On the agenda: North Oaks meeting — Flock camera (Jan 15)

CITY OF NORTH OAKS
Regular City Council Meeting City Council Meeting
Thursday, January 15, 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: 840 8488 9169 or by joining the
meeting via the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84084889169.

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: A1 Tree & Stump Removal; Alex's Lawn and Turf, LLC; Arboreal Tree Care; Budget Tree Service,
Inc.; Cameron Tree Service Inc.; Langers Tree Service; Northland Landscape & Construction Inc.; Pioneer
Tree Service; Raml Tree Service, LLC; Renstrom Tree LLC; Tervo Tree and Landscaping; TLG Outdoor
Services LLC; Twin City Tree Authority; Vineland Tree Care; Woodchuck Tree Care; Woodland Restorations
Mechanical: Aquarius Home Services; Ares Holdings LLC DBA CMS/Nextech; Beyond Heating & Air;
Groff's Heating & Air Conditioning; Hearth & Home Technologies LLC dba Fireside Hearth & Home;
Krinkies Heating & Air Conditioning; Midwest Maintenance & Mechanical Inc;
General: Kraus-Anderson Construction Company
City Council January 15, 2026

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6b.

Approval of City Council Meeting minutes of 12.11.2025
12.11.2025 Council minutes Draft .pdf

6c.

Approval of City Financials
EFT: 001159 -001169, 1171e-1182 and Checks 016042 - 016087
Check Register Detail through December 31 2025.pdf
Check Register Detail January 2026.pdf
Budget Spreadsheets January 2026.pdf
Financial Charts January 2026.pdf

6d.

Approval of City Meeting Schedule
2026 CITY MEETING SCHEDULE.pdf

6e.

Approval of City Hall Holiday Schedule
2026 Holiday Schedule.pdf

7.

Petitions, Requests & Communications - Deputy Craig Lydon Report

7a.

Deputy Lydon Monthly Report
DEC 2025 Report.pdf

8.

Unfinished Business

8a.

Presentation and discussion on Quiet Railroad Zone

9.

New Business

9a.

Consider Planning Commission appointment Resolution 1588 followed by 2026 annual appointment
Resolution 1589
1588. Resolution PC Members appointments.pdf
1589. Annual apt resolution 2026.pdf

9b.

Public Hearing - Consider Ordinance 157 amending 2026 City Fee Schedule and Water and Sewer Rates
2026 Fee Schedule DRAFT.pdf

9c.

Public Hearing re: 4 Oriole Lane Diseased Tree Removal Assessment
4 Oriole Public Hearing Notice 12.31.2025.pdf
Memo to Council re 4 Oriole Diseased Tree Removal.pdf
Resolution Adopting Assmt Roll 4 Oriole.pdf

10.

Council Member Reports

11.

City Administrator Reports

12.

City Attorney Reports

13.

Miscellaneous

13a. Building Official 2025 Year-end Report
City Council January 15, 2026

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Building report Annual 2025 Summary.pdf
13b. City Septic Inspector Year-end 2025 Report
North Oaks Septic Inspector Annual Report 2025.pdf
13c. Flock Monthly Analytic Report
RCSO Flock Report December 2025.pdf
13d. City Forester December 2025 Report
December 2025 in Review.pdf

14.

Adjournment - The next meeting of the City Council is Thursday, February 12, 2026.

City Council January 15, 2026

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North Oaks City Council
Meeting Minutes
North Oaks City Council Chambers
December 11, 2025
1. CALL TO ORDER
Councilor Wolter called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
2. ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Krista Wolter, Councilors Sara Shah, Andrew Gaspard, Grover Sayre, Mark
Azman
Staff Present: Administrator Kevin Kress, Attorney Bridget Nason, and City Engineer Jupe Hale,
Public Works Director Corey Triemert (via zoom)
Others Present: NineNorth Videographer Kenny Ronnan
A quorum was declared present.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Wolter led the Council in the Pledge of Allegiance.
4. CITIZEN COMMENTS
•

Ilya Berchenko, 2 Island Road, presented a quick update on Flock. After 6 months with
Flock cameras in place, he is looking at the big-ticket items which is clearance rate as a
good measure of how the program is going. Back in 2024 there was a 35% clearance rate,
and within the first 6th months of the program the clearance rate is 71%. We are on a
good path, there were 17 cases, 12 successfully resolved, and 5 still under investigation.

5. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Administrator Kress mentioned there is an issue with the Planned Unit Development Agreement
(PDA) Amendment regarding the verbiage with Spring Farm driveway widths found this week,
and suggests the Council add it to the Council agenda under new business. They have noticed an
error in the 10th Amendment which xxxxxx 9d, and suggest possible action on an 11th
amendment to PDA.
Motion by Sayre, seconded by Shah, to approve the agenda as presented.
Motion approved unanimously by roll call vote.
6. CONSENT AGENDA
6. Consent Agenda - These are items that are considered routine and can be acted upon with
one vote.
6a. Approval of Licenses:

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Minutes of the City Council Meeting

