SUNFISH LAKE CITY COUNCIL MEETING – AUGUST 7, 2012
7:00 P.M. - ST. ANNE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Attendants:
Mayor: Richard Williams
Councilmembers: Mike Hovey and JoAnne Wahlstrom
City Attorney: Tim Kuntz
City Engineer: Don Sterna
City Treasurer: Mike Blair
City Planner: Alan Brixius
Building Inspector: David Neameyer
City Forester: Jim Nayes
Investigator: Matt Muellner
City Clerk: Cathy Iago
and Members of the General Public.
Councilmember Judy MacManus was absent and Councilmember Roger Conant arrived at 7:40 p.m.
1. CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Williams opened the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
2. APPROVE AGENDA: Mayor Williams asked if there were any additions or corrections to the agenda and there was no response.
Councilmember Wahlstrom moved approval of the Agenda, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (3-0)
3. CONSENT AGENDA: The Mayor asked if there were any questions or comments relating to any items on the Consent Agenda and there was no response.
Councilmember Hovey moved approval of the Consent Agenda, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (3-0)
a. Regular Council Meeting Minutes of July 10, 2012 as amended.
b. List of Bills
c. Monthly Financials
4. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: Mayor Williams asked if there were any comments from the public and there was no response.
5. PUBLIC HEARING: None.
6. PLANNING COMMISSION/PLANNER’S REPORT: a. Variance and Major Site and Building Plan Review; 2144 Charlton Road, Prange/Klarer: Planner Brixius explained that the variance is required because applicants propose a slight increase in the footprint with the addition by 28 sq. ft.; technically this is considered an increase in the degree of non-conformity and the Zoning Ordinance only allows the increase through a variance. He advised that the home exists as a legal non-conformity in regard to the setback from the lake shoreline; the City Code requires a 200 ft. shoreline setback from the ordinary high water line and the home presently exhibits a 160 ft. setback from the shoreline. He stated the proposed addition would not increase the degree of setback non-conformity, even though both the footprint and vertical dimensions of the space are proposed to be slightly expanded. He noted that the proposed dormer does not exceed the height requirements of the City Code. He further stated that there are no plans for expansion below the deck.
The Planner stated that the Planning Commission held a public hearing and reviewed this matter at their June meeting. He advised that the Commission recommended approval, with conditions. He explained that the Commission included a condition that the applicants submit construction grade drawings prior to Council review; the applicant has done so. He stated he wished to discuss this with Council to clarify if this is a requirement.
The Planner further explained that the applicants had responded to the Engineer’s comments and that the plans are in compliance with the Engineer’s recommendations. He stated that the applicants and their architect were present to respond to questions.
Staff recommends approval of the requests with conditions as listed in the findings of fact resolution.
The Mayor asked if there were any questions.
Councilmember Hovey asked why the applicants were required to submit construction drawings.
The Planner explained that one of the Commissioners had previously submitted an application and was required to provide construction grade drawings; therefore, he suggested the applicants also be required to do so for their request. He pointed out that the City “checklist” distributed to applicants for this type of request does not require construction grade drawings, unless the Planning Commission recommends denial prior to Council review.
Mayor Williams agreed and noted that normally construction grade drawings are only submitted with new home construction applications.
Council concurred that formal drawings are not necessary with this type of application.
The Mayor asked if there was any further discussion and there was no response.
Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to approve the Major Site and Building Plan Review and Variance to Allow a Home Addition and Expansion within the Required 200 foot Shoreline Setback for the Prange-Klarer Home at 2144 Charlton Road, based on the findings of fact and subject to conditions as listed in the Planner’s Report and further to direct the Planner to draft a resolution for adoption at the next meeting, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (3-0)
b. Planning Report: Planner Brixius reviewed his report dated August 2, 2012. He stated that the Planning Commission will meet next week to discuss an application for property located at 2400 Delaware. The application includes installation of a swimming pool, spa, cabanas with fireplaces, a toilet room, an outdoor shower, an outdoor grill area and landscaping and screening. He explained the project would also include fencing and gates, rain garden installation, driveway gate and gate posts and expansion of the driveway pavement. He noted this project would require applications for Major Site/Building Plan Review and two Conditional Use Permits for the security gates and accessory buildings.
