Ely public meetings in 2023

December 19 Council

The City Council will vote on the 2024 fiscal year budget and the final tax levy for 2024. The agenda also includes discussions on housing ordinances, business licenses, and various committee recommendations.

• Approval of the City of Ely Budget for Fiscal Year 2024
• Adoption of the Final Tax Levy Collectible in 2024
• Contract with Moving Tree Media, LLC for up to $8,500 for memorial services
• License applications for The Green Mining Company, LLC at 43 E Camp St
• Residential Rehab Loan for 122 E Harvey St for up to $10,000

December 13 Special Council

The City Council is considering a payment to the Ely Area Ambulance Joint Powers. This includes paying 24% of the 2024 facility operating budget and providing an early two-month operating subsidy.

• Payment of $5,928.00 representing 24% of the 2024 facility operating budget
• Provision of a two-month operating subsidy to cover expenses
• Total invoice amount of $38,018.00

December 5 Council

The Ely City Council will discuss potential limits on short-term rental licensing and review several recommendations from the Ely Utilities Commission. The meeting also includes a presentation on a community recovery program project.

• Discussion on short-term rental licensing limits
• Ely Utilities Commission recommendation for $22,500 for a mini excavator purchase
• Ely Utilities Commission recommendation to pay $316,330.66 for the October EUC bill
• Telecommunications Advisory Board recommendation for a new video board up to $7,000
• Approval of 2024 Tobacco License renewal applications

Council

The Ely City Council is presenting the 2024 proposed budget and Truth in Taxation information. The proposal includes a total city tax levy of $2,158,100, which represents a $61,600 increase from 2023.

• Proposed 2024 property tax levy of $2,158,100
• Proposed increase in operational expenditures to $5,737,500
• Budgeted capital projects of $794,000 including Conan St and City Hall improvements
• Equipment Replacement Fund budget increase of $10,000 to $200,000
• Proposed 2024 EEDA Special Levy of $39,000

Council

The Ely City Council held a joint study session with Planning and Zoning to discuss updates to the zoning code. The agenda focused on reviewing district definitions, the list of permissible and conditional uses, and specific regulations for the Business Park. No final votes or decisions were recorded in the provided text, as the items were listed for continued discussion.

• Discussion of updated evaluation of permissible and conditional uses list
• Review of Zoning District Definitions including R-T Residential Transition District
• Discussion of Business Park Covenants and Plan
• Review of Storage Tanks and Minnesota Rules EAW Categories
• Discussion of Classification List for Permissible/Conditional Uses

November 21 Council

The Ely City Council will review the proposed 2024 budget and various committee recommendations. Items for discussion include health insurance carrier changes, police recruitment incentives, and funding requests for the Senior Center.

• Approval of the 2024 proposed budget
• Purchase of a Snap-on scan tool for $4,790.01
• Purchase of a snow bucket for a skid steer from L and L rental for $1,590
• Contract approval for Premier Pyrotechnics to provide 2023 July 4th fireworks for $20,000
• Approval of a police officer recruitment and retention plan involving canoe equipment

November 7 Council

The Council will consider several committee recommendations, including utility payments and equipment purchases. The agenda also includes discussions on property disposition for 45 E Boundary St and various gambling and liquor license resolutions.

• EUC recommendation to purchase a Ford truck for the electric department for $46,651.64
• EUC recommendation for AE2S engineering proposal at Water Treatment Plant estimated at $33,000
• Resolution authorizing application for FY 2023 Development Infrastructure Grant funds
• Discussion on condition and disposition for 45 E Boundary St
• City and EUC claims for payment totaling $682,372.59

October 17 Council

The Ely City Council will discuss second readings of ordinances, a resolution on dog licensing fees, and consider several loan applications for property improvements.

