On the agenda: North Oaks meeting — ALPR (Jun 11)

CITY OF NORTH OAKS
Regular City Council Meeting City Council Meeting
Thursday, June 11, 2026
7:00 PM, City Council Chambers are at 100 Village Center Drive, Room 150, North Oaks, MN
55127

MEETING AGENDA

Remote Access - One or more members of the City Council may attend the meeting via interactive technology
and others will participate in person in Council Chambers (Community Room, 100 Village Center Drive,
Suite 150, North Oaks, MN) during the meeting. Members of the public are welcome to attend. Any person
wishing to monitor the meeting electronically from a remote location may do so by calling the following
Zoom meeting videoconference number: 1-312-626-6799, Webinar ID: 879 7397 7257 or by joining the
meeting via the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87973977257.

1.

Call to Order

2.

Roll Call

3.

Pledge of Allegiance

4.

Citizen Comments - Members of the public are invited to make comments to the Council during the public
comments section. Up to four minutes shall be allowed for each speaker. No action will be taken by the
Council on items raised during the public comment period unless the item appears as an agenda item for
action.

5.

Approval of Agenda

6.

Consent Agenda - These are items that are considered routine and can be acted upon with one vote.

6a.

Approval of Licenses:
Arborist: Aaron Boyd's Tree Service LLC
Mechanical: Air Craft Mechanical LLP; Craig's Heating and Air; Northland Mechanical Contractors Inc;
Summit Heating & Air Conditioning
General Contractor: Construction Results Corporation

6b.

Approval of City Financials
EFT: 1281e-1292e
Checks: 16260 - 16292
June 2026 Check Register w EFT.pdf
City Council June 11, 2026

1

June 2026 Budget Spreadhsheets.pdf
June 2026 Financial Graphs.pdf
June 2026 Financial Pie charts.pdf
6c.

Approval of meeting minutes of 5.14.2026 City Council Meeting
5.14.2026 Council minutes Draft.pdf
City of North Oaks URS - 5-14-2026.pdf

6d.

Approval of Resolution 1595 Supporting Establishment of Ramsey County Economic Development
Commission
1595. Resolution Supporting Ramsey County Economic Development Commission.pdf

6e.

Approval of Hill Farm Fest Liquor License
Farm Fest Liquor License application 2026.pdf

7.

Petitions, Requests & Communications

7a.

Deputy Craig Lydon Public Safety Report
May 2026 Report.pdf
ALPR Program Outcomes Summary Annual review 2026.pdf

7b.

Nine North Internet Franchise Broadband Update
Bradley Broadband Franchising (MN) 20260313.pdf

8.

Unfinished Business

9.

New Business

9a.

Public Hearing - Discussion and possible action on Ordinance amending the 2026 Fee Schedule for
water/sewer utility rates. Review of rate study analysis from Ehlers
City of North Oaks URS - 6-11-2026.pptx
Copy of 2026 Fee Schedule Final rev. 6.8.2026 BN REV.pdf
1596. NO Summary Pub Res 2026 Fee Schedule Water Sewer Rate revisions.pdf

9b.

Discussion and possible action on amending the City's annual meeting calendar

10.

Council Member Reports

11.

City Administrator Reports - Status updates on: LPR Contracts; 1400 seedlings distributed; 35 brush
pick up homes; Save dates: NOGC Fireworks 6/13, Recycling Day 6/27, Night to Unite 8/4, Farm fest 9/13.

12.

City Attorney Reports

13.

Miscellaneous

13a. City Forester Monthly Report
May in Review.pdf

14.

Adjournment - The next meeting of the City Council is Thursday, July 9, 2026.

City Council June 11, 2026

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

North Oaks City Council
Meeting Minutes
North Oaks City Council Chambers
May 14, 2026
1. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Wolter called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Krista Wolter, Councilors Mark Azman and Andrew Gaspard
Absent: Councilors Sara Shah and Grover Sayre
Staff Present: Administrator Kevin Kress, Attorney Bridget Nason, City Engineer Jupe Hale, and
City Planner Kendra Lindahl (remote)
Others Present: NineNorth Videographer
A quorum was declared present.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Wolter led the Council in the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. CITIZEN COMMENTS
•

No citizen comments.

5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION by Gaspard, seconded by Azman, to approve the agenda.
Motion carried unanimously.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
6a. City Council Meeting Minutes of 4.16.2026
6b. Approval of Licenses
Arborist Licenses: Helke's Tree Service; Mancini Tree Inc;
Mechanical licenses: APP Professional Plumbing; Conway Mechanical; Ideal Air; Metro Gas
Installers;
Professional Mechanical Services, LLC; X-treme Heating & A/C Inc.
6c. Police Week Proclamation - May 11-16, 2026
6d. Fireworks application for North Oaks Golf Club Summer Party
6e. Approve resolution for conditional use permit for excess fill for a property located at 5
Catbird Lane
6f. Approval of resolution designating polling places
6g. Approval of City Financials
Checks: 16221 - 16259
EFT: 1258E - 1274E
MOTION by Azman, seconded by Gaspard, to approve the consent agenda.
Motion carried unanimously.

12

Minutes of the City Council Meeting

May 14, 2026

7. PETITIONS REQUESTS & COMMUNICATIONS
•
•

•

•
•
•

Deputy Lydon mentioned the fishing complaints have involved larger groups this year.
Working with NOHOA, and Ramsey County Sheriff Community Service officers to
educate on the no fishing regulations and disperse this activity.
Late Sunday night around 10 p.m. a suspicious vehicle was reported parked in a turn
around on Island Road. The party was found and was trespassing and fishing along with
another individual. The individual who had previously been trespassed from North Oaks,
was arrested and taken to jail. They threw poles in the woods when they spotted by
Sheriff’s office.
Most people fishing are juveniles and middle schools, but there are some in cars driving
in. Start with education but will issue fishing tickets if need be. If there are repeat
offenders, they can issue the same tickets as DNR. NOHOA also has the authority to
ticket if found fishing.
Gaspard noted the value of his ride along with Deputy Lydon. He reinforced that they can
notify City and Sheriff’s office to request a property watch if going to be out of town for
significant amount of time.
He noted he is working with City Engineer on possible new interactive flashing speed
signs in the community.
With the current road construction traffic, NOHOA is moving the speed cart to help
address speeding through neighborhood detour areas.

8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
No unfinished business.
9. NEW BUSINESS
9a. Discussion and possible action on utility rate study analysis from Ehlers
•

•
•
•
•
•

Jeanne from Ehlers Financial stated they have been looking at the utility rate study for
both the Shoreview and White Bear Township utility customers to be consistent. North
Oaks would have 1 combined rate structure charged consistently for both sides of
community.
She reviewed detailed Water / Sewer rate study presentation with Council. (Presentation
is included as part of the Meeting minutes.)
As part of the study, Reviewed goals & assumptions, any upcoming capital project, they
reviewed rate structures, individual funds, and impact analysis.
Looked at current rate structure for both Shoreview and White Bear Township with goal
of providing a unified rate for utilities regardless of which side of community they live.
This includes a fixed base to address fixed costs, maintains appropriate fund balances,
plans for future capital projects and usage tiers promote water conservation.
For sewer fund, goal was to have base charge to cover fixed costs, maintain appropriate
fund balances and plan for future capital projects.

