Paynesville public meetings in 2023

Special Council

The Special City Council meeting includes discussions on amending mayor and council salaries, PFAS contamination litigation, and various administrative appointments. The Council will also review financial reports and consider several new business items including fire department equipment quotes and labor attorney services.

• Ordinance No. 49: Amending Mayor & Council Salaries
• PFAS Contamination Litigation discussion
• Paynesville Sportsman’s Club raffle permit for Queen Bee’s Bar & Grill
• 2024 Labor Attorney Consulting Services Agreement with Madden Galanter Hansen, PLLC
• TIF Decertification for Savage Land Partnership TIF 1-13

City Council

The City Council will discuss the 2024 budget, tax levy, and water and sewer rates. The meeting also includes a vote on a $444,850.00 bid for wastewater treatment plant irrigation improvements.

• Bid approval for WWTF Irrigation System Improvements from Hydro Engineering, Inc. for $444,850.00
• Investigation of unlicensed or inoperable vehicles at 899 Flanders Drive
• Approval of $208,445.36 in total vouchers and payroll
• Registration fee approval of $350.00 for City Attorney's annual conference
• Review of 2024 Water & Sewer Rates and 2024 Tax Levy

Joint Council & Library Board Building Tour

The Paynesville City Council and Library Board held a special joint meeting for a tour of 311 Washburne Ave. This location is the former Washburne Court Facility.

• Tour of 311 Washburne Ave. (Former Washburne Court Facility)

City Council

The City Council will review a preliminary plat application to subdivide commercial property into two lots for the Joshua Flats project. The meeting also includes discussions on amending park hours for fire pit usage at Gazebo Park and a closed session regarding a real property counteroffer.

• Preliminary Plat application for Joshua Flats to subdivide commercial property into 2 lots
• Ordinance No. 48, 3 Series: Amending park hours for fire pit usage at Gazebo Park
• Approval of vouchers totaling $231,155.50
• Closed session to discuss a counteroffer on real property at 311 Washburne Ave.
• Review of liquor licenses and police prosecution services

City Council

The City Council will review 2024 budget funding requests and several new business items including an EDAP amended loan and airport lease addendum. The meeting also includes discussions on police department positions, nuisance property, and changes to park hours.

• Review of 2024 Budget funding requests
• EDAP Amended Loan for Savage Land Partnership, LLC
• Addendum to Paynesville Municipal Airport Tee Hangar Lease (Grothe)
• Ordinance No. 48, 3 Series: Amending Park Hours for Fire Pit Usage at Gazebo Park
• Approval of Paynesville Lions Club bingo permit at Queen Bee’s Bar & Grill

Capital Investment Planning Committee Tour

The Paynesville City Council will attend a tour of the Paynesville Fire Station as part of the Senate’s Capital Investment Planning Committee Tour. No motions or decisions will be made during this meeting.

• Tour of the Paynesville Fire Station at 417 Washburne Ave.

City Council - Working Session with Liquor Store

The City Council will hold a working session to discuss various aspects of the city-owned liquor store. Topics include safety, staffing, future store plans, and potential impacts from THC/CBD sales.

• Discussion of safety, labor, and dispensary topics
• Review of large purchase items including a potential new store and electronic sign
• Department projects such as a phone app for online ordering
• Discussion regarding the impact of THC/CBD sales on liquor sales

City Council

The City Council will review a presentation on the AMPI Phase 2 improvement project and consider authorizing engineering services for the Wastewater Treatment Facility irrigation replacement. The meeting also includes discussions on fire department purchases and a new bike route through town.

• WWTF Irrigation Replacement Project: $27,500 engineering budget estimate
• AMPI Phase 2: Presentation of pretreatment plant and diversion station plans
• Fire Department: Proposed purchase of hose for new truck
• Fire Department: Proposed purchase of radios using DNR grant funds
• Public Hearing: DKL Limited, LLC variance request

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider several action items, including a $300,000 economic development loan to WDR Properties, LLC, authorization for engineering work on the Glacial Lakes Trail extension, and a closed session to discuss an offer on tax-forfeited property at 617 Koronis Ave. The council will also set a working session with the liquor store and review routine consent items like minutes and vouchers.

• EDAP loan of $300,000 at 6.5% for 10 years to WDR Properties, LLC, split 50:50 with Paynesville Township
• Authorize Bolton & Menk to prepare plans and grant documents for Phase 2 of Glacial Lakes Trail Extension (estimated $600,000 project)
• Closed session to discuss offer on tax-forfeited property at 617 Koronis Ave.
• Set special working session with liquor store for Oct. 25 at 4:00 p.m.
• Consent agenda includes vouchers totaling $574,155.61

The City Council approved a business loan for WDR Properties, LLC and authorized planning for the Glacial Lakes Trail Extension. The Council also designated a temporary no-parking zone for a local event and declined to purchase a tax-forfeiture property.

