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2026-01-13 Regular Council Minutes ITEM #1 CALL TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Mayor Supple at 7:05 p.m. on January 13, 2026, in the Council Chambers. Council Present: Remote Access: Mary Supple, Mayor; Walter Burk, Sean Hayford Oleary, Rori A. Coleman-Woods Council Member Christensen participated remotely via interactive technology for an excused medical reason. Staff Present: Guests: Katie Rodriguez, City Manager; Jay Henthorne, Director of Public Safety; Melissa Poehlman, Community Development Director; Joe Powers, City Engineer; Mary Tietjen, City Attorney; and Michelle Friedrich, City Clerk. Ryan Wilson and Andrew Lutaya, MNDot Representatives, ITEM #2 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mayor Supple led the Pledge of Allegiance. Mayor Supple noted there were many community members wishing to participate in Open Forum and reviewed acceptable meeting etiquette and requested that the audience listen respectfully, to not disrupt the speaker by clapping, cheering, or booing. Mayor Supple asked for a moment of silence for Renee Nicole Good. Council noted ICE activity within the City of Richfield and acknowledged the harm and trauma experienced by families affected by recent detentions, expressing solidarity and support. Council urged the federal government to end ICE enforcement actions, stating they undermine community safety and affirming that all residents deserve safety and dignity. Council thanked community volunteers providing food, transportation, protective presence at schools, places of worship, and local businesses, as well as legal observer support. Council emphasized that effective law enforcement prioritizes the rule of law, human rights, and shared humanity, while acknowledging the limitations cities face regarding federal authority. Council also shared available community resources related to reporting ICE activity and encouraged residents not to place themselves in harm’s way. ITEM #3 APPROVAL OF AGENDA CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES Richfield, Minnesota Council Regular Meeting January 13, 2026 City Council Meeting Minutes -2- January 13, 2026 MOTION: made by Council Member Coleman-Woods, seconded by Council Member Burk to approve the Agenda as presented. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #4 APPROVAL OF MINUTES Mayor Supple noted a clerical correction to the minutes from the December 22, 2025, Council Special Meeting, clarifying that the spelling of Ava McNite’s last name in the Open Forum public comment section was corrected to McKnight. MOTION: made by Council Member Burk, seconded by Council Member Coleman-Woods to approve the minutes of the (1) City Council Work Session from December 9, 2025, and (2) City Council Regular Meeting from December 9, 2025; and as amended (3) Council Special Meeting from December 22, 2025. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #5 OPEN FORUM Mayor Supple noted the high number of individuals wishing to speak during Open Forum and extending the Open Forum period from 30 minutes to 90 minutes. Mayor Supple noted an ADA accommodation request for a time limit extension. Mayor Supple reviewed the three-minute time limit for public comments and explained the use of time warning cards to alert the speaker when their time is almost expired. Attendees were reminded to listen respectfully to all speakers. Instructions were given for speakers to state their name and city of residence before speaking. MOTION: made by Mayor Supple, seconded by Council Member Hayford Oleary to extend the Open Forum period from 30 minutes to 90 minutes, extending the Open Forum period until 8:47 p.m.; and extending the three-minute time limit to a five-minute time limit for an ADA accommodation request. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 Twenty-nine residents addressed the Council during the Open Forum opportunity. Heidi Gaibor, Richfield resident, expressed concern about recent ICE activity in the Richfield community, describing fear, trauma, and disruption experienced by residents, businesses, and schools. Ms. Gaibor stated that immigrant community members are avoiding work, school, and commerce due to safety concerns, resulting in economic and educational impacts. Ms. Gaibor noted concerns regarding ICE enforcement practices, accountability, and alleged violations of traffic and safety laws, as well as the effect of these actions on public health and community stability. Ms. Gaibor expressed support for immigrant neighbors and stated opposition to ICE presence in the community. Ms. Gaibor also requested that the Police Department address, at a future time, whether ICE vehicles are subject to enforcement for traffic and vehicle violations. Birgit Johnson, Richfield resident, an immigrant and naturalized U.S. citizen, shared personal perspective shaped by Germany’s historical experience and expressed concern about immigration City Council Meeting Minutes -3- January 13, 2026 enforcement