Page |2

13

Minutes of the City Council Meeting

•
•
•
•

•
•
•

•
•

•

•
•

May 14, 2026

Cover assures funds pay for capital outlay, operations and annual debt service. Also need
to maintain cash reserves for 6 months of operating expenses (excluding depreciation),
and next year’s annual debt service. (if applicable).
Approach to Study was to look at impact on residents and business, the health of the
fund, and easier to explain to residents by City staff. They found that funds are in good
shape currently but do expect additional capital and operational costs in the future.
City currently has separate rates for Shoreview and White Bear Township. The base rates
pay for current fixed costs of system.
The goals include: ensure equity and fairness – who is using the system and when, a
cohesive water and sewer rates for all North Oaks rate payers. Also need sufficient
revenues, base fee covers fixed costs, promotes conservation, ease of administration and
understood by rate payers.
Assumptions – Utilized 4 quarters of usage data from Shoreview (a full years’ worth of
data), and 3 quarters of data from White Bear Township (from the time the North Oaks
took over utility administration).
Used conservation future projections – includes 3% on expenses and 2% on other
revenues. No capital project costs at this time, and no growth factored in at this time.
Ehlers reviewed the current rate structures from both Shoreview and White Bear
township. Key points of current Shoreview structure: noticed the fixed rate appears high.
The tiered rates appear too close for quarterly billing. Top tier rate is very high. Tiers not
recommended for irrigation, as not considered essential usage.
White Bear township highlights: the fixed rate appears high, tiered rates appear too close
for quarterly billing, and there was a large jump for 4th tier.
What works best for North Oaks for a new structure proposed is:
o Fixed rate to pay for the fixed costs.
o Metered usage charge would be based on the lowest essential water usage, which
is winter, since no car washing and irrigation. There would be a 3-tiered water
rate structure. Based on lowest winter water usage. (no irrigation).
o Recommended rate means everyone pays for fixed cost of syste, regardless of
usage
o All meters charged even if more than 1 per account.
o * Refer to presentation attached to meeting minutes for detail. **
Commercial is different because it is more consistent throughout the year. Any irrigation
for commercial is a separate meter. North Oaks has 19 total commercial accounts. 2
Tiers are recommended. Tier 1 90,000 gal (50% of usage). Tier 2 is Over 90,000 which
effects the larger users.
For irrigation only accounts, there are no tiers as it is considered “non-essential” usage.
Summary: 1 single rate structure for all North Oaks Rate pagers. Rates designed to meet
revenue requirements (base fee covers 100% of fixed costs, and consumption charges
cover 100% of variable costs). Tier rate structures tailored to actual usage patterns (by
customer type and promotes conversation). ** Refer to chart in presentation.
o Fixed base fee $72.41

Page |3

14

Minutes of the City Council Meeting

•

•

•
•
•
•
•

•
•
•
•

•
•

May 14, 2026

o Consumption Charge per 1,000 gallons: Tier 1 0 – 20,000 $3.94, Tier 2 20,000 –
90,000 is $5.91, Tier 3 90,000 and over is $8.87. Commercial Tier 1 to 90,000 is
$5.91, and over 90,000 is $8.87. All Irrigation is $7.85 per 1,000 gallons.
Rates are designed based on who is using the system by customer type. Rates ensure that
no one type of user is subsidizing another group. The percentage of water usage is very
close to the % of water usage. No rate increases currently recommended; the resulting
overall funds are same as previously budgeted.
FOR SEWER FUND: White Bear Township and Shoreview calculate sewer rates very
differently. Shoreview flat escrow/maintenance fee, and white bear is based on winter
lowest water consumption. Fixed rate that pays 108.7% of actual costs. Single rate for all
users for meter charge, and recommended rate means everyone pays for fixed cost of
system, regardless of consumption usage. There is no minimum usage included. Proposed
is base charge of $50.14, plus 5.60 based on their lowest winter water consumption. If a
sewer only user there would be the $50.14 base charge + $84 rate. *Refer to presentation
chart.
Ehlers reviewed charts of what the impact would be on users:
25% quartile – bottom 1/24 of usage
50% quartile – midpoint of usage
75% quartile = top ¼ of usages
For Shoreview users, water charges would decrease as 30K usage no longer charged at
$9.48 / gallon. Sewer charges are now based on the average winter usage instead of flat
fee, sewer only accounts based on average usage of 15K gal/quarter. Median average
would go down $41.07 per quarter for water. Sewer would see average increase of $19.64
a quarter.
For White Bear users, median usage would see average rate go down $7.16 quarter.
Sewer only users would see an increase in $30.64.
For Commercial, Shoreview commercial users can expect increases overdue to increased
base fee. White Bear town ship will see decrease due to the lower sewer consumption
rate.
Irrigation accounts would see increased but it varies depending on whether they are
located.
The proposed rate structure:
o Promote conservation
o Unified rate across all North Oaks rate payers
o Balances who uses and who pays for the system
o Balances between fixed and variable costs of the system.
o Funds are healthy and sets the stage for future capital projects.
o
Azman confirmed that this does not impact our current fee agreements with either
Shoreview and White Bear Township. City would pay them based on their bill, and we
would charge our residents based on our own simplified rate structure.
Gaspard asked about existing system and projected capital costs to maintain system. If
there was a general rule about how much to plan for infrastructure maintenance. A
longer-term project to review possibility for any long-term capital plan.

Page |4

15

Minutes of the City Council Meeting
•
•

•

•
•
•
•
•

May 14, 2026

Kress noted that in January would at current structure and if any need for replacement,
etc.
The sewer funds were in a negative balance in 2022-2023, it has now turned a corner.
Capital infrastructure is currently limited to what is now in the ground and what we own.
Future capital expenditures could be working with NOHOA on working on what is in
ground, metering pits, and lift station repair and maintenance. Kress stated by January
will investigate age of system and what systems might need to be replaced.
Gaspard reminded that White Bear township is under restrictions for numbers. Kress
stated that when we ran the numbers, we are within the goal of water users. Water and
sewer ordinances are being looked at and may build in additional detail around
requirements.
Kress noted if lift station needed to be replaced, each would be $200,000 to $300,000.
They would look at consolidating where possible and may need to use capital funding.
Engineer Hale stated that some lift station costs may also be lower due to replacing
pieces and parts of lift stations. May not need an entire replacement. Pipes can last a lot
longer than the lift station components that are working mechanics daily.
Kress stated at the June Council meeting, Council will discuss again with a public
hearing, with the goal of solidifying and implementing new rate structure for 2Q-4Q 2026
utility invoices.
Ehlers noted snowbirds may be addressed by the base rate, with metered based on actual
usage.
Ehlers cautioned Council on considering reducing rates, as we are solid on funding and
recommend keeping revenue stable.

9b. Discussion and possible action on lift station turnover Charley Lake Condominium
Association
•

•
•

•

•

Kress noted that at some point the private lift station currently owned by Charley Lake
Condominium Association will need to be connected to the public system. He proposed
that this discussion continues with Staff, Attorney and Mayor to review and come to
agreement to turn this over to the City via negotiations. If the system fails it could
damage other public systems. The City now has public works staff to manage and service
the system vs. a private association group.
Azman believes it is a good idea to take it over and asked about condition of system and
whether needs an escrow.
Kress noted it works, but the panel is old and outdated. He feels that they can work with
the association on it. He stated at one time it was slated to be removed as part of that
corridor with 3 lift stations in a short section. When consolidated into one it could last a
long time.
Kress also noted there are some other lift stations on the Shoreview side which are
remnants and not fully owned by anyone, but the City has to maintain. The Mattamy
project at Charley Lake Preserve has a lift station on someone property, when their
company went out.
All lift stations are already on our current Scada monitoring system and can be
monitored.

Page |5

16

Minutes of the City Council Meeting
•

•

•

May 14, 2026

Jim Clapper, member of Charley Lake Board, there are 19 units and 57 homes connected
into this system. They’ve been maintaining it fairly well over time. They’ve been paying
escrow since 2018, then stated they were not going to pay it anymore, since they were
responsible for maintaining themselves. They’ve managed it themselves. They charge the
residents directly based on their own fee schedule. He feels they can get the proposal
ready for June meeting.
Kress also noted it was recommended to keep the existing well at Charley Lake
Condominium area instead of collapse in case needed for any future needs. The
Department of Health took the pipe out of the well to decommission it. It was advised no
to fit it, but to just put a temporary cap on it at rate of $125 per year. There’s been interest
by Shoreview and North Oaks Company in using it for possible future projects.
Clapper stated that the well is 363 feet deep, 750 gallons per minute with 60 horsepower
pump. He thought it was designed for a few hundred homes.

10. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
•

•
•

Gaspard stated a resident North Oaks Naturalist is holding a seminar on Sat. 2 p.m. at 61
East Pleasant Lake Road on how to replace invasive species with native species. He sat in
on roads committee in which they reviewed the policy regarding roadsides and corners.
The policy would preserve legacy trees and will be going to NOHOA board. Kress noted
that the governing documents clearly state NOHOA has the authority to clear roadsides in
the easements. For the City to clear roadsides, City would need to use an abatement
process which could be extensive and long process, and more designed to unsightly
houses and severely dilapidated homes. Wolter noted that 16 feet high clearing is
recommended by the fire department because once the leaves are on, the branches pull
lower. Hale noted they discussed leaving legacy trees even within 5 feet of road. Mayor
Wolter noted that all agrees that it is important and reasonable to leave those legacy trees.
Azman nothing to report. Fire Department and Planning Commission meetings are going
well.
Wolter noted at the RCSO meeting this week talked about NOHOA land and fishing,
working together to allow Sheriff’s office on trails to monitor issues. NOHOA to send
confirmation of support of this. City getting lots of calls on road construction – residents
are asked to call NOHOA and or NOHOA engineer Lee Elfering about road project. The
articles in the Star Tribune regarding the Met Council and sewer, had inaccuracies. North
Oaks never asked for any State funds. The request presented was only to allow option to
connect to Met Council sewer lines, even though our property deeds and covenants do
not allow the 3:1 density.

