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6-23-2025 City Council Meeting June 23, 2025 7:00 PM Fridley City Hall, 7071 University Avenue NE Minutes Call to Order Mayor Ostwald called the City Council Meeting of June 23, 2025, to order at 7:00 p.m. Present Mayor Dave Ostwald Councilmember Patrick Vescio Councilmember Ryan Evanson Councilmember Luke Cardona Councilmember Ann Bolkcom Absent Others Present Walter Wysopal, City Manager Sarah Sonsalla, City Attorney Joe Starks, Finance Director Melissa Moore, City Clerk Beth Kondrick, Deputy City Clerk Ryan George, Public Safety Director Nancy Abts, Senior Planner Pledge Of Allegiance Proclamations/Presentations 1. Distinguished Budget Presentation Award Joe Starks, Finance Director, presented the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award that the City received. Melissa Moore, City Clerk, recognized the work of the project management team and explained that by tracking metrics across all City departments, they are able to make well-informed decisions to be efficient with tax dollars. Mayor Ostwald also recognized the great work of staff and expressed appreciation. Approval of Proposed Consent Agenda City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 2 Motion made by Councilmember Bolkcom to adopt the proposed Consent Agenda. Seconded by Councilmember Evanson. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously. Approval/Receipt of Minutes 2. Approve the Minutes from the City Council Meeting of June 9, 2025. 3. Receive the Minutes from the Council Conference Meeting of June 9, 2025. 4. Receive the Minutes from the HRA Commission Meeting of May 1, 2025. 5. Receive the Minutes from the Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting of May 5, 2025. 6. Receive the Minutes from the Public Arts Commission Meetings of May 7, 2025, and May 14, 2025. New Business 7. Resolution No. 2025-63, Approving and Authorizing the Signing of an Agreement with Independent School District #14. 8. Resolution No 2025-64, Approving and Authorizing the Signing of a Setting IV Special Education School Resource Officer Agreement with Independent School District #14. 9. Resolution No. 2025-75, Authorizing an Equity-Focused Water Efficiency Grant from the Metropolitan Council for Improvements at the Park Plaza Cooperative. 10. Resolution No. 2025-79, Approving Gifts, Donations, and Sponsorships Received Between May 17, 2025, and June 13, 2025. 11. Resolution No. 2025-81, Indicating Support for the University of Minnesota Center for Transportation Studies Safe Streets for Minnesota Communities Grant Application. Licenses 12. Resolution No. 2025-76, Approving Temporary Intoxicating Liquor Permit and Temporary Lawful Gambling Permit for Springbrook Foundation Autumn Sampler to be Held September 26, 2025. 13. Resolution No. 2025-80, Approving a Temporary Lawful Gambling Permit for Fridley Historical Society Fundraising Event to be Held on October 4, 2025. Claims 14. Resolution No. 2025-78 Approving Claims for the Period Ending June 18, 2025. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 3 Open Forum, Visitors: (Consideration of Items not on Agenda – 15 minutes.) Tommy Draeger, Founder of Delta Kai Martial Arts, explained the mission and vision of the organization and its community focus. He stated that they opened their doors in January and have already grown to 20 active students. He stated that he has seen shy kids become confident and build a sense of community and support. He stated that they are a community-first organization and will be holding a Halloween th event on October 25, providing details. He stated that the event will help the organization raise funds while highlighting small businesses. Mr. Draeger commented that he has been funding his business personally, as his business runs on donations. He hoped to find partnerships in the community, perhaps with the City of Fridley and Community Education, to keep his mission growing. Adoption of Regular Agenda Motion made by Councilmember Evanson to adopt the regular agenda. Seconded by Councilmember Vescio. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously. Regular Agenda New Business 15. Resolution No. 2025-71, Denying the Massage Therapy Business License Application and Massage Therapy Individual License Application for Li Liu and Oasis Spa Beth Kondrick, Deputy City Clerk, provided background information on the application that was submitted in late May for the applicant to operate inside of Dave’s Sports Shop. She reviewed the related findings from the review of the application, noting that the building code approval was undetermined as the Building Official was unable to inspect the space. The applicant and business also failed to meet the massage therapy business license conditions. She provided information on the license condition related to a front-facing entrance and recommended denial of the individual and business massage therapy applications. Li Liu, applicant, stated that she has a few questions, and her friend Michael will be representing her. Michael Mick stated that they had some concerns with the denial process, noting that they did not receive a call or email about the inspection. He stated that they do have the keys and would have opened the facility for inspection. He noted that the door was locked as the business was closed. He stated that they would not be using the rear-facing door and would be using the front entrance. He stated that Ms. Liu is an outstanding citizen and any community would welcome her. He stated that she would contribute to the community, providing an example of food shelf donations. Ms. Liu asked that the Council approve the license and stated that she would be willing to contribute a portion of her business revenue to support those less fortunate in the community. