Lake Crystal public meetings in 2025
53 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Meeting
The Economic Development Authority approved changes to its revolving loan fund and ended a low-use energy efficiency loan program. The board also discussed staffing for the Chamber of Commerce and reviewed the 2026 priority plan.
- Approved RLF program changes: interest rate moved to one point below prime rate and requirement for businesses to be located in Lake Crystal
- Sunsetted the Energy Efficiency Loan Program
- Set 2026 regular meeting dates for the second Tuesday of each month at 4:30 p.m.
- Discussed restructuring the Chamber of Commerce into a community club or Convention and Visitor's Bureau
Council
The City Council approved a series of routine payments and personnel changes. The council also extended the deadline for a decision on the scout cabin refurbishment or demolition to September 21, 2026.
- Payment of bills totaling $413,483.68
- Annual Fire Dept Relief Contribution of $150.00 per member for a total of $3,750.00
- Decision on scout cabin repair or demolition postponed to September 21, 2026
- Approval of ambulance resignations and dismissals for Travis Bauer, Jeanine McDonald, and Jamie Snow
- Gambling Permit for Baseball Association for 2/7/2026
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved the minutes from the November 3, 2025 meeting. It authorized payment of public utility commission bills totaling $381,478.74. Commissioners ratified Resolution 2536 to issue and sell $3,550,000 in electric revenue bonds for substation improvements and a new transformer. The commission also adopted the final budget for 2026.
- Approve November 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Approve payment of PUC bills totaling $381,478.74 (unanimous)
- Ratify Resolution 2536 to issue and sell $3,550,000 electric revenue bonds, Series 2025A
- Approve the Final Budget for 2026 (unanimous)
- Schedule next regular PUC meeting for January 6, 2026 at 8:00 a.m.
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved the consent agenda items, including payment of bills and fee schedules. It certified the final 2026 Tax Levy and General Fund Budget of $1903,977. The council also approved Resolution 2536, concurring with the issuance of $3,550,000 in electric revenue bonds to improve the city’s south substation and add a new transformer.
- Payment of bills totaling $284,445.52
- Approve 2026 Fee Schedule
- Approve 2026 Salary Schedule/Fire Pay Plan
- Approve Resolution 2535 Certifying Final Tax Levy and General Fund Budget of $1903,977
- Approve Resolution 2536 Concurring Issuance of $3,550,000 electric revenue bonds for south substation improvements
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved Resolution 2533 to accept an $84,140.55 donation from LCARC for a recreation center expansion and authorized the corresponding payment. The council also approved the purchase of a new on‑site server from Marco for $18,894.04. Discussion on the future of the Scout Cabin was tabled for a month to allow the community to develop a fundraising plan. Routine staff reports on police staffing, fire department equipment, cemetery headstone cleaning, and park facilities were presented.
- Resolution 2533: Accept donation of $84,140.55 from LCARC for recreation center expansion
- Approve purchase of new on‑site server from Marco for $18,894.04
- Scout Cabin issue tabled for a month pending community fundraising plan
- Cemetery headstone cleaning using D2 cleaner; Historical Society to assist
- Consent agenda items: approval of minutes and payment of bills (no amounts specified)
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority discussed a proposal for a $5,000‑$10,000 microloan program to help businesses fund façade improvements and small‑scale rehabilitation of commercial properties. Members considered the program’s size, paperwork requirements, and potential partnership with banks. No decision was made, and the Authority will continue to refine the program.
- Proposal of a $5,000‑$10,000 microloan program for commercial façade and rehabilitation projects
- Discussion of restructuring the Lake Crystal Chamber of Commerce to function as a direct business support entity
- Housing update: meeting with GFY Construction and Justin Erickson of Brookshire Co. about a modular spec home on an infill lot, possibly on Shepard Street
- Update on transitioning Minnesota Investment Funds to the Small Cities Development Program and contacting Kip Bruder for MVAC assistance
- Legal action by the city attorney to pursue Wegman’s delinquent loan balance in court
Meeting
The commission approved a 30-year bonding option for the city's south substation and a new transformer. The body also approved a labor contract with the IBEW Local 160 and renewed a heat share program with the Salvation Army.
