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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - 2026/02/23APPROVED PROCEEDINGS OF THE MOUNDS VIEW CITY COUNCIL CITY OF MOUNDS VIEW RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA Regular Meeting February 23, 2026 Mounds View City Hall 2401 Mounds View Boulevard, Mounds View, MN 55112 6:00 P.M. 1. MEETING IS CALLED TO ORDER 2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 3. ROLL CALL: Clark, Gunn, Lindstrom, Meehlhause and Smith NOT PRESENT: None. 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA A. Monday, February 23, 2026, City Council Agenda. MOTION/SECOND: Clark/Smith. To Approve the Monday, February 23, 2026, agenda as presented. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 5. CONSENT AGENDA Council Member Clark asked to remove Item 5A. A. Approval of Minutes: February 9, 2026. B. Just and Correct Claims. C. Resolution 10212, Approving the Subscription Renewal for Flock Services to include License Plate Readers and Software. MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Gunn. To Approve the Consent Agenda as amended removing Item 5A. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. A. Approval of Minutes: February 9, 2026. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 2 Council Member Clark stated Page 8, Line 16 should read: Council Member Clark believed there was more the City could do to support its minority residents. She proposed the City pass a complimentary civil rights and non-discrimination ordinance to reinforce existing laws that support the City’s ongoing effort to discharge racial covenants from property deeds and formalize the City’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal protection for all residents. MOTION/SECOND: Clark/Meehlhause. To Approve the Minutes from February 9, 2026 as amended. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 6. SPECIAL ORDER OF BUSINESS A. 2025 Tubman Annual Report- Jennifer Dickinson. Jennifer Dickinson, Tubman representative, reviewed the Tubman annual report from 2025 with the City Council. She discussed how there was a growing need for food assistance at this time from the immigrant community. She thanked the City’s prosecutor and police department for their tremendous efforts on behalf of the community. Mayor Lindstrom noted there were a total of 377 advocacy services that were provided to Mounds View residents last year. Ms. Dickinson reported this was the case. She commented on the time that was spent on the different resources that were provided to residents. Mayor Lindstrom asked if the shelter had expanded, as was proposed last year. Ms. Dickinson reported the shelter was expanded and noted she was just waiting for final walk through and approval. She noted pets could now be accommodated in the shelter. Council Member Smith requested Ms. Dickinson provide staff with contact information on the pet shelter, noting she had someone who would be interested in providing pet food. B. 2025 MVPD Annual Report- Chief Zender. Police Chief Zender reviewed the 2025 Mounds View Police Department annual report with the City Council. He explained the annual report showcased the K-9 program. He discussed how K-9 Grizz and Niko had passed away and K-9 Ace had medically retired. He stated this left a huge hole in the departments K-9 unit. He indicated Officer Aase was willing to take on another dog and reported K-9 Brandi was doing a great job. He noted the department currently had 18 officers and two officers that were being backgrounded. He stated he would be working to fill the SRO position for next fall. He discussed the community outreach that was completed in the previous year, which included Night to Unite, Festival in the Park, and Veteran’s Day events. He reviewed the awards his officers received and noted he greatly appreciated the unveiling event that was held at the Tribute Park. He was proud to report that the police department collected 956 coats in the recent coat drive. He explained the City had 29 block parties for Night to Unite and a lot of positive interactions were held with the public. He then reviewed the calls for service for 2025, noting calls were up. He stated even being short staffed, his officers were remaining diligent and being proactive. He thanked the City Council for approving the Flock agreement and commented on the Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 3 numerous ways these cameras were helping the police department. He reviewed the training his officers received in the previous year and noted the department also received new sidearms. Council Member Gunn inquired when the second K-9 would be with the department. Police Chief Zender anticipated this would occur late spring. He noted Officer Kammerer would be taking this K-9 for the department. Council Member Smith asked if the portable speed signs were able to collect speed data. Police Chief Zender explained the two portable signs were able to collect speed data. Council Member Meehlhause thanked Police Chief Zender, Deputy Chief Hellpap and the four sergeants for their tremendous leadership and dedication to the community. A round of applause was offered by all in attendance. City Administrator Zikmund reported the police department has now gone five years without a loss time injury, which included over 51,000 calls and 1,200 