• Approved $300,000 loan to WDR Properties, LLC at 6.5% per annum for 10 years (unanimous)
• Authorized $48,640 for Glacial Lakes Trail Extension Phase 2 plans and grant documents (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-25 designating Central Avenue as a no-parking zone for Oct 20, 21, 27, and 28 (unanimous)
• Approved Airport Land Acquisition Grant Amendment #A01 for an increase of $1,192.00 (unanimous)
• Approved Airport Tee Hangar Lease Agreement with Andrea Van Ness & Bjorn Sogge (unanimous)
• Decided not to make an offer on the tax-forfeiture property at 617 Koronis Ave (unanimous)
• Approved $574,155.61 in vouchers via Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Tabled hotel market study for one month

City Council - Working Session with Admin Dept

The Paynesville City Council is holding a working session to discuss the Administration Department's purchases, projects, concerns, and goals, as outlined in the agenda. This includes reviewing budget items for 2024-2025, such as electronic file storage, computer replacements, and painting City Hall, as well as department projects like updating Incode to the cloud and records retention. The meeting is a discussion session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Electronic file storage and staffing for scanning
• Replacement of computers
• Paint City Hall
• Incode update to the cloud
• Succession planning for Public Works Director position

The City Council agreed to purchase equipment for an electronic storage system to be funded by remaining ARPA money. The Council also decided to maintain the DMV's Monday evening hours based on a customer report.

• Agreed to buy electronic storage equipment (quotes pending)
• Decided to keep DMV Monday evening hours
• Agreed to bring hotel study proposal to the next City Council meeting

City Council - Working Session with Fire Dept

The Paynesville City Council is holding a special working session with the Fire Department to discuss purchases, projects, concerns, goals, and priorities. Items include a new fire truck arriving in February 2024, planning a rescue truck purchase, building repairs, and a $60,000 cascade system replacement.

• New fire truck ordered in February 2024
• Planning purchase of new rescue truck (existing is 2001 model)
• Roof and front of fire hall building repairs
• Cascade system replacement approximately $60,000
• Goal to recruit and retain firefighters

The working session focused on upcoming fire department purchases and facility repairs. No formal votes were taken during the session, though a DNR matching grant for new radios was noted as approved.

• DNR matching grant for new radios approved
• Planned water truck arrival for February 2024
• Planned Fire Hall roof and front repairs for spring 2024

Manufactures Month Tour Schedule

The City Council and all City Boards have been invited to attend a series of manufacturing site tours throughout October 2023. No motions will be entertained and no decisions will be made during these scheduled visits.

• Oct 3 tour: Avon Plastics at 210 Ampe Drive
• Oct 17 tour: Stang Precision at 125 Industrial Loop W.
• Oct 25 tour: Louis Industries at 222 Industrial Loop W.
• Oct 31 tour: Nelson Plastics at 620 Minnie St.

City Council

The City Council will consider a recommendation to delay changes to the employee step and grade system until upcoming union negotiations. The meeting also includes discussions on adding cannabinoid prohibitions to the drug-free workplace policy and reviewing several new business items.

• Decision on whether to change the employee step and grade system
• Proposed amendment to Personnel Policies regarding cannabinoids in the workplace
• Variance request for CG Enterprises LLC (Buerman Garage Doors) at 820 Business 23 W
• Review of Fire Department Relief Association 2022 Audit
• Discussion of temporary street closure for Trunk Or Treat

City Council

The City Council is reviewing findings regarding nuisance properties at 711 Minnesota St. and 899 Flanders Dr. The meeting also includes discussions on the 2024 preliminary property tax levy and various community grants.

• Adoption of findings for nuisance vehicles at 899 Flanders Dr.
• Decision on no longer a nuisance status for 711 Minnesota St.
• Acceptance of $5,000 DNR grant for Fire Department radios
• 2024 Preliminary Property Tax Levy discussion
• Public hearing for certifying past due utility and snow removal bills

The City Council adopted a preliminary 2024 property tax levy of $1,327,977 and approved a new revitalization loan program for local businesses. The council also authorized several grant applications for water protection, river bank stabilization, and forestry.

• Approved 2024 Preliminary Property Tax Levy of $1,327,977 (unanimous)
• Approved Paynesville Area Revitalization Loans using $200,000 from Revolving Loan Fund (unanimous)
• Adopted nuisance property findings for 711 Minnesota St and 899 Flanders Dr (unanimous)
• Approved $250,932.64 in vouchers and $5,000 DNR fire radio grant (unanimous)
• Authorized grant applications for Lake Ave. River Bank ($284,545), DNR ReLeaf ($27,100), and Wellhead Protection ($8,300) (unanimous)
• Approved Green Roof Area Center to build a detached shed up to 24’ x 40’ (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for past-due bill certification for Oct 23, 2023 (unanimous)
• Set Truth In Taxation Public Hearing for Dec 11, 2023 (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider a conditional use permit for a 1 megawatt solar farm by Enterprise Energy. The meeting also includes discussions on the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan, personnel policy amendments, and closed sessions regarding real property offers.

• Conditional Use Permit for a 1 Megawatt Solar Farm (Ferche Family Limited Partnership/Enterprise Energy)
• Ampe Park Grant Agreement for $255,500.00 from the State of Minnesota
• Public hearings for nuisance properties at 711 Minnesota St. and 899 Flanders Dr.
• Approval of vouchers totaling $179,622.77
• Variance request for CG Enterprise LLLC DBA Buerman Garage Doors

The Council approved a state grant for Ampe Park and processed several resignations and vouchers. A public hearing for a variance request by Buerman Garage Doors was scheduled for September 25, 2023. The Council discussed a proposed 1 megawatt solar farm, though no final vote on the permit was recorded in the text.

