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Home My WebLink About12-08-25 - City Council Meeting MinutesLINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING MINUTES DATE: December 8, 2025 TIME STARTED: 6:30 PM TIME ENDED: 9:08 PM LOCATION: City Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Rafferty, Councilmembers Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz MEMBERS ABSENT: None Staff Members Present: Community Development Director Mike Grochala, City Clerk Roberta Colotti, Finance Director Tracy Thoma, Finance Consultant Kelly Horn, Human Resources and Communications Manager Meg Sawyer, Communications Specialist Andrea Turner, City Engineer Diane Hankee, City Planner Katie Larsen, Fire Chief Dan L'Allier, Fire Lieutenant Brian Finke and Police Sargeant Bob Strub. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Rafferty at 6:30 PM. SETTING THE AGENDA The agenda was approved as presented. SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS None PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Rafferty opened the public comment period. Cody Cook, Realtor, stated that he was representing a local land developer that had questions about the city code related to adult uses. It was noted that the planning department would be able to answer any zoning questions. Stephanie Falkers, 154 Pine Street, Lino Lakes, stated that she has a 13-acre property. She stated that her mother owns the property at 166 Pine Street. She stated that her property and her mother's property are within the area being considered fortonight's agenda Item #7C, Resolution No. 25-175, Approving Main Street Master Plan Comprehensive Plan Amendment. She stated that they appreciated staff adding notation to the draft document to move the phasing of their property up. She stated that currently she raises farm animals on her property, and she asked that this agricultural use be balanced with the future residential uses. She stated that she is not opposed to development, that she just wants to see the land value maintained and the ability to raise farm animals maintained. Page 1 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes Julia Nelson, 689 Oak Lake, Lino Lakes, stated that she would encourage the council to vote no on Item 7B, Lino Lakes Car Dealership and Offices. She stated that the proposed development area does not have the infrastructure needed for the development. She also has concerns about renting out the number of spaces proposed in the development plan. Paul Schwartz, 284 Otter Lake Road, Lino Lakes, stated that he also owns property at 180 Pine Street, and he agrees with the comments made by Stephanie Falkers regarding the comprehensive plan amendments. He stated that the staging of the development and utilities for their properties is important. Motion to close the public comment period at 6:40 p.m. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Ruhland SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None 1. CONSENT AGENDA A. Approval of Expenditures for December 8, 2025 (Check No. 124002 through 124090) in the Amount of $2,513,122.87 B. Approval of November 20, 2025, Canvass Board Meeting Minutes C. Approval of November 24, 2025, City Council Work Session Minutes D. Approval of November 24, 2025, City Council Meeting Minutes E. Approval of December 1, 2025, Closed Meeting Minutes F. Approval of December 1, 2025, City Council Work Session Minutes G. Approval of Resolution No. 25-167, Approving a Tobacco License for Lino Lakes Tobacco & Vape, Inc. H. Resolution 25-169, Establishing Precinct Polling and Absentee Voting Locations for the City of Lino Lakes Motion to Approve Consent Agenda Items 1A through 1H as presented. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Lyden SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None 2. FINANCE DEPARTMENT REPORT A. 2026 Final Budget and Levy Page 2 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes The Finance Director provided a report on the proposed 2026 budget and levy. She reported that the levy is designed to maintain essential city services and programs while addressing rising costs. It also reflects expanded staffing and coverage in both the Police and Fire Departments, following recommendations from the study conducted by Citygate Associates. The final report, delivered in April 2025, advised splitting the Public Safety Department into separate Police and Fire divisions, requiring additional staffing to strengthen coverage and supervision. The final proposed levy is $18,069,665. Key factors contributing to the 2026 levy increase include: • Expanded staffing and coverage in the Police and Fire Departments including increased wages for current personnel to protect competitiveness in recruitment and retention. • Street rehabilitation and reconstruction programs. • Replacement of essential capital equipment. Motion to Open the Public Hearing at 7:06 p.m. RESULT: CARRIED [5-01 MOVER: Lyden SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Public Hearing Comments Ken Kasprisin, 6025 Sargent Ct N, Lino Lakes, stated that he is not familiar with the Citygate study. He stated that he worked in government and the department managers always asked for more money. He stated that he doesn't know if the increase proposed today is to make up for past deficiencies, however, the 15.9 % increase proposed is too much. Mike Settimi, 1393 Hunters Ridge, Lino Lakes, stated that he didn't read in the reports how the city looked at reducing costs. He stated that, for example, a metro area corporation expects their staff to reduce costs by 10% every year. He asked if any consultants had reviewed if what the city is doing makes sense. He stated that the Rookery has lost money since the facility was purchased from the YMCA. He commented that city staff should not be provided with free membership. He stated that when the fire and police departments were combined into the Public Safety Department that made sense, but apparently that didn't work out. He suggested that the city look at cost efficiencies. Page 3 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes Jeff Johnson, 6965 Sunrise Drive, Lino Lakes, stated that he has seen a 25% increase in the city portion of taxes on his home. He questioned the number of city projects including the water treatment plant and planned public works building. He questioned how many of the city projects had construction cost increases over the original estimate. He