[0:04] Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. It is now 5:30.

[0:08] And I will call this regular meeting of the Burnsville City Council to order.

[0:14] It is our tradition to stand for a moment of silence followed by the Pledge

[0:18] of Allegiance, and we invite you to join us.

[0:48] I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America,

[0:54] and to the Republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with

[1:00] liberty and justice for all.

[1:05] » [clears throat]

[1:08] » Good evening, everyone, and welcome. It's good to see all of you in person.

[1:14] Um the public can also attend um

[1:18] virtually or choose to watch us on um

[1:23] burnsvillemn.gov/meetings

[1:26] or Comcast Channel 16 or 859. The public can also join and participate through

[1:33] Zoom by joining us at zoom.us/join.

[1:39] More information is available on our meetings webpage.

[1:43] Uh K

[1:47] Somebody probably leaned up against the uh

[1:51] Okay. >> Yeah, there we go.

[1:52] » There you go. So

[1:55] we just had a blackout for all of you who are watching, but uh uh

[2:00] » Yeah, blueout, there you go. >> Yeah. But uh

[2:03] we got we got the lights back on. So, but um you can also find uh all the

[2:08] information in our meetings webpage, and that is in the council agenda packet.

[2:14] So, thank you everybody for being here. This is wonderful.

[2:18] The first item on the agenda is our announcements, and this is an exciting

[2:23] evening for us. Well,

[2:27] it's exciting, but it's bittersweet. But, I'll get to

[2:31] that. Uh but our announcements have to do with

[2:34] all of our upcoming meetings. Regular council meetings are scheduled for

[2:38] Tuesday, June 2nd at 5:30 p.m. and Tuesday, June 16th at 5:30 p.m.

[2:45] We have a work session that's scheduled for Tuesday, June 9th at 5:30 p.m.

[2:51] Uh >> [snorts]

[2:51] » a special work session uh for the

[2:55] um interviews for our boards and commission,

[2:59] and that's on Tuesday, May 26th at 5:30 p.m.

[3:03] And another special work session uh to interview members for boards and

[3:09] commission, and that's Thursday, May 28th at 5:30 p.m. So, these interviews

[3:14] are going to be in conference room D. But, all meetings of the City Council

[3:19] are here in the council chambers, unless I say that it's going to be at a

[3:25] different location. So, this evening

[3:32] it is our great pleasure to recognize the service of our police chief, Tanya

[3:38] Schwartz.

[3:41] » Madam Mayor, members of the council. Uh everyone, thank you for joining us

[3:45] tonight. Uh my name is Greg Lindberg, city manager here in Burnsville.

[3:49] Tonight, we recognize Chief Tanya Schwartz for her dedicated service to

[3:54] our community. Tanya's impact, as you all very well

[3:58] know, will not only be measured by her accomplishments or the years she served

[4:03] this community, but by the trust that she's built, the people that she's cared

[4:07] for, and the example that she leaves behind for others who choose a life of

[4:12] public service.

[4:16] For 31 years, Tanya has led with compassion, professionalism, and an

[4:21] unwavering commitment to people. She became the city's seventh police

[4:26] chief in 2019, following a career with us, where she started as a community

[4:31] service officer, then a police officer, a sergeant, and a captain.

[4:37] Throughout her career, especially during her time as chief, Tanya has shaped the

[4:42] police department with a culture of care that now defines community-oriented

[4:46] policing here in Burnsville. >> [clears throat]

[4:50] » Tanya has been the right leader at the right time.

[4:53] She's led with steadiness during challenges,

[4:57] heart during the most difficult of times,

[5:02] and most importantly, humanity in all she's done.

[5:07] Tanya has led with care, with an emphasis on well-being,

[5:11] and clear expectation of excellence. Most importantly, she never forgets the

[5:17] people behind the badge and the human experience across our community.

[5:23] On a personal note, not many city managers have the

[5:27] privilege of also calling their police chief a friend.

[5:34] I'm grateful for that relationship and the trust that it represents.

[5:41] Tanya, tonight, on behalf of the city of Burnsville,

[5:45] excuse [clears throat] me, thank you for your leadership, your service, and your

[5:48] commitment to our community. There's no greater honor than spending your life in

[5:53] service to others. You leave this community a better place

[5:58] than you found it. We will miss you, and we're excited for

[6:02] your next chapter.

[6:06] » [applause]

[6:11] [applause]

[6:15] » Thank you, Greg. We are honored to celebrate the

[6:21] distinguished service of Police Chief Tonia Schwartz, my friend.

[6:28] As Chief Schwartz began her career as community service

[6:32] officer in 1995,

[6:37] I was sworn in as mayor. And that's where our paths crossed.

[6:43] And it has been an amazing journey to travel with you.

[6:48] Over the years, I have witnessed her develop into an

[6:54] exceptional leader. One defined by professionalism,

[7:01] integrity, and a deep commitment to the well-being

[7:06] of both our community and the officers who serve

[7:12] it. Chief Schwartz

[7:15] has been instrumental in shaping a department culture

[7:20] that balances enforcement of law

[7:24] with care, dignity,

[7:28] and respect for every individual. Her leadership advanced a model of

[7:33] policing and values humanity at every turn.

[7:39] Her leadership was especially evident

[7:44] on February 18th when our city endured an unimaginable

[7:50] tragedy in the face

[7:53] of profound loss Chief Schwartz guided the department

[7:59] with steadiness and unwavering care

[8:04] for her officers staff

[8:08] and the families affected. Her actions during that time exemplified

[8:15] the highest standard of public service.

