Loading...
2025-09-09 City Council Agenda Richfield City Council Agenda September 9, 2025 -- 7:00 PM Richfield Municipal Center Council Chambers 6700 Portland Avenue South 1. Call to Order 2. Pledge of Allegiance and Moment of Silence for the Annunciation Victims and their Families 3. Approval of the Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes a. Approval of the Minutes of the (1) City Council Work Session from August 26, 2025, and (2) City Council Regular Meeting from August 26, 2025. 5. Open Forum Participants can share their comments in person, by voicemail, or email, and may also request to participate virtually. For more information on submitting comments, refer to the Council Agenda and Minutes page on richfieldmn.gov/citycouncil 6. Proclamations and Presentations a. Proclamation Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month 7. Consent Calendar Consent Calendar contains several separate items, which are acted upon by the City Council in one motion. Once the Consent Calendar has been approved, the individual items and recommended actions have also been approved. No further Council action on these items is necessary. However, any Council Member may request that an item be removed from the Consent Calendar and placed on the regular agenda for Council discussion and action. All items listed on the Consent Calendar are recommended for approval. a. Approve Disbursements/Claims b. Consider the approval of the first reading of an ordinance amending Richfield City Code Appendix D (Fee Schedule) related to building, planning, and zoning fees, and schedule a public hearing for the second reading for the September 23, 2025, Council meeting. c. Consider a resolution approving the Affordable Housing Trust Fund 2025 Revised Budget and 2026 Budget. d. Consider the approval of a resolution for reimbursement of certain expenditures from the proceeds of general obligation bonds to be issued by the City for the Veterans Memorial Park project. e. Consider setting the date for a public hearing regarding municipal consent for Project 2 of the I-494 Corridor Vision, to be held on October 28, 2025. 8. Consideration of Items, if Any Removed From Consent Calendar 9. Public Hearings 10. Proposed Ordinances a. Consider the approval of the second reading of an ordinance pertaining to the feeding of wildlife and resolution and summary publication of said ordinance. b. Consider approval of a second reading of an ordinance pertaining to temporary outdoor portable storage containers and corresponding resolution authorizing summary publication of said ordinance. c. Consider a second reading and summary publication of ordinance changes related to multifamily development regulations, MR-2 & MR-3 zoning district updates. 11. Resolutions 12. Other Business 13. City Manager’s Report 14. Council Discussion a. Hats off to Hometown Hits 15. Adjournment Page 1 of 104 Auxiliary aids for individuals with disabilities are available upon request. Requests must be made at least 96 hours in advance to the City Clerk at 612-861-9739. Includes Materials - Materials relating to these agenda items can be found in the Council Chambers Agenda Packet book located by the entrance. The complete Council Agenda Packet is available electronically on the City of Richfield website. Page 2 of 104 CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Richfield, Minnesota City Council Work Session August 26, 2025 ITEM #1 CALL TO ORDER Mayor Supple called the work session to order at 4:33 p.m. in the Bartholomew Room. Council Members Present: Mary Supple, Mayor; Sharon Christensen, Walter Burk, Sean Hayford Oleary, Rori A. Coleman-Woods (Arrived at 5 p.m.) Staff Present: Katie Rodriguez, City Manager; Mary Bogie, Finance Director; Steve McDaniel, Budget, Cash, and Debt Manager; Sack Thongvanh, Assistant City Manager; Chris Fierst, Liquor Operations Manager; Melissa Poehlman, Community Development Director; Jenell Brooks, Fire Chief; Courtney DesCamps, Senior Analyst; Jay Henthorne, Director of Public Safety/Chief of Police; Jennifer Anderson, Support Services Manager; Chris Link, Deputy Public Works Director; Karl Huemiller, Recreation Services Director; Kate Aitchison, Communications and Engagement Manager; Kristin Asher, Public Works Director; Andrew Spear, IT Director; Brittany Bartlett, Equity Coordinator; Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk; and Mark McKinley, Administrative Assistant ITEM #2 ITEM DISCUSSION A. Presentation of the 2025 Revised/2026 Proposed Budget and Tax Levy. City Manager Rodriguez provided a summary of the agenda. She provided an update on the misalignment of the expenses for the 65th Street project. She stated that they will have an error correction in the 2024 audit. She presented the projected Utility fund cash balances. She displayed the impact that the 7% increase in water and storm rates will have on the utility rate. The Council asked questions related to the percentage increase. Manager Rodriguez explained that they have made 7% increases in the past. Manager Rodriguez turned the presentation over to the Administrative Services Department Manager Sack Thongvanh. Sack presented an overview of the Administrative Services Department. He reviewed the department's funding sources. He reviewed the retirements and new hires in 2025. He displayed the 2025 revised and 2026 proposed budgets. He presented the expenditures and revenues for the department. Manager Fierst reviewed the Liquor store sales throughout the City. He presented the 2025 revised and the 2026 proposed budgets for each store location. Assistant Manager Thongvanh reviewed the investments and impacts in the 2026 proposed budget for Human Resources, City Clerk, Deputy Registrar, Building Services, IT, and Communications. Manager Fierst Page 3 of 104 City Council Work Session Minutes -2- August 26, 2025 reviewed the investments and impacts in the 2026 proposed budget for Liquor Operations. Manager Thongvanh reviewed the unfunded items in the Administrative Services Department. Director Poehlman provided an overview of the Community Development Department. She discussed the department's funding sources. She reviewed the changes within the department. She presented the 2025 revised budget and the 2026 proposed budget. She presented the investments and impacts in Community Development for 2026. Manager McDaniel provided the Finance Department overview. He reviewed the 2025 revised budget and the 2026 proposed budget. He presented the investments and impacts for the Finance Department in 2026. Fire Chief Brooks provided a department overview. She reviewed the 2025 revised budget and the 2026 proposed budget. She discussed the investments and impacts in the Fire Department for 2026. She reviewed the unfunded items in the department. She provided more details on the calls that the department receives. Mayor Supple recessed the meeting briefly for dinner at 5:30 p.m. Analyst DesCamps provided an overview of the Legislative/Executive department. She reviewed the 2025 revised and 2026 proposed budgets. She discussed the investments and impacts within the department for 2026. She reviewed the unfunded items in the department. Director Henthorne provided an overview of the Public Safety department. Manager Anderson reviewed the Support Services division overview. Director Henthorne presented the 2025 revised budget and the 2026 proposed budget for the department. Manager Anderson reviewed the Support Services budgets and the revenues. Director Henthorne discussed the investments and impacts for Public Safety in 2026. He reviewed the budget forecast. He discussed the unfunded items in Public Safety. Council asked a budgeting question relating to where the contract with Bloomington Health is reflected. Manager Anderson stated that it is listed under the Support Services budget. Director Asher provided the Public Works department overview. She discussed the service delivery. She stated the department's mission and the core services. She presented the general fund 2025 revised budget and the 2026 proposed budget. Director Link presented the central garage budgets. He discussed the postponed purchases. Director Asher reviewed the enterprise fund budgets. She discussed the investments and impacts in the public works department in 2026. Director Link reviewed the public works unfunded items. Council discussed public street maintenance and noted that they would like to see more money put into these issues. Director Huemiller provided a department overview of the Recreation Services budgets. He reviewed the general fund divisions. He also reviewed the special revenue fund. He presented the 2025 revised and 2026 proposed budgets. He reviewed the 2025 revised and the 2026 proposed budget for the special revenue fund. He discussed the investments and impacts in Recreation Services for 2026. He reviewed the unfunded items. Council discussed the need for stop sign and warning sign replacements. Council also noted that they think that the asphalt trail replacements are necessary for safety. Council stated that tree planting is very behind where it should be; they noted that they would like to see support behind the $25,000/ year for the planting. Mayor Supple asked for feedback Page 4 of 104 City Council Work Session Minutes -3- August 26, 2025 on the Levy increase to implement these projects. Council stated that they would be in favor of increasing the levy to support these items. ITEM #3 ADJOURNMENT Mayor Supple adjourned the work session at 6:56 p.m. To Be Approved: September 9, 2025 Mary B. Supple Mayor Michelle Friedrich Katie Rodriguez City Clerk City Manager Page 5 of 104 ITEM #1 CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Mayor Supple at 7:02 p.m. in the Council Chambers. Council Members Present: Mary Supple, Mayor; Sharon Christensen; Walter Burk; Sean Hayford Oleary; and Rori A. Coleman-Woods. Staff Present: Katie Rodriguez, City Manager; Mary Tietjen, City Attorney; Melissa Pohlman, Community Development Director; Jennifer Anderson, Support Services Manager; Kristin Asher, Public Works Director; Sam Crosby, City Planner; Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk; and Mark McKinley, Administrative Assistant. Others Present: None. ITEM #2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Supple led the Pledge of Allegiance. ITEM #3 APPROVAL OF AGENDA MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Burk, to approve Agenda as presented. Mayor Supple stated that she would like to pull item F from the consent calendar and consider it after the consent calendar. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #4 APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Christensen, to approve the minutes of the: Approval of the Minutes of the (1) City Council Work Session from August 12, 2025, and (2) City Council Regular Meeting from August 12, 2025. Motion carried: 5-0 CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Richfield, Minnesota Regular Council Meeting August 26, 2025 Page 6 of 104 City Council Meeting Minutes -2- August 26, 2025 ITEM #5 OPEN FORUM Mayor Supple reviewed the participation options for residents at the Council meeting, including in-person comments, comments by voicemail or email, and an option to request to participate virtually with advance notice. Mayor Supple noted that more information on submitting comments can be reviewed at www.richfieldmn.gov/citycouncil. Rod Sather, Richfield resident, stated that he would like to see short-term rentals limited in Richfield. He noted that houses in Richfield should remain for families and not businesses. ITEM #6 PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS None. ITEM #7 CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Supple removed item F from the consent calendar for discussion. City Manager Rodriguez presented the consent calendar. A. Approve Disbursements/Claims B. Consider approval of a Temporary On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor license for St. Peter Catholic Church, located at 6730 Nicollet Avenue South, for their Tri Fest Harvest 2025 event taking place September 20-21, 2025. C. Consider approval of a Temporary On-Sale Intoxicating Liquor license for October Fest event scheduled to take place October 4, 2025, at Fred Babcock VFW #5555, located at 6715 Lakeshore Drive. D. Consider approval of a request for temporary expansions of the licensed premises for Thompson's Fireside Pizza, Inc. d/b/a Fireside Foundry located at 6736 Penn Avenue South, and Sandy's Tavern located at 6612 Penn Avenue South, to allow for the outside service of beer and malt beverages in their parking lot on Sunday, September 21, 2025, in conjunction with Richfield's Penn Fest event. E. Consider approval of the first reading of an ordinance amending subsection 905.40 of the Richfield City Code pertaining to the feeding of wildlife. G. Consider approval of a Grant Compliance Agreement with MSP Lupe Richfield LLC regarding a Tax Base Revitalization Account Seeding Equitable Environmental Development Grant for 6501 Portland Avenue South. H. Consider approval of a Loan Agreement with Penn Station Apartments, LLLP, for a Local Housing Initiatives Account Grant. Page 7 of 104 City Council Meeting Minutes -3- August 26, 2025 MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Christensen, to approve the consent calendar not including item F. Motion carried: 5-0 Mayor Supple mentioned she did not pull item H but has received questions from residents about the status of the Penn Station project. Mayor Supple confirmed the project is moving forward while meeting all city parking requirements including underground parking for residents. ITEM #8 CONSIDERATION OF ITEMS, IF ANY, REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR F. Consider approval of a first reading of an ordinance amending sections 1135 and 925 of the Richfield City Code of Ordinances pertaining to temporary outdoor portable storage containers. City Manager Rodriguez presented the Staff Report. Council Member Burk suggested amending the ordinance to allow for multiple smaller containers rather than just one larger container and focusing more on the total size of the containers. He noted he would like the ordinance to be explicit in not allowing for human or animal habitation. He noted that 30 days does not seem long enough for renovations. He suggested lengthening the time to benefit residents and staff. Mayor Supple also noted that 30 days does not seem long enough. She asked if they could extend it to 60 days. Support Services Manager Anderson noted that the issues with storage containers are due to the condition of the containers. She noted that they receive many complaints about the appearance and the excessive length of the containers on the property. Mayor Supple noted that she would like to see a 60-day limit. Council Member Hayford Oleary suggested leaving the limit at 30 days but expanding the reasons that staff could allow up to 6 months. City Attorney Tietjen stated that she would recommend leaving the limit at 30 days, but stated that it can be extended due to reasons that staff deems appropriate for the property. Council Member Coleman-Woods affirmed she would like the language to account for a longer window for residents in remodeling situations. Council Member Burk added he does not want to make it more difficult for residents to move and store their material. Mayor Supple noted that consensus was met to extend to 60 days. Council discussed other amendments to the ordinance. Council came to a consensus that measuring the container(s) by total size instead of amount of containers on the property would be preferred but still limiting the total number of containers overall to 2 at a maximum of 90 days. Council Member Hayford Oleary asked for clarification on section 1B and 1D of the ordinance. Support Services Manager Anderson let Council know she would get back to them about the concerns. Page 8 of 104 City Council Meeting Minutes -4- August 26, 2025 Council Member Hayford Oleary expressed concerns about requiring the storage pod to be stored only on the resident’s driveway. Support Services Manager Anderson explained her concerns with heavy objects in yards and that she feels the city should be consistent in what they allow to be put in grass. Council Member Hayford Oleary asked if you could get a permit to park the pod in the street. Support Services Manager Anderson explained you need to get a permit to park a dumpster on the street. Council Member Christensen mentioned some dumpster rental companies will not rent to you if you do not have a driveway to store the dumpster. City Manager Rodriguez asked to clarify if the city should explicitly state these pods are not for habitation. MOTION: made by Council Member Coleman Woods, seconded by Council Member Burk, to make the discussed amendments to the ordinance including banning habitation, updating to a 60 day limit, updating the number of containers, and updating the total amount of days per calendar year. Motion carried: 5-0 MOTION: made by Council Member Christensen, seconded by Council Member Burk, to approve the first reading of an ordinance amending sections 1135 and 925 of the Richfield City Code of Ordinances pertaining to temporary outdoor portable storage containers as amended. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #9 PROPOSED ORDINANCES A. First reading of ordinance changes related to multifamily development regulations (MR2 & MR-3 zoning district updates). Council Member Hayford Oleary presented the Staff Report. City Planner Crosby provided some updates that were made since the work session discussions. Council Member Burk asked how much public notice is given in the process before staff approves. Planner Crosby stated that they will provide about a month's notice before projects begin, but after staff’s decision. Council Member Burk noted that he has concerns about not letting residents have an opportunity to voice concerns before staff approval. Council Member Hayford Oleary asked for clarification on what staff is allowed to approve. Planner Crosby noted that staff can approve any plans that meet code and have the authority to approve a minor deviation of up to 10%. Council Member Hayford Oleary discussed that public comment on these items that meet code may be unnecessary. Council Member Burk stated that he would still like to give Residents a chance to speak on these items. Director Pohlman discussed that the discretion the Council has now is the most they will have for this item. She explained that if a building meets the code requirements Staff nor the City Council would have the ability to deny it. Council had further discussion on the details of the ordinance and public input. Page 9 of 104 City Council Meeting Minutes -5- August 26, 2025 Council Member Burk explained he does not agree to vote on this motion because of the limited options the public have related to providing feedback on each project. Mayor Supple asked why some meetings and developers are required to meet with residents when others aren’t. City Planner Crosby explained that neighborhood meetings are typically held by developers for more complex land use projects. They are required by policy with PUD’s or any rezoning or comprehensive plan amendment, are suggested for mixed use projects. Council Member Hayford Oleary asked if rezoning requires an open house. Staff confirmed. Mayor Supple asked for clarification on what properties this zoning change would impact. Staff explained the ordinance update. Council Member Hayford Oleary explained his concerns with air conditioning units being removed from the variance process and his reasoning. MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Christensen, to amend the ordinance to remove the changes to 509.13 regarding central air conditioning units. Motion carried: 5-0 Council Member Hayford Oleary explained his excitement to updating these zoning requirements. Council Member Burk explained what he would like to see in the ordinance and thanked the city planner for the effort. MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Coleman Woods, to approve the first reading of ordinance changes related to multifamily development regulations (MR2 & MR-3 zoning district updates) with the amendment. Motion carried: 4-1 (Burk) B. First reading of an ordinance regulating the use and licensing of short-term rentals. Council Member Christensen presented the Staff Report. Support Services Manager Anderson mentioned that there was some discussion regarding what section 1199.05 pertains to. She noted that they have provided some further information regarding that section. Attorney Tietjen explained further what that section means. She asked the Council for clarification on what they would like to add to the language in this section. Council Member Hayford Oleary stated that he would prefer not to have this requirement. Council Member Coleman Woods stated that she would like to limit the number of short-term rental licenses to 2 per owner. Council Member Burk agreed with limiting to 2 licenses. He noted that he would like to limit it to 1 license to non-Richfield residents. Council Member Christensen noted her agreement with Council Member Burk. Council discussed further the options on limiting the licensing of short-term rentals by business owner. Director Poehlman discussed