The Docket · Government Meeting · DKT-2026-000552

On the agenda: Anoka meeting — automated license plate (Jul 20)

Past ⚠ Agenda Watch Anoka, Minnesota · Monday, July 20, 2026 — 3 months ago

About this record

The published agenda for the July 20, 2026 meeting contains: "automated license plate", "ALPR", "Flock Safety", "facial recognition". The meeting has passed. The agenda stays here as a permanent public record.

WhenMonday, July 20, 2026
Check the agenda document for the meeting time.

WhereAnoka, Minnesota

Money$1.4 million was at stake

On the record“automated license plate”“ALPR”“Flock Safety”“facial recognition”“Flock camera”

The agenda, word for word

Government public record — the full text of the published document, archived August 21, 2026. Gold highlighting of key terms is ours, not the original’s. Read the original document ↗

132 pages · scroll to read

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7:00 P.M. City Council Regular Meeting Agenda
Documents:
JULY 20, 2026 REGULAR MEETING AGENDA AT 7 PM.PDF

7:00 P.M. City Council Regular Meeting Packet At 7 Pm
Documents:
JULY 20, 2026 REGULAR MEETING PACKET AT 7 PM.PDF

Page 2 of 132

City Council Agenda – Regular Meeting
Monday, July 20, 2026
Council Chambers
7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
(meeting will be cablecast)

1.
2.
3.

CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1
May 26, 2026, Worksession.
June 22, 2026, Worksession.
July 6, 2026, Regular Meeting.

OPEN FORUM *The Open Forum is an opportunity for the public to address the City Council
concerning items not listed on the agenda. Please raise your hand to be recognized by the Mayor or
member officiating the meeting. Approach the podium and state your full name and city you live in for
the record. Rules of Conduct as listed in the public folder provided at the entrance of the Council
Chambers and posted on the podium must be adhered to.
4.1
4.2

Presentation of Check to Anoka Community Mission from Anoka Cannabis Company.
Police Activity Update.

PUBLIC HEARING(S) - None

CONSENT AGENDA
6.1
Verified Bills.
6.2
Revising & Setting Council Calendars.
6.3
Resignation from Human Rights Commission; Leslie Taha.
6.4
Issuance of a Tree Care/Arborist License; Steve’s Quality Tree Service, East Bethel, MN.
6.5
Approval of 2027–2029 School Resource Officer Contract with Anoka Hennepin
School District 11.
6.6
Issuance of a Massage Therapist License for Dexue Zhang of Lin Health Care, LLC.
Dba; Better Life Wellness Massage & Reflexology, 3841 St. Francis Blvd, Suite 102.

REPORTS OF OFFICERS & BOARDS & COMMISSIONS - None

PETITIONS, REQUESTS & COMMUNICATION - None

ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS
9.1
RES /Approving an Updated Version of the Solid Waste Contract with Republic Services,
Approving a Solid Waste Walk Up Collection Option Policy, and Calling for a Special Election
and Approving Ballot Language Relative to the Implementation of an Organized Solid Waste,
Recycling, Yard Waste, and Organics Collection System in the City of Anoka.

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July 20, 2026, Regular Meeting
Page 2 of 2

ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS, Continued…
9.2

RES/Anoka Rum River Regional Trail 4th Ave BNSF Railroad Crossing and Trail Connection
Project; Approve Plans & Specifications, Authorize Advertisement for Bids, and Set a Bid Date.

10.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None

11.

NEW BUSINESS - None

12.

UPDATES & REPORTS
12.1 Tentative Agendas.

Members of the Anoka City Council may participate remotely in City Council meetings by interactive technology rather than by being
physically present. Members of the public can monitor council meetings by streaming them live online, this meeting will be broadcast live
on Comcast channel hd799/sd16 and can be streamed online at http://qctv.org/anoka/. The Zoom Webinar link will be posted prior to
the meeting on the City of Anoka's website calendar at: https://www.anokaminnesota.com/calendar.aspx?CID=14. To access the link,
from the online calendar, find the correct meeting date and click "More Details." Meetings by telephone or other electronic means in
accordance with Minnesota Statute 13D.021

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City Council Agenda – Regular Meeting
Monday, July 20, 2026
Council Chambers
7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
(meeting will be cablecast)

1.
2.
3.

CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1
May 26, 2026, Worksession.
June 22, 2026, Worksession.
July 6, 2026, Regular Meeting.

Presentation of Check to Anoka Community Mission from Anoka Cannabis Company.
Police Activity Update.

PUBLIC HEARING(S) - None

REPORTS OF OFFICERS & BOARDS & COMMISSIONS - None

PETITIONS, REQUESTS & COMMUNICATION - None

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July 20, 2026, Regular Meeting
Page 2 of 2

ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS, Continued…
9.2

RES/Anoka Rum River Regional Trail 4th Ave BNSF Railroad Crossing and Trail Connection
Project; Approve Plans & Specifications, Authorize Advertisement for Bids, and Set a Bid Date.

10.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None

11.

NEW BUSINESS - None

12.

UPDATES & REPORTS
12.1 Tentative Agendas.

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COUNCIL MEMO
Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Council Minutes

Item Description:

Various City Council Meeting Minutes

Submitted By:

Amy Oehlers, Assistant City Manager

Agenda Item # 3.1

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Included in your packet are minutes (s) of previous Council meetings, worksessions, special meetings, etc.
Minutes must be approved by the City Council and are kept permanently according to Minnesota State Law and
the City’s adopted General Records Retention Schedule.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Will vary from meeting to meeting.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
Council approval of the Minutes submitted.
REQUIRED VOTE
Majority vote of the Councilmembers present at the meeting.

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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DRAFT WORKSESSION OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION ROOM
MAY 26, 2026
1.

CALL TO ORDER

Mayor Skogquist called the worksession meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
2.

ROLL CALL

Present at roll call: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, and Weaver.
Staff present: City Manager Greg Lee; Police Chief Andy Youngquist; Finance Director
Brenda Springer; Assistant Finance Director Liz Douglas; Golf Pro/Green Haven
Facilities Manager Ryan Wagner; Electric Utility Director Nick Loehlein; Public
Services Administrator Lisa LaCasse; Public Services Supervisor Jon Holmes; and
Assistant City Engineer Ben Nelson.
Absent: Councilmembers Rostad and Scott.
3.

COUNCIL BUSINESS and/or DISCUSSION ITEMS

3.1

Discussion: Anoka County Sheriff’s Office, Drone as a First Responder (DFR)
Program.
Police Chief Andy Youngquist shared a news story that will air on Fox 9 about
officers who reported an Unidentified Anomalous Phenomenon (UAP) in the sky
in February 2025. He said the situation was handled appropriately, that if you see
something, you say something, and that, upon reporting, it was moved to the FBI
for investigation.
Chief Youngquist shared a background report stating the City had invited Chief
Deputy Bill Jacobson from the Anoka County Sheriff’s Office to present on the
Safe County initiative which involves what is commonly referred to as a Drone as
First Responder (DFR) program; however, within Anoka County it will be
referred to as a Drone Assisted Response (DAR) program to clarify the intended
purpose and operational use of drones within the County. The proposed program
would involve the placement of up to nine strategically located drone stations
throughout Anoka County. These stations would allow a remote pilot to rapidly
deploy a drone to the location of an emergent call within minutes, often
significantly faster than traditional response times by police, fire, or emergency
medical services personnel traveling by vehicle. In addition to drone deployment
capabilities, the program would also integrate automated license plate reader
(ALPR) technology throughout the County. Flock Safety has been identified as
the preferred vendor for both the drone and ALPR systems based on the

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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company’s pricing, technology platform, and interoperability capabilities. He said
the presentation will be used to help guide discussion regarding the initiative,
operational considerations, and potential future implementation.
Chief Deputy Bill Jacobson shared further about the DAR program, stating there
were two components to the technology that included both cameras in the City of
Anoka, as well as other cities in the County that capture images of license plates
and send alerts to law enforcement if on a license plate “hot list.” He noted facial
recognition is against the law in Minnesota and that cities can decide
independently what they want law enforcement to be alerted for, such as Amber
alerts and serious felonies, and not lower-level crimes, such as suspended driver’s
licenses. He shared a sample of a plate image that results when identified by a
camera, then reiterated that no facial images are shared but only license plate and
vehicle fingerprint information, such as make, model, and color of the vehicle.
He said images are automatically deleted after 30 days unless part of an
investigation, and that the vendor isn’t aware of anything about the plate or driver,
only law enforcement.
Mayor Skogquist asked about data practices and records retention for these
images. Chief Youngquist said these images are exempt from retention for 60
days, then if law enforcement needs to search for that vehicle within the 30-day
window, they need to complete a request form; otherwise, the search is not
allowed. He shared how this program has been very helpful in many instances in
Anoka County, including identifying a person involved in a sexual assault by
locating a vehicle in Kansas and a stolen vehicle in Fridley with two children
inside, adding that this is why data sharing is important.
Deputy Jacobson spoke more about the DAR program and how drones are used
for incidents such as a serious car accident, as drones can arrive on scene much
quicker than personnel and can relay critical information to emergency responders
before they even arrive. He shared about the state law in place that requires
documentation every time the drone is deployed.
Councilmember Weaver asked where the drone operator is located and if
licensing is required. Deputy Jacobson said the operator is either located at the
911 Center or the Sheriff’s Office because, with the data involved, they wouldn’t
be allowed to deploy a drone from their home or other location. He said
individuals need to be licensed operators and that the County has several licensed
operators now, with the plan to train more. He said they have been using drones
for over a decade, but the drones were deployed from the trunk of a squad, where
now they are deployed from the station, for example, and can get to the scene
before an officer even arrives. He shared several examples of how the drone can
be used, including during fire response to keep firefighters safe in a structure fire
or to gauge if a grass fire is expanding so they can deploy the correct resources
more quickly.

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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Chief Youngquist shared about a significant house fire in Ramsey recently and
how the drone was used during the fire to show personnel that the nearby grass
had caught fire and would have spread quickly if not identified by the drone
footage.
Deputy Jacobson shared further about the data retention law in place, which
includes no data sharing agreements with federal agencies, and how Flock data
cannot be used for immigration reasons. He said Minnesota has some of the
strongest laws around data privacy, and if an officer is caught searching data
without a legal reason, they will likely lose their job and face prison. He said the
data cannot be searched by race or other elements and that the level of protection
is the same for a search warrant that requires a judge’s signature. He said all
flights are documented and that if no evidence is identified, the data is deleted.
Deputy Jacobson said the technology does not include facial recognition and that
there is a comprehensive set of protections in place within the policy that includes
audit trails, retention, and State law. He said Flock must be certified in order to
be used and must allow for a third-party audit for that certification, which, if not,
then Flock can no longer work with law enforcement data. He reiterated that
there is no workaround for ICE-related searches and that the law and policy
include very specific controls on how we share our data. He said Minnesota law
protections are very strong and encouraged the public to review this information
on their transparency portal webpage. He said they were currently working on a
pilot program to evaluate this technology to determine if it’s working and helping
law enforcement in Anoka County, and if so, they will consider moving forward
with the full 10-year program.
Joelle Alvord, Anoka, asked if there is a way for the public to identify a Sheriff’s
drone and if there were any threats or risks to the drones being disabled while in
flight. Deputy Jacobson said the public can look up incidents after the fact and
shared that one drone was shot down in the City of Now Then recently.
Andrew Boho, Anoka, noted that while the drones are not equipped with facial
recognition, this technology is not hardware-based but software-based, and if the
law ever changes, that technology can be added very quickly.
Councilmember Weaver asked if there would be a cost to the cities and if that cost
would be based on population. Deputy Jacobson said if it is decided to move
forward with the full program, the cost would fall under a joint powers agreement
(JPA). He said if the program proves valuable, then discussions would occur with
the cities regarding the JPA, adding that the cost would be $1.4 million per year
for the entire program after the first two years.
Chief Youngquist said costs would be shared through the Joint Law Enforcement
Commission (JLEC) if the program moves forward, and then metrics would be
determined, adding that all City Flock cameras would be included in the program
and removed from the City’s budget and included through JLEC. He noted the

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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City’s policies mirror Anoka County’s, based on law, and are posted on the City’s
website. He stated the system also flags any odd online behavior, such as
excessive searches, and notifies law enforcement as another safeguard, and said
they are working to leverage technology in the interest of public safety.
Mayor Skogquist shared questions from Councilmember Scott that were covered
during the presentation, then asked about the rate of return and if the drone would
be deployed on every call or prioritized for cities further away, such as East
Bethel and Ham Lake. Deputy Jacobson said staff reviewed past calls and
whether a drone could have been used and identified 35 flights a day, which is not
sustainable. He said drone use will be prioritized based on the type of call, and
that criteria will be determined during this pilot project.
Mayor Skogquist spoke about the data retention differences with the drones,
which are different than images from the pole cameras, and whether that retention
will be determined by Anoka County or the cities. Deputy Jacobson said there are
87 pole cameras across the County, and if done would all become County assets
and managed by the County’s policy, but said the data is very restricted by State
law, and if done will move towards the JLEC model, which is already established
and accomplished through a JPA.
Mayor Skogquist noted that if done, this policy will be outside the City’s control,
which could be a concern. Deputy Jacobson said Sheriff Wise has made it very
clear that this technology and data cannot be shared with federal immigration
personnel.
Mayor Skogquist asked about safeguards outside the law if we allow the County
to do this. Deputy Jacobson said it is very unlikely that the law will change, then
noted many activities are allowed by the First Amendment as well, and that it
would be very difficult to change these laws. He noted that when the drone is
deployed, the cameras face forward during response and not down to protect the
drone from crashing, as well as protecting the public’s privacy until arriving on
scene.
Mayor Skogquist said this will be an important discussion regarding parameters
and that the City will need to understand what legal authority exists to restrict data
and if we can choose to do more, either through policy or ordinance.
Deputy Jacobson said the policy is created to be fair and equitable, and if not
funded, the agreement is voided. He said if they discover issues during this pilot
program, such as a fatal flaw with no resolution, the contract is voided.
Mayor Skogquist asked what Flock retains and under what terms. Deputy
Jacobson said the retained data is encrypted and, while stored by Flock, cannot be
accessed unless allowed through Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS),
which is highly protected and only accessed by the owner of the data, Anoka

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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County. He said we have a 1:1 agreement with the City now, but if Flock doesn’t
follow CJIS requirements, they lose their certification and can no longer be a
vendor.
Chief Youngquist noted that the data is a picture in time and that Flock receives
just the plate image and nothing about the driver associated with the plate.
Mayor Skogquist inquired about the laws that state there is no reason to keep the
images after seven days, such as those captured during a protest. Deputy
Jacobson said the law prohibits retaining this data after seven days unless needed
through a search warrant.
City Manager Greg Lee asked if the drones would be utilized during public events
for monitoring traffic or ensuring safety, such as someone on a building rooftop,
then asked if there were ever cases, such as a stranded boater in the water or a lost
child, where the drone could shine a light on the person. Chief Youngquist said
the drones would be a tool for flyovers pre-event and can be deployed quickly if
needed, and noted that while there is no spotlight, the drones do have strobing
lights that could assist.
Deputy Jacobson said the drones are not powerful enough for a search light now,
but assumed that could be included in the future, then noted they already have
infrared technology for heat signature use.
Mayor Skogquist inquired about data transfer and who is shared with, and if that
is governed by State law. Deputy Jacobson said the data is governed by policy
and that when and how often the hot list is updated is determined by each police
department and only includes State of Minnesota agencies.
Chief Youngquist said if the program moved forward, those policies would be
worked out in the JPA, but for now were just local.
Deputy Jacobson shared that law enforcement data is stored separately from nonlaw enforcement data, and the only data Flock has is the hot list, but none of the
data behind that list, which is an important safeguard and only verified with
County data. He said Flock does not have access to any driver’s license data or
addresses and that any hot list image must be first verified through the law
enforcement CAD system before anyone can even respond to an alert.
Councilmember Weaver asked if the City will have to take any formal action
regarding this program, then added that technology for public safety reasons is
very important. Chief Youngquist said this is just informational at this point to
gauge interest in working for the County, adding it hasn’t been brought to JLEC
yet. He said the County wanted to first obtain cities’ feedback on whether this
was a good initiative, and if so, would create a shared cooperative agreement for
cost-sharing eventually.

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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Mayor Skogquist shared concerns about possible overreach and differing data
retention policies for each city, adding that the benefits and costs will be different
for each jurisdiction, but that this needs to be equitable to be valuable. He noted
that just because we have the technology doesn’t mean it is always best to use the
technology.
Chief Youngquist stated there are no costs to Anoka now, as they are working to
determine first if this is a good program. He said transparency has been built into
the program throughout for good reason and is very reassuring, adding that the
public is holding law enforcement accountable as well.
3.2

Discussion: Jackson Street Reconfiguration Option.
Mr. Lee shared a background report stating staff have taken a step back and reevaluated the approach to Jackson Street between 2nd Avenue and 3rd Avenue,
given recent discussion by the City Council. Staff met with the bars and
restaurants in the area to gather their input. Their response to the reconfiguration
option was positive, and he shared the proposed reconfiguration option layout for
the segment of Jackson Street between 2nd Avenue and 3rd Avenue. He said the
Jackson Street reconfiguration option was presented as an informational item with
the Parking Advisory Board (PAB) at its regularly scheduled meeting on May 20,
2026, and if the City Council wishes to move forward with the proposed Jackson
Street reconfiguration option, this item would be placed on the regular City
Council meeting agenda for formal consideration on June 1, 2026. At that
meeting, the City Council could act on a resolution approving the reconfiguration
option as a year-round permanent street and parking layout, including a one-way
eastbound traffic pattern and increased on-street parking through a diagonal
parking scenario on the north side for the segment of Jackson Street between 2nd
Avenue and 3rd Avenue. As part of the June 1 Council consideration, staff will be
requesting the Council to consider authorizing the City to complete an
engineering and traffic investigation and to develop a City-wide speed-limit
policy to reduce the speed limit on Jackson Street from 30 mph to 20 mph to
provide additional pedestrian safety in the Entertainment District. He noted that
the lowest credible, defensible speed limit for standard City streets is 20 mph
based on the legal requirements of Statute and the engineering principles outlined
in the MnDOT/LRRB 2023 guidelines. Based on Minnesota Statute §169.14,
cities have the authority to establish speed limits on City-owned streets by the
adoption of a resolution referencing the engineering study and City-wide policy.
He shared further about the proposal and the importance of making Jackson Street
a permanent one-way to avoid confusion for drivers.
Councilmember Weaver shared concerns about not being able to take a left on 3rd
Avenue, and if a raised concrete median is added, it will be difficult heading
north. Assistant City Engineer Ben Nelson said this is a pedestrian corridor.