The Planner advised that an application relating to the teardown of the existing home at 345 Salem Church Road to accommodate the construction of a new home would also be reviewed. He explained that the applicant wishes to maintain the current non-conforming 80 ft. building setback from the shoreline of Sunfish Lake. He stated that this property was discussed with the Planning Commission and Council prior to directing the applicant on the necessary applications for a Major Site/Building Plan review and Variance from the 200 ft. shoreland setback. He advised that the project architect was instructed to contact the City Engineer to address grading and drainage issues and the City Septic Inspector for on-site sewer inspection and standards. He noted that the home will be large in volume since it is a 2-story with a basement.
Mayor Williams asked if there would be sight elevation concerns from the neighbors. The Planner stated he is unsure and advised that he plans to send the information to the adjacent neighbors for their review. He noted that the plan does meet the height requirement and that the applicant has attempted to soften the view by appearance of the design and orientation of the home.
Councilmember Hovey asked if the plans include expansion of the footprint. The Planner responded no, and explained that the proposed footprint follows the existing home footprint. He noted that the main concern would be the height of the structure, which is approximately 26 ft.; he stated that the structure would have the appearance of a 3-story building from the lakeshore view.
The Mayor asked if the City has the authority to grant a variance based on the new regulations recently adopted.
The City Attorney responded that the City ordinance now complies with the recently adopted legislation since there would be practical difficulties due to the lot size. The Planner agreed and noted that the building pad would be eliminated if the 200 ft. setback requirement were applied to the application.
The Planner reviewed other inquiries received:
2250 Delaware Avenue: This property consists of three lots in the Angell Acres subdivision; the person inquired about combining the lots and if the existing home on the site could be torn down and a new home built at the same location. The existing home does not meet the 200 ft. shoreland setback and therefore, the person was informed that a plat, easement vacation and variance would be required. The property owner wishes to combine the parcels for a larger property and for tax purposes.
393 Salem Church Road: The property owner wishes to add on to the existing non-conforming attached garage; the building fails to meet the 100 ft. front yard setback requirement. The property owner was advised that expansion of the attached garage could not occur without a variance and that they could pursue a detached garage on the property.
Sunfish Lake Water Quality: A property owner raised concern over clear cutting the shoreland impact area and what impact this would have on the lake water quality. Staff is following up on a lot that may have been altered and also preparing an article on shoreland preservation for the City newsletter.
The Planner stated that at the July Council meeting, the Mayor raised two issues:
The 2010 Census identified a triplex in the city; staff research property data from the Dakota County and also cross-checked all parcels in their database to confirm that no duplexes or triplexes exist within the City limits. He commented that he was unsure how the Census Bureau obtained this information.
Back-Up Generators are not specifically mentioned in the Zoning Ordinance, however, there are two sections that may apply for regulation purposes; Section 1218.04: Screening of Mechanical Equipment and Section 1216.12; Exterior Storage. The Planner explained that in all zoning districts, all materials and equipment shall be stored within a building or fully screened so as not to be visible from adjoining properties and local street rights-of-way.
Planner Brixius introduced Planner Michelle Barness and explained that she was recently hired by Northwest Associated Consultants and may be assigned to Sunfish Lake.
Council thanked the Planner for his report.
7. INSPECTOR’S REPORTS: a. Building Inspector: Building Inspector David Neameyer informed Council that there were six (6) building permits issued in July.
Mayor Williams asked if there was anything to report on the Dobranz property and the Inspector responded no.
Council thanked the Building Inspector for his report.
b. City Engineer: Engineer Sterna reviewed his report dated August 3, 2012.
Prepared the 2013 Draft Public Works Budget: Engineer Sterna advised that he prepared the 2013 draft public works budget for discussion at the Special council meeting earlier this evening. He stated the budget included costs for preparing a feasibility study for the 2014 Street Improvement project outlined in the 2012 CIP.
Pieper Road Sign Replacement: The Engineer advised he received a call from the City of Inver Grove Heights asking if Sunfish Lake would be willing to share the costs for replacement of signs along Pieper Road. The total cost of approximately $750 would be split between the two cities. He stated that Sunfish Lake has budgeted $2500 that was not spent this year and which could be used to pay for this work. He requested that Council approve the cost share with Inver Grove Heights.