• Approved Ampe Park Grant Contract Agreement for $255,500.00
• Approved $179,622.77 in payroll and vouchers
• Accepted resignation of Adam Jensen, Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk
• Accepted resignation of Katy Westlund from the Planning Board
• Scheduled CG Enterprises, LLC Variance Public Hearing for Sept 25, 2023

City Council

The City Council is reviewing an agreement to join a Regional Safety Group with LMCIT and MMUA for shared workplace safety training. The proposal aims to reduce annual training costs from approximately $5,000 to $897 per city.

• Approval of regional safety group agreement with LMCIT & MMUA
• Review of vouchers totaling $505,697.96
• Discussion of Downtown Stormwater Drainage Study
• Discussion of Sewer Rehab from Burr St. to High School
• Closed session motion regarding real property at 311 Washburne Ave.

The Council approved a regional safety training agreement to reduce costs and authorized $1,500 for NDSU students to propose library designs. The Council also approved mortgage satisfactions and found that a previously cited nuisance property had been abated.

• Approved Agreement Establishing A Regional Safety Group (unanimous)
• Approved $1,500 from Library Capital Improvement fund for NDSU student bussing (unanimous)
• Approved mortgage satisfactions for Jeremy Willner and Alan & Ellen Habben (unanimous)
• Adopted findings that no public nuisance currently exists at 353 Stearns Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including minutes and $505,697.96 in vouchers (unanimous)

Joint Council, Planning, & EDAP

The joint council, planning board, and EDAP board will attend a tour of Avon Plastics at 210 Ampe Drive but no decisions will be made.

• Tour of Avon Plastics facility

The Joint City Council, Planning Board, and EDAP Board conducted a tour of Avon Plastics. Following the tour, the group discussed business operations, housing, amenities, and employment. No formal actions were taken.

City Council - Working Session

The Paynesville City Council is holding a working session to discuss various municipal updates and reports. The agenda includes discussions regarding cannabis regulations, the 2027 Downtown Street Project, and several administrative reports from the City Administrator.

• Discussion of cannabis regulations
• 2027 Downtown Street Project update
• Report on Police/Fire/Ambulance Emergency Services Center & Grant
• Report on new library and housing developments
• Report on annexation of township property within city limits

The Council discussed potential cannabis regulations and open container ordinances but decided to wait for Stearns County's decision on a public smoking ban. No formal votes were taken on cannabis or the 2027 Downtown Street Project funding.

• Deferred decision on cannabis public smoking ordinance to monitor Stearns County action
• Directed staff to draft language amending the open container ordinance to include THC products for the Policies & Procedures Board
• Decided to maintain current reporting structure for Police and Fire departments instead of forming a new board
• Discussed but took no action on funding methods or timing for the 2027 Downtown Street Project

Special Council 2027 Downtown Project

The Paynesville City Council will meet to hear and share information regarding the 2027 Downtown Street Improvement Project. No motions will be entertained and no decisions will be made during this meeting.

• Information sharing regarding the 2027 Downtown Street Improvement Project

The City Council conducted an information meeting to provide an overview of the proposed Downtown Street Project. City staff and consultants presented plans and answered questions from residents and business owners. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

City Council

The City Council will review various administrative items, including board appointments and gambling permits. The agenda also includes discussions on street closures, sewer rehabilitation, and public hearings regarding nuisance properties.

• Appointment of Devon Savage to the Park & Tree Board
• Approval of Paynesville Baseball Club, Inc. raffle permit for October 13, 2023
• Sewer rehabilitation from Burr St. to High School
• Public hearings for nuisance properties at 711 Minnesota St., 899 Flanders Dr., and 353 Stearns Ave.
• Purchase of a 2023 squad car for the Police Department

The Council approved a temporary street closure for a craft fair and authorized a community festival at the municipal airport. The body also accepted a consent agenda including payroll vouchers and board appointments. A nuisance public hearing for 711 Minnesota St was held but not concluded.

• Approved James St. W. closure Aug 12, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-20 for airport airshow, dance, and beer garden with fencing (Unanimous)
• Approved airport event parking in City lots and camping within City limits (Unanimous)
• Approved $214,529.98 in vouchers (Unanimous)
• Appointed Devon Savage to the Park & Tree Board (Unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Jerome Feigum from Park & Tree Board (Unanimous)
• Approved raffle permits for Paynesville Baseball Club, Inc. and Tri-County RBB Chapter (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes from 11 previous board and council meetings (Unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider approving a new Social Media Policy for use in personnel policies. The Council will also meet in closed session to discuss an offer on real property located at Lots 8 & 9, Block 2, Heatherwood Plat 3.

• Approval of proposed Social Media Policy
• Closed session discussion regarding an offer on real property (Lots 8 & 9, Heatherwood Plat 3)
• Review of Council and Board Member Code of Conduct Expectations
• Discussion regarding hiring a School Resource Officer for the Police Department
• Resolution regarding support for completion of Glacial Lakes Trail

The Council approved Ordinance No. 43, 3rd Series to increase building and silo height limits in the I-2 zone. They also accepted a $34,000 offer for two real estate lots and approved a new social media policy.

• Approved Ordinance No. 43, 3rd Series increasing I-2 building height to 75' and silos to 100' (unanimous)
• Accepted $34,000.00 offer for Lots 6 & 7, Block 2 Heatherwood Plat 3 (unanimous)
• Approved new Social Media Policy (unanimous)
• Approved posting for a Part-Time School Resource Officer at Grade 9 (unanimous)
• Approved signing up for Mailchimp essentials plan for non-emergency communications (unanimous)
• Approved $642,981.45 in vouchers and May 31 Planning Board minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled Special City Council Working Session for August 2, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved hiring and subsequent resignation of Mackenzie Husted as Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk (unanimous)

Special Council

The Paynesville City Council will meet to hear and share information regarding a proposal from Nature Energy. No motions or decisions will be made during this session.

