Jade A. Berube

The Battle Lake Economic Development Authority meetings and work sessions covered a range of topics including the Business Improvement Program, EDA budget approval, and review of economic development programs. Discussions also involved housing, school updates, and LACC updates. A joint session with the City Council focused on past accomplishments, coordination between the council and EDA, and strategic growth and infrastructure planning. The Tri-City Living Collaboration discussed regional visioning and project opportunities, while a separate meeting addressed the Battle Lake housing crisis and strategies for community innovation and focus group recruitment. The EDA also reviewed its ongoing goals and priorities, including fostering relationships with area townships, business retention and expansion, and housing initiatives.

The council meeting included a legislative update from Senator Jordan Rasmusson, discussions on a solar installation project at the Liquor Store, and a presentation on the Housing Visioning Project. The council discussed the PFAS settlement, lead service line inventory, water supply planning, nature trail, and street and drainage improvements. They approved creating a policy for developers to hire the City Engineer and reviewed department head reports. The council also discussed natural gas rates, property at Old Settler's Park, and approved resolutions related to a dock donation, wetland delegation, participation in the Accelerated Payment Program for the 3M PFAs Settlement, and the Airport Lease. They moved into a closed session to discuss a possible property purchase.

The council meeting included updates from the Pickleball Club on fundraising and court construction, and a request for city funds for excavation. A Special Event Permit was presented for a "Summer Wrap-up and Farewell to Stubs" event. The 2024 Audit Report was presented and approved. Bids for the 2025 Street and Drainage Improvements were reviewed, and a resolution accepting bids was approved. The council discussed water supply planning, lead service line inventory, department head reports, and the natural gas rate. They also discussed a TIF violation by Good Neighbors and approved training for council and department heads. The council moved into closed session to discuss possible property purchases.

The meeting was convened to discuss a possible land purchase. The council moved into a closed session to discuss the potential purchase of property located on County Road 83 and property along Glenhaven Drive. Following the closed session, an offer of $400,000 was made for property ID 63000500001010, with plans to collaborate with the listing agent.

The council meeting included discussions and actions on several key items. The council moved into and out of closed sessions to discuss allegations of misconduct and a possible property purchase. An investigator was approved to research the complaint, and a real estate agent was approved to be paid a fee for assistance on the property purchase. The council accepted a counteroffer for a property. Fund transfers for 2026 were approved for EDA, Streetlights, Storm Water, and LQ Store Debt Service. Preliminary approval was given for the preliminary budget for 2026. Presentations were made on the proposed General Fund budget and the Capital Improvement Plan.