Watertown public meetings in 2022

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is meeting for a work session that includes a closed session to conduct the city administrator's performance review. The agenda contains only this item and standard procedural actions, with no other public business listed.

• Closed session for city administrator performance review
• Document: CLOSED SESSION FOR FOSTER PERFORMANCE EVALUATION 12-13-22.PDF

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on December 13, 2022, to discuss and act on several items, including the 2023 final budgets and levies, an extension for a property at 605 Lewis Ave. N., a site plan for Workshops of Watertown Phase II, and a development agreement for Oak Grove. The consent agenda includes routine items such as minutes, lot line adjustments, pay applications, licenses, and appointments. The meeting is open to the public.

• 2023 final budgets and levies
• Oak Grove development agreement
• 605 Lewis Ave. N. IUP extension
• Workshops of Watertown Phase II site plan
• Mill and overlay pay application No. 5

The City Council approved the final 2023 tax levy and budgets for general, enterprise, fire, and EDA activities. The council also approved several development agreements and a site plan for auto condos. A project update was provided for the Wastewater Treatment Plant.

• Adopted final 2023 tax levy (4-0)
• Approved 2023 budgets for general, enterprise, fire, and EDA activities (4-0)
• Approved site plan for Workshops of Watertown Phase II auto condos (4-0)
• Approved rezoning and development agreement for Oak Grove Estates (4-0)
• Extended Interim Use Permit for Midwest Services at 605 Lewis Ave N (4-0)
• Approved December 13, 2022 claims packet (4-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including 2023 Captain Appointments and licenses (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to adopt its agenda, approve minutes from previous meetings, and review the Phase II site plan for the Workshops of Watertown. The meeting also includes a public hearing and staff updates. No other substantive items are listed.

• Review of Workshops of Watertown Phase II site plan
• Approval of minutes from July 20, 2022 and November 3, 2022
• Public hearing at 309 Lewis Avenue South

The Planning Commission recommended that the City Council approve the site plan for Phase II of the Workshops of Watertown project. The recommendation includes conditions outlined by staff regarding easements for utilities, parking, and access.

• Recommended approval of Workshops of Watertown Phase II site plan to City Council (6-0)
• Approved July 20, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved November 3, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (6-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss the 2023 enterprise budgets. The agenda includes a workshop on the proposed budgets, with the associated document available for review. No other substantive items are listed.

• 2023 Enterprise Budgets Workshop

The City Council conducted a workshop to review staff recommendations for the 2023 water, sewer, and stormwater budgets. No formal votes or decisions were recorded during this session.

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda covering routine items like minutes, license renewals, and donations. The main business includes a truth-in-taxation hearing for 2023, certification of delinquent charges, winter parking and towing rules, a GO bond resolution for the wastewater treatment facility, and the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan.

• 2023 Truth-in-Taxation hearing
• GO Bond Resolution 2022A for WWTF
• 2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Winter parking and towing regulations
• 2023 liquor, tobacco, and waste hauler license renewals

The City Council approved the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan and authorized a bond purchase for the Wastewater Treatment Facility expansion. Other actions included updating winter parking rules and certifying delinquent utility charges for tax payment.

• Approved 2023 Capital Improvement Plan via Resolution 2022-90 (3-0)
• Approved GO Sewer Revenue Note 2022A and bond purchase agreement via Resolution 2022-91 (3-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 434 amending winter parking restrictions and towing processes (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-89 certifying delinquent utilities and charges for payment with taxes (3-0)
• Approved November 29, 2022 claims packet (3-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including 2023 liquor, tobacco, and waste hauler license renewals (3-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding a regular meeting with standard agenda items including roll call, consent agenda approval, open forum, new/old business, reports, claims, and adjournment. No specific action items or details are listed in the agenda, so the meeting appears to be routine procedural business.

• Consent agenda discussion and approval
• Open forum for public input
• New/old business items
• Claims approval
• Social event following meeting at Luce Line Lodge

The City Council adopted Resolution #2022-83 to officially accept and canvass the 2022 municipal general election results. The meeting was brief, lasting approximately eight minutes.

• Approved agenda as presented (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-83 canvassing 2022 municipal general election results (3-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Watertown Park and Recreation Commission will review and discuss the draft Highland Park Master Plan, along with approving the minutes from the September 21, 2022 meeting. Staff will provide updates before adjournment.

• Review of Highland Park Master Plan draft
• Approval of September 21, 2022 meeting minutes
• Staff updates

The Park Commission approved submitting the Highland Park Master Plan to the City Council for final approval following specific text and content corrections. The commission also reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan for 2023-2026 and agreed to cancel the December meeting.

• Approved submission of Highland Park Master Plan to City Council (Unanimous)
• Adopted September 21, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Adopted meeting agenda (6-0)
• Decided to cancel the December 21 meeting (Unanimous)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss two items: the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and winter parking and towing regulations. These are discussion items only, with no formal votes scheduled. The meeting is a regular worksession with procedural items like roll call and adjournment.

• CIP Discussion No. 2
• Winter Parking and Towing Discussion

The City Council reviewed the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), noting a $714,702 reduction for the year due to item changes. Council members agreed that taking on debt for street projects is a viable strategy. A discussion on winter parking and towing was tabled.

• Agreed that taking on debt for street projects made sense
• Tabled winter parking and towing discussion

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on November 15, 2022, addressing a consent agenda that includes meeting minutes, pay applications, a donation, a contract, and a PTO policy. Under new/old business, the council will discuss a utility credit request from Immaculate Conception Church, a Verizon conditional use permit amendment for 700 Lewis Avenue, replacement of automatic external defibrillators, and a firefighter pension level increase. The meeting also includes an open forum, other reports, and approval of the claims packet.

• WWTF Pay Applications No. 5 and No. 6
• 2022 M&O Pay Application No. 4
• 2023 Property Assessment Services Contract
• Utility credit request - Immaculate Conception Church
• 700 Lewis Avenue - Verizon CUP amendment

The City Council approved an increase in annual retirement benefits for firefighters and authorized the purchase of new AEDs. They also approved a conditional use permit amendment for a cellular tower and a utility credit for a local church.

• Increased firefighter retirement benefit level to $3,400 annually (4-0)
• Approved $7,854.56 purchase of seven Philips Brand AEDs (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-80 for Verizon CUP Amendment at 700 Lewis Ave N (4-0)
• Approved $296.72 sewer utility credit for Immaculate Conception Church (4-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including property assessment contract and WWTF pay applications (4-0)
• Approved November 15, 2022 claims packet (4-0)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Commission will meet to consider a conditional use permit (CUP) amendment for the property at 700 Lewis Ave. N. A public hearing will be held as part of the new business agenda. The meeting also includes routine items such as roll call, agenda adoption, staff updates, and adjournment.

• Public hearing on CUP amendment for 700 Lewis Ave. N
• Agenda includes staff updates and adjournment

The Planning Commission recommended that City Council approve a conditional use permit amendment and site plan review for Verizon Wireless and American Tower Corporation. The proposal adds three wireless antennas to an existing tower at 700 Lewis Ave N.

• Recommended approval of CUP amendment and site plan review for 700 Lewis Ave N (7-0)
• Adopted agenda (6-0)

Commission on Aging

The Watertown Commission on Aging is meeting to handle routine business: adopting the agenda, approving minutes, and receiving a treasurer's report. They will also discuss the upcoming Holiday Senior Dinner and receive updates from the city and commissioners. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major policy decisions or public hearings.

• Treasurer report review
• Holiday Senior Dinner discussion
• City updates including AARP speakers team flyer and DFMN information sessions flyer

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). The agenda includes only this new business item and adjournment, with no other substantive items listed.

