Hampton City Council Regular Meeting Minutes for March 17th, 2026

The Hampton City Council met on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at Hampton City Hall for the Regularly Scheduled Meeting. Present were Mayor John Knetter and Council Members Jerry Huddleston, David Luhring, Erica O’Connor, and Nick Russell. Also present were Brad Fisher and Madison Richard of Bolton & Menk, Chris Meyer, treasurer, Pure Jade, Kevin Krech with Dakota County, and Neil Hoadley

Regular Meeting Called to Order – Mayor Knetter called the regular meeting to order at 6:59pm. 

Disclosure of Interest – None

Approval of February 17, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes – Motion by Luhring, seconded by Huddleston, to approve the February 17, 2026 regular meeting minutes. All voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passed 5-0.

Approval of Disbursements - Motion by Russell, seconded by Luhring, to approve the disbursements. All voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passed 5-0.

Public Comments: Neil Hoadley, a resident of 23440 Water Street, addressed the council regarding a previously discussed request for assistance with replacing his specialized water heater, which is connected to his floor radiant heating system. He noted that he had submitted an estimate and completed the replacement, which coincided with the same day as a water main break on Highway 50. Hoadley explained that he became aware of issues, including locating shut-offs, after returning home from the incident and inquired whether the City had filed an insurance claim related to the water main break. Mayor Knetter responded that no insurance claim had been filed, noting that a representative from Bolten & Menk was present on-site at the time and that follow-up investigation had been conducted. It was further clarified that the incident was attributed to hot soil conditions and deteriorated pipes.

Petitions, Requests, and Communications:  Madison Richard of Bolton & Menk presented the proposed cannabis ordinance and accompanying resolutions to the council, noting this was the third and likely final review. She explained that under 2024 state legislation, cannabis businesses must be allowed within cities, though municipalities can regulate them through zoning and performance standards. The proposed ordinance takes a conservative approach, assigning cannabis-related uses to specific zoning districts: agricultural production in agricultural zones, retail and lower-potency hemp sales in commercial arterial areas, and manufacturing, wholesale, and other operations in industrial districts. The ordinance also includes standards for hours of operation, screening, signage, and lighting. Richard outlined a recommendation to defer cannabis retail registration to Dakota County, which would handle licensing limits, compliance checks, and administrative processes, reducing the burden on the City while still allowing local zoning oversight. The council expressed appreciation for incorporating prior feedback, and Mayor Knetter emphasized the administrative benefits of county involvement for a small city with limited staff. Additional clarification was provided on the roles of the state, county, and city in licensing and registration, after which the council thanked Richard for the presentation.

Nicole Rash, a cannabis attorney with Hellmuth and Johnson, and Shane Krahn, with Pure Jade, addressed the council regarding a proposed cannabis cultivation project and uncertainty surrounding the zoning of the subject property. They explained that the land had been previously understood to be agricultural, but City GIS and comprehensive plan records indicate it is zoned rural residential, creating confusion and placing the project timeline at risk. With an 18-month pre-approval period expiring in December, the applicants requested guidance on how to proceed and whether they could move forward in a timely manner. City staff and consultants clarified that the project would require a rezoning and likely a comprehensive plan amendment, both involving Planning Commission review and Metropolitan Council approval, and noted these processes are typically completed concurrently but may take several months. Council members expressed general support for the proposed business and economic development but emphasized the need to follow established procedures. Discussion included potential timelines, the option of special meetings to expedite review, and the importance of understanding all requirements before submitting an application. The applicants indicated they are prepared to move forward quickly and requested general feedback from the council, and staff suggested further review of the property to outline necessary steps. The council encouraged continued coordination while acknowledging the timing challenges and regulatory process.

Chris Meyer presented the City of Hampton’s fiscal year ending December 31, 2025 financial statements, noting they were submitted in accordance with State Auditor requirements and consist of standard reporting schedules. He highlighted a year-end cash balance of just over $1.5 million, attributed primarily to remaining proceeds from the 2024 bond series for the water tower project (approximately $516,000) and strong interest earnings from cash accounts. Meyer reported operating losses in both the water fund ($34,815), largely due to significant water main repairs and reduced water sales revenue, and the sewer fund ($19,923), due to decreased dumping fees, increased chemical costs, and maintenance expenses including lift station pump replacements and sanitary line work. Despite these losses, the City remains overall on budget. Outstanding debt totals approximately $4.937 million across four bond series, with the 2012 bonds nearing maturity in 2028. Meyer stated that the Annual Financial Reporting Form will be submitted to the State Auditor by March 31 and published thereafter. He also introduced the annual internal audit process, requesting council volunteers; Council Member Huddleston declined due to recent participation, and council members Luhring and O’Conner agreed to complete the 2025 internal audit.

