Coon Rapids City Council Takes Action On Community Initiatives and Funding

Coon Rapids City Council Takes Action On Community Initiatives and Funding

By MinneapoliMedia Staff | June 20, 2025

COON RAPIDS, MN — At its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, the Coon Rapids City Council addressed a range of community-focused items, including a mayoral proclamation, preparations for the upcoming Fourth of July festivities, a significant grant application for the police department, and the authorization of bonds for a local charter school.

Mayor Jerry Koch opened the meeting by reading a proclamation officially declaring June 17th as "Coon Rapids Women of Today Day." The proclamation recognized the local chapter of the Women of Today for their ongoing contributions to the community, including fundraising for local charities and providing educational seminars. The Coon Rapids Women of Today, established in 2016, are currently engaged in their "Pack the Pantry Summer Challenge," a food and hygiene item drive benefiting Hope for Youth, scheduled for Saturday, July 12th, at Riverdale Village.

In anticipation of the city's annual Fourth of July Celebration, the City Council approved the waiver of certain fees for the event. The popular celebration, which includes a parade, carnival, and fireworks display, is scheduled for July 2-4 at Boulevard Plaza. The fee waiver is intended to support the smooth execution of the multi-day event.

The council also held a public hearing for a grant application to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and subsequently approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) related to the funding. The grant, totaling nearly $13,000, is specifically earmarked for the Coon Rapids Police Department. These funds will be used to replace portable breath test (PBT) units in police squad cars, many of which are reportedly over 15 years old and in need of repair or replacement. This initiative aims to enhance the department's operational capabilities and public safety efforts.

Finally, the City Council authorized the issuance of conduit charter school lease revenue bonds. This action pertains to the refinancing and improvement of the Athlos Leadership Academy Project. The bonds, estimated not to exceed $26,000,000, will be used to redeem outstanding Charter School Lease Revenue Bonds from 2015, issued by the City of Brooklyn Park, and to fund deferred maintenance and improvements to the Athlos Leadership Academy facilities located at 10100 Noble Parkway North in Brooklyn Park. The public hearing regarding these bonds was held at the beginning of the council meeting.

All actions taken by the City Council on June 17 are consistent with their ongoing efforts to support community organizations, facilitate public events, ensure the safety and effectiveness of local law enforcement, and provide financial mechanisms for essential community services and infrastructure.

MinneapoliMedia