physical arrests. He commended the police chief for his efforts and for having the right staff members in place. Mayor Lindstrom questioned if a CSO could become an SRO. Police Chief Zender explained he would prefer his SRO’s to be licensed police officers. Mayor Lindstrom inquired if the speed trailer had been retired. Police Chief Zender reported this was the case. Mayor Lindstrom requested the police chief speak to the data that was being collected by Flock, if it could be shared and how it was used by the department. Police Chief Zender stated if another agency wanted to use Flock data from Mounds View, a data request would have to be made, and the department would have to grant permission. He reported the department had a transfer portal on the website which explains who was using the department’s data and how it was being used. He noted the only request that has been made to date was from the BCA. He discussed how the data has been used to find a vulnerable adult and stolen vehicles. He indicated data security was of the utmost importance to the department. He reiterated that the federal government has not requested any data from the department and no data has been shared with the federal government. Council Member Meehlhause questioned how many neighboring communities had Flock cameras. Police Chief Zender reported Roseville, New Brighton, Columbia Heights, Fridley, Blaine, North Oaks, and St. Paul has Flock cameras. He indicated these cameras are proving to be a force multiplier, especially for departments that are currently short staffed. Mayor Lindstrom thanked Police Chief Zender and the entire police department for their integrity and diligent service to the community. He opened the meeting for comments or questions from the public. Sharon Kirscher, 8406 Red Oak Drive, questioned if the department was still following buses. Police Chief Zender indicated this was still being done but noted the previous problems have curtailed. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 4 Valerie Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, asked how many cameras the City had and inquired if the number was sufficient for the size of the community. Police Chief Zender reported the City currently has 10 fixed cameras and was looking at one flex camera that could be mounted at various spaces. He was of the opinion 10 cameras were sufficient for a community the size of Mounds View. Joe Knutson, 7948 Edgewood Drive, questioned who audits the Flock camera data. Police Chief Zender explained he and the deputy chief, along with an outside agency, ensured all the City’s data was in compliance with BCA requirements. He noted the audit would be posted on the City’s website once it was complete. He reported that the department was required to complete an audit on the Flock data and body camera data every two years. Tony Preciado, 8217 Long Lake Road, inquired how quickly the department was able to respond to issues that arise from a Flock camera hit. Police Chief Zender indicated the response time was as quick as getting a hit on your phone or running a license plate through NCIC. He estimated it only took seconds for officers to respond. 7. PUBLIC COMMENT Mayor Lindstrom encouraged the public to speak with kindness and respect when addressing the City Council during Public Comment. Vince Meyer, 8380 Spring Lake Road, reported citizens safety should be number one. He expressed concern with the issues at Ardan and Spring Lake Road. He reported the City was putting out band aids and he did not want to see a child run over. He requested the problems be fixed once and for all. Jean Strait, 7728 Knollwood Drive, thanked the City for the amazing partnership that has been created with Manna Market. She noted she had been volunteering with Manna Market and she appreciated the great work they were doing in the community. She appreciated the great work Ralph Reeder was doing in the community as well but understood Ralph Reeder could only help families once per month while Manna Market could help families once per week. She commented on how Manna Market went from helping 2,5000 families to 5,000 families in one week. She clarified for the record there was no Minnesota law that prohibited municipalities from partnering with faith-based organizations, but rather direct partnerships are common. She discussed how seniors and families function better and children can learn when they are properly fed. She thanked the Council for allowing her the opportunity to serve this community. Katie Born, 5060 Red Oak Drive, encouraged the City Council to extend the food distribution program. She noted that since November 2025 2,077 people have benefited from this program. She wanted to see the City protecting, serving and standing up for its neighbors which creates a strong community. She indicated her sons have been helping distribute food and she believed this was one small way the City can help those who were struggling at this time. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 5 Debra Sovano, 5093 Irondale Road, requested the Council hold a special emergency town hall meeting with City officials in attendance as well as police department officials for the purpose of allowing Mounds View residents to discuss how the last month of ICE efforts have impacted residents’ daily lives. She stated if the City is to survive the next three years, things have got to change, and government officials need to come together to work towards solutions. Ruth O’Hara, 5445 Jackson Drive, concurred with the previous speaker. Julia Wolf, 8065 Eastwood Road, reported she did not believe any more public funds should be provided to to Manna Market. She believed the food shelf in the community could provide food to people who are shut in. She noted the County and Second Harvest Food Shelf also have services available to help those who were struggling. She feared working with Manna Market was a conflict of interest and that working with this organization was not in the City’s best interest. Timothy Wood, 2501 Sherwood Road, explained 12.5% of the Mounds View population was below the poverty line. He stated the Manna Market was serving these people. Corrina Alivar, 2144 Dickinson, stated she lived in a community with 40 families that were benefiting from the Manna Market food distribution and noted this food was their life jacket right now. She reported she worked with Hispanic families and guided them to resources that were available. She noted many of these families were fearful at this time. She commented while there may be other resources available in the community, these families were hesitant to reach out for help. She explained Manna Market was greatly benefiting her community at this time. Joyce Jones-Strait, 7728 Knollwood Drive, explained two years ago that her wife was injured on the job and she has been in a critical financial position since that time. She noted her wife made more money than her even though she was a tenured teacher. She reported she has not paid her full mortgage in over two years. She commented there have been weeks where she makes the decision between paying the minimum payment for her mortgage or eating. She stated she was lucky because they were resourceful. She indicated that the Manna Market has been a gift to this community. She stated she works with a population of children that are largely of color and she sees the fear of ICE in them. She discussed how she and Jean volunteer at the Villas and explained that these individuals were extremely appreciative of the food distribution from Manna Market. She commented further on how the immigration efforts has created trauma in the community and people were really struggling at this time. (Unknown), 2199 Terrace Drive, explained she was lucky enough to be a delivery driver for a few weeks and noted this has been a profound experience for her. She indicated it would cost Mounds View residents $3.20 annually to continue the Manna Market program through the rest of the year and she supported the City Council continuing this program. Rebecca Scholl, 2467 Hillview Road, stated she has been working with Ralph Reeder, the high school and the library. She understood that some families were not eligible for Ralph Reeder because families had to apply and get paperwork. She indicated Ralph Reeder was only a solution for some families. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 6 Ms. O’Hara requested the Council expand the Manna Market food program. She appreciated how the residents of Mounds View took care of each other and were not pushing this responsibility off to the County. Ms. Strait commented she was looking for grants to assist with Manna Market and noted if she could be of further assistance she would. 8. COUNCIL BUSINESS A. Second Reading and Approval of Ordinance 1050, Amending the City of Mounds View Charter by Revising Language Related to Vacancies in Elected Office ROLL CALL VOTE. City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council adopt an Ordinance that would amend the City Charter by revising language related to vacancies in elected office. Mayor Lindstrom opened the public hearing at 7:07 p.m. Council Member Meehlhause provided an overview of why the Council pursued this charter amendment noting this would ensure the City Council would not have long term vacancies with a four-person Council. Joyce Jones-Strait, 7728 Knollwood Drive, thanked the Charter Commission for their efforts on this matter. Brian Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, thanked the City Council for working collaboratively with the Charter Commission on this issue. He noted the Charter Commission has an opening at this time and noted applications were being taken at this time for the vacant position. Hearing no further public input, Mayor Lindstrom closed the public hearing at 7:13 p.m. MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Gunn. To Waive the Second Reading and Adopt Ordinance 1050, Amending the City of Mounds View Charter by Revising Language Related to Vacancies in Elected Office and direct staff to publish an ordinance summary. Council Member Meehlhause thanked the Charter Commission for their work on this matter. ROLL CALL: Clark/Gunn/Meehlhause/Smith/Lindstrom. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. B. Amendment to the Comprehensive Plan (future Land Use Map), Zoning Map Amendment, and Subdivision Request located at 7687 Long Lake Road 1. Resolution 10214, Approving the Comprehensive Plan Amendment to Amend the Future Land Use Map Designation of 7687 Long Lake Road 2. Resolution 10215, Approving of a Preliminary Plat for a Subdivision of 7687 Long Lake Road Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 7 3. First Reading of Ordinance 1055, Rezoning the Property at 7687 Long Lake Road from R-1 (Single Family Residential) to ‘PUD’ (Planned Unit Development). Kribashini Moorthy, Stantec, stated the applicant, Hampton Companies, is proposing to develop a memory care and assisted living facility within the city. The applicant is working with the Sunrise United Methodist Church property to develop the facility on the southern half of the church’s property. The facility would, according to the applicant’s narrative, have 32 total suites/units - 20 suites/units with assisted living services and 12 suites/units with memory care services. The narrative also notes that “The assisted living residents will be able to enjoy a home-like atmosphere in a setting that allows them the freedom to participate in many amenities that not only help them in their daily care needs but also provide them with a higher quality of life than that offered in a more institutional setting. The memory care residents are provided with their own secured area of the building that has its own separate amenities like a congregate dining room sunroom, activity/craft area and a secure outdoor porch. These residents benefit from a life enrichment program that is specially designed for residents with Alzheimer’s and Dementia.” To develop the facility as proposed, the applicant’s team has submitted the following requests to the city: 1. A preliminary plat request. a. The proposed plat would split the existing parcel into two lots/parcels. The church would remain on the north parcel (shown on the preliminary plat as Lot 1), while the proposed development would occur on the south parcel (shown as Lot 2). 2. A request to amend the city’s Comprehensive Plan. a. The requested amendment would be to change the future land use designation of Lot 2 as “public/semi-public” to “mixed use”. 3. A rezoning request. a. The applicant requests to rezone the newly proposed parcel (Lot 2) as ‘PUD - Planned Unit Development’. Ms. Moorthy explained a preliminary plat is the first of two steps for a subdivision to occur; if the preliminary plat is approved, the applicant can request a final plat. A request to rezone a property is covered under Section 160.450; in addition, the procedures for a PUD are covered in Section 160.318. Comprehensive Plan Amendments are covered under Section 160.451. A Comprehensive Plan Amendment, if approved by the City Council, will then have to be approved by the Metropolitan Council. The following requests were reviewed by the Planning Commission at their 2/4/2026 and 2/18/2026 meetings. Staff commented further on the request and reported the Planning Commission recommended approval of the Comprehensive Plan Amendment, Rezoning to PUD and Preliminary Plat. Council Member Smith asked if the two separate lots would have two separate zonings. Ms. Moorthy reported this was the case, noting the church property would remain public/semi-public and the senior living facility property would be rezoned as PUD. MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Smith. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 10214, Approving the Comprehensive Plan Amendment to Amend the Future Land Use Map Designation of 7687 Long Lake Road. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 8 Council Member Meehlhause stated this was a great project for Mounds View and would bring a new type of senior housing to the community. He explained he supported this project moving forward. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. Brian Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, inquired if a park dedication fee would be collected for this subdivision. Assistant City Administrator Beeman reported the City Council opted to defer payment of the park dedication fees until the final plat is approved. MOTION/SECOND: Gunn/Clark. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 10215, Approving of a Preliminary Plat for a Subdivision of 7687 Long Lake Road. Council Member Smith requested the reference to Long Lake Drive be changed to Long Lake Road. Council Member Meehlhause commented on how the proposed subdivision and preliminary plat would take a tax-exempt property and put it back on the tax rolls, which would benefit the residents of Mounds View. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. MOTION/SECOND: Gunn/Meehlhause. To Waive the First Reading and Introduce Ordinance 1055, Rezoning the Property at 7687 Long Lake Road from R-1 (Single Family Residential) to ‘PUD’ (Planned Unit Development). Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. C. Resolution 10213, Approving the Proposal from Garland Company LLC for Roof Repairs at Groveland Park Building. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson requested the Council approve a proposal from Garland Company LLC for roof repairs for the Groveland Park building. He explained staff would use a third-party contractor to assist with this project. He reviewed the bids that were received and recommended the bid be awarded to Garland Company. Vince Meyer, 8380 Spring Lake Road, questioned why the City was not pursuing a Class 4 shingle when it will last 50 years instead of 30 years. He indicated the cost would only be 20% higher and would save the City money on insurance. Tony Presiado, 8217 Long Lake Road, asked why the maintenance department wasn’t replacing the roof. He questioned why the City was hiring this work out to a contractor. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 9 Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson explained he could investigate a Class 4 shingle and noted the maintenance department was deferring this roofing work to a professional. Mayor Lindstrom stated a metal roof would last forever and questioned if the City should investigate this. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson reported he could investigate this if direction was provided by the Council. Council Member Clark asked how often this building was rented. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson indicated this was one of the lowest rented buildings in the park system. Mayor Lindstrom inquired if the City would get another 30 years out of the building. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson stated the building as in great shape and noted the City would get another 30 years out of this building. Valerie Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, commented on residential homes, Minnesota insurance companies are not insuring homes with roofs for over 15 years, unless they are grandfathered in. Jean Strait, 7728 Knollwood Drive, explained she recently got a new roof and there were hail resistant shingles that the City could investigate. She commented she received a 23% decrease in her homeowners insurance this year and 50% last year. Mr. Meyer provided further information on the metal catches that must be installed with metal roofs to catch the snow over entrances. Council Member Meehlhause inquired if the City’s insurance rates would be impacted if the City were to pursue a metal roof. Finance Director Bauman reported that each of the City’s buildings are given a value by the League of Minnesota Cities and the values do not change if the roof is replaced. MOTION/SECOND: Clark/Meehlhause. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 10213, Approving the Proposal from Garland Company LLC for Roof Repairs at Groveland Park Building. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. D. Resolution 10216, Approving the Purchase of One (1) Replacement Dump Truck. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson requested the Council approve the purchase of one (1) replacement dump truck. He explained that the City purchased a 2011 Freightliner dump truck that was used for hauling materials, street maintenance and snow and ice control. He indicated dump trucks were replaced on a 15-year cycle, and this dump truck was due for replacement. He commented further on the new dump truck options and requested the Council approve the preordering of the dump truck noting the City would take possession in 2027. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 10 Council Member Smith asked how much it would cost the City to preorder the dump truck. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson indicated no funds would come out of the 2026 budget, noting the expense for the dump truck would come out of the 2027 budget. He explained by preordering the dump truck now, the City would lock in the current price. He commented further on how the life expectancy for the dump trucks may have to be extended going forward given the rising costs for these pieces of equipment. Mayor Lindstrom inquired if the $220,000 that was budgeted for the dump truck was based on the cost of a previous unit. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson stated the last dump truck purchased was $201,000 in 2011. Vince Meyer, 8380 Spring Lake Road, questioned if the City would receive a rebate if the tariffs go down between now and when the City takes receipt of the dump truck. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson explained he has not seen costs go down for this type of equipment. MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 10216, Approving the Purchase of One (1) Replacement Dump Truck. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. E. Resolution 10218 and First Reading of Ordinance 1056, Stewardship of Municipal Resources. City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council hold the first reading of an Ordinance regarding stewardship of municipal resources. He explained the amicus brief was making its way through the court based on the actions of the City Council from February 2. He reported the proposed Resolution and Ordinance were staff’s attempt to address the Council’s feedback from February 2. He then provided the City Council with a handout from the City Attorney. He reiterated that this was the First Reading of the Ordinance and the Council could provide staff with feedback and amendments could be made to the Ordinance prior to the Second Reading. Council Member Clark reported the direction from the City Attorney was to create a policy and refer to this policy within the Ordinance. City Administrator Zikmund reported this was the case. Council Member Clark recommended the definitions under staging operations within the Ordinance have the sentence end after the word personnel as this would eliminate the definition of federal immigration in staging operations. Council Member Gunn did not see the need for the change. Council Member Clark indicated she was proposing to make the definition more ambiguous. She did not want the Ordinance to speak to a single event. City Administrator Zikmund stated this was a reasonable language change. Council Member Smith stated if the words “for the purpose of enforcing civil immigration”, the City could be opened for no one being able to stage operations in Mounds View. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 11 Council Member Clark explained she was only proposing to change the definition within the Ordinance. Council Member Meehlhause and Council Member Gunn indicated they could support the proposed language change to the staging definition. Council Member Smith inquired if staff would be drafting the policy prior to the next Council meeting. City Administrator Zikmund reported this would be the case. Sharon Kirchner, 8406 Red Oak Drive, asked what was meant by stewardship of municipal properties. City Administrator Zikmund stated this was the legal phrasing that was provided by the City Attorney that means the City was stewards of its own property and this Ordinance states City property could not be used without the City’s permission for federal for the purpose of enforcing federal immigration laws except as authorized for the purpose of discriminating against any individuals for personal benefit for profit. Council Member Clark indicated if federal agents were found staging in a City park the process would be administrative through the courts. City Administrator Zikmund reported this was the case noting this would be a civil violation and not a criminal matter. Council Member Smith inquired if there would be fines attached to this violation. City Administrator Zikmund stated if the City were to receive a complaint the complaint would be forwarded to the City Attorney to bring civil action and damage claims could be brought forward. Tony Presiado, 8127 Long Lake Road, questioned if this Ordinance would have local officials arresting federal officials. Mayor Lindstrom reiterated this Ordinance did not speak to arresting anyone but rather created a civil violation for federal agents if they were to stage on City property. Brian Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, stated the federal government has responsibilities and those responsibilities include enforcing as many laws as they can and this was generating a lot of emotion in people. He indicated this was creating fear and terror in some individuals, while others were not feeling this fear or terror. He was of the opinion of the Council were to pass this Resolution and Ordinance it would be litigated because the language was twofaced. He did not want the City to waste money when this money could be used to help the very people who were at risk at this time. Council Member Smith questioned what kind of fees the City would be facing if several federal agents were to stage on a City property. City Administrator Zikmund reported the agents would have to be discriminating against protected classes, trying to profit or would have to be acting in a federal immigration capacity. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 12 MOTION/SECOND: Lindstrom/Gunn. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 10218, Affirming Community Values and City Action Related to Immigration Enforcement and Stewardship of City Resources. Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Smith) Motion carried. MOTION/SECOND: Lindstrom/Clark. To Waive the First Reading and Introduce Ordinance 1056, Stewardship of Municipal Resources as amended incorporating the suggestion from the City Attorney. Ayes – 4 Nay – 1 (Smith) Motion carried. F. Resolution 10217, Authorizing and Approving Funding for Manna Market Food Shelf Support. City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council authorize and approve funding for Manna Market food shelf support. He explained the Mayor requested he bring this item forward for Council consideration. Mayor Lindstrom stated the City has been paying $800 per week for the food which provided 300 boxes of food per week. He reported after speaking with Manna Market he was able to get this program funded for the rest of the year for $25,000. He discussed how partnering with the Ralph Reeder food shelf would not provide the same level of assistance to residents because they are only able to provide residents with food once a month. He reported the school district was very appreciative of the additional food support being offered through Manna Market. Council Member Clark reported this program began in November when SNAP benefits were lost. She indicated over 2,000 people have been served to date and noted 95% of those helped were at or below the poverty line. She explained that almost 300 families were being served each week, which included several seniors in the community and student at Pinewood. She stated she had seven teams and 50 volunteers were making this happen on a weekly basis. She was grateful the City was able to provide this service to the community. She clarified she attended Substance Church but noted she was not benefiting nor was the church benefiting from Manna Market, but rather the Manna Market just had space at the church. She noted she was happy to keep organizing the volunteers if the food relief were to continue. She provided further information on how the deliveries were made to individuals in the community. Council Member Gunn explained she volunteered