Dassel public meetings in 2023

Special City Council Meeting

The City Council will conduct interviews for council applicants. The council will also review a recommendation from the Personnel Committee regarding an Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST) policy amendment.

• Council applicant interviews
• Personnel Policy Amendment regarding Earned Sick and Safe Leave

Truth in Taxation Hearing

The Dassel City Council is holding its Truth in Taxation hearing to discuss and take action on the 2024 General Fund Budget and Levy. This is the public's opportunity to comment on the proposed property tax levy before it is finalized.

• 2024 General Fund Budget and Levy

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will consider approving the final 2024 budget and levy, designate the 2024 polling location, and decide whether to waive municipal tort liability limits. The agenda also includes routine approvals of minutes, claims, and staff reports.

• Payment of claims totaling $1,456,415.85
• Resolution 2023-026 designating 2024 polling location
• Resolution 2023-027 approving final budget and levy for 2024
• Motion not to waive municipal tort liability limits per MN Statute 466.04

Special City Council Meeting

The City Council will conduct an annual review of the Public Works Director. The council will also review preliminary 2023 budgets for the Liquor, Water, Sewer, and Surface Water funds.

• Public Works Director Annual Review
• Review of 2023 preliminary Liquor budget
• Review of 2023 preliminary Water budget
• Review of 2023 preliminary Sewer budget
• Review of 2023 preliminary Surface Water Fund budgets

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will hold public hearings on an easement vacation and final assessments for the 2022 improvement project, and hear a solar project waiver request. The consent agenda includes $330,105.04 in claims, a street closure for a holiday event, and a $113,764.22 pay request. Council will also discuss a draft cannabis ordinance, fire truck financing, and extending the council seat application deadline.

• Easement vacation for Nelson Lots 2 & 3, Block 3, Highland Circle Addition
• Final assessment hearing for 2022 Improvement Project
• Solar setback waiver request for Ice House Solar 2 by Sunrise Energy Ventures
• Payment of claims $330,105.04
• Pay Request #8 to Landwehr Construction $113,764.22

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Dassel Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to consider a lot line adjustment request for properties at 110/112 Highview Drive submitted by James Nelson. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and an open forum, but the primary business item is the lot line adjustment.

• Lot line adjustment request for 110/112 Highview Drive by James Nelson
• Approval of minutes from October 2, 2023 regular meeting

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to accept a resignation, declare a council vacancy, and establish a process to fill it. The council will also consider appointing an acting mayor and other positions, and will review a capital financial plan and a recommendation to purchase a 2026 fire truck.

• Resolution 2023-023 accepting resignation and declaring council vacancy
• Resolution 2023-024 establishing process to fill the vacancy
• Motion to appoint Acting Mayor, Personnel Committee Representative & Planning Commission Member
• Northland Securities - Capital Financial Plan review
• Fire Advisory Board recommendation to purchase 2026 fire truck

Dassel Fire Advisory Board

The Dassel Fire Advisory Board will meet to approve minutes from August and discuss financing options for a 2026 fire truck, including a lease purchase and bonding scenarios. The next meeting is scheduled for January 31, 2024.

• Approval of minutes from August 23, 2023
• Discussion of 2026 fire truck financing: lease purchase (Pierce Financing) and bonding options

Special City Council Meeting

This is a special meeting of the Dassel City Council. The council will conduct annual reviews of department heads and discuss a notice from BNSF regarding a railroad crossing. No other business is listed.

• Annual department head reviews
• BNSF railroad crossing notice

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a public hearing and will take action on a utility easement vacation request from Ranel Holdings, LLC for Lots 3 & 4, Block 1, Meadow Park Addition. The council will also approve the consent agenda, which includes $466,874.40 in claims and a raffle permit for DC Boosters. Various council and staff reports will be presented, and residents may speak during open forum.

