consistent dedicated facilities for people biking, as well as poor sidewalk facilities and minimal pedestrian crossing enhancements for people walking and rolling. Hennepin County is working with community to redesign Minnetonka Boulevard to be a safer and more accessible roadway that accommodates a range of modes and reects city and county design guidance and the community who use it every day. What follows is a summary of engagement collected during preliminarily engagement. It provides a understanding for what events occurred and what feedback we received. Project area 2024-2025 2027 Planning Construction Complete 2028 Timeline is subject to change 2025 - 2026 Phase 1 Phase 2 Conceptual design Phase 3 2025 Preliminary engagement Engagement goals 1 2 3Inclusive engagement Arts-focused engagement Prioritize community relationships The public engagement vision is to connect with community and stakeholders to generate project interest, build rapport, and facilitate a high level of participation in understanding and shaping the project. We plan to realize this by using the following goals-based approach to public engagement. Throughout the project, engagement will be tailored to a diverse audience through a mix of in-person and online opportunities. Art-focused approaches will be used to make engagement more dynamic and to foster a deeper connection between the project and the feedback provided by community members. 1 Phase 1 Engagement Summary Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 10 Engagement events From May to July 2025, the project team went out into the community and used the following methods to gather input on project goals and future visioning, and understand how residents and local businesses use Minnetonka Boulevard: Community members engage with project sta at the open house (top left, top right). Community members and project sta participate in a Juneteenth celebration (bottom photo). 2 Businesses door knocked45 Business survey responses20 Demographic information Optional demographic information was collected from attendees at in-person engagement as well as online visitors to the BeHeard Hennepin webpage. Demographic information is collected in order to better understand who is being reached by engagement eorts. I live on or close by Minnetonka Boulevard, 21% I come to the area for shopping, goods, or services, 16% Travel through but do not live or work there, 16% I come for recreation, entertainment, or cultural gatherings, 16% I work on or close by Minnetonka Boulevard, 21% Zip code Relationship to Minnetonka Boulevard Community-led events attended4 I come to the area but do not live or work there, 10% People engaged at in-person events130 Other, 10% Online survey responses100 55416 46% 55426 44% Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 11 Feedback themes and comments Almost 190 comments were collected between in-person and online engagement activities while project sta had dozens of conversations at in-person events with community members. Below are themes we heard from community - in order from most often mentioned to least mentioned: 3 Most mentioned Least mentioned Minnetonka Boulevard should be an enjoyable place to walk There are pedestrian and bicycle safety concerns along the boulevard Business needs and growth should be supported and accommodated Landscaping and greening could be improved along the corridor Improvements for transit and transit amenities Concerns about congestion for commuters in vehicles “I would love to continue to see bike lanes along with trees, greenery, and landscaping along Minnetonka Boulevard.” “This part of the street feels less friendly to pedestrians and cyclists compared to other streets. This is a great chance for the community to make the road better not just for cars, but also for pedestrians and cyclists alike.” “For the businesses, it would be great to design things in a way that will encourage coee or ice cream shops, restaurants, etc, where people can gather (vs. having everything be parking lots) - destination spaces that create community.” “I do not feel comfortable letting my children cross Minnetonka Blvd at the moment. I'd like to see it be more pedestrian friendly. Cars go about 40-50mph currently.” “I would love it to be greener and have more shade for walking.” “Our family values safe protected bike lanes, slower car speeds, and clearer indications of crosswalks. Cars rarely slow down for crosswalks currently.” “So excited to see the aesthetic and safety improvements that encourage walking and biking and beauty.” “Please include as much to tree planting in the right way and boulevards to make the walking and bike experience pleasant. More green to beautify the area.” “As a frequent bus rider, bus stops need seating, art, some sort of shelter from bad weather, good lighting and trash cans.” “Focus on the ow of commuter trac, any road narrowing causes congestion and pushes trac to residential streets.” Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 12 4 Community goal activity alignment At each community pop up and open house, the project goals were shared alongside the artist vision renderings. Participants were given stickers and instructed to place stickers indicating how strongly they agreed/disagreed with how each artist rendering aligned with each project goal. Approximately 736 stickers were placed. Vision #1: A Safe and Accessible Boulevard for Biking and Walking Vision #2: A Transit-Friendly, People-Centered Public Space Vision #3: A Thriving, Business-Supportive Streetscape How well does each vision meet the project goals? Improve transit access and comfort Create a greener and more vibrant streetscape Design the street to complement business shopping and dining for people who bike and walk Improve access to regional multimodal networks Design a welcoming and slower people-friendly street Improve the comfort and ability to travel on Minnetonka Boulevard for all roadway users Project goals A majority of community members agree that Vision #1 best meet project goals. Agree Neutral Disagree Agree Neutral Disagree Agree Neutral Disagree Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 13 Modal priority feedback At the public open house and through the online survey, participants were given ve marbles and directed to distribute their marbles among six categories which represented modes of travel/how street space could be allocated, according to their own preferences. Overall, space for personal vehicles was the community’s top priority, closely followed by space for walking and rolling, and biking. Personal vehicle 116 Walking and rolling 97 Biking 92 Transit 56 Greening 26 Community preference Current ROW allocation Community feedback suggests some potential shifts in how right of way (ROW) could be reimagined along Minnetonka Boulevard. While space for personal vehicles is still ranked as a top priority, responses also indicated growing interest in making more room for biking, walking, and especially transit. Compared to the current layout, community members placed more emphasis on active transportation and transit access. At the same time, greening, while still valued, was given lower priority than its current share of the ROW might suggest. This may reect a desire to balance aesthetic and environmental benets with more functional, transportation-focused uses of space. Community members desire a multi-modal boulevard with space for walking, biking, and transit, as well as space for vehicle trac and greening. 