09/21/2026 City Council Workshop

Monday, September 21, 2026

Areas of Interest (5)

City Council considering a hike in park dedication fees to fund a $40 million capital improvement plan.
Proposed shift in how Forest Lake handles non-residential park fees, potentially tying them to employee density.
Drafting of a comprehensive 'Business Subsidy Policy' to standardize economic incentives and public land sales.
Debate over whether to require developers to meet strict job creation and wage thresholds (400% of minimum wage) for subsidies.
Concerns regarding 'unethical conduct' clauses in city business policies and how to legally define them.

If we are going to help finance a project with public money in some way, it is considered business subsidy.
— Abby

Business Subsidy PolicyDefining business subsidies for the council.

I don't want to lose a developer over a few hundred dollars. I prefer our prices to be more competitive.
— Roberts

Park Dedication FeesDiscussing the economic impact of raising park dedication fees.

RobertsMayor

Presiding over the city council workshop.

AbbyStaff/Planner

Leading the discussion on park dedication fees and business subsidies.

1 quote

“Any preliminary plan submitted will be subject to the old fee schedule.”

Explaining how developers will be grandfathered into existing fee structures.

MillerCouncil Member

Participating in policy deliberations.

Forest LakeWinona LakesRosemountPrior LakeLino LakesHugoCherry Wood Point

Minnesota Statute 463

Authorizes cities to request park dedication for future land subdivisions to meet resident needs.