December 11, 2025

2026 Arborists: Birch Tree Care; Bratt Tree Service; Canopy Tree Health; North Woods
Industries, LLC dba NWI Tree Service & Landscaping; Northern Arborists LLC; Precision
Landscape & Tree Inc; Sava Tree LLC; The FA Bartlett Tree Experts
2026 Mechanical: API HVAC Services dba Metropolitan Mechanical Contractors; Bob's
Heating & Air Conditioning; Master Gas Fitters
6b. Approval of City Council meeting minutes of 11.13.2025 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. and special City
Council meeting
6c. Approve Resolution 1585 approving 2026 Recycling Fee
6d. Resolution 1586 Certifying Unpaid Delinquent Utility Charges to the County Auditor to be
collected with other Taxes
6e. Approval of NYFS Agreement
6f. Approval of monthly City financials
EFT 1120e - 1159e, Checks 015955 - 016041
MOTION by Shah, seconded by Gaspard, to approve the Consent agenda. Motion carried
unanimously by roll call vote.
7. PETITIONS, REQUESTS & COMMUNICATIONS
7a. Deputy Craig Lydon Report
• For the month of November 2025, Deputy Lydon noted there were 133 calls, which
include 52 medical calls, 7 fire calls, 9 traffic stops and 1 accident. There was report of
possible disorderly conduct and deputies were dispatched to the beach. Deputies found
the incident was actually a resident that was using a tent as a blind to take pictures.
• In the 20 block of Oriole Lane, a person fell through the ice. The party got out on own
and declined service by medics. Deputy Lydon reminded residents to check the thickness
of the ice.
• On 11/22/25, there was a theft reported at 9 a.m. within a construction vehicle near 50
Spring Farm Road which occurred at some point over the weekend. Due to the broad
amount of time, unable to use Flock to pin down suspect vehicle.
• Watch for thin ice signs and stay off those areas.
• Roads are extra narrow and slippery already this winter, use caution while driving.
• Be aware of scams. Any questions, hang up and contact sheriff’s office to confirm caller
is legitimate.
• Deputy Lydon was reminded today of the community support while working together
with residents in finding and recovering a lost dog.
• Skier north of Deep Lake was injured today on trail. A neighbor ran across them and was
able to call 911 for medical assistance. He noted it was rewarding to be a part of the
Community support to these incidents.
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was no unfinished business.

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Minutes of the City Council Meeting

December 11, 2025

9. NEW BUSINESS
9a. Truth in Taxation Hearing - Discussion and possible action on resolution setting 2026 budget
/ levy
•
•

Mayor Wolter opened the public hearing at 7:10 p.m.
There were no public comments.

MOTION by Sayre, seconded by Azman, to close the Truth in Taxation Hearing at 7:11
p.m. Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
•

Shah noted that the workshop held on November 13th was extremely helpful in detailing
the entire budget.

Motion by Azman, seconded by Shah, to approve Resolution 1587 Certifying the 2026 Tax
levy.
• As part of the November 20th Council levy discussion, the levy amount has been reduced
slightly. The police and fire 2026 increases represent 68% increase in the general levy.
The City already starts in the deficit hole because of this and must adjust accordingly.
• Mayor Wolter noted that in the prior Council budget workshop, they discussed in detail
the reserves and projections of what would happen if we reduced the City reserves.
• Ehlers financial advised that we do not reduce City reserves.
• Gaspard asked if there items in the general fund that would be paid for from the sewer
and water fund.
• Kress confirmed that Public Works salary comes from sewer and water fund.
• Kress noted that the truth in taxation meeting at the County is also happening at the same
time as their current meeting. He recommended residents contact Ramsey County if there
are questions regarding the assessed value of their home.
• Wolter noted that housing prices have risen dramatically over the past 5 years.
• Sayre and Azman mentioned that they had spent several months discussing the budget in
detail.
• Gaspard wanted to thank the staff and council for working through the process. He noted
there are different viewpoints among the Councilors and appreciates how everyone has
worked together to discuss the budget. He mentioned he still has some lingering
concerns. (*Refer to complete statement submitted as page 8 of meeting minutes).
• Gaspard stated that it is the expenses not reserve fund that he feels we can better control.
Sayre agrees that we should manage our costs and feels like we are doing a good job on
managing our costs.
• Mayor Wolter stated that we’ve been through budget discussions for months and we are
not seeing where items we can cut in the 30% that we can control. Based on the months
of discussion, she would love to see there be a 5-0 vote on the 2026 budget, where
everyone can collaborate and agree that have done best to flush it out.
Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote by 4-1 vote, Gaspard No.

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Minutes of the City Council Meeting

December 11, 2025

9b. Discussion and possible action on amending City Council meeting schedule
•

Kress stated that staff would like to amend calendar to allow staff an extra week to put
together the Council packet after the New Years holiday.

MOTION by Sayre, seconded by Gaspard, to amend the City Council meeting calendar to
reflect the next City Council meeting as Thursday, January 15th, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. Motion
carried unanimously by roll call vote.
9c. Discussion and possible Action on Replacement of oversized Water meters
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Public Works Director Triemert described the issue on the west side of North Oaks that
the residents receiving Shoreview water have meters that only register higher flow
consumption. They start to read at 2.2 gallons. A typical toilet flush takes just 1 gallon.
So there is water flowing through that is being billed by the City of Shoreview but not
captured on any meters.
Therefore, each quarter there is unaccounted water that is being paid by the City, since it
can’t be attributed to respective user.
The recommendation is to swap the meters out in the Charley Lake Preserve for ones
properly sized for residential single-family homes. The meters would be laser read and be
99% efficient in capturing water use.
Kress noted that we could use some remaining ARPA dollars to purchase the meters.
Kress further explained that initially the home contractors in this development installed
1.5 inch meters due to building code that required sprinkling systems. The issue was
initially raised with council back in 2018 but it got tabled for other priorities. Currently
the City of Elk River has a surplus of 36 meters which our City can purchase at a
discounted rate, with the remaining 36 from Core and Main vendor.
Kress noted the focus is to remove as much of the unaccounted for water as possible, as
well as allow the City Public works to read the meters for quarterly billing, and property
transfers just as we do for White Bear township water users. Staff is looking for approval
to purchase the meters.
Attorney will work on any upcoming Ordinance adjustments on how it will be
implemented.
We must let Elk River know by the end of December. Would like to buy the 36
discounted meters at a minimum, and ideally to get them all now.
The issue has been going on since 2013.
The meters will not go to waste, they can still be used on the east side of the Community.
The goal would be for them to be installed over the next few winter months.

MOTION by Gaspard, seconded by Azman, to authorize City Administrator and Public
Works, to purchase water meters from the City of Elk River and Core and Main. Motion
carried unanimously by roll call vote.

