## City of Ramsey ## Agenda ## City Council Work Session Tuesday, May 12, 2026 5:30 pm ## Lake Itasca Room, 7550 Sunwood Drive NW Remote Attendance available at www.cityoframsey.com/meetings. Those joining remotely and requesting to speak are asked to use a webcam when speaking. 1.Call to Order 2.Topics for Discussion ## 1.Review Draft Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) Policy ## 2.Discussion Regarding a Police Department Staffing Change 3.Review the Findings of the 2026 All-staff Employee Survey ## 4.Discussion Regarding Union Contract Negotiations (Discussion Closed to the Public) 3.Topics for Future Discussion ## 1.Review Future Topics/Calendar 4.Mayor/Council/Staff Input 5.Adjournment* *Note: the City Council may motion to recess this Work Session meeting and reconvene after the regular City Council meeting if items on the agenda are not completed. Our Mission: To work together to responsibly grow our community, and to provide quality, cost-effective, and efficient government services 2. 1. ## CC Work Session ## Meeting Date: 05/12/2026 ## Primary Strategic Plan Initiative: Identify and implement operational efficiencies, cost savings and additional funding sources. ## Information ## Title: ## Review Draft Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) Policy ## Purpose/Background: The City Council discussed this at its February 10, 2026, meeting and provided direction to staff to prepare a policy that meets the needs of Ramsey residents. The attached draft contains the direction of the Council to support owner-occupied homes with more information on how staff will administer the program. Please provide consensus that the draft reflects the direction of the Council for adoption at a future meeting. Additionally, staff would like direction on how much money to allocate to each component (exterior improvement and interior improvements) for the first year. Staff would like to be reserved the first year in order to gauge interest and work out the kinks with running a new program. Within a short time after adoption of the policy (anticipated early this summer), staff would like to make the interior improvement money available as these improvements are likely urgent in nature. The exterior improvement portion would follow the application process listed in the policy starting in early 2027. ## Proposed Initial Allocations 2026 Interior Improvements - $40,000 2026 Exterior Improvements - $0 (applications to begin in February 2027) 2027 Interior Improvements - $100,000 2027 Exterior Improvements - $100,000 It should also be noted that some other administrative items may need to be brought forward in relation to this program that staff is still exploring. ## Background Information (From 2/10/2026 Work Session) In 2023, a law was enacted that established metropolitan area sales tax with revenue only to be used for affordable housing purposes. This program is called Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA). The law included a provision that cities over 10,000 in population receive their share directly, based upon a formula of each city's portion of cost-burdened households. The direct allocation allows cities local control over what housing-related assistance it feels its residents need. Generally speaking, the money can be used for things such as building new affordable housing (entire buildings or a percentage of the units); preservation/renovation of existing affordable housing, and emergency rental assistance. There is a companion program that is statewide (SAHA) that Ramsey is not eligible for. The amount of money varies from year-to-year. In 2024, Ramsey received $118,897.15 and in 2025, $317,780.38 (current balance total = $435,677.53). The 2026 and future allocations will likely be similar to the 2025 amount (2024, the first year, was a partial year). Funds must be used by their fourth year, meaning that the 2024 allocation must be committed by the end of 2027 and spent by the end of 2028. Some exceptions can be made for projects in the works. Projects can be for both rental and ownership housing and the determining factor of who is eligible is based on Area Median Income (AMI). It should be noted that AMI is based off of household size. For 2025, the AMI for a family of four in Ramsey is $132,400. The ownership projects need to benefit people with household incomes of less than 115% AMI, with preference given to household incomes less than 80% AMI. Rental projects (construction or emergency renal assistance) are limited only to those incomes below 80% AMI. The money can be used in the form of a loan or a grant. There can be a cost-share component. Any money that is repaid from a loan or a claw-back provision will need to be re-used for affordable housing. Staff met to discuss what we are seeing in the field based on code enforcement complaints, business interactions, and other anecdotal information as to what might be beneficial to the community. Staff also met with Anoka County Housing staff to discuss various program options. The following are some ideas that staff feels will be beneficial while not majorly impacting staff time. ## Single-Family Home Exterior Improvements Large-cost projects like new windows, new siding, new roofs, (potentially) repaving driveways, utility connections, and large tree removal can be cost-prohibitive for families at and below 115% AMI. These types of improvements to a home can have positive effects on the surrounding neighborhood. These items can usually be planned for several months, and the city can offer an application window scheduled around when staff has more time. Cost range estimate: $10,000 to $50,000 per house. ## Single-Family or Town home Interior Improvements Having a furnace, water heater, or air conditioner replaced can be an urgent and costly issue. Cost range estimate: $1,500 to $10,000 per home. ## Construction Grant for Multi-Family Development Assist a developer in constructing multi-family rental units with a portion dedicated to meeting affordability standards. Cost range: using up to all the funds the City has received and is holding. ## Issues to Consider In putting together a program or policy on how to spend the money, staff is taking into account the following issues when making recommendations to the Council: Income Verification: Staff will be responsible for verifying the recipient's income and household size for any of the home-improvement programs. This commonly-accepted way of doing this is to examine the recipient's most recent tax returns. Some jurisdictions rely on a "self reporting" form, but that would become extremely time-intensive should allegations of fraud be made. In a multi-family situation, the developer/management company will be responsible for reporting to City staff and likely will be using additional money from other sources that will require reporting anyway. Administering Payment: Staff will be responsible for paying the recipients of the funds and then assuring that the money is spent for its intended purpose. Our program could be set up in a way that the contractors are paid directly—both down and final payments. Admin Fees: Right