11. CITY ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS
•
•

Administrator Kress noted that NOHOA has a resolution regarding trails for policing.
Next Friday is Stephanie Marty’s 25th anniversary and recognizes her longevity,
commitment to the City and long standing history of our Community.

Page |6

17

Minutes of the City Council Meeting
•
•
•

•

May 14, 2026

The City seedling giveway will continue at West rec tomorrow 10 – 4 p.m. The womens
guild donation drop office is Saturday 8 – 2 pm at West Rec, and the City Brush pick up
takes place on 5/27 (residents to sign up by 5/22).
Kress mentioned the July Council meeting will include Mike Bradley from Ninenorth,
water/sewer rate study, ordinances, lift station.
Hale mentioned that he’s been working with the Company to install meter pits by
October. Waiting on easement information. He has identified recommendations for 3 new
interactive 3 speed signs in consultation with deputies: West Rec, by Golf course and
East Oaks.
Hale mentioned he may bring back request to get speed studies by putting out speed
tubes, and they may collect data around the proposed sign locations to get good data
around this. In the article, there was statement made that septic systems are
environmentally safer than city sewer systems. Septic system separate waste and effluent
go out to ground, filters and then goes to ground. The ask to the Met Council is an
environmental ask. They have land use restrictions, but we are asking for permission to
move to a more environmentally friendly manner. We have an issue here that we need
their help to address. He will put an article in the next issue of North Oaks news which
describes this process, what an average septic system cost, the impact to residents, along
with tree loss.

12. CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS
•

Attorney Nason no report. There is no active litigation involving North Oaks at this time.

13. MISCELLANEOUS
13a. City Forester Report
• April report included in meeting packet.
14. ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the City Council will be June 11, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
MOTION by Gaspard, seconded by Azman, to adjourn meeting at 8:40 p.m. Motion
carried unanimously.
____________________________
Kevin Kress, City Administrator

_____________________________
Krista Wolter, Mayor

Date approved___________

Page |7

18

5/11/2026

City of North Oaks
Utility Rate Study
May 14, 2026

1

Overview
Purpose & Approach of the Study
Findings
Water and Sewer Funds
•

Goals & Assumptions

•

Capital Projects

•

Rate Structures

•

Projections

Impact Analysis
2

2

1
19

5/11/2026

Purpose of the Study
Review the current rate structure for all funds
•

Unified rates for all North Oaks rate payers

•

Water Fund
 Usage tiers promote conservation
 Base charges cover fixed costs
 Maintain appropriate fund balances
 Plan for future capital projects

•

Sewer Fund
 Base charges cover fixed costs
 Maintain appropriate fund balances
 Plan for future capital projects
3

3

Purpose of the Study
Parameters
•

Assure funds pay for
 Capital Outlay
 Operations
 Annual debt service (if applicable)

•

Provide sufficient cash reserves for
 Six months of operating expenses (excluding depreciation)
 Next years’ annual debt service (if applicable)

4

4

2
20

5/11/2026

Approach to Study – Impact Analysis

Residents/Business

Fund

Administration/Staff

5

5

Findings
• Funds are in good shape
 Expect additional capital and operational costs in the future

• City has separate rates for Shoreview and White Bear Township
customers
• Base rates pay for more than fixed costs of the system
 Both water and sewer rates

• No bonding recommended at this time

6

6

3
21

5/11/2026

Goals
Rate Structure Design
•

•

Equity / Fairness


Evaluate who is using system and when



Design cohesive water and sewer rates for all North Oaks
rate payers

Sufficient Revenues


Pay for future operating and capital

•

Base Fee covers fixed costs

•

Promote conservation

•

Ease of Administration

•

Understood by Rate Payers
7

7

Assumptions
• Utilized 4 quarters of usage data
 Shoreview: 1st Qtr 2025 – 4th Qtr 2025
 White Bear Township: 2nd Qtr 2025 – 1st Qtr 2026

• Future Projections
 3% on Expenses
 2% on Other Revenues

• No Capital Project costs at this time
• No Growth factored in at this time
8

8

4
22

5/11/2026

Water Fund – Current Rate Structures
Shoreview
Take Away
1. Fixed Rate
•

Appears high

2. Tiered Rates
•

Residential tier breaks appear
too close for quarterly billing

•

Top tier rate very high

•

Commercial tiers not applicable

•

Tiers not recommended for
irrigation
•

Not considered essential
usage

9

9

Water Fund – Current Rate Structures
White Bear Township
Take Away
1. Fixed Rate
•

Appears high

2. Tiered Rates
•

Tier breaks appear too close for
quarterly billing

•

Large jump in rate for 4th tier

10

10

5
23

5/11/2026

Water Fund – Fixed Costs
2026 Budget Fixed Costs = $172,056

Take Away

Fixed Charge Options
Existing Charges
Fixed Rate
Water Availability - SV
Maintenance Fee - SV
Water Availability - WBT
Maintenance Fee - WBT

2026
Quarterly

$

48.00
47.00
48.00
47.00

1. Fixed Rate

Number of
Units/Meters

88
88
496
496

Annual
Revenue

$

16,896
16,544
95,232
93,248

Grand Total

% of Fixed
Costs

•

2. Meter Charge
•
$

221,920

129.0%

Fixed Rate
Base Fee

Quarterly
Charge
$

72.41
100% TOTAL FIXED AND METER COSTS - WATER FUND

Number of
Meters
594
594

Total Fixed
Costs
$

172,056

Annual
Revenue
$

172,046

$

172,046

Single rate for all
users

3. Recommended Rate
•

% of Fixed
Costs

means everyone
pays for fixed cost
of system,
regardless of usage

100%

4. All Meters Charged
• Even if more than 1
per account

OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100% of Fixed Costs
RATE STRUCTURE OPTIONS

Currently pays for
129% of actual
costs

11

11

Residential Water Usage - Winter
Take Away
1.

1st Quarter usage for
Shoreview and White Bear
Township

2.

Adjust 1st Tier
•

20,000 gallons = 88%

•

Winter usage = indoor usage

•

Considered essential usage

•

Most affordable

12

12

6
24

5/ 11/ 2026

Residential Water Usage - Summer
Take Away
1.

2.

•

3rd Quarter Usage for
Shoreview and White
Bear Township
3-Tiered Rate Structure
•

1st Tier: 20,000 – 52%

•

2nd Tier: 90,000 – 90%

•

3rd Tier: Over 90,000 –
Top 10%

Promotes Conservation

13

13

Commercial Water Usage
Take Away
1.

3rd Quarter usage for
Shoreview and White Bear
Township

2.

19 total accounts

3.

2 Tiers recommended
•

•

Tier 1: 90,000 gal.
•

50% of usage

•

Small businesses

Tier 2: Over 90,000 gal.
•

Larger users

14

14

7
25

5/11/2026

Irrigation Water Usage
Take Away
1.

3rd Quarter usage for
Shoreview and White
Bear Township

2.

No Tiers recommended


3.

Usage not considered
essential

Promotes conservation


Bills at a higher rate

15

15

Proposed Water Rate Option
Take Away
1.

Single rate structure for all North
Oaks Rate Payers

OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100% of Fixed Costs
Fixed Rate
1

2.

Rates designed to meet revenue
requirements



3.

Base Fee covers 100% of
fixed costs
Consumption charges cover
100% of variable costs

Tiered Rate Structures tailored to
actual usage patterns


By Customer Type



Promotes conservation

Residential

4
5
6

Commercial

7

Irrigation

8

Annual
Revenues

Proposed Rates

Base Fee

$

Consumption Charge
2
3

Number of
Meters / Accts.

Tier 1
Tier 2

Proposed Tiers (1,000 Gallons)
to
20,000 #
20,000
to
90,000 #

50%

Tier 3

Over

90,000 #

50%

to
Over

90,000 #
90,000 #

to

999,999 #

Tier 1
Tier 2

-

Tier 1

-

TOTAL PROJECTED ANNUAL REVENUES

$

72.41

594

$

172,046

3.94
5.91

547
279

$

107,579
105,472

8.87

55

$

5.91
8.87

20
11

$

28,288
65,811

$

7.85

29

$

162,564

$

664,777

50%

23,017

Note: Rate Structure has a 1.1% buffer included

16

16

8
26

5/11/2026

Who Uses v. Who Pays
Take Away
1.

Rates designed based on who is
using the system by customer type

2.

Final “test” for rate design

3.