challenges with the tracking of rental units if Council wants to limitrentals for each owner. Attorney Tietjen stated that they will most likely need further discussion on this item. She stated that more staff may need to be involved, and they can discuss more at the second reading. Page 10 of 104 City Council Meeting Minutes -6- August 26, 2025 Mayor Supple asked about current rental owners being permitted to continue their business after this ordinance passes. City Attorney Tietjen deferred to the Council for how to address that issue. Council Member Hayford Oleary expressed concern about current property owners who vocalized good faith concerns related to the short-term rental ordinance. Mayor Supple explained how she supports the ordinance but the limit is where she has concerns. Council Member Burk asked to add language banning registered sex offenders from receiving a short-term rental license. Council Member also asked about setting a limit on the total number of rentals in the city. City Manager Rodriguez explained the need to receive details from Council as to why they want a limit on the total number of short-term rental licenses. Council Member Burk explained that short-term rentals are a policy concern because they take away residential housing. MOTION: made by Council Member Coleman-Woods, seconded by Council Member Christensen to approve the first reading of an ordinance regulating the use and licensing of short-term rentals. Motion carried: 5-0 C. Consider the second reading and hold a Public Hearing for an ordinance amending section 601 of the Richfield City Code of ordinances pertaining to solid waste disposal, collection, and hauling. Council Member Coleman-Woods presented the Staff Report and opened the public hearing. No residents participated. MOTION: Made by Council Member Coleman-Woods, seconded by Council Member Hayford Oleary to close the public hearing. Motion carried: 5-0 MOTION: Made by Council Member Coleman-Woods, seconded by Council Member Hayford Oleary to approve the second reading amending section 601 of the Richfield City Code pertaining to solid waste disposal, collection, and hauling. Motion carried: 5-0 Mayor Supple expressed excitement about these changes and the impact on trash flow. Council Member Coleman-Woods thanked the Sustainability Commission. ITEM #11 RESOLUTIONS None. ITEM #12 OTHER BUSINESS A. Consideration of the appointment of Rose Thompson to Sustainability Commission. Council Member Burk presented the staff report. Page 11 of 104 City Council Meeting Minutes -7- August 26, 2025 MOTION: made by Council Member Burk, seconded by Council Member Hayford Oleary to approve appointment of Rose Thompson to Sustainability Commission. Motion carried: 5-0 Mayor Supple thanked Rose for joining the Sustainability Commission and explained how other youth residents can be involved. Council Member Burk thanked Rose. Mayor Supple mentioned a resident at the meeting requested he receive time to speak to the Council and that it would occur after the City Manager’s Report and Council Discussion. ITEM #13 CITY MANAGER’S REPORT City Manager Rodriguez shared information regarding Mr. Lowry’s concerns of speeding. City Manager Rodriguez shared an update about the work Public Safety has done over the past two years to mitigate these concerns including increasing patrols, arrests, citations issued, speed tracking signs, and reports completed. ITEM #14 COUNCIL DISCUSSION A. Hats off to Hometown Hits. Mayor Supple gave a hats off to solid waste specialist Zach McCarty for his work around the 494 construction. Council Member Christensen gave a hats off to the paper shredding event September 4 at the Richfield Ice Arena. Council Member Coleman-Woods gave a hats off to Coach Ty, who recently lost his son. Council Member Hayford Oleary gave a hats off to the residents who attended the Penn Avenue open house and Council Member Burk for arriving before him. Council Member Burk gave a hats off to the residents at Oliver Ave S and 65th St. area who invited him to a sit-down with residents. Council Member Burk also gave a hats off to the crews updating Donaldson Park. Mayor Supple gave a hats off to the educators and students starting the school year. MOTION: made by Mayor Supple, seconded by Council Member Burk to allow a resident to speak during open forum for 3 minutes. Motion carried: 5-0 Phillip Lowry, Richfield resident expressed concerns related to road noise. Mr. Lowry provided additional information to Council related to his experience. ITEM #15 ADJOURNMENT Page 12 of 104 City Council Meeting Minutes -8- August 26, 2025 MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Coleman-Woods to adjourn the meeting at 8:40 p.m. Motion carried: 5-0 To Be Approved: September 9, 2025 Mary Supple Mayor Michelle Friedrich Katie Rodriguez City Clerk City Manager Page 13 of 104 Proclamation of the City of Richfield WHEREAS, National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15 to promote and celebrate rich cultures, traditions and contributions of the Hispanic and Latin American communities; and WHEREAS, Hispanic Heritage Month originated as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968. In 1988, the week was expanded to a month through legislation sponsored by Representative Esteban Torres, amended by Senator Paul Simon, and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan; and WHEREAS, the expanded celebration runs from September 15 to October 15, with September 15 chosen as the starting point to honor the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores in 1810, which sparked the Mexican War of Independence. This date also aligns with independence celebrations across Latin America and includes other culturally significant events, such as Día de la Raza; and WHEREAS, in the decades since National Hispanic Heritage Month, proclamations have been made by every sitting president of the United States; and WHEREAS, the Hispanic American and Latino American communities fuel our economy and enrich our nation in many ways, yet are facing threats in the current political climate. We continue to support human rights for all in our country because that is what strengthens our democracy; and WHEREAS, 19% of Richfield residents identify as Hispanic or Latinx, according to the 2023 American Community Survey estimate; and WHEREAS, Richfield residents voted Minnesota’s first Hispanic female mayor, Maria Regan Gonzalez, into office in 2018. Now, THEREFORE, I, Mary Supple, mayor of Richfield, on behalf of the Richfield City Council, do hereby proclaim September 15, 2025 through October 15, 2025 as Hispanic Heritage Month in Richfield, and call on the people of Richfield to observe this period with appropriate programs, activities and ceremonies, and continue to honor the contributions of our Hispanic American and Latino American community. PROCLAIMED this 9th day of September, 2025. Mary B. Supple, Mayor Page 14 of 104 City Council Meeting 9/9/2025 Agenda Section: Consent Calendar Agenda Item: 7.b. Report Prepared By: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Department Director: Sack Thongvanh, Assistant City Manager Katie Rodriguez, City Manager Item for Consideration: Consider the approval of the first reading of an ordinance amending Richfield City Code Appendix D (Fee Schedule) related to building, planning, and zoning fees, and schedule a public hearing for the second reading for the September 23, 2025, Council meeting. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY City staff annually review department fees to determine if charges for permits and services are appropriate. Staff want to ensure the costs of issuance for fees and permits reflect the staff time and costs related to performing the services associated with those fees. Staff also work to ensure that costs for City services are in line with our peer communities, are not excessive, and are in compliance with state statute. Fees related to building permits, zoning, and other land use permits are established by Appendix D of the City's Code. Unlike other fees included in the budget agenda item, charges for building, planning, and zoning are required to be set by ordinance, not by resolution. HISTORICAL CONTEXT RECOMMENDED ACTION By motion: Approve the first reading of an ordinance amendment to the Richfield City Code Appendix D (Fee Schedule) related to building, planning, and zoning fees, and schedule a public hearing and a second reading for September 23, 2025. EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS Having fees that reflect an appropriate cost when looking at staff time and resources helps to ensure that staff are able to continue to provide services at a high level for all residents. Comparing fee structures with other cities helps to mitigate unintended consequences for Richfield residents. POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.) State Statutes require municipal fees and permits to be determined in accordance with actual staff time and costs that are incurred in providing related services. City staff has determined that the fees in question should be modified in order to better reflect actual time and costs incurred. Page 15 of 104 CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES If approved, a second reading and public hearing related to this ordinance amendment would occur at the Council meeting on September 23, 2025. To ensure the ordinance is law before January 1, 2026, it's important that this is approved at the September 23, 2025 meeting. FINANCIAL IMPACT City staff has determined that current fees for some applications are insufficient to cover the costs related to processing those applications. Staff also reviews similar fees in our "peer communities" to ensure that Richfield's fees are not onerous or excessive. With the proposed changes, Richfield's fees remain in line with these peer communities. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS Notice of the public hearing shall be published in the Sun Current on September 11, 2025, as required. ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S) ATTACHMENTS 1. 2025-09-23 Transitory Ord DRAFT Appendix D 2026 LICENSE PERMIT Building and Const (6) 2. 2025-09-23 DRAFT Resolution Appendix D Summary Pub Page 16 of 104 Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances (Supp. No. 4) Created: 2025-04-18 11:47:09 [EST] Page 1 of 29 Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES TRANSITORY ORDINANCE NO. Bill No. 2025-XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING APPENDIX D TO THE RICHFIELD CITY CODE; ESTABLISHING A FEE SCHEDULE FOR CERTAIN PERMITS AND APPLICATIONS THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. Background 1.01 Appendix D to the Richfield City Code consists of the schedule of fees adopted by the City Council, including those adopted by resolution and those adopted by Ordinance. 1.02 Minnesota Statutes, Section 462.353 requires that certain fees be adopted by Ordinance. The City Council has previously established certain fees by Transitory Ordinance No. XX-XX. The City Council has established other fees by resolution, which resolution is also part of Appendix D. 1.03 The City Council has determined the need to update the schedule of fees under Transitory Ordinance No. XX-XX. Section 2. Fee Schedule Adopted 2.01 The fees set forth in the attached Exhibit A are hereby adopted by Ordinance. 2.02 The fees adopted at Section 2.01 of this Ordinance shall be amended only by Ordinance. Any fees established by resolution, other than those adopted at Section 2.01 of this Ordinance, may be amended from time to time by resolution of the City Council. Section 3. Effective date; codification. 3.01 This Ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the City Charter. 3.02 This Ordinance shall take effect January 1, 2026. 3.03 A copy of this Ordinance shall be included in Appendix D to the Richfield City Code, immediately prior to the resolution establishing fees. 3.04 This Ordinance supersedes Transitory Ordinance No. XX-XX. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this 23rd day of September 2025. Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 17 of 104 Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances (Supp. No. 42) Created: 2025-04-18 11:47:09 [EST] Page 2 of 29 EXHIBIT A. CONSTRUCTION AND RELATED PERMIT FEES AND CHARGES A. Investigation Fees: Work without a Permit: Investigation. Whenever any work for which a permit is required by this code has been commenced without first obtaining said permit, a special investigation shall be made before a permit may be issued for such work. Fee. An investigation fee, in addition to the permit fee, shall be collected whether or not a permit is then or subsequently issued. The investigation fee shall be equal to the amount of the permit fee required by this code. The minimum investigation fee shall be the same as the minimum fee set forth in Section 2. The payment of such investigation fee shall not exempt any person from compliance with all other provisions of this code nor from any penalty prescribed by law. B. Permit fee refunds: The building official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the permit fee paid when no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with this code. The building official may authorize refunding of not more than 80 percent of the plan review fee paid when an application for a permit for which a plan review fee has been paid is withdrawn or canceled before any plan reviewing is done. The building official shall not authorize refunding of any fee paid except on written application filed by the original permitted not later than 180 days after the date of fee payment. Type of Permit or License Section Requiring Description Fee (1) Building Permits 400.03 — 400.09 Fee Schedule to follow MN Statute 326B.153 + State Surcharge 326B.148 https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/326B.153 Except values of $1-$2,000, the fee is $65.00 https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/326B.148 (2) Driveway, Parking Area Permits 515.05 (no permit fee for sidewalks) $65.00 100.00 (3) Swimming 420.00 Permanent or portable pools are based on building permit fees with a minimum of $65.00 (4) Plan Review Fee 400.03 — 400.09 25% for decks/porches, gazebos, bathroom remodels, etc. 35% of building permit fee for one and two family dwelling basement remodels Plan review fee for similar buildings 65% of building permit fee for all other building permits, except no fee for the following: Page 18 of 104 Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances (Supp. No. 42) Created: 2025-04-18 11:47:09 [EST] Page 3 of 30 (a) Existing single family dwelling minor nonstructural alterations. (b) Single and two family dwelling repair and maintenance work. (c) Commercial and industrial repair and maintenance work not exceeding $1,000.00 or where plans are not required. Plan Review fee for similar buildings Maximum 25% of permit fee based on Minnesota State Building Code 1300.0160 (5) Contractor License Verification Fee contractor applies for permit(s) $5.00 (6) Moving- Buildings 845 Moving Permit Fee $65.00 (7) Structure Demolition 400.00 — 400.09 (a) Commercial Demolition cost as per Building Permit Schedule with a minimum of $65.00 (b) Residential Demolition $65.00 (8) Plumbing Permit 400.03 — 400.09400.03 — 400.09 Residential Minimum Fee 2% of Total Job cost with a minimum of (includes one inspection) $65.00 Each additional inspection $65.00 (9) Plumbing Permit 400.03 — 400.09400.03 — 400.09 Commercial/Industrial/Multi- family Based on Total Job cost 2% of Estimated Job cost with a minimum of (includes one inspection) $65.00 Each additional inspection $65.00 (13) Solar Photovoltaic Based on 2% of cost of electrical job to customer with a minimum of (separate Page 19 of 104 Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances (Supp. No. 42) Created: 2025-04-18 11:47:09 [EST] Page 4 of 30 System Rating* electrical permit required for signs) 400.03 — 400.09 0—5,000 watts $65.00 5,001—10,000 watts $150.00 10,001—20,000 watts $200.00 20,001—30,000 watts $250.00 30,001—40,000 watts $300.00 (14) Residential Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Commercial Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration 400.03 — 400.09 Central Systems and Additions, Alterations and Repairs 1½% estimated cost with a minimum of (Includes one inspection) $65.00 Each additional inspection $65.00 Central Systems and Additions, Alterations and Repairs 1½% estimated cost with a minimum of $65.00 (15) Sign Installation 415.01 — 415.11 549.07- 549.11 (a) Temporary sign permit (b) Permanent sign (any size) Building permit is required for sign support structures fees based on building permit fee schedule $65.00 $125.00 (16) Temporary Certificate of Occupancy 400 A temporary Certificate of Occupancy may be issued before completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided the Chief Building Official deems that the building is safe to occupy $200.00 Plus a letter of credit or cash escrow equal to 125% of the remaining City Code requirements Page 20 of 104 Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances (Supp. No. 42) Created: 2025-04-18 11:47:09 [EST] Page 5 of 30 ZONING, LAND USE AND RELATED CHARGES Type of Permit or License Section Requiring Description Fee (1) Planned Unit Development 542 (a) $1,000 plus $5/$1,000 of project value (construction cost) up to a maximum fee of $5,000.00 (b) Major PUD Plan Amendment—$1,000 plus $5/$1,000 of project value (construction cost) up to a maximum fee of $5,000.00 (c) Minor PUD Plan Amendment $400.00 (2) Site Plan Review 547 (a) Standard Review: $500 plus $5/$1,000 of project value (construction cost) to a maximum fee of $3,500.00 (b) Administrative Review $500 (bc) Major amendment—$500 plus $5/$1,000 of project value (construction cost) to a maximum fee of $3,500.00 (cd) Minor amendment $350.00 (3) Variance 547 Residential $350.00 Non Residential $500.00 Variance Appeal Residential and Non Residential $350.00 (4) Conditional Use Permit 547 (a) $500 + $5/$1,000 of project value (construction cost) up to a maximum fee of $3,500.00 (b) Major amendment—$500 + $5/$1,000 of project value (construction cost) up to a maximum fee of $3,500.00 © Minor amendment $350.00 (5) Interim Use Permit 547 $1,000 plus $100/year monitoring fee up to a maximum fee of $1,500.00 (6)* Zoning District or Code Text Change 547 $2,000.00 (7)* Subdivision Approval 500.01— 500.05500.13 $500.00 Subdivision Waiver 500.05-Subd. 2 500.25 $350.00 (8) Street/Easement Vacation 820/State Statute $1,000.00 (9) Appeal to Board of Adj. & Appeals 547 $350.00 Page 21 of 104 Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances (Supp. No. 42) Created: 2025-04-18 11:47:09 [EST] Page 6 of 30 (10) Special Request to City Council $350.00 (11) Zoning Compliance Letter $75.00 (12) Comprehensive Plan Amend. $1,000.00 (13) Plats* 500 Preliminary/Final Plat $775.00 $500 / $275 (14) Sketch Plan Review $350.00 500 (15) Extension Extension of a Land Use Approval (rezoning, site plan approval, conditional use permit, variance, etc.) beyond its original approval period $250.00 (16) Escrow Administration Fee $100.00 125 + $250/year after stipulated completion date if not complete. (To be accrued/charged on the day following expiration and annually on this anniversary date until complete.) (17) Special Exception Review for Fences or Walls 509.15 Subd.13 A special fence exception may be issued per the restrictions of Section 509.15 for corner lots or through lots. $250.00 (18) Public Tree Planting Fund 544.03 Subd.8 For the planting of trees in public parks or public boulevards. $160.00 per caliper inch. *Any additional expenses incurred by the City in the course of processing a request will be charged to the applicant. FIRE SERVICES FEES Type of Permit or License Section Requiring Description Fee (6) Fire Extinguishing System Permit Based on Building Permit fee schedule with a minimum of: Plan review fee: 65% of building permit fee, except no fee for the following: (a) Nno plan review charge fee for valuations of $1,000 or less; minimum fee applies as listed. (b) A plan submittal is required for all fire sprinkler systems with 10 or more sprinkler heads. $50.00 (7) Fire Alarm Systems Based on Building Permit fee schedule with a minimum of: Plan review fee: 65% $50.00 Page 22 of 104 Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances Appendix D LICENSE, PERMIT AND MISCELLANEOUS FEES Richfield, Minnesota, Code of Ordinances (Supp. No. 42) Created: 2025-04-18 11:47:09 [EST] Page 7 of 30 of building permit fee, except no fee for the following: (a) No plan review charge fee for valuations of $1,000 or less; minimum fee applies as listed. (b) Plan submittal is required for all fire alarm system installations or modifications. (8) Flammable or Combustible Liquid or Gas Storage Tanks and Piping Tanks (installation or modification) $150.00 Installation or alteration of piping Each unit or dispenser $50.00 Underground Tank Removal $100.00/Tank MISCELLANEOUS FEES Type of Permit or License Section Requiring Description Fee (3) Antenna Commercial Wireless Telecommunication Service (CWTS) 425 & 544 (a) CWTS antenna permit application fee $100.00 (b) Antenna permit fee for additional antennas added to an existing antenna location or replacement of existing antennas at a location $35.00 (Bill No. 2020-12, §§ 1—3; Bill No. 2022-12, § 3; Bill No. 2023-1; Bill No. 2023-9; Bill No. 2024-09; Bill No. 2025-XX) Page 23 of 104 RESOLUTION NO. 2025-XXXXX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING APPENDIX D TO THE RICHFIELD CITY CODE; ESTABLISHING A FEE SCHEDULE FOR CERTAIN PERMITS AND APPLICATIONS WHEREAS, the City of Richfield has adopted the above referenced ordinance; and WHEREAS, the verbatim text of the ordinance is cumbersome, and the expense of publication of the complete text is not justified. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Richfield that the following summary is hereby approved for official publication: SUMMARY PUBLICATION TRANSITORY ORDINANCE NO. 19-XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING APPENDIX D TO THE RICHFIELD CITY CODE; ESTABLISHING A FEE SCHEDULE FOR CERTAIN PERMITS AND APPLICATIONS This summary of the ordinance is published pursuant to Section 3.12 of the Richfield City Charter. The purpose of the ordinance is to amend Richfield City Code Appendix D (Fee Schedule) related to building, planning, and zoning fees to ensure the costs of issuance for fees and permits reflect the staff time and costs related to performing the services associated with those fees. Copies of the ordinance are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s office during normal business hours or upon request by calling the City Clerk’s office at (612) 861- 9739. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota on this 23rd day of September 2025. ATTEST:. Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk ____________________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor Page 24 of 104 City Council Meeting 9/9/2025 Agenda Section: Consent Calendar Agenda Item: 7.c. Report Prepared By: Julie Urban, Assistant Community Development Director Department Director: Melissa Poehlman, Community Development Director Item for Consideration: Consider a resolution approving the Affordable Housing Trust Fund 2025 Revised Budget and 2026 Budget. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The City Council established an Affordable Housing Trust Fund (Trust Fund) in 2020 to support the preservation and creation of affordable housing in the community. Through its Trust Fund, the City can support the rehabilitation and preservation of existing affordable housing, promote the development of additional affordable housing, and assist individuals with rental and down payment assistance. The City's Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA) administers the Trust Fund on behalf of the City. The 2025 Revised Budget provides funding for the following affordable housing programs: • $1,570,000 for the preservation and rehabilitation of three Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing (NOAH) apartment complexes (236 units) and • $240,000 for the New Home Program, which provides affordable homeownership opportunities for households earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Funding for the 2025 Revised Budget is provided by pooled tax increment and investment earnings. The 2026 Proposed Budget for the Trust Fund provides funding for the following affordable housing efforts: • $40,000 for down payment assistance through the HRA's First-Time Homebuyer Program, which serves households earning up to 80% of the AMI; • $500,000 for development grants to an affordable housing development, and • $160,000 for the New Home Program. Funding for the 2026 Budget is provided by proceeds from the sale of HRA property, pooled tax increment, investment earnings, and a grant from Minnesota Housing. The Budgets were approved by the HRA on August 18, 2025. Statute requires that the City Council also approve them. Page 25 of 104 HISTORICAL CONTEXT • In 2017, the State Legislature approved legislation to allow cities to establish housing trust funds in order to facilitate affordable housing efforts in the State. • On May 26, 2020, the City Council adopted an ordinance establishing the Trust Fund. RECOMMENDED ACTION By motion: Adopt a resolution approving the 2025 Revised Budget and 2026 Budget for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS • The Trust Fund's mission is to preserve and create affordable housing, which helps to achieve the desired Strategic Plan outcome to maintain Richfield as an affordable place to live. • The HRA programs support housing stability and choices for low-income households and reduce racial inequities and barriers for traditionally excluded communities. POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.) • Minnesota Statutes 462C.16 provides the authority for cities to create local housing trust funds. • The City's Comprehensive Plan supports the preservation, maintenance and diversification of the City's housing stock and the provision of housing that meets the diverse needs of all its residents. • The HRA works to implement the Comprehensive Plan by administering a variety of housing programs for people who own their homes and who rent their homes as well as for residents across the income spectrum. CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES The Trust Fund budget should be approved before January 1, 2026. FINANCIAL IMPACT • The HRA provides funding for the Trust Fund through pooled tax increment, land sale proceeds, investment earnings, and a grant from Minnesota Housing. • To fully fund the NOAH preservation and development grants, the HRA transfers funds to the Trust Fund from the Temporary Spending Plan, which the HRA adopted in 2022. • A small amount of funding is budgeted for administrative costs ($1,000 per year). The HRA covers the remainder of the administrative costs. Page 26 of 104 LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS • State Statute, along with the City ordinance establishing the Trust Fund, requires that the budget be approved by the City Council. • The Trust Fund is administered by the HRA. • The Trust Fund can support affordable housing to persons of very low, low, and moderate income. All of the proposed programs meet this definition. Homeownership programs for moderate income households (up to 120% AMI) must be approved by a super majority of the City Council. None of the proposed uses require this level of approval. ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S) Decide not to approve the Trust Fund budget. ATTACHMENTS 1. 090925 Resolution Affordable Housing Trust Fund Budget Page 27 of 104 RESOLUTION NO. _____ RESOLUTION ADOPTING AN AFFORDABLE HOUSING TRUST FUND BUDGET FOR THE YEAR 2025 REVISED AND 2026 WHEREAS, authorized by Minnesota State Statutes 462C.16, the City approved by ordinance the creation of an Affordable Housing Trust Fund on May 26, 2020, and WHEREAS, the ordinance requires the City Council to approve an annual budget for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Richfield as follows: 1. The 2025 Revised Budget for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund is hereby approved and adopted with appropriations as follows: • $1,570,000 for the preservation and rehabilitation of three Naturally Occurring Affordable Housing apartment complexes, and • $240,000 for the HRA’s New Home Program. 2. The 2026 Budget for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund is hereby approved and adopted with appropriations as follows: • $40,000 for the HRA’s First-Time Homebuyer Program; • $160,000 for the HRA’s New Home Program, and • $500,000 for a development grant to an affordable housing project. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this 9th day of September, 2025. Mary B Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 28 of 104 City Council Meeting 9/9/2025 Agenda Section: Consent Calendar Agenda Item: 7.d. Report Prepared By: John Evans, Analyst Department Director: Karl Huemiller, Recreation Director Item for Consideration: Consider the approval of a resolution for reimbursement of certain expenditures from the proceeds of general obligation bonds to be issued by the City for the Veterans Memorial Park project. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Consistent with City Council direction and with the authorization of a Local Option Sales Tax for a park project at Veterans Memorial Park. Staff is working on design and construction for the Veterans Memorial Park project. The City will need to begin the drawdown of funds for the reimbursement of expenses related to the work at Veterans Memorial Park. The funds for these reimbursements will be sourced from the next two sales of general obligation bonds, the first of which will take place in November 2025, the second in 2026. Approval of the proposed reimbursement resolution will enable City staff to incur costs related to the project prior to the sale of general obligation bonds. The resolution allows project costs incurred up to 60 days prior to Council approval, to be reimbursed using the proceeds of the general obligation bonds. HISTORICAL CONTEXT In the General Election of November 5, 2024, Richfield voters approved the issuance of a local sales tax to fund three parks and recreation capital improvement projects: a new building at Wood Lake Nature Center, improvements to the facilities of Veterans Memorial Park, and a new Richfield Community Center building. Following this approval, the first issuance of general obligation bonds in the amount of $10,000,000 took place in December 2024. The December 2024 general obligation bonds were intended to only be used for the Wood Lake Nature Center project. A drawdown of these funds began in June 2025 to reimburse the City for expenses related to the Wood Lake Nature Center Building project. The general obligation bonds to be sold in November 2025 will contribute an additional $1,000,000 in funding towards the Wood Lake Nature Center Building project. The reimbursement of $11,000,000 in project costs with general obligation bonds serviced by the Local Option Sales Tax Revenue was authorized in December 2024. RECOMMENDED ACTION By Motion: Approve the resolution for reimbursement of certain expenditures Page 29 of 104 from the proceeds of general obligation bonds to be issued by the City for the Veterans Memorial Park project. EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS The Veterans Memorial Park project will ensure the future viability of the infrastructure at Veterans Memorial Park, including the Outdoor Pool, Ice Arena, picnic pavilion, and walking trails. Providing these facilities to the public is crucial to the mission of the Recreation Services Department and the City of Richfield to serve all of its residents. POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.) • The Veterans Memorial Park project is identified in the City's capital improvement plan. • The reimbursement resolution is standard procedure and necessary to cover any project costs incurred prior to the sale of bonds. CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES Staff and the contracted architectural firm, JLG Architects, are moving through the final design and engineering phases with the intent to start construction this fall. FINANCIAL IMPACT • Adoption of the proposed reimbursement resolution provides approval for City staff to incur reimbursable costs for the Veterans Memorial Park project prior to sale of the bonds. • The Veterans Memorial Park project is funded via general obligation bonds serviced by Local Option Sales Tax revenues. The City reasonably expects that $9,000,000 is the maximum principal amount of the Bonds which will be issued to finance the project. The first issuance of general obligation bonds will occur in late 2025 in an amount of $6,000,000, including $5,000,000 for the Veterans Memorial Park project and $1,000,000 for the WLNC project. The second issuance of general obligation bonds to fund the Veterans Memorial Park project will occur in mid to late 2026 in an amount of $4,000,000. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS The City Attorney has reviewed the resolution and will be available to answer questions. ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S) None ATTACHMENTS 1. Veterans_Park_Reimbursement_Resolution_for_Bond Page 30 of 104 CITY OF RICHFIELD RESOLUTION NO. DECLARING THE OFFICIAL INTENT OF THE CITY OF RICHFIELD TO REIMBURSE CERTAIN EXPENDITURES FROM THE PROCEEDS OF BONDS TO BE ISSUED BY THE CITY WITH RESPECT TO THE VETERANS MEMORIAL PARK PROJECT WHEREAS, the Internal Revenue Service has issued Treas. Reg. § 1.150-2 (the “Reimbursement Regulations”) providing that proceeds of tax-exempt bonds used to reimburse prior expenditures will not be deemed spent unless certain requirements are met; and WHEREAS, the City of Richfield, Minnesota (the “City”) expects to incur certain expenditures that may be financed temporarily from sources other than bonds, and reimbursed from the proceeds of tax-exempt bonds; and WHEREAS, the City has determined to make this declaration of official intent (the “Declaration”) to reimburse certain costs from proceeds of bonds in accordance with the Reimbursement Regulations. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF RICHFIELD, MINNESOTA AS FOLLOWS: 1. The City of Richfield is undertaking improvements to Veterans Memorial Park (the “Project”). 2. The City reasonably expects to reimburse the expenditures made for certain costs of the Project from the proceeds of bonds in an estimated maximum principal amount of $9,000,000. All reimbursed expenditures will be capital expenditures, costs of issuance of the bonds, or other expenditures eligible for reimbursement under Section 1.150-2(d)(3) of the Reimbursement Regulations. 3. This Declaration has been made not later than 60 days after payment of any original expenditure to be subject to a reimbursement allocation with respect to the proceeds of bonds, except for the following expenditures: (a) costs of issuance of bonds; (b) costs in an amount not in excess of $100,000 or 5 percent of the proceeds of an issue; or (c) “preliminary expenditures” up to an amount not in excess of 20 percent of the aggregate issue price of the issue or issues that finance or are reasonably expected by the City to finance the Project for which the preliminary expenditures were incurred. The term “preliminary expenditures” includes architectural, engineering, surveying, bond issuance, and similar costs that are incurred prior to commencement of acquisition, construction or rehabilitation of a project, other than land acquisition, site preparation, and similar costs incident to commencement of construction. Page 31 of 104 4. This Declaration is an expression of the reasonable expectations of the City based on the facts and circumstances known to the City as of the date hereof. The anticipated original expenditures for the Project and the principal amount of the bonds described in Paragraph 2 are consistent with the City’s budgetary and financial circumstances. No sources other than proceeds of bonds to be issued by the City are, or are reasonably expected to be, reserved, allocated on a long-term basis, or otherwise set aside pursuant to the City’s budget or financial policies to pay such Project expenditures. 5. This Declaration is intended to constitute a declaration of official intent for purposes of the Reimbursement Regulations. The foregoing resolution was moved by Councilmember and seconded by Councilmember . The following voted in the affirmative: The following voted against: Councilmember was absent. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota, this 9th day of September, 2025. Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 32 of 104 City Council Meeting 9/9/2025 Agenda Section: Consent Calendar Agenda Item: 7.e. Report Prepared By: Matt Hardegger, Transportation Engineer Department Director: Kristin Asher, Public Works Director Item for Consideration: Consider setting the date for a public hearing regarding municipal consent for Project 2 of the I-494 Corridor Vision, to be held on October 28, 2025. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Minnesota Department of Transportation provided the city with a final layout and notification of a request for Municipal Consent related to Project 2 of the I-494 Corridor Vision on Friday, August 29th. The municipal consent process is designed to give municipalities another opportunity to provide formal input into the project design. According to state law, the City has a right to review and approve or disapprove the project’s proposed final layout. Minnesota Statutes 161.164 requires that the City Council conduct a public hearing on the proposed final layout within 60 days of receiving the final layout for the project, and schedule the public hearing within 15 days of receiving the layout. HISTORICAL CONTEXT Richfield was a part of the Policy Advisory Committee (PAC) which approved the I-494 Corridor Vision and identified 9 project elements to construct on I-494 between Highway 77 and Highway 169. Phase 1 of the project is expected to be complete in 2027 and has constructed/is constructing: • The 35W Interchange Flyover • E-ZPass lanes between Hwy 100 and I-35W • Reconstruction of the Nicollet, Portland, and 12th Avenue Bridges plus construction of the Chicago Avenue Pedestrian Bridge Phase 2 proposes to complete the remaining project elements beginning in 2027: • E-ZPass Lanes from Hwy 169 to Hwy 100 • E-ZPass Lanes from I-35W to Hwy 77 • Reconstruction of the Pleasant Avenue railroad bridge over I-494 • 82nd Street interchange and grade raise on I-35W RECOMMENDED ACTION By motion, set the date for a public hearing regarding municipal consent for Project 2 of the I-494 Corridor Vision, to be held on October 28, 2025. Page 33 of 104 EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS Scheduling a public hearing for municipal consent related to a highway project is a statutory requirement. POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.) Minnesota Statutes, sections 161.162 through 161.167 govern the municipal consent process for MnDOT projects that involve the construction, reconstruction, or improvement of any route on the trunk highway system lying within any municipality which alter access, increase or reduce traffic capacity, or require acquisition of permanent rights-of-way. CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES The public hearing must occur within 60 days of August 29, 2025, when the city received the final layout from MnDOT. Following the public hearing, the City Council must approve or disapprove the layout by resolution within 90 days. Preliminary Municipal Consent Schedule August 29, 2025: City received final layout from MnDOT October 14, 2025: City Council Work Session October 28, 2025: Public Hearing at Regular City Council Meeting (7:00pm) January 26, 2026: Deadline for Council action approving or disapproving Municipal Consent. If no official City Council action is taken by this date, the proposed project layout is considered approved. FINANCIAL IMPACT None as it relates to the municipal consent process. The City will have some local cost-share for the project as a whole, and for City- requested features such as enhanced/additional pedestrian and bicycle amenities, visual quality elements, pavement rehabilitation on local roads, and City utility improvements beyond those required for the project. The local cost share is preliminarily estimated to be about $8,528, which does not include any city-requested features. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS The municipal consent process is governed by Minnesota Statutes, sections 161.162 through 161.167. Legal notice will be published following the date being set. ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S) Set the date of the public hearing for October 14, 2025. This would accelerate the deadline for Council action to January 12, 2026. ATTACHMENTS 1. Municipal Consent 101_City Council Briefing October 2025 2. 