now, cities cannot use any of the money to cover staff time in administering these programs. There may be some legislation introduced this year to allow cities to tack on an administrative charge for the grants or loans. Repayment of Loans: Staff does not have the capacity to process monthly loan payments. Should a loan program be desired, cities can contract with third party agencies to administer one, but those costs cannot be funded through LAHA money. Often, these agencies tack on a fee for their services that is paid by the homeowner or an arrangement through the city's general fund. The city could structure a program as a zero-percent/zero-payment/forgivable after X-years program (essentially a lien on the home) so that the money is not used to "flip" a house or build resale value instantly before selling. Should it sell before the specified time, the money is paid back at the time of closing in full or by a reduced amount. Multi-Family Grants: The Council would need to be committed to assisting a developer constructing multifamily housing with a measurable affordability component in Ramsey. Not Using the Funds: The funds are meant for helping our residents or potential future residents. Should the money not be used, it will go back to Minnesota Housing and used in other communities. ## Time Frame/Observations/Alternatives: Since some money needs to be committed, or spent by the end of next year, staff would like direction to prepare a policy for adoption this spring and then start to work with residents and/or developers on using the money. ## Funding Source: LAHA Sales tax revenue ## Recommendation: Please provide direction on the types of projects the Council would like to see the money used for. Should the Council want to explore a partnership with a third-party agency to administer housing improvement loan programs, provide that direction as a partnership may take a few months to put together. ## Outcome/Action: Provide direction to staff. ## Attachments ## Draft Policy ## 2024 LAHA Direct Allocations ## 2025 LAHA Direct Allocations ## Minnesota Housing LAHA/SAHA FAQs ## Form Review ## InboxReviewed ByDate ## Brian HagenBrian Hagen05/06/2026 03:37 PM ## Form Started By: Todd LarsonStarted On: 05/05/2026 05:06 PM ## Final Approval Date: 05/06/2026 ## Ramsey Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) Program Adopted ______ 2026 ## Program Overview The Ramsey Local Affordable Housing Aid ( LAHA) program is intended to provide improvements to owner- occupied homes where the expense of such improvements would be cost-prohibitive or exceedingly burdensome to income-qualified residents. Providing assistance for exterior improvements not only help the residents of that home, but also benefit the surrounding neighborhood with improved aesthetics. Improvements to internal systems can provide for a safer and healthier living environment. ## Eligible Participants To be qualified for this program, recipients must meet all of the following criteria: 1. The household (combined total of all people residing in that house) income level must be at or below 115% Area Median Income (AMI) as defined for that year. Income verification will be done by review of tax filings. 2. The property must be owner-occupied and homesteaded with Anoka County. It may not be a relative homestead or in a trust. 3. The owner must not own or have any financial interest in any other homes or dwelling units— such as seasonal cabins, second homes, or as investment property. 4. Exterior improvements are limited to single-family homes. Interior improvements are available to single-family homes, owned manufactured homes in Oak Terrace Estates, and townhomes. 5. Must be a resident of Ramsey and the home must be located with Ramsey. Preferred Participants – Should there be more demand than money available, first preference will be given to households below 80% AMI and second preference given to homes resided by someone over 65 years of age (identification required if not the same person as on the deed). ## Eligible Expenses The following improvements on the home are eligible for use of LAHA money: Exterior Improvements – Minimum award amount = $10,000; Maximum award amount - $50,000 (total per home). ## 1. New Windows ## 2. New Siding ## 3. New Roofing 4. Connecting wells and/or septic systems to municipal utilities and the costs of proper removal or abandonment. Replacement costs are eligible provided that municipal utilities are not available. 5. Tree trimming and/or removal if the tree poses a threat to the home or it is a tree in the front yard. 6. Bituminous or concrete driveway replacement (between the main garage and the street only). Interior Improvements – Minimum award amount $1,000; Maximum award amount - $10,000 (total per home). 7. Furnace 8. Air conditioner 9. Water heater 10. Mold remediation 11. Electrical panel replacement The Council shall designate amounts each year for exterior and interior improvements. ## Matching Contributions The Council has stated that they would like to have homeowners to have some “skin in the game,” but also recognizes that some of the residents with the greatest needs do not have anything to contribute. The following table rewards a greater homeowner contribution with a shorter repayment period. This money is not intended to provide a resale value increase in order to flip a property quickly. There will be no interest charged or collected on any repayment. This program is a forgivable grant with a sliding scale based on the amount the homeowner contributed to the project and the length of time that homeowner remains in the home. Repayment terms shall be secured by a lien on the property recorded with the Anoka County Recorder’s office. If repayment is required at the time the home sells, money received must be deposited into the Housing Fund as required by Law. Repayment Portion (%) Based on Homeowner Contribution and Resale Timeframe. ## Percent Project Contribution Resale 0-24.99% 25-49.99% 50%+ 0-2 Years 100% 100% 100% 2-4 Years 75% 66% 50% 4-6 Years 50% 33% 0 6-8 Years 25% 0 0 After 8 Years 0 0 0 Example 1: A homeowner contributes 25 percent of the project costs and sells the house in three years, 66 percent of the awarded amount must be repaid to the City: ## Total Project Cost $20,000 Homeowner Contribution $5,000 (25% of $20,000) ## Award Amount $15,000 Amount Owed to City when sold in 3 years $10,000 (66% of $15,000) Example 2: A homeowner contributes nothing to a project and remains in the home for ten years. There is no repayment required. ## Total Project Cost $20,000 ## Homeowner Contribution $0 ## Award Amount $20,000 Amount Owed to City when sold in 10 years $0 (the award is forgiven) Should it be discovered after-the-fact that a recipient did not meet all of the Eligible Participants criteria, the entire awarded amount must be repaid at the time of sale, regardless of the timeframe between when the award was granted and the sale date. ## Payments to Contractors The City will not pay homeowners directly. Instead, the City will pay the contractors directly for their services. All contractors must be properly licensed and pull the applicable