• 2nd Reading Ordinance amending the Ely City Code (Chapter 10)
• Resolution establishing license fees for dogs
• Residential rehab loan for Joseph and Nicole Shusta at $6,000
• Consideration of Turkey Trot event on November 23
• Trunk or Treat event in Whiteside Park on October 31

October 3 Council

The Ely City Council will review utility commission recommendations for the WWTF Project and consider a $2,760,000 bid from Max Gray Construction for the Trailhead Building. The meeting also includes discussions on city code amendments regarding kennels and alcoholic beverage licensing.

• Max Gray Construction low bid of $2,760,000 for the Trailhead Building project
• WWTF Project change orders #9 ($1,897.04), #10 ($11,556.89), and #11 ($3,698.15)
• Public hearing regarding blighted property at 1545 E Harvey St
• $10,000 residential rehab loan for furnace at 539 E Chapman St
• Cemetery Committee recommendation for Public Works landscaping at estimated $50,000 savings

Council

The City Council and Planning & Zoning will hold a joint study session to discuss an updated evaluation of the list of permissible and conditional land uses. The discussion involves reviewing proposed revisions to various business and residential classifications within city zoning districts.

• Joint Study Session with Planning & Zoning regarding updated evaluation of permissible and conditional uses list

September 5 Council

The Ely City Council is reviewing several 2024 budget recommendations, including funding for the Senior Center and Ambulance Service. The agenda also includes requests to appear regarding senior center support and various utility and equipment purchases.

• Recommendation to approve purchase of Radarsign radar sign for $4,415
• Recommendation to include $7,500 for the Senior Center in the 2024 Budget
• Recommendation to purchase a 2016 Ford Explorer from the Ambulance Service for $15,500
• Recommendation to purchase a new line tracer for the Electric Department for $4,790.00
• Resolution authorizing the Minnesota Department of Transportation Grant Agreement for Airport Improvement

The Council approved several 2024 budget recommendations, including funding for the Senior Center and Heritage Preservation Commission. Other actions included approving utility equipment purchases and the substantial completion of the Waste Water Treatment Facility Project.

• Approved $7,500 for the Senior Center and $2,500 for the Heritage Preservation Commission in 2024 budget (6-0-1)
• Approved $9,000 for Ambulance building operations in 2024 budget (6-0-1)
• Approved $4,415 purchase of a radar sign using Public Safety Aid (6-0-1)
• Approved $15,500 purchase of a 2016 Ford Explorer for the Utility Department (6-0-1)
• Approved $4,790 purchase of a new line tracer for the Electric Department (6-0-1)
• Approved substantial completion of the Waste Water Treatment Facility Project (6-0-1)
• Approved Waste Water Treatment Facility Change Order #19 ($1,897.04) and #20 ($11,556.89) (6-0-1)
• Voted to short pay Ambulance Joint Powers invoice 2023-050 to the budgeted $34,300 (6-0-1)

August 29 Council Study Session

The Ely City Council held a study session to discuss proposed amendments to Ordinances 372 and 373 regarding animal licensing. The discussion focused on updating the city code definitions for animals, licensing requirements, and regulations for pet ownership.

• Discussion on Ordinance 372 & 373 regarding Animal Licensing and Regulation
• Proposed amendments to Ely City Code Chapter 10
• New definitions for 'Dangerous animal', 'House Pets', and 'Farm Animals'
• Regulations regarding the maximum number of pets allowed in a dwelling without a permit
• Provisions for animal impoundment, release, and destruction

The council held a study session to review proposed changes to Ordinances 372 and 373 regarding animal licensing, noise, and cruelty. No formal votes were taken; the session focused on refining animal limits, vaccination requirements, and the process for designating dangerous dogs.

• Discussed increasing animal limit per household from 3 to 4 or 6
• Proposed adding new sections on animal cruelty and dangerous dog designations
• Discussed requiring collars/harnesses only when dogs and cats are outside
• Proposed a 10-day hold period for animals in the pound per Animal Welfare Act
• Discussed removing 'humanely destroyed' language from the animal pound section
• Discussed simplifying the noise ordinance by removing specific time frames

August 15 Council

The Ely City Council will consider revisions to animal licensing regulations, including requirements for pet licenses and special permits for multiple pets. The council will also decide on a residential rehab loan and temporary liquor license.