2785-462 City of Richfield MC Letter 3. I-494 Vision Elements and Implementation Plan 4. SP2785465_Preliminary_Design_Drawing_20250828 Page 34 of 104 I-494: Airport to Highway 169 Project 2 Municipal Consent Request for Municipal Consent Attached you’ll find MnDOT’s request for Municipal Consent (MC) of Project 2 of the I- 494 Corridor Vision as approved by the Policy Advisory Committee. The submittal of their MC package triggers the MC statute requiring local agencies to either approve or disapprove the project by January 27th, 2026. Statutory Trigger for Muncipal Consent Minnesota Statutes, sections 161.162 through 161.167 governs the MC process for MnDOT projects that involve the construction, reconstruction, or improvement of any route on the trunk highway system lying within any municipality which alter access, increase or reduce traffic capacity, or require acquisition of permanent rights-of-way. Minnesota Statutes, section 161.164 describes the City’s responsibilities and timeline for action for a project that triggers the MC statute: 1. The Municipality receives the final project layout and other required items from MnDOT; 2. Within 15 days of receiving the final layout, schedule a public hearing; 3. Provide at least 30 days’ notice of the public hearing; 4. Within 60 days of receiving the final layout, conduct the public hearing; and 5. Within 90 days of the public hearing, approve or disapprove the layout by resolution (must be complete on or by day 150 from the receipt of final layout). Role of City Council The role of the City Council is to thoroughly vet the project with the interests of their Ward, the City, and the Region in mind. While the opportunity for public input and changes to most of the detailed project elements has passed, the City Council is now tasked with approving or disapproving the larger project as a whole on behalf of these stakeholders. If the City Council approves the final layout or does not disapprove the final layout via resolution within 90 days from the date of the public hearing (item 5 above), the final layout is deemed approved and MnDOT may continue with project development. If the City Council disapproves the final layout via resolution, MnDOT may make changes requested by the City, decide to not proceed with the project, or appeal the final layout rejection via an appeal board. This appeal board process is described at length in Minnesota Statutes section 161.164, subdivision 2 & 3, & section 161.165. Page 35 of 104 Actions Following Disapproval Disapproval of the project would almost certainly result in MnDOT referring the final layout to the Appeal Board laid out in Minnesota Statutes, section 161.165. This would trigger a hearing within 30 days of referral. The Appeal Board would consist of one member appointed by MnDOT, one member appointed by the City, and one member appointed by mutual agreement of the City and MnDOT. In short, the Appeal Board could recommend: 1. Approval of the final layout and MnDOT would proceed with project development; 2. Approval of the final layout with changes and MnDOT could: I. agree to the changes; II. decide not proceed with the project; or III. decide to move forward with the final layout and explain why to the City and Appeal Board in a report stating fully the reasons for doing so; or 3. Disapproval of the final layout and MnDOT could: I. decide not to proceed with the project; or II. decide to move forward with the final layout and explain why to the City and Appeal Board in a report stating fully the reasons for doing so. If at any time in the Appeal Board process MnDOT agrees to layout changes that affect highway access, traffic capacity, or require additional acquisition of permanent rights-of- way, the final layout would be required to restart the entire Municipal Consent process described in the section titled “Statutory Trigger for Municipal Consent” above. Considerations It is important that the City Council recognize the regional, State, and Federal significance of this project when considering authorizing MC. While Project 2 is primarily highway infrastructure and does not contain elements that directly benefit Richfield, this project is the continuation and culmination of the larger I-494 Vision. Additionally, staff is confident that this project will provide benefits to our neighbors in Bloomington through the reconstruction of the 82nd Street bridge. Following the municipal consent process for Project 1, the City Council and staff created a consideration framework for regional transportation projects. MnDOT has analyzed the impacts of this project on the items listed in that framework, and Council Members will be tasked with evaluating these items when considering this project for approval. Page 36 of 104 Page 37 of 104 Page 38 of 104 Page 39 of 104 Page 40 of 104 City Council Meeting 9/9/2025 Agenda Section: Proposed Ordinances Agenda Item: 10.a. Report Prepared By: Jennifer Anderson, Support Services Manager Department Director: Jay Henthorne, Police Chief Item for Consideration: Consider the approval of the second reading of an ordinance pertaining to the feeding of wildlife and resolution and summary publication of said ordinance. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The proposed update to the code addresses problems with the feeding of wildlife in the city, and not just deer and raccoons as currently written. A significant increase in complaints among neighbors has driven the need to create a new definition of deer and raccoons and suggest a prohibition on feeding wildlife in general. HISTORICAL CONTEXT Over the past several years, there have been increasing complaints from neighbors about properties with excessive feed (grains, corn, etc.) being intentionally placed on the ground, attracting abnormally large numbers of wildlife to yards. This has caused long-term, repeated complaints, unsuccessful mediation between residents and the inability of the city to enforce the current code referring to just raccoons and deer. Wildlife are better off not being fed by humans as it can be detrimental to their health and well-being, and can also create health and safety hazards for both humans and animals, according to the Minnesota DNR. By broadening the current definition of deer and raccoons to wildlife in general, this allows the city to address chronic feeding of wildlife on private property. RECOMMENDED ACTION By Motion: Approve the second reading of an ordinance pertaining to the feeding of wildlife and resolution and summary publication of said ordinance. EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS The Richfield Police Department is committed to ensuring equity and inclusivity in our work. In some instances, equity considerations may not directly apply. However, staff review of policy and processes will always consider DEI principles. POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.) This will amend subsection 905.40 to create a new definition of wildlife and the prohibition of feeding across the city. CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES Page 41 of 104 There are no critical timing issues. FINANCIAL IMPACT There is no financial impact. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS The City Attorney has reviewed and approved the contents of the staff report. ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S) The City Council could deny the second reading of the ordinance and direct staff on how to proceed. ATTACHMENTS 1. DOCSOPEN-#1031825-v2-Wild_Animals_Ordinance 2. Sum Pub Res for Ord Related to Chapter 9 Wild Animals Page 42 of 104 1 DOCSOPEN\RC160\3\1031825.v2-6/5/25 BILL NO. 2025-_____ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SUBSECTION 905.40 OF THE RICHFIELD CODE OF ORDINANCES PERTAINING TO FEEDING WILD ANIMALS THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1. Subsection 905.40 of the Richfield Code of Ordinances is hereby amended as follows: 905.40 – Feeding of deer and raccoons wild animals prohibited. Subdivison 1. Prohibition. No person shall provide liquids or edible material to deer or raccoons within the boundaries of the City. Definitions. For the purposes of this subsection the terms defined have the meanings given them: a. “Wild animal” is an animal that lives in its natural habitat and is not domesticated nor relies on humans for survival, such as but not limited to raccoons, deer, turkeys, ducks, squirrels, rabbits, geese, and other similar animals. b. “Feed” is providing non-birdseed or birdseed mixtures, grain, fruit, vegetables, hay, mineral salt or other food source, either at ground level or at a height of less than five (5) feet above any surface, including retaining walls, decks, and patios. Subd. 2. Exception. This subsection does not apply to veterinarians, City animal wardens, or county, state or federal game officials who in the course of their duties have deer or raccoons in their custody or under their management. Subd 2. Prohibition. No person shall feed any wild animal within the boundaries of the City or maintain any conditions on their property that would encourage or openly invite a wild animal to feed, such as, but not limited to excessive spillage from bird feeders onto the open ground. Subd. 3. Penalty. A violation of this subsection shall be deemed a public nuisance. Subd. 4. Exception. This subsection does not apply to veterinarians, authorized City officials, bird feeders above five (5) feel off any surface, fowl licensees, or county, state, or federal game officials who in the course of their duties have wild animals in their custody or under their management. Subd. 5. This subsection is subject to any county, state, or federal temporary feeding ban. Section 2. This ordinance will be effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the City Charter. Page 43 of 104 2 DOCSOPEN\RC160\3\1031825.v2-6/5/25 Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield on this ____ day of ________ 2025. Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 44 of 104 RESOLUTION NO. _____ RESOLUTION APPROVING SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 905.40 OF THE CITY CODE WHEREAS, the City has adopted the above-referenced amendment of the Richfield City Code; and WHEREAS, the verbatim text of the amendment is cumbersome, and the expense of publication of the complete text is not justified. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Richfield that the following summary is hereby approved for official publication: SUMMARY PUBLICATION BILL NO. ________ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 905.40 OF THE CITY CODE This summary of the ordinance is published pursuant to Section 3.12 of the Richfield City Charter. This ordinance amends City Code Chapter 9 Section 905.40 to include a new definition of wild animals and adding that feeding of wild animals is prohibited and a violation of Section 905.40 shall be deemed a public nuisance. Copies of the ordinance are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s office during normal business hours or upon request by calling the Support Services Manager at 612-861-9881. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this th day of , 2025. Mary Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 45 of 104 City Council Meeting 9/9/2025 Agenda Section: Proposed Ordinances Agenda Item: 10.b. Report Prepared By: Jennifer Anderson, Support Services Manager Department Director: Jay Henthorne, Police Chief Item for Consideration: Consider approval of a second reading of an ordinance pertaining to temporary outdoor portable storage containers and corresponding resolution authorizing summary publication of said ordinance. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The city has taken an increasing number of resident complaints over the past couple of years regarding portable hard-sided storage containers on private property for months on end, and in some cases, years. In a typical situation, a portable storage container is appropriate when remodeling or moving in or out of a home. The container may be onsite for a couple of weeks and then picked up. City Council suggestions regarding the proposed ordinance were made at the August 26, 2025, City Council meeting and are now reflected in the proposed second reading. They include allowing two containers not to exceed 16x8x8, allowing 60 days onsite instead of 30 days, a limit of 90 days per calendar year and a restriction on animal and human habitation. The original draft (v4) and updated draft (v5) of the ordinance have been provided so the City Council can see changes made to the proposed ordinance. HISTORICAL CONTEXT In the cases highlighted, enforcement staff have been seeing containers on driveways for months and, in a few cases, years, being used as an accessory dwelling unit and permanent storage. Resident complaints highlight the aesthetics of the container in a residential driveway, the size of the container, which creates safety issues by blocking sight lines, and the time the container has been onsite. The proposed changes include restrictions on size, placement of container, time limitations for containers to be on a property, and the requirement that the homeowner and/or contractor submit a request in writing for the extended placement. RECOMMENDED ACTION By Motion: 1. Approve the second reading of an ordinance amending sections 1135 and 925 pertaining to temporary outdoor portable storage containers, and 2. Approve a resolution authorizing summary publication of said ordinance. EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS The Richfield Police Department is committed to ensuring equity and inclusivity in our Page 46 of 104 work. In some instances, equity considerations may not directly apply; however, staff review of policy and processes will always consider DEI principles. POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.) Richfield's current city code does not address stipulations for outdoor portable storage pods. CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES There are no critical timing issues. FINANCIAL IMPACT There is no financial impact. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS The City Attorney has reviewed and approved the contents of the staff report. ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S) The City Council could deny the second reading of the ordinance and direct staff on how to proceed. ATTACHMENTS 1. Sum Pub Res for Ord Related to Chapter 9 2. DOCSOPEN-#1031826-v4-Temp_Pod_Containers_Ordinance 3. DOCSOPEN-#1031826-v5-Temp_Pod_Containers_Ordinance Page 47 of 104 RESOLUTION NO. _____ RESOLUTION APPROVING SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONs 1135 and 925 OF THE CITY CODE WHEREAS, the City has adopted the above-referenced amendment of the Richfield City Code; and WHEREAS, the verbatim text of the amendment is cumbersome, and the expense of publication of the complete text is not justified. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Richfield that the following summary is hereby approved for official publication: SUMMARY PUBLICATION BILL NO. ________ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 1135 and 925 OF THE CITY CODE This summary of the ordinance is published pursuant to Section 3.12 of the Richfield City Charter. This ordinance amends City Code Sections 1135 and 925 to include a new provision relating to temporary outdoor portable storage containers and adding that a violation of Section 925.01 Subd. (u) is nuisance conduct. Copies of the ordinance are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s office during normal business hours or upon request by calling the Support Services Manager at 612-861-9881. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this th day of , 2025. Mary Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 48 of 104 1 DOCSOPEN\RC160\3\1031826.v4-8/29/25 BILL NO. 2025-_____ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 1135 AND 925 OF THE RICHFIELD CODE OF ORDINANCES PERTAINING TO TEMPORARY OUTDOOR PORTABLE STORAGE CONTAINERS Section 1. Subsection 1135.03 of the Richfield Code of Ordinances is hereby amended as follows: 1135.03. – Definitions. Subdivision 1. For the purposes of this section, the terms defined in this subsection have the meaning given them. Subd. 2. "Storage" means the placing or depositing of equipment, materials or inventory in a storage enclosure for safekeeping pending further use. Subd. 3. "Equipment", "materials" or "inventory" means equipment, material or inventory owned or in possession in the course of business of an industrial or commercial establishment regulated by this section; the term does not include utility trailers or trucks stored or offered for sale by dealers licensed under section 1185, or new or used motor vehicles stored or offered for sale by motor vehicle dealers licensed under section 1155. (Correction, 12-22-89) Subd. 4. "Merchandising" means the offering of goods for sale or rental to the general public. Subd. 5. "Permanent outdoor display" means merchandising by display on a continuous, year-round basis. Subd. 6. "Temporary outdoor display" means seasonal or intermittent merchandising by display on less than a continuous, year-round basis. Subd. 7. “Temporary outdoor portable storage container” means a structure or enclosure used for the purpose of temporary storage of personal property. Subd. 78. "Permanent outdoor display enclosure" means a structure, container or device of a permanent nature, designed in conformance with applicable provisions of the City building and fire prevention codes and this section, and used in display merchandise for sale. Subd. 89. "Director" means the Director of Public Safety. Page 49 of 104 2 DOCSOPEN\RC160\3\1031826.v4-8/29/25 Section 2. The Richfield Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to add the following new subsection 1135.18: 1135.18 – Temporary outdoor portable storage containers. Subdivision 1. Size and placement requirements. A temporary outdoor portable storage container is permitted on property in a residential zone subject to all the following requirements. The container: (a) Must be no larger than 16x8x8 feet. (b) Must be placed on a hard surface designed for parking such as concrete pavement, asphalt or gravel. (c) Must be placed as far back from any public street as reasonably possible. (d) May not be placed in areas reserved for off-street parking or landscaping. (e) May not unsafely obstruct the vision of drivers of automobiles entering onto the premises it is located on. (f) May not encroach on a public right-of-way or adjacent private property. Subd. 2. Additional Requirements. The following additional requirements apply: (a) No more than one temporary outdoor portable storage container may be placed on a property at one time, except that two containers may be used if the total square footage does not exceed 16x8x8. (b) A temporary outdoor portable storage container may not remain on a property longer than thirty (30) sixty (60) consecutive days unless allowed under subdivision 3 of this section. (c) Placement of a temporary outdoor portable storage container is limited to a maximum of 90 days three 30-day periods per calendar year on any single property. (d) Temporary outdoor portable storage containers must be sourced from an established and reputable company specializing in temporary outdoor storage. (e) Temporary outdoor portable storage containers may not be used for animal or human habitation. Subd. 3. City approval required for longer storage period. A property owner may use a temporary outdoor portable storage container on their property for a period longer than allowed in subdivision 2, subject to all the following: Page 50 of 104 3 DOCSOPEN\RC160\3\1031826.v4-8/29/25 (a) The extended period shall be no longer than 180 days within a 12-month period, starting on the date the container is first placed on the property. (b) The need for the extended period is related to construction or remodeling activity on the property. (c) The continued use of the container does not create public safety concerns, in the discretion of the City, or a public nuisance as defined by Section 925. (d) The property owner, manager of the construction work on the property, or their authorized representatives, must submit in writing, a request to the Director, or their designee, for extended placement of the container. The request must be granted in writing by the Director, or their designee, before extended placement is permitted. Subd. 4. Public nuisance. Failure to comply with this subsection constitutes a public nuisance under City Code subsection 925.01, subd. 4. Section 3. Subsection 925.01, subd. 4 of the Richfield Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to add a new paragraph (u): 925.01. – Public nuisances. Subd. 4. Public nuisances affecting peace and safety. The following are declared to be nuisances affecting peace and safety: . . . (u) Temporary outdoor portable storage containers that do not comply with the standards and requirements as set forth in subsection 1135.18. Section 4. This ordinance will be effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the City Charter. Adopted by the City of Richfield this ___ day of _________, 2025. Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 51 of 104 1 BILL NO. 2025-_____ AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 1135 AND 925 OF THE RICHFIELD CODE OF ORDINANCES PERTAINING TO TEMPORARY OUTDOOR PORTABLE STORAGE CONTAINERS Section 1. Subsection 1135.03 of the Richfield Code of Ordinances is hereby amended as follows: 1135.03. – Definitions. Subdivision 1. For the purposes of this section, the terms defined in this subsection have the meaning given them. Subd. 2. "Storage" means the placing or depositing of equipment, materials or inventory in a storage enclosure for safekeeping pending further use. Subd. 3. "Equipment", "materials" or "inventory" means equipment, material or inventory owned or in possession in the course of business of an industrial or commercial establishment regulated by this section; the term does not include utility trailers or trucks stored or offered for sale by dealers licensed under section 1185, or new or used motor vehicles stored or offered for sale by motor vehicle dealers licensed under section 1155. (Correction, 12-22-89) Subd. 4. "Merchandising" means the offering of goods for sale or rental to the general public. Subd. 5. "Permanent outdoor display" means merchandising by display on a continuous, year-round basis. Subd. 6. "Temporary outdoor display" means seasonal or intermittent merchandising by display on less than a continuous, year-round basis. Subd. 7. “Temporary outdoor portable storage container” means a structure or enclosure used for the purpose of temporary storage of personal property. Subd. 78. "Permanent outdoor display enclosure" means a structure, container or device of a permanent nature, designed in conformance with applicable provisions of the City building and fire prevention codes and this section, and used in display merchandise for sale. Subd. 89. "Director" means the Director of Public Safety. Page 52 of 104 2 Section 2. The Richfield Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to add the following new subsection 1135.18: 1135.18 – Temporary outdoor portable storage containers. Subdivision 1. Size and placement requirements. A temporary outdoor portable storage container is permitted on property in a residential zone subject to all the following requirements. The container: (a) Must be no larger than 16x8x8 feet. (b) Must be placed on a hard surface designed for parking such as concrete pavement, asphalt or gravel. (c) Must be placed as far back from any public street as reasonably possible. (d) May not unsafely obstruct the vision of drivers of automobiles entering onto the premises it is located on. (e) May not encroach on a public right-of-way or adjacent private property. Subd. 2. Additional Requirements. The following additional requirements apply: (a) No more than one temporary outdoor portable storage container may be placed on a property at one time, except that two containers may be used if the total square footage does not exceed 16x8x8. (b) A temporary outdoor portable storage container may not remain on a property longer than sixty (60) consecutive days unless allowed under subdivision 3 of this section. (c) Placement of a temporary outdoor portable storage container is limited to a maximum of 90 days per calendar year on any single property. (d) Temporary outdoor portable storage containers must be sourced from an established and reputable company specializing in temporary outdoor storage. (e) Temporary outdoor portable storage containers may not be used for animal or human habitation. Subd. 3. City approval required for longer storage period. A property owner may use a temporary outdoor portable storage container on their property for a period longer than allowed in subdivision 2, subject to all the following: (a) The extended period shall be no longer than 180 days within a 12-month period, starting on the date the container is first placed on the property. Page 53 of 104 3 (b) The need for the extended period is related to construction or remodeling activity on the property. (c) The continued use of the container does not create public safety concerns, in the discretion of the City, or a public nuisance as defined by Section 925. (d) The property owner, manager of the construction work on the property, or their authorized representatives, must submit in writing, a request to the Director, or their designee, for extended placement of the container. The request must be granted in writing by the Director, or their designee, before extended placement is permitted. Subd. 4. Public nuisance. Failure to comply with this subsection constitutes a public nuisance under City Code subsection 925.01, subd. 4. Section 3. Subsection 925.01, subd. 4 of the Richfield Code of Ordinances is hereby amended to add a new paragraph (u): 925.01. – Public nuisances. Subd. 4. Public nuisances affecting peace and safety. The following are declared to be nuisances affecting peace and safety: . . . (u) Temporary outdoor portable storage containers that do not comply with the standards and requirements as set forth in subsection 1135.18. Section 4. This ordinance will be effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the City Charter. Adopted by the City of Richfield this 9th day of September 2025. Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 54 of 104 City Council Meeting 9/9/2025 Agenda Section: Proposed Ordinances Agenda Item: 10.c. Report Prepared By: Sam Crosby, City Planner Department Director: Melissa Poehlman, Community Development Director Item for Consideration: Consider a second reading and summary publication of ordinance changes related to multifamily development regulations, MR-2 & MR-3 zoning district updates. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY During the 2018 Comprehensive Plan update, residents overwhelmingly identified housing needs and affordability as a key concern. Recognizing that outdated zoning regulations are one barrier to affordable housing, the City is updating the MR-2 (Multifamily) and MR-3 (High Density Multifamily) zoning districts to better facilitate a variety of housing choices known as the “missing middle.” Missing middle housing refers to moderately dense housing options such as triplexes, quadplexes, and small apartment buildings. These types of homes can provide affordable and diverse living options, filling the gap between single-family homes and large high-rise buildings. It is important to note the update focuses on regulations for multifamily housing construction and does not involve the rezoning of any properties. For details on affected areas, refer to the “Existing & Planned Multifamily Parcels Map." Since August 2024, City planning staff and consultant TC2 have collaborated on this effort (see “Historical Context” below). The proposed changes were carefully crafted based on real-world examples, and tested by designers on typical parcel sizes to ensure feasibility. Following an eight-month update process and close collaboration with policymakers and stakeholders, staff have prepared seven related ordinances. In summary, the proposed amendments found in the seven ordinances are intended to: • Facilitate infill development of small-sized multifamily housing; • Accommodate the density ranges prescribed by the 2040 Comprehensive Plan; and • Streamline the review and approval process. Changes Since First Reading ▪ The proposed encroachment allowance for A/C units has been removed, and the language will remain as is - a variance may be granted to allow encroachment if individual circumstances warrant. ▪ Descriptive wording for windows was adjusted to be consistent. Page 55 of 104 ▪ The notification requirements for administratively approved site plans were modified. Originally proposed to be sent by the permit holder at least 15 business days prior to the start of construction, it is now proposed to be sent by the City upon receipt of a complete application. Originally proposed to be mailed to parcels within 300 feet of the project site, it is now proposed to be parcels either adjacent to the project site, or that would be adjacent except for right-of- way; see illustration in the Policies section below. HISTORICAL CONTEXT • Metropolitan Council’s Livable Communities Act (LCA) Policy Development Grant was awarded in June of 2024, and the contract was finalized in August of 2024. • The project began in late 2024/early 2025 with research into best practices, meetings with developers, and analysis of local project examples. • The first Administrative Review Committee (ARC) meeting was held on January 9, 2025. • A joint Planning Commission and City Council work session on the Tier I standards was held on February 24, 2025. • A second ARC meeting was held on March 13, 2025. • The project website was launched and public outreach was initiated in April of 2025: 1. Post cards were mailed to property owners zoned (MR-2 or MR-3) or guided for multifamily (Medium or High Density). 2. The project website was promoted through social media, local newspapers, and the Richfield Recap. 3. Stakeholder outreach included the following groups: ▪ Developers ▪ Minneapolis Association of Realtors ▪ Richfield Chamber of Commerce ▪ Regional Housing Policy Group ▪ Richfield Apartment Managers Association • A joint Planning Commission and City Council work session on Tier II and Tier III standards was held on May 13, 2025. • A third ARC meeting was held on June 12, 2025. • The project website was revised and a second round of public outreach took place in June. RECOMMENDED ACTION By motion: 1. Approve the second reading of seven ordinance amendments regarding multifamily development regulations, MR-2 & MR-3 district updates, and 2. Approve a resolution authorizing summary publication of said ordinances. EQUITABLE OR STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS OR IMPACTS Affordability Page 56 of 104 The changes being considered support more than one of the Council’s strategic outcomes. First and foremost, it will help maintain Richfield as an affordable place to live. Sustainability It will also promote climate resiliency, as facilitating the construction of infill housing helps mitigate sprawl and dependence on private automobiles. Smaller dwellings have a lower per capita energy use. According to the American Council for Energy Efficiency and Economics, shared walls and HVAC systems utilize far fewer resources than detached dwellings. Efficiency The proposed increase in administrative project approvals will further the Community Development strategic initiative to update development review processes and procedures. Equity Finally, the changes would also help to reduce racial inequities and barriers for traditionally excluded groups. Middle housing has historically given working-class families, which tend to have a greater population of people of color, access to more affordable homes. Facilitating the development of missing middle housing near jobs, amenities, services and transit will make strides toward undoing past discriminatory practices by providing more units that are attainable to communities of color. Regardless of race or income, housing should be available for everyone; arguments to the contrary are exclusionary. POLICIES (RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES, REGULATIONS, STATUTES, ETC.) General Description Several changes have been made to modernize and facilitate infill development on MR- 2 and MR-3 properties. Generally, changes include reduced minimum lot sizes, increased building and lot coverages, reduced setbacks, minor height changes, and parking reductions in targeted transit and pedestrian-friendly areas. Building and site design standards have been updated to ensure high-quality design and general consistency with similar uses in other districts. The approval process has been modified to allow some projects with administrative review only. (Projects of up to 16 units in MR-2, and 32 units in MR-3, could be approved at a staff level provided all requirements are met). Neighbor Notice This illustration identifies properties that will receive a notice from the City regarding a proposal for a residential project that qualifies for administrative approval. The blue lot represents a hypothetical subject site; the lots within the red outline would be notified when the City has received a complete application for a project. Notice will include a brief project description, applicant contact information, and also staff contact for questions. Page 57 of 104 Discretion The City has a high level of discretion when reviewing a Zoning Code text amendment. The Zoning Code is the main tool cities use to enact policies and development standards they decide are appropriate for their community. However, the proposed amendment must be consistent with the goals, policies and objectives of the Comprehensive Plan. Comprehensive Plan The 2040 Comprehensive Plan (adopted in 2018) is the foundation for this work. See the “Related Comp Plan Goals and Policies” document for a list of goals and policies that support the code analysis and reform. CRITICAL TIMING ISSUES • Metropolitan Council grant funds need to be used by the end of June 30, 2026. • Staff hopes to complete the code updates by the end of September 2025, prior to the next comprehensive plan update, for which system statements are released this fall. FINANCIAL IMPACT None. LEGAL CONSIDERATIONS • Notice of the Planning Commission’s public hearing was published in the Sun Current newspaper on July 17, 2025. • The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the proposed ordinances at its July 28, 2025 meeting. • The first reading was approved on August 26, 2025. ALTERNATIVE RECOMMENDATION(S) • Approve the ordinance amendments with changes. • Deny the ordinance amendments, and direct staff to reconsider one or more Page 58 of 104 aspects. ATTACHMENTS 1. 507 & 509 - Definitions and Gen Provisions Ord Amendment 2. 525 - MR-2 District Ordinance Amendment 3. 527 - MR-3 District Ordinance Amendment 4. 541.25 - VPA Overlay Ordinance Amendment 5. 544 - General Bldg and Perf. Standards Ord Amendment 6. 547 - Administration Ordinance Amendment 7. Chapter 1310 - Repeal Res. Parking Permits Ordinance 8. 090925 - Sum_Pub - MR-2&3 9. Existing+Planned Multifamily Parcels Map 07-24-25 10. Related Comp Plan Goals and Policies Page 59 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Motion by: XX Seconded by: XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RICHFIELD ZONING CODE (APPENDIX B OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE) TO MODIFY SECTION 507 “PURPOSE AND DEFINITIONS” AND SECTION 509 “GENERAL PROVISIONS” WITH CHANGES RELATED TO THE MR-2 & MR-3 ZONING CODE UPDPATES THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1 Subsection 507.07 “Definitions” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged, except for being renumbered accordingly: Subd. 54 “Expanded 66th & Lyndale Area.” All parcels located on either side of 66th Street, between Rae Drive to the west and Stevens Avenue to the east; on either side of Lyndale Avenue, between Highway 62 to the north and either 67th Street W (along east side) or Lake Shore Drive (along west side) to the south; and on either side of Nicollet Avenue, between 64th Street to the north and 67th Street East/AHA Way to the south (as depicted on the “Residential Parking Reduction Areas” map on file with the Community Development Department). (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 61. "Group housing Multi-building development." A housing development located on a single lot that consists of two (2) or more buildings, each of which contains three (3) or more dwelling units. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 95. "Open space, Outdoor." Lawns and other natural areas and open courtyards. Open space does not include driveways, parking areas or sidewalks. (Repealed Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 96. "Open space, Usable." Specifically designated open space that is easily accessible and intended to serve residents and/or employees as well as visitors. This encompasses various types of open space for passive enjoyment as well as active use and includes accessible green areas and hard-surfaced urban plazas, linear pedestrian-oriented greenways, major pedestrian areas, courtyards, pocket parks and outdoor recreation areas. Usable open space does not include driveways, parking areas or required landscape setback areas, unless these are specifically designed for resident, public or customer access and use. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subd.142 “Transit Line, Frequently Operating” A bus service route having: i. Weekday frequency of two (2) runs per hour between 7:00 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.; ii.Regularly scheduled service weekdays after 6:30 p.m.; and iii.Some Saturday, Sunday, and holiday service. (Relocated Bill No. 2025-__) Page 60 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Subd.143 “Transit Line, High Frequency.” A north-south bus service route on an arterial roadway, having stops with a 15-mintue headway or less. (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Section 2 Subsection 509.07 “Lot provisions” is amended at to read as follows: 509.07. - Lot provisions. Subdivision 1. One building and use. Except in the case of planned unit developments, group housing multi-building developments, and developments in the Mixed-Use Districts, only one (1) principal building and use may be located on a lot. This subdivision is not intended to prohibit similar types of uses from occupying a multi-tenant building if all other requirements of this Code are met. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 2 thru 5: unchanged. Section 3 Subsection 509.11 “Not encroachments” is amended at to read as follows: 509.11. - Not encroachments. The following shall not be considered as encroachments on setback requirements in all zoning districts: a) Principal building cornices, canopies, eaves, gutters, and other similar features, provided they project not more than 30 inches into a required yard. In no event shall such features be closer than 24 inches from any lot line; b) Principal building chimneys, flues, vents, and other similar features, provided they project not more than 24 inches into a required yard and are no more than five (5) feet in width. In no event shall such features be closer than 30 inches from any lot line; c) Principal building window wells and bay windows, provided they project not more than 36 inches into a required yard. In no event shall they be closer than 24 inches from any lot line; (Amended, Bill No. 2011-13) d) In required front yards, principal building entry vestibules that extend a distance of six (6) feet or less, provided such vestibule is not more than eight (8) feet in width or more than one (1) story in height; e) In required front yards, principal building balconies that extend a distance of four (4) feet or less, provided they are seven (7) feet or more above grade at the front building line; Page 61 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Balconies attached to principal buildings may project up to four (4) feet into required front yards and up to three (3) feet into required side and rear yards, provided such side yards are not adjacent to properties guided for low-density residential use. These projections are permitted only if the balcony is located at least seven (7) feet above grade at the building line. f) In front yards and street side yards, fire escapes attached to the principal building that extend a distance of four (4) feet, six (6) inches or less; g) In required front and rear yards, landings, steps, uncovered porches, and other similar features attached to the principal building that extend a distance of six (6) feet or less, provided such landing or uncovered porch does not extend in elevation above the height of the ground floor level, and in no case shall they be located more than 30 inches off the ground; a railing enclosure no more than three (3) feet in height may be placed around such landing or uncovered porch, unless prior approval for a greater railing height is granted by the Director. In the MR-2 & MR-3 zoning districts, the feature may be covered. h) In required side yards, uncovered porches attached to the principal building that extend a distance of three (3) feet or less, provided they are not more than 30 inches off the ground. In no event shall they be closer than four (4) feet from any side lot line; and i) In required side yards, principal building steps, stoops, handicap access ramps, and other similar features that extend a distance of three (3) feet or less. In no event shall they be closer than two (2) feet from a side lot line. Section 4 Subsection 512.05 “Permitted, Conditional, Accessory and Prohibited uses in Residential Districts” is amended at to read as follows: Land Use R R-1 MR-2 MR-3 Residential Single-family detached dwellings P P N N Two-family dwellings P N P N P N Multifamily dwellings and multi-building developments (minimum 3 units) N N P/C P/C Cluster home developments C N P/C N Page 62 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Section 5 This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the Richfield City Charter. VOTING AYE VOTING NAY Supple, Mary Supple, Mary Burk, Walter Burk, Walter Christensen, Sharon Christensen, Sharon Coleman-Woods, Rori Coleman-Woods, Rori Hayford Oleary, Sean Hayford Oleary, Sean Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this __th day of September, 2025. ____________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 63 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Motion by: XX Seconded by: XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RICHFIELD ZONING CODE (APPENDIX B OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE) TO MODIFY THE “MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL (MR-2)” ZONING DISTRICT, SECTION 525 THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1 Subsection 525.01 “Purposes” is amended to read as follows: 525.01. – Purposes. The purposes of the MR-2 District regulations are to reserve appropriately located areas for multifamily dwellings; preserve as many as possible of the desirable characteristics of the single-family residential district while permitting higher population densities; provide opportunities for infill cluster housing development, thereby allowing greater intensities and a wider variety of housing types; minimize traffic congestion and avoid the overloading of utilities by preventing the construction of buildings of excessive size (or density) in relation to the surrounding land, buildings, or infrastructure; and to provide multifamily residential areas that are safe and attractive. The purpose of the MR-2 District is to provide for multifamily development that is diverse and attractive, and to facilitate context-sensitive infill and redevelopment, by allowing a variety of buildings with multiple units. Characteristics of such buildings include primary entrances and windows facing onto the street, with secondary windows facing to the side and adjoining properties, human scaled architectural elements, and green space that allows for tree canopy, water filtration, and relaxation. Examples of such building types include stacked triplexes and fourplexes, townhomes, courtyard cottages, courtyard apartments, rowhomes, small (low-rise) multifamily buildings, multi-building and cluster home developments. The district is not intended to allow more than one (1) full-sized single-family detached unit on a lot (a full-sized home meaning 1,200 square feet or bigger) or to allow slot homes. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Page 64 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Section 2 Subsection 525.03 “Permitted Uses” is amended to read as follows: 525.03. - Permitted uses. Subdivision 1. The uses listed in this subsection are permitted uses in the MR-2 District. Subd. 2. Multifamily dwellings, multi-building developments and (excluding cluster home developments) with eight (8) 16 or fewer units with administrative site plan approval; and between 17 and 40 units with full site plan approval. (Amended, Bill No. 1996-22 & Bill No 2025-__) Subd. 3. State-licensed day care facility serving 14 or fewer children. Care facilities located within the MR-2 District shall be subject to the same zoning regulations as multifamily dwellings in the MR-2 District except that one nonresident employee shall be permitted in accordance with State requirements. (Amended, Bill No. 2016-3) Subd. 4. State-licensed residential care facilities serving up to six (6) persons or a housing with services establishment registered under M.S. 144D serving up to six (6) persons. Care facilities located in the MR-2 District shall be subject to the same zoning regulations as multifamily dwellings in the MR-2 District. Section 3 Subsection 525.05 “Accessory building and use regulations” is amended to read as follows: Subdivision 1. The uses permitted in this subsection are allowable accessory uses in the MR-2 District. Subd.2: In addition to the general accessory building provisions of Subsection 509.09, the following rules apply to accessory buildings in the MR-2 District. a) The maximum height for accessory buildings shall be 15 feet; b) For non-garage accessory structures, height is measured from the ground level to the highest point of the roof. For garages, that measurement is taken on the side of the building with the vehicle door; and c) Accessory buildings, including garages: i. shall not be located in the front or street side yard; ii. must be set back 15 feet from the street side property line when in the rear yard; Page 65 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX iii. must be set back a minimum of 10 five (5) feet from any rear or interior side lot line, except that if a vehicle access door faces a rear or interior side lot line, such rear or interior side setback requirement shall be not less than 20 feet; iv. shall adhere to the same access requirements as for parking lots required by Subd.3.b, below. Subd. 3. Open parking or garages as approved through Site Plan Review a) Location of parking. i. Parking is not permitted in the front and street side yards. ii. Parking is permitted in interior side yards only if the width of the parking and access drive together does not exceed the width of the principal building or 60 feet, whichever is less. iii. Parking is permitted in rear yards and underground locations. iv. Individual stalls are permitted head-in off an alley. b) Access to parking. i. If the parcel is adjacent to an alley, access shall be off the alley. ii. If the parcel is not adjacent to an alley but is a corner lot or a through lot, then driveway access shall be off the side street with the lower functional class as defined by the comprehensive plan. If both roadways are the same functional class, access may be off of either, subject to approval of the jurisdictional agency. iii. If the parcel is not adjacent to an alley nor a corner lot, driveway access may be from the street. iv. A driveway existing as of September 9, 2025 that does not meet the above lot access standards can continue in the same location until the property is redeveloped. Such driveway may be expanded if it is in conformance with the City Code. v. Shared access is highly encouraged but requires a written recorded agreement with the neighboring property owner. c) Parking lot setbacks and screening. Page 66 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX i. Parking lots must be set back 15 feet from the street side property line and eight (8) feet from all other rights-of-way. ii. Parking lots must be set back five (5) feet from the side and rear property lines. iii. The perimeter planting requirements of 544.03, Subd.7 shall apply to parking stalls located in interior side yards. iv. All parking lots adjacent to Low-Density Residential (R), and Single- Family Residential (R-1), districts must be screened along the side and rear property lines with a four (4) foot-tall privacy fence, solid evergreen hedge, architecturally compatible opaque wall, or a combination of these, unless an alley is present, or the adjacent property owner provides a written waiver. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Section 4 Subsection 525.07 “Conditional Uses” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged, except for being renumbered accordingly: 525.07. - Conditional uses. Subd. 2. Multifamily dwellings, multi-building developments and cluster home developments with 9 to 25 units more than 40 units (Amended Bill No. 2025-__). Subd. 3. Cluster home developments provided that the following conditions are met: a) The design of the development shall be in harmony with the surrounding neighborhood in terms of building materials, architectural design, scale and mass of the structure, or other similar urban design characteristics; b) Two off-street parking spaces, at least one of which must be enclosed in a garage, shall be provided for each dwelling unit; (Added, Bill No. 2002-11, c) The number and location of driveways and curb cuts shall minimize conflict with vehicular traffic and should not adversely impact adjacent land uses; Page 67 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX d) The density of the development shall not exceed the density recommended in the comprehensive plan. (Added, Bill No. 1996-22, Repealed Bill No. 2025-__) Section 5 Subsection 525.11 “Dimensional and parking regulations” is amended to read as follows: Subsection 525.11. - Dimensional and parking regulations for multifamily structures (excluding cluster home developments). (Amended Bill No. 2025-__). Subdivision 1. The standards set out in this subsection apply in the MR-2 District. Minimum lot size 15,000 sq. ft. 6,000 sq. ft. Minimum lot width 75 feet 50 feet a) Efficiency: 400 square feet per unit. b) One bedroom: 550 square feet per unit. c) Two bedroom: 750 square feet per unit. Minimum floor area d) More than two bedrooms: add 150 square feet per bedroom to that required for a two bedroom dwelling unit. Maximum building height 35 feet 3 stories or 36 feet, whichever is less Maximum lot coverage (principal structures) 30% 45% a) Two or fewer bedrooms: 325 square feet minimum per dwelling unit. b) Three or more bedrooms: 425 square feet minimum per dwelling unit. c) Balconies and porches with at least 70 square feet and seven feet in width which are directly accessible by individual dwelling units may be counted as contributing 175 square feet to the outdoor open space requirements listed above. Outdoor Minimum Useable open space requirements 1, 2 10% of gross parcel area a) Front: 30 feet. 15 feet b) Side:   i) Interior: the height of building or 20 feet, whichever is greater. 5 feet   ii) Street Side: 15 feet   ii) iii) Adjacent to Park: 15 feet Minimum setbacks c) Rear: the height of building or 25 feet, whichever is greater 20 feet Page 68 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Maximum impervious surface coverage 70% 1 Unit-specific open spaces, such as balconies and porches, may not count for more than 50% of the overall usable open space requirement. 2 Impervious surface coverages, such as rooftop amenities and patios, may not count for more than 25% of the usable open space requirement. Shared rooftop amenities that are a green roof may be exempt from this limit, subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and Sustainability Coordinator. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 2. Minimum Parking for multifamily structures (excluding cluster home developments). a) A minimum of 1.25 off-street parking spaces shall be provided for each dwelling unit. The Council may reduce the parking requirement for senior housing complexes, or other similarly low-driving populations, including but not limited to, households earning below 60 percent AMI, people who are neuro-diverse, and/or people with disabilities. (Amended Bill No. 2024-08) b) A minimum of half (0.5) an off-street parking stall shall be provided per unit for residential buildings that are 40 units or less and are located within one block* along either side of a High Frequency Transit Line. * One (1) block refers to the distance to the next north-south street, or to the point where the next street would intersect if it were extended through (as depicted on the “Residential Parking Reduction Areas” map on file with the Community Development Department). (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Section 6 Subsection 525.13 “Dimensional and parking regulations for cluster home developments” is repealed in its entirety: Subsection 525.13 - Dimensional and parking regulations for cluster home developments. (Repealed Bill No. 2025-__) Subdivision 1. The standards set out in this subsection apply to cluster home developments in the MR-2 District Page 69 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX a) Three-unit structure in area not designated as "High Density Single- Family Residential" in the city's comprehensive plan: 3,500 square feet per unit. b) Four-unit structure in area not designated as "High Density Single- Family Residential" in the city's comprehensive plan: 3,000 square feet per unit. c) Three- or four-unit structure in area designated as "High Density Single- Family Residential" in the city's comprehensive plan: 2,900 square feet per unit. Minimum lot area d) Five or more unit structure: 2,500 square feet per unit. (Amended, Bill No. 2002-11) Minimum lot width 60 feet. a) One bedroom: 650 square feet per unit. b) Two bedroom: 850 square feet per unit. Minimum floor area c) Three or more bedrooms: 1,000 square feet per unit. Maximum building height 35 feet. Maximum lot coverage 35 percent. a) Two or fewer bedrooms: 325 square feet minimum per dwelling unit. Outdoor open space requirements b) Three or more bedrooms: 425 square feet minimum per dwelling unit. Page 70 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX c) Balconies, porches and decks with at least 70 square feet in area and six feet in width which are directly accessible by individual dwelling units may be counted as contributing 70 square feet to the outdoor open space requirements listed above Subd. 2. Setback requirements for cluster home developments (in feet). Use Front Rear Interior Side Street Side Cluster home developments in R-SFH guided area (but see Subd. 3) 10 25 10 15 Cluster home developments in non-R-SFH guided area. (but see Subd. 3) 30 25 20 30 Subd. 3. Setback reductions. the setback requirements for cluster home developments may be reduced to 25 feet in the front, 5 feet for the side interior and 12 feet in the rear if the following criteria are met: a) The applicant can demonstrate that a superior design is achieved through the reduced setback. Evidence of a superior design may include but is not limited to the preservation of a natural feature, creation of an amenity, creation of public open space, or incorporation of special features to meet the needs of the target population; b) The reduced setback does not adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood in terms of a decrease in privacy, noise, overcrowding, or other similar impacts; Page 71 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX c) The impact of the reduced setback is minimized through the presence of features such as landscaping or other means of buffering, a limited number of building openings in the portion of the structure that infringes upon the setback, building orientation, minimized garage door dominance, or other similar features. Subd. 4. Minimum parking for cluster home developments. Two off-street parking spaces, at least one of which shall be in a garage, shall be provided for each dwelling unit. The Council, at its discretion, may reduce the minimum required parking to not less than 1.5 parking spaces per unit after consideration of factors including but not limited to the present or future availability of transit services, shared parking, pedestrian orientation, and occupancy characteristics. In addition, the Council may further reduce the parking requirement for projects designed to serve seniors. (Amended, Bill No. 1996-22) Section 7 Subsection 525.17 “Additional Regulations” is amended at to read as follows: 525.17. – Additional regulations. Subdivision 1. [Generally.] Developments shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the standards set out in this subsection. Subd. 2. Limit to number of efficiency units. No more than 20 percent of the dwelling units in any one building shall be efficiency dwelling units. Sidewalks are required along all sides of a lot that abut a public street, design subject to Subsection 500.21, Subd.6. Subd. 3. Performance standards of Section 544. Developments shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the applicable performance standards set out in Section 544 of this Code, unless they conflict with the standards in this section, then this section shall prevail. Subd. 4. Design or overlay districts. All property located within a design district or corridor overlay district shall be subject to such district's additional requirements and/or modifications. When in conflict herewith, the overlay district shall prevail. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Section 8 This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the Richfield City Charter. VOTING AYE VOTING NAY Page 72 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Supple, Mary Supple, Mary Burk, Walter Burk, Walter Christensen, Sharon Christensen, Sharon Coleman-Woods, Rori Coleman-Woods, Rori Hayford Oleary, Sean Hayford Oleary, Sean Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this _th day of September, 2025. ____________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 73 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Motion by: XX Seconded by: XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RICHFIELD ZONING CODE (APPENDIX B OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE) TO MODIFY THE “HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (MR-3)” ZONING DISTRICT, SECTION 527 THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1 Subsection 527.01 “Purposes” is amended at to read as follows: 527.01. – Purposes. The purposes of the MR-3 District regulations are to reserve appropriately located areas for family living in a variety of types of dwellings at a reasonable range of population densities; preserve as many as possible of the desirable characteristics of the single-family district, while permitting higher population densities; provide space for semi-public facilities needed to complement urban residential areas and space for institutions that require a residential environment; minimize traffic congestion and avoid the overloading of utilities by preventing the construction of buildings of excessive size in relation to the surrounding infrastructure; and to provide multifamily residential areas that are safe and attractive. The purpose of the MR-3 District is to provide for multifamily development that is diverse and attractive, and to facilitate context-sensitive infill and redevelopment, by allowing a variety of buildings with multiple units. Characteristics of such buildings include primary entrances and windows facing onto the street, with secondary windows facing to the side and adjoining properties, human scaled architectural elements, and green space that allows for tree canopy, water filtration, and relaxation. Examples of such building types include multiplexes, townhomes, courtyard apartments, rowhomes, mid-rise apartments and multi- building developments. The district is not intended to allow slot homes. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Section 2 Subsection 527.03 “Permitted Uses” is amended at to read as follows: 527.03. - Permitted uses. Subdivision 1. The uses listed in this subsection are permitted uses in the MR-3 District. Subd. 2. Multifamily dwellings and multi-building developments with 20 32 or fewer units, with administrative site plan approval; and between 33 and 100 units with full site plan approval. (Amended Bill No 2025-__) Page 74 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Subd. 3. State-licensed day care facility serving 14 or fewer children. Care facilities located within the MR-3 District shall be subject to the same zoning regulations as multifamily dwellings in the MR-3 District except that one nonresident employee shall be permitted in accordance with State requirements. (Amended, Bill No. 2016-3) Subd. 4. State-licensed residential care facilities serving up to six (6) persons or a housing with services establishment registered under M.S. 144D serving up to six (6) persons. Care facilities located in the MR-3 District shall be subject to the same zoning regulations as multifamily dwellings in the MR-3 District. Section 3 Subsection 527.05 “Accessory building and use regulations” is amended to read as follows: Subdivision 1. The uses permitted in this subsection are allowable accessory uses in the MR-3 District. Subd.2: In addition to the general accessory building provisions of Subsection 509.09, the following rules apply to accessory buildings in the MR-3 District: a) The maximum height for accessory buildings shall be 15 feet; b) For non-garage accessory structures, height is measured from the ground level to the highest point of the roof. For garages, that measurement is taken on the side of the building with the vehicle door; and c) Accessory buildings, including garages: i. shall not be located in the front or street side yard; ii. must be set back 15 feet from the street side property line when in the rear yard; iii. must be set back a minimum of 10 five (5) feet from any rear or interior side lot line, except that if a vehicle access door faces a rear or interior side lot line, such rear or interior side setback requirement shall be not less than 20 feet; and iv. shall adhere to the same access requirements as for parking lots required by Subd.3.b, below. Subd. 3. Open parking or garages as approved through Site Plan Review a) Location of parking. i. Parking is not permitted in the front and street side yards. Page 75 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX ii. Parking is permitted in interior side yards only if the width of the parking and access drive together does not exceed the width of the principal building or 60 feet, whichever is less. iii. Parking is permitted in rear yards and underground locations. iv. Individual stalls are permitted head-in off an alley. b) Access to parking. i. If the parcel is adjacent to an alley, access shall be off the alley. ii. If the parcel is not adjacent to an alley, but is a corner lot or a through lot, then driveway access shall be off the side street with the lower functional class as defined by the comprehensive plan. If both roadways are the same functional class, access may be off of either, subject to approval of the jurisdictional agency. iii. If the parcel is not adjacent to an alley nor a corner lot, driveway access may be from the street. iv. A driveway existing as of September 9, 2025 that does not meet the above lot access standards can continue in the same location until the property is redeveloped. Such driveway may be expanded if it is in conformance with the City Code. v. Shared access is highly encouraged but requires a written recorded agreement with the neighboring property owner. c) Parking lot setbacks and screening. i. Parking lots must be set back 15 feet from the street side property line and eight (8) feet from all other rights-of-way. ii. Parking lots must be set back five (5) feet from the side and rear property lines. iii. The perimeter planting requirements of 544.03, Subd. 7 shall apply to parking stalls located in interior side yards. iv. All parking lots adjacent to Low-Density Residential, (R) and Single- Family Residential (R-1), Districts must be screened along the side and rear property lines with a four (4) foot-tall privacy fence, solid evergreen hedge, architecturally compatible opaque wall, or a combination of these, unless an alley is present, or the adjacent property owner provides a written waiver. Page 76 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Section 4 Subsection 527.07 “Conditional Uses” is amended at to read as follows: 527.07. - Conditional uses. Subdivision 1. The uses listed in this subsection are conditional uses in the MR-3 District, and are subject to the conditional use permit provisions outlined in Section 547.09 of this Code. Subd. 2. Multifamily dwellings and multi-building developments with more than 20 100 units. (Amended Bill No 2025-__) Subd. 3 thru 12: unchanged. Section 5 Subsection 527.11 Dimensional and parking regulations” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged, except for being renumbered accordingly: 527.11. - Dimensional and parking regulations for multiple-family structures. (Amended Bill No 2025-__) Subdivision 1. The standards set out in this subsection apply in the MR-3 District. Minimum lot size 60,000 sq. ft. 6,000 sq. ft. Minimum lot width 150 feet 50 feet a) Efficiency: 400 square feet per unit. b) One bedroom: 550 square feet per unit. c) Two bedroom: 750 square feet per unit. Minimum floor area d) More than two bedrooms: add 150 square feet per bedroom to that required for a two bedroom dwelling unit. Maximum building height a) 50 feet 5 stories, or 60 feet, whichever is less. b) Proximity to Transit Stations: Buildings within one (1) block of either side of a High Frequency Transit Line* or within the Expanded Lyndale & 66th Area may extend up to six (6) stories or 72 feet, whichever is less. Page 77 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX c) When more than four (4) stories: Floors above the third floor shall be stepped back a minimum of 15 feet when adjacent to public streets and public land. d) Transition Zones: Where a high-density residential zone abuts the south side of a Low Density Residential District (R or R-1), the height of buildings within 50 feet of the boundary shall not exceed three (3) stories or 36 feet, whichever is less, in order to maintain a gradual transition. Maximum lot coverage (principal structures) 30% 55% a) Two or fewer bedrooms: 325 square feet minimum per dwelling unit. b) Three or more bedrooms: 425 square feet minimum per dwelling unit. c) Balconies and porches with at least 70 square feet and seven feet in width which are directly accessible by individual dwelling units may be counted as contributing 175 square feet to the outdoor open space requirements listed above. Outdoor Minimum useable open space requirements 1, 2 15% of gross parcel area a) Front: 30 feet. 15 feet b) Side:   i) Interior: the height of building or 20 feet, whichever is greater. 