PR Packet 04-08-2026 (2)
Parks and Recreation Commission
Regular Meeting
Agenda
Wednesday, April 8, 2026
6:30 PM
Elk River City Hall
▪ Regular meeting in Council Chambers
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. CONSIDER AGENDA
4. CONSIDER MINUTES
4.1 03-11-2026 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
5. OPEN FORUM
An opportunity to provide comments and feedback regarding items not on the agenda. Information provided in Open Forum
will not be discussed at this meeting; rather, the information will be referred to staff and/or scheduled for discussion at a
future meeting.
6. ACTION ITEMS
6.1 Hillside Park - Jump Line
6.2 Hillside Park - Pump Track
6.3 Woodland Trails Equipment Request
6.4 Farmers Market Coloring Contest Vote
6.5 Vikings Youth Football Camp
6.6 GNT Trailhead and Trailside Amenities Agreement
6.7 Trail Rules Signs - Ebikes
6.8 Parks and Recreation Framework Plan - Request for Proposal
7. DISCUSSION ITEMS
7.1 Local Sales and Use Tax Amendment
8. PARKS AND RECREATION MANAGER UPDATE
Page 1 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
8.1 Parks and Recreation Manager Update
9. ANNOUNCEMENTS
10. MOTION TO ADJOURN
Page 2 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Page 3 of 64
Meeting of the Parks and Recreation
Commission
Held at the Elk River City Hall
Wednesday, March 11, 2026
Members Present: Chair Stewart, Commissioners Goodwin, Anderson, Varty, Niziolek, Fermoyle,
and Loidolt
Members Absent: Councilmember Grupa
Staff Present: Assistant City Administrator/Business Services Director Joe Stremcha, Parks and
Recreation Manager Jeff Shelby, and Senior Administrative Assistant Dawn Larson
1.CALL MEETING TO ORDER
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the meeting was called to order at 06:30 PM.
2.PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
3.CONSIDER AGENDA
Moved by Commissioner Fermoyle and seconded by Commissioner Varty to approve the
March 11, 2026, agenda. Motion carried 7-0.
4.CONSIDER MINUTES
4.1 02-11-2026 Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting Minutes
Moved by Commissioner Loidolt and seconded by Commissioner Stewart to approve the
February 11, 2026, Parks and Recreation Commission minutes. Motion carried 7-0.
5.ELECTION OF CHAIR AND VICE CHAIR
5.1 Election of Chair and Vice Chair
Commissioner Niziolek nominated Commissioner Stewart for the Chair position. Moved by
Commissioner Loidolt to nominate Commissioner Goodwin. Commissioner Stewart won 6-1.
Commissioner Niziolek nominated Commissioner Goodwin for the Vice-Chair position and the
commissioners voted 7-0. Chair Stewart took over the meeting immediately following this agenda item.
6.OPEN FORUM
7.ACTION ITEMS
7.1 Parks and Recreation Framework Plan — Scope of Work
Mr. Shelby presented his report. Commissioner Fermoyle asked what the original deadline was. Mr.
Shelby said that it would be determined based on the recommended length of time the consultant and DRAFTPage 4 of 64
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staff would need to complete the work.
Commissioner Fermoyle asked if the commission would be involved in the timeline past the April 8
meeting. Mr. Shelby said on April 8 staff would provide a draft of the RFP for the commission to review
and approve. That draft would then be presented to City Council at the April 20 meeting. Staff would
continue the process through the timeline. He pointed out that the commission would be involved
again once the RFP process was completed.
Mr. Stremcha said the commission could also put together a small committee to assist in the interview
process after they receive the project proposals. If there is only one, staff may not need assistance, and
they may want to go back out to bid to gather more. Chair Stewart said he believes it would be
advantageous to have commissioners involved in this process.
Commissioner Anderson asked who the designee is in the table of contents when that word is listed.
Mr. Shelby said it would potentially be a commissioner. Commissioner Anderson said that is what he
was hoping for. Chair Stewart said there are quite a few designee spots listed in the table of contents so
there would be several spots for the commissioners that are interested in those areas to jump in and
contribute.
Commissioner Anderson asked Mr. Shelby if the commission would be involved through the entire
process and Mr. Shelby said yes. Commissioner Anderson said that if there is enough interest they
should be involved in most, if not all areas of the table of contents. He pointed out that there is not a
designee listed under the community section. He asked Mr. Shelby if that meant that the commission
doesn’t have the expertise. Mr. Shelby said that section could be put together by another department of
the city that has additional resources to provide that information. It wouldn’t need to be duplicated by a
new consultant.
Chair Stewart said when staff come back to the commission in April, they could get deeper into the
categories and solicit which commissioner would be interested. Mr. Stremcha pointed out that some of
the topics that say consultant would be areas leveraged to help develop or craft the plan where others
do not. When they come back in April to talk about the RFP, they would be specifically tailoring the
RFP to identify areas where the consultant would need to assist with that work. Areas that do not list
consultant, for example, such as the parks and facilities plan would be done internally and not included
in the RFP. Mr. Stremcha said there is more to the plan than the RFP where they would need a
designee for.
Commissioner Anderson asked if this is the time to make a motion for action. He asked if they should
decide now for each topic or whether it would be done on the fly based on what the Chair and Vice-
Chair decide. Mr. Shelby said that doing so tonight would be convenient. Chair Stewart said they would
just go down the list from the top.
Commissioner Anderson asked if they needed to list the specific individuals who will be the designee
tonight. Mr. Shelby said that they would want to wait until they have the RFP. He is primarily asking the
commission to just list the areas they would like to have a designee. Commissioner Anderson said that
anywhere it says designee they should add that it is a commission designee if that is the intent. He also
said that the categories that are not listed should just be a brief discussion. Commissioner Anderson
asked if the overview was already done. Mr. Shelby said it is more of a summary that will be done when
the project is done. DRAFTPage 5 of 64
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The Commission worked down the table of contents volunteering to assist with the topics they were
interested in.
Introduction
Overview
Mission and Values-Chair Stewart
Community Profile-none
Plan Purpose-Chair Stewart
Planning Process-none
Executive Summary-none
Inventory and Assessment
Chapter Overview-none
Public/Community Engagement-Commissioner Goodwin
Parks Inventory-Chair Stewart
Level of Service Analysis-none
Park and Trail Use-none
System Plan
Chapter Overview
Arts and Culture Programming Plan-Commissioner Fermoyle
Marketing Plan-Commissioner Goodwin
Natural Resource Plan-Commissioners Anderson, Niziolek, and Chair Stewart
Parks and Facilities Plan-Commissioners Varty, Niziolek, and Loidolt
Recreation Programming Plan-Commissioners Loidolt and Goodwin
Risk Management Plan-Chair Stewart and Commissioner Fermoyle
Trail System Plan-Chair Stewart, Commissioners Niziolek and Anderson
Volunteerism and Stewardship-Commissioners Anderson and Goodwin
Chapter Overview
Roles
Opportunities
Coordination
Recognition
Implementation and Sustainability-Chair Stewart and Commissioner Niziolek
Chapter Overview
Maintenance and Operations Strategy
Capital Improvement Plan, Operations, and Maintenance Costs
Interview Committee-Chair Stewart, Commissioners Fermoyle and Goodwin
Mr. Stremcha pointed out that the timeline is aggressive to make sure community engagement is
captured during the peak season.