• Residential Rehab Loan for Josh Brang and Sarah Murn at 931 E Harvey St for $10,000
• Temporary Liquor License for Ely Winton Rod and Gun Club
• Cannabinoid Dealer Licenses new and renewals for 2023-2024

The Council approved a proposal to set ambulance building ownership at 32% each for Morse, Ely, and Fall Lake, and 4% for Winton. The Council also approved a residential rehab loan and appointed a delegate to the Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association.

• Approved ambulance building ownership at 32% for Morse, Ely, and Fall Lake, and 4% for Winton
• Approved $10,000 residential rehab loan for Josh Brang and Sarah Murn at 931 E Harvey St
• Appointed Harold Langowski as Minnesota Municipal Utilities Association Delegate (Warren Nikkola as alternate)
• Approved minutes from August 1, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
• Designated August 28, 2023 Joint Powers Ambulance Meeting as a Special Council Meeting

August 1 Council

The Ely City Council is reviewing several committee recommendations, including a $60,100 agreement for the Fire Apparatus Building and potential funding for Fall Lake and Morse Township. The agenda also includes a second reading of an ordinance regarding the public use of cannabinoid products.

• TKDA Professional Services Agreement for $60,100 for the Fire Apparatus Building
• Potential City contribution of at least $34,300 to Fall Lake and Morse Township
• Estimated $12,000 cost for a bio solids press trial at the Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Payment of $19,574.08 to AE2S for WWTF Improvements Project
• Partial Pay Estimate #5 for 2022 Street Improvements/Spaulding Phase III Project for $22,176.00

The Council approved the 2024 Budget Calendar and a $60,100 professional services agreement for a Fire Apparatus Building. Other actions included approving utility rebates, a wastewater treatment plant trial, and the first reading of an ordinance regarding cannabinoid products.

• Adopted 2024 Budget Calendar (Unanimous)
• Approved $60,100 TKDA Professional Services Agreement for Fire Apparatus Building (Unanimous)
• Approved funding up to $48,616.35 if Fall Lake and Morse Township match contributions (Unanimous)
• Approved $12,000 bio solids press trial at Wastewater Treatment Plant (Unanimous)
• Approved 1st Reading of Ordinance No. 371 regarding Public Use of Cannabinoid Products (7-0)
• Approved Officer Mahoney's resignation and posting for an open Police Officer position (Unanimous)
• Approved $19,574.08 payment to AE2S for WWTF Improvements Project (Unanimous)
• Approved Temporary Liquor License for Dorothy Molter Museum for Sept 22-23 events (Unanimous)

July 18 Council

The City Council will hear testimony from three individuals opposing a proclamation of appreciation for Twin Metals. The agenda also includes reviews of departmental reports and various city claims for payment.

• Public testimony regarding opposition to the Twin Metals Proclamation of Appreciation
• $10,000 residential rehab loan note and mortgage for 403 E James St
• $73,235.75 in City and EUC claims for payment
• $2,992.00 invoice for Prospector ATV Trail
• $19,574.08 invoice for Waste Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project

The City Council approved a residential rehab loan for a property on E James St and authorized several claims for payment. The meeting included public testimony from residents opposing a proclamation of appreciation for Twin Metals.

• Approved $10,000 Note and Mortgage for Residential Rehab Loan at 403 E James St (6-0-1)
• Approved City and EUC Claims for July 18, 2023 for $73,235.75 (6-0-1)
• Approved SEH invoice #449583 for Prospector ATV Trail for $2,992.00 (6-0-1)
• Approved AE2S invoice #88346 for Waste Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project for $19,574.08 (6-0-1)
• Approved July 11, 2023 meeting minutes (6-0-1)

July 11 Council

The Ely City Council will consider professional services for the Triggering Event Airport Master Plan and a MnDOT airport grant contract. The agenda also includes recommendations for substation upgrades, residential rehab loans, and new stop signs.