- Approval of Resolution 2501 for Electric Revenue Bonds, Series 2025A (30-year option)
- Approval of IBEW Local 160 contract effective through 2028
- Payment of PUC bills totaling $670,098.90
- Approval of $1,520.00 for Electric Department travel to MMUA Transformer School
- Referral of City Hall glass replacement quotes ($18,780 and $21,500) back to City Council
Council
The Council discussed the city’s failing main substation and approved accelerating the new substation to be completed by December 2026 or January 2027, with temporary equipment costs to be included in the bonding plan. It also approved the IBEW labor contracts for Maintenance and Utilities units covering 2026‑2028, a $18,780 front‑window glass replacement at City Hall, and hiring a part‑time police officer at $30.30 per hour starting November 17, 2025.
- Accelerated substation replacement schedule to Dec 2026‑Jan 2027; 30‑year bonding option selected
- IBEW Maintenance contract approved for Jan 1 2026‑Dec 31 2028
- IBEW Utilities contract approved for Jan 1 2026‑Dec 31 2028
- City Hall front‑window glass replacement: Saint Peter Glass bid $18,780
- Part‑time police officer Bob Roelofs hired at $30.30/hour, start 11/17/25
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council adopted its consent agenda, including payment of $1,348,280.48 in bills. It approved an on‑call law enforcement services contract with Blue Earth County for 2026 that activates only in emergencies, and hired ambulance worker Ashten Cink at the EMT pay rate. The council also discussed hiring additional planning and zoning staff and heard a Chamber of Commerce proposal to reorganize the chamber.
- Payment of bills totaling $1,348,280.48 approved in consent agenda
- Approval of on‑call Law Enforcement Services Contract with Blue Earth County (effective 2026, emergency‑only)
- Approval to hire ambulance employee Ashten Cink at EMT pay rate
- Discussion to consider hiring staff for Planning & Zoning and Shoreland Management (decision tabled)
- Chamber of Commerce presented ideas for reorganization and upcoming EDA meeting on Nov 10
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority approved moving forward with a Business Support Program that will provide consulting and regional resources to local businesses. The board also authorized pursuing Wegman's delinquent loan of $19,808.15 in small claims court and allocated $250 for food and beverages for upcoming business workshops. Members discussed a possible vacant building ordinance for commercial corridors, but no action was taken. An update was given that three lots in the Crystal Gardens #7 development were purchased at full price for single‑family homes.
- Approval to develop the Lake Crystal Business Support Program (staff time and consulting services)
- Authorization to pursue Wegman's delinquent loan balance of $19,808.15 in small claims court, including attorney's fees up to that amount
- Allocation of $250 for food and beverages for business workshops through December
- Discussion of a proposed vacant building ordinance for commercial corridors (no decision made)
- Update that three lots in Crystal Gardens #7 were purchased at full price for single‑family homes
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved the September 2, 2025 meeting minutes and authorized payment of $397,868.45 for utility bills. It adopted an updated utility billing policy, revised personnel leave and insurance policies, and voted to replace the Invoice Cloud payment processor with Civic. The commission also discussed substation bonding options, cash‑flow projections, and reviewed staff reports on water main leaks, wastewater projects, and power outages.
- Approved payment of PUC bills totaling $397,868.45
- Adopted Updated Utility Billing Policy and Procedures
- Approved Updates to Personnel Policy Definitions, Leaves, Insurance, and Retirement
- Approved switch from Invoice Cloud to Civic payment processing vendor
- Certified $13,068.00 in delinquent water, sewer, and refuse payments
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved the sale of three city-owned lots in Crystal Gardens Subdivision #7 to Miller Homes LLC, with closing set for December. The council also certified unpaid water, sewer and refuse fees of $13,228.72 as special assessments, and adopted updates to the city personnel policy. Routine consent agenda items, including $566,592.72 in bill payments and $2,105.62 in fire department donations, were approved. Discussion of the Boy Scout Cabin demolition was tabled pending further information.
