Ely, MN

September 1 Council

The Ely City Council will vote on $1,107,692.45 in claims for payment, including funds for the Trailhead Site Rebid and 2026 Street & Infrastructure Improvements. The agenda includes a recommendation to purchase eight Motorola radios for the Police Department for $43,556.48 and to amend airport contracts. The council will also consider a budget of up to $25,000 for comprehensive plan community engagement.

• Claims for payment totaling $1,107,692.45 for City and EUC
• Purchase of 8 Motorola radios for the Police Department for $43,556.48
• Amendment to Airport OSP and FBO contracts to move one-hour janitorial service
• Budget of up to $25,000 for comprehensive plan community engagement
• Addition of 'unlawful parking and storage – storage and shipping containers' to City Code 11.20

Planning Zoning for August 19th

The Ely Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to approve minutes, hear reports, and consider a recommendation from the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee to allocate up to $25,000 for community engagement and comprehensive plan creation. The commission will also review conditional use permits and a lot line adjustment. The agenda includes several public hearings and old business items.

• Recommendation to consider a budget of up to $25,000 for community engagement and comprehensive plan creation
• 401 E Sheridan St CUP
• 21 E White St CUP
• 326 N 14th Ave E Lot Line Adjustment
• Special Vehicle Ordinance and Storage Container Ordinance (old business)

Planning Zoning for August 19th

The Ely Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to consider three new business items: a conditional use permit for a dog boarding/daycare at 401 E Sheridan St, a CUP at 21 E White St, and a lot line adjustment at 326 N 14th Ave E. They will also revisit the Special Vehicle Ordinance and Storage Container Ordinance. The agenda includes approval of minutes from prior meetings and reports from committees.

• CUP for dog boarding/daycare at 401 E Sheridan St (up to 25 dogs)
• CUP at 21 E White St
• Lot line adjustment at 326 N 14th Ave E
• Special Vehicle Ordinance (old business)
• Storage Container Ordinance (old business)

Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for August 19th

The Ely Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to consider a variance request from Nels Pierson, Heidi Brandenburg, and Judy Brandenburg for a 6-foot-high fence along N 11th Ave E at 1102 E Camp St. City code limits fences along streets to 4 feet, but staff recommends approval, citing practical difficulties and consistency with the comprehensive plan. Public comments will be heard at the meeting or submitted before August 17.

• Variance application for 6-foot fence at 1102 E Camp St (PID# 030-0380-01310)
• Request to exceed 4-foot height limit along N 11th Ave E
• Staff recommends approval of the variance
• Public comment deadline: August 17, 2026
• Hearing scheduled for August 19, 2026 at 5:00 PM in City Hall council chambers

August 18 Council

The Ely City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 18, 2026, to consider several recommendations from city boards and departments. Key items include grant applications for historic preservation, a new fee for the Farmers Market, and accepting a police officer's resignation and posting the position. The council will also review claims for payment and other routine business.

• Recommendation to apply for $2,000 Gardner Trust grant for City Hall photographic artwork
• Recommendation to apply for $15,000 Minnesota Historical Society grant for oral histories
• Proposal to set Farmers Market fee at $40 per day/use plus $150 annual event permit
• Police officer resignation and recommendation to post for open position
• Claims for payment totaling $180,266.14

Meeting

The Ely Park and Recreation Board is meeting to discuss several items, including concerns about the Farmers Market, potential changes to Whiteside Park rental fees, tree donations, and updates on the Trailhead. The board will also review old business on pickleball, Pillow Rock, and the Trailhead Walking Trail. The meeting is scheduled for August 12, 2026, at the Ely Trailhead.

• Farmers Market concerns
• Whiteside Park rental fees (current: $15 per 4-hour interval, $30 per day per section)
• Tree donation offer from Jay Williams (Arbor Day Foundation member)
• Trailhead kiosk panel request from Heritage Preservation Commission to display Tour Ely brochure
• ECR mural crew proposal to paint bottom half of Semers Park building

August 4th Council

The Ely City Council met to review committee reports, claims for payment, and new business including liquor licenses and special event permits. The Board of Adjustment denied three conditional use permits due to neighborhood compatibility and management concerns, and the Utilities Commission recommended energy rebates for several properties.

