On the agenda: Spring Lake Park minutes — Flock camera (Sep 8)

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, the regularly scheduled meeting of the Spring Lake Park City Council
was held on September 8, 2026 at Spring Lake Park Community Center, 1301 81st Avenue N.E., at 7:00 PM.
1.

CALL TO ORDER

Mayor Nelson called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM.
2.

ROLL CALL

MEMBERS PRESENT
Councilmember Ken Wendling
Councilmember Barbara Goodboe-Bisschoff
Councilmember Lisa Dircks
Councilmember April Moran
Mayor Bob Nelson
MEMBERS ABSENT
STAFF PRESENT
Code Enforcement Inspector Ethan Wirtz, Public Works Director George Linngren, Attorney John
Thames, Officer Charlie Bloomer, Engineer Phil Gravel, Administrator Daniel Buchholtz
VISITORS
Erin Perdu
Halyn Roth
Rick Frith
Emily Lambert
Jaycee Kilborn
C Meyer
Kristi Cobbs
Michelle Oler
Eric Julien
Rick Goldstein
Kristi Goldstein
Addie Davis
Karen Aalund
Cheri Haram
Nicole Oughton
Kristen Larson
Johanna Richards

Stantec
7914 Able Street NE
8299 Central Avenue NE
8299 Central Avenue NE
351 79th Avenue NE
459 81st Avenue NE
8085 Jefferson Street NE
700 Holland Lane NE
700 Holland Lane NE
466 Manor Drive NE
466 Manor Drive NE
8007 6th Street NE
1424 80th Avenue NE
8013 6th Street NE
7992 Quincy Street NE
451 Maple Street NE
8035 Benjamin Street NE

3.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

4.

ADDITIONS OR CORRECTIONS TO AGENDA - None

Spring Lake Park MN
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Spring Lake Park MN
Spring Lake Park MN
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Spring Lake Park MN
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Spring Lake Park MN

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5.

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September 8, 2026

DISCUSSION FROM THE FLOOR
Jaycee Kilborn, 351 79th Avenue NE, expressed concern that proposed changes to restrict or
move public comment during council meetings would reduce opportunities for residents to
share input on issues that directly affect them. She stated that limiting comments on agenda
items or reducing discussion-from-the-floor time contradicts the Council’s stated values of
accountability, impartiality, and serving the public interest. She emphasized that public
participation is essential to democratic governance and urged the Council to preserve
meaningful opportunities for residents to speak during meetings.
Kristi Cobbs, 8035 Jefferson Street NE, asked the Council to postpone any additional funding for
the Flock camera system until the results of the independent October audit are available. She
noted that other Minnesota communities have reconsidered or ended use of similar technology
due to privacy and data-sharing concerns. She urged the Council to wait for the audit findings
before making further financial commitments, stating that doing so would allow for a more
informed and responsible decision.
Karen Aalund, 1424 80th Avenue NE, raised concerns about pavement gouges left after fiber
optic installation on Hayes, Garfield, and 80th. She noted that despite reporting the issue in
2024 and providing photos, no repairs have been made and communication from the city has
been minimal. Because residents are still paying assessments for the street project, she
requested that the city pursue corrective repairs from the fiber optic contractor responsible.
Colleen Meyer, 459 81st Avenue NE, urged the Council not to expand the Flock Safety camera
program, citing concerns about privacy, data sharing, and the potential for outside agencies to
access information collected in Spring Lake Park. She referenced Fridley’s experience, where
Flock data was accessed hundreds of thousands of times by external law enforcement and later
required significant restrictions to protect privacy. She noted that other Minnesota
communities, including Sherburne County and Columbia Heights, have chosen not to
participate due to similar concerns. She asked the Council to prioritize public trust and carefully
weigh the risks before committing additional resources to the system.
Addie Davis, 8007 6th Street NE, shared concerns from the disability advocacy community,
stating that Flock Safety cameras may inadvertently violate ADA principles by enabling
unintended tracking of disabled individuals who rely on micro-transit and non-emergency
medical transportation. She explained that such monitoring could reveal sensitive information
about the services and supports disabled residents use, compromising their privacy and access
to public spaces without surveillance. She said as a parent of a vulnerable child who relies
heavily on these services, she urged the Council to consider how expanded camera use could
disproportionately affect disabled residents and their right to move through the community
without being monitored.