- Sale of three City-owned lots (655, 656, 653 Daisy Court) in Crystal Gardens Subdivision #7 to Miller Homes LLC (Resolution 2530) – closing set for December
- Certification of unpaid water, sewer, and refuse fees totaling $13,228.72 as special assessments to the County Auditor (Resolution 2531)
- Adoption of updated personnel policy clarifying benefits, short‑term disability, MN Paid Leave, and removal of mandatory retirement age
- Acceptance of fire department donations totaling $2,105.62 (Resolution 2529)
- Payment of bills totaling $566,592.72 under the consent agenda
Council
The City Council adopted the preliminary budget and tax levy and approved a management agreement with Madelia Health for the Lake Crystal Ambulance. The body also approved the plat for the Thomas 4th Addition Subdivision and accepted several grants and donations.
- Approved preliminary budget and tax levy (Resolution 2527)
- Approved management agreement with Madelia Health for Lake Crystal Ambulance
- Payment of bills totaling $579,341.81
- WEB Construction pay request for Rec Center Expansion: $127,039.70
- Accepted $5,000 Compeer Grant for Lilly Lakes Estates Housing Feasibility Study
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority will approve the minutes from its June 10, 2025 meeting. It will discuss a Structured Business Consulting Program and consider a request for meal funds for workshops. The board will also receive updates on housing matters and the Rural Lands Fund.
- Approve minutes from June 10, 2025 regular meeting
- Discuss Structured Business Consulting Program
- Consider request for meal funds for workshops
- Housing update
- RLF (Rural Lands Fund) update
Council
The City Council approved a resolution to seek state financial assistance for a Wastewater Regionalization Project. The body also approved a new police union contract, authorized the hiring of a Police Chief, and approved various facility repairs.
- Resolution 2525 for 2026 Capital Budget request for Wastewater Regionalization Project
- Payment of bills totaling $229,140.28
- 2025-2027 Union Contract with Law Enforcement Labor Services, Inc. (Local #252)
- Rec Center RTU #3 AC system repairs for $8,250.00
- Uncollectable ambulance write-offs totaling $8,626
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission held a regular meeting on September 2, 2025, approving minutes, bills totaling $362,351.76, and several action items. Key decisions included approving a $6,017 generator quote for the Humphrey Lift Station and selecting ShelterPoint Insurance to manage the new MN Paid Leave program at an estimated 2% higher cost than the state option.
- Approved Humphrey Lift Station Generator Quote for $6,017.00
- Approved ShelterPoint Insurance to manage MN Paid Leave program
- Approved updates to Personnel Policy removing comp time
- Approved payment of PUC bills totaling $362,351.76
- Discussed Capital Financial Plan including wastewater treatment regionalization and electric substation project
Council
The City Council approved several equipment purchases for the Streets Department and a sidewalk repair contract. The body also authorized a school liaison agreement and approved a regional sustainability plan.
- Purchase of a tractor, loader, and rear blade for $109,946.72
- Sidewalk repair contract awarded to Clint Adams Concrete for $12,250.00
- Ordinance 2025-03 to vacate an unbuilt public right-of-way
- School Liaison Agreement with LCWM ISD #2071 to assign one part-time police officer
- Approval of ShelterPoint for private insurance
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority will meet to approve past meeting minutes and discuss new and old business items including a request for meal funds for workshops, a housing update, a revolving loan fund update, and a daycare update. Staff reports will also be presented.
- Consider Request for Meal Funds for Workshops
- Housing Update
- RLF (Revolving Loan Fund) Update
- Daycare Update
Meeting
The Utilities Commission decided on rate increases for electric, water, and sewer services. The body also approved two new staff hires and the purchase of equipment for locating underground faults.
