City of Baker

The meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. Old business involved reporting on a meeting with the County Commission regarding a debt/land trade, leading to the approval of a draft memorandum prepared by the City Attorney. Under new business, the King family was approved for the Citizen of the Year award, and recognition was given for the passing of former Mayor Ronnie Shepherd. The Council discussed filling open positions on the Board of Adjustments and the Zoning Commission, noting a need for a sanitarian in Fallon County. The Mayor announced plans for summer projects, including repairs to the cold storage building, and noted that another councilor would lead the next meeting in his absence.

The meeting addressed several agenda items. In new business, the council reviewed and approved staff reports concerning the proposed Griffith Development with stated amendments, and approved a lot aggregation survey for Rod and Patty Morris. Key discussion focused on the land trade with the county, including responsibilities for sewer and water lines outside city limits and the financial implications, leading to an agreement to move forward with a proposal for the City to meet with the County. The council also reviewed and agreed that the Mayor would sign off on and return the Fallon County/City of Baker/City of Plevna planning board by-laws to the county. The Police Department reported sending an officer to the academy. The Mayor reported that planning stages are underway for upcoming infrastructure projects for streets and alleys.

Key discussions during the meeting included the approval of a new three-year term for a member of the Little Beaver Conservation District board. The council approved a change to the Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy to include all equipment operators, not just those with a CDL. Furthermore, the council approved moving forward with the Walk Kreager Park improvements. The Fallon County DES/911 Coordinator reported that the siren activation policy authority would be extended to the Mayor, Police Department, and Fire Department, and that a replacement for the compromised Code RED system is being researched. The Mayor noted that the post office is planning for the future location of Baker, and he requested discussion on a land trade with the county at the subsequent meeting.

Key discussions during the meeting included the execution of the contract with Slagter Home Renovations for the cold storage building repair, which has a scheduled start date in January 2026. The council also addressed the condition of a sewer line, passing a motion for the City Attorney to investigate the legalities of securing stipulation funds for repairs. The date for the city Christmas party was moved to February 7, 2026, due to a venue conflict. Department inputs were provided by the Fire Department, Police Department, and Clerk/Treasurer regarding the November financials. The Mayor noted a road closure request to set up a mobile unit for the post office.

The council discussed the interlocal court clerk agreement with the county, a Grid United grant for McClain Park improvements, and resolutions to adopt MMIA as the city's insurance carrier. They also addressed the 2025-2026 sweeping contract rate increase, a request for a city office credit card, and the appointment of Cris Beckers as Urban Supervisor. Further discussions covered re-establishing an alley for garbage pickup, a Brosz Engineering task order for property line establishment, and changes to health insurance election options. The Fire Department reported a grass fire, and updates were given on the junk vehicles program, emergency preparedness, public works projects, unmarked police vehicles, and the city/county property exchange.