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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024.07.15 CC Packet A. CALL TO ORDER B. ROLL CALL C. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. July 1, 2024, City Council Meeting E. APPROVAL OF AGENDA F. APPOINTMENTS/PRESENTATIONS 1. Approve Samson Walters Memorial Donation 2. Presentation of 2023 Audit Report – Jason Miller, Smith Schafer & Associates 3. Washington County Update on Highway 61 Visioning Study – Maddie Dahlheimer G. CONSENT AGENDA All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion and a roll call vote. If a member of the City Council or the public wishes to discuss an item, that item will be removed from the Consent Agenda and will be considered separately. 1. Approve Claims Roster 2. Approve Six-Month Performance Review for Accounting Clerk Jennifer Taylor 3. Approve Annual Performance Review for Public Works Worker Jeff Maas 4. Approve Appointment of Allysa Nadeau as Engineer on the Hugo Fire Department 5. Approve Resolution Appointing Election Judges for the Statewide Primary 6. Approve Special Event Permit for Louache Yang for Family Reunion on Saturday, July 20, 2024 7. Approve Special Event Permit for Wilson Tool Company Picnic on Friday and Saturday, August 9 and 10, 2024 8. Approve Temporary Liquor License for Hugo Lions Club for the Wilson Tool Picnic on August 10, 2024 9. Approve Purchase of Bandit 15XL Chipper for the Public Works Department 10. Approve Pay Request No. 2 to Dresel Contracting, Inc. for the 125th and Dellwood Ridge Street Project 11. Approve Pay Request No. 4 to C.W. Houle for Lift Station No. 12 Mayor: Tom Weidt Councilmembers: Becky Petryk, Ward 1 Phil Klein, Ward 2 Dave Strub, Ward 3 Mike Miron, Council at Large City Council Agenda Monday, July 15, 2024 Address: 14669 Fitzgerald Ave. N. Hugo, MN 55038 Phone: 651-762-6300 Website: www.ci.hugo.mn.us H. PUBLIC HEARING 1. Nothing Scheduled I. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Approve Solar Ordinance Text Amendment J. NEW BUSINESS 1. Nothing Scheduled K. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS 1. Nothing Scheduled L. COUNCIL PRESENTATIONS 1. Nothing Scheduled M. ADMINISTRATIVE PRESENTATIONS 1. Reminder – Commissioner Interviews on Monday, July 22, 2024 2. Schedule Glacial Hills Regional Trail Open House on Monday, July 29, 2024 3. Schedule National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 N. ADJOURNMENT BACKGROUND MEMO FOR THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING ON JULY 24, 2023 D.1 Approve of Minutes for the July 10, 2023, City Council Meeting Staff recommends Council approve the minutes for the City Council meeting on July 10, 2023, as presented. F.1 Approve Samson Walters Memorial Donation At their meeting of June 26, 2024, the Parks Commission recommended approval of a donation from the Mahtomedi Hockey Association (2023/2024 Junior Gold 16 team) in memory of Samson Walters. A memorial plaque and bench shall be installed in Diamond Point Park which is close to his home and a place he would often visit. Staff recommends Council accept the donation of a bench and plaque from the Mahtomedi Hockey Association. F.2 Presentation of 2023 Audit Report – Jason Miller, Smith Schafer & Associates Jason Miller from the independent accounting firm of Smith Schafer & Associates will present a recap of the audit of City finances for the 2023 fiscal year. The Council will listen to the presentation from Jason Miller after which questions will be taken. The audit report can be found on the City’s website at https://www.ci.hugo.mn.us/finance . City staff recommends Council formally accept the 2023 City Audit as recommended by Finance Director Anna Wobse F.3 Washington County Update on Highway 61 Visioning Study – Maddie Dahlheimer Washington County, MnDOT and the City of Hugo are partnering on a corridor visioning study of Highway 61. A traffic, land use, and engineering analysis along with community input has helped identify the long-range vision for the corridor that will be used to define future improvements and guide a potential jurisdictional transfer of the roadway from MnDOT to Washington County. The goals of the study include items such as evaluation of intersection improvements, defining access points, and determining right-of-way needs for the corridor for a possible expansion of the roadway. The study is at one of its final stages and Madeline Dahlheimer, from Washington County, will provide an update to the City Council on the overall process and outcomes, and will ask for input from the City Council. There is an open house scheduled for Thursday, August 15, 2024, from 4:30 pm to 6:30 pm at Hugo City Hall - Oneka Room. Staff recommends the City Council schedule this as a meeting. G. 1 Approve of Claims Staff recommends Council approve the Claims Roster as presented. G.2 Approve Six-Month Performance Review for Accounting Clerk Jennifer Taylor At its January 8, 2024, meeting, Council approved the hiring of Jennifer Taylor as the new Accounting Clerk with a starting date of January 29, 2024. According to the City’s Personnel Policy, all appointments for regular full-time employees are subject to a six-month training and evaluation period. Staff recommends Council approve the six-month performance review and removal of probationary status for Accounting Clerk Jennifer Taylor. G.3 Approve Annual Performance Review for Public Works Worker Jeff Maas Jeff Maas was hired by the City of Hugo on July 24, 2006, as a Public Works Worker. Public Works Director Scott Anderson recommends Council approve the annual performance review for Public Works Worker Jeff Maas. G.4 Approve Appointment of Allysa Nadeau as Engineer on the Hugo Fire Department Allysa Nadeau submitted a letter of interest in the Engineer position on the Fire Department. Chief Engineer Kaspszak and Deputy Chief Jensen conducted an interview with Allysa on June 27, 2024, and are recommending Allysa Nadeau fill the last open engineer position with a start date of August 1, 2024. Allysa has recently completed a Fire Apparatus Operator course put on by Century College, passed a state certification test, and has been with the fire department since December of 2021. Staff recommends Council approve the appointment of Allysa Nadeau as Engineer on the Fire Department. G.5 Approve Resolution Appointing Election Judges for the Statewide Primary Election on August 13, 2024 The Hugo City Council must pass a resolution approving the appointment of election judges for the Primary Election on August 13, 2024. Staff has prepared a resolution with a list of 56 judges who have signed up to work the Primary Election; however, all judges must first complete a two- hour training. Staff recommends Council approve the resolution appointing election judges for 2024 Primary Election pending their completion of training. G.6 Approve Special Event Permit for Louache Yang for Family Reunion on Saturday, July 20, 2024 Louache Yang has applied for a Special Event Permit for a family reunion to be held at Hanifl Fields on Saturday, July 20, 2024. Approximately 60 attendees are expected. The Hanifl Shelter has been rented from 7 a.m. to midnight for the event, and outdoor games and activities are planned. In addition, there will be food and alcohol and amplified sound outside of the building. Council approval is required for any event that serves alcohol, has amplified music, and extends after dusk. The applicant has paid the fee, submitted proof of insurance for liquor, and agreed to the conditions. Staff has confirmed there are no soccer events planned on the fields for that day. Staff recommends Council approve the Special Event Permit for the Louache Family Reunion subject to the conditions on the permit. G.7 Approve Special Event Permit for Wilson Tool Company Picnic on Friday and Saturday, August 9 and 10, 2024 Wilson Tool has applied for a Special Event Permit for their annual company picnic to be held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Hanifl Fields. This is a private event and free of charge to Wilson Tool employees and their families. There will be food, beer garden, and activities. Alcohol will be served and there will be amplified sound for announcements. In addition, this year they will hold a retiree bonfire for approximately 40-50 people on Friday night from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. that will include food, beer and seltzers, and music. Council approval is required for any event that serves alcohol, has amplified music, and attendance of over 200 people. Staff recommends Council approve the Special Event Permits for Wilson Tool’s company events. G.8 Approve Temporary Liquor License for Hugo Lions Club for the Wilson Tool Picnic on Saturday, August 10, 2024 The Hugo Lions Club has applied for a Temporary Liquor License to sell alcohol at the Wilson Tool Picnic on August 10, 2024. The Club has provided the completed application, application fee, and proof of Liquor Liability Insurance for the event. Staff recommends Council approve the Temporary Liquor License for the Wilson Tool Picnic on Saturday, August 10, 2024. G.9 Approve Purchase of Bandit 15XL Chipper for the Public Works Department The Hugo Public Works Department has been renting a chipper to use when doing tree trimming and/or removal of trees along public road rights-of-way. Recently, chippers have become less available to rent and prices of rental have increased. Staff had been looking at options to purchase a chipper, and money is included in the 2024 budget for this purchase. Staff would like to purchase a Bandit 15XP woodchipper using the Sourcewell Cooperative Contract, which is the equivalent to the Mn/DOT Cooperative Purchasing Venture assuring that the City will receive the best price available. Staff recommends Council approve the purchase of a Bandit 15XP woodchipper as outlined in the quote from Tri-State Bobcat in the amount of $64,586.80. G.10 Approve Pay Request No. 2 to Dresel Contracting, Inc. for the 125th and Dellwood Ridge Street Project Dresel Contracting, Inc. has submitted Pay Request No. 2 in the amount of $1,022,157.40 for work certified through June 30, 2024, on the 2024 125th Street/Dellwood Ridge Neighborhood Improvement Project. All the new storm sewer has been completed and concrete curbs have been installed along Heather Avenue and Upper Heather Avenue at this time. City staff has inspected the work and recommends Council approve the payment to Dresel Contracting, Inc. in the amount of $1,022,157.40. G.11 Approve Pay Request No. 4 to C.W. Houle for Lift Station No. 12 C.W. Houle, Inc. has submitted Pay Request No. 4 in the amount of $81,785.69 for work certified through June 30, 2024, on the Lift Station No. 12 Project. The lift station is substantially complete and operational at this time. Staff recommends Council approve payment to C.W. Houle, Inc. in the amount of $81,785.69 I.1 Approve Solar Ordinance Text Amendment The City Council enacted a moratorium on applications for solar farms at its May 20, 2024, meeting, and discussed the direction needed for the ordinance at its June 17, 2024, meeting. Several Councilmembers stated that they would like to gather public feedback on the prohibition of solar farms prior to restarting the ordinance review process that had been completed in 2023. The City Council directed staff to draft a text amendment that would prohibit solar farms within the city. With the Council’s direction, staff has drafted text amendments to Sec. 90-1 Definitions and Sec. 90-278(d) Solar Energy Systems that would prohibit solar farms within the city. The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing at its July 11, 2024, meeting and have a discussion based on the comments received and make a recommendation to the City Council. Staff will provide a written update to the City Council regarding the Planning Commission’s recommendation prior to the City Council meeting of July 15, 2024. Staff recommends that the City Council have a discussion based on the Planning Commission’s recommendation and provide direction to staff regarding the ordinance as it relates to solar farms. M.1 Reminder – Commissioner Interviews on Monday, July 22, 2024 Council has scheduled commissioner interviews for Monday, July 22. 2024 at 7 p.m. in the conference room at City Hall. M.2 Schedule Glacial Hills Regional Trail Open House on Monday, July 29, 2024 Washington County will be hosting an Open House on Monday, July 29 from 4:30-6:30 pm at City Hall. County staff will share the proposed trail alignment for public comment but there will be no formal presentation. Staff recommends Council schedule a meeting to attend the Glacial Hills Regional Trail Open House on Monday, July 29, 2024. M.3 Schedule National Night Out on Tuesday, August 6, 2024 National Night Out is an annual event designed to strengthen communities. In the past, Council has attended neighborhood parties along with Fire Department and Washington County Sheriff’s Office personnel. Staff recommends Council schedule a meeting to attend National Night Out events on Tuesday, August 6, 2024. N. Adjournment MINUTES City Council Meeting City Hall Council Chambers Monday, July 1, 2024 7:00 p.m. Call to Order Mayor Weidt called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. Roll Call and Pledge of Allegiance COUNCIL PRESENT: Klein, Miron, Petryk, Strub, Weidt COUNCIL ABSENT: None OTHERS PRESENT: City Administrator Bryan Bear, City Clerk Michele Lindau Approval of Minutes for the June 17, 2024, City Council Meeting Klein made motion, Miron seconded, to approve the minutes for the City Council Meeting held on June 17, 2024, as presented. All Ayes. Motion carried. Approval of Agenda Klein made motion, Petryk seconded, to approve the agenda as presented. All Ayes. Motion carried. Approval of Consent Agenda Petryk made motion, Strub seconded, to approve the following Consent Agenda. 