Craig Furlong

The meeting included updates on the Dr. King celebration, including confirmation of the speaker's bio and fee, adjustments to the music arrangements, and progress on food and book preparations. The commission also discussed and approved the 2025 Human Rights Award, which was awarded to Tara Halerson and Lisa Pap for their work with the Monday Market, which addresses food insecurity among students and families. Additionally, there was a reminder about the city's participation in the 2026 Polar Plunge, with encouragement for community support.

The meeting included discussions and a presentation by Latino Voices regarding their annual Katrina festival and offerenda. They highlighted the importance of community support in expanding the event, which celebrates Latino culture and heritage, and requested financial assistance to restore and maintain items used in the ofrenda. The commission explored ways to support the event beyond financial contributions, such as participating in the Katrina contest and parade, and recognized the partnership with the Cheska Police Department in fostering community safety and cultural understanding.

The meeting included presentations from the Southern Valley Alliance regarding Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and from representatives of Oakidge Conference Center providing an update on their reopening plan and security measures. Discussions covered the importance of community support for domestic violence victims and the phased reopening of the Oakidge Hotel, addressing security concerns and parking requirements. The council also touched on the need for a temporary certificate of occupancy for Oakidge, contingent on meeting code compliances and parking standards.

The meeting addressed several key areas, including the approval of the agenda with edits, and discussions around the Secretary's and Treasurer's reports. There was a detailed conversation about accepting the financials, clarifying the board's role in reviewing them, and addressing questions related to budget allocations, particularly for legal expenses and collections. The board also considered filling a vacant director seat through a secret ballot and reviewed the management report, which included updates on trail improvements, insurance proposals, and upcoming community events.

The Chaska City Council meeting included discussions and decisions on various topics. The agenda was adopted, and there was a presentation. Previous meeting minutes were approved. The consent agenda included items such as the vacation of a portion of Cardinal Street and a lot split at Bavaria Downs. The council discussed and approved payment of bills, including those for southwest transportation modeling, downtown reconstruction, lockboxes for the fire department, electrical materials, and an annual investment for regional economic development. There were also discussions on electrical work for downtown reconstruction, land appraisals, and marketing for the town course. The council discussed fiber maintenance.