Anne Koliha

The council discussed the ongoing water and utility infrastructure system challenges, including recent leaks and plans for future projects. Administrative reports covered the progress on the 2025 financial audit, updates to the wellhead protection plan, and coordination for environmental sampling at the wastewater treatment plant. Public works updates focused on equipment and infrastructure near the water tower. The planning commission reported on reviews of building permits and potential revisions to zoning ordinances. The council approved the submission of project documents to the USDA Rural Development, authorized a resolution for a Public Facilities Authority application, approved a building permit for the historical society, and granted a pay increase for the Public Works Director.

The council discussed various city updates, including progress on the street and utility project, a clean report for the 2025 financial audit, and upcoming improvements to the local ballfield. The Public Works department received consensus on the selection of siding for the new well pump house. Additionally, the council reviewed options for the future of the Mitson House lot, approved two resolutions regarding write-in vote counting and the scheduling of a public hearing for street and alley vacations, and authorized a step increase for a Public Works maintenance worker.

The council discussed the status of local street and utility improvement projects, including permitting progress and easement acquisition. The Fire Department received authorization for a $60,000 purchase of a new grass rig truck and skid unit. The meeting included the approval of a salary step increase for the Deputy Clerk. Additionally, resolutions were passed regarding the adoption of the Minnesota Paid Leave policy and the authorization of indebtedness to support water, wastewater, and street infrastructure improvements.

The public hearing addressed the adoption of a five-year street construction plan and the proposed issuance of a general obligation note, capped at $1,539,000, to facilitate project financing through a USDA Community Facilities Loan. Key discussion points included inquiries regarding potential water rate increases, impact on property taxes, bidding timelines, and the projected start date for construction.

Key discussions included explanations regarding the city's 7% levy setting, which was positioned below the Minnesota average to keep the property owners' portion of the street project affordable without resorting to special assessments. The Deputy Clerk reminded members about license and permit renewals. The Clerk reported on ongoing work for the Street and Utility Improvement Project, including reviewing plans for the well and wellhouse and preparing for a solid waste tax audit by the MN Department of Revenue. The Public Works Director reported on the wastewater treatment facility audit and ongoing water main break repairs. The Fire Department established a truck committee to review equipment options. In New Business, the Council approved Resolution 2026-01 for Annual City Appointments for 2026 and Resolution 2026-02 to adopt the 2025 Fillmore County Hazard Mitigation Plan. Authorization was also granted to WHKS to submit Well and Wellhouse documents to USDA Rural Development for review.