building/electrical permits. The City will pay a down payment (up to 50% project cost) and then a final payment. Final payment will only be made after work is complete and passes all required inspections. Should a homeowner be including their own funds in the project, their funds must be first applied to the down payment. The contractor and homeowner will sign a form acknowledging this arrangement and that no money will be used for kickbacks, bonuses, or anything unrelated to the actual work being performed. After-the-fact or reimbursement applications and payments are not allowed. ## Application Timing The listed exterior improvements are generally scheduled months in advance. Funding these improvements will be based on submitting an application and a contractor’s bid during an application window during the month of February. The applicant’s tax returns must be filed for the previous year to provide the most recent income verification. The listed interior improvements are generally needed with little or no warning. The City will take in applications and the contractor’s bid with the most recent tax returns on a rolling basis. Should available exterior improvement money exceed the amounts requested during the February application window, a supplemental application period will be available on a rolling first-come/first-serve basis. This excess available money can be used for interior improvements. ## Re-Applicants Nothing will preclude a homeowner who received LAHA funds from applying for additional exterior projects in in future application cycles. In order to improve as many homes as possible, priority will be given, however, to homes that that have not received any LAHA awards. ## Administration The program will be administered by Community Development staff with the payments coordinated by Finance staff. Community Development Staff will review all of the applications for exterior improvements in early March after the February application window closes. Staff will prioritize those applications by preferred applicants noted above. Staff will select as many applicants, in order of application submittal, as possible. Should demand exceed money available, Staff will request a reallocation to the Council. Community Development Staff will review each interior improvement application generally within two business days and process requests quickly as these types of improvements are generally more pressing in need. In order to respond quickly to our residents and to keep them out of a potentially political situation, all applications and awards will be handled by staff. ## Reporting Staff will prepare a report to the Council on the types of projects the money was used each year. Staff must also provide an annual report to Minnesota Housing per State Law. The total certified amount is paid to all recipients in two installments. ## CITY ## FINAL DISTRIBUTION FACTOR ## TOTAL CERTIFIED 2024 LOCAL AFFORDABLE ## HOUSING AID ## Andover 0.0061$98,152.49 ## Anoka0.0073$118,154.37 ## Apple Valley0.0176$282,732.21 ## Blaine0.0182$292,706.63 ## Bloomington0.0352$567,427.48 ## Brooklyn Center0.0117$188,983.33 ## Brooklyn Park0.0288$464,128.62 ## Burnsville0.0252$405,820.74 ## Champlin0.0065$103,882.47 Chanhassen city0.0079 $126,855.46 ## Chaska0.0081$130,038.78 ## Columbia Heights0.0089$142,878.19 ## Coon Rapids0.0221$355,471.16 ## Cottage Grove0.0078$125,476.02 ## Crystal0.0079$127,279.90 ## Eagan0.0215$346,610.91 ## East Bethel0.0016$25,466.59 ## Eden Prairie0.0167$268,672.53 ## Edina0.0211$339,342.32 ## Farmington0.0055$88,549.46 ## Forest Lake0.0074$118,578.81 ## Fridley0.0102$163,516.74 ## Golden Valley0.0085$137,095.15 ## Ham Lake0.0038$61,066.76 ## Hastings0.0071$114,387.44 ## Hopkins0.0107$172,642.26 ## Hugo0.0037$59,740.38 ## Inver Grove Heights0.0124$200,443.29 ## Lake Elmo0.0030 $48,810.97 ## Lakeville0.0142$229,464.59 ## Lino Lakes0.0055$88,284.18 ## Little Canada0.0047$75,020.33 ## Maple Grove0.0165$265,701.43 ## Maplewood0.0138$221,506.29 ## Mendota Heights0.0027 $43,876.81 ## Minneapolis0.2033$3,274,101.65 ## Minnetonka0.0200$321,515.71 ## Mounds View0.0044$71,412.57 ## New Brighton0.0089$142,719.02 ## New Hope0.0113$181,714.74 ## North St. Paul0.0053$84,570.30 ## Oakdale0.0111$178,743.63 ## 2024 Local Affordable Housing Aid: Cities The total certified amount is paid to all recipients in two installments. ## CITY ## FINAL DISTRIBUTION FACTOR ## TOTAL CERTIFIED 2024 LOCAL AFFORDABLE ## HOUSING AID ## 2024 Local Affordable Housing Aid: Cities ## Plymouth 0.0225$363,111.14 ## Prior Lake0.0068$109,824.67 ## Ramsey0.0074$118,897.15 ## Richfield0.0145$233,602.92 ## Robbinsdale0.0064$103,298.86 ## Rogers0.0020$32,204.63 ## Rosemount0.0053$85,047.80 ## Roseville0.0131$211,213.54 ## Savage0.0091$146,432.90 ## Shakopee0.0132 $212,327.70 ## Shoreview0.0081$130,516.28 ## South St. Paul0.0075$120,170.48 ## St. Louis Park0.0205$330,429.02 ## St. Paul0.1338$2,154,208.31 ## Stillwater0.0059$94,703.88 ## Vadnais Heights0.0050$80,007.54 ## Victoria0.0012$19,046.89 ## Waconia0.0046$73,322.56 ## West St. Paul0.0111$178,000.86 ## White Bear Lake0.0095$152,905.66 ## Woodbury0.0188$301,991.32 ## TOTAL1.0000$16,104,806.82 The total certified amount is paid to all recipients in two equal installments. ## CITY ## FINAL DISTRIBUTION FACTOR ## TOTAL CERTIFIED 2025 LOCAL AFFORDABLE ## HOUSING AID ## Andover0.0060$255,105.13 ## Anoka0.0070$300,785.48 ## Apple Valley0.0179$764,230.98 ## Blaine0.0181$772,363.98 ## Bloomington0.0346$1,478,986.21 ## Brooklyn Center0.0120$511,430.20 ## Brooklyn Park0.0277$1,182,131.67 ## Burnsville0.0267$1,141,331.12 ## Champlin0.0066$279,775.23 ## Chanhassen0.0072$307,291.88 ## Chaska0.0079$339,010.59 ## Columbia Heights0.0091$390,248.49 ## Coon Rapids0.0228$973,249.10 ## Cottage Grove0.0093$395,263.84 ## Crystal0.0081$347,956.89 ## Dayton0.0017$73,197.01 ## Eagan0.0209$891,647.99 ## East Bethel0.0023$96,240.51 ## Eden Prairie0.0171$729,801.28 ## Edina0.0205$875,381.99 ## Farmington0.0057$244,803.33 ## Forest Lake0.0073$311,900.58 ## Fridley0.0108$462,361.10 ## Golden Valley0.0080$343,754.84 ## Ham Lake0.0038$162,388.92 ## Hastings0.0067$284,519.48 ## Hopkins0.0110$469,274.15 ## Hugo0.0043$185,025.77 ## Inver Grove Heights0.0115$491,911.00 ## Lake Elmo0.0034$146,394.02 ## Lakeville0.0149$635,458.47 ## Lino Lakes0.0058$247,107.68 ## Little Canada0.0046$196,954.17 ## Maple Grove0.0177$754,878.03 ## Maplewood0.0138$587,609.31 ## Mendota Heights0.0029$123,621.61 ## Minneapolis0.2013$8,595,226.41 ## Minnetonka0.0187$800,422.83 ## Mounds View0.0045$190,312.22 ## New Brighton0.0085$362,731.84 ## New Hope0.0102$433,760.05 ## North St. Paul0.0047$200,342.92 ## 2025 Local Affordable Housing Aid: Cities The total certified amount is paid to all recipients in two equal installments. ## CITY ## FINAL DISTRIBUTION FACTOR ## TOTAL CERTIFIED 2025 LOCAL AFFORDABLE ## HOUSING AID ## 2025 Local Affordable Housing Aid: Cities ## Oakdale0.0109$465,072.10 ## Plymouth0.0219$933,261.85 ## Prior Lake0.0062$266,897.98 ## Ramsey0.0074$316,780.38 ## Richfield0.0151$643,862.57 ## Robbinsdale0.0061$260,120.48 ## Rogers0.0019$81,601.11 ## Rosemount0.0055$232,874.92 ## Roseville0.0132$563,752.51 ## Savage0.0096$407,869.99 ## Shakopee0.0129$552,366.31 ## Shoreview0.0078$334,672.99 ## South Saint Paul0.0073$313,527.18 ## St. Louis Park0.0199$848,543.09 ## St. Paul0.1338$5,715,601.90 ## Stillwater0.0062$263,644.78 ## Vadnais Heights0.0049$209,424.77 ## Victoria0.0011$45,951.45 ## Waconia0.0044$189,363.37 ## West St. Paul0.0107$455,854.70 ## White Bear Lake0.0100$425,220.39 ## Woodbury0.0198$844,476.59 ## TOTAL1.0000$42,706,929.71 1 ## Local and Statewide Affordable Housing Aid Frequently ## Asked Questions In 2023, the Minnesota Legislature authorized aid payments to counties, cities and Tribal Nations and in 2024 the legislature adopted changes to the aid programs. The goal is to fund affordable housing projects and help organizations provide affordable and supportive housing. Local Affordable Housing Aid (LAHA) is aid to metropolitan local governments of seven counties and 63 cities. LAHA is funded through a new dedicated sales tax in the seven-county metropolitan area. As sales taxes will vary, the amount of LAHA distributed will also vary. Statewide Affordable Housing Aid (SAHA) is funded by state funds appropriated to the Department of Revenue. All Minnesota counties, Tribal Nations and 37 cities will be eligible to receive th is aid. Aid payments are made directly to local governments. In the metro, aid is funded by the sales tax for housing. Statewide, aid is funded by state appropriations. Throughout the document, “housing aid” is used when the response applies to both LAHA and SAHA. The information provided in this document does not constitute legal advice and is subject to change. If there are questions regarding how program requirements or criteria apply in specific circumstances, please consult with your own legal counsel. ## Overview and Requirements Why is there a difference between SAHA and LAHA? The primary differences between LAHA and SAHA are the way they are funded, when funding will be disbursed and to whom. Both aid projects have the same eligible uses and requirements except for market rate housing. This is only available in certain non-metropolitan areas using SAHA. What are the eligible uses of housing aid programs? Qualifying projects for aids payable in 2023 are: June 14, 2024 2 •Emergency rental assistance for households earning less than 80% of area median income (AMI) as determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) •Financial support to nonprofit affordable housing providers in their mission to provide safe, dignified, affordable and supportive housing •Development of market rate residential rental properties outside of the metro area if certain conditions are met •Projects designed for the purpose of construction, acquisition, rehabilitation, demolition or removal of existing structures, construction financing, permanent financing, interest rate reduction, refinancing and gap financing of affordable housing For aids payable in 2024, qualifying projects are those listed above plus: •Financing the operations and management of financially distressed residential properties •Funding of supportive services including staffing for supportive housing, which includes financial support to nonprofit services providers and capitalized reserves •Costs of operating emergency shelter facilities, including services For more information, read the complete list of LAHA qualifying projects and SAHA qualifying projects. What is gap financing? Gap financing is the difference between the property costs (including acquisition, demolition, rehabilitation and construction) and •The market value of the property upon sale ## OR •The amount the target household can afford for housing (based on industry standards and practices) What are the affordability requirements of LAHA and SAHA? Specific income requirements are provided for: ## •Emergency Rental Assistance oLess than 80% of AMI •Homeownership oAt or below 115% of the greater of state or area median income oPriority for those at or below 80% •Rental Housing oAt or below 80% of the greater of state or area median income 3 oPriority for those at or below 50% State and area median incomes are determined by HUD. While there are no income requirements or income qualification for projects supporting nonprofits, organizations should be providing affordable or supportive housing. Some non-metropolitan communities may be eligible to spend aid on market rate developments. There are no income requirements for market rate housing under this category. Are there other requirements if using these funds? Yes. If LAHA or SAHA is used for new construction of a building with more than four units, the building must be constructed, converted or otherwise adapted to include accessibility features, such as sensory-accessible (see subd. 4). Documentation will be required for reporting and compliance. ## State Agency Roles and Reporting Requirements What roles do the Department of Revenue and Minnesota Housing play in distributing and tracking local housing aid? The Department of Revenue calculates and distributes the amount of aid available to each government. Revenue also accepts applications from eligible Tribal Nations. Minnesota Housing’s statutory role relates to reporting and compliance. First reports are due by December 1, 2025. While not required by the legislation, Minnesota Housing is hiring staff to support housing aid programs with technical assistance and coordination. Does a city, county or Tribe need to apply to receive the funds? For cities and counties there is no application process. Revenue will distribute aid according to statutory requirements. Tribal Nations must apply to receive funds annually. Tribes should work with Revenue to meet this annual requirement. Does a city, county or Tribe need to seek preapproval before spending the funds? No. Approval is not needed before spending funds. However, funds must be used on qualifying projects and expenditures should be documented to avoid repayment or recapture. Will Minnesota Housing be developing a program guide for housing aid? No. Housing aid is not a grant or loan program and is not subject to a program guide. 