Previous rates were close

4.

Recommendations:


Residential: Increase slightly



Commercial: Decrease slightly



Irrigation: Decrease slightly

17

17

Water Fund
Take Away
1.

Cash balance should at
least Targeted Working
Capital

2.

No rate increases currently
recommended

3.

No capital projects
currently included


Likely to change over
next couple of years

Target working capital = 6 months of operating expenses, excluding depreciation +
next year’s debt service
18

18

9
27

5/11/2026

Sewer Fund – Current Rate Structures
SEWER FUND

Take Away

2. Fixed Rate
•

Existing 2025
Rate

Current Quarterly Rate Structure

1. Includes both Shoreview and
White Bear Township rates
Includes minimum usage for WBT
residential customers

3. Usage Rates
•

White Bear Township rate very
high for Commercial

•

Shoreview pays flat rate,
regardless of usage

1
2
3
4
5
6

Base Charge
White Bear Township - Flat Fee (5,000 min)
White Bear Township - Commercial Flat Fee
White Bear Township - Escrow/Maintenance
Shoreview - Escrow/Maintenance

7
8
9
10
11

Consumption Charge
Residential
Commercial

White Bear Township > 5,000 gal
Shoreview - Sewer Only
White Bear Township - All Usage
Shoreview - All Usage

$

41.00
36.75
33.50
33.50

$

6.21
81.00
15.93
3.50

19

19

Sewer Fund – Fixed Costs
2026 Budgeted Fixed Costs = $134,188
Fixed Charge Options

Existing Charges

2026
Quarterly Rate

White Bear Township - Incl. 5,000 gal.
$
White Bear Township - Commercial Flat Fee
White Bear Township - Escrow/Maintenance
Shoreview - Escrow/Maintenance

Base Charge Options

41.00
36.75
33.50
33.50

2026
Quarterly Rate

Number of Customer Accounts
Billing Frequency (Times per year)
Number of Bills (Line 2 x Line 3)

669
4
2,676

Total Fixed Costs

$

134,188

Cost per Bill (Line 6 / Line 4)

$

50.14

Take Away

No. of
Accounts
401
9
410
259

Annual
Revenue
$

65,764
1,323
54,940
34,706

Total
Revenue

% of Fixed
Costs

1. Fixed Rate
•

Currently pays for
108.7% of actual
costs

2. Meter Charge
$

156,733

116.8%

•

Single rate for all
users

3. Recommended Rate
•

means everyone
pays for fixed cost of
system, regardless of
usage

4. No minimum usage
included

20

20

10
28

5/11/2026

Proposed Sewer Rate Option
Take Away
1.

Single rate structure for all North
Oaks Rate Payers

2.

“Winter Average” for residential
customers

PROPOSED: 2026 Sewer Rate Structure Options

Rates designed to meet revenue
requirements

1
2

3.

4.



Base Fee covers 100% of
fixed costs



Consumption charges cover
100% of variable costs

Base Charge
All Users
Sewer Only

Usage per 1,000
Gallons

Number of
Units

Annual
Revenues

Proposed Rate
$

50.14
84.00

669
174

15,000 / unit

$

134,175
58,464

Consumption Charge
3
4

Residential
Commercial

5.60
5.60

5

TOTAL PROJECTED ANNUAL REVENUES

23,961
14,939
14,939

134,183
83,660
$

410,482

Note: Rate Structure has a 0.7% buffer included

Sewer Only Customers


Fixed Costs + 15,000 gallons
usage
21

21

Sewer Fund
Take Away

Target working capital = 6 months of operating expenses, excluding depreciation +
next year’s debt service

1.

Cash balance should at
least Targeted Working
Capital

2.

Includes $210k in bond
proceeds in 2025

3.

No rate increases
recommended

4.

No capital projects
currently included


Likely to change over
next couple of years
22

22

11
29

5/11/2026

Impact Analysis – Shoreview Residential
RESIDENTIAL ACCOUNTS

Based on Quartile system
•

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

Shoreview

Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

Low

Median

High

Sewer Only

25% Quartile
26,525
11,000

50% Quartile
37,033
14,640

75% Quartile
49,723
19,270

-N/A
N/A

Existing 2026 Rates and Structure

Take Away
1. Water charges decrease as +30k
usage no longer charged $9.48/gal.

Total Water

2. Sewer charges now based on winter
average usage instead of flat fee

Total Water & Sewer

3. Sewer Only accounts based on average
usage of 15k gal./quarter

$

223.88

Total Sewer

$

310.57

114.50
$

$

430.87

114.50

338.38

$

425.07

$

-

114.50
$

545.37

114.50
$

114.50

2026 OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100%
of Fixed Costs
Total Water

$

189.77

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer
$ Increase/(Decrease)

$

251.88

111.74

$

326.87

132.12

$

-

158.05

134.14

$

301.51

$

384.00

$

484.92

$

134.14

$

(36.87)

$

(41.07)

$

(60.45)

$

19.64
23

23

Impact Analysis – White Bear Township Res.
Based on Quartile system
•

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

RESIDENTIAL ACCOUNTS
White Bear Township

Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

Low

Median

High

Sewer Only

25% Quartile
6,722
6,022

50% Quartile
12,379
10,220

75% Quartile
26,959
15,305

-N/A
N/A

Existing 2026 Rates and Structure

Take Away
1. Bottom quartile sees reductions as
base charges are reduced to match fixed
costs

Total Water

Total Water & Sewer

2. Top 90% quartile will see increases due
to conservation
3. Sewer Only accounts based on average
usage of 15k gal/quarter

$

Total Sewer

113.01

$

80.85
$

193.86

128.79

$

106.92
$

235.71

178.83

$

138.49
$

317.32

103.50

$

103.50

2026 OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100%
of Fixed Costs
Total Water

$

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer
$ Increase/(Decrease)

98.89

$

83.86

121.18

$

107.37

192.34

$

135.85

134.14

$

182.75

$

228.55

$

328.19

$

134.14

$

(11.11)

$

(7.16)

$

10.87

$

30.64
24

24

12
30

5/ 11/ 2026

Impact Analysis - Commercial
Based on Quartile system

COMMERCIAL ACCOUNTS
Shoreview

Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

White Bear Township

•

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

Low

Median

High

Low

Median

High

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

25% Quartile
12,898
12,898

50% Quartile
35,743
35,743

75% Quartile
282,918
282,918

25% Quartile
129,764
129,764

50% Quartile
146,937
146,937

75% Quartile
255,307
255,307

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

Take Away

Existing 2026 Rates and Structure

1. Water Rates
$

Total Water

148.66

$

78.64

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer

$

227.30

243.69

$

158.60
$

402.29

1,644.61

$

1,023.71
$

2,668.32

890.75

$

2,137.39
$

3,028.14

1,010.96

$

1,769.55

2,410.96
$

3,421.92

 Burden shifts from lower to
higher users

4,137.29
$

5,906.84

2. Sewer Rates
2026 OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100% of Fixed Costs

$

Total Water

148.64

$

122.37

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer
$ Increase/(Decrease)

283.65

$

250.30

2,315.49

$

957.02

1,634.48

$

1,109.34

776.82

$

872.99

2,070.58
1,479.86

$

288.45

$

533.95

$

3,949.97

$

1,733.84

$

1,982.33

$

3,550.44

$

61.15

$

131.66

$

1,281.65

$

(1,294.30)

$

(1,439.59)

$

(2,356.40)

 Shoreview can expect increases
overall due to increased base
fees
 White Bear Township will see
decreases due to lower sewer
consumption rate
25

25

Impact Analysis – Irrigation
Based on Quartile system

IRRIGATION ACCOUNTS

•

Shoreview

White Bear
Township

75% Quartile
196,810
N/A

75% Quartile
229,027
N/A

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

Existing 2026 Rates and
Structure

Take Away
1. No tiering recommended
 Usage not considered essential
2. Shoreview accounts will see
increases due to higher rates
3. White Bear Township accounts will
see smaller increases since existing
rates are closer to recommended

Total Water

$

982.87

$

1,732.54

$

982.87

$

1,732.54

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer

2026 OPTION #1
(Recommended): Fixed Rate
Covers 100% of Fixed Costs
Total Water

$

1,617.37

$

1,870.27

$

1,617.37

$

1,870.27

$

634.50

$

137.73

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer
$ Increase/(Decrease)

26

26

13
31

5/ 11/ 2026

Conclusion
• New Rate Structure
 Promotes conservation
 Unified rate across all North Oaks rate payers
 Balances who uses and who pays for the system
 Balances between fixed and variable costs of the system

