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Center City Council met May 6 for a regular meeting all members were in attendance.

In an open forum, Chris DuBose spoke on behalf of the Chisago Lakes Community Foundation.  DuBose explained how every year the foundation hands out grants to deserving groups (preferably non-profits).  DuBose told the council they are looking for groups to apply and if they are not non-profits,  they ask that a company pair with a non-profit to serve as fiscal agent before applying. The St. Croix Valley Environmental Grant Program was launched for the first time on Earth Day in 2024. Environmental Grants are designed to meet the ever-changing environmental needs of the region. Organizations with the environment at the core of their mission and programs may apply for general operating support ($5,000-$25,000). Organizations (environmental and non environmental) may apply for program support ($500-$10,000) to fund hands-on environmental activities.  DuBose urged people to visit the Foundation’s website www.scvfoundation.org/chisagolakesareacf and click on Grant Opportunities.

A few residents then inquired about Hursh Ironworks and when or if they will be moving to Taylors Falls.  Mayor Jill Behnke assured the residents the relocation project is progressing albeit slowly.  

The council then was told the burned property on Busch Avenue has been demolished and the site graded. Behnke told the council the gas line needs to be capped and that should happen this week.  Total cost of the demolition came to $13,000 and will be assessed to the owner’s 2026 property taxes.

The council then had a lengthy discussion about a proposed land swap with Marine Dock and Lift; so a trailhead can be constructed on that property.  Marine Dock and Lift has agreed to the swap and the next step is surveying the property and establishing boundaries.  The city and County will hear from the state about potential Legacy funding for the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail soon.  Council agreed to notify Chisago County Parks of their intention to proceed. Chisago County Parks has offered to cover the cost of a property survey for the trailhead.

Council then discussed an easement at a property on North Lake Street. The city had easement for lake access that included a portion of the homeowner’s roof that protruded into the city’s portion.  The homeowner is looking to replace his driveway and change to a concrete driveway.  He is looking for a variance for the 10 inches of overhang from his garage roof. 

Council approved the variance unanimously.

Council learned 516 and 520 Park Island Road have been reclassified as condominiums in order to sell the property.  The property owner already had the reclassification processed by the county in the hopes of selling the properties.  City attorney Ted Alliegro agreed to look into the matter and report back.

Council agreed to donate $300 to the Chisago County Senior Center unanimously.\

Council was then told the new fishing pier was positioned in its regular location but when the city went to connect the landing ramp portion it was missing a connector plate.  The state will bring one out and install it.  In the meantime the pier is taped off with caution tape.

Council then agreed to appoint Tim Kytonen to the planning commission.

Council adjourned at 8:35pm.  

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