- Utility rate increases: 10% for sewer, 2% for water, and 2% for electric
- Payment of PUC bills totaling $241,830.38
- Purchase of a Fault Wizard for approximately $15,000
- Hiring of Megan Kurkowski as Finance Director/City Clerk at $41.79/hour with a $2,000 bonus
- Hiring of Sierra Roiger as Utility Billing and Cemetery Clerk at $25.71/hour with a $2,000 bonus
Council
The City Council approved a conditional use permit for a residential addition to house a dog grooming business. The body also authorized several new hires, accepted ambulance resignations, and processed payments and donations.
- Resolution 2520: Approved Gabrik Conditional Use Permit for a dog grooming salon addition in an R2 district
- Payment of bills totaling $241,830.38
- WEB Pay Request #6 in the amount of $175,692.05
- Resolution 2521: Accepted LCARC donations of $146,000
- Hired Megan Kurkowski as Finance Director/City Clerk at $41.79/hour
Meeting
The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding Ordinance 2025-03 and a Conditional Use Permit for Gabrik. The commission will consider recommending that the City Council approve the vacation of an unbuilt property right-of-way and the Gabrik CUP.
- Public hearing on Ordinance 2025-03 regarding vacating an unbuilt property right-of-way
- Public hearing on Gabrik CUP
- Recommendation for Council approval of Shepard Street ROW vacation
- Recommendation for Council approval of Resolution 2520 Gabrik CUP
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved several infrastructure contracts and accepted donations for the Rec Center and Collis Field Light Project. The council also hired a new Utility Billing and Cemetery Clerk and accepted two ambulance service resignations.
- Payment of bills totaling $495,167.31
- Pearson Brothers bid of $77,796 for seal coating
- Nielson Blacktopping contract for $7,557.35 for Oakland Street, Colwyn Way, Blue Earth Street, and Hunt Street
- Acceptance of $130,000 donation for Rec Center addition
- Acceptance of $96,117.67 and $96,135 donations for Collis Field Light Project
Council
The City Council approved engineering services to address wastewater treatment deficiencies and decided on the city's contribution to the Minnesota Paid Leave program. The body also approved the 2024 audited financial statement and updated cemetery deed fees.
- Authorized Bolton-Menk for Force Main to Mankato design estimated at $1,620,215
- Approved payment of bills totaling $327,837.66
- Decided the city will pay 50% of Minnesota Paid Leave premiums starting January 1, 2026
- Added a $25 processing fee for changes to cemetery deeds
- Accepted $15,000 in donations from the Rec Center
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved various operational payments, infrastructure repairs, and cybersecurity plans. The body also discussed clean energy grants and the development of a 2040 energy plan.
- Approved payment of PUC bills totaling $534,963.13
- Approved Meisner Roofing quote of $16,850.00 for the pump station roof at 402 E Humphry
- Approved cybersecurity service plans costing $4,526.00 in odd years and approximately $11,000 in even years
- Approved $2,031.28 for Electric Dept. travel to MMUA Overhead School
- Accepted resignations of Sara Raisbeck and Ramsey Graff, and retirement of Teri Thompson-Hobart
Council
The City Council approved several personnel changes, including a job title update and a salary increase for a police officer. The body also authorized travel for fire department leadership and a conditional purchase for park woodchips.
- Payment of bills totaling $400,465.62
- Approval of $2,620 travel request for two people to attend the Fire Chief’s Convention
- Salary increase for Officer Coltier Killion to $35.98 per hour retroactive to June 1, 2025
- Conditional approval of $11,456.91 for park woodchips if labor costs are $1,500 or less
- Update of Finance Director job title to Finance Director/City Clerk
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority approved a contract for the Main Street Business Focused on Food and Ag (MBFFA) program. The board also reviewed the 2025-2026 priority plan and discussed a business's concerns regarding the Highway 60 Reconstruction Project.