• Public hearing and action on utility easement vacation request, Ranel Holdings, LLC, Lots 3 & 4, Block 1, Meadow Park Addition
• Consent agenda: payment of claims totaling $466,874.40
• Consent agenda: raffle permit for DC Boosters on February 10, 2024 at Thirsty's Tavern
• Council reports: HPC, Planning Commission, Joint Dassel & Cokato Council & School Board, Community Ed
• Staff reports: Museum, Liquor Store, Fire, Public Works, City Clerk, Sheriff

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Dassel Planning & Zoning Commission will hold its regular meeting, primarily continuing discussions on two items carried over from previous meetings: a rezoning request by Berggren for property at 500 Highway 15 and a variance request by Housman for 230 Horace. No public hearings are scheduled. The meeting will also include approval of the August 14, 2023 minutes.

• Continue discussion on Berggren rezoning request (500 Highway 15)
• Continue discussion on Housman variance request (230 Horace)
• Approval of August 14, 2023 regular meeting minutes

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss the 2024 preliminary General Fund budget and property tax levy. The council will consider the proposed levy certification and budget documents. This is a discussion item, not a final decision.

• 2024 Preliminary General Fund Budget and Levy review

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will hold public hearings and vote on amendments to the water and zoning ordinances, a cannabis business moratorium, and local historic designations for three buildings. They will also consider resolutions on assessment costs and a hearing, approve claims of $746,997.08, and hear reports from staff and committees.

• Public hearing and adoption of City Code Chapter 51 (Water Ordinance) amendment
• Public hearing and adoption of City Code Chapter 153 (Zoning Ordinance) amendment
• Adoption of Ordinance 02-2023, Cannabis Business Moratorium
• Adoption of Ordinances 03-2023, 04-2023, 05-2023 for historic designation of Universal Lab Building, Bandstand, and White Eagle Gas Station
• Approval of claims totaling $746,997.08

Park & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Dassel Park & Recreation Advisory Commission is meeting to continue its discussion on purchasing playground equipment for Summit Hills Park. The agenda includes approval of the August 15, 2023 minutes and the business item on the playground equipment purchase. No final decision is indicated on the agenda.

• Continue discussion on playground equipment purchase for Summit Hills Park
• Approval of minutes from August 15, 2023

The commission recommended that the City Council accept a $49,554.00 grant and purchase the Elliott playground system. They further recommended using remaining ARPA funds to cover the cost.

• Approved August 15, 2023 minutes (3-0)
• Recommended City Council accept $49,554.00 GameTime Community Champions grant
• Recommended purchase of Elliott playground system for $62,838.23 including shipping and installation
• Recommended use of remaining city ARPA funds for the purchase

Dassel Fire Advisory Board

The Dassel Fire Advisory Board is meeting to handle routine business, including approving minutes, hearing reports from the fire chief and clerk/treasurer, and reviewing year-to-date finances. The board will also discuss the preliminary 2025 budget and contracts. The meeting is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Review 2023 year-to-date revenue and expenditures
• Discuss preliminary 2025 budget and contracts
• Approve minutes from February 15, 2023
• Open forum for public input

The Board agreed to list an old tanker truck on the state bid auction site. Members discussed selling engine 551 and rescue truck 554 to purchase a combined vehicle estimated at $1.2M, with a special meeting scheduled for November. The Board also reviewed the preliminary 2025 budget of $331,198.93.

• Approved February 15, 2023 minutes
• Approved meeting agenda
• Agreed to list old tanker on state bid auction site
• Agreed to hold special November meeting to discuss $1.2M combined truck purchase

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will meet to approve consent agenda items including payments totaling over $1.7 million, a liquor license renewal, and scheduling public hearings for September 18 on water and zoning ordinance amendments, a cannabis business moratorium, and local historic designations. The meeting also includes reports from committees and staff, and an open forum with legislative updates and community representatives.

• Payment of claims $1,460,167.49
• Pay Request #3, Landwehr Construction SRTS Project $81,630.09
• Pay Request #7, Landwehr Construction 2022 Improvement Project $211,702.32
• Approve On-Sale & Sunday Liquor License Renewal for Thirsty's Bar & Grill LLC
• Schedule public hearings for Sept 18 on water ordinance, zoning ordinance, cannabis moratorium, and local designation properties

The City Council approved several equipment purchases and construction payments via a consent agenda and staff reports. The council also scheduled four public hearings for September 18, 2023, regarding city ordinances and local designations.

