PC Meeting Date: November 20, 2025
To: Members of the Planning Commission
From: Mikayla Schmidt, City Planner / Interim Community Development Director
Title
Staff Updates.
Body
Action Requested:
Staff provide updates to the Planning Commission.
Summary Report:
City Council Information
- The upcoming agenda items list is attached for reference.
- Scott Wopata has been selected as the new Community Development Director. His start date is planned for December 22, 2025.
Zoning Code Update & Redesign
- Houseal Lavigne (HL) has been selected as the consultant for the zoning code update and redesign. Staff and the consultant, with review and input from the Zoning Code Update Subcommittee (consisting of Bill Kuhlmann, Will Schroeer and Steve Schmidt), have finalized the proposal from HL. The final contract is being reviewed by both parties, and the contract will go on to the City Council agenda for December 2, 2025, approval.
Planning Applications & Related Updates
- See hyperlink on the City’s Development Map.
- The Archer project has been put on hold / is not moving forward at this time per the development team. Financing for the project has been the major factor holding them off from beginning construction. The city is working with the development team to continue keeping the site safe and any other ways the city can support the project coming to fruition. Natalie Draper, Library Director, is working on a new banner to place on the fencing along Division St. to improve the aesthetics.
- Cedar Meadows development has completed their financing and is finalizing their financial security documents. Once those are in order, the city and the development team will sign the development agreement and final plat, which can then be recorded with Dakota County. Then the development team will begin site work to clear trees and grade the site.
- Staff continue to work with Post Consumer Brands on the Ames Mill Dam. The main discussion includes timeline of transferring ownership of the dam. The dam is part of our Downtown Historic District, so a certificate of appropriateness and Section 106 review will be required.
Training Opportunities
- The Maryland Department of Planning has free webinars on a variety of topics. Please see the link in the attachments to view and/or subscribe.
- The National Alliance for Preservation Commissions has webinars related to historic preservation. The city is a member and can share webinar links if there is interest.
Alternative Options:
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Financial Impacts:
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Tentative Timeline:
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