12-15-2026 CCM
Meeting of the City Council
Held at the Elk River City Hall
Monday, December 15, 2025
Members Present: Mayor John Dietz, Councilmember Cory Grupa, Councilmember J. Brian Calva,
Councilmember Mike Beyer, Councilmember Jennifer Wagner
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: City Administrator Cal Portner, Business Services Director/Assistant City
Administrator Joe Stremcha, Community Development Director Zack Carlton,
Senior Planner Chris Leeseberg, Fire Chief Mark Dickinson, Police Chief David
Kuhnly, Juvenile Detective Sergeant Don Birdsell, Parks and Recreation Manager
Jeff Shelby, Liquor Operations Manager Joe Audette, Northbound Liquor Store
Manager Megan Knopik, Fire Administrative Assistant Giselle Hattesohl, Public
Works Supervisor Mitch Litfin, and Deputy Clerk Jolene Richter.
Others Present: City Attorney Jared Shepherd, Sherburne County Health and Human Services
Mark Lees, Parks and Recreation Commissioner Dave Anderson
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting was called to order at 6:05 p.m..
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
3. CONSIDER AGENDA
Moved by Councilmember Wagner and seconded by Councilmember Beyer to approve
the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
Moved by Councilmember Calva and seconded by Councilmember Beyer to approve the
following consent items as outlined in their respective staff reports. Motion carried 5-0.
4.1 December 1, 2025 Minutes
4.2 Check Register
4.3 Resolution 25-77: 2026 Compensation Plan for Non-Organized Employees
4.4 Personnel Policy Manual Update
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4.5 Agreement 25-38: Accurint Virtual Crime Center Servic38
5. OPEN FORUM
Chad Lecy, 11230 196th Lane NW, shared comments regarding the Cannabound plan. He does not
agree with the Cannabound plan and is concerned about the funds for the city and the citizens to fund
the plan.
6. PRESENTATIONS, AWARDS, AND RECOGNITION
6.1 City of Elk River Volunteer of the Month
Mayor Dietz presented the December Volunteer of the Month award to Dianne Telfer. He highlighted
the following:
▪ Active member of the American Legion Auxiliary
▪ Membership chair at the Auxiliary, handling new members, dues, and reporting to the state
▪ Crochets hats and mittens for Sherburne County RSVP
▪ Crochets animals and donates them to the baby bundles group at her church.
▪ Signs up crafters for the October Craft and Bake sale at the American Legion Club
6.2 Introduction of New Employee
Chief Dickinson introduced Fire Administrative Assistant, Giselle Hattesohl.
The Council welcomed her.
6.3 Promotion of Fire Lieutenant
Chief Dickinson introduced Gordon Myette, who is being promoted to lieutenant. Councilmember
Grupa administered the oath of office. The badging ceremony was held.
6.4 Oath of Office: Firefighters
Chief Neumann introduced the firefighters. Councilmember Grupa administered the oath of office. The
badging ceremony was held.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS
7.1 Conditional Use Permit: Amendment to CU 24-21 for Outdoor Storage of Vehicles and
Equipment, 15861 Jarvis St NW, Northstar Trucking
The staff report was presented.
Councilmember Grupa, on behalf of Mayor Dietz, opened the public hearing. There being no one to
speak to this matter, Councilmember Grupa closed the public hearing.
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Moved by Councilmember Wagner and seconded by Councilmember Beyer to approve
the Conditional Use Permit amendment with the following conditions to satisfy the
standards set forth in Section 30-654:
1. Outdoor storage shall be allowed for only the following vehicles:
a. Properly licensed, registered, and operable;
b. Semi-trucks, semi-trailers, and other delivery trucks;
c. Motor vehicles;
d. Recreational vehicles, campers, motor homes, and fifth-wheel trailers;
e. Trailers;
f. Boats;
g. Light and heavy equipment;
h. Enclosed shipping containers; and
i. Cars and trucks.
2. Vehicle Wrecking Yards and Salvage Yards, as defined by the City of Ramsey, and
Salvage Yards, as defined by the City of Elk River, shall not be permitted.
3. Outdoor storage of products, equipment, materials, supplies, debris, or any vehicles
not properly licensed, registered, or operable is not permitted, except for snow
removal equipment and supplies for the site in conformance with the applicable
municipality’s regulations.