• Approved payment of claims totaling $1,460,167.49 (4-0)
• Approved Landwehr Construction payments of $81,630.09 and $211,702.32 (4-0)
• Authorized $36,793.06 for a jetter/vac truck from MacQueen Equipment (4-0)
• Authorized up to $5,000 for replacement street signs (4-0)
• Approved dance permit for Thirsty's Tavern (4-0)
• Scheduled public hearings for Sept 18 on Water Ordinance, Zoning Ordinance, Cannabis Business Moratorium, and Local Designation properties (4-0)
• Accepted resignation of Johnathan Yilitilo (4-0)
• Authorized switch of payment processing providers to Nuvei (4-0)

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to review the city's zoning ordinance (Chapter 153) and a temporary moratorium on cannabis businesses (Ordinance 02-2023). These are discussion items, not final decisions. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 21, 2023, at 6:00 pm.

• Review of Zoning Ordinance Chapter 153
• Review of Temporary Moratorium on Cannabis Businesses (Ordinance 02-2023)

The City Council reviewed a final draft of the Zoning Ordinance and a proposed moratorium on cannabis businesses. Both items were moved forward for public hearings in September.

• Approved motion to call a public hearing in September for adoption of Zoning Ordinance Chapter 153 (4-0)
• Agreed to hold a public hearing in September regarding a temporary moratorium on cannabis businesses

Special City Council Meeting

This is a special city council meeting with a single business item: a discussion with the owners of Alman Auto at 150 Parker Ave W. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with no other decisions or public hearings listed.

• Discussion with owners of Alman Auto, 150 Parker Ave W

The Council met with Jeremy and Christine Alman to address the condition of the property at 150 Parker Ave W. All parties agreed to a set of actions regarding vehicle removal, parking restrictions, and tire relocation.

• Agreed that Alman Auto staff will clear vehicles from the TH 12 and 2nd St. sight triangle
• Agreed that Dassel Public Works will paint the sight triangle with no parking designation within one week
• Agreed that Alman Auto staff will not park customer vehicles in 30-minute spaces
• Agreed that Alman Auto staff will keep the sidewalk clear of parked vehicles
• Agreed that Alman Auto staff will relocate tires or install screening within two weeks
• Agreed that Mayor Carlen will meet with owners weekly to follow up on progress

Park & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Dassel Park & Recreation Advisory Commission is meeting to approve the July 11, 2023 minutes and discuss the 2024 budget, a grant application, and proposed projects. This is a regular business meeting with no public hearings or ordinances on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from July 11, 2023 regular meeting
• Discussion of 2024 budget
• Grant application review
• Proposed projects for 2024

The Board discussed the 2024 budget and new playground equipment for Summit Hills park. Members determined that more information regarding costs, ADA requirements, and materials is needed before deciding on a grant application.

• Approved July 11, 2023 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Tabled grant application for Summit Hills park playground equipment pending further cost and ADA information

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Dassel Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to consider a variance request for a property at 230 Horace Ave and a proposed amendment to Chapter 153 of the Zoning Ordinance. The commission will also approve minutes from the July 24 regular meeting and hold an open forum.

• Variance request by Jonathan Housman for 230 Horace Ave, PID 23-0299000
• Chapter 153 Zoning Ordinance amendment (final draft attached)
• Approval of minutes from July 24, 2023 regular meeting

The Commission approved the Zoning Ordinance as presented and forwarded it to the City Council for adoption. A variance request for 230 Horace Ave was tabled pending more information. The Commission also agreed to send an extension letter regarding a rezoning request for Jay and Kristen Berggren.

• Approved Zoning Ordinance and forwarded to Council (4-0)
• Tabled variance request for 230 Horace Ave (5-0)
• Approved July 24, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Agreed to send extension letter to Jay & Kristen Berggren regarding rezoning request

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will consider rejecting all bids for the sale of a fire truck and re-advertising the sale. They will also review preliminary 2023 General Fund budget options for 2024, with two options presented for discussion.

• Reject all bids for fire truck sale and re-advertise
• Review preliminary 2024 General Fund budget, Option 1
• Review preliminary 2024 General Fund budget, Option 2

The Council rejected all bids for a fire truck and ordered the item to be re-advertised. Members also directed updates to the 2024 preliminary general fund budget to include specific wage and levy increases alongside infrastructure improvements.