• Information sharing regarding the Nature Energy proposal

The City Council met to hear a presentation from Nature Energy regarding a potential project. Mayor Shawn Reinke discussed the project's history and potential tax implications. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Joint Planning & Council

The Special Joint Planning Board and City Council will hold a public hearing regarding Ordinance No. 43, 3rd Series. The proposal seeks to increase building height limits from 45 to 75 feet and storage silo limits from 90 to 100 feet in the I-2 heavy industrial zone.

• Public hearing for Ordinance No. 43, 3rd Series at 6:05 p.m.
• Proposed building height increase from 45’ to 75’ in I-2 zone
• Proposed storage silo height increase from 90’ to 100' in I-2 zone
• Review of May 31, 2023, Special Planning Board minutes
• Building Permit Reports review

The Joint Planning Board and City Council held a public hearing to discuss amending the Zoning Ordinance for the I-2 zone. The proposal would increase maximum building height from 45 to 75 feet and storage silo height from 90 to 100 feet. No vote was taken during this meeting.

• Approved minutes from May 31, 2023 Special Planning Board meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council is meeting to review several irrigation agreements and address the resignations of two police officers. The agenda also includes a proposed fundraiser for the Fire Department's cascade system.

• Acceptance of resignations for Police Officers Logan Eck and Steve Lehmkuhl
• Proposed Liquor Store fundraiser for the Fire Department Cascade Fundraiser
• Irrigation Agreements with Jarcho, Pflipsen, and Voss
• Review of minutes from various municipal boards
• Discussion regarding SCADA System Upgrades

The Council authorized a capital budget request to the State of Minnesota for the design and construction of a Fire Station & Emergency Services Center. Other key actions included approving a fire department fundraiser and several public works infrastructure upgrades.

• Approved $3,992,000 grant request and Resolution 2023-17 for new Fire Station & Emergency Services Center (unanimous)
• Approved Liquor Store – Fire Department Cascade Fundraiser and associated raffles (unanimous)
• Approved $50,880.00 SCADA system upgrade contract with Preferred Controls (unanimous)
• Approved $38,250.00 for Pivot 21 GPS improvement from Hydro Engineering (unanimous)
• Approved $27,500.00 for Bolton & Menk, Inc. to prepare Irrigator Replacement Project plans (unanimous)
• Approved irrigation agreements with Bill & Kristin Pflipsen, Brooten Properties LLC (Ken Jarcho), and Doug Voss (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $320,860.32 in vouchers and two resignations (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several ordinances, including new rules for pollinator promotion and open burning in parks. The meeting also addresses administrative items such as department head spending limits and airport lease agreements.

• Ordinance No. 44: Exempts grass height enforcement during April and May to promote pollinators
• Approval of $421,105.19 in total payroll and vouchers
• Granting one personal day to full-time Public Works employees for a snow emergency closure
• Ordinance No. 45: Proposed amendment to allow recreational fires in City-owned firepits
• Appointment of eight members to the Ad Hoc Library Board

The Council dissolved the Police and Fire Advisory Board and approved an ordinance allowing recreational fires in city-provided firepits. Other actions included approving a $12,284.78 repair quote for City Hall water damage and hiring a new police officer.

• Dissolved the Police and Fire Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance No. 45, 3rd Series to allow recreational fires in City-owned firepits (unanimous)
• Approved $12,284.78 quote from Ron Mehr Construction for Council Chambers water damage (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2023-15 for MnDOT Airport Maintenance & Operation Grant (unanimous)
• Granted one personal day to full-time public works employees for snow emergency closure (unanimous)
• Approved Airport Tee Hangar Leases for Erickson, Frank, Grothe, Newberg, Orson, and Pauly (unanimous)
• Set Special Joint City Council & Planning Board meeting for June 29, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including vouchers totaling $421,105.19 (unanimous)

City Council - Working Session

The City Council held a working session to discuss future five-year goals including park maintenance, downtown revitalization, and housing. The Council also discussed the need to annex six township properties and a lift station.

• Discussion of five-year goals for Ampe Park, Dog Park, Downtown Revitalization, and Housing
• Proposed annexation of six township properties and a lift station
• Discussion regarding potential outdoor manure pit restrictions for Nature Energy permitting
• Discussion on the process for condemning deteriorated downtown structures via eminent domain

The Council identified a list of one-year and five-year goals focusing on downtown revitalization, infrastructure, and public facilities. No formal votes were recorded; the session served to outline priorities for future agendas and planning.

• Established one-year goals including a downtown revitalization grant program, bike path completion, and BMX track repairs
• Established five-year goals including a new library, new public safety building, and comprehensive plan update
• Identified annexation as the primary ten-year goal

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several Fire Department items, including the hiring of a new firefighter and joining the PERA retirement plan. The council will also consider a quote for new air lines in the fire hall and discuss the upcoming Backdraft Bash event.