1. Approve Claims Roster 2. Approve Hugo Firefighter’s Relief Association Request for Increase in Lump-Sum Pension 3. Approve Amendment to the Personnel Policy on Earned Safe and Sick Time 4. Approve Special Event Permit for the Hero Gravel Classic Bicycle Race on August 24, 2024 5. Approve Lawful Gambling Application to Conduct Excluded Bingo at the Northern Lights Car Show on September 15, 2024 6. Approve Authorization for Zoning Code Text Amendment as it relates to Egress Windows 7. Approve Proposal from Landform Professional Services, LLC for Residential Zoning Code Review and Update All Ayes. Motion carried. Council Meeting Minutes for July 1, 2024 Page 2 of 3 Approve Claims Roster Adoption of the Consent Agenda approved the Claims Roster as presented. Approve Hugo Firefighter’s Relief Association Request for Increase in Lump-Sum Pension   The Board of Trustees for the Hugo Firefighter’s Relief Association had formally requested City Council ratification of an increase of $500 per year of service in their lump-sum pension benefit. The Finance Department had reviewed this request and found it to be financially feasible and consistent with the Pension Fiscal Policy adopted in April 2012. Adoption of the Consent Agenda approved ratifying the Board of Trustees request for a $500 increase in their lump-sum pension benefit and corresponding change to their bylaws. Approve Amendment to the Personnel Policy on Earned Safe and Sick Time   In 2023 a new law was passed that required employers to provide employees with Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST). The new law became effective January 1, 2024, and applied to any employer with one or more employees and covered all employees including full-time, part-time, temporary, and paid-on-call firefighters. During the current Legislative Session several updates were made to the Earned Sick and Safe Time law including updating exclusions for the definition of employee. Effective May 25, 2024, the law provided exceptions for certain employees that perform certain functions, including paid-on-call and volunteer firefighters. The League of Minnesota Cities had spoken with the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry regarding accrued ESST hours for paid-on-call firefighters and was advised that employers may modify or change paid time off policies. Staff had revised the personnel policy to exclude paid- on-call firefighters from receiving ESST hours. Adoption of the Consent Agenda approved the revised Personnel Policy that includes the updated ESST law requirements. Approve Special Event Permit for the Hero Gravel Classic Bicycle Race on August 24, 2024 Fred Stori from the Chilkoot Velo Bike Club had applied for a Special Event Permit for the Hero Gravel Classic Bicycle Ride to be held on August 24, 2024. The event would be a 30- or 47- mile bicycle ride on gravel and paved roads beginning and ending at the Bavarian Hunter Gasthaus Restaurant in Stillwater. A Special Event Permit approved by Council was necessary because there may be over 200 people participating. Two hundred fifty riders were expected to attend this event. Adoption of the Consent Agenda approved the Special Event Permit for the Hero Gravel Classic Bicycle Race on August 24, 2024. Approve Lawful Gambling Application to Conduct Excluded Bingo at the Northern Lights Car Show on September 15, 2024 The Blacksmith Lounge had a Special Event Permit for the Northern Lights Car show to be held on Sunday, September 15, 2024. As part of the event, the Northern Lights Car Club had applied for a lawful gambling permit to conduct excluded bingo. The application needed to be approved by the City prior to submittal to the Gambling Control Board. Adoption of the Consent Agenda approved the Application to Conduct Excluded Bingo at the Northern Lights Car Show on September 15, 2024. Council Meeting Minutes for July 1, 2024 Page 3 of 3 Approve Authorization for Zoning Code Text Amendment as it relates to Egress Windows Sec. 90-47 (1)(b) Exceptions to yard regulations allowed for window wells, also known as egress windows, to extend into the required minimum side yard setback a distance not exceeding two feet. However, State building code requires window wells to have a depth of three feet. Staff had requesting authorization to draft a text amendment that would allow egress windows to extend into the required minimum side yard setback a distance not exceeding three feet, in order to allow for egress windows to meet building code requirements on houses that are constructed at the required side yard setback line. Adoption of the Consent Agenda approved drafting a text amendment to the Zoning Code for egress windows. Approve Proposal from Landform Professional Services, LLC for Residential Zoning Code Review and Update The Planning Commission and City Council identified the following as goals for 2024: “discuss zoning language and geographic considerations for high density residential apartment projects in the city”, “evaluate and consider adoption of a mixed-use zoning ordinance”, and “evaluate and consider revisions to residential zoning district regulations”. The 2024 Planning and Zoning budget included an item for Consulting Assistance – Apartments & Mixed-Use Ordinances at $65,000. At its January 8, 2024, meeting the City Council approved the appointment of Landform Professional Services, LLC as City Planner. On June 14, 2024, Landform submitted a proposal to evaluate and update the City’s residential zoning code. The proposal has a timeline of nine months and an estimated cost of $57,378. Adoption of the Consent Agenda approved the proposal from Landform to review and update the residential zoning code. Schedule Midyear Budget Workshop for Thursday, August 29, 2024 City Administrator Bryan Bear recommended Council schedule the Midyear Budget Workshop for Thursday, August 29, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Miron made motion, Klein seconded, to schedule the Midyear Budget Workshop for Thursday, August 29, 2024. All Ayes. Motion carried. Adjournment Klein made motion, Miron seconded, to adjourn at 7:04 p.m. All Ayes. Motion carried. Respectfully Submitted, Michele Lindau, City Clerk Members of American Institute of CPAs, Private Companies Practice Section, Minnesota Society of CPAs Member of PrimeGlobal, A Global Association of Independent Accounting Firms                                                                                                       Minneapolis Office • 7500 Olson Memorial Highway 55 • Suite 350 • Minneapolis, MN 55427 • PH (952) 920‐1455 • FAX (952) 920‐6603  Offices in: Red Wing and Rochester • www.smithschafer.com  June 26, 2024 Honorable Mayor and City Council City of Hugo 14669 Fitzgerald Avenue North Hugo, Minnesota 55038 We have audited the financial statements of City of Hugo as of and for the year ended December 31, 2023, and have issued our report thereon dated June 26, 2024. Professional standards require that we advise you of the following matters relating to our audit. Our Responsibility in Relation to the Financial Statement Audit and Single Audit As stated in our engagement letter dated January 31, 2024, we are responsible for conducting our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAS), Government Auditing Standards of the Comptroller General of the United States of America, the requirements of the Single Audit Act, as amended; and the provisions of the audit requirements of Title 2 U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 200, Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (Uniform Guidance), for the purpose of forming and expressing opinions on the financial statements, and on major federal award program compliance. Our audits do not relieve you or management of your respective responsibilities. Our responsibility, as prescribed by professional standards, is to plan and perform our audit to obtain reasonable, rather than absolute, assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit of financial statements includes consideration of the system of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, as part of our audit, we considered the system of internal control of City of Hugo solely for the purpose of determining our audit procedures and not to provide any assurance concerning such internal control. Our responsibility as it relates to the schedule of expenditures of federal awards is to evaluate its presentation for the purpose of forming and expressing an opinion as to whether it is presented fairly in all material respects in relation to the financial statements as a whole. Our responsibility as it relates to other supplementary information, is to evaluate its presentation for the purpose of forming and expressing an opinion as to whether the information is fairly stated in all material respects in relation to the financial statements as a whole. Our audits included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements; therefore, our audit involved judgment about the number of transactions to be examined and the areas to be tested. Our audit procedures also included determining major federal programs and performing the applicable procedures described in the U.S. Office of Management and Budget OMB Compliance Supplement for the types of compliance requirements that could have a direct and material effect on each of the entity’s major programs. City of Hugo Page 2 Our Responsibility in Relation to the Financial Statement Audit and Single Audit (continued) Because of the inherent limitations of an audit, together with the inherent limitations of internal control, an unavoidable risk that some material misstatements or material noncompliance may not be detected exists, even though the audit is properly planned and performed in accordance with U.S. GAAS, Government Auditing Standards of the Comptroller General of the United States of America, the requirements of the Single Audit Act, as amended; and the provisions of the Uniform Guidance. We are also responsible for communicating significant matters related to the audit that are, in our professional judgment, relevant to your responsibilities in overseeing the financial reporting process. However, we are not required to design procedures for the purpose of identifying other matters to communicate to you. Planned Scope and Timing of the Audit We conducted our audit consistent with the planned scope and timing we previously communicated to you. Compliance with All Ethics Requirements Regarding Independence The engagement team, others in our firm, as appropriate, our firm, and our network firms have complied with all relevant ethical requirements regarding independence. Significant Risks Identified We have identified the following significant risks: Management override of controls, which requires special audit consideration due to the potential magnitude of misstatement. Qualitative Aspects of the Entity’s Significant Accounting Practices Significant Accounting Policies Management has the responsibility to select and use appropriate accounting policies. A summary of the significant accounting policies adopted by the District is included in Note 1 to the financial statements. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, the City implemented Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Statement No. 96, Subscription-Based Information Technology Arrangements, during the year ended December 31, 2023. No matters have come to our attention that would require us, under professional standards, to inform you about (1) the methods used to account for significant unusual transactions and (2) the effect of significant accounting policies in controversial or emerging areas for which there is a lack of authoritative guidance or consensus. City of Hugo Page 3 Qualitative Aspects of the Entity’s Significant Accounting Practices (continued) Significant Accounting Estimates and Related Disclosures Accounting estimates and related disclosures are an integral part of the financial statements prepared by management and are based on management’s current judgments. Those judgments are normally based on knowledge and experience about past and current events and assumptions about future events. Certain accounting estimates are particularly sensitive because of their significance to the financial statements and because of the possibility that future events affecting them may differ markedly from management’s current judgments. The most sensitive accounting estimates affecting the financial statements are: Net Pension Liability and Asset Management’s estimate of the net pension liability and asset are actuarially determined. We have evaluated the estimates used in the actuarial studies and determined they were reasonable in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole and in relation to the applicable opinion units. Depreciation of Capital Assets Management’s estimate of the useful life of purchased, constructed or contributed capital assets is based on the estimated productive life of these assets. We evaluated key factors and assumptions used to develop the estimated useful lives assigned to capital assets and determined that it is reasonable in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole and in relation to the applicable opinion units. Financial Statement Disclosures The financial statement disclosures are neutral, consistent and clear. Significant Difficulties Encountered during the Audit We encountered no significant difficulties in dealing with management relating to the performance of the audit. Uncorrected and Corrected Misstatements For purposes of this communication, professional standards also require us to accumulate all known and likely misstatements identified during the audit, other than those that we believe are trivial, and communicate them to the appropriate level of management. Further, professional standards require us to also communicate the effect of uncorrected misstatements related to prior periods on the relevant classes of transactions, account balances or disclosures, and the financial statements as a whole and each applicable opinion unit. The attached schedule summarizes uncorrected financial statement misstatements whose effects in the current and prior periods, as determined by management, are immaterial, both individually and in the aggregate, to the financial statements taken as a whole. Uncorrected misstatements or matters underlying those uncorrected misstatements could potentially cause future-period financial statements to be materially misstated, even though the uncorrected misstatements are immaterial to the financial statements currently under audit. City of Hugo Page 4 Disagreements with Management For purposes of this letter, professional standards define a disagreement with management as a matter, whether or not resolved to our satisfaction, concerning a financial accounting, reporting, or auditing matter, which could be significant City of Hugo’s financial statements or the auditor’s report. No such disagreements arose during the course of the audit. Representations Requested from Management We have requested certain written representations from management, which are included in our separate letter dated June 26, 2024. Management’s