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Residents press council to save Hagstrom-King ballfield and reconsider municipal campus scale
Summary
Dozens of residents told the Mendota Heights City Council they oppose tearing down the existing municipal building and want the Hagstrom-King Park ballfield preserved; speakers raised cost, tax impacts, and the possibility of a referendum while some residents urged investment for police safety.
A large portion of public comment at the July 7 Mendota Heights City Council meeting focused on the proposed municipal campus and the potential loss of the Hagstrom-King Park ballfield. Multiple residents said they oppose demolishing the existing facility, urged renovation or alternate siting, and warned the Council that they could pursue a referendum if the field is removed or costs remain high.
Residents cited different aspects of concern. Shane Wright (1908 Glenhill Rd), a developer, recommended considering a two-story building and additional borings on the property's east side to reduce cost and improve soil confidence. “Most city halls are two stories, as it is less costly to build and maintain,” Wright said. Other speakers, including John Nides (who referenced 368 resident signatures submitted to the City) and Lynn Burrow (1219 Victoria Curve), specifically urged preservation of the ballfield and more resident input.
Opponents tied the project to personal tax impacts and broader fiscal trends. Bernard Friel noted an approximate 35% increase in the City budget over five years and warned of cumulative cost pressures from county and other assessments. Several speakers said they would pursue a petition or referendum if their concerns were not addressed; Jerry Slayer called for the City to better explain the project's justification to voters.
Councilors acknowledged the concerns and said they would continue to seek options that could preserve the field while addressing Police Department needs. Councilor Maczko said staff and council must present answers to the outstanding questions, and Councilor Lorberbaum said she had initiated a meeting with TRAA and the Mendota Heights Community Foundation to explore relocation and funding options.