• Rejected 2 bids for the sale of the fire truck and ordered re-advertisement (3-0)
• Directed 2.5% wage increase and 3% levy increase for 2024 preliminary budget
• Included budget for parking lot improvements at City Hall, Summit Hills Park, and liquor store
• Included budget for sidewalks on 3rd St between Hwy 12 and Atlantic Ave
• Allocated funds for Summit Hills Park playground equipment
• Earmarked 2024 Public Safety funds for Fire Department equipment

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Dassel Planning & Zoning Commission will hold public hearings on a variance request for 221 6th St S and a rezoning request for 500 MN Hwy 15. They will also discuss scheduling a public hearing for a variance at 230 Horace Ave E, review the final draft zoning ordinance including THC regulation updates, and consider a Heritage Preservation Commission request for local designation.

• Public hearing: Variance request, Lifestyle Homes, 221 6th St S, PID 23-0275000
• Public hearing: Rezoning request, Berggren, 500 MN Hwy 15, PID 23-0600000
• Variance request by Jonathan Housman, 230 Horace Ave E, PID 23-0299000 (schedule public hearing)
• Review final draft zoning ordinance, including THC regulation updates
• Heritage Preservation Commission request for local designation

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved a variance request for Lifestyle Homes and recommended three properties for Local Historic Designation. A rezoning request for 500 MN Hwy 15 was tabled, and the commission continued its review of the final draft Zoning Ordinance.

• Approved variance request for Lifestyle Homes at 221 6th St S (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning request for Berggren at 500 MN Hwy 15
• Approved Local Designation Request for Universal Labs Building, White Eagle Gas Station, and Railroad Park Bandstand and recommended City Council approval (5-0)
• Voted to continue the Zoning Ordinance review process until revisions are complete (5-0)
• Scheduled public hearing for Jonathan Housman's variance request at 230 Horace Ave E for August 14, 2023

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to review the preliminary 2024 General Fund Budget. The agenda includes only this budget review item, with the attached proposed budget document available for reference. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the item is for review and discussion.

• Review of preliminary 2024 General Fund Budget (attachment: 2024_Proposed_Budget.pdf)

The Council reviewed the 2024 general fund levy and budget information. They directed the Clerk to prepare two budget versions based on different wage increase percentages for review at a future meeting.

• Directed Clerk to prepare two budgets with 2.5% and 3% wage increases

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will hold public hearings on a nuisance abatement at 150 Parker Ave and a proposed city code amendment for THC licensure. The council will also consider adopting the THC ordinance, approving a solar field waiver, and several consent agenda items including payments and contracts.

• Public hearing on nuisance abatement at 150 Parker Ave
• Public hearing and adoption of City Code Chapter 113 on THC licensure
• Payment of claims totaling $1,468,000.58
• Pay requests to Landwehr Construction: $266,568.05 and $33,982.06
• Approve Meeker County Assessment Contract for 2024-2027

The City Council approved a new city code chapter regulating THC and associated license fees. Other actions included approving a solar field waiver for Nokomis Energy and authorizing several infrastructure payments and project plans.

• Adopted City Code Chapter 113 regulating THC manufacture, distribution and sale (4-1)
• Approved amending Resolution 2023-006 Fee Schedule to add THC License Fees (5-0)
• Approved solar field waiver for Nokomis Energy (4-1)
• Approved $1,468,000.58 in payment of claims (5-0)
• Approved $8,000 for pump and motor replacement on well #3 (5-0)
• Approved MN DOT bump out plan at 2nd St and TH 12 (5-0)
• Approved motion to move forward with proposed trail extension between Dassel & Darwin (5-0)
• Recommended accepting $8,250 high bid for sale of 1995 GMC Kodiak fire truck (5-0)

Park & Recreation Advisory Commission

The Dassel Park & Recreation Advisory Commission is meeting to handle organizational items, appoint a chair and vice chair, approve minutes from June 8, 2022, hear from Rotarians, and discuss the 2024 budget. The agenda is mostly routine administrative business.