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 4 Councilmember Bolkcom commented that the front door is Dave’s Sport Shop, which is not a separate entrance. Mr. Mick commented that the spa would be in the back, so people would walk through the store. Councilmember Bolkcom commented that the regulations require a separate entrance for massage businesses. Mr. Mick replied that they could not do that as it would require a reconfiguration of Dave’s Sport Shop. He noted that a similar business operated in the same manner for the past three years. Mayor Ostwald asked if that would meet the requirements of City Code, to walk through the Sport Shop. Ms. Moore commented that the business would have to have a separate, distinct, front-facing entrance to meet the requirements of City Code. Councilmember Bolkcom referenced the previous business that existed and asked if that business operated with customers walking through the Sport Shop. Ms. Moore commented that, to her knowledge, the previous business utilized the Sport Shop entrance and the back entrance. Mr. Mick commented that they do not understand why a separate front entrance is required and why some businesses are allowed to operate in that same manner. He asked if they could call the business Dave’s Sport Shop Massage and operate similarly to Lifetime Fitness. Ms. Moore commented that if the owner of Dave’s wanted to apply for a massage therapy business license and employ licensed therapists, that would be acceptable. Councilmember Bolkcom reiterated that Ms. Liu would not be the business owner in that scenario, but would then be an employee of Dave’s Sport Shop/Massage business. Councilmember Vescio noted that the applicant referenced another business that is allowed to operate without a separate front door entrance and asked the name of that business. Mr. Mick was unsure of the name of that business but noted that there is another business within a few blocks of this location. Ms. Kondrick commented that she assumes that is Salon Amore, which is a similar situation to Lifetime. Mayor Ostwald asked if there would be a one-year waiting period if the application were denied or whether Dave’s could come in with a similar application, should the business owner be able to strike an agreement with Dave’s. Ms. Moore commented that there would be a one-year waiting period for Ms. Liu, but if the owner of Dave’s Sport Shop were to apply, that would be a separate application and review. Councilmember Cardona recalled that a license was revoked for a massage therapy license earlier this year and asked for clarification. Ms. Kondrick replied that the license that was revoked was revoked in late March or early April, and this application was received in May. Councilmember Cardona asked how the applicant became aware that the business location was vacant. Mr. Mick replied that Ms. Liu is friends with the previous owner but did not want to have any negative connotation associated with that friendship and the acts of the previous business. Councilmember Bolkcom stated that there is a regulation that must be required, and the denial would not be related to that relationship. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 5 Mayor Ostwald asked if the applicant could retract their application to avoid the one-year waiting period. Sarah Sonsalla, City Attorney, agreed that it would be better for the applicant to withdraw her application rather than receive a denial to avoid the waiting period. Ms. Liu asked for a copy of the building and City Code to ensure they can meet all requirements. She requested to withdraw her application. Ms. Sonsalla stated that the applicant has withdrawn the application and requested that Ms. Liu follow up with an email confirming that she has withdrawn her application and no action of the Council is needed. Ms. Moore commented that she would also email the applicant links to the City Code to review as requested. 16. Resolution No. 2025-77, Revoking the On-Sale Liquor License Issued to Debesay Girmalul for Continental Restaurant, 1040 Osborn Road Mayor Ostwald asked the City Attorney to make a statement. Ms. Sonsalla stated that this item is to consider the revocation of an intoxicating liquor license pursuant to Minnesota Statute, Section 348.415, which requires the hearing that is being conducted tonight. She stated that the staff report includes documents that are part of the hearing. She described the process that would be followed for the hearing. Ms. Kondrick presented a resolution for the Council to consider, which would revoke the on-sale liquor license for Debesay Girmalul for Continental Restaurant at 1040 Osborne Road. She reviewed a timeline of events beginning with the on-sale liquor license application in 2024 and concerns that arose before renewals in 2025. She stated that the license was renewed in April of 2025. AGED agents completed their own investigation in May of 2025. After completion of the investigations, public safety and City staff determined several violations of the City Code and State Code, presenting those violations. She stated that City staff were not made aware of the State investigation and results prior to renewing the liquor license for 2025. Staff recommend approval of Resolution 2025-77 revoking the liquor license. Michael Cain and Debesay Girmalul approached the podium, explaining that Mr. Cain is representing Mr. Girmalul and the Continental Restaurant in this matter. He asked for clarification on what the record consists of. He stated objected to any information obtained against the business prior to the 2025 license renewal. He stated that the 2025 license was approved and believed that any evidence st prior to May 1 should be inadmissible. He stated that 1040 Osborne Road