- Approval of MBFFA contract for no-cost workshops and technical assistance
- Review of 2025-2026 priority plan including 28 business visits since the start of the year
- Discussion of a motorcycle business's financial concerns regarding the Highway 60 Reconstruction Project
- Update on a multifamily tax abatement program currently at a standstill due to a disagreement between the city attorney and auditors
- Application assistance for Little Lakers Child Care Center for the Main Street Economic Revitalization Program
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority will meet to discuss the approval of an MBFFA contract and review the Priority Plan. The body will also address business concerns related to the Highway 60 Project.
- MBFFA Contract discussion and approval
- Priority Plan review and update
- Business concerns regarding the Highway 60 Project
- Tax abatement update
- Daycare update
Council
The City Council appointed Kyle Phillips as the new Police Chief following the departure of Chief Joe Flavin. The council also approved several financial resolutions and discussed infrastructure updates for the street and parks departments.
- Resolution 2515: Housing Project Infrastructure Grant for $500,000
- Payment of bills totaling $305,453.15
- WEB Construction Pay Request #4 for $123,219.75
- Resolution 2513: Accepting LCARC donations of $121,000 and a firearm valued at $69.88
- Approval to auction 3 surplus police weapons
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council held a regular meeting on May 19, 2025. They approved a second reading of Ordinance 2025-02 (BENCO Franchise Agreement), added a $1,500 ALS ambulance fee, accepted two employee resignations (Sara Raisbeck and Teri Thompson-Hobart), authorized advertising for a Finance Director, and purchased a used 2017 John Deere loader for $111,450. The council also discussed a complaint about semis driving through the cemetery and applied for a $500,000 housing infrastructure grant.
- Ordinance 2025-02 (BENCO Franchise Agreement) approved on second reading
- ALS ambulance fee of $1,500 added to fee schedule
- Resignation of Sara Raisbeck (effective July 14, 2025) accepted
- Advanced resignation of Teri Thompson-Hobart (effective Jan. 20, 2026) accepted; Finance Director position to be advertised
- Purchase of 2017 John Deere loader for $111,450 (after $17,000 trade-in); also applied for $500,000 housing infrastructure grant
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority discussed expanding its powers to include housing redevelopment and applying for regional business and infrastructure grants. The board recommended that the City Council approve a $500,000 match for a housing infrastructure grant.
- Recommended approval of HRA resolution to give EDA housing redevelopment authority powers
- Recommended City Council approve a $500,000 match for the Greater Minnesota Housing Infrastructure Grant Program
- Approved applying for Compeer Financial’s General Use grant for entrepreneurial workshops
- Discussed Main Street Revitalization Grant for businesses in commercial corridors
- Reported on tax abatement policy focus shifting toward multifamily housing
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Public Utilities Commission will meet to discuss updates and next steps for Task Order No. 5 regarding the South Substation. The body will also review a BENCO Franchise Ordinance and a revenue and expense report.
- Task Order No. 5-South Substation project update from Chris Nordquist of DGR
- BENCO Franchise Ordinance
- Revenue and Expense Report
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council met to discuss staff reports, approve routine items, and take action on several proposals. Key decisions included approving a two-year lease for an ambulance rental at $1,400/month, launching a boulevard tree-planting program for residents, and granting a non-exclusive franchise to BENCO Electric Cooperative. The council also discussed updates from local health services, fire and police department needs, and a MnDOT highway change order.
- Approved $1,400/month lease for ambulance rental (Elite Properties MN LLC) for 2 years
- Launched boulevard tree-planting program with trees priced $140–$185
- Granted BENCO Electric Cooperative a non-exclusive franchise for electric services
- Approved $11,758.45 MnDOT Trunk Highway 60 change order (Lake Crystal’s share: ~$10,230)
- Approved consent agenda including $182,296.67 in bill payments and $75,558.25 LCARC expansion grant
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved the consent agenda including bills totaling $209,721.61 and a rec center pay request. They rehired two seasonal park employees at $15.45/hour, accepted a fire department retirement, and set new park rental rates and rules, pausing on an alcohol rule for further review. The council tabled a tax abatement discussion and continued exploring ambulance service options, including a potential management agreement with Madelia Health.