• Appointment of Chair & Vice Chair
• Approve June 8, 2022 meeting minutes
• Rotarians Peter Bortnem & Dwayne Borg
• 2024 Budget discussion

The Commission appointed new leadership and approved a $50,000 capital outlay request for the 2024 preliminary general fund budget. The board also discussed a potential project partnership with the Cokato Dassel Rotary.

• Appointed Jon Pankratz as Chair
• Appointed Dan Landrus as Vice Chair
• Approved June 8, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Agreed to request $50,000 for 2024 capital outlay from City Council

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss a draft ordinance regarding THC. The agenda includes only this business item, with no other substantive matters listed.

• Review of draft THC ordinance (20230620_Draft_THC_Ordinance.docx)

The Council reviewed a draft ordinance regulating the distribution and sale of THC products. Members agreed to specific fee additions and proximity changes to the draft. A public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for July 17, 2023.

• Added $500 application fee and $300 investigation fee to draft THC ordinance
• Changed proximity in Section 113.05 (A) (3) to 250'
• Scheduled public hearing on THC ordinance for July 17, 2023

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss several business items, including David Tysk's townhome proposal, a legislative update from Flaherty & Hood, curb and sidewalk issues on 3rd St, and the 2024 budget process. No formal votes are listed on the agenda.

• David Tysk townhomes discussion
• Legislative update by Darrin Lee, Flaherty & Hood PA/Coalition of Greater MN Cities
• Council member Thurn: 3rd St curb and sidewalk issues
• 2024 budget process and department head annual reviews

The Council directed the Clerk to prepare a preliminary 2024 general fund budget, excluding salaries and benefits, for review at the next special meeting. The Council also decided that Department Head annual reviews will continue to be conducted by the full Council. No other formal actions were taken.

• Directed Clerk Boese to prepare preliminary 2024 general fund budget minus salaries and benefits
• Decided Department Head annual reviews will be conducted by the full Council

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will hold a public hearing on a nuisance abatement at 520 Simon Ave, consider a draft ordinance regulating THC products, and hear requests from residents and a solar field representative. The consent agenda includes over $678,000 in payments and approvals for street closures and project change orders.

• Public hearing: 520 Simon Ave nuisance abatement
• Consent agenda: claims payment $553,260.91
• Safe Routes to School pay request $69,045.07 and change order
• 2022 Improvement Project pay request $56,183.94
• Draft ordinance regulating tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products

The Council approved several infrastructure projects, including asphalt and chip sealing repairs. They also authorized the start of a cannabis regulation study and took action on a nuisance abatement property. A waiver request for a proposed solar field was tabled pending more information.

• Approved $96,870 for asphalt and curbing repairs
• Approved up to $40,000 for city-wide chip sealing repairs
• Approved payment of claims totaling $553,260.91
• Authorized staff to study and hold hearings for a cannabis ordinance (4-1)
• Approved Automatic Aid Agreement between Cokato & Dassel Fire Departments
• Ordered owner of 520 Simon Ave to clean nuisance materials within 7 days
• Approved $69,045.07 and $56,183.94 pay requests for Landwehr Construction
• Authorized bidding for tanker truck #555 and drop tank

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss several business items, including a brush pile request from Paul Haekenkamp, a proposal to purchase a city liquor store off-sale license, an update on the THC ordinance, and a review of the final draft water ordinance (City Code Section 51). The meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 15, 2023 at 6:00 pm.

• Paul Haekenkamp brush pile request
• City liquor store off-sale license purchase proposal
• THC ordinance update
• Final draft water ordinance, City Code Section 51

The council decided not to sell the city's off-sale liquor license. Action on the THC ordinance and the final draft of the water ordinance was tabled.

• Declined proposal to sell city off-sale liquor license
• Tabled action on THC ordinance until June meeting
• Tabled review of Water Ordinance (City Code Section 51)

Regular City Council Meeting

The Council approved a proposal to update the city's Zoning Ordinance and authorized a modification to a new tanker truck. The city also accepted its 2022 audit report and decided not to sell its off-sale liquor license.