• Funds are healthy
 Sets the stage for future capital projects

27

27

Q

A
&
28

28

14
32

5/11/2026

Important Disclosures
Ehlers is the joint marketing name of the following affiliated businesses (collectively, the “Affiliates”): Ehlers & Associates, Inc.
(“EA”), a municipal advisor registered with the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (“MSRB”) and the Securities and Exchange
Commission (“SEC”); Ehlers Investment Partners, LLC (“EIP”), an SEC registered investment adviser; and Bond Trust Services
Corporation (“BTS”), a holder of a limited banking charter issued by the State of Minnesota.
Where an activity requires registration as a municipal advisor pursuant to Section 15B of the Exchange Act of 1934 (Financial
Management Planning and Debt Issuance & Management), such activity is or will be performed by EA; where an activity requires
registration as an investment adviser pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (Investments and Treasury Management),
such activity is or will be performed by EIP; and where an activity requires licensing as a bank pursuant to applicable state law
(paying agent services shown under Debt Issuance & Management), such activity is or will be performed by BTS. Activities not
requiring registration may be performed by any Affiliate.
This communication does not constitute an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any investment (including without
limitation, any municipal financial product, municipal security, or other security) or agreement with respect to any investment
strategy or program. This communication is offered without charge to clients, friends, and prospective clients of the Affiliates as a
source of general information about the services Ehlers provides. This communication is neither advice nor a recommendation by
any Affiliate to any person with respect to any municipal financial product, municipal security, or other security, as such terms are
defined pursuant to Section 15B of the Exchange Act of 1934 and rules of the MSRB. This communication does not constitute
investment advice by any Affiliate that purports to meet the objectives or needs of any person pursuant to the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940 or applicable state law.

29

29

15
33

CITY OF NORTH OAKS
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 1595
RESOLUTION EXERCISING THE CITY’S AUTHORITY TO OPTIN TO, AND SUPPORT, THE RAMSEY COUNTY ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (“EDA”)
WHEREAS, the Commissioners of Ramsey County (“County”) and the North Oaks City Council (“City”)
consider small businesses to be the backbone of stability and growth for their respective local government
and municipality; and
WHEREAS, the County and the City also consider continued investment in small businesses as critical
for sustaining stability and growth in their respective local government and municipality; and
WHEREAS, the County sought special legislation from the State Legislature that expanded the eligible
uses of the County’s Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA); and
WHEREAS, the special legislation, often referred to as the EDA Bill (Bill), expanded the use of HRA
Levy funding to include entrepreneurship and business programming and necessitated the creation of the
Ramsey County Economic Development Authority (EDA); and
WHEREAS, the EDA Bill was approved by the Legislature in 2025; and
WHEREAS, the EDA Bill contained two provisions, (1) the EDA would not have tax levy authority and
(2) Cities within the County’s HRA Area of Operation would be required to ‘Opt In’ to business
programming by the EDA; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to state statute, projects funded with HRA levy will continue to require consent by
the City; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Ramsey County Board of Commissioners Resolution B2025-229 dated
December 2, 2025, and to filing with the Secretary of State a Certificate of Approval of Special Law By
Governing Body (pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, 645.02 and 645.021) December 16, 2025, as Document
No. 20254239, the County has legally established an EDA through which the above-referenced funds and
programs supporting small business in the City may flow; and
WHEREAS, the City supports the County in promoting growth and sustainability for small businesses
within its jurisdiction and therefore supports, and wishes to avail itself to, funding and programs made
available by the County’s EDA and deems it a positive mechanism for doing so; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City affirmatively “Opts-In” as a participant in the
County’s EDA Area of Operation, and supports the County in its EDA use, funding and programs
established, and

34

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City commits to the collaboration with the County and the
processes necessary for implementing the County’s EDA programs as an integral part and shared goal of
supporting and sustaining entrepreneurs and local small businesses.

Adopted this 11th day of June 2026 by the City Council of North Oaks, MN

Krista Wolter, Mayor
ATTEST:

Kevin Kress, City Administrator

35

36

Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office
Public Safety Report: North Oaks
MAY 2026
Deputy Craig Lydon
651-755-8089 [email protected]
CALLS FOR SERVICE: 161
•
•
•

41 MEDICAL CALLS
7 FIRE CALLS
5 TRAFFIC STOPS
o 5 ACCIDENTS

NOTABLE CALLS:
•

•

•

VIOLATION OF AN ORDER FOR PROTECTION– CN# 26026019815 On 05/05/2026 at
approximately 2109 hours at 54 EAST OAKS RD deputies responded on report of a
violation of a protection order. Deputies discovered that a Temporary Protection Order
had been issued by the court but that the Respondent had not yet been served.
Deputies searched the area and located the party and served them with the restraining
order.
DUI – 05/16/2026 CN# 26021802 in the area of RED BARN RD / W PLEASANT LAKE RD at
approximately 0142 hours deputies responded to the report of a single vehicle accident
where the vehicle had rolled over. Deputies made contact with the driver who said they
were falling asleep behind the wheel and had been drinking but that they were
uninjured. The driver was determined to be under the influence at the scene of the
crash and was arrested for DUI.
RECOVERED PROPERTY – CN# 26024769 05/31/2026 At approximately 1857 hours
Deputies received a FLOCK ALERT of a stolen vehicle entering North Oaks. Deputies
checked the area of HAY CAMP RD / NORD CIRCLE RD and located the vehicle a short
time later. Deputies came up with a plan and conducted a high risk stop of the vehicle as
it tried to leave an address. Three adults were arrested (SOUA VANG 30 year old male,
MAO YANG 38 year old female, and THAO YANG 33 year old male) , and the vehicle was
recovered.

37

ALPR Program Outcomes Summary
As of June 2, 2026, the Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) program has contributed to
significant public safety outcomes and continues to serve as a valuable tool in supporting
law enforcement operations and criminal investigations.
During the reporting period, 74 documented ALPR-related incidents resulted in a wide
range of successful outcomes. Of those cases, 41 (55%) were cleared by arrest, while an
additional 17 (23%) were cleared through other investigative means. In total, ALPR alerts
contributed to 59 arrests and generated numerous investigative leads that assisted officers
in solving crimes and identifying suspects.
One of the program's most notable impacts has been the recovery of stolen vehicles and
property. Officers recovered 29 stolen or wanted vehicles through ALPR-related
investigations, helping return property to victims and prevent further criminal activity.
These investigations also resulted in the recovery or protection of more than $176,000 in
stolen or associated property.
ALPR alerts were associated with investigations involving motor vehicle theft, stolen
property, robbery, fraud, assault, fleeing law enforcement, and warrant apprehensions. In
addition to vehicle recoveries and arrests, officers documented a narcotics seizure
involving methamphetamine and used ALPR-generated information to identify suspects
and advance ongoing criminal investigations.
The results demonstrate that ALPR technology is more than a vehicle recovery tool. By
providing real-time information to officers in the field, the system helps identify criminal
activity, generate investigative leads, recover stolen property, and improve overall public
safety. The combination of 59 arrests, 29 vehicle recoveries, substantial property recovery,
and numerous investigative successes highlights the program's continued effectiveness as
a force multiplier for law enforcement and a valuable resource for the community.
Matt
Matt Marson | Sergeant,
Assistant R.A.C.
Records Management/Patrol
Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office
Public Safety Services
1411 Paul Kirkwold Dr. Arden Hills MN
55112
Mobile: 651-248-2457
www.RamseyCountySheriff.us

38

Minnesota’s First Broadband Franchise

➢ Additional information and links can be found here.
39

Benefits to City and Residents
➢ Nonexclusive Franchise.
➢ Broadband Franchise.
➢ Compliance with City Code.
➢ Equal Access to Broadband.
➢ Open Access Service Provider
Franchise Requirement.
➢ 15-Year Term.
➢ Reasonable Buildout of the City.
➢ Annual Meetings.

40

More Benefits to City and Residents
➢ Transfer of Ownership.
➢ System Quality and
Performance.
➢ Reporting Requirements.
➢ Customer Service.
➢ Disabled and Senior Discount.
➢ Consideration.
➢ Security, Indemnification, and
Insurance.
➢ Liquidated Damages.
41

Franchising 101
➢ Franchise Basics
• In simple terms, a franchise is an
authorization from a local government
entity to a company to use the public
rights-of-way to provide services to
area residents.

➢ Franchising > Permitting
• The benefits in the first broadband
franchise are far superior to permitting.
• See Summary here.