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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Mayor Skogquist suggested road painting be used first to allow for possible
adjustments before any medians are placed.
Councilmember Weaver expressed concerns about not being able to take a left to
go north on 3rd Avenue. Mr. Lee said they could try that, but it would get drivers
going the wrong way.
Councilmember Campbell suggested adding a crosswalk from the ramp. Mr. Lee
agreed, especially to encourage one-way traffic for patrons.
Councilmember Weaver asked if we need to include a signal crosswalk. Mr.
Lee's people will likely cross all over the district, and Chief Youngquist fully
endorses this plan as it will be easier to control the environment, especially on
Friday and Saturday nights. He said the temporary median could also include an
arm that can be brought down to shut down one lane of traffic if needed.
Mr. Lee spoke about having another access in the ramp for safety reasons and that
this has been included in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). He shared further
about ride share pick-up areas on 3rd Avenue and will share with Anoka County
for possible coordinated use as well.
Councilmember Weaver suggested speaking with the Union building and other
businesses about this plan, then asked if the one-way should be east/west or
west/east. Mr. Lee said staff recommended the one-way be west/east, given that
the parallel stalls are on the south side.
Mayor Skogquist said since this is coming back to a regular meeting for approval,
staff contacts the other business owners, then thanked staff for their efforts in
talking to everyone. He said he liked the permanent ideas, and if adjustments are
needed, fine, and that Council could approve this on June 1 to designate Jackson
Street as a one-way and work with MnDOT to lower the speed limit to 20 mph.
Mr. Lee said staff also worked with the Fire Department to ensure any future
raised medians would still allow all fire support to respond regardless, and
reiterated that the Police Department supported this plan and that staff will likely
notify all property owners within 350 feet, similar to other notices.
3.3

Discussion: Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and Equipment Replacement Plan
(ERP).
Finance Director Brenda Springer shared a background report stating that
annually, the Council and staff review the five-year CIP and ERP before adoption.
She said the document is for planning purposes and allows staff to project future
funding needs based on planned capital improvement projects and equipment
replacement. She said this CIP and ERP are in draft form and impact several
governmental and business-type funds.

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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Public Services Administrator Lisa LaCasse shared an update on the proposed
cemetery block status and platting for roads on the west side of the cemetery. She
explained the plan was for full-size graves, but is not being recommended now, as
there are different options being utilized, such as cremation-only and columbaria.
She said not every plot was sold, then explained Forest Hill has plots sold but
were located in lettered sections within plots purchased by families, where plots
are not being used but include large family monuments that cannot be relocated.
Mayor Skogquist inquired about the veteran’s memorial on the east side and if
everything is vacant on the west side up to Church Street. Ms. LaCasse said the
area includes storm water runoff, but the rest is the City’s up to the fence for
cremation graves.
Councilmember Campbell asked if there was any space to bury cremains, as most
people select cremation now. Ms. LaCasse said there were still 200 or so plots for
cremation and noted that while they still see traditional burials, they are trending
75%-25% and need to plan for 2027. She said there were approximately 2,500
traditional plots originally planned, but there could be more with different burial
options and road locations. She shared that the non-resident cost was $1,600 and
the resident cost was $750.
Mr. Lee asked if the County was still purchasing plots at a much lower rate and if
costs should be raised. Ms. LaCasse said that because this is a public cemetery,
we have little ability to say no to the County and cannot force cremation, which
costs $2,100 per grave and is reimbursed only half of that amount from the
County.
Mr. Lee said long-range planning will be needed to ensure we are covering our
costs 50 years from now.
Electric Utility Director Nick Loehlein explained plans in 2027 to complete a
rebuild at the Crooked Lake substation. He said the foundation has been poured
and that the equipment was from the mid-1960s and serves a large majority of our
customers then shared further about the loads and location.
Councilmember Weaver asked if we could lease space for this substation, as it is
located in Coon Rapids. Mr. Loehlein said Xcel Energy owns the ground, and
there is an arrangement where we pay for service and share the transformers.
Mr. Loehlein shared about the courthouse project as a placeholder, which would
be a reimbursement of some of those costs, noting that conduit has been installed,
as well as some cable work.
Assistant Finance Director Liz Dougals shared about the transformer rebuild of
the substation, as well as other transformers that need to be replaced throughout
the year, and annual infrastructure. She said crews were always checking systems

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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for repairs and that the plan included an estimate of annualized replacement of
equipment based on a 3% increase.
Mr. Nelson shared about the improved access to the Golf Street parking ramp to
upgrade to a 20-foot road. Mr. Lee shared that Gaughn Companies was including
a plan for a road to the north, which would be their service road, and that the City
would explore cost participation opportunities.
Mr. Lee shared about a proposed restroom at 2nd Avenue and Jackson Street, but
said that with the dam project, staff was reconsidering a restroom facility that
should be closer to the dam instead, and included as part of that project.
Ms. LaCasse said the original restroom was proposed to be four stalls, but if
relocated towards the dam would need to be larger to accommodate hundreds of
people.
Mr. Nelson spoke about the Public Services AMU building for planning and
design processes. Mr. Lee said there was a concept for this building at 7th Avenue
and Garfield Street, but this would create a more formal plan at a new location,
which includes a review of the entire site for storage of equipment and
confiscated vehicles.
Mr. Loehlein said electric, water, sewer, and Public Services will all work
together to get a good space needs analysis as part of this project.
Mr. Nelson shared about ADA accessibility improvements for all City facilities
and how the proposed needs study would rank facilities by priority.
Mayor Skogquist noted this cost would be to create the plan and then outline the
City’s progress towards ADA improvements.
Mr. Lee said it will be important to have this plan and that spending 1% of our
general fund on these improvements is reasonable and logical. He noted that
while they all have to be addressed, the City is allowed to prioritize the
improvements over several years.
Councilmember Weaver asked if the elevator at Green Haven would be included
in this plan. Mr. Nelson said the elevator is already included in the current
project.
Mayor Skogquist noted the Council Chamber ramp was confirmed no longer
accessible based on its width and ramp incline.
Ms. Springer reviewed the proposed carpet replacement plan and priority areas.

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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Mr. Nelson shared about the cracks in the parking garage, which was over 20
years old, and then spoke about the SSIP project at McKinley Park.
Mayor Skogquist spoke about the need for a strategy for these projects going
forward.
Mr. Nelson shared about the dam project of $3.1 million and local contributions
to this project. Ms. LaCasse said the match requirement was 25%, so this amount
was only half.
Mr. Nelson shared about the Highway 47 Corridor and BNSF grade separation
project, estimated at $95 million, that would use $2.5 million in federal grants and
require a local match, which would be covered by State money. He said the
following year we could do a local match similar to last year and utilize grants, so
staff wanted to inform Council of the local match requirement. He added that
State aid funds could be used and advance encumber, which is helpful.
Mayor Skogquist confirmed the timeline to do the plan, which began last month.
Mr. Nelson shared the project status to date and said this will get us through the
planning stage and up to 30% plan completion for the next two years.
Mr. Nelson reviewed the 2027 street maintenance program that included crack
filling, sealing, and other elements. He said Anoka used to work with Coon
Rapids on a joint maintenance agreement with several other cities, but was now
being done independently, as it cost Coon Rapids a lot to administer the program
and had resulted in some poor materials being used. Mr. Nelson spoke about the
sidewalk extension joint project with Anoka County for $110,000 for this
segment, which would come from State Aid funding sources.
Ryan Wagner shared about the need for new computers for the Green Haven
simulators. He said the computers were seven years old and were starting to lag
in operation, and wouldn’t allow the addition of any new simulated courses. He
said we should be fine for this winter, but we will need to do this project for 2027.
Ms. Springer shared similar revenue, which was $38,000 in 2023 and was
$25,000 in 2025.
Mayor Skogquist said funding for most items was coming from the general fund
and felt these projects should come from golf revenue, especially with the large
investments being made in Green Haven.
Councilmember Weaver complimented Mr. Wagner on his outstanding work in
attracting both youth and new families to Green Haven. Mr. Wagner shared how
they have grown the youth program from 50 to 565 and how many new adults are
coming with their kids. He said staff will work on estimating how many of these
new users’ people are staying after their round to eat at the restaurant. He

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
Page 11 of 12

outlined how they are working to allow youth to golf during non-busy tee times as
they want to balance full round rates with reduced youth rates. He said they may
have to restrict some youth tee times as the summer continues, but so far it is
working well then spoke about the recent PGA reimbursement of over $1,000.
Ms. Springer spoke about the Green Haven renovation project, which was bonded
for in 2027.
Ms. LaCasse shared the Park Board’s plan to construct a trail connection to the
boat slips for ADA access.
Councilmember Weaver asked how many slips were leased. Ms. LaCasse said
four slips were leased and that they may install another set to increase that to six
at Riverfront Park, then shared about the planning process for Sorensen Park
reconstruction. She spoke about the phasing and need for grant writing to score
high, such as with the Metropolitan Council grant, as they have become more
competitive, and how it’s best to hire consultants to be the most successful.
Councilmember Weaver said that with all the park capital needs and other endless
needs, has staff considered dedicating a funding source from the electric utility, or
considering $250,000 in a bonding project to address these issues now and not do
smaller repairs just to get by? Ms. LaCasse said staff were not in a position to do
that now, as we would be scrambling to put plans together without having
engineering dollars first, but could consider this by 2028.
Park Supervisor Jon Holmes explained how Sunny Acres was built on a dome and
how staff have had to level it every 3-5 years, which results in broken irrigation
and difficulties keeping the fields level.
Park and Recreation Advisory Board Chair Nelson shared that it was not the
Board’s opinion at all and said that if we bonded, we could reduce the projects if
we changed our goal-setting. He said the trick is not to spend the money ever,
and we need to have better goals and ideas of what we want, as we can’t keep
going back to the voters for more money. He said we need to be better planners,
stop changing projects, and create a longer-term plan. He said trails get people
outside and not King Park, adding that while large playgrounds are great, we need
to focus on the trails and network playgrounds.
Ms. LaCasse said the Park Board voted not to move forward at this time with that
project and instead do a neighborhood communication on how people would use
the trail and connect the neighborhood to Sunny Acres.
Mr. Nelson spoke about the Rum River trail repair, then shared about the water
tower repainting project of $2 million. Mayor Skogquist confirmed that the cost
included no repairs but just repainting.

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May 26, 2026 (Worksession)
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Mr. Loehlein reviewed the proposed electric vehicle replacement and their plan to
reallocate and repurpose other vehicles to provide the opportunity to purchase an
electric vehicle to be utilized by AMU. He spoke about the replacement for the
Chevy Silverado and then shared about the vacuum excavator and pick-up trailer
for large conductor use.
Mr. Lee clarified that the vehicle wouldn’t leave the fleet but would just be
downgraded.
Ms. LaCasse spoke about the new mechanical sweeper proposal and the Dodge
Caravan replacement that would serve as a backup vehicle for senior services.
She shared about the quad area seeder that would be split between Parks and Golf,
as well as the ice breaker attachment, then shared a demonstration video of how it
works.
Ms. Springer reviewed the remaining items for the Sewer and Water Departments,
which included replacements from 1998, and then shared final comments on the
funding sources. She said the budgets would be forwarded again to all
departments to include these capital requests in their budget and will be reviewed
and readjusted as we move through the budget process.
9.

OTHER BUSINESS
Mayor Skogquist spoke about the Elm Street Park discussion and inflation costs that
resulted in online concerns about improvements being made versus those in other parks.
He said while he understood the concerns, he didn’t feel like the topic needed further
discussion unless the Park Board or the neighborhood brought it forward.
Ms. LaCasse explained the funding split for playground equipment was based on age
groups and resulted in a different style of park equipment, which was more of a challenge
course play. She said Flagship Playgrounds based the equipment on the container size
and the existing layout with curbing, which limited the improvement, but that 1-2
independent components could be added at some point. She said the equipment was
costly and the budget felt appropriate for a park that size, and that it was unfortunate that
people felt this was a downgrade.

10.

ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Weaver, to adjourn
the Worksession at 8:09 p.m.
Motion carried.

Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off-Site Secretarial, Inc.
Approval Attestation:
Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk

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June 22, 2026 (Worksession)
Page 1 of 4

DRAFT WORKSESSION OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL WORKSESSION ROOM
JUNE 22, 2026
1.

CALL TO ORDER

Mayor Skogquist called the worksession meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
2.

ROLL CALL

Present at roll call: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and
Weaver.
Staff present: City Manager Greg Lee; Assistant City Manager Amy Oehlers; Senior
City Planner Clark Palmer; and City Attorney Scott Baumgartner.
Absent: None.
3.

COUNCIL BUSINESS and/or DISCUSSION ITEMS

3.1

Review of Proposals: Residential Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection,
Recycling Services, and Organics Collection.
Assistant City Manager Amy Oehlers shared a background report stating that a
Request for Proposals (RFP) for Residential Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste
Collection, Recycling Services, and Organics Collection was released on May 20,
2026. The RFP was posted on the City’s website, social media outlets, published
in the League of Minnesota Cities Marketplace publication, and sent to the
following known collectors: Ace Solid Waste, Curbside Waste, Republic
Services, Walter’s Recycling, LRS, Waste Management, Tennis Sanitation,
Aspen Waste Systems, Lepage & Sons, Veolia Environmental Services, Highland
Sanitation, Jim’s Mille Lacs Disposal, and West Central Sanitation. A deadline
for proposals was set at June 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., and pursuant to Minnesota
Statute §13.591 Subd. 3 (b) the name of the proposal submitters becomes public
at the time of the deadline for submitting a proposal. She explained that all other
contents of a proposal are private/nonpublic data until completion of the
evaluation process, which was defined as completion of contract negotiation with
the selected vendor. Ms. Oehlers shared the eight proposals received in
alphabetical order: Ace Solid Waste, Aspen Waste, Curbside Waste, FCC
Environmental Services, LRS, Republic Services, Waste Management of
Minnesota, and Walters Recycling & Refuse. Ms. Oehlers requested that Council
review and discuss proposals and provide direction to staff on negotiating a
contract with a selected vendor for consideration at the July 6, 2026, Council
meeting, then noted implementation of organized collection cannot occur unless
approved by a majority of voters in the November 3, 2026, general election.

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June 22, 2026 (Worksession)
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City Attorney Scott Baumgartner further clarified the private and non-public data
that was included until completion of the evaluation of the process, which means
the completed negotiation of the vendor. He noted the City is following both the
organized hauling and data practices act Statutes.
Councilmember Weaver said he was surprised this meeting was not being
conducted in an executive session, similar to labor negotiations, then asked why,
once open to the public, the data was not open or at least redacted because no one
knows what is being discussed. Mr. Baumgartner said this discussion is different
than labor negotiations because the City is not negotiating with an individual
hauler. He noted the public will get to see the deliberation process among the
proposals, but agreed the difficulty is not just the names but also the data itself,
which couldn’t be redacted because then nothing would be left. He stated that
hauler negotiations were not an exception in statute to close a meeting, then said,
assuming upon completion of the evaluation process and completed negotiations,
all data will become public unless classified as trade secret data.
Councilmember Weaver said the City received eight proposals and asked if we
have to take the lowest bid. Mr. Baumgartner said accepting the lowest bid was
not required because the Council was negotiating a professional contract.
Councilmember Campbell asked if the pricing for solid waste was preferable from
one vendor but not for yard waste, for example, could the contracts be split?
Mayor Skogquist said he understood the quotes were submitted as a package.
Councilmember Scott thanked all the firms that submitted proposals, noting the
City received eight proposals compared to four last time. He wanted to confirm
the proposals included an opt-in clause for homeowners’’ association who were
already under a single hauler for single-family associations as well. Ms. Oehlers
said staff plans to have that option included in the negotiations, adding there were
very few single-family homeowner associations in the City.
City Manager Greg Lee noted the bidders were made aware of the homeowners’
association opt-in possibility before submitting their bids.
Councilmember Weaver asked if this meeting was available via Zoom. Mr. Lee
said this meeting was not available to the public via Zoom. Senior City Planner
Clark Palmer noted the recording will be made available.
Mayor Skogquist said the City received a lot of great proposals and thanked
everyone for the time and detail included, then noted there were some very
favorable rates presented. He said the results were better than last time and
included more service level options, resulting in all responsible bidders. He said
that while all offered good cost options, Proposal 1 was the lowest bidder and
included options for discounts and different categories, and was his preference.

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June 22, 2026 (Worksession)
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Councilmember Rostad noted that a number of the proposals included discounts
for seniors and veterans.
Councilmember Scott agreed there were some great proposals, a few of which
were less than our lowest proposal last time, then noted Proposal 1 had a 4%
escalation versus 4.5% for Proposal 2. He said Proposal 2 had a lower rate for the
smallest can, but Proposal 1 had a bi-weekly option for low trash users at a lower
rate and included a 10% discount for veterans and seniors, which wasn’t offered
last time. He noted the large cart rate came in well too at $12.50 per month, then
said Proposal 2 had a routing schedule of two to three days, but Proposal 1 offered
a four-day route and asked if that could be made shorter. Councilmember Scott
added that Proposal 1 had a reasonable yard waste rate, and while Proposal 2 was
higher, it included more can options.
Councilmember Rostad said Proposal 1 also had a per-bag overflow, which was
good to see itemized. Then, Proposal 1 referenced 99.9% reliability rates, which
was important, as well as a low rate of injury, and was 24% safer than the industry
average. She said safety in the community was important and that Proposal 1
highlighted sustainability as a central component to making a smaller footprint
and aligned with Anoka’s Waste Reduction and Recycling Board’s goals.
Councilmember Campbell said the RFPs reflected substantial savings in both and
that while he was not opposed to organized hauling, similar to the electric utility
and schools, he would be voting against any contract as he was committed to
honoring the will of the voters two years ago.
Councilmember Scott confirmed the taxes for tipping and collection fees tax was
9.75%, then said Proposal 1 would result in a large cart cost of $13.72/month,
where last time the cost was $16.80/month, and challenged anyone to find rates
cheaper than that for a 96-gallon cart. He said yard rates would be $120/year and
that all rates were less than the best rate offered two years ago, with inflation, and
included more competition than last time, with eight bidders responding versus
four last time, which shows companies want Anoka’s business.
Councilmember Rostad said bulk waste was included in all RFPs for items such
as furniture, and that Proposal 1 was the most competitive, then noted the City
also offered recycling events and urged people to consider those options to avoid
filling landfills with these items.
Councilmember Scott said Proposals 1 and 2 were very close, but Proposal 1 was
slightly cheaper except for the 32-gallon can, so he felt good if we went with
Proposal 1, but if not successful, negotiate with Proposal 2, as it was still lower
than two years ago. He said it was great to have multiple bids with responsible
haulers for rates that were affordable to residents. He said he liked Proposal 1’s
every other week option, discounted rates for seniors and veterans, lower
escalation rate, and lowest yard waste rates.

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June 22, 2026 (Worksession)
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Councilmember Rostad said both proposals were very close and that she wanted
to find the lowest and best value for the residents and for the City to be fiscally
responsible for its infrastructure, including roads, traffic, and noise. She said we
offer a great bargain for electric, waste removal, recycling, and sewer, and that we
participate in a competitive market to lower electric bills, and believed organized
hauling will run just as smoothly as those enterprises and be very cost-effective to
maximize efficiency and bring a very low bottom-line cost.
Mayor Skogquist summarized Council consensus for Residential Solid Waste
Collection, Yard Waste Collection, Recycling Services, and Organics Collection
was Proposal 1, with Proposal 2 as a second option.
9.

OTHER BUSINESS
Mr. Lee said the Anoka County Historical Society had requested a meeting with the
Council to discuss their storage options and suggested the topic be included on the July
worksession.
Ms. Oehlers said the Human Rights Commission would be meeting this week and that
they had requested clarification on the Council’s goal for the Commission to do more
community engagement. Councilmember Rostad suggested the Commission consider
sharing their resources with the community at the farmer’s market, as well as other
opportunities, then said she looked forward to what ideas they generated as other good
outreach opportunities.

10.

ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to adjourn the
Worksession at 5:30 p.m.
Motion carried.

Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off-Site Secretarial, Inc.
Approval Attestation:
Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 1 of 12

DRAFT REGULAR MEETING OF THE ANOKA CITY COUNCIL
ANOKA CITY HALL
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS
JULY 6, 2026
1.

CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Skogquist called the regular meeting of the City Council to order at 7:00 p.m.