- Payment of bills totaling $209,721.61 approved via consent agenda
- Rec Center Pay Request #2 for $31,943.75 approved
- Rehired Jackson Buss and Carter Greenough for summer 2025 at $15.45/hour
- Set park rental rates: gazebos $50/4 hours, Lilly Lakes gazebo $40/4 hours, Jone Park horse arena $80/4 hours, Scout cabin $70/4 hours; $50 damage deposit for indoor spaces
- Discussed potential management agreement with Madelia Health to operate ambulance service
Meeting
The Park and Recreation Commission will discuss and potentially establish pricing for park rentals. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and staff reports from the Parks Department and City Administrator. No other significant business is listed.
- Establish pricing for park rentals
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority established a loan program to assist businesses impacted by the Highway 60 Construction Project. The board also appointed a three-person committee to review loan applications.
- Approved Construction Mitigation Loan Program with a maximum of $1,500 per loan
- Established reimbursement model and reporting requirements for loan awardees
- Appointed Matt Doherty, Don Johnson, and Michael Windsperger to the loan committee
- Reported on the platting of four housing lots on Shephard Street
- Discussed upcoming presentation to the council regarding a proposed tax abatement program
Council
The City Council received updates on wastewater regionalization costs and authorized Bolton-Menk to proceed with planning and grant certification. They approved $15,294 in Rec Center repairs, approved payment of $317,943.89 in bills, and accepted a donated playground. Police reported a rise in thefts and property damage, including an arrest, and a tax abatement item was tabled.
- Authorized Bolton-Menk to proceed with next steps for wastewater regionalization, including engineering and grant certification
- Approved Rec Center building repairs totaling $15,294.09, including a new pool pump ($12,308.09) and electrical compliance ($2,989), from capital funds
- Approved payment of bills totaling $317,943.89
- Accepted donation of playground equipment valued at $3,500 from LCARC (Resolution 2508)
- Police reported rise in thefts, property damage, and break-ins; arrested 18-year-old Joseph Bender for attempted burglary
Meeting
The Utilities Commission approved proceeding with wastewater regionalization engineering and certification, a key step for funding. They also authorized $512,404.51 in bills and approved purchasing two tablets for the Electric Department. Staff reported on water main breaks, service territory transfer, and lot sales.
- Approved payment of PUC bills totaling $512,404.51
- Approved 2 tablets for Electric Dept with ongoing support of $65.10/month
- Approved Bolton-Menk to proceed with WW Regionalization engineering and certification
- Staff reported two water main breaks since February and progress on High Service Pump #5
- City plans to purchase right-of-way on Shepard Street for future road connection
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Park and Recreation Commission will discuss new business including a Scout cabin, Robinson Roofing Projects, and planning for an ice rink in 2026. Old business covers the Saddle Club arena, now named Jones Park Arena. An update on the Collis Light Installation is also provided. No official action by the City Council.
- Discussion of Scout cabin
- Robinson Roofing Projects
- Ice rink planning for 2026
- Saddle Club arena renamed Jones Park Arena
- Update on Collis Light Installation
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved three roof repair projects in Robinson Park—Scout Cabin, gazebo, and mural shelter—totaling $12,070, funded from Marcelle Jensen accounts. The council also hired four new ambulance EMT volunteers, accepted two ambulance resignations, and approved the consent agenda including $271,047.76 in bills and a $20,000 donation. Discussion on creating two full-time ambulance staff positions was tabled to the April meeting.
- Approved Hanson Roofing for Scout Cabin reroof and chimney flashing ($6,975), Robinson gazebo reroof ($4,620), and mural shelter west side repair ($475).
- Hired Matt Meyer, Dominick (Shannon) Foley, Justin Engelen, and Dillion Shelander as ambulance EMT volunteers.
- Accepted resignations of ambulance staff Nyarout Wal (effective March 6) and Anita Kenning (effective March 1).
- Consent agenda approved: minutes, bills $271,047.76, Resolution 2507 accepting $20,000 donation from LCARC, and Rec Center pay request #1 for $16,932.80.