• Discussion of 2023 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)

The City Council held a work session to review the 2023 Capital Improvement Plan and discuss project priorities amid inflation. No formal votes were taken; the council provided feedback to staff to refine the document.

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on October 25, 2022, to discuss and potentially approve a fiber agreement with MetroNet, along with several consent agenda items including meeting minutes, a COA appointment, the Q3 financial report, and a street use permit for a Halloween event. The meeting also includes an open forum and claims approval.

• MetroNet Fiber Agreement
• COA Appointment - Raymond
• Quarter 3 Financial Report
• Use of Street for Chamber of Commerce Halloween Event
• Claims Packet 10.25.22

The City Council approved a fiber agreement allowing Metrofibernet, LLC to install broadband infrastructure in city street rights-of-way. The council also approved the October 25 claims packet and a consent agenda including previous meeting minutes and a financial report.

• Approved Resolution 2022-79 for fiber agreement with Metrofibernet, LLC (4-0)
• Approved October 25, 2022 claims packet (4-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including Oct 11 minutes, COA appointment, Q3 financial report, and Halloween event street use (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Watertown Economic Development Authority will meet to adopt its agenda and minutes from prior meetings, discuss the 2023 preliminary EDA levy, and consider loan requests from Navarro (BFI and RLF). The meeting is primarily administrative with new business items.

• 2023 Preliminary EDA Levy
• Navarro BFI and RLF Requests
• Approval of June 9, 2022 and July 14, 2022 minutes

The Watertown Economic Development Authority approved the 2023 EDA budget and levy, and granted $2,500 in Building Facade Improvement (BFI) funds to Angela Navarro for La Casita Restaurant and Bar. A BFI loan of up to $5,000 was also approved pending proof of eligible expenses. A $25,000 Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) request was tabled until additional documentation and loan terms are determined.

• Approved 2023 EDA budget and levy (3-0)
• Approved $2,500 BFI grant for Angela Navarro/La Casita Restaurant and Bar (3-0)
• Approved BFI loan up to $5,000 pending eligible expense demonstration (3-0)
• Tabled $25,000 RLF loan application until additional info and loan term determined (3-0)
• Approved minutes from June 9, 2022 with correction (3-0)
• Approved minutes from July 14, 2022 (3-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session that includes a site tour of the proposed Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion Project. No formal decisions are scheduled; the agenda consists of the tour and standard procedural items.

• Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion Project site tour

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on October 11, 2022, to discuss and potentially approve the 2023 contract with the Carver County Sheriff's Office (CCSO), as well as approve the claims packet. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the September 27 workshop and regular meetings, and an open forum for public input.

• 2023 CCSO Contract (agenda item 5A)
• Claims Packet 10.11.22 (agenda item 7A)
• Approval of September 27, 2022 workshop and regular meeting minutes

The Watertown City Council approved the 2023 policing contract with the Carver County Sheriff's Office (CCSO), which increases the budget by 9.27% over 2022, mainly due to wage increases. The contract maintains the status quo for services. Council members also discussed concerns about reckless driving, school resource officer needs, and sheriff's department accountability, but no other decisions were made on those topics.

• Approved Resolution 2022-76 approving the 2023 policing contract with Carver County Sheriff's Office (3-0)
• Approved the consent agenda including September 27, 2022 workshop and regular meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved the October 11, 2022 claims packet (3-0)

Commission on Aging

The Watertown Commission on Aging will meet to approve minutes, receive a treasurer's report, and discuss the upcoming Holiday Senior Dinner. They will also review regional meal programs for seniors and receive updates from the city and commissioners.

• Holiday Senior Dinner information and poster
• Regional food resources memo and attachment
• Treasurer report memo
• Economic assistance and support group attachments
• Minutes from September 7, 2022

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on September 27, 2022, to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a financial commitment for a PFA (likely a housing or development project) and the 2023 preliminary levy. The agenda also includes consent items such as meeting minutes, a homecoming parade street use, a 2023 prosecution contract, a firefighter resignation, a mill and overlay pay application, and winter seasonal recruitment. A recognition for Nancy Pysick's 25 years of service is scheduled.

• 2023 Preliminary Levy
• Financial Commitment for PFA
• 2023 Prosecution Contract
• Homecoming Parade Use of Streets
• 2022 Mill and Overlay Pay App No. 2

The Watertown City Council unanimously adopted a 2023 preliminary levy of $2,974,322 and an EDA levy of $68,500, which will decrease the tax rate but increase the average property owner's tax bill by about $59 for the year. The council also approved a resolution committing the city to financial obligations for a wastewater treatment facility project, supporting applications for a $16.7M loan and a $7M grant. Consent agenda items were approved, including minutes, a parade permit, a prosecution contract, a firefighter resignation, a pay application, and seasonal recruitment.

• Adopted 2023 preliminary levy of $2,974,322 and EDA levy of $68,500 (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-75 committing to financial obligations for wastewater treatment facility project (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, parade permit, 2023 prosecution contract, firefighter resignation, mill and overlay pay app, and winter seasonal recruitment (5-0)
• Approved September 27, 2022 claims packet (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss the 2023 preliminary levy. The agenda includes only this workshop item, followed by adjournment. No decisions are scheduled; it is a discussion item.

• 2023 Preliminary Levy Workshop

The City Council held a work session to discuss the 2023 preliminary levy and budget. Staff recommended a $2,974,322 levy, a 7.85% increase from 2022, with highlights including a full-time fire chief and flat EDA funding. No formal vote was taken; the council will consider approval at a future meeting.

• Discussed staff-recommended 2023 preliminary levy of $2,974,322 (no vote taken)
• Discussed keeping EDA budget flat at $68,500 for 2023 (no vote taken)
• Discussed adding a full-time fire chief effective July 1, 2023 (no vote taken)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Watertown Park Commission reviewed and prioritized the Highland Park Master Plan project list, keeping several items on the 2023 list and moving others to lower priority or removing them from consideration. The commission also adopted the August 17, 2022 meeting minutes. No formal votes were taken on the master plan items; the discussion was to finalize the list for presentation to the City Council.

• Adopted August 17, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Kept decorative fencing replacement on 2023 list
• Kept batter's eye screen on 2023 list
• Moved fencing with ticket gates to Priority 2 for further review
• Kept bathroom and press box upgrades on 2023 list
• Requested professional evaluation and quotes for PA system upgrade
• Kept foul ball fencing/screening upgrade as priority
• Removed Lion's shelter electric upgrade, outfield drainage, and overflow turf parking from master plan

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding a regular meeting that includes discussion and approval of the consent agenda, an open forum, and new/old business. The main item is the 2023 budget, with a budget workshop document attached for review. The meeting also covers other reports and claims.

• 2023 Budget Workshop document review
• Consent agenda discussion and approval
• Open forum for public input
• Claims approval
• Social gathering after meeting at Luce Line Lodge

The Watertown City Council met on September 17, 2022, but adjourned early after Councilmember Walters left, leaving only three members present and no quorum. The only substantive discussion was on the 2023 budget, including potential additions of a full-time fire chief, planning/zoning staff, and firefighter wage increases, but no votes were taken. No official business was conducted.

• No decisions made due to loss of quorum

City Council Worksession

This is a procedural-only agenda for the Watertown City Council worksession. The agenda lists only call to order, new business, and adjournment, with no specific items, reports, or decisions detailed for discussion.

• No specific agenda items listed

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding a regular meeting to approve the consent agenda, which includes meeting minutes, pay applications for the wastewater treatment facility, and a transient merchant permit. The council will also discuss a water credit request from the Tuscany Village HOA, continue the 2023 budget workshop, and consider purchasing a LUCAS device and replacing automatic external defibrillators.