ROLL CALL
Present at roll call: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad, Scott, and
Weaver.
Also present: City Manager Greg Lee; Police Chief Andy Youngquist; Assistant City
Engineer Ben Nelson; and City Attorney Scott Baumartner.
Absent at roll call: None.

COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1

June 15, 2026, Regular Meeting.
June 15, 2026, Closed Executive Session.
Mayor Skogquist said that while the May and June worksession minutes were
included in the packet, they weren’t noted on the agenda and suggested they be
postponed until the next meeting.
Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to
postpone approval of the May 26, 2026, and June 29, 2026, Worksession minutes
to the next regular meeting.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to
approve the minutes of the June 15, 2026, Regular Meeting and the June 15, 2026,
Closed Executive Session as presented.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.

OPEN FORUM
4.1

Police Activity Update.
Police Chief Andy Youngquist shared that the Secret Service recently hired CSO
Evan and that while they were sad to see him leave, he was an exceptional

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 2 of 12

employee who will excel in this role. He then shared a report outlining the 2026
first-half policing statistics that highlighted a 10% increase year-to-date for calls
for service, 271 severe crimes reported to date, 146 lower-level crimes, and 120
DWI charges that included 59 DWI-related offences. He shared a snapshot of the
past week in detail, which was extremely busy, and portrayed a typical week in
the department, then noted that recent social media comments have been implying
otherwise. He commented on the current state of homelessness in Anoka, which
appeared to be increasing, then spoke to the misinformation being shared. He
explained how, earlier in his career, vagrancy arrests were allowed, but said that
the law was repealed in 2005 and that officers cannot arrest or detain individuals
for that reason only, including panhandling or occupying a public space. Chief
Youngquist said officers cannot make people leave unless a violation of a law or
ordinance is occurring, and that they work to connect people with resources
instead. He said officers can conduct welfare checks and respond to trespassing
complaints, then shared how the community can help these situations by
recognizing the role of law enforcement, supporting community-based solutions,
and calling 911 to report behavior when it is occurring, but not including a
person’s housing status, as that will help protect the department from potential
human rights violations accusations.
Councilmember Weaver referred to a recent social media post of a person passed
out near Bridge Square. Chief Youngquist noted that while people can post such
incidents without formally reporting them through 911, there wasn’t much
officers could do.
Councilmember Rostad thanked the department for the incredible amount of work
they do, adding that the department had a well-functioning system that managed
what they could in this space. She noted many resources were county-based, and
the City didn’t have the means or resources to address many of these concerns,
and that it was not the Police Department’s role to diagnose or treat individuals.
She spoke to how dealing with these issues takes away from all the good things
the department does and how this scrutiny doesn’t do Anoka well, and suggested
staff and Council work with State and Anoka County partners to maintain the
dignity of people and continue to work on ensuring people are safe, especially in
the winter. She asked what resources are available after an arrest is made. City
Attorney Scott Baumgarnter noted homelessness is a national issue and that it is
difficult to address, then shared how he has heard comments from individuals that
even after they were arrested, they appreciated the compassionate way they were
treated by Anoka officers, which shows they are doing things the right way. He
spoke about the need to ensure competency of defendants when arrested, which is
done through a specific process if needed, but the problem is some individuals are
found to be incompetent to stand trial but not enough to be civilly committed, so
they fall into a gap. He said everyone needs to work together to identify a way to
bridge this gap, but in the meantime, officers will continue to show compassion
while upholding the law.

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 3 of 12

Councilmember Rostad encouraged the community to document their concerns by
calling 911, then shared a recent experience where she did just that and how
officers responded and assisted the individual.
Councilmember Weaver asked about the status of a recent grant application for a
social worker. He explained how many individuals are already assigned social
workers from the County and how some aren’t accepted at programs such as
Stepping Stones because of their behavior, then asked what can be done. He said
businesses won’t be successful if this activity continues and that we need to
partner better with Anoka County to get help. He said Anoka will have 25,000
visitors this weekend for an event, and if they see individuals urinating and
camping on the sidewalks, they won’t come back.
Chief Youngquist said Anoka was not successful in obtaining the grant, but said
they would continue to work towards the goal of a social worker position because
it will help reduce call load for the department, and that in the meantime, CSOs
will continue their work through foot patrol and UTV patrol.
Councilmember Weaver shared how the Anoka Business and Landowners
Association contributed $5,000 to the police department annually to help with this
type of patrol to help ensure safety for everyone.
Councilmember Scott commented that homelessness doesn’t just happen quickly
but is a result of many steps first, then said that individuals need to be
accountable. He shared that he has been a foster parent for 10 years and that there
is lots of funding available, and while assigned social workers can’t solve
everything, it would be appropriate for the County to help, especially as they
work to expand the jail. He said we need to follow up to close that gap for people
by checking on them to ensure they are following their treatment plans, then
questioned how often that is happening. He said we have a vested interest in this
problem and need to create a large support system in order to ensure individuals
are accountable to themselves and the public.
OTHER INFORMATION UNDER OPEN FORUM
Ed Evans, Anoka, asked if he could speak to the police activity update. Mr.
Baumgartner said individuals could speak to any topic they wish.
Derek Lind, Anoka County Elections Integrity Team, shared comments regarding
the use of poll pads and their request that cities return to using paper rosters. He
shared how Oak Grove Council voted to return to paper rosters, how Anoka
County responded with the threat of a felony, and how the Upper Midwest Law
Firm was currently representing the City of Oak Grove in this case. He
encouraged the Council to view a film about this topic as well as read a recent
newspaper article, then said this is a question about who has the authority, the
cities or Anoka County, and how they believed the cities should be able to decide.

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 4 of 12

Brandon Altenweg, Amore Antiques, said he began Anoka Vintage Fest and was
the social media director for Discover Anoka. He said he appreciated the earlier
discussion and recognized the gap that the community was dealing with in Anoka,
then shared about two currently unhoused individuals that they have had to deal
with for over five years, and how their activity was occurring more and more. He
spoke about how these individuals were continually sprawled out on the sidewalk,
coming into his store, urinating in public, screaming profanity, and scaring their
customers. He said the issue is they don’t want to change their behavior, and said
we all have enabled them to continue this behavior as well. He said he
understood the laws, but just asked that they be moved along to a more
comfortable spot and not outside his business. He said he hated to have new
customers experience this behavior and that all of the businesses were tired of this
activity.
Mayor Skogquist thanked Mr. Altenweg for his comments, then encouraged the
discussion to be respectful, as this was all public record and could be grounds for
legal concerns.
Councilmember Weaver asked if the officers frequently visit Amore Antiques.
Mr. Altenweg said he has not observed any officers recently, nor his employees,
but noted they used to visit and felt this activity would be good for them, as well
as community outreach.
Chief Youngquist said he will follow up and share statistics to help show that
officers are working hard and doing their jobs.
Ed Evans, Anoka, spoke to the possibility of these individuals being veterans,
then shared about the recent publication of Minnesota Magazine that highlighted
things to do in the summer that included Anoka River Fest and Craft Fair, and
how this was a perfect example of how these individuals can cause problems for
these events. He then spoke about a recent advertisement he saw and his
experience with helping people addicted to drugs, which frequently started with
cannabis use. He expressed concerns with Anoka taking money from the Electric
Department to establish a cannabis dispensary and how that ad included warnings
for people under 21, as well as many others, and disagreed when staff were
pleased when selling these products, as it could be damaging to people.
Joelle Alvord, Anoka, said she appreciated the comments earlier about being
cautious regarding what we say to protect the City from potential litigation, but
felt we were not being cautious and instead have biased Anoka’s citizens either in
favor of or against organized hauling. She commented about the potential risk of
multi-million dollar lawsuits and shared how she has a major interest in Anoka.
She said she has watched the process for organized hauling and cautioned against
consequences after the vote for further litigation, similar to Anoka County and the
dam, and felt this proposal was not necessary at this time.

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 5 of 12

Mayor Skogquist shared further comments about his and Councilmember Scott’s
experiences around homelessness and those with mental health issues. He spoke
about his father’s own struggles that resulted in his homelessness at times, and
how the system was not advantageous for individuals and families, and was
difficult to manage. He said some things can be done and has noticed a large
change in the last decade or so because, before, when his father was being evicted
from his apartment for causing problems, Anoka County would intervene and
advocate to assist in proving his father was a danger to himself and others, and
that most of the time that effort was impactful and helpful. Mayor Skogquist said
he hasn’t seen that happen for some time, which was concerning because cities
need help with this, especially when people find themselves homeless during the
winter. He shared that his father is now a resident of Hennepin County and is part
of their social services system, which appears to have a more robust structure. He
noted the City approved a 50% expansion for the State Hospital, which is a start,
then commented about the social worker position and how most cities have this
role in place, and felt it was important. He said there would be other ways to start
the position and felt that if done, the City would have more control and not be at
the mercy of Anoka County. He said he appreciated the discussion and
everyone’s respectability around this topic.
Motion by Councilmember Rostad, seconded by Councilmember Scott, to move
Item 9.1 forward in the agenda following Item 5.1.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
5.

PUBLIC HEARING(S)
5.1

Implementation of Organized Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection,
Recycling Services, and Organics Collection.
City Manager Greg Lee shared a background report stating the City of Anoka has
been following Minnesota Statutes §115A.94 regarding organized collection.
Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §115.94 Subd. 4d, the City provided a period of at
least 60 days to meet and negotiate with the four currently licensed collectors to
develop a proposal for organized collection. This period commenced on January
6, 2026, and ended on March 7, 2026. During that period, four negotiation
meetings were held; however, a proposal between the current licensed collectors
and the City was not developed due to the lack of participation from three of the
current licensed collectors. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §115.94 Subd. 4a.
Before implementing organized collection, the City must establish a Solid Waste
Collection Options Commission. At their meeting on March 16, 2026, the City
Council adopted a resolution establishing a Solid Waste Collection Options
Committee to identify, examine, and evaluate various methods of solid waste
collection and to issue a report on the Committee’s research, findings, and any
recommendations to the City Council. At their meeting on April 20, 2026, the
City Council accepted the report from the Solid Waste Collection Options

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 6 of 12

Committee. Pursuant to Minnesota Statute §115.94 Subd. 4c, the City Council
must provide public notice and hold at least one public hearing before deciding to
implement organized collection. Public notice was provided by publication of a
public hearing notice of this meeting in the Anoka County Union. This public
hearing is being held to fulfill the requirements of Minnesota Statutes§115.94
Subd. 4c. He said it was important to note that implementation of an organized
collection system cannot occur unless approved by a majority of City of Anoka
voters at the November 3, 2026, General Election, where this will be a ballot
question. Approval by the voters is a requirement of Anoka City Charter Section
13.13. The adoption of this Charter amendment shall supersede any ordinances,
ordinance amendments, or Charter amendments related to solid waste adopted by
the City Council after January 1, 2023. He said there was no financial impact
related to holding this public hearing and said no action is required by the City
Council outside of receiving public comment on the implementation of Organized
Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection, Recycling Services, and Organics
Collection.
Mr. Lee shared that the proposed contract was for five years and, if adopted,
would commence on May 10, 2027, and end on May 9, 2032. He reviewed the
general elements of the contract as well as the recommended changes for Section
3.7 regarding bulk items. He noted the contract also acknowledges yard waste
and future recycling and organics in 2030. He said the contractor would be
responsible for having contact information and staff available for questions during
regular business hours, as well as possible walk-up service for customers who
may be unable to bring their cans to the curb. Mr. Lee said the contract
acknowledged the homeowners’ association (HOAs) properties as they meet the
intent of having one hauler, then added the selected vendor included a senior and
veteran discount to the 30-gallon cans as well as every-other-week pick-up
options. He shared the proposed pricing, which includes the original bid with
solid waste tax and an administrative fee that would generate $40,000 to
compensate the City for staff billing activities. Mr. Lee shared the proposed fee
of $14.40 per month for the 90-gallon container, which would include a 4%
escalator over the contract period. He said, as stated before, a majority of voters
of the City of Anoka must vote in favor of implementing an organized collection
system at the November 3, 2026, election in order for organized collection to be
implemented.
Councilmember Rostad asked if the appropriate steps and protocol had been taken
throughout this process and if the City followed the statute. Mr. Baumgartner
confirmed statute and the proper steps were followed throughout this process.
Councilmember Weaver asked if the City was still in litigation and if there was an
update staff could share on its status. Mr. Baumgartner said the City was still in
litigation with Walters, Ace Solid Waste, and Curbside, who filed a motion for a
temporary injunction to stop this process. He said the courts denied that motion

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
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on March 11, 2026, which has been appealed to the Court of Appeals, but that the
process could continue during this time.
Councilmember Weaver asked who the three haulers were who refused to
participate in the negotiations. Mr. Baumgartner responded that once the process
was completed, the data would become public.
Mayor Skogquist opened the public hearing at 8:18 p.m.
Brendan McBride, Anoka, commented about the ongoing discussions about the
pending lawsuit against the City and noted that while anyone can file a lawsuit, it
doesn’t mean the lawsuit has merit. He said the denial of an injunction could take
months or years, and as an appellant lawyer, he knew that briefs were rarely filed
by the first deadline and that anything happening before November could be
considered a scare tactic. He shared about the last time this process occurred and
the expensive flyers sent by the haulers’ Political Action Committee (PAC), and
wondered why competitors in a free market would collaborate and how they can
increase the price if not collectively bargained for, and get twice as much profit
from one-quarter of the work. He noted how information was not shared about
pricing early enough in the process because early voting had already started, and
felt it was fair to put this back to the citizens to vote on whether to pay grossly
inflated margins on hauling or just decide what’s best for the City. He said he
was in an HOA, so the outcome wouldn’t affect him directly, but that he didn’t
want to see residents gouged.
Councilmember Weaver responded that the reason people talk about litigation is
for transparency, which is important, and then mentioned that Mr. McBride’s
spouse was an Anoka Council candidate.
Joelle Alvord, Anoka, asked if she would be able to opt out of trash hauling. Mr.
Lee said trash hauling was required for all citizens.
Ms. Alvord said some people currently don’t have haulers who would be forced to
have a hauler, which is concerning, and then spoke about the 4% increase
annually over five years, depending on volume and size of the container, and said
this contract was for residential only and not commercial or HOAs, and wouldn’t
change having multiple haulers in the City. Mr. Lee confirmed that commercial
haulers would continue and that this action was only for residential hauling.
Ms. Alvord commented that while litigation won’t occur by the November
election, it will occur at some point in the future, and cautioned about buyer
beware.
Andrew Boho, Anoka, referred to one vendor sharing their 99% customer
satisfaction rate and asked if this was self-reported or verified. Councilmember
Rostad said she assumed that was self-reported, but said several haulers had a
high customer satisfaction rate.

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 8 of 12

Mr. Boho asked how the five-year contract would be affected if the City wanted
to put this on the ballot again in two years and potentially violate the approved
contract. Mr. Baumgartner shared about litigation in another city with a contract
in place, and believed the courts determined that the city was not violating its
contract.
Mr. Boho shared that the reason the haulers would coordinate is not because of
conspiracy but a game theory, as a successful contract would be a winner-take-all
strategy.
Councilmember Weaver asked if a neighborhood or block could form an HOA
and opt out of the contract. Mr. Baumgartner said if a valid HOA with bylaws
was created that meets the guidelines, that HOA could be subject to the opt-out
clause.
Councilmember Scott commented that this public hearing and action was a legal
requirement and not a final decision, adding that nothing would change unless
approved by a majority of voters this November. He said he felt this was the right
way to do this, then outlined the process that included 60 days to come up with a
joint proposal and how three of the four haulers wouldn’t participate, so an RFP
was sent that resulted in eight responses, which was good for negotiations for
residents. He said he supported having one hauler on the street instead of four, as
it would result in real savings for a large part of Anoka, and that he trusted the
voters to do the right thing in November.
Being no further input, Mayor Skogquist closed the public hearing at 8:31 p.m.
Item 9.1 was heard at this point in the agenda.
9.1

RES/Contract for Organized Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection,
Recycling Services, and Organics Collection.
RESOLUTION
Mr. Lee shared a background report stating the City of Anoka has been following
Minnesota Statutes §115A.94 regarding organized collection. Pursuant to
Minnesota Statutes §115.94 Subd. 4d, the City provided a period of at least 60
days to meet and negotiate with the four currently licensed collectors to develop a
proposal for organized collection. This period commenced on January 6, 2026,
and ended on March 7, 2026. During that period, four negotiation meetings were
held; however, a proposal between the current licensed collectors and the City
was not developed due to the lack of participation from three of the current
licensed collectors. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §115A.94 Subd 4a, at your
meeting on March 16, 2026, the City Council adopted a resolution establishing a
Solid Waste Collection Options Committee to identify, examine, and evaluate

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 9 of 12

various methods of solid waste collection and to issue a report on the
Committee’s research, findings, and any recommendations to the City Council. At
your meeting on April 20, 2026, the City Council accepted the report from the
Solid Waste Collection Options Committee and directed staff to prepare a
Request for Proposal (RFP) for Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection,
Recycling Services, and Organics Collection services. At your meeting on May
18, 2026, the City Council approved, authorized, and directed the release of the
RFP. The RFP was released on May 20, 2026, with a proposal due date of June
16, 2026. Eight proposals were received, and at the Council worksession on June
22, 2026, the City Council reviewed the proposals and directed staff to begin
negotiations with one selected vendor. Staff met and negotiated with the selected
vendor on June 25, 2026. The negotiations went very well, and the vendor and
staff agreed on the contract language, which is being presented to the City
Council for your consideration this evening. He noted the selected vendor name
has been redacted and that once the City Council completes the evaluation process
and determines completion of the negotiation process and approval of the contract
language, the vendor’s name will be made public, as well as all of the other
submitted proposals pursuant to Minnesota Statutes §13.591 Subd 3 (b). He said
there is no financial impact at this time and that Council is asked to adopt a
resolution approving a contract with the City Council’s selected vendor for
Organized Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection, Recycling Services,
and Organics Collection. He said it was important to note that implementation of
an organized collection system cannot occur unless approved by a majority of
City of Anoka voters at the November 3, 2026, General Election, where this will
be a ballot question.
Mr. Lee reiterated that the approval of any hauler would not move forward until a
decision had been made by the voters in November.
Mayor Skogquist shared the proposed change under Section 3.7 regarding the
schedule of bulk items.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to adopt a
resolution approving a contract for Organized Solid Waste Collection, Yard
Waste Collection, Recycling Services, and Organics Collection with the identified
vendor redacted pursuant to Minnesota Statute, with the amended language for
Section 3.7.
Upon a roll call vote: Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Rostad, and Scott voted
in favor. Councilmembers Campbell and Weaver voted nay. Motion carried.
6.

CONSENT AGENDA
Councilmember Scott thanked Commissioner Ussery and Boardmember Weddel for their
service, then said he agreed with Boardmember Weddel’s comments about opportunities

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 10 of 12

for waste reduction, which included plastics and food waste, and that the City should be
mindful of this mandate that will be in place by 2030.
Motion by Councilmember Scott, seconded by Councilmember Campbell, to approve
Items 6.1 through 6.7 as presented.
6.1

Verified Bills.

6.2

Revising and Setting Council Calendars.

6.3

U.S. Highway 10/169 Improvement Project; Approve Change Order Number 91.

6.4

Issuance of Special Event Permit; Anoka Sidewalk Sale.

6.5

Recommended Approval of an LG220 Gambling Permit for Anoka Area Chamber
of Commerce to Conduct a Raffle at Green Haven Golf Course on July 27, 2026.