Councilmember Hovey moved to approve the expenditure of $375 for the cost sharing for sign replacement along Pieper Road with the City of Inver Grove Heights, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (3-0)
Forester Nayes commented that there are several overgrown trees on the Inver Grove Heights side of Pieper Road and he suggested the Engineer ask their staff to trim them. The Engineer stated he would do so.
Mayor Williams commented that last winter there was a frost boil on that road that was repaired by Inver Grove Heights; he asked if Sunfish Lake will share the costs for the repairs. Engineer Sterna responded he had not been contacted about sharing the costs.
Finalized the 2012 CIP: Engineer Sterna stated the 2012 CIP was finalized based on the Council comments attached to this month’s engineer report. He asked that Council review the CIP prior to the meeting to finalize the document and stated that he would request Council approval later on the agenda so that the document could be used as a blue print for planning future infrastructure maintenance for the City.
Charlton Road Dust Complaint: The Engineer advised that he received a call last month from a resident on Charlton Road complaining about the dust; the individual stated they have severe dust allergies so this a continuous concern. He noted that there are monies available in the budget to apply a dust control agent on the surface of the road at of cost of approximately $1500. He asked is Council wished to have this work done in early August to provide relief since the City does not typically have snow cover until early to mid-November. He pointed out that the ideal time to apply this agent is in mid-June, however; if Council wishes to apply the dust control agent at this time, it would be effective for approximately three months before the normal snowfall event occurs.
There was discussion relating to what type of material would be used and whether or not this would be an appropriate time to apply the agent.
Councilmember Wahlstrom asked if it is too late in the season to apply the agent. The Engineer responded that there are still three months remaining before the first snowfall event; normally it is applied five months prior to a snowfall event.
Councilmember Hovey commented that Charlton Road needs constant maintenance; he noted that grading of the road creates dust and fines issues. Engineer Sterna agreed.
The Engineer explained that he also received an email from another resident along Charlton Road who asked if the dust agent was placed on the road earlier this year; the email explained that this resident also had dust allergies, but was not affected by dust from the road. The email asked if it would be a cost-effective solution since it is late in the year. He reiterated that there are still three months remaining before the first snowfall event occurs and asked if Council wished to authorize the expenditure to apply the agent.
Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to authorize the expenditure of $1,500 to apply a dust control agent on Charlton Road, seconded by Councilmember Hovey and carried. (3-0)
Public Works Activities Undertaken in the Month of July: Crack Seal : The Engineer stated that the contractor completed the crack sealing work at the end of July and used the total volume of sealant that was approved by Council. He noted they were able to finish all the work, with the exception of a short stretch along the north end of Angell Road. He advised that this area would be finished next year with the planned seal coat project. He advised that the amount approved by Council for this project was $17,000 and that $26,000 was budgeted. The paper work from the contractor will be finalized prior to submitting a payment voucher for Council approval at the September meeting.
Mayor Williams commented that Xcel Energy had repaired Acorn Drive damage resulting from electrical repair in response to the engineers call.
Charlton Road Ditch and Culvert Repairs: Engineer Sterna stated that Pine Bend Paving completed the clean out of eight (8) culverts, cleaned the sediment from the ditches and lightly re-graded Charlton Road. He stated the budgeted amount for this work was $1,950 for the ditch cleaning and approximately $275 per culvert cleaning; nine (9) culverts at a cost of $2075. The total cost for this year’s ditch and culvert cleaning project was $4,025.
Street Pavement Repair: Pine Bend Paving completed the street patching for this year in July. The amount budgeted for the year was $8,000 and Council approved $3,500. He explained that during the project he requested a few more areas be included, which increased the final cost to $4,000. He advised that although the project ran slightly over the approved costs for the project, he believes it was in the best interest of the City to repair these few additional areas this year. He asked if Council would take action to approve the additional monies spent on the project.
Councilmember Conant arrived at 7:40 p.m.
Attorney Kuntz suggested that Council could make a motion to approve the billing statement with the additional costs.
Councilmember Wahlstrom moved to approve the payment voucher in the amount of $4,000 to Pine Bend Paving for street repairs, seconded by Councilmember Hovey.
Councilmember Conant stated he would abstain from voting since he was not part of the discussion.
