Sheila Craig, president of the historical society, reviewed the Preston Historic Campus and Riverfront Master Plan at the city council’s July 21 meeting.
The plan has been prepared by Widseth Planning and Engineering. It was developed with contributions from PHS, the city council, EDA, zoning, tourism, chamber of commerce, community foundation, and residents. Widseth previewed a conceptual plan in the spring of 2023. It started with an inventory and analysis of community amenities.
The boundaries of the plan begin at TH 52, continue through town to the western boundary at the trailhead (a two plus mile riverfront within the city). PHS is working with the DNR. Some of the property recommended for public acquisition, if available, will provide river access, park amenities, naturalization, and stream stabilization. Craig stressed there will be no use of eminent domain. The plan shows future possible development sites. The South Branch of the Root River and karst geology are key features in the Preston community.
The Depot Museum and Riverfront Center (DMRC) will be a permanent home for PHS. The Depot Museum will look similar to the original depot on the outside. It will be a museum and an activity center for residents, groups and businesses. The Master Plan includes four segments: River West, Town Riverfront, History Campus/Rail Yard and River East.
A soft opening of the Depot Museum is scheduled for October 4.
City Attorney Joe O’Koren said he had no issue with the city council passing a resolution in support of the Master Plan. He didn’t advise the council to formally adopt the plan, because the council didn’t have control over the process.
The council unanimously approved a resolution expressing their support for the Master Plan prepared by PHS. The city supports “the vision and recommendations contained in the Preston Historic Campus and Riverfront Master Plan.”
Mayor Kurt Reicks called it “a very nice plan, a great vision.” Reicks added we support what is best for the city. Councilman Steve Hall said we are “doing old in a new way.” Craig noted they hope to have interactive displays along with the usual “stand and read” displays. Councilman Charles Sparks called this a community wide project; a lot of time, effort and money has been put into it.
Other Business in Brief
•The council decided to form a committee to negotiate with the PPEA over payment of a new 0.88% payroll tax, which will be used to fund a new benefit, Minnesota Paid Leave. The new benefit begins on January 1, 2026. Steve Hall volunteered to serve on this committee which will include Jim Bakken, Ryan Throckmorton and a utility commission member.
•A Code of Conduct was again discussed for the city council and other city boards and commissions. Councilman Dean Aug said it is a good idea to have some guard rails. Attorney Koren agreed that it is best to have some guidelines detailing what is considered to be misconduct. The Code of Conduct was approved as presented. It will apply to city council members and appointed members of city boards and commissions.
•A liquor license was approved for Blossom Hill Orchard.