6.6

Resignation from Human Rights Commission; Tanya Ussery.

6.7

Resignation from Waste Reduction and Recycling Board; Shawn Weddel.

Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
7.

REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS, AND COMMISSIONS
None.

PETITIONS, REQUESTS, AND COMMUNICATIONS
None.

ORDINANCES AND RESOLUTIONS
9.1

RES/Contract for Organized Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection,
Recycling Services, and Organics Collection.
ACTED UPON EARLIER IN THE AGENDA

9.2

ORD/Amending 2026 Master Fee Schedule Relating to Special Events Permitted
Area Fees.
2nd Reading
ORDINANCE
Mr. Lee shared a background report stating the City Council approved first
reading of an ordinance amendment at the June 15, 2026, meeting. He shared the
proposed fees for the following new designated special events areas as it relates to

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 11 of 12

the Special Events Policy which included Area C Prime at $900.00 for Riverfront
Memorial Park/Rum River Trail and City Hall East Parking Lot (no street
closures); Area D Prime $2,000.00 Riverfront Memorial Park/Rum River Trail
and City Hall East Parking and 2nd Avenue from Jackson Street to Harrison
Street; and Area D1 $2,000.00 Riverfront Memorial Park/Rum River Trail and
City Hall East Parking and 2nd Avenue from Jackson Street to Harrison Street
and VanBuren Street from 2nd Avenue to half-way to 3rd Avenue. He noted the
revenue will be used to offset costs incurred for special events.
Mayor Skogquist thanked staff for their work on this creative solution for the
many events in the City and how we have adapted to make it easier to manage
them through use of parking barriers in certain areas.
Motion by Councilmember Campbell, seconded by Councilmember Rostad, to
hold second reading and adopt an ordinance amending the 2026 Master Fee
Schedule for the City of Anoka.
Upon a roll call vote, Mayor Skogquist, Councilmembers Campbell, Rostad,
Scott, and Weaver voted in favor. Motion carried.
10.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Councilmember Weaver noted the approved hauler’s name was not disclosed after action
upon Item 9.1, as well as those haulers who refused to participate in the negotiation
process. Mr. Lee responded that the approved hauler was Republic, which we have had
in the past for both hauling and organized recycling, and that the three haulers who did
not participate in the process were Walters, Ace, and Curbside.

11.

NEW BUSINESS
None.

12.

UPDATES AND REPORTS
12.1

Tentative Agenda(s).
The Council reviewed tentative agendas.
Councilmember Campbell informed staff he would be absent for the August 24
worksession and the September 8 regular meeting.

12.2

Council and Staff Input.
Councilmember Weaver encouraged the public to attend the 27th annual RiverFest
celebration, then shared concerns about the Anoka Area Chamber of Commerce's
concern about the continuance of this event. He said the permit was just issued
last Tuesday for the tents and that someone on City staff had suggested that the

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July 6, 2026 (Regular)
Page 12 of 12

Chamber consider using food trucks in the future instead. Councilmember
Weaver said this would result in organizations like The Lions, Rotary, and
Women of Today not being able to participate, and that he didn’t want to lose
them. He also shared that Green Haven Golf Course staff informed the Chamber
that they will no longer be able to use City golf carts after this year, and because
of these reasons, the Chamber is considering moving this event from Anoka. He
said the event started after the 120th anniversary at the request of the City and that
it appears now that the City is making this difficult, adding that there are 11 other
cities in the Chamber who are on the river and would be glad to host this event.
Mr. Lee said he would follow up on this with the Chamber, but noted the Council
has the authority to dedicate golf carts for this event.
Councilmember Weaver shared concerns about three-foot-high thistles and other
growth occurring in many areas of downtown, including the boulevard, center
island, and others. Mr. Lee said staff will work to include appropriate staffing in
the budget for maintenance to the level the Council wants. He noted there were
three staff members down and were working on filling those positions, but that
the City has added more infrastructure over the years and may need to add more
employees, which will be part of this year’s budget discussions.
Mayor Skogquist agreed that the combination of lack of staffing, good weather,
and added infrastructure has contributed to this growth and agreed that this needs
to be addressed.
13.

ADJOURNMENT
Councilmember Scott made a motion to adjourn the Regular Council meeting.
Councilmember Rostad seconded the motion.
Vote taken. All ayes. Motion carried.
Time of adjournment: 8:47 p.m.
Submitted by: Cathy Sorensen, TimeSaver Off-Site Secretarial, Inc.
Approval Attestation:
Amy T. Oehlers, City Clerk

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COUNCIL MEMO

Agenda Item # 4.1

Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Open Forum

Item Description:

Presentation of Check to Anoka Community Mission from Anoka Cannabis Company

Submitted By:

Kevin Morelli, Enterprise Operations Director

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
The City of Anoka’s municipally owned and operated adult-use cannabis dispensary, the Anoka Cannabis
Company, officially opened its doors on February 5, 2026. Because all staff members are government
employees, state law prohibits them from accepting personal tips—an otherwise common practice within the
adult‑use cannabis industry.
To ensure employees still feel valued for their dedication and service, the city implemented an alternative
approach that allows customers to express their appreciation. Tip containers were placed within the dispensary,
with all collected funds designated for donation to nonprofit organizations within the City of Anoka and Anoka
County.
For the month of June, the dispensary team chose Anoka Community Mission as the beneficiary of these
contributions. Anoka Community Mission is based in Anoka and is a non-denominational, faith-based, and
Christ-centered, social needs 501c3 non-profit organization that seeks to demonstrate the love of God to its
surrounding geographical community through the intentional meeting of people's physical, emotional, spiritual,
and social needs. ACM operates according to a sustainable ministry model with a "teaching people how to fish"
philosophy of ministry. All assistance is given with compassion, grace, accountability, and dignity.
A total of $3,009.37 was collected in the month of June due to the hard work, dedication and passion by our
Budtenders and the generosity of our Customers at Anoka Cannabis Company.
This evening I am pleased to welcome Jason Berry, Executive Director of Anoka Community Mission to accept
a check from our outstanding and dedicated dispensary team members Jon Yoakam, Jen Lindsay,
Megan Thielke and Tattiana Sannes-Hankerson.

FINANCIAL IMPACT
Not applicable.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
No action permitted under the Open Forum.
REQUIRED VOTE
No applicable.
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Page 36 of 132

COUNCIL MEMO
Meeting Date:
Agenda Section:

July 20, 2026
Open Forum

Item Description:
Submitted By:

Police Activity Update
Andy Youngquist, Police Chief

Agenda Item # 4.2

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
This item will be an Agenda Item on all Council agendas for Regular meetings.
The item is to provide an opportunity for the Council to receive an update on Police activity throughout the
City, and to provide an opportunity for the Council to have a general discussion on Police activities.
Please remember that any discussion that develops into the need for formal Council action should be placed on
a future Regular or Special Meeting agenda.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Not applicable.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
No action permitted under the Open Forum.
REQUIRED VOTE
Not applicable.

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Page 37 of 132

COUNCIL MEMO
Meeting Date:
Agenda Section:

July 20, 2026

Item Description:
Submitted By:

Verified Bills

Agenda Item # 6.1

Consent Agenda
Brenda Springer, Finance Director

CONSENT AGENDA
Consent agenda contains several separate items which are acted upon by the Council in one motion.
Upon request, any Consent Agenda item may be removed, and if necessary, placed somewhere else
on the agenda or on a future agenda for Council discussion & action.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Each Council meeting the City Council is presented with two lists of bills. One list has been paid prior to the
meeting to take advantage of discounts and to prevent late fees. The other list is for payments which are
prepared to be paid. City Council ratification of the prepaid bills and approval of the bills to be paid is required.
If you have questions about a particular bill, please call me at (763) 576-2771.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Will vary from meeting to meeting.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
Approval of the Consent Agenda will mean ratification and approval of the Bill List(s).
REQUIRED VOTE
The Consent Agenda is approved by a majority vote of the Councilmembers present at the meeting.

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Page 78 of 132

COUNCIL MEMO
Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Consent Agenda

Item Description:

Revising & Setting Council Calendars

Submitted By:

Amy Oehlers, Assistant City Manager

Agenda Item # 6.2

Page 75 of 129

Page 79 of 132

Saturdays
in July
Weds,
June thru Sept

18th &
25th
June 17th
Sept 23rd

Anoka Classic Car Show

Downtown Anoka –
4th Avenue & VanBuren St
Riverfront Memorial Parking Lot
2201 Second Avenue, Anoka

4:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. –
7:00 p.m.

Wednesday

01*

Rockin’ on the Rum
(Alex & Betty; Outlaw
Country)

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

Friday

03*

City Offices

All Day

Friday

03*

Annual Anoka Fireworks

Castle Field, 600 Castle Field Blvd

Sunday

05*

George Green Park Bandshell
1498 6th Ave S., Anoka

Wednesday

08*

Monday

Saturday

11*

Sundays in July at
George Green Park
(Debbie Briggs; Americana)
Rockin’ on the Rum
(The Bill Koncar Band;
Polka)
City Council Regular
Meeting
Anoka Riverfest & Craft Fair

Dusk
(10:00 p.m.)
6:00 p.m. –
7:30 p.m.

Sunday

12*

Wednesday

15*

Friday

17*

Farmers Market on the Rum

City Hall Closed for Holiday

Sundays in July at
George Green Park
(Bach to Rock: Student
Bands & “Points and
Rewards”; Pop and Rock
Songs)
Rockin’ on the Rum
(Sam Licari and the Sweat
Tease; Funk, Blues, Reggae)
Battle of the Badges Charity
Hockey Game

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka
City Hall, Council Chambers

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

City Hall River Plaza
http://anokariverfest.org/
George Green Park Bandshell
1498 6th Ave S., Anoka

9:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m. –
7:30 p.m.

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka
Anoka Ice Arena
4111 7th Avenue, Anoka

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

7:00 p.m.

5:30 p.m.
Doors Open
5:30-6:40 pm
Skate w/ a Cop
7:00-8:15 pm
The Game

THIS CALENDAR IS POSTED IN ORDER TO COMPLY WITH THE OPEN MEETING LAW, WHICH INDICATES A MEETING MUST
BE POSTED WHEN A MAJORITY OF COUNCILMEMBERS WILL OR MAY BE IN ATTENDANCE. NO OFFICIAL BUSINESS OF
NON-REGULAR OR NON-SPECIAL MEETINGS WILL BE CONDUCTED AND NO RECORD OF THOSE EVENT WILL BE KEPT.
*ASTERIK DATES REFLECT EVENTS WHERE QUORUMS OF COUNCIL MEMBERS MAY OR MAY NOT BE PRESENT.
Page 76 of 129

Page 80 of 132

Sunday

19*

Monday

Wednesday

22*

Sunday

26*

Monday
Wednesday

27
29*

Wednesday

29*

Sundays in July at
George Green Park
(Big Woods Brass; Brass
Band)
City Council Regular
Meeting
Rockin’ on the Rum
(Power of 10; Pop, Fun, &
R&B)
Sundays in July at
George Green Park
(Matt & Laurel; Variety)
City Council Worksession
Anoka-Champlin Fire Board
Meeting
Rockin’ on the Rum
(Revved Up! 90’s and
Today)

George Green Park Bandshell
1498 6th Ave S., Anoka

6:00 p.m. –
7:30 p.m.

City Hall, Council Chambers

7:00 p.m.

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka
George Green Park Bandshell
1498 6th Ave S., Anoka

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

City Council Worksession Rm
Champlin City Hall
11955 Champlin Dr, Champlin
Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka

5:00 p.m.
6:00 p.m.

6:00 p.m. –
7:30 p.m.

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

Page 81 of 132

Saturdays
in August
Weds,
June thru
Sept

1st & 8th
& 22nd
June
17th
Sept
23rd

Anoka Classic Car Show

Downtown Anoka –
4th Avenue & VanBuren St
Riverfront Memorial Parking Lot
2201 Second Avenue, Anoka

4:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. –
7:00 p.m.

Monday

Budget Presentation
Regular Meeting/City Council
Night to Unite

City Hall Council Chambers

6:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
Varies

Tuesday

04*

Wednesday

05*

Rockin’ on the Rum
(Lookin’ Back; Boston Tribute
Band)

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

Saturday

08*

School Aged Clothing Swap

City Hall – Community Room

11:00 a.m. –
3:00 p.m.

Greenhaven Golf Course & Event
Center – East Room
2800 Greenhaven Rd, Anoka

5:00 p.m.
Meeting &
5:30 p.m.
Dinner
7:00 am –
8:00 pm
6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

Farmers Market on the Rum

Various Neighborhoods in City

(Co-hosted by: WRRB and R Marketplace)

Monday

11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
City Council Budget Worksession

Tuesday

11*

Primary Election Day

Anoka Election Precincts

Wednesday

12*

Rockin’ on the Rum
(The Cellar Kings; Vocals/Electric
Guitar)

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka

Saturday

15*

Food Truck Festival

1st & 2nd Avenue
City Hall Plaza & Riverfront

11:00 a.m. –
9:00 p.m.

Monday

Regular Meeting/City Council

City Hall Council Chambers

7:00 p.m.

Wednesday

19*

Rockin’ on the Rum
(Trent Romas Band; Jam, Soul,
Funk, Blues)

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.

Page 82 of 132

Wednesday

26*

Monday

Rockin’ on the Rum
(Shirts and Skins; Contemporary
Dance)
City Council Budget Worksession

Veteran’s Stage at Riverfront
Memorial Park
2201 2nd Avenue, Anoka
City Hall Council Worksession Rm

6:00 p.m. –
8:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.

Page 83 of 132

COUNCIL MEMO
Agenda Section:

Consent Agenda

Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Item Description:

Resignation from Human Rights Commission; Leslie Taha

Submitted By:

Amy Oehlers, Assistant City Manager

Agenda Item # 6.3

Charter Commission – 3 positions, 4 yr terms, all of these terms expire 03.01.2030
Human Rights Commission – 2 positions, both are partial terms, one expiring 12/31/2026 and the other expiring
12/31/2027
Waste Reduction & Recycling Board – 1 position, term expires 12.31.2026
Parking Advisory Board – 2 positions, 3 yr terms, both term expires 12.31.2028

Staff has already advertised these vacancies. The deadline for Human Rights Commission and Waste
Reduction & Recyling applications is July 24, 2026. Applications received will be brought forth to the City
Council at your 08.03.2026 meeting.
Applications for the Charter Commission and Parking Advisory Board do not have a deadline date.
Applications for these will be brought forth to the City as they are received.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
We just advertised these vacancies, so there is not a cost associated with this agenda item.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
Approval of the Consent Agenda will mean the acceptance of the resignation from Leslie Taha from the
Human Rights Commission.
REQUIRED VOTE
The Consent Agenda is approved by a majority vote of the Councilmembers present at the meeting.
Page 80 of 129

Page 84 of 132

From: lestaha <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 5, 2026 4:06 PM
To: Amy Oehlers <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Rescheduling of Human Rights Commission meeting

Hi Amy,
This is Leslie Taha. I'm sorry about the confusion. I thought I had resigned from the HRC a
year ago, but apparently that wasn't the case. I enjoyed my time on the HRC, but I am not
able to continue. Thank you and I hope you are doing well.

Page 81 of 129

Page 85 of 132

COUNCIL MEMO

Agenda Item # 6.4

Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Consent Agenda

Item Description:

Issuance of a Tree Care/Arborist License; Steve’s Quality Tree Service, East Bethel, MN.

Submitted By:

Rachel Dodge, Office Assistant

CONSENT AGENDA
Consent agenda contains several separate items which are acted upon by the Council in one motion.
Upon request, any Consent Agenda item may be removed, and if necessary, placed somewhere else
on the agenda or on a future agenda for Council discussion & action.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Steve’s Quality Tree Service out of East Bethel, has applied for a Tree Care/Arborist License.
Staff conducted the necessary background investigation and did not find any criminal convictions that would
warrant denial of the license.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
$200.00 annual license fee, plus a $30.00 investigation fee.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
Approval of the Consent Agenda will mean approval of this agenda item.

Page 82 of 129

Page 86 of 132

COUNCIL MEMO

Agenda Item # 6.5

Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Consent Agenda

Item Description:

Approval of 2027–2029 School Resource Officer Contract with Anoka Hennepin
School District 11

Submitted By:

Andy Youngquist, Police Chief

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Anoka-Hennepin School District 11 has worked collaboratively with the Police Chief and the City Attorney's
Office to develop a three-year School Resource Officer (SRO) agreement that provides more favorable
compensation increases over the term of the contract. The proposed agreement represents a significant
improvement over previous contracts and more appropriately reflects the value of the services provided by the
City.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The proposed 2027–2029 School Resource Officer (SRO) Agreement provides for a 7% year-over-year increase
in compensation to the City.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
It is recommended that the City Council accept the 2027 – 2029 contract with AHSD11 as written.
REQUIRED VOTE
Majority Council vote.

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Contract for Services
School Resource Officer/Prevention Program #C02998
This Contract (“Contract”) is entered into between Anoka-Hennepin School District No. 11
(“District”) and the City of Anoka, MN (“Contractor”).
Recitals
PURPOSE: The purpose of this Contract is to address the need for the presence of licensed
peace officers to provide specific services/roles to the District and establish a mutually beneficial
framework that both District schools and law enforcement can work within to achieve shared
goals, The intent is to establish and delineate the mission of a School Resource Officer Program,
herein referred to as the School Resource Officer (SRO) Program, as a joint cooperative effort
between the District and the Contractor. The partnership is intended to facilitate effective, timely
communication and coordination of efforts for both the District and the Contractor to promote a
safe and positive learning environment and decrease the number of youth formally referred to the
juvenile justice system. Additionally, it clarifies roles and expectations and formalizes relationships
between the participating entities to foster an efficient and cohesive program that will build a
positive relationship between police officers, school administrators/staff and students.
GOALS. The primary goals of the SRO Program are 1) to promote positive and supportive school
climates and 2) to create and maintain safe and secure school environments. To promote positive
and supportive school climates, the partnership will collaborate to increase law-related education,
expand school safety and crime prevention efforts, reduce conflict, and support effective
interventions for students. To create and maintain safe and secure school environments, the
partnership will collaborate to reduce and prevent crime, violence, victimization, and fear in and
around schools, and minimize student involvement with the juvenile and criminal justice systems.
It is the responsibility of school administrators to facilitate effective communication to all school
staff and students regarding SRO program goals and responsibilities.
ROLES. The SRO program is unique to the community, based on input from the District, school
administration, teachers, students, and community members. The position of SRO is designed to
fulfill three overall roles:
●

Law Enforcement. SROs are responsible for law enforcement incidents occurring at the
school. Parents, students, teachers, and other school personnel should bring complaints
about student misbehavior occurring in the school to the school principal and/or designee,
rather than the SRO. The SRO role is that of law enforcement officer and the SRO is not
expected to address common student discipline issues that do not amount to criminal
conduct or legitimate safety concerns. A determination of whether a student’s behavior
raises to the level of a law enforcement activity, when reasonable, should be made in
consultation with a school administrator. While law enforcement is the role of SROs,
officers responding to an incident or consulting with school officials are encouraged to use
their discretion in determining the best course of action, especially when using alternatives
to arrest.

●

Fostering a Positive School Climate / Crime Prevention. One of the primary roles SROs
fulfill is fostering a positive school climate through relationship building and crime
prevention. Officers will focus on getting to know students, serve as a role model, engage
in various activities in consultation with school administration, teachers, and students, and
should strive to build a school culture of open communication and trust between and
among students and adults. Crime prevention activities include foot patrols, monitoring

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previous crime locations, speaking to teachers about reducing the opportunity for crimes
to occur, analyzing possible crime patterns, investigating crimes, and general patrol
efforts. SROs are critical members of the school Building Crisis Teams for emergency
preparation and planning.

