Eric Nelson

The regular meeting included the approval of the agenda and consent agenda, which covered claims for payment and the Westberg-Eischens Contract for 2025 Audit Services. A Truth in Taxation public hearing for 2026 was opened and subsequently closed. A public hearing regarding a nuisance violation at 313 1st Street SE was opened and closed, leading to the approval of Resolution 2025-27, which issued findings of fact and an order for abatement concerning discarded household items and an inoperable vehicle at the specified address. The council also approved several resolutions related to the Small Cities Development Grant: Resolution 2025-28 ordering preparation of a report on street and utility improvements on 1st Avenue Northeast; Resolution 2025-29 adopting a Fair Housing Plan of Action; Resolution 2025-30 adopting a Section 3 Plan; and Resolution 2025-31 adopting a Residential Anti-Displacement and Relocation Assistance Plan. Furthermore, Resolution 2025-32 approving the 2026 Levy and Budgets was adopted. The council approved a quote from Denise Schaefer for cleaning services, and Resolution 2025-26 authorizing a Power Sales Agreement with CMMPA for wind energy purchase beginning in 2026. A quote for a security camera installation at City Hall was approved using safety grant funds, but action was deferred on a camera installation at the compost site. The council discussed a proposed change to Chapter 260-18 regarding Conditional Use Permits and discussed video recording future meetings. Finally, following an executive session, the council approved the purchase of a portion of real estate at Renville County PID 31-00115-00.

The council discussed various topics including proposed property tax assessments, a variance for a zoning permit, blight and property appearances, and plans for an infrastructure and street project. They reviewed and approved updates to the city's snow emergency parking rules and personnel policy updates to comply with the MN Paid Family Leave Program. A council member resigned during the meeting. The council also discussed and presented a final draft of the 2026 Budget, amended the October 21st Special Council Meeting minutes, and discussed the purchase of real estate. Staff reports included updates on city finances, public works projects, and police department activities.

The meeting included the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the agenda. Jesse Diehn was appointed to fill the vacant council seat.

The council addressed the resignation of Councilmember Castillo and declared a vacancy. They reviewed the previous request for proposal for cleaning services and decided to request quotes for cleaning services using the current RFP. Methods of filling the vacancy were discussed, and it was decided to hold a special meeting to interview interested candidates for the council seat.