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Your civic brief · Updated July 30

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Here's what matters for all residents.

Tuesday, May 27, 2025 · 9 topics, explained in plain English

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Meeting topics · 9

Work SessionItem 1Discussed

I-494 Phase 2 Corridor Vision Update from MnDOT

MnDOT staff presented an update on Phase 2 of the I-494 Corridor Vision, covering E-ZPass lane extensions from Highway 169 to Highway 100 and from I-35W to Highway 77, reconstruction of the Pleasant Avenue railroad bridge, and the 82nd Street/I-35W interchange grade raise. The project is funded largely by a 2024 federal INFRA grant and Minnesota's Corridors of Commerce program, with construction expected to span three years starting around 2027, including a possible full closure of the TH 77 bridges over I-494 during one construction season. No formal action was taken; MnDOT will seek Municipal Consent later due to the E-ZPass lane expansion, and staff will bring further air quality, greenhouse gas, and road closure details to the July work session.

informational or procedural item — no vote taken

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Part of an ongoing matter · 2 related discussions

Key figure: $134 millionCorridors of Commerce funding for MnPASS lanes on I-494

Potential benefit

The project promises reduced congestion, improved travel reliability, new noise walls, and expanded pedestrian/bike facilities along the I-494 corridor.

Concern to consider

Three years of construction (roughly 2027-2029), including a possible full bridge closure over I-494, could cause significant traffic disruption and diversions onto local streets near the Mall of America area.

What happens next: MnDOT will present further details on air quality, greenhouse gas analysis, and anticipated road closures at the July Council work session, and will begin the Municipal Consent process for the E-ZPass lane expansion; the Design-Build contract letting is scheduled for Fall 2026.

Sources: Work Session agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 3CApproved

Approved design and engineering services for Richfield Outdoor Pool improvements

The council approved an agreement with JLG Architects for professional design and engineering services for improvements to the Richfield Outdoor Pool. This moved the pool project into a more detailed planning and design phase.

Approved as part of the consent calendar; minutes did not provide a separate vote count.

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Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 3DApproved

Authorized MnDOT agreement for 70th Street Safe Routes to School funding

The council authorized execution of MnDOT Agreement No. 1059794 for state general funds for the 70th Street Safe Routes to School project. The action secured outside funding support for a school-area safety improvement.

Approved as part of the consent calendar; minutes did not provide a separate vote count.

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Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 3EApproved

Awarded 2025 pavement rejuvenation contract

The council awarded the 2025 Maltene Pavement Rejuvenation Project to Corrective Asphalt Materials, LLC for $690,250 and authorized the City Manager to approve contract changes under $175,000. The action advanced scheduled street maintenance intended to extend pavement life.

Approved as part of the consent calendar; minutes did not provide a separate vote count.

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Part of an ongoing matter · 1 related discussion

Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 3FApproved

Accepted watershed grant funds for rain gardens and aquatic study

The council approved a grant agreement and accepted $69,644 in funds on behalf of the Richfield-Bloomington Watershed Management Organization for a rain garden grant program and a fisheries/aquatic invasive species study. The action supported local stormwater and environmental work with outside funding.

Approved as part of the consent calendar; minutes did not provide a separate vote count.

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Part of an ongoing matter · 1 related discussion

Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 3GApproved

Accepted conveyance of MnDOT property near Cedar Avenue and Highway 77

The council approved a resolution accepting conveyance of real property from MnDOT in the area east of Cedar Avenue South and west of Highway 77. The transfer gave the city control of land that could affect future public use or corridor planning.

Approved as part of the consent calendar; minutes did not provide a separate vote count.

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Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 3HApproved

Adopted ordinance restricting short-term rentals

The council approved the second reading and summary publication of an ordinance restricting short-term rentals after receiving multiple public comments on minimum-stay requirements and implementation concerns. The action finalized new city rules for how short-term rentals may operate in Richfield.

Approved as part of the consent calendar; minutes did not provide a separate vote count.

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Part of an ongoing matter · 2 related discussions

Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 5Decided

Approved new wine and 3.2 malt liquor licenses for Dragon Pot

Following a public hearing, the council approved new On-Sale Wine and 3.2 Percent Malt Liquor licenses for MC Richfield LLC doing business as Dragon Pot at 9 66th Street East. The approval allowed the restaurant to expand its service offerings.

Minutes excerpt provided did not include the vote count.

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Part of an ongoing matter · 1 related discussion

Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)

City CouncilItem 6Decided

Confirmed appointment of Jenell Brooks as Fire Chief/Fire Services Director

The council confirmed the appointment of Jenell Brooks as Fire Chief/Fire Services Director effective June 12, 2025. The decision set the leadership of the city's fire and emergency services department.

Minutes excerpt provided did not include the vote count.

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Part of an ongoing matter · 1 related discussion

Sources: City Council agenda (city portal)