Moved by Commissioner Goodwin and seconded by Commissioner Loidolt to approve
that staff develop an RFP for consultant-based scope of work as presented and added to
tonight by staff for the Parks and Recreation Framework Plan. Motion carried 7 -0.
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8. DISCUSSION ITEMS
8.1 Robert's Rules Review
Mr. Shelby presented his staff report. No questions from the commission. Chair Stewart said it was a
good refresher.
8.2 Parks and Recreation Commission Bylaws
Mr. Shelby presented his report. The commission did not feel any changes needed to be made at this
time.
8.3 Trail Signage - Ebikes
Mr. Shelby presented his report.
Mr. Shelby explained that the city standard size for signs is 9 by 12. The commissioners were given a
printed version of the trail sign in this size for reference. Mr. Shelby said that he believes the
Communications department intent is to present a final version of the sign at the next month’s
Commission meeting and answer any questions or comments the commission may have.
Commissioner Goodwin said it makes sense to her to follow the standard size of signage along the trail,
but she thinks the signs should be larger at the entrance to the parks, so people have better awareness
of what is expected of them as they enter the park. Mr. Shelby said that the subcommittee had
discussed seven locations at trail entry points that were listed at the February commission meeting.
Chair Stewart said that he thinks the verbiage is good and will accomplish what they want to do but this
size is too small to be read while out on the trail. He said if a person is at a stationary point like a kiosk
the sign would be fine but not while moving.
Commissioner Loidolt said he thinks that staggering the rules on separate signs as they go down the
path could be an option. Each rule could be read with bigger, bolder font. He said that he wouldn’t be
able to see this sign if he was riding along at 20 miles per hour unless it was bigger and bolder.
Commissioner Anderson said this sign is the same size as the park boundary signs. He said this is a lot
of information and should be on a sign that is a minimum of 12 by 18. They should make everything as
large as possible on the sign, including the circles, even if it means losing some of the brown space. He
also thinks the media campaign will be significant to help educate.
Commissioner Goodwin said she thinks the goal of implementing this is to mitigate requiring more
resources from law enforcement. Since they already set up a city ordinance, they need to make this as
easy as possible, so they don’t really have to reinforce because people will have an awareness. She
values the marketing efforts of consistency but also thinks it’s important to make it as legible and large
as possible. She is reluctant to stagger the signs because she would rather have the information in one
place.
Commissioner Niziolek suggested that Trails Rules be one sign and the rules on a separate sign beneath
it in landscape form.
Commissioner Varty said she doesn’t think anyone is going to read the sign because there are so many
signs already. She said catching them at the trail heads is better because people won’t see them as they DRAFTPage 7 of 64
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are moving. Mr. Shelby said that communications said the same thing.
Chair Stewart said he thinks they should make the sign as large as they can, with the largest print they
can and potentially change the orientation of the sign to landscape. Mr. Shelby confirmed the
commission would like to see a mockup of the landscape layout version of the sign with a size of 12 by
18, a larger font, and use as much of the brown space as they can to review at the April meeting.
9. PARKS AND RECREATION MANAGER UPDATE
9.1 Parks and Recreation Manager Update
Mr. Shelby presented his report.
10. ANNOUNCEMENTS
Commissioner Loidolt said that he is concerned that the City Council has started to direct a notion to
use the Active Elk River project bonding that he and others did to get for the FT Center, softball fields,
and lights at the PT Complex. He did a lot of door knocking for this. The bond will pay off early and so
the council is thinking of using that money now for the remaining 15 years to build a fire station. He
understands that it is needed but he doesn’t think it should be coming from this Active Elk River
money. He said he would like to have the Parks and Recreation Commission discuss this at a future
meeting as a discussion item on the agenda.
11. MOTION TO ADJOURN
Moved by Commissioner Fermoyle and seconded by Commissioner Goodwin to adjourn
the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting at 7:33pm. Motion carried 7-0.
__________________
Hal Stewart, Chair
__________________________
Jolene Richter, Deputy City Clerk
DRAFTPage 8 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.1
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Hillside Park - Jump Line
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, the construction of a jump line at Hillside Park.
Background/Discussion
Derek Burchill, the park steward at Hillside Park, is proposing the construction of a jump line at Hillside Park.
The proposal is included for review.
Financial Impact
The city will provide fill dirt and MORC will provide funds for any additional needs.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Opportunity to live, work, and play.
Attachments
1. Hillside jump line proposal
2. Hillside jumpline marked up map
Page 9 of 64
To Whom it May Concern:
Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists would like to propose constructing a jump line in section 1 at
Hillside Mountain Bike Park in Elk River, MN.
Why do we need the jump line?
The jump line will be added in addition to the skills area built 2 years ago in an effort to help
riders improve their mountain biking skills. The jump line will be used by those who want to
improve their jumping skills.
Who will build the new trail and how will it be built?
The current plan is to build the new trail with all volunteer labor. Currently there are
6 regular members of the trail crew plus others that join us occasionally. The Elk River and
Rockford high school mountain bike teams that have also expressed interest in helping out
with trail work. We would advertise the need for more volunteers. A lot of the work will be
with hand tools but we will need to rent some equipment such as a mini excavator and
mini skid steer to help in the construction.
What will the new trail look like?
See attached map. The jump line will start at the top of the small hill next to the parking lot
and service road. A fairly straight trail will be constructed downhill parallel to the service
road with a trail end tying into the service road which will be used as a return path so riders
can loop the jump trail. Along the trail there will be a few jumps, probably 3-4. The idea is
the rider will start heading south and gain speed coming off the hill so they have enough
Proposal to add a jump line in section 1
Hillside Mountain Bike Park – Elk River, MN
Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists
Page 10 of 64
speed to clear the first jump and every jump after that. Once done with the jumps, the trail
will bring them to the service road where they can head back north to the start of the jump
line again. The jump line is to be one-way traffic.
What is the timeline for the construction, and how will it impact park users during the
construction phase?
We are hoping to start construction in the spring of 2026. Since it doesn’t cross any
existing trails it should not affect park users at all. I would guess we will have it completed
by mid summer 2026.
Any environmental impacts?
In the process of construction we will be removing mostly scrub brush and
buckthorn. The tree removal work the city has done the past couple winters has opened a
nice path for the trail so there are no trees currently in the way.
What would we need from the city? Budgetary concerns?
We will need dirt for the actual jumps, we are hoping the city can supply us with
black dirt that has some clay in it so it is compactable and will hold together. I would
estimate 20-30 yards of black dirt will be needed. I am asking for equipment rental money
in my 2026 MORC budget so the city does not need to carry the full load. I anticipate MORC
will be able to cover all equipment rental fees.
Thank you for your consideration of this project, I hope to hear from you soon! Please let
me know if there are any questions or concerns and I will be happy to address them.
Derek Burchill
Hillside Mountain Bike Park Trail Steward
Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC)
Burchill.Derek@gmail.com
763-807-1000
Page 11 of 64
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.2
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Hillside Park - Pump Track
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, the construction of a pump track at Hillside Park.
Background/Discussion
Derek Burchill, the park steward at Hillside Park, is proposing the construction of a pump track at Hillside
Park. The proposal is included for review.
Financial Impact
The city will provide fill dirt and MORC will provide funds for any additional needs.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Work with citizens to achieve goals.