Ordinances and Resolutions – Ordinance No. 1135 An Ordinance Amending Chapter 152 The City of Hampton City Code – Motion made by Luhring, seconded by Huddleston to approve the Amending Chapter 152 The City of Hampton City Code, all voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passed 5-0.

Resolution 2026__(3) A Resolution Approving Summary Publication of Ordinance No. 1135 – Motion made by Huddleston, seconded by Russell to Approve Summary Publication of Ordinance No. 1135, all voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passes 5-0.

Resolution 2026__(4) – A Resolution Consenting to Dakota County Registering Cannabis and Hemp Retail Businesses Within the City of Hampton – Motion made by Russell, seconded by Luhring to Consent to Dakota County Registering Cannabis and Hemp Retail Businesses Within the City of Hampton, all voted in favor. None opposed, Motion passed 5-0.

Reports of Officers, Boards, and Committees:

Engineer Report – Brad Fisher of Bolten & Menk provided an update on the water tower project, noting no pay applications were submitted in the past month and that progress remains weather-dependent, with coordination underway for eventual demolition of the old tower and salvage of its top section as previously directed by the council. He then introduced two Dakota County projects on County Road 47 in coordination with County Engineer Kevin Krech. The first is a full reconstruction project extending into Hampton city limits, currently in design with minor city comments addressed, and scheduled for construction in 2027; the project will include concrete pavement, utility adjustments, drainage improvements, and detours during construction. Krech added that the broader corridor project will occur over two phases, include safety upgrades such as wider shoulders and turn lanes, and is currently in final design and right-of-way acquisition. Discussion also included the potential for future trail connectivity, with the county expressing support but preferring alignment with future development or a defined city plan. Council members expressed strong interest in trail development for pedestrian safety, particularly connecting the Heights of Hampton to the city. The second project involves a 2026 mill and overlay of County Road 47 through Hampton, including ADA-compliant pedestrian ramp upgrades; the county confirmed willingness to incorporate replacement of deteriorated sidewalk segments within the right-of-way as part of the project. No roundabouts are currently planned within city limits, though future considerations at other intersections were noted.

Water / Sewer Report – Mayor Knetter provided a brief update on water and sewer operations, noting that the water tower project had been addressed earlier in the meeting. He reported that the City is entering the seasonal “ice-out” period for wastewater ponds, and sampling will begin in preparation for spring discharge. He also stated that the replacement of the ventilation fan in the pump house has been completed, ensuring proper ventilation for safety purposes. No additional updates were provided.

Park Report – Council Member Russell discussed next steps for the water tower demolition project, including identifying a location for placement of the salvaged tower top. Mayor Knetter offered to assist and encouraged additional council members and residents to participate in selecting a site. He noted a verbal commitment from Elien Trucking to assist with transporting the structure, with a crane needed for placement, and added that some residents have expressed interest in donating toward development of a pavilion using the tower top. Discussion included obtaining dimensions of the structure, with Bolten & Menk offering to provide standard sketches. Council members expressed support for the pavilion concept, with plans to further develop details and potentially formalize a name at a future meeting.

Street Report – Council Member Luhring had nothing to report at this time.

Social Media/Website – Council Member Huddleston reported that development of the City’s new website has been completed, and the domain configuration is being updated to transition the site into production at cityofhamptonmn.gov. He noted the transition is expected to occur within the week, after which both he and staff will conduct testing to ensure functionality. Once live, the City will work with DTECH to obtain necessary credentials and tools to manage the site, with both Huddleston and staff having administrative access to make updates, including posting meeting minutes. He anticipates the website will be fully operational by the next council meeting, with training to follow to support ongoing maintenance.

Unfinished Business – Mayor Knetter stated that additional research is needed regarding the Ray’s Spark escrow matter and recommended tabling the item. A motion to table the Ray’s Spark development was made by Council Member Luhring and seconded by Council Member Russell. The motion carried unanimously upon a voice vote.