• Board of Adjustment denied Conditional Use Permit for rooming house at 21 E White St
• Board of Adjustment denied dog boarding permit at 401 E Sheridan St
• Board of Adjustment revoked Home Occupation Permit at 422 E James St
• Utilities Commission recommended energy rebates ranging from $25 to $400 for six properties
• Considered Temporary Liquor License for Northeastern Minnesotans for Wilderness at Puddle Jumper Park

Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for July 29th

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to decide on a variance request for a property at 115 N 21 Ave E. The applicant seeks to install an 8-foot-high fence that is 30 feet long, which exceeds the city's 4-foot limit for fences along streets and avenues.

• Variance application for 8-foot-high fence at 115 N 21 Ave E
• Proposed fence length of 30 feet on N 21st Ave E
• Staff recommendation for approval of the variance

Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for July 29th

The Board of Adjustment is meeting to consider a variance request for a lengthy 8-foot fence. The provided text contains correspondence regarding whether the request benefits the city or relates to a legal dispute between a resort and a neighbor.

• Variance request for a lengthy 8-foot fence

July 21 Council

The Ely City Council will review the 2027 requested budget, including a proposed 6.81% property tax levy increase from $2,429,800 to $2,595,200. They will also consider second reading of Ordinance 404 amending the lodging tax, approve a $50,000 IRRRB grant application for the Outdoor Hockey Rink Project, and act on several funding requests and permits.

• 6.81% property tax levy increase to $2,595,200 for 2027
• Second reading of Ordinance 404 amending Chapter 6, Section 6.33, Lodging Tax
• Recommendation to apply for $50,000 IRRRB grant for Outdoor Hockey Rink Project at Rec Center
• $20,000 funding assistance request from Ely Lodging Tax Joint Powers Board for 2027
• Approval of 2027-2031 Airport Equipment Replacement Plan

The Ely City Council approved several recommendations, including forming an ad hoc committee to review an outdoor wood boiler ordinance, supporting an IRRRB grant application for an outdoor hockey rink, and approving the 2027-2031 Airport Equipment Replacement Plan. They also approved a $20,000 funding request from the Ely Lodging Tax Joint Powers Board for 2027 and refunded fees for the cancelled Blueberry Arts Festival. The council rejected the Heritage Preservation Commission's $1,700 budget request for the Tour of Ely brochure, voting 5-2.

• Formed ad hoc committee to review outdoor wood boiler ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved support for IRRRB grant application up to $50,000 for Outdoor Hockey Rink Project (unanimous)
• Approved 2027-2031 Airport Equipment Replacement Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Ely Airport Facilities Operations Services and FBO Agreements as modified (unanimous)
• Rejected Heritage Preservation Commission's $1,700 budget request for Tour of Ely Brochure (5-2)
• Approved Ely Lodging Tax Joint Powers Board Funding Assistance Request for 2027 for $20,000 (unanimous)
• Refunded Whiteside rental fees and Event Permit fees for cancelled 2026 Blueberry Arts Festival (unanimous)
• Approved 2nd Reading of Ordinance 404 amending Lodging Tax (unanimous)

July 21 Council

The City Council will review recommendations for a new outdoor wood boiler ordinance and a lodging tax amendment. The body is also considering funding applications for recreation projects and airport equipment replacement plans.

• 2nd Reading of Ordinance 404 amending Chapter 6, Section 6.33, Lodging Tax
• Recommendation to draft an Outdoor Wood Boiler Ordinance
• Application to IRRRB for up to $50,000 for the Outdoor Hockey Rink Project
• City and EUC claims for payment totaling $156,096.53
• Temporary liquor licenses for Ely Winton Rod & Gun Club at 401 N Pioneer Rd

July 16 Special Council

The Special Council meeting will include a briefing on the active fire in the Ely area. Chris Barth of the National Incident Management Organization will provide the information. No decisions or votes are scheduled; the session is purely informational.

Planning Zoning for July 15th

The commission will meet to discuss a potential permit revocation for a property at 422 E James St due to blight and traffic concerns. The body will also review ordinances regarding special vehicles and storage containers.

• Public hearing at 4:45 PM regarding Home Occupation Permit revocation at 422 E James St
• Discussion of Special Vehicle Ordinance (golf carts and mini trucks)
• Discussion of Storage Container Ordinance for residential zoned areas

Board of Adjustment CUP Hearing for July 15th

The Ely Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on July 15, 2026 at 5:00 pm in the City Hall council chambers. At the hearing the board will consider approving a Conditional Use Permit application submitted by Paige Maystadt for a 25‑kennel dog boarding and daycare facility at 401 E Sheridan St. The property is zoned Commercial (C1) and dog boarding is allowed only by Conditional Use Permit under Ordinance 398, 2nd Series, 11.40. Public comments may be submitted by July 13.