5 Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 14 Layout feedback 5 100 7 Sources: Esri, TomTom, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community Minnetonka Boulevard The intersection at Dakota Ave is described as “extremely dangerous” with cars speeding and limited visibility due to the crest in the road. Community members say it is dicult and feels unsafe to cross the street as a pedestrian. Frequent ooding and debris under the bridge is a concern for residents in this area. Trac management and speeding is a concern for the Louisiana Ave intersection. Community members desire slower speeds and greenery. Local attractions bring pedestrians and bicyclists to the Texas Ave intersection, however walking and bicycling feels unsafe due to speeding cars, poor visibility, and a lack of pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. There is support for safer pedestrian crossings, greenery, and lower speeds in this area. Slower speeds and safe pedestrian crossings are desired by community members at Xylon and Aquila avenues. People were encouraged to leave comments about existing conditions on a map of the project area at the open house. People also shared comments about specic locations through the BeHeard website and online survey. More than 30 comments were received. Comments ranged from existing issues along the boulevard (poor sidewalk conditions, unsafe intersections, etc.), opportunities along the boulevard (areas for green space, bike facilities, lighting, transit stops, etc.) or other general comments related to the boulevard (areas with high pedestrian activity, business access needs, etc.). Below is a summary of comments received. Open house participants talk with project sta and share comments on the aerial layout. Ve r n o n A v e Da k o t a A v e Lo u i s i a n a A v e Te x a s A v e 5 Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 15 Next steps The next phase of engagement will begin in late summer and fall 2025. During this phase, the project team will present street design alternatives to the community to collect feedback on preferred design preferences and tradeos. The feedback collected during Phase I engagement will be used to inform the corridor layout designs. There will be opportunities to provide feedback at in-person events, as well as online through the BeHeard Hennepin website. Contact Nick Turner Design Lead Oce: (612) 767-9350 Jason Staebell Project Manager Oce: (612) 596-0371 Want to learn more? Visit the project website at http://beheardhennepin.org/minnetonka-boulevard Sign up to receive project emails on the project website: beheard.org/minnetonka-boulevard Up to two focus groups will be held to review the draft corridor layouts. These groups are volunteer based. Additional focus groups will be held in later phases of the project. Focus groups There will be one workshop event to gather feedback on the community-informed corridor layout.Workshop An online survey will be available on the BeHeard website, providing an easy way for community members to share their feedback. Project survey The project team will attend several pop-up events. These events are designed to raise community awareness about the project and gather input. Pop-up events Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 16 Minnetonka Boulevard was last rebuilt 70 years ago and is due for reconstruction. The street is currently unsafe for people walking, biking, and rolling due to aging and missing infrastructure. Hennepin County is working with community to redesign Minnetonka Boulevard to be a safer and more accessible roadway that accommodates a range of modes and reects city and county design guidance and the community who use it every day. This document summarizes community feedback we collected from August to November 2025. Community members provided input on three proposed concept designs for the corridor, roundabouts and pedestrian medians. Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction Project background Project area Engagement goals Our goal is to work closely with community members and stakeholders to build interest, trust, and strong participation in shaping the project. We will do this using a clear, goal-based approach to public engagement. Throughout the project, we will tailor engagement to a diverse audience by oering a mix of in-person and online opportunities. We will use art-focused approaches to make engagement more dynamic and to build a stronger connection between the project and community feedback. 1 Engagement summary: August to November 2025 2024-2025 2027 Planning Private utility relocations Construction 2028-2029 Timeline is subject to change 2025 - 2026 Phase 1 Phase 2 Conceptual design Phase 3 2025 Preliminary engagement Inclusive engagement Arts- focused engagement Prioritize community relationships Inclusive engagement Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 17 Engagement events From August to November 2025, the project team went out into the community and used the following methods to collect feedback on the boulevard today and introduce three design concepts for the Project sta talk through the design concepts at the October focus group (top left). Sta chat with community members at the September bike to work event (top right). Sta complete a kid’s activity with open house attendees (bottom). 2 Demographic information We collected optional demographic information from open house attendees and online survey participants. This information helps us understand who our engagement eorts are reaching. I live on or close by Minnetonka Boulevard, 60% I come to the area for shopping, goods, or services, 9% Travel through but do not live or work there, 21% I come for recreation, entertainment, or cultural gatherings, 8% I work on or close by Minnetonka Boulevard, 2% Zip code Relationship to Minnetonka Boulevard Other, 16% 55416 37% 55426 47% Pop-up events Public open house Online survey responses Focus group People engaged at in-person events Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 18 Design concepts Below are the three design concepts community members provided input on through the focus group, open house and online survey. Concept A features separated areas for people who walk, bike, and roll with one-way bicycle paths and sidewalks on each side, comparable to Cedar Lake Road. Of the three designs, Concept A features the least amount of greenspace but preserves priority trees. Snow clearing and storage for this concept would be the most challenging of the three. 3 Concept B features a shared use path on each side the boulevard, allowing bicycles to ride in either direction on each side of the street. Concept B features more greenspace and provides more trees than Concept A. Snow clearing and storage of this concept would be the least challenging of the three. Tradeos for this design are potential conicts between pedestrians and cyclists. Concept C features a shared use path on one side of the boulevard and a sidewalk on the other side of the boulevard. Bicyclists are limited to cycling in either direction to one side of the street. Of the three designs, Concept C provides the most greenspace and preserves the most trees and presents less challenges for snow clearing and storage than Concept A. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 19 Feedback themes and comments Project sta collected nearly 400 comments through in-person and online engagement activities. Below are the most frequently mentioned themes. 4 Concern about the shared use path (72 comments) "Don't love shared [use path] especially with e-bikes. They go fast and little kids don't always act predictably."* "I walk my dog on Minnetonka Blvd every day and would not like having to share the sidewalk with bikers." "Mixed use is a bad idea - we need a safe space for pedestrians!" Prioritization of pedestrian safety (69 comments) "I think that having a safe way for pedestrians and cyclists to navigate both sides of the street is important. We love walking to Texa Tonka, and it would be better if we were able to do that with our kids without having to cross the street multiple times to nd the right path/avoid bikes." “Emphasize safe interactions of walkers and bikers, especially for a projected increase of speedier e-bikers.” "As a pedestrian, I do not want to share space with bikes." Support for the dedicated bikeway (57 comments) "The dedicated, non-shared spaces for walking and biking are the single most important feature. This maximizes safety, accessibility, and comfort for families, older adults, and new cyclists/pedestrians who may be less comfortable navigating shared paths." "[The dedicated bikeway] minimizes conicts between people walking and riding bikes. Allows people riding bikes to travel in both directions without conicts. Allow[s] cyclists to act in a predictable manner which increases visibility and safety."* Support for green space and maintaining trees (54 comments) "Please preserve as many trees as possible. They make our city beautiful and livable." *The text in brackets was added or changed for clarity. "Especially with the loss of ash trees recently, every opportunity to replace and increase trees is a good thing."