The goal of this page is to be a one-stop shop for Fridley residents to access the information they need about the city. As you can see, we are still adding information. In the meantime, if you don't find what you are looking for on this page, you may want to check the Frequently Asked Questions section, or try the search box at the top. If you still can't find what you need, or have suggestions for additions or changes to this page, please let us know.

• Government
• History

Government

Form of Government

The City of Fridley has a Council-Manager form of government. Under this form of government, the elected City Council sets the policies for the operation of the city. The day-to-day administrative responsibility of the city rests with the City Manager who is appointed by the city council and oversees the operations of the various city departments. The city council meets two evenings every month to discuss and vote on issues.

The City of Fridley is also under the jurisdiction of several other layers of government, including County, State, and Federal, and is represented by several other officials at those levels.

City Charter

The framework that defines the structure of the city and under which the city operates is called the City Charter. The City Charter specifies things like the structure of the city council, including how and when elections are to be held and how candidates are nominated, the powers and duties of the city canager, budget and taxation issues, and the operation of public utilities like water.

City Code

The day-to-day laws within the city, as defined by the city council, are contained within the City Code. The City Code is a codified set of documents specifying regulations regarding topics including licensing, health and safety, building and zoning, utilities.

City Commissions

The city also has several commissions that help guide the direction of the city. The commissions work on everything from the City Charter to the oversight of city parks.

History

What follows is a brief summary of Fridley's history. For a detailed history of Fridley, click here.

• In 1847, John Banfill became Fridley's first settler when he built the Banfill Tavern. At that time, the area was called Manomin.
• In 1851, Abram M. Fridley, for whom the city was named, settled in Manomin.
• In 1879 the name was changed to Fridley by act of the Minnesota State Legislature.
• In 1947, Fridley was incorporated as a village. The first Mayor was Carl Hartman who also served as the first police chief and fire chief.
• In 1957, the Village of Fridley became a Home Rule Charter City. About the same time, Fridley experienced an industrial boom. By 1960, Fridley's population swelled to 15,182 residents.
• On May 6, 1965, Fridley was literally devastated by three tornadoes. One of every four homes was destroyed or damaged. Under the leadership of Mayor Nee and countless other people, the city was rebuilt and again became a prosperous community.
• In 1973, Springbrook Nature Center opened.
• In 1974, Fridley '49er Days started in celebration of the City's 25th anniversary.
• In 1996, a tornado ripped through the Springbrook Nature Center.