- Tabled item on two full-time ambulance staff and flat-rate volunteer pay for further information; to be discussed in April.
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority voted to recommend a housing tax abatement program to the City Council, approved a one-year EDA Priority Plan focused on business expansion and housing, and allocated $250 for a succession planning workshop. Members also discussed creating a mini-loan program for businesses affected by the Highway 60 reconstruction project.
- Recommended housing tax abatement program to City Council with revisions allowing lot development applications
- Approved EDA Priority Plan guiding staff efforts on business retention, housing, child care, marketing, and workforce
- Approved $250 from EDA to fund a succession planning workshop in partnership with Madelia's EDA
- Discussed creating a mini-loan program for Highway 60 construction-impacted businesses, using $16,000 in RLF funds with up to $1,000 per loan
- Staff reported two new downtown businesses opened, and closing set for April 7 on three lots in Crystal Gardens Subdivision #7
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Public Utilities Commission will meet to approve minutes from the February 4 meeting, pay bills, and act on a purchase of 2 tablets for the Electric Department with $65.10 per month ongoing support. Staff reports on water, wastewater, city administration, and electric operations will be presented.
- Purchase of 2 tablets for Electric Department, plus $65.10/month ongoing support
Meeting
The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding updates to the zoning ordinance and map, as well as a variance request. The body will consider recommendations to the City Council for Ordinance 2025-01 and Resolution 2505.
- Public hearing on Zoning Ordinance/Map updates and a variance request
- Recommendation for Ordinance 2025-01 regarding zoning in annexed areas
- Recommendation for Resolution 2505 adopting findings for a variance
- Discussion regarding Shepherd Street
- Prokore update from Randy King
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved a zoning ordinance for an annexed area, a variance to build three housing units, the MnDOT turnback of Murphy Street, and the purchase of Shepard Street right-of-way. They also decided on a hardware server and heard updates from fire, police, and parks departments.
- Ordinance 2025-01: Designating zoning in annexed area (2nd reading, approved)
- Resolution 2505: Variance for Ted Goettl to build three housing units at Murphy and Laclaire Streets
- Resolution 2506: MnDOT turnback releasing portion of Murphy Street
- Purchase of Shepard Street right-of-way for $12,000 including platting
- Approval of hardware server and support plan
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council approved several items including a $26,900 new Gator purchase, the first reading of a zoning ordinance for an annexed area, and the City Tree Plan. They received updates on a $540,000 LPP Grant for the Lilly Lakes Trail, discussed adding cameras for 2026, and tabled a decision on cloud vs. hardware servers. The consent agenda, including bill payments of $222,201.01 and a DNR trail grant resolution, was approved unanimously.
- Approved purchase of a new Gator for $26,900
- Approved first reading of Ordinance 2025-01 designating zoning in annexed area
- Approved the City Tree Plan
- Received $540,000 LPP Grant for Lilly Lakes Trail
- Discussed adding 3-5 cameras (two at Jaycee Park, one at City Hall) for the 2026 budget
Meeting
The EDA heard a presentation from Little Lakers Child Care Center about their financial situation, including a $50,000 fundraising goal for HVAC and other expenses. The board discussed a draft tax abatement program modeled on Martin County's and agreed to draft an EDA priority plan. Staff also reported on efforts to sell three lots in the Crystal Gardens subdivision.
- Little Lakers Child Care Center presentation: 60 slots filled, capacity 90, seeking board members
- Discussion of draft tax abatement program based on Martin County's
- Board agreed to draft an EDA priority plan for the next year
- Update on Crystal Gardens #7: purchase agreements for three lots being worked on
- Staff conducted 10 business visits and processed Lake Crystal Business Survey
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved several equipment purchases and a contract for sewer maintenance. The body also authorized spending for a 2025 job training and safety program.
