Summary

Richfield City Council Work Session: Nicollet Avenue cost-share update and proposed 2026 legislative priorities

RichfieldNov 25, 20252 min read

At a glance

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Council received an update on Nicollet Avenue cost-share negotiations with Hennepin County, supported continuing negotiations, and gave consensus to advance the top proposed 2026 legislative priorities including bonding requests for Nicollet Avenue and an emergency water interconnect.

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City Council

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TransportationBudget & TaxPublic SafetyHousingUtilities

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Key decisions

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Council supported continuing negotiations with Hennepin County on the Nicollet Avenue cost-share and moving forward so the County can bid the project early next year, noting delays could increase costs and disruption.
Council noted the County re-evaluated project items, reducing the City's estimated direct payment to the County to just under $8.7 million, plus approximately $700,000 in City staff costs (County share of $2.5 million not included in current documents).
Council consensus to adopt the top four proposed 2026 legislative priorities, including making 4d(1) aid permanent and available to all impacted cities; modifying or repealing 2024 legislation regarding city rental licensing for state-licensed group assisted living facilities; supporting stronger state action to reduce gun violence; and reducing local financial obligations/long-term maintenance responsibilities for county and state projects.
Council supported two bonding priorities identified in the packet: $10 million for Nicollet Avenue and $2.5 million for the Richfield–Minneapolis emergency water connection.
Council emphasized documenting the City's cooperation and continuing to press for a more equitable county cost-participation policy in anticipation of future projects (e.g., Penn Avenue).

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Meeting information

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City Council Work Session

Nov 25, 2025, 5:15 PMRichfield Municipal Center, Bartholomew Conference Room, 6700 Portland Avenue, Richfield MN 55423completed

Agenda

1. Call to Order
2. Item Discussion
a. Consider Richfield's Proposed 2026 Legislative Priorities
1A. Executive Summary 1B. Historical Context | attachments=2 | reports=1
Decision: Item Discussion
b. Update on Hennepin County's Nicollet Avenue Cost Share
1A. Executive Summary 1B. Historical Context | attachments=2 | reports=1
Decision: Item Discussion
3. Adjournment