practices. Ms. Johnson stated that the U.S. immigration system has long been broken under multiple administrations and emphasized the country’s reliance on immigrants for economic and social vitality. Ms. Johnson opined wealth disparity as a root cause of crime and called for equal investigation of crimes against immigrant communities. Ms. Johnson emphasized the importance of maintaining trust between local police and residents and opined that Richfield police should not participate in immigration enforcement. Ms. Johnson concluded with a call to reject fear- driven governance and to treat all people with humanity and dignity. Mayor Supple reminded the audience of acceptable meeting etiquette. Simon Trautmann Cordova, Richfield resident, second-generation Latino community member, and attorney spoke about the economic impacts of recent ICE activity on Latino and Somali-owned businesses, describing conditions as an economic crisis affecting vulnerable entrepreneurs. Mr. Trautmann Cordova emphasized that these businesses are integral to Minnesota’s economy and urged the Council to document the economic and public health impacts of current enforcement practices. Mr. Trautmann Cordova noted that individuals with U.S. citizenship and legal immigration status are also being detained and described both physical and bureaucratic harms associated with ICE actions. Mr. Trautmann Cordov expressed appreciation for community organizing and mutual support, encouraged continued patronage of Black-, Latino-, and Somali-owned businesses, and acknowledged the role of public servants who oppose ICE actions due to concerns about legality and trust. Ashley Daniels, Richfield resident, and educator with experience working with refugee and immigrant youth, addressed concerns about the impact of recent ICE activity on students, families, schools, and local businesses. Ms. Daniels described fear and disruptions affecting school attendance, access to work, and daily activities, and noted that some districts have shifted to remote learning in response. Ms. Daniels expressed concern about community safety, cited specific incidents involving ICE enforcement, and described resulting economic and emotional impacts on families. Ms. Daniels called on local and state officials to consider policy responses, including temporary housing protections, increased funding for community organizations providing crisis support, and emergency financial assistance for residents. Ms. Daniels emphasized the importance of meeting basic safety and survival needs and highlighted the value of diversity and immigrant communities to the City of Richfield. Kathleen Balaban, Richfield resident, addressed agenda item Ordinance 10b regarding the proposed creation of a Human Resources department and director position. Ms. Balaban questioned whether the position and its associated costs were included in the previously approved 2026 budget. Ms. Balaban noted that the proposed position would supervise two employees and that the salary would represent a significant portion of the department’s annual budget. Ms. Balaban opined that many of the listed duties are being performed by existing staff and that the proposal was not presented during the budget approval process. Ms. Balaban expressed concern about overall compensation costs within the general fund and questioned the timing and fiscal appropriateness of adding the position. Alicia Waters, Richfield resident, expressed concern about the impact of federal immigration enforcement activity on public safety, public health, and community welfare in Richfield. Ms. Waters stated that fear and disruption have affected residents’ ability to work, attend school, and access basic needs, and cited perceived economic and public health impacts on the community. Ms. Waters referenced provisions of the City Charter and City Code related to emergency ordinances and parking regulations and requested that the City Council consider adopting an emergency ordinance or resolution restricting the use of public property by federal agents for enforcement activities. Ms. Waters stated that such action could help protect residents’ civil rights and support community stability. Courtney Kupsch, Richfield Resident, expressed concern about the impact of immigration enforcement activity on families, schools, and daily life in the Richfield community. Ms. Kupsch City Council Meeting Minutes -4- January 13, 2026 described residents’ fear affecting school attendance, childcare, work participation, and involvement in extracurricular activities, including among individuals with legal status. Ms. Kupsch shared personal observations of reduced attendance in schools and community programs and stated that residents are avoiding public spaces due to safety concerns. Ms. Kupsch noted the emotional toll on families and characterized the situation as a broader community safety and well- being issue rather than a political matter. Landon McKay, Richfield resident, expressed appreciation for remarks made by City