• Conditional Use Permit hearing for a 25‑kennel dog boarding facility at 401 E Sheridan St.
• Application submitted by Paige Maystadt (prospective buyer).
• Property zoned Commercial (C1).
• Dog boarding allowed only by Conditional Use Permit per Ordinance 398, 2nd Series, 11.40.
• Public comment deadline July 13.

Board of Adjustment Home Occupation Hearing for July 15th

The Ely Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on July 15, 2026 at 4:45 pm in City Hall council chambers to consider revoking the Home Occupation Permit for NorthStar Dirt Worx at 422 E James St. The revocation is based on complaints of excess dirt, debris, vehicle traffic, and noise at the site. Interested parties may submit comments before the hearing and have ten days to appeal any revocation decision.

• Revocation of Home Occupation Permit for 422 E James St (NorthStar Dirt Worx)
• Public hearing scheduled for July 15, 2026 at 4:45 pm in City Hall council chambers
• Complaints cited: excess dirt, debris, vehicle traffic, and noise
• Right to appeal revocation within ten (10) days to the Board of Adjustment
• Home Occupation permit fee: $25.00

Meeting

The Ely Park and Recreation Board voted to recommend approval of the Friends 50 Bike Ride Event permit for the August 22 trailhead event. The board also discussed possible swimming facilities near the Miners Lake boat landing and reviewed updates on several ongoing projects, including the mountain bike trail, a new kayak dock and fishing pier, and the recent installation of grills at Whiteside Park.

• Recommendation to approve Friends 50 Bike Ride Event Permit (motion carried)
• Discussion of potential swimming area and additional dock at Miners Lake boat landing
• Update: mountain bike trail project still awaiting DNR procedures, not yet out for bids
• New kayak dock and fishing pier installed on the east end of Miners Lake
• Whiteside Park grills installed and in use, board considering additional grills

The Ely Park and Recreation Board approved a motion to support the city's application to the IRRRB for up to $50,000 to complete the outdoor hockey rink project at the rec center. The board also discussed a potential lease for the pickleball courts, suggesting a shorter term of 5-10 years instead of 30. No other formal decisions were made; the meeting included updates on park events and projects.

• Approved the June 10th, 2026 meeting minutes.
• Approved a motion to support an application to the IRRRB seeking up to $50,000 for the outdoor hockey rink project at the rec center.
• Reached a consensus to hold the August 12th meeting at the Trailhead Building.
• Discussed, but did not decide on, a shorter lease term (5-10 years) for the pickleball courts.

July 7 Council

The Ely City Council will consider several financial approvals, including a $73,601.25 partial payment to Mesabi Bituminous for the 2026 Street & Infrastructure Improvements Project. Committee recommendations include a $6,396.83 payment to RESCO for street lighting work on Pattison Street and a $400 energy rebate to a resident. The council will also review a $10,000 note and mortgage for a residential rehab loan and a quit‑claim deed releasing a reversionary interest. Claims for payment totaling $366,560.51 will be addressed.

• Approve $73,601.25 partial payment to Mesabi Bituminous for the 2026 Street & Infrastructure Improvements Project
• Approve $6,396.83 payment to RESCO for street lighting wire and conduit on Pattison Street
• Approve $400 energy rebate to Jim Robbins at 410 E Sheridan St
• Consider $10,000 note and mortgage for residential rehab loan for Larry and Amy Wier at 10 W Shagawa Rd
• Approve city and EUC claims for payment totaling $366,560.51

The council approved several payments for street and utility projects, including a payment to Mesabi Bituminous, Inc. and RESCO. They also authorized a $10,000 residential rehab loan for a propane furnace and released a reversionary interest on a property deed.

• Approved $73,601.25 payment to Mesabi Bituminous, Inc for 2026 Street & Infrastructure Improvements (Unanimous)
• Approved $6,396.83 payment to RESCO for Pattison Street project lighting wire and conduit (Unanimous)
• Approved $400.00 Energy Rebate to Jim Robbins at 410 E Sheridan St (Unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 Residential Rehab Loan for Larry and Amy Wier at 10 W Shagawa Rd (Unanimous)
• Approved Quit Claim Deed releasing Reversionary interest of Lot 11, Block 2, EAST SPAULDING (Unanimous)
• Approved City and EUC Claims for July 7, 2026, totaling $366,560.51 (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes from June 16, 2026, Regular Council Meeting (Unanimous)

Planning Zoning for June 17th

The Ely Planning and Zoning Commission will consider a Conditional Use Permit for a small boathouse at 751 N Pioneer Rd on Shagawa Lake, with staff recommending approval. The meeting also includes new business items such as a Home Occupation Permit revocation, a variance for KJ’s True Value, and a Shipping Containers Ordinance, plus old business on the Outdoor Wood Boilers Ordinance.

