Why Did I Get This Public Hearing Notice?

One of the most direct ways the City of Monticello influences the growth of our city is by making decisions about how land will be developed. Monticello officials adopted a subdivision ordinance and zoning ordinance to regulate land use in the community. This helps us maximize the potential of the land and limit conflicts between uses. 

While the ordinances provide structure for future growth, public input remains an important part of the process. MN state statutes require local jurisdictions to prepare public hearing notices when land use controls are proposed to change; in some cases when local government reviews a proposed land use, and when project funding includes potential assessments to benefiting private properties. 

Public hearing notices are posted to the City’s website and published in the City’s official newspaper, the Monticello Times.?They are also sent directly to property owners in the project vicinity. 

This means that from time to time, you may receive a public hearing notice by mail.?If you choose to participate, you’re providing an additional local perspective to the process. Before voting, city leaders receive background information, analysis of the proposal, and details about local regulations; but the hearings are the public’s opportunity to speak directly to local officials.

Public hearings are a formal process to confirm Monticello follows all state regulations, but we strive to provide helpful information, so the public feels welcome participating. If you receive mailed notice of a public hearing, it will tell you what the subject is, when the hearing will occur, and where you can find more information. We also encourage you to use the resources on our website or reach out to staff at city hall if you have additional questions.

DATE:           May 26, 2022

                      For Immediate Release

CONTACT:  Rachel Leonard

                      (763) 295-2711 | rachel.leonard@ci.monticello.mn.us

Monticello Updates Recreational Motor Vehicle Ordinance

On Monday, May 23 City Council adopted an update to the City’s Recreational Motor Vehicle ordinance. The changes include increased opportunities for use of recreational vehicles within the city as well as a new permitting system for Class 1 ATVs, Class 2 ATVs, and golf carts. The new permits cost $25 for three years. Applications for permitting will be available June 1 in City Hall. Upon registration, residents will be given a sticker that must be displayed on their vehicles.

Once permitted, Class 1 ATVs and golf-carts will be allowed to operate on designated city streets. Approved streets are those classified as local, are under Monticello’s jurisdiction, and have a speed limit of 30 mph or less. Carts and Class 1 ATVs are not permitted to travel down County, State, or roads built with State-Aid funds. The City of Monticello Class 1 ATV/Golf Cart Street Map showing approved areas will be available at City Hall as well as on the City’s website. 

Class 2 ATVs (UTVs) will continue to be allowed to operate per state statute.

When considering the ordinance changes, City staff worked with Wright County Sheriff’s Office to prioritize public safety while expanding the use of recreational vehicles in the community. Documentation, like the displayable stickers, and a permitting system will provide WCSO officers with a visual aid when monitoring ATVs and golf carts in our community. 

Additionally, motorized foot scooters, segways or electric personal assistive mobility devices, and electric assisted bicycles (1,000 watts or less) were added to the ordinance and may be operated within the City of Monticello per the state statute.

“We’re trying to really allow people to recreate in the community in a way that hasn’t been previously allowed, and this is a way to do it in a safe manner. We have a vibrant community with various busy roadways; we want to be responsible and keep safety at the forefront in now allowing the use of recreational vehicles,” said City Clerk Jennifer Schreiber.

Please review the City’s Ordinance for additional information and further clarification.