●

Law-Related Educator. SROs should participate in the school community and be a
resource to the educational team where appropriate. The SRO should represent the law
enforcement community to build positive relationships with youth, their families, and
school staff. Whether talking to students in the hallway or delivering a presentation in the
classroom, SROs are embedded in the education fabric within the school. SROs are
expected to be proactive in creating and taking advantage of educational situations, and
school administrators are encouraged to leverage this resource.

Terms
1. OFFICERS EMPLOYED BY CONTRACTOR. The Contractor shall employ (or assign), in
accordance with applicable state statutes, two licensed police officers to serve as SROs
in District schools. The selection or assignment of such officers shall be done by the
Contractor in consultation with the District. The District will reimburse the Contractor as
described in paragraph 15 of this Contract. The SRO shall, at all times, remain employed
by the Contractor. This Contract explicitly disclaims any employee or agent relationship
between the SRO and the District. This Contract does not create a contract of any type
between the District and any individual deputy, investigator, sworn peace officer,
community service officer, or other officer of the Contractor or any other law enforcement
agency working with the Contractor, nor does this Contract create any employeremployee relationship, independent contractor relationship, or services agreement with
any individual.
2. TERM OF CONTRACT. The term of this Contract shall be for three years, from July 1,
2026 to June 30, 2029. NO WORK SHOULD BEGIN UNDER THIS CONTRACT until all
required signatures on this Contract have been obtained and the Contract has been
authorized and/or approved by the governing bodies of the District and the Contractor.
3. ADMINISTRATION RESPONSIBILITIES. Law enforcement rendered to the District shall
be at the sole direction of the Contractor. Standards of performance, discipline of the
officer assigned, and other internal matters shall be under the authority of the Contractor.
Upon request, the District shall provide the Contractor with an appraisal of the services
received.
4. LEVEL OF SERVICE. The SRO serving within the District may respond to emergency
calls within the boundaries of the Contractor and attend police training and special duties
as assigned by the Contractor while fulfilling the requirements of this Contract. Time spent
on emergency calls outside of the District, police training, etc., shall not be considered
time spent as an SRO.
5. SCHOOL CALENDAR. The District shall provide the Contractor with a school calendar.
SRO services will be provided during regular school hours in the school district on all
student contact days except for the SRO's short-term absences for Contractor approved
leave, illness, and required training. Time in excess of eight hours per day shall be paid

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according to the SRO's salary arrangements with the Contractor, provided such additional
time has been approved in advance by the Contractor and District. Blanket approvals will
not be accepted. The Contractor will notify the District of SRO absences and plan for
coverage when the SRO is out of the building.
6. DUTIES OF OFFICERS. The general duties of the SRO are to help provide a safe and
secure learning environment, foster a positive school climate, reduce/prevent crime,
serve as an educational resource, and serve as a liaison between the school and the law
enforcement agency. The SRO will not be responsible for administering or enforcing
school disciplinary actions. The SRO, school principal, and the District Chief Operating
Officer or their designee will meet periodically to discuss plans and strategies to address
specific issues or needs that may arise. SROs may respond to calls to all schools in the
City of Anoka, even though they may be based primarily at one school in the city.
Specific duties of the SRO will include but are not limited to:
a. To enforce criminal law and protect students, staff, and public at large against
criminal activity.
b. Foster mutually respectful relationships with students and staff to support a
positive school climate.
c. Provide information concerning questions about law enforcement topics to
students and staff.
d. Provide classroom instruction on a variety of topics including but not limited to,
law enforcement practices, conflict resolution, personal and school safety
strategies, crime trends, and crisis response.
e. Handle initial police reports of violent crimes committed on campus.
f. Take enforcement action on criminal matters when appropriate.
g. Coordinate investigative procedures between police and school administrators.
h. Prepare lesson plans as necessary for the instruction provided.
i. In conjunction with the District’s school administrators, school building crisis
teams, and the District Security and Emergency Operations Manager, SROs
should be an active participant in planning emergency drills and assisting with the
facility assessment process utilizing the District Threat and Hazard Identification
Risk Assessment (HIRA) to help analyze the physical safety of school facilities.
j. Collect data on SRO activities (arrests, citations, etc.)
7. SRO ROLE IN SCHOOL POLICY VIOLATIONS. School administrators and teachers are
responsible for school discipline. Although SROs are expected to be familiar with the
District code of student conduct, the rules of individual schools, and their application in
day-to-day practice, SROs should not generally be involved with the enforcement of
school rules, or disciplinary infractions unless such infractions constitute clear violations
of law or raise concerns of public safety. SRO action shall be guided by applicable law
and policy, including Minnesota Statute Sections 609.06 and 626.8482
8. PRIVACY OF PUPIL AND PERSONNEL RECORDS. The SRO shall follow the District's
Protection and Privacy of Pupil Records Policy and the requirements of the Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
The SRO will not access, and the School District will not provide private data on a student
or school staff unless disclosure is allowed under: the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (FERPA); the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act or other state and
federal law. The District and SRO may share records and information, as allowed by law,
in the performance of the duties described in Section 6 of this Contract.
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9. CLOTHING, EQUIPMENT, AND SUPPLIES. The Contractor shall provide any required
clothing, uniforms, vehicle, necessary equipment and supplies for officers to perform law
enforcement duties. The District shall provide SRO with a private, lockable office,
telephone, and supplies necessary for the officer to perform required duties as specified
in paragraph 6 of this Contract.
10. TRAINING. The Contractor shall be responsible for SRO training as is necessary to
permit the SRO to effectively advance the school's educational mission in the context of
his/her duties as SRO and ensure a smooth transition into the educational setting. Prior
to appointment to an SRO position the SRO will complete training as required by
Minnesota State Statute Sec. 626.8482. If courses are not available prior to appointment,
training should be completed within 6 months of appointment.
11. DISTRICT SRO MEETINGS. Upon appointment, the District will provide new SROs with
District Orientation to deliver training related to District policies and procedures,
technology access, security cameras, keys/fobs, and district crisis management planning.
The District will also provide annual orientation training in the fall, prior to school beginning
and bi-monthly meetings to discuss school specific issues and SRO concerns and/or
recommendations.
12. SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER DISTRICT COORDINATION. The District Manager of
Security and Emergency Operations will be the primary contact for SROs at the District.
13. SCHOOL BASED LAW ENFORCEMENT DATA COLLECTION. Law enforcement
agencies should make available, upon request, an SRO activity report. The report should
include descriptions of all activities engaged in by the SRO, including classroom
presentations, meetings (with staff, parents, committees), incidents or calls for service,
searches, arrests, citations, and other referrals to the juvenile justice system that occur
on school grounds, school transportation or during school sponsored or school
sanctioned events. In providing such data, an SRO shall comply with the Minnesota
Government Data Practices Act and all other applicable state and federal laws.
14. TERMINATION. Either party may terminate this Contract upon 30 days written notice of
such termination, All payment due hereunder shall be prorated in the event of such
termination.
15. DURATION AND COST. For and in consideration of the provision of SRO and the
Prevention Program Officer services in accordance with the terms of this Contract, the
District shall pay the Contractor the following sums of:
a.
$180,048 July 1, 2026 - June 30, 2027
b.
$192,651 July 1, 2027 - June 30, 2028
c.
$206,137 July 1, 2028 - June 30, 2029
Requests for payment should be submitted by July 1, 2027 and June 1 of each
subsequent fiscal year, which the District shall pay within 35 days of receipt of said
request.
16. FORCE MAJUERE. No party shall be liable or responsible to the other party, or be
deemed to have defaulted under or breached this Contract, for any failure or delay in
fulfilling or performing any term of this Contract, when and to the extent such failure or
delay results from acts beyond the impacted party's ("Impacted Party") control, including,
without limitation, the following force majeure events ("Force Majeure Event(s)"): (a) acts
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of God; (b) flood, fire, earthquake, or explosion; (c) war, invasion, hostilities, terrorist
threats or acts, riot or other civil unrest; (d) government order, law, or actions; (e)
embargoes or blockades in effect on or after the date of this Contract; (f) national or
regional emergency; (g) strikes, labor stoppages or slowdowns; (h) power outages; and
(i) other similar events beyond the control of the Impacted Party.
17. INDEMNIFICATION. The Contractor agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the
District, their agents, officials, employees, and representatives free from any and all
claims, causes of action, lawsuits, damages, losses or expenses, including attorney’s
fees, arising out of or resulting from the duties of the Contractor or SRO pursuant to the
terms of this Contract. The District agrees to defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the
Contractor, its agents, officials, employees and representatives from any and all claims,
causes of action, lawsuits, damages, losses, or expenses, including attorneys’ fees,
arising out of or resulting from the duties of the District and their respective employees,
agents, officials, and representatives pursuant to the terms of this Contract.
18. SERVICE TO SCHOOLS.
a. The following secondary school(s) shall receive SRO services as a result of this
Contract:
i. Anoka Middle School for the Arts – Fred Moore Campus
ii. Anoka Middle School for the Arts – Washington Campus
iii. Anoka High School
iv. Secondary Technical Education Program (STEP)
v. Two Rivers Transition Program at Franklin
vi. Sandburg Regional High School
b. The following elementary schools(s) shall receive Prevention Program Services as
a result of this Contract:
i.
Lincoln Elementary School
ii.
Wilson Elementary School
19. NON-APPROPRIATION. The District reasonably believes that budgeted funds will be
obtained sufficient to make all payments under this Contract. Continuation of any
agreements beyond June 30th of any year is contingent upon appropriation of budgeted
funds for payment of that contract. In the event that adequate funds are not so
appropriated, the District shall notify the Contractor as soon as possible prior to the
necessary cancellation of this Contract and no penalty in any form shall be levied against
the District because cancellation of any part or all of the services required by failure of
appropriation. In the event of a cancellation of this Contract for non-appropriation of
funds, Contractor will be paid for all SRO services provided prior to such cancellation of
this Contract.
20. SCOPE. It is agreed that the entire agreement of the parties is contained herein, and that
this Contract supersedes all oral and written agreements and negotiations between the
parties relating to the subject matter thereof
21. EXECUTION IN COUNTERPARTS. This Contract may be executed via .pdf and sent in
counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but of which shall constitute one
and the same instrument.

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The undersigned hereby acknowledges that they have read and understand the Contract and
hereby agrees to provide the outlined School Resource Officer/Prevention Program Services.
City of Anoka

Anoka-Hennepin Schools

Signed By: ___________________________

Title: ________________________________

Title: _______________________________

Date: ________________________________

Date: _______________________________

Signed By: ___________________________
Title: ________________________________
Date: _______________________________

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COUNCIL MEMO

Agenda Item # 6.6

Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Consent Agenda

Item Description:

Issuance of a Massage Therapist License for Dexue Zhang of Lin Health Care, LLC.
Dba; Better Life Wellness Massage & Reflexology, 3841 St. Francis Blvd, Suite 102

Submitted By:

Rachel Dodge, Office Assistant

CONSENT AGENDA
Consent agenda contains several separate items which are acted upon by the Council in one motion.
Upon request, any Consent Agenda item may be removed, and if necessary, placed somewhere else
on the agenda or on a future agenda for Council discussion & action.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Dexue Zhang of Maplewood has submitted an application for a Massage Therapist License so that she may
provide Massage Services at Lin Health Care, LLC. Dba; Better Life Wellness Massage & Reflexology, 3841
St. Francis Blvd, Suite 102.
Staff has conducted the necessary background investigations and no concerns or objections have been
expressed. License will be issued after approval at meeting.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
$30.00 investigation fee, plus $225.00 annual Massage Therapist License Fee.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
Approval of the Consent Agenda will mean approval of this agenda item.

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COUNCIL MEMO

Agenda Item # 9.1

Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Ordinances & Resolutions

Item Description:

RES /Approving an Updated Version of the Solid Waste Contract with Republic
Services, Approving a Solid Waste Walk Up Collection Option Policy/Request
Application, and Calling for a Special Election and Approving Ballot Language Relative
to the Implementation of an Organized Solid Waste, Recycling, Yard Waste, and
Organics Collection System in the City of Anoka.

Submitted By:

Amy Oehlers, ACM

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
On January 6, 2026, the Anoka City Council followed Minnesota Statute §115.A.94, and in adherence to Anoka
City Charter which requires approval by a majority of voters to change from the current solid waste collection
system to one that is organized:
ANOKA CITY CHARTER: Section 13.13 Voter Approval of City-Organized Solid Waste Collection
Process. Unless first approved by a majority of voters in a state general election, the City shall not replace the
competitive market in solid waste collection with a system in which solid waste services are provided by
government-chosen collectors or in government-designed districts. The adoption of this Charter amendment
shall supersede any ordinances, ordinance amendments, or Charter amendments related to solid waste adopted
by the City Council after January 1, 2023.
The City Council voted to proceed with the process set forth in said Minnesota Statute related to providing the
option for Organized Solid Waste Collection.
On March 16, 2026, the City Council adopted a Resolution establishing a Solid Waste Collection Options
Committee to identify, examine, and evaluate various methods of solid waste collection and to issue a report on
the committee’s research, findings, and any recommendations to the City Council.
On April 20, 2026, the City Council accepted the report from the Solid Waste Collection Options Committee
and directed staff to prepare a Request for Proposal (RFP) for Solid Waste Collection, Yard Waste Collection,
Recycling Services and Organics Collection services.
On May 18, 2026, the City Council approved, authorized and directed the release of the RFP. The RFP was
released on May 20, 2026, with a proposal due date of June 16, 2026.
On July 6, 2026, the City Council approved a contract with Republic Services for Organized Solid Waste,
Recycling, Yard Waste, and Organics Collection System in the City of Anoka.
NOTE: This contract is contingent on the approval of a majority of City of Anoka voters at the
November 3, 2026, General Election.
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REVISED CONTRACT
Since the approval of the contract on July 6th, there have been a few minor revisions to the contract that have
been recommended by legal counsel from both the City and Republic Services. Attached as Exhibit A is the
revised contract.
The changes from the Attorney are highlighted in Red text. He is changing the word Hauler to Contractor
throughout the contract.
The change to Section 3.7, which is highlighted in yellow is removing this sentence: “The City shall be entitled
to a monthly credit on its obligations due to Contractor in an amount equal to the total disposal costs actually
collected by the Contractor from the Residents during the prior month pursuant to the terms of this Section 3.7.”
This sentence was part of the old consortium contract proposal. The City would have gotten a monthly credit if
the City was billing the resident for the extra bulky service/electronic waste pick-up through a Consortium
model, but the City isn’t going to be billing for that services, since only Republic Services will be our
Contractor, they will be billing the resident directly, so the City would not be entitled to that credit.
These revisions should be reviewed and approved by the City Council before final execution.
WALK UP COLLECTION POLICY/APPLICATION
In Section 6.12 the contract allows for the option of a Solid Waste Walk Up Collection Option and requires that
the City provide addresses of those customers. While not part of the contract with Republic Services, the City
should adopt a separate policy / request application for Walk Up Collection. Having a policy and approved
request application will provide citizens with detailed information that may assist them in making an informed
decision on whether they prefer organized solid waste collection or not. Attached as Exhibit B is a proposed
Walk Up Collection Request Application.
CALLING FOR A SPECIAL ELECTION
As required by Section 13.13 of the Anoka City Charter, to change to an organized solid waste collection
process, it must first be approved by a majority of voters in a state general election. The next step in this process
is to call for a Special Election on November 3, 2026, to allow for the citizens of Anoka to vote on whether they
want the city to implement an Organized Solid Waste Collection System.
BALLOT LANGUAGE
As part of the City Council calling for a special election, the City Council must also establish and approve the
ballot language. The recommended language is included as Exhibit C.

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PUBLIC EDUCATION
With the citizens being afforded the option to choose the Solid Waste Collection System that they prefer, it is
important that they understand the specifics related to Organized Solid Waste Collection and have their
questions answered. To provide citizens of Anoka with information the following options are available for the
City Council to consider:
City Web Posting
Develop a special area on the City’s website devoted to this issue. Document that would be provided may
include:
• The contract with Republic Services
• Pricing – approved contract rates based on container sizes, discounts available, and the annual escalator
rate
• Ballot Question – approved language and other pertinent information.
• Frequently Asked Questions – develop a list of commonly asked questions also ng with answers
Direct Mailing
Mail a postcard/flyer with details on the proposed organized collection system will be sent to the Residential
customers. This information flyer could also be posted to the City website.
City View
Information on the proposed organized collection system and the election ballot question language could be
posted in the next edition of the Cityview Newsletter.
Open House/Education opportunity
Establish Public Open House Events. These events could be scheduled on various dates and held at various
locations. The various sizes of containers could be available along with their pricing.
NOTE: All data and information provided to the public must be factual and conveyed to the public in an
unbiased manner.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
N/A
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
Consideration of adoption of the Resolution approving the revised Service Contract, approving the Walk-Up
Request Application, Calling for a Special Election, approving the Ballot Question, and providing direction on
providing Public Education for Organized Solid Waste Collection.
REQUIRED VOTE
Majority Vote of Councilmembers present at meeting for the passage of the Resolution.

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2015 First Avenue, Anoka MN 55303
Phone: (763) 576-2700 Website: www.anokamn.gov
CITY OF ANOKA, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION
RES-2026-xxx
APPROVING AN UPDATED VERSION OF THE SOLID WASTE CONTRACT WITH REPUBLIC
SERVICES, APPROVING A SOLID WASTE WALK UP COLLECTION OPTION POLICY/REQUEST
APPLICATION, AND CALLING FOR A SPECIAL ELECTION AND APPROVING BALLOT LANGUAGE
RELATIVE TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ORGANIZED SOLID WASTE, RECYCLING, YARD
WASTE, AND ORGANICS COLLECTION SYSTEM IN THE CITY OF ANOKA
WHEREAS, since the approval of the contract on July 6th, there have been a few minor revisions
to the contract that have been recommended by legal counsel from both the City and Republic
Services; and
WHEREAS, these revisions should be reviewed and approved by the City Council before final
execution; and
WHEREAS, in Section 6.12 of the contract allows for the option of a Solid Waste Walk-up
Collection Option and requires that the City provide addresses of those customers; and
WHEREAS, a Request for Walk-up Services Application has been prepared and is presented as
Exhibit B; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Anoka City Charter, Section 4.04, the City Council may, by Resolution,
order a Special Election; and
WHEREAS, notice of the time, place, and purpose of a Special Election must be published at
least once each week for the two weeks prior to the date of the election and by posting notice of
the election at Anoka City Hall; and
WHEREAS, the procedure for a special election must conform as nearly as possible to that
prescribed for a Regular Municipal Election; and
WHEREAS, the City Council wishes to propose a ballot question to the voters on whether or not
the voters want an Organized Residential Solid Waste, Recycling, Yardwaste and Organics
Collection System implemented in the City.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the revisions to the Organized Solid Waste contract
as set forth in Exhibit A are hereby approved and the execution of said revised contract is
authorized; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the Request for Walk-Up Services Application presented as
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Exhibit B is hereby approved; and

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BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Anoka City Council does hereby call for a Municipal
Special Election, to be held in conjunction with the State General Election in the City of Anoka,
Minnesota, on November 3, 2026, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the question set forth in Exhibit C, has been approved by the
City Attorney, and shall be submitted to the qualified electors of the City at the Special Election
on November 3, 2026; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, pursuant to MS §204D.24, the precincts and polling places for
this Special Election are those precincts which have been established by the City for its
Municipal Elections. The voting hours at those polling places shall be the same as those for
Municipal General Elections.
Adopted by the Anoka City Council this the 20th day of July 2026.
ATTEST:

___________________________
Amy T. Oehlers, ACM/City Clerk

______________________________
Erik Skogquist, Mayor

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EXHIBIT A
CITY OF ANOKA CONTRACT
FOR SOLID WASTE COLLECTION, YARD WASTE COLLECTION,
ORGANICS COLLECTION AND RECYCLING SERVICES
May 10, 2027 through May 9, 2032
THIS CONTRACT (“Contract”) dated _______________, 20___ is made between the CITY OF ANOKA, a
Minnesota municipal corporation (the “City”), and REPUBLIC SERVICES, a Minnesota corporation
(“Contractor”).
WHEREAS, the City and Contractor have agreed to enter into this Contract for the provision of such services
under the terms and conditions set forth below.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and agreements hereinafter set forth, the
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the City and Contractor agree as follows:
1.