• Home Occupation Permit Revocation (item 7.1)
• KJ’s True Value Variance (item 7.2)
• Shipping Containers Ordinance (item 7.3)
• Outdoor Wood Boilers Ordinance – old business (item 8a)
• Conditional Use Permit for a boathouse at 751 N Pioneer Rd (public hearing and staff recommendation)

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved the May 20, 2026 minutes and set a public hearing for July 15 to consider revoking a Home Occupation Permit at 422 E James St. It adopted a revised Outdoor Wood Boiler ordinance and issued a series of variance decisions, approving several fence height requests and denying multiple setback relief applications.

• Approved May 20, 2026 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Scheduled public hearing July 15, 4:45 PM for Home Occupation Permit revocation at 422 E James St (motion carried)
• Approved 6‑foot fence height along Sheridan St (PID 030‑0010‑00900)
• Denied 18‑inch setback relief along Sheridan St (PID 030‑0010‑00900)
• Approved vision‑triangle relief at Sheridan St/N 3rd Ave E corner
• Approved draft Outdoor Wood Boiler ordinance with discussed changes (motion carried)
• Approved 6‑foot fence height along Camp St (PID 030‑0370‑00070/00090)
• Denied 18‑inch setback relief for Camp St residential parcel (PID 030‑0370‑00070/00090)

June 16 Council

The City Council is reviewing bids for contaminated soil removal and brewery construction at the Historic Depot site. The body is also considering a $1.5 million loan for the Wilderness Escape Apartments and a $10,000 residential rehab loan.

• Bids for Depot Green Space Phase 2 soil disposal: Utility Systems of America ($229,770.00) and Low Impact Excavators ($162,180.40)
• Bid for 1,800 sq ft brewery building at Historic Depot: Weisinger Construction ($320,889.00)
• Deferred Loan Agreement for Wilderness Escape Apartments: $1,500,000
• Proposed use of $200,000 from capital project fund balance for Fire Apparatus Building deficit
• Residential Rehab Loan for 10 W Shagawa Rd: $10,000

The council unanimously approved a $1.5 million deferred loan agreement with the Housing and Redevelopment Authority for the Wilderness Escape Apartments, which will be treated as a grant forgiven after project completion. It also authorized the city to apply for and accept a FY27 IRRR Public Works grant to fund construction of a new fire apparatus garage and ambulance garage upgrades, and approved the use of $200,000 from the capital fund balance to cover the fire garage deficit. Additional actions included approving a state grant for the Ely Depot revitalization, a new liquor license for Hotel Elysium, purchase of a $17,000 three‑axle trailer, and payment of $2,966,345.69 in city claims.

• Approved application to IRRR FY27 Public Works Grant for fire apparatus and ambulance garage projects (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2026-022 authorizing city to apply for and accept IRRR FY27 grant funds (unanimous)
• Approved $1,500,000 Deferred Loan Agreement for Wilderness Escape Apartments (unanimous)
• Approved State of Minnesota Grant Contract for Ely Depot and Railyard Revitalization Phase II (unanimous)
• Approved new combination and Sunday liquor license for Pillar Hospitality Group (Hotel Elysium) (unanimous)
• Approved use of $200,000 fund balance for fire apparatus building deficit (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of a three‑axle trailer for $17,000 (unanimous)
• Approved city and EUC claims for payment of $2,966,345.69 and $5,637.50 (unanimous)

Meeting

The board will meet to discuss new business including e-bike regulations and swimming at Miners Lake. The agenda also includes updates on the Trailhead Walking Trail and improvements to Whiteside Park.

• Discussion on Scooters/E-bikes
• Miners Lake Swimming
• Friends 50th Bike Ride Event
• Jim Musich Plaques
• Whiteside Park Improvements

The park and recreation board approved a plaque honoring Jim Musich with a 6‑2‑1 vote. It also approved the Friends 50th Bike Ride Event Permit and authorized staff to develop signage about e‑scooter and e‑bike rules. The July 8, 2026 meeting will be held at Whiteside Park Pavilion.