Consultations with Other Accountants In some cases, management may decide to consult with other accountants about auditing and accounting matters. Management informed us that, and to our knowledge, there were no consultations with other accountants regarding auditing and accounting matters. Other Significant Matters, Findings, or Issues In the normal course of our professional association with City of Hugo, we generally discuss a variety of matters, including the application of accounting principles and auditing standards, significant events or transactions that occurred during the year, operating and regulatory conditions affecting the entity, and operational plans and strategies that may affect the risks of material misstatement. None of the matters discussed resulted in a condition to our retention as City of Hugo’s auditors. Restriction on Use This information is intended solely for the use of the honorable mayor and city council, and management of City of Hugo, and is not intended to be, and should not be, used by anyone other than these specified parties. Very truly yours, Smith, Schafer & Associates, LTDClient:City of HugoYear End:December 31, 2023Schedule of Passed AdjustmentsCurrent Other Current Other Net Ending Beginning Workpaper Assets Assets Liabilities Liabilities Income Net Position Net PositionReference Description of Passed Adjustment2330.20Record lease asset and liability(11,001) (11,001) Total Passed Adjustments (11,001) - (11,001) - - - - PASSED ADJUSTMENTS ARE IMMATERIAL INDIVIDUALLY AND IN AGGREGATE.Amount is Overstated (Understated)Conclusion KIRKWOOD FAMILY, 9940 JUSTEN TRAIL N, MAHTOMEDI, MN 55115 T (651) 315-5040 Mahtomedi Youth Hockey Association June 17, 2024 Hugo City Hall 14669 Fitzgerald Ave N Hugo, MN 55038 Shayla Denaway, City of Hugo & The Hugo Parks Commission: The Mahtomedi Hockey Association and the 2023/24 Mahtomedi Junior Gold 16 team would like to donate a memorial to their team mate, Samson Walters who died December 2, 2023 following a tragic accident on his drive to school. Samson Walters had just started his second season on the Mahtomedi Junior Gold 16 team along with 4 other returning players and 14 new team members. He brought so much energy to the team with his contagious smile, his music selections and accompanying dance moves always on display. Samson was greatly missed on the ice this season, but was never forgotten. On the day of his passing, the team had their first game, celebrating his memory with patches donated by the Cottage Grove JG16 team, a 9 stick solute at center ice, and played the first shift with just the 4 returning team members, leaving a spot for Samson. They carried his jersey through every handshake line, displayed his jersey on the bench, and ended every single game this year with a huddle at center ice to say a prayer to Samson, sometimes with the help of the opposing team. The team finished the season with 18 wins – 1 loss – 5 ties, 2 first place and a 3rd place tournament finish, and ultimately won the MN State Championship. In April, the MN Wild 2 recognized the State Tournament Champions and Samson’s Jersey was hung in the arena on the stadium wall. To carry on his memory, the team and the broader Mahtomedi Hockey Association would like to donate a memorial bench and plaque to Diamond Park in Hugo. This park is located very close to Samson’s home, a place he visited often with his brother Gabe. We hope that the family and friends of Samson will be able to enjoy nature while sitting at the park and remember not only him, but how life is an adventure to be enjoyed, and sometimes too short. Sincerely, The 23/24 Mahtomedi Junior Gold 16 Team The Mahtomedi Youth Hockey Association 3 City of Hugo Claims July 15, 2024 G. 1 Vendor Invoice Amount Description Department Abdo Financial Solutions LLC 493411 2,850.00$ Accounting Assistance Finance Dept Amazon Capital Services 1KG1-39JD-HF9P 177.98$ Pump Sprayers (2) Street Dept Anderson, Scott CLAIM 189.99$ Work Boot Reimbursement Public Works Atlas Copco Compressors LLC 1124061106 537.50$ Compressor Repairs Public Works AutoNation Inc 470910 334.83$ Parts - Unit #115-12 Street Dept Baseline Irrigation Solutions Inc 15332-2024 2,928.00$ 1 Year Renewal - Irrigation Controllers Online Service Parks Dept Blaine Brothers Inc 80001820232 4,035.52$ Rear Suspension Upgrades - Unit #6109-24 Fire Dept CDW Government Inc RT45032 132.00$ UPS Backup for SCADA System Water Utility Century College 784327 460.00$ FFI/FFII Textbooks (2) Fire Dept Century College 1234749 1,200.00$ FFI Course - Anderson Fire Dept Century College 1234749 545.00$ HazMat Course - Anderson Fire Dept Century College 1234749 1,200.00$ FFI Course - DeLarosa Fire Dept Century College 1234749 545.00$ HazMat Course - DeLarosa Fire Dept Century Link 651 429-3212 72.35$ Fire Station Phone Lines Fire Dept Comcast 6/12/2024 25.13$ Business Cable (thru July 21) Administration Cummins Sales and Service E4-52632 315.89$ Quarterly Generator Maintenance Public Works Electro Watchman Inc 422987 352.50$ Garage Door Access Control System Repair Public Works Emergency Apparatus Maintenance Inc 132285 436.05$ Repairs - Unit #6103-06 Fire Dept Excel AV Group SI-154525 27.00$ Audio System Repair - Council Chambers Audio/Video Gene's Disposal Service Inc 504569 3,085.88$ Trash & Appliance Removal - Cleanup Day Recycling Gene's Disposal Service Inc 506434 114.71$ July Waste Hauling - City Hall Gen Gov't Bldgs Gene's Disposal Service Inc 506434 243.85$ July Waste Hauling - Fire Station Fire Dept Gene's Disposal Service Inc 506434 1,119.71$ July Waste Hauling - PW Facility Public Works Gene's Disposal Service Inc 506434 239.49$ July Waste Hauling - Rice Lake Room Gen Gov't Bldgs Gene's Disposal Service Inc 506434 348.21$ July Waste Hauling - Lions Park Parks Dept Gene's Disposal Service Inc 506434 285.09$ July Waste Hauling - Hanifl Fields Parks Dept Govt Finance Officers Assn 20985 460.00$ 2023 ACFR Review Fees Finance Dept Grainger 9158841198 123.90$ Bench Grinder Fire Dept Hawkins Inc 6791320 224.91$ Water Chemicals Water Utility Heiman Fire Equipment, Inc 0932905-IN 2,289.50$ Wildland Coats & Pants (2 Sets) Fire Dept Home Depot Credit Services 1523621 135.76$ Trash Bags Parks Dept Home Depot Credit Services 1523621 41.93$ Pruner & Tools Parks Dept Home Depot Credit Services 3011910 526.40$ Tools - Unit #122-24 Water & Sewer Home Depot Credit Services 5012346 29.94$ Shop Supplies Public Works Home Depot Credit Services 5012346 17.14$ Cleaning Supplies Public Works Innovative Office Solutions LLC IN4574237 48.23$ Trash Can Liners - Hanifl Parks Dept Innovative Office Solutions LLC IN4574237 35.84$ Restroom Supplies - Hanifl Parks Dept Innovative Office Solutions LLC IN4574237 13.00$ Pens Public Works Jefferson Fire & Safety Inc IN315686 330.80$ Night Stick Helmet Lights Fire Dept Kath Fuel Oil Service Co. 12320094 8,951.64$ June Unleaded Gas & Diesel Purchases Various Killmer Electric Co Inc W23119 404.00$ Traffic Signal Repair (147th/Hwy 61) Street Dept Klein, Lori 906395 1,295.00$ June Cleaning Services (PPP) Parks Dept Laughlin's Pest Control 65235 97.75$ June Pest Control Service Gen Gov't Bldgs Lincoln National Life Insurance Co. July 1,183.66$ Disability Premium Finance Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251717 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Oakshore Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251718 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Oneka Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251719 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Beaver Ponds Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251720 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Diamond Point Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251721 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Frog Hollow Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251722 256.00$ Toilet Rental - Hanifl Park West Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251723 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Valjean Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251724 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Arbre Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251725 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Heritage Ponds Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251726 128.00$ Toilet Rental - McCollar Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251727 128.00$ Toilet Rental - Arcand Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251728 68.00$ Toilet Rental - Irish Ave Park Parks Dept LRS Portables of Minnesota MP251729 256.00$ Toilet Rental - Hanifl Park East Parks Dept Marco INV12674768 55.31$ July Copier Maintenance Building Inspections Menards 34170 16.18$ Fire Department Supplies Fire Dept Menards 36731 56.64$ Safety Supplies Public Works Menards 36731 24.96$ Insect Repellent Public Works Menards 36731 18.81$ Wasp & Hornet Spray Parks Dept Menards 36889 175.96$ Wheelbarrow Parts Public Works Menards 36889 155.96$ Weeding Forks & Pruners Parks Dept Menards 36889 28.34$ Lumber - Unit #118-22 Parks Dept Menards 36889 28.34$ Lumber - Unit #110-16 Parks Dept Menards 36979 2,302.31$ HFD Kitchen Remodel - Appliances Fire Dept Menards 36979 358.98$ HFD Kitchen Remodel - Supplies Fire Dept Menards 37271 148.08$ HFD Kitchen Remodel - Supplies Fire Dept Page 1 City of Hugo Claims July 15, 2024 G. 1 Vendor Invoice Amount Description Department Metro-INET 2063 764.09$ Wifi Access Point - Fire Station Fire Dept Minnesota Cleaning Services Inc 0724HH01 605.00$ June Cleaning Services Gen Gov't Bldgs Minnesota Cleaning Services Inc 0724HH01 100.00$ June Cleaning Services - Hanifl Parks Dept Minnesota Cleaning Services Inc 0724HH01 741.00$ June Cleaning Services - PW Facility Public Works Minnesota Cleaning Services Inc 0724HH01 450.00$ June Cleaning Services Fire Dept Minnesota Cleaning Services Inc 0724HH01 247.00$ June Cleaning Services - Rice Lake Room Gen Gov't Bldgs MN Dept of Transportation P00018672 410.50$ Bituminous Inspection - Dellwoood Ridge & 125th Street Imp Street Reconstruction MN Fire Service Certification Board 12895 136.50$ Fire Instructor II Certification Exam - Palmquist Fire Dept MN Fire Service Certification Board 12923 126.00$ Fire Officer I Certification Exam - Palmquist Fire Dept MN Fire Service Certification Board 12935 152.25$ Fire Apparatus Operator Certification Exam - C. Albertson Fire Dept MN Fire Service Certification Board 12935 152.25$ Fire Apparatus Operator Certification Exam - D. Albertson Fire Dept MN Fire Service Certification Board 12935 152.25$ Fire Apparatus Operator Certification Exam - S. Albertson Fire Dept MN Fire Service Certification Board 12935 152.25$ Fire Apparatus Operator Certification Exam - Nadeau Fire Dept MN Fire Service Certification Board 12935 152.25$ Fire Apparatus Operator Certification Exam - Verplaetse Fire Dept NAC Mechanical Corp 226518 934.54$ HVAC Repairs - Well No. 3 Water Utility Northeast Youth & Family Services 1111 17,072.48$ 2024 Contribution - Youth Diversion Program Contributions Oxygen Service Company 3588369 106.34$ Welding Supplies Public Works Oxygen Service Company 8741260 116.44$ Welding Supplies Public Works Perfection Heating & Air Conditioning 46287560 789.00$ HVAC Repairs - Well No. 4 Water Utility Preferred Kitchens 6293-14 9,081.00$ HFD Kitchen Remodel - Cabinets & Countertops (50% Down) Fire Dept Press Publications 809800 55.96$ Planning Commission Public Hearing Notice Ordinances/Proceeding Printing Systems Inc 234194 496.79$ Checks Finance Dept Shred Right 24184 966.00$ Shredding Event Recycling Silver Star Industries Radco - Blaine BLN-73916-01 522.95$ Tonneau Cover - Unit #122-24 Water & Sewer St. Croix Recreation Fun Playgrounds Inc 21937 389.00$ NRPA Playground Safety Inspector Audit Kit Parks Dept Stabner Electric LLC 4335 78.75$ Surge Protector - Well No. 4 Water Utility Stabner Electric LLC 4335 78.75$ Surge Protector - Well No. 5 Water Utility T.A. Schifsky & Sons Inc 70288 2,414.44$ Asphalt Street Dept T.A. Schifsky & Sons Inc 70316 1,301.46$ Asphalt Street Dept TASC IN3115263 50.00$ July Cobra Administration Fee Finance Dept Tennant Sales and Service Company 920543027 2,011.66$ Parts & Labor - Unit #9109 (Floor Scrubber) Fire Dept T-Mobile 870254054 601.53$ Cellular Phone Charges Various T-Mobile 870254054 10.50$ Tower No. 4/Well No. 6 Cradlepoint Water Utility T-Mobile 870254054 10.50$ Rice Lake Centre Cradlepoint Administration T-Mobile 870254054 40.25$ Hanifl Cradlepoint Parks Dept Toshiba Financial Services 5030220502 148.74$ July Copier Lease Payment Fire Dept Toshiba Financial Services 5030220502 14.36$ Overage Charges (Color) Fire Dept Toshiba Financial Services 5030220502 1.64$ Overage Charges (B & W) Fire Dept Total Control Systems Inc 11273 945.00$ Quarterly SCADA Cradlepoints - Lift Stations (7) Sewer Utility Total Control Systems Inc 11273 405.00$ Quarterly SCADA Cradlepoints - Wells (3) Water Utility Total Control Systems Inc 11273 270.00$ Quarterly SCADA Cradlepoints - Towers (2) Water Utility UniFirst Corporation 1410069622 10.55$ Restroom Supplies & Floor Mat Services (CH) Gen Gov't Bldgs UniFirst Corporation 1410069623 158.53$ Uniforms, Supplies & Floor Mat Services (PW) Public Works Verizon Wireless 9967375087 23.03$ Cellular Phone Charges Public Works Washington County Sheriff 223527 10,366.12$ Good Neighbor Days Security Law Enforcement 97,053.60$ Total Claims for July 15, 2024 Page 2 RESOLUTION 2024- RESOLUTION APPOINTING ELECTION JUDGES FOR THE AUGUST 13, 2024, STATEWIDE PRIMARY BE IT RESOLVED by the City of Hugo, State of Minnesota, as follows: 1. The individuals specified on EXHIBIT A attached hereto, each of whom is qualified to serve as an election judge, are hereby appointed as judges of election for the Statewide Primary on August 13, 2024, to act as such at the polling places listed on said exhibit. 