Attachments
1. Hillside pump track proposal
2. Pump track location
3. Pump track layout
4. Pump track pictures
Page 13 of 64
To Whom it May Concern:
Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists would like to propose constructing a pump track in the south
prairie at Hillside Mountain Bike Park in Elk River, MN.
What is a pump track and why do we need one?
A pump track is a closed loop and can be a variety of shapes and sizes. It contains
rollers (like small hills) along it’s length that are spaced so that riders can pump their bike
using their legs and arms and gain speed without pedaling. They often contain small jumps
and berms in the corners. See attached pictures.
The pump track will be added in addition to the skills area built 2 years ago in an
effort to help riders improve their mountain biking skills. The pump track will be used by
those who want to improve their pumping, jumping and berm skills.
Who will build the new pump track and how will it be built?
The current plan is to build the pump track with all volunteer labor. Currently there
are 6 regular members of the trail crew plus others that join us occasionally. The Elk River
and Rockford high school mountain bike teams that have also expressed interest in helping
out with trail work. We would advertise the need for more volunteers. A lot of the work will
be with hand tools but we will need to rent some equipment such as a skid steer to help in
the construction.
What will the new trail look like?
See attached map for location. We have a fairly large area to work with next to the
container where the rock pile currently is. The rock pile will be moved and mostly used up
in the contruction of the section 3 reroute project. The area is mostly flat with a slight slope
for drainage, perfect for a pump track. There is a large tree there that I’m hoping to use to
Proposal to add a pump track
Hillside Mountain Bike Park – Elk River, MN
Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists
Page 14 of 64
shade part of the track and possibly some picnic tables. The location should not interfere
with the area used to pile snow in the winter.
What is the timeline for the construction, and how will it impact park users during the
construction phase?
We are hoping to start construction in the spring of 2026. Depending on volunteer
turnout, the availability of dirt and equipment rentals, I’m projecting to finish it by mid
summer 2026. The construction of the pump track will not affect the existing trail at all so
park user impact will be low.
Any environmental impacts?
In the process of construction we will be removing the rock pile and scraping off the
organic material to build the track. Other than that there should be no environmental
impacts.
What would we need from the city? Budgetary concerns?
We will need dirt for the construction, I’m hoping for black dirt with a high clay
content so it hold together. We would need about 50-60 yards of dirt, the dirt that has been
supplied by the city in the recent past would work great I think. It would also be great to get
a couple new picnic tables for the area. I am asking for equipment rental in my 2026 MORC
budget so the city does not need to carry the full load. I anticipate MORC will be able to
cover all equipment rental fees.
Thank you for your consideration of this project, I hope to hear from you soon! Please let
me know if there are any questions or concerns and I will be happy to address them.
Derek Burchill
Hillside Mountain Bike Park Trail Steward
Minnesota Off-Road Cyclists (MORC)
Burchill.Derek@gmail.com
763-807-1000
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.3
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Woodland Trails Equipment Request
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, that the City Council approve the purchase of a new trail grooming tool using the
Park Maintenance budget in the General Fund for 2027.
Background/Discussion
Woodland Trails Regional Park Volunteer Dave Kallemeyn is requesting the purchase of a Ginzu Groomer to
assist with the grooming of the winter trails at the park. The purchase is requested to be in 2027 for the
2027/2028 winter season.
Financial Impact
An estimated $13,000 from the Park Maintenance budget in the 2027 General Fund.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Work with citizens to achieve goals.
Attachments
1. Woodland Trails Equipment Request
Page 20 of 64
Woodland Trails
Regional Park
Trail grooming
equipment request
Dave Kallemeyn
Page 21 of 64
Winter Trail Grooming
•15 Kilometers ski trails. Groomed for Skate and
Classic technique
•5 Kilometers walking trails
•For park patrons, Skiing and walking distances
each take about 90 minutes.
•Grooming skate ski and walking trails are both
done at 8-15 MPH. Grooming the entire system
takes 2-2 ½ hours with 2 groomers
•All trails are groomed as needed, usually 3-5 times
a week
•Starts with snow. Usually early-mid December
ends mid March
•City provides snowmobiles and fuel
•Volunteer groomers
•Grooming is done at times which will produce best
trail conditions.
•Sometimes multiple grooming runs during big
snow events.
•Also prefer to groom during low usage hours
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Woodland's equipment shed and
grooming snowmobiles
Page 23 of 64
Our current
equipment is
inadequate for
icy trails
•Rollers work on deep
snow and new snow
•Screens work on
packed granular snow
•Also used on walking
trails
•Warm snaps and or
freezing rain glaze
trails. Currently no
good solution.
•Wait for more snow Page 24 of 64
Our current
equipment is
inadequate for
icy trails
Track setter for classic
skiing
Page 25 of 64
Requesting purchase of
Ginzu Groomer
•Budgetary quote from Yellowstone
Track Systems received 3-25-2026
•To be used with 2 existing
snowmobiles
•Asking for inclusion in 2027 Parks
Budget.
•Begin use winter 2027/2028
Ginzu groomer, track setter & 2
snowmobile modification parts kits
$11,045
Shipping $500
Contingency 15%$1,730
Budgetary total $13,275
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Midwinter
weekend at
Woodlands
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Q & A
Thanks for
your attention
Page 28 of 64
APPENDIX
Page 29 of 64
Detailed
quote
YTS
Ginzu
Groomer
Page 1
Page 30 of 64
Detailed
quote
YTS
Ginzu
Groomer
Page 2
Page 31 of 64
Data from St. Cloud regional
Airport
A trail icing event is:
Temp >32F for >24 hours
OR
Liquid precipitation rain,
drizzle, wintery mix >.1 inch
If both occur on same day
count as 1 event
Page 32 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.4
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Karen Wingard, Farmer's Market/Event Coordinator
Item Description
Farmers Market Coloring Contest Vote
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Approve, by motion, the winner of the 2026 Farmers Market Coloring Contest.
Background/Discussion
We had 26 entries submitted for the annual Farmers Market Coloring Contest. The winning design will be
printed on the yearly tote bag to be given away on opening day.
Financial Impact
None.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Opportunity to live, work, and play.
Attachments
1. A
2. B
3. C
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The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.5
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Vikings Youth Football Camp
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, that the City Council approve the facilities agreement with the Minnesota Vikings to
hold a one-day youth clinic for residents.
Background/Discussion
Parks and Recreation has partnered with the Minnesota Vikings to hold a one-day youth clinic for residents on
July 14. This is a non-contact clinic for boys and girls of all skill levels, ages 6-14. It is free to attend and will be
held at Oak Knoll Athletic Complex.
Financial Impact
None.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Opportunity to live, work, and play.
Attachments
1. 2026-07-14 - Facility Agreement - City of Elk River
Page 37 of 64
Strictly Confidential
March 17, 2026
City of Elk River
Attn: Warren Ellingworth
999 Proctor Ave NW
Elk River, MN 55330
Re: Minnesota Vikings Youth Football Camp
This facilities agreement (“Agreement”) confirms the mutual agreement between Minnesota Vikings
Football, LLC (“Vikings”) and the City of Elk River (“City”) for the use of the Oak Knoll Athletic Complex located
at 999 Proctor Ave NW, Elk River, MN 55330 (the “Facility”) during the Vikings Youth Football Camp on July
14, 2026, from approximately 10:00AM – 12:30PM CT (the “Event”). Vikings will require access to the Facility
starting at 8:00AM on the day of the Event to complete setup. City acknowledges and agrees that Vikings may
formally terminate this Agreement at any time prior to the Event without any liability or obligation.