• WWTF Pay Applications No. 3 and No. 4
• Tuscany Village HOA water credit request
• 2023 Budget Workshop 3
• LUCAS device purchase
• Automatic external defibrillator replacement

The Watertown City Council approved the purchase of a LUCAS 3 mechanical CPR device for $15,929.60, with a trade-in of the current Autopulse reducing the cost to $12,929.60. The council tabled a water credit request from Tuscany Village HOA for an irrigation leak, following precedent that water charges are not forgiven. A food truck owner urged the city to create a specific ordinance for food trucks, which the council acknowledged as a grey area needing code updates.

• Approved purchase of LUCAS 3 device for $15,929.60 (3-0)
• Tabled Tuscany Village HOA water credit request for irrigation leak
• Adopted consent agenda including minutes, pay applications, and permits (3-0)
• Approved September 13, 2022 claims packet (3-0)

Commission on Aging

The Watertown Commission on Aging is meeting to adopt its agenda, approve minutes from October 6, 2021, and conduct a kick-off with introductions. New business includes appointing a chair and vice chair, receiving a treasurer report, and discussing the Holiday Senior Dinner and 2022-2023 events and initiatives. The meeting also includes updates from the city and commissioners.

• Appoint Chair & Vice Chair
• Treasurer Report
• Holiday Senior Dinner
• 2022-2023 Events/Initiatives/Topics
• Approve minutes from October 6, 2021

The Watertown Commission on Aging held its first meeting after a hiatus, electing Terry Gallagher as Chair and Richard Schimmel as Vice Chair for the remainder of 2022. The commission also set December 6, 2022, as the date for the annual Holiday Senior Dinner, which had been cancelled due to the pandemic. No other substantive decisions were made; the treasurer report was tabled and future topics were discussed but not voted on.

• Elected Terry Gallagher as Chair and Richard Schimmel as Vice Chair for remainder of 2022 (6-0)
• Set December 6, 2022, as date for annual Holiday Senior Dinner (discussion, no formal vote recorded)
• Tabled treasurer report until next meeting

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is meeting for a work session focused on the 2023 budget, specifically the second budget workshop. The agenda includes only this budget discussion and standard procedural items like roll call and adjournment.

• 2023 Budget - Workshop #2 discussion

The Watertown City Council held a work session focused on the 2023 budget. A state economist presented on current economic conditions, noting an elevated risk of recession. The city administrator provided a brief update on the budget process and previewed discussion points for the next meeting. No votes or formal decisions were taken.

• No decisions were made; the session was informational only.

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting, covering consent agenda items including minutes and a part-time appointment, followed by new business on equipment purchases. The council will discuss and potentially approve the purchase of a chest compression machine and drawdown gauges, and review the Carver County Sheriff's Office activity report and claims.

• Part-time appointment and updated job descriptions
• Purchase of chest compression machine
• Purchase of drawdown gauges
• CCSO July 2022 activity reports
• Claims packet 8.23.22

The Watertown City Council approved Resolution 2022-70 authorizing the purchase of automated well drawdown gauges and SCADA upgrades from Automatic Systems Co. for $63,939. The council also discussed replacing the fire department's chest compression machine, with a proposal expected in September. November meeting dates were rescheduled due to Election Day and Thanksgiving.

• Approved Resolution 2022-70 for purchase of automated well drawdown gauges and SCADA upgrades for $63,939 (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including July 26 workshop and regular meeting minutes, August 4 special meeting minutes, and part-time appointment (4-0)
• Approved August 23, 2022 claims packet (4-0)
• Agreed to reschedule November 8 meeting to November 15 and November 22 meeting to November 29

Park & Recreation Commission

The Watertown Park and Recreation Commission is meeting to review and discuss the Highland Park Master Plan and approve the minutes from the June 25, 2022 meeting. The agenda includes new business items and staff updates, with no other major decisions listed.

• Review of Highland Park Master Plan
• Approval of June 25, 2022 meeting minutes

The Watertown Park Commission discussed and tentatively prioritized a list of improvements for Highland Park, creating a 10-year plan to be incorporated into the city's Capital Improvement Plan. Items were grouped into 1-2 year, 3-5 year, 5-7 year, and 8-10 year phases, with several items tabled for further clarification. The commission also adopted the meeting agenda and previous minutes, and discussed election information, pickleball courts, hockey rink delays, and wetland trail conditions.

• Adopted the meeting agenda as presented (6-0, Skoog absent)
• Adopted the June 15, 2022 meeting minutes as presented (6-0, Skoog absent)
• Tentatively prioritized Highland Park improvements: 1-2 years (fence, bathrooms, PA system, press boxes, fencing, batter's eye screen), 3-5 years (trail connection, fencing with ticket gates), 5-7 years (picnic garage, scoreboard), 8-10 years (fan deck, LED lighting)
• Tabled items needing clarification: whiffle ball field, outfield drainage, irrigation, parking lot resurfacing, Lions shelter upgrades
• Adjourned the meeting at 8:11 PM (7-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda, open forum, and new/old business. The main action item is the appointment of an administrative assistant. The agenda is otherwise routine, including claims and reports.

• Appointment of administrative assistant
• Consent agenda discussion and approval
• Claims approval

The Watertown City Council voted 3-0 to appoint Kimberly Block to the Administrative Assistant position, a Grade 9 on the city's salary scale, starting at Step 1 with three weeks of paid time off, pending a satisfactory background check. The meeting was brief, lasting from 8:31 to 8:43 AM, with two council members absent.

• Approved appointment of Kimberly Block as Administrative Assistant (Grade 9, Step 1, 3 weeks PTO) pending background check (3-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (3-0)
• Adjourned at 8:43 AM (3-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to begin the 2023 budget process. The agenda includes a call to order, roll call, and a single new business item: the 2023 Budget Kick-Off. No decisions are expected; this is a discussion and planning session.

• 2023 Budget Kick-Off discussion

The Watertown City Council held a work session to begin the 2023 budget process. City Administrator Jake Foster reviewed timelines, past budget data, and potential high-impact items. Council members discussed priorities including project tracking, salary increases, inflation, and incorporating ARPA funds. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational and directive.

• Kicked off 2023 budget process with review of timelines and data
• Discussed potential 3% COLA and step increases for employee salaries
• Mayor asked staff to invite external economic consultant to future meeting
• Mayor asked staff to incorporate ARPA funds into budget planning

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on July 26, 2022, covering consent agenda items, new/old business, and reports. Key items include a PUD-GR ordinance amendment, a variance for 101 Hope, and several public works projects. The meeting also includes a social event afterward at the Luce Line Lodge.

• PUD-GR Ordinance Amendment
• 101 Hope Variance
• 2023 Mill and Overlay
• 2022 Cast In Place Pipe (CIPP)
• Ironwood Avenue Traffic Issues

The Watertown City Council approved Ordinance No. 433, amending the PUD-GR zoning district to allow zero-foot side yard setbacks for existing and future twin homes in Rosewood Estates, with a 10-foot minimum separation between buildings. The council also approved several infrastructure resolutions, including the purchase of Toolcat attachments, preparation for the 2023 Mill and Overlay project, and awarding the CIPP lining contract to Hydro-Klean. A variance for a 4-foot fence at 101 Hope Ave NE was granted, and staff was directed to install boulders and increase police presence on Ironwood Avenue to address traffic concerns.

