HomeMy WebLinkAbout04-29-2024 Council Speical Work Session MinutesLINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL WORK SESSION
MEETING MINUTES
DATE: April 29,,2024
TIME STARTED: 6:00 PM
TIME ENDED: 7:10 PM
MEMBERS PRESENT: Councilmembers, Lyden, Stoesz,, Cavegn, Ruhland, Mayor
Rafferty
Staff Members Present: City Administrator Sarah Cotton; Public Safety Director John Swenson;
Community Development Director Michael Grochala; City Planner Katie Larsen, Human
Resources Communication Manager Meg Sawyer, City Attorney, Jay Squires.
1. Setting the Agenda
The agenda was accepted as presented.
2. Discussion Regarding Potential Residential Development Moratorium.
Community Development Director Michael Grochala, reviewed a PowerPoint presentation
providing information on the following topics related to a potential residential development
moratorium:
• Sod Farm Area Development Proposals
• Project Location Map
• Water Supply Update
• Land Use
• Growth Projections
• Utility Staging
Grochala noted that at the April 1 work session, the City Council discussed the possible
consideration of a development moratorium in light of two potential projects proposed in
the northwest quadrant of the city noting concerns over water capacity and planning
considerations for the Main Street corridor.
Director Grochala spoke about the requirements of the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources (DNR) related to Water Appropriation Permits, as well as the ruling made by the
Ramsey County District Court concerning the groundwater management of White Bear Lake
and the Prairie Du Chien -Jordan Aquifer. The city is subject to a court order prohibiting the
issuance of new well permits or increases within a 5 mile radius of White Bear Lake unless
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certain conditions are met. He stated that the city is not close to running out of water.
Director Grochala discussed the replacement of Well 2 and the addition of Well 7 in the
future.
Director Grochala explained that 2040 Comprehensive Plan includes specific guidance for
Planning District 2; recommending a Master Plan for the Main Street corridor between
Sunset Avenue and Main Street.
City Attorney Jay Squires provided a brief update on the contested case hearings and
reviewed the statutory requirements regarding the imposition of a moratorium. Minnesota
Statute 462.355 authorizes cities to adopt a moratorium. A study must be conducted to
adopt a moratorium. The moratorium can be city-wide or in a specific area and can be
adopted for up to one year. Attorney Squires reviewed some of the procedural
requirements, including notice and public hearings.
Councilmember Cavegn asked if the existing White Bear Lake water study would be an
acceptable study for the moratorium. Attorney Squires stated typically the Council will
provide general guidance on the parameters of study, including the issues involving water
supply and planning.
Councilmember Ruhland made a statement regarding his proposal for a moratorium. His
concerns are centered around two major developments that will add thousands of new
homes to a gateway leading into Lino Lakes. Noting significant development interest,
Councilmember Ruhland is interested in public input and the creation of a master plan for
the northwest quadrant. He stated, "This moratorium isn't meant to stifle development, but
to ensure clarity, transparency, and thoughtful planning,"
City Attorney Jay Squires stated that during the moratorium process, there will be meetings
with the public, so they can provide feedback.
The Council agreed to move forward to prepare a draft interim ordinance (moratorium) for
the northwest quadrant of the City specific to residential development.
Councilmember Lyclen would also like to include more protection for the Rice Creek Chain
of Lakes.
Councilmember Cavegn was open to further discussion on the topic.
3. Notices and Communications
Councilmember Ruhland stated Anoka County Fire Protection Council adopted a budget.
4. Adjourn
The Special Work Session concluded at 7:10 PM.
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These minutes were considered and approved at the regular Council Meeting on June 10, 2024.
Hannah Lynch, City Clerk Ro of erty, Mayor