City represents and warrants that (i) it has the full right and authority to enter into this Agreement, (ii) that
no other permission or consent to do so is necessary, (iii) this Agreement does not create a conflict with any other
agreements or relationships entered into by City with other third parties at the time of entering into this Agreement
and thereafter, (iv) City shall comply with all applicable city, county, state, and federal guidelines, regulations, laws
and procedures, and (v) City has taken all steps necessary to obtain any necessary permissions, certifications,
licenses, endorsements, or approvals required from any and all entities that govern facility use as required to provide
use of the Facility.
The parties agree that Vikings shall have the right to use the Facility for the Event at no cost. However,
notwithstanding the foregoing, Vikings agree to reimburse City up to Four Hundred Dollars ($400) for City’s
procurement of portable restrooms for the Event. Vikings shall reimburse City within thirty (30) days of completion
of the Event and receipt of an approved invoice.
City shall be fully responsible for any and all damage, illness or injury caused to City or City’s property,
unless such damage is caused by the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Vikings. Further, City shall be fully
responsible for any and all damage, illness or injury caused to any person or property related to City’s acts or
omissions or the Event. City shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Vikings, the National Football League and
its member professional football clubs, and each of their respective affiliates, owners, members, officers, partners,
directors, agents, invitees and employees (collectively, the “Indemnified Parties”) from and against all claims,
damages, actions, judgments, suits, losses, fines, penalties, demands, costs, expenses, and liability whatsoever,
including attorneys’ fees, expert fees and court costs (collectively, the “Losses”), and all expenses incidental to
such Losses, based upon, arising out of, or in any way related to (i) the Facility; (ii) any act, error, or omission by
City or anyone acting under its direction or control or on its behalf; (iii) damage to property or injuries to persons
or other tortious acts caused or contributed to by City or anyone acting under its direction or control or on its behalf;
or (iv) any breach of this Agreement by City.
Vikings shall indemnify, defend, and hold harmless City from and against any and all Losses based upon,
arising out of, or in any way related to (i) Vikings’ gross negligence or willful misconduct; (ii) damage to property
or injuries to persons or other tortious acts solely and directly caused by Vikings; or (iii) any breach of this
Agreement by Vikings.
City shall provide and maintain in full force and effect, at its own expense, the following policies of
insurance written by insurance companies qualified to do business in the State of Minnesota and the states where
Services are provided, with an A.M. Best Company rating of A–IX or better: (i) Commercial General Liability
insuring against loss or damage of any kind, type or nature, including bodily injury or death, with limits not less
than $1,000,000 each occurrence and $3,000,000 aggregate; (ii) Workers’ Compensation in compliance with the
Page 38 of 64
statutory requirements of the state of operation, and Employer’s Liability with limits not less than $1,000,000 each
accident, $1,000,000 disease- each employee and $1,000,000 disease-policy limit; and (iii) Umbrella/Excess
Liability with limits not less than $1,000,000 each occurrence to apply in excess of the Commercial General
Liability and Employer’s Liability policy limits.
All such insurance and policies required above shall be primary and non-contributory and provide that the
coverage may not be canceled unless thirty (30) days prior written notice is furnished to the Vikings. Each policy
(excluding Workers’ Compensation) shall include the Indemnified Parties as Additional Insureds, and all policies
in (i) – (iii) above shall include a waiver of subrogation in favor of the Indemnified Parties. The insurance
requirements set forth above shall not be construed as a limitation of any potential liability, and City shall remain
solely and fully liable for the full amount of any loss or damage not compensated by insurance. City shall provide
the Vikings with certificates of insurance evidencing the requirements set forth above. Vikings’ approval or
acceptance of a certificate of insurance does not constitute assumption of responsibility for the validity of any
insurance policy nor does the Vikings represent that the required coverages and limits are adequate to protect City’s
interest, and the Vikings assume no liability therefore.
Vikings will not be liable to City for failure or delay in performing its obligations under this Agreement
where such failure by the Vikings is due, in whole or in part, to war or the effects of war, terrorism, blockade,
revolution, insurrection, civil commotion, riot, mobilization, strike, labor trouble, work stoppage, lockout, act of
God, weather conditions, decisions of the NFL, plague, pandemic, epidemic, virus or disease outbreak and/or actual
or anticipated public health crises, fire, flood, acts of government or the public enemy, any labor, material, or
transportation shortage or curtailment, governmental regulation, or to any other similar or dissimilar cause or causes
beyond the control of, or without the fault or negligence of, the Vikings, and all whether foreseeable or
unforeseeable. In the case of a force majeure event, Vikings may cancel or modify this Agreement without liability,
upon written notification to City. For clarity, a Vikings business decision to modify or not host the Event in response
to any such force majeure event is considered a force majeure event.
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Minnesota
without giving effect to principles of conflict of laws. If any portion of this Agreement is held invalid or
unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected and shall continue to be valid and enforceable
to the fullest extent permitted by law. The parties acknowledge neither party has, or shall be deemed to have, the
authority to bind the other party without the other party’s express written consent. City shall look only to the assets
of Vikings, a limited liability company, and not to the assets of any member or other person, including without
limitation Vikings’ partners and owners, for the satisfaction of any obligation or debt under this Agreement. After
the Event, all obligations relating to indemnification and liability, or which by implication were intended to
continue, shall survive until fulfilled. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of
which will be deemed an original, but all of which taken together shall constitute one single agreement. Faxed,
electronic, and scanned signatures will be deemed acceptable to the same extent as an original.
Agreed and acknowledged:
CITY OF ELK RIVER
By: _____________________________
Name: ___________________________
Title: ____________________________
MINNESOTA VIKINGS FOOTBALL, LLC
By: _____________________________
Name: ___________________________
Title: _____________________________
Page 39 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.6
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
GNT Trailhead and Trailside Amenities Agreement
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, that the City Council approve the Joint Powers Agreement between Sherburne
County, the City of Elk River, and the City of Zimmerman for design of a trailhead and amenities along the
Great Northern Regional Trail.
Background/Discussion
The city has worked with Sherburne County and the City of Zimmerman on the trailhead facility and
amenities design over the last two years. The next step in the project is to formalize the working agreement.
Financial Impact
Under the joint agreement, the city's responsibility will be 17.58% of the accrued costs. Funds will be
deducted from the Park Dedication Fund.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Improve citizen quality of life. Responsible for every dollar - good stewards.
Attachments
1. GNRT Trailhead and Amenities Design JPA
Page 40 of 64
JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT
BETWEEN SHERBURNE COUNTY, THE CITY OF ELK RIVER AND
CITY OF ZIMMMERMAN
FOR DESIGN OF TRAILHEAD AND AMENITIES ALONG THE GREAT NORTHERN
REGIONAL TRAIL
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into this _____ day of __________, 2026,
(the “Effective Date”) by and between the County of Sherburne (“SC”), a political subdivision of
the State of Minnesota, 13880 Business Center Drive NW, Elk River, Minnesota 55330, (the
"County"), The City of Elk River (“ER”), 13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330, and the City of Zimerman (“CZ”), 12980 Fremont Ave, Zimmerman, MN
55398
WHEREAS, the Parties intend to work with a consulting landscape architecture firm to
design a trailhead facility and trailside amenities for the Great Northern Regional Trail between
the Cities of Elk River and Zimmerman.