• Approved Ordinance No. 433 amending PUD-GR zoning to allow zero-foot side yard setbacks with 10-foot building separation (4-0)
• Approved Resolution #2022-62 for purchase of 68” broom and 74” snowblower for $12,262.10 (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-65 authorizing preparation and specification for 2023 Mill and Overlay project (~$1,116,000) (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-66 awarding CIPP lining project to Hydro-Klean for $137,907.39 (4-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2022-63 granting variance for 4-foot-tall fence at 101 Hope Ave NE (4-0)
• Directed staff to install 12 boulders, increase police presence, and place speed sign on Ironwood Avenue
• Approved July 26, 2022 claims packet (4-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including minutes, donations, pay app, and liquor license (3-0)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Commission is meeting to consider an ordinance amendment for Planned Unit Development-General Residential (PUD-GR) zoning and a variance request for 101 Hope. The agenda includes approval of the June 23, 2022 minutes, public hearings for both items, and staff updates.

• PUD-GR Ordinance Amendment
• Public hearing for 101 Hope Variance
• Approval of June 23, 2022 meeting minutes

The Watertown Planning Commission recommended to the City Council that all lots platted in the PUD-GR subzone before December 31, 2021 be considered legal with a zero-foot side yard setback, provided new buildings are at least 10 feet apart. This addresses twin homes in Rosewood Estates that were built with larger footprints than originally platted, violating the 5-foot setback. The commission also recommended approval of a fence variance for 101 Hope Avenue NE, allowing a 4-foot-tall ornamental metal fence in the front and corner yards, with conditions. Both recommendations will be presented to the City Council on July 26, 2022.

• Recommended to City Council that all lots platted in PUD-GR subzone prior to Dec 31, 2021 be legal with zero-foot setback if buildings are at least 10 feet apart (4-0)
• Recommended to City Council approval of fence variance for 101 Hope Avenue NE allowing 4-foot-tall ornamental metal fence with conditions (4-0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (4-0)
• Adopted June 23, 2022 minutes as presented (4-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Watertown Economic Development Authority is meeting to consider a trunk fee waiver request from Workshops of Watertown for Building C. The board will also review minutes from the January 11, 2022 meeting and receive updates. No other substantive actions are listed.

• Trunk fee waiver request for Workshops of Watertown Building C
• Approval of minutes from January 11, 2022 meeting

The Watertown Economic Development Authority approved Resolution #2021-03EDA, granting up to $24,002.57 in utility trunk fee waiver assistance to Workshops of Watertown, LLC for the construction of Building C, a 20,000-square-foot, 18-unit commercial/industrial building. The motion passed 5-0. The board also adopted the January 11, 2022 minutes, tabled the June 9, 2022 minutes, and discussed EDA bylaws regarding a designated secretary.

• Approved Resolution #2021-03EDA approving utility trunk fee waiver assistance (5-0)
• Adopted January 11, 2022 EDA minutes (4-0, Guetzkow absent)
• Tabled June 9, 2022 EDA minutes (4-0, Guetzkow absent)
• Adopted agenda as presented (4-0, Guetzkow absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:52 AM (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council work session on July 12, 2022, will discuss two new business items: the Carver County Sheriff's Office (CCSO) officing at Watertown-Mayer Public Schools, and an intermediate as-built survey. No formal decisions are listed; the agenda is primarily for discussion.

• Discussion of CCSO office at Watertown-Mayer Public Schools
• Review of intermediate as-built survey

The Watertown City Council held a work session on July 12, 2022, discussing two items but made no formal decisions. On the proposal to allow a Carver County Sheriff's deputy to have a presence at Watertown-Mayer High School, council members expressed concerns about reduced community coverage and suggested the school should pay for any hours used. They requested more data and financial plans from the school board. On the intermediate as-built survey requirement, council members debated whether to keep or remove the city code requirement, with the mayor asking to bring it to a regular meeting for a decision.

• No formal decisions made; both items were discussion-only
• Requested school board provide more data and financial plans for deputy presence
• Agreed school should pay for any deputy hours used if sharing proceeds
• Asked to bring as-built survey requirement to regular council meeting for decision

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding its regular meeting on July 12, 2022. They will consider amendments to conditional use permits for two cellular antennas at 700 Lewis Avenue N., discuss a salt storage building, fireworks for Rails to Trails, and review the 2023 budget schedule and 2022 year-to-date financials. The consent agenda includes approval of previous meeting minutes, firefighter and election judge appointments, and street use for Rails to Trails 2022.

• Amendment to Conditional Use Permit/Site Plan for cellular antenna (North Tower) at 700 Lewis Avenue N.
• Amendment to Conditional Use Permit/Site Plan for cellular antenna (South Tower) at 700 Lewis Avenue N.
• Salt Storage Building discussion
• Rails to Trails Fireworks discussion
• 2023 Budget Schedule and 2022 YTD Financials review

The Watertown City Council approved a contract with Greystone Construction for a new salt storage facility at $96,800, with an additional $17,100 for pavement, despite exceeding the $100,000 budget by $13,900. The council also approved a fireworks display agreement for the Rails to Trails Festival, covering an increased cost of $2,056 over 2021. Two conditional use permits for cellular antenna collocations at 700 Lewis Ave N were approved unanimously. The 2023 budget schedule and YTD financials were removed from the agenda.

• Approved Resolution #2022-55 awarding salt storage building contract to Greystone Construction (4-1)
• Approved Resolution 2022-56 approving fireworks display agreement for Rails to Trails Festival (4-0-1, Guetzkow abstained)
• Approved Resolution No. 2022-60 for T-Mobile antenna collocation at 700 Lewis Ave N (5-0)
• Approved Resolution No. 2022-61 for Dish Wireless antenna collocation at 700 Lewis Ave N (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, firefighter appointments, street use, and election judge appointments (4-0)
• Approved July 12, 2022 claims packet (5-0)
• Removed 2023 budget schedule and 2022 YTD financials from agenda

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss the June 2022 PERA fire benefit and the operation of the compost site. The agenda includes only this new business item, followed by adjournment. No formal decisions are scheduled; it is a discussion item.

• Discussion of June 2022 PERA fire benefit
• Discussion of compost site operation

The Watertown City Council held a work session and discussed two items: the firefighter pension level and illegal dumping at the compost site. No formal decisions were made. The council agreed to review the pension level again in the fall, aiming to decide on an increase before January 1, 2023, and directed staff to gather more data on the compost site before making any changes.

• Agreed to review fire pension level again in fall, with goal of deciding on increase before Jan 1, 2023
• Directed staff to compile report on compost site illegal dumping and costs
• Agreed not to change compost site operations at this time

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on June 28, 2022, to discuss and vote on a consent agenda that includes several routine items such as meeting minutes, temporary liquor licenses, donations, a street closure, a tort liability waiver, and a joint powers agreement with Carver County for road improvements. The council will also consider a rezoning ordinance for Spring Mill, approve a payment for the wastewater treatment facility expansion, and discuss financing for a new ladder truck, among other business.

• Spring Mill rezoning ordinance
• WWTF expansion pay application #2
• Ladder truck 11 financing
• Joint powers agreement with Carver County for CSAH 10-24 improvements
• Temporary liquor licenses for Immaculate Conception Fall Festival and Lions Rails to Trails

The Watertown City Council approved financing for the Sutphen ladder truck purchase without a prepayment option and authorized staff to analyze investment options for city funds. The council also approved resolutions for soliciting quotes on automated well drawdown gauges, authorizing utility shut-offs for two delinquent accounts, and approving the updated Surface Water Management Plan. All votes were unanimous (3-0) with two councilmembers absent.