• Approved Jim Musich plaque (6-2-1)
• Approved Friends 50th Bike Ride Event Permit (no objection)
• Authorized staff to seek e‑scooter/e‑bike signage (with objection)
• Set July 8 meeting at Whiteside Park Pavilion (with objection)
• Approved May 13, 2026 minutes (without objection)

Council

The City Council is meeting to hear public comment regarding Ordinance 403. This ordinance concerns the updating of the Permissible and Conditional Uses List.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 403 (Updating the Permissible and Conditional Uses List)

The council met on June 2, 2026 to hear public comment on Ordinance 403, which would add certain apartment, bed‑and‑breakfast, dwelling, multifamily, rooming‑house, ambulance garage and office uses to the R‑1 and C‑2 districts pending a conditional use permit. Only one resident, Brenna Kolstad, spoke; no letters or emails were received. The meeting adjourned at 5:19 p.m. with no decisions, votes, or approvals recorded.

June 2 Council

The council will approve the award of the 2026 Street and Infrastructure Project to Mesabi Bituminous, Inc. for $911,637, subject to a $61,083 contract decrease. Committee reports include Board of Adjustment approvals for a boathouse conditional use permit and multiple fence variances, as well as the Utilities Commission’s recommendations to fund projects such as solar panel installation, water‑meter purchases, and roof replacement. The meeting also includes second‑reading votes on Ordinances 401‑403 regulating mobile vendors and land uses, and approvals of temporary liquor licenses for upcoming community events.

• Award 2026 Street & Infrastructure Project to Mesabi Bituminous, Inc. for $911,637 (contingent on $61,083 contract decrease)
• EUC recommendations: approve $3,800 annual support, $5,000 mini bulk storage tank quote, $14,851 down payment for solar panels, $27,680 roof replacement, $1,011 water meters, $17,330 press rental, $6,582.40 transmission work, $1,000 heat‑pump rebate
• BOA approvals: conditional use permit for boathouse at 751 N Pioneer Rd; fence variances for 303 E Sheridan St and other properties
• Second‑reading of Ordinance 401 (peddlers & mobile food), Ordinance 402 (consumption & display), Ordinance 403 (permissible uses)
• Temporary liquor licenses for Boundary Waters Connect BBQ (July 2) and Ely Fire Department events (July 3, July 24‑26) at Puddle Jumper Park and Whiteside Park

The council unanimously approved a series of utility expenditures, including funding for a solar panel installation on the water treatment plant roof, a water plant roof replacement, and various equipment purchases. It also approved the Eaton/Caselle conversion support and a mini bulk storage tank quote. The Board of Adjustment approved a conditional use permit for a boathouse and authorized 6‑ft fences while denying setback relief in several cases.

• Approved $3,800 Eaton/Caselle conversion support (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 mini bulk storage tank and chemical feed equipment quote (unanimous)
• Approved $14,851 down payment for solar panels on water treatment plant roof (unanimous)
• Approved $27,680 roof replacement for water plant (unanimous)
• Approved $17,330 press rental for biosolids removal (unanimous)
• Approved $6,582.40 transmission work invoice (unanimous)
• BOA approved conditional use permit for boathouse at 751 N Pioneer Rd with conditions (unanimous)
• BOA approved 6‑ft fences at 303 E Sheridan St and N 3rd Ave E, denied setback relief in several cases (unanimous)

Board of Adjustment Variance Hearing for May 20th

The Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to decide on a variance application for Eagle Wolf Development. The applicant seeks to exceed city fence height and setback limits for multiple commercial properties to improve security and prevent vandalism.

• Proposed 6-foot-high fence at 303 E Sheridan St, 328 E Camp St, and 336 E Camp St
• Request to waive the 18-inch setback requirement from the public right-of-way line
• Request for variance from the 36-inch corner vision triangle requirement at Sheridan St
• Proposed use of transparent chain link material for the fence at 303 E Sheridan St and N 3rd Ave E

The Board of Adjustment heard a variance request for 303 E Sheridan St on May 20, 2026. Staff presented the applicant’s request, public comments, and a recommendation to approve the variances. No vote or formal decision was recorded in the minutes.