Motion carried. (Ayes: 3-Wahlstrom, Hovey, Williams; Nays: 0; Abstain: 1-Conant)
Anticipated Engineer/Public Works Activities’ for the Month of August: CIP Update: Engineer Sterna advised that at this time there are no planned City engineering activities for the month of August. He stated that he is currently finishing three (3) site reviews in the City.
The Engineer explained that grant monies from the DNR were authorized to review water quality on Sunfish Lake; he explained he is seeking two (2) representatives who live on the lake to participate in the review. He suggested Councilmember Conant serve as one of the representatives and that Council seek another person to participate.
Councilmember Conant stated he would be interested in participating and that he would attempt to recruit another person that lives on the lake. Engineer Sterna stated he would forward information to Councilmember Conant.
Council thanked the Engineer for his report.
c. CITY FORESTER: Forester Nayes stated he had not issued any burning permits since his last report. He noted there is no new information regarding emerald ash borer and that he continues to monitor other possible DED and oak wilt diseased trees in the City.
The Forester stated that several residents had requested consultations regarding tree issues such as removal of cottonwood trees and declining spruce trees, Japanese beetle infestations and boxelder bugs. He advised that he has continued tree pruning along Salem Church Road and will do so throughout the summer.
Forester Nayes advised that Harmon Park trail had been mowed to give access to patches of burdock that are being managed by mowing or cutting flower stalks; by preventing seed production, burdock infestations are reduced without using herbicides in City parks.
The Forester advised that he found information relating to wildfires in Minnesota while doing research; he pointed out that this information maybe valuable to Sunfish Lake residents who have concerns regarding homes being too close to trees and private driveways that have limited accessibility to emergency equipment.
After a brief discussion, Mayor Williams suggested the Forester discuss this matter with the Fire Chief and prepare information for residents. He also suggested that Forester Nayes check with Dakota County to determine if they have any information on this subject; he commented that the county near his lake home has a “Firewise” program.
Forester Nayes agreed to do more research and commented that he could prepare materials for distribution to residents in the City newsletter and in conjunction with the Arbor Day event.
Council thanked the Forester for his report.
PUBLIC SAFETY: Mayor Williams reviewed the public safety report dated July 26, 2012. He explained that Chief Shaver was attending the National Night Out/Night to Unite activities in West St. Paul this evening.
The Mayor explained that the county dispatcher had the wrong street address for Harmon Park. He advised that the Engineer was directed to work with Dakota County to identify an address for Harmon Park; Engineer Sterna stated he was attempting to contact the County.
8. NEW/OTHER BUSINESS: a. Consider Approval of 2013-2018 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP): Mayor Williams explained that the CIP was prepared by the City Engineer to be used as a planning tool and budgeting document for future improvement projects over the next 5-years. He stated that the costs for the City to accomplish these improvement projects would increase, however; the City tax base would not increase substantially since there are no businesses and limited land available for residential development. He advised that the City Engineer had completed an inventory of the City infrastructure and rated the streets, culverts and ditches that need repair; these repairs were then scheduled over a 10-year period of time. The Mayor advised that the document would be used as a guide for future improvements and to establish a budget for these items; however, he explained that the document may be changed if emergency situations arise or if funds are not available to complete the project in the year appointed. For example, he noted that one street in town was constructed as a bituminous road, but it only serves one home. As a result, he indicated that Council may determine it is not cost-effective to repair the road with bituminous surface and may decide to use gravel instead.
Engineer Sterna thanked the Mayor for the explanation of the CIP. He stated that most cities review this document on an annual basis and that an inventory of the City infrastructure is completed every three years. He pointed out that some of the culverts in the City are at least 50 years old and were constructed with corrugated metal, which has reached the end of its life-span. He indicated that some culverts are scheduled for repair and that he proposes to replace the culverts along Angell Road in conjunction with future roadway improvements.
The Engineer reviewed the upcoming projects slated in the five-year plan and advised that the costs for the larger projects would be paid for with a combination of bonds, assessments and the City tax levy. He explained that a feasibility study would be done prior to ordering a project to determine if the project would be cost effective and if it would show benefit to property owners.