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Minutes of the City Council Meeting

December 11, 2025

9d. Discussion and possible action on Planned Unit Development Agreement (PDA) 11th
Amendment regarding the verbiage with Spring Farm driveway widths
•

•

Kress noted that Contractor Charles Cudd inquired why the amendment stated 15’ width
instead of 18 feet for driveways. He researched noticed there was a typo when
transferred over the RCM standards as part of the 10th Amendment. The 99 PDA has
always said 18’ feet and would like to correct that for consistency so there is no
confusion between documents which could lead to differing driveway sizes within the
tightly spaced community.
Kress stated that no one has yet been affected by the issue.

MOTION by Sayre, seconded by Gaspard, to approve the 11th Amendment to the 1999
North Oaks PDA to bring back the standards back to 18 feet for driveway as stated in the
original incorporation documents, to correct the error. Motion carried unanimously by
roll call vote.
10. COUNCIL MEMBER REPORTS
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Azman noted there was a fire board meeting and approved the budget as presented. Fire
Chief Boehlke stated the new fire station is coming along nicely, and there is nothing
significant eating into the continency budget. The goal is still for the station to be open by
July 26, 2025.
Shah mentioned that during the Pleasant Lake beach task force meeting they have
funding secured for the Phase 1 of the discovery and data gathering with Barr
Engineering. Data collection will happen in January to pull together all the various
reports on Pleasant Lake to the consultant for review. They would also like to have a
community meeting in February at City Hall to hear from the public about their concerns
with lake and water quality. Task force would like to move to phase 2 by June for
implementation.
Gaspard, noted in the NineNorth meeting, historically we were only able to franchise old
school cable companies. There now can be franchising to broadband companies, which
means the City can possibly take franchising fees from vendors putting in broadband in
the community and ensure consistency. This could allow potential future revenue for
Ninenorth which would help offset fees.
Sayre noted the long-term plans for City Hall with next meeting on January 8th. There
are several options being discussed. The North Oaks foundation is now up and running,
has had a few meetings and is waiting for IRS. Their first donation of $15,000 has been
received by Louis Hill.
Wolter thanked the City staff who work for Council and community. She is proud to
Mayor of a Council who works hard to come up with best decisions for residents each
month and thanked her fellow Councilors. She reinforced importance of making sure ice
is safe for kids, pets, and others on our icy lakes. Wished everyone well for holiday
season.

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Minutes of the City Council Meeting

December 11, 2025

11. CITY ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS
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Administrator Kress reminded residents that the aeration pump on Lake Gilfillan is being
corrected and will be going soon, so beware of thin ice.
The DNR permit was just issued. Ramsey County states there is still not enough snow for
aerial count. As alternative, we might have the USDA use a infrared drone to get some
data on deer count and location.
Staff have been working diligently on the joint powers agreement with White Bear
Township. The City has requested a work session on Monday with White Bear, and to
include the Company as we do not own the utilities.
Working with the Company on the agreement that ties to that agreement re: lift stations,
metering pits, and more. Hope to have something in place prior to signing the other
agreements. Hope to have feedback early next week.
Public Works Director Triemert provided some highlights from his year. Highlights:
Development of a public works department from scratch, City on own new Scada
monitoring system, servicing all 189 hydrants twice a year, managing and maintaining 14
lift stations, on call 24 x 7 since his start date almost a year ago.
Triemert noted if there are issues with water main gate valves for repair during winter, he
doesn’t currently have the equipment to plow lift stations and address other emergency
issues. Would like to consider getting a plow for the public works truck.
Kress noted they have received quotes would be $10,600 to address the performance and
safety issue. Kress noted that ARPA funds are part of the general reserve which could be
used for the plow. For storage in the summer months, it would be stored with the vehicle
at the Directors home. Looked for initial reaction from council.
Plows can last 10 years or more especially with lower use. Kress noted there are some
funds unspent from street signage, but it is over the City Administrators threshold to
purchase without Council authority.
Council was generally in favor of the purchase and could be mounted and removed by
one person.

MOTION by Azman, seconded by Shah, to purchase a snowplow for the City vehicle.
Motion carried unanimously by roll call vote.
12. CITY ATTORNEY REPORTS
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Attorney Nason nothing to report.

13. MISCELLANEOUS
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The City Forester monthly report for November 2025 was included in the packet.
The Public Works Report for the Year of 2026 was included in the packet.
The annual North Oaks summary report from Metropolitan Mosquito Control was
included in the packet.
The Ramsey County Sheriff's Report for November 2025 was included in the packet.

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Minutes of the City Council Meeting

December 11, 2025

15. ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting of the City Council will be January 15, 2026.
MOTION by Gaspard, seconded by Shah, to adjourn the meeting at 8:03 p.m. by roll call
vote. Motion carried unanimously.
____________________________
Kevin Kress, City Administrator

_____________________________
Krista Wolter, Mayor

Date approved___________

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Minutes of the City Council Meeting