* "It is critical that any nal design retains the maximum number of existing, mature trees. This preserves the boulevard's aesthetic character, provides environmental benets (shade, air quality), and aligns with community value." Support for Concept A, one-way sidewalk level bikeway and separated walking path (100 comments) "I like how Concept A not only looks, but keeps walkers and cyclists separate for safety. Minnetonka is busy and crowded and safety is crucial." "As a resident of this area, I walk, bike (for recreation and commute), take transit and drive along this stretch daily. Concept A best serves each of the multi-modes best ... This concept helps meet the community needs by balancing the dierent modes of transit and prioritizing safety for all. " Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 20 5 Roundabout feedback Roundabouts were generally supported by survey respondents, open house participants, and focus group members. Nearly two-thirds (63%) of survey respondents and open house participants somewhat or strongly agreed with roundabouts on Minnetonka Boulevard. Figure 1: Answer to the question, "To what extent do you agree with using roundabouts on Minnetonka Boulevard where shown in the concepts?" from both the online survey and open house activity. Figure 2: Answer to the question, "To what extent do you agree with using pedestrian refuge medians on Minnetonka Boulevard where shown in the concepts?" from both the online survey and open house activity. Pedestrian refuge feedback Open house attendees and survey respondents were generally supportive of pedestrian refuges, with 65% somewhat or strongly agreeing with their use on the corridor. A pedestrian refuge is a median in the middle of the road where pedestrians can safely stop while crossing. It lets people cross one lane of trac at a time and can help slow trac. Strongly agree Somewhat agree Neutral Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree Strongly agree Somewhat agree Neutral Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree 0 20 40 60 80 100 44%19% 12% 7%17% 63% 0 20 40 60 80 100 40%25%18% 6% 10% 65% Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 21 Concept feedback Sta encouraged community members to leave comments about the three concept layouts at the open house. Below is a summary of the top themes for each concept. 7 Support for the dedicated bikeway was the most common theme on the Concept A layout. There was also support for pedestrian safety improvements like crossings and roundabouts, with a few suggestions for ashing pedestrian crossing lights. The most common theme on the Concept B layout was support for pedestrian improvements such as crossings and refuges. Participants also expressed concern about the shared use path. Those who expressed their support of Concept C on the layout emphasized saving mature trees and minimizing tree removal. Opinions were mixed on the shared use path. Some thought having the sidewalk on one side of the street would minimize bicycle and pedestrian conicts, whereas others thought this was the worst option for both bicyclists and pedestrians. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 22 Youth engagement In the summer of 2025, the project's engineer team, Alliant, hosted a week-long engineering camp at a summer program along Minnetonka Boulevard. Throughout the week, 60 fourth and fth graders took part in hands-on engineering activities such as building marshmallow towers, creating water lters and designing their dream playground. Students even got to run around an interactive miniature roundabout! The week culminated in students applying what they learned at camp to their own segment of Minnetonka Boulevard. Each student designed a block of the roadway, which was then combined to show one imaginative “dream vision” for the corridor. 8 Students learn about engineering through interactive activities at summer camp. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 23 Nick Turner Design Lead Oce: (612) 767-9350 Jason Staebell Project Manager Oce: (612) 596-0371 Next steps The next phase of engagement will begin in spring 2026. During this phase, the project team will present the nal design to the public and collect community feedback. This feedback will help inform the nal design of the project. There will be opportunities to provide feedback at in-person events, as well as online through the BeHeard Hennepin website. Contact Want to learn more? Visit the project website at http://beheardhennepin.org/minnetonka-boulevard Sign up to receive project emails on the project website: beheard.org/minnetonka-boulevard There will be one open house event to gather feedback on the nal design.Open house The project team will attend pop-up events to raise community awareness about the project and gather input about the preferred concept for the boulevard. Pop-up events Project sta talk to community members at the October open house Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 24 ? ? ? ? ? ? F ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ???? ? ? ? ? ? CONSTRUCTION UNDER AREA ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ? ? ?? ? ? ? F ? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ? ?? ? ? ??? 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11+2' 11+2' 11+2' 11' 11+2' 14+2' 11' 11+2' 11' 8.5' M EDI AN H E N N E P I N C O U N T Y M I N N E S O T A ROADWAY CONCRETE (CURB & GUTTER, SIDEWALKS, DRIVEWAYS, MEDIANS) SHARED USE PATH BOULEVARD (BLVD) INDEX MAP SIGNAL SYSTEM EXISTING PROPERTY LINES EXISTING RIGHT OF WAY MARCH 15, 2026 SUBJECT TO CHANGE PRELIMINARY LEGEND Project GENERAL LAYOUT NOTES 1. GEOMETRIC DESIGN ARE PRELIMINARY AND SUBJECT TO CHANGE AS DESIGN ADVANCES. ADDITIONAL NOTES: MARCH, 2026, PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE LAYOUT HISTORY: ACCOMMODATIONS, TRAFFIC SIGNALS, AND ROUNDABOUTS PARK. THIS PROJECT WILL INCLUDE NEW PAVEMENT, CURB, STORM SEWER, WATER UTILITIES, TRAIL, ADA RECONSTRUCTION PROJECT ALONG MINNETONKA BOULEVARD (CSAH 5) FROM AQUILA AVE IN THE CITY OF ST. LOUIS PROJECT DESCRIPTION: POTENTIAL RECTANGULAR RAPID FLASHING BEACONS (RRFB) METRO TRANSIT STOP HENNEPIN COUNTY PROJECT 216800 CSAH 5 (MINNETONKA BLVD) PREFERRED CONCEPT LAYOUT CITY OF ST. LOUIS PARK, HENNEPIN COUNTY, MINNESOTA AERIAL PHOTO TAKEN: 2023 cd_4000504-Sheet-2.dgnFILE NAME: aabdimuhsinPRINTED BY: 3/16/2026PRINTED ON: BLOOMINGTON EDEN PRAIRIE MINNETRISTA INDEPENDENCE GREENFIELD ROGERS DAYTON CHAMPLIN CORCORAN MAPLE GROVE BROOKLYN PARK MINNEAPOLIS PLYMOUTH AN T H O N Y ST WOODLAND WAYZATA TONKA BAY BONIFACIOUS ST. PARK SPRING SHOREWOOD ST LOUIS PARK ROCKFORD ROBINSDALE RICHFIELD OSSEO ORONO HOPE NEW MOUND BEACH MINNETONKA MINNETONKA MEDINA LAKE MEDICINE MAPLE PLAIN LORETTO LONG LAKE HOPKINS HANDOVER GREENWOOD GOLDEN VALLEY EXCELSIOR EDINA DEEPHAVEN CRYSTAL CHANHASSEN BROOKLY CENTER MSP SNELLING FT AQ U I L A A V E XY L O N A V E MINNETONKA BLVD TE X A S A V E LO U I S I A N A A V E DA K O T A A V E V E R N O N A V E W LAKE ST PRELIMINARY LAYOUT MINNETONKA BLVD (CSAH 5) ALLIANT SHARED USE PATH BOULEVARD (BLVD) EXISTING STEEP GRADE WORK DONE BY OTHERS EXISTING TREE POTENTIAL TREE REMOVAL DRIVEWAY CLOSURE 5' PAVED BLVD 2' PAVED BLVD 3.5' PAVED BLVD 2' PAVED BLVD 2' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 2' PAVED BLVD 2' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 2' PAVED BLVD 3' PAVED BLVD POTENTIAL RRFB DRIVEWAY CLOSED POTENTIAL RRFB PROPOSED DRIVEWAY DRIVEWAY RELOCATED POTENTIAL RRFB POTENTIAL RRFB POTENTIAL RRFB POTENTIAL RRFB RAILROAD BRIDGE POTENTIAL RRFB POTENTIAL RRFB TO BRIDGE UNDER CONSIDERATION. PAVEMENT REHABILITATION 2' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 3' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 3' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD 2' PAVED BLVD 4' PAVED BLVD PRIOR TO CONSTRUCTION. DRIVEWAY TO BE CLOSED PRIOR TO CONSTRUCTION. DRIVEWAY TO BE CLOSED Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 2) Title: Minnetonka Boulevard reconstruction project phase 2 update (4028-7000) - Wards 1 and 3 Page 25 Meeting: Special study session Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Discussion item: 3 Executive summary Title: Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Recommended