42

Reassessing Broadband
➢ Fresh Look at Broadband Franchising
➢ Ohio Telecom Ass'n v. FCC (In re MCP No.
185), 124 F.4th 993 (6th Cir. 2025).
• Broadband is not a Telecommunications
Service – Under Federal Law
• Post Loper Bright decision
➢ Charter v. Lange, 903 F.3d 715 (8th Cir. 2018);
Vonage v. MN-PUC, 290 F.Supp.2d 993 (D. Minn.
2003), aff’d on other grounds, 394 F.3d 568 (8th
Cir. 2004)
•

“Minnesota may not regulate an information service provider
such as Vonage as if it were a telecommunications provider”

➢ Reevaluate State Law Applicable to Broadband
• Cable Communications System
• Telecommunications ROW User
43

Decision Making on Franchising
➢ Review City Charter Authority (if applicable)
• May provide additional broad authority to
franchise in addition to statutory authority
➢ Review State Statutory Authority
• Cable Communications System v.
Telecommunications ROW User
➢ Review Benefits and Risks with
Management

➢ Refer Franchising to Cable Communications
Commission (if applicable)

44

Common Broadband Franchise Questions
➢ What if our city already started issuing permits?
• Explain the new law
• Next Construction Season Every BB
company will need a franchise
➢ What about
Comcast/Charter/Mediacom/Midco?
➢ What about Lumen?
➢ What about Forged Fiber 37, LLC?
• Purchased Lumen’s Quantum Fiber - mass
markets fiber assets

This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA-NC

45

City of North Oaks
Utility Rate Study
May 14, 2026

46

Summary of May Meeting
The picture can't be display ed.

The picture can't be display ed.

New Rate Structure

Funds are healthy

Promotes conservation

Sets the stage for future capital projects

Unified rate across all North Oaks rate
payers
Balances who uses and who pays for the
system
Balances between fixed and variable costs
of the system
2

47

Proposed Water Rate Option
Take Away
1.

Single rate structure for all North
Oaks Rate Payers

OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100% of Fixed Costs

2.

Rates designed to meet revenue
requirements



3.

Base Fee covers 100% of
fixed costs
Consumption charges cover
100% of variable costs

Tiered Rate Structures tailored to
actual usage patterns


By Customer Type



Promotes conservation

Base Fee

$

Consumption Charge
2
3

Residential

4

Annual
Revenues

Proposed Rates

Fixed Rate
1

Number of
Meters / Accts.

72.41

594

$

172,046

$

107,579
105,472

Tier 1
Tier 2

Proposed Tiers (1,000 Gallons)
to
20,000 #
20,000
to
90,000 #

50%

3.94
5.91

547
279

Tier 3

Over

90,000 #

50%

8.87

55

to
Over

90,000 #
90,000 #

$

5.91
8.87

20
11

$

50%

28,288
65,811

to

999,999 #

$

7.85

29

$

162,564

$

664,777

5
6

Commercial

7

Irrigation

8

TOTAL PROJECTED ANNUAL REVENUES

Tier 1
Tier 2

-

Tier 1

-

$

23,017

Note: Rate Structure has a 1.1% buffer included

3

48

Proposed Sewer Rate Option
Take Away

PROPOSED: 2026 Sewer Rate Structure Options
Base Charge
1
2

All Users
Sewer Only

Usage per 1,000
Gallons

Number of
Units

Annual
Revenues

1.

Single rate structure for all North
Oaks Rate Payers

2.

“Winter Average” for residential
customers

3.

Rates designed to meet revenue
requirements

Proposed Rate
$

50.14
84.00

15,000 / unit

669
174

$

134,175
58,464

Consumption Charge
3
4

Residential
Commercial

5.60
5.60

5

TOTAL PROJECTED ANNUAL REVENUES

23,961
14,939
14,939

134,183
83,660
$

410,482



Base Fee covers 100% of
fixed costs



Consumption charges cover
100% of variable costs

Note: Rate Structure has a 0.7% buffer included

4.

Sewer Only Customers


Fixed Costs + 15,000 gallons
usage
4

49

Goals
•

Council Feedback
 General support for new rate structures
 Include projected CIP projects into long-term analysis

•

Next Steps
 Discuss / Approve new rates for 2nd quarter 2026 bills
 Recommend a 1-year look back
 Continue conversations with NOHOA on street and
capital projects

5

50

2027:
$25,500 Hydrant Painting

Placeholders
• $25,000 in 2027 & 2032
• Allows for unexpected costs

Sewer Fund

Water Fund

Capital Projects
2027:
$50k – Used Generator
$300k – Repair of 3 lift stations

2030:
$100k for repair of 4th lift station

2031:
$100k – Repair of 5th lift station

6

51

Other Factors
•

Additional Operating Expense
 $30k shared expense for On-Call wages in 2026
 $60k shared expense for 2027 & beyond
 121% increase in MCES charges for sewer in 2027

•

Lift Station Repairs
 Internal Loans between Water and Sewer Funds
 Pay yourself instead of bond holders
 Include interest rate to recoup lost investment income
 Requires interfund loan resolution approved by Council
7

52

Water Fund - Updated
Take Away
1.

No rate increases currently
recommended

2.

Includes known capital
projects


3.

Target working capital = 6 months of operating expenses, excluding depreciation +
next year’s debt service

Could change over next
couple of years

Includes Internal Loans to
Sewer Fund


$300k in 2027



$100k in 2030 & 2031

8

53

Sewer Fund - Updated
Take Away
1.

6.5% Rate increases
projected starting 2027


2.

Known capital projects
included


3.

$117,792 increase in
MCES charge

Likely to change over next
couple of years

Includes Internal Loans from
Water Fund


10-year term @ 3.5% each

Target working capital = 6 months of operating expenses, excluding depreciation +
next year’s debt service
9

54

Conclusion
•

Inclusion of Capital & Additional Operating Costs
 No effect on 2026 rates or proposed rate structures
 Recommend internal borrowing to pay for lift stations
 Funds projected to remain healthy

•

Next Steps
 Discussion / Approval of new rate structure for 2nd Quarter
2026
 Recommend 1-year look back
 Continue conversations with NOHOA on street and capital
projects

10

55

Q

A
&
11

56

Important Disclosures
Ehlers is the joint marketing name of the following affiliated businesses (collectively, the “Affiliates”): Ehlers & Associates, Inc.
(“EA”), a municipal advisor registered with the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board (“MSRB”) and the Securities and Exchange
Commission (“SEC”); Ehlers Investment Partners, LLC (“EIP”), an SEC registered investment adviser; and Bond Trust Services
Corporation (“BTS”), a holder of a limited banking charter issued by the State of Minnesota.
Where an activity requires registration as a municipal advisor pursuant to Section 15B of the Exchange Act of 1934 (Financial
Management Planning and Debt Issuance & Management), such activity is or will be performed by EA; where an activity requires
registration as an investment adviser pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (Investments and Treasury Management),
such activity is or will be performed by EIP; and where an activity requires licensing as a bank pursuant to applicable state law
(paying agent services shown under Debt Issuance & Management), such activity is or will be performed by BTS. Activities not
requiring registration may be performed by any Affiliate.
This communication does not constitute an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any investment (including without
limitation, any municipal financial product, municipal security, or other security) or agreement with respect to any investment
strategy or program. This communication is offered without charge to clients, friends, and prospective clients of the Affiliates as a
source of general information about the services Ehlers provides. This communication is neither advice nor a recommendation by
any Affiliate to any person with respect to any municipal financial product, municipal security, or other security, as such terms are
defined pursuant to Section 15B of the Exchange Act of 1934 and rules of the MSRB. This communication does not constitute
investment advice by any Affiliate that purports to meet the objectives or needs of any person pursuant to the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940 or applicable state law.

12

57

Impact Analysis – Shoreview Residential
RESIDENTIAL ACCOUNTS

Based on Quartile system
•

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

Shoreview

Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

Low

Median

High

Sewer Only

25% Quartile
26,525
11,000

50% Quartile
37,033
14,640

75% Quartile
49,723
19,270

-N/A
N/A

Existing 2026 Rates and Structure

Take Away
1. Water charges decrease as +30k
usage no longer charged $9.48/gal.

