Karen K. Lauer

The City Council meeting addressed various municipal matters including the designation of authorized representatives for MRES and WWMPA, an annexation agreement with the Lake Region Electric Cooperative, the establishment of 2026 internet rates, and the declaration of Potato Days as a community-wide festival. Additionally, the Council scheduled a future public hearing regarding the vacation of certain rights-of-way.

The council meeting addressed several operational and regulatory items, including the hiring of an EMT for the Ambulance Department and the approval of a campground host stipend. A vacancy for Ward 1 was formally declared. The council conducted second readings for ordinances regarding ambulance fees, Park and Recreation fees for the golf course, and campground charges. Additionally, the council approved variances and a Conditional Use Permit for a property on 10th Street SE, and authorized staff to request bids for the painting of the water tower.

The regular meeting addressed several administrative and operational items. The agenda was approved with the addition of hiring three new EMTs: Clay Danielson, Ella Cossette, and Tessa Aberle. A truth-in-taxation public hearing was held and subsequently closed. The Council approved the 2026 levy resolution, the 2026 budget resolution, and the 2026 employee wages. Authorization was given for the Finance Director to approve year-end checks and payroll. The first reading of Ordinance 2026-01, enacting the city's code of ordinances, was approved. Variances and a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) were approved for specific properties/businesses. A land donation agreement with the Wagner Family Trust was approved, and the Barnesville Event Center was designated as the 2026 election polling place. The meeting concluded with a closed session for the City Administrator's annual review, followed by the adjournment of the regular meeting.

The council members approved the agenda and consent agenda as presented. They also approved an amendment to the 2025 Budget to reflect electrical transmission expenses in the Electric Fund. Additionally, the council approved summary ordinances related to the definition of carports and garages, approving carports as a conditional use, and electric rates for time of use between 2026 and 2028.

The council approved the agenda and consent agenda as presented. A variance for a detached accessory building was approved with conditions recommended by the Planning Commission. The council also approved the 2nd Reading of the Amendment to Ordinance 24-05 regarding the Definition of Carport and Garages, Amendment 25-06 allowing Carports as a Conditional Use, and the Amendment to Ordinance 25-07 regarding Electric Rates - Time of Use 2026-2028. The Preliminary 2026 Levy and Budget were approved, along with a resolution increasing the amount of the 2025 Public Works Storage Building Interfund Loan. Consent was given for the Clay County HRA to levy for a Special Benefit Tax in the City of Barnesville 2026.