• Approved Bolton & Menk proposal to review and update Zoning Ordinance for $2,950 (5-0)
• Approved addition of driver side discharge valve on new tanker truck for $3,890 (5-0)
• Approved payment of claims totaling $484,966.00 (5-0)
• Approved street closures of 3rd St and Atlantic Ave on June 24 for Small Business Group event (5-0)
• Accepted 2022 audit report (5-0)
• Decided not to sell the city's off-sale liquor license at this time
• Approved minutes from April 17 and May 2 meetings (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Dassel Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to approve minutes from March and consider a lot split/consolidation request from Larry Huhn for Outlot A in Summit Hills Addition. The agenda includes a public hearing and open forum, but the main business item is the lot adjustment.

• Larry Huhn lot split/consolidation request for Outlot A, Summit Hills Addition, PID 23-0816000
• Approval of minutes from March 20, 2023 regular meeting
• Public hearings and open forum are scheduled

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council met on May 2, 2023, for a special session. The agenda consisted solely of procedural items, specifically calling to order, a roll call, and closing the meeting to discuss matters with the City Attorney. No public business items, votes, or decisions were listed on the agenda.

• Closed session with City Attorney

The Dassel City Council held a closed session under attorney-client privilege to discuss legal strategies for public nuisance litigation. After reopening, the Council directed the Clerk to certify a special assessment on 520 Simon Ave, send a code violation notice to that property's owner, and send a zoning violation and public nuisance notice to the owner of 150 Parker Ave W. The Council also requested a meeting with the owner of 740 Parker Ave W on May 15th, with the Fire Chief and Public Works Director attending.

• Closed meeting under Minn. Stat. § 13D.05, Subd. 3(b) for attorney-client privileged discussion of nuisance litigation (5-0)
• Directed Clerk to certify special assessment on 520 Simon Ave as previously decided
• Directed Clerk to send code violation notice to owner of 520 Simon Ave
• Directed Clerk to send zoning violation and public nuisance notice to owner of 150 Parker Ave W
• Directed Clerk to request meeting with owner of 740 Parker Ave W on May 15, with Fire Chief and Public Works Director present

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to City Code Sections 32.02 and 32.03, and hear the sheriff's 2022 annual report. The agenda also includes approval of minutes, a consent agenda with claims totaling $1,327,061.28, and various staff reports. No other major business items are listed.

• Public hearing on City Code amendment Sections 32.02 & 32.03
• Sheriff Brian Cruze presenting 2022 Annual Report
• Payment of claims totaling $1,327,061.28
• Proposal by Steve Wright & Dave Patel
• Gerald Irwin discussing water hydrant flushing

The City Council adopted amendments to City Code Sections 32.02 and 32.03. The council approved several public works expenditures, including well rehabilitation and street sweeping, and updated personnel policies regarding holidays and pay.

• Adopted City Code amendments to Section 32.02 & 32.03 (5-0)
• Approved payment of claims for $1,327,061.28 (5-0)
• Authorized Kohl Sweeping Inc for up to 40 hours of street sweeping at $5,600
• Approved $28,575 estimate from Thien Well to rehabilitate well #3 (5-0)
• Approved $3,500 payment to Bolton & Menk for History Center expansion concept plan (5-0)
• Approved $3,990 purchase of Banyon software for permits, inspections, licenses, and violations
• Approved Personnel Committee updates to holiday policy, EEO statement, on-call pay, and HSA contributions
• Adopted resolution 2023-016 for lease/purchase of 23’ Elgin Pelican street sweeper

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will hold a special meeting to consider amendments to the city code regarding water regulations (Sections 51.08 and 51.30), discuss a proposed moratorium on the sale of THC edibles, and review a draft zoning ordinance amendment. These are agenda items for discussion and potential action, with attachments provided for each. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 17, 2023 at 5:00 pm.

• City Code amendment to Sections 51.08 and 51.30 (water ordinance)
• Cannabis moratorium on sale of THC edibles (Ordinance 01-2022)
• Review of proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment (final draft with track changes)

The Council established maintenance responsibilities for water service lines and directed the city attorney to update the city code. The Council also authorized a review of a proposed zoning ordinance amendment and deferred a decision on a cannabis moratorium.