Board of Adjustment Conditional Use Hearing for May 20th

The Ely Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on May 20, 2026 at 5:00 pm to consider a Conditional Use Permit application submitted by Kelly Klun and Tanner Spawn for KK & PI LLC. The request seeks approval to build a private boathouse of up to 400 sq ft on the residential‑zoned parcel at 751 N Pioneer Rd, at least 10 feet back from the Original High‑Water Mark. Public comments may be submitted by May 18, 2026, and will be read into the record during the hearing. The Board will render a decision after hearing the applicant, staff analysis, and public input.

• Conditional Use Permit application for a private boathouse (up to 400 sq ft) at 751 N Pioneer Rd, parcel #030-0500-00211
• Applicant: KK & PI LLC, represented by Kelly Klun and Tanner Spawn
• Property zoned Residential (R1); boathouses allowed only by Conditional Use Permit per Shoreland Ordinance 11.42 Subd. (2)(D)
• Public comment letters from Paul Shurke (1101 Ringrock Rd) and Frederica Musgrave (30 W Shagawa Rd)
• Boathouse design: 12 × 24 ft prefabricated structure, 10 ft setback from the Ordinary High Water Mark, no sewer or water connections

The Board of Adjustment met on May 20, 2026 to hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit for a small boathouse at 751 N Pioneer Rd on Shagawa Lake. City staff presented a recommendation to approve the permit, noting compliance with shoreland and DNR requirements. The minutes do not record a vote or final decision by the board.

Planning Zoning for May 20th

The Planning and Zoning Commission will meet to discuss a shoreland permit and an ordinance regarding outdoor wood boilers. The commission will also review the public hearing notice process.

• Shoreland Permit for 751 N Pioneer Rd
• Outdoor Wood Boilers Ordinance
• Public Hearing Notice Process

The commission approved the April 15, 2026 meeting minutes. It adopted a new public‑hearing notice process that sends a letter with an online link instead of a full packet. It also approved the shoreland excavation permit for 751 N Pioneer Rd, allowing up to 50 cubic yards of sand and a gravel pad as described in the staff memo.

• Approved April 15, 2026 minutes (motion carried)
• Adopted new public‑hearing notice procedure (letters + online packet link) (motion carried without objection)
• Approved shoreland excavation permit for 751 N Pioneer Rd (up to 50 cu yd sand, 12x24 gravel pad) (motion carried without objection)

May 19 Council

The Ely City Council will consider four ordinance amendments that modify regulations for peddlers, mobile food vendors, consumption displays, and the lodging tax. Committee recommendations include a $9,000 stone‑and‑mortar test for City Hall, a $1,065,000 low bid for the fire apparatus building, and a 10% increase in airport hangar and garage lease rates. The council will also review event permits for the Blueberry Art Festival and Harvest Moon Festival, and a phase‑1 Pickleball project in the park system.

• Ordinance 401‑404 amendments covering peddlers, food carts, consumption displays, and lodging tax
• Stone and mortar testing by American Masonry Restoration on City Hall – estimated $9,000
• Fire Apparatus building bid – low bid Lenci at $1,065,000
• Airport lease rate increase 10% – current hangar $1,200/yr, garage $1,020/yr
• Event permits for Blueberry Art Festival and Harvest Moon Festival with trash receptacle requirements

The council voted 6‑1 to approve a permit for two 16‑foot driveways and gates into the equipment rental lot of KJ’s on 3rd Avenue East, noting the loss of two parking spots on the west side and the gain of one on the east side. The council also unanimously approved a letter of support for federal Safe Streets and Roads for All funds, stone‑and‑mortar testing at City Hall for $9,000, and a 10% increase in hangar and garage lease rates. Event permits for the Blueberry Art Festival and Harvest Moon Festival were approved unanimously, as was the first phase of the Pickleball project. Seasonal employees for several departments were hired at $15 per hour, with the motion passing unanimously.

• Approved permit for two 16‑foot driveways and gates at KJ’s (6‑1)
• Approved letter of support for Safe Streets and Roads for All grant (unanimous)
• Approved $9,000 stone and mortar testing at City Hall (unanimous)
• Approved 10% increase in hangar and garage lease rates (unanimous)
• Approved event permit for Blueberry Art Festival (unanimous)
• Approved event permit for Harvest Moon Festival (unanimous)
• Approved phase 1 of Pickleball project (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of seasonal employees for multiple departments (unanimous)

Meeting

The Ely Park and Recreation Board meets on May 13, 2026 at City Hall. The board will approve minutes from the April 8, 2026 meeting, hear staff reports, and discuss upcoming community events. Old‑business items include the park budget, trail projects, and park improvements.