leadership and the Police Chief but stated concern that current responses were insufficient to address community fear and distress. Mr. McKay described anxiety among residents and school-aged children and emphasized the need for concrete actions. Mr. McKay raised concerns about the use of license plate recognition cameras in the city, citing claims that such data may be accessible to federal agencies despite assurances to the contrary. Mr. McKay urged the Council to consider removing the cameras, stating that doing so would address privacy concerns and reduce perceived risks to community members. Taylor Martin, Richfield resident, raised concerns about recent law enforcement and immigration enforcement actions in Richfield and surrounding communities, citing alleged incidents involving the use of force during traffic stops and detentions. Ms. Marten questioned whether enforcement actions are complying with legal standards and opined that additional measures could be taken to protect community members. Ms. Martin urged the City to seek a response from a local business regarding an enforcement incident at its location and asked for clarification on how local police would protect residents, including the role of officers during community legal observation activities. Ms. Martin suggested that violations of state or local laws should be addressed regardless of federal status and encouraged greater public education regarding residents’ legal rights and expectations of local police support. Coral Thacker, Richfield resident, identified as a U.S. citizen, and military veteran, shared personal background and life experiences to emphasize the importance of compassion, human dignity, and community solidarity. Ms. Thacker described experiences with discrimination earlier in life and expressed concern about recent immigration enforcement activity. Ms. Thacker recounted an incident involving a friend who was nearly detained during an enforcement action in a nearby community, describing the emotional impact of that encounter. Ms. Thacker expressed a call for unity, rejection of division and hate, and reaffirmation of the value of treating all individuals with respect and humanity. Jeff R, Richfield resident, urged the City to take concrete actions to support and protect community members, noting that residents are actively monitoring local streets and assisting neighbors. Jeff suggested measures such as implementing an eviction moratorium for residents affected by workplace closures and removing city surveillance cameras, which were described as an invasion of privacy. Jeff emphasized the need for tangible actions rather than verbal statements to address community safety and well-being. Ben Brown, Richfield resident, reflected on the importance of community support during times of crisis and expressed appreciation for individuals assisting neighbors. Mr. Brown referenced a prior public comment suggesting that residents should voluntarily leave the community and stated that such remarks were divisive. Mr. Brown opined on leadership through example, and encouraged compassion, inclusion, and constructive ways of helping others. Mr. Brown concluded with an appeal for unity, mutual respect, and neighborhood solidarity. Erica Klein, Richfield resident, emphasized the role of government in addressing community issues, noting her experience working in state and county government. Ms. Klein suggested that the city could evaluate the economic and public health impacts on the community, including lost businesses, workers, and tax revenue, and the effects on children and adults. Ms. Klein encouraged the city to consider these impacts when planning budgets and services and to focus on actions within the government’s authority to support the community effectively. City Council Meeting Minutes -5- January 13, 2026 Patrick Jones, Richfield resident, read a statement on behalf of another Richfield resident expressing concern about federal immigration enforcement activity and its impact on community members. The statement included views on recent enforcement presence in the area, perceptions of law enforcement practices, and effects on residents’ sense of safety and daily life. Mr. Jones referred to specific incidents and urged consideration of community well-being and unity. Concetto Lehnen, Richfield resident, expressed support for concerns previously raised by other residents regarding federal immigration enforcement presence in the city. Ms. Lehnen acknowledged the limitations of local government authority over federal actions but requested that the city take any possible measures to support and protect residents, including reviewing surveillance camera use, enforcing traffic regulations, and considering an eviction moratorium. Ms. Lehnen referenced research and suggestions shared by others during the meeting and encouraged the city to take all action within its power to promote community safety and protection. Barbara Amram, Richfield resident, expressed frustration over limitations on local