May 8, 2023 | City of Albert Lea

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY OF ALBERT LEA
Monday, May 8, 2023, 7:00 p.m.

PRESENT: Mayor Rich Murray, Councilors Rachel Christensen, Larry Baker, Jason Howland, Sherri Rasmussen, Robert Rasmussen, Brian Anderson. Also present were, City Manager Ian Rigg, Public Works Director Steven Jahnke, City Attorney Joel Holstad of Lake National Law LLP, Sergeant-at-Arms-Public Safety Director JD Carlson, and City Clerk Daphney Maras.

CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL – Mayor Murray called the meeting to order at 7:00 PM. Clerk Maras administered roll call.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – Mayor Murray asked all in attendance to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

CEREMONIAL ITEMS – Mayor Murray read each of the Proclamations aloud. Members of the American Legion were present to accept the proclamation regarding National Poppy Day, and extended their appreciation. EMS and Firefighter staff were present to accept the proclamation regarding National EMS week. In addition, Public Safety Director JD Carlson recognized Captain Trevor DeRaad for a lifesaving incident he assisted at Lou Rich last week.

A. Proclamation Declaring May 26, 2023, as National Poppy Day
B. Proclamation Recognizing May as Motorcycle Awareness Month
C. Proclamation Declaring May 21-27, 2023 as National Public Works Week
D. Proclamation Declaring May 21-27, 2023 as National EMS Week

PUBLIC FORUM – None

CONSENT AND APPROVAL OF AGENDA

A. Approve Minutes of the April 24, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
B. Approve Minutes of the April 24, 2023 Work Session
C. Licenses & Permits
D. Resolution Authorizing Installation of a Stop Sign Controlling Eastbound Traffic at The Intersection Of 18th Street & Margaretha Avenue
E. Resolution Approving Gambling Permit – Albert Lea Wrestling Boosters at Wedgewood Cove Golf Club
F. Resolution Accepting Bids for 2023 Bituminous Material

Motion made by Councilor Baker, seconded by Councilor Anderson. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, S. Rasmussen, R. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23-077 through 23-079 Included with these minutes)

PETITIONS, REQUESTS AND COMMUNICATIONS – None

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

A. Ordinance 23-088 Amending Chapter 12, Article V. Mobile Vendors (2nd Reading)

Rigg said this is the second reading amending the ordinance related to Mobile Vendors addressing concerns about responsibility, applicability and purpose of the ordinance. The question of community festivals and special events is as follows, all community festivals are special events but not all special events are festivals. Special events are those events requiring a special events license which all festivals should obtain. Rigg also noted the title change from “Mobile Food Vendors” to “Mobile Vendors” as this will include all vendors regardless if a vendor is selling, for example, prepared food or flowers.

Motion made by Councilor Christensen to approve, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-088 Included with these minutes)

B. Ordinance 23-089 Amending Chapter 12, Article X.- Spas, Saunas and Massage, Bodywork and Somatic Therapies (2nd Reading)

This is the second reading amending the ordinance related to Spas, Saunas and Massage, Bodywork and Somatic Therapies. The amendments to this ordinance address concerns about authenticity of licensing, business history, and public safety as well as setting standards of conduct, cleanliness, hours of operation, experience and a background check. In addition, new terms and definitions have been added for clarity. Staff and legal did review questions regarding dress code and there should be specifics or we should not bother because enforcement of ambiguity is next to impossible. The enforcement will be most likely in context of there being other violations and concerns. Some licensees have contacted staff about this directly among other questions. Once explained they have been very supportive.

Rigg noted during the work session there was a general concession of council to adjust the dress code language in Sec. 12.281 (F) regarding the length of skirts and shorts. The amendment adjusts the length from three inches to six inches above the knees. In addition, Rigg addressed the amendment to Sec. 12.280 (A) related to the term of the license to read at a pro rata fee with any unexpired fraction of a month being counted as one month.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve with the noted amendments to Sec. 12.280 (A) and Sec. 12.281 (F), seconded by Councilor S. Rasmussen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-089 Included with these minutes)

C. Ordinance 23-090 Amending Chapter 12, Article XI. -Taxicabs (2nd Reading)

This is the second reading of the ordinance related to Taxicabs. The amendment address concerns about changes in the industry and public safety related to taxi services and ride shares. Licensing requirements are defined including the addition of a background check.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor R. Rasmussen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.
(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-090 Included with these minutes)

NEW BUSINESS

A. Resolution 23-080 Continuing Aquatic Center Program for Freeborn County Head Start Students

As part of its ongoing efforts to ensure equitable participation in City programs and enjoyment of City amenities, the Recreation Department would like to continue to offer family passes and one session of swim lessons – at no charge – to students enrolled in Freeborn County Head Start for the 2023 season. The mission of Head Start, part of Families First in Minnesota, is to ensure positive beginnings for all young children and their families. Head Start emphasizes the role of parents as their child’s first and most important teacher. Head Start includes a no-cost preschool program focusing on parent and child development, for those who qualify:

• Pregnant women, infants, toddlers and children up to age 5.
• Eligibility is based on income guidelines.
• Other eligibility criteria are considered.
• Services available to children with special needs.