4. If any violations of condition #3 are documented more than once in a calendar year,
in either jurisdiction, the Conditional Use Permit will be brought to the City
Council for direction on revocation.
5. Motor vehicle, trailer, and boat sales are prohibited.
6. Car dealer overflow parking is prohibited.
7. Approvals from the City of Ramsey, PUD Ordinance, Site Plan Review Resolution,
and Development Agreement shall be recorded and copies provided.
8. Schedule a site visit with the Building Official and Fire Marshal to review and
complete any required code updates by June 1, 2026.
9. All driving and parking areas shall be paved with an approved surface (bituminous,
Class 5, or concrete) by June 1, 2026.
10. Stripe the parking lot as shown on the city site plan dated March 17, 2025, by June 1,
2026.
11. Drive lanes need to maintain a minimum of 24-foot width throughout the site.
12. All driving areas and outdoor storage/parking areas shall be bound by a B612
concrete curb and gutter by June 1, 2026.
13. A reinforced concrete strip, a minimum of one (1) foot wide and centered on the
property line, must be installed and maintained along the city/county border to
clarify any relevant jurisdictional issues by June 1, 2026.
14. Site lighting shall comply with Section 30-937 by June 1, 2026.
15. Update submitted plans as needed to demonstrate compliance with state and local
stormwater management requirements across both parcels/jurisdictions by June 1,
2026.
16. Submit documentation showing compliance with all Minnesota Pollution Control
standards by June 1, 2026.
17. A 6-foot-tall, 100% opaque privacy fence shall be installed along the north property
lines by June 1, 2026.
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18. This Conditional Use Permit (CU 24-21) must be recorded by June 15, 2026, or the
operation on the property must cease.
19. A 200 sq ft. guard shack/office shall be allowed in Elk River, and will require all
necessary commercial building permits and meet the required setbacks.
20. There shall be no repair or maintenance of any vehicles, trailers, or boats on the
site.
21. The idling of a truck tractor or other business equipment in excess of 15 minutes is
prohibited from April 16 through October 31, and idling in excess of 30 minutes is
prohibited from November 1 through April 15.
22. In the event a gate is installed, access to the property must include key boxes for
both the Elk River and Ramsey Fire Departments.
23. In the event either parcel is owned separately, or one municipality revokes its
approval, each parcel will need to conform to each jurisdiction’s ordinance and
codes individually, including, but not limited to, stormwater ponds, setbacks,
screening, curbing, and landscaping.
24. An amendment to this Conditional Use Permit will be required for future
expansions/additions not shown on the city site plan dated March 17, 2025.
25. Conditional Use Permits, case numbers CU 23-16 and CU 24-21, shall become void.
Motion carried 5-0.
7.2 Variance: Water Oriented Structure Size, Benjamin Poythress - 13640 Island View Dr NW
The staff report was presented.
Councilmember Grupa opened the public hearing on behalf of Mayor Dietz.
Andrea and Benjamin Poythress, 13640 Island View Dr NW, applicant, asked for approval of a
modest storage shed so their family can safely store lake equipment. Mrs. Poythress explained that a lot
of their land is wetland that they pay taxes on, and explained that they take care of their property, and
added that the shed would not be about luxury but about function. She continued to explain that a
10x10 shed would not be able to store a 10-foot kayak and safety equipment. She also stated that they
did receive support from the neighbors and submitted eight letters of support.
Councilmember Grupa closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Grupa asked what the yardage was from your back door to the storage area. Mr.
Poythress stated that it is about 100 yards, but it is not a straight path; it is a winding path.
Councilmember Wagner stated that they did receive eight letters of support from their neighbors,
saying that there are no hardships due to the request. Councilmember Wagner agreed with them that
they didn't know the deck and the building would be considered as one. She stated that she does not
think it is an unreasonable request to build a deck to enjoy the lake and have an enclosed building to
store things on the lake. She would rather see things stored in a building than under a deck or out in
the yard. She stated that, given the situation, she thinks it is a reasonable request.
Councilmember Calva asked if the city is concerned that if we allow this one, then the city will have
eight other requests to build larger structures in their backyards. Mr. Leeseberg asked how to say no to
someone who is asking for the same kind of request.