action: City council and city manager review the proposed agenda topic and determine next steps. Policy consideration: Does the city council want to move forward with additional discussion regarding the protection of data captured by Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology? Summary: Council Members Bashore, Baudhuin and Engelking submitted a study session topic proposal related to protection of data captured by Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) camera systems. City staff reviewed the proposal and provided a high-level analysis of the request. The next step is for the council to decide, as a group, if they want to schedule a future study session discussion on the proposed topic. Financial or budget considerations: None at this time. Strategic priority consideration: Not applicable. Supporting documents: Study session topic proposal and staff analysis Prepared by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager City Council Study Session Topic Proposal Request Form Date: Prepared by: Proposed agenda topic: Brief description of topic (no more than 200 words): How does this topic align with the council's strategic priorities? If it does not, why should the council consider the topic?: If approved, would an advisory board/commission review this proposal? If so, select up to two of the options below: ☐ESC ☐PRAC ☐PAC ☐HRC ☐CTAC ☐NONE ** Please email completed forms to Kim Keller and Melissa Kennedy. 02/10/26 Jim Engelking; CMs Bashore and Baudhuin support this request How can the City protect resident transportation and movement pattern data that is captured by the City's Flock Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) Cameras? The Police Department collects extensive data about persons driving/parking in St Louis Park through its Flock Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) cameras. This data is shared with a large consortium of MN law enforcement agencies through a data sharing agreement. There are concerns that this data could be obtained by ICE/DHS/CBP through unauthorized distribution by agencies that are parties to the sharing agreement, by agreements between the platform vendor and federal agencies or direct data cloud access. Additionally, a Washington state court has recently ruled that Flock data is a public record obtainable by data request. What is the demonstrated investigative value of the ALPR data? What is the likelihood and consequence(s) of DHS/ICE/CBP access to this data? What actions are available to preclude access to the data (e.g., suspend collection, suspend data sharing) and what are the impacts of those actions? St. Louis Park is committed to being a leader in racial equity and inclusion in order to create a more just and inclusive community for all. The PAC would be a candidate advisory board to review this proposal but the exigent nature of this topic may preclude a board/commission review. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3) Title: Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Page 2 City Council Study Session Topic Proposal Staff Analysis Date: 3/06/26 Prepared by: Bryan Kruelle, police chief Proposed agenda topic: How can the City of St. Louis Park protect resident transportation and movement pattern data that is captured by the Flock Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) camera system? Staff analysis of request: Automated License Plate Readers or ALPRs are automated camera systems deployed on poles and in squad cars that use specialized imaging and software to, (1) capture digital images of vehicle license plates as cars pass the camera, (2) record the time, date, and GPS location of each capture, (3) store a vehicle image and certain visible vehicle characteristics, such as make and model, (4) convert and log the plate number into a searchable database for secured law enforcement use, and (5) compare license plates captured to a “Minnesota Hotlist” provided by the Minnesota BCA (e.g., stolen auto status, wanted person). The systems do not perform facial recognition or collect individual data beyond what is visible on license plates and vehicles. The SLPPD began using Flock ALPR in August 2023. The Flock ALPR system does not have access to vehicle registration or owner information. The BCA hotlist is the only connection the system has to personally identifiable data, with ALPR data limited to license plate number, date and time stamp of when the plate was read, including location, an image of the license plate, vehicle, and area surrounding the vehicle. Any data collected is deleted from the system after 30 days. What is the demonstrated investigative value of the ALPR data? Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs) have become a critical tool by expanding the police department’s ability to prevent, detect, and investigate crime. ALPR data has led to the safe recovery of numerous stolen autos and illegal firearms, disrupted shoplifting incidents that have led to reductions in investigative efforts and resulted in other departmental efficiencies, improved accountability through charging, lowered the occurrence of police pursuits and their inherent danger to the public, and built Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3) Title: Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Page 3 partnerships and trust with the business community. The total of these tangible benefits has improved public safety in St. Louis Park. From both patrol and investigative perspectives, ALPR data is relied upon daily. With a limited number of patrol officers, relying on technology and data to direct resources is a widely adopted and effective approach to policing. Because the technology pings on license plate data alone, the possibility for bias to enter into the situation is also greatly reduced. In less than three years, our Flock ALPR cameras have alerted to 159 stolen license plates, 188 stolen autos, 488 warrants, 18 missing persons, 488 KOPS alerts for suspects who pose a serious threat to the public or law enforcement, and more than 180,000 driver’s license violations. A few specific examples of Flock ALPR-related outcomes have included: •October 2025 – Suspect involved in multiple Park Shore burglaries was located and arrested through an external agency Flock hit. •November 2025 – A nine-year-old child believed to be kidnapped and held hostage was reported to SLPPD by family members. The use of Flock data was integral in helping to locate the child, who was found safe, and avoiding additional “ransom” money from being paid by the mother as part of the scam. •January 2026 – A suspect involved in a SLP criminal sexual conduct investigation was located at Target Knollwood and arrested. The suspect appeared to be actively targeting additional victims at the time he was located. •February 2026 – A road rage incident occurring in SLP that involved the display of a firearm, used Flock data to identify and locate the suspect involved, leading to the execution of a search warrant and charges being submitted. Additionally, the following table highlights how SLP Flock data has been used for investigative purposes in the first half of February 2026 by our agency: Table 1 Purpose Code Number of Searches Assault and Battery 10 Suspicious Vehicle at Bus Stop 4 Damage to Property 4 Hit and Run 4 Homicide 19 Indecent Exposure 2 Theft 19 Missing and Endangered Person 8 Stolen Auto 32 Fleeing Vehicle 3 Sexual Assault 9 Traffic Leave improper plate 2 Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3) Title: Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Page 4 Weapons Offense 9 Total 125 What regulatory or system safeguards are in place to ensure the data is only used as intended? ALPR data is intended to be used for investigative purposes within local law enforcement agencies in the state of Minnesota. The data is well regulated by the State including third party bi-annual audit requirements, data deletions after 60 days (Flock auto deletes data after 30 days), limiting photos to the license plate captured and the vehicle, classification as private data, and shared data is protected in the same manner as the standard by which the originating agency is held to, including a usage log with purpose code. Furthermore, data can only be compared to a BCA “hotlist” file, with no other system