• Authorization for professional services with TKDA for the Triggering Event Airport Master Plan
• Resolution 2023-017 regarding MnDOT Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant Contract
• Utility Commission recommendation for $91,856.00 substation upgrades from Qualus
• $10,000 residential rehab loan for 403 E James St
• Payment of $137,942.28 to Low Impact Excavators for East End Development

The Council approved several utility infrastructure projects, including substation upgrades and a rate study. They also authorized grant applications for residential redevelopment and culture and tourism, and approved a residential rehab loan for a local property.

• Approved $91,856.00 for substation upgrades (Unanimous)
• Approved electrical rate study by Dave Berg Consulting, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 Residential Rehab Loan for 403 E James St (Unanimous)
• Approved application for IRRR Residential Redevelopment Grant (Unanimous)
• Approved application for IRRR Culture and Tourism Grant (Unanimous)
• Approved installation of address signs on Pioneer Road for $1,030.03 (6-1)
• Approved installation of two-way stop sign at Washington St and 11th Ave E (Unanimous)
• Approved sale of 1983 Seagrave Ladder Truck (Unanimous)

June 20 Council

The Ely City Council is reviewing a $28,040 change order for the Prospectors ATV Phase 6 Beaver River Crossing. The meeting also includes discussions on property sales, demolition bids, and new food truck licensing fees.

• Change Order #4 for Prospectors ATV bridge: $28,040 for revised elevations and railings
• Recommendation to sell Chandler turnaround land to David Franks for $6,000
• Proposed $300 yearly Food Truck License for Blueberry Art Festival and Harvest Moon weekends
• Voltz quote of up to $7,575.82 for City Hall server hardware and printers
• Payment estimate of $167,997.47 to Rice Lake Construction for wastewater improvements

The Council approved proceeding with grant applications and bids for the demolition of two properties and authorized a $3,500 airport fee evaluation. A new $300 annual license fee for food trucks operating during major festivals was approved for 2024. The Council also authorized a property sale in Chandler and funding for City Hall IT upgrades.

• Approved sale of turn around vacation in Chandler to David Franks for $6,000 (6-0-1)
• Approved grant application and bid solicitation for demolition of 726 E Camp and 131 Central Avenue (5-1-1)
• Authorized IRRR application for Community Center renovations, including interior demolition (6-0-1)
• Approved $300 yearly Food Truck License for 2024 festival operations (5-1-1)
• Approved Voltz quote up to $7,575.82 for new computers and server parts (6-0-1)
• Awarded Independent Fee Evaluation for airport master plan to Bolton and Menk for $3,500 (6-0-1)
• Approved minutes from June 6, 2023 meeting (6-0-1)

June 6 Council

The Ely City Council will review several applications for off-sale cannabinoid dealer licenses and temporary liquor licenses for various local organizations. The meeting also includes discussions on residential waste disposal contracts and a memorandum of understanding regarding Juneteenth as a paid holiday.

• Approval of cannabis dealer licenses for Voyageur Short Stop and Ely Historic State Theater
• Review of residential waste request for proposals and disposal contract
• Payment of EUC April bills totaling $756,334.66
• Pay Estimate #14 for Waste Water Treatment Facility Improvements in the amount of $101,090.45
• Memorandum of Understanding to add Juneteenth as a paid holiday for various employee groups

The Council approved over $757,000 in utility bills and a support letter for federal electric vehicle charging infrastructure grants. Members also authorized a study for year-round handicapped parking at Whiteside Park and approved the Burntside Waterline Project application.

• Approved EUC April bills for $756,334.66 (Unanimous)
• Approved support letter for MnDot EV charging infrastructure grants (Unanimous)
• Approved payment to AMPTEK for $1,659.00 for the WWTF (Unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to study year-round handicapped parking at Whiteside Park (Unanimous)
• Approved application for the Burntside Waterline Project (Unanimous)
• Approved EUC staff attendance at MMUA Summer Conference (Unanimous)
• Rescheduled July 4th Council meeting to July 11th (Unanimous)
• Approved May 11, 16, and 16 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

May 16 Council Public Hearing

The City Council will consider several items including a blight declaration for 109 W Conan St and environmental work near the depot. The meeting includes discussions on off-sale cannabinoid dealer licenses and various mortgage satisfactions.