WHEREAS, the alignment goes through Sherburne County, City of Elk River and the
City of Zimmerman jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, the Parties agree that cooperating in the trailhead and amenities design and
funding for the scope is in the best interest of the public, and therefore enter into this Agreement
to identify the responsibilities and obligations of each of the Parties; and
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and covenants contained herein
and subject to the provisions of Minn. Stat. § 471.59, the Parties agree as follows:
1. Purpose. The Parties enter into this Agreement for the purpose of jointly designing the
trail use supporting features of this project.
2. Term. Notwithstanding the date of the signatures of the Parties, the term of this
Agreement shall commence on the Effective Date and, unless earlier terminated pursuant
to this Agreement, shall terminate on the date that Project has been completed and all
other obligations of this Agreement have been fulfilled.
3. Duties of the Parties.
3.1. Solicitation and Award of Contract. SC will act as the lead agency in soliciting
proposals and qualifications from firms for the alignment analysis.
3.2 Preliminary Information and Review. When requested by SC or the selected
Consultant, ER and the CZ shall provide relevant documentation to assist the Consultant
in preparing the preliminary report and preparations for the community engagement
presentations.
Each Party shall retain responsibility for reviewing and approving presentation materials
and final analysis reports/drawings for segments within their respective jurisdictions.
Page 41 of 64
3.3. Cost Participation. SC will be responsible for administering the contract with the
selected Consultant, including making payments to the Consultant. The current estimated
total cost for services of the selected consultant is $39,958.79.
Each Party shall proportionally share costs based on the percent construction estimate nt
within each jurisdictional boundary using the following percentages:
▪ Sherburne County 22.60%
▪ The City of Elk River 17.58%
▪ City of Zimmerman 59.82%
Upon completion of the Design and Construction Administration, ER and CZ shall
reimburse SC for the proportional share of the final costs applicable to the percentages
referenced above. Final costs will be based on actual expenses incurred by SC, as
reflected in SC’s payments to the Consultant for professional services associated with the
alignment analysis. ER and CZ shall remit payment to SC within 30 days of receiving an
itemized invoice.
4. General Provisions.
4.1 Entire Agreement; Amendments. This Agreement constitutes the entire
agreement and understanding of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof and
supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements, documents and proposals, oral or
written, between the parties with respect thereto. Any amendment or modification to this
Agreement shall not be valid unless such amendment or modification (i) is in writing and
signed by authorized representatives of both parties and (ii) references this Agreement.
4.2 Cooperation. The parties agree to cooperate in the use of resources, including
available right-of-way to complete the project as a whole, to the extent feasible and to the
extent permitted by law. The parties further agree to cooperate in the administration of
the contract and completion of the project, including cooperating in resolving any
disputes the parties may have with the contractor(s) both during the project and following
completion of the project.
4.3 Notices. Any notices required or permitted to be given under this Agreement
shall be delivered personally or sent by certified mail to the other party as follows:
To Sherburne County: Andrew Witter
Sherburne County Engineer
Sherburne County Government Center
13880 Business Center Drive
Elk River, MN 55330
To the City of Elk River: Jeff Shelby
Parks & Recreation Manager
Elk River Parks and Recreation
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
Page 42 of 64
To the City of Zimmerman: Randy Piasecki
City Administrator
City of Zimmerman
12980 Fremont Ave
Zimmerman, MN 55398
4.4 Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the State of
Minnesota. For the purpose of resolving conflicts related to or arising out of this
Agreement, the parties expressly agree that venue shall be exclusively in the State of
Minnesota, County of Sherburne.
4.5 Disbursement of Funds. All funds disbursed by the County or Township pursuant
to this Agreement shall be disbursed by each entity pursuant to the method provided by
law.
4.6 Audit. The parties shall maintain complete and accurate records with respect to
costs incurred and services performed under this Agreement for a period of at least six (6)
years after the termination of this Agreement. Pursuant to Minn. Stat. § 16C.05, Subd. 5,
each party shall allow the other party, the State Auditor, or their authorized
representatives access to the books, records, documents, and accounting procedures and
practices relevant to the subject matter of the Agreement, for purposes of audit.
4.7 Data Practices. All data created, collected, received, stored, used, maintained, or
disseminated for any purpose in connection with this Agreement is governed by the
Minnesota Data Practices Act, as well as other State and Federal rules and regulations
relating to data privacy.
4.8 Termination. This Agreement may be terminated by either party at any time, with
or without cause, upon not less than thirty (30) days written notice delivered by mail or in
person to the other parties. If notice is delivered by mail, it shall be deemed to be
received two days after mailing. Such termination shall not be effective with respect to
any solicitation of bids or any purchases of services or goods which occurred prior to
such notice of termination. Each Party shall pays its pro rata share of costs incurred prior
to such notice of termination regardless of with Party initiates termination of agreement.
4.9 Liability. Each party will be solely responsible for its own acts and omissions and
the results thereof, to the extent authorized by law. The parties mutually agree to
indemnify and hold harmless each other from any claims, losses, costs, expenses or
damages resulting from the acts or omissions of the respective officers, agents, or
employees relating to activities conducted by either party under this Agreement.
Minnesota Statutes Chapter 466 and other applicable laws govern the parties’ liability.
4.10 Severability. In the event that any portion of this Agreement shall be held to be
invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity of the remainder of this Agreement.
Page 43 of 64
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Parties hereto have executed this Agreement to be effective as of
the Effective Date set forth above.
SHERBURNE COUNTY CITY OF ELK RIVER
By: _____________________________ By: _____________________________
County Board Chair Mayor
Attest: ___________________________ Attest: _____________________________
County Administrator Deputy City Clerk
CITY OF ZIMMERMAN
By: ____________________________
City Administrator
Attest: ___________________________
City Clerk
Page 44 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.7
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Trail Rules Signs - Ebikes
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, the installation of the trail rules signs along the Great Northern Trail.
Background/Discussion
The commission viewed a version of the trails rules sign last month and provided feedback. The size of the
sign has been increased to 12" x 18" and some of the font sizes have been enlarged as requested.
Financial Impact
The cost to print the signs will be deducted from the Park Improvement Fund.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Meet changing needs - agile.
Attachments
1. Woodland Trails - Trail Rules Signage Update 2026
Page 45 of 64
Page 46 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
6.8
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Parks and Recreation Framework Plan - Request for
Proposal
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Recommend, by motion, the City Council approve the Parks and Recreation Framework Plan Request for
Proposals (RFP).
Background/Discussion
The Parks and Recreation Department is looking to publish an RFP for the Parks and Recreation Framework
Plan and it is included for review.
Financial Impact
The 2026 Capital Improvement Plan has $100,000 budgeted for consultant assistance for the development of
this plan.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Responsibly grow.
Attachments
1. Elk_River Parks and Recreation Framework Plan - FINAL DRAFT
Page 47 of 64
Request for Proposals
Consultant Services for the City of Elk River
Parks and Recreation Framework Plan
City of Elk River
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
Proposals Due: May 12, 2026
Page 48 of 64
Statement of Purpose
The City of Elk River, Minnesota is soliciting proposals from qualified and experienced consulting
firms to prepare a comprehensive Parks and Recreation Framework Plan. The previous plan that
was developed in 2015 has largely reached its endpoint and the city is now looking toward the
next decade. This plan will guide long-term development and management of Elk River’s parks,
trails, facilities, and recreation services.