connections. There are additional system safeguards in place as well. Data that an individual agency collects remains with that agency, along with the user initiating the search itself. Any agency requesting ALPR data from SLPPD must select a “purpose,” or “reason” code, for which the information is being sought. The purpose code selected must match a purpose code that is allowed within the State of Minnesota. Only then does the system release relevant data. The St. Louis Park Police Department (SLPPD) has additional safeguards in place: 1.The city has a signed agreement with every agency that we share data with, guiding its use. 2.Requests for St. Louis Park data from agencies outside of the system must be made through our Investigations Division, with the requesting agency required to explain its law enforcement need. 3.Finally, each agency within the agreement completes bi-annual audits. The last audit for SLPPD was completed in July 2025. What is the likelihood and consequences of DHS/ICE/CBP access to this data? This data cannot be used for immigration purposes. The SLPPD only provides shared Flock data access to Minnesota law enforcement agencies that have signed agreements with us, attesting to the fact that any data they seek is for active criminal investigative purposes only, and all state laws will be followed. Statute 13.824 notes that, “automated license plate reader data that are not related to an active criminal investigation may not be shared with, disseminated to, sold to, or traded with any other individual or entity unless explicitly authorized by this subdivision or other law.” Any agency requesting automated license plate reader data from the SLPPD must select a “purpose” code. An agency wishing to obtain this data and selecting the “immigration” reason code would not be provided with the data. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3) Title: Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Page 5 If any data is shared inappropriately, there can be potential criminal and employment penalties for an individual who knowingly or willfully violates the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act. For government entities, they can be held financially liable for failing to protect or improperly releasing data. Per state statute, any pattern of noncompliance with automated license plate reader audit requirements can result in the immediate suspension by the commissioner of administration of an agency’s program. What actions are available to preclude access to the data (e.g., suspend collection, suspend data sharing) and what are the impacts of those actions? The actions available to limiting/ending Flock data collection/usage include: •Ceasing permanently, or suspending temporarily, the use of our 16 Flock cameras. •Ceasing permanently, or suspending temporarily, the sharing of our Flock data with other agencies. •Sharing data with other agencies only upon request, eliminating any automated sharing of data that currently exists. Any permanent or temporary stoppage to the Flock ALPR program would shift police operations in numerous ways, from proactively addressing crime and community safety to a more reactive approach. With limited staffing, the patrol division relies on Flock data to direct its resources to where known issues are present and where experience and data demonstrate crimes are likely to occur. Additionally, the Flock data systems augment police special operations targeting higher crime areas and act as a deterrent to some due to their presence. Stolen autos, stolen license plates, and criminal warrants are consistently companion crimes to shoplifting, illegal firearms, drugs, and fleeing in a motor vehicle, elevating the SLPPD's ability to proactively address a multitude of crimes, including violent. Additionally, the ability of our investigations division to solve crimes or timely respond to them would be eliminated or significantly impaired in certain cases. The Minnesota police agencies we partner with would also be impacted. The impact of removing automated sharing of data will result in significant investigatory time needing to be dedicated to supporting our partner agencies. What currently takes place without any SLP staff intervention for Minnesota agencies that have a signed sharing agreement with us would require SLP staff to manually check our Flock ALPR database. For the first two weeks of February 2026, this would have resulted in 125 searches. There is also a concern that moving these searches to manual would result in slower investigatory response time. In the most critical cases, these time delays would have affected 19 homicide-related searches, and 8 missing/endangered persons searches over the same time period. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3) Title: Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Page 6 Resources required: (Include relevant information such as cost, staffing, capacity) Capacity is a significant issue the police department is currently faced with. The ability to leverage technology to not only effectively uplift public safety, but to do so in a manner that is more efficient, is critical. A greater amount of staff time will be required with a more reactive police model, particularly to investigate cases. Additionally, with one less piece of evidence to support prosecutions, case outcomes, as well as attaining justice for victims, stand to be negatively impacted. Other dependencies: (Include relevant information that could impact this proposal, such as other agencies/jurisdictions, a pending policy discussion or action by council on related item, additional research that may be required to answer pending questions) If the police department were to cancel the contract, we would likely be required to pay out the remaining term of the agreement, as well as the value of the grant-funded systems, which would be an unbudgeted expense of up to $15,000. Projected timeline: Recommended disposition: (select one) Study session discussion Council action at regular meeting Written report Include with another item already planned/scheduled Meeting with requesting councilmember(s) Handle offline X Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 3) Title: Consider proposed study session topic: protection of Automated License Plate Reader camera (ALPR) data Page 7 Meeting: Special study session Meeting date: March 23, 2026 Written report: 4 Executive summary Title: Elections and voter services update Recommended action: None at this time. The purpose of this report is to share information regarding elections and voter services with the council. Policy consideration: None at this time. Summary: This report provides a comprehensive overview of recent election activity, voter feedback and preparations for the upcoming election cycle. It includes a recap of the 2024 and 2025 election cycles, highlights key voter and service delivery trends, summarizes results from the annual voter experience survey and outlines service priorities and areas of focus for the 2026 election cycle. Financial or budget considerations: None at this time. Funds related to the administration of elections are included in the 2026 budget. Strategic priority consideration: St. Louis Park is committed to creating opportunities to build social capital through community engagement. Supporting documents: None. Prepared by: Marcus Harris-Paul, elections specialist Reviewed by: Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Approved by: Kim Keller, city manager Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 2 Title: Elections and voter services update Discussion Participation trends in 2024 and 2025 election cycles 2024 election cycle: 2024 was a big year for elections in St. Louis Park and across the state. The city successfully administered three major elections throughout the year. A total of 47,687 voters participated, city hall was open 141 days for early voting and elections services, and the city experienced some of the highest participation rates in the county and state for all three elections. Detailed information about participation in each election in 2024 is provided below. In the 2024 presidential nomination primary (PNP), 5,898 voters cast a ballot in St. Louis Park. This means 18.2% of all registered voters in the city