• Environmental work on city property next to the depot not to exceed $15,000
• Commercial renovation loan for Jasper Company Bakeshop & Roasting Room at 36 W Sheridan St for $17,000
• Resolution 2023-014 declaring 109 W Conan St as blight
• City and EUC claims for payment totaling $490,738.43
• Off-sale cannabinoid dealer licenses for Tamarack Enterprises, Chapman St Books and Prairie Fire Tobacco, and Edwards Oil DBA Lucky Seven General Stores

The Council approved three off-sale cannabinoid dealer licenses and declared the property at 109 W Conan St as blight. Other actions included approving a commercial renovation loan and authorizing environmental work near the depot.

• Approved off-sale cannabinoid dealer licenses for Tamarack Enterprises, Chapman St Books and Prairie Fire Tobacco, and Edwards Oil (Unanimous)
• Declared real property at 109 W Conan St blight (Unanimous)
• Approved $17,000 commercial renovation loan for Jasper Company (Unanimous)
• Approved environmental work on city property next to the depot not to exceed $15,000 (Unanimous)
• Denied future requests for tree tapping permission (Unanimous)
• Approved lease of Semers pavilion basement to Heavy Metal Sports from June 1 to August 31, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved Adventure Race at Semers for September 2, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Implemented moratorium on calendar parking starting May 16 (Unanimous)

May 11 Local Board of Appeal Equalization

The Board will meet to review appeals regarding estimated market values and property classifications. This process includes reviewing whether a property should be classified as residential, rural vacant land, seasonal, or commercial.

• Review of Estimated Market Value appeals
• Review of Property Classification appeals

May 2 Council

The Ely City Council is reviewing several significant items, including a bid award for the Taxilane Reconstruction Project and a resolution to lift the moratorium on hemp-derived cannabinoid products. The meeting also includes discussions on residential waste disposal contracts and various utility and property matters.

• Bid award for Taxilane Reconstruction Project to Low Impact Excavators, Inc for $263,298.50
• Resolution lifting the moratorium on hemp-derived cannabinoid products
• Pay estimate #13 for Wastewater Treatment Facility Project to Rice Lake Construction Group for $417,180.79
• Purchase agreement for East Spaulding Lot Block 2, Lot 15 for $12,000
• Residential rehab loan for 955 E Chapman St for $10,000

The Ely City Council approved the second reading of two ordinances: one amending the city code for sale of land in the East Spaulding Plat (Ordinance 368), and another revising Chapter 9 to make violations a misdemeanor or petty misdemeanor (Ordinance 369). The council also approved several EUC recommendations, including a lease for a postage machine, payment of bills, and consulting services. A public hearing was scheduled for May 16, 2023, regarding a blight property at 109 W Conan St. The meeting included public comments on drag shows and residential waste removal, but no decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved 2nd reading of Ordinance 368 amending city code for sale of land in East Spaulding Plat (6-0-1)
• Approved 2nd reading of Ordinance 369 revising Chapter 9 for misdemeanor violations (6-0-1)
• Approved Resolution 2023-011 revising fines for administrative offenses (6-0-1)
• Approved EUC recommendation to apply for OSHA Safety Grant (6-0-1)
• Approved EUC recommendation to allow employees and commissioners to attend MN Rural Water Training (6-0-1)
• Approved EUC recommendation to enter lease agreement for postage machine at $269.55/month (6-0-1)
• Approved EUC March Bills of $902,912.07 (6-0-1)
• Scheduled public hearing for blight property at 109 W Conan St for May 16, 2023 at 5:15pm (6-0-1)

April 18 Council

The City Council is holding a public hearing to receive comment on Ordinance 368. This ordinance authorizes the sale of various parcels of land located in the East Spaulding Plat.

