Public Comments on Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR)
No direct action; public comments received and Mayor provided clarifying remarks.
Adam Schlaegel and Sarah Jackim expressed serious privacy and constitutional concerns regarding Axon ALPR cameras, referencing a court case (US vs. Kyle) and requesting the city cease ALPR usage and redirect grant funds. Mayor Norton later clarified that the city's Axon cameras are not for general citizen tracking, have strict data protocols, and are distinct from Flock cameras which have faced public scrutiny.
G1 - 2027 Downtown Special Service District Fees
Passed Unanimously
Moved by Council Member Dorn [32:15] · Seconded by Council Member Fredericks [32:41]
Staff proposed a 4% fee increase for the Downtown Special Service District, a self-assessment on property owners to fund services like cleaning, safety, and marketing by the RDA. A business owner, John Krizel, voiced opposition due to parking difficulties and economic strain. RDA Executive Director Shawn Fagan detailed success stories, including increased foot traffic from events and enhanced marketing. Council members inquired about ADA parking and the city's administrative role in the self-imposed fees.
G2 - 2027 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Allocations
Passed Unanimously
Moved by Council Member Fredericks [41:48] · Seconded by Council Member Miller [42:27]
Brent Svenby presented the 2027 CDBG Annual Action Plan, focusing on benefiting low/moderate-income individuals through housing rehabilitation and affordable housing planning. Linda Parker urged for robust fraud prevention, including independent audits, phased payments, data matching, and a public dashboard. Svenby outlined existing safeguards, such as reimbursement-based payments and monitoring visits, to ensure financial integrity.
G3 - Bogey Bugaloos Southeast Rochester LLC Vacation Request CD 2026-008 VAC
Passed Unanimously
Moved by Council Member Fredericks [46:40] · Seconded by Council Member Ken [47:50]
Elliott Miller presented a request to vacate a 10-foot unused utility easement for a proposed six-story, 211-unit multi-family residential development. The Public Works and RPU departments supported the vacation, provided a new easement is established. Craig Britton, representing the applicant, confirmed acceptance of these conditions.
G4 - RJR Land Development LLC Final Plat, Cassidy Heights (CD 2026-028 PLAT)
Passed Unanimously
Moved by Council Member Fredericks [51:15] · Seconded by Council Member Dorn [52:16]
Elliott Miller presented the final plat for Cassidy Heights, a 12.7-acre residential subdivision creating 18 residential lots and one outlot. The plan includes the extension of Cassidy Ridge Drive NE, with a temporary cul-de-sac that allows for future development. Dan Horsch, the applicant's engineer, confirmed all conditions would be met.
H1 - Research on Private Sewer Lateral Cost Assistance
2-5 Rejected
Dissent: Council Members Ken, Miller, Wol, Dorn, and Council President Schubring voted against maintaining the status quo, indicating a desire to explore new options.
Moved by Council Member Fredericks [01:29:55] · Seconded by Council Member Palmer [01:30:20]
Aaron Lokken presented staff research on options for assisting homeowners with private sewer lateral repair costs. Proposed options included expanding RPU's Service Assured program, transferring responsibility to the city, or offering low-interest loans/grants. Staff recommended against these due to high cost and logistical challenges, favoring a partnership with a third-party voluntary insurance provider, OnCourse Home Solutions. Debate covered the low frequency of public right-of-way repairs, potential for increased claims if insurance is widely adopted, and the value of a voluntary option for homeowners. A motion to maintain the status quo was rejected, and an alternative motion to further discuss the voluntary insurance program in a study session was approved.
H1 - Motion to Hold Study Session on Voluntary Insurance Program
5-2 Passed
Dissent: Council Members Fredericks and Palmer voted against holding a study session on the voluntary insurance program.
Moved by Council Member Miller [01:32:10] · Seconded by Council Member Ken [01:32:35]
Following the rejection of maintaining the status quo on private sewer lateral cost assistance, a motion was made to direct staff to hold a study session to further discuss a voluntary insurance program, likely with OnCourse Home Solutions. Supporters emphasized the benefit of offering residents an optional safety net against unexpected high costs, while opponents reiterated concerns about city branding and staff time.
K1 - Second Reading: Ordinance amending fees and costs
Passed Unanimously
Moved by Council Member Ken [01:36:25] · Seconded by Council Member Wol [01:36:30]
Mr. Spindler Craig presented the second reading of an ordinance to amend Section 2-1-2 of Chapter 2-1, Title 2 of the Rochester Code, pertaining to fees and costs for licenses, permits, and services provided by the City. No specific discussion was recorded beyond procedural presentation.