[0:20] We'll call to order the regular meeting  of the Albert Lea City Council for Monday,   November 10th, 2025. Clerk, please call the role.  Councilor Christensen, here. Councilor Baker,   [0:31] here. Councilor Howland, here. Councilor  Olson, here. Councilor Van Beek, here.   [0:36] Councilor Anderson, here. Mayor Murray, here.  Would you please rise and join me in the pledge   of allegiance? I pledge allegiance to the flag of  the United States of America and to the republic   [0:50] for which it stands. One nation under God,  indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. [1:00] Welcome to everyone tonight. Whether you're  here in the chamber or you're online,   we're glad to have you here. Item three  is ceremonial items. And the first is the   [1:09] oath of office for Detective Mary  Gaul and Detective Luke Tuzinski. [1:18] Welcome, Chief. Good evening. Thank you for  giving us opportunity to introduce our two newest   [1:23] detectives to the council and the community.  Um both have demonstrated exceptional community   [1:30] professionalism for commitment and professionalism  and service to the Albert Lea Police Department in   our community. These promotions reflect not only  their hard work but also the trust, confidence   [1:40] that we have in their abilities. Um lost you for a  second, Luke. Uh Luke joined the Albert Lea Police   [1:49] Department in December of 2020. He is a native  of the metro area and a wide range of life and   [1:55] work experience. Uh all is that is very valuable  to his role as a detective. Um interesting to me   [2:02] is he spent 10 years as a machinist before  entering law enforcement. Uh he's a graduate   of Normanddale Community College. He lives  in Albert Lea with his wife and two children.   [2:11] Uh he also serves as a coordinator of our  citizens academy who you're going to meet the   latest graduating class here shortly. And uh he  has also been our go-to day leader for leadership   [2:20] Albert Lea Freeborn County. Uh he is an active  member of our peer support team. Um Luke brings   [2:26] leadership, community engagement, and mentorship  to his new role. It'll serve him well in that   role. Uh Mary Gaul joined the Albert Lea Police  Department in September of 2021. She's a native   [2:37] and a graduate of Rochester. Uh when I double  checked her start date, I came across her birth   [2:42] date first and I realized I've been here several  years longer than she's been alive. Um with that,   [2:49] she brings some youth and some enthusiasm to the  department and to the position. Um she's known   [2:56] for her upbeat personality. She's tenacious  and she's a fast learner. Uh these traits   will set her up well for continued success in  investigations. She is also our newest member   [3:05] of the SWAT team. Actually, I correct that. She  is our second newest member of the SWAT team,   [3:11] a member of the peer support team.  Uh she brings a youthful energy,   drive, and engaging personality that'll  serve her well in this role. So step up [3:43] Get your mic up. Raise your right hand. Are you tucking in or  tucking out? I state your name. I Luke Tuzinski.   [3:52] I Mary Gaul. Do solemnly swear Do solemnly swear  to support the Constitution of the United States.   [3:59] to support the Constitution of the United  States and of the State of Minnesota and   of the State of Minnesota and that I will  faithfully and impartially and that I will   [4:07] faithfully and impartially discharge the  duties of detectives discharge the duties   of detective for the city of Albert Lea Police  Department for the city of Albert Lea Police   [4:17] Department. In accordance with the laws of  Minnesota. in accordance with the laws of   Minnesota. And of the charter of the city of  Albert Lea. And of the charter of the city of   [4:26] Albert Lea. In the county of Freeborn. In the  county of Freeborn. In the state of Minnesota.   In the state of Minnesota. To the best of  my ability. To the best of my ability. So   [4:35] help me God. So help me God. Now they have some  family members that will pin their badges on. [5:05] Looks good. Congratulations. [5:20] Congratulations. Congratulations. [5:25] Congratulations. Congratulations. [5:31] Congratulations. Congratulations. [5:37] Congratulations, detectives.  Congratulations. Thank you. [5:52] Yeah. Just face and I'm gonna duck [6:03] face. All right. Right. Item B is a recognition of  the 2025 Citizen Academy graduates. ALPD detective   [6:10] Luke Tuzinski as backup along with Lieutenant  Jeff Strom. Welcome. Welcome. Thank you for   [6:16] having us here tonight. Um the Citizens Academy  wouldn't be possible without the support of the   the council and the city. Um tonight I'm going to  present the 2025 Citizens Academy class to you.   [6:28] Uh the department has been offering the citizens  academy since uh I believe it was 2007 I think was   [6:34] the first year. Um this year Detective Tuzinski  stepped up to the plate to lead the class and   [6:42] from what the feedback I've got it was a very  successful class and everyone enjoyed it. Um   [6:47] a lot of people confuse the citizens academy with  our police reserves. Our police reserves provide a   [6:52] a vital um link and uh a benefit to the department  for the things they do. The citizens academy is a   [7:02] um instruction uh it's a nine-week class and  it um allows the citizens to better know their   [7:10] police department, what we do, the things we do,  why we do it. We have interaction and they have   time to to speak with the officers, get to know  the officers and ask any questions they may have.   [7:20] Um, again, the people before you spent  nine weeks in class and we had our   [7:27] graduation last Monday and now we have our  presentation before the city council and uh,   [7:34] Detective Tazinski. Yeah, I'll say a couple words.  So, I mean, first of all, thank you guys uh,   [7:39] for participating in the class. It's a big time  commitment. It's nine weeks. I hope you guys   took a little something out of it. It's a pretty  inside look to a a wide variety of topics. Um,   [7:50] start out with the history of the department,  move into our training program, cover our mental   health program, um, DUI enforcement,  a lot of different things, medicals,   [7:59] mental health. It's a lot of information and  especially for you guys to spend your time. Um,   [8:05] free time is really appreciated. I'd also like  to thank the council and Chief Hansen and Deputy   Chief Palmer for helping making it a possibility,  too. Um it's a lot of coordination, a lot of   [8:14] manpower. Um Jeff has been a huge help also and  all the officers that participated. Really shout   [8:20] out to those guys. But really thank you guys  for participating. You guys are really engaged.   It really makes it fun and like I said, I hope  you guys got a lot out of it. Our class of 2025, [8:34] you want to go around to the end there and just   go down the line here and meet and greet  and congrats. Thank you. Congratulations. [8:47] Congratulations. Thanks for the effort. [8:54] Mirror image. [9:03] Yeah. Yes. Congratulations. Remember  we have a problem. Congratulations. [9:12] How you doing? Good. Congratulations.  Congratulations again. Congratulations.   [9:19] Congratulations. Thank you again for doing  that. That's really appreciated. Thank you.   [9:27] Thanks for your leadership with that. Thank  you. Thank you. Well, thank you, sir. Thanks   for that. Thanks, sir. Stephen, thanks. Okay.  All right. Hey, item four is a public forum [9:48] that they're here to talk about any public  hearing items that they can do at that time. [9:56] Oh, okay. We have nobody listed on our public  forum tonight. So, we will be moving along to   [10:05] item five, consent and approval of agenda. A  is the approval of minutes of the October 27,   [10:11] 2025 regular council meeting. Item B is  the approval of minutes of the October 27,   [10:16] 2025 work session. And C is a resolution approving  lawful uh gambling permit for the Albertly Amateur   [10:23] Hockey Association. Councel move to approve  the consent and approval of agenda, your honor.   [10:28] Motion by councelor Baker. Is there a second?  I'll second your honor. Second by councelor   Anderson. Any further discussion? All in favor  of the motion signify by saying I. I oppose. Nay.   [10:37] Motion carries. Item six is petitions, requests,  and communications. We have none tonight. Item   [10:43] seven is unfinished business. Uh we have none  tonight. And item eight is new business. A is a   [10:49] resolution approving the purchase of fire engine  replacement CIP FIRB 25-01. City manager. Thank   [10:57] you, honor. In October 22, uh, city Albert Lee  Council approved the purchase of a Pierce Enforcer   [11:03] HDR engine through the signing of a contract with  Pierce Manufacturing. This resolution is to com   [11:09] uh, this resolution is to complete the  final purchase of the engine as it goes uh,   into the build cycle with the anticipated delivery  date of January 2026. The remaining funds will   [11:19] be used to purchase the necessary equipment to  outfit the apparatus. Total budget for the engine   and equipment uh are to remain under $950,000.  The purchase of the apparatus is $860,88088. [11:38] Uh and the uh additional equip uh equipment uh   necessary to outfit it is uh  anticipated to be $89,19.92 [11:48] for the total budget of $950,000. This purchase  replaces the two uh 1999 uh Ty fire engine. The   [11:58] uh um or tone fire engine. Uh it will be sold  through uh uh uh Bundy Mountain. Um it will be   [12:07] sold through Bundy Mountain, a fire apparatus  sales company and source well consortium   uh price bid process. Price bid  process, excuse me. With that,   [12:19] your honor, staff recommends approval. Councel  move to approve your honor. Motion by councelor   Baker. Is there a second? I'll second your honor.  Second by councelor Anderson. Further discussion [12:30] hearing none. All in favor of the motion signify  by saying I. I. Oppos. Nay. Motion carries. Item   [12:36] B is a resolution authorizing interfund loan for  advance of certain costs in connection with tax   [12:42] increment financing district number 5-31. City  manager. Thank you honor. The current interfund   [12:48] loan for TIFF 5-31, also known as the 300 block of  Broadway uh amount uh was approved up $2 million.   [12:56] The current balance of the uh interfund loan is  approximately 800,000 with the addition of the   [13:01] cost to remove the theater building approved  in resolution 25-175. The maximum scope of   [13:08] uh four services would be $595,000. So, the  interfund loan will need to be increased to   [13:14] $ 1.5 million. Councel move to approve your  honor. First by councelor Christensen. Is there   [13:21] a second? Second. Second by councelor  Anderson. Any further discussion? [13:30] Hearing none. All in favor of the motion signify  by saying I. I. Oppose. Nay. Motion carries. Item   [13:36] C is a public hearing on proposed assessments for  the 2025 neighborhood improvement project job 251.   [13:46] We will open the public hearing with the  staff report. City manager. Thank you,   honor. The attached resolution will adopt the  final assessments on November 10th, 2025 for job   [13:57] number 251, the neighborhood improvement project.  This project involved the following work. A   [14:03] neighborhood improvement overlay and curbon gutter  replacement uh for uh and a portion of the project   [14:09] involved patuminous overlay in the following  streets. Crossroads Boulevard from uh Trunk   [14:14] Highway 65 to the south end. Uh Betha Lararsson  Lane from Crossroads Boulevard to the east end.   [14:21] Ross Drive from Crossroads Boulevard to Betha  Larson Lane. Cra Avenue from Bethal Lararsson Lane   [14:27] to uh north to the north end. Lake Chapo Drive  from City Arena to the west end. The Hold on,   [14:35] let me find my place here. The assessment terms  will be determined following the assessment policy   and the interest rate will be 5.73%. There are  five parcels withheld for future assessments. The   [14:46] held for future assessments will be payable uh in  full upon annexation of the property into the city   [14:52] of Albert Lee. If the annexation does not occur  before 15 years uh basically uh November 10th,   [14:59] 2040, the assessments will be removed  from the property. This assessment will   be recorded on the property at the county.  All right. Any questions from the council? [15:13] If not, for the first time, would  anyone like to speak regarding the   public hearing on proposed assessments for the  2025 neighborhood improvement project job 251? [15:28] For the second time, would anyone like to speak?   Bless you. For the third time,  would anyone like to speak? [15:40] We'll close the public hearing. I would entertain a resolution adopting the  final assessments for the 2025 neighborhood   [15:49] improvement project, job 251. Council, so moved.  Motion by councelor Howland. Second. Second,   [15:56] your honor. Second by councelor Baker.  Any further discussion? Hearing none.   [16:02] All in favor for the motion, please signify  by saying I. I. Oppos? Nay. Motion carries. [16:13] Item D is a public hearing on the proposed  assessments for the 2025 state aid street   [16:18] overlay project job 252. We will open  the public hearing with a staff report.   [16:24] City manager. Thank you, honor. The attached  resolution will adopt the final assessments on   uh this date for job number 252, the 2025 state  aid overlay project. This involve the following   [16:36] work. Neighborhood improvement overlay and  curbon gutter replacement on Garfield Avenue   from Fairan Terrace to Richway Drive. The  assessment terms will be over 5 years and the   [16:46] interest rate will be 5.73%. Staff recommends  approval. Any questions from the council? [16:55] I would ask that the city manager um  please uh go through for our audience   [17:01] what the requirements are if somebody wants to  um object to or their assessment. Okay. Uh yes,   [17:11] we did receive one letter stating that they  are contesting or uh objecting or appealing   [17:17] I should say their uh assessment. Uh so  somebody would need to provide that that   [17:23] um that appeal and then on Wednesday they will  need to speak with the uh city attorney's office.   [17:30] Uh Lisa Williamson will be in the office and would  be available to talk to them about the form they   [17:36] need to fill out and the the process and the steps  they would take. If there are people that um due   [17:42] to certain income limitations uh are not able to  pay the assessments. There is a deferment process   [17:49] that the city has and we have the forms here  in the back which they could take with them or   [17:54] uh if they come into the office again on Wednesday  uh and go to the um finance office front counter   [18:02] someone will be able to provide them with a form  to uh fill out there uh that would allow them to   have a deferment based on income. Will they have  just tonight to notify us that they want to object   [18:14] to the uh amount or do they have a couple days to  do this? Uh you your honor, I would have to defer   [18:22] to the city attorney on that one. City attorney,  they have to let us know by tonight and it has to   be in writing. Okay. They have to submit a written  notice to the if they have not already submitted a   [18:32] written notice, they need to submit to the council  a written notice that they intend to pursue the   [18:37] court challenge of the assessment and they can  hand it to you. Uh but it has to be before the   [18:44] vote on that particular assessment. So, if someone  is going to pursue the the legal objection to the   [18:52] assessment at any particular agenda item, before  you vote on it, they need to grab a piece of   [18:58] paper and say that they're going to be filing an  objection with the Okay. And um and we did Oh,   [19:06] excuse me, your honor. Thank you. Uh we did send  out notice and uh the city clerk, I do believe,   [19:12] expressed the the options and and the process. Um  I just was u not very clear if it had to be today   [19:18] or if there was any other a lotment of time but  prior to today there was uh notice sent out to   [19:25] the uh I do know notice was sent out to those  that would be assessed of of their rights to   [19:32] um appeal if they felt that uh it was um that it  in any way it would be inaccurate or unlawful.   [19:40] Yes. I just wanted to be clear to our audience  in case anybody wanted to object to this tonight,   [19:46] you need to do so before we vote on this one. So,  hold on a second. All right. So, uh with that, any   [19:51] additional questions from the council then for the  first time, would anyone like to speak regarding   [19:58] the public hearing on the proposed assessments for  the 2025 state aid street overlay project job 252? [20:08] Would you like to speak to this one,  sir? Is this for the objection on   [20:13] the assessment? Is that just for the  people that are are already going to   [20:18] be assessed or for the ones that aren't  in the city yet? You're talking about [20:25] city manager. Uh which which uh  project or area were you uh referring   [20:31] to? I'm on the east end of southeast  Marshall right up next to freeway.   [20:37] I believe that will be at in the ne or  that that was the first one. The the 251. [20:48] Hold on one second here. The 251. Um [20:58] your honor, I did not I did not list this one. I   did not mention Marshall Street  from Prospect Avenue to I35. Um, [21:10] city attorney. City attorney. What is the  best uh course of action to take here? I   suggest that he be allowed to state his  objection to it and we can certainly hold   [21:18] the if if he chooses to pursue a legal  challenge after stating his objection.   [21:23] You can still receive that notice tonight and  he can be compliant. Okay. Thank Thank you. [21:31] My my apologies, sir. actually um uh I did not  uh I just now notice I did not highlight it   [21:37] that this that the previous one did include the  the project that you were referring to. Uh so   [21:44] um I guess if you wish to speak uh  at this time on that particular one   [21:50] um you can either come up and speak  now or if you'd like to object to it,   you just need to get a piece of paper and hand  that to us before you before long and just tell   [22:00] us you object to the deal and then back here.  Yep. There's some paper right behind you there   that you could write on. Is that sufficient for  what you want to do, sir? I don't know. Okay. [22:14] If he submits a notice that preserves his  right and when he goes in and if he comes   in and talks to the city attorney's office,  he can make a determination at that time. So,   [22:23] he's just preserving the right. Okay.  Okay. Thank Thank you. and my apologies for   [22:32] uh not noticing that and highlighting it. All  right, I think I think we've got it covered. So,   we'll be okay. So, with that, um we'll just state  that again. For the first time, would anyone like   [22:43] to speak regarding the public hearing on pro  proposed assessments for 2025 state aid street   [22:48] overlay project job 252? For the second time,  would anyone like to speak? For the third time,   [22:57] would anyone like to speak? We'll close the public  hearing. I would entertain a resolution adopting   [23:04] the final assessments for the 2025 state aid  street overlay project job 252 council. So moved,   [23:12] your honor. Motion by councelor Anderson.  Is there a second? I'll second that,   your honor. By councelor Olsen. Any further  discussion by the council hearing? None. All   [23:22] in favor of the motion signify by saying I.  I. Oppose. Nay. Motion carries. Item E is the   [23:29] public hearing on proposed assessments for  the 11th Street reconstruction project job   253. We'll open the public hearing with  a staff report. City manager. Thank you,   [23:40] honor. Uh this uh resolution would adopt the final  assessments at this date for job 253, the 11th   [23:47] Street reconstruction project. It involved the  following work. complete street reconstruction of   [23:53] 11th Street from Margareta Avenue to the east end.  Uh the assessment terms will be over 15 years and   [24:00] the interest rate will be 5.73%. Staff recommends  approval. Any questions from the council? [24:11] Hearing none. For the first time, would  anyone like to speak regarding the public   hearing on the proposed assessments for the  11th Street reconstruction project job 253? [24:22] For the second time, would anyone like to speak?  For the third time, would anyone like to speak? [24:32] We'll close the public hearing. I would  to entertain a resolution adopting the   [24:37] final assessments for the 11th Street  Reconstruction Project, job 253. Council,   [24:43] so moved, your honor. Move motion by  councelor Anderson. Is there a second?   Second. Second by councelor Howland.  Any further discussion hearing? None.   [24:52] All in favor of the motion signify by  saying I. I. Oppos. Nay. Motion carries. [25:02] Item F is the public hearing on proposed  assessments for delinquent water, sewer accounts,   and miscellaneous accounts receivable. We will  open the public hearing with a staff report. City   [25:13] manager. Thank you, honor. This resolution would  adopt the final assessments for delinquent water   and sewer accounts and delinquent accounts  receivable per the code of ordinances. These   [25:22] assessments are payable with terms of one year or  five years dependent upon the assessment and the   [25:28] interest rate will be at 5.73%. Staff recommends  approval. Any questions from the council [25:39] hearing? None. For the first time, would anyone  like to speak regarding the public hearing on a   [25:45] proposed assessment for delinquent water, sewer  accounts, and miscellaneous accounts receivable? [25:52] Are you ready? Come on up. Please state your name  and the property in question and tell us what you   [26:02] want. Conor and I am a sole proprietor or sole  owner of property located at 95 Madison Avenue.   [26:10] um the lot two and the northern half of lot three.  Um earlier this year I received a notification   [26:20] that um the growth of my lawn had exceeded the  9 in um maximum that was allowed. Um but I have   [26:32] been in in and out of uh male clinic uh due to uh  some medical issues and um while that particular   [26:43] time I was able to bring it into compliance um it  continued on my my medical issues continued on and   [26:53] um it um so what ended up happening was a second  time I I fel fell out of compliance. Now then, uh   [27:05] I was released from the hospital and I was um in  I was working on my property to get it back into   [27:11] compliance. I had I had mowed the uh the northern  half of the of the the third lot and the southern   [27:20] half of the second lot and I went inside to take a  break uh use the restroom and get get something to   [27:29] eat. um left leaving my lawn care equipment in the  yard. And when I came back out um the um there was   [27:38] a crew of people with uh weed whackers doing the  uh northern half of lot two. They um I walked up   [27:48] and I spoke to what I believed to be the foreman  and um he said, "Well, we got a we got a work   [27:55] order." I said, "I understand that." and he said,  "Well," he said, "Well, we'll just stop what we're   doing right now and and you so they collected all  the equipment." Um, and I I cleaned up the rest   [28:08] of what they had knocked down, plus the rest of  my property, which was the the sub the uh eastern   [28:14] most half of of of the northern uh half of of  lot two. So, I had actually done twothirds of   [28:24] the work previous to them actually starting and  I had uh done all the cleanup that they did plus   [28:33] uh the half of what they did. So, the majority  of the work was done by me. And I admit that that   [28:43] uh I was not in compliance. I'm not I'm not even  challenging that. But I think two things. I think   [28:50] that I um uh there were there were there there  were extenduating circumstances that needed to   [28:55] be taken into into account for this situation and  um and I didn't in in this situation I didn't even   [29:04] get so much as a knock on the door saying that  that you know we're here to do this work. Uh, and   [29:10] I would at that point I could probably have said,  you know, well, I'm already doing it, so you know,   [29:15] um, but I spoke with the um, uh, the ladies across  the hall and they gave me telephone number for the   [29:22] CSOS and I and they they basically told me that,  you know, um, it was a legitimate work order.   [29:30] There's not really a whole heck of a lot they  can do about it. So, that's where I'm sitting.   [29:36] So now I have an I believe it's going to be an  assessment on my property in the amount of $322   [29:44] if memory serves me correctly. And I'm a little  bit confused as to how that's going to affect,   [29:51] but I do know that there the the letter that  I received said that it was going to be um uh   [30:01] applied to my taxes, if that's correct, and that I  that I could make payments or something like that.   [30:08] But I just thought I'd come up here to to tell you  every the parts of of it that were not part of the   [30:15] story that was in front of the uh the city council  right now today. So, okay, sir, could I ask you   [30:23] to state your name once more? William O' Conor.  William Okconor. Thank you. All right. Anything   [30:31] else for us? No. Okay. I think um anything we  need to know if um really staff does not have   [30:41] um if the council wishes staff to um come to an  arrangement agreement uh based on the information,   [30:51] I would ask that you instruct uh you instruct us  to do so. I would. Okay. All right. So, thank you.   [30:58] Um we'll have you take your seat and I'm going to  finish the public hearing. And did sir, did you   have something to add? I have a I have a couple  of issues to your name. First off, this neighbor   [31:09] of mine uh is one of the most helpful people in  the neighborhood. He helps several people when   [31:18] their cars don't start. He's a mechanic that you  wouldn't believe. Um, and I ask that the uh mayor,   [31:29] consider councilman look favorably upon his thing.  Now, relative to me, I own the two and a half lots   [31:39] on Jefferson, I mean, excuse me, Madison Avenue.  My residence is on Jefferson Avenue. My wife and   [31:47] I, we bought those lots. They were empty and  there was nothing but troublemaking and trash   [31:55] and so forth left on those lots. And of course,  my wife being from Albert Lee, I'm from Washington   [32:04] DC. You may have heard of that place recently.  They have a lot of issues out there that they're   [32:11] trying to handle. I'm questioning whether they're  doing a great job or not. But just kidding aside,   [32:20] I think it's kind of really tough on people.  Uh, we've been here, I guess, 25 years now. I'm   [32:30] retired from IBM controlled data. Uh, and I had a  healthy career there. And I haven't seen a little   [32:46] town like Albert Lee. Uh I've found that people  help each other here in this town. In Washington   [32:55] DC, you have to have both Congs, both seats in  the House and a few senators just to get heard,   [33:05] let alone any action. And I'm being facitious  obviously, but we t we bought those lots. My wife   [33:15] made them into a little garden back there. Pretty  goodsized garden. And uh then her health and my   [33:23] health has s considerably declined, but we still  maintain it. We This man has been my neighbor even   [33:33] though he's across the alley for a long time. I  uh encourage and I hope that you will look upon   [33:42] his situation with due course and perhaps some  little understanding. He has been sick and I   [33:52] was afraid I was going to lose my mechanic. You  realize mechanics are hard to come fight. Well,   [33:57] thank you for coming and speaking tonight. Don't  like me just and thank you for your service,   sir. Well, thank you and I appreciate your any  consideration that you're giving. All right.   [34:08] For a second time, then would anyone like to  speak regarding the public hearing on delinquent   [34:15] water sewer accounts and miscellaneous  accounts receivable? For the third time,   [34:20] would anyone like to speak? We're going to close  the public hearing. I would entertain a resolution   [34:29] adopting the final assessments for delinquent  water and sewer accounts and miscellaneous   accounts receivable. And I might add we'll have a  discussion re before we vote on that. But could I   [34:40] get a motion on the floor, please? I'll make that  motion. Motion by councelor Holland. And I would   also add second by Okay, go ahead. To that motion,  I would also add uh to uh remove Mr. O' Conor's   [34:53] assessment as well. All right. Second by councelor  Baker. And are you fine with the Yep. Okay. [35:04] Any further discussion by the council? Yeah. My  question I got a question as far as the city hires   [35:11] somebody to go in and and mow these yards down,  you know, when they're on not in compliance. Can   [35:18] can we not tell them to if there's people living  there to go and knock on the