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Councilmember Calva asked if it was visible from the lake. Mrs. Poythress stated that it was not, and it
is in a private bay. Councilmember Calva asked if the neighbors could see it from their backyard. Mr.
and Mrs. Poythress explained that, considering the wooded lot, it would be hard to see.
Councilmember Calva explained that he would have no problem making an exception in this case as
long as there were not going to be eight other exceptions.
Councilmember Wagner stated that they do not know if there are going to be other requests, and
every project should have its own merit.
Councilmember Beyer thanked them for what they have done and stated that they have done the work
by talking to their neighbors, to the city, and to the DNR. He explained a lot of times, exceptions are
hard to make when you have negative neighbors and such, but in this case, there are none, and he has
respect for them doing the work. He also thanked them for keeping up the work on the easements.
Councilmember Beyer explained that he knows it is a hidden area and no one is ever going to see it. He
went on to explain that, given the situation, he could support the exception.
Moved by Councilmember Wagner and seconded by Councilmember Beyer, directing
staff to draft a resolution making Findings of Fact, approving the variance to exceed the
permitted size of a water-oriented storage structure, for approval at the January 5, 2026,
Council meeting. Motion carried 5-0.
7.3 Variance: Parking and Wetland Setback to Support Development of an Apartment Building, Pat
Briggs - 17379 Twin Lakes Rd NW
The staff report was presented.
Councilmember Grupa opened the public hearing on behalf of Mayor Dietz.
Patrick Briggs, 17379 Twin Lakes Road, subject property, handed to the Council a letter that was
presented to the neighbors. Mr. Briggs explained that they have been kind and cordial to the neighbors
throughout the years, but now it is time to develop the property and move forward. Mr. Briggs
compared this property to the Hillside Heights property to the north regarding parking requests and
stated his request is reasonable. He went on to explain different aspects of why the Council should
approve the variance.
Councilmember Calva stated his biggest concern is that the person has private access.
Matthew and Morgan Lerfald, 17395 Twin Lakes Rd NW, explained that the letter they
received from Mr. Briggs does not feel genuine, which they received on Friday before Monday's Council
meeting. They stated that they tried to reach out to Mr. Briggs multiple times, but have not been able
to get a hold of him or anyone. Every time they call, they go to an answering machine, and nobody ever
gets back to them, other than when he denied them a utility easement to get natural gas to their home.
They tried to get a utility easement along the driveway, and he denied them the easement. Mr. Lerfald
stated that this feels like a scare tactic, stating that if they didn't talk at the meeting, he would buy their
property. They explained other concerns they had regarding the apartment complex going in this area.
Brad Brummer, 14524 145th Court NW, stated that he is in the process of selling his home and
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explained that he would look for a new apartment to rent; therefore, he supports the apartment
building at this location.
Councilmember Grupa closed the public hearing.
Mayor Dietz explained that the Board of Adjustments pointed out that Mr. Briggs would not need the
variances if he reduced the size of his project and stated he would not be voting for either one.
Councilmember Wagner explained the reason for the denial from the Board of Adjustments is that it is
a new project, and the applicant knows what the land has and doesn't have, and could be solved by
changing the size. She stated every project has to stand on its own merit. This project is not the same
as other projects, and she has concerns about the easement portion of the driveway. She has a hard
time coming up with a reason to go against the Board of Adjustments, stating that it's a new project,
and it could be taken care of with a couple of adjustments. For these reasons, she will not be able to
support the request.
Councilmember Beyer stated that he does not see a traffic study and has no clue how that will affect
anything. Mr. Carlton explained that a traffic study has been submitted to the Public Works
Department. This is a variance component. The land use portion will be a different conversation.
Councilmember Beyer explained that we don't know how things are going to change with the
Northstar gone. He explained that Elk River has grown and grown and questioned how big we want Elk
River to get. He explained that at this point, he would be sticking with what the Board of Adjustments
suggested and would be voting against it as well.
Councilmember Grupa has concerns regarding the project and thinks that Mr. Briggs could make some
adjustments as well. He stated he would not be voting for the variance either.