December 11, 2025

SUBMITTED TO CITY ADMINISTRATOR AND READ OUTLOUD DURING 12.11.2025
COUNCIL MEETING
---------- Forwarded message --------From: Andrew Gaspard <[email protected]>
Date: Thu, Dec 11, 2025, 6:23 PM
Subject:
To: Andrew Gaspard <[email protected]>
12-11-25 City Council Discussion – Andrew Gaspard
1. Thank you to staff and Council for working through this process. As you all know, its
important that we can have different viewpoints without becoming disagreeable or personal. We
always need to speak to the question, not at our colleagues. I appreciate that we have worked
together here and had a pretty robust process.
2. My primary budget and tax concern is with the increase in our in-house, more controllable
spending. Here I am talking about our expenses outside our police and fire contracts, or any
expenses directly tied to providing fee-based services, such as recycling, or building
inspection. As outlined in the Ehler’s presentation, these expenses are up over $250,000
between 2024, our last fiscal year, and budget 2026, a 23% increase. This is important because
if this growth could be held to the rate of inflation, we could live with a similar, moderate tax
increase.
3. I believe our year-end budgeting would be improved if it were based on current year actual
results. Specifically, in developing the 2026 budget, the best source of direction would be a final
2025 forecast based on 10+ months of actual results. Unfortunately, we have been budgeting for
2026 without this up-to-date data.
4. Along these same lines, the Council should track actual performance versus budget on a
monthly basis. This is a good practice and will improve our expense management. This would
be particularly useful in the case of our sewer and water Enterprise Fund, because that operation
has been subject to so many changes, but the budgets at this point are quite dated.
5. Finally, I continue to be concerned about increasing costs for North Oaks residents and
about double digit tax increases. I have heard from many residents in the past few weeks about
increasing costs. I understand that North Oaks property taxes are the smallest part of our overall
property tax bill. That said, I would argue that these are the taxes we have the most control over,
and its within our power to slow the rate of tax growth by either maintaining spending at
historical levels or making small draws from our historically high cash reserves.
-Andrew Gaspard
[email protected]

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27

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2026 MEETING SCHEDULE
CC

PC

JAN

15

29

FEB

12

26

MAR

12

26

APR

9

30

MAY

14

28

JUN

11

25

JULY

16

30

AUG

13

27

SEPT

10

24

OCT

8

29

NOV

12

Tbd

DEC

10

Tbd

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City of North Oaks
2026 Holiday Schedule
January 1

—

New Year’s Day (observed)

January 19

—

Martin Luther King Day

February 16

—

President’s Day

May 25

—

Memorial Day

June 19

—

Juneteenth

July 3

—

Independence Day (observed)

September 7 —

Labor Day

October 12

Columbus Day

—

November 11 —

Veteran’s Day (observed)

November 26, 27 — Thanksgiving
December 23, 24, 25 — Christmas

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Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office
Public Safety Report: North Oaks
DEC 2025
Deputy Craig Lydon
651-755-8089 [email protected]
CALLS FOR SERVICE: 154
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66 MEDICAL CALLS
8 FIRE CALLS
9 TRAFFIC STOPS
o 9 ACCIDENTS

NOTABLE CALLS:
•

RECOVERED PROPERTY- 12/10/2025 AT APPROXIMATELY 2235 HOURS DEPUTIES WERE
DISPATCHED TO THE 0 BLOCK OF BLUE CRANE LN ON REPORT OF AN UNKNOWN MALE
DROPPING OFF A BAG OF MARIJUANA BETWEEN THE CALLER’S DOORS. THE CALLER
WANTED TO MARIJUANA TO BE COLLECTED BY DEPUTIES.

•

DOMESTIC ASSAULT– 12/13/2025 AT APPROXIMATELY 1629 HOURS DEPUTIES WERE
DISPATCHED TO THE 30 BLOCK OF DEER HILLS DR ON REPORT OF A DOMESTIC ASSAULT.
DEPUTIES ARRIVED AND ARRESTED THE SUSPECT.

•

CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY – 12/17/2025 AT APPROXIMATELY 0932 DEPUTEIES
WERE CALLED TO 4880 HODGSON RD ON REPORT OF CRIMINAL DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.
THE CALLER REPORTED THAT SOMEONE HAD BEEN THROWING HEAVY OBJECTS UP AND
OVER THE FENCE AND ONTO THE SOLAR PANELS. SEVERAL PANELS HAVE BEEN
DAMAGED. THE CASE HAS BEEN FORWARDED TO INVESTIGATIONS.

•

THEFT FROM AUTO – 12/30/2025 AT APPROXIMATELY 1158 HOURS DEPUTIES WERE
CALLED TO THE 10 BLOCK OF SPRING FARM RD ON REPORT OF A THEFT FROM AUTO.
THE CALLER REPORTED WHILE DOING WORK AT AN ADDRESS IN THE AREA SOMEONE
ENTERED HIS WORK TRUCK AND TOOK A BAG CONTAINING A FIREARM AND HIS WALLET.
THE BAG WAS LATER RECOVERED WITH THE FIREARM AND WALLET MISSING. NO
SUSPECT INFORMATION WAS AVIALABLE.

SAFETY AND SECURITY
Give yourself extra time when leaving the house so that you can slow down and take your time.

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RESOLUTION NUMBER 1588
CITY OF NORTH OAKS
RAMSEY COUNTY, MN
RESOLUTION APPOINTING PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS AND
THE PLANNING COMMISSION CHAIR
WHEREAS, the City of North Oaks Planning Commission is comprised of seven voting
members with varying three-year terms as well as a non-voting Council liaison; and
WHEREAS, on December 31, 2025, the terms of existing Planning Commission members, Ilya
Berchenko, Rick Kingston and Dave Cremons expired, resulting in three vacancies on the Planning
Commission; and
WHEREAS, the City Council is authorized to appoint members of the Planning Commission,
and to appoint the chair of the Planning Commission;
NOW THERE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF NORTH OAKS,
MINNESOTA, AS FOLLOWS:
1. That the following individuals are appointed to serve on the North Oaks Planning Commission
for terms commencing and ending as follows:
a) Ilya Berchenko, for a term beginning immediately and ending December 31, 2028.
b) Rick Anderson, for a term beginning immediately and ending December 31, 2028.
c) Dave Cremons, for a term beginning immediately and ending December 31, 2028.
2. That Dave Cremons is hereby appointed to serve as the Chair of the Planning Commission
beginning immediately and ending on December 31, 2026.
This resolution was duly adopted by the City Council of the City of North Oaks this 15th day of January,
2026.