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September 8, 2026

Nicole Auden, 7992 Quincy Street NE, asked the Council to reconsider expanding the Flock
camera program, particularly given current budget pressures. She questioned whether
investing thousands of dollars in surveillance technology—currently facing lawsuits and
potential federal restrictions—is prudent when other departments are facing cuts. She also
expressed concern about proposals to move public comment to the end of council meetings,
noting that residents need the opportunity to speak before votes are taken in order to provide
meaningful input.
6.

CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes - Council Work Session - August 3, 2026
B. Approval of Minutes - City Council Meeting - August 3, 2026
C. Approval of Minutes - Council Work Session - August 17, 2026
D. Approval of Minutes – City Council Meeting - August 17, 2026
E. Approval of Minutes – Special Council Meeting – August 24, 2026
F. Approval of Minutes – Joint Work Session – August 24, 2026
G. Resolution 2026-36, Accepting Donation from Keith Schweiger for Police Department Flock
Camera Program
H. Resolution 2026-37, Appointing Election Judges for 2026 General Election
I. Contractor Request for Payment #15, #16 and #17 – Final – City Hall Renovation/Expansion
Project - $243,573.71
J. Authorization to Begin Sergeant Promotional Process
K. Approval of Right-of-Way Application – CenterPoint Energy
L. Approval of Right-of-Way Application – Xcel Energy
M. Approval of Right-of-Way Application – Xcel Energy
N. Contractor’s Licenses
Motion made by Councilmember Dircks to table and refer Resolution 2026-36, Accepting
Donation from Keith Schweiger for Police Department Flock Camera Program to a Council Work
Session.
Mayor Nelson and Administrator Buchholtz discussed the legal framework and departmental
policies governing the use of Flock automated license plate readers. Administrator Buchholtz
explained that only authorized, trained personnel may access the system, and every search
must be documented with a legitimate law enforcement purpose. Buchholtz noted that all
access and data sharing are logged, and Minnesota law strictly limits how automated license
plate reader data can be used, including prohibiting sharing for immigration enforcement or
facial recognition. He said misuse of the system can jeopardize an officer’s POST license,
effectively disqualifying them from serving as a peace officer.
Administrator Buchholtz added that Spring Lake Park shares data only with Minnesota law
enforcement agencies and that the city maintains a public transparency portal outlining its
policies. He stated that data is limited to images of rear license plates, retained for 30 days, and
automatically purged. Mayor Nelson emphasized that the city does not share information with
federal immigration authorities, that the system has been helpful in investigations, and that

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September 8, 2026

practices across Minnesota communities vary and continue to evolve. He recommended
providing a full update at a future meeting when the Police Chief is present to address privacy
safeguards and answer further questions directly.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff, Councilmember
Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.
Motion made by Councilmember Wendling to approve the Consent Agenda, as amended.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff, Councilmember
Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.
7.

DEPARTMENT REPORTS
A. Public Works Report
Public Works Director Linngren reported that the Department successfully concluded the
summer season, supported by an expanded team of seasonal workers. He stated that the
remaining summer tasks, such as curb painting and yellow patching, are ongoing. He said
the Department is now shifting focus to street sweeping in anticipation of early snowfall.
Linngren reported a significant sinkhole discovered on 81st Avenue NE and Monroe Street
NE, approximately six to eight feet deep. He said the Department has temporarily filled the
void and is monitoring it while awaiting contractors to complete grouting and long-term
repairs within the coming weeks.
B. Code Enforcement Report
Code Enforcement and Housing Inspector Ethan Wirtz reported that 42 permits were issued
in August, compared to 54 in the same month the previous year. He noted that 130
inspections were conducted and 11 administrative citations issued for noncompliance.
Wirtz introduced a destruction letter for 8280 Taylor Street, explaining that the property
has been the subject of ongoing grass, weeds, junk, and debris violations since May 27, with
12 site visits conducted. After consulting the City Attorney, staff determined that a
destruction letter would be the most efficient method to move forward with abatement.
Inspector Wirtz reported that the property on Taylor Street has been under active
enforcement for approximately 12 weeks, with weekly inspections and no compliance from
the owner. He stated that despite repeated attempts—including posted orders, door
knocks, phone calls, and administrative citations—the owner has not responded. He noted
that the violations have escalated from tall grass and weeds to junk and debris, including a
mattress that was moved from the driveway into the backyard, where inspectors cannot
enter without permission. Mr. Wirtz stated due to the persistent noncompliance and
repeated complaints from neighbors, the case was referred to the City Attorney, and staff