Moved by Mayor Dietz and seconded by Councilmember Calva to direct staff to draft a
resolution making Findings of Fact, denying two variances, one requesting a reduction in
the number of parking stalls required for an apartment building, and second, a six-foot
encroachment into the wetland buffer setback, as the following standard required for
approval of a variance has not been met:
4. The plight of the petitioner is due to circumstances unique to the property and is a
consequence of the petitioner's own action.
The City Council would consider the resolution on January 20, 2026. Motion carried 5-0.
7.4 Resolution 25-78 and Ordinance 25-17: Amend City Plans to Support Commercial Uses,
Sherburne County - 11401 205th Ave NW
The staff report was presented.
Councilmember Grupa opened the public hearing on behalf of Mayor Dietz. There being no one to
speak to this matter, Councilmember Grupa closed the public hearing.
Moved by Councilmember Wagner and seconded by Councilmember Beyer to adopt
Resolution 25-78 amending the land use guidance for 11401 205th Ave NW from Rural
Residential to Highway Business, subject to the condition that Sherburne County prepare
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and record a Declaration of Covenants and Restrictions limiting the use of the property to
a billboard. Motion carried 5-0.
Moved by Councilmember Wagner and seconded by Councilmember Calva to adopt
Ordinance 25-17 amending the zoning map for 11401 205th Ave NW from R-1a (Single-
Family Residential) to C-3 (Highway Business), subject to the approval of the associated
land use amendment, Case No. LU 25-03. Motion carried 5-0.
8. GENERAL BUSINESS
8.1 Hearing: Tobacco Compliance Failures for Ralphies Minnoco
City Attorney Jared Shepherd presented the staff report.
Police Juvenile Detective Sergeant Don Birdsall explained the compliance check procedure.
Mark Lees, Sherburne County Health and Human Services, reiterated the compliance check
process and explained that they are not trying to trick anyone. The underage person tells the truth if
asked and provides their normal ID when requested.
Brian Brehmer, owner of Ralphie's Minnoco, stated that he agrees with what Sergeant Birdsall
and Mr. Lees stated, that they are not trying to trick them. Mr. Brehmer explained that the only reason
he decided to have a hearing was not to get out of the violation, but that he wanted to state on public
record that they do their best to train employees, but sometimes they fail. He explained he has another
gas station in Clear Lake that they pass every time. He continued to explain that they do the training
and go through the procedures. Mr. Brehmer continued to say that the person who was working that
day took the ID quickly, looked at it, and sold it anyway. He said they have a swipe machine for IDs, and
the employee did not even swipe it like they were trained to do.
Mayor Dietz just confirmed that the ordinance does state a $1,000 fine and a 7-day suspension. Mr.
Shepherd confirmed that, yes, that is the ordinance.
Councilmember Wagner understands the business and understands that it can be hard when needing to
ID people, but they need to hold to the ordinance.
Moved by Councilmember Calva and seconded by Mayor Dietz to deny the appeal. Motion
carried 5-0.
8.2 Cannabis Business Plan
The staff report was presented.
Mayor Dietz asked why they would want to terminate the architect agreement when they are planning
on building a new liquor store. Mr. Stremcha explained that they would be modifying the existing terms
and conditions to remove the cannabis store from the design. Currently, it is an agreement for both
Cannabound and Northbound, so they would have to end one agreement and have a new agreement
for just Northbound.
Mayor Dietz questioned the extra fees for ending the original agreement. Mr. Stremcha said they have
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already gotten far along with the architect's design, and they would have to amend the design. For
example, if they are turning an interior wall into an exterior wall, there would be hourly charges to
make those changes.
Mayor Dietz asked about the cannabis manager and confirmed that April 10 would be her last day. Mr.
Stremcha stated yes, unless she went on unemployment, then the city would pay the unemployment.
Mayor Dietz wanted confirmation of what he heard she would be doing. He heard that she would be
working at the Furniture and Things Community Event Center to help due to a lack of a chef. Mr.
Stremcha clarified that it would be a short-term help and not a guarantee of work. It could be to help
with catering events.
Mayor Dietz stated that he disagrees with counting staff time towards the $500,000 cost. He stated that
staff time is staff time and should not be singled out. He also stated that he would not include the price
of the land either. He explained to his perspective that all they had stuck in the cost was her wages and
the architect's fees.