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APPROVED:

________________________
Krista Wolter, Mayor

ATTEST:
_____________________________
Kevin Kress
City Administrator

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Resolution 1589 Setting the Year 2026 Appointments/
City Responsibilities
A RESOLUTION SETTING THE 2026 ANNUAL APPOINTMENTS
WHEREAS, the State of Minnesota requires that municipalities annually declare certain
designations and appointments at its first meeting of the year;
and
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of North Oaks does hereby declare
the following appointments and designations for the calendar year 2026:

Description

2026 Appointments

Office of the Mayor (Krista Wolter)

N/A

N/A

Sara Shah

N/A

1. Acting Mayor

2026 Alternates

Planning and Zoning Services
3. Planning Commission Chair

Dave Cremons

4. Planning Commission
Members

Bob Ostlund, Rick Anderson,
Aaron Harkins, David Loegering,
Ilya Berchenko, Rick Kingston,
Dave Cremons

N/A

5. Planning Commission member
Mark Azman
liasion from Council

Sara Shah

6. Zoning Administrator

Kevin Kress

Leon Ohman

7. Building Code Enforcement
Officer

Leon Ohman

As assigned by Leon Ohman

8. I-35E Corridor Management

Kevin Kress

9. Responsible Govt. Unit
VLAWMO

N/A

10. VLAWMO Board
Representative

Sara Shah

Grover Sayre

Tech Committee

Public Works Director or as
assigned by City Administrator

As assigned by the Mayor

(Wetland Conservation Act)

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Police Services
11. Police Liaison to Ramsey C.
Sheriff’s Dept.
12. Representatives, Sheriff’s
Contract

Ilya Berchenko

As assigned by the Mayor

Kevin Kress

As assigned by the Mayor

Grover Sayre

Mark Azman

Mark Azman

Grover Sayre

Andrew Gaspard

Krista Wolter

Krista Wolter

Sara Shah

Kevin Kress/Sara Shah/Mark
Azman alternate

As assigned by the Mayor

Communities Committee
Fire Protection Services
13. LJVFS Relief Association
Representative
14. Member, Lake Johanna Fire
Dept.
Board of Directors and Joint
Powers Board
Communication and Public
Information
15. North Suburban Cable
Commission Representative
(NineNorth)
16. General/Emergency
notification
Associations and Relationships
17. Liaison/Home Owners’
Associations (NOHOA)

18. Ramsey Co. League of Local
Andrew Gaspard
Governments Board of Directors

Sara Shah

19. Ramsey Co. League of Local
All City Council members
Governments

N/A

20. Responsible Authority (Data
Practices)

Kevin Kress

S. Marty

21. Roads Committee

Dave Cremons/Jupe Hale/WSB

Sara Shah

22. NEC Liasion

Andrew Gaspard

Krista Wolter

Currently working with NEC

N/A

Commissions/Task Forces
21. Natural Resources
Commission Chair

36

22. Natural Resources
Commission Members

Currently working with NEC

23. NRC City Council
Currently working with NEC
Representative
24. Wildlife Manager, authority to
Kevin Kress
remove nuisance animals
27. Recycling Task Force

Krista Wolter

N/A

N/A
Grover Sayre
Stephanie Marty

28. ALPR Camera Working Group Ilya Berchenko

Kevin Kress, Bridget Nason

29. Pleasant Lake Beach Working
Sara Shah
Group
30. North Oaks Community
Grover Sayre
Foundation

Kevin Kress
Mark Azman

L. Ohman (Building Official)
K. Kress (City Administrator)
Authorized to issue citations and
cease and desist orders:

Animal Control Officers
J. Thomson and B. Nason (City
Attorney)
RCSO

Contract Services

2026

1. City Civil Attorney

Bridget Nason, Jim Thomson
Kennedy & Graven

2. City Prosecuting Attorney

Kelly and Lemmons

3. City Building Official

Leon Ohman

4. City Sanitary Inspector

Brian Humpal

5. City Cable TV Operator

Maureen Anderson/NineNorth

6. City Engineer

Jupe Hale, Morgan Dawley WSB

7. City Forester

Mark Rehder

8. City Planner

Landform, Kendra Lindahl

9. City Weed Inspector

K. Wolter, K. Kress (assistant)

10. City Police

Ramsey County Sheriff’s
Department

11. City Fire Protection

Lake Johanna Fire Department

37

12. Legal Newspaper

Shoreview Press

13. City Auditor

Abdo, Eick & Meyers, LLP

14. City Emergency Management
Director

Matt Sather, Lake Johanna Fire, K.
Kress-alternate

15. City Official Depositories

4M Fund, US Bank Shoreview

15. City Electrical Inspector

Nykanen Inspections

Adopted by the City Council of the City of North Oaks this 15th day of January, 2026.

By: _________________________________

Krista Wolter
Its: Mayor
Attested:
By: ________________________________
Kevin Kress
Its:
City Administrator

38

CITY OF NORTH OAKS
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
ORDINANCE NO. 2026-157
AN ORDINANCE ADOPTING TITLE XVI, FEE SCHEDULE, ADOPTING THE 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 adopted as follows.

I.

Administrative

Dogs/Cats – Licenses

For length of rabies certificate

$15 ($25 lifetime w rabies vaccination?)

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

39

Building Permits

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

Building Permit Plan Review Fees

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.

License Verification

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.

$40

Contractor License: Mechanical

License good through December 31 of current
calendar year.

$40

Contractor License: Outside
Sewer/Water

License good through December 31 of current
calendar year.

$100
$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.

Temporary and/or Conditional Certificate
of Occupancy

Plumbing Permits

Refer to permit

Electrical Permits
Electrical Fee Schedule incorporated into permit.

Mechanical Permits

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

Refer to permit

40

Fire Protection Permits

III.