government authority and suggested potential actions the Council could consider. Ms. Amram noted exploring the possibility of joining other cities in legal action against federal policies and increasing communication with the public through local media. Ms. Amram also encouraged residents to participate in precinct caucuses and engage in civic processes. Dewayne Sietsema submitted a comment card but was not present when his name was called. Linda Peterson, Richfield resident, expressed concern about safety in the community, referencing recent incidents that have impacted residents. Ms. Peterson noted that some community members feel unsafe going to work and emphasized the importance of supporting neighbors. Ms. Peterson suggested potential city actions, including implementing a rental moratorium, removing Flock cameras, and reviewing other measures to improve public safety. Ms. Peterson highlighted historical and recent events affecting public safety and encouraged the Council to consider and act on the suggestions raised by residents during the meeting. Ms. Peterson concluded by urging continued support for the community and active consideration of measures to protect residents. Joan Ehren Dahlquist, Richfield resident, opposes immigration enforcement, and stated concern about recent events affecting the community and expressed appreciation for fellow residents’ prepared remarks. Ms. Ehren Dahlquist described observing a routine interaction involving Richfield Police Department officers who had been called due to immigration enforcement presence. Ms. Ehren Dahlquist noted that the Richfield Police Department brought calm to the situation. Ms. Ehren Dahlquist asked that the police department and City of Richfield staff continue to uphold the rule of law and take actions to protect families and the broader community. Megan Fatheree, Richfield resident, expressed that they came to the meeting to be part of the community and share their feelings of concern regarding federal law enforcement activity in the area. Ms. Fatheree stated that recent activities have contributed to feelings of unsafety and have affected their own and neighbors’ mental health, economic participation, and daily life. Ms. Fatheree also acknowledged the strength demonstrated by community members supporting one another and thanked the Council for its efforts, while encouraging the Council to continue taking actions they can support the community. Matt Anderson, Richfield resident, expressed concern about recent actions by federal immigration authorities in the community, citing examples involving residents and teenage employees at a retail store. Mr. Anderson described the personal impact of witnessing neighbors leaving their homes and the fear experienced by children. Mr. Anderson encouraged the city to take actions within its authority to support immigrant residents and reinforce that all community members are welcome. Mr. Anderson expressed the importance of protecting residents in their homes, schools, businesses, and places of worship, and encouraged continued attention to actionable suggestions presented during the meeting. City Council Meeting Minutes -6- January 13, 2026 Jim Reilly, Richfield resident, discussed federal enforcement actions in Richfield, including the detention of two American citizens at a local retail store on January 8. Mr. Reilly expressed concern for the safety of legally authorized residents, including staff at local daycare centers, and described community-organized efforts to provide transportation, food support, and on-site observation to help staff travel safely to and from work. Mr. Reilly requested that the city compile a public record of federal enforcement actions within Richfield, including details of detentions and arrests, and that the police department take steps to prevent potential violations of law or civil rights by federal agents. Mr. Reilly noted the importance of community strength and constitutional protection. Hannah Riddle, Richfield resident, shared personal experiences related to federal enforcement actions in the community. Ms. Riddle described concerns for the safety of her family and others, including daycare staff, and noted that children and families are experiencing fear due to recent enforcement activities. Ms. Riddle detailed community efforts to assist residents, such as monitoring school and daycare sites, delivering food, and helping families access personal belongings. Ms. Riddle emphasized the importance of local action to support neighbors and maintain safety while acknowledging the complexity of legal and governmental processes. Angela Alexander, Richfield resident, expressed fear and concern about the presence of federal immigration enforcement activity in the community, describing it as deeply distressing. Ms. Alexander opined on parallels between historical events and current conditions. Ms. Alexander described safety measures being taken by parents at a local school, including coordinated communication, adult supervision