4 Minnesota Housing will support housing aid programs through guidance and staff support. What are the reporting requirements for the funds? Beginning in 2025, housing aid recipients must submit a report to Minnesota Housing every year by December 1. The report must include documentation of: •Certification that the aid recipient will use the aid funds to supplement and not supplant its existing locally-funded housing expenditures •Qualifying projects completed or planned with the funds •Location of unspent funds •Inability to spend on a qualifying project prior to the deadline (if funds deposited into a local housing trust fund) •Accessibility requirements (for project of four or more units) •Relevant resolution and certifications for market rate developments in non-metropolitan communities •Relevant documentation of locally-funded housing expenditures in prior years, including public notice requirements Additional guidance on the report’s format will be provided in the future. Do metropolitan counties need to submit a report for LAHA and one for SAHA? Minnesota Housing is determining if the reports must remain separate. However, if they do, the report format will be the same or substantially similar for LAHA and SAHA. What happens if a city, county or Tribal Nation does not submit a report or does not spend the funds? Reports are due by December 1 every year. The first report is due on December 1, 2025. If the aid recipient fails to submit a report, does not spend funds during the required timeframe, or spends funds on an ineligible project, they must repay the funds. Revenue may also suspend payments to these entities. Detailed information can be found in 477A.35, Subd 6 and 477A.36, Subd. 6. What happens to the aid funds if they are returned or recaptured? If returned, aid funds would be deposited with one or more of Minnesota Housing’s programs. This includes Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP), the Economic Development 5 and Housing Challenge Program (Challenge), and the Workforce and Affordable Homeownership Development Program as specified in law. Will Minnesota Housing be monitoring the use of housing aid prior to the reporting deadline for cities and counties? Minnesota Housing will not require reporting prior to December 1, 2025, when the first report is due from cities and counties. However, Minnesota Housing will be checking in with local governments to offer support and track spending progress. ## Definitions and Clarifications What is a Tier I and a Tier II city? The terms Tier I and Tier II are used to determine cities that will receive aid. A Tier I city is a statutory or home rule charter city that is a city of the first, second or third class. For LAHA, it must be in a metropolitan county. For SAHA, it must not be in a metropolitan county. Read the full definition of cities and classes. A Tier II city is a statutory or home rule charter city that is a city of the fourth class and not located in a metropolitan county (see subd. 4). The bill requires aid be spent on a qualified project. What is the definition of spent? If a project is started but not completed, are the funds considered to be spent? The definition of spent was clarified in 2024 session law. Funds must be committed to a qualifying project by December 31 in the third year following the year the aid was received (for aid received in 2024, this would be December 31, 2027) and expended by December 31 the fourth year after the aid was received. Is SAHA funding from appropriations ongoing? The following table reflects amounts appropriated to SAHA through the fiscal year ending in 2027. The appropriations are set at a base level with one-time increases in the first two years. ## SAHA Appropriations Fiscal Year Ending 6/30/24 ## FYE 6/30/2025 ## FYE 6/30/2026 FYE 2027 and each year after To the 87 counties in ## Minnesota $ 13,050,000 $ 13,050,000 $ 5,550,000 $ 5,550,000 6 ## SAHA Appropriations Fiscal Year Ending 6/30/24 ## FYE 6/30/2025 ## FYE 6/30/2026 FYE 2027 and each year after To the 37 cities in ## Greater Minnesota $ 4,500,000 $ 4,500,000 $ 2,000,000 $ 2,000,000 To the 7 eligible Tribal ## Nations $ 2,700,000 $ 2,700,000 $ 1,200,000 $ 1,200,000 ## To Minnesota Housing ## for the Tier II Cities Grants program $ 2,250,000 $ 2,250,000 $ 1,250,000 $ 1,250,000 ## TOTAL $ 22,500,000 $ 22,500,000 $ 10,000,000 $ 10,000,000 How were the funding allocations determined? Revenue determined allocations based on distribution formulas. For counties and cities, these formulas consider cost-burdened households and total population. For Tribal Nations, funds are distributed to Tribes that apply by the deadline. Will Tier II cities receive a disbursement of SAHA? Tier II cities will not receive a direct disbursement of SAHA. However, the Legislature appropriated $4.5 million for Tier II cities. Funds will be available as grants in the competitive process for a range of rental, homeownership and housing stability activities with a minimum award size of $25,000. Minnesota Housing will be preparing a program guide, a list of eligible Tier II cities and a request for proposals (RFP) in 2024. ## Qualifying Projects and Expenses What portion of the housing aid funds can be used for staffing costs and administrative costs? Administrative costs and staffing costs are not listed as an eligible project. Therefore, the funds are not able to be used for these costs. If funds are used for Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA), what portion can be used for navigation, services and administration related to ERA provision and programs? Navigation and services related to providing ERA are eligible aid expenses. However, there is no allowance for administrative costs using housing aids. . 7 If aid funds are used for demolition or removal of existing structures, does affordable housing need to be constructed on the site? Yes. The expense must be tied to affordable housing for eligible households. Demolition or clearing of land alone, including for speculative or future development of eligible housing, is not an eligible project. Can funds be used for planning activities (soft costs) for new construction and preservation affordable housing projects? Soft costs are only eligible as part of a qualifying project. General or speculative planning activities unrelated to a qualifying project are not an allowed use of funds. Can funds be used for downpayment assistance for homebuyers? Qualifying projects include homeownership projects for income-eligible households. Downpayment assistance may be provided as permanent financing or gap financing, depending on program requirements established by the aid recipient. Can the housing aid funds immediately be deposited into a Local Housing Trust Fund? Funds can be held in a local housing trust fund while recipients determine if a project qualifies. Funds must be spent on a qualifying project by the deadline in statute. Funds remaining in a local housing trust fund past the deadline will only be considered “spent” on a qualifying project if the aid recipient demonstrates that it could not spend funds by the deadline due to factors outside their control. Can funds be transferred to a county or regional Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) if they are spent on qualifying projects? Yes. Funds can be transferred to a county or regional HRA if they are spent on qualifying projects. The original aid recipient is still responsible for all requirements related to the funds, including reporting. Can funds be used for developing new infrastructure, such as utilities and roads, or upgrading existing infrastructure if the infrastructure serves affordable housing? Potentially. The infrastructure would need to be part of a qualifying project. All requirements related to project type, income affordability and other accessible requirements would also need to be met. Speculative site and infrastructure development would not be eligible. 