Mr. Stremcha wanted to reaffirm that the staff time calculated has been staff time specifically allocated
to cannabis.
Mayor Dietz explained that he thinks the staff did a good job, and he is taking a lot of responsibility for
what has happened, and feels bad that he had not said anything sooner, but we have to move on. He
explained he agrees with building the new liquor store and selling the old store.
Councilmember Grupa asked how much square footage was for Cannabound. Mr. Stremcha stated that
Cannabound was 5,000 square feet total. Councilmember Grupa asked what they are going to charge
for the changes. Mr. Stremcha explained he has rough estimates and won't know the total until the
hourly rates have been applied, but he can get what has been spent to date. Councilmember Grupa
asked for numbers and stated that a building is a building, and suggested making the liquor store bigger,
so you are not cutting off the 5,000 square feet.
Councilmember Wagner wanted clarification regarding the discontinuation of the THC sales. Mr.
Stremcha explained that they have a 90-day supply, which would coincide with the manager's layoff.
Councilmember Wagner explained that she would not discontinue THC sales at the liquor stores and
that, to her, they are separate from Cannabound, unless the Federal law stops it. She also stated that
the THC sales are something that is already in place.
Councilmember Beyer asked for an explanation of why staff wanted the THC sales stopped.
Mr. Stremcha explained at the December 1 Council meeting that this topic was talked about in the
Work Session, so no formal action could be taken, but based on the context of selling cannabis and the
decision that was discussed at the work session to not sell cannabis in preparation between then and
now, they included taking out the THC products at the liquor stores. He further explained that
whether it is a cannabis plant or a hemp plant, it is a THC end product, whether it is sold at
Cannabound or the liquor stores. He stated that they would like clarification on the rationale for selling
products at Cannabound versus the liquor stores. He continued that if one is acceptable and one is not,
he would like to understand the difference.
Councilmember Beyer stated that the conversation was based on Cannabound, not the THC drinks
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that are in the stores now, and said there was no conversation about THC drinks.
Councilmember Grupa said that the liquor store is the liquor store; we are talking about the marijuana
store. He stated in his opinion that they are separate.
Councilmember Wagner wanted to clarify that as a Council, we would agree for the THC drinks to
continue. She stated she would make a motion on that if need be. She also stated that we shouldn't
make the footprint smaller and that it should continue to be the size it is currently. She continued to
explain that there are so many unknowns, and things keep getting changed at the state and federal levels
right now. She expressed that she applauds the work that staff has been doing and has the utmost
respect for the staff.
Mayor Dietz asked if the footprint stays the same, would they avoid the extra fees? The Council
discussed and stated that there would still be some fees. Mayor Dietz then brought up whether they
would be able to lease part of the space for retail space and put a fake wall up, so that if they decide not
to lease anymore, they could take the fake wall out.
Mr. Stremcha asked for clarification from the Council if the direction from the Council is to maintain
the exterior of the building, but not the interior, so it would be a hollow shell. Councilmember Wagner
asked if they needed to make that decision right now. Mr. Stremcha stated not necessarily.
Councilmember Wagner said that she would want to take time to think about that.
Mayor Dietz wanted clarification. Mr. Stremcha asked whether the intention was to install a concrete
floor, but no flooring or ceiling tile or anything, or would it be designed for a cannabis retailer, or would
it be designed for a future use that we would be intending to use the space for.
Councilmember Grupa stated that he thinks we need to wait for that because we are talking about
mechanicals and other things that need to be put in before you put in concrete.
Mr. Portner explained that we can build the exterior footprint and leave it a hollow shell until we find
out what kind of potential client we get into the building.
Councilmember Calva asked if we could set parameters for what kind of space is allowed.
Mayor Dietz asked Mr. Shepherd if they could set parameters for what could go into that space. Mr.
Shepherd stated they could.
Councilmember Wagner stated that she would disagree with having any parameters on it at the
moment, especially since it is a new thing. She thinks that the audiences that are talking to each of them
are different, and wants to wait until things settle down and there is clearer guidance. She doesn't want
to be pigeonholed to not allow something that could be a viable business, for fear of Elk River turning
into a stoner town, as a generalization.