General Information on the City of Elk River
Elk River is located approximately 34 miles northwest of Minneapolis/St. Paul and serves as a
regional hub for commerce and recreation. The city spans approximately 44 square miles and
has a population of approximately 28,000 residents. Elk River is known for its natural resources,
including the Mississippi and Elk Rivers, and an expanding system of parks and trails. The city has
quickly grown as a desirable community for families seeking suburban amenities that are rooted
in Elk River’s rural history.
Project Overview
The Framework Plan will establish a 10-year vision for the parks and recreation system, evaluate
existing conditions, identify service gaps, and provide a clear and actionable implementation
strategy aligned with community priorities and growth.
The Parks and Recreation Commission has established a tentative Table of Contents for the
Framework Plan. There are areas within that Table of Contents that city staff will produce. The
goal is to integrate that work with the work produced by the consultant.
Please note that the Parks and Recreation Commission changed the title of the project to a
framework plan to better reflect current sensitivities to previous language. The intention is that
the final work product will reflect what is commonly referred to as a Parks and Recreation Master
Plan.
Scope of Services
The scope of services is built on the tentative Table of Contents recommended by the Parks and
Recreation Commission. The consultant will engage with city staff, elected officials, and advisory
boards to assist in the creation of the contents of the plan. City staff will be responsible for the
compilation of the final document. The following items are requested of the consultant for the
project:
Page 49 of 64
A) Inventory and Assessment - Identification of gaps in service and accessibility to include,
but not limited to:
▪ Level of Service Analysis (includes Needs and Trends Assessment)
▪ Public/Community Engagement to Identify Community Goals
• As part of the outreach process, the consultant will be required to provide inclusive
engagement strategies as well as attend the following events (for no less than three
(3) hours for any event that extends beyond three (3) hours) to ensure essential input
is gathered from stakeholders:
1) Farmers Market – July 16, 2026 – 3 p.m. to 7p.m.
2) Elk Riverfest – July 25, 2026 – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
3) Riverfront Concert Series – August 6, 2026 – 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
4) Orono Evening in the Park – August 18, 2026 – 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.
5) Downtown Trick or Treat – October 23, 2026 – 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
6) Public Open House – Date To Be Determined
• Additional optional engagement opportunities:
1) Entertainment in the Park – June 18, 2026
2) Elk River Youth Association House Baseball Tournament – June 27, 2026
3) Night to Unite – August 4, 2026
4) Elk River Youth Softball Game Day – Date To Be Determined
5) Senior Membership Drive – December 2026 – Date To Be Determined
B) System Plan - As part of the system plan, the consultant should provide
recommendations for system improvements and identification of future needs in the
following areas:
▪ Arts and Culture Programming
▪ Natural Resources
▪ Risk Management
▪ Park Usage
▪ Marketing
C) Implementation and Sustainability - The consultant should prioritize identified projects
with a phased implementation strategy including cost estimates and funding
opportunities in the following areas:
▪ Maintenance and Operations Strategy
▪ Capital Improvement Plan, Operations, and Maintenance Costs
▪ Identification of Future Needs
▪ Funding Options and Sources
▪ Implementation Recommendations
▪ Timeline
Page 50 of 64
Deliverables
Coordinate with city staff and advisory boards to produce framework plan documents, digital
files compatible with city systems, and engagement tools. City staff will be responsible for the
compilation of the final document.
Proposal Requirements
Complete proposals should contain the following:
1. Cover Letter
2. Stated understanding of the project scope and your approach to integrating input.
Describe in detail your approach to the process and working with the city for a product to
present to the City Council for approval.
3. Reference list
4. Three (3) examples of similar park framework/master plan projects led by the consultant
and completed within previous six (6) years.
5. One (1) flash drive containing all contents of the proposal.
6. Project Schedule
7. Fee Proposal (Attachment A)
8. Consultant Background and Qualifications (Attachment B)
Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
▪ Project Understanding & Approach – 20 points
▪ Experience & Qualifications – 20 points
▪ Community Engagement Approach – 15 points
▪ Project Team – 15 points
▪ Work Plan & Schedule – 10 points
▪ Past Work & References – 10 points
▪ Cost / Value – 10 points
Project Schedule
RFP Issued: April 21, 2026
Proposals Due: May 12, 2026
Consultant Selection: May 18, 2026
Project Duration: 12 months
General Terms and Conditions
The city reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, request additional information, and
waive irregularities. All materials submitted become public records in accordance with Minnesota
law. The city is not responsible for costs incurred in proposal preparation.
Page 51 of 64
Submission Requirements
Carefully read the information contained in this RFP and submit by certified mail three (3) copies
of your full proposal following all requirements, specifications, and directions to:
City of Elk River
Attn: Jeff Shelby
13065 Orono Parkway
Elk River, MN 55330
Submittals must be received at the offices of the City of Elk River no later than 12 p.m. on May
12, 2026.
Do not submit proposals to any other person or location by any other method.
Late submission: Late submissions will not be considered.
Page 52 of 64
Attachment A
FEE PROPOSAL
The detailed fee proposal should include the following:
1. A total not-to-exceed cost for all services.
2. Hourly rates and anticipated hours used for key project personnel.
3. Costs associated with each major project milestone including tasks listed in the scope
of services.
4. Anticipated reimbursable expenses, such as additional meetings, document printing,
translation/interpretation services, materials, etc.
5. A statement describing the consultant team’s previous budget performance and
experience in meeting budgets.
Page 53 of 64
Attachment B
CONSULTANT BACKGROUND AND QUALIFICATIONS
The City of Elk River will review and evaluate each proposal, and selection will be
made based on the criteria listed below. The offices submitting proposals shall
include with that proposal statements on the following:
A. Credentials of project team, including portfolio of related projects; history
of the proposed team working together on past projects, particularly as
related to parks and recreation framework plans.
Include as a minimum:
1. Identification of project lead and project team.
2. Staffing plan.
3. Project lead resume and portfolio of related projects.
4. Identification of any sub-consultants.
5. Sub-consultant’s portfolio of related projects.
6. Resumes of sub-consultant’s staff.
Page 54 of 64
The Elk River Vision
A welcoming community with revolutionary and spirited resourcefulness, exceptional service, and community
engagement that encourages and inspires prosperity
Request for Action
To
Parks and Recreation Commission
Item Number
7.1
Meeting Date
April 8, 2026
Prepared By
Jeff Shelby, Recreation Manager
Item Description
Local Sales and Use Tax Amendment
Reviewed by
Jeff Shelby
Joe Stremcha
Action Requested
Discuss HF 4681 and SF 4831 in the 94th Legislature (2025 - 2026).
Background/Discussion
Commissioner Loidolt requested that the Parks and Recreation Commission discuss the proposed
amendment to the existing sales and use tax authorization.
On November 6, 2018, local voters approved a one-half of one percent sales and use tax authorization for
paying the capital and administrative costs of various recreational facility and park improvements including: a
multipurpose recreational facility such as an ice arena, a community meeting and activity space, and a synthetic
turf field house; senior center facility improvements; Lion John Weicht Park improvements, Lions Park Center
space improvements, and a community picnic pavilion addition; youth athletic complex improvements; Orono
Park improvements; dredging Lake Orono; and citywide trail connection improvements.