• Directed Attorney Greenly to update water ordinance Sections 51.08 and 51.30
• Determined property owners are responsible for service lines from the inlet side of the curb stop
• Determined City is responsible for service lines from the main to the inlet side of the curb stop
• Agreed to add section 51.31 C and change existing section C to D
• Authorized City Planner to review proposed zoning ordinance amendment
• Tabled cannabis moratorium discussion pending council member responses to attorney questions

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting to discuss housing in the city. They will hear a presentation from Jay Thompson of ViewPoint Consulting on a housing study and market analysis for Meeker County, followed by a representative from the Meeker County EDA.

• Housing study report and market analysis presentation by ViewPoint Consulting
• Discussion with Lisa Graphenteen, Meeker County EDA representative

The City Council, Planning Commission, and EDA Board reviewed a housing analysis for Dassel. The meeting included a presentation on projected housing demand and a discussion on EDA Board responsibilities. No legislative actions or votes were taken on the housing recommendations.

• Adjourned meeting at 6:52 pm (8-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Dassel Planning & Zoning Commission is meeting to conduct routine business, including electing officers and approving prior minutes. The main item is a public hearing on a variance request from 35 Blue Property Group, with the application and staff report attached to the agenda.

• Public hearing on variance request by 35 Blue Property Group
• Election of officers
• Approval of minutes from March 13, 2023 regular meeting

The Commission approved a variance request for 35 Blue Property Group with specific conditions regarding setbacks and drainage. The board also elected new officers and approved the minutes from the March 13, 2023 meeting.

• Elected Carlen as Chair (4-0)
• Elected Sexton as Vice Chair (4-0)
• Approved March 13, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved variance for 35 Blue Property Group with conditions including a 4' garage wall setback and drainage protections (3-0, Corbin abstaining)

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will approve $704,564.32 in claims and support a local development decision. The body will review proposed amendments to the water and zoning codes to schedule public hearings. Additionally, the council will determine staffing and fees for the May 20 citywide cleanup event.

• Payment of claims totaling $704,564.32
• Resolution 2023-015 supporting a local development decision
• Approval of temporary MN DOT permits for the 2024 sidewalk project
• Amendment to Resolution 2023-006 to add a Wine/Strong Beer License fee
• Review of City Code amendments for Sections 51.08, 51.30, 32.02, and 32.03

The City Council approved the purchase of a new street sweeper and authorized a $500,000 fund transfer to capture higher interest rates. The council also approved several liquor and gambling licenses for the Cokato Dassel Lions and scheduled a public hearing for city code amendments.

• Approved lease-purchase of 23' Elgin Pelican street sweeper for $284,635 (5-0)
• Approved transfer of $500,000 from Perennial Savings to 4-M Fund (5-0)
• Approved payment of claims totaling $704,564.32 (5-0)
• Approved Wine/Strong Beer license for Cokato Dassel Lions at Saints Field (5-0)
• Approved Lawful Gambling License for Cokato Dassel Lions raffle on Oct 2, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved hiring Troy Zwilling as part-time liquor store clerk (5-0)
• Approved hiring Jaiden Bunn as fire fighter (5-0)
• Approved City Code amendment Section 32.02 & 32.03 and set public hearing for April 17 (5-0)

Planning & Zoning Commission

The Dassel Planning & Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit application from Daniel Ward for property at 251 Atlantic Ave W. The commission will also elect officers and approve minutes from the November 9, 2022 regular meeting.

• Public hearing: Conditional Use Permit, Daniel Ward - 251 Atlantic Ave W
• Election of officers
• Approval of minutes from November 9, 2022 regular meeting

The Planning & Zoning Commission approved a conditional use permit for Daniel Ward to build one apartment in an existing commercial space. The commission also voted to postpone the election of officers.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for Daniel Ward at 251 Atlantic Ave W (5-0)
• Tabled election of officers until the next meeting (5-0)

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will hold a special assessment hearing regarding a public nuisance at Connie Pool's property at 520 Simon Ave. The council will also consider consent agenda items including $1,259,617.46 in claims, several resolution amendments, and a no-parking request on Hwy 12. Reports and proposals include a Community Center addition, baseball field light quotes, and the 2024 Fire Fund budget.

