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City of Gem Lake City Council Meeting Minutes April 21, 2026 2 will have updates to regulatory mechanism, standard operating procedures and the SWPPP is required to be completed within 12 months of the permit issuance. All program updates will be completed by late 2027. A motion by Councilmember Lindner, seconded by Councilmember Patrick to open the public hearing at 7:14 p.m. Motion carried 4-0. No public input was heard. A motion by Councilmember Lindner, seconded by Councilmember Patrick to close the public hearing at 7:15 p.m. Motion carried 4-0. B. Resolution 2026-010; Resolution Ordering Improvements and Authorizing Preparation of Plan and Specification for Improvement Project Gem Lake Municipal Water Phase I. Dustin Cefasky, SEH, presented information regarding the Gem Lake Municipal Water Phase I. The directional drilling costs for water service to dwellings are approximately $60.00 per linear foot and $2,500 for internal home connection. There will be additional fees for sealing of the well, however, the city is exploring funding options for this. There will be a water meter installed in each home that is compatible with the City of Vadnais Heights water system. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will determine water use requirements that align with Vadnais Heights’ appropriations. All irrigation regulations are requirements of the DNR. The sealing of resident’s wells is required by the Minnesota Department of Health and dwellings must be connected within two years of availability if using grant funds or five years otherwise. The total project cost is $2,519,100. The city has received two federal grants totaling $2,051,757, with matching funds of $410,351. This is a total of $2,462,108. There was a special benefit analysis completed, and the maximum parcel assessment is $14,250 per lot per parcel. The proposed assessment for residential properties is $0. For commercial property, the assessment is 10% of the appraised value or $122,750. Tonight there is a public improvement hearing and the council authorizing the preparation of plans and specifications. A motion by Councilmember Lindner, seconded by Councilmember Patrick to open the public hearing at 7:16 p.m. Motion carried 4-0. Pat Rottach, resident, asked where the pollution came from. Justin Gese, City Engineer stated the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency can assist with that question. They are currently studying that question. Carl Wallin, resident, asked about the additional funds. Mayor Artig-Swomley indicated the city received an additional Federal grant. Councilmember Johnson asked for clarification on the connection fee costs. Mr. Cefasky stated the cost is approximately $60.00 per linear feet from the curb stop to the home and approximately $2,500 for internal home connection. Gerald Urban, Vadnais Heights resident, asked to see the appraisal for his property and was wondering if a Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) has been approved. Justin Gese, SEH, indicated that the JPA is being reviewed by the attorneys currently.