03-12-2024 Work Session CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
Richfield, Minnesota
City Council Work Session
March 12, 2024
CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Supple called the work session to order at 6:15 p.m. in the Bartholomew Room.
Council Members
Present:
Mary Supple, Mayor; Simon Trautmann, Sharon Christensen; Sean Hayford
Oleary; and Ben Whalen
Staff Present:
Katie Rodriguez, City Manager; Dustin Leslie, City Clerk; Karl Huemiller,
Recreation Services Director; Joe Powers, City Engineer; Kristin Asher,
Public Works Director; and Chris Swanson, Management Analyst
ITEM #1
CONCEPT PLAN FOR A PLAZA “PILLSBURY PLAZA” LOCATED AT 65TH
STREET AND PILLSBURY AVENUE
Director Asher gave the presentation to Council and spoke about Jack Broz’s background and
time as a Civil Engineer. In her presentation, she covered the project’s background, scope, concepts,
cost estimate, and funding sources.
Council Member Hayford Oleary stated he was excited about the overall concept and looked
like a good use of space. He asked where the $200,000 portion of the budget would come from.
Director Asher stated it would come from the Public Works budget. City Engineer Powers further
stated that they would try to work it into regular parts of the public works project schedule.
Council Member Hayford Oleary stated that while this project looked good, he was concerned
that there were issues with other parks that still needed to get fixed. He further stated that he would
like more information on how much the family would be able to raise.
Council Member Trautmann spoke about his relationship with Jack Broz and how Broz
advocated for Richfield. He stated that this would be an important project for the city and wanted staff
to look at connecting it with other landmarks.
Council Member Whalen stated it would definitely be worth doing this project and said the city
could do even more. He further spoke about Broz’s passion for public engagement and asked if there
was a plan to get input from neighbors. Director Asher stated they would look at engaging with the
neighborhood.
Council Member Christensen stated she did not know Broz but trusted the vision from city
staff. She said she agreed with engaging the neighbors on the project.
City Council Work Session Minutes
-2-March 12, 2024
Mayor Supple asked if there could be more added to the project if more money was raised.
Asher stated funds would be raised before planning the build. Powers spoke about being able to
modify the project if needed after it was built.
Council Member Trautman asked if it would be worth looking at timing the build with the
potential redevelopment of The Hub. City Manager Rodriguez stated it would be tough to tell when
that happens.
Council Member Hayford Oleary and Director Huemiller spoke about the donation process
from the family to the city.
Council Member Whalen and Chris Broz spoke about the family’s intent to fundraise for the
project.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Supple adjourned the work session at 6:48 pm.
Date Approved: March 12, 2024
Mary B. Supple
Mayor
Dustin Leslie Katie Rodriguez
City Clerk City Manager