Engineer Sterna further explained that the document assists the City with planning and therefore lessens spikes in the annual budget and keeps the tax levy on a more even path. He explained that he would prepare a feasibility study for any projects slated in the upcoming year and this report would define the costs, financing options and proposed assessments; after the study is prepared. The City would then conduct public hearings to inform those affected properties of the scope and costs for the project. He noted that after the public hearing, Council has the option to order the project, delay the project or reject the project. He offered to respond to questions.
The Mayor advised that Council had discussed the preliminary budget for 2013 at a study meeting earlier this evening. He advised those present that Council has attempted to adjust the budget to keep the annual tax levy on a more even path.
Councilmember Conant suggested that the CIP be reviewed and updated on an annual basis. Council concurred.
Attorney Kuntz asked if Council wished to approve the document this evening. Mayor Williams indicated that the Engineer should make the adjustments for projects that were discussed at the budget study meeting prior to its approval.
Councilmember Conant asked the significance of approving the document since it is only a planning tool. Attorney Kuntz explained that staff would bring forth proposals based on this approved document.
Engineer Sterna commented that after the improvements scheduled in 2014 for Windy Hill Road and Salem Church Road, the City infrastructure should be in good condition with no major projects scheduled for several years.
Mayor Williams asked if there were any questions or comments and there was no response.
b. Discuss Deer Management Program for 2012: The Mayor asked Councilmember Hovey to present the Deer Management Committee report.
Councilmember Hovey provided a summary of the committee discussions and recommendations.
Attorney Kuntz suggested that Council divide discussion into two separate items; 1) the contract with the Metro Bow Hunters, and, 2) hunting by residents on private and/or public land.
In discussion, Mr. Nayes advised that there was opposition regarding hunting at Harmon Park due to its close proximity to residential properties. He noted that one resident, who is a hunter, was also opposed to hunting in this area. Investigator Muellner agreed that hunting only in Harmon Park may provide some safety concerns, but if hunting were allowed on adjacent properties to the park it may be feasible.
After a brief discussion Council concurred to eliminate Harmon Park as an area for hunting.
Councilmembers, Investigator Muellner and Attorney Kuntz reviewed the contract with the Metro Bow Hunters and discussed the hunting procedures for residents of Sunfish Lake. After discussion, Council directed the City Attorney to incorporate the following provisions and conditions in the 2012 Deer Management Program:
Metro Bowhunters Resource Base, Inc. (Metro Bowhunters) will be allowed to hunt deer only in the following areas:
a. Within the boundaries of Musser Park;
b. Within the boundaries of the Russ Wahl wetland; and
c. Within the boundaries of private properties where the city has received permission from the landowner to hunt
on the landowner’s private property.
· Signs will be posted at Musser Park and at the Russ Wahl Wetland at access points to alert others to the fact that hunting is occurring.
· With respect to hunting by Metro Bowhunters, signs will be posted at private landowner property where hunting is occurring to alert others to the fact that hunting is occurring. The signs will be located generally at access points.
· Metro Bowhunters will only be allowed to hunt on October 5, 6 and 7, 2012 and on October 26, 27 and 28, 2012 and on November 6, 7 and 8, 2012.
· Hunting by Metro Bowhunters must occur from elevated tree stands; no hunting may occur from ground blinds.
· If a deer has been shot on an eligible area but leaves the eligible area to go on to adjoining properties, Metro Bowhunters will make a reasonable effort to seek permission from the adjoining landowner(s) to track and complete the kill of the deer. If permission is denied, Metro Bowhunters will not proceed on the adjoining property; in such an instance Metro Bowhunters will contact a Minnesota Conservation Officer or other law enforcement personnel to inform them that a wounded deer is in the area.
· With respect to Metro Bowhunters, there is no restriction on the number or gender of the deer that may be killed.
· With respect to the resident volunteer hunter program, the volunteer hunters must meet the following qualifications:
a. Must have achieved “sharp shooter” status as determined by the qualifications standards of Metro Bowhunters.
b. Must have completed a bowhunter safety course.
c. Must have a valid deer hunting license from the State of MN.
d. Must be a resident of the City of Sunfish Lake.