[8:20] Chief Schwartz on behalf of myself

[8:24] the city council members the residents of Burnsville

[8:29] we extend our deepest gratitude for your 31 years of dedicated service.

[8:38] Your legacy of compassion resilience

[8:42] and community-centered leadership will continue to shape the city for

[8:47] years to come. And at this time I would like the

[8:51] members of the council if you would join me here, please.

[8:59] » [cough and clears throat]

[9:01] » Chief Schwartz throughout tonight's

[9:05] program we have heard so many reflections

[9:10] on the lasting impact you have had on this community

[9:15] and on the many people who have had the privilege to serve alongside you.

[9:21] Well, tonight is a celebration of your retirement and extraordinary

[9:26] career there is one additional recognition

[9:31] we have kept a secret.

[9:38] There are individuals whose contributions leave a permanent

[9:43] mark on a community.

[9:46] Individuals whose leadership, service,

[9:50] and character shape not only an organization,

[9:54] but the people and community around them.

[9:59] The key to the city is the highest honor

[10:04] the city council can bestow. It is reserved for those whose

[10:09] dedication and impact have been truly

[10:12] extraordinary. Tonight, we are so proud

[10:17] to present the key to you for your dedication, service

[10:23] to the Burnsville Police Department and the city of Burnsville.

[10:28] And at this time, I want to read the proclamation that you will also receive.

[10:34] And that is This proclamation commends Chief

[10:40] Tanya Schwartz for 31 years of dedicated service to the city of Burnsville.

[10:45] » [clears throat] >> Whereas, Chief Tanya Schwartz has

[10:47] faithfully served the city of Burnsville and the Burnsville Police Department for

[10:52] 31 years, beginning her career in 1995 as a community service officer and

[10:59] advancing through the ranks to become Burnsville's seventh police chief.

[11:05] And whereas, throughout her distinguished career,

[11:08] Chief Schwartz has demonstrated exceptional leadership,

[11:13] professionalism, integrity,

[11:17] and compassion while strengthening the department's

[11:20] commitment to community-oriented policing, [clears throat]

[11:24] officer wellness, training,

[11:28] » [snorts] >> and public service.

[11:30] And whereas, Chief Schwartz has led the department and community through both

[11:34] challenge and tragedy with remarkable steadiness and humanity.

[11:40] Always [snorts] remaining committed to the safety and

[11:44] well-being of both the community and the people behind the badge.

[11:50] And whereas Chief Schwartz leadership, character, and dedication have left a

[11:55] lasting impact on the city of Burnsville, the Burnsville Police

[12:00] Department, and the countless individuals she has served throughout

[12:04] her career. And whereas in recognition of her

[12:08] extraordinary service and enduring contribution

[12:12] to the Burnsville community, the Burnsville City Council wishes to

[12:16] bestow upon Chief Tanya Schwartz the key to the city,

[12:21] the highest honor the city can confer. Now therefore, the Burnsville City

[12:27] Council, on behalf of our city staff, residents,

[12:32] businesses, and the entire Burnsville community hereby expresses its deepest

[12:38] gratitude and appreciation

[12:43] to Chief Tanya Schwartz for her dedicated service,

[12:47] leadership, and unwavering commitment to the city of Burnsville.

[12:52] We congratulate her on her retirement and extend our best

[12:59] wishes in the years ahead. Proclaim this 19th day of May, 2026.

[13:06] And Chief Schwartz, if you would come, please.

[13:09] » [applause]

[13:19] [applause]

[13:24] [applause] >> And then

[13:30] » [snorts]

[13:36] » Okay. >> And to everyone,

[13:38] please be patient with us with us. We're going to take some photos. And um so you

[13:45] bring your your awards. And uh yes. Um

[13:50] » Chief Schwartz, I would like to say a couple

[13:52] » Yes. And then uh if um >> members [snorts] of the council would

[13:55] like to say a few words too. Um

[14:00] Key to the city, I just I mean, I don't even know what to say to that.

[14:04] » What is it? A lock? >> I don't know. I'm going to find out.

[14:09] Um Thank you so much, Mayor and City

[14:13] Council, City Manager Lindberg, our community,

[14:18] all of our police officers and our fire fighters who are here and just everyone.

[14:24] Just Those are really heartfelt comments. That means a lot to me.

[14:28] And I wasn't supposed to cry, so but once you get the key to the city, I

[14:32] don't know if something happens and you just kind of lose it. But

[14:35] um reflecting on 31 years of law enforcement service has been emotional

[14:40] for sure. Uh it's been an incredible honor to

[14:43] serve Burnsville Police Department and this community um at every rank from

[14:47] community service officer to chief. And I'm just incredibly grateful to all of

[14:51] you, all of you here today. And just all the people who believed in

[14:55] me and supported in me supported me and and and allowed me the chance to lead

[15:00] and to do these things. I want to thank my family.

[15:04] Being a wife and a mom and a sister, a daughter-in-law,

[15:11] a Monty, >> [laughter]

[15:13] » a great auntie now. Uh those are the roles that mean just the most to me. And

[15:20] » [snorts] >> I'm excited. I'm just very excited to

[15:24] enjoy the time that I'm going to have in retirement with them.

[15:29] My husband Tom, my sons Jack and Ryan, they've lived this career with me. All

[15:34] of our officers, our public safety teams know

[15:38] how hard that can be and they grounded me when things were

[15:42] feeling overwhelming. And every accomplishment was built with

[15:46] hard work, but also on their love and their sacrifices that they made. So Tom,

[15:51] thank you for standing by my side, quite literally,

[15:55] [laughter] all the time and especially these last couple of years and just

[15:58] protecting me, protecting my peace, and just helping me stay centered.