Total Water

2. Sewer charges now based on winter
average usage instead of flat fee

Total Water & Sewer

3. Sewer Only accounts based on average
usage of 15k gal./quarter

$

223.88

$

114.50

Total Sewer
$

338.38

310.57

$

114.50
$

425.07

430.87

$

114.50
$

545.37

114.50

$

114.50

2026 OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100%
of Fixed Costs
Total Water

$

$ Increase/(Decrease)

$

111.74

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer

189.77

251.88

$

132.12

326.87

$

158.05

134.14

$

301.51

$

384.00

$

484.92

$

134.14

$

(36.87)

$

(41.07)

$

(60.45)

$

19.64
13

58

Impact Analysis – White Bear Township Res.
Based on Quartile system
•

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

RESIDENTIAL ACCOUNTS
White Bear Township

Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

Low

Median

High

Sewer Only

25% Quartile
6,722
6,022

50% Quartile
12,379
10,220

75% Quartile
26,959
15,305

-N/A
N/A

Existing 2026 Rates and Structure

Take Away
1. Bottom quartile sees reductions as
base charges are reduced to match fixed
costs

Total Water

Total Water & Sewer

113.01

$

80.85

Total Sewer

2. Top 90% quartile will see increases due
to conservation
3. Sewer Only accounts based on average
usage of 15k gal/quarter

$

$

193.86

128.79

$

106.92
$

235.71

178.83

$

138.49
$

317.32

103.50

$

103.50

2026 OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100%
of Fixed Costs
Total Water

$

$ Increase/(Decrease)

$

83.86

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer

98.89

121.18

$

107.37

192.34

$

135.85

134.14

$

182.75

$

228.55

$

328.19

$

134.14

$

(11.11)

$

(7.16)

$

10.87

$

30.64
14

59

Impact Analysis - Commercial
Based on Quartile system

COMMERCIAL ACCOUNTS
Shoreview

Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

White Bear Township

•

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

Low

Median

High

Low

Median

High

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

25% Quartile
12,898
12,898

50% Quartile
35,743
35,743

75% Quartile
282,918
282,918

25% Quartile
129,764
129,764

50% Quartile
146,937
146,937

75% Quartile
255,307
255,307

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

Take Away

Existing 2026 Rates and Structure

1. Water Rates
Total Water

$

$

78.64

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer

148.66

$

227.30

243.69

$

158.60
$

402.29

1,644.61

$

1,023.71
$

2,668.32

890.75

$

2,137.39
$

3,028.14

1,010.96

$

1,769.55

2,410.96
$

3,421.92

4,137.29
$

5,906.84

 Burden shifts from lower to
higher users
2. Sewer Rates

2026 OPTION #1 (Recommended): Fixed Rate Covers 100% of Fixed Costs

Total Water

$

$ Increase/(Decrease)

$

122.37

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer

148.64

283.65

$

250.30

2,315.49

$

1,634.48

957.02

$

776.82

1,109.34

$

872.99

2,070.58
1,479.86

$

288.45

$

533.95

$

3,949.97

$

1,733.84

$

1,982.33

$

3,550.44

$

61.15

$

131.66

$

1,281.65

$

(1,294.30)

$

(1,439.59)

$

(2,356.40)

 Shoreview can expect increases
overall due to increased base
fees
 White Bear Township will see
decreases due to lower sewer
consumption rate
15

60

Impact Analysis – Irrigation
Based on Quartile system
•

25% Quartile = bottom ¼ of usage

•

50% Quartile = midpoint of usage

•

75% Quartile = top ¼ of usage

IRRIGATION ACCOUNTS
Served By:
Type
Account Number
Sample 2025 Usage
Winter Average

 Usage not considered essential
2. Shoreview accounts will see
increases due to higher rates
3. White Bear Township accounts will
see smaller increases since existing
rates are closer to recommended

White Bear
Township

75% Quartile
196,810
N/A

75% Quartile
229,027
N/A

Existing 2026 Rates and
Structure

Take Away
1. No tiering recommended

Shoreview

Total Water

$

982.87

$

1,732.54

$

982.87

$

1,732.54

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer

2026 OPTION #1
(Recommended): Fixed Rate
Covers 100% of Fixed Costs
Total Water

$

1,617.37

$

1,870.27

$

1,617.37

$

1,870.27

$

634.50

$

137.73

Total Sewer
Total Water & Sewer
$ Increase/(Decrease)

16

61

CITY OF NORTH OAKS
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-158
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE XVI, 2026 FEE SCHEDULE FOR THE CITY OF NORTH OAKS
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH OAKS ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS:
Section One. Title XVI, Fee Schedule, is hereby amended as follows. New language is shown underlined below.

I.

Administrative

Dogs/Cats – Licenses

For length of rabies certificate

$0.00

Dog/Cat - Recovery Fee

$200 or actual cost from Companion
Animal Care Center (CACC)

Copying – General City Material

$0.25 per 8 ½ x 11 page; $0.50 large.
Add postage if mailing.

Color Maps (8.5 x 11)

$2.00

Color Maps (11 x 17)

$4.00

Street Maps

$2.00

As-Builts (11 x 17)
Room Rental—City Hall, Community
Room

Based on number of copies and
staff time
North Oaks community groups may use the
room free of charge.

Room Rental—City Hall, Small
Conference Room

$75 half day, $100 full day
$75 half day, $100 full day

Damage/Lost Key Fee

$100
Users are responsible for returning the room to
the condition they found it in or there will be
fee of $100 charged. If a key is lost or not
returned to City Hall within 2 days of the rental
date of the room, a fee of $100 will be charged.

Notary Fee

II.

No charge

Building Construction

Building Permits

Fees based on valuation of project; See
Appendix A to Chapter 155. Work
without permit fee = double per state
building code.

62

Building Permit Plan Review Fees

License Verification

A plan review fee shall be paid at the
time of building permit issuance. Said
plan review fee shall be 65% of the
building permit fee as established by
Appendix A to Chapter 155. The plan
review fee is a separate fee from the
building permit fees. When submittal
documents are deemed incomplete or
changed so as to require additional plan
review or when the project involves
deferred submittal items as defined in
MN Rules 1300, an additional plan
review fee shall be charged at the rate
shown above.

Per permit

Building, plumbing, mechanical
reinspection fee

$5 per permit.

$70.00

State Surcharge – Based on
Valuation

Fee based on 2018 State Statute
326B.148

State Surcharge – Fixed Fees

Fee based on State Statute
326B.148

Contractor License: General

License good through December 31 of current
calendar year.

$70

Contractor License: Mechanical

License good through December 31 of current
calendar year.

$70

Contractor License: Outside Sewer/Water License good through December 31 of current
calendar year.
Temporary and/or Conditional Certificate
of Occupancy

$100

Plumbing Permits

$25 temporary Certificate of Occupancy plus
$10,000 escrow. Escrow to be returned after
meeting conditions of temporary C/O. Any
fees incurred by City Staff and Consultants
will be deducted from the escrow.

Refer to permit

Electrical Permits
Electrical Fee Schedule incorporated into permit.

Mechanical Permits

Refer to permit

Fire Protection Permits

III.

Residential - Refer to permit. Commercial based on valuation. Refer to permit.

Fees shall be based according to State
Statute 326B.153 and are determined by
the City’s
Building Official

Liquor and Tobacco Licensing

On-Sale Liquor License
On-Sale Club Liquor License

License good for one year
License good for one year

$1,250.00
$650.00

63

On-Sale Wine Only License
Off-Sale Liquor License
Temporary 1 day liquor license
(excluded: North Oaks Community
events such as Farm Fest and
Summerfest)

License good for one year
License good for one year

Minor Consumption Violation with
Server Training

First Violation
Second Violation
Third Violation
Fourth Violation
First Violation
Second Violation
Third Violation
Fourth Violation

Minor Consumption Violation without
Server Training

Tobacco License

$250.00
$100.00
$100.00

$105.00
$525.00
$1,050.00
$1,575.00
$525.00
$1,050.00
$1,575.00
$2,100.00 and may be subject to
license revocation

License good for one year

$200

IV.
Planning and Zoning (Each separate land use request shall be charged a separate administrative fee and escrow even if
submitted on the same application. Costs expended in reviewing and processing an application will be charged against the cash
escrow and credited to the City. Charges to the escrow include planning and engineering staff time, City attorney and consulting fees,
and mailing costs. If, at any time, a required cash escrow is depleted to less than 20% of its original amount, the applicant shall
deposit additional funds in the cash escrow account as determined by the City. The escrow may be reduced or increased by the City
Planner on a project by project basis.)
Description:
Preliminary Plat
Final Plat
Lot Split/Minor Subdivision
Rezoning or Comprehensive Plan
Amendment
Variance
Adjustment
Conditional Use Permit
Administrative Approval (excess home
height & garage space)

Escrow Fees:
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee

Initial Application Fees:
$450
$1,000
$450 + $25 per each new lot created
$1,000
$450
$1,000
$350
$1,000
$450
$1,500
$450
$1,500
$450

Escrow
Planned Unit Development
Administrative Fee
Master Plan or Special Development Plan Escrow
Master Plan

