By Rich Larson, KYMN News
The Northfield Chamber of Commerce will convene a combined regular meeting and work session tomorrow night, beginning at 6:00, with a full night of city business and long‑range planning on deck.
The meeting opens with the regular public comment period that runs until 6:20, giving residents the opportunity to speak for up to two minutes on any matter under the Council’s jurisdiction. Those with questions may submit them in writing on comment cards for follow‑up. Individuals may also opt to comment early on agenda items but may not return to speak on those same items later.
Following approval of the agenda, the Council will move to a robust consent agenda. Items include approval of the January 20 meeting minutes and authorization of nearly $5 million in disbursements. The Council will also consider mayoral board and commission appointments; adoption of the Rice County All Hazard Mitigation Plan; and a bond sale resolution supporting the Jefferson Parkway/Sandstone Street utility extension. Additional consent items include acceptance of a DEED grant agreement to advance Phase II of the Northfield Skateboard Park, consideration of a resolution supporting further study of a Southeast Minnesota Transit Management Organization, and authorization of a 2030 State Transportation Improvement Program application for Jefferson Road and Honeylocust Drive. The Council will also take up the first reading of an ordinance to rezone 304 2nd Street West from low‑density residential to downtown commercial.
During the regular agenda, Councilmembers will weigh approval of plans and specifications for the 2026 Mill and Overlay and Mill Towns State Trail Improvements Project—signaling the start of the bidding process. Another major item is a resolution urging MnDOT to incorporate improved pedestrian and bicycle safety into the forthcoming Highway 3 bridge replacements scheduled for 2032 and 2033.
The evening concludes with reports from the mayor and council followed by the City Administrator’s update. A brief work session will follow, focused on financial review priorities and process planning.