[16:04] That's not easy to do. Um

[16:07] the chief of staff at home has a lot of work to do. So, it's not easy.

[16:12] Um and thank you, Mayor and Council, City Manager Lindberg, the city

[16:15] leadership team for your trust, your partnership, your support for increasing

[16:20] staffing, wellness, behavioral health, Duke, Doc,

[16:24] all the tools and equipment that keep our team safe have truly made a

[16:28] difference in our community because the investment that you have all made in our

[16:34] police officers means that they are best suited to care even more and better for

[16:39] our community. So, I'm proud of our work together. I also want to thank you for

[16:44] your unwavering support during the devastating loss of Officers Matthew

[16:48] Ruge, Paul Amstrand, and Firefighter Paramedic Adam Finseth.

[16:52] Losing them was heartbreaking for all of us.

[16:55] You took care of our fallen families, our department, me, the community

[17:00] throughout unimaginable grief, and we have honored their their selfless

[17:05] sacrifice and their legacy will live on forever at the Burnsville Police

[17:08] Department. So, I'm really proud of all that we've accomplished together, all

[17:13] that we've done to amplify Burnsville Police Department's culture of

[17:16] excellence. We've done that. I'm going to miss doing that work together, but

[17:21] and it's going to be a big change uh not coming in seeing my Burnsville Police

[17:25] Department family uh on a regular basis, but I'm very

[17:28] excited. I'm very excited about retirement. I'm happy to just live life

[17:33] and have more time with my family and uh my most favorite people who uh many are

[17:38] here right in front of me here today. So, I look forward to that.

[17:42] And I'm moving into retirement with absolute confidence in our next police

[17:46] chief, Matt Smith. Matt and our entire police command staff, they embody a deep

[17:51] commitment to our police teams, our sworn teams, our non-sworn teams, our

[17:55] community, our culture. And I know together working alongside all of our

[18:00] exceptional police officers and our police teams that they are going to

[18:03] continue to elevate and move Burnsville Police Department forward with strength

[18:07] and heart and purpose. So, thank you so much for allowing me

[18:11] this privilege to serve Burnsville Police Department and this community

[18:14] with all of you. I thank you so very much.

[18:19] » [applause]

[18:23] [applause]

[18:30] » Okay. All right.

[18:32] All right. We're going to So, we're going to now take uh take photos. So, if

[18:36] you'll and bring your keys.

[18:39] » my keys? Oh, yeah. Bring your keys. >> Okay. And

[18:44] So, can we have um Chief Schwartz's leadership um

[18:48] Chief [snorts] Matt and um

[18:52] » Any command staff?

[19:00] » Yeah. And then uh let's see. So,

[19:10] So, you want this side. It's great.

[19:14] Okay, and then um Please state

[19:20] Yeah.

[19:24] with the other team. I think that's It

[19:26] um Captain

[19:29] » Chris Wickland

[19:32] » [laughter] >> I think we have everybody. Do we have

[19:35] everybody? >> Where is the

[19:38] » Captain >> I'm Lieutenant Olsen.

[19:40] » Okay. Okay.

[19:42] » So you're ready? >> Yeah.

[19:58] » Okay, this next one now uh is uh

[20:02] if we could have uh the the leadership team. And so if you'd be in the back

[20:08] No, no, you can >> You bring your room there.

[20:12] » What's your name?

[20:16] » Yeah, these are all the people >> I just heard the word shipping. She's

[20:19] here to You want to get the better

[20:21] » Oh, it's a violation.

[20:25] » Come on in and stand and secure your location.

[20:28] » Yeah. >> Yeah.

[20:30] » I'm going to move this chair right here. >> Stand and secure.

[20:32] » I got a name >> Okay.

[20:35] » [clears throat] >> You bounce it right there next to

[20:37] » Here, Wilson. >> Kevin, create a little space for them.

[20:40] » Okay.

[20:42] » Yep. >> Thank you.

[20:45] » It was good that you felt connected. >> All right, great.

[20:52] » Get to the better side.

[20:59] » Okay. We're going to step away and uh

[21:03] the chief and her whole team, so all of the officers, so we're going to step

[21:07] away.

[21:16] » Want some back or in front? >> So, leave it to the ones who are not in

[21:20] uniform. Come on.

[21:28] And you [clears throat] can also be in the back.

[21:31] So, we got Some of them in the

[21:34] back.

[21:53] Should we um >> So, what we can do is we can do it like

[21:55] » Yeah, I know. It's going to make us look good.

[22:04] » They won't be able to see.

[22:12] » [laughter]

[22:15] » Yeah, I know. We got got those two, yeah.

[22:31] Okay. Now, we want one of the chief and her family.

[22:43] Give the proclamation to come.

[22:58] » Yeah.

[23:04] You look like you're

[24:17] » So, the next item on our agenda is military appreciation week

[24:22] honoring students serving their country. >> [snorts]

[24:26] » And our greatest gratitude and appreciation

[24:31] to Mike and Nancy Huddleston uh for the work that they do in support

[24:37] of our Yellow Ribbon.

[24:40] And this proclamation is going to be awarded to them.

[24:46] Whereas the United States military supports the freedom upon which our

[24:51] country was founded and entering in the military is a noble

[24:56] and important career choice. >> [snorts]

[24:58] » Over 2.8 million people serve in the active and reserve branches of the

[25:04] military. And whereas the Burnsville Beyond the

[25:08] Yellow Ribbon organization is a non-profit volunteer

[25:12] organization dedicated to supporting our nation's military.

