Devin Ceglar

The key discussion point during this working session involved the potential future plans for the Vaughan-Steffensrud school building and its associated property. Members of the Chisholm City Council, Chisholm School Board, and Balkan Township Board discussed topics related to the potential sale of the building, including zoning considerations, potential trust arrangements, the current condition of the building, potential land use, and annexation procedures. All three bodies expressed a shared desire to achieve a favorable resolution for all stakeholders.

The working session agenda included an adoption of the agenda and detailed discussions on several key items. The council reviewed documentation concerning HRA Loan Forgiveness for the Lincoln Square Apartments renovation, with the Clerk-Treasurer tasked to continue searching for a formal resolution confirming loan forgiveness. Jeffrey Kukowski from Moonlyte Brewery presented business and grand opening plans, prompting discussion regarding tax annexation choices. Additionally, updated job descriptions for various Fire Department positions were discussed in detail, including considerations for stipends, hourly pay rates, and requirements for paid volunteer firefighters, in relation to Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs).

The meeting agenda was adopted with additions concerning HRA Loan forgiveness updates and the Precious Paws Contract. Reports highlighted Councilor Varda's attendance at the Police Commission Meeting, noting discussions about ICE operations and Fire Department anniversaries and retirements. Police Chief Vukad clarified the department's role regarding ICE, emphasizing a focus on public safety and enforcing state/local laws, not federal immigration enforcement. The Building Official announced a public hearing scheduled for the Moonlyte Brewing Company conditional use permit. Public Works reported several water main breaks requiring extensive work. The Council approved the consent agenda, which included approving various minutes and resignations. Several resolutions were adopted, including funding applications for an Ambulance Chest Compression System and accepting feasibility reports for infrastructure replacement projects on 6th Street/4th Avenue NE and 1st Avenue SW Sidewalk Replacement. Other approvals included a PFA Loan for the 5th Street Southwest Infrastructure Improvement Project, a Cooperative Maintenance Agreement with St. Louis County, and the posting/hiring for several seasonal positions, including Parks/Trails/Recreation roles and maintenance workers. The Council approved the Chisholm Summer Recreation Program Specialist Job Description, the Precious Paws Humane Society Contract, the annual Martin Motors Car Show, the Polar Bear Festival request, and granted donations to the Iron Range Barn Dances and the Chisholm Skating Club. Two appointments were made to the Public Utilities Commission. The Council approved events for the Lake Street Market. The meeting included a recess to a closed session to discuss the AFSCME Labor Contract, followed by approval of the AFSCME Labor Agreement contingent on union ratification.

The Council adopted the agenda, which included scheduling working sessions regarding the Vaughn property with the School Board and an LBAE Meeting. During public participation, members of the Kiwanis discussed an upcoming community gathering and ice fishing contest. In reports, the Mayor commended the Chisholm Ambulance service for achieving a 90-minute success rate for STEMI cases, reaching Duluth within the critical timeframe. The Ambulance Director detailed operational improvements, including increased advanced life support (ALS) coverage and reduced reliance on mutual aid from Hibbing. Key financial actions included approving a $400,000 grant for the 6th Street NE Infrastructure Replacement Project, purchasing expired AED batteries and pads, approving garbage truck repairs, approving a 3.2 off-sale liquor license, approving the hiring of Summer Recreation Program Coordinators, and approving proposals for Lake Park Pickle Ball Courts and consulting contracts with Barr Engineering. The Council also approved the Request for Proposal documents for the Chisholm Connector Trail and accepted a $100 donation earmarked for the Public Library.

This news release from St. Louis County announces the update of its Hazard Mitigation Plan, a strategic effort to enhance community resilience against natural hazards. The plan focuses on assessing risks from events like flooding, tornadoes, and wildfires, identifying vulnerabilities, and outlining mitigation strategies such as improving stormwater systems and increasing defensible spaces. Public input is actively sought to shape these actions, ensuring compliance with federal requirements for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant eligibility.