Michael Novacek

The meeting commenced with a Truth in Taxation Hearing where the City Administrator explained the decision to maintain the current 2025 tax levy level due to the absence of major projects or anticipated expenses straining the general budget. New Business resolutions approved the Final Tax Levy, the General Budget, and the Enterprise Funds Budget. The council also approved a step increase for an employee, and authorized the approval of the Airport Maintenance & Operations Grant Agreement and the State Airport Fund Grant Agreement related to Airport Improvement. Additionally, approval was granted to hire Rec Center Rink Staff and associated rates.

Key discussions and actions during the meeting included the approval of the Consent Agenda, which covered the October 2025 minutes and various reports. The Working Supervisor reported the completion of gas main leak surveys and successful inspection by the Office of Pipeline Safety. The Administrator noted positive progress in employee evaluations and consulting work with Eide Bailly. The Finance and Human Relations committee recommended increasing the city's annual HSA contribution and approved step increases for employees, including a 3% cost of living adjustment for 2026. Furthermore, a new longevity pay scale was established, awarding raises to employees who have reached the top step after 10 years of service. New business involved approving the 2026 Council Schedule, maintaining the 2025 ECPN rate for North Star Manor, renewing the Waste Management recycling proposal, approving a requested pay increase for Samantha Sellers Cleaning services, and approving a redevelopment proposal for the Elm Crest Hotel submitted by Haven Property Group.

The meeting included a report from the Coalition of Greater MN Cities, focusing on Local Government Aid and water program grant funding. Approval was sought and granted for an airport zoning task order with Bollig Engineering to facilitate capital funding opportunities at the airport. The Operations Manager presented updates on completed projects, and the Administrator discussed consulting with Eide Bailly for an audit contract and device replacement plans with Two Trees. The council approved proposals for pool repair and renovation, to be potentially funded through reserves, donations, and grants.

The council addressed several items, including the approval of the preliminary budget and tax levy resolution for 2026, acceptance of a sealed bid for trucks, approval of street repair bids from Zavoral's, and a pay increase for Ryan Swanson and Adam Hermanson after completing MMUA cross training school.

The Warren City Council meeting addressed several key areas. The 7th Street Project was discussed for potential reinstatement on the PFA list as a 2027 bill. Preliminary budget and tax levy preparations were reviewed, including the need to find a new health insurance plan due to Health Partners no longer being an option. The council decided to revert to the old Minnesota state flag. An agreement was approved for a gas line easement with CHS and Englestad. A quote was approved for an exterior pressure wash on the water tower. The council reviewed health insurance options and recommended Blue Cross/Blue Shield plans. The planning commission's approval of a variance request by Judy Bernat for building an attached garage and living space was also approved.