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September 8, 2026

determined that issuing a destruction letter is the most effective next step to proceed with
abatement.
Inspector Wirtz also provided construction updates: a permit has been issued for Unit 120
at 1313 Osborne Road; the Noshmi Restaurant at 8299 University Avenue has completed
plan review and received a building permit; and the event center at 77 Highway 65, Unit C
continues work on CUP requirements, with plan review completed and plumbing rough-ins
finished.
8.

ORDINANCES AND/OR RESOLUTIONS
A. Resolution 2026-38, Approving a Comprehensive Plan Amendment to Amend the Future
Land Use Map for 8299 Central Avenue NE
City Planner Erin Perdu presented four related requests submitted by Substance Church to
support the establishment of a daycare facility within its existing building located at 8299
Center Avenue. She stated the proposal requires three approvals: a comprehensive plan
amendment to change the property’s future land use designation from Commercial
Industrial to Commercial, a rezoning from Light Industrial (I-1) to Shopping Center
Commercial (C-1), and a conditional use permit for a child care facility.
Planner Perdu explained that the church intends to allocate approximately 5,000 square
feet of its existing 100,000-square-foot building for the daycare, using current classrooms
and support spaces with no expansion of the structure. She noted that any modifications
would be limited to meeting state licensing requirements, and that the church would
continue operating under its 2014 special use permit.
Planner Perdu noted that the property’s location near the intersection of Central and Trunk
Highway 10 offers convenient access and that surrounding land uses include commercial,
industrial, transportation-related, and institutional facilities. She said that the requested
future land use amendment aligns better with the existing and proposed uses, as the
Commercial designation supports services and institutional uses such as churches and
childcare facilities. She noted that rezoning to C-1 would also align the property's zoning
with its current and proposed functions, since childcare is not permitted within the I1
district.
Planner Perdu stated that the conditional use permit application meets all ordinance
requirements. She noted that the proposed outdoor play area meets setback standards and
is adequately sized for the planned capacity of 42 children. She said the site includes
sufficient parking and a designated drop-off and pick-up area. She said that staff found no
anticipated negative impacts to surrounding properties and recommended verification of
daycare licensing, staffing, and on-site circulation prior to issuance of a certificate of
occupancy.

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September 8, 2026

Planner Perdu stated that the Planning Commission held a public hearing on August 24 and
recommended approval of all requests. She said that an added condition stating that any
future expansion of the daycare operation would require an amendment to the conditional
use permit, with only that permit needing review and approval.
Planner Perdu stated that staff recommends approval of the comprehensive plan
amendment, rezoning, and conditional use permit, subject to conditions including
submission of the amendment to the Metropolitan Council and acquisition of all applicable
permits and licenses. Perdu noted that the rezoning would be contingent upon approval of
the comprehensive plan amendment.
Mayor Nelson inquired about spot zoning. Planner Perdu clarified that the requested
amendments—changing the future land use designation to Commercial and rezoning the
property to C-1—are consistent with surrounding land uses and with the existing
institutional use of the site. She said that because the changes align with the character of
the area and support uses already present on the property, staff concluded that the action
does not represent spot zoning.
Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff inquired whether the proposed childcare facility at
Substance Church would operate as a for-profit business. Rick Frith, speaking on behalf of
Substance Church, clarified that the childcare program would be established as a nonprofit
organization focused on serving families and children in the community. He noted that
while families would pay tuition, any revenue would be used solely to cover operational
costs and support future program expansion. Mr. Frith emphasized that the service would
be open to the broader community, not limited to church members, and that state licensing
requirements currently limit capacity to 42 children.
Mr. Rick Firth, representing Substance Church, explained that the proposed childcare facility
is intended as an extension of the church’s ongoing efforts to support families and children.
He stated that the church wishes to make fuller use of its existing facility by offering
weekday childcare services that meet a demonstrated community need. Firth emphasized
the church’s interest in strengthening its partnership with the City of Spring Lake Park and
contributing positively to the community’s quality of life. He noted that the childcare
program aims to provide affordable, high-quality service and that any revenue would be
reinvested into expanding opportunities for local families. Firth expressed hope that the
project would also support the surrounding neighborhood and generate broader economic
benefits for the community.
Motion made by Mayor Nelson to approve Resolution 2026-38, Approving a Comprehensive
Plan Amendment to Amend the Future Land Use Map for 8299 Central Avenue NE.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.

