Cottage Grove City Council approves two ordinances and appoints commission members

In the heart of Cottage Grove, city council members gathered under the bright lights of city hall to address pressing community matters during their July 14, 2025, meeting. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation as councilors prepared to make decisions that would shape the future of their town.

The meeting kicked off with the unanimous approval of the consent agenda, a routine yet essential step in the council's proceedings. Councilor Irvin led the motion, which was swiftly seconded and passed without opposition, setting a collaborative tone for the evening.

As the council moved into more substantive discussions, Associate Planner Crow presented two significant ordinances aimed at amending the Cottage Grove Municipal Code. The first, Ordinance 3194, sought to update various sections of Title 14, a move recommended by the planning commission after a public hearing held on June 18, 2025. With a motion from Councilor Evan and a second, the ordinance was approved unanimously, reflecting the council's commitment to keeping local regulations current and effective.

Next on the agenda was Ordinance 3195, which proposed changes to the comprehensive plan land use diagram and zoning for a parcel located at 710 North Nineteenth Street. This amendment aimed to transition the land designation from commercial tourist to community commercial, alongside a zoning change to residential commercial. After a brief discussion, including a query about potential tax implications—which were clarified to remain unchanged—the council voted in favor of the ordinance, again achieving unanimous support.

The meeting also highlighted the council's dedication to community involvement through the appointment of new members to the planning and historic preservation commissions. Councilor Settlemeier, chair of the subcommittee that conducted interviews, recommended Jim Colton for the planning commission. Colton, a long-time resident eager to give back to his community, was appointed unanimously. Similarly, Matthew Hewlett was selected for the historic preservation commission, bringing fresh energy and a willingness to learn to the role.

As the meeting concluded, the council's decisions underscored a proactive approach to governance, emphasizing community engagement and thoughtful planning. With these new appointments and ordinance approvals, Cottage Grove continues to evolve, reflecting the needs and aspirations of its residents. The council's unanimous votes not only signal agreement but also a shared vision for a vibrant and inclusive future for the city.