[25:17] And whereas the Glenn C. Turner VFW Post 5833

[25:24] is a non-profit veteran service organization that supports veterans,

[25:30] service members, and their families.

[25:34] And whereas the Burnsville American Legion Post

[25:38] 1700 provides community and youth programs

[25:43] and strengthens services for those who have served in the US Armed Forces.

[25:50] And whereas the Burnsville and Savage service organization and educational

[25:56] communities have partnered with the Burnsville Beyond the Yellow Ribbon

[26:00] organization since 2016 to honor students who have made a

[26:05] commitment to enter military service.

[26:09] Now therefore, I Elizabeth Coughs, mayor of the city of Burnsville, on behalf of

[26:14] the city council, hereby proclaim May 18th through the 22nd, 2026

[26:21] as Military Appreciation Week with a special emphasis on students who have

[26:27] selected careers in the military. And urge my fellow citizens

[26:33] to observe this period by thanking young people

[26:36] in our community [clears throat] who have chosen to enter

[26:39] » [snorts] >> the military profession in support of

[26:42] our freedom, safety,

[26:45] comfort, and quality of life. Proclaim this 19th day of May, 2026.

[26:53] And it is my deep honor and pleasure to present this proclamation to

[26:59] Mike and Nancy Huddleston and to thank them for their service

[27:06] not only in the military but also

[27:11] for being the coordinator of our Yellow Ribbon.

[27:14] Thank you so much. You have made a great difference in our community and in the

[27:19] lives of our active and also inactive veterans in our

[27:24] community. Thank you so much for your service.

[27:27] » Thanks. Thank you. >> Yeah.

[27:30] » [applause]

[27:36] [applause]

[27:43] » Okay. Yeah.

[27:46] Okay. Now we're going to have a big ceremony with

[27:50] a lot of students, so and a lot of pictures, also.

[27:53] » Okay. >> [snorts and clears throat]

[27:57] » Well, I can't start until where's Vince? Did he sneak [snorts] off already?

[28:02] » He has a baseball [clears throat] game to coach.

[28:05] » Okay. So, all in favor of Vince doing those

[28:08] three jobs, say I. >> [laughter]

[28:13] [sighs] >> Anyways,

[28:15] uh if you're family member for this event, come on in

[28:19] and uh and welcome. And

[28:24] uh we will get started here in just a second.

[28:32] Okay. So, welcome guests. Good evening. My

[28:35] name is Mike Huddleston and I am the volunteer coordinator for the Burnsville

[28:40] Beyond the Yellow Ribbon. We have come up uh here

[28:45] uh before the City Council every year since 2016

[28:50] to thank students for serving our community, our state, and our country by

[28:55] choosing to serve in the military. To date,

[28:59] uh we have recognized uh approximately 136 students over the last uh

[29:05] 10 years. And this year we have, I think, 14 14 that we're recognizing uh

[29:14] uh tonight. All those students are here with us tonight. I'd like to begin by

[29:20] thanking the students. Uh military service instills

[29:24] responsibility, dependability, and loyalty. You will

[29:29] cultivate your leadership skills, get to know yourself better, acquire resiliency

[29:36] you never knew you had, and above all, you will build a stronger character.

[29:41] Parents and family members, thank you for trusting us to take care

[29:46] of your loved ones. We know it's hard to let them go into a

[29:51] career that may put them in harm's way. Thank you for your love and support

[29:57] because it means the world to them. >> [clears throat]

[30:01] » We wouldn't be here tonight without the City of Burnsville, which became a

[30:06] Yellow Ribbon uh City in 2013. I think that's when you Valen told me,

[30:13] too. >> [laughter]

[30:16] » We appreciate the help and support of the city to make sure Burnsville Yellow

[30:21] Ribbons mission is carried out for veterans, military members, and their

[30:27] family uh families before, during, and after deployments.

[30:32] I'd like to thank the many organizations in the audience, the Burnsville VFW,

[30:39] Two Eagles Marine Detachment, Burnsville-Eagan-Savage

[30:43] School District 191, Burnsville Savage Lions Club,

[30:50] Dakota County Veteran Services, recruiters from each branch of the

[30:54] service, plus leaders and elected representatives

[30:58] from the city of Burnsville and Savage and businesses in our community.

[31:03] They are an integral part of our Yellow Ribbon Network and help us do our job.

[31:09] Now, let's get to the formal recognition.

[31:12] Tonight, as a small gesture of our gratitude for

[31:17] your career choice to serve in our nation, Burnsville Beyond the Yellow

[31:21] Ribbon is presenting each of you with a Target gift card

[31:26] that we hope will help you purchase needed items at your next duty station.

[31:33] You will also find a few other things in the gift bag to include a chocolate bar

[31:39] to remind you of those who came before you and got a John Wayne bar and the C

[31:45] rations. Some of the older guys remember the C

[31:49] rations. And a protein bar, which serves as an

[31:53] example of the new military and what's available in the MREs.

[31:59] There is also a red, white, and blue honor cord

[32:03] that is designed to be worn at graduation with your cap and gown. And

[32:08] the principals here tonight and they're able to wear it, right?

[32:13] There you go. As he gives me a thumbs up. So, you can wear it at your

[32:17] graduation, which is what? 31? May, right? Yeah.