• Approved financing for Sutphen ladder truck without prepayment option, authorized investment analysis (3-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-53 authorizing solicitation of quotes for automated well drawdown gauges (3-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-54 authorizing utility shut-off for two delinquent accounts (3-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-55 approving updated Surface Water Management Plan (3-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including liquor licenses, donations, street closure, and rezoning ordinance (3-0)
• Approved June 28, 2022 claims packet (3-0)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider conditional use permits and site plan reviews for collocating wireless antennas on two existing towers at 700 Lewis Ave. N. One request is from Dish Wireless, the other from T-Mobile. The meeting also includes approval of the previous minutes and staff updates.

• Conditional use permit for Dish Wireless to collocate antenna on Southern Wireless Tower at 700 Lewis Ave. N
• Site plan review for Dish Wireless collocation at 700 Lewis Ave. N
• Conditional use permit for T-Mobile to collocate antennas on Northern Wireless Tower at 700 Lewis Ave. N
• Site plan review for T-Mobile collocation at 700 Lewis Ave. N
• Approval of minutes from May 26, 2022

The Watertown Planning Commission voted 4-0 to recommend approval of conditional use permits and site plan reviews for Dish Wireless and T-Mobile to collocate antennas on existing towers at 700 Lewis Ave. N. Both recommendations will be presented to the City Council on July 12, 2022. The commission also adopted the agenda and approved the minutes from May 26, 2022.

• Adopted agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved minutes from May 26, 2022 (4-0)
• Recommended approval of Dish Wireless CUP and site plan review (4-0)
• Recommended approval of T-Mobile CUP and site plan review (4-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park Commission will review the minutes from the April 20, 2022, meeting. The agenda also includes discussions regarding park naming and the Highland Park Master Plan.

• Review of April 20, 2022, Park Commission Minutes
• Discussion on Park Naming
• Highland Park Master Plan review

The Watertown Park Commission voted to approve the April 20, 2022 minutes. They decided not to develop a park naming policy, leaving such requests to staff. They also requested more cost and impact information on proposed Highland Park Master Plan amenities before prioritizing them.

• Approved April 20, 2022 Park Commission minutes (unanimous)
• Declined to develop a park naming policy (unanimous)
• Requested additional cost, impact, and implementation data on Highland Park Master Plan amenities

City Council Worksession

The City Council will hold a work session to continue discussions regarding personnel matters and review as-built foundation surveys. No specific votes or final decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Continuation of personnel discussion
• Review of as-built foundation surveys

The Watertown City Council held a work session to discuss two items: a personnel plan to address staffing needs and the enforcement of as-built foundation surveys. No formal votes were taken; the council provided direction for staff to proceed with the personnel plan and to research other cities' practices regarding foundation surveys.

• Discussed keeping retiring administrative assistant in part-time role and hiring replacement
• Discussed Deputy Clerk/Treasurer reducing hours from 40 to 32 per week
• Council had no concerns with presented job descriptions
• Council directed staff to continue with personnel plan
• Discussed enforcing as-built foundation surveys per city code
• Council directed additional research on other cities' practices for foundation surveys

City Council Meetings

The City Council will review several subdivision plans, including Oak Grove Estates and Spring Mill. The meeting also includes discussions on water tower plans, salt and sand storage quotes, and administrative staffing.

• Oak Grove Estates Subdivision plan review
• Spring Mill Subdivision plan review
• 702 Angel Ave SW variance request
• Water Tower #2 plans and specifications
• Solicitation of quotes for salt and sand storage

The Watertown City Council approved several major development and infrastructure items. It approved the annexation, rezoning, and preliminary/final plat for the 36-lot Oak Grove Estates subdivision, and the final plat and development agreement for the 21-lot Spring Mill subdivision (4-1). The council also selected Site A for the second water tower, approved a variance for a garage at 702 Angel Ave SW, and approved site plans for the Jefferson Ave properties and Watertown-Mayer Schools.

• Approved Oak Grove Estates annexation, rezoning, preliminary/final plat, and site plan (5-0)
• Approved Spring Mill final plat and development agreement (4-1, Schuette against)
• Approved Site A for Water Tower Two (5-0)
• Approved variance for reduced front yard setback at 702 Angel Ave SW (5-0)
• Approved Jefferson Ave site plan and conditional use permit (5-0)
• Approved Watertown-Mayer Schools site plan for parking improvements (5-0)
• Approved solicitation of quotes for CIPP project and salt storage building (5-0)
• Approved lease agreement with Watertown Lions Club for Highland Park Garage (5-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Watertown Economic Development Authority is meeting to consider a BFI grant request from Oakwood Insurance and to review CGPI grant agreements for Watertown Warehouses. The board will also discuss the 2022 Economic Development Day and make appointments for Secretary and Assistant Treasurer. The agenda includes approval of the January 11, 2022 minutes.

• BFI Grant Request - Oakwood Insurance
• CGPI Grant Agreements - Watertown Warehouses
• 2022 Economic Development Day
• Secretary and Assistant Treasurer Appointments
• January 11, 2022 Minutes

The Watertown Economic Development Authority approved a $2,500 Business Façade Improvement grant to Oakwood Insurance for exterior renovations, with member Mitteness abstaining due to ownership interest. The EDA also approved two grant agreements with Carver County CDA and Watertown Warehouses for the CGPI grant, supporting a $4.5 million project to convert 701-709 Jefferson Ave. SW into 25 light industrial spaces. Additionally, the EDA approved Maggie Reisdorf as Secretary and Assistant Treasurer, and agreed to fund lunches for the June 16 Economic Development Day.

• Approved BFI grant of $2,500 to Oakwood Insurance (3-0-1, Mitteness abstained)
• Approved CGPI grant agreement with Carver County CDA and sub-recipient agreement with Watertown Warehouses (4-0)
• Approved Maggie Reisdorf as Secretary and Assistant Treasurer (4-0)
• Agreed to fund lunches for Economic Development Day as budgeted item

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Commission will consider a variance request for 702 Angel Ave. SW, site plan reviews for Watertown-Mayer Schools projects and a property at 701-709 Jefferson Ave., and the Oak Grove Estates subdivision. The meeting includes adopting the agenda, approving minutes from February 24, 2022, and staff updates.

• Variance request for 702 Angel Ave. SW
• Site plan review for Watertown-Mayer Schools projects
• Site plan review for PID 854610090 (701-709 Jefferson Ave.)
• Oak Grove Estates subdivision review

The Watertown Planning Commission voted 5-0 to recommend approval of a variance for a detached garage at 702 Angel Ave. SW, a site plan review for Watertown-Mayer Schools projects, a site plan review and conditional use permit for properties at 709 Jefferson Ave. SW and 604 High Street SW, and a preliminary plat for Oak Grove Estates. All recommendations will be presented to the City Council on June 14, 2022.

• Recommended approval of variance for detached garage at 702 Angel Ave. SW (5-0)
• Recommended approval of site plan review for Watertown-Mayer Schools projects (5-0)
• Recommended approval of annexation, rezoning, and site plan for 709 Jefferson Ave. SW and 604 High Street SW (5-0)
• Recommended approval of conditional use permit for outdoor storage with paving stipulation (5-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning and preliminary plat for Oak Grove Estates (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is meeting for a work session. The only substantive item is a closed session to conduct the city administrator's performance evaluation. The rest of the agenda is procedural, covering roll call and adjournment.

• Closed session for city administrator performance evaluation

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will vote on resolutions to purchase a Sutphen SLR108 ladder truck and authorize final plans for Water Tower #2. They will also discuss safety improvements and resurfacing for CSAH 10 and CSAH 24, and approve consent agenda items including step movements and a donation.