Definitions

1.1
“Applicable/Governing Law and Venue” means any suits at law or in equity arising out of or
concerning this Contract shall be governed by Minnesota law without regard to conflicts of laws of principles.
The parties further agree that the exclusive venue for any such suits shall be Anoka County District Court,
Anoka County, Minnesota or, if in federal court, within the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.
1.2
“Brush” shall mean branches, trees and other shrubs, which are less than four (4) inches in
diameter and have been tied in bundles that are not more than four (4) feet in length and weigh no more than
thirty-five (35) pounds per bundle.
1.3
"Change in Law" means any new or revised statute, rule, regulation, ordinance, order, or
requirement of any federal, state, regional, or local government which impacts all Haulers and similarly situated

entities, whether part of this Contract or not, effective after the effective date of this Contract. Change in Law does not
include income or real property taxes.

1.4
“Collection” means, as appropriate, Garbage and Refuse Collection, and/or Yard Waste
Collection (as such terms are defined below).
1.5
“Dwelling Unit/Residential Dwelling Unit (RDU)” means a separate dwelling place with a
kitchen, excluding Dwelling Units in apartments and all Dwelling Units located within manufactured housing
parks, and all dwelling units located on private drive(s).
1.6
“Garbage” means animal and vegetable wastes resulting from the handling, preparation, cooking,
service and consumption of food.
1.7
“Garbage and Refuse Collection” or “Refuse Collection” means the taking up and collecting of
all Garbage and Refuse (as defined below) accumulated in containers at single, double, triple, quadruple, six, or
eight unit Dwelling Units, including townhomes within the corporate limits of the City and the transportation to
a facility authorized and designated by Anoka County. Apartments and manufactured housing parks are
excluded from this Contract.
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1.8
"Hauler" means a person or company employed/contracted for the removal and transporting of
solid waste, goods or materials by the road.
1.9
“Hazardous Waste” means any refuse, sludge, or other waste material or combinations of refuse,
sludge, or other waste materials in solid, semisolid, liquid, or contained gaseous form which because of its
quality, concentration, or chemical, physical, or infectious characteristics may (a) cause or significantly
contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible, or incapacitating reversible illness;
or (b) pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly
treated, stored, transported, or disposed of, or otherwise managed. Categories of hazardous waste materials
include, but are not limited to: explosives, flammables, oxidizers, poisons, irritants, and corrosives, any amount
of waste listed or characterized as hazardous by the United States Environmental Protection Agency or any state
agency pursuant to RCRA, and including future amendments thereto, and any other Applicable Law.
Hazardous waste does not include source, special nuclear, or by-product material as defined by the Atomic
Energy Act of 1954, as amended.
1.10 “Laws” Applicable Law means any applicable law (whether statutory or common), including
statutes, ordinances, regulations, rules, governmental orders, governmental decrees, judicial judgments,
constitutional provisions, and requirements of any kind and nature promulgated or issued by any governmental
authority claiming or having jurisdiction.
1.11 “Receptacle”, unless specifically provided otherwise, whether referred to as “cart”, “garbage can”,
“plastic bag”, “suitable container”, “cans” or “containers”, shall be of such size and form as to permit Collection
and handling by one person. A single Receptacle may not exceed 96 gallons.
1.13 “Refuse” means all wastes which normally result from the operation of a household, except body
waste and Garbage, including but not limited to rubbish, wood, ashes, household construction materials,
cement, bricks, furniture, plastics, and any other household Refuse or materials small enough for one person to
handle. The term Refuse shall not include Yard Waste (as defined below), nor shall it include building materials
or other waste or debris resulting from construction or reconstruction of buildings and other improvements by
contractors, White Goods (as defined below), tires, oil, auto batteries, oil filters, fluorescent lamps, and/or any
other items prohibited by law from entering solid waste facilities.
1.14 “Resident” shall mean a City resident whose Residential Dwelling Unit receives any type of
Collection services provided by Contractor pursuant to the terms of this Contract.
1.15

“Solid Waste” has the meaning prescribed in Minnesota Statutes, Section 116.06, Subd 22.

1.16 "Unacceptable Materials/Waste" shall mean prohibited items from any of the specific waste
streams that are not allowed because they may contaminate the specific waste stream, cause an unsafe
handling/management situation, or otherwise may harm the environment, as defined by applicable laws,
regulations, or agreed upon by the City and Haulers Contractor. Unacceptable Waste means: (1) Hazardous
Waste; (2) radioactive, volatile, corrosive, highly flammable, explosive, biomedical, infectious, biohazardous, or
toxic waste as defined by Applicable Law; or (3) any otherwise regulated waste.
1.17 "Walk-up Collection" means the collection of Garbage and Refuse from a point close to the
Residential Dwelling Unit in lieu of Curbside Collection.
1.18 “Walk Up Customer” is a household, approved by the City, which shall receive Garbage and
Refuse removal service at the household instead of the curbside due to the physical limitations of the Resident.
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1.19 “White Goods” shall mean household appliances, including but not limited to, clothes washers
and dryers, dishwashers, water heaters, residential furnaces, garbage disposals, trash compactors, conventional
and microwave ovens, ranges and stoves, air conditioners, dehumidifiers, refrigerators, and freezers.
1.20 "Waste Material" Waste Material is all Solid Waste and, if designated in this Contract, that is not
excluded by this Contract. Waste Material does not include any Unacceptable Waste.
1.21 “Yard Waste” means compostable, organic material consisting of grass clippings and leaves but
excluding Brush.
1.22 “Yard Waste Collection” means the taking and receipt of all Yard Waste accumulated in Yard
Waste Receptacles (as defined below) at all Dwelling Units in the City whose Resident elects to purchase the
service as described in Section 4. Yard Waste Collection shall also include transportation to an approved
compost site.
1.23 “Yard Waste Receptacle” shall mean any type of container that Contractor uses for Yard Waste
Collection. The use of a Yard Waste Receptacle shall be approved by the City.
1.24 “Yard Waste User Fee” shall mean the fee charged by Contractor for costs attributable to
Collection, transportation, and disposal of Yard Waste at a compost site. Yard Waste User Fees are set forth in
Section 5.1.1.
2.

Term of Contract

2.1
The Effective Date of this Contract shall be May 10, 2027. The initial term of the Contract is
Five (5) years beginning on the Effective Date and ending on May 9, 2032 (the “Initial Term”). The City and
Haulers Contractor reserve the right to renew or extend this Contract beyond the initial term if both parties agree
in writing to the renewal or extension. Either party will notify the other party no later than 60 days, but not more
than 180 days prior to the expiration of the Initial Term, of its desire to either renew or terminate the Contract at
the end of the Initial Term.
3.

Garbage and Refuse Services to be Performed

3.1
Frequency of Collection: Garbage and Refuse accumulated at Dwelling Units within the
corporate boundaries of the City shall be collected at least once a week. Other than weeks incorporating
holidays listed in Section 6.8 or weeks in which there is a significant weather or other Force Majeure event,
Collections shall be done Mondays through Fridays in accordance with a mutually agreed upon “Collection
Schedule”; provided, however, that if Collection falls on a holiday or if a day is lost due to a significant weather
or Force Majeure event, the schedule of Collection outlined in Section 6.8 shall apply.
Any proposed changes to the Collection Schedule must be submitted for approval to the Office of the City
Manager.
3.2
Hours of Regular Collection: Except for unusual weather, traffic or other similar types of
conditions or events that slow down traffic, daily Collection hours shall not begin prior to 7:00 a.m. and shall
not continue past 5:00 p.m. Collection hours may be extended to no later than 7:00 p.m. for unseen events, i.e.
inclement weather, equipment operational issues, unforeseen staffing shortage, etc.
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3.3
Procedure for Collection and Handling Refuse: All Garbage and Refuse must be handled in such
a manner that none of said Refuse is spilled, dropped, strewn, or allowed to remain on, about or around the
Dwelling Unit from which it is collected. No Garbage or Refuse from Receptacles, trucks, or equipment shall be
dropped, strewn, thrown, or in any manner deposited upon any of the streets or sidewalks within the City. Care
shall be taken not to damage Receptacles.
3.4
Disposal of Refuse. All Garbage and Refuse shall be transported to, weighed-in at, and disposed
of at a solid waste facility that is approved by the City. The disposition of such material shall be conducted and
handled so as to, at no time, create a nuisance or become injurious to the public health or persons living either
within or outside the corporate limits of the City. Contractor shall dispose of Garbage and Refuse at a facility
that most cost effectively meets the State of Minnesota Public Entities Processing Requirements under
Minnesota Statutes Section 115A.46, 115A.471, and 473.848 and the Anoka County Waste Master Plan.
3.5
Monthly Reporting: Contractor shall report tonnage information on Garbage and Refuse
collection through the MPCA Retract System on a quarterly basis. The City may withhold payment for Garbage
and Refuse Collection services pending receipt of such information.
3.6
Christmas Trees: Contractor shall provide for the disposal of RDU's Christmas Trees during the
first two full weeks of each year, commencing on the Thursday after the New Year’s holiday or the observed
New Year’s holiday. Residents shall contact their Hauler the Contractor to schedule Christmas Tree Collection.
The fee for Christmas Tree Collection will be billed by the Hauler Contractor. Haulers are Contractor is
permitted to require pre-payment prior to collection of Christmas trees. The tree will be collected on collection
day. Only natural, unpainted trees will be collected. Properly set out tree for each RDU includes: no bags
(plastic or compostable) and removal of decorations such as wires, stands, ornaments, and tinsel from the tree.
For trees that are 8 ft or taller, residents must cut trees into sections no longer that 4 feet in length. The RDU
must set out the tree before 7:00 a.m. on collection day. Haulers Contractor shall collect and dispose of trees at a
Yard Waste site.
3.7
Bulky Waste and Electronic Waste Collection Services. Bulky Waste and Electronic Waste
Collections services shall be provided to RDU’s. Contractor shall collect any large or bulky items and Electronic
Waste, excluding White Goods, set out for Collection on an as-needed basis. For residents that have residential
trash service with Republic Services, and wish to have Contractor pick up the extra items at the curb, Residents
shall call the customer service line to schedule and Contractor shall charge the Resident directly for both the trip
charge and the disposal cost as set forth in the Bulky Waste and Electronic Waste Collection Fee Schedule Exhibit
B. This fee schedule shall not be changed unless mutual agreement is attained between the City and the
Contractor. The City shall be entitled to a monthly credit on its obligations due to Contractor in an amount equal
to the total disposal costs actually collected by the contractor from the Residents during the prior month pursuant
to the terms of this Section 3.7. The City reserves the right to publicize and/or distribute the Bulky Waste and
Electronic Waste collection fee schedules to RDUs and otherwise inform the public of Bulky Waste and
Electronic Waste collection alternatives.
4.

Yard Waste Collection and Holiday Tree Collection Services

4.1
Contractor shall offer Yard Waste Collection services, as a subscription service, to any interested
Resident. Yard Waste Collection occurs from April 15th through November 30th, weather and composting
facility permitting, for RDUs that subscribe (for a full season). RDUs shall contact the Contractor to sign up for
Yard Waste Collection. Yard Waste Collection is an additional Collection Service Option for RDUs. Yard
waste collection occurs on a weekly basis.
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4.2
Fees for collection of Yard Waste is listed on Exhibit A (Residential Solid Waste &Yard Waste
Collection Fee Schedule).
4.3

RDUs shall have Yard Waste Cart(s) delivered by the Contractor.

4.4
RDUs that register for Yard Waste Collection must prepare Yard Waste for collection in
Contractor-provided Carts. The Contractor will prepare and supply guidelines for RDUs subscribing to Yard
Waste Collection services with instructions on how to store and properly set out Yard Waste. RDUs will be
required to set out Yard Waste no later than 7:00 A.M. on collection day. Contractor will provide education to
RDUs who call for late pickup that additional items will be accepted the following week for no additional fee.
Contractor will also notify such RDUs that they must remove Yard Waste from curb and store until the
following week.
4.5
The standard Cart size for Yard Waste Carts is a 95- gallon Cart. The Contractor shall collect
extra Yard Waste placed in an additional Yard Waste Cart, from participating RDUs. One (1) additional Yard
Waste Cart per RDU shall be provided to the RDU at no extra cost if said Cart is delivered at the same time as
the initial Cart. If a second or third Yard Waste Cart is delivered after the initial Yard Waste Cart is delivered,
the RDU will be charged for the extra Carts.
4.7
Yard Waste collected from RDUs shall be disposed of at a yard waste transfer or Composting
Facility(s) that is in conformance with all federal, state, county, and city laws, statutes, regulations, and
ordinances. Contractor shall notify the City of the disposal location(s) and provide a quarterly report to the City
of Yard Waste tonnage collected under this Contract.
4.8
RDUs no longer wishing to participate in the Yard Waste Collection program must cancel their
Yard Waste Subscription Service with the Contractor before their first regularly scheduled Yard Waste
Collection day, in order to be entitled to a refund. RDUs who cancel after their first regularly scheduled service
day will be subject to pay for the full season of Yard Waste Subscription Service.
4.9
Frequency of Collection: Contractor shall collect all Yard Waste from all participating Dwelling
Units at least once a week during Yard Waste season (April 15th through November 30th weather permitting) during
the Term of this Contract. Other than weeks incorporating holidays listed in Section 6.8 or weeks in which there is a
significant weather or other Force Majeure event, Collection of Yard Waste shall take place on Monday through
Friday, inclusive, on the same day as Refuse Collection. If the service day falls on a holiday or if a day is lost due
to a significant weather or Force Majeure event, the schedule of Collection outlined in Section 6.8 shall apply.
Except for unusual weather, traffic or other similar types of conditions or events that slow down traffic, daily
Collection hours shall not begin prior to 7:00 a.m. and shall not continue past 5:00 p.m., unless prior permission
has been granted by the City.
4.10 Approved Facility: Contractor shall be responsible for disposal of Yard Waste at a composting
facility approved by the City. No Yard Waste shall be disposed of at a solid waste disposal facility.
4.11 Monthly Reporting. Contractor shall provide tonnage information (to the City) on Yard Waste collected
on a monthly basis during Yard Waste season (April 15th through November 30th).

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Contractor’s Equipment

5.1
Contractor shall supply all equipment, labor, and materials necessary to complete Collection,
hauling, disposal and/or processing of all Garbage, Refuse, and Yard Waste from participating Dwelling Units.
5.2
Contractor’s name or firm name, together with phone number, shall be presented in legible
letters, not less than five (5) inches in height, on both sides and rear of all trucks and conveyances used in the
City in performance of this Contract. Vehicles should be equipped with warning flashers, back-up alarms, and a
broom and shovel, in good usable condition, shall be placed and maintained on each truck.
5.3
Contractor shall place all Garbage, Refuse, and Yard Waste it collects in watertight metal
receptacles or vehicles with closed tops so constructed that the contents will not leak or spill therefrom. Such
receptacles or vehicles shall be kept as clean and as free from all offensive odors as possible and not be allowed
to stand in any street, alley or other place longer than is reasonably necessary to collect Garbage and Refuse.
5.4
Contractor shall use equipment, mutually agreed upon by the parties, that is similar in size and
configuration to the equipment already in use in the City for Garbage, Refuse, and Yard Waste Collection.
5.5
Any equipment Contractor furnishes shall remain Contractor's property. Residents shall be liable
for all loss or damage to such equipment (except for normal wear and tear and for loss or damage resulting from
Contractor's handling of the equipment). Residents shall use the equipment only for its proper and intended
purpose and shall not overload (by weight or volume), move (outside of normal collection) or alter the
equipment. Residents shall be liable for all losses arising from any injury or death to persons or loss or damage
to property (including equipment) arising out of the Residents use, operation, or possession of the equipment.
5.6
City shall provide safe, unobstructed access to the equipment (containers) on the scheduled
collection day. Contractor may charge an additional fee for any additional collection service required by City's
failure to provide access.
6.

Contractor’s Operations and Residents’ Obligations

6.1
Contractor shall establish and maintain within the City or in a location approved by the City
Manager, an office with continuous supervision for accepting complaints and customer calls. The office shall be
in service during the hours of 8:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. on all days except Saturday, Sunday and legal holidays
as specified in Section 6.8 of this Contract and days when no Collection is to be made. The address and
telephone number of such office and any changes therein shall be given to the City in writing.
6.2
The City may appoint inspectors who may have access to inspect Contractor’s equipment and
non-confidential records at reasonable times and with reasonable advance notice.
6.3
Contractor must maintain and provide, upon request, an electronic database of all complaints
arising as a result of Contractor’s services to the City within fifteen (15) days of the end of the month. This
record shall include the following information: name and address of caller, date of call, date of incident,
driver/operator information, problem, resolution, and time/day of resolution. All complaints shall be answered
courteously and promptly by a customer support representative employed by Contractor.

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6.4
Whenever the City or Resident notifies Contractor of verified locations which have not received
scheduled service, assuming the Resident had his or her Receptacles at the curbside of their abutting street by
7:00 a.m. on the scheduled day of Collection, Contractor shall be required to service such locations before 5:00
p.m. of the same day when notified prior to 11:00 a.m. When notified after noon, Contractor shall service such
locations not later than the following day, excluding Saturdays, Sundays or Holidays.
6.5
The City and the Contractor will work collaboratively to report and correct any observed
violations of ordinances pertaining to Garbage and Refuse Collection and Yard Waste Collection.
6.6
Contractor shall comply with ordinances of the City, County and laws or regulations of the State
of Minnesota and its agencies related to Collection and disposal of Garbage and Refuse and Yard Waste in
effect during the Term of this Contract. Contractor shall keep all equipment used in the performance of the
work in good operating condition and in a clean, sanitary condition. All of Contractor’s facilities within the
City of Anoka shall meet all applicable current City codes and operational standards. Failure to do so may
result in termination of this Contract under Section 12.1.
6.7

Contractor must obtain all pertinent licenses from the City, County, and State.