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
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
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

$1,250.00
$650.00
$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)
Planned Unit Development
Master Plan or Special Development
Plan Master Plan

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

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
$1,500
$450
$1,000

41

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

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

Escrow

$1,000

Site Plan Review
City Code Amendment
Zoning Code Amendment
Land Use Requests – Not
Already Specified
Appeal of Administrative Zoning, Sign,
or Subdivision Decisions
V.

Water, Sewer, and Septic Charges
Water: Residential (White Bear Township)

Water Permits – Hook-Up Fees

$4,450.00 per household

Water Inspection Charge

$80 per household

Escrow/Maintenance Fee

$47.00 per household

Water Availability Charge

3/4" Meter

$48.00 per meter

Water Usage Charge:

Tier 1 - 10,000 gallons of water per unit

$2.68 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 2 - 10,000 gallons of water per unit

$2.94 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 3 - 10,000 gallons of water per unit

$3.97 per 1,000 gallons

Includes the State Fee at the current rate

Tier 4 - All remaining water
Water Meter/Spacer Charges

$6.90 per 1,000 gallons
Based on meter size: Contact City Staff
for quote

Water: Commercial (White Bear Township)
Water Permits – Hook-Up Fees

$4,450.00 per household

Escrow/Maintenance Fee
Water Availability Charge
Includes the State Fee at the current rate

$47.00 per unit
1.0" Meter

$48.00 per meter

1.5" Meter

$66.87 per meter

2.0" Meter

$84.30 per meter

42

3.0" Meter
Water Usage Charge:

$118.73 per meter

Tier 1 - 10,000 gallons of water per unit

$2.73 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 2 - 10,000 gallons of water per unit

$2.99 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 3 - 10,000 gallons of water per unit

$4.02 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 4 - All remaining water

$7.00 per 1,000 gallons

Water: Residential (Shoreview)

Water Permits – Hook-Up Fees
Water Availability Charge

$3,790.00 per household
Includes the State Fee at the current rate

Escrow/Maintenance Fee
Water Usage Charge:

$48.00
$47.00 per household

Tier 1 - 5,000 gallons of water per unit

$2.58 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 2 - 5,000 gallons of water per unit

$4.16 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 3 - 20,000 gallons of water per unit

$5.76 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 4 - All remaining water
Water Meter/Spacer Charges

$9.48 per 1,000 gallons
Based on meter size: Contact City Staff
for quote

Water: Commercial (Shoreview)
Water Permits – Hook-Up Fees
Water Availability Charge

$3,790.00 per household
Includes the State Fee at the current rate

Escrow/Maintenance Fee
Water Usage Charge:

$48.00 per unit
$47.00 per unit

Tier 1 - first 50,000 gallons of water

$4.16 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 2 - Next 1,150,000 gallons of water

$5.76 per 1,000 gallons

Tier 3 - All remaining water

$9.48 per 1,000 gallons

Sewer: White Bear Township
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

Escrow/Maintenance Fee
Residential
Flat Rate Sewer user Fee

$33.50 per household per residential
Incl. first 5,000 gallons of water

$41.00

43

Residential
Sewer Usage Charge

Exceeds 1st 5,000 gallons, based on Winter
Quarter average

Commercial
Flat Rate Sewer user Fee

$6.21 per 1,000 gallons
$36.75

Commercial
Sewer Usage Charge

$15.93 per 1,000 gallons
Sewer: Shoreview

Sewer Access Charge

Set by Met Council Annually

$2,485.00

Sewer Inspection Charge

$80 per household

Local Sewer Access Charge

$600 per SAC Unit

Escrow/Maintenance Fee

$33.50 per household per residential

Residential
Flat Rate Sewer User Fee

$81.00

Commercial
Sewer Usage Charge:

$3.50 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

Per Sign

$100.00

Waste Hauler

Annually

$200, max of 5 hauler licenses to be issued?

44

Staff Research
Tobacco Sales, Illegal
Tobacco Sales, Illegal

First Offense
Second Offense within 24
months

Tobacco Sales, Illegal

Third Offense within 24 months

Tobacco Sales, Illegal

Fourth Offense within 24 months

$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
Penalties for Late Payment
XI.

False Alarm Fees

$2.00
$35.00
Failure to pay any penalty imposed shall be
grounds for the suspension or termination of
any license issued by the City

False Alarm
False Alarm
False Alarm
XII. Recycling Fee

First three alarms
Fourth alarm
Fifth and each thereafter

Per Residential Parcel

Annual

10% of license fee or $32.00, whichever
is greater
No charge + letter
$150.00 per alarm
$175.00 per alarm
$195.00

45

Section Two. Repeal and Effective Date. Ordinances 154 is hereby repealed in their entirety upon the effective date of this
Ordinance 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 15th day of January, 2026
CITY OF NORTH OAKS

By: ________________________________
Krista Wolter
Its: Mayor
Attested:

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

46

47

48

49

50

51

52

53

Bridget M. Nason
Fifth Street Towers
150 South Fifth Street, Suite 700
Minneapolis, MN 55402
(612) 337-9245 telephone
(612) 337-9310 fax
email: [email protected]

MEMORANDUM

TO:

Mayor and Members of the North Oaks City Council

FROM:

Bridget M. Nason, City Attorney

DATE:

January 12, 2026

RE:
Adoption of Assessment Roll: Diseased Tree Removal
______________________________________________________________________________
BACKGROUND
The North Oaks City Code requires property owners to remove diseased trees from their property
upon written demand by the City Forester. The City Forester identified several diseased trees
located on the property at 4 Oriole Lane. After repeated requests to the property owner to remove
the trees, the City arranged for the removal of the diseased trees. The property owners were notified
of the removal costs, but to date have failed to reimburse the City for those costs. As a result, the
City has followed the process outlined in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429 to assess the costs of
that diseased tree removal against the benefitted property.
REQUESTED COUNCIL ACTION
The Council is asked to hold a public hearing regarding the proposed assessment. After the public
hearing, the Council is asked to consider adoption of the attached resolution adopting the
assessment roll for the diseased tree removal completed at 4 Oriole Lane.