consists of three separate entities, including the Continental Restaurant, Pilgrim Events Center, and Fridley Private Members thth, Association. He commented that Mr. Girmalul was married on May 9 and 10 and the Continental Restaurant was closed that weekend. The event center was used for the wedding and wedding celebration, and there was no liquor sold or served by the Continental that weekend. The alcohol that was used for the events was brought by the patrons. He explained that Mr. Girmalul is of Ethiopian descent and that type of wedding includes a traditional wine that is made by members of the community. He admitted that was not purchased by a wholesale operation, but it also was not served by Continental Restaurant. He stated that there was a different type of liquor, which is professionally City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 6 made and bottled but not made in Minnesota, that was found at the space, but also was used for the wedding and not for sale by the Continental. He did not deny that there were individuals given that liquor a day or two before the wedding, but stated that liquor was not for sale and consumption by the restaurant and was intended for the wedding. He explained that because they could not receive a delivery in a timely manner, they purchased beer and liquor from Total Wine. He stated that they were working with the Fridley American Legion to comply with the local and State laws related to bingo. He commented that the supplies were purchased in anticipation of the proper licensing. He provided materials showing they were exploring bingo with the American Legion. He also provided materials showing the declaration of the Council for the license to run through 2 a.m., and with a lawful gambling endorsement. He asked that the Council impose a fine and suspension rather than revocation. He asked that the Council accept the documents into the record. Motion made by Councilmember Evanson to accept the three documents provided by Mr. Cain into the record. Seconded by Councilmember Cardona. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously. Mayor Ostwald commented that there are many violations related to alcohol and gambling, along with local violations about tobacco and alcohol. He asked public safety to provide additional information. Ryan George, Public Safety Director, stated that they are required to conduct two alcohol compliance checks each year on every business that sells alcohol in Fridley. Continental was the only business to fail, noting that the underage patron was 16 and presented their ID, which stated that they were 16. He stated that the State also conducts random compliance checks, including checking records to ensure that alcohol is purchased from a wholesaler and not a retail business. Mayor Ostwald asked when the State notified them that they were doing an investigation. Mr. George commented that he was made aware after the license renewal period. Councilmember Evanson stated that the petitioner’s attorney mentioned that the Council has different options to consider and asked if those options exist. Ms. Kondrick commented that the Council would have the authority to fine and suspend as well. Ms. Sonsalla stated that if a different option is chosen, she would suggest that the Council direct staff to prepare those documents to present at a future meeting. Councilmember Evanson asked for more details on a potential suspension period and whether that could be extended or deviation could occur if that option is chosen. Ms. Sonsalla stated that the Council would need to align with the City Code on a period of suspension and noted that she would quickly investigate that information. Councilmember Cardona acknowledged the statement that was made that the bingo supplies were purchased in anticipation of a potential license being obtained. He noted that the business website states that bingo is held from 6 to 10 p.m. on Mondays each week. Mr. Girmalul stated that they have not operated bingo at the site, noting that information was added to the website once the agreement City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 7 was signed with the American Legion. He stated that the supplies were never taken out of the office, and the game was never played. Councilmember Bolkcom stated that as far as she knows, the only organization that can run bingo is a nonprofit. She asked if there was a conversation with City staff about bingo. She asked if the Legion would be hosting bingo at this location. Mr. Cain explained that Mr. Girmalul would be partnering with the nonprofit, the American Legion, which would then come to the facility to run bingo and keep those proceeds. He explained that the benefit to Mr. Girmalul’s business would be that the activity would bring additional patrons to his business who may then purchase food or drink. Mr. Cain asked if it is true that a for-profit business can partner with a nonprofit to operate bingo or pull tabs. Mayor Ostwald commented that the nonprofit must be within Fridley. Councilmember Bolkcom asked if the applicant had purchased the bingo supplies in anticipation of having bingo with the American Legion. Mr. Girmalul replied that they did not start bingo. Mr. Cain commented that the picture shows the packaged bingo cards and daubers, but there was no number spinner found. Councilmember Bolkcom asked why the supplies were purchased before there was an agreement for bingo. Mr. Girmalul replied that they are marketing the business to grow, and they wanted to be ready for bingo when it is available. Councilmember Bolkcom stated that she does not understand the confusion, and it is concerning to her that a business owner has multiple activities that are not legal. She stated that the business was purchasing alcohol