• Hiring of Jeremiah Johnson as firefighter pending physical exam
• Resolution 2023-14 to join the Statewide Volunteer Firefighter Plan (PERA) effective Jan 1, 2024
• Approval of $2,075.00 Benco quote for fire hall air line parts
• Approval of vouchers totaling $289,346.35
• Review of 2023 Town & Country Days Backdraft Bash plans

The Council approved a $30,472.31 swimming dock for Veteran's Park and voted to join the statewide PERA volunteer firefighter plan. Other actions included hiring a new firefighter and approving equipment and medical screening for the fire department.

• Approved $30,472.31 swimming dock from Channel Marine & Sports (4-1)
• Approved Resolution 2023-14 to join PERA Statewide Volunteer Firefighters Plan (unanimous)
• Hired Jeremiah Johnson as firefighter pending physical exam (unanimous)
• Approved $2,075.00 Benco quote for fire hall air lines (unanimous)
• Approved $3,760.00 for firefighter physicals via Northern Health & Fitness Plus (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Backdraft Bash and $1,174.00 for insurance and training (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $289,346.35 in vouchers (unanimous)

Special Council

The Paynesville City Council will meet to address matters regarding the Police Department. The agenda includes an employee separation agreement and updates to officer job roles.

• Police Department Employee Separation Agreement
• Revised Police Officer Job Description
• Revised Job Posting

The City Council approved a separation agreement for Noah Ulmaniec. The Council also authorized the City Administrator to post a revised, shortened job description designed to attract more applicants.

• Approved separation agreement between City of Paynesville and Noah Ulmaniec (unanimous)
• Authorized City Administrator to post revised job description with semantic changes (unanimous)

City Council - Working Session

The City Council held a working session to review the Paynesville Police Department's goals, projects, and concerns. Discussions included potential department purchases, staffing challenges, and departmental space requirements.

• Potential replacement of 2012 Tahoe squad car
• Transition to new Stearns County RMS/CAD/Mobile system
• Proposed creation of a Sergeant's position
• Departmental need for larger office space
• Development of a department Facebook page and website updates

The Council held a working session to discuss strategies for recruiting and retaining experienced police officers, including potential changes to health insurance and sabbatical benefits. Members also reviewed options for replacing aging squad cars. No formal votes were taken during this session.

• Discussed offering fully paid family health care to attract experienced officers
• Discussed reducing sabbatical frequency from every five years to every three years
• Reviewed costs for new squad cars (~$58,000) versus used options (~$30,000)
• Proposed expanding recruitment advertising via Union social media accounts

City Council

The City Council is reviewing the 2022 financial audit presented by Schlenner Wenner & Co. The meeting also addresses multiple resignations from the police department, liquor store, and various boards.

• Presentation of the 2022 Audit with an unmodified opinion
• Resignation of Part-Time Police Officer Jerome Feigum
• Resignation of Part-Time Police Officer Dallen O’Brien
• Resignation of Part-Time Liquor Store Clerk Megan Brick
• Transfer from General Fund to Fire Dept. CIP for truck purchase

The City Council approved applications and fee waivers for a July circus and June Town & Country Days events. The council also approved the 2022 Audit and accepted several staff and board resignations.

• Approved Chamber of Commerce circus for July 29, 2023, and waived application/investigation fees (unanimous)
• Approved Town & Country Days parade, street closures, and carnival permits (unanimous)
• Approved beer garden for Town & Country Days restricted to 605 Lake Ave grounds, prohibiting alcohol in the parking area (unanimous)
• Approved 2022 Audit (unanimous)
• Approved $345,271.53 in vouchers (unanimous)
• Accepted resignations of Officers Jerome Feigum and Dallen O’Brien, Liquor Store Clerk Megan Brick, and board members Erica Reinke, Dallas Fenske, and Patsy Fenske (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of $200,000 from General Fund to Fire Dept Capital Improvement Fund for a new truck

City Council - Working Session with Public Works Dept

The Paynesville City Council held a working session to discuss Public Works goals, priorities, and upcoming infrastructure needs. The discussion covered long-term plans for water treatment, street projects, and equipment replacement schedules.

• Planned replacement of 2011 F250 and 2013 F150 vehicles in 2023
• Discussion on lime softening treatment plant for chloride issues in 10 to 12 years
• Downtown project planned for 2027
• 2024 sealcoat for Lake Ave. River Bank Project and taxiway
• Planned runway rehabilitation for 2025

The council discussed planning for the eventual retirement of Public Works Director Ron Mergen, including the possibility of creating a deputy director position. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was a working session focused on future planning and departmental issues.

• Discussed Mergen retirement plan; no action taken
• Discussed snow plowing options if Voss discontinues service; no decision
• Decided not to pay $70,000 for retiling Pivot #2 land
• Discussed chloride issue and potential grant for water softener survey
• Discussed AMPI Phase II and need for meeting with CEO
• Discussed bio solids accumulation and two-year upgrade process
• Discussed downtown project and possible mock-ups by July
• Discussed dog park relocation and fundraising

Joint Council & Police & Fire Advisory

The Joint Police & Fire Advisory Board and City Council will hold a public hearing on April 26, 2023, to discuss providing City Police Department services in Paynesville Township. The meeting follows discussions regarding the Township's response to contracting with the City.

• Public hearing: Providing City Police Protection Services In Paynesville Township
• Discussion of Fire Hall & Elementary School Parking
• Grant application for First Responder Community Building and Drug Education ($4,000 request)
• Recommendation to post for a full-time police officer

The Council approved new public hearing guidelines to be included in the Council By Laws & Rules of Order. A public hearing was held to discuss whether the City Police Department should continue responding to calls in Paynesville Township, though no formal decision was recorded.