The Freeborn County Head Start program has about 50 students who attend preschool in partnership with School District 241. 39 families (200 people total) are interested in the season passes with 22 students interested in the swim lessons. (Last year 47 families received a season pass and 34 students signed up for swim lessons.)

Blue Zones Albert Lea will cover the cost of the season passes and swim lessons up to $6,000 with a Mayo Clinic Health System grant this season. The grant also funds other rec programs for youth.

By clearing a financial hurdle for Head Start families, this program would result in preschool children learning water safety, which is important for overall safety at the pool and for our community, given the number of local lakes. In addition, the Aquatic Center would be more inclusive, as far as fostering participation of people from different backgrounds. Also, including more people may lead to more teens being interested in earning lifeguard certification and working at the Aquatic Center. Last year was a pilot program and we are making changes based on that experience:

- - - Head Start will provide an interpreter the first day or so of each swim lesson session with Head Start students. While 67% of Head Start families last year spoke English, 26% spoke Karen. A few also spoke Spanish and a Somalian language.
    - Some families never used the season pass and some used it extensively. Only half of the students showed up for swim lessons. Rec Coordinator Dani Bakken met with families in person this year to detect any obstacles, such as transportation, and potential solutions.
    - Dani will also prepare lifeguards on how to navigate any cultural barriers this season
    - 23% of the students did pass swim lessons in 2022 and a total of 50% of the students had their first exposure to water safety.

Motion by Councilor Anderson to approve, seconded by Councilor Howland. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23- 080 Included with these minutes)

B. Resolution 23-081 Adopting Facility Plan Amendment and Authorizing Submittal to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency for Review and Approval

In early 2022 the City submitted a facility plan to the MPCA. The City has continued to work on the preliminary design for the project. An update on this plan was presented to council in October of 2022.

The preliminary engineering continues and modifications to the design have been made since the original plan was submitted. The amendment changed the biosolids treatment from lime pasteurization to dewatering and heat drying. The changes included updating the following:

• Cost estimate with the technical memo from the original Facility Plan
• Verified the design criteria for vortex grit removal
• Design criteria for the disk filters for phosphorus removal
• Design criteria for UV disinfection
• Electrical design and providing a preliminary design for the 4,160V loop around the facility and converting the blowers to 480V from the current 4,160-volt motors
• Discussion of proposed power distribution and solar development

Because of these changes the MPCA requested the City Council acknowledge the amendment.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor Howland. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23-081
Included with these minutes)

C. Resolution 23-082 Approving Summary of Ordinances 23-088 (Mobile Vendors), 23-089 (Spas, Saunas and Massage, Bodywork and Somatic Therapies), and 23-090 (Taxicabs)

The attached resolution approves publication of a Summary for each of the Ordinances as noted above; 23-088, 23-089, 23-090.

Motion made by Councilor Christensen to approve, seconded by Councilor S. Rasmussen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.
(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23-082
Included with these minutes)

D. Resolution 23-083 Accepting Bid and Awarding Contract for the 2023 State Aid Overlay Project (Job 2302)

Engineering has reviewed the bids opened Tuesday, May 2, 2023 for the 2023 State Aid Street Overlay Project. The project involves bituminous mill and overlay, and miscellaneous curb & gutter and sidewalk replacement of several downtown area streets. The streets are:

Clark Street – St Mary Avenue to E. Main Street
Washington Avenue – W. Main Street to Fountain Street
Newton Avenue – Clark Street to E. Main Street
Bridge Avenue – Clark Street to Fountain Street

A new sidewalk will also be installed on the north side of Clark Street from Bridge Avenue to E. Main Street.
Engineering received one bid. Engineering is recommending the low bid of $512,781.34 from Ulland Brothers, Inc. of Albert Lea, Minnesota. The Engineer’s estimate was $378,503.00. Ulland Brothers bid came in approximately 35% higher than the Engineer’s estimate. The difference is due primarily to increases in the costs for milling, bituminous materials and concrete work. 2022 bid prices were used to calculate the engineers estimate, bituminous prices have increased and the overall tonnage of bituminous is smaller which impacts the price. The bid abstract is attached.