[32:23] I will also be giving a Beyond the Yellow Ribbon challenge coin when I

[32:27] shake your hand. A challenge coin is a small medallion coin adorned with the

[32:33] emblem or insignia of the presenting organization. The coins are a symbol of

[32:39] membership, belonging, and camaraderie. More

[32:43] [snorts] importantly, the coins acknowledge your achievements,

[32:47] dedication, and exemplary service, and serve as a reminder and appreciation and

[32:52] respect of your peers and superiors. It is a great honor that I am happy to

[32:57] bestow on you tonight when you come forward.

[33:02] Before we call your names, I'd like to call forward the mayor's already here.

[33:07] Uh the mayor elect

[33:13] Yep, is here. I forgot her name last year, so last

[33:18] year I says, "What's her name? Can she come forward?" But that's not her name.

[33:23] » [laughter] >> Um

[33:25] and uh uh to help the mayor and uh VFW

[33:31] Commander Bob Gunderson to help hand out the US flags donated by the Burnsville

[33:36] beyond the uh Burnsville VFW.

[33:40] » [clears throat] >> Oh, at the end uh after we are finished

[33:44] here, everyone is invited to join us at uh for refreshments

[33:49] and and food in a meeting room on the lower level in City Hall. What's the

[33:53] room number? >> It's downstairs. It's a meeting room

[33:56] downstairs. >> Yeah, and there's signs that uh get you

[34:00] there. So,

[34:02] students, [clears throat and snorts] please come forward when I call your

[34:05] name and stay up front until everyone is called so that we can get a group photo.

[34:13] Okay.

[34:16] Okay.

[34:19] All right, so the first one

[34:23] is uh and from the Minnesota Army National

[34:27] Guard, Allison.

[34:31] Did I pronounce that right? Yeah, come on forward.

[34:35] » all the way down there and COME THIS WAY.

[34:38] » [applause]

[34:46] » NEXT ONE IS ROBERT.

[34:52] » [applause]

[35:00] » DON'T LOSE THAT. Stand right there.

[35:04] » Right in front of us so we can keep an eye on you.

[35:06] » It's a good spot right here. >> Yeah, right in front of this.

[35:09] » Right in front of her. >> Perfect.

[35:14] » That's a good spot for him. >> Uh Nesta?

[35:24] » [applause]

[35:28] » Glad you didn't have to work tonight. >> I did.

[35:30] » Oh. >> My kids are still sitting at the stop.

[35:34] » [laughter]

[35:40] » Jose?

[35:43] » [applause]

[35:52] » Oh, okay.

[36:02] Uh is Adelaide here?

[36:09] Okay. Well, then you have to go in the Marine

[36:13] Corps. No. >> [laughter]

[36:16] » Or is Cara Air Force? >> That's right.

[36:19] » She needs one. >> Yeah.

[36:22] Okay. So, I did uh Minnesota Army National Guard. So, now

[36:28] we're going to do the Marine Corps. Uh

[36:33] Yola?

[36:36] » [applause]

[36:41] [applause]

[36:58] » Okay, the next one uh this is an easy name, John.

[37:03] » [applause]

[37:08] [applause]

[37:29] » You'll be doing push-ups earlier. >> [clears throat]

[37:31] [laughter]

[37:34] » Okay. Uh

[37:38] Then uh Daniel, you know? >> RIGHT.

[37:41] » YEP. >> [applause]

[38:05] [snorts]

[38:11] » OKAY, DAWSON?

[38:15] » [applause]

[38:43] » ALL RIGHT. YOU'RE like this one.

[38:47] I'm telling you what, your drones sergeant is going to love this.

[38:53] Okay? O lowa to me what?

[38:59] » [applause]

[39:05] [applause]

[39:23] » Okay. Uh, the next one is

[39:29] uh uh, US Army,

[39:31] Muhammad. >> [applause]

[39:48] » I ain't through with it. All right. Is there any others I

[39:53] Did I miss anybody? Oh, no. You got to wait a few years.

[39:59] » [laughter]

[40:02] » Anybody? Anybody?

[40:07] All right. >> Okay. And so we're taking photos and

[40:10] everything. Because of the photos and

[40:14] uh, and then uh, members of the uh, VFW and

[40:19] and

[40:23] Okay. >> [snorts]

[40:47] [clears throat]

[40:53] [laughter]

[41:21] [applause]

[41:28] » So, we have a few that are, uh, missing. So, Frank, don't leave.

[41:33] Or else you'll be recruited. Uh, and, uh, so, uh, see Nancy because

[41:40] what we usually do is give the bags for the ones that could not make it. And

[41:45] then you take and then, uh, you have the onus to, uh, see if you

[41:50] can find them. Where's Waldo? Kind of thing.

[41:55] Yep. So, uh, now

[41:58] Is it on? Okay. Now you can go downstairs. We've

[42:02] got some great food downstairs. So, downstairs and we got flags and we got

[42:07] more places to put pictures. So, please go downstairs.

[42:14] » [cough] >> Nice [clears throat] job.

[42:17] As always. Hey, thanks. Who's taking your place?

[42:22] » Uh, Sandra Slafer. >> Sandra Slafer, yeah, you didn't You

[42:24] should have introduced her.

[42:27] » Okay. >> Oh, she's there, right? Yeah, Sandra

[42:29] Slafer, she's taking it over. >> Yeah, good for her. That's awesome.

[42:32] » Yeah, we She said that it was going to be

[42:35] Yeah, okay. I'm I I need to go on with the work of the city. Thank you.

[42:44] So, the next item on the agenda this evening is citizens comments.

[42:49] This is the opportunity for anyone in your in the audience to address the

[42:54] council on an item that is not in the printed agenda and

[42:59] not an application form that will be coming before us at a future date.