door and let them   [35:23] know that they're they're doing it? I mean, that's  only to me that's only being polite. City manager,   [35:31] I I don't know the all the specifics of this  particular um um incident or the uh first one   [35:40] where uh cuz I believe it said that there was  a notice, then there was a second compliance   where they they did mow and then there was  the third one where um he he had started and   [35:48] then they had started. If I understood that  correctly, there was two instances. one in   [35:58] April. I either late April, early May in which  I was in and out of the hospital and grassed [36:12] and then when I got out of the hospital, I cleaned  it up and I got a notification from from CSO that   [36:20] uh and then nothing no problems And then I went  back into the hospital. I have I have bladder   [36:28] cancer and compound matters. I also take blood  thinners because I have an artificial valve. And   [36:34] so when I when they go in, not to be indelicate,  but when they go in to straighten my bladder,   [36:41] I get I get blood clots that shed. And so I'm  constantly going in and out of the hospital.   [36:48] When that happens, I just Okay, thank you. I  think we've got the background. City manager,   [36:54] any further comments? So, um, what I do know is  that, uh, typically when, uh, they do go out,   [37:00] our cso does try to go out and and knock first,  uh, in particular when we're dealing with junk and   [37:06] and junk removal. I don't know the full process  on on on the grass. Uh but um the 300 322 was   [37:16] more than likely the the first cleanup and then uh  the second one would have been one where if they   [37:21] had knocked then they would not have uh uh had  started. Um, but as for how we make communication,   [37:30] uh, I will most definitely look into that to make  sure that we're we're we're doing our best to to   [37:35] do that, uh, so we don't, uh, you know, create any  unnecessary work and or, uh, create any other any   [37:43] other issues. Um, but uh what I would uh what I  would say is that if if the council does wish to   [37:50] to wave this, they certainly can. Or if they  wish for me to report back and just pull this   particular one out, uh that could also be done.  Or um yeah, that that is completely up to the   [38:01] council. But as for the uh the motion currently is  to remove it completely. But uh as for the uh the   [38:08] actual process, I will uh I'll be talking uh to  the chief on that about uh what what had happened   [38:13] here and uh just making sure that we're we're  doing our best to notify him. But I do know they   [38:19] do put a lot of care, but it doesn't mean that  every single time it it happens exactly the way   [38:25] that we would all like it to. And we do contract  the service out. So there is a certain level of of   [38:31] uh control where the contracted service um it's  going to go out within a period of time but we   [38:38] don't have necessarily always direct control of  the exact date and the exact time that they do go   [38:45] out as well. So um all right any further comments  by the council? I'll just add add your honor   [38:52] Holland. Um I'm I'm not so sure that we should  um be asking our contractors that are doing this   [38:59] work to knock on the doors and you know before  they mow the lawn or clean up the junk and stuff   [39:06] um because they're not city employees or  anything. So um they're just paid there   [39:12] to do the job. They have the contract. So I I  don't know necessarily if they would normally   probably knock on your door just to make sure,  hey, is it okay if I can mow your yard or not?   [39:22] So well I the only reason I brought that Baker is  is you know if if part of the yard was mowed then   [39:30] the lawn mower was out there you know it's just  a courtesy um you know I'm not asking them to to   [39:38] uh you know knock on a door and say hey we're  here to you know just just a matter of courtesy   [39:44] if somebody's coming to m my yard even if I was  paying them it'd be nice to know if you knock on   a door just say here I'm here and then they can go  do their business if nobody answers then they can   [39:53] do go do their business. I don't see a big issue  with that. Council Anderson. Yeah. I I just wanted   [39:58] to say that this is exactly what public hearings  are for. I mean there's many avenues that pe   citizens can redress approach their government for  a redress of their issues and I think it's great   [40:07] that someone stood up with you and I'm glad my  fellow counselors are all receptive to the uh what   [40:12] Paul Harvey would call the rest of the story. So,  city manager. Um, I I would just uh I I would also   [40:21] want to make sure that I do not believe that the  one where they started work and then realized that   [40:27] uh Mr. Connor Okconor was working on it. I do  not believe that that one was actually part of   [40:33] a part of the actual assessment charge. However,  uh yes, it would be very difficult to to councelor   [40:40] Holland's point for us to have a staff person  trail and go along with the people doing the   [40:45] the the yard cleanup uh to make sure some of  these other things are done. It's it's one of   [40:51] the disadvantages to the advantage of having the  the hired contract service. The hired contract   [40:57] service gets out probably a little bit quicker.  Um, and then you don't have the uh the costs uh   [41:03] continuing throughout the wintertime when you're  not uh mowing grass. But the bad part is the lack   [41:08] of control because they are contracted service  and it's going to fit within their larger schedule   [41:14] when they go out. So um but we will certainly uh  see what we can do about uh communication and I   [41:22] think also again uh having that information as  we talked about with that that software may also   help lead to that with uh being able to create a  system of contact uh within this within uh within   [41:33] the program. And I wasn't Mr. Baker I wasn't  insinuating that we need to set see staff out   [41:39] there. Okay. I mean, these con these contractors,  maybe we need to when we contract this stuff out,   [41:46] maybe we need to, you know, put that out there.  Um because they still reflect still a reflection   [41:53] on the city when when this happens in in my view,  right? I don't think that's a good idea because   [42:01] they are contractors and what if they knock  on the door and the person says, "Oh, no, no,   I'll I'll I'll mow it now. I'll mow it now." Then  what is the contractor supposed to do? Should they   [42:10] con continue the the work that they've been um  hired to do or are they supposed to walk away? So,   [42:18] I I generally think that our CSOS do a pretty  good job of handling this beforehand. Now, there   were extenduating circumstances here with health  issues and things going on. We understand that   [42:28] type of stuff can happen and I think you've just  found a couple or the council is is behind you in   [42:34] getting that wave for you tonight. Uh but just so  you know, uh we have some pretty good csos. They   [42:39] do a nice job because we get a lot of complaints  from around the city from different people. Um I   would have to go along with with councelor Holland  tonight and say it's probably sir I can't have you   [42:49] uh speak anymore. Thank you though. Um I just  wanted to say I don't have a problem with CSO.   