Economic Development Authority Meeting Date: October 26, 2026
To: Members of the Economic Development Authority
From: Scott Wopata, Community Development Director
Emery John, Interim Program Coordinator
Title
Staff Updates
Body
Action Requested:
No action at this time.
Summary Report:
Congratulations to Cardinal Glass for being certified as a MNSTAR Program worksite! This is an honor that represents sites that go above and beyond OSHA regulations to ensure worker safety. They are one of fewer than forty sites in the state of Minnesota to carry this recognition. Additionally, Cardinal Glass also has recently expanded their footprint in Northfield. Cardinal Glass is an ideal industrial anchor in the Northfield community and their commitment to worker safety aligns with the City’s values.
City-led text/ordinance amendments:
Industrial Block Length Maximum
Passed at Council to eliminate real barrier to industrial development.
Sign Ordinance
Planning Commission recommended approval of a change to Northfield’s sign ordinance that prohibits all exterior off-site advertising. The revised ordinance is targeted to allow Northfield Schools, City parks, and youth recreation associations to secure sponsorships for field signage, wayfinding, and scoreboards. City Council will hear a first reading of this in November.
Data Processing Facilities Setback to Planned Greenway or Trails
City Council reviewed and approved adjusting the setback for data processing facilities to 200 feet from Planned Greenway or trail. This reflects other specific standards in the code which already address noise, vibrations, and other visual buffering.
Park Dedication Fees
Planning Commission recommended approval of a change to Northfield’s park dedication fees. These are most closely linked with housing development and the increase in costs to maintain and construct high-quality parks in Northfield.
Housing:
Gracewin Cooperative, a 47 unit senior housing cooperatives, received appr...
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