[43:04] Is there anyone who wishes to address the council?

[43:10] Anyone who wishes to address the council?

[43:14] City Clerk Collins, is there anyone online?

[43:18] No. Thank you.

[43:21] We will move on to additions to the final agenda.

[43:25] » [snorts] >> Uh, and this is for emergency items

[43:28] only. City Manager Lindberg,

[43:33] are there any additions to the final agenda?

[43:35] » Nothing from staff, Mayor. >> Members of the council,

[43:39] council, uh, I have an item that I would like to

[43:42] add >> [snorts]

[43:44] » and I need a motion to add the item

[43:49] to the consent agenda to approve the bestowing of the key to the city to

[43:52] Chief Schwartz. >> So moved.

[43:54] » Second. >> Thank you. There's a motion and a

[43:56] second. All in favor, please say I. All opposed, say nay, and the motion

[44:02] carries. Thank you. That item is now on the

[44:05] consent agenda. We now move to the consent agenda.

[44:11] The consent agenda is a group of items that's considered to be routine

[44:15] and will be enacted by one motion. However, an item on the consent agenda

[44:20] can be removed for a separate discussion and vote.

[44:23] Is there anyone in the audience who wishes an item on the consent agenda to

[44:28] be removed for a separate discussion and vote?

[44:33] Anyone who wishes an item? City Clerk Collins, anyone online?

[44:39] » No one online has requested it. >> Thank you.

[44:42] Um City Manager Lindberg, does the staff

[44:46] want to remove an item from the consent agenda?

[44:49] » Nothing from staff, Mayor. >> Members of the council.

[44:52] » Um >> May I have a motion to adopt the consent

[44:55] agenda, please? >> Move.

[44:56] » Second. >> There's a motion and a second. All in

[44:59] favor, please say I. >> I.

[45:00] » I. Opposed, say nay. And the motion carries.

[45:04] We are now at the regular agenda. And the first item on the regular agenda

[45:09] is [snorts] an application of the City of Burnsville for an amendment to title

[45:13] 10, zoning,

[45:16] to reorganize and update the zoning code for consistency [snorts]

[45:21] and clarity and to adopt the ordinance.

[45:24] Presenting this evening is our planning manager,

[45:28] Mr. Mike Maroschek. Mr. Maroschek, the floor is yours.

[45:33] » Thank you, Mayor. Good evening, Mayor and Council.

[45:36] At the uh November 10th, 2025 work session, the City Council directed staff

[45:41] to advance the reorganized zoning code through the

[45:44] Planning Commission and City Council for review and adoption, with a full rewrite

[45:47] to follow adoption of the 2050 Comprehensive Plan. Since

[45:51] then, staff has done that and has held seven

[45:55] meetings, um work sessions with the Planning

[45:58] Commission to review the amendments chapter by chapter.

[46:02] Then the planning commission voted unanimously

[46:05] uh to recommend approval of the revised zoning code at their April 27th,

[46:10] 2026 meeting. So, that brings us to today.

[46:14] So, original goals for this update were to improve organization

[46:18] and consolidate and relate provisions, enhance usability through plain language

[46:23] and formatting, ensure consistency consistency with

[46:26] current state statutes and legal requirements, and update

[46:31] update information structure, cross-referencing for clearer and more

[46:35] accessible document. So, the first step that we did is we

[46:40] reorganized the code. Um currently, the code consists of 2 41 chapters.

[46:46] Um we broke that down into 12 chapters. >> That was amazing work.

[46:52] » Mhm. Thank you. >> Truly.

[46:54] » Thank you. And the uh >> And it's only now 400 pages.

[46:57] » Yes. Yes, we're down from 700. So, um what with the And then with those 12

[47:03] chapters, they all align with consistent subsections.

[47:07] Uh we streamlined cross-references to reduce redundancy and improve numbering

[47:11] formatting layout to support easier navigation and reading.

[47:15] So, before you on the screen is the new 12 chapters.

[47:18] Um all the chapters have underlying subsections that um

[47:23] go with the title of the chapter. So, if you go to the next slide, it's

[47:27] for an example. Currently, the residential um zoning districts are

[47:32] spread throughout the code, generally through section

[47:35] » Yeah. >> 12 through 18.

[47:37] So, what we did is place them all underneath one chapter.

[47:41] » It was so easy, Mr. Marosla. It was easy to navigate.

[47:46] » Yep. >> So much better than before.

[47:48] » Thank you, Mayor. >> Cuz you had to jump all over the place.

[47:50] This one was one place. >> That was the intent behind it. It was

[47:54] the one-stop shop. Um instead of as I like to call it uh

[47:57] choose your own adventure. Um

[48:00] » [clears throat] >> So, what we did then is we put all the

[48:03] residential items into one chapter with subsections.

[48:08] And then we removed items that we didn't think were necessary, they were more

[48:11] specialized and should be in specific zoning subsections or chapters.

[48:16] Uh we did the same thing for all the districts on the previous screen, all 12

[48:19] of them. Um similar practice of just reorganizing

[48:23] and placing items in certain areas where they would make for ease of use and

[48:27] accessibility. One thing that we worked really hard on

[48:32] to do is to uh reorgan- as this reorganization was to redo

[48:37] uh reduce the redundancy on going back to previous chapters.