participated. Statewide turnout was 13.6%. Of those who voted in St. Louis Park, 1,062 participated before Election Day (absentee), which was 18.0% of all ballots cast. In St. Louis Park, 10,471 voters cast a ballot in the 2024 state primary election. This means 31.5% of all registered voters in the city participated. For comparison, the statewide turnout was 12.8%. Of those who voted in St. Louis Park, 3,035 participated before Election Day (absentee), which was 9.2% of all ballots cast. This was an increase from the 2022 state primary where 7.6% of all voters participated before Election Day and citywide turnout was almost identical at 31.6%. In the 2024 state general election, 31,318 voters cast a ballot in St. Louis Park. This means 84.1% of all registered voters in the city participated. Statewide, 76.4% of all eligible voters participated in the election. In St. Louis Park, 16,652 voters cast their ballot before Election Day (absentee), which represented 53.2% of all ballots cast. Except for the 2020 state general election, this was the highest rate of absentee voting we have seen for any election in the city. 2025 election cycle: In 2025, the city conducted one local election to elect ward city council and school board members. A total of 8,882 voters cast a ballot in the general election. This means 25.7% of all registered voters in the city participated, the city’s highest turnout in a local election since 1979. Of those who voted, 2,247 participated before Election Day (absentee), which was 25.3% of all ballots cast. The rate of participation before Election Day was the highest ever experienced in a local election in St. Louis Park. Participation trends summary: Overall, the voter participation rates and activity align with the goal of the city’s redistricting plan (adopted in 2022) to have more balanced turnout across the city’s four wards and projections that the rate of participation before Election Day would continue to increase, thereby reducing the volume of voters at each precinct on Election Day. Elections and voter services are structured, and resources are allocated, to support this level of activity and ensure services are accessible, efficient, sustainable and meet the needs of voters in the community. Whether people choose to vote before or on Election Day, the city is proud to have high participation rates and engaged voters. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 3 Title: Elections and voter services update Voter behavior and service trends Since 2016, the city has experienced a shift in how people choose to participate in elections. Changes in election law and expanded access to and promotion of early voting services have contributed to more voters participating before Election Day, either in-person at city hall or by mail. The city’s redistricting plan identified this trend and predicted continued expansion with some estimates marking anticipated early voting to represent roughly 60% of total votes cast in even-year elections. This trend has been confirmed through voter behavior. Many St. Louis Park voters continue to choose to vote before Election Day, demonstrating that they like and trust the city’s early in-person voting services. Voter registration trends in St. Louis Park From 2019 through 2025, the city averaged 32,220 registered voters annually. The most recent U.S. Census estimated that 41,300 residents in the city are age 18 and older. Assuming all adults in this category are eligible to vote, this suggests that approximately 78% of the city’s voting- age population is registered. In the 2024 presidential election, the U.S. Census Bureau estimated that 73.6% of the voting-age population in the country was registered to vote. Because an above-average percentage of voters in St. Louis Park are already registered to vote, the city’s outreach and education efforts related to voter registration are primarily focused on providing voters with information and resources to keep their registration status current. An above-average rate of registration also supports and benefits service levels on Election Day. Voters with current registrations generally spend less time at a polling place and can complete the voting process faster. This reduces demand on election workers and contributes to more manageable service levels. In St. Louis Park, the number of same-day registrations varies depending on the type of election and overall levels of participation. Avid voters are more likely to participate in all election types and have a high rate of registration. This means fewer voters in odd-year or primary elections need to utilize same-day registration services. The city averages a total of 408 same-day registrations in non-general elections, compared to an average of 2,636 same-day registrations Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 4 Title: Elections and voter services update during even-year general elections. Voters who need to register on Election Day also benefit from shorter lines and fewer people in a polling place at one time. Although their voting experience may be slightly longer, they generally are able to complete the voting process in 10- 15 minutes. This also reflects the value and impact of outreach and education efforts because voters who generally understand the registration process and are prepared to provide the required proof of residence can have more efficient voting experiences. Monitoring Voter Literacy For the purposes of this report, the term “voter literacy” refers to how well voters understand what is on their ballot and how to vote it. A consistent metric used to evaluate voter literacy is the rate of spoiled ballots in each election. A spoiled ballot is defined as a ballot returned to an election worker due to an error made by a voter. The voter can exchange the spoiled ballot for a new ballot before it has been cast (counted by a ballot counter). Examples of marking errors include voting for more candidates than allowed in a contest, ranking more than one candidate at the same position (first choice, second choice or third choice) in a ranked-choice contest, or voting for candidates of more than one major political party designation in a partisan primary. The rate of spoiled ballots can be used to evaluate how well voters understand the written instructions on their ballot, the rules for voting the ballot and the efficacy of the verbal instructions provided by elections workers when issuing ballots to voters. This is especially valuable in St. Louis Park because the city uses a different electoral method, ranked-choice voting, in local (odd-year) elections. To prepare voters, staff have carefully tested and designed a variety of resources and implemented procedures to maintain and enhance voter literacy in local elections. The statistically negligible rate of spoiled ballots demonstrates the efficacy of that work. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 5 Title: Elections and voter services update The chart above reflects the rate of spoiled ballots in each election as a function of total ballots cast. This means that elections staff tracks the total number of ballots exchanged by voters due to marking errors. For example, the spoiled ballot rate of 0.7% in the 2025 municipal election means that of the 8,882 ballots cast, there were a total of 62 instances in which a voter made an error in marking their ballot and exchanged it for a new one. Of the voters who exchanged a spoiled ballot for a new one, 100% were able to cast a ballot upon further instruction. The goal is to see relatively consistent rates of spoiled ballots across similar election types. Statistically significant spikes or deviations could indicate an issue with how well voters understand the rules for marking their ballot and would warrant possible service adjustments, primarily in areas within the city’s purview such as how election workers explain the rules for marking ballots to voters. The city does not, for example, have the authority to change the written instructions on ballots for statewide elections. That is set by and defined in statute. Historically, the election type that has the highest rate of spoiled ballots are state primary elections. This can largely be attributed to a specific rule for this type of election that prohibits cross-party voting on the partisan