8 feet   ii) Street Side: 15 feet.   ii) iii) Adjacent to a park: 15 feet. Minimum setbacks c) Rear: the height of building or 25 feet, whichever is greater 20 feet Maximum impervious surface coverage 75% * One (1) block refers to the distance to the next north-south street, or to the point where the next street would intersect if it were extended through (as depicted on the “Residential Parking Reduction Areas” map on file with the Community Development Department). 1 Unit-specific open spaces, such as balconies and porches, may not count for more than 50% of the overall usable open space requirement. 2 Impervious surface coverages, such as rooftop amenities and patios, may not count for more than 25% of the usable open space requirement. Shared rooftop Page 78 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX amenities that are a green roof may be exempt from this limit, subject to review and approval by the City Engineer and Sustainability Coordinator. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 2. Minimum parking. a. A minimum of 1.25 off-street parking spaces shall be provided for each dwelling unit. The Council may reduce the parking requirement for senior housing complexes or other similarly low-driving populations, including but not limited to, households earning below 60 percent AMI, people who are neuro-diverse, and/or people with disabilities. (Amended, Bill No. 2011-19; & Bill No. 2024-08, & Bill No. 2024-12) b. A minimum of half (0.5) an off-street parking stall shall be provided per unit for residential buildings that are 40 units or less and are located within one block* along either side of a High Frequency Transit Line. * One (1) block refers to the distance to the next north-south street, or to the point where the next street would intersect if it were extended through (as depicted on the “Residential Parking Reduction Areas” map on file with the Community Development Department). (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Section 6 Subsection 527.15 “Additional Regulations” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged, except for being renumbered accordingly: 527.15. - Additional regulations. Subdivision 1. [Generally.] Developments shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the standards set out in this subsection. Subd. 2. Limit to number of efficiency units. No more than 25 percent of the dwelling units in any one (1) building shall be efficiency dwelling units. Sidewalks are required along all sides of a lot that abut a public street, design subject to Subsection 500.21, Subd.6. Subd. 3. Performance standards of Section 544. Developments shall be constructed and maintained in accordance with the applicable performance standards set out in Section 544 of this Code, unless they conflict with the standards in this section, then this section shall prevail. Subd. 4. Design or overlay districts. All property located within a design district or corridor overlay district shall be subject to such district's additional requirements Page 79 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX and/or modifications. When in conflict herewith, the overlay district shall prevail. (Amended Bill No 2025-__) Section 7 This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of Richfield City Charter. VOTING AYE VOTING NAY Supple, Mary Supple, Mary Burk, Walter Burk, Walter Christensen, Sharon Christensen, Sharon Coleman-Woods, Rori Coleman-Woods, Rori Hayford Oleary, Sean Hayford Oleary, Sean Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this __th day of September, 2025. ____________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 80 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Motion by: XX Seconded by: XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RICHFIELD ZONING CODE (APPENDIX B OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE) TO MODIFY SUBSECTION 541.25 “VETERANS PARK AREA (VPA) OVERLAY DISTRICT” WITH CHANGES RELATED TO MR-2/MR-3 ZONING CODE UPDATES THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1 Subsection 541.25. - Veterans Park Area (VPA) Overlay District is amended at the following subsections to read as follows: Subdivision 1 thru 3: unchanged. Subd. 4. Bulk and dimensional standards. All bulk and dimensional standards applicable in the underlying districts, as found in Subsections 525.11 (MR- 2), 527.11 (MR-3), and 534.11 (C-2) of this Code, shall apply in the VPA Overlay District with the following additions, qualifications, and/or exceptions: a) MR-2 in the VPA Overlay District: • Front yard setback: The minimum front yard setback shall be 10 feet and the maximum shall be 25 feet along. • Parking shall be located in the rear and/or side yards of the building. b) MR-3 in the VPA Overlay District: • Building height: The principal building heights shall be a minimum of 20 feet and up to a maximum of 55 feet or five (5) stories, whichever is less. • Building heights shall be measured from the building footprint's average ground level elevation. • Floors above the third floor shall be stepped back a minimum of 15 feet when adjacent to public streets and public land. Step backs may be adjusted depending on specific site conditions and building placements, subject to approval by the Council. • Maximum building coverage: 40 percent. Page 81 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX • Setbacks: Front: The minimum setback shall be 15 feet, and the maximum shall be 25 feet. Side 1: Interior: The minimum setback shall be the height of the building or 30 feet, whichever is greater. Street: The minimum setback shall be 40 feet. Rear 1: The minimum setback shall be the height of the building or 35 feet, whichever is greater. 1. When adjacent to Veterans Memorial Park, the required rear and side yard setbacks shall prioritize greenspace and landscaping as a transition/buffer to the Park. (Amended Bill No 2025-__) c) C-2 in the VPA Overlay District: • Front yard setback: The minimum front yard setback shall be 15 feet and the maximum shall be 25 feet. • Rear and side yard setbacks: When adjacent to Veterans Memorial Park, the required rear and side yard setbacks shall prioritize greenspace and landscaping as a transition/buffer to the Park. • Parking shall be located in the rear and/or side yards of the building. Subdivision 5 unchanged. Section 2 This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the Richfield City Charter. VOTING AYE VOTING NAY Supple, Mary Supple, Mary Burk, Walter Burk, Walter Christensen, Sharon Christensen, Sharon Coleman-Woods, Rori Coleman-Woods, Rori Hayford Oleary, Sean Hayford Oleary, Sean Page 82 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this __th day of September, 2025. ____________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 83 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Motion by: XX Seconded by: XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RICHFIELD ZONING CODE - APPENDIX B OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE TO MODIFY “GENERAL BUILDING AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS”, SECTION 544, WITH CHANGES RELATED TO THE MR-2/MR-3 CODE UPATES THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1 Subsection 544.03. “Landscaping and screening requirements” is amended to read as follows: 544.03. - Landscaping and screening requirements. Subdivision 1 thru 4: unchanged Subd. 5. Residential sites. Residential sites shall be landscaped to improve the livability, beauty and value of housing; to screen and mitigate views of large parking areas; to reduce the effect of traffic noise; to provide shade; and to help protect water quality. a) Quantities. These requirements are in addition to any plantings in the public street right-of-way whether installed by the land developer or the City. Single- and Two- Family Dwellings Multiple-Family Dwelling Overstory deciduous trees 1 per dwelling unit 3 to 6 units: 1 tree per dwelling unit More than 6 units: 0.5 trees per dwelling unit. Coniferous trees May be substituted on a one-for-one basis for the overstory deciduous trees. Ornamental deciduous trees 1 per dwelling unit None required. May be substituted on a 1.5- for-one basis for a max of 25% of the overstories planted on site. Understory shrubs Foundation plantings are required in all areas visible from the public street. Foundation plantings are required in all areas visible areas from the public right- of-way. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Page 84 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX b) Commercial edges. The density and initial size of plantings shall be increased along nonresidential edges and may be combined with berms, walls and fences to achieve the objective of protecting the values, quietude and privacy of the housing. Landscaping on the adjacent nonresidential property may not be substituted for plantings on the residential property. (Amended Bill No. 2023-1) Subdivision 6: unchanged Section 2 Subsection 544.05. “Screening of refuse collection and utilitarian items” is revised at the following subsections to read as follows; all other subsections to remain unchanged: 544.05. - Screening of refuse collection and utilitarian items. Refuse collection, recycling and utilitarian elements shall be designed into the interior space of buildings, except for residential structures up to eight (8) units. Buildings of nine (9) to 12 units are also exempt from the internal storage requirement, but exterior storage must be screened by an enclosure. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) All delivery and loading operations, HVAC equipment, and other utility and service function shall be grouped and arranged away from the public right-of-way and fully screened from ground level observation at any point on the property, adjacent property, or from adjacent right-of-way. Plans for screening enclosures must be shown on construction plans. a) Materials. Required screening may be achieved with fences, walls, earth berms, hedges, two (2) staggered rows of coniferous trees, a dense deciduous hedge, or other landscape materials. Earth berms shall not exceed a slope of 3:1 unless specially treated and approved. All walls and fences shall be architecturally harmonious with the principal building. The use of wood, in whole or in part, as a screening material for roof-top equipment shall not be considered as being architecturally compatible unless the building is constructed with a wood exterior. In cases where roof-top equipment may be visible from above, the Director will determine if the equipment must be painted to match the roof. b) Locations. All required screening or buffering shall be located on the lot occupied by the use, building, facility, or structure to be screened. No screening shall be located on any public right-of-way or within eight (8) feet of the traveled portion of any street or highway. c) Site improvements or redevelopment consisting of less than a 100 percent increase in gross floor area where the above requirements are impossible Page 85 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX to meet based on site constraints as judged by the Director shall conform to the following requirements: i. All residential structures with more than three (3) eight (8) units and all commercial, industrial, and institutional uses shall provide a screening enclosure for required dumpsters. Such enclosures shall be high enough to completely screen the dumpster from all property lines; (Amended, Bill No. 2014-4 & Bill No 2025-__) ii – v: no change. Section 3 Subsection 544.07. “Architectural standards” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged, except for being renumbered accordingly: 544.07. - Architectural standards. Subdivision 1: unchanged Subd. 2. Building orientation. Buildings shall be oriented so that at least one (1) principal entrance faces the public street rather than the interior of the site. On corner lots where the intersecting streets have different classifications, the principal entrance shall face the street with the higher classification. Building entrances shall: a) Be architecturally emphasized and highly visible from the street; and b) Utilize design features that protect pedestrians from the rain and sun, such as awnings, canopies, or porticos; See also Section 509.07, Subd.5 (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 3. Exterior Materials. The main exterior wall surfaces of all non-residential structures shall be constructed of wood, brick, stone, cementitious planks (e.g., Hardiplank®), glass, architectural concrete textured surfaces or other materials of high quality as approved by the Director. The exterior wall surface for all residential structures shall be constructed of wood, brick, stone, cementitious planks (e.g., Hardiplank®), glass or other materials of high quality as approved by the Director. Finished metals shall be used only above the ground floor and shall not exceed 40 percent of any exterior wall surface and may not have a metallic finish. For both residential and non-residential structures, uUnadorned pre-stressed concrete panels, standard concrete block and unfinished metal, except naturally weathering metals such as copper, shall not be permitted as exterior materials Page 86 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX for buildings. This restriction shall apply to all principal structures and to all accessory buildings, including parking ramps, except those accessory buildings not visible from any exterior lot line. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subdivision 4: unchanged Subd. 5. Window Treatment. a) For both residential and non-residential structures, Wwindows or simulated false windows shall, at a minimum, be used on the ground level of any wall parallel to or nearly parallel to a street. The use of bars, chains or similar security devices that are visible from a public street or sidewalk shall be prohibited. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) b) Window requirements for residential structures shall include: i. Each building wall that faces a public street, public sidewalk or public pathway, must be comprised of no less than 30 percent windows on the first floor and no less than 20 percent windows on each floor above the first floor. ii. Each building wall that faces any other direction must be comprised of no less than 15 percent windows on each floor. iii. False windows are prohibited. Residential window requirements are not intended to require custom window sizes or to increase building setbacks to comply with building code. They are intended to apply in cases when the first floor is used for interior parking. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subdivision 6 thru 8: unchanged Subd. 9. Color. No residential structure may display more than ten (10) percent of any elevation surface in bright, high intensity or pure tone primary or secondary colors. No fluorescent or neon colors shall be used on any exterior elevation surface. City-approved murals are exempt from this limitation. (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 10. Blank Walls. Residential building elevations shall consistently incorporate elements that relate to the human scale. No wall shall be uninterrupted for more than 25 feet in length as calculated per floor. Interruptions may include doors and windows, projections, recessions, awnings and canopies, decorative ornamentation or other architectural elements. This requirement may also be addressed through art installation or living walls, subject to approval by the Director. (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Page 87 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Subd. 11. Building Mass. No residential building wall shall exceed 200 feet in length. Every residential building wall length that exceeds the height of the building shall incorporate full height offsets spaced at intervals equal to or less than the building height. The offset shall be a minimum of one (1) foot in depth and width per story of building height. An offset can be a projection or recess. Building walls under 36 feet in length are exempt from this standard. (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Section 4 Subsection 544.09. “Exterior lighting” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged: Subdivision 1. L Except decorative fixtures per Subd. 4, 8 and 11, all lighting shall be downcast. All lighting shall be designed and arranged to restrict direct illumination and glare onto abutting parcels. Subdivisions 2 thru 3: unchanged Subd. 4. Direct off-site views of the light source shall not be permitted except for globe and/or ornamental light fixtures. Globe and ornamental fixtures shall only be used if the developer can demonstrate that off-site impacts stemming from direct views of the bulb are mitigated by the fixture design and/or location. Subd. 5 and 6: unchanged Subd. 7. Poles in non-residential parking lots shall have a maximum height of 24 feet measured from finished grade. Poles in residential parking lots shall have a maximum height of 12 feet measured from finished grade. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subd. 8. Lighting fixtures mounted directly on structures shall be permitted when utilized to enhance specific architectural elements or to help establish scale or provide visual interest, except as otherwise noted in Subdivisions 9 and 10. (Amended, Bill 2009-1) Subd. 9. "Wall paks" shall be permitted only in loading and service areas and shall be down-lit. (Amended, Bill 2009-1) Subd. 10. Shielded illuminators or fixtures shall be permitted to light building mounted signage, building facades, or pedestrian arcades if they are integrated into a building's architectural design. Subd. 11. Lighting should highlight entrances, art, terraces and special landscape features. Page 88 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Subd. 12. If installed, exterior lighting shall meet the functional needs of the use, without adversely affecting adjacent properties, neighborhoods or public uses, as determined by the City. Specific requirements are listed below; however, the City reserves the right to adjust these requirements based on concerns regarding safety, security and/or impacts on surrounding properties. Illumination measurements shall be taken by positioning the meter horizontally at ground level. (Amended, Bill 2009-1) Open-air parking lots (including the roof level of multi-level parking structures): Minimum: 0.2 fc Maximum: 4.0 fc Minimum uniformity ratio: 20:1 Primary building entrances/exits: Multifamily Residential: Minimum: 5.0 fc within five (5) feet of the entrance/exit Maximum: Eight (8) foot-candles within five (5) feet of the entrance/exit. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Commercial/Industrial: Minimum: 10.0 fc within five (5) feet of the entrance/exit Subd. 13. Site lighting should provide consistent levels of illumination, avoiding pockets of very high or low levels of illumination. Subd. 14. All residential fixtures: a. Must be dark sky complaint, except decorative fixtures per Subd. 4, 8 and 11, above; and b. Must not exceed 3,000 Kelvin. (Added Bill No. 2025-__) Section 5 Subsection 544.13. “Vehicle parking and loading requirements” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged: Subsection 544.13. - Vehicle parking and loading requirements. Page 89 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Subdivisions 1 thru 4: unchanged Subd. 5. Parking Lot Setbacks. Unless otherwise noted elsewhere, parking lots shall be set back in accordance with the following: (Amended, Bill No. 2011-19) a) Parking lots must be set back eight (8) feet from the right-of-way, b) Parking lots must be set back five (5) feet from adjacent commercial, multifamily residential and mixed use property. (Amended, Bill No. 2011- 13; 2011-19) c) Parking lots must be set back 15 feet from adjacent single-family and two-family residential property with appropriate screening as required by Subsection 544.03 Subd. 5 for residential sites or Subd. 6 for commercial. (Amended, Bill No. 2011-19) Subd. 6. Number of off-street spaces required. Off-street parking spaces shall be provided according to the following minimum standards. Parking for land uses not listed below shall be regulated according to the most similar use and/or authoritative sources as determined by the City Planner. No changes to the minimum number of off-street parking spaces required for commercial uses. 1. Adjacent on-street parking may be counted toward the parking requirements for triplex and fourplex residential uses if the following conditions are met: a) The roadway width, measured from back of curb to back of curb, is at least 36 feet; b) The site includes sufficient driveway space to accommodate the full parking requirement on-site during snow events (e.g., tandem parking in driveways); and, RESIDENTIAL USES Single and Two Family For R "Low Density Residential" zones, see Section 514.15, Subd.4 For R-1 "Single Family Residential" zones, see Section 518.15, Subd.3 Multifamily Dwelling 1 1.25 per unit. Group home (state licensed residential facility) 2 per 5 beds offered for residence purposes. Nursing or convalescent home 5 plus one (1) per 5 beds offered for residence purposes. Expanded 66th/Lyndale Area A minimum of 0.5 off-street parking stalls shall be provided for the first 40 units in a residential building. Page 90 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX c) The applicant agrees to notify future residents, through lease or sale agreements, of snow emergency requirements mandating off-street vehicle relocation prior to occupancy. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) No changes to the minimum number of off-street parking spaces required for Institutional/Public uses. Subdivision 7 “Electric vehicle charger requirements” is revised as follows: a) thru c) unchanged. d) Minimum number of electric vehicle chargers required by land use are as follows: USE INSTALLED EV CHARGING STATIONS* EV-READY SPACES* ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Residential uses with up to 3 units six (6) parking spaces At least one (1) space shall support L1 charging. Residential uses with 4 seven (7) to 14 units 20 parking spaces Ten (10) percent of parking spaces shall support L1 charging. Two (2) spaces capable of L2 or L3 charging. A minimum of 50 percent of remaining spaces capable of L1 charging. Residential uses with 21 15 units or more parking spaces Ten (10) percent of parking spaces shall support L2 charging. Twenty (20) percent of spaces capable of L2 or L3 charging. A minimum of 50 percent of remaining spaces capable of L1 charging. At least one ADA parking space shall have access to an installed EV charger. Non-residential uses with up to 20 spaces One (1) space shall support L2 or L3 charging Ten (10) percent of spaces capable of L2 or L3 charging. Page 91 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX USE INSTALLED EV CHARGING STATIONS* EV-READY SPACES* ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Non-residential uses with 21 or more off-street parking spaces Five (5) percent of parking spaces shall support L2 or L3 charging. Twenty (20) percent of spaces capable of L2 charging. At least one (1) space capable of L3 charging. At least one ADA parking space shall have access to an EV charger. *If calculation results in a fraction, the next higher whole number shall be used,traditional rounding applies, unless the result is zero (0), then at least one (1) is required. e) Thisese numbers may be reduced by the Director if proof can be provided that such spaces will not be used. (Added, Bill No. 2022-3; Amended, Bill No. 2022-14, (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Subdivisions 8 thru 14: unchanged Section 6 Subsection 544.23. “Solar access protection” is revised to read as follows: No building shall be so tall that its shadow is cast across more than 50 percent of land used guided for a single-family or two-family building between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. on any day of the year. The Council may make exceptions to this requirement if the applicant can prove to the Council's satisfaction that measures have been taken to mitigate this solar access requirement, which measures may include but are not limited to obtaining the consent of the affected property owner(s). Section 7 This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the Richfield City Charter. VOTING AYE VOTING NAY Supple, Mary Supple, Mary Burk, Walter Burk, Walter Christensen, Sharon Christensen, Sharon Coleman-Woods, Rori Coleman-Woods, Rori Hayford Oleary, Sean Hayford Oleary, Sean Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this __th day of September, 2025. Page 92 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX ____________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 93 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Motion by: XX Seconded by: XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RICHFIELD ZONING CODE (APPENDIX B OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE) TO MODIFY “ADMINISTRATION”, SECTION 547, TO ALLOW ADMINISTRATIVE APPROVALS ASSOCIATED WITH CHANGES RELATED TO THE MR-2/MR-3 CODE UPATES THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1 Subsection 547.11 “Variances” is amended at to read as follows: 547.11. – Variances. Subdivision 1. Limitations. The following limitations apply to variances: a) A variance may be granted from the literal provisions of this Code only when all of the following criteria are found to exist: i. The applicant establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with the official control. "Practical difficulties," as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means that the property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by an official control. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems; ii. Unusual or unique circumstances apply to the property which do not apply generally to other properties in the same zone or vicinity, and such circumstances were not created by any persons presently having an interest in the property; iii. The variance, if granted, would not alter the character of the neighborhood. The completed project would not impair an adequate supply of light and air to adjacent properties, or substantially increase the congestion of public streets, or increase the danger of fire, or endanger the public safety, or substantially diminish property values, or have a detrimental or injurious impact on surrounding properties; and Page 94 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX iv. The variance requested is the minimum variance that would alleviate the practical difficulty. v. The variance requested will not alter the essential character of the locality. vi. The variance requested is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance and consistent with the comprehensive plan. b) Variances may not be granted for uses that are not allowed in the zoning district where the subject property is located. c) Conditions may be imposed in the granting of variances. Such conditions must be directly related to and must bear a rough proportionality to the impact created by the variances. d) The Director may administratively approve a deviation of up to ten percent (10%) from any dimensional standard without requiring a variance, provided that: i. The deviation arises from a unique or practical difficulty that prevents full compliance with the standard; ii. The deviation does not compromise the intent or purpose of the zoning regulation, and is found to be in harmony with the criteria listed above. (Amended Bill No. 2025-__) Section 2 Subsection 547.13 “Site Plan Approval” is revised at the following subdivisions to read as follows; all other subdivisions to remain unchanged: 547.13. – Site plan approval. Subdivision 1: unchanged Subd. 2. Approval required. It shall be unlawful to do any of the following without first obtaining site plan approval: a) Construct a building; b) Move a building to any lot within the City; Page 95 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX c) Expand or change the use of a building or lot or modify a building, accessory structure, or site or land feature (See Subd.11 for amendments to previously approved plans); and (Amended, Bill No. 2011-17) d) Take actions to prepare a lot for development, including grading or removing or adding soils to a site, except in conformance with a permit or an approved plan which complies with the City's comprehensive surface water management plan or has received a variance from the appropriate water management organization as necessary. (Amended, Bill No. 1998-2) Subd. 3. Administrative site plan approval. Administrative approval of a site plan may be granted by the Director for certain uses listed in this code, subject to the following: a) The application requirements (Subd. 4), general criteria and standards (Subd. 8), and the terms of approval (Subd. 9) shall all apply. The Director may impose conditions upon the approval to promote the intent of the code or to bring nonconforming site improvements into conformance according to Subsection 509.25 of the code. b) Neighbor notifications for residential projects. Upon receipt of a complete application, the city shall provide written notice by post mail to all property owners and tenants either adjacent to the project site, or would be adjacent except for right-of-way. The written notice shall include a brief description of the proposed project, the name and contact information of the applicant, the project site address, and a City contact number for questions. (Repealed, Bill No. 2011-17, Replaced Bill No. 2025-__) Section 3 This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the Richfield City Charter. VOTING AYE VOTING NAY Supple, Mary Supple, Mary Burk, Walter Burk, Walter Christensen, Sharon Christensen, Sharon Coleman-Woods, Rori Coleman-Woods, Rori Hayford Oleary, Sean Hayford Oleary, Sean Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this __th day of September, 2025. Page 96 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX ____________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 97 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Motion by: XX Seconded by: XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE RICHFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE, CHAPTER 13 “TRAFFIC, MOTOR VEHICLES, AND OTHER VEHICLES” TO REPEAL RESIDENTIAL PARKING PERMITS THE CITY OF RICHFIELD DOES ORDAIN: Section 1 Subsection 1310 “Parking: Residential permits” is repealed in its entirety: SECTION 1310. - PARKING: RESIDENTIAL PERMITS (Repealed Bill No. 2025- __) 1310.01. - Findings: purposes. The Council finds that streets in certain residential areas are congested because of heavy residential and non-residential traffic and parking. It is the purpose of this subsection to stem the flow of commuter traffic from institutional, commercial and industrial districts into an adjoining residential neighborhood; to reduce air pollution and other environmental effects of automobile commuting, and to enhance the quality of life in the residential area by reducing noise, traffic hazards and litter; to protect the residents from unreasonable burdens in gaining access to their residences; to preserve the character of the residential district as such; to promote efficiency in the maintenance of these streets in a clean and safe condition; to preserve the value of property; to preserve the safety of children and other pedestrians and traffic safety, and to promote the peace, good order, comfort, convenience and welfare of the inhabitants of the City. The provisions of this subsection, providing for parking by permit only, are deemed to be in furtherance of such objectives. 1310.03. - Zone designation. The Council shall from time to time by resolution designate certain streets as "parking by permit only" parking zones, and cause them to be so posted. Thereafter, no person in charge of any vehicle shall park or permit the vehicle to be parked on posted streets unless the vehicle bears a permit as provided in this subsection. 1310.05. - Permits. Subdivision 1. Types. The City shall cause the following types of permits to be available at the offices of the Director of Public Safety: (a) resident permits for residents living on streets designated pursuant to subsection 1310.03, one (1) for each car, owned or leased, currently licensed and in operating condition and current use. (b) visitor permits for each resident household: the number of visitor permits which a resident household may obtain is determined from time to time by resolution of the Council. Page 98 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX Subd. 2. Serial number. Both resident and visitor permits shall bear a serial number for the resident obtaining the permit. A record of residents who have permits shall be kept by the City. Subd. 3. Display. Resident permits shall be displayed in the lower rear corner of the left side window closest to the rear of the vehicle. Visitor permits shall be placed on the dashboard or other conspicuous place where they may be easily seen by law enforcement personnel through the windshield. Subd. 4. Fee. To cover the costs of administering the permit system, a fee may be charged for each permit. The amount of such fee is fixed from time to time by the City Council. 1310.07. - Transfer. No resident parking permit may be used by or sold or transferred to a person not living at the address for which the permit was issued in the household of the person to whom the permit was issued. No visitor permit may be given or sold for any purpose other than to permit parking by a visitor while actually visiting a resident. 1310.09. - Service exemption. This section does not apply to individuals who perform, or vehicles used in the performance of, commercial services, repairs, or emergency assistance for any resident, provided that such persons are then performing, or the vehicles are in fact being used, in such services or assistance. This exemption terminates immediately upon completion of the service or assistance. 1310.11. - Enforcement. Except as specifically provided otherwise in this subsection, the general parking regulations of the City shall be applicable within the areas designated "Parking by Permit Only". Section 2 This ordinance is effective in accordance with Section 3.09 of the Richfield City Charter. VOTING AYE VOTING NAY Supple, Mary Supple, Mary Burk, Walter Burk, Walter Christensen, Sharon Christensen, Sharon Coleman-Woods, Rori Coleman-Woods, Rori Hayford Oleary, Sean Hayford Oleary, Sean Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this __th day of September, 2025. ____________________ Mary B. Supple, Mayor Page 99 of 104 City of Richfield Month XX, 2025 County of Hennepin State of Minnesota BILL NO. 2025-XX ATTEST: ___________________________ Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 100 of 104 RESOLUTION NO. _____ RESOLUTION APPROVING SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF SEVEN ORDINANCES MODIFYING THE MUNICIPAL CODE IN RELATION TO MULTIFAMILY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS (MR-2 AND MR-3 DISTRICT CODE UPDATES) WHEREAS, the City has adopted the above-referenced amendments of the Richfield City Code; and WHEREAS, the verbatim text of all seven amendments is cumbersome, and the expense of publication of the complete text is not justified. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Richfield that the following summary is hereby approved for official publication: SUMMARY PUBLICATION BILLS NO. ________ - _______ SEVEN ORDINANCES AMENDING THE RICHFIELD MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING MULTIFAMILY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS This summary is published pursuant to Section 3.12 of the Richfield City Charter. 1. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 13, “TRAFFIC, MOTOR VEHICLES, AND OTHER VEHICLES” TO REPEAL RESIDENTIAL PARKING PERMITS THE REST OF THE ORDINANCES AMEND THE RICHFIELD ZONING CODE (APPENDIX B OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE): 2. SECTION 507, “DEFINITIONS”, AND SECTION 509, “GENERAL PROVISIONS” 3. SECTION 525, “MULTIFAMILY RESIDENTIAL (MR-2)” ZONING DISTRICT, 4. SECTION 527, “HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (MR-3)” ZONING DISTRICT, 5. SUBSECTION 541.25, “VETERANS PARK AREA (VPA) OVERLAY DISTRICT”, 6. SECTION 544, “GENERAL BUILDING AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS”, 7. SECTION 547, “ADMINISTRATION”, TO ALLOW ADMINISTRATIVE APPROVALS The changes modernize the development standards for multifamily housing and facilitate in-fill development on MR-2 and MR-3 zoned properties. Changes are extensive, but generally described include bulk and dimensional requirements such as building heights and setbacks, changes to allow administrative review and approval for smaller projects, and reduced parking in targeted transit and pedestrian-friendly areas. Copies of the ordinances are available for public inspection in the City Clerk’s office during normal business hours or upon request by calling the Department of Community Development at (612) 861-9776. Adopted by the City Council of the City of Richfield, Minnesota this __th day of September, 2025. Page 101 of 104 Mary B. Supple, Mayor ATTEST: Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk Page 102 of 104 Existing & Planned Multifamily Parcels 0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.80.1 Miles ± 07/24/2025 I:\GIS\Community Development\Staff\Assistant Planner\Ruby\Bus Service & MDR Maps\Bus Service Maps.aprx/MR2 & MR3 Zoned & Guided | Scale: 1:30,500 | Revision Date: 7/24/2025 | Author: RVillaMR-3 High-Density Residential MR-2 Multifamily Residential MDR Medium Density Residential HDR High Density Residential 2040 GuidingZoning Page 103 of 104 Related Comp Plan Goals and Policies CP Goals: ▪ Provide a full range of housing choices that meet residents’ needs at every stage of their lives, and ensure a healthy balance of housing types that meet the needs of a diverse population with diverse needs. ▪ Maintain and enhance Richfield’s commitment to housing … redevelopment, resulting in an attractive, desirable and prosperous community. CP Policies: ▪ Strongly encourage pedestrian-friendly and transit-friendly building and site design through measures such as higher density development and growth, which is located along major transportation routes. ▪ Regularly review land use and zoning ordinances to ensure maximum opportunities for strengthening housing choices. ▪ Promote the development of a balanced housing stock that is available to a range of income levels. ▪ Establish a land use pattern and supporting infrastructure that preserves and enhances the ability of residents to make personal connections in their neighborhoods. ▪ Provide a full range of housing choices that contribute to vital and desirable neighborhoods that welcome diversity of age, race, and physical ability; while maintaining a comfortable small town atmosphere. ▪ Require site design and architectural characteristics that provide appropriate transitions between lower and higher intensity uses. ▪ Develop residential standards (scale, density, etc.) for redevelopment areas that create neighborhood character. ▪ Focus commercial and higher density residential development along major thoroughfares. ▪ Ensure that redevelopment and infill projects maintain the integrity of existing neighborhoods. ▪ Give priority to projects that meet the following criteria when considering proposals for market- rate, multifamily housing: » Located in transitional areas between single-family neighborhoods and commercial areas. » Offers a complementary size and style to the community. » Includes a mix of unit sizes and amenities. » Includes amenities to build community and encourage active lifestyles. » Offers a mix of residential and complementary commercial uses that embody and preserve the feel of the “Urban Hometown” in their design. » Offers flexibility in their design to accommodate market changes. Page 104 of 104