Pat Paschke

The Council discussed the Walsh Regional Water System tentative agreement, 7th Street platting, and potential Spark Build homes in Stoltmans Subdivision. The Council approved a sales tax ballot measure, addressed the Harriot Drain Bridge maintenance agreement, and authorized specific building permits and land sales. Additionally, the Council accepted a quote for security cameras, approved insurance endorsements for public sewer and water main breaks, and decided to apply for a Walsh County Self-Help Grant. The Council reviewed and approved professional services for a Lead Service Line Replacement Facility Plan and an update. Finally, the Council approved claims and financials, adopted Resolution 2026-004 concerning revised utility service rates, and addressed ongoing property maintenance complaints.

The council discussed and approved the platting of 7th Street, accepted quotes for dust control chemicals and city street repairs, authorized a building permit, and approved a new brush grapple. Financial items including claims and city financials were approved. Additionally, the council passed Resolution 2026-005 designating the Walsh County Record as the official newspaper and approved a gaming permit.

The council approved Ordinance 195 regarding a franchise agreement with Ottertail Power Company and Ordinance 196 concerning Floodplain Management Regulations. A zoning variance was granted for a small engine business operation. The council discussed the Kilowatt Bridge maintenance agreement and voted to place a sales tax increase measure on the June ballot. Resolution 2026-003 was passed to increase streetlight and forest utility charges. Additionally, the council approved the purchase of a new office copy machine, authorized the acquisition of two lots for the Spark build project, approved various claims and financial statements, authorized special event and gaming permits, and approved insurance renewal numbers.

The primary discussion item for this special meeting concerned the bridge over the Harriot Drain. Following deliberation, the Council passed a motion to contribute $5,000.00 towards the bridge repairs. This contribution is contingent upon the creation of a new maintenance agreement that explicitly excludes the City of Minto from liability and any future cost-sharing obligations for the repair or replacement of this specific bridge.

Key discussions included the first reading of Ordinance 195, which establishes a 20-year franchise agreement with Ottertail Power Company. The council also addressed infrastructure concerns, agreeing to contribute up to $10,000.00 towards opening the bridge over the Hariott Drain if the county and water board do not assume full responsibility. The Planning & Zoning committee welcomed Devin Flanders as a new member. Financial matters involved the approval of claims and financials, including a payment to Walsh Rural Water District. The council approved one gaming permit and discussed increases for monthly rates for streetlights (from $3.75 to $4.25) and forest services (from $2.00 to $3.00). Finally, the contract for aerial mosquito spraying with Vector Disease Control was approved at a rate of $3.10 per acre.