• Public hearing regarding Ordinance 368 for the sale of land in the East Spaulding Lot
• Authorization to sell multiple lots in Block 2, 3, and 4 at prices ranging from $10,000.00 to $20,000.00
• Sale terms including a requirement for one residential unit per lot, with specific exceptions
• Requirement for buyers to pay all legal fees, permits, and water and sewer access fees

The Council approved increasing short-term rental license fees and authorized the Police Department to apply for a Cops Grant to station an officer at the school. Other actions included funding for baseball field dirt and trees, and updating the Police Commission Ordinance.

• Increased Short Term Rental License Fee from $100 to $200 (Unanimous)
• Approved Police Department application for the Cops Grant (Unanimous)
• Approved $2,195 for baseball dirt for Ely Little League Field (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 17 trees at an estimated $125 each (Unanimous)
• Updated Police Commission Ordinance to include the Assistant Chief in Subd 2 (Unanimous)
• Approved summer parking enforcement internships for Odessa Ward and Nils Deremee (Unanimous)
• Authorized JPJ Engineering to add a Lead Service Line replacement project to the DOH Priority List (Unanimous)
• Approved application to the IRRR Regional Trail Grant Program for the Trailhead Project (Unanimous)

April 4 Council

The City Council is holding a public hearing to receive comments regarding Ordinance 367. This ordinance concerns the licensing of edible cannabinoid products dealers within Ely.

• Public hearing for Ordinance 367 (Edible Cannabinoid Products Dealer licensing)

The City Council held a public hearing to receive comments on Ordinance 367 regarding Edible Cannabinoid Products Dealer licensing. Three letters opposing the ordinance were entered into the record, and no one spoke during the hearing. No final decision on the ordinance was recorded in these minutes.

March 21 Council

The Council is reviewing several committee recommendations including a $4,513,000 request for water supply improvements. Discussions also include the sale of East Spaulding property and upcoming film production in the city.

• Request for $4,513,000 for Ely Water Supply Improvements Project
• Sale of East Spaulding, Lot Block 2, Lot 15 for $12,000
• Pay Estimate #11 for WWTF Improvements Project: $272,738.35 to Rice Lake Construction Group
• Proposed ordinance regarding Edible Cannabinoid Product Dealers
• Airport lease agreement for radio equipment

The City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to regulate edible cannabinoid product dealers and set associated licensing fees. The council also authorized a $4.5M funding request for water supply improvements and approved several airport and infrastructure projects.

• Approved 1st reading of Edible Cannabinoid Product Dealers ordinance (6-0-1)
• Approved cannabinoid license fees: $100 off-sale, $1,000 on-sale, $300 add-on for existing liquor licenses (6-0-1)
• Approved $4,513,000 request for Congressionally Directed Spending for Water Supply Improvements (6-0-1)
• Approved awarding East End Development Project to Low Impact Excavators (6-0-1)
• Approved sale of East Spaulding Lot Block 2, Lot 15 for $12,000 (6-0-1)
• Approved appointment of Ryan Callen as 2nd Assistant Chief for Fire Department (6-0-1-1)
• Approved appointment of Mauro Caruso to the Police Commission (6-0-1)
• Approved TKDA to update Airport Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (6-0-1)

March 7 Council

The council will vote on a letter supporting a federal CDS application for safety and mobility improvements on TH 169, consider change orders for the wastewater treatment plant project, authorize professional services for an airport weather system, and approve several Ely Utilities Commission recommendations including a water main repair payment and a contract extension.

• Letter of support for 2024 Federal CDS application for TH 169 Spot Safety and Mobility Improvements Reconstruction Projects
• Change orders No. 3, 4, and 5 for the Ely WWTF Improvements Project
• Authorization for Professional Services for the 2023 Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) Phase 1 at the Ely Airport
• Notice of Call for bids for the 2023 Taxilane Reconstruction Project
• EUC recommendation to approve payment to Ferguson for water main repair parts ($3,252.58)

The City Council approved several utility payments, a residential rehab loan, and funding applications for water and emergency facility projects. They also appointed four members to various city commissions and boards.