- Approved 2025 Sewer Televising and Cleaning by Overline for $12,009
- Approved purchase of 12-cylinder Fairbanks Water Pump for $8,022.34
- Approved payment of PUC bills totaling $86,915.07
- Approved purchase of MMUA NW Lineman College Module 2 for $1,055.00
- Approved MMUA 2025 Job Training and Safety Program Expense (amount TBD)
Meeting
The Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed updates to the Zoning Ordinance and Map, followed by a review and possible recommendation to the City Council. The commission will also discuss parking for the clinic and receive an update from the Building Official for 2024. Minutes from the January 6, 2025 meeting will be approved.
- Public Hearing on Updates to Zoning Ordinance/Map
- Review and potential recommendation of Zoning Ordinance/Map Updates to City Council
- Discussion of Parking for the Clinic
- 2024 Update from Randy King, Building Official
- Approval of January 6, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes
Council
The Lake Crystal City Council met on February 3, 2025, and approved consent items including payment of bills totaling $149,674.09 and a cemetery deed. They hired Beth Schmitz as Parks and Rec Specialist at $24.82 per hour. The council discussed violations at the city compost site, including buried sewage waste and hazardous materials, and directed the city administrator to proceed with cleanup and hauling of sewer waste. They also tabled a decision on server vs. cloud options pending further information.
- Approved payment of bills totaling $149,674.09
- Approved cemetery deed for Steven C. Larson for $625 for Burial Lot No. 905, Section C, Space 1
- Hired Beth Schmitz as Parks and Rec Specialist at Grade 2, Step 3 ($24.82/hr) starting February 26
- Discussed compost site violations: buried sewage waste (approx. 200 gallons/year), tires, batteries, ash near creek; directed cleanup
- Tabled review of server vs. cloud options; administrator to gather warranty cost and peer city information
Council
The City Council approved several high-cost infrastructure payments and a business license. The body also received updates on the ambulance service and a daycare funding search.
- MnDOT Highway Project Invoice payment of $2,563,591.92 from bond
- Musco Quote for Collis Field lighting: $288,335 total, city share $96,112
- Payment of bills totaling $129,755.70
- Cigarette License for Troublemakers Tobacco contingent on background checks
- Resolution 2503 to appoint Minnstar Bank and update authorized signatures
Meeting
The Park and Recreation Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss old business items including a Tree Plan and a Saddle Club Agreement, as well as receive updates on a light installation and a Park and Recreation Specialist position. No new business is listed. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and staff reports.
- Tree Plan discussion
- Saddle Club Agreement
- Update on Light Installation
- Update on Park and Rec Specialist Position
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority discussed creating a tax abatement program for residential housing and reviewed lot pricing for Crystal Gardens #7. Members also received an update on county daycare funds, with roughly $190,000 remaining. No formal decisions were made, but direction was given to investigate housing incentives and continue lot pricing discussions.
- Discussion on creating a tax abatement program for residential housing
- Review of lot prices for Crystal Gardens #7 subdivision
- Update on county daycare fund: $190,000 remaining, $50,000 after draws
- Little Lakers seeking $50,000 in funds
- Staff report on 11 business visits and survey
Council
The City Council swore in three officials and approved a series of routine consent items, including bill payments and commission appointments. The body also established the 2025 mileage rate and designated council assignments for city departments.
- Payment of bills totaling $631,201.63
- GM Pay Request 2 for CSAH 20/RR Project in the amount of $349,443.22
- Acceptance of a $10,000 donation for the rec center
- Approval of a 2025 business mileage rate of 70 cents per mile
- Approval of 2025 Council Assignments, City Appointments, and Designations
Meeting
The Lake Crystal Planning and Zoning Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider establishing zoning for a recently annexed area and discuss parking arrangements for the clinic. They will also approve minutes from a previous meeting, review a note from Mark Sanderson, and set the next meeting date. No official action will be taken by the city council, though members may attend.
- Approve minutes from February 5, 2024 regular meeting
- Establish zoning for annexed area
- Discuss parking for the clinic
- Review note from Mark Sanderson
- Next meeting scheduled for February 3, 2025