• Special assessment hearing for Connie Pool, 520 Simon Ave
• Payment of claims totaling $1,259,617.46
• Resolution 2023-014 requesting no parking on Hwy 12
• Approve 2024 Fire Fund budget and contracts
• Local historic designation for Universal Lab Building

The City Council approved a consent agenda including $1,259,617.46 in claims and several administrative resolutions. The council also authorized spending for city hall door replacement, baseball field lighting repairs, and the 2024 Fire Fund budget.

• Approved payment of claims for $1,259,617.46 (5-0)
• Approved $14,395.00 for city hall door replacement and air duct cleaning (5-0)
• Approved $6,545.00 bid from Ahlgren Electric for Saints Field lighting repairs (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Fire Fund budget and contracts (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-013 for billing and assessment at 520 Simon Ave (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Red Rooster Committee budget (5-0)
• Approved address changes for 606 and 610 Atlantic Ave E to Parker Ave E (5-0)
• Approved cashing in Perennial Bank CD to re-invest at Edward Jones for 1 year (5-0)

Dassel Fire Advisory Board

The Dassel Fire Advisory Board is meeting to review the fire department's unaudited 2022 year-end revenues and expenditures, and to review and approve the proposed 2024 budget and contracts. The board will also discuss whether to continue COVID pay for firefighters and will hold elections for officers. The agenda includes approval of minutes from August 31, 2022, and an open forum for public comment.

• Review of 2022 year-end revenues and expenditures (unaudited)
• Review and approval of proposed 2024 fire budget and contracts
• Discussion on continuation of COVID pay
• Election of officers
• Approval of minutes from August 31, 2022

The Board approved the proposed 2024 budget and contracts for recommendation to the Dassel City Council. Members also voted to discontinue COVID pay for firefighters and re-elect the current officers for 2023.

• Approved 2024 budget and contracts for recommended adoption by City Council (5-0)
• Agreed to discontinue COVID pay for firefighters
• Re-elected Josh Johnson as Chair and Randy Holm as Vice Chair (5-0)
• Approved August 31, 2022 minutes (5-0)

Dassel Fire Advisory Board

The Dassel Fire Advisory Board will review unaudited 2022 year-end revenues and expenditures, discuss a preliminary 2024 budget and contracts, and consider whether to continue COVID pay for firefighters. The board will also appoint members and approve prior meeting minutes.

• Review 2022 year-end revenues and expenditures (unaudited)
• Discuss preliminary 2024 fire budget and contracts
• Discuss continuation of COVID pay
• Appoint board members
• Approve minutes from August 31, 2022

The meeting was cancelled due to a lack of quorum. No substantive decisions were made.

Special City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council is holding a special meeting with one business item: a presentation by Mary Korthour and Chris Wersal on the Nuvera-Gig fiber project. No decisions are listed on the agenda; the item appears to be for discussion or information only.

• Presentation by Mary Korthour and Chris Wersal on the Nuvera-Gig fiber project

Representatives from Nuvera presented a proposal to bring fiber to all residential properties in Dassel, starting on the south side. The project is slated to begin in the summer. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Regular City Council Meeting

The Dassel City Council will swear in new members, then consider a consent agenda including $1,222,441.90 in claims and several resolutions on fees, appointments, and financial procedures. They will also hear public comments on water quality and snow plowing, and address a council vacancy.

• Payment of claims totaling $1,222,441.90
• Resolution 2023-006 approving annual fee schedule
• Resolution 2023-009 declaring council vacancy
• Public comments on city water quality and snow plowing
• Resolution 2023-001 designating official newspaper and depositories

The City Council swore in new members and appointed Darren Sombke to a vacant seat. The council approved over $1.2M in claims and several administrative resolutions. Other actions included appointing committee members and authorizing a nuisance abatement assessment.

• Appointed Darren Sombke to fill council vacancy (4-0)
• Approved payment of claims totaling $1,222,441.90 (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2023-011 for nuisance abatement assessment at 520 Simon Ave (5-0)
• Approved transferring $700,000 from Perennial Bank Savings to 4M Fund Savings account
• Authorized City Attorney to amend Joint Powers Agreement with DC School Community Ed
• Ratified 2023 Fire Department officers and accepted Tom Weseloh's resignation (5-0)
• Appointed Al Sexton to the Heritage Preservation Commission
• Adopted Resolutions 2023-001 through 2023-008 via consent agenda (4-0)