questioned why the city didn't have a resource recovery program for used equipment such as generators and used fitness equipment from the Rookery. He noted that the city recently sold some fire vehicles for a cheap price. He noted the costs associated with operating the Rookery. Mr. Johnson stated that he had a separate item from the budget and levy to address, which is Item #713 — Lino Lakes Dealership and Offices, he stated that he does not have anything against a used car lot and that he would rather see that development then the farm next to the Legion, for which the city takes in limited revenue. He stated that he also doesn't have anything against the community garden, but the city spends a lot of money on that for 50 people, for something that doesn't benefit the rest of the community. Diane Lawrenance, 1835 77th Street East, Lino Lakes, stated that there are 10 homes on her block. She stated that she has a septic system and well, so she does not receive benefit from the municipal utilities. She stated that when she first moved in, she paid a park dedication fee, yet there isn't a park close to her home. She stated that her land value is impacted by a wetland and an electric line that has a non -buildable area below it. She stated that it may be more of a question for the Anoka County Assessor, but she is trying to understand the reasons for the increases in her property valuation. She commented that first responders, as outlined in the budget, are necessary. The Mayor requested that she provide her contact information to staff for a follow-up call regarding the questions raised and assessment process. Tim Lake, 6781 Shadow Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, stated that he is retired. He reviewed the increases in property taxes over the past several years. He reviewed the property valuation increases on his property as well. He stated that he does not believe the property valuation system is fair as his property is the same as others and yet, the value has gone up significantly. He stated that while inflation may be cited as a reason for increases in the budget, he believes it is because the city is doing more and more things and he does not believe those things bring additional value to him as a taxpayer. Katie Bowen, 2016 Otter Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, stated that she is speaking on behalf of her neighbors who live along the lake and have seen dramatic increases in property valuations by the Anoka County Assessor. She stated that her taxes based on the valuation of her home were $5,000 in 2020 and are now $10,000 in 2025. She stated that some of her neighbors are on a fixed income as they are retired. She asked when the increases were going to end. Page 4 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes Phil Korst, 6720 East Shadow Lake Drive, Lino Lakes, stated that he lives on a lake and the property valuation and tax increases are taxing him out of his home. He questioned why the city can't have a budget that either stays the same or decreases. He stated that he and the neighbors on his street do not use all of the goods and services that are provided by the city and included in the budget. Anne Simonson, 6897 Black Duck Lake, Lino Lakes, stated that she lives on a lake as well. She asked that the city push off some of the improvements or projects included in the budget to reduce costs. She stated that there are residents living on fixed incomes and the increase is a hardship. That the city should look at the impact of increase on the residents. Carol Featherstoe, 631, Andall Street, Lino Lakes, stated that she agrees with the statements of the prior speakers. She questioned the staffing levels for the fire and police departments and asked if the city had reviewed the number compared to cities of a similar size. She stated that while she is a member of the Rookery and enjoys going there, if it is losing money that it is not worth it as a taxpayer. She concluded by asking that in the future the City holds a public hearing, at a meeting prior to the meeting at which the vote is held. John Koch, 25 Glenview, Lino Lakes, reviewed the significant property valuation and property tax increases over the past several years. He stated that he does not feel that he gets much for his property tax dollars. He stated that the potholes on his street are rarely replaced or repaired and he has never had a new layer of blacktop on his street in 23 years. With notation, he is not asking for a new street with an assessment. He questioned why the city didn't put the storm water utility charge with the taxes. He stated that he does not have a storm sewer on his street and that the end of his driveway floods, yet he pays the storm water charge. Jackson Miller, 4019 Arrowhead Drive, Lino Lakes, thanked staff for preparing the PowerPoint and information presented this evening. He stated that as a resident receiving the Truth -In -Taxation statement showing a 15.9% increase he had sticker shock. He understands that the City Council has been working on the budget over the past year, however, he asked them to consider the impact on residents that are living on fixed incomes, and this increase can be hard to take on all at one time. The City Clerk presented a written statement submitted by Don and Jill Santanni, 6762 Ivywood Avenue, Lino Lakes, opposing a 16.9% tax increase. Citing the impact on those on a fixed income. Noting that taxes exceed mortgage payments for some property owners. Stating that additional rooftops have not resulted in lower taxes in Lino Lakes. And asking that the city find areas to cut the budget. Page 5 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes Motion to Close the Public Hearing at 7:35 p.m. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Cavegn SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Mayor Rafferty opened the floor to the Council and requested that the Finance Director provide information related to the public comments received. The Finance Director provided additional background information in response to the questions raised during the public comment period. Motion to Approve Resolution No. 25-173, Adopting the 2026 Final Budget and Levy. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Stoesz SECONDER: Cavegn AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None B. 2026-2030 Financial Plan Mayor Rafferty stated that the City is working to get to a AAA Bond Rating from the current AA Rating and the Financial Plan is part of that effort. Mayor Rafferty opened the public hearing at 7:57 p.m. No comments provided Motion to Close the Public Hearing at 7:58 p.m. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Ruhland SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Page 6 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes Motion to Approve Resolution No. 25-174, Accepting the 2026-2030 Financial Plan. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Stoesz SECONDER: Lyden AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None 3. ADMINISTRATION DEPARTMENT REPORT A. Part -Time Firefighter Appointment Motion to appoint Kyle Fleury to the Part -Time Firefighter position at Step 1 with a start date of January 6, 2026. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Ruhland SECONDER: Cavegn AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None B. Part -Time Firefighter Appointment Motion to appoint Breyden Kaeding to the Part -Time Firefither position at Step 1 with a start date of January 6, 2026. RESULT: MOVER: SECONDER: AYES: NAYS: CARRIED [5-0] Lyden Stoesz Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz None C. Paid On -Call Firefighter Appointment Motion to appoint Edward Enriquez as a Paid On -Call Firefighter at the Starting Step with a start date of January 6, 2026. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Cavegn SECONDER: Ruhland AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Page 7 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes 4. POLICE DEPARTMENT REPORT No Report 5. FIRE DEPARTMENT REPORT No Report 6. PUBLIC SERVICES DEPARTMENT REPORT A. Resolution No. 25-178 Northwest Water Supply Feasibility Study Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-178, Approving Northwest Water Supply Feasibility Study. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Ruhland SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None 7. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT REPORT A. Resolution 25-168 Waldoch Farm CUP Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-168 for Waldock Farm Agritourism Conditional Use Permit Amendment (8174 Lake Drive). KtJULI : LIAKKItU L:)-UJ MOVER: Ruhland SECONDER: Lyden AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None B. Lino Lakes Dealership and Office (7920 Lake Drive) i. Resolution No. 25-153, Motor Vehicle Sales Lot CUP Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-153, Approving Motor Vehicle Sales Lot Conditional Use Permit (with 36 vehicle sales spaces) RESULT: CARRIED [4-1] MOVER: Stoesz SECONDER: Cavegn AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: Lyden Page 8 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes ii. Resolution No. 25-154, Site Performance Agreement Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-154, Approving Site Improvement Performance Agreement. RESULT: CARRIED [4-1] MOVER: Stoesz SECONDER: Cavegn AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: Lyden C. Resolution No. 25-175, Main Street Master Plan Comp Plan Amendment Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-175. Approving Main Street Master Plan Comprehensive Plan Amendment, with the text amendment for three properties, as noted in the staff report. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Ruhland SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None D. Lake Amelia woods Easement Vacation i. Ord No. 20-25, Vacating Drainage and Utility Easement Motion to waive full reading of Ordinance No. 20-25, Vacating Drainage and Utility Easements on Lake Amelia Woods Final Plat RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Cavegn SECONDER: Ruhland AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Motion to provide Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance No. 20-25 Vacating Drainage and Utility Easements on Lake Amelia Woods Final Plat. RESULT: ------------- --- CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Cavegn SECONDER: Ruhland AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Roll Call Vote Page 9 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes ii. Resolution No. 25-177, Summary Publication Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-177 for Summary Publication. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Cavegn SECONDER: Ruhland AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Roll Call Vote E. Resolution No. 25-171, 2025 Street Rehabilitation Project Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-171, Approving Payment No. 4 and Final, 2025 Street Rehabilitation Project. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Cavegn SECONDER: Ruhland AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None F. Resolution No. 25-180, 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-180, Order Project, Approve the Plans and Specifications and Authorize the Ad for Bid, 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Lyden SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None G. Resolution No. 25-179, Town Center South Master Plan Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-179, Town Center South Master Plan, inclusive of the Rookery Plan. RESULT: CARRIED [5-0] MOVER: Ruhland SECONDER: Stoesz AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None Page 10 of 11 Lino Lakes City Council Minutes H. Resolution No. 25-176, Otter Lake Road Extension Improvement Project Motion to adopt Resolution No. 25-176, Authorizing the Acquisition of Certain Real Property Interests for the Otter Lake Road Extension Improvements Project by Eminent Domain. -- -- --- - - ------ ---- - - RESULT: CARRIED [5-01 MOVER: Cavegn SECONDER: Ruhland AYES: Rafferty, Cavegn, Lyden, Ruhland and Stoesz NAYS: None 8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS No Report 9. NEW BUSINESS No Report 10. NOTICES AND COMMUNICATIONS A. Planning & Zoning Board Meeting, December 10th at 6:30 p.m. B. Environmental Board Meeting, December 17th at 6:30 p.m. C. The December 22nd City Council Meeting has been canceled. D. City Hall will be closed for the upcoming Christmas and New Year's holidays. Please check the website for details. E. Recognition of Council Members Cavegn and Stoesz for their Service on the Council. ►_1D] fell] :1►1►ri14L 111 Mayor Rafferty adjourned the meeting at 9:08 p.m. These minutes were approved at the City Council Meeting on January 12, 2026. Roberta Colotti, CIVIC Rob afferty, City Clerk Mayor Page 11 of 11