E. Resolution 23-084 Accepting Feasibility Report, Ordering Preparation of Plans and Specifications and Authorizing Bidding for the Bancroft Park and Aquatic Center Parking Lot Resurfacing Project (Job 2305)

Rigg explained this item would accept a feasibility report, order preparation of plans and specifications, and order bidding for the Bancroft Park & Aquatic Center Parking Lot Resurfacing Project, Job No. 2305.

Work proposed with this project includes:
Albert Lea Aquatic Center:
• Removing and replacing the bituminous surface and settled or heaved sections of curb & gutter.
• Construction of a new stormwater pond in open area between the parking lot and the basketball court to the east is also proposed with the project.

Bancroft Park:
• Removal and replacement of the bituminous surface on the entrance road to Bancroft Park
• Removal and replacement of the bituminous surface on the upper section of the parking lot.
• The lower parking lot currently has a gravel surface. The Feasibility Report presents three options for the City Council’s consideration.

Option 1 – Pave the east half of the parking lot and leave the west half as a gravel surface
Option 2 – Pave the entire surface
Option 3 – Leave the existing gravel surface in place

There are no proposed assessments with this project. The estimated project cost ranges from $393,331.63 to $540,642.03 depending on which option is chosen for the lower Bancroft Park Lot and would be paid for with bonding funds.

Councilor Howland stated he believes the City needs to practice what is preached in that new developers are required to install storm water ponds and therefore the City needs to take advantage of installing them when an opportunity arises such as this. Baker, S. Rasmussen, and R. Rasmussen concurred with Howland’s statement. Baker asked Jahnke if the stormwater pond could be made smaller. Jahnke responded that the size proposed is what is best for this area.

Motion made by Councilor Anderson to amend the resolution excluding the storm water pond at the aquatic center, seconded by Councilor Christensen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Councilor Anderson. And the following voted no; Councilor Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion failed.

Motion made by Councilor Howland to approve the resolution as read including the storm water pond at the aquatic center and to leave the existing gravel surface in place on the lower lot at Bancroft Park, seconded by Councilor S. Rasmussen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, and Mayor Murray. And the following voted no; Councilor Anderson. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.
(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23-084
Included with these minutes)

F. Resolution 23-085 Assuming the Authority to Enforce the Parcel Transfer and Division Restrictions of Minn. §272.162

In the course of recording documents at the County Recorder’s office, there are occasionally parcel splits or combinations presented that do not meet City Code. This resolution will aid us in being able to review survey documents before they are recorded. This will save both the private party and the City staff time and conflict with dealing with them after the recording is already done. County Staff has indicated this type of resolution is required in order for documents to be forwarded to the City for prior review.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor Anderson. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23-085
Included with these minutes)

G. Resolution 23-086 Amending Fee Schedule

Given recent changes, added services or overlooked services staff recommends an amendment to the fee schedule. The charge for electric vehicles should cover costs both direct and overhead for the charging station at the north lot. Simplifying the mobile vendor license fee into an annual rate at $50 is to meet changes in the ordinance and the fact that time spent on one day licenses or annual licenses is approximately the same. The charge for government agencies to use City Facilities is negotiable depending on what is required of our facilities. There was no separation for this type of organization from the broader field of non-profit.

Councilor S. Rasmussen proposed increasing the annual license fee for the Mobile Food Vendor from $50 up to $75. Councilors Christensen and Baker concurred.

Motion made by Councilor S. Rasmussen to approve the fee schedule with the amendment of the annual Mobile Food Vendor license to $75, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. And the following voted no; Councilors Howland and R. Rasmussen. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23- 086
Included with these minutes)

H. Ordinance 23-091 Amending Chapter 44 Article III Section 44.095 – Sewer – Limitations on Wastewater Discharges (1st Reading)

The City of Albert Lea has a comprehensive Significant Industrial User (SIU) and Categorical Industrial User (CIU) program, which is utilized to regulate and monitor significant industrial users of the city’s wastewater collection and treatment systems. The administration of this program has been delegated to the City of Albert Lea by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). As the administrator of a delegated pretreatment program, the city is responsible for enacting the regulatory framework and technical requirements of the pretreatment program. As part of the technical requirements, the city is responsible for developing any local limits for SIU and CIU agreements.
The new NPDES permit issued February 1, 2022 requires that The City of Albert Lea as Permittee shall develop, maintain, and enforce specific local limits to implement the prohibitions listed in Minnesota Rules 7049.0140. The Permittee shall evaluate the need to revise local limits to effectively implement these prohibitions at least once during the term of this permit.
This ordinance amendment includes adding molybdenum (Mo) and selenium (Se) to the list of local limits on wastewater dischargers.

