City Council Meeting 6/15/2026

The City Council meeting of Rochester, MN on June 15, 2026, included discussions on several procurement and budget-related topics. A key agenda item was the public hearing and subsequent approval of a resolution to issue conduit multifamily housing revenue bonds up to $70 million to finance a 252-unit affordable housing development by Devco Rochester. The bonds are tax-exempt and secured solely by the borrower's assets, posing no financial risk to the city. Additionally, the council considered applying for a FEMA Safer Grant to fund the hiring of additional firefighters to meet National Fire Protection Agency staffing standards. The grant would cover 75% of costs for the first two years and 35% in the third year, with the city responsible for full costs thereafter, estimated at $2.5 million annually by year four. Council members discussed the budget implications, growth pressures, and public safety needs, ultimately supporting the grant application while acknowledging future funding challenges. The meeting also included motions to remove an agenda item related to the Destination Medical Center Corporation for later discussion and various public comments on city events and safety concerns.