• Approved application for Burntside water main replacement project (Unanimous)
• Approved $10,000 Residential Rehab Loan for 127 W Chapman St (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,437,392.51 for EUC January bills (Unanimous)
• Approved one-year contract extension for Mick Shusta at $500/month (Unanimous)
• Approved Letter of Support for $14.3M TH 169 safety improvements (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Lucy Soderstrom to Heritage Preservation Commission (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Scott Kochendorfer to Police Commission (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Abby Dare and Jen Westlund to Park and Recreation Board (Unanimous)

February 21 Council

The Ely City Council will vote on a budget committee recommendation to increase the short-term rental license fee from $100 to $400 per year. Other budget items include purchasing a Caselle software upgrade for up to $17,850, a police department computer for $1,599.97, and a professional services contract with TKDA for $81,700 for the Ely Trailhead Building. The council will also consider a temporary moratorium on hemp-derived cannabinoid products and a $10,000 residential rehab loan for a home at 127 W Chapman St.

• Short-term rental license fee increase from $100 to $400 per year
• Caselle software upgrade purchase for up to $17,850
• Police department Dell computer from Voltz for $1,599.97
• Professional services contract with TKDA for $81,700 for Ely Trailhead Building
• Resolution 2023-006 declaring temporary moratorium on hemp-derived cannabinoid products

The City Council extended a temporary moratorium on hemp-derived cannabinoid products until December 5, 2023, and created an ad hoc committee to develop licensing ordinances. The council also approved several budget recommendations, including software upgrades and professional service contracts.

• Extended moratorium on hemp-derived cannabinoid products until Dec 5, 2023 (6-0-1)
• Created ad hoc committee for cannabinoid product licensing (5-1-1)
• Approved $81,700 TKDA contract for Ely Trailhead Building (6-0-1)
• Approved Caselle Connect software upgrade up to $17,850 (6-0-1)
• Denied increase of Short Term Rental License fee from $100 to $400 (0-6-1)
• Approved $10,000 Residential Rehab Loan for 127 W Chapman St (6-0-1)
• Approved sewer exemption for 312 E Chapman St based on co-tenancy (6-0-1)
• Approved $1,599.97 Dell computer for Police Department (6-0-1)

February 7 Hearing Council

The Council will review several requests to appear regarding land orders, mining decisions, and cannabis retail licensing. Additionally, the meeting includes recommendations for utility payments, staff hiring, and a new ordinance regarding edible cannabinoid products.

• Ordinance 367: Edible Cannabinoid Products Dealers (Public hearing scheduled for February 21)
• Ely Utilities Commission: December bills totaling $1,396,645.51
• Rice Lake Construction Group: Pay Estimate #9 for Ely WWTF Improvements of $286,376.55
• Telecommunications Advisory Board: Contract with Todd Crego for $1,750 per month
• Resolution 2023-004: Revoking the rental license at 105 W Conan St.

The council held a public hearing to consider revoking the rental license of a 4-unit apartment building due to extensive health and safety violations. No final decision on the license revocation was recorded in the minutes.

• Held public hearing to consider non-renewal of rental license at 105 W. Conan St.

Council

The Ely City Council is holding a study session to discuss Ordinance 367, which would regulate edible cannabinoid product dealers. The council will consider two versions of the ordinance — one that prohibits on-sale and one that allows it — along with relevant state statutes and guidance.

• Discussion on Ordinance 367, 2nd Series – Edible Cannabinoid Products Dealers
• Two versions of the ordinance: on-sale not allowed vs. on-sale allowed
• Review of MN State Statutes 151.72 on sale of certain cannabinoid products
• League of MN Cities FAQ and MN Board of Pharmacy guidance included

The council held a study session to discuss regulating edible cannabinoid products. No formal votes were taken, but members reached a preliminary consensus to move forward with an 'off-sale' only ordinance for the next agenda.

