Krista Elmquist

The meeting involved the approval of the bill list for January 2026, totaling $404,178.07, covering various expenses including utilities, supplies, contract services, debt payments, and payroll. The council also approved the Treasurer's Report for November 2025 and December 2025. Key actions included the approval of changes in Retail Alcohol License ownership for Wal-Mart Inc and Primo Development Ltd, the issuance of a license for Wilder Thymes Natural Foods, and a new license for St Mary Catholic Church. Furthermore, Resolution No. 2026-02 approving tax abatement applications and Resolution No. 2026-03 approving the plan and specifications for the 2026 City of Spirit Lake 23rd Street Reconstruction Project Phase II, setting a public hearing and bid letting, were duly adopted.

The City Council approved the bill list for January 2026, which included substantial payments for engineering, reconstruction projects, and utility expenses. The council also approved the Treasurer's Reports for November and December 2025, detailing revenues and expenditures across various funds including General Fund, Road Use, and Water projects. Manual Journal Entries and Transfers for the fourth quarter of 2025 were approved, along with subsequent tax and benefit payments. The body approved the renewal of the ICAP insurance. Furthermore, the Olde Town Betterment Incentive Program Application for 900 Lake Street was approved. Resolution No. 2026-01, approving Pay Application #1 and Change Order #1 for the 2025 Lime Pit Discharge Improvements Project, was adopted. The council also approved the Drug Task Force Agreement and appointed Dave Mensing as Mayor Pro-Tem.

The primary agenda item involved a motion to enter into a closed session pursuant to Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(j). Following the closed session, the Council resumed its open session and subsequently adjourned the meeting.

The meeting included discussion and possible action regarding the dedication of a drainage easement. A motion was made and carried to approve a 20-foot drainage easement as shown on the engineering diagram for Lot 1 and Lot 2, Matuska Subdivision from the owner to DD#22. The approval of bills for November 2025 was also discussed and approved.

The meeting included discussions and actions on various financial matters, including approval of the bill list for December 2025 and ownership changes for Caseys Marketing Company's liquor license. Mayoral appointments of Shane Brevik as Spirit Lake Police Chief and Gregg Owens as City Attorney were approved, as well as council appointments of Gregg Owens as City Administrator and Amanda Harskamp as Deputy City Clerk. The council approved amending the Employee Manual to add Christmas Eve as a paid holiday and the cancellation of the second regular council meeting in December.