8 Infrastructure development or improvement for sites that include development uses not allowed under this aid program would not be eligible. What are some examples of expenditures ineligible for housing aid? Housing aid should be used for projects that create and preserve affordable housing or stabilize the housing of low-income people. This does not include: •Conducting a housing or zoning study •Costs to create a Housing Improvement Area •Staff and services related to general housing quality and licensure, such as code enforcement •Staff and administrative costs for operation of an HRA or county or city housing department •Commercial, industrial or public space development projects •Projects located outside of Minnesota Housing aid received by Greater Minnesota counties, cities and Tribes in 2023 cannot be used for emergency shelter. However, for aid received in 2024 and after, shelter is an eligible project type. If funds are used to support a nonprofit organization, do they need to be tracked to qualifying projects? Housing aid can be used to provide financial support to a nonprofit affordable housing provider in their mission to provide safe, dignified, affordable and supportive housing. If aid is used in this manner, providing support to the eligible nonprofit is the qualifying project. The aid recipient should document that the funds were used to support the organization’s mission. Can a county or city use other state or federal funding as part of a development financing package that includes housing aid funds? Yes. State and federal funding can be used as a part of the project’s development financing package. If the funds are held in a Local Housing Trust Fund, can they be used as a match in Minnesota Housing’s Local Housing Trust Funds Matching Grants program? No. Housing aid cannot be used as matching funds in the Local Housing Trust Fund Grants program. Only new public revenue, defined as local income committed to the Local Housing Trust Fund on or after June 29, 2021, can be used as matching funds. Can a county use its funds within cities that have also received housing aid? Yes. Counties can spend the funds on qualifying projects anywhere in the county, including cities that directly receive aid. Regional collaboration is encouraged to maximize the aid’s impact. 9 A county receiving aid should consult with the cities where projects are planned (see subd. 7). Can aid funds be used to reimburse prior expenditures on eligible projects? No. An aid recipient may not use aid money to reimburse itself for prior expenditures. Will the aid funds trigger other state funding requirements, such as prevailing wage? For questions on labor and wage requirements, contact the Department of Labor and Industry. For questions on the use of sales tax proceeds, contact the Department of Revenue. 2. 2. ## CC Work Session ## Meeting Date: 05/12/2026 ## Primary Strategic Plan Initiative: Strive for high organizational morale and employee retention. ## Information ## Title: ## Discussion Regarding a Police Department Staffing Change ## Purpose/Background: The City of Ramsey implemented a long-term internship program a few years ago in an effort to improve Police Officer recruiting. The positions within the program are called CSO/LEPS or Community Service Officer / Law Enforcement Program Students positions. The primary objective of the positions are to perform a variety of non-sworn law enforcement support duties in the Ramsey Police Department office while preparing them to become sworn law enforcement officers for their career. One condition of employment is as follows: this internship is limited to no more than five years, or one-year post eligibility, whichever comes first. The City has been successful in onboarding and retaining sworn officer positions that have started through this program. Management staff have become aware that one of our successful current CSO/LEPS employees will soon leave the City of Ramsey for another sworn officer position. Staff are confident that if the City had an opening, this employee would be recommended for hire as a Police Officer. However, at this time the City does not have a vacancy for a Patrol Officer. Staff would like to discuss this matter with the City Council and provide details regarding options for bringing on this employee as a new Police Officer in the near future. As shared during previous updates from the Police Department, a request to add a Patrol Officer position will be included in the 2027 Preliminary Budget. This request further mirrors recent past years' requests as the community continues to grow. Though the additional patrol officer position is not included in the 2026 budget, staff believes that funding will be available within the current budget based on year to date spending. Furthermore, there would be a period of time the CSO/LEPS position would remain vacant. The 2027 budget would account for this position, contingent upon approval. ## Funding Source: Current Police Department approved budget. ## Recommendation: Staff recommends adding a Patrol Officer position to the budget in 2026 in order to retain an individual who has proven themselves through our program. This would ultimately reflect the position Council would have been asked to approve in the 2027 Budget. ## Outcome/Action: Based on discussion. ## Attachments No file(s) attached. ## Form Review ## InboxReviewed ByDate ## Brian HagenBrian Hagen05/07/2026 09:07 AM ## Brian HagenBrian Hagen05/07/2026 09:07 AM ## Form Started By: Colleen LasherStarted On: 05/06/2026 04:35 PM ## Final Approval Date: 05/07/2026 2. 3. ## CC Work Session ## Meeting Date: 05/12/2026 ## Primary Strategic Plan Initiative: Strive for high organizational morale and employee retention. ## Information ## Title: ## Review the Findings of the 2026 All-staff Employee Survey ## Purpose/Background: The purpose of this discussion is to review the findings of the 2026 all-staff employee survey. The City's Labor Management Committee considers, on an as needed basis, the need or desire to conduct an all-staff employee survey. This year, approximately 85% of the City’s full-time and part-time employees completed the survey; this does not include paid-on-call firefighters, seasonal employees or volunteers. Previously, all-staff surveys were conducted in 2007, 2011, 2014, 2016 and 2019, and 2023. One question that is asked survey after survey is "Would you recommend the organization to others who are seeking employment?" This question seems to be a good gauge of employee satisfaction. Historically, the "yes" responses are as follows: 2007 - 96%, 2011 - 48%, 2014 - 77%, 2016 - 94%, 2019 - 81%, 2023 - 75%, 2026 - 69% This year, 69% -- 70 employees said "yes", they would recommend the organization to others who are seeking employment. Three employees answered "no" and 29 answered Unsure. A new question was added in 2023 to rate employee morale. The overall weighted average on the 5-point scale last time was 3.84. This year, the rating is 3.81. Results of the survey are reviewed by the management team, as well as the Labor Management Committee. Naturally, the intent is to keep doing what is working well and improve on weaker areas. The Committee develops a work plan to address weaker areas. This year, the Committee determined the best course of action would be to conduct a subsequent survey with staff. The intent is to describe the areas