6.8
Contractor shall not be required to make regular Collections of Garbage, Yard Waste, or Refuse
on a day in which there is a significant weather or other Force Majeure event or on the following holidays: New
Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, or Christmas Day; provided,
that the week’s schedule shall be completed regardless of the holiday or significant weather or other Force
Majeure event, which means Collection is then deferred one day. In such situations, Contractor will be allowed
to collect routes on Saturdays from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It shall be Contractor’s responsibility to notify
Residents of any changes in the Collection Schedule as a result of a holiday.
6.9
Contractor’s employees shall handle all Receptacles with reasonable care to avoid direct damage,
shall replace all Receptacles in an upright position, and shall immediately clean up and dispose of any contents
thereof which may be spilled. All Garbage and Yard Waste Receptacles shall be replaced in their appropriate
location. They shall not be placed or thrown on the streets, highways or on adjoining property. Contractor, its
agents, or employees shall not throw or drop Receptacles from the truck to the pavement or in any way break or
damage or roughly handle the same. Except for Receptacles damaged by a Resident’s negligent or intentional
acts, Contractor shall repair or replace all broken Receptacles at no additional charge. Contractor may charge
the Resident directly to repair or replace a Receptacle damaged by the Resident’s negligent or intentional act.
6.10 All employees of Contractor shall be dressed in clean uniforms which provide suitable
identification and shall exhibit a courteous attitude toward the City’s residents and the general public.
6.11 The City shall be notified in writing, and must agree to any Collection day changes prior to the
occurrence of said changes. Contractor is responsible for notifying the affected Dwelling Units of any Collection
day changes.
6.12 Contractor shall provide Collection service to Walk Up Customers. These addresses shall have
prior approval by the City.

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6.13 “Walk-up” Collection of Trash Carts without additional charge may be allowed for eligible
RDUs who apply and receive written City approval. Application forms are available at City Hall and on the
City of Anoka’s website. If approved, the Hauler Contractor will be notified of any eligible RDUs and begin
walk-up collection service on the next scheduled collection day for the RDU. Each RDU shall clear a safe, path
for their Hauler the Contractor to access and return carts. Carts must be placed in front of the RDU, outside of
any structures and easily accessible. Haulers Contractor shall not be obligated to provide walk-up service when
a hazardous condition is encountered. If any pickup is refused for that reason, Hauler Contractor must make
reasonable efforts, including where possible by phone or email, to contact the RDU to provide notice for the
reason for non-pickup.
6.14 Resident Obligations: The City shall require that all Residents (except for Walk Up Customers)
place their Receptacles and/or approved containers that contain Garbage and Refuse or Yard Waste at the
curbside of their abutting city street by 7:00 a.m. on the scheduled day of Collection. Residents that temporarily
vacate and are not inhabiting their property shall have the ability to suspend service and associated payment
upon notifying Contractor in writing thirty (30) days prior to the date service is being requested to be
temporarily suspended. Services may be temporarily suspended for no more than six (6) consecutive months in
any twelve (12) month period.
6.15 Homeowner’s Associations (HOA) containing Single-Family residences may opt out of using the
Solid Waste Collection Services provided by the Contractor so long as the Homeowner’s Association submits
notice to the City of the addresses of the single-family residences located within their respective HOA
development and proof that the Homeowner’s Association has contracted with a Solid Waste Collector that
services all single-family residences in their HOA development.
7.

Payment

7.1
The City shall compensate Contractor for Collection of Garbage and Refuse upon the basis of the
total number of Dwelling Units serviced, less any employees of Contractor that are eligible for free service as part
of Contractor’s employment policy.
7.2
Periodic additions or deductions in the number of Dwelling Units collected shall be subject to
verification and agreement between the City and Contractor. Such adjustments may not be made more often than
once per month.
7.3
During the period of this Contract, the City shall pay to Contractor, within thirty (30) days
following receipt of an invoice, for collection services performed by Contractor during the succeeding calendar
month, the monthly rates per Dwelling Unit as shown on Exhibit A Fee Schedule. All unpaid invoices shall
carry interest at a rate of 1.5% per month or, if lower, the maximum rate permitted by applicable state law, until
the balance is paid in full per the monthly rates per Dwelling Unit as shown on Exhibit A Fee Schedule.
7.4
Tipping Fees and Disposal Costs. The City shall pay Contractor, on a monthly basis, the actual monthly
Tipping Fees for Garbage and Refuse delivered to a solid waste disposal facility, as defined in Section 3.4.

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Insurance

8.1
Prior to commencement of services under this Contract, copies of all required insurance shall be
submitted to the City for review. During the Term of this Contract, Contractor shall maintain in force, at its
expense, insurance coverage with minimum limits as follows:
Workers’ Compensation
Coverage A
Coverage B - Employers Liability
Automobile Liability
Bodily Injury/Property Damage
Combined – Single Limit

Statutory
$1,000,000 each Bodily Injury by Accident
$1,000,000 policy limit Bodily Injury by Disease
$1,000,000 each occurrence Bodily Injury by Disease

Pollution Liability Endorsement

$3,000,000
Coverage is to apply to all owned, non-owned, hired and
leased vehicles (including trailers).
MCS-90 endorsement for pollution liability coverage

Commercial General Liability
Bodily Injury/Property Damage
Combined – Single Limit

$2,500,000 each occurrence
$5,000,000 general aggregate

8.2
All such insurance policies will be primary without the right of contribution from any other
insurance coverage maintained by City. All policies required herein shall be written by insurance carriers with a
rating of A.M. Bests of at least “A-” and a financial size category of at least VII. Upon City’s request,
Company shall furnish City with a certificate of insurance, evidencing that such coverage is in effect. Such
certificate will also provide for thirty (30) days prior written notice of cancellation to the City, show the City as
an additional insured under the Automobile and General Liability policies, and contain waivers of subrogation
in favor of the City (excluding Worker’s Compensation policy) except with respect to the sole negligence or
willful misconduct of City.
9.

Indemnification

9.1
Other than wrongful or negligent acts or omissions of the City or any of its agents or employees, which
acts or omissions shall remain the sole liability of the City, Contractor shall indemnify, defend and hold harmless the
City, its officers, agents, representatives and/or employees from and against all direct claims, damages, losses, actual
costs or expenses, including reasonable attorney fees (collectively, the "Claim"), for personal injuries or death, of the
person present on the property or the loss of or damage to property, which may be asserted against the City for
which it may be held liable, to any extent resulting from the negligence or willful misconduct of the Contractor, its
employees, agents, representatives, or subcontractors, in the performance of this.
9.2
Owners of Private Drives that have multiple RDU's located on it, must sign the Private Road Damage
Waiver Agreement (Exhibit C). Should any such Owner on a Private Drive fail or refuse to sign the Private Road
Damage Contract, thereby relieving Contractor of its obligation to service Owners on said Private Drive, the Owners
on the Private Drive will then be required to place their garbage receptacles on the boulevard of the nearest driveway
adjacent street.

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10.

Financial Guarantee

10.1 Contractor shall provide, at no cost to the City, and prior to the commencement of services, either
an irrevocable letter of credit, or a performance bond, in the amount of $500,000.00, executed by a corporate
surety company authorized to do business in the State of Minnesota to secure the faithful performance of this
Contract by said Contractor, conditioned that Contractor shall well and truly perform and carry out the covenants,
terms and conditions of this Contract in strict accordance with its provisions. This Contract shall be subject to
termination by the City at any time if said letter of credit or performance bond shall be cancelled or the surety
thereon relieved from liability because of failure to pay the premium or the expiration of the term of the financial
guarantee without renewal thereof. A thirty-day (30-day) grace period will be given before termination can
occur, provided that the Contractor shall reimburse the City for any expenses incurred by the City that would
have otherwise been covered by the cancelled bond or relief of the surety from covering said expenses because
of failure to pay the premium or the expiration of the financial guarantee without renewal.
11.

Performance Standards and Damages

11.1 Except for Force Majeure events, Contractor agrees that the City may, after written notice and a
reasonable opportunity to cure, fine Contractor and deduct from payment the amounts specified in Section 11.3
as liquidated damages for failure of Contractor to fulfill its obligations. The City will notify Contractor in writing
documenting the nature of the violation, the history of the account, if any, and the reason for the fine. Contractor
may address and remedy the failure at which point the City will determine if a fine is still appropriate, in its
reasonable determination. Contractor must notify the City in writing of its remedial action. If the Contractor
disagrees as to the applicability of the fine, the Contractor must submit, in writing, to the City, the reason for
contesting the fine.
The contesting of fines shall be submitted to the City Council, whom will determine whether the fine is
appropriate. If the City Council deems the fine remains appropriate, the City may then pursue the fine through
mediation or litigation pursuant to Section 18. If the Contractor disagrees with the decision of the City Council,
the Contractor may follow the process set forth in Section 18 Dispute Resolution.
11.2 Upon reasonable thirty (30) days advance written notice, Contractor shall provide access to the
City, or any of its duly authorized representatives, at reasonable times, to review any books, documents, papers,
and records of Contractor which are directly pertinent to this Contract for the purpose of making an audit, or
examination, at the sole cost to the City.
11.3 Liquidated Damages. The Contractor shall be liable for liquidated damages amount(s) upon
determination of the City, for performance that has occurred that is not consistent with the provisions of this
Contract. The City shall notify the Contractor in writing or electronically of each act or omission discovered
by the City. It shall be the duty of the Contractor to take reasonable measures necessary to remedy the cause of
the complaint. Contractor retains the right to appeal any liquidated damages assessed. Contractor shall agree
that the City may withhold payment to Contractor in the amounts specified below as liquidated damages for
failure of the Contractor to fulfill its obligations:
11.3.1 Failure to respond to legitimate service complaints within 24 hours, or the next business
day, in a reasonable and professional manner - $50 per incident.
11.3.2 Failure to service properly notified missed Collections - $100 per incident.
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11.3.3 Failure to provide accurate monthly and annual reports - $100 per incident.
11.3.4 Failure or neglect to provide notice to involved Resident when Garbage and Refuse, Yard
Wast, or large/bulky/electronics items ae refused for Collection for cause - $100 per incident.
11.3.5 Failure to complete the Collections within the specified timeframes without proper notice
to the City - $100 per incident.
11.3.6 Failure to clean up solid waste spills, MSW debris, chemical spills, hydraulic leaks and
liquid spills, during Collection operations - $300 per incident.
11.3.7 Failure or neglect to maintain vehicle(s) in a manner that prevents nusiances such as leaky
seals or hydraulics - $500 each occurrence.
12.

Termination

12.1 Either party shall have the right to terminate this Contract upon thirty (30) days' prior written
notice if in that party’s reasonable judgment there has been and remains an uncured material breach of any
provision hereof by the other party. Continuing breach or a party’s failure to promptly take legal action to
enforce this Contract shall not be a waiver or release.
12.2 Upon the failure of Contractor to fulfill any of the provisions of this Contract, after reasonable
notice to Contractor and the opportunity to perform, the City Manager shall be authorized to hire such persons
and equipment, or assign City employees and equipment, as may be necessary to do such work. The cost of such
expenses thereof may be charged and deducted from any monies due Contractor or collected from Contractor,
or collected by recourse to Contractor’s bond or financial guarantee.
12.3 If Contractor accumulates six (6) or more uncontested fines in a 6-month period of time, the City
shall have the right to terminate this Contract under Section 12.1. For the purpose of this Section, "uncontested
fines" shall be those fines associated with Performance Standard violations for which the Contractor either does
not challenge or unsuccessfully challenges. The process for contesting fines is described in Section 11.1 of this
Contract.
12.4 Notwithstanding the above sections, a party shall not be in breach and the other party shall have
no right to terminate this Contract unless the breaching party fails to cure said breach or fails to perform within
fifteen (15) days of written notice from the non-breaching party to the breaching party; provided, however, that
if such default cannot be reasonably cured within such fifteen (15) day period, the breaching party shall be
entitled to reasonable additional time within which to effect a cure so long as such cure is commenced within
that fifteen (15) day period and the breaching party thereafter diligently prosecutes the cure to completion. As to
the Contractor, the breach or failure to perform must be cured to the reasonable satisfaction of the City
Manager. Upon termination, the City shall pay Contractor only such charges and fees for the Services
performed on or before the termination effective date and Contractor shall collect its' equipment, and Contractor
shall have no further obligation to perform any Services under this Contract.
13.

Non- discriminatory Practices

13.1 Minnesota Statutes Section 181.59, which prohibits discrimination on account of race, creed or
color in the performance of public contracts, is made part of this Contract with the same force and effect as if set
forth herein verbatim.
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14.

Successors and Assigns

14.1 Contractor binds itself jointly and severally, its successors, executors, administrators and assigns
to the City in respect to all covenants of this Contract, except that Contractor shall not assign or transfer any part
of its interest in this Contract, nor shall Contractor assign any monies due, or to become due, without the City’s
written consent, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned.
15.
Title to Waste Material shall pass to Contractor when loaded into Contractor's collection vehicle or otherwise
received by Contractor. Title to and liability for any Excluded Waste shall at no time pass to Contractor.
16.

For Right to Refuse or Reject Excluded Waste

16.1 If Unacceptable Waste is discovered before it is collected by Contractor, Contractor may refuse to
collect the entire Waste Container that contains the Unacceptable Waste. In such situations, Contractor shall contact the
City and the City shall promptly undertake appropriate action to ensure that such Excluded Waste is removed and
properly disposed of by the depositor or generator of the Excluded Waste. In the event Unacceptable Waste is
present but not discovered until after it has been collected by Contractor, Contractor may, in its sole discretion,
remove, transport, and dispose of such Excluded Waste at a facility authorized to accept such Excluded Waste in
accordance with Applicable Law and charge the depositor or generator of such Excluded Waste for all direct and
indirect costs incurred due to the removal, remediation, handling, transportation, delivery, and disposal of such
Excluded Waste. The City shall provide all reasonable assistance to Contractor to conduct an investigation to
determine the identity of the depositor or generator of the Excluded Waste and to collect the costs incurred by the
Contractor in connection with such Excluded Waste. Subject to the City providing all such reasonable assistance to
the Contractor, Contractor shall release the City from any liability for any such costs incurred by Contractor in
connection with such Excluded Waste, except to the extent that such Excluded Waste is determined to be attributed
to the City.
17.

Force Majeure

17.1 Whenever a period of time is provided for in this Contract for either the City or Contractor to do or
perform any act or obligation, and except for City's obligation to pay amounts due to Contractor, neither party
shall be liable for any delays or inability to perform due to causes beyond the control of said party such as
terrorist act, war, riot, unavoidable casualty or damage to personnel, materials or equipment, pandemic, epidemic,
fire, flood, storm, earthquake, tornado or any act of God, strike or lockout other than their own strike or lockout.
The time period for the performance in question shall be extended for only the actual amount of time said party is
so delayed.
18.

Dispute Resolution

18.1 Any controversy or claim arising out of or relating to this Contract, or the breach of this Contract
(“Dispute”) shall be settled according to the terms of this Section 18. The parties to this Contract shall attempt
in good faith to promptly resolve any Dispute by mutual agreement. If the Dispute cannot be resolved by
mutual agreement such Dispute may be resolved by either mediation or litigation.

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18.2 Costs, Expenses, Attorneys’ Fees: In case either party shall, without fault on its part, be made a
party to any litigation commenced by or against the other or if a party shall employ an attorney to enforce the
covenants and agreements of the other party under this Contract, then the prevailing party shall be entitled to all of
its costs, expenses and reasonable attorney’s fees incurred or paid in connection with such litigation or
enforcement of the other party’s covenants and agreements.
18.3 Interest: If either party fails to pay or reimburse to the other party any sum of money payable
under this Contract, the defaulting party shall be obligated to pay interest on such sum equal to eight (8%)
percent per year or the highest rate of interest then permitted by law, whichever is less.
19.

Whole Contract

19.1 This Contract embodies the entire agreement between the parties including all prior
understandings and agreements and may not be modified except in writing signed by all the parties, with the
exception that all parties agree to developing the following Addendums to this Contract:
19.1.1. Residential Recycling Services Addendum for services commencing on April 1, 2028.
The Addendum shall include the scope of services and pricing, which must be mutually agreed upon by the City
and the Contractor by October 1, 2027, or this Contract will be terminated by the City with a thirty (30) day
written notice given to the Contractor.
19.1.2. Residential Organics Collection Services Addendum for services commencing by
January 1, 2030. The Addendum shall include the scope of services and pricing, which must be mutually agreed
upon by the City and the Contractor by July 1, 2029, or this Contract will be terminated by the City with a thirty
(30) day written notice given to the Contractor.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Contract as of the date first above shown.
CITY OF ANOKA

REPUBLIC SERVICES
Contractor

Date: _____________________________

Date: __________________________

By: _______________________________
Erik Skogquist, Mayor

By: _____________________________________
Beverly Mathiasen, Municipal Sales Manager

By: _______________________________
Amy Oehlers, Assistant City Manager

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RESIDENTIAL SOLID WASTE COLLECTION & YARD WASTE COLLECTION
FEE SCHEDULE
Annual Rate Increase of 4% for all services
Solid Waste Collection Rates:
Service Level
(approximate
cart size)
Small cart
(32 gallon)
Small cart
(32 gallon)
Medium cart
(64 gallon)
Large cart
(96 gallon)

Additional cart

Collection
Frequency

Collection
Fee

Combined
Collection &
Disposal Fee

MN Solid Waste
Management Tax
(SWMT) 9.75%

City of Anoka
Administrative
Fee

Units

Every other
week

Disposal
(Tipping)
Fee

Total
Monthly
Cost

$4.69

$3.94

$8.63

$0.84

$0.68

per household
per month

$10.15

Weekly

$6.25

$5.25

$11.50

$1.12

$0.68

per household
per month

$13.30

Weekly

$6.25

$5.75

$12.00

$1.17

$0.68

per household
per month

$13.85

Weekly

$6.25

$12.50

$1.22

$0.68

$14.40

Weekly

$5.00

$6.25

$11.25

$1.10

$0.68

per household
per month
per household
per month

Senior/Veteran Solid Waste Collection Rates:
Service Level
(approximate
cart size)
Small cart
(32 gallon)
Small cart
(32 gallon)

$13.03

Collection
Frequency

Collection
Fee

Combined
Collection &
Disposal Fee

MN Solid Waste
Management Tax
(SWMT) 9.75%

City of Anoka
Administrative
Fee

Units

Every other
week

Disposal
(Tipping)
Fee

Total
Monthly
Cost

$4.22

$3.94

$8.16

$0.80

$0.68

per household
per month

$9.64

Weekly

$5.63

$5.25

$10.88

$1.06

$0.68

per household
per month

$12.62

*City will verify & approve or deny resident applications for this special discounted program. Program is limited to 32-gallon service

Yard Waste Collection Rates: (Includes collection and processing at a composting facility)
Service Level
Full season subscription with a cart
(up to 5 bags included per week)

Overflow yard waste bags
(for customers with subscription service; 10-bag limit)

Collection
Frequency

Yard Waste
Collection Fee

Units

Weekly

$120.00

per household per year

As needed (on-call)

$3.50

per bag

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EXHIBIT B
Date Received: ___________
Approved: ______________
Denied: ______________

Complete and return to:
City of Anoka
2015 First Ave
Anoka MN 55303

For office use only

CITY OF ANOKA REFUSE & RECYCLING PROGRAM:
REQUEST FOR WALK-UP COLLECTION SERVICES
The City of Anoka understands the importance of a clean, litter-free and livable community and wishes to
provide for cost-efficient collection of refuse and recyclables from residential properties. To achieve these
goals, the City provides City-contracted refuse and recycling service through Republic Services.
Walk-up Service for refuse and recycling services provided by the City-contracted company, Republic
Services, is available to residents based on a valid need for this service.
Examples of a demonstrated need for Walk-up Collection Service:
• The inability to bring refuse, recycling and yard waste carts to the curb for pick-up because of a
disability, limitation or need for assistance.
** Yard Waste Walk-Up Collection is available only to yard waste subscribers with a cart.
• Other justifiable needs for the resident at this address.
Examples of Walk-up Collection Service:
• Containers are set out to a location accessible to both resident and hauler.
• Does not require hauler to enter resident’s home or garage to access containers.
• Does not require hauler to drive on private property. **
**Service may require resident to sign a private road liability waiver

______________________________________________________________________________
Name of Applicant:

______________________________________________________________________________
Address of the property for which Walk-Up Collection is Requested:
______________________________________________________________________________
Telephone Number: ____________________________

Email: _______________________________________

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CITY OF ANOKA REFUSE & RECYCLING PROGRAM:
REQUEST FOR WALK-UP COLLECTION SERVICES
Tenant Name (if applicable): ____________________________________________________________________
Address of property owner (if different than address for which service is requested):
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
Tenant telephone number: _________________________Tenant email: _________________________________

Reason for service request:
 Inability to bring containers to curb
 Other household reason for Walk-up collection is needed
 Temporary Service Request (list dates) ______________________________________________
Describe nature of household need:
____________________________________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________________

Carts must be visible and placed in front or directly next to garage or home.
Driveways must be cleared of snow down to surface and sanded to keep Drivers safe from accidents.
Data Privacy Notice: I understand that the information I provide on this form will be used to process my request for
Refuse and Recycling Walk-up Collection. Some of the requested information may be private data and may be available
to me and City of Anoka employees who need to have this information to perform their duties, but not to the public.
Data may also be shared as required by law. I understand that I am not legally required to provide this information, but
if I do not provide it, the City of Anoka may not be able to process or approve my request for Walk-Up Collection.
Signature: ____________________________________________

Date: ________________________________________________

The City of Anoka shall have sole discretion to grant or not grant this request. Regular verification of proper
disposal of refuse and recycling will be made at the property for which the request for special service location is
made. Evidence of improper refuse or recycling storage collection or disposal shall be reason to immediately
require standard set-out procedures. Contact the City if this Walk-up Collection is no longer needed in the
future. Thank You.