2. The election judges shall act as clerks of election, count the ballots cast, and submit the results to the county for canvass in the manner provided by Minnesota State Election Law. 3. The City Clerk is hereby authorized to appoint additional election judges, as needed, to fill vacancies that may occur on or before Election Day. ADOPTED by the City Council on July 15, 202 ___________________________ Tom Weidt, Mayor ATTEST: _________________________________ Michele Lindau, City Clerk Resolution 2024-___ Page 2 Exhibit A Hugo Election Judges for Primary Election on August 13, 2024. Ryan Allshouse Diane Weber Brent Anderson Lynn Wedig Niki Anderson Laurie Woodbury Judy Berger David Yost Crystal Berntson Vicki Bebeau Cassandra Birkeland Michael Brubaker Jean Carr Barbara Erickson Michi Eichinger Michelle Falk John Erickson Abigail Johnson Michael Fish Kimberly Johnson Sabrina Fish Laurie Krenz Michael Kalos Glen Lacher Bronwen Kleissler Will Perry Carolyn Kluk Jeff Rholl Robert Kluk Debra Starr Eve Kreiner Karen Altnow Wanda LeBlanc-Fricke Dianna Delaney Teresa Manhart Kimberlie DeLaRosa Scott McCrady Patrick Eaton Sally Miesen Annette Flom Elizabeth Quicksell Kathleen Hagkull Kris Renstrom Pamela Helgeson Allison Richards Alberta Hogan Barbara Schaaf Celeste Knipping Lauren Schleicher Dana Krueger Deborah Seelig Douglas Kruse Carole Swiden David LaCasse Steve Szondy Caren Moss CITY OF HUGO CITY COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT TO: Bryan Bear, City Administrator FROM: Mike Loeffler, Public Works Supervisor SUBJECT: Purchase of Bandit 15XP Wood Chipper DATE: For the City Council Meeting of July 15, 2024 BACKGROUND During the winter months, Public Works staff perform tree trimming/removal along all public road right of ways. For the past 18 years, staff has rented wood chippers to aid in this process. This had always been more economical than owning a chipper. In 2020 chipper rentals began to increase in price and become less available to rent. By 2023 many vendors discontinued rentals in favor of new chipper sales, while the available rentals had continued increasing becoming less economical to rent. PROPOSED PURCHASE PROCESS Staff began looking at purchase options during this time, and found, not unlike vehicle sales, that demand was high, and availability was low. This was due in part to equipment purchased through the Mn/DOT contract have been at a lower priority to the manufacture over retail purchases. In 2024 chipper sales have opened up with the manufacture for government contracts. Staff is seeking Council approval to purchase a Bandit wood chipper. If approved by the City Council, the chipper would be purchased using the Sourcewell Cooperative Contract, which is the equivalent to the Mn/DOT Cooperative Purchasing Venture assuring that the City will receive the best price available. This has been reviewed with Finance Director, Anna Wobse and Public Works Director, Scott Anderson and money is included in the 2024 budget to cover this purchase. DESIRED ACTION Staff recommends the City Council authorize the purchase of a Bandit 15XP wood chipper as outlined in the quote from Tri-State Bobcat for the amount of $64,586.80. Please see the attached equipment specs and quote. Tri-State Bobcat 1200 Highway 13 East Burnsville, MN 55337 USA 651-407-3727 (Phone) 651-683-2476 (Fax) www.tristatebobcat.com QUOTATION Quote #Quote Created Last Updated Salesperson 169620 June 6, 2024 09:55 AM by Bandit Industries, Inc. June 6, 2024 09:59 AM by Brenda Lint Brenda Lint CUSTOMER:BILL TO:SHIP TO: City of Hugo 14669 Fitzgerald Ave N Hugo, MN 55038 USA x (Phone) x (Fax) Mark Loeffler (Contact) x Tri-State Bobcat 1200 Highway 13 East Burnsville, MN 55337 USA 651-407-3727 (Phone) 651-683-2476 (Fax) Ron Hogan (Contact) ronh@tristatebobcat.com Tri-State Bobcat 1200 Highway 13 East Burnsville, MN 55337 USA 651-407-3727 (Phone) 651-683-2476 (Fax) Ron Hogan (Contact) ronh@tristatebobcat.com INTIMIDATOR 15XP (15" DRUM STYLE) Qty Part #Description Base Price 1 MODEL-15XP Intimidator 15XP - (15" Drum Style) $ 40505.00 OPTIONS 1 333-32273 Standard Imron Industrial Urethane Bandit Yellow $ 0.00 $ 0.00 1 990-RC1172-753 Ford RSG-862, 6.2L, 165 horsepower GAS engine without clutch (Includes spark arrestor muffler) - If ordered on Model 280HD must select tongue weight option under add on frame options $ 22040.00 $ 22040.00 1 915-6000-39 Murphy PV485 panel with reversing auto feed for Ford 165 horsepower gas engines (Includes 1,000 CCA battery with aluminum battery box) - Panel is mounted on engine shroud with lockable steel cover $ 3460.00 $ 3460.00 1 700-1000-13 NACD over center (double plate clutch)$ 1575.00 $ 1575.00 1 OPTION-915-5000- 16 Drive system for engines above 145 horsepower (Includes two 3 groove belts in lieu of a single 4 groove belt) $ 450.00 $ 450.00 1 OPTION-915-5001- 12 29" high x 54" wide tapered heavy-duty infeed with weld on pan and infeed deflectors $ 775.00 $ 775.00 1 OPTION-915-5000- 07 Double Teeth (Bottom Feed Wheel) (15" drums / 250)$ 150.00 $ 150.00 1 OPTION-915-5000- 47 Spring Loaded Tool less Trap Door (not available on tandem axle units) $ 250.00 $ 250.00 1 OPTION-915-5000- 41 Hydraulic flow control for feed wheel rate adjustment (All-In-One Mount) $ 325.00 $ 325.00 1 990-1016-02 Single 10,000 pound Torflex axle with electric brakes (0 degree down trail) (Will be 4 1/2" shorter than 45 degree down trail) (Now 900-5910-70) $ 0.00 $ 0.00 1 990-100406 (2) 215/75R 17.5" tires mounted on 8-bolt heavy-duty gray rims (8,000 pound axles on up) $ 0.00 $ 0.00 1 990-100415 Aluminum bolt on fenders (Approximately 1/4" thick)$ 0.00 $ 0.00 1 990-100274 2-1/2" Wallace Forge Pintle Hitch $ 0.00 $ 0.00 1 OPTION-980-5000- 92 270 degree hydraulic controlled swivel discharge chute with manual 12" chip deflector (Includes height adjustable discharge & 270 degree discharge stops) $ 850.00 $ 850.00 1 OPTION-999-5000- 00 Fuel Saver (only available on GAS engines and Kohler 74 hp diesel with Murphy PV485 controller) $ 310.00 $ 310.00 1 OPTION-915-5000- 13 12" longer stationary tongue (total tongue length from end of frame is 45 1/2") - (includes 1/4" fishplates) $ 275.00 $ 275.00 1 OPTION-905-5000- 21 10,000 pound capacity tongue jack with spring return pad $ 225.00 $ 225.00 1 OPTION-905-5000- 15 Option 7 Prong (Flat/RV Style) to 6 Prong Coiled Cord $ 45.00 $ 45.00 CUSTOMER TOTALS Total Unit Price:$ 71235.00 Customer Discount:12.0000 %- $ 8548.20 Dealer Preparation/Delivery:$ 600.00 Customer Net Unit Price:$ 63286.80 Freight/Shipping:$ 1300.00 Customer Total:$ 64586.80 COMMENTS Production Note By Brenda Lint on 05/04/2020 08:28 AM Sourcewell 050119-BAN SIGNATURE The Buyer, whose name and address appears above, agrees to purchase from the Seller, whose name and address appears above, the above equipment at the prices stated and upon the terms and conditions of this agreement. X Signature Date Memorandum To: Hugo Planning Commission From: Max Gort, Associate Planner Date: July 11, 2024, for the City Council meeting of July 15, 2024 Re: Unfinished Business – Approve Solar Ordinance Text Amendment 1. BACKGROUND: In 2016, the City Council adopted an ordinance regulating the use of solar energy systems. The ordinance includes rules for accessory solar energy systems, which provide solar energy for on - site use and are accessory to the primary use of the property, and solar farms, which distribute solar energy to off-site consumers and are the primary use of the property. Solar farms are currently permitted in the AG, LA, RR, and FUS zoning districts, all other zoning districts only in the floodplain, and on parcels greater than 10 acres in size. Additionally, solar farms require an Interim Use Permit (IUP), and have specific performance standards and criteria of approval. The first solar farm project was approved in 2018, which dr ew negative feedback from the community related to aesthetic characteristics and setbacks from property lines. In 2023, the Planning Commission and City Council identified reviewing the ordinance as it relates to solar farms as a goal for the year, due to an increased interest in solar farm development and related feedback from the community. At its February 6, 2023 meeting the City Council enacted a moratorium on applications for solar farms and directed that a study of the ordinance be conducted. The Ci ty Council and Planning Commission held a joint workshop on March 23, 2023, and discussed directions for reviewing the solar farm ordinance, including leaving it as-is, prohibiting solar farms, or drafting revisions to address some of the aesthetic concerns that have come up during public comment. The workshop resulted in the Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) convening to draft revisions to the ordinance, which included: • An increase in minimum setbacks from property lines from 50 feet to 100 feet • A minimum setback from public rights-of-way and dwellings on adjacent property to 200 feet • A limit of the size of the solar array to five acres • A requirement that trees at least 6 feet tall at the time of planting be provided for screening • A requirement that solar farm applications include a vegetation establishment and management plan • A requirement that ground areas within the solar array not occupied by equipment be planted with deep-rooted, native, pollinator-friendly plantings I.1 2 The ORC’s revisions were presented at a Public Hearing at the Planning Commission meeting of July 13, 2023 meeting, and approved by the City Council on July 24, 2023, repealing the moratorium. With the new ordinance in effect, the City received an application for a solar farm on a vacant 12-acre property on Everton Avenue. During the public hearing at the April 11, 2024 Planning Commission meeting, several neighbors spoke in opposition to the project, primarily with concerns that the proposed solar farm would not be compatible with the present character of the surrounding area. However, the Planning Commission determined that the proposal met the necessary requirements to approve a solar farm IUP, and unanimously voted to recommend approval to the City Council. At its May 6, 2024 meeting, the City Council heard the request for the IUP, and the residents who spoke at the Planning Commission meeting stated that the proposal was not compatible with the character of the area. Subsequently, the City Council found that the proposed solar farm did n ot meet the character of the area requirement, and approved a resolution with findings of fact for denial of the solar farm IUP. At its May 20, 2024 meeting, the City Council enacted another moratorium on solar farm applications, directing staff to study the ordinance again. The City Council had a discussion at its June 17, 2024 meeting to determine the direction needed for the ordinance. Staff recommended that the City Council hold another joint workshop with the Planning Commission. Several councilmembers stated that they would like to gather public feedback on the prohibition of solar farms prior to restarting the ordinance review process, stating that the community was still reacting negatively after significant revisions had been made. The Council stated that they wanted members of the public to ask themselves, even if they are comfortable with allowing solar farms within the city, whether they would want to live next to one. The City Council directed staff to draft a text amendment that would prohibit solar farms within the city. With the Council’s direction, staff has drafted text amendments to Sec. 90-1 Definitions and Sec. 90-278(d) Solar Energy Systems that would prohibit solar farms within the city. 2. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommended the Planning Commission hold a public hearing at its July 11, 2024 meeting and take all comments. Staff recommended that the Planning Commission have a discussion based on the public comments received, and make a recommendation to the City Council. 3. PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: Staff will provide a written update to the City Council regarding the Planning Commission’s recommendation made at their July 11, 2024 meeting before the City Council meeting on July 15, 2024. 3 Attachments: 1. Sec. 90-278. – Solar Energy Systems 2. Draft text amendments to the definition for solar farms, and to item “d” of Sec. 90-278 prohibiting solar farms 3. Article from The Citizen published June 27, 2024 4. Comments received from the public (a) (b) (c) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (d) (1) a. b. c. d. Sec. 90-278. - Solar energy systems. Unlawful unless conditions met. It is unlawful for any person to construct, erect, install, or maintain a solar energy system in the city, except in conformance with this section. Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to allow for the generation of renewable energy within the City of Hugo. Promoting the safe, effective, and efficient use of solar energy, may reduce the onsite consumption of fossil fuels and utility-supplied electric energy while avoiding adverse impacts on the community at large. General standards for all solar energy systems. Solar energy systems must conform to all of the following standards: A building permit shall be required for the erection of solar energy system. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the operator must provide evidence of an agreement with the local utility. Off-grid systems shall be exempt from providing evidence of an agreement with the local utility. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to secure any solar energy easements, if applicable, to protect solar access for the system (as per MN Statute Section 500.30). Solar energy system components shall be labeled with the manufacturers name and address, model number, and serial number. All exterior electrical or other service lines shall be buried underground. The collection system may be placed overhead near substations or points of interconnection to the electrical grid. Exceptions may be granted in instances where shallow bedrock, water courses, or other elements of the natural landscape interfere with the ability to bury lines. All solar energy systems shall be in compliance with the adopted city and state building code, electrical code, and plumbing code, as amended and receive any necessary permits or approvals from any regulatory agency having jurisdiction. Solar farms. Solar farm interim use permits. An interim use permit application must be submitted for approval by the planning commission and city council before a permit is issued for a solar farm. The information required and the procedure to be followed for all solar farm interim use permit applications shall be the same as that required for a conditional use permit set forth in subsections 90-37(a) and (b). In addition, the applicant shall submit supplementary information pertaining to the nature of the solar farm including: Total square footage of the solar energy system. Total energy production for the site. To scale horizontal and vertical (elevation) drawings. 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 1/7 e. (2) a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. 