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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-22-2026 City Council Meeting June 22, 2026 7:00 PM Fridley City Hall, 7071 University Avenue NE Minutes Call to Order Mayor Ostwald called the City Council Meeting of June 22, 2026, to order at 6:30 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 Pledge Of Allegiance Proclamations/Presentations 1. Fridley’s America250 Celebration Mayor Ostwald shared opening remarks about America’s history and the things that make the country great. He recognized the contributions of local businesses, the City staff, and residents. He stated that America’s greatness is not guaranteed but renewed by each generation that chooses courage, unity, and hope. There was a presentation of colors and singing of the National Anthem. Vang Moua, a local business owner, introduced himself and shared his experience migrating from Vietnam to the United States in the 1980s and becoming a citizen. He spoke about the freedoms enjoyed in the U.S. compared to Vietnam and his love for the Fridley community. th Mayor Ostwald read the Proclamation Supporting America’s 250 Anniversary. He thanked everyone who attended tonight and invited those present to be a part of the photos. Mayor Ostwald briefly recessed the meeting for photos at 7:20 p.m. Mayor Ostwald reconvened the meeting at 7:25 p.m. City Council Meeting 6/22/2026 Minutes Page 2 Approval of Proposed Consent Agenda 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 8, 2026. 3. Receive the Minutes from the City Council Conference Meeting of June 8, 2026. New Business 4. Resolution No 2026-71, Approving a Water Efficiency Grant Agreement with the Metropolitan Council. 5. Resolution No. 2026-72, Authorizing an Active Transportation Grant Application to the Metropolitan Council for the East River Road Trail Gap Project. 6. Resolution No. 2026-73, Authorizing an Active Transportation Grant Application to the Metropolitan Council for the Gardena Avenue Trail Project. th 7. Resolution No. 2026-74, Authorizing Regional Solicitation Grant Application for 57 Avenue Northtown Yard Overpass Project. 8. Resolution No. 2026-75, Approving Gifts, Donations, and Sponsorships Received Between May 20, 2026, and June 17, 2026. 9. Resolution No. 2026-78, Declaring Costs to be Assessed, Ordering Preparation of the Proposed Assessment Roll and Directing Publication of the Public Hearing Notice for the 2026 Street Rehabilitation Project No. ST-2026-01. Licenses Claims 10. Resolution No. 2026-76, Approving Claims for the Period Ending June 17, 2026. Open Forum, Visitors: (Consideration of Items not on Agenda – 15 minutes.) Derek Lind, a Ramsey resident, stated that he is part of the Anoka County Election Integrity Team and provided an update on the use of poll pads. He stated that his organization believes that the cities should retain ownership over that decision rather than the County. City Council Meeting 6/22/2026 Minutes Page 3 Emily Robinson, Director of Creative Flow Art Center, provided an update on an art opening and a day of free art that recently occurred, and highlighted upcoming activities and opportunities available. She noted that a schedule of events and classes can be found on their website. She also provided information on the current art exhibition on display, which is a partnership with the Coon Creek Watershed District. Mohammed Barre provided input on his experience becoming a U.S. citizen, his experience of being a Fridley resident and member of the community, and the great opportunities that he has received as a result. Mayor Ostwald recognized that Mr. Barre also volunteers his time as a member of a Fridley Commission. Mandy Meisner, Anoka County Commissioner, referenced the comments from Mr. Lind and stated that he has been presenting to the County for the past four years. She noted that his issue is related to election integrity. She stated that Anoka County and all counties implement the State laws around elections. She believed that organization should focus its efforts at the State Legislature level. She provided information on the checks and balances that exist within the County process. She stated that the electronic poll pads have always tested with 100 percent accuracy and provided information on other post-election review actions to ensure the integrity of the elections. Natividad Seefeld, President of Park Plaza and Fridley resident, provided an update on the $1,700,000 in infrastructure improvements occurring within the Park Plaza community. She thanked everyone in the community who assisted residents during Metro Surge. She commented that activity is still occurring, and residents look for the support of their leadership in ensuring residents remain safe. Regular Agenda New Business Informal Status Reports Councilmember Bolkcom stated that everyone in the community is excited about the Commons Park opening. th Councilmember Cardona wished everyone a happy 4 of July. He commented that while you can be frustrated with some government activities, you can still feel patriotic and enjoy being part of your community. He thanked those who attended tonight and looked forward to celebrating with others in the community. th Mayor Ostwald encouraged residents to participate in the 250 anniversary events. Adjourn Motion made by Councilmember Vescio to adjourn. Seconded by Councilmember Cardona. City Council Meeting 6/22/2026 Minutes Page 4 Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Mayor Ostwald declared the motion carried unanimously, and the meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, Melissa Moore Dave Ostwald City Clerk Mayor