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Michael Corradi, who was there representing Stein Insurance, gave a brief overview of the city’s policy and premium outlook for 2026. Corradi said the city’s premium decreased from last year and will be $28,700 for 2026.  Council agreed the policy looked good, but wanted to wait until Hanson was back to decide on an additional umbrella that would cost $1,200.  City clerk Valerie Fox told the council the part of the policy that involves the fire department is split with Franconia and she invoices the township after the policy is billed.

Council then heard from MnDOT’s Amy Jefferson and SRF Consulting Molly Stewart on the Highway 8 redesign project.

The two gave an overview of the future 14 mile project area that will span from Chisago City to Taylors Falls.  They gave brief breakdowns on each of the four sections and the proposed changes to the roadway.  The segments are in Chisago City from Karmel Avenue to County Road 14 (Lincoln Road), Lindstrom from County Road 14 to Olinda Trail, the third section covers from Olinda Trail to Pleasant Valley Road in Center City, and the final from Pleasant Valley to the bridge in Taylors Falls.  

Jefferson said the section that involves the city of Shafer will tackle safety issues including high speed vehicle traffic, unsafe passing behaviors, the number of driveways and access points that cause safety issues, pedestrian traffic including bikes and crashes at the intersection of Redwing Avenue and Highway 8.  It was noted the county has approved and is moving forward with the construction of a roundabout at the Redwing intersection.  The plan for the Shafer section is to potentially create passing lanes, turn lanes and install rumble/mumble strips in the roadway to assist drivers.

Stewart was asked by Acting Mayor Nick Brehm about the BP gas station on the corner of Redfield Blvd. and Highway 8. Brehm said the city has received an application by Dollar General to potentially purchase the gas station and build a new Dollar General on that site.  Brehm said the Dollar General representatives are now hesitant because they would need highway 8 access to accommodate their semis full of product. Stewart and Jefferson assured the council they will contact and have discussions with the Dollar General representatives to discuss any potential questions and concerns.

The council then moved to new business.  They unanimously passed liquor license renewals for Ole’s Crossroads, Patooie’s, Shafer Pump n’ Munch (Emily Jo’s), and Sprouting Out if all submit the proper paperwork.

Council then approved the county being responsible for street addressing and naming for future development.  The agreement will help with the GIS system  documenting properties in the county.

Council next accepted donations from the fire relief gambling fund in the amount of $561.68.

There were no reports from the attorney, city clerk, city engineer or public works.  Council adjourned at 6:55pm.

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