[48:41] Um so, the B3 referenced, for example, the B1 B2 uses. And there was a total of

[48:47] over 70 uses in that if you counted all of them

[48:51] between the three zoning districts. Um and it also also, um excuse me,

[48:57] referenced you back to previous chapters. It didn't list them on the B3,

[49:00] you had to go to the B2, look at those, and then go back to the B3. So, we

[49:03] eliminated that in all zoning districts. So, if you go to the B3, all the uses

[49:07] are listed there, there's no more going back between the chapters to discover

[49:10] uses. And we did that for industrial and

[49:13] residential districts as well. Um another thing we did too is

[49:19] um we categorized uses to reduce the number

[49:23] of uses. Um

[49:26] So, on the left side of the screen are a number of different stores, appliance

[49:31] store, retail. They're all retail. And so, instead of having all listed out,

[49:35] all of this just retail uses. So, that also

[49:39] » Easy for business. >> makes it super easy for you to find

[49:42] those and they're less um judgment calls.

[49:45] Again, we did the same thing for um industrial districts.

[49:49] Um you know, there's a lot of different

[49:51] manufacturing, so now it is classified them all as light manufacturing.

[49:55] And then we did the same thing for um

[49:58] um heavy manufacturing as well. Again, ease of use, this reduced uh

[50:04] the use of a PUD for use PUDs in particularly. Um now it keeps them

[50:11] makes them more broad, easier to interpret.

[50:14] » [snorts] >> So, we're talking about some of the

[50:16] major amendments. We did streamline the commercial uses. Um there was 110 listed

[50:19] in code. Now they're down to 53 by doing the grouping we just talked about. Um

[50:25] similar numbers with the industrial district. Not Not 110, but there was a

[50:29] significant number and they're significantly reduced.

[50:32] Um so then because of that we had to add new definitions for the unified

[50:36] categories. Um again, light industrial's the one or

[50:40] light manufacturing, heavy manufacturing are the two that come to mind.

[50:43] And then we also removed interim use uses from zoning districts where they

[50:47] were no longer applicable. Um for example, some of the residential

[50:51] districts allowed mining. They're fully developed. You're not going to have any

[50:54] mining going on. >> [snorts]

[50:55] » So, we just removed the interim use process for those applications that are

[50:59] no longer relevant. And there's similar uses in the

[51:03] commercial industrial districts. Um we did work with the city attorney to

[51:07] um make sure there's consistency with state state statute. For example, um

[51:11] within the zoning or excuse me, within the variance approvals, uh we did not

[51:16] list the practical difficulties. We have that in there now, so it's consistent

[51:19] with state statute. Again, consistency of state statute, we added the

[51:23] conditional use permit requirement for licensed residential care facilities

[51:27] serving 7 to 16 persons. Um that is in for the R1, R1A, R2, R3

[51:36] zoning districts. Um Previously, the only the R2 allowed them

[51:41] as a CUP, but state statute you have to allow those in all those districts. So,

[51:45] that was a consistency item.

[51:49] Uh we did add a new section detailing the concept review process that we have

[51:53] implemented over the last few years. Um we removed the planning commission's

[51:57] ability to request a rezoning or text amendment and add staff's

[52:03] authority. So the planning commission will request the staff to look into that

[52:07] and then the city council already had the authority and then property owners.

[52:11] Um so that was more of a clean-up item. One of the bigger items that we did do

[52:16] that required uh the next item was we changed abbreviations

[52:22] for the medium density residential, high density, and manufactured housing

[52:25] districts. Um currently they are the R3A, which is

[52:29] the medium density residential, R3B, high density residential, and R3D,

[52:34] manufactured housing. Um for some for ease of use, we reclassified them as R3,

[52:40] medium density residential, R4, high density residential, and R5,

[52:45] manufactured housing district. Because of that, we do have to amend the map,

[52:49] the official zoning map, to make sure the abbreviations are consistent.

[52:53] Um so that's part of the approvals tonight that will be

[52:56] um as part of the that we requested as well.

[52:59] With that, um on the screen now is our process. So we are looking at uh

[53:04] wrapping up this reorganization and update,

[53:07] um kicking off the subdivision code rewrite, um

[53:12] we've been able to restart working on that one so with the goal to have it all

[53:15] complete about this time next year. Then the comprehensive plan, um we've

[53:20] received three um submittals to our responses to our RFP.

[53:24] We're going through those now. Hopefully get that before council here in July.

[53:28] Start that process. As you can see, it's a long one.

[53:31] Um and then the community visioning will

[53:34] start later this year and then once the comprehensive plan is adopted, we will

[53:38] do a total rewrite. At least now though, we have the organization the way we

[53:42] would like it. So, then that that part of the rewrite will not need to be

[53:45] redone. So, that should actually speed up the process a little bit.

[53:49] And then with that, I'll leave the recommendation on the screen. Staff

[53:52] recommends that the City Council approve the reorganized and updated title,

[53:56] should be titled 10. That is a typo. I apologize. Zoning and

[54:01] City of Burnsville zoning map to reflect the new residential

[54:06] district abbreviations. Typo caught me there in the end.

[54:10] So, I apologize for that. With that, I stand for any questions.

[54:14] » Any questions? >> No questions. Good job on it, though.

[54:17] It's going to make it very easy for businesses to understand what our codes

[54:21] are and know where they can go immediately instead of having to go back

[54:24] and forth the whole time. So, well done.

[54:27] » Thank you, Council Member Keely. >> Yeah. Council Member Keely.

[54:30] » Uh I like all that great work. Uh the simplification, as the mayor pointed

[54:34] out, it it seems so easy. Like, how many decades did we run with a overly complex

[54:41] uh structure and all the while. >> Yeah.