of concern and offer staff the opportunity to make recommendations for specific tactics that could improve areas of weakness, specifically by department or as an organization as a whole, depending on the issue. Once the tactics are reviewed and approved by the Committee, Human Resources acts on behalf of the Committee to put the work plan into motion. In general, data within the survey may be useful for strategic planning, staff planning, budgeting, benefit planning, total compensation, etc. Staff will be seeking feedback or direction from the City Council regarding the survey. ## Time Frame/Observations/Alternatives: Up to 20 minutes. ## Funding Source: Not Applicable. ## Recommendation: ## Recommendation: Based on discussion. ## Outcome/Action: Based on discussion. ## Attachments ## Survey ## Form Review ## InboxReviewed ByDate ## Brian HagenBrian Hagen05/07/2026 09:10 AM ## Form Started By: Colleen LasherStarted On: 04/09/2026 03:08 PM ## Final Approval Date: 05/07/2026 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 1 / 28 Q1 I fall into the following group: Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Employee / Lead Supervisor / Manager / ## Department Head ## Employee 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Employee / Lead76.47% 78 ## Supervisor / Manager / Department Head Employee23.53% 24 ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 2 / 28 Q2 How long have you worked for the City of Ramsey? Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 Less than 2 years 2 to 5 years 6 to 10 years 11 to 15 years 16+ years 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses Less than 2 years14.71% 15 2 to 5 years45.10% 46 6 to 10 years12.75% 13 11 to 15 years10.78% 11 16+ years16.67% 17 ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 3 / 28 Q3 My supervisor gives me feedback on the quality and effectiveness of my work. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0.98% 1 ## Strongly Disagree1.96% 2 ## Disagree7.84% 8 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)13.73% 14 ## Agree57.84% 59 ## Strongly Agree17.65% 18 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 4 / 28 Q4 My Supervisor cares about my wellbeing. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree0% 0 ## Disagree0% 0 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)10.78% 11 ## Agree43.14% 44 ## Strongly Agree46.08% 47 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 5 / 28 Q5 My supervisor trusts that I do my best work. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don't Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don't Know1.96% 2 ## Strongly Disagree0.98% 1 ## Disagree0% 0 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)6.86% 7 ## Agree45.10% 46 ## Strongly Agree45.10% 46 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 6 / 28 Q6 The employees I work with in my department cooperate and work as a team. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree2.94% 3 ## Disagree5.88% 6 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)14.71% 15 ## Agree35.29% 36 ## Strongly Agree41.18% 42 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 7 / 28 Q7 Collaboration between departments is effective and efficient. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know1.96% 2 ## Strongly Disagree6.86% 7 ## Disagree19.61% 20 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)25.49% 26 ## Agree35.29% 36 ## Strongly Agree10.78% 11 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 8 / 28 Q8 Managements leadership creates a work environment that helps me do my job. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know1.96% 2 ## Strongly Disagree0.98% 1 ## Disagree5.88% 6 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)18.63% 19 ## Agree50.98% 52 ## Strongly Agree21.57% 22 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 9 / 28 Q9 Management staff communicate transparently about goals, budgets and changes. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0.98% 1 ## Strongly Disagree5.88% 6 ## Disagree15.69% 16 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)18.63% 19 ## Agree43.14% 44 ## Strongly Agree15.69% 16 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 10 / 28 Q10 Management staff leadership is effective in promoting the organizations core values. (Ethics and Integrity, Cooperation and ## Teamwork, Open and Honest Communications, Excellence and Quality in ## the Delivery of Services, Serving People with Respect and Fairness, ## Adaptability and Continuous Learning) Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree1.96% 2 ## Disagree6.86% 7 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)25.49% 26 ## Agree47.06% 48 ## Strongly Agree18.63% 19 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 11 / 28 Q11 I am encouraged to seek development and training to develop my job skills. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree2.94% 3 ## Disagree9.80% 10 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)28.43% 29 ## Agree38.24% 39 ## Strongly Agree20.59% 21 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 12 / 28 Q12 My division or department has the positions and resources to do its work today. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree2.94% 3 ## Disagree6.86% 7 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)22.55% 23 ## Agree50.98% 52 ## Strongly Agree16.67% 17 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 13 / 28 Q13 I feel appreciated and recognized for my work. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree1.96% 2 ## Disagree7.84% 8 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)22.55% 23 ## Agree49.02% 50 ## Strongly Agree18.63% 19 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 14 / 28 Q14 I am compensated appropriately for my work. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree2.94% 3 ## Disagree20.59% 21 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)24.51% 25 ## Agree44.12% 45 ## Strongly Agree7.84% 8 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 15 / 28 Q15 Rate employee morale within your department, with five being the highest score and one being the lowest score. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 3.8 /5 ## Average Rating 1 2 3 4 5 ## Rating PercentageResponses 1 / 5 2.0% 2 2 / 5 6.9% 7 3 / 5 22.5% 23 4 / 5 45.1% 46 5 / 5 23.5% 24 Show comments ## Average1023.8 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 16 / 28 Q16 Rate the quality of our benefit package, with five being the highest score and one being the lowest score. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 3.2 /5 ## Average Rating 1 answer option excluded.Show all 1 2 3 4 5 ## Rating PercentageResponses 1 / 5 12.7% 13 2 / 5 12.7% 13 3 / 5 26.5% 27 4 / 5 29.4% 30 5 / 5 14.7% 15 Show comments ## Average983.2 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 17 / 28 Q17 Rate the quality of our leave benefits (Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick/ESST) with five being the highest score and one being the lowest score. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 3.5 /5 ## Average Rating 1 2 3 4 5 ## Rating PercentageResponses 1 / 5 7.8% 8 2 / 5 8.8% 9 3 / 5 26.5% 27 4 / 5 35.3% 36 5 / 5 21.6% 22 Show comments ## Average1023.5 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 18 / 28 Q18 My division or department has the positions and resources to do its work today. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know0% 0 ## Strongly Disagree1.96% 2 ## Disagree7.84% 8 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)24.51% 25 ## Agree55.88% 57 ## Strongly Agree9.80% 10 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 19 / 28 Q19 The City Council sets policies and provides resources that allow me to succeed at my job. Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Don’t Know ## Strongly Disagree ## Disagree Neutral (neither agree nor disagree) ## Agree ## Strongly Agree 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Don’t Know4.90% 5 ## Strongly Disagree2.94% 3 ## Disagree9.80% 10 Neutral (neither agree nor disagree)45.10% 46 ## Agree34.31% 35 ## Strongly Agree2.94% 3 Show comments ## Total102 ## City of Ramsey -- 2026 Employee Survey 20 / 28 Q20 Would you recommend working for the City of Ramsey to others who are seeking employment? Answered: 102 Skipped: 0 ## Yes Please explain why you answered "Yes", "No", or "Not Sure". This information ... ## Not Sure ## No 0%10%20%30%40%50%60%70%80%90%10... ## Answer ChoicesPercentageResponses ## Yes68.63% 70 Please explain why you answered "Yes", "No", or "Not Sure". This information is very helpful. ## Show responses 40.20% 41 ## Not Sure28.43% 29 ## No2.94% 3 ## Total143 ## CC Work Session 2. 4. ## Meeting Date:05/12/2026 ## Information ## Title: ## Discussion Regarding Union Contract Negotiations (Discussion Closed to the Public) ## Purpose/Background: The purpose of this discussion is to update the City Council on the status of negotiations for the City’s five contracts and to gather Council feedback to guide the next phase of negotiations. Per Minnesota Statutes 13D.03, which states: "The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25, staff is requesting that the City Council go into closed session to discuss the City's labor negotiations strategy for its five union contracts. At this time, City staff will have met the Law Enforcement Labor Services (LELS) Patrol group. Other groups include LELS Crime Data Analysts, Sergeants, Captains and the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). Supporting documentation will be distributed and recollected at the meeting. ## Timeframe: Up to 30 minutes. ## Funding Source: Not applicable at this time. ## Responsible Party(ies): ## Colleen Lasher, Administrative Services Director ## Outcome: For the City Council to provide staff with direction regarding how to proceed contract negotiations. ## Attachments 13D.03 Statute ## Form Review ## InboxReviewed ByDate ## Brian HagenBrian Hagen05/06/2026 02:17 PM ## Form Started By: Colleen LasherStarted On: 04/23/2026 10:54 AM ## Final Approval Date: 05/06/2026 ## 13D.03 CLOSED MEETINGS FOR LABOR NEGOTIATIONS STRATEGY.​ Subdivision 1.Procedure.(a) Section 13D.01, subdivisions 1, 2, 4, 5, and section 13D.02 do not apply​ to a meeting held pursuant to the procedure in this section.​ (b) The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold​ a closed meeting to consider strategy for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments​ or discussion and review of labor negotiation proposals, conducted pursuant to sections 179A.01 to 179A.25.​ (c) The time of commencement and place of the closed meeting shall be announced at the public meeting.​ (d) A written roll of members and all other persons present at the closed meeting shall be made available​ to the public after the closed meeting.​ Subd. 2.Meeting must be recorded.(a) The proceedings of a closed meeting to discuss negotiation​ strategies shall be tape-recorded at the expense of the governing body.​ (b) The recording shall be preserved for two years after the contract is signed and shall be made available​ to the public after all labor contracts are signed by the governing body for the current budget period.​ Subd. 3.If violation claimed.(a) If an action is brought claiming that public business other than​ discussions of labor negotiation strategies or developments or discussion and review of labor negotiation​ proposals was transacted at a closed meeting held pursuant to this section during the time when the tape is​ not available to the public, the court shall review the recording of the meeting in camera.​ (b) If the court finds that this section was not violated, the action shall be dismissed and the recording​ shall be sealed and preserved in the records of the court until otherwise made available to the public pursuant​ to this section.​ (c) If the court finds that this section was violated, the recording may be introduced at trial in its entirety​ subject to any protective orders as requested by either party and deemed appropriate by the court.​ History: 1957 c 773 s 1; 1967 c 462 s 1; 1973 c 123 art 5 s 7; 1973 c 654 s 15; 1973 c 680 s 1,3; 1975​ c 271 s 6; 1981 c 174 s 1; 1983 c 137 s 1; 1983 c 274 s 18; 1984 c 462 s 27; 1987 c 313 s 1; 1990 c 550 s​ 2,3; 1991 c 292 art 8 s 12; 1991 c 319 s 22; 1994 c 618 art 1 s 39; 1997 c 154 s 2​ ## Official Publication of the State of Minnesota​ ## Revisor of Statutes​ ## 13D.03​MINNESOTA STATUTES 2025​1​ 3. 1. ## CC Work Session ## Meeting Date: 05/12/2026 ## Primary Strategic Plan Initiative: Enhance City’s communication through transparency and accountability. ## Information ## Title: ## Review Future Topics/Calendar ## Purpose/Background: The first attachment is the current list of future topics for work session discussions. Items are drawn from Council requests at meetings, or are related to topics that have been identified in the City's strategic plan. Tentative dates have been assigned. The second attachment includes Councilmember initiatives for future work session topics. Those items are up for discussion and, with consensus, will be added to the future topics list. ## Recommendation: For Council review - no formal action necessary. ## Outcome/Action: For Council review. ## Attachments ## Future Topics List ## Councilmember Topic Requests ## Form Review ## InboxReviewed ByDate ## Brian HagenBrian Hagen05/06/2026 02:31 PM ## Form Started By: Katie SchmidtStarted On: 05/05/2026 10:07 AM ## Final Approval Date: 05/06/2026 ## Tentative City Council Future Work Session Topics ## Proposed ## Date ## Topic Minutes (Estimate) 2026 ## 05/26 Comp Plan Update 90 06/09 Audit Report 30 ## 06/09 Right of Way Permit – Fiber ## 06/09 Union Negotiations ## 06/23 Council Salaries – CM: KB, CR ## 06/23 Holiday Market Feasibility Analysis ## 06/23 Community Art Resource Guide 07/14 Budget 90 07/28 Budget 90 08/10 Budget 90 08/25 Budget 90 08/25 Budget 90 ## 07/28 Quarterly Police & Fire Update ## 10/27 Quarterly Police & Fire Update ## TBD City Facilities Tour ## TBD Discuss Commercial Property Public Utility Connection ## Program ## TBD Subdivision Code ## TBD Prevailing Wage Policy – CM: KB, EP ## Councilmember Initiatives for Future Work Session Topics ## Proposed by CM ## Topic ## Buscher Wage Theft Enforcement