On January 28, 2026, the City Council formally requested the legislature amend the purposes to include
financing up to $20,000,000, plus associated bonding costs for the construction of a new Fire Station #1. The
amendment will require legislative and voter approval. The project authorized under this subdivision does not
extend the termination requirements.
If the amendment is approved, the tax imposed expires at the earlier of: (1) 25 years after the tax is first
imposed; or (2) when the city council determines that the city has received $55,000,000 from this tax to fund
the projects plus an amount sufficient to pay costs, including interest costs, related to the issuance of the
bonds.
Financial Impact
Subject to legislative and voter approval.
Mission/Policy/Goal
Responsible for every dollar - good stewards.
Attachments
Page 55 of 64
1. Minnesota 2019 Law - Chapter 6, Article 6, Section 17 - Elk River Sales and Use Tax Authorization.
2. S.F 4831
3. H.F 4681
Page 56 of 64
Minnesota Session Laws - 2019 1st Special Session
CHAPTER 6--H.F.No. 5
ARTICLE 6
LOCAL TAXES
Sec. 17.
CITY OF ELK RIVER; TAX AUTHORIZED.
Subdivision 1.
Sales and use tax authorization.
Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes, section 297A.99, subdivision 1, or 477A.016,
or any other law or ordinance, and as approved by the voters at the November 6,
2018, general election, the city of Elk River may impose, by ordinance, a sales and
use tax of one-half of one percent for the purposes speciffed in subdivision 2.
Except as otherwise provided in this section, the provisions of Minnesota Statutes,
section 297A.99, govern the imposition, administration, collection, and enforcement
of the tax authorized under this subdivision.
Subd. 2.
Use of sales and use tax revenues.
(a) The revenues derived from the tax authorized under subdivision 1 must be used
by the city of Elk River to:
(1) pay the costs of collecting and administering the tax;
(2) pay the capital and administrative costs of various recreational facility and park
improvements including any or all of the following: a multipurpose recreational
facility such as an ice arena, a community meeting and activity space, and a
synthetic turf ffeld house; senior center facility improvements; Lion John Weicht
Park improvements, Lions Park Center space improvements, and a community
picnic pavilion addition; youth athletic complex improvements; Orono Park
improvements; dredging Lake Orono; and citywide trail connection improvements;
and
(3) secure and pay debt service on bonds issued to ffnance all or part of the projects
listed in clause (2).
Page 57 of 64
(b) The total that may be raised from the tax to pay for these projects is limited to
$35,000,000, plus the costs related to the issuance and paying debt service on
bonds for these projects.
Subd. 3.
Bonding authority.
(a) The city of Elk River may issue bonds under Minnesota Statutes, chapter 475, to
ffnance all or a portion of the costs of the project authorized in subdivision 2. The
aggregate principal amount of bonds issued under this subdivision may not exceed
$35,000,000, plus an amount applied to the payment of costs of issuing the bonds.
The bonds may be paid from or secured by any funds available to the city of Elk
River, including the tax authorized under subdivision 1. The issuance of bonds
under this subdivision is not subject to Minnesota Statutes, sections 275.60 and
275.61.
(b) The bonds are not included in computing any debt limitation applicable to the
city. Any levy of taxes under Minnesota Statutes, section 475.61, to pay principal of
and interest on the bonds is not subject to any levy limitation. A separate election
to approve the bonds under Minnesota Statutes, section 475.58, is not required.
Subd. 4.
Termination of taxes.
The tax imposed under subdivision 1 expires at the earlier of: (1) 25 years after the
tax is ffrst imposed; or (2) when the city council determines that the city has
received $35,000,000 from this tax to fund the projects listed in subdivision 2 plus
an amount sufficient to pay costs, including interest costs, related to the issuance of
the bonds authorized in subdivision 3. Any funds remaining after payment of the
allowed costs due to timing of the termination under section 297A.99 shall be
placed in the city's general fund. The tax imposed under subdivision 1 may expire at
an earlier time if the city so determines by ordinance.
EFFECTIVE DATE.
This section is efiective the day after the governing body of the city of Elk River and
its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section 645.021,
subdivisions 2 and 3.
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1.1 A bill for an act
1.2 relating to taxation; local sales and use; amending the authorization for the city of
1.3 Elk River to impose a local sales tax; amending Laws 2019, First Special Session
1.4 chapter 6, article 6, section 17, subdivisions 1, 3, by adding a subdivision.
1.5 BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
1.6 Section 1. Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 17, subdivision
1.7 1, is amended to read:
1.8 Subdivision 1.Sales and use tax authorization.(a) Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes,
1.9 section 297A.99, subdivision 1, or 477A.016, or any other law or ordinance, and as approved
1.10 by the voters at the November 6, 2018, general election, the city of Elk River may impose,
1.11 by ordinance, a sales and use tax of one-half of one percent for the purposes specified in
1.12 subdivision 2. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the provisions of Minnesota
1.13 Statutes, section 297A.99, govern the imposition, administration, collection, and enforcement
1.14 of the tax authorized under this subdivision.
1.15 (b) If approved by the voters at a general election pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section
1.16 297A.99, subdivision 3, paragraph (a), the city must use the revenues derived from the tax
1.17 authorized under paragraph (a) for the purpose specified in subdivision 2a.
1.18 EFFECTIVE DATE.This section is effective the day after the governing body of the
1.19 city of Elk River and its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section
1.20 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
1Section 1.
26-08038 as introduced03/18/26 REVISOR EAP/NS
SENATE
STATE OF MINNESOTA
S.F. No. 4831NINETY-FOURTH SESSION
(SENATE AUTHORS: WEBER)
OFFICIAL STATUSD-PGDATE
Introduction and first reading698603/25/2026
Referred to Taxes
Page 59 of 64
2.1 Sec. 2. Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 17, is amended by
2.2 adding a subdivision to read:
2.3 Subd. 2a.Use of revenues.In addition to the uses authorized under subdivision 2, the
2.4 revenues derived from the tax authorized under subdivision 1 must be used by the city of
2.5 Elk River to finance up to $20,000,000, plus associated bonding costs for, bonds issued
2.6 under subdivision 3 for construction of a new fire station. The project authorized under this
2.7 subdivision does not extend the termination requirements in subdivision 4.
2.8 EFFECTIVE DATE.This section is effective the day after the governing body of the
2.9 city of Elk River and its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section
2.10 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
2.11 Sec. 3. Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 17, subdivision 3, is
2.12 amended to read:
2.13 Subd. 3.Bonding authority.(a) The city of Elk River may issue bonds under Minnesota
2.14 Statutes, chapter 475, to finance all or a portion of the costs of the project projects authorized
2.15 in subdivision subdivisions 2 and 2a. The aggregate principal amount of bonds issued under
2.16 this subdivision may not exceed $35,000,000 $55,000,000, plus an amount applied to the
2.17 payment of costs of issuing the bonds. The bonds may be paid from or secured by any funds
2.18 available to the city of Elk River, including the tax authorized under subdivision 1. The
2.19 issuance of bonds under this subdivision is not subject to Minnesota Statutes, sections 275.60
2.20 and 275.61.
2.21 (b) The bonds are not included in computing any debt limitation applicable to the city.