• Approved City Council Public Hearing Guidelines (unanimous)
• Approved March 22, 2023 Police & Fire Advisory Board minutes (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will review various consent agenda items including board minutes, vouchers, and appointments. The meeting also includes discussions regarding airport lease agreements, a crack sealing project, and a hospital tour.

• Approval of $348,969.22 in total payroll and vouchers
• Appointment of Ken Osendorf and Kris O’Brien to the Park & Tree Board
• Refuse licenses for LRS of Minnesota LLC and Tom Kramer, Inc.
• Gambling permit for North Fork Crow River Double Beards raffle on July 15, 2023
• Airport Tee Hangar Lease Agreements for Wolter & Faber

The Council approved a Business Associate Agreement and Emergency Medical Services agreement with CentraCare Health, contingent on review by Bill Spooner. The Council also approved a consent agenda including payroll vouchers and refuse licenses. Members discussed the formalization of the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee, but no formal action was taken on the committee's structure.

• Approved Business Associate Agreement and EMS agreement with CentraCare Health contingent on Bill Spooner's review (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes from four board meetings (unanimous)
• Approved payroll and vouchers totaling $348,969.22 (unanimous)
• Appointed Ken Osendorf and Kris O’Brien as school representatives on the Park & Tree Board (unanimous)
• Approved refuse licenses for LRS of Minnesota LLC, Tom Kramer, Inc., West Central Sanitation, and B & C Cleanup (unanimous)
• Approved exempt permit for North Fork Crow River Double Beards raffle on July 15, 2023 (unanimous)

City Council Retreat 2nd Session

The Paynesville City Council is conducting a special retreat session to discuss long-term planning and city business. Discussion topics include street projects, council rules, and annexation processes.

• 2027 Street Project discussion
• Council By Laws & Rules Of Order review
• Long Term Goals & Planning discussion
• City owned and Township properties/annexation process discussion

The Council reviewed proposed changes to City Code Chapter 2, bylaws, and long-term goals. No formal motions or decisions were made during the meeting.

• Consented to post for new Board members on all City Boards annually in November
• Proposed increasing Safety Board to 8 members
• Proposed changing Police & Fire Advisory Board membership to a Township resident appointed by the Township Board
• Proposed revisions to Council By Laws & Rules Of Order

Board of Appeal & Equalization

The Board of Appeal & Equalization will review the 2023 Assessment Report, which includes a 7% increase in total district value to $280,825,000. The meeting also includes an overview of property sales and recommendations from the Assessor.

• Total district value increased approximately 7% to $280,825,000
• $982,000 in residential new construction
• $3,134,000 in commercial new construction, including Louis Industries and an Assisted Living Complex
• Average market value changes: Agricultural (10%), Apartments/Storage/MHP (10% - 12%)
• Average market value changes: Residential (0% - 5%), Commercial/Industrial (5% - 9%)

The board met to hear property evaluation appeals, but no residents attended to appeal their assessments. Members discussed the possibility of transitioning to 'Open Book' meetings to allow residents to dispute values directly with the Assessor’s Office.

• No property appeals were filed or decided

City Council

The City Council will consider a waiver regarding municipal tort liability limits and approve a gas line installation for Well No. 8. The meeting also includes reviewing the 2022 audit and approving a parade permit for the Paynesville FFA.

• Approval of CenterPoint Energy authorization for $6,511.00 to install a gas line at Well No. 8
• Decision on LMC insurance liability coverage waiver regarding statutory tort limits
• Review of Paynesville FFA Tractor/Classic Car Parade permit for April 19, 2023
• Scheduling of a joint meeting for May 8, 2023, to review the 2022 Audit
• Approval of vouchers totaling $228,599.08

The Council approved a $300,000 EDAP loan for WDR Properties LLC (Avon Plastics) to build a warehousing facility, split equally between the City and Township. Other actions included authorizing a new police officer hire and purchasing a public works vehicle. The Council also approved a tractor parade and various equipment upgrades.

• Approved $300,000 EDAP loan to WDR Properties LLC ($150,000 City / $150,000 Township) (Unanimous)
• Approved hiring process for one full-time Police Officer (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2023 Chevrolet Silverado for $37,030 (Unanimous)
• Approved $6,511 for CenterPoint Energy gas line installation at Well No. 8 (Unanimous)
• Approved Paynesville FFA Tractor/Classic Car Parade for April 19, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of one set of NFTrax irrigation tires for $6,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Water Festival for May 12, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Voted not to waive monetary limits on municipal tort liability (Unanimous)

City Council Retreat

The City Council held a full-day retreat to review department reports, including upcoming vehicle replacements and infrastructure needs. Discussions covered the Nuisance Ordinance, potential annexation processes, and long-term planning for city properties.

• Fire Department: $60,000 replacement cost for Cascade system
• Police Department: Planned replacement of 2012 Tahoe squad car
• Public Works: Vehicle replacements for 2011 F250, 2013 F150, and 2013 Chevy 1500
• Public Works: 2027 Downtown project and 2024 Lake Ave. River Bank Project
• Review of Chapter 18 Nuisance Ordinance regarding outdoor accumulations

The City Council and department heads reviewed future purchase needs, projects, and concerns for the Fire, Police, Public Works, Liquor Store, and City Hall departments. No formal motions or decisions were made during the meeting.

