Mike Benson

The City Council conducted a regular meeting and a work session concerning Clearwater Preserve lot sales. Key discussion items included the issuance and sale of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2026A for utility improvements and the purchase of a new fire truck. The council also authorized a contract for the 2026 Crack Seal and Seal Coat project, accepted the donation of Outlot A in Fox Meadows 2nd Addition, approved a consulting agreement with RETHOS for the Heritage Preservation Commission, and reviewed bids for the Public Safety Building roof replacement. Additionally, several gambling permits were approved for local associations, and temporary liquor licenses were granted for events including the Waseca County Fair and a church fall festival.

The City Council conducted several key business actions, including awarding contracts for various city infrastructure projects such as 2nd Avenue SW improvements and 2026 concrete street repairs. The council discussed and approved text amendments to the zoning code regarding residential driveways and wetland buffers, authorized a municipal advisory agreement for bond issuance, and granted a temporary extension for a liquor license for an outdoor event. Additionally, the council held a public hearing for the vacation of easements in the Fox Meadows 2nd Addition, applied for lead water service line replacement funding, and reviewed updates from the Local Board of Appeals and Equalization.

The City Council discussed updates regarding the Marketplace Commons and restrictive covenants for the Clearwater Preserve. Consent agenda items included lease extensions, various license approvals, and authorization for the Lead Service Line Replacement Improvements Project. Furthermore, the Council addressed union agreements with the fire and police departments and discussed the sale process for a fire truck. A public hearing was held regarding text amendments to the city zoning code, and information was provided on recent advisory board and commission activities.

The meeting included a presentation regarding planning and economic development efforts, specifically related to an upcoming developer request for proposals. Public hearings were held to consider various ordinance amendments, including general water and sewer provisions, health and safety regulations, street and sidewalk codes, subdivision standards, sign regulations, and airport zoning. Additionally, the commission discussed the proposed annexation of city-owned airport and wastewater treatment plant land and the rezoning of properties to facilitate the expansion of a local business. Future agenda items discussed included a concept plan for a potential cannabis retail and manufacturing facility at 1230 North State Street and further text amendments to the city's zoning code concerning residential district setbacks and wetland buffer regulations.

The commission discussed the establishment of 2026 priorities, including resident engagement initiatives, the Discover Waseca Tours project, and coordination efforts with RETHOS and ICS regarding planning and economic development. Additionally, the commission reviewed various project updates throughout the city, ranging from commercial building renovations, ongoing annexation, housing development, and infrastructure improvements such as the Downtown Walkway beautification and SMART Transit facility planning.