side of the ballot. Because the written instructions on the ballot are defined by statute for statewide elections, elections staff have focused efforts to improve voter literacy in primary elections on voter outreach and education and election worker training. Overall, the city has experienced a decrease in the rate of spoiled ballots over time as election worker training, election day procedures and voter education have evolved and aligned. Election workers are a key resource we rely on to effectively address and mitigate the rate of spoiled ballots. Their feedback has led to the implementation of refined resources and practices on Election Day. Their commitment to helping voters and providing consistent services is reflected in this metric. Voter service metrics Elections staff are committed to measuring the outcomes from programming as a regular practice to ensure that elections and voter services are accomplishing goals. Certain elections services provided by the city are required to be completed in a particular way in accordance Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 6 Title: Elections and voter services update with the law. The City of St. Louis Park has consistently set itself apart by taking these required services and more intentionally aligning them with strategic priorities and reflecting the city’s commitment to providing high quality and responsive services. In this way, measurement of elections and voter services falls into two important categories. First are the metrics and measures that review the election outcomes. These include some information previously discussed such as participation, registration or spoiled ballot rates, or other metrics such as specific vote totals for candidates or the total number of candidates running for office. Elections staff are careful to draw a clear line of distinction between their official role as election administrators and metrics of this type. While staff actively monitors and reports them, these metrics generally are considered best affected by the public. For instance, a candidate for office may seek to increase turnout for themselves or a member of their political party. Elections staff, in their administrative capacity, seek to ensure voters understand and are aware of the opportunity to vote and can participate safely and securely, but must remain strictly neutral on which candidate or party a voter may support. Elections staff must design and provide resources to serve all voters. This ensures public trust in the system and a fair and reliable outcome for each election. This distinction informs much of the strategy that staff have taken in advancing voter services beyond the required services in law. The second type of metrics are those that measure the experience of a voter. These are metrics that election staff actively track, monitor and work to maintain or improve. In 2021, elections staff initiated a voter survey process to collect baseline data primarily related to voter experience to give us more insight into what is happening when people vote in St. Louis Park and assess feelings about their overall voting experience. This survey is conducted annually in conjunction with each general election and is likely the only survey of its type in the state. Individuals voting in-person on Election Day or during the early voting period at city hall are asked to complete the Likert scale survey, which is a commonly accepted measure of preference. The rating system measures attitudes, opinions or behaviors by asking respondents to choose from a range of answer options to questions designed to measure overall experience. The survey breaks the data into several categories and asks voters to rate services on a five- point scale with five being the best experience they ever had and one being the worst experience. Data is then disaggregated by collected demographics and used to analyze service trends and identify opportunities for improvement because many of the ways to adapt or change services are under the direct influence of elections staff. One example of adapting voter service is language assistance. Language access is now part of Minnesota election law and requires that precincts that meet a certain threshold for non- English speakers must offer additional services. Although the city does not yet meet the established thresholds, feedback through the survey indicated that some voters casting ballots in the city do primarily speak a language other than English at home. This has informed outreach and education efforts and resulted in a focused recruitment of election workers with language skills, which is considered one of the best sources of direct translation as election workers are often a neighbor or live nearby. Additionally, elections staff have updated resources and practices to ensure that sample ballots and required signage translated into the three most commonly spoken languages are provided at each polling place in the city for every election. Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 7 Title: Elections and voter services update Below are the average overall satisfaction ratings since 2021. On a 5-point Likert scale, ratings of 3.41 – 4.20 represent a high level of satisfaction and ratings of 4.21 – 5.00 represent a very high level of satisfaction. Question: How was your overall voting experience? The data collected in the survey is used to help inform decision-making related to the management of elections and voter services, including voter outreach and education strategies, election worker training, facility management and operational procedures. While voters answer many questions on the survey, the overall voting experience rating is of particular interest because it measures how voters feel when they vote in St. Louis Park and represents all aspects of their experience from the service they received to the facility they visited. Since 2021, survey scores indicate that voters have a high to very high level of satisfaction with their overall experience and they value the election services provided by the city. This demonstrates the value of our election workers and their commitment to providing outstanding services to voters. It also reflects the efficacy of election worker training programs - and the operational strategies elections staff use to prepare for and conduct elections - in the city to meet the needs and expectations of voters. Voter behavior and service trends summary Recognizing that administering an election requires staff to manage many areas of responsibility, utilizing a data-informed approach to guide programs and services allows staff to prioritize needs and manage resources to ensure they are utilized in ways that will be impactful. The city’s goal remains to provide a structured, evidence-based model of elections and voter services. By doing so, the city can strategically and proactively offer programs and services designed to improve access to voting, meet voters where they are, and ensure they have the information and resources they need to participate in elections when and how they choose. 