during transportation, and information sharing. Ms. Alexander emphasized concerns for children’s safety and emotional well-being and urged continued peaceful civic engagement, awareness of individual rights, and nonviolent responses to ongoing events. Sam Worlero, Richfield resident, described recent experiences in the community related to federal immigration enforcement activity, including incidents at local schools and public locations. Ms. Worlero reported that children have been frightened, recesses have been shortened for safety reasons, and school staff need to supervise students closely during enforcement activity. Ms. Worlero also described a confrontation in a grocery parking lot involving multiple federal agents and community members, noting concern over the level of force used. Ms. Worlero stressed the impact on students, teachers, and other residents, and opined city leadership could take additional actions to support and protect community members. Mike Kuhs, Richfield resident, expressed appreciation for community members who shared stories and research, and for the ideas presented during the meeting. Mr. Kuhs noted the expectation that city leaders take the ideas presented, and provide responses, including explanations when certain suggestions cannot be implemented. Mr. Kuhs suggested that the city maintain a record of community input and provide itemized updates on actions taken or obstacles encountered and noted a willingness among residents to assist in addressing challenges where possible. Heather Polivka, Richfield resident, expressed support for previously suggested recommendations and accountability measures. Ms. Polivka requested that the city take a proactive role in mobilizing residents to support neighbors and strengthen community connections. Christie Stjern, Richfield resident, thanked all residents for their comments and agreed strongly with the community suggestions. Ms. Stjern stated the need for increased safety measures at local schools and daycares. Ms. Stjern noted concerns about school and daycare staff feeling unsafe due to immigration enforcement activity and encouraged the city to explore more organized responses to support schools, daycare centers, and families. Amanda Foster, Richfield resident, expressed concern that they no longer feel safe in the community. Ms. Foster described fear related to immigration enforcement activity and its impact on LGBTQ+ residents, immigrants, and others perceived as vulnerable. Ms. Foster acknowledged the community’s diversity and positive atmosphere but requested that the City Council take tangible City Council Meeting Minutes -7- January 13, 2026 actions, beyond statements, to improve safety and provide support, including consideration of measures related to surveillance camera removal and housing stability, and safe access to basic needs such as groceries. Mayor Supple thanked the speakers for providing comments and noted several emails were received and submitted to Council for review. ITEM #6 PROCLAMATIONS AND PRESENTATIONS ITEM #7 CONSENT CALENDAR City Manager Rodriguez presented the consent calendar. a. Approve Disbursements/Claims U.S. BANK 1-02-2026 A/P Checks/ETF’s: (11/29/2025 thru 12/12/2025) $3,565,406.60 A/P Checks/EFT’s: (12/13/2025 thru 1/2/2026) $1,937,622.42 Payroll (12/19/2025) $1,109,211.90 Payroll (1/2/2026) $1,072,134.93 TOTAL $7,684,375.85 b. Consideration of an extension of an American Rescue Plan Act Professional Services Agreement with Reach for Resources. RESOLUTION NO. 12393 APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH REACH FOR RESOURCES c. Consider approval of the second amendment to the Foundational Public Health Responsibilities (FPHR) services agreement with the City of Bloomington for 2026. d. Consider approval of a permit allowing MnDOT to access a City-owned easement at 351 77th Street West during the I-494 Project 2 construction. e. Resolution to approve Hennepin County SCORE 2026-2028 Funding Agreement. RESOLUTION NO. 12394 RESOLUTION APPROVING THE 2026-2028 RESIDENTIAL WASTE REDUCTION AND RECYCLING GRANT AGREEMENT WITH HENNEPIN COUNTY f. Consider a Cooperative Agreement with the West Metro Drug Task Force. g. Consider an agreement with LETAC for Policies360. h. Consider the designation of Mayor Pro Tempore for 2026. RESOLUTION NO. 12395 City Council Meeting Minutes -8- January 13, 2026 RESOLUTION APPOINTING COUNCIL MEMBER SEAN HAYFORD OLEARY AS MAYOR PRO TEMPORE FOR THE CITY OF RICHFIELD FOR 2026 i. Consider annual designations of Acting City Manager, Council Representatives, and the City's official newspaper for 2026. RESOLUTION NO. 12396 APPOINTING ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER SACK THONGVANH AS ACTING CITY MANAGER FOR THE CITY OF RICHFIELD FOR 2026 RESOLUTION NO. 12398 DESIGNATING STAFF AND CITY COUNCIL LIAISONS/ REPRESENTATIVES FOR BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, COMMITTEES, AND OUTSIDE ORGANIZATIONS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2026 RESOLUTION NO. 12399 DESIGNATING AN OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER FOR 2026 j. Consider resolutions designating official depositories for the City of Richfield for 2026, including the approval of collateral. RESOLUTION NO. 12400 DESIGNATING CERTAIN SAVING AND LOAN ASSOCIATIONS, BANKS, AND CREDIT UNIONS AS DEPOSITORIES FOR THE DEPOSIT AND INVESTMENT OF CITY FUNDS IN 2026 RESOLUTION NO. 12401 DESIGNATING CERTAIN FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS AS DESPOSITORIES FOR THE INVESTMENT OF CITY OF RICHFIELD FUNDS IN 2026 RESOLUTION NO. 12402 DESIGNATING U.S. BANK A DEPOSITORY OF FUNDS FOR THE CITY OF RICHFIELD FOR THE YEAR 2026 MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Coleman- Woods to approve the consent calendar items 7a-j. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #8 CONSIDERATION OF ITEMS, IF ANY, REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR None. ITEM #9 PUBLIC HEARINGS a. Public hearing to consider and approve the renewal of 2026 Pawnbroker license for Metro Pawn & Gun, Inc., 7529 Lyndale Avenue South. Council Member Hayford Oleary introduced this item, and noted the city received a complete renewal application, including all required documents and fees, on November 7, 2025. Council City Council Meeting Minutes -9- January 13, 2026 Member Hayford Oleary added additional history that due to a clerical error, the public hearing was postponed to January 13, 2026, to allow for proper public notice. Council Member Hayford Oleary added the 2025 license was extended at the November 25, 2025, council meeting to remain in effect until the new license was considered. Council Member Hayford Oleary called the public hearing to order at 8:39 p.m. No residents participated in the public comment opportunity. MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Burk to close the public hearing. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Burk to approve the renewal of 2026 Pawnbroker license for Metro Pawn & Gun, Inc., 7529 Lyndale Avenue South, Richfield. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #10 PROPOSED ORDINANCES a. First reading of an ordinance rezoning four parcels at approximately 76th Street and Morgan from R to MR-2 to facilitate construction of a new learning center for Minnesota Independence College & Community and discussion of related conditional use permit, variances, and plat. Council Member Burk presented the staff report and the first reading of an ordinance rezoning four parcels at approximately 76th Street in Morgan from R to MR2 to facilitate construction of a new learning center for Minnesota Independence College and Community. Council Member Burk noted the second reading is scheduled for January 27, 2026. Council inquired about the tax status of a property, noting that the originally planned residential portion will not be built, and asked whether the property would be taxed according to its previously proposed residential designation or under a different classification. Community Developer Director Poehlman noted staff would respond to Council’s inquiry. BILL NO. 2026-XX REZONING FOUR PARCELS AT 76TH STREET AND MORGAN FROM R TO MR-2; CUP, VARIANCES, AND PLAT FOR MICC MOTION: made by Council Member Burk, seconded by Council Member Hayford Oleary to approve the first reading of an ordinance to change the zoning district of the subject parcels from R, “Low Density Residential” to MR-2 “Multifamily Residential." Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 b. Consider approval of the first reading of an ordinance amending Section 300 and 310 of the Code of Ordinances to establish a Human Resources Department and add a Director of Human Resources position. City Council Meeting Minutes -10- January 13, 2026 Council Member Coleman-Woods presented the staff report and the first reading of an ordinance amending Section 300 and 310 of the Code of Ordinances to establish a Human Resources Department and add a Director of Human Resources position. BILL NO. 2026-XX AMENDING SECTIONS 300 AND 310 RELATING TO THE CREATION OF HR DEPT AND HR DIRECTOR POSITION WITHIN THE ORGANIZATION MOTION: made by Council Member Coleman-Woods, seconded by Council Member Burk to approve the first reading of an ordinance amending Section 300 and 310 of the Code of Ordinances to establish a Human Resources Department and add a Director of Human Resources position. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #11 RESOLUTIONS a. Consider a resolution approving the project layout and providing Municipal Consent for Phase 2 of the I-494 Corridor Vision Project. Council Member Burk presented the staff report and resolution to consider approving the project layout and providing municipal consent for phase two of the I494 corridor vision project. Council discussed the I-494 Corridor Vision Project Phase 2 and addressed that within the current proposed final layout the concerns addressed earlier by Council have not yet been addressed. Council noted the area of 76th Street and 35W has been an area that the Council and staff have raised concerns in previous versions of this project. Council noted safety concerns at the interchange where one of Richfield’s regional trails crosses, near the east leg by the charter school and the west leg. Council noted that the original MDOT design included a bridge to improve traffic flow, but the current proposal does not incorporate that design. Council acknowledged both benefits and costs of the project, including potential impacts on air quality and greenhouse gas emissions, noting the need for safety improvements at the 76th Street and 35W interchange. Council discussed attaching a condition to the project approval to address these improvements, noting that under state statute, this would involve disapproving the project while setting clear expectations for conditional compliance. Council Member Hayford Oleary read the resolution disapproving municipal consent to the Minnesota Department of Transportation for the I-494 corridor vision Project 2 Proposed Final Layout (SP 2785-462). Council, staff and the MnDOT representative reviewed processes, timelines, and project constraints within the existing system related to space and land, and requirements related to stormwater flow. RESOLUTION 12397 DISAPPROVING MUNICIPAL CONSENT TO THE MINNESOTA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR THE I-494 CORRIDOR VISION PROJECT 2 PROPOSED FINAL LAYOUT (SP 2785-462) MOTION: made by Council Member Hayford Oleary, seconded by Council Member Burk to disapprove municipal consent subject to the condition described earlier. City Council Meeting Minutes -11- January 13, 2026 Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 ITEM #12 OTHER BUSINESS None. ITEM #13 CITY MANAGER’S REPORT City Manager Rodriguez noted there were no questions from the previous meeting but added two speakers were present during Open Forum on December 22, 2025, Council Special Meeting. She added one resident spoke in support of ICE in our community, and one resident complemented the Public Works plowing crew. City Manager Rodriguez noted staff will review the comments shared during Open Forum tonight and see if there is anything further the City can do in the form of an ordinance or policy action. Council and staff discussed the need for follow-up review at a future meeting regarding whether certain matters should be addressed through ordinance, and whether timelines could be accelerated, including consideration of emergency ordinances. Specific topics raised included the potential removal or temporary suspension of Flock safety cameras due to data security concerns and the company’s association with federal enforcement agencies, as well as requests for clearer information on what actions are legally feasible for the City. Council and staff expressed interest in exploring narrowly tailored policy options, including a potential eviction moratorium limited to cases involving verified federal enforcement activity, and possible participation in or support of litigation initiated by other cities. Additional topics discussed included protections for schools, parks, and public spaces; public health and mental health impacts; availability of rental assistance and emergency funding resources; and clarification of public safety authorities related to traffic enforcement and data sharing. Staff were asked to provide further information on legal feasibility, ordinance options, timelines, and data-sharing practices, including consultation with the Police Chief and City Manager, with updates to be provided to the Council. ITEM #14 COUNCIL DISCUSSION a. Hats off to Hometown Hits. Council Member Coleman-Woods acknowledged the community members who have come together and supported unity. Council Member Coleman-Woods expressed appreciation for local law enforcement and encouraged continued protection of residents, noting support for law enforcement intervention when legally authorized. Council Member Burk thanked all the members of the community for their comments and referenced resources for the community to contact, related to rights violations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers. City Council Meeting Minutes -12- January 13, 2026 Mayor Supple thanked the Public Works department preemptively for the upcoming snow plowing and snow removal from city streets. Mayor Supple thanked the community volunteers for coming together from the impact and actions of ICE agents within the city. Mayor Supple express gratitude for the Public Safety department in deescalating tense situations and working to keep the community safe. b. Council Liaison Reports; No reports presented. ITEM #15 ADJOURNMENT MOTION: made by Council Member Coleman-Woods, seconded by Council Member Burk to adjourn the meeting at 8:27 p.m. Voting Aye: Mayor Supple, Council Member Burk, Council Member Hayford Oleary, Council Member Christensen (remote), and Council Member Coleman-Woods. Motion carried: 5-0 Date Approved: January 27, 2026 Mary Supple Mayor Michelle Friedrich Katie Rodriguez City Clerk City Manager