New Business – Mayor Knetter addressed vacancies on the Planning Commission, noting that one position is currently open following a resignation and that no applications have been received; council members were encouraged to refer interested residents to submit an interest form. He also introduced a draft camera policy for future citywide use, emphasizing the need to establish guidelines—such as data access, storage location, and a proposed 30-day retention period—prior to installing any cameras. The policy would limit viewing access to city staff and council unless otherwise required for investigations. Council Member Huddleston suggested revisions to clarify access control language and agreed to provide edits for further review, with the intent to adopt a finalized policy at the next meeting. In additional discussion, council briefly noted ongoing utility locate activity in the area, potentially related to upcoming fiber installation, and agreed to monitor for any right-of-way impacts requiring city permits. 

Adjournment - Motion by Luhring, seconded by Russell, to adjourn the meeting. All voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passed 5-0. The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Kelly Roan

Hampton City Council Regular Meeting Minutes for February 17th, 2026

The Hampton City Council met on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Hampton City Hall for the Regularly Scheduled Meeting. Present were Mayor John Knetter and Council Members Jerry Huddleston and David Luhring. Nick Russell was absent. Also present were Erica O’Connor – appointed to fill the remainder of Councilmember Anthony Verch’s term, Brad Fisher of Bolton & Menk, Chris Meyer, treasurer, and two members of the Randolph-Hampton Fire Department.

Regular Meeting Called to Order – Mayor Knetter called the regular meeting to order at 7:00pm. 

Disclosure of Interest – Mayor Knetter noted that he is a member of the Fire Department and would abstain from participating in any voting regarding matters involving the Randolph-Hampton Fire Department.

Approval of January 20, 2026 Special Hearing, Public Hearing, and Regular Meeting Minutes – Motion by Luhring, seconded by Huddleston, to approve the January 20, 2026 special hearing, public hearing, and regular meeting minutes. All voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passed 3-0.

Approval of Disbursements - Motion by Luhring, seconded by Huddleston, to approve the disbursements. All voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passed 3-0.

Public Comments: None

Petitions, Requests, and Communications: Chris Meyer presented the 2025 Treasurer’s Financial Summary, explaining that it is the required annual report providing an overview of monthly balances, including the checking account and Diamond Money Market accounts, with details on deposits, interest, disbursements, and transfers throughout the year. He also reviewed the City’s escrow accounts, noting that the landscaping and stormwater escrow primarily consists of accumulated interest from prior years and is used to hold deposits for new development landscaping requirements until those obligations are met. Meyer reported that the Lemons Rayspark escrow, related to the oversizing of a water main serving the Rayspark area, will be addressed at a future meeting, with plans to notify the responsible party and return the remaining funds.

Meyer also provided an update on the draft financial statements for the year ending December 31, 2025, noting that a preliminary cash-basis draft had been submitted prior to the February 14 deadline. He explained that additional schedules and accrual-based statements—including accounts receivable, accounts payable, enterprise fund reporting for water and sewer, and fixed asset depreciation—will be completed and presented at the March meeting before final submission to the State Auditor by March 31. The Council thanked Meyer for the update and his work to keep the City in compliance.

The Council then considered filling the vacant council seat and reviewed the application submitted by Erica O’Connor. Mayor Knetter noted that O’Connor was the only applicant and provided background information, stating that she has lived in the city for over twenty years, assists with bookkeeping for her family’s local auto repair business, and would provide representation from the 240th Street area of the city. Council members briefly discussed the appointment, and Mayor Knetter expressed his recommendation for O’Connor. Motion by Luhring, seconded by Huddleston, to appoint Erica O’Connor to fill the remainder of Anthony Verch’s council term. The motion passed unanimously. O’Connor was then administered the oath of office by the City Clerk and took her seat with the Council.

The Randolph-Hampton Fire Chief presented a request for approval to purchase a used air compressor and four air cylinders for Station Two, explaining that the department’s current compressor cannot fully pressurize the upgraded air packs installed in 2020, leaving approximately ten percent of cylinder capacity unused. The estimated cost for the remanufactured equipment is $15,000, compared to approximately $36,000–$37,000 for a new unit, and the purchase would leave about $13,500 remaining in the department’s equipment fund for the year. The Chief noted that Randolph had already approved the request and that purchases over $10,000 now require approval from both cities under the joint powers agreement. Motion by Huddleston, seconded by Luhring, to approve the funding request. Motion passed unanimously.

Firefighter Andrew Gilquest then presented a request from the Fire Relief Association to increase the annual retirement benefit from $3,800 to $4,500 per year, noting that the pension fund remains well funded at approximately 126–129 percent and is primarily supported by Relief Association fundraising activities. Mayor Knetter abstained from voting due to his membership in the fire department. Motion by Huddleston, seconded by Luhring, to approve the benefit increase. Motion passed with the Mayor abstaining.