• No formal motions or decisions were made

City Council

The City Council will consider a contract for sewer jetting and televising services. The agenda also includes approving various board minutes, city vouchers totaling $278,941.02, and the resignation of a part-time police officer.

• Sewer jetting and televising contract with Johnson Jet-Line
• Approval of vouchers totaling $278,941.02
• Resignation of Part-Time Police Officer Eric Schultz
• Public Works Well No. 5 rehab quotes
• Donating Surplus Property Ordinance No. 42

The Council approved contracts for sewer maintenance and well rehabilitation, a 10-year crop land lease with Bill Pflipsen, and a resolution supporting the Glacial Lakes State Trail extension. They also approved a beer garden for Town & Country Days and updated policies regarding surplus property and employee PTO.

• Approved 5-year sewer jetting and televising contract with Johnson Jet-Line
• Approved $19,133.50 quote from Thein Well to rehab Well No. 5
• Approved 10-year irrigated crop land lease with Bill Pflipsen
• Approved beer garden at 605 Lake Ave for Town & Country Days (contingent on Chamber approval)
• Approved Ordinance No. 42 and policies for surplus property donation (removed $10,000 limit)
• Approved Resolution 2023-10 supporting Glacial Lakes State Trail extension from Roscoe to Paynesville
• Approved sale of snow plow for $3,600
• Approved Ampe Park Shelter Grant Application and Resolution 2023-09

All Boards & Special Council Meeting

City of Paynesville boards will participate in a working session to document completed projects, proposed ideas, and board concerns. Following the working session, various boards will present reports to attendees.

• Working session on completed and proposed projects
• Reports from Airport Board
• Reports from Budget & Finance Board
• Reports from Planning Board
• Reports from Public Works Board

The meeting consisted of annual reports from various city boards. No formal votes were recorded, though the Council previously approved hiring an Assistant Manager for the municipal liquor store.

• Approved hiring an Assistant Manager for the Municipal Off-Sale Liquor Board

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will discuss several new business items, including a request from the Fire Relief Association for a cost analysis to join a statewide volunteer firefighter plan through PERA, and a proposal to create a full-time assistant manager position at the liquor store. The council will also consider eliminating the need to bring budgeted annual transfers for separate approval, closing four inactive funds, and approving beer and wine licenses for local businesses.

• Fire Relief Association requests cost analysis to join statewide volunteer firefighter plan through PERA
• Proposal to create full-time Liquor Store Assistant Manager position at Grade 7, $21.60/hour plus benefits
• Closing of four inactive funds: TIF #1-11 Nelson Plastics, TIF #1-12 Stang Precision, TIF #1-14 Louis Industries, and 2014 Street Project
• Beer license renewals for Kwik Trip Inc., Koronis Lanes, and Paynesville Baseball Club Inc. at $125 each
• Wine license renewal for Paynesville Baseball Club Inc. at $200

The Council authorized an emergency purchase of a Dodge Durango squad car and approved a 5-year agreement for self-service kayak rentals at Veteran's Park. Other actions included approving liquor licenses, establishing Juneteenth as a police department holiday, and authorizing a cost analysis for the Fire Relief Association to join a PERA plan.

• Approved emergency purchase of 2023 Dodge Durango squad car (unanimous)
• Approved 5-year Rent.Fun kayak rental agreement for $16,000 (unanimous)
• Approved $50,000 traffic enforcement contract proposal for Paynesville Township (unanimous)
• Approved paying for firefighter mask lenses every two years (unanimous)
• Approved Juneteenth as an official Police Department holiday (unanimous)
• Approved 3.2% beer licenses for Kwik Trip, Koronis Lanes, and Paynesville Baseball Club (unanimous)
• Approved On-Sale Wine License for Paynesville Baseball Club (unanimous)
• Approved hiring a Full Time Liquor Store Assistant Manager at Grade 7 (passed; Brick abstained)

City Council - Working Session

The council will hold a special working session to discuss Mayor Shawn Reinke's application for the City Administrator position in Rockville. Reinke has been selected as a finalist and will interview on March 22. He asks whether the council would support him staying as mayor if he accepts the offer.

• Mayor Reinke applied for City Administrator of Rockville and is a finalist
• Council to discuss potential conflict of interest and Reinke's intentions if offered the job
• Reinke says he would resign only if council does not support him staying as mayor

The Council held a working session to discuss Mayor Shawn Reinke's upcoming interview for the City Administrator position in Rockville. No formal votes were taken; members discussed potential conflicts of interest, time commitments, and the legalities of holding both positions.

• No substantive decisions were made; the meeting was a discussion session

City Council - Working Session-Cancelled

This meeting was cancelled. The only listed item was a job opportunity for the mayor, but no action was taken.

• Job opportunity for Mayor Reinke (no action taken)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will vote on several new business items, including declaring a fire department IRIS device as surplus and donating it to the historical society, approving a $5,000 municipal contribution to the Fire Relief Association, accepting a $10,000 donation from the American Legion for the Fire Relief Association raffle, purchasing 14 holiday lights for $6,513 from Display Sales, and approving a tee hangar lease at the airport for $1,750. The meeting also includes consent agenda items for minutes and vouchers, as well as informational reports.