Yep. Yep. I get that. I get that. All right. So um  I I would agree. I don't think our uh contractors   [42:59] should probably be out being the ones knocking on  doors. Um it's generally handled by the CSOS or   staff before then and so there shouldn't be a need  to do so. So with that, uh, we'll go ahead and,   [43:11] uh, all in favor of the motion as amended, signify  by saying I. I. Oppos? Nay. Motion carries. All   [43:20] right. Item G is a resolution accepting donations  as presented to the city of Albert Lee. City   [43:26] manager. Thank you, honor. Oh, thank you, honor.  Uh, Wells Fargo forclosed on property uh on a city   [43:34] placard property. uh they have a program uh in  place at uh times to devest themselves on these   [43:39] type of properties. In this case, they will donate  the property to the city. They will also cover the   full expense of demolition and clearing of the  lot. City Albert Lee is generally authorized   [43:48] to accept donations pursuant to Minnesota  uh statute sections 46, excuse me, 465.03 [43:57] uh for the benefit of its citizens.  Staff recommends acceptance of the   following donations. Wells Fargo  uh in the amount of $22,839.19 [44:07] to Blight Elimination at 915 Autumn Street.  Additionally, we received $500 in donation   [44:15] from Cheers Liquor to the Albertly Fire Department  that will go towards uh fire safety training for   [44:21] our residents. And then we have um compliance  checks uh or $500 to the Albert Lee Police   [44:28] Department that will go towards uh compliance  checks to make sure that um alcohol, tobacco,   [44:34] and cannabis do not go into the hands of minors.  Councel move to approve, your honor. Motion by   [44:40] councelor Baker. Is there a second? Second.  Second by councelor Holland. Any further   discussion? All in favor of the motion signify by  saying I. Oppos? Nay. Motion carries. Item H is a   [44:50] resolution authorizing new fire alarm system for  the city arena. City manager. Thank you, honor.   [44:56] The recreation department would like to accept  a two-part proposal for a new alarm system. The   inspection department issued a 90-day occupancy  certificate that allows the arena to open to the   [45:05] public in October. The recreation department  would like to have the new system installed   before that temporary certification expires. The  city received two estimates for the alarm system.   [45:14] Uh the winning bid of $85,340.65 65 uh from  Custom Alarm and the other uh bid of $123,574 [45:26] from a uh Ahern. In addition  to the custom alarm proposal,   the recreation department would like to accept a  not to exceed proposal for the conduit of $40,000   [45:38] from Albertly Electric. The custom alarm and  Albertly Electric proposals total $125,340.65. [45:47] purchase does not change the city's position that  inbuilt and its subcontractors are responsible   for a portion or all of the cost. This  expense would be funded from the bond   [45:56] premium approximately uh 612 total available  uh for the 2024 referendum debt issuance   [46:04] uh until receiving any financial contribution from  inbuilt and its subcontractors. Staff recommends   [46:11] approval. Councel moved. Motion by councelor  Holland. Is there a second? I'll second. Second   by councelor Anderson. Any further discussion  by the council? Your honor, councelor Holland,   [46:19] I would just uh um I'm glad that this is  moving forward and uh it's going to get done,   [46:25] but I would uh just ask that uh city staff in  particular the city attorney uh continue to   [46:31] pursue uh reimbursement from inbuil inbuilt and  its subcontractors because uh um I think that's   [46:38] important. Any other discussion? Your honor,  councelor Christensen, I concur with councelor   [46:44] Holland. I would have made the same point as  well. We need to continue to follow up on that.   [46:50] All right. Thank you. Any further discussion and  the mayor would concur with both councelor Howin   [46:57] and councelor Christensen. So we'll continue to  work on that. Hearing nothing further. All in   [47:03] favor of the motion signify by saying I. I. Those  nay. Motion carries. Item I a resolution approving   [47:10] purchase of parks department bucket truck body.  City manager. Thank you honor. Unit two uh four   [47:16] or five is a single axle bucket truck. Uh it's  in the it's currently budgeted for $250,000   [47:22] uh in replacement or for replacement in 2027.  Uh the unit um the the budgeted item or the bud,   [47:31] excuse me, the item up for consideration will  replace the 2008 international single axle truck   [47:37] with a TX bucket body. This truck is projected  to be 19 years old by the time it's replaced.   [47:43] Uh, this truck will not be available until 2027 if  ordered right now. Se staff is seeking to seeking   [47:49] approval to move forward with the 2027 project now  due to the long lead time of the order. The bucket   [47:55] truck will be purchased from Track USA uh LLC  doing business at Track uh Utilities of Watertown,   [48:01] South Dakota under state bid contract. The  price for the new uh truck will be $187,836. [48:10] In 2027, when the new truck and body are in  possession, unit 245 will be sold at minbid or on   [48:18] minbid and the money from minbid shall go towards  the price of the new truck. The estimate, it's   [48:23] estimated that it should earn about $20,000. Staff  recommends approval. Councel move to approve,   [48:29] your honor. Motion by councelor Baker. Is there a  second? Excellent. Second by councelor Anderson.   [48:34] Any further discussion? All in favor of the  motion signify by saying I. I. Oppose. Nay. Motion   [48:42] carries. Item G is a resolution accepting bids  and awarding contracts for the Blazing Star Bike   [48:47] Shelter job 2510. City manager. Thank you, honor.  City of Albert Lee in collaboration with local   [48:52] organizations is proposing the construction of a  new bike shelter to enhance community amenities,   promote active transportation, and support  tourism in the area. The pros project is designed   [49:01] to provide secure cover space for bicyclists  to uh store bikes and take shelter from the   [49:06] elements while using the city's trail system and  downtown area. The shelters also include large   [49:11] maps of local trails and pedestrian paths along  the uh promotions of festivals and events. The   [49:18] uh total estimated uh cost with contingencies is  $71,196.88. Funding commitments for the project   [49:26] include uh $51,000 from the Albert Lee Trails  Association, uh $8,500 from Statewide Health   [49:34] Improvement Partnerships or SHIP, $7,500 from  the Convention and Visitors Bureau, the CVB.   [49:41] These contributions total 67,000. The remaining  $4,196.88 will be raised by the Freeborn County   [49:48] Trail Association and the Albert Lee Area Cyclist  if needed. This project represents a collaborative   [49:54] community effort to improve local recreation  infrastructure and encourage both residents and   [49:59] visitors to explore Albert Lee by bike. Staff  recommends approval. Councel move to approve,   [50:05] your honor. Motion by councelor Anderson. Is  there a second? Second by councelor Christensen.   