• Approve minutes from April 8, 2026
• Blueberry Arts Event
• Harvest Moon Event
• Budget review
• Trezona Trail discussion

The Ely Park and Recreation Board approved the April 8 minutes and recommended approval of the Blueberry Arts and Harvest Moon event permits, with a condition for adequate trash receptacles. The board also set the June meeting location at Semer’s Park and approved the removal of fencing, posts, and signage at Pillow Rock. Most notably, the board voted to recommend moving forward with phase 1 of the pickleball project as presented.

• Approved April 8 minutes (motion carried)
• Recommended approval of Blueberry Arts Event Permit, contingent on trash receptacles (motion carried without objection)
• Recommended approval of Harvest Moon Event Permit, contingent on trash receptacles (motion carried without objection)
• Approved Semer’s Park as June meeting location (motion carried without objection)
• Recommended moving forward with phase 1 of the pickleball project (motion carried without objection)
• Recommended removal of fencing, posts, and signage at Pillow Rock (motion carried without objection)

May 5 Council

The Ely City Council will approve Resolution 2026-017, which sets procedures for counting write‑in votes. The council will also consider two residential rehabilitation loans of $10,000 each for properties on East White Street. Recommendations from the Ely Utilities Commission for several payments, including $12,637 to Eaton for software support and $11,000 to AquaPure for water‑treatment media, will be reviewed. Standard agenda items such as approval of minutes and a motion to waive readings of all ordinances are also on the docket.

• Adopt Resolution 2026-017 governing write‑in vote counting
• Consider $10,000 residential rehab loan for Louis M Gerzin, 238 E White St., for a new garage
• Consider $10,000 residential rehab loan for Adam and Kelsey Borchert, 1315 E White St., for a new roof
• EUC recommendation to approve $12,637 payment to Eaton for annual Yukon software support
• EUC recommendation to approve $11,000 for clarifier media and freight from AquaPure for the water treatment plant

The council unanimously approved two $10,000 residential rehabilitation loans—one for a new roof for Adam and Kelsey Borchert and another for a new garage for Louis M. Gerzin. It also approved several utility expenditures, including a $12,637 software support payment to Eaton and an $11,000 purchase for AquaPure. The council appointed Timothy Kulik (4‑3 vote) and Courtney Clark (6‑1 vote) to the Park and Recreation Board. All motions were carried as recorded.

• Approved $12,637 payment to Eaton for Yukon software support (unanimous)
• Approved $11,000 to AquaPure for clarifier media and freight (unanimous)
• Approved $985 cutter kit and $2,750 grinder pump for Trembath lift station (unanimous)
• Approved call for bids for water‑treatment plant roof replacement (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 residential rehab loan for Adam and Kelsey Borchert (unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 residential rehab loan for Louis M. Gerzin (unanimous)
• Appointed Timothy Kulik to Park and Recreation Board (4‑3)
• Appointed Courtney Clark to Park and Recreation Board (6‑1)

April 23 Local Board of Appeal Equalization

The Board of Appeal and Equalization will meet to review appeals regarding estimated market values and property classifications. The board determines if adjustments to valuations are warranted based on property inspections and owner appeals.

• Appeal for property at 2133 Sibley Court (030-0066-00020)
• Appeal for property at 34 W. Chapman (030-0260-01160)
• Appeal for property at 129 W. Harvey (030-0260-01040)
• Appeal for property at 419 E. Chapman (030-0370-01650)
• Appeals for properties at 204 E. Sheridan (030-0010-00930) and 127 E. Sheridan (030-0010-00750)

The board adopted Thomas’s recommendation to lower the assessed values of four R&R Transfer properties, reducing the total from $1,320,500 to $939,800. It also approved a small reduction to the building value of a Harris residence (PID 030-0021-00960). The board denied changes for the Hentzen property, Loyal Loon Properties, and Curt Miles properties, keeping their values unchanged. All motions were carried unanimously or with a 6‑0‑1 vote while Council Member Bisbee was absent.

