Chris Hansch

The regularly scheduled monthly meeting for February 3, 2026, could not be held due to Caucus day in Minnesota. Consequently, the City Council resolved to approve a special meeting to be held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, to address the business that was scheduled for the originally planned meeting.

Key discussions during the meeting included a resident's request to allow backyard chickens, which the Council took under advisement pending further information gathering and polling. The Public Works department report covered ordering a 480kv transformer and planning for a future payloader purchase, along with Council approving funding for an employee's Class B driver's license training. The Council approved the purchase of a used 2018 squad car to replace a 2017 model and authorized the upgrade to four new Taser 10s with a new service contract. Approval was also granted for purchasing ConfiTrek tracking software for the police department. Due to an officer going on paternity leave, the need for part-time police support was raised. Additionally, the Council approved the 2026 meeting dates, numerous departmental and official designations for 2026, and the 2026 Fee Schedule with two specific changes (an electric rate increase and the implementation of a Video Request fee). Finally, a resolution was passed to accept various cash donations offered to the City and its departments.

The key discussions included approving the consent agenda, which involved switching commissioner assignments for RS Fiber and Water and Streets, and approving the February Treasurers Report and associated claims and payroll totaling $197,276.76. The Public Works report noted that sealcoating quotes would be ready for the March meeting and that work is underway to gather data for an online mapping system. The Police Department reported on monthly calls for service, training attendance, and the termination of partner status with the Southwest Drug Task Force for 2026. The Clerk reported on software installation, the completion of the 2025 Audit, and policy updates. The council decided to table discussion regarding the chicken survey until the April meeting pending data compilation. A resolution was adopted to approve a supplemental agreement not to exceed $5,000 for grant writing assistance related to tree replacement grants. Additionally, a resolution was passed to rescind the 2020-050 COVID-19 Preparedness Plan. The Council also passed a resolution accepting various cash donations for the Fire Department/Relief Association and the Library. Finally, an issue concerning an incorrectly specified water heater voltage at the chemical building was assigned for continued resolution.

The council held a Truth in Taxation Meeting and adopted a 0% increase. They approved the 2026 final tax levy and the consent agenda with additions for the Fire Department and the swearing-in of Police Chief Leon Grack. Chief Grack was officially sworn in. The Public Works Department reported on street sweeping and water leak repairs, while Maguire Iron inspected the water tower. The Clerk presented a report on software migration training and recognition of the Glencoe-Silver Lake FFA Program. An update was given on the rescue van's return. The council approved an employee contribution for the Paid Family Medical Leave Act and an agreement with McLeod County for snow removal. They also discussed the direction of RS Fiber and accepted a donation to the city. Building permits were handed out, and the Christmas gathering was scheduled.

The Brownton City Council meeting included discussions on a payment request from Nelson Construction, public works updates including fall cleanup and transformer replacement, and police department matters such as a police chief offer. The council approved the purchase of a new transformer, front-loading vacation hours for the new police chief, and a guaranteed pay increase for the police chief in 2026. They also discussed clerk updates, a routine maintenance agreement with Sumter Township, the sale of land parcels, police policy updates, and the Minnesota Paid Family and Medical Leave program. Additionally, they addressed assessments for unpaid charges, waiving insurance requirements for the Sheriff's Office, a Cannabis & Hemp Retail Registration Form, and accepting a donation from the Lions Bruins.