Is there any discussion? Baker. I just want  to say because I work out at Daryl and I've   [50:14] been dealing with him, I have to abstain from  this. Um, one thing that I would like to to say,   [50:20] um, every day we get, uh, notices from our  distributors and stuff about the material and   [50:25] things going up because of the tariffs and stuff.  So, this is this is estimate is is now. I don't   [50:32] know what it's going to be like in the in the  spring. I'm assuming they're waiting till spring   to do it. So, I just want to put that out there.  Okay. Thank you. Any further discussion? Hearing [50:48] none. All in favor of the motion signify by saying  I. I. I. Abstain. Abstain. All those against   [50:57] signify by saying nay. Motion carries. Item K is  a resolution authorizing development agreement and   [51:04] lease of 610 Fourth Street. City manager. Thank  you, honor. Staff received a proposal from Kingdom   [51:10] Homes LLC to build a single family, three-bedroom,  one-bath home on a slab foundation. This property   [51:16] was part of the request for proposals sent out and  received in April of 2025. City manager requests   [51:22] authority to sign a development agreement similar  to those for GFY and Turning Point Real Estate in   [51:29] order to build affordable workforce housing.  Um what I'd like to do is is uh if I may,   [51:34] your honor, just uh address a little bit of some  um uh public comments or concerns that have been   brought up about why the city participates in  this. If I may go ahead. Thank you. Uh I'd like   [51:45] to note um again some people are concerned  or wondering why the city is offering free   land and incentives for housing. Uh first I'd like  to say it's not for just a select few uh people,   [51:54] but for anyone who is going to build uh new homes  uh in particular on lots that have been empty for   [52:00] a long time or were significantly blighted and in  need of demolition or redevelopment very recently.   [52:06] Uh they would not have to be a it does not always  have to be a city lot as long as the lot uh has   [52:12] been empty or has been or is also an infill lot to  receive the incentives. So why is this a good use   [52:19] of the taxpayers and utility users dollars? First,  sitting empty creates no value or tax base that   [52:26] is passed on to the other taxpayers over a long  period of time. Same goes for utility use. Second,   [52:32] if the city was has to maintain an empty lot,  that takes away from parks and other maintenance   uh for the uh for the public and it also increases  expenses on the taxpayer. Third, it is targeted to   [52:44] infill. So it maximizes the use of existing  infrastructure that otherwise again is paid   for by all other taxpayers and utility users if  there is not a taxpayer utility user in front of   [52:55] that infrastructure. Uh and last we have a housing  shortage to which employers are busting workers in   [53:01] to keep operations going to keep production  going. We are at a disadvantage in Albertly   [53:07] because construction is nearly the same cost as it  is 60 miles north, east or south of us. Yet their   [53:14] housing prices are higher and therefore the profit  for a developer is greater to build there than it   [53:20] is here. So therefore we have to tip the scales  in our favor and this is one of the many ways in   [53:25] which we are attempting to try to do that uh to  again maximize and uh maximize long-term the tax   [53:33] impact on the people who are here and uh maximize  the impact on our utility rates with that your   [53:40] honor. Staff recommends approval. Councel move to  approve your motion by councelor Baker. Is there a   second? Second. Second by councelor van beek. Any  further discussion? I just Baker I just want to   [53:50] say uh thank you to Mr. Motorman for u joining  the club of uh moving forward to try to get uh   [53:57] close the housing shortages that we have in this  community there there's um there's other people   [54:02] in this uh community that uh the city the Alita  um and the H is trying to do their part in this   [54:11] too. So um welcome to the party Mr. Morman.  Thank you. Any further discussion? Councelor   [54:18] Christensen. Thank you, your honor. I want to  thank the city manager for that good explanation.   I think it's good that we remember why we're  doing some of these things and the infill   [54:28] housing I think is is a really it's a win for the  city and our residents. Any further discussion? [54:38] I would just like to state some of the same  things. This is very important. These lots are   sitting empty right now. They're not doing the  city any good. If we can get a house on these   [54:45] lots, it's going to take care of a couple things.  one, our employers are are needing housing badly.   [54:52] Um, we've got a lot of employees that we'd  like to get moved into town here and uh we   [54:57] can't do that until we build some more housing.  So, this is going to help that out. In addition,   it's going to start with u some more tax base  for the city on lots that held a home many many   [55:06] years ago but do not at the current time. So,  I think it's a great use for these lots and uh   I I I commend Mr. Modman for working on this  and anybody else that's working on it. Also,   [55:17] um I will also add that I will be abstaining from  this vote as I'm helping Mr. Mtoman work on some   [55:22] of his financing. So, we'll be abstaining on  this vote with that. All your honor. Sorry.   [55:28] How? Uh just one question. So, this is a new home  build. So, um uh the uh property owner that ends   [55:38] up purchasing this property, will they be eligible  for tax abatement then too? city manager. Uh that   [55:44] has not been part of uh any of the agreements uh  to date that uh we we have talked about. Uh and   [55:52] um typically what we're looking at here is one  where uh the person is building with the intent of   [55:58] selling. So there is no benefit uh for the builder  at that time to provide to take the tax incentive.   [56:05] Typically, that's going to be someone who  builds and lives in, which typically that   also is probably not going to trigger the  incentive because the other aspect of the   [56:14] incentive is to try to hold down some of the costs  and the prices so that way the the homes can be   [56:19] uh more affordable for average uh or area median  income. Yeah. Thanks. All right. All in favor of   [56:27] the motion signify by saying I. I stayain. All  against signify by saying nay. Motion carries.   [56:35] Item nine is mayor and council reports and we'll  start tonight with ward 4. Councelor Olsen. All   [56:41] right. No real word or no meetings to speak of.  Uh just a couple wams went and went and met with   [56:48] a couple residents over the last couple weeks and  kind of looked around. I think I got them kind of   [56:54] pointed in the right direction for for what they  needed and who they needed to contact to get their   [56:59] issues taken care of for them. Other than that,  that's it, your honor. All right. Ward five,   Councelor Van Beek. Thank you, your honor.  