(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-091
Included with these minutes)

I. Ordinance 23-092 Amending Chapter 50, Article III, Division 2, Off-Street Parking and Loading (1st Reading)

This amendment allows additional parking space in the R-1 Single-Family Residence District in the form of a flare apron by increasing the side of the flare apron from 187 sq ft to 240 sq ft or 10’x24’. This amendment is based on requests from the community to provide more off-street parking for larger (21st century) vehicles as well as recreational vehicles and trailers. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 and recommends approval of this amendment as written

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor S. Rasmussen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.
(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-092
Included with these minutes)

J. Ordinance 23-093 Amending Chapter 50, Article III, Division 22, Principal Permitted Uses and Conditional Permitted Uses (1st Reading)

This amendment will specify that properties within the Diversified Central District (DCD) that are also within the Heritage Preservation District have a minimum of 50% of the main floor in commercial use or a use other than residential. The purpose of becoming a Main Street Community in 2020 was to focus on revitalization while supporting business growth, development, events, and residential life. The concern is that with current zoning, buildings could become entirely residential which would significantly change the makeup of the downtown. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 and recommends approval of this amendment as written.

(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-093
Included with these minutes)

K. Ordinance 23-094 Amending Chapter 50, Article V, Access (1st Reading)

This amendment includes an addition to ordinance that will require site plans and permitting for curb, gutter, driveway expansion and modification. The purpose of requiring site plans and permitting is to avoid scenarios where impervious surface limitations are exceeded in the Shoreland Management District and also to avoid concrete being poured in areas that are not allowed (crossing property lines, right-of-way, etc.). Permitting is currently required for work in the right-of-way but not for private parking/driveway locations.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 and recommends approval of this amendment as written.
Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor R. Rasmussen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.
(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-094
Included with these minutes)

L. Ordinance 23-095 Amending Chapter 50, Article VI, Performance, Locational and Site Development Standards (1st Reading)

This amendment will allow outdoor merchandise display in the Diversified Central District (DCD) as well as the B-2 and B-3 districts. In addition, it clarifies an amount not to exceed five (5) percent of the main gross floor area is to be used for outdoor display and also draws attention to the required 3-foot discernable walkway in order to meet American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 and recommends approval of this amendment as written.

Motion made by Councilor Anderson to approve, seconded by Councilor S. Rasmussen. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.
(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-095
Included with these minutes)

M. Ordinance 23-096 Amending Chapter 50, Article VI, Outdoor Seating on Public Property (1st Reading)

This amendment eliminates the need for outdoor seating areas to be segregated by fencing, bollards, ropes or planters. Often times there is minimal room for outdoor tables and chairs within the public right-of-way and the devices used for segregation take up additional space that is already limited. This ordinance also protects the standard 3ft discernable walkway as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Lastly, this ordinance clarifies that furniture used for outdoor seating must be designed for outdoor use.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on Tuesday, May 2, 2023 and recommends approval of this amendment as written.
Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve, seconded by Councilor Howland. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-096
Included with these minutes)

N. Ordinance 23-097 Repealing and Replacing Ordinance 22-083 and Amending Chapter 50 Article III

In September 2022 the City Council approved Ordinance 22-083 that was meant to amend Sec 50.0402 Building Design Standards as it pertained to see-through windows. Inadvertently, section numbers were transposed and Sec 50.0224 was amended instead. This ordinance repeals and replaces with the correct section number. Staff apologizes for the error.

Motion made by Councilor Howland to approve, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, R. Rasmussen, S. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Ordinance 23-097
Included with these minutes)

MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS:

First Ward, Councilor Christensen reported attended events including:

- - The Recharge Event held at Design Ready Controls
  - The Diversity sessions lead by Ellie Krug
  - Ward Items – As an inquiry from a constituent, she is considering spearheading an adhoc community Emerald Ash Borer initiative to help get the word out regarding the threat of Emerald Ash Borer in the community.
  - Committee Update – Attended the Blue Zones committee meeting and she mentioned a fun family activity to be announced in the near future. Met with City staff regarding the Human Rights Commission and reports a new direction is being considered to help reduce duplication of efforts and be more effective within the community. Attended the Planning Commission meeting and the ordinances they spoke of were approved at this council meeting. Mentioned entrepreneur Nic Lang will be organizing an open house event at his newly renovated building. She described the Makers Space opportunity Nic will introduce and will be located at the former Litho Printing building.