1. Drawings must show the location of the system on the property including the property lines and proposed fencing or vegetative buffer. Decommissioning plan. Performance standards for solar farms. Solar farms shall be erected and maintained to meet the following standards. Solar farms shall be located on a minimum lot size of ten acres within the Long Term Agricultural (LA), Agricultural (AG), Rural Residential (RR), and Future Urban Service (FUS) zoning districts. Solar farms may also be located in any other zoning district only in the floodplain, as long as all other conditions are met. Solar farms shall be 100 feet from all property lines, 200 feet from all public road rights- of-way, and 200 feet from any principal structure on adjacent properties. Solar farms shall be limited to a size of five acres, measured by the exterior edges of the solar array. Ground mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed 15 feet in height at any point when oriented at maximum tilt. Solar farms shall be enclosed by approved perimeter fencing or adequate vegetative buffer for screening. The primary form of buffer for screening shall be at least six-foot tall vegetation. Exception may be granted if the natural landscape provides screening from all public right of ways and neighboring properties. All ground areas within the perimeter fencing of a solar farm that are not occupied by equipment or access paths shall be planted with deep rooted, native pollinator plantings. Solar farm applications shall include a vegetation establishment and management plan which shall be reviewed and approved by staff. The owner/ operator of the solar farm shall provide the city with evidence that the solar energy system is functioning properly. This shall be provided at any time deemed necessary by the city. The owner/operator shall submit a decommissioning plan for the solar farm to ensure that the owner/operator properly removes the equipment and facilities upon the end of the project life, abandonment, expiration, or termination of the interim use permit. If the solar energy system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of 12 months, the system shall be deemed abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense after a demolition permit has been obtained within 90 days after notice has been given. Removal includes the entire structure including transmission equipment, structures and foundations, and the restoration of soil and vegetation. The owner/operator shall provide a current-day decommissioning cost estimate, and shall post financial security 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 2/7 (3) a. b. c. d. e. f. g. (4) a. b. c. d. (5) (6) in a form acceptable by the city. This estimate must include an inflationary escalator, in an amount determined by the city, which will allow the city to remove the solar farm from the property after the 90-day period has elapsed. Criteria of approval of a solar farm. An application for a solar farm interim use permit may be granted only upon finding that all of the following criteria have been met: The applicant owns the property or has secured a proper lease agreement on the property, unless the city council determines that unique conditions or circumstances warrant special arrangement. The proposed solar farm is allowed as a principle use in the respective zoning district and conforms to this chapter. The proposed solar farm is keeping with the spirit and intent of this chapter. The construction of a solar farm shall not impede the city's ability to implement its comprehensive plan. The proposed solar farm is compatible with the present character of the surrounding area. The proposed solar farm shall have a set date in which the permit shall be reviewed or terminated. The proposed solar farm shall be subject to any conditions that the city council deems appropriate for the permission of the use. Conditions of approval. In permitting a new solar farm interim use permit or amending an existing solar farm interim use permit, the planning commission may recommend and the city council may impose additional conditions and requirements to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the surrounding area and the community at large, mitigate unfavorable consequences of activities resulting from the solar farm, enforce laws and regulations, and ensure compliance with the conditions of the permit. These conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Limitations on period of use and operation. Buffering and screening measures. Additional setbacks. Approval periods between one to 25 years, beginning at the start of operation. Renewal of a solar farm interim use permit. Because of its temporary nature, an interim use permit for a solar farm shall not be renewed. Continuation of a solar farm beyond the date of expiration of its interim use permit requires approval of a new interim use permit. 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 3/7 a. b. c. (7) (8) a. b. (9) a. b. c. (10) Interim use permit nontransferable. Solar farm interim use permits do not run with the land. The permit is not transferable from person-to-person, and shall expire if there is a change in ownership of the property, unless the following conditions are met: The new permit holder must own the property or have a written lease agreement with the property owner stating the land will continue to be used for the production of energy via a solar farm. The new permit holder shall abide by all requirements of the original permit, including, but not limited to, posting financial security to the city for decommissioning, as outlined in subsection (2)f. The transfer of the permit must be approved by the city and filed accordingly. Basis for denial. In order to recommend denial of an interim use permit, the planning commission must find that the proposed use will not meet one or more of the conditions found in subsection (d)(3) of this section. Suspension and revocation. The city council may suspend or revoke an interim use permit upon failure of the interim use, or the interim use permit holder, owner, operator, tenant, or user, to comply with city codes, the laws of the State of Minnesota, the approved plans, or the conditions of approval, or by which that activities allowed under the permit adversely affect the public health, safety, or welfare. A suspension or revocation of an interim use permit shall be preceded by written notice to the permit holder and a hearing before the city council. The notice shall provide at least ten days' notice of the time and place of the hearing and shall state the nature of the violations. The notice shall be mailed to the permit holder at the most recent address listed on the application. Expiration and termination. An interim use permit shall expire and the interim use permit shall terminate at the earlier of: The expiration date established by the city council at the time of approval, but in no case more than 25 years from the date of the start of operation. Solar farms shall be constructed and operational within one year of city council approval. Occurrence of any event identified in the interim use permit for the termination of the use. Upon an amendment to the city code that no longer allows the interim use. Issuance of permit. The community development director or designee shall, within ten days of city council approval of any interim use permit, provide one copy of the completed permit to the applicant, the city clerk, and for permits issued in the floodplain district or shoreland 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 4/7 (e) (1) a. b. c. d. (2) (3) a. 1. 2. b. 1. district, to the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources. Accessory solar energy systems. Accessory solar energy systems building permit. A building permit application must be submitted and approved by the building official before an accessory solar energy system is installed. The information required and the procedure to be followed for all accessory solar energy system applications shall be the same as that required for a building permit. In addition, the applicant shall submit supplementary information pertaining to the nature of the accessory solar energy system including: Total square footage of the solar energy system. Total energy production for the site. To scale horizontal and vertical (elevation) drawings. Drawings must show the location of the system on the building or on the property including the property lines and proposed screening, if required. Accessory commercial or industrial solar energy systems building permit. All commercial or industrial solar energy systems will require submittal for approval by the community development director or designee before a permit is issued for any accessory solar energy system. This submittal process will require the same application and supplementary information required in (e) (1). Denial of a building permit request may be appealed to the planning commission by following the procedures outlined in section 90-37.1. Performance standards for accessory solar energy systems. Accessory solar energy systems shall be erected and maintained to meet the following standards. Setbacks for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Ground or pole mounted solar energy system panels shall conform to all setback requirements for accessory uses in the district in which they are located. Roof mounted solar energy systems shall abide by all manufacturer specifications and requirements. Coverage requirements for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Ground mounted solar energy systems are considered accessory structures. The size of the system (sq. ft.) will be calculated as part of the maximum combined number and size of accessory structures allowed by lot size. The number and size of accessory structures permitted are as follows: Lot size Maximum Number of Accessory Structures Allowed Maximum Combined Size of Accessory Structures (Square Feet) 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 5/7 2. 3. c. 1. 2. d. 1. 2. e. f. g. Under 1.5 acre 1  260 1.5 to 2.99 acres 2 1,500 3 to 4.99 acres 2 2,000 5 to 9.99 acres 2 3,500 10 or more acres 3 5,000 Roof mounted systems are not accessory structures and are excluded from size and number calculations for accessory structures. A variance application may be submitted if the ground mounted solar energy system exceeds the limits for maximum combined size of accessory structures, but does not meet the definition of a solar farm. Height requirements for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Ground or pole mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed 15 feet in height when oriented at maximum tilt. Roof mounted solar energy systems shall not project vertically more than the height requirements of the district in which they are located. Screening requirements for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Residential roof mounted solar energy systems are not required to be screened by this section. Commercial or industrial roof mounted solar energy systems shall be installed such that it is compatible with the building architecture. Architectural standards as found in the commercial and industrial guidelines, a PUD, or other architectural conditions shall apply. Except in the agricultural and long-term agricultural zoning districts, no ground or pole mounted solar energy system shall be located or protrude in front of the principle building on the site, in relation to any public street. Roof mounted solar energy systems shall not extend beyond the perimeter of the building on which the system is mounted or built. Exterior piping for solar hot water systems shall be allowed to extend beyond the perimeter of the building. 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 6/7 (4) a. b. d. If the solar energy system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of 12 months, the system shall be deemed abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense within 90 days. Removal includes the entire structure including transmission equipment, structures and foundations, and the restoration of soil and vegetation. Criteria for approval of an accessory commercial or industrial solar energy system. An application for an accessory commercial or industrial solar energy system permit may be granted only upon a finding that all the following criteria have been met: The applicant owns the property or has a leasing contract with the owner of the property. The proposed solar energy system conforms to this chapter. The proposed solar energy system shall be subject to, by agreement with the property owner or lease holder, any conditions that the city deems appropriate for permission of the use. (Ord. No. 2016-475, 12-21-2015; Ord. No. 2023-523, § 1, 5-1-2023) 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 7/7 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS ORDINANCE 2024-XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 90 – ZONING AND LAND USE, ARTICLE VI – REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIC USES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, SECTION 90- 278 – SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, AS IT RELATES TO SOLAR FARMS THE CITY OF HUGO ORDAINS: Section 1. The City Council of the City of Hugo does hereby amend Chapter 90, Article VI, Section 90- 278, to revise the following sections of Chapter 90 ZONING AND LAND USE, Article I IN GENERAL, Section 90-1 DEFINITIONS Amend the definition of Solar Farm to read as follows: Solar Farm means a solar energy system that is composed of multiple solar panels where the primary land use, whether by footprint or visual impact or both, of the parcel is for a solar array. A solar farm produces energy for wholesale to subscribers, or is capable of producing, or is otherwise intended to, produce energy beyond that which is necessary solely for on-site use. And Article VI REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIC USES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, Section 90-278 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, Subsection (d) SOLAR FARMS Removing all items under Subsection (d) SOLAR FARMS and replacing with the following: (d) Solar farms. (1) Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to construct a Solar Farm, as defined herein, on any portion of their property within any zoning district within the city. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Hugo this 15th day of July, 2024. ___________________________ Tom Weidt, Mayor Attest: __________________________ Michele Lindau, City Clerk July 10,2024 City of Hugo Planning Commission 14669 Fitzgerald Ave N Hugo,MN 55038 Re:Proposed Solar Ordinance in Hugo The Center for Rural Affairs is a private non-profit organization that advocates for policies that strengthen rural communities in order to create a more vibrant future.We connect rural citizens with opportunities to engage in the decisions that affect their lives,and one of the biggest of these is the opportunity to decide how their electricity is generated. Solar energy systems provide diversified income to landowners who have a right to decide how to use their land in a way that works best for them.They also allow communities to invest in solutions to offset energy usage and reduce energy costs. With the potential benefits that solar energy development offers the residents of Hugo,creating an ordinance that balances the interests of the city and its community members,and protects landowner rights,is essential.We commend the Hugo Planning Commission for taking the time to introduce a detailed solar ordinance and for their consideration of community needs and concerns. Regarding the proposed ordinance amendment to prohibit solar farms within any zoning district within the city,we recommend that the commission may want to reconsider some language within the amendment.The language for what constitutes a "solar farm"is imprecise and could limit the ability of some landowners to install even a small number of solar panels on land they own.We recommend that if the intent is to limit the development or purely commercial solar energy systems,that the commission consider alternative language that clarifies systems that are intended only for the generation of energy for commercial sale. Additionally,if the intention is to limit utility-scale solar,we recommend that the city use the standard for net metering to identify a capacity limit for individual installed solar systems versus utility-scale systems to make the ordinance language more precise.This means that if a customer produces more electricity than they use,the utility will pay them for the extra power.For reference,the system capacity limit for net metering in Minnesota is 1 megawatt.Using the standard for net metering would limit the exclusion of homeowners and landowners that want to install solar energy systems to meet their own energy needs.You can learn more about net metering in Minnesota here. Submitted along with this comment are some resources that may be useful during discussions on the proposed solar ordinance amendment.Additionally,our full clean energy siting library can be viewed at cfra.org/cleanenergysiting.If you have any questions,please do not hesitate to contact me. Respectfully submitted, Cora Hoffer Policy Associate Chaska,MN corah@cfra.org Resources: Decommissioning Solar Energy Systems Resource Guide Policy Approaches for Dual-Use and Agrisolar Practices Sifting through Solar:Land-Use Concerns on Prime Farmland Amplifying Clean Energy with Conservation Solar Energy Presents Opportunities for Minnesota Making the Case for Solar Beekeeping Making the Case for Solar Grazing 7/9/24 Hugo Planning Commission: I would like to share my support for solar farms in the city of Hugo. I don’t think green energy is going to go away in our country so I feel as a city we should welcome solar farms. Hugo has been very proactive in water conservation. I am not sure why there is even discussion regarding banning solar farms. We need to be proactive and welcome new ideas regarding all utilities. I don’t think solar farms are ugly to look at. I would have no problem living next to one. They are not tall and obstructive to views. They don’t create night light pollution, traffi c, or noise. They don’t create water runoff. There are lots of advantages living next to a solar farm compared to noisy neighbors (for example, motorcycles, backyards used for gun target practices, etc.) or properties that are not kept up (for example, un-mowed lawns, dilapidated outbuildings, clutter/junk strewn about). I was disappointed to hear the residents on Everton Avenue complain and threaten lawsuits when a solar farm was planned there. This was not in the spirit of Hugo “Good Neighbors”. People who buy land should be able to use it as they choose, providing it is in accordance with local ordinances and laws. I hope, as the city moves forward, we welcome all businesses, including solar farms, who are willing to work with the city, have a positive impact in the community, and who are good neighbors themselves. Cathy Klein 6760 165th St N Hugo, MN 55038 You don't often get email from z.bmw5@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important From:Hugo Info To:Bryan Bear; Rachel Juba; Max Gort Subject:FW: Solar Farm Discussion by the Planning Commission on July 11th - Please forward Date:Thursday, July 11, 2024 8:16:00 AM Attachments:image001.png Michele Lindau Hugo City Clerk 651-762-6315 From: M Z <z.bmw5@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, July 11, 2024 12:45 AM To: Hugo Info <info@ci.hugo.mn.us> Subject: Solar Farm Discussion by the Planning Commission on July 11th - Please forward Caution: This email originated outside our organization; please use caution. I am writing regarding the ban on solar farms that the Planning Commission is considering on July 11th. Would you please forward my email to the Planning Commission. I am unable to attend this meeting as I will be at the May Township meeting on the same evening I support solar farms in Hugo and believe that including some additional conditions will eliminate some of the issues that residents are experiencing with the current solar farms: * The solar farms must be in an area zoned agricultural * There must be a minimum of 15 acres for the solar farm A solar farm would eliminate virtually all of the concerns that neighbors expressed recently regarding an addition to an existing school: * No increase in traffic * No septic system * No stormwater pond * No noise * Maintains the current land as agricultural * No lighting * Keeps the area rural For these reasons, I support solar farms with some additional conditions such as what was outlined above. Thank you for your consideration, Melanie Zahler From:Bryan Carlson To:Max Gort Subject:Re: Planning Commission Packet 7.11.24 Date:Wednesday, July 10, 2024 8:07:28 PM Caution: This email originated outside our organization; please use caution. Hi max I live at 5091 149th St N Unit 2, Hugo MN 55038, United States I am cool with the solar farm ordinance as is. Maybe I can talk to my neighbors and get a petition started to build a solar farm in our neighborhood. Bryan Sent from my iPhone On Jul 10, 2024, at 4:25 PM, Max Gort <MGort@ci.hugo.mn.us> wrote:  Hi everyone, I have a few items for you to review ahead of tomorrow night's meeting. First, we have a new draft text amendment for you to review. We added some clarifying language in the definitions section for solar farms, and simplified the section that would prohibit solar farms. Also, we've received a few letters for you to review. One came from a resident, and the other came from a group known as the Center for Rural Affairs. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Also, let me know if you can not attend the meeting. Thanks! Max Gort Associate Planner City of Hugo, Minnesota mgort@ci.hugo.mn.us | 651-762-6311 From: Max Gort <MGort@ci.hugo.mn.us> Sent: Wednesday, July 3, 2024 3:17 PM To: Bronwen Kleissler <brkleissler@mmm.com>; Matthew Derr <matthew.derr@gmail.com>; Steve Andress <steve.andress@yahoo.com>; Scott News Release ______________________ A great place to live, work and play…today and tomorrow Government Center | 14949 62nd Street North | P. O. Box 6 | Stillwater, MN 55082-0006 P: 651-430-6001 | F: 651-430-6017 | TTY: 651-430-6246 www.co.washington.mn.us Washington County is an equal opportunity organization and employer Our Mission: Providing quality services through responsible leadership, innovation and the cooperation of dedicated people Date: July 8, 2024 Contact: Tina Elam, Communications Manager Phone: 651-430-6004 (office), 651-592-5989 (after hours) E-mail: tina.elam@co.washington.mn.us FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Public invited to Glacial Hills Regional Trail open house July 29 The public is invited to comment on the Glacial Hills Regional Trail Long Range Plan through an in-person open house on Monday, July 29. The open house is scheduled from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Hugo City Hall, 14669 Fitzgerald Ave. N. Washington County staff will share proposed route alignment options and visuals. For individuals who cannot attend the in-person open house, the county will share materials from the event on the project website afterward. The public can visit the website to view an online engagement opportunity anytime and leave comments from July 29 to Aug. 12. There will be no formal presentation at the in-person open house. Washington County is leading a process to plan the Glacial Hills Regional Trail. The long-range plan will guide the vision and future development of an east-west multiuse trail through northern Washington County. The future trail will connect the Hardwood Creek Regional Trail, Big Marine Park Reserve, and William O’Brien State Park. Project updates will be posted on the county’s website at washingtoncountymn.gov/GlacialHills. For more information, contact Senior Planner Connor Schaefer by calling 651-430-4303 or emailing connor.schaefer@co.washington.mn.us. 17/11/2024 9:33 AMSu Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa1234567 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 2021 22 23 24 25 26 2728 29 30 31July 2024Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa1234567891011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30 31August 2024July 2024Jun 30Jul 1234567:00pm City CouncilIndependence DayOFFICES CLOSED789101112136:30pm BOZA7:00pm Planning Comm6:30pm Bill the Juggler (Lions Park)141516171819207:00pm City Council5:30pm EDA6:30pm Hist Comm7:00pm Parks Comm212223242526277:00pm Commissioner Interviews 6:30pm BOZA7:00pm Planning Comm28293031Aug 1234:30pm Glacial Hill Trail Meeting (Oneka Room)SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY 27/11/2024 9:33 AM12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031August 2024Su Mo Tu We Th Fr Sa123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930September 2024Su Mo Tu We Th Fr SaAugust 2024Jul 28293031Aug 123456789107:00pm City Council5:00pm National Night Out6:30pm BOZA7:00pm Planning Comm111213141516174:30pm Hwy 61 Visioning Open House (Oneka Room)181920212223247:00pm City Council5:30pm EDA6:30pm Hist Comm7:00pm Parks Comm6:30pm BOZA7:00pm Planning Comm252627282930316:00pm Midyear Budget Workshop -SUNDAYMONDAYTUESDAYWEDNESDAYTHURSDAYFRIDAYSATURDAY             The following items were distributed at  the Council meeting.  Memorandum To: Hugo City Council From: Max Gort, Associate Planner Date: July 12, 2024, for the City Council meeting of July 15, 2024 Re: Unfinished Business – Approve Solar Ordinance Text Amendment 1. PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING UPDATE At its July 11, 2024 meeting the Planning Commission held a public he aring and considered the proposed text amendments that would prohibit solar farms. There were eight people that spoke during the public hearing, with a good balance of those who were in favor of prohibiting solar farms and those who were against prohibiting solar farms. Those w ho spoke in favor of prohibiting solar farms stated concerns with aesthetics, compatibility with the character of the area, proximity to adjacent dwellings, and the development of solar farms by business owners who were not from Hugo. There was one individual who was generally not in favor of solar farms but didn’t want to restrict opportunities for landowners, and su ggested revisions to the ordinance such as increasing the minimum lot size and setbacks. Those who spoke against prohibiting solar farms generally stated th at they wanted to promote renewable energy within the city, wanted to maintain the rights for landowners to use their property, and wanted to allow farmers to develop a solar farm to supplement their income on land that could otherwise be unproductive. In addition to the comments from those in attendance, the Planning Commission received three letters from residents and one letter from an advocacy group, all of which were not in favor of prohibiting solar farms. Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission discussed the proposed text amendments and the comments they received. Generally, the Planning Commission agreed that there was still a place for solar farms within the city, despite negative community feedback. The Planning Commission members discussed whether they would want to live next to a solar farm, and several of them said they would prefer to live next to a solar farm instead of more disruptive uses that are permitted within rural zoning districts. The Planning Commission discussed potential revisions to the ordinance that could better address some of the negative community feedback, and stated that they would like to restart the ordinance review process in a joint workshop with the City Council. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denial of the proposed text amendments prohibiting solar farms, and t o recommend holding joint workshop with the City Council. 