Um, just got one court item that came up   [57:08] today. I'll be handing that off to uh Chief  Hansen the next couple days here. Um, Tuesday,   [57:13] October 29th, we have the HA meeting and  uh I think that's going to get a little   challenging here potentially with the government  shutdown. Um, this week, Wednesday, November 11th,   [57:24] I have a budget meeting. Thursday, human rights  commission. And then last but not least, this is   [57:33] uh more of a FYI for the public. Um on Sunday of  this week, uh the Nation of Patriots was which   [57:40] is a motorcycle tour of all 48 states. The flag  travels all the way across the continental United   [57:46] States will be uh Bergdale Harley-Davidson  partnered with the Glenville Legion riders.   [57:53] The kickoff will be in May in Albertly, Minnesota  between the Legion in Glennville and Burgdale's   [57:59] Harley-Davidson. And it'll be finally finalizing  in September at Bergdale Harley-Davidson. Wow. Um,   [58:06] this is going to bring a few hundred people  to this area for both of those things. So,   [58:12] it's it's a great thing for our community and uh  we were chosen due to our patriotism in this area.   [58:18] So kudos to everybody involved and we hope to see  a good turnout in 2026. So all right, that's all   [58:24] I got. Thank you. Word six, Councelor Anderson.  Thanks, your honor. Uh, as councelor Vanv says,   [58:30] I have a budget meeting on Wednesday also and uh  at the H meeting last week. Yes, there are a lot   [58:35] of challenges if this shutdown continues. I think  they're working on a a solution uh in Washington   [58:41] as our friend at the public forum was talking how  they can't really seem like they get much done.   But, uh, yeah, we're hoping, we have high hopes  because otherwise they're going to have to borrow   [58:49] from Peter to pay Paul to keep, uh, people, uh,  keep people living in these public housing units.   Not sure how they're going to do that, but, uh,  there's a lot of concerns addressed at the last   [58:57] meeting. Uh, one word item kind of been working  on and I wanted to also mention that the final   [59:02] numbers have settled in for the Relay for Life. If  you remember, I was uh, pumping up the Relay for   [59:08] Life before that happened a lot. And, uh, Relay  in this area raised $37,000. That was really,   [59:13] really cool. Um uh last year they actually raised  40, but this year we were missing a key donation.   [59:20] Mayo typically gives $5,000 to this event and  they were in the middle of a reset for their   [59:25] uh for their charitable uh giving. So uh I I  anticipate that they'll be back on board again   [59:30] next year and uh we can continue maybe to uh break  some records. But that is a tremendous amount of   [59:36] money raised for a for a good cause. And it's  all local people, all local communities, a lot   of business owners donating for silent auction  items. And it's uh that's it's really great.   [59:45] That's excellent, your honor. All right. Thank  you, Ward One. Councelor Christensen. Thank you,   your honor. Uh let's see. There was no planning  commission meeting this month, but we do plan to   [59:57] meet in December. Senior center board will  be meeting on Wednesday and reviewing the   [1:00:03] proposals that have been presented for uh moving  or remaining in place for the senior center. Um [1:00:15] last week uh we um had bonding committee  met at the wastewater treatment plant and   [1:00:23] had an opportunity to talk about the need for  funding from our state government. Uh we're also   [1:00:31] um continuing with budget meetings. Uh last week  we visited regarding sewer, water, and other other   [1:00:38] special funds. I do want to give a shout out to  the United Way and the Council of Churches. A week   [1:00:46] ago, they sponsored Respectful Communications and  it was a packed house. I think they had to take   [1:00:52] some people uh like in reserve. Uh there were so  many people that attended. I think it goes to show   [1:00:59] that our community really wants to um stop the  division and start working together cooperatively.   [1:01:08] It was a wonderful event. Um, also I want to  announce if anybody didn't see it, the lunch   [1:01:15] and learn program is this Thursday uh at noon  to 1 here in the city council chambers. And this   [1:01:26] uh week they're talking about uh pollinator  plantings and it's something that's very near   and dear to my heart. Albertly has changed some  of their u ordinances and we are now allowing   [1:01:37] for these. So come and learn from one of the  experts, a coach on the pollinator plantings   [1:01:43] and how that can benefit our environment. Uh also  wanted to say I've been so happy to see so many   [1:01:49] uh green lights out and about in the community uh  in support of our veterans and um so thank all who   [1:01:56] have served as we recognize Veterans Day tomorrow.  Thank you. Board two, Councelor Baker. Thank you,   [1:02:03] your honor. Um, again, we had, as councelor Van  Beek and councelor Anderson talked about, we had   [1:02:11] an H meeting a couple weeks ago. Um, things are  moving forward as far as u moving to to put up a   [1:02:19] house. Um, I have a meeting. Um, I've been talking  to the elderly Alita executive director, Phillip,   [1:02:28] and he's working on putting a meeting together so  we can continue to move this thing forward. Um Um,   [1:02:35] he he'll be letting me know and he gave me a  couple dates and I gave him some information. So,   [1:02:40] he'll be letting me know here probably in the next  day or two. Um, and I also attended the bonding   [1:02:46] committee at the water treatment plant and was  able to talk to a lot of the people. um that were   [1:02:53] out there and and uh quite a few of the bonding  people on the bonding committee. Um so it was kind   [1:03:00] of a nice experience. A lot of people that were  interested in what was really happening with this.   [1:03:06] So um I think uh I think it opened up some eyes.  Um, this week I have an interview uh with the Lisa   [1:03:17] Dunabower who's in charge of uh looking for an  executive director for to to replace um Philip and   [1:03:27] um my interviews in the afternoon on Wednesday.  This is just to give us this is give give the   [1:03:35] board members the opportunity to talk about what  we think that we should uh shoot for and how we   [1:03:42] would like um this to possibly turn out. Um I also  am going to be attending the Aldi grand opening   [1:03:51] Thursday morning and then I'm going to also be  going to the Solar River cutting at Vortex on   [1:03:58] Friday. With that, your honor, that'll do it. All  right, ward three. Councelor Howland. Thank you,   [1:04:04] your honor. Um, like several others on the  city council and uh the mayor, I was also at   [1:04:09] the wastewater treatment plant last week when the  house uh bonding committee was there uh getting a   [1:04:15] tour of the facility. The mayor did a fantastic  job repres representing Albert Lee and stressing   [1:04:20] the importance of uh this uh 100 million dollar  project for the city and uh I think it helps   [1:04:26] that he has those connections up in St. Paul as a  former uh state representative, our former state   [1:04:32] representative. So, um he has those connections  and I think uh that helped. But u uh I tried my   [1:04:39] best. I I spoke to a couple of legislators uh as  they were walking on their way out. I know they   [1:04:44] kind of doing a whirlwind tour and uh getting  a lot of information