• Resolution #2022-36 authorizing purchase of Sutphen SLR108 ladder truck
• Resolution #2022-37 authorizing final plans and specs for Water Tower #2
• CSAH 10 and CSAH 24 safety improvements discussion
• CSAH 10 resurfacing and striping plan discussion
• Accept donation from Legion Post 121

The Watertown City Council approved Resolution #2022-36 authorizing the purchase of a Sutphen SLR108 ladder truck for $1,372,124.99. The council tabled a resolution to prepare plans for a second water tower, requesting more data on site options. Staff were authorized to move forward with crosswalk improvements on CSAH 10 and road improvements at CSAH 24 and Paul Ave.

• Approved Resolution #2022-36 authorizing purchase of Sutphen SLR108 ladder truck for $1,372,124.99 (3-0)
• Tabled Resolution #2022-37 for water tower #2 plans pending more site data
• Authorized staff to coordinate CSAH 10 crosswalk improvements with county and school (3-0)
• Authorized staff to proceed with JPA agreement and cost share for CSAH 24/Paul Ave improvements (3-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including minutes, step movements, donation from Legion Post 121, and amendment to Resolution 2022-27 (3-0)
• Approved May 24, 2022 claims packet (3-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss four new business items: pedestrian improvements at CSAH 10 and Bickford Street, tree preservation for the Quarry Avenue Access Project, Carver County Sheriff's Office weekday patrol officing, and the city's growth outlook. No formal decisions are expected at this work session; it is for discussion only.

• CSAH 10 and Bickford Street pedestrian improvements
• Quarry Avenue Access Project – tree preservation
• Carver County Patrol weekday officing
• City of Watertown growth outlook

The Watertown City Council and School Board agreed in concept to a 50/50 cost share for the proposed CSAH 10 and Bickford Street pedestrian improvements. Other items, including tree preservation for the Quarry Avenue access project, weekday deputy officing at schools, and the city's growth outlook, were discussed but no formal decisions were made. The meeting was a work session, so no binding votes were taken.

• Agreed in concept to 50/50 cost share for CSAH 10 and Bickford Street pedestrian improvements
• Discussed Quarry Avenue access project tree preservation (no decision)
• Discussed Carver County patrol weekday officing at schools (no decision)
• Discussed City of Watertown growth outlook (no decision)

City Council Meetings

The City Council will review an update to the City-Township Road Maintenance Agreement and consider temporary liquor licenses for the 2022 Summer Concert Series. The meeting also includes discussions on the 2022 Cast In Place Pipe (CIPP) project.

• City-Township Road Maintenance Agreement update
• Temporary liquor licenses and parking lot use for 2022 Summer Concert Series
• 2022 CIPP (Cast In Place Pipe) discussion
• Approval of April 26, 2022, meeting minutes
• Approval of claims roster

The Watertown City Council approved Resolution #2022-35 authorizing plans and specs for the 2022 Cast In Place Pipe (CIPP) project, the final year of a multi-year program. The council also approved the consent agenda, including minutes, a road maintenance agreement update, temporary liquor licenses for the summer concert series, and a leave of absence request. Claims for May 10, 2022, were approved. All votes were 4-0.

• Adopted agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, road maintenance agreement update, temporary liquor licenses for summer concert series, and leave of absence request (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-35 authorizing plans and specs for 2022 CIPP project (4-0)
• Approved claims packet for May 10, 2022 (4-0)

City Council Worksession

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss succession planning for personnel. The council will also receive an update regarding the Wastewater Treatment Facility.

• Personnel/Succession Planning Discussion
• Wastewater Treatment Facility Update

The Watertown City Council held a work session on April 26, 2022, discussing personnel succession planning and a wastewater treatment facility update. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the council discussed the potential addition of a new staff member to support community development and asked staff to bring back more information at a future meeting.

• Discussed adding a new staff member for community development (no vote)
• Discussed succession planning for Administrative Assistant Nancy Pysick's retirement (no vote)
• Received update on Wastewater Treatment Facility expansion project (no vote)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, declare bleachers as surplus, and hear a state of the library presentation. They will also discuss the 2021 audited financial statements, an MNSPECT update, and 2022 pavement maintenance projects, along with approving claims.

• Approve April 12 work session and regular meeting minutes
• Declare surplus equipment: bleachers
• 2021 audited financial statements
• 2022 pavement maintenance projects
• Claims packet approval

The Watertown City Council approved the 2021 audited financial statements, the proposed bids for the 2022 pavement maintenance projects, and the 4-26-22 claims packet, all by 4-0 votes. The council also heard presentations on the state of the library and an update from MNSPECT, and discussed potential expansion of MNSPECT's services.

• Approved 2021 audited financial statements (4-0)
• Approved 2022 pavement maintenance project bids (4-0)
• Approved 4-26-22 claims packet (4-0)
• Adopted agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda (4-0)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Watertown Park and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the minutes from the previous meeting and to discuss the Highland Park Master Plan, including a request for proposals document. Staff will provide updates, and the meeting will adjourn.

• Approve minutes from March 16, 2022
• Discuss Highland Park Master Plan
• Review RFA for Park Board Highland Park Master Plan
• Staff updates

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a worksession to discuss the 2021 draft audit. The agenda includes only this item under new business, followed by adjournment. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and review of the audit document.

• Review of 2021 draft audit

The Watertown City Council reviewed the draft 2021 audited financial statements presented by Abdo Audit Services, which received an unmodified (clean) opinion with one finding related to Abdo preparing the statements. Council members asked questions and requested additional narrative on significant changes, then agreed they were comfortable with the draft and asked for the final version to be presented at the next regular council meeting for public transparency. No formal decisions were made during this work session.

• Reviewed 2021 draft audit with unmodified opinion (no vote)
• Requested final audit presentation at next council meeting (no vote)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on April 12, 2022, to consider several items, including adopting an ordinance amending outdoor water conservation rules and a resolution to elect the standard allowance for ARPA funds. The council will also approve minutes, declare bleachers as surplus, approve a temporary liquor license, and consider a fee waiver for a carnival event.

• Adopt Ordinance #431 amending outdoor water conservation section (Sec. 58-159)
• Adopt Resolution #2022-29 approving election of standard allowance for ARPA funds
• Adopt Resolution #2022-28 deeming 3 sets of 15' x 4 row bleachers as surplus equipment
• Adopt Resolution #2022-30 approving temporary intoxicating liquor license for Lions Educators Dinner
• Adopt Resolution #2022-31 approving use of City Hall parking lot and Community Center with fee waiver for Royalty Carnival

The Watertown City Council adopted Ordinance #431, making permanent year-round odd/even outdoor watering restrictions, with a 3-1 vote (Walters dissenting). The council also approved the standard allowance for ARPA funds, a temporary liquor license, surplus bleachers, and the claims roster. Item 3.D was tabled for a future meeting.

• Adopted Ordinance #431 amending outdoor water conservation with year-round odd/even restrictions (3-1, Walters no)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-29 electing standard allowance for ARPA funds (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-30 approving temporary intoxicating liquor license (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-31 approving use of City Hall parking lot, Community Center, and waiver of fees (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-28 deeming 3 sets of 15' x 4 row bleachers as surplus (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 3.A, 3.B, 3.C, 3.E, 3.F; tabled 3.D (4-0)
• Approved claims roster (4-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda, open forum, and new/old business. The main action item is the appointment of an Administrative Services Director, with a supporting document provided. Other items include reports and claims approval.