Councilmember Calva shared that he does not have a fear of it, but thinks it's what the community is
asking for and referenced the Open Forum speaker regarding cannabis. He stated he is okay with the
new building, but he does not ever want a cannabis store next to the new liquor store because it is a
city-owned store, and people would assume the city was involved with the cannabis store.
Councilmember Beyer wanted to get back to how staff got back to the $500,000 number. He stated
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that he does not agree with adding the property to the $500.000 for the cannabis store because the
property is the property and stated that they could get someone in there easily, and these costs are not
only presented to them but to the whole city, and he doesn't think that the $500,000 number is true,
along with other Council members.
Mr. Stremcha reiterated that the market value for that property is not what they purchased the lot for;
they intended to purchase the lot at a premium with the intention that they would receive the
additional revenue from Cannabound to help offset those sales and investment in the lot.
Councilmember Beyer stated the revenue from Cannabound would not come for two-three years. Mr.
Stremcha stated that it is relevant and that it would be the same for Northbound; they do not intend to
recoup the Northbound investment in the first year of business. He explained it is a loan, no different
than a bond, that they would build the building and have a 10-20 year repayment event of that
investment. He further explained that the expectation for Cannabound to have a 100% recoup
investment is the same equation as Northbound, and it is not feasible.
Councilmember Beyer also stated that we don't know what the state of Minnesota will be taking in
taxes right now. They may decide they need to take more.
Mr. Stremcha answered, saying that whatever the state were to issue the sales tax to be is what they
would have to pay, and that it would not affect the purchasing power of the product, it is a sales tax.
Mayor Dietz questioned how to separate out Cannabound and the liquor store for the purchasing of
the land, because either way, we would have to have purchased the whole piece of property. Mr.
Stremcha explained that we went in knowing that we were paying a premium and knowing that they
would have a better chance of recouping costs and investment over time.
Mayor Dietz stated that he thinks the only out-of-pocket expense was for the cannabis manager's wages
and insurance.
Councilmember Beyer asked the Council if they could agree that they could come up with some ideas
of what they could do, and doesn't think they can solve everything tonight.
Councilmember Grupa stated that he is not rushing into anything, but whatever you want to discuss, so
we can move forward we can. He suggested keeping the building the same size as it is currently
proposed.
Mayor Dietz asked the Council if they agreed to build a new building. The Council agreed, except for
Councilmember Beyer, who wants to make sure we are doing it the right way, and stated, as he said in
the meeting before, that they are going to bond 8.2 million, and it is going to be paid for with
installment payments. Councilmember Beyer asked Mr. Stremcha what the amount would be for the
installment payments. Mr. Stremcha explained that he does not have that number on him right now, but
explained that the intention would be a 15–20 year bond repayment schedule, depending on the
interest rates at the time. Councilmember Beyer stated that now we are going to have a bond payment
and was questioning how it will affect the money coming out of the liquor store fund to the general
fund and parks and recreation fund, which helps to lower taxes.
Mayor Dietz explained that there was money that was going to be 2 to 2.8 million dollars that was
going to be used to do repairs to Northbound that would come out of the liquor store fund in addition
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to the $850,000 that was already paid for the lot; with that said, there will not be $850,000 to be put
into the city coffers. He explained there might be some depending on the bond payments, but most of it
will either have to go to repair the current store or build a new one.
Councilmember Beyer explained that he would like to see it all before he says yes and moves forward,
stating that he thinks he is being a good steward to the community.
Mayor Dietz stated that they need to make a decision and move on. He said that after what they saw
today, there is no way he would agree to sink a bunch of money into the current store for repairs.
Councilmember Grupa asked Mr. Stremcha what he needed from them tonight. Mr. Stremcha went
over the action items as stated in the staff report.
Mayor Dietz asked if they should talk to the architect before they decided on the contract. Mr. Portner
explained that if the Council is okay with what the footprint is, then Items 2 and 3 do not need to be
acted on tonight.
Moved by Mayor Dietz and seconded by Councilmember Calva to discontinue the
implementation of the Cannabis Business Plan (approved Feb 3, 2025) until more
information is available. Motion carried 5-0.
Moved by Councilmember Calva and seconded by Councilmember Grupa to approve a
layoff of the Cannabound Manager effective April 10, 2026. Motion carried 5-0.