Gilquest also requested approval to maintain the deferred interest rate for retirees who defer their pension payout at 1.25 percent. Motion by Luhring, seconded by Huddleston, to approve the request. Motion passed with Mayor Knetter abstaining.

Ordinances and Resolutions – None 

Reports of Officers, Boards, and Committees:

Engineer Report – City Engineer Brad Fisher of Bolton & Menk provided an update on the water tower project, noting that progress had slowed during the past month due to cold temperatures but has resumed with the recent warmer weather as crews continue working to bring the new tower online. Fisher reported that the star lights have been brought up to code and are now installed and operational, marking a milestone in the project.

Fisher also requested council direction regarding the remaining decision on the old water tower, as the contractor is coordinating with subcontractors and planning demolition work for the spring. Councilmembers discussed several options that had previously been considered, including relocating the entire tank or preserving a larger portion of the structure in the city park. Those options were determined to be impractical due to the presence of lead paint and the high cost of mitigation and long-term maintenance.

Mayor Knetter presented a concept suggested by a resident to salvage the top portion of the tower and relocate it to the city park to serve as the roof of a pavilion structure near the ball field, providing shade for park users while preserving a piece of the city’s history. The council also discussed salvaging the “H” from the “Hampton” lettering on the tower as a historical element. Councilmembers noted that donations and park funds could potentially be used for future improvements such as benches or signage recognizing the history of the water tower.

After discussion, the council agreed this option would preserve part of the tower while avoiding the significant costs associated with preserving the entire structure. Motion by Luhring, seconded by Knetter, to direct the contractor to salvage the top portion of the tower for use as a pavilion roof in the park and demolish the remaining portions of the structure. Motion passed unanimously.

Fisher then presented a proposal previously discussed with the council regarding implementation of a web-based Geographic Information System (GIS) for the city. The system would transition the city’s mapping and infrastructure data to a web-based platform owned and maintained by the city under its existing license. Motion by Luhring, seconded by Knetter, to approve the GIS proposal. Motion passed unanimously.

Water / Sewer Report – Mayor Knetter reported that significant issues were discovered with the ventilation system in the chlorine addition area of the water and sewer well house. Due to corrosion and equipment failure, the ventilation fan and related components were no longer functioning, creating a serious safety concern for anyone entering the building. Killmer Electric inspected the system and determined that the motor had failed and wiring issues were present. A repair proposal totaling approximately $6,000 was received and approved by the Mayor, as it falls below the city’s $10,000 authorization threshold, and repairs are scheduled to begin immediately.

Knetter also noted that new sewer regulations will require additional sampling for total suspended solids prior to discharge beginning this spring, which will add an estimated $35–$50 per test. Discussion also occurred regarding a recent informational meeting hosted by the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services concerning long-term regional wastewater planning in the southeast metro area. City Engineer Brad Fisher explained that the meeting focused on gathering input from communities regarding potential future trunk sewer extensions and possible changes to regional wastewater treatment facilities. At this time, the City expressed no immediate interest in connecting to a regional system but requested to remain informed as planning progresses.

Park Report – No report was provided due to Councilmember Russell’s absence, though park improvements had been discussed earlier in relation to the water tower pavilion concept.

Street Report – Councilmember Luhring reported that streets are generally in good condition but noted several developing potholes that will be patched in the coming weeks. He also confirmed the city will be scheduling spring street sweeping.

Unfinished Business – None

New Business – Mayor Knetter reported that Chris Meyer, who had been assisting with water meter reading duties following staff departures and a retirement, has requested to step back from those responsibilities due to increased workload. In response, the council discussed creating a new part-time position combining water meter reading with backup clerk responsibilities to provide additional support and redundancy for city office operations, particularly in light of new state leave policies.

The position would primarily involve quarterly meter reading duties and cross-training in clerk responsibilities to ensure continuity of city operations if staff members are unavailable. Councilmembers discussed the importance of flexible hours, training time, and occasional regular office presence to maintain familiarity with city processes.

Motion by Knetter, seconded by Huddleston, to draft and post a job listing for a part-time water meter reader and backup clerk position with a proposed hourly pay range of $18 to $23. Motion passed unanimously.

Adjournment - Motion by Luhring, seconded by Huddleston, to adjourn the meeting. All voted in favor. None opposed. Motion passed 4-0. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted, Kelly Roan