[54:44] » Um >> [clears throat]

[54:45] » I'm curious thinking about somebody coming in who's

[54:49] living under the existing ordinances, does this process at all affect existing

[54:55] enforcement of of of projects that fell under the court prior ordinance?

[55:02] Uh and or does it affect any future enforcement?

[55:06] » Um Council Member, that's a great question. It shouldn't. Um as we didn't

[55:08] do do any didn't implement any sub- substantive changes. So, the only thing

[55:13] that changes is the reference number. So, if any previous approvals

[55:17] specifically state a refer- uh

[55:20] ordinance number, that's all that I think changed. Otherwise, the code is

[55:23] the same, word for word. So, this is a minor

[55:26] amendment where we changed to clarify, but I don't don't expect any

[55:30] major changes. >> Deletions, just following up, you pulled

[55:34] mining out Uh, because we don't anticipate [snorts] anyone's going to

[55:38] pull a fresh permit for mining. Um, would that apply if

[55:43] uh, if some residual mining was done close to where Kramer Mining is doing

[55:49] work right now, obviously for the next several decades or or so, but um,

[55:54] if some property abutting that, the owner found that there was limestone

[56:00] under there and they wanted to do their own mining, could we handle that

[56:05] as a sort of a one-off or does it, because it

[56:09] doesn't exist in our code anymore, does that shut down the ability for that

[56:12] person to apply? >> Nope. Um, counselor, that's a great

[56:14] question. So, in those situations, we kind of deal on a what case-by-case

[56:18] basis. Um, you know, when we did the mining, we

[56:21] removed the residential districts because they're mostly fully developed.

[56:25] Now, the areas where mining and mining is currently occurring, we did leave it

[56:29] there. We didn't touch anything that's currently actively mining or actively

[56:33] has that use. We didn't want to do those kind of substantial changes at this time

[56:36] as it's not the appropriate time to do that. The comprehensive plan coming.

[56:40] Now, if there was a use that we removed um, by accident, we will probably, I

[56:45] should state this, we'll probably be back back in front of you later this

[56:48] year. When you do these kind of big lifts like this, you always kind of miss

[56:51] things. So, we'll probably have to go back there and fix some things that we

[56:54] might have deleted by accident or we have to reverse course.

[56:57] But, generally what we would do is if we delete something by accident and the use

[57:02] is existing, we just come back before you and add it back in or we go through

[57:06] our process of doing a zoning code amendment to

[57:09] do that and we'll find it's kind of right to do so.

[57:11] » We have the mechanism to change it just like we are changing it for the better.

[57:15] » Yes. >> Thank you.

[57:17] » Okay. Mr. Marosla,

[57:19] uh, in the 10-6, the business district, where you

[57:23] have all of that, and are all of the service

[57:29] in included in that? Like medical service and all of that.

[57:35] » Yes, Mayor. Yep. All those uses will are listed within the 10 6. Medical clinics

[57:40] and all that. >> So they're all in that one business. So

[57:43] it's not like before where you had to go.

[57:46] » Correct. So each district where a clinic was where before instead of listing

[57:50] clinic in every district, they would reference you back to another district.

[57:54] So now even if district of clinics are allowed they're allowed in that district

[57:58] we listed off. So it's kind of repeat so multiple districts allow for clinics,

[58:01] but that way it's that one stop shop. You don't need to go looking for an

[58:05] answer. >> Yes. So like we have some of the um

[58:10] condo businesses over on um Crosstown and 5 and those kind of So a

[58:18] lot of them are service businesses. So they're all in all of that. They're just

[58:24] service business, but they're not retail with a product. It's a service. It's all

[58:29] in there. >> Yep.

[58:30] » That is so much easier than trying to find it before. Oh, you're

[58:35] medical so you must be >> Mhm.

[58:38] » in a different. Okay. Thank you so much. I think that's makes

[58:42] it real easy for everyone because you have

[58:45] the office business district neighbor neighborhood business district

[58:50] and all of that. Now it's just all in one area.

[58:54] Okay. Great. Thank you. Any other questions?

[58:59] So members of the council tonight um because we don't have a full

[59:05] complement uh of the council I would like a motion to adopt the

[59:12] ordinance because I can take three and to consider the summary ordinance

[59:17] publication at the next council meeting because they're to do a summary

[59:22] uh ordinance I need four. So

[59:26] may I have a motion to adopt the ordinance?

[59:30] » Moved as stated. >> Second.

[59:32] » There was a motion and a second. All in favor, please say I. I. Opposed, say

[59:36] nay. And a motion carries. Uh and that is to also consider the

[59:41] summary ordinance for publication next or next uh

[59:45] the next council meeting. Right? So, that's all included. You get

[59:49] it all. Okay, very good. >> Madam Mayor, members of the council,

[59:53] we'll just we'll include the summary ordinance if it's agreeable to the

[59:56] majority of the council on the next consent agenda.

[1:00:00] » Okay. Yeah. Because we have all of the background

[1:00:04] and we have gone through all of it. So, the consent agenda is fine for the

[1:00:08] summary ordinance. I >> Thank you.

[1:00:10] » Okay, thank you. >> [clears throat]

[1:00:12] » Um Members of the council, there are no

[1:00:15] other items to come before us this evening, and a motion to

[1:00:19] adjourn is in order. >> So moved.

[1:00:22] » Second. >> There was a motion and a second. All in

[1:00:24] favor, please say I. I. Opposed, say nay. And a motion carries. Good night

[1:00:29] and thank you for being with us.

Regular City Council - 19 May 2026

Transcript