• Fire Department surplus property (IRIS) donation to Paynesville Historical Society
• Fire Relief Association municipal contribution request of $5,000
• Accept $10,000 donation from American Legion for Fire Relief Association raffle
• Purchase 14 holiday lights from Display Sales for $6,513 from Street CIP fund
• Approve tee hangar lease with RMB (Bob Braun) for hangar 31 at $1,750

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider a first reading of Ordinance No. 41 amending Chapter 36, discuss forming an ad hoc cable committee, and vote on the sale of two forfeited police vehicles. Other new business includes a summer concert series agreement, a DNR emerald ash borer tree inventory grant, and a joint powers agreement with Lake Henry for wastewater treatment. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, $337,846.44 in vouchers, and three gambling permits for raffles.

• Ordinance No. 41, 3% Series — Amending Chapter 36 (first reading)
• Sale of forfeited property: 2015 Ford F350 & 2006 Chrysler 300
• Tree Inventory - DNR Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Grant
• Joint Powers Agreement with City of Lake Henry for wastewater treatment facility operation
• Grazing, rental of hay land & irrigated crop land agreements

The Council approved several infrastructure projects, including a sanitary sewer rehab for the high school and a $200,000 grant for lead gasoline contamination analysis. They also updated sign and building height ordinances and authorized the sale of forfeited police vehicles.

• Approved Ordinance No. 41, 3rd Series increasing accessory building height to 19' (Unanimous)
• Approved sale of 2015 Ford F350 and 2006 Chrysler 300 via MinnBid (Unanimous)
• Approved $25,769.90 quote from Hydro-Klean LLC and $42,540.00 from Voss Plumbing & Heating for school sewer rehab (Unanimous)
• Approved $200,000 LCCMR Grant Contract for lead gasoline contamination analysis (Unanimous)
• Approved $17,500 for tree/EAB survey and management plan via Street CIP funds (Unanimous)
• Approved EDAP loan refinance for Queen Bee’s Bar & Grill, Inc. for $15,046.07 at 8% interest (Unanimous)
• Approved grade increases for Police Chief, City Administrator, Police Secretary, and Social Media Specialist (Unanimous)
• Approved installation of CD3 Roadside Waterless Cleaning System at Veteran’s Park (Unanimous)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider approving a three-year audit contract with Schlenner Wenner & Co. for fiscal years 2022-2024, with fees increasing annually due to inflation. The council will also set the 2023 Local Board of Appeal & Equalization meeting for April 13, 2023. Other new business includes a sanitary sewer rehab project at Paynesville Area Schools and a downtown drainage study. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes and vouchers totaling $183,833.05.

• Three-year audit contract with Schlenner Wenner & Co.: $29,900 (2022), $33,700 (2023), $38,000 (2024), plus optional single audit fees
• Setting the 2023 Local Board of Appeal & Equalization meeting for April 13, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
• Sanitary Sewer Rehab Project at Paynesville Area Schools (page 19)
• Downtown Project — Drainage Study (page 24)
• Vouchers totaling $183,833.05 for approval

The Council approved a $9,900 downtown drainage study and a three-year audit contract with Schlenner Wenner & Co. They also authorized a 50/50 cost-split for a school sewer rehabilitation project and approved wage premiums for licensed water and wastewater employees. A proposed city-wide wage compensation study was tabled pending further cost analysis.

• Approved $9,900 downtown drainage study by Bolton & Menk, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved 3-year audit contract with Schlenner Wenner & Co. (unanimous)
• Approved 50/50 cost-split agreement for Paynesville Area Schools sewer rehab (unanimous)
• Approved MOU for Water & Wastewater license wage adjustments (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment #01 to MnDOT Grant Agreement #1035134 for $59,765.75 (unanimous)
• Approved $49,000 transfer from Water and Sewer funds to General Fund for 2014A Bond payoff (unanimous)
• Set Local Board of Appeal & Equalization meeting for April 13, 2023 (unanimous)
• Tabled DDA wage compensation study and grade increases pending cost figures

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will vote on several administrative items for 2023, including scheduling a council retreat and an annual meeting of all city boards, establishing an employee wellness program, and approving conference attendance for the city administrator and council members. The council will also consider a consent agenda that includes approving minutes, vouchers totaling $179,376.99, and appointing Jacob Bertram to the Planning Board.

• Approve vouchers totaling $179,376.99 for payroll and other payments
• Appoint Jacob Bertram to the Planning Board
• Set a Special City Council Retreat for February 2023 at the American Legion
• Establish an Employee Wellness Program via Resolution 2023-06
• Approve 2023 Liquor Store lease payments of $1,828/month plus $10 for sign electricity to Teals Management

The Council approved several administrative updates, including the establishment of an employee wellness program and a new ordinance requiring developers to cover City Engineer plan review costs. Other actions included appointing board and fire department officers and approving a library feasibility study.

• Approved Resolution 2023-06 establishing an Employee Wellness Program (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance No. 40, 3rd Series amending Right of Way Regulations (unanimous)
• Approved $10,450 library feasibility study for Washburne Court, to be reimbursed by Community Foundation (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 Liquor Store lease payments of $1,828 plus $10 for electricity monthly (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 City mileage rate of 65.5 cents per mile (unanimous)
• Elected Jean Soine as Mayor Pro Tem (unanimous)
• Appointed Jacob Bertram to the Planning Board (unanimous)
• Approved agricultural rental property homesteading agreement with Mages-Welle LLC retroactive to 2022 (unanimous)