Second Ward, Councilor Baker reported:

- Ward Items – Had questions for staff on a couple of properties.
- Committee Update – Attended an ALEDA and HRA meeting. He reported there have been eight applications submitted for the HRA Director position.
- Attended the Recharge Event and spoke of the EV bus operation. He inquired if council has discussed donating money to the American Legion Freedom Rock Group. City Manager Rigg responded asking council to let him know if they would like the City to support this cause.

Third Ward, Councilor Howland reported:

- Ward Items – Assisted the Spring cleanup day at the Landfill. Also attended the Diversity sessions lead by Ellie Krug.
- Committee Update – None

Fourth Ward, Councilor S. Rasmussen reported:

- Ward Items – Announced the phone number for residents to call to report nuisance calls.
- Committee Update – Attended the Recharge Event at Design Ready Controls. Also attended the Diversity workshop lead by Ellie Krug. Mentioned the Memory Café at the Senior Center held the second Monday and Thursday each month and invited community members.

Fifth Ward, Councilor R. Rasmussen reported:

- Ward Items – Working on one ward item.
- Committee Update – None

Sixth Ward, Councilor Anderson reported:

- Ward Items – None
- Committee Update – Commented on the applications received for the HRA Director position. He also attended the Recharge Event and reports there were a lot of people in attendance.

MAYOR REPORT:

- Assisted at the Landfill for the Spring City Cleanup Day
- Met with a group regarding the Veteran’s Sober House located in Wells, MN
- Met with the Albert Lea Real Estate Group
- Attended the ALEDA meeting and reports several projects in the works
- Attended the Ride Your Bike to School event at Hawthorne School
- Went to the Streater’s Building to review the projects implemented
- Attended the Elementary Choir Tour at Halverson School
- Attended the Cinco de Mayo Festival held at Central Park
- Attended Recharge Event and reported what a positive business this is as well as all the others in Albert Lea.
- Attended Walmart Wellness Day at the Pharmacy and Optical Shop.
- Announced the removal of Planning Commission member Chuck Paczkowski

Announced upcoming events in Albert Lea.

CITY MANAGER REPORT

- Attended the Recharge Event and the Diversity Roundtable
- Staff is working with Councilor Christensen on the Human Rights Commission revisions
- Staff continues to work on the Pay Equity Report to bring the City into compliance
- Goal Setting sessions are in progress with Senior staff members
- The RFP process will be closing next week on the 132 S. Broadway Ave. property
- Attended the Cinco de Mayo festival
- Attended the City Manager’s annual conference in Brainerd and found it to be extremely informative
- Reiterated the process for reporting nuisance issues by calling the non-emergency dispatch phone number
- Implored council to reach out to legislatures encouraging them to support the increase in LGA, as well as support the Homestead Tax Credit expansion, and the Bonding bill.

APPROVAL OF CLAIMS

A. Resolution 23-087 Approving Claims
(1). Presentation of Claims Over $25,000

The attached resolution directs the Mayor and City Treasurer to issue the payment of claims as presented in the Detail of Claims report. In addition, Maras displayed a list of claims over $25,000 for the public’s viewing, transparency and education.

Motion made by Councilor Baker to approve the claims, seconded by Councilor Anderson. On roll call vote, the following councilors voted in favor of said motion: Christensen, Baker, Howland, S. Rasmussen, R. Rasmussen, Anderson, and Mayor Murray. Mayor Murray declared the motion passed.

(See Secretary’s Original Resolution 23-087 Included with these minutes)

CLOSED SESSION Subject to Minn. Stat 13D.05, subd. 3(c)

At 8:35 p.m. Mayor Murray requested a motion to move into closed session to discuss the properties located at:

201 and 211 S. Broadway Ave.
310-332 S. Broadway Ave.
322 Vine Ave.
401 College St.
North Blazing Star Property along Garfield Ave. and Main St.

Motion made by Councilor Christensen to move into closed session, seconded by Councilor Baker. On roll call vote, all councilors voted in favor of said motion.

At 9:47 p.m. Mayor Murray opened the closed session with a motion from Councilor Howland, seconded by Council Baker. On roll call vote, all councilors voted in favor of said motion.

Mayor Murray announced that council discussed the properties as noted above, and provided direction to City Manager Rigg on how to proceed with property disposal.

ADJOURNMENT: 9:48 P.M.

Motion made by Councilor Christensen, seconded by Councilor Anderson. That there being no further business, the Council meeting adjourn until the next regular meeting of the Albert Lea City Council at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, May 22, 2023. On roll call vote, all councilors voted in favor of said motion.

Mayor Murray declared the motion passed and the meeting adjourned.

__/s/__________________________
Mayor Rich Murray

_/s/___________________________
Daphney Maras
Secretary of the Council