2.22 Any levy of taxes under Minnesota Statutes, section 475.61, to pay principal of and interest
2.23 on the bonds is not subject to any levy limitation. A separate election to approve the bonds
2.24 under Minnesota Statutes, section 475.58, is not required.
2.25 EFFECTIVE DATE.This section is effective the day after the governing body of the
2.26 city of Elk River and its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section
2.27 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
2Sec. 3.
26-08038 as introduced03/18/26 REVISOR EAP/NS
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1.1 A bill for an act
1.2 relating to taxation; local sales and use; amending the authorization for the city of
1.3 Elk River to impose a local sales tax; amending Laws 2019, First Special Session
1.4 chapter 6, article 6, section 17, subdivisions 1, 3, by adding a subdivision.
1.5 BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:
1.6 Section 1. Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 17, subdivision
1.7 1, is amended to read:
1.8 Subdivision 1.Sales and use tax authorization.(a) Notwithstanding Minnesota Statutes,
1.9 section 297A.99, subdivision 1, or 477A.016, or any other law or ordinance, and as approved
1.10 by the voters at the November 6, 2018, general election, the city of Elk River may impose,
1.11 by ordinance, a sales and use tax of one-half of one percent for the purposes specified in
1.12 subdivision 2. Except as otherwise provided in this section, the provisions of Minnesota
1.13 Statutes, section 297A.99, govern the imposition, administration, collection, and enforcement
1.14 of the tax authorized under this subdivision.
1.15 (b) If approved by the voters at a general election pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, section
1.16 297A.99, subdivision 3, paragraph (a), the city must use the revenues derived from the tax
1.17 authorized under paragraph (a) for the purpose specified in subdivision 2a.
1.18 EFFECTIVE DATE.This section is effective the day after the governing body of the
1.19 city of Elk River and its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section
1.20 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
1Section 1.
REVISOR EAP/NS 26-0803803/18/26
State of MinnesotaThis Document can be made available
in alternative formats upon request
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
H. F. No. 4681NINETY-FOURTH SESSION
Authored by Novotny03/25/2026
The bill was read for the first time and referred to the Committee on Taxes
Page 61 of 64
2.1 Sec. 2. Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 17, is amended by
2.2 adding a subdivision to read:
2.3 Subd. 2a.Use of revenues.In addition to the uses authorized under subdivision 2, the
2.4 revenues derived from the tax authorized under subdivision 1 must be used by the city of
2.5 Elk River to finance up to $20,000,000, plus associated bonding costs for, bonds issued
2.6 under subdivision 3 for construction of a new fire station. The project authorized under this
2.7 subdivision does not extend the termination requirements in subdivision 4.
2.8 EFFECTIVE DATE.This section is effective the day after the governing body of the
2.9 city of Elk River and its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section
2.10 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
2.11 Sec. 3. Laws 2019, First Special Session chapter 6, article 6, section 17, subdivision 3, is
2.12 amended to read:
2.13 Subd. 3.Bonding authority.(a) The city of Elk River may issue bonds under Minnesota
2.14 Statutes, chapter 475, to finance all or a portion of the costs of the project projects authorized
2.15 in subdivision subdivisions 2 and 2a. The aggregate principal amount of bonds issued under
2.16 this subdivision may not exceed $35,000,000 $55,000,000, plus an amount applied to the
2.17 payment of costs of issuing the bonds. The bonds may be paid from or secured by any funds
2.18 available to the city of Elk River, including the tax authorized under subdivision 1. The
2.19 issuance of bonds under this subdivision is not subject to Minnesota Statutes, sections 275.60
2.20 and 275.61.
2.21 (b) The bonds are not included in computing any debt limitation applicable to the city.
2.22 Any levy of taxes under Minnesota Statutes, section 475.61, to pay principal of and interest
2.23 on the bonds is not subject to any levy limitation. A separate election to approve the bonds
2.24 under Minnesota Statutes, section 475.58, is not required.
2.25 EFFECTIVE DATE.This section is effective the day after the governing body of the
2.26 city of Elk River and its chief clerical officer comply with Minnesota Statutes, section
2.27 645.021, subdivisions 2 and 3.
2Sec. 3.
REVISOR EAP/NS 26-0803803/18/26
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Memorandum
To: Parks and Recreation Commission
From: Jeff Shelby, Parks and Recreation Manager
Date: April 8, 2026
Subject: Parks and Recreation Staff Report
Senior Activity Center
The Senior Activity Center has 492 members as of March 26. We are averaging 89 check-ins per day.
Popular activities this past month included entertainment by the Roe Family Singers on St. Patrick’s Day,
bingo and card bingo, all art classes, and our Social Club.
The Social Club, formed just a few years ago, focuses on fostering friendships and providing meaningful
activities outside of regular Senior Center hours. The group meets once a month at the Senior Center to
plan fun outings such as dining out on weekends, attending plays, and going on day trips. This group has
grown to 48 participants and is led by a dedicated volunteer. We have also welcomed many new
members who have recently moved to Elk River. The Social Club has proven to be a great way for them to
meet new people and become familiar with everything the Senior Activity Center has to offer.
Community Events
We are working with DERBA, HRA, and ERMU for new holiday fixtures on downtown light poles. The cost
will be split between DERBA and HRA, with ERMU donating their labor costs for installation.
All 18 of the community garden plots are reserved for the upcoming season. We will again be partnering
with Sherburne County Master Gardeners for educational opportunities.
The annual Park Steward Meeting was held on March 25.
Sports/Programs
Flag football registration closed on March 23 with 184 kids registered for our first season. Teams were
formed and all supplies and jerseys were ordered. We still have a few spots available for any late
participants wanting to join. We held a coaches’ meeting on April 1st and our referee training will be held
tonight, April 8. The season kicks off this Sunday as teams will meet and hold their first practice indoors
on the turf at the FT Center. They will play 6 weeks of games starting on Sunday, April 19.
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All winter adult leagues will be wrapped up next week. We had another successful winter with 20
women's volleyball teams, 5 co-ed volleyball teams, and 6 men’s basketball teams.
Spring/Summer adult men’s softball registration will close next week, with an anticipated start date of
Tuesday, April 21. We will once again have concessions available courtesy of The Overlook.
We are excited to have Taylor Ryan back this summer to oversee our summer camps and youth
programs. We will be hiring summer staff in the coming weeks and begin the final prep for the summer
camps and programs.
Fields
Lion John Weicht Park was opened for high school use on March 24. All other fields are slowly being
prepared to open for the season. Our goal is to have them ready by mid-April for all outdoor use. Our
first tournament is on May 1.
The backstop pads for the PT Complex were ordered and will be here in time before the tournament
season starts. The new set of bleachers has arrived. Staff will begin assembling and installing as soon as
weather permits. All sponsorship banners will also be hung and ready to go in the coming weeks.
Park Passport
Staff has created a Park Passport program for our community members this summer. People will be able
to visit the Parks and Recreation office to obtain a passport. They will then visit the eight parks in the
passport, where they will be able to complete a small etching in their passport. When the passport is
complete and all eight parks have been visited, they’ll be able to return to the Parks and Recreation office
to receive a special stamp. The program is free and is designed to encourage engagement in our city
parks.
PT Complex Protective Netting
The poles from the former structure were removed last week. Staff is working with Bolton & Menk on the
replacement structure.
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