54

CITY OF NORTH OAKS
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE ASSESSMENT ROLL
FOR 4 ORIOLE LANE NUISANCE & DISEASED TREE ABATEMENT
RESOLUTION NO.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of North Oaks is the official governing body of the City of North
Oaks, Minnesota; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has the authority to assess public nuisance abatement or removal costs
pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 429.101 and City Code Section 93.37; and
WHEREAS, notice of a public hearing on the proposed assessment roll for public nuisance abatements
on the properties identified on EXHIBIT A, which is attached hereto and incorporated herein, was
published in the official newspaper of the City and notice was mailed to all persons listed on the official
records of Ramsey County as owners of the affected parcel; and
WHEREAS, a public hearing before the City Council, as noticed, was held on January 15, 2026, where
all interested persons were given an opportunity to be heard or otherwise comment on the proposed
assessment; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the various parcels listed on EXHIBIT A received public nuisance
abatement and removal of a diseased tree, but did not pay the City for said services.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF NORTH OAKS,
MINNESOTA THAT:
1. The assessment roll, a copy of which is attached hereto and made a part hereof, is hereby
adopted and shall constitute the special assessment against the lands named therein, and each
tract of land therein included is hereby found to be benefited by the proposed assessment levied
against it.
2. The assessment for each parcel shall be payable in two equal installments extending over a
period of one (1) year, the installments will appear on the 2027 property tax statement and shall
bear an interest rate of _______% of the unpaid balance.
3. The owner of any property, so assessed, may at any time prior to certification of the assessment
to the County Treasurer on November 26, 2026, pay the whole of the assessment with interest on
such property, except no interest shall be charged if the whole of the assessment is paid to the
City within thirty (30) days from the adoption of this resolution. The owner may, at any time,
thereafter, pay the entire amount of the assessment with interest to the County Treasurer.
4. A certified copy of the assessment roll, along with this resolution shall be transmitted to the
County Treasurer to be extended on the property tax lists of the County, and such assessments
shall be collected and paid over the same manner as other municipal taxes.
Adopted by the City Council of North Oaks this 15th day of January, 2026.

Krista Wolter Mayor
ATTEST:
Kevin Kress, City Administrator/City Clerk

55

EXHIBIT A
ASSESSMENT ROLL FOR
ABATEMENT OF PUBLIC NUISANCE
(DISEASED TREE REMOVAL)

PID
083022310003

Property Address
4 Oriole Lane

Abatement Type
Diseased Tree
Removal

Amount Due
$3,134.50

56

2025 Building Official Report
Summary
Leon Ohman – Building Official

TOTAL Residential Building/Plumbing/Mechanical Permits issued:

751

Valuation: $30,959,590
Type of Permit

Number Issued

Total Valuation

Notes

Total Building all types

325

$30,743,028

Key: 17 New construction
homes with total valuation
$15,973,254.
13 homes in Spring Farm, 4 in
other areas

Plumbing
Mechanical

189
237

$216,562

*only commercial mech permits
based on Valuation. Includes
Presbyterian homes, New golf
maintenance center

Mechanical Contractor
Licenses issued

76

Within the TOTALs above: Commercial ONLY Permits Issued

Type of Permit

Number Issued

Total Valuation

Building

9

$253,731

Plumbing

1

Mechanical

4

Notes
Notable:
6 in Village Center area, 2 Golf
Club
Village Center businesses,
NOGC
Pres Homes, 700 VCenter,
North Oaks Golf Club

$216,562

Others: Not under Building Official
Type of Permit

Number issued

Septic – new

22

Septic tank repairs
Electrical

0
366

Notes
2 new homes, 5 demo/rebuilds,
15 replacement systems
254 Alterations, 34 New
Construction, 4 Accessory
Structures, 16 Solar, 8
Commercial, 66 OFP

TOTAL NUMBER OF 2025 PERMITS ISSUED OF ALL TYPES IN NORTH OAKS: 1139

57

HISTORICAL PERMIT HISTORY
6-year Trend: Financial Impact
Year

Total # of
Permits
issued all
types
968
868
1026
1108
1168
1139

2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025

Total bld/
plumbing/
mech
permits
670
574
680
738
760
751

Total
Bld/Plumb/
Mech
Valuation
$22,600,715
$29,844,080
$59,570,221
$37,455,372
$37,850,433
$30,743,028

New
Building
Plan
Total
construction permit fee check fee building
permits
revenue
revenue permit
revenue
13
$238,425
$97,018
$335,443
17
$252,875
$128,038 $380,913
15
$416,108
$224,553 $640,661
24
$350,588
$167,538 $518,126
33
$341,434
$174,221 $515,655
17
$372,497
$135,999 $508,496

City’s
Portion
40% *
$134,177
$152,365
$256,264
$207,250
$206,262
$203,398

** Of the combined building permit revenue and Plan check fees, Building Official gets 60%,
City 40%

Potential future revenue on building permits:
•
•
•

•

Total Remaining vacant lots left throughout North Oaks = 103
Sherwood Trail – Total of 10 lots = 9 permits issued, 1 remaining
Pondview Trail – Total of 9 lots = 7 are built, with 2 lots remaining
Spring Farm Development - 73 Total Units (33 detached townhomes + 40 twin homes)
o Permits issued = 56 permits (20 in 2023, 23 in 2024, 13 in 2025)
o Remaining permits to be issued = 17 (Cudd -9, Wooddale -1, Pratt – 2, NOC-5)
o Certificate of Occupancy Issued for 41 units (build complete & residents have moved
in).
• Other Miscellaneous:
o Phase 2 of the condominium development that has been approved for 40 additional
units - projected to be built by 2030.
o Of the 103 vacant lots in the City, many are controlled by property owners who have
expressed no interest in developing the lots in the near future. This includes 1 buyer
who owns 32 lots in Red Forest way area.
o If all 103 lots eventually develop, the total households in North Oaks will not exceed
2,115.