• No formal decisions were made; the meeting was a study session

January 17 Council

The Ely City Council will hear proposals for a new CBD/smoke shop and lounge at 15 Sheridan Street, a camping waiver request from the Chamber for festivals, and an update on the Boundary Waters Care Center. They will also consider approving a full liquor license for The Chocolate Moose at 101 N Central Ave and a commercial rehab loan for Stony Ridge.

• Proposal for CBD/Smoke Shop and Lounge at 15 Sheridan Street
• Upgrade of Potent Potables Restaurants LLC dba The Chocolate Moose to full intoxicating and Sunday liquor license at 101 N Central Ave
• Commercial Rehab Loan for Stony Ridge for $2,500 at 60 W Chandler St
• Request from Ely Chamber of Commerce to end camping waivers for festivals
• First reading of Ordinance 367 regulating edible cannabinoid products dealers

The council voted 5-1 to fail the first reading of Ordinance 367 regarding edible cannabinoid product dealers. Other key actions included approving a liquor license upgrade for The Chocolate Moose and authorizing grant applications for infrastructure projects.

• Rejected 1st reading of Edible Cannabinoid Products Dealers ordinance (5-1)
• Approved liquor license upgrade to Full On Sale Intoxicating and Sunday for The Chocolate Moose (6-0-1)
• Approved $2,500 Commercial Rehab Loan for Stony Ridge at 60 W Chandler St (6-0-1)
• Approved application for FY23 Development and Community Infrastructure Grants (6-0-1)
• Approved 15-minute Parking Zone on north side of Sheridan St for Blueberry Arts (6-0-1)
• Approved Quit Claim Deed and land exchange for 357 W Harvey St (6-0-1)
• Approved POS Sewer inspection waiver for 427 E Harvey St (6-0-1)
• Referred festival camping waiver request to the Park and Recreation Board (6-0-1)

January 3 Council

The Ely City Council will consider approving a $1,035,784.05 partial payment to Rice Lake Construction Group for the Wastewater Treatment Facility Improvements Project, and schedule a public hearing on February 7, 2023 regarding non-renewal of a rental license at 105 W Conan St. The council will also vote on $167,153.85 for wastewater treatment facility pump replacements, approve official city depositories, and designate the assistant treasurer for non-audit services related to the 2022 audit.

• Partial Pay Estimate #9 for WWTF Improvements Project to Rice Lake Construction Group for $1,035,784.05
• Schedule public hearing on February 7, 2023 for non-renewal of rental license at 105 W Conan St
• Wastewater Treatment Facility Pump Replacements for $167,153.85
• Approve 2022 official city depositories: Frandsen Bank & Trust, Boundary Waters Bank, and 4M Fund
• Claims for payment totaling $71,277.38

The Council approved a payment of $1,035,784.05 for WWTF improvements and $167,153.85 for pump replacements. A public hearing was scheduled for February 7, 2022, regarding the non-renewal of a rental license at 105 W Conan St. The Council also swore in the Mayor and three council members.

• Approved Partial Pay Estimate #9 for WWTF Improvements to Rice Lake Construction Group for $1,035,784.05 (Unanimous)
• Approved Wastewater Treatment Facility Pump Replacements for $167,153.85 (Unanimous)
• Scheduled Public Hearing for Feb 7, 2022, to consider non-renewal of rental license at 105 W Conan St (Unanimous)
• Approved City and EUC claims for January 3, 2023, for $71,277.38 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 official city depositories: Frandsen Bank & Trust, Boundary Waters Bank and 4M Fund (6-0-1)
• Approved Resolution 2023-001 authorizing officials and staff to attend meetings outside of Ely (Unanimous)
• Accepted probation period completion for Police Officer Zachary Ward (Unanimous)
• Designated Assistant Treasurer to oversee nonattest/nonaudit services for 2022 audit (Unanimous)