· The resident volunteer hunters may hunt deer from the time period of September 15, 2012 to and including December 31, 2012, but no hunting is allowed by the resident volunteer hunters on the following dates:
a. October 5, 6 and 7, 2012
b. October 18, 19, 20 and 21, 2012.
c. October 26, 27 and 28, 2012.
d. October 31, 2012.
e. November 6, 7 and 8, 2012.
f. November 22 and 23, 2012.
g. December 24 and 25, 2012.
· Resident volunteer hunters may only hunt deer on private properties where the City has received permission from the landowners to hunt on the landowners private property.
· With respect to hunting by resident volunteer hunters, signs will be posted at private landowner property where hunting is occurring to alert others to the fact that hunting is occurring. The signs will be located generally at access points.
· Hunting by resident volunteer hunters must occur from elevated tree stands; no hunting may occur from ground blinds.
· If a deer has been shot on an eligible area but leaves the eligible area to go on to adjoining properties, the resident volunteer hunters will make a reasonable effort to seek permission from the adjoining landowner(s) to track and complete the kill of the deer. If permission is denied, the resident volunteer hunters will not proceed on the adjoining property; in such an instance the resident volunteer hunters will contact a Minnesota Conservation Officer or other law enforcement personnel to inform them that a wounded deer is in the area.
· With respect to the resident volunteer hunters, there is no restriction on the number or gender of the deer that may be killed.
· The resident volunteer hunters will follow the same hunt rules contained in the contract between the City and Metro Bowhunters.
Mayor Williams asked if there was any further discussion and there was no response.
Attorney Kuntz stated he would make revisions to the document for formal adoption at the September Council meeting.
c. Discuss Payment Options for the Sunfish Lake Quarterly Newsletter: Clerk Iago explained that currently she is responsible for the printing and mailing costs associated with the City newsletter. She pointed out that she currently charges the costs to her personal credit card and therefore pays interest while waiting for reimbursement of the costs.
The Clerk asked if Council would authorize an increase in the petty cash amount rather than attempt to secure a City credit card to cover the costs for the newsletter.
Councilmember Conant asked how the monies would be tracked. The Treasurer explained that the Clerk submits the receipts for the petty cash expenditures and that he includes that information in the monthly financial reports.
The Mayor asked if there were any further questions and there was no response.
Councilmember Conant moved to authorize the Treasurer to increase the petty cash amount to $300 for the purpose of covering the costs of printing the City newsletter and for mailings associated with the agenda, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (4-0)
d. Discuss Providing Resident Mailing List for Election Candidates: Clerk Iago explained that during an election year she receives requests from City candidates to provide a mailing list of properties within the City. In the past, she has denied these requests as the mailing list also included unlisted telephone numbers; this information is protected by the Data Privacy Act. The current mailing list for the City newsletter now has only addresses for residents and she asked if Council would authorize providing this list to candidates for municipal offices. She explained that the State offers a list of registered voters to candidates at a cost of $30; she asked if Council wished to charge the same amount. She stated that the fee would include providing an email mailing list or labels.
Councilmember Conant suggested that the list be emailed to candidates and they could print the labels; he agreed that the fee should be $30 for either labels or the email.
Council concurred to authorize the Clerk to provide this information to candidates and set the fee at $30.00.
Councilmember Conant moved authorize the Clerk to provide a mailing list of residents to municipal election candidates at a cost of $30.00, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (4-0)
e. Consider Ratifying the Mayor’s Appointment of Tom Hendrickson to Planning Commission: Mayor Williams recommended appointment of Tom Hendrickson to fill the un-expired term of JoAnne Wahlstrom on the Planning Commission for the remainder of 2012.
Councilmember Hovey moved to ratify the appointment of Tom Hendrickson to fill the unexpired term of JoAnne Wahlstrom on the Planning Commission for the remainder of 2012 as recommended by the Mayor, seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (4-0)
f. Other: The Mayor asked if there was any further business and there was no response.
9. ADJOURN: Councilmember Hovey moved for adjournment at 9:05 p.m., seconded by Councilmember Wahlstrom and carried. (4-0)
___________________________ ___________________________
Richard A. Williams, Jr., Mayor Catherine Iago, City Clerk
We are a small community proud of our heritage and committed to the preservation of our pristine, rural character. We cherish our privacy, yet know we are part of a thriving Dakota County and the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area. With these partnerships in mind, we strive to preserve that unique spirit which is Sunfish Lake, Minnesota.