Mr. Portner added that the projected annual payment for the Northbound bond schedule was
$263,812, and $131,906 projection for Cannabound, which will already be less, so a rough projection
would be in the $300,000 payment range.
8.3 2026 Meeting Calendar: City Council and Advisory Boards
The staff report was presented.
Moved by Mayor Dietz and seconded by Councilmember Wagner to approve, the 2026
City Council and Advisory Boards meeting calendars. Motion carried 5-0.
9. MOTION TO ADJOURN REGULAR MEETING
Moved by Councilmember Wagner and seconded by Mayor Dietz to adjourn the meeting.
Motion carried 5-0.
The regular meeting adjourned at 8:34 p.m. Mayor Dietz called the work session to order at 8:42 p.m.
10. WORK SESSION
10.1 Ebikes/Scooters on City Sidewalks and Trails
The staff report was presented.
The Council discussed with staff regarding the different types of E-bikes and scooters, how fast they can
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travel, and safety concerns.
Chief Kuhnly and Parks and Recreation Commissioner Dave Anderson were in attendance.
Mayor Dietz asked if they could paint a white line down the middle of the trails and say one side bikes,
one side walkers.
Mr. Shelby stated that it is a possibility, and they will be looking into that.
Mr. Shelby asked if they should include sidewalks and downtown.
Mr. Anderson explained that E-Bikes can be ridden on pavement, and the only dirt trail they can ride on
is a class one at Hillside, and scooters can ride on pavement. He stated that nothing can ride on grass
or unpaved trails. He further explained that E-bikes have created a whole new world for pedestrians,
and our trails were originally planned for pedestrians. He expressed that he doesn't like scooters or E-
bikes on trails, but they kind of have to be there. He stated what you do with sidewalks is a different
topic, but there has to be some kind of restrictions on sidewalks. He also stated that you actually
cannot split the trails with half pedestrians, half E-Bikes because you don't want two E-bikes coming at
each other on a 4-foot path. He added, if you have rules, then people know the rules; right now, no one
knows the rules.
Mayor Dietz asked Chief Kuhly if he thinks they should differentiate sidewalks in certain areas that are
heavily populated, like downtown. Chief Kuhly stated that his concern is that kids are driving these, and
they only know how to navigate sidewalks, not streets, and is concerned that if we say no scooters on
sidewalks and put kids on the roadway, then kids are just going to cut across the roadways, because
they don't know any different. He understands that there is a concern regarding the speed, but he is
more concerned about putting a kid on the road who doesn't know how to navigate the roadway.
Councilmember Wagner asked if they could start with the trails and not the sidewalks yet, then start
the conversation about sidewalks later, and start educating people.
The Council directed staff to move forward with the ordinance pertaining to trails and take out
sidewalks.
10.2 Northbound Capital Improvements
The staff report was presented
Mr. Stremcha handed the Council information regarding the last five years in sales and profits.
Mr. Portner stated that they have the direction they need to move forward from the decisions made
earlier in the meeting. They will present the numbers as they receive them.
Staff will meet with the architect and bring information back to the Council.
10.3 Vehicle Acquisition and Replacement Policy Manual
The staff report was presented.
City Council Minutes
December 15, 2025
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Page 13 of 13
The Council reviewed the suggested policy and gave direction for Mr. Litfin to move forward with the
plan.
10.4 Red Dot Pistol Sights
The staff report was presented.
Mayor Dietz asked if it was a one-time expense. Chief Kuhly explained that the pistol itself is a one-time
purchase, and the red dot is a one-time purchase, with the possibility of replacement over time for the
red dot. He stated they last for 5-7 years.
Mayor Dietz asked if we knew for sure if there would be a surplus for the purchase. Mr. Portner stated
we would have to get back to the Council with the numbers.
The Council gave him direction to continue to move forward with the plan.
11. MOTION TO ADJOURN
Moved by Councilmember Wagner and seconded by Councilmember Grupa to adjourn
the meeting of City Council. Motion carried 5-0.
The meeting adjourned at 9:32 p.m.
Minutes prepared by Jolene Richter.
12. INFORMATION
12.1 November Financial Statements
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John J. Dietz, Mayor
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Jolene Richter, Deputy City Clerk