Greg F. Anderson

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) meeting included discussions on various topics. The agenda covered the consideration of a tax abatement or TIF request for Village Apartments, a MnDOT proposal to purchase Industrial Park Land, and the City of Mora's representation on the Kanabec County EDA. The meeting also included reports on the Mora Employment Survey, recent activity updates, and communications from the Kanabec County EDA. The EDA reviewed the opportunity of utilizing TIF as a tool to support the success of the Village Apartment project and considered a resolution supporting staff to proceed with the sale of Industrial Park Land to MnDOT for use as a truck station.

The commission addressed several key issues, including a review of hiring authority delegation for part-time and seasonal employees, and a proposal to sell 0.50 acres of land near the wastewater treatment plant. A review of a memorandum of understanding regarding a Good Friday holiday exchange was conducted, with a decision to bring forward information at the April meeting regarding personnel policy changes for non-union employees. Reports included monthly financials, Vasaloppet week activities, and updates on water treatment, electric upgrades, and upcoming rate studies. Discussion also included the passing of a long-term employee and the possibility of municipal nuclear power.

The Public Utilities Commission meeting addressed several key items. Discussion included a resignation request, a seasonal mower hire, and a fee schedule correction. Other topics covered were a WAC/SAC reduction request, the addition of a water superintendent position, a Good Friday holiday exchange, and various reports including quarterly reports on utility billing, electric vehicle charging stations, and financial reports. A land sale near the WWTP was also discussed.

The council meeting involved several key discussions and actions. A Vasaloppet representative provided an update on the event. A new council member was appointed. The council appointed a new member to the Park Board. A community survey was reviewed, highlighting concerns about water service. The council addressed its authority regarding hiring and firing decisions. The council approved advertising for bids for a runway rehabilitation project and for snow removal equipment acquisition. A conditional use permit for a solar energy system was approved. Options for reducing site nonconformities for a property were discussed. A cannabis ordinance was approved, including language regarding employee training. SEH project updates were reviewed. Monthly communications and reports were reviewed, and various board and commission reports were given. The council reviewed and approved claims for payment.

The council meeting involved discussions on various topics, including the Vasaloppet event, claims, restricted donations, a land exchange, a minor subdivision, hiring of firefighters and seasonal public works, a fee schedule update, a mayoral proclamation, a letter of support for an ECE Fiber MN BEAD grant, permit fees, a text amendment, a conditional use permit, a Kanabec County Hazard Mitigation Plan, an airport proposal, and an aquatic center assistant manager update. Other agenda items included electronic device replacement, a KCSO monthly report, a monthly revenue expenditure report, a quarterly financial report, planning commission meeting minutes, park board meeting minutes, and a park survey update. Specific actions included the appointment of Jennifer Ernest to the Park Board and the approval of Ordinance 496 to regulate cannabis businesses. The council also discussed the Mora Lake Outlet Pipe/Maple Avenue Reconstruction Project and the Wood Street Trail extension.