$1,500
$450
$1,000

Final Planned Unit Development or Final Administrative Fee
Special Development
Escrow
Plan

$450
$1,000

Planned Unit Development
Amendment or Special Development
Plan Amendment

Administrative Fee
Escrow

$450
$1,000

Concept Review

Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee

$150
$1,000
$450

Site Plan Review

64

City Code Amendment
Zoning Code Amendment
Land Use Requests – Not
Already Specified
Appeal of Administrative Zoning, Sign,
or Subdivision Decisions

Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee
Escrow
Administrative Fee

$1,000
$450
$1,000
$450
$1,000
$150
$1,000
$150

Escrow

$1,000

V. Water, Sewer, and Septic Charges
Water: Residential
Water Permits – Hook-Up Fees

$4,450.00 per household

Water Inspection Charge

$80 per household

Base Fee
Water Usage Charge:

$72.41
Tier 1 - 20,000 gallons of water per unit

$3.94 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 2 - 20,000 - 90,000 gallons of water per
unit

$5.91 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 3 - Over 90,000 gallons of water per unit

$8.87 per 1,000 gallons
Based on meter size: Contact City Staff
for quote

Water Meter/Spacer Charges
Water: Commercial
Water Permits – Hook-Up Fees

$4,450.00 per household

Base Fee
Water Usage Charge:

$72.41
Tier 1 - up to 90,000 gallons of water per unit

$5.91 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 2 - Over 90,000 gallons of water per unit

$8.87 per 1,000 gallons

Irrigation
Water Usage Charge:

Tier 1 - Up to 999,999

$7.85 per gallons

Sewer
Sewer Access Charge

Set by Met Council Annually

$2,485 per SAC Unit

Sewer Inspection Charge

$80 per household

Local Sewer Access Charge

$600 per SAC Unit

Residential - Sewer only users

Base Rate $50.14 + Flat Consumption $84.00
(15,000 gallons @ $5.60 per 1,000 gallons)

$

134.14

65

Residential & Commercial- Sewer base
rate
Residential
Sewer Usage Charge
Commercial
Sewer Usage Charge

$
Based on Winter Quarter average water usage

50.14
$5.60 per 1,000 gallons
$5.60 per 1,000 gallons

Septic
SSTS Pumping Report

Submitted by Septic Pumper

$25

SSTS Install Application Type 1-3

$650

Tank Replacement

$350

SSTS Performance System (Type IV)

$875

SSTS New Septic - Renewal Fee

$170

VI.

Miscellaneous/Retail Activities

Charitable Gambling Permit – Per
Minnesota State Statute, Chapter 349

No charge + letter

Massage Therapy License
License good for one year
VII.
Rental Licenses
Rental License
License good for one year
VIII.
Arborist/Forestry and Shoreland Permits and Licenses
Arborist License
License good for one year
Emerald Ash Borer Inspection
Forestry Permit—Shoreland
Forestry—Residential Lot Evaluation
Shoreland Permit
IX.

$50
$100
$100
$75 per lot
$100
$75 per lot
$350

Signs

Initial Fee
X.
Miscellaneous Fees/Permits
Staff Research
Tobacco Sales, Illegal
Tobacco Sales, Illegal

Per Sign

First Offense
Second Offense within 24
months

Tobacco Sales, Illegal

Third Offense within 24 months

Tobacco Sales, Illegal

Fourth Offense within 24 months

$100.00
$53.00 per half hour
$150.00
$600.00
$1,050.00 and 7 business day
suspension or 30 day suspension of
license + admin fine of $250
Revocation of the license for a one year
period

Cannabis Retail Business

Initial registration fee-1 year $500;
Renewal registration fee 1-year $1,000

Lower-Potency Hemp Edible Retail
Business

Initial registration fee - 1 year $250;
Renewal registration fee - 1 year $125

Candidate Filing Fee
Insufficient Funds/Returned
Check Fee

$2.00
$35.00

66

Penalties for Late Payment
XI.

Failure to pay any penalty imposed shall be
grounds for the suspension or termination of

10% of license fee or $32.00, whichever
is greater

False Alarm Fees

False Alarm
False Alarm
False Alarm
XII. Recycling Fee

First three alarms
Fourth alarm
Fifth and each thereafter

Per Residential Parcel

Annual

No charge + letter
$150.00 per alarm
$175.00 per alarm
$195.00

Section Two. Effective Date. This Ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption and publication as provided
by law.
Passed in regular session of the City Council on the 11th day of June, 2026
CITY OF NORTH OAKS

By: ________________________________
Krista Wolter
Its: Mayor
Attested:

By: ________________________________
Kevin Kress
Its: City Administrator
(Published in the ___________________ on __________________, 2026)

67

CITY OF NORTH OAKS
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 1596
A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE PUBLICATION OF A SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE
NO. 2026-158, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CITY CODE TITLE XVI, 2026 FEE
SCHEDULE FOR THE CITY OF NORTH OAKS
WHEREAS, on June 11, 2026, the City Council of the City of North Oaks, Ramsey
County, Minnesota (“City”) adopted Ordinance No. 2026-158, an Ordinance Amending City Code
Titel XVI, 2026 Fee Schedule for the City of North Oaks; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Minn. Stat. Sec. 412.191, subd. 4, the Council may, by a 4/5ths
vote, direct that only the title and a summary of the ordinance be published; and
WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of North Oaks has reviewed the summary of
Ordinance No. 2026-158, which is attached hereto as Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of North Oaks has determined that publication
of the title and a summary of Ordinance No. 2026-158 would clearly inform the public of the intent
of the ordinance; and
WHEREAS, due to the length of Ordinance No. 2026-158 the City Council desires to
publish a summary of the Ordinance.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by a vote of at least 4/5ths of its members,
that the City Council of the City of North Oaks hereby:
1. Approves the text of the summary of Ordinance No. 2026-158, attached as
Exhibit A and authorizes the publication of the summary shown in Exhibit A
in lieu of publication of the entirety of Ordinance No. 2026-158 in the City’s
official newspaper.
2. Directs the City Clerk to ensure that a full and complete printed copy of
Ordinance No. 2026-158 is available for inspection during regular business
hours at the office of the North Oaks City Clerk, by standard mail, or by
electronic mail.
3. Directs the City Clerk to file the executed Ordinance No. 2026-158 upon the
books and records of the City along with proof of publication.
This resolution is passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of North Oaks,
Ramsey County, Minnesota this 11th day of June, 2026.

68

CITY OF NORTH OAKS

By:
Krista Wolter
Its: Mayor
Attested:

By:
Kevin Kress
Its: City Administrator/City Clerk

69

EXHIBIT A
SUMMARY PUBLICATION
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-158
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-158, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE XVI, 2026 FEE SCHEDULE
FOR THE CITY OF NORTH OAKS
On June 11, 2026, the City Council of the City of North Oaks (“City”) adopted Ordinance No.
2026-158, (“Ordinance”) an Ordinance Amending Title XVI, 2026 Fee Schedule for the City of North
Oaks.
The Ordinance amends the City’s existing fee schedule to amend various sewer and water related fees.
It is hereby determined that publication of this title and summary will clearly inform the public of
the intent and effect of Ordinance No. 2026-158 and it is directed that only the above title and
summary of Ordinance No. 2026-158 conforming to Minn. Stat. Sec. 331A.01 be published, with
the following:
NOTICE
A printed copy of the full text of Ordinance No. 2026-158 is available for public inspection by any
person during regular office hours at the office of the North Oaks City Clerk, 100 Village Center
Drive, # 230, North Oaks MN 55127, by standard mail, or by electronic mail, and at any other public
location which the Council designates.

70

May Month in Review
May 2026

•

•
•

•
•
•

Distributed the 1450 DNR seedlings to eager residents to plant in their yards. People
often comment that the tree they received a few years ago is thriving and they are
proud. We have provided anything involved with the tree seedling events (time,
materials, etc.) pro bono as our way of giving back to the community.
Coordinated brush pick up program. We had 35 residents participate.
We are working on removing the last of the 2025 private ash trees that have not yet
been removed. We have about 20 sites that we are working on that are not yet in
compliance. If necessary, we will contract for their removal as there has been no action
taken that would indicate they plan on removing.
We will begin our 2026 EAB inspections once all the 2025 ash trees have been
addressed.
Approved tree care vendors to be added to the arborist list.
Provided homeowner advice to residents with tree questions at 18 & 20 White Pine Rd,
77 EPLR, 3 Chipmunk Ln, 2 Osprey Ln, 4 Gadwell, 21 Raven Rd, 36 E Oaks Rd.

71