• Appoint Administrative Services Director
• Consent agenda discussion and approval
• Open forum for public comment
• Claims approval
• Social event at Luce Line Lodge after meeting

The Watertown City Council approved Resolution #2022-27, appointing Maggie McCallum as Administrative Services Director. The motion carried 4-0. The council also discussed the upcoming ARPA funding decision and other updates.

• Adopted agenda as presented (3-0)
• Approved Resolution #2022-27 appointing Maggie McCallum as Administrative Services Director (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss winter parking and towing regulations. No formal decisions are expected; the item is listed as new business for discussion only.

• Discussion of winter parking and towing policies

The Watertown City Council held a work session to discuss issues with the current winter parking ordinance enforcement and vehicle towing/storage. Council members expressed concerns about staff burden, after-hours vehicle storage liabilities, and the need for owners to retrieve vehicles outside business hours. They directed staff to research alternatives and report back at a future work session. No formal decisions were made.

• Directed staff to research alternatives for winter parking and towing enforcement (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on March 22, 2022, to consider several resolutions and routine approvals. Key items include adopting a 2022 utility rate and debt study, authorizing firefighter recruitment, and approving a road maintenance agreement with Watertown Township. The meeting also includes consent agenda items such as minutes, a temporary liquor license for Watertown Lions, and a peddler permit for Elephant Joe's.

• Resolution #2022-22: Temporary intoxicating liquor license for Watertown Lions
• Resolution #2022-23: Peddler, canvasser, and transient merchant permit for Elephant Joe's
• Authorize firefighter recruitment
• Road maintenance agreement with Watertown Township
• 2022 Utility Rate and Debt Study (Resolution #2022-25)

Park & Recreation Commission

The commission will review the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan and receive an update on sidewalks and trails. The meeting also includes the approval of minutes from the January 19, 2022, meeting.

• Approval of January 19, 2022, meeting minutes
• Review of 2022-2025 Strategic Plan
• Sidewalk and trail update

The Watertown Park Commission met on March 19, 2022, and approved the minutes from the January 19, 2022 meeting. The meeting included discussion items on the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan, sidewalk and trail updates, and staff updates, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from January 19, 2022 (unanimous)

City Council Worksession

The City Council will hold a work session on March 8, 2022, to review a presentation from RePLAY. No other business or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• RePLAY presentation

The Watertown City Council held a work session where Jerry VanDyke of Bargen Inc. presented RePLAY, a road sealant product. No decisions were made; the session was informational only.

• No formal decisions made; presentation only

City Council Meetings

The City Council will consider adopting the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan and several resolutions regarding city projects. The agenda includes awarding bids for mill and overlay work and a wastewater treatment facility expansion.

• Adoption of the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan
• Award of 2022 Mill & Overlay bid via Resolution #2022-16
• Award of Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion bid via Resolution #2022-17
• Professional Services Agreement with Abdo Financial Solutions
• Sign permit for Watertown Evangelical Free Church via Resolution #2022-19

The Watertown City Council awarded the wastewater treatment facility expansion contract to Gridor Construction for $20,789,000, with total project costs estimated at $23,907,350. The council also approved the 2022 mill and overlay project, a professional services agreement with Abdo Financial Solutions, a sign permit for Watertown Evangelical Free Church, and the Spring Mill subdivision annexation and rezoning. All votes were 4-0 except the rezoning, which passed 3-1 with Council Member Schuette voting no.

• Awarded 2022 Mill & Overlay project to WM Mueller and Sons for $359,468.80 (4-0)
• Awarded wastewater treatment facility expansion to Gridor Construction for $20,789,000 (4-0)
• Approved professional services agreement with Abdo Financial Solutions (4-0)
• Approved sign permit for Watertown Evangelical Free Church at 509 Jefferson Ave. SW (4-0)
• Approved orderly annexation of Spring Mill subdivision (4-0)
• Approved rezoning, preliminary plat, and site plan for Spring Mill subdivision (3-1, Schuette no)
• Approved Ordinance 430 for Spring Mill subdivision (4-0)
• Approved claims roster for March 8, 2022 (4-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding a regular meeting with a consent agenda, open forum, and new/old business. The main item is the resignation of the Administrative Services Director, with a related document for review. The council will also discuss other reports and claims before adjourning.

• Administrative Services Director resignation
• Consent agenda discussion and approval
• Open forum for public comment
• Other reports and claims
• Social gathering after meeting at Luce Line Lodge

The Watertown City Council held a special meeting on March 4, 2022, and unanimously adopted the agenda. The only substantive action was accepting the resignation of Administrative Services Director Lynn Tschudi, effective March 11, 2022, via Resolution 2022-18. The council also discussed employee retention suggestions with Tschudi. The meeting adjourned at 8:06 a.m.

• Adopted agenda as presented (3-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-18 accepting resignation of Administrative Services Director Lynn Tschudi (3-0)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving the previous meeting's minutes, selecting a commission chair, and reviewing a changeable copy sign permit for 509 Jefferson Ave. SW. A public hearing will also be held on the proposed sale of land related to a wetland restoration and trail project.

• Changeable copy sign permit – 509 Jefferson Ave. SW
• Public hearing: wetland restoration and trail project land sale approval
• Commission chair position selections
• Approval of September 30, 2021 meeting minutes

The Watertown Planning Commission voted 6-0 to recommend City Council approval of an electronic changeable message sign for Watertown Evangelical Free Church at 509 Jefferson Ave SW, with conditions including a 57-inch base and shrubbery. The Commission also voted 6-0 to approve the conveyance of wetland parcels to Carver County, finding it consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Both items will go to the City Council on March 8, 2022.

• Recommended approval of electronic sign at 509 Jefferson Ave SW with 57-inch base and shrubbery (6-0)
• Approved conveyance of wetland parcels to Carver County as consistent with Comprehensive Plan (6-0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (6-0)
• Adopted minutes from 9/30/21 (6-0)
• Elected Jim Kasheimer as 2022 Planning Commission Chairman (6-0)
• Elected Elizabeth Schulze as 2022 Planning Commission Vice Chairperson (6-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council is holding a work session to discuss the 2022-2025 Strategic Plan. The agenda includes only this new business item, followed by adjournment. No decisions are listed; it appears to be a discussion-only meeting.

• Discussion of 2022-2025 Strategic Plan

The City Council held a work session to review the draft 2022-2025 strategic plan, which was developed through staff and council workshops. The plan reaffirms the city's vision, mission, and values, and identifies three strategic priorities: staff development and retention, external economics, and development. No formal decisions were made; the session was for discussion only.

• Reviewed the 2022-2025 strategic plan draft, including vision, mission, values, and three strategic priorities.
• Discussed the strategic priority of staff development and retention, including cross-training for future retirements.
• Discussed the impact of inflationary prices on city projects.
• Discussed the development priority, with council members expressing support for its tangible goals.
• Mayor Washburn requested updates on personnel action items at least twice a year.
• Adjourned the work session at 6:18 p.m.

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on February 22, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. The agenda includes approving consent items such as minutes, a donation, a firefighter resignation, and reestablishing precincts and polling places. Under new business, the council will discuss and give direction on Ladder 11, adopt a resolution awarding the low quote for the Riverpointe stabilization project, and authorize the purchase of a Towmaster TC-12D trailer. The council will also approve the February 22 claims roster.