at Pinewood and on Thursdays the front office looked like a major grocery store because food was being delivered for students to bring home for their families. While she understood the SNAP benefits had been reinstated, there were still trying to get caught up on their financials and she supported the City continuing with the Manna Market through the end of the year. Brian Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, reported he believed it was wonderful when neighbors helped neighbors. He indicated he was having a problem with the fact that Statute 465.039 states governing bodies can provide grants to non-profits and not donations. He stated the City was not Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 13 creating a grant program but rather was providing a donation to distribute food. He explained the City was spending a great deal of money on this, noting this was an unfunded expense and the budget has not been amended. He recommended the City create a grant program for funds to be issued to Manna Market. City Administrator Zikmund advised the City Attorney read from State Statute that this was one of the authorized expenditures. He noted non-profit food shelves were an approved municipal expense. Heather Schugard, 7984 Woodlawn Drive, explained she was proud of the great work the City has done to support the people in the City. She indicated she grew up in a family that relied on the food shelf for quite a while. She appreciated the fact the resources she was giving to the City was now being used to help others in need. She supported the City continuing the Manna Market funding through the end of the year. Mayor Lindstrom stated each of the Councilmembers has volunteered their time at the Manna Market because there was a need. Council Member Smith reviewed the comments she has received from the public noting some people were afraid to attend the Manna Market because they were afraid, they would be retaliated against. She indicated another resident let her know they would not receive boxes because they were unable to use the food that was being provided and were more in need of rice and flour. She further explained that she understood this was a pilot program. She supported the program continuing but recommended only deliveries be made to ensure the boxes were going to Mounds View residents. She explained Mounds View was the only City that has taken money out of its budget to provide food resources when the SNAP benefits were put on hold. Mayor Lindstrom stated there was such a large need at this time that he did not want to do away with the drive through option. Council Member Smith indicated she was concerned with the fact the City was providing services through taxpayers’ dollars to people outside the community. She understood people were coming through the drive through and they did not have a financial need and others were taking the food from the drive through and were taking it to another community to sell it. She supported the City finding a way to ensure the deliveries and drive through was offered only to Mounds View residents because taxpayer dollars were being used to fund the program. Council Member Clark reported the program was not allowed to discriminate as to who does or does not receive the food given how the program was funded. She explained the City would not be allowed to close the services off to just Mounds View residents, otherwise the City would have to pay full price for the food. Mayor Lindstrom discussed the cost for the box of food and stated he believed this was one of the best programs the City could offer to taxpayers because the food was being given directly back to taxpayers at a reduced rate. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 14 Council Member Smith explained she supported the City helping people but inquired if the Council could get something in writing from Manna Market that provides information on the actual number of people that have been served. Valerie Amundsen, 3048 Woodale Drive, reiterated her husband’s comment noting the Council should investigate the Statute that was referenced to ensure the City was following State Statute. While she applauded the efforts of the City, she suggested action on this item be tabled to ensure the City Attorney could review this matter. She recommended the City also investigate taking donations to help with providing food assistance to others versus this remaining a line item on the budget going forward. Council Member Meehlhause reported the City’s budget was roughly $8 million and $25,000 represented three-tenths of 1%. City Administrator Zikmund stated he received three emails prior to this meeting where the residents wanted their names in the record as a show of support for this Resolution. These residents were Caroline Bedford, Gina Atkins and Julia Franz. Council Member Smith recommended an end date be set within the Resolution. MOTION/SECOND: Meehlhause/Clark. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 10217, Authorizing and Approving Funding for Manna Market Food Shelf Support as amended setting an end date of December 31, 2026 and approving an increase to the General Fund Budget. Council Member Meehlhause explained he was comfortable approving this Resolution because it was reviewed by the City Attorney. Mayor Lindstrom called the question. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. G. Resolution 10219, For Safe and Stable Communities. City Administrator Zikmund requested the Council approve a Resolution that would have the City of Mounds joining the Safe and Stable Communities Coalition. He reported this group was started by suburban mayors to address the concerns of suburban communities from recent federal immigration enforcement efforts. He explained the coalition has over 30 cities and the fee to join the coalition was $1,500. MOTION/SECOND: Gunn/Meehlhause. To Waive the Reading and Adopt Resolution 10219, Authorizing the City to join For Safe and Stable Communities Coalition for a cost of up to $1,500. Ayes – 5 Nays – 0 Motion carried. 9. REPORTS A. Reports of Mayor and Council. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 15 Council Member Meehlhause stated on Tuesday, February 24 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Ramsey County would be hosting an event about the future of Silver Lake Road at the Mounds View Community Center. Council Member Meehlhause reported he received an email from Twin Cities Gateway informing him the city of Columbus was interested in joining the convention bureau. Council Member Meehlhause invited the public to attend the Second Annual Yard and Garden Expo at the Community Center on Saturday, March 7. He noted the Lions would have pulled pork sandwiches available at this event for an in-kind donation and the Mounds View Police Foundation would be hosting a bake sale. Council Member Meehlhause reported the Third Annual St. Patrick’s Day Event would be held at the Community Center on Friday, March 13, and the Lions would be selling a corn beef and cabbage dinner. Council Member Clark stated the Yard and Garden Expo would be held at the Community Center on Saturday, March 7 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. She discussed six different classes and vendors that would be offered at the event. Council Member Clark described the new Project Kindness program and commented on how this program served residents in the community. She thanked all the volunteers that were working to make this program possible. Council Member Smith invited the public to attend the fashion show at the Community Center on Tuesday, March 3 at 6:00 p.m. Council Member Smith explained she would be attending an airport commission meeting on Wednesday, March 4. Council Member Gunn reported she would be attending the Park and Rec meeting on Thursday, February 26. Council Member Gunn indicated the Mounds View Police Foundation would be meeting next on Tuesday, March 10 at 5:30 p.m. Mayor Lindstrom stated he attended the recent Community Engagement Committee meeting where the group discussed hosting a community movie or bowling event on Friday, March 27. Mayor Lindstrom explained the cannabis retail shop was moving forward. Council Member Clark reported El Novilla Alegre as now open for business. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 16 Mayor Lindstrom thanked all the residents who have been helping with the food distribution efforts. He stated he was very proud to see how the community has come together to help those in need at this time. B. Reports of Staff. Finance Director Bauman noted the audit was completed last week. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson reported the ice rinks were closed for the season. He noted the numbers for this season would be provided to the Council at a future meeting. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson explained Ramsey County would be seeking feedback on the Silver Lake Road corridor at an open house that would be hosted at the Mounds View Community Center on Tuesday, February 25. He noted this project would not be completed until 2027. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson reminded the Council a joint meeting would be held with the Park, Rec and Forestry Board on Thursday, April 23. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson commented on the cleanup events that would be held on Earth Day, which was Saturday, April 18. He noted Arbor Day would be held on Friday, April 24 where trees would be planted at Pinewood Elementary. Public Works/Parks and Recreation Director Peterson thanked his Executive Assistant Tracy Juell for her 35 years of dedicated service to the City of Mounds View. City Administrator Zikmund stated the new SBM Fire Station was proposed for the southwest corner of Main Street/CSAH 14 and Lexington Avenue. He reported this project was starting to move forward and the city of Blaine has hired a consultant that will do a space assessment study. He anticipated it would take at least three years before this fire station would be operational and would cost somewhere between $20 to $25 million. City Administrator Zikmund indicated he would not be able to attend the Monday, March 2 work session meeting. Police Chief Zender reported the polar plunge would be held on Saturday, February 28 at Lakeside Park in Blaine. 10. Next Council Work Session: Monday, March 2, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Next Council Meeting: Monday, March 9, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. Mounds View City Council February 23, 2026 Regular Meeting Page 17 11. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 p.m. Transcribed by: Heidi Guenther Minute Maker Secretarial