• Reduced R&R Transfer PID 030-0500-00190 building value to $146,400 (6-0-1)
• Reduced R&R Transfer PID 030-0140-00050 building value to $1,000 (6-0-1)
• Reduced R&R Transfer PID 030-0500-00188 building value to $513,200 (6-0-1)
• Reduced R&R Transfer PID 030-0500-00202 building value to $700 (6-0-1)
• Reduced Harris PID 030-0021-00960 building value to $234,700 (6-0-1)
• Kept Hentzen PID 030-0066-00020 unchanged (6-0-1)
• Kept Loyal Loon and Curt Miles properties unchanged (6-0-1)
• Reduced PID 030-0402-00050 building value to $213,200 (unanimous)

Council

The Ely City Council will hold a public hearing to discuss and receive comments on the Ely Utilities Commission's proposed rate increases for water, sanitary sewer and electrical services. The commission recommends a $1.00 per month increase to the water fixed fee plus $0.05 per 100 cubic feet of usage, a $1.00 per month increase to the sewer fixed fee plus $0.05 per 100 cubic feet, and an Energy Cost Adjustment adding $0.0095 per kWh to residential electric rates. The changes are intended to maintain break‑even cash positions for the enterprise funds and support ongoing capital improvement projects.

• Water rate: $1.00/month fixed fee increase and $0.05/100 cf usage charge (2.8% avg residential, $1.26/mo)
• Sewer rate: $1.00/month fixed fee increase and $0.05/100 cf usage charge (2.27% avg residential, $1.28/mo)
• Residential electric rate: add $0.0095/kWh ECA to $0.1085/kWh variable fee, raising average monthly bill by $4.20 (4.7%)
• Electric Vehicle charging options with $5/mo customer charge, $30/mo existing customer charge, on‑peak $0.17/kWh +ECA, off‑peak -$0.055/kWh +ECA
• Water infrastructure project includes replacement of the water supply line from Burntside Lake and an additional water main on Sheridan Street

The council approved a water, sewer and electric rate increase and authorized the city to apply for a FY2026 Downtown Redevelopment Grant for Border Lakes Brewing. It also approved bids for a street and infrastructure project, awarded the City Hall window replacement contract, and adopted a police records management agreement with Duluth. Additional actions included lifting calendar parking, approving hazardous‑materials disposal at the old Ford Garage, and confirming a quit‑claim deed for the Wilderness Escape housing project.

• Approved water, sewer and electric rate increase (unanimous)
• Approved application for FY2026 Downtown Redevelopment Grant for Border Lakes Brewing (6-0-1, Roose abstaining)
• Approved call for bids on 2026 Street and Infrastructure project (unanimous)
• Awarded City Hall Window Project to Max Gray Construction for $327,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Police Enterprise Records Management System Access Agreement with Duluth (unanimous)
• Lifted calendar parking effective April 27, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved hazardous materials disposal contract with Mavo Systems for $7,850 (unanimous)
• Approved quit‑claim deed between Housing and Redevelopment Authority and City of Ely for Wilderness Escape Apartments (unanimous)

April 21 Council

The City Council will discuss recommendations for the 2026 Street and Infrastructure project and a grant for the Bear Head Development brewery building. The body will also review several subdivision requests and potential changes to permissible land uses in R1 and C2 zones.

• Low bid of $7,850.00 from Mavo Systems for hazardous materials at 36 & 46 E Conan St
• Proposed $1,252.00 sale of surplus light and power poles to Bob Koschak
• Recommendation to accept a $2,000 grant for the Gawboy mural at the Ely Regional Trailhead Building
• City and EUC claims for payment totaling $106,656.44
• Proposed lot width adjustments at 1229 and 1239 E Washington St

The council unanimously approved a rate increase for water, sewer and electric services. It also authorized the city to apply for a FY2026 Downtown Redevelopment Grant to support Border Lakes Brewing’s new building, and approved temporary liquor licenses for the Folk School and the Winton Rod & Gun Club. Additional actions included awarding the City Hall window replacement contract and lifting calendar parking.

• Approved water, sewer, electric rate increase (unanimous)
• Approved application for FY2026 Downtown Redevelopment Grant for Border Lakes Brewing (6-0-1, Roose abstained)
• Approved temporary on‑sale liquor license for Ely Folk School (unanimous)
• Approved temporary on‑sale liquor license for Ely Winton Rod & Gun Club (unanimous)
• Awarded City Hall Window Project to Max Gray Construction for $327,000 (unanimous)
• Approved hazardous materials disposal contract at Old Ford Garage to Mavo Systems for $7,850 (unanimous)
• Approved lift of calendar parking effective April 27, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved Police Enterprise Records Management System Access Agreement with Duluth (unanimous)