Vadnais Heights approves conditional use permit and variances for proposed fire station amid strong public concern

The Vadnais Heights City Council voted to approve a conditional use permit, site plan and related variances for a proposed fire station at 3595 Arcade Street/800 East County Road E.

Community Development Director Nolan Wall presented Planning Case 26-3 and described the site, required variances and tree-planting adjustments. On a motion by Councilmember Kelly Jozwowski, seconded by Councilmember Jerry Moynagh, the Council adopted a resolution approving the conditional use permit, the site plan and requested variances; the motion carried by recorded voice vote in the meeting record.

During the public comment period, more than a dozen residents urged the Council to pause or reconsider the project. Liz Stein asked the Council to prioritize firefighter health and the need for a new station; Mark Haider said residents had limited input at public workshops and expressed concern about future staffing changes; Gary Auge, a 37-year fire department veteran, said the existing building is insufficient; Craig Johnson requested a moratorium on spending until voters have a chance to weigh in. Several speakers, including Terry Nyblom, raised concerns about the City hiring outside counsel and the use of taxpayer funds related to referendum or ballot-question strategies.

The resolution approved the site plan and variances necessary for development to proceed; transcript notes show the vote as passed by the Council. The Council did not record additional limitations on construction timing or financing as part of the action in the meeting record.

Next steps identified in the discussion: project approvals permit the developer and the City to proceed with the planning approvals on the approved site; staff will follow normal permitting and project steps for implementation, including any building permits or conditions imposed through the development review process.