2. BACKGROUND: In 2016, the City Council adopted an ordinance regulating the use of solar energy systems. The ordinance includes rules for accessory solar energy systems, which provide solar energy for on - I.1 2 site use and are accessory to the primary use of the property, and solar farms, which distribute solar energy to off-site consumers and are the primary use of the property. Solar farms are currently permitted in the AG, LA, RR, and FUS zoning districts, all other zoning districts only in the floodplain, and on parcels greater than 10 acres in size. Additionally, solar farms require an Interim Use Permit (IUP), and have specific performance standards and criteria of approval. The first solar farm project was approved in 2018, which drew negative feedback from the community related to aesthetic characteristics and setbacks from property lines. In 2023, the Planning Commission and City Council identified reviewing the ordinance as it relates to solar farms as a goal for the year, due to an increased interest in solar farm development and related feedback from the community. At its February 6, 2023 meeting the City Council enacted a moratorium on applications for solar farms and directed that a study of the ordinance be conducted. Th e City Council and Planning Commission held a joint workshop on March 23, 2023, and discussed directions for reviewing the solar farm ordinance, including leaving it as-is, prohibiting solar farms, or drafting revisions to address some of the aesthetic concerns that have come up during public comment. The workshop resulted in the Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) convening to draft revisions to the ordinance, which included: • An increase in minimum setbacks from property lines from 50 feet to 100 feet • A minimum setback from public rights-of-way and dwellings on adjacent property to 200 feet • A limit of the size of the solar array to five acres • A requirement that trees at least 6 feet tall at the time of planting be provided for screening • A requirement that solar farm applications include a vegetation establishment and management plan • A requirement that ground areas within the solar array not occupied by equipment be planted with deep-rooted, native, pollinator-friendly plantings The ORC’s revisions were presented at a Public Hearing at the Planning Commission meeting of July 13, 2023 meeting, and approved by the City Council on July 24, 2023, repealing the moratorium. With the new ordinance in effect, the City received an application for a solar farm on a vacant 12-acre property on Everton Avenue. During the public hearing at the April 11, 2024 Planning Commission meeting, several neighbors spoke in opposition to the project, primarily with concerns that the proposed solar farm would not be compatible with the present character of the surrounding area. However, the Planning Commission determined that the proposal met the necessary requirements to approve a solar farm IUP, and unanimously voted to recommend approval to the City Council. At its May 6, 2024 meeting, the City Council heard the request for the IUP, and the residents who spoke at the Planning Commission meeting stated that the proposal was not compatible with the character of the area. Subsequently, the City Council found that the proposed solar farm d id not meet the character of the area requirement, and approved a resolution with findings of fact for denial of the solar farm IUP. At its May 20, 2024 meeting, the City Council enacted another moratorium on solar farm applications, directing staff to study the ordinance again. The City Council had a discussion at 3 its June 17, 2024 meeting to determine the direction needed for the ordinance. Staff recommended that the City Council hold another joint workshop with the Planning Commission. Several councilmembers stated that they would like to gather public feedback on the prohibition of solar farms prior to restarting the ordinance review process, stating that the community was still reacting negatively after significant revisions had been made. The Council stated that they wanted members of the public to ask themselves, even if they are comfortable with allowing solar farms within the city, whether they would want to live next to one. The City Council directed staff to draft a text amendment that would prohi bit solar farms within the city. With the Council’s direction, staff has drafted text amendments to Sec. 90-1 Definitions and Sec. 90-278(d) Solar Energy Systems that would prohibit solar farms within the city. 3. STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommended the Planning Commission hold a public hearing at its July 11, 2024 meeting and take all comments. Staff recommended that the Planning Commission have a discussion based on the public comments received, and make a recommendation to the City Council. 3. PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION: After holding a public hearing and taking all comments, the Planning Commission agreed that they did not want to prohibit solar farms within th e city. The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend denial of the proposed text amendments prohibiting solar farms, and t o hold joint workshop with the City Council. Attachments: 1. Sec. 90-278. – Solar Energy Systems 2. Draft text amendments to the definition for solar farms, and to item “d” of Sec. 90-278 prohibiting solar farms 3. Article from The Citizen published June 27, 2024 4. Comments received from the public (a) (b) (c) (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (d) (1) a. b. c. d. Sec. 90-278. - Solar energy systems. Unlawful unless conditions met. It is unlawful for any person to construct, erect, install, or maintain a solar energy system in the city, except in conformance with this section. Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section is to allow for the generation of renewable energy within the City of Hugo. Promoting the safe, effective, and efficient use of solar energy, may reduce the onsite consumption of fossil fuels and utility-supplied electric energy while avoiding adverse impacts on the community at large. General standards for all solar energy systems. Solar energy systems must conform to all of the following standards: A building permit shall be required for the erection of solar energy system. Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the operator must provide evidence of an agreement with the local utility. Off-grid systems shall be exempt from providing evidence of an agreement with the local utility. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to secure any solar energy easements, if applicable, to protect solar access for the system (as per MN Statute Section 500.30). Solar energy system components shall be labeled with the manufacturers name and address, model number, and serial number. All exterior electrical or other service lines shall be buried underground. The collection system may be placed overhead near substations or points of interconnection to the electrical grid. Exceptions may be granted in instances where shallow bedrock, water courses, or other elements of the natural landscape interfere with the ability to bury lines. All solar energy systems shall be in compliance with the adopted city and state building code, electrical code, and plumbing code, as amended and receive any necessary permits or approvals from any regulatory agency having jurisdiction. Solar farms. Solar farm interim use permits. An interim use permit application must be submitted for approval by the planning commission and city council before a permit is issued for a solar farm. The information required and the procedure to be followed for all solar farm interim use permit applications shall be the same as that required for a conditional use permit set forth in subsections 90-37(a) and (b). In addition, the applicant shall submit supplementary information pertaining to the nature of the solar farm including: Total square footage of the solar energy system. Total energy production for the site. To scale horizontal and vertical (elevation) drawings. 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 1/7 e. (2) a. b. c. d. e. f. g. h. 1. Drawings must show the location of the system on the property including the property lines and proposed fencing or vegetative buffer. Decommissioning plan. Performance standards for solar farms. Solar farms shall be erected and maintained to meet the following standards. Solar farms shall be located on a minimum lot size of ten acres within the Long Term Agricultural (LA), Agricultural (AG), Rural Residential (RR), and Future Urban Service (FUS) zoning districts. Solar farms may also be located in any other zoning district only in the floodplain, as long as all other conditions are met. Solar farms shall be 100 feet from all property lines, 200 feet from all public road rights- of-way, and 200 feet from any principal structure on adjacent properties. Solar farms shall be limited to a size of five acres, measured by the exterior edges of the solar array. Ground mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed 15 feet in height at any point when oriented at maximum tilt. Solar farms shall be enclosed by approved perimeter fencing or adequate vegetative buffer for screening. The primary form of buffer for screening shall be at least six-foot tall vegetation. Exception may be granted if the natural landscape provides screening from all public right of ways and neighboring properties. All ground areas within the perimeter fencing of a solar farm that are not occupied by equipment or access paths shall be planted with deep rooted, native pollinator plantings. Solar farm applications shall include a vegetation establishment and management plan which shall be reviewed and approved by staff. The owner/ operator of the solar farm shall provide the city with evidence that the solar energy system is functioning properly. This shall be provided at any time deemed necessary by the city. The owner/operator shall submit a decommissioning plan for the solar farm to ensure that the owner/operator properly removes the equipment and facilities upon the end of the project life, abandonment, expiration, or termination of the interim use permit. If the solar energy system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of 12 months, the system shall be deemed abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense after a demolition permit has been obtained within 90 days after notice has been given. Removal includes the entire structure including transmission equipment, structures and foundations, and the restoration of soil and vegetation. The owner/operator shall provide a current-day decommissioning cost estimate, and shall post financial security 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 2/7 (3) a. b. c. d. e. f. g. (4) a. b. c. d. (5) (6) in a form acceptable by the city. This estimate must include an inflationary escalator, in an amount determined by the city, which will allow the city to remove the solar farm from the property after the 90-day period has elapsed. Criteria of approval of a solar farm. An application for a solar farm interim use permit may be granted only upon finding that all of the following criteria have been met: The applicant owns the property or has secured a proper lease agreement on the property, unless the city council determines that unique conditions or circumstances warrant special arrangement. The proposed solar farm is allowed as a principle use in the respective zoning district and conforms to this chapter. The proposed solar farm is keeping with the spirit and intent of this chapter. The construction of a solar farm shall not impede the city's ability to implement its comprehensive plan. The proposed solar farm is compatible with the present character of the surrounding area. The proposed solar farm shall have a set date in which the permit shall be reviewed or terminated. The proposed solar farm shall be subject to any conditions that the city council deems appropriate for the permission of the use. Conditions of approval. In permitting a new solar farm interim use permit or amending an existing solar farm interim use permit, the planning commission may recommend and the city council may impose additional conditions and requirements to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the surrounding area and the community at large, mitigate unfavorable consequences of activities resulting from the solar farm, enforce laws and regulations, and ensure compliance with the conditions of the permit. These conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following: Limitations on period of use and operation. Buffering and screening measures. Additional setbacks. Approval periods between one to 25 years, beginning at the start of operation. Renewal of a solar farm interim use permit. Because of its temporary nature, an interim use permit for a solar farm shall not be renewed. Continuation of a solar farm beyond the date of expiration of its interim use permit requires approval of a new interim use permit. 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 3/7 a. b. c. (7) (8) a. b. (9) a. b. c. (10) Interim use permit nontransferable. Solar farm interim use permits do not run with the land. The permit is not transferable from person-to-person, and shall expire if there is a change in ownership of the property, unless the following conditions are met: The new permit holder must own the property or have a written lease agreement with the property owner stating the land will continue to be used for the production of energy via a solar farm. The new permit holder shall abide by all requirements of the original permit, including, but not limited to, posting financial security to the city for decommissioning, as outlined in subsection (2)f. The transfer of the permit must be approved by the city and filed accordingly. Basis for denial. In order to recommend denial of an interim use permit, the planning commission must find that the proposed use will not meet one or more of the conditions found in subsection (d)(3) of this section. Suspension and revocation. The city council may suspend or revoke an interim use permit upon failure of the interim use, or the interim use permit holder, owner, operator, tenant, or user, to comply with city codes, the laws of the State of Minnesota, the approved plans, or the conditions of approval, or by which that activities allowed under the permit adversely affect the public health, safety, or welfare. A suspension or revocation of an interim use permit shall be preceded by written notice to the permit holder and a hearing before the city council. The notice shall provide at least ten days' notice of the time and place of the hearing and shall state the nature of the violations. The notice shall be mailed to the permit holder at the most recent address listed on the application. Expiration and termination. An interim use permit shall expire and the interim use permit shall terminate at the earlier of: The expiration date established by the city council at the time of approval, but in no case more than 25 years from the date of the start of operation. Solar farms shall be constructed and operational within one year of city council approval. Occurrence of any event identified in the interim use permit for the termination of the use. Upon an amendment to the city code that no longer allows the interim use. Issuance of permit. The community development director or designee shall, within ten days of city council approval of any interim use permit, provide one copy of the completed permit to the applicant, the city clerk, and for permits issued in the floodplain district or shoreland 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 4/7 (e) (1) a. b. c. d. (2) (3) a. 1. 