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September 8, 2026

B. Ordinance 511, Amending the Official Zoning Map of the City of Spring Lake Park 8299
Central Avenue NE
Administrator Buchholtz explained that the proposed ordinance would amend the zoning
map for 8299 Central Avenue NE, changing the designation from I-1 Industrial to C-1
Commercial. He noted that this rezoning is contingent upon approval of the related
comprehensive plan amendment by the Metropolitan Council. Buchholtz stated that the
amendment is expected to be consistent with the regional plan and anticipated
Metropolitan Council support. He clarified that state law requires local land-use actions to
align with an approved comprehensive plan, which is why the rezoning must be conditioned
on the Metropolitan Council’s approval of the amendment.
Motion made by Councilmember Wendling to approve Ordinance 511, Amending the
Official Zoning Map of the City of Spring Lake Park 8299 Central Avenue NE.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.
C. Resolution 2026-39, Approving Summary Publication of Ordinance No. 511, An Ordinance
Amending the Official Zoning Map of the City of Spring Lake Park for 8299 Central Avenue
NE
Administrator Buchholtz explained that Resolution 2026-39 authorizes summary publication
of Ordinance No. 511. He noted that publishing a summary, rather than the full ordinance,
reduces publication costs while ensuring the complete ordinance remains accessible on the
city’s website and available upon request.
Motion made by Councilmember Dircks to approve Resolution 2026-39, Approving
Summary Publication of Ordinance No. 511, An Ordinance Amending the Official Zoning
Map of the City of Spring Lake Park for 8299 Central Avenue NE.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.
D. Resolution 2026-40, Approving a Conditional Use Permit for a Child Daycare Facility within
Substance Church – 8299 Central Avenue NE
Motion made by Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff to approve Resolution 2026-40,
Approving a Conditional Use Permit for a Child Daycare Facility within Substance Church –
8299 Central Avenue NE
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.

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September 8, 2026

E. Resolution 2026-41, Approving a Variance from the Rear Yard Setback Requirement at 8035
Benjamin Street NE
Administrator Buchholtz provided background on a longstanding code enforcement matter
involving a covered patio constructed at a property within the Spring Lake Park Villas
Planned Unit Development (PUD). The owner, Joanna Richards, applied for a variance from
the rear yard setback requirement in the R-3 district to allow the structure. Buchholtz
explained that the patio had initially been built in 2025 without required permits, and the
original variance request was withdrawn after it was determined that part of the structure
encroached onto a neighboring property. The applicant subsequently modified the patio so
that it is fully located on her own lot.
Buchholtz noted that the current variance request reflects a reduced structure and seeks
relief only from rear yard setback requirements. Staff reviewed the application under the
practical difficulties standard and found the request reasonable due to the unique design of
the PUD, which features small individual lots, limited rear yard space, and larger shared
common areas. The structure is residential in nature and consistent with the character of
the surrounding townhouse development.
Buchholtz stated that the Planning Commission held a public hearing on August 24,
reviewed staff’s analysis and recommended conditions, and recommended approval. Staff
also recommended approval of the variance, subject to conditions outlined in the
resolution.
Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff expressed concern that the patio structure was built
without required permits and initially encroached onto a neighboring property, noting
similar issues in past cases. She asked whether any penalties would be imposed.
Administrator Buchholtz responded that multiple administrative citations had already been
issued and must be paid before the variance becomes effective. He added that, under city
code, building permit fees are doubled when construction occurs before a permit is issued.
While the exact amount was not available at the time, he indicated the combined penalties
and fees would be substantial. He also noted that the property owner had received
approval from the townhome association, although those rules are separate from city
enforcement.
Motion made by Councilmember Wendling to approve Resolution 2026-41, Approving a
Variance from the Rear Yard Setback Requirement at 8035 Benjamin Street NE.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.