Page 2 of 2
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EXHIBIT C
MUNICIPAL SPECIAL ELECTION
City of Anoka, Minnesota
November 3, 2026
Instructions to Voters:
To vote, completely fill in the oval next to your choice like this:
SHOULD ANOKA IMPLEMENT AN ORGANIZED RESIDENTIAL
SOLID WASTE, RECYCLING, YARDWASTE AND ORGANICS
COLLECTION SYSTEM?
CITY QUESTION:
Yes

Should an Organized Residential Solid Waste, Recycling, Yardwaste
and Organics Collection system be implemented in the City of
Anoka?
A "Yes" vote means that you agree to have an Organized
Residential Solid Waste, Recycling, Yardwaste and Organics
Collection System implemented in the City of Anoka.
A "No" vote means that you do not agree to have an Organized
Residential Solid Waste, Recycling, Yardwaste and Organics
Collection System implemented in the City of Anoka.

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COUNCIL MEMO

Agenda Item # 9.2

Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Ordinances & Resolutions

Item Description:

RES/Anoka Rum River Regional Trail 4th Ave BNSF Railroad Crossing and Trail
Connection Project; Approve Plans and Specifications, Authorize the Advertisement for
Bid, and Set a Bid Date

Submitted By:

Ben Nelson, Assistant City Engineer

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
On October 7, 2024, the Anoka City Council adopted a resolution ordering the project, waiving the public
improvement hearing, authorizing the preparation of plans and specifications, authorizing staff to acquire all
necessary easements for the successful completion of said project, and authorizing the execution of agreements
with Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) Railroad Company.
On August 18, 2025, the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s (MnDOT) Office of Land Management
(OLM), in coordination with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) approved the Right-of-Way (ROW)
Public Interest Findings (PIF) document. This approval allows for the City of Anoka to proceed with funding
authorization, given all of the necessary right-of-way had not been obtained prior to that date.
Pursuant to a resolution adopted by the Anoka City Council, the purchase of permanent easements for trail and
temporary construction access purposes was
approved. On April 6, 2026, City Council
acknowledged approval of the Grade
Crossing Construction and Maintenance
Agreement (BNSF Contract No. BF20572054), including the Easement
Agreement with BNSF Railroad.
On Monday, July 13, 2026, MnDOT State
Aid approved the Right-of-Way Certificate
for the project. This certification
acknowledges that all right-of-way
acquisition and relocation have been
conducted in accordance with applicable
federal and state laws and regulations. By
receiving this document, the city is now
authorized to advertise for bid and set a bid date.
The project is for the construction of a new multi-use 10-foot bituminous trail approximately 0.17 miles in
length on the west side of 4th Avenue (CSAH 31) and the installation of pedestrian crossing gates at the at-grade
railroad crossing. These improvements will help safely channel pedestrians and bicyclists along 4th Avenue
(CSAH 31) and reduce pedestrian/bicyclists exposure while improving access and mobility, including safely
channeling pedestrians and bicyclists across the BNSF Railroad line. See project location limits image below.

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The new trail will be located in the right-of-way and will require the following road modifications:
-

The removal of the on-street parking on the west side of 4th Avenue will be eliminated (15 stalls)

The 4th Avenue (CSAH 31) curb east of the existing Milk Factory site will be reconstructed
approximately 8 feet east of the existing curb.

The existing parallel parking for the Milk Factory will remain as-is based on conversations with the
property owner. The new trail will be located between the existing parking and the new curb. See image
below.

The 4th Avenue (CSAH 31) curb, north of Pleasant/Pierce Street (CSAH 30) will be reconstructed
approximately 13 feet east of the existing curb. A portion of the trail will be located in the new trail
easement on the property west of CSAH 31, north of CSAH 30.

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See enclosed Exhibit 2 – Trail Location Alternative No. 2 pdf document for additional information on trailway
alignment.
Given the trailway crosses a railroad, BNSF will install pedestrian crossing signals, activation equipment, and a
new crossing surface for the at-grade crossing known as 4th Avenue (U.S. DOT No. 082923X). BNSF will
furnish all labor, materials, tools, and equipment for railroad work required for the construction of the project.
which includes the following railroad work by BNSF:
•

Procurement of materials, equipment and supplies necessary for the railroad work.

•

Furnishing flagging services during construction of the project.

•

Furnishing engineering and inspection as required in connection with the construction.

•

Removal and disposal of the existing crossing surface from the crossing.

•

Provide and place asphalt beneath the track(s) to provide additional sub-grade stability prior to BNSF
installing new concrete crossing surfaces.

•

Extension of 24-foot concrete crossing surface for the two tracks complete with new rail, ties, ballast,
fasteners, along with appropriate surfacing, to carry the improved roadway and sidewalks.

•

Installation of crossing signal equipment and a crossing signal control house.

•

Provide an interface box, with contact terminals, mounted on the side of the crossing signal control
house.

•

Make such changes in the alignment, location and elevation of its telephone, telegraph, signal and/or
wire lines and appurtenances along, over or under the tracks, both temporary and permanent, as may
become necessary by reason of the construction of the project.

DISCUSSION
Approve Plans & Specifications: Based on previous City Council action, construction plans and specifications
for this project have been prepared. These documents are available for public inspection in the office of the
Public Services Department and are available to City Council upon request. Some important requirements of the
construction plan that council shall be aware of are the following:
o

The bidding structure was set up to allow for construction to begin in October 2026 that is located
within the public right-of-way.

Based on the C&M Agreement, BNSF will purchase and install, at the city’s expense, the
crossing signal equipment and the crossing surface material for the extension of the two-crossing
surfaces at 4th Avenue for trailway. Due to the lead time on the materials and the date of purchase
(after the C&M Agreement execution). This work is scheduled to begin in the spring 2027.

Authorize Advertisement for Bids: Pursuant to Minnesota Statute §429.041, with an estimated contract
amount in excess of $350,000; the city must use the competitive bidding process. The publication must be made
at least three weeks before the last day to submit bids. The advertisement must be published at least once in the
official city newspaper and at least once in a recognized trade journal. Given this, staff seeks authorization to
advertise for bids.

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Set a Bid Date: An August 20, 2026, 11:00 a.m. bid date will provide sufficient time to provide the required
notification to contractors as per state statute.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The estimated total construction cost of the Anoka Rum River Regional Trail 4th Ave BNSF Railroad Crossing
and Trail Connection Project is $762,640. The construction estimated costs are broken down as follows:
Mobilization
Trail Construction
BNSF Railroad
BNSF Pedestrian Elements
2027 Construction Inflation Factor (5%)
Total Construction Cost:

$ 35,000
$483,810
$101,580
$107,700
$ 34,550
$762,640

Additional project costs include the property acquisition that consists of the permanent trail easement with
private properties, temporary construction easements, and appraisal professional services fees at a total cost of
$50,180. The BNSF trail easement that consists of the trail easement with BNSF Railroad across their right-ofway at a total cost of $43,550. The estimated professional services costs for the city’s consultant Project
Engineer and BNSF’s consultant engineer are $115,000 and $18,000 respectively.
The estimated total project cost including construction and the additional project costs as mentioned in the
above paragraph is $989,370. The project will be financed by the Met Council Regional Federal Grant,
Municipal State Aid (MSA), and Anoka County Parks. The following is a breakdown on the funding sources
and amounts:
Federal STP Fund
Anoka County Parks

$556,000
$35,000

MSA Fund

$398,370

Previously, there was $180,000 that had been rolled over in previous budgets cycles from the Park Capital Fund
although, based on the available balance and project cost overruns and other future project needs associated
with this fund, staff is recommending advancing an additional $180,000 from the City’s MSA account. MSA
Funds will be used for professional services, construction costs, and the local grant match requirement of
$150,000 for the federal money.
Council shall beware; a future City Council action will be required to adopt a resolution to advance the MSA
funding which is contingent on approval by the Minnesota Department of Transportation State Aid Office.
PROJECT SCHEDULE
The following is the tentative schedule for the Anoka Rum River Regional Trail 4th Ave BNSF Railroad Crossing
and Trail Connection Project:

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Project Authorization Date

September 15, 2025

Force Account Agreement Approval

October 27, 2025

BNSF C&M Agreement Execution

June 1, 2026

Right-of-Way Certification Approval

July 13, 2026

Council Approves Bidding Documents

July 20, 2026

Bid Opening Date

August 20, 2026

Council Awards Construction Contract

September 8, 2026

Start Construction in Public ROW

September 21, 2026

BNSF Railroad Signal Construction

Spring 2027 (TBD)

Construction Substantially Completion Date

August 27, 2027

The above proposed construction schedule start date is based on the relocation of the overhead power lines
occurring now through spring 2027. Anoka Electric is waiting for the approval of the Utility Permit from BNSF
Railroad. It shall be noted; construction may begin in late 2026 or in the spring 2027 based on the contractor’s
preference as mentioned above.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
It is recommended that City Council adopt the attached resolution approving the plans and specifications,
authorizing advertisement for bid, and set a bid date for the Anoka Rum River Regional Trail 4th Ave BNSF
Railroad Crossing and Trail Connection Project.
REQUIRED VOTE
Councilmembers’ majority vote present at the time of the City Council Meeting is required.

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2015 First Avenue, Anoka MN 55303
Phone: (763) 576-2700 Website: www.anokamn.gov
CITY OF ANOKA, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION
RES-2026-XX
RESOLUTION ANOKA RUM RIVER REGIONAL TRAIL 4TH AVE BNSF
RAILROAD CROSSING AND TRAIL CONNECTION PROJECT; APPROVE
PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS, AUTHOIRZE THE ADVERTISMENT FOR BID,
AND SET A BID DATE
WHEREAS, the City of Anoka is concerned about the missing regional trail connection along
4th Avenue (CSAH 31) and just north of Pierce Street (CSAH 30) of the existing BNSF
Railroad Crossing with no pedestrian accommodations; and,
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest for the safety of the public for the City of Anoka to
construct a multi-use pedestrian/bicyclist trailway along 4th Avenue (CSAH 31) from Johnson
Street to 300 feet south of Pierce Street (CSAH 30); and,
WHEREAS, said improvements are included in the approved plans and referred to as the Anoka
Rum River Regional Trail 4th Ave BNSF Railroad Crossing and Trail Connection Project; and,
WHEREAS, should the Anoka City Council wish to proceed with the project, the next step in the
public improvement process based on Minnesota State Statute §429 is to approve the construction
plans and specifications, authorize advertisement for bid, and set a bid date.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Anoka City Council does hereby determine,
1.

Such plans and specifications, a copy of which is available for public inspection in the
office of the Public Services Department, and made a part hereof, are hereby approved.

The advertisement shall be published for twenty-one (21) days, shall specify the work to
be done, shall state that bids will be received by the City Clerk or designee until 11:00 a.m.
on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at which time they will be publicly opened in the Council
Chambers of the Anoka City Hall. Electronic bids will also be opened and read in-person.
Any bidder whose responsibility is questioned during the consideration of the bid will be
given the opportunity to address Council on the issue of responsibility. No bids will be
considered unless sealed and filed with the City Clerk or designee, or electronically filed,
and accompanied by a bid bond or certified check payable to the City of Anoka for five
percent (5%) of the amount of such bid. The responsibility of the bidders will be
considered by City Council at 7:00 p.m. on the 8th day of September 2026, in Council
Chambers of the Anoka City Hall.

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Adopted by the Anoka City Council this, the 20th day of July, 2026.
ATTEST:
___________________________
Amy T. Oehlers, ACM/City Clerk

______________________________
Erik Skogquist, Mayor

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Page 125 of 132

COUNCIL MEMO
Meeting Date:

July 20, 2026

Agenda Section:

Updates & Reports

Item Description:

Tentative Agendas

Submitted By:

Amy Oehlers, Assistant City Manager

Agenda Item # 12.1

BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Attached are the tentative agenda(s) for future meeting(s).
FINANCIAL IMPACT
None.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
Request Council review and discuss upcoming agenda(s).
REQUIRED VOTE
There is no vote requirement on this agenda item.

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City Council Agenda - Worksession
Monday, July 27, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Council Worksession Room
(meeting will not be cablecast)

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

COUNCIL BUSINESS and/or DISCUSSION ITEMS
3.1 Discussion; Anoka County Historical Society Storage Lease.
3.2

Discussion; Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Plan Implementation - Green Haven
Clubhouse Elevator Modifications Project; Scope of Work for the Third Level Interior
Build-Out.

3.3

Discussion; Anoka Nature Preserve Management Plan Review.

UPDATES/REPORTS/COUNCIL SUGGESTIONS FOR TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA
ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT

Members of the Anoka City Council may participate remotely in City Council meetings by interactive technology rather than
by being physically present. The Zoom Webinar link will be posted prior to the meeting on the City of Anoka's website
calendar at: https://www.anokaminnesota.com/calendar.aspx?CID=14. To access the link, from the online calendar, find the
correct meeting date and click "More Details."
Meetings by telephone or other electronic means in accordance with Minnesota Statute 13D.021.

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City Council Agenda – Regular Meeting
DRAFT Monday, August 3, 2026
Council Chambers

6:00 p.m. Annual Budget Presentation
7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
(meeting will be cablecast)

1.
2.
3.

CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1
July 20, 2026 Regular Meeting

PUBLIC HEARING(S)
5.1
On-Sale Liquor License, Sunday Liquor and Special 1:00 am License to S & K Enterprises, Inc.,
dba; The Alibi, 227 E Main St, Anoka
RES/Issuance of an On-Sale Liquor License, Sunday Liquor and Special 1:00 am License to
S & K Enterprises, Inc. dba; The Alibi, 227 E Main St, Anoka

CONSENT AGENDA
6.1
Verified Bills.
6.2
Revising & Setting Council Calendars.
6.3
Issuance of Special Event Permit; Anoka Food Truck Festival.
6.4
Issuance of Special Event Permit; HopeFest.
6.4
Issuance of Social District License; The Alibi, 227 E Main St.

REPORTS OF OFFICERS & BOARDS & COMMISSIONS - None

PETITIONS, REQUESTS & COMMUNICATION - None

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August 3, 2026, Regular Meeting
Page 2 of 2

ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS
9.1
RES/Issuance of an On-Sale Liquor License, Sunday Liquor and Special 1:00 am License to
S & K Enterprises, Inc. dba; The Alibi, 227 E Main St, Anoka. (acted upon after public hearing)
9.2

RES/Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Plan Implementation - Green Haven Clubhouse
Elevator Modifications Project; Approve Plans & Specifications, Authorized Advisement of Bid,
and Set a Bid Date.

9.3

RES/2026 Planning Assistance Grant for 2050 Comprehensive Plan Update.

9.4

RES/Green Haven Golf Course Renovation Project; Approve Plans & Specifications, Authorize
Advertisement of Bid, and Set a Bid Date.

10.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None

11.

NEW BUSINESS
11.1 Approve Revision to Anoka Municipal Utility (AMU) Rules & Regulations.

12.

UPDATES & REPORTS
12.1 Tentative Agendas.

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City Council Agenda
Budget Worksession
Monday, August 10, 2026
Meeting: 5:00 pm
Dinner: 5:30 pm

Green Haven Golf Course & Event Center
East Room
1.

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

COUNCIL BUSINESS and/or DISCUSSION ITEMS
3.1 Discussion; Governmental Funds Budgets.

UPDATES/REPORTS/COUNCIL SUGGESTIONS FOR TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA
ITEMS.

ADJOURNMENT

Members of the Anoka City Council may participate remotely in City Council meetings by interactive technology rather than
by being physically present. Members of the public who desire to give input or testimony remotely may do so by attending via
video conference (Zoom Webinar). The Zoom Webinar link will be posted prior to the meeting on the City of Anoka's
website calendar at: https://www.anokaminnesota.com/calendar.aspx?CID=14. To access the link, from the online calendar,
find the correct meeting date and click "More Details."
Meetings by telephone or other electronic means in accordance with Minnesota Statute 13D.021.

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City Council Agenda – Regular Meeting
DRAFT Monday, August 17, 2026
Council Chambers
7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING
(meeting will be cablecast)

1.
2.
3.

CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
COUNCIL MINUTES
3.1
July 27, 2026, Worksession.
August 3, 2026, Budget Presentation & Regular Meeting.

PUBLIC HEARING(S) - None

CONSENT AGENDA
6.1
Verified Bills.
6.2
Revising & Setting Council Calendars.

REPORTS OF OFFICERS & BOARDS & COMMISSIONS - None

PETITIONS, REQUESTS & COMMUNICATION - None

ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS - None

10.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None

11.

NEW BUSINESS – None

12.

UPDATES & REPORTS
12.1 Tentative Agendas.

Page 131 of 132

City Council Agenda - Worksession
Monday, August 24, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Council Worksession Room
(meeting will not be cablecast)

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

COUNCIL BUSINESS and/or DISCUSSION ITEMS
3.1 Discussion; Cannabis Dispensary Eligible Charitable Organizations for Donations.
3.2

Discussion; Residential In-fill Standards.

3.3

Discussion; Murals Ordinance.

3.4

Discussion; City Register of Historical Properties; Amendments or Expansion.

UPDATES/REPORTS/COUNCIL SUGGESTIONS FOR TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA
ITEMS

ADJOURNMENT

Page 128 of 129

Page 132 of 132

City Council Agenda
Budget Worksession
Monday, August 31, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Council Worksession Room
1.

CALL TO ORDER

ROLL CALL

COUNCIL BUSINESS and/or DISCUSSION ITEMS
3.1 Discussion; Enterprise Funds & Capital Funds.

UPDATES/REPORTS/COUNCIL SUGGESTIONS FOR TENTATIVE FUTURE AGENDA
ITEMS.

ADJOURNMENT

Page 129 of 129

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Agenda Watch · Aug 21, 2026

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