August 3rd Council Update

The August 3rd City Council meeting had a few heated moments centering on the issue of Brian Iverson’s continued membership on the EDA. Council Member Johnson acknowledges he has a conflict of interest since he is doing work for Mr. Iverson. Council Member Johnson did however continue to speak on Mr. Iverson’s behalf during the discussion. This is a violation of the City of Isanti Conflict of Interest Policy. I question him on this and he continued to speak. I stated the following reasons for my objections to his continued EDA membership:

1. Iverson is developing large tracts of residential and commercial property giving him tremendous financial and political power in Isanti.

2. As an EDA member Iverson can steer the city into buying parcels of land.

3. He is unable to clearly understand what a conflict of interest is. The point was made in the joint session meeting of July 19th that he would know when a conflict arises. Two examples from a recent EDA meeting: According to the EDA minutes of June 28th he was intent on acting as an agent for the city in land negotiation. According to the EDA minutes of June 28th he wanted the city to buy the golf course so it is not developed. Iverson owns considerable land abutting the golf course. Leaving the golf course as is would reduce competition for his residential development. Residential property abutting a golf course general has an increased value.

4. As an EDA member Iverson has unequaled access to council members and city staff.

5. As a member of an appointed body Iverson has been given the cities stamp of approval.

6. This position puts all others who are in competition with Iverson at a dramatic disadvantage.

7. The City of Isanti should show no favoritism to any developer who currently has projects before the city.

8. Finally the idea that the largest developer in Isanti is also contracting with a City Council Member is in itself a troubling issue.

Mayor Apitz and Council Member Sue Larson also defended Mr. Iverson’s continued EDA Membership. After the debate I motioned to remove Mr. Iverson from the EDA. Council Member Kennedy seconded the motion. The Mayor and Council Member Larson voted against with Johnson abstaining. The vote of 2-2 means the motion fails. Mr. Iverson will continue on the EDA