from other sources and has a long list of things they did wrong when other businesses follow the rules. She stated that these things did not all happen in one month, and they had to know that these things were not right. Mr. Girmalul stated that the alcohol that was homemade is their traditional drink. He acknowledged that was a mistake, but did not know that was not allowed for his event. He commented that alcohol was related to the events of his wedding weekend. Councilmember Bolcom commented that there have been other incidents when the rules were not followed. Mr. Cain confirmed that there were mistakes made, and they are taking accountability for that. He stated that, in regard to the December incident, they believe their license is valid through 2 a.m. and therefore they were operating in those confines. He noted that other communities have a list of offenses that do not revoke a license after a first offense. Councilmember Bolkcom commented that this was not just one offense, but instead a combination of offenses over a period of time. Councilmember Vescio stated that state identification is used for the decoy compliance checks and asked how a bartender would not recognize a state ID and serve alcohol. Mr. Cain commented that there is no justification for the failure, and they instead admitted that and explained how it would be remedied. Councilmember Vescio stated that it was mentioned that there were three businesses within the location, which are the restaurant, banquet hall, and hookah lounge. He asked if those businesses require separate licensing. Ms. Kondrick replied that the license is for the Continental Restaurant, and the other entities were not part of the floor plan when the license was received. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 8 Councilmember Vescio referenced the liquor that is not wholesaled from Minnesota, which was on the shelf with other liquor, including Kirkland Irish cream liquor. He stated that liquor should not have been on the premises. He recognized the statement that the business was closed during the wedding events, but this alcohol was found on the premises during business hours. Mr. Cain clarified that was not part of the wedding but part of a separate event. He stated that they admit to that and do not want to muddy the facts. He stated that the traditional Ethiopian drinks were part of the wedding, but the beer and Baileys were not part of the wedding and were a mistake of the Continental Restaurant, explaining that the restaurant was trying to meet the needs of an event and acknowledged that was a mistake. Councilmember Cardona commented that they aim to have trust with their businesses in Fridley, and he supports cultural establishments within the community. He stated that this does not feel like a first-time offense because there are so many things that add up. He stated that there also does not seem to be trust, as the business's Facebook page also advertises bingo each week. He stated that does not help him build trust as they claim they have never played bingo, but the business repeatedly advertises for bingo. Councilmember Vescio stated that the information provided for the gambling license is not any evidence of an agreement or moving forward, but is a business card and information on how a gambling license could be obtained. He noted that anyone could print that information. Mr. Cain commented that he would like the Council to consider that is evidence that they were attempting to go about bingo in the right way. Councilmember Bolkcom referenced the unruly activity that was documented in December and asked public safety if there were other calls they responded to related to similar activity or when the business was open past the allowed time. Chief George replied that there were no other incidents of that nature to his knowledge. Councilmember Evanson referenced City Code related to a potential suspension of the license and asked if that information was correct. Ms. Sonsalla referenced the section of City Code relating to this type of suspension and provided additional details. Ms. Moore clarified that a suspension shall not exceed 60 days. Councilmember Bolkcom asked and received confirmation that a suspension could be up to 60 days and asked if stipulations could be added to the suspension. Ms. Sonsalla confirmed that stipulations could be added and commented that she would want the applicant to also agree to the stipulations. Councilmember Bolkcom commented that there has been a huge failure on the staff and the business related to following the rules. She commented that the rules must be followed, and the business must plan ahead for events. She stated that if there is a suspension considered, she would want very specific rules listed to ensure the business follows those rules. Wally Wysopal, City Manager, commented that the Council should not be considering this as a first offense, noting that there was a violation within the past 12 months and continued violations that occurred after that. He asked the Council to consider the degree of violations that have taken place. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 9 He stated that a fine was paid when the underage person was served, and multiple and more severe violations occurred after that time. He stated that this is the first time he is being made aware that there are three businesses. He stated that there is one business with a liquor license and asked if other businesses can be added to a liquor license without the knowledge of the City. Chief George commented that the database shows Continental Restaurant at 1040 Osborne Road as the sole licensee. He stated that a liquor licensee cannot sublease their license to anyone else. The liquor license holder is solely responsible for everything that occurs on the premises. He stated that when the hookah lounge was brought to the attention of staff, they reached out to the business to ask if there was a hookah lounge, and the business replied that there was not. Councilmember Evanson asked if the license was to be revoked, whether the business could still operate as food only. Mr. Kondrick confirmed that is accurate. Mr. Cain stated that State Statute allows the City to fine up to $2,000 per violation, suspend up to 60 days, and revoke. He stated that they are not attempting to shift blame to anyone else or any other entities. He stated that they are being accountable and request leniency for the incidents that have occurred. Mayor Ostwald stated that there are multiple infractions that have taken place over a longer period of time. He stated that the goal of the Council is public safety of the residents and businesses. He stated that this is a diverse community, and they would love to see the business succeed, but ultimately, the owner has to be aware of the regulations and follow those regulations. He stated that there is a pile of five or six violations on the City and State levels. He asked legal counsel if all requirements of the hearing have been completed. Ms. Sonsalla replied that the City staff provided its presentation, the licensee had an opportunity to speak, and both parties were able to examine those making statements. She recognized that exhibits were submitted into the record, and if any other exhibits desire to be submitted, that should be done before the close of the hearing. She stated that the action before the Council is the resolution revoking the license, and if a different option is chosen, that should be done through direction to staff to be prepared and brought back for future consideration. Councilmember Evanson stated that his thoughts behind a potential suspension were that it would give the business owner time to review and understand the regulations of the license and business. He was unsure that the owner understood how to operate the liquor side of the business. He stated that when the license was issued, the applicant stated that they understood the requirements. He was unsure that 60 days would be enough time for the business owner to understand how to run the liquor side of the business. Motion made by Councilmember Evanson to approve Resolution No. 2025-77, Revoking the On-Sale Liquor License Issued to Debesay Girmalul for Continental Restaurant. Seconded by Councilmember Cardona. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 10 17. Resolution No. 2025-82, Affirming the Planning Commission Determination Regarding an Accessory Dwelling Unit Permit for the Property Located at 6187 Heather Circle, Owned by Hamdi Barre Mayor Ostwald acknowledged that there is no one in the audience to represent the applicant. Nancy Abts, Senior Planner, stated that Ms. Barre provided an email expressing her regrets in not being able to attend and detailing her comments. She asked the Council to review the administrative actions taken thus far, request an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Permit, and consider a resolution containing the Council’s decision. She commented that there is minimal discretion for an ADU Permit. She stated that the appeal tonight is related to an application for an ADU Permit, which was denied. She provided more information from City Code related to the appeal process, noting that the City Council shall review the record and recommendation created by the Planning Commission within 20 st days. She provided an overview of the hearing held by the Planning Commission on May 21. She reviewed the appeal arguments made by the applicant as submitted within the appeal and the related responses of City staff. Mayor Ostwald provided additional information on the action before the Council tonight. Councilmember Bolkcom referenced a statement from the applicant that they did not receive proper notification. She asked if information was sent to the homeowner following the Planning Commission meeting, as the homeowner did not attend the Commission meeting. Ms. Abts stated that Ms. Barre th received a copy of the written findings of fact, which were emailed on May 27. She stated that in the request for an appeal, Ms. Barre asked for an appeal at the first available Council meeting. She confirmed that staff provided as much notice as possible to the applicant to align with the applicant’s request. She stated that Ms. Barre’s architect confirmed that he also debriefed the resident on the Commission meeting results. Councilmember Cardona asked if sufficient notice was provided to the resident and whether a decision needs to be made tonight. Ms. Abts replied that staff notified Ms. Barre that the hearing th would take place at this meeting, and written notice was provided to Ms. Barre on June 18. On June th, 20 Ms. Barre requested that the hearing be delayed for an additional 30 days, which would be outside of the 20-day timeframe identified within City Code for this appeal process. There is not another regularly scheduled City Council meeting within the allowed timeframe. She explained that the process tonight is for the Council to consider the process and decision of the Planning Commission and would not allow for new information to be presented. Councilmember Evanson commented that even though notification was provided on Wednesday, the resident should have prepared their information prior to that time, as the findings of fact were th provided to Ms. Barre on May 27. Mayor Ostwald asked if the email from Ms. Barre has been entered into the record. Ms. Abts replied that staff is asking that be accepted into the record. Motion made by Councilmember Evanson to accept the email from Ms. Barre into the record. Seconded by Councilmember Vescio. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 11 Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously. Councilmember Bolkcom asked what the next step would be for the resident if the Council upholds the decision of the Planning Commission. Ms. Abts replied that the permit would officially be denied through the City, and if the resident wished to continue the appeal, it would go through the court system. Ms. Sonsalla provided additional information on the continued appeal process. Councilmember Evanson asked how a denied ADU permit would be enforced. Mr. Wysopal asked that the Council complete the appeal process prior to asking additional questions such as that. Motion made by Councilmember Evanson to approve Resolution No. 2025-82, Affirming the Planning Commission Determination Regarding an Accessory Dwelling Unit Permit for the Property Located at 6187 Heather Circle, Owned by Hamdi Barre. Seconded by Councilmember Vescio. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously. Ms. Abts stated that this is a unique situation and has been extensively talked about by staff. She stated that the City needs to ensure that the property is safe for the occupants, as there is significant documentation of unpermitted work that has occurred on the property. She stated they will request inspections to ensure the work that has been completed is safe. Councilmember Vescio asked if there is any additional information that Ms. Barre could present further into the appeal process, or whether any decision would be based on the record presented. Ms. Sonsalla confirmed that any appeal process would be based on the record and not new information. Councilmember Evanson echoed the comments about ensuring the safety of residents related to the work that has been completed. He stated that they should also consider the enjoyment of other residents and the disruption that this property has caused to other residents in that area. He stated that he has received calls from multiple residents about this property. He asked staff to enforce the rules to minimize the disruption to other residents. Councilmember Bolkcom asked if the inspections would be requested now or whether that would have to wait until the appeal process is completed. Ms. Abts stated that they have waited to pursue enforcement until the close of this hearing. She stated that now that the City process is complete, they plan to inspect the property. Councilmember Bolkcom asked if the Council would receive a copy of the inspection report. 18. Ordinance No. 1432, Amending the Fridley City Code to Add Chapter 210, Special Events and Updating Chapter 209, Fees (First Reading) Ms. Moore presented a request to consider the first reading of Ordinance No. 1432, which would amend the City Code to add Chapter 210, Special Events, and update Chapter 209, Fees. She reviewed the intent and purpose and provided information on the ordinance and related policy. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 12 Councilmember Cardona commented that he is excited to have a Special Events Permit in Fridley and believes that this shows the growth of the parks system and will allow for more organized events. He appreciated the work of staff on the policy. Councilmember Evanson asked if the event attendance would be limited to events held on public property. He asked if that language is clear enough, as he would not want unintentional conflict with the understanding of the language, and whether an event is required to be permitted. Ms. Moore stated that staff from every department have had exhaustive discussions and review of the policy, including running through potential events. She stated that if improvements are needed, they could adjust the policy in the future. Motion made by Councilmember Cardona to approve a first reading of Ordinance No. 1432, Amending the Fridley City Code to Add Chapter 210, Special Events and Updating Chapter 209, Fees. Seconded by Councilmember Bolkcom. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously. Informal Status Reports Councilmember Bolkcom commented that June has been very busy and thanked everyone involved in 49er Days. She noted other upcoming events and activities. Mr. Wysopal provided information on the corridor planning for University Avenue, the grant that the City and MnDOT received to support the increased lighting that is being added. He also spoke about beautification of the area and other changes that were made to create a more residential feeling area and provide more boulevard space. He stated that more changes will come in the future related to bus rapid transit and the conversion of signalized intersections to roundabouts. He noted the extensive public process over seven years that has brought them to this point. He recognized that these are incremental changes over time. Councilmember Bolkcom noted input that she provided to Anoka County related to Locke Park. Councilmember Cardona recognized Mike Maher, Parks and Recreation Director, for his quick response to comments that he emailed about trash that needed to be cleaned up. He congratulated Officer Mike Williams on his retirement. He also thanked the Fridley Public Schools Superintendent for the recent tour they completed. He reminded residents to register their block parties for Night to Unite. Mr. Wysopal commented that on Friday, Brooke Hall will be presenting on website accessibility at the League of Minnesota Cities Conference in Duluth. Adjourn Motion made by Councilmember Evanson to adjourn. Seconded by Councilmember Cardona. Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 9:16 p.m. City Council Meeting 6/23/2025 Minutes Page 13 Respectfully Submitted, Melissa Moore Dave Ostwald City Clerk Mayor