2. b. 1. district, to the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources. Accessory solar energy systems. Accessory solar energy systems building permit. A building permit application must be submitted and approved by the building official before an accessory solar energy system is installed. The information required and the procedure to be followed for all accessory solar energy system applications shall be the same as that required for a building permit. In addition, the applicant shall submit supplementary information pertaining to the nature of the accessory solar energy system including: Total square footage of the solar energy system. Total energy production for the site. To scale horizontal and vertical (elevation) drawings. Drawings must show the location of the system on the building or on the property including the property lines and proposed screening, if required. Accessory commercial or industrial solar energy systems building permit. All commercial or industrial solar energy systems will require submittal for approval by the community development director or designee before a permit is issued for any accessory solar energy system. This submittal process will require the same application and supplementary information required in (e) (1). Denial of a building permit request may be appealed to the planning commission by following the procedures outlined in section 90-37.1. Performance standards for accessory solar energy systems. Accessory solar energy systems shall be erected and maintained to meet the following standards. Setbacks for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Ground or pole mounted solar energy system panels shall conform to all setback requirements for accessory uses in the district in which they are located. Roof mounted solar energy systems shall abide by all manufacturer specifications and requirements. Coverage requirements for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Ground mounted solar energy systems are considered accessory structures. The size of the system (sq. ft.) will be calculated as part of the maximum combined number and size of accessory structures allowed by lot size. The number and size of accessory structures permitted are as follows: Lot size Maximum Number of Accessory Structures Allowed Maximum Combined Size of Accessory Structures (Square Feet) 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 5/7 2. 3. c. 1. 2. d. 1. 2. e. f. g. Under 1.5 acre 1  260 1.5 to 2.99 acres 2 1,500 3 to 4.99 acres 2 2,000 5 to 9.99 acres 2 3,500 10 or more acres 3 5,000 Roof mounted systems are not accessory structures and are excluded from size and number calculations for accessory structures. A variance application may be submitted if the ground mounted solar energy system exceeds the limits for maximum combined size of accessory structures, but does not meet the definition of a solar farm. Height requirements for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Ground or pole mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed 15 feet in height when oriented at maximum tilt. Roof mounted solar energy systems shall not project vertically more than the height requirements of the district in which they are located. Screening requirements for accessory solar energy systems are as follows: Residential roof mounted solar energy systems are not required to be screened by this section. Commercial or industrial roof mounted solar energy systems shall be installed such that it is compatible with the building architecture. Architectural standards as found in the commercial and industrial guidelines, a PUD, or other architectural conditions shall apply. Except in the agricultural and long-term agricultural zoning districts, no ground or pole mounted solar energy system shall be located or protrude in front of the principle building on the site, in relation to any public street. Roof mounted solar energy systems shall not extend beyond the perimeter of the building on which the system is mounted or built. Exterior piping for solar hot water systems shall be allowed to extend beyond the perimeter of the building. 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 6/7 (4) a. b. d. If the solar energy system remains nonfunctional or inoperative for a continuous period of 12 months, the system shall be deemed abandoned and shall constitute a public nuisance. The owner shall remove the abandoned system at their expense within 90 days. Removal includes the entire structure including transmission equipment, structures and foundations, and the restoration of soil and vegetation. Criteria for approval of an accessory commercial or industrial solar energy system. An application for an accessory commercial or industrial solar energy system permit may be granted only upon a finding that all the following criteria have been met: The applicant owns the property or has a leasing contract with the owner of the property. The proposed solar energy system conforms to this chapter. The proposed solar energy system shall be subject to, by agreement with the property owner or lease holder, any conditions that the city deems appropriate for permission of the use. (Ord. No. 2016-475, 12-21-2015; Ord. No. 2023-523, § 1, 5-1-2023) 5/6/24, 5:05 PM Hugo, MN Code of Ordinances about:blank 7/7 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS ORDINANCE 2024-XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 90 – ZONING AND LAND USE, ARTICLE VI – REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIC USES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, SECTION 90- 278 – SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, AS IT RELATES TO SOLAR FARMS THE CITY OF HUGO ORDAINS: Section 1. The City Council of the City of Hugo does hereby amend Chapter 90, Article VI, Section 90- 278, to revise the following sections of Chapter 90 ZONING AND LAND USE, Article I IN GENERAL, Section 90-1 DEFINITIONS Amend the definition of Solar Farm to read as follows: Solar Farm means a solar energy system that is composed of multiple solar panels where the primary land use, whether by footprint or visual impact or both, of the parcel is for a solar array. A solar farm produces energy for wholesale to subscribers, or is capable of producing, or is otherwise intended to, produce energy beyond that which is necessary solely for on-site use. And Article VI REQUIREMENTS FOR SPECIFIC USES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS, Section 90-278 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEMS, Subsection (d) SOLAR FARMS Removing all items under Subsection (d) SOLAR FARMS and replacing with the following: (d) Solar farms. (1) Prohibition. It shall be unlawful for any person to construct a Solar Farm, as defined herein, on any portion of their property within any zoning district within the city. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Hugo this 15th day of July, 2024. ___________________________ Tom Weidt, Mayor Attest: __________________________ Michele Lindau, City Clerk July 10,2024 City of Hugo Planning Commission 14669 Fitzgerald Ave N Hugo,MN 55038 Re:Proposed Solar Ordinance in Hugo The Center for Rural Affairs is a private non-profit organization that advocates for policies that strengthen rural communities in order to create a more vibrant future.We connect rural citizens with opportunities to engage in the decisions that affect their lives,and one of the biggest of these is the opportunity to decide how their electricity is generated. Solar energy systems provide diversified income to landowners who have a right to decide how to use their land in a way that works best for them.They also allow communities to invest in solutions to offset energy usage and reduce energy costs. With the potential benefits that solar energy development offers the residents of Hugo,creating an ordinance that balances the interests of the city and its community members,and protects landowner rights,is essential.We commend the Hugo Planning Commission for taking the time to introduce a detailed solar ordinance and for their consideration of community needs and concerns. Regarding the proposed ordinance amendment to prohibit solar farms within any zoning district within the city,we recommend that the commission may want to reconsider some language within the amendment.The language for what constitutes a "solar farm"is imprecise and could limit the ability of some landowners to install even a small number of solar panels on land they own.We recommend that if the intent is to limit the development or purely commercial solar energy systems,that the commission consider alternative language that clarifies systems that are intended only for the generation of energy for commercial sale. Additionally,if the intention is to limit utility-scale solar,we recommend that the city use the standard for net metering to identify a capacity limit for individual installed solar systems versus utility-scale systems to make the ordinance language more precise.This means that if a customer produces more electricity than they use,the utility will pay them for the extra power.For reference,the system capacity limit for net metering in Minnesota is 1 megawatt.Using the standard for net metering would limit the exclusion of homeowners and landowners that want to install solar energy systems to meet their own energy needs.You can learn more about net metering in Minnesota here. Submitted along with this comment are some resources that may be useful during discussions on the proposed solar ordinance amendment.Additionally,our full clean energy siting library can be viewed at cfra.org/cleanenergysiting.If you have any questions,please do not hesitate to contact me. Respectfully submitted, Cora Hoffer Policy Associate Chaska,MN corah@cfra.org Resources: Decommissioning Solar Energy Systems Resource Guide Policy Approaches for Dual-Use and Agrisolar Practices Sifting through Solar:Land-Use Concerns on Prime Farmland Amplifying Clean Energy with Conservation Solar Energy Presents Opportunities for Minnesota Making the Case for Solar Beekeeping Making the Case for Solar Grazing 7/9/24 Hugo Planning Commission: I would like to share my support for solar farms in the city of Hugo. I don’t think green energy is going to go away in our country so I feel as a city we should welcome solar farms. Hugo has been very proactive in water conservation. I am not sure why there is even discussion regarding banning solar farms. We need to be proactive and welcome new ideas regarding all utilities. I don’t think solar farms are ugly to look at. I would have no problem living next to one. They are not tall and obstructive to views. They don’t create night light pollution, traffi c, or noise. They don’t create water runoff. There are lots of advantages living next to a solar farm compared to noisy neighbors (for example, motorcycles, backyards used for gun target practices, etc.) or properties that are not kept up (for example, un-mowed lawns, dilapidated outbuildings, clutter/junk strewn about). I was disappointed to hear the residents on Everton Avenue complain and threaten lawsuits when a solar farm was planned there. This was not in the spirit of Hugo “Good Neighbors”. People who buy land should be able to use it as they choose, providing it is in accordance with local ordinances and laws. I hope, as the city moves forward, we welcome all businesses, including solar farms, who are willing to work with the city, have a positive impact in the community, and who are good neighbors themselves. Cathy Klein 6760 165th St N Hugo, MN 55038 You don't often get email from z.bmw5@yahoo.com. Learn why this is important From:Hugo Info To:Bryan Bear; Rachel Juba; Max Gort Subject:FW: Solar Farm Discussion by the Planning Commission on July 11th - Please forward Date:Thursday, July 11, 2024 8:16:00 AM Attachments:image001.png Michele Lindau Hugo City Clerk 651-762-6315 From: M Z <z.bmw5@yahoo.com> Sent: Thursday, July 11, 2024 12:45 AM To: Hugo Info <info@ci.hugo.mn.us> Subject: Solar Farm Discussion by the Planning Commission on July 11th - Please forward Caution: This email originated outside our organization; please use caution. I am writing regarding the ban on solar farms that the Planning Commission is considering on July 11th. Would you please forward my email to the Planning Commission. I am unable to attend this meeting as I will be at the May Township meeting on the same evening I support solar farms in Hugo and believe that including some additional conditions will eliminate some of the issues that residents are experiencing with the current solar farms: * The solar farms must be in an area zoned agricultural * There must be a minimum of 15 acres for the solar farm A solar farm would eliminate virtually all of the concerns that neighbors expressed recently regarding an addition to an existing school: * No increase in traffic * No septic system * No stormwater pond * No noise * Maintains the current land as agricultural * No lighting * Keeps the area rural For these reasons, I support solar farms with some additional conditions such as what was outlined above. Thank you for your consideration, Melanie Zahler From:Bryan Carlson To:Max Gort Subject:Re: Planning Commission Packet 7.11.24 Date:Wednesday, July 10, 2024 8:07:28 PM Caution: This email originated outside our organization; please use caution. Hi max I live at 5091 149th St N Unit 2, Hugo MN 55038, United States I am cool with the solar farm ordinance as is. Maybe I can talk to my neighbors and get a petition started to build a solar farm in our neighborhood. Bryan Sent from my iPhone On Jul 10, 2024, at 4:25 PM, Max Gort <MGort@ci.hugo.mn.us> wrote:  Hi everyone, I have a few items for you to review ahead of tomorrow night's meeting. First, we have a new draft text amendment for you to review. We added some clarifying language in the definitions section for solar farms, and simplified the section that would prohibit solar farms. Also, we've received a few letters for you to review. One came from a resident, and the other came from a group known as the Center for Rural Affairs. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Also, let me know if you can not attend the meeting. Thanks! Max Gort Associate Planner City of Hugo, Minnesota mgort@ci.hugo.mn.us | 651-762-6311 From: Max Gort <MGort@ci.hugo.mn.us> Sent: Wednesday, July 3, 2024 3:17 PM To: Bronwen Kleissler <brkleissler@mmm.com>; Matthew Derr <matthew.derr@gmail.com>; Steve Andress <steve.andress@yahoo.com>; Scott