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F. Resolution 2026-42, Concluding Probable Belief of a Violation of SLPC 9.02.030 and Issuing a
Destruction Order for Property Located at 8280 Taylor Street NE
Councilmember Dicks inquired about the allowed timeframe for compliance after an order
is issued, Attorney Thames clarified that the standard period is seven days unless the
Council specifies otherwise.
Motion made by Councilmember Dircks to approve Resolution 2026-42, Concluding
Probable Belief of a Violation of SLPC 9.02.030 and Issuing a Destruction Order for Property
Located at 8280 Taylor Street NE.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.
9.

NEW BUSINESS
A. Police Officer Candidate Conditional Job Offer
Administrator Buchholtz reported that the hiring process for a new patrol officer has been
successfully completed, including application screening, oral interviews, and a
comprehensive background check. He stated that the Police Chief has extended a
conditional job offer to Aaron Dokka for the position of patrol officer, pending completion
of required medical testing. Buchholtz requested final council approval of the hire.
Motion made by Mayor Nelson to approve Police Officer Candidate Conditional Job Offer.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.
B. Approve Quote for 2026 Pavement Markings
Engineer Gravel reported that the city performs pavement striping every one to two years
on streets requiring markings. He explained that certain striping work, including side
striping and major intersections, cannot be completed by city staff and must be contracted
out. He stated that the low quote received for the 2026 pavement marking project was
from Sir Lines A Lot in the amount of $21,508. He recommended approval of the contract.
Motion made by Councilmember Wendling to Approve Quote for 2026 Pavement Markings.
Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff,
Councilmember Dircks, Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.

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September 8, 2026

10. REPORTS
A. Attorney Report - None
B. Engineer Report - Accepted report as submitted
C. Administrator Report
Administrator Buchholtz reported positive news regarding the city’s federal funding
requests, noting that both projects seeking federal support have been included in the House
appropriations bills. He stated that the full funding amount was not granted, but that
receiving partial funding is a significant step forward and expressed appreciation for the
congresswoman’s efforts. He added that the city has not yet received an update from the
Senate. Buchholtz also thanked council members who completed the comprehensive plan
survey and encouraged any remaining members to do so at their earliest convenience.
11. OTHER
A. Schedule City Administrator Performance Evaluation
Administrator Buchholtz reviewed the upcoming annual performance evaluation process,
noting that his evaluation is due and requesting the Council’s direction on scheduling. He
proposed holding the evaluation on October 5, 2026. Councilmembers agreed to that date.
Buchholtz added that a self-evaluation and related forms had been provided to assist the
Council in preparing for the review. The evaluation session will be conducted in a closed
meeting on October 5, 2026.
Mayor Nelson highlighted two upcoming events. He announced that “Operation Zero,” a
suicide-prevention event supporting soldiers, will take place on Saturday, September 12 at the Anoka
County Fairgrounds from noon to 10 p.m. The event will feature the Vietnam Veterans Wall, flyovers,
live bands, food trucks, and additional activities. He noted the importance of recognizing the sacrifices
of soldiers and first responders and shared that Spring Lake Park’s Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program
is working to strengthen partnerships with military support networks. Mayor Nelson also reminded
attendees to honor the anniversary of September 11.
Public Works Director Lindgren announced that the annual “Touch the Truck” event will take place on
September 12 at Spring Lake Park High School from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. He said the event features heavy
equipment from various cities and provides an opportunity for children and families to engage with public
works and safety vehicles as part of the back-to-school season. He invited community members to attend.

12. ADJOURN
Motion made by Councilmember Wendling to adjourn.

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September 8, 2026

Voting Aye: Councilmember Wendling, Councilmember Goodboe-Bisschoff, Councilmember Dircks,
Councilmember Moran, Mayor Nelson. Motion carried.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.

Robert Nelson, Mayor
Attest:
Daniel R. Buchholtz, Administrator, Clerk/Treasurer