• Adopt Resolution #2022-14, awarding low quote for Riverpointe stabilization (Crow River stabilization project)
• Adopt Resolution #2022-12, authorizing purchase of Towmaster TC-12D trailer
• Adopt Resolution #2022-13, reestablishing precincts and polling places
• Adopt Resolution #2022-08, accepting donation and directing its use
• Approve February 22, 2022 claims roster

The Watertown City Council authorized Fire Chief Tom Hanson to solicit pricing for a new Sutphen SLR108 aerial ladder fire apparatus, despite expected costs exceeding the $1,077,000 budget. The council also approved a low quote for the Riverpointe shoreline stabilization project, authorized the purchase of a Towmaster TC-12D trailer, and approved claims for 2021 and 2022. All motions passed 5-0.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-15 authorizing solicitation of pricing for an aerial ladder fire apparatus (5-0).
• Adopted Resolution 2022-14 approving the low quote for the Riverpointe shoreline stabilization project (5-0).
• Adopted Resolution 2022-12 authorizing purchase of a Towmaster TC-12D trailer from Farm-Rite Equipment Inc for $7,954.80 (5-0).
• Approved the consent agenda including resolutions on donation, resignation, and precincts (5-0).
• Approved claims for 2021 and 2022 (5-0).
• Adopted the agenda as presented (5-0).
• Approved minutes from February 8, 2022 work session and regular meeting (5-0).
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:35 p.m. (5-0).

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council held a work session and discussed bringing fiber optic internet to the city via MetroNet. Council directed staff to work with MetroNet to bring fiber connections, excluding video services from any agreements. No formal votes were taken; the action was a directive to staff.

• Directed staff to work with MetroNet to bring fiber connections to the city (unanimous consensus)
• Excluded video services from any fiber agreements

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council is holding its regular meeting with a consent agenda that includes accepting a resignation from the Commission on Aging, approving minutes, and reducing a letter of credit for the Forest Hills 9th Addition. Under new business, the council will consider authorizing the purchase of a Melroe UW 5600 Toolcat and attachments. The meeting also includes an open forum, other reports, and approval of the February 8, 2022 claims roster.

• Adopt Resolution #2022-06 accepting resignation and declaring vacancy on Commission on Aging
• Forest Hills 9th Addition letter of credit reduction
• Authorization to purchase Melroe UW 5600 Toolcat and attachments
• Approve work session and regular meeting minutes from January 25, 2022
• February 8, 2022 claims roster

The Watertown City Council approved the purchase of a Melroe UW 5600 Toolcat with a V-plow and bucket for $81,828.18, despite being $10,828.18 over budget. The council decided to defer purchasing the remaining attachments until later in the year. The motion carried 5-0.

• Approved purchase of Melroe Toolcat with V-plow and bucket (5-0)
• Deferred purchase of remaining attachments until later in the year
• Adopted agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda including minutes and Resolution 2022-06 (5-0)
• Approved claims for 2021 and 2022 (5-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will consider several infrastructure and park projects, including approving plans and bidding for the 2022 mill and overlay pavement maintenance and trail project, the wastewater treatment facility expansion, and a quote for Wildflower Park playground equipment. They will also approve a DNR Conservation Partners Legacy Grant agreement and solicit quotes for a light-duty trailer replacement. The meeting includes consent agenda items, open forum, and claims approval.

• Adopt Resolution #2022-04 approving plans and specs for 2022 Mill and Overlay Pavement Maintenance and Trail Project and authorize bidding
• Approve plans and authorize bidding for Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion
• Approve DNR Agreement and authorization to proceed with Conservation Partners Legacy Grant
• Adopt Resolution #2022-05 approving quote for Wildflower Park Playground equipment
• Approve solicitation of quotes for light-duty trailer replacement

The Watertown City Council approved plans and authorized bidding for the 2022 mill and overlay pavement maintenance and trail project, with a budget of $414,000 and an engineer's estimate of $440,400. They also approved plans and authorized bidding for the wastewater treatment facility expansion, budgeted at $21-23 million, with construction required by the end of 2024. Additionally, the council approved a DNR agreement for the Mullens Properties acquisition and a quote for the Wildflower Park playground replacement.

• Adopted Resolution 2022-04 approving 2022 mill and overlay plans and authorizing bid (4-0)
• Approved wastewater treatment facility expansion plans and authorized bidding (4-0)
• Approved DNR agreement for Mullens Properties acquisition and project development (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2022-05 approving Wildflower Park playground quote from Flagship Recreation (4-0)
• Approved claims for 2021 and 2022 (4-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council held a work session focused on City Administrator Jake Foster's 90-day check-in, covering topics like software transitions, communication, and future projects. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational and ended with adjournment.

• Agreed to discontinue publishing summary minutes in the newspaper (informal consensus)
• Decided to continue staff presentations for CIP quotes under the public bid threshold (mayor's preference)
• Discussed using an auto attendant for city hall calls, but deferred the idea
• Discussed improving council packet delivery, with interest in Dropbox for large files

Park & Recreation Commission

The Watertown Park and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve the minutes from November 17, 2021, and to discuss a replacement concept for Wildflower Park. Staff will provide updates, and the meeting will adjourn.

• Approve minutes from November 17, 2021
• Review Wildflower Park replacement concept (RFA 01-19-22)

The Watertown Park Commission approved the Wildflower Park replacement concept and its budget, which is below the budgeted amount, and will forward it to the City Council for approval. The commission also approved the November 17, 2021 minutes and adopted the agenda. Staff reported that the city received a Legacy Conservation Grant to purchase the Mullen Properties for restoration.

• Adopted the meeting agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 17, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Wildflower Park design and budget for council approval (unanimous)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council held a work session to discuss Planned Unit Development (PUD) standards, with City Planner Mark Kaltsas explaining their historic use and current districts. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the session was informational only.

• No formal decisions made; PUD standards discussion only

Economic Development Authority

The Watertown Economic Development Authority is meeting to approve minutes from December 7, 2021, consider a 2022 Community Growth and Investment Program (CGPI) application for Jefferson Ave. SW, and set officer roles for 2022. The meeting includes roll call, agenda adoption, and updates.

• Approve minutes from December 7, 2021
• 2022 CGPI application for Jefferson Ave. SW
• 2022 EDA office roles

The Watertown Economic Development Authority approved a resolution authorizing the Watertown Warehouses project's application to the Carver County CDA's Community Growth Partnership Initiative (CGPI) grant program. The board also approved the December 7, 2021 minutes and maintained the same officer roles for 2022, with Ken Grotbo as President, Roxanne Wilmes as Vice President, Cory Mitteness as Treasurer, and Lynn Tschudi as Secretary and Assistant Treasurer. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from December 7, 2021 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #2022-01EDA authorizing Watertown Warehouses CGPI grant application (unanimous)
• Maintained 2021 officer roles for 2022 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 9:24 AM (unanimous)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will hold its regular meeting on January 11, 2022, to approve minutes, adopt resolutions appointing the fire chief and assistant fire chiefs, and pass an organizational resolution. They will also consider a step increase for an employee, discuss soliciting quotes for a Melroe Tool Cat, and approve the claims roster. The agenda includes routine items and a public forum.

• Adopt Resolution #2022-01 appointing Tom Hanson as Fire Chief
• Adopt Resolution #2022-02 approving appointments of Assistant Fire Chiefs
• Adopt Resolution #2022-03, Organizational Resolution
• Approve step increase for Logan Pysick
• Solicitation of quotes for CIO94 Melroe Tool Cat

The Watertown City Council approved the consent agenda, which included appointing Tom Hanson as Fire Chief and approving assistant fire chief appointments. The council also authorized soliciting quotes for a Melroe Tool Cat for the public works department. All motions passed 5-0.

• Adopted agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda, including appointment of Tom Hanson as Fire Chief and assistant fire chief appointments (5-0)
• Approved step increase for Logan Pysick (part of consent agenda)
• Authorized solicitation of quotes for Melroe Tool Cat (5-0)
• Approved claims for 2021 and 2022 (5-0)