2026 election cycle preview Looking ahead to the 2026 election cycle, elections staff are focused on maintaining service reliability while responding to anticipated voter demand. Planned efforts include continued emphasis on strategic voter outreach and education, administrative preparedness and operational efficiency to ensure services are secure and accessible for voters. Voter outreach and education Consistent messaging helps residents make informed plans to vote. The city will continue to offer and build upon successful outreach and education strategies to ensure residents know when, where and what their options are to participate in the election cycle. Strategies include Year Average Rating 2021 4.2/5 2022 4.2/5 2023 4.4/5 2024 4.5/5 2025 4.4/5 Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 8 Title: Elections and voter services update providing a variety of print and digital resources along with direct outreach to maintain a consistent presence throughout the election cycle. Highlights include: • Print and digital versions of the 2026 pocket voter guide • Direct mailing of a dedicated, special election edition of the Park Perspective to all residential addresses • Voting 101 education series offered in collaboration with St. Louis Park Community Education • Weekly election-specific posts on social media during the election cycle, and • In-person outreach in spaces where community members are already gathering, such as community events and cultural celebrations so that information and services are delivered in familiar and accessible settings In addition to the above, elections staff conduct in-person voting services at nine (9) health care facilities in St. Louis Park, the highest number served by any city in Hennepin County. This service is offered in conjunction with the absentee voting period before every election. Elections staff also coordinate pop-up voting events at two senior-living facilities (Park Shore and Sholom Home West) because a significant need and gap in access to in-person voting services was identified at both locations through analysis of voter participation data. These specific locations house residents that do not qualify under current election law for standard healthcare facility voting services but would benefit from direct voting outreach. Pop-up events at these locations are required to be open to all eligible St. Louis Park voters. Comprehensive preparedness and resiliency As the election cycle progresses, the city remains committed to preparedness through a proactive and agile approach to build resiliency and respond to emerging needs. This framework focuses on reinforcing infrastructure and refining emergency response protocols. It is also vital to inform key stakeholders, such as voters and election workers, of existing practices and laws related to safety and security of elections and voter services while maintaining the flexibility to respond to rapid changes in the federal and state regulatory environments. The city’s core areas of focus in 2026 include: Election safety and physical security. This is a priority in every election and will remain so in preparations for the 2026 election cycle. A few examples of the work staff do to support this effort include: • Facility hardening: Conduct physical site assessments of election offices and polling places and refine and implement security plans and operational protocols. • Personnel protection: Implementation of de-escalation training for election workers and reinforcing established partnerships with local law enforcement and other partner agencies to address potential unauthorized activity. • Infrastructure resilience: Use of tamper-evident seals, secure ballot transport protocols, and continuous monitoring of ballot drop box. Cybersecurity and digital integrity: Maintaining awareness of and protecting the digital perimeter is critical as cyber threats become more sophisticated. A few examples of the work staff do in conjunction with partner agencies to support this effort include: Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 9 Title: Elections and voter services update • System audits: Regular testing of voting equipment and voter databases before and after every election. • Cyber hygiene: Require and enforce mandatory multi-factor authentication (MFA) and limited system access for all staff involved in handling of elections data. • Information sharing: Participation in state and regional training, information-sharing, planning and analysis efforts to evaluate and respond to credible intelligence and identify potential threats. Emergency response and contingency planning: Preparedness requires a community-focused approach to unexpected disruptions. A few examples of the work staff do in conjunction with partner agencies to support this effort include: • Scenario-based planning: Participation in "tabletop exercises" simulating events such as power outages, natural disasters (e.g., flooding or severe weather) and bomb threats to establish and maintain consistent emergency plans and protocols. • Relocation protocols: Established procedures for the rapid relocation of a polling place, including bipartisan teams to secure and transport ballots and equipment. • Site assessments: Conduct annual site assessments and maintain location-specific plans and emergency protocols for use by law enforcement and elections staff. Maintain agility in a changing landscape: The 2026 election cycle may include legislative shifts and federal policy changes. The city remains committed to being prepared to provide secure, efficient and reliable services to voters. To remain agile and responsive to emerging needs, the city will: • Monitor legislative changes: Track active bills that would change/impact existing laws related to voter eligibility and develop alternative protocols and procedures to maintain access to services and follow the requirements of election law. • Resource flexibility: Leverage existing resources and identify any emergent resource needs to implement required changes or fill gaps in required services. • Inform stakeholders: Combat misinformation and disinformation by communicating consistently and clearly with voters and election workers regarding known changes in state or federal election law that impact voter eligibility in the current election cycle. The city’s strategy is to communicate facts about elections and voter services to maintain public trust as a reliable resource for information on how, when and where to participate in elections. Election worker recruitment and training Election workers are fundamental to the success of the city’s elections and voter services. Every year, the city recruits, hires and trains hundreds of people to provide the safe, secure and efficient services voters rely on. In 2026, elections staff will continue to focus on ensuring staffing levels meet the anticipated needs at both the primary and general elections. Having well-staffed teams of election workers is key to providing quality services to voters. This includes taking steps to ensure workers are prepared to serve and understand their role. The city will continue to offer enhanced training programs for election workers and implement Special study session meeting of March 23, 2026 (Item No. 4) Page 10 Title: Elections and voter services update operational procedures that support service expectations and align with the requirements of election law. Minnesota election law outlines the minimum training requirements for election workers. Elections staff are responsible for training of election workers. This includes developing training curriculum and programs for those working on and/or before Election Day. The statutory requirements for training serve as a baseline. In practice, the city has made a concerted effort to offer opportunities to election workers that extend beyond the minimum requirements. Our training curriculum is designed to build and strengthen workers’ understanding of election law, technical proficiency and customer service skills. The city requires election workers to participate in training each year and provides customized training for election workers with varying levels of experience and those serving in specialized roles, ranging from first-time election workers to precinct leadership. To improve accessibility and retention, the city offers training in multiple formats including in-person sessions, virtual options and self-paced learning programs. By expanding both the scope and delivery of our training, elections staff aim to equip election workers with the knowledge and confidence to serve a wide spectrum of voters with varying needs. Precinct 12 Polling Place Change Each year, elections staff coordinate the use of facilities across the city to serve as polling places on Election Day. In 2026, there is one planned change to the facility used to service Precinct 12, located in Ward 4. The polling place currently designated to serve Precinct 12 is located at Westwood Lutheran Church. The church will be undergoing renovations and construction activity will not allow the facility to serve as a polling place this year. Elections staff evaluated options to service voters in Precinct 12 and will be relocating the polling place to Westwood Hills Nature Center (8300 W Franklin Ave) for both elections in 2026. Elections staff will take the necessary steps this spring to have the new location officially approved and then will begin the process of notifying voters and updating pertinent systems, supplies and resources for this year’s election.