58

SEPTIC:
• Total septic systems in North Oaks – 1294
•

Total septic permits issued last 6 years = 110
2020: 4 new, 16 replacements
2021: 7 new, 19 replacements, 1 tank repair
2022: 6 new homes, 7 replacements
2023: 12 replacements, 1 tank repair
2024: 7 new homes, 10 replacements
2025: 6 new homes, 16 replacements

•

Septic permit fees range between $450 – 750. The Septic inspector rate is Sixty percent
(60%) of the sewer permit fees plus a monthly retainer in the amount of $800.00 a
month for administration of the SSTS program.

•

2025 Septic system total revenue = $11,645. (City portion $4,658, Septic Inspector
$6,987).

59

Septic Inspection, Septic Design, Septic
Installation & Repair, Water Quality Testing
Sewer & Water Repair and Installation

PO Box 10853
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Phone: 651-492-7550
E-Mail: [email protected]
Web: www.midwestsewer.com

January 8, 2026
City of North Oaks
100 Village Center Drive, Suite 230
North Oaks, MN 55127
Subject: City of North Oaks 2025 Annual Subsurface Sewage Treatment Systems (SSTS) Report
Dear Mayor and City Council:
During the 2025 construction season, the City received 21 SSTS permit applications; 18 systems were installed. Of the 18
installations:
•
•
•
•
•

3 served new lots
1 served a home that was torn down and rebuilt
14 were replacements
11 were Type I (standard) systems; 7 were Type III
15 were above-ground mound systems; 3 were in-ground

Type I systems are considered standard. Type III systems follow the same general design principles, but are used where site
conditions—such as disturbed or fill soils, limited suitable native soil depth, high seasonal water tables, proximity to wetlands or
lakes, or slope/topography constraints—prevent a standard Type I installation. Three properties required a variance related to septic
system insulation (in addition to other building variances). There are currently five SSTS permits pending installation.
Throughout the year, we fielded numerous calls and emails from contractors, homeowners, real estate agents, and prospective
buyers. Typical topics included pre-design questions, permitting and setback guidance, variance and redevelopment requirements,
and maintenance expectations. This coordination helps set clear expectations, reduce avoidable delays, and support compliance
with City and MPCA standards. We are often able to work with septic designers and home designers to develop creative solutions
that reduce the frequency and size of variances.
This year, we worked closely with City staff and elected officials on updates to the City’s SSTS ordinance. Primary changes under
review include simplifying the ordinance, clarifying redevelopment requirements, clarifying and amending setback requirements,
and general code updates. The MPCA has reviewed the proposed revisions and provided comments. It is my understanding we are
close to a final draft for review by the Planning Commission and City Council.
Overall, the health of the community’s SSTS remains good, and conditions continue to improve as systems are replaced. At the
same time, North Oaks faces ongoing siting challenges—including limited suitable soils, smaller lot sizes, topography, sensitive
resources, and access constraints—that make long-term management more complex. The City is beginning to explore municipal
sewer options, and I recommend continuing that planning work so future options are available.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Sincerely,

Brian Humpal SSTS Inspector

60

Total Hotlist Alerts

3,998

Official Hotlist Alerts

Your Custom Hotlist Alerts

3,990

1

Other Custom Hotlist Alerts on
Your Networks

Total Alerts by Topic

7

S#001 Wi…
S#002 Pl…
S#003 Ea…
S#004 Wi…
S#005 Pl…
S#006 Ea…

Topic

Alerts

Revoked

2,781

Suspended

956

CVO Revoked

154

Protection Order

46

National Sex Offender Registry

34

Keeping Our Police Safe

8

Non Owned Custom Hotlist Alert

7

Canadian Police Information Center

6

Group Member Capability

2

Minnesota Warrants

2

S#007 Ea…

Custom Hotlist Alert

1

S#008 Ea…

Stolen Vehicle

1

Total Hits

S#010 M…
S#012 Cu…
S#013 Hi…
S#014 Sp…
S#017 Os…

Date
To export data, hover over chart and click the three dots. Data will export with selected date range and Show Hits By.
For bar charts, displaying either 30 days of daily data or weekly/monthly aggregation is recommended.
Cameras and networks that are yet to receive a hotlist hit are excluded from analysis.

61

Total Vehicle Volume

276,584

Total Unique Vehicle Volume

158,251

Total Vehicle Volume
Breakdown
S#001 Wildflower Way @ Hodgs…
S#002 Pleasant Lake Rd. @ Coun…
S#003 East Gilfillan Rd. @ Count…
S#004 Wildflower Way @ Hodgs…
S#005 Pleasant Lake Rd. @ Coun…
S#006 East Gilfillan Rd. @ Count…
S#007 East Oaks Rd. @ Centervill…
S#008 East Oaks Rd. @ Centervill…
S#010 Maycomb Rd. Entry

Volume

S#011 Cunningham Rd Exit
S#012 Cunningham Rd Entry
S#013 Hill Farm Entrance
S#014 Spring Farm Rd @ Center…
S#015 Phoebe Ln @ Wilkinson L…
S#016 Kestrel Ct @ Wilkinson La…
S#017 Osprey Ct @ Wilkinson La…

Date
To export data, hover over chart and click the three dots. Data will export with selected date range and Show Reads By.

62

December Month in Review
December 2025

•

•
•

We prepared for and presented the annual Arborist Workshop. This workshop educates
tree companies about the nuances of working within North Oaks and confirms they
have Workman’s comp as well as Liability insurance.
We had two homeowner calls and provided unbiased tree care advice as well as making
sure a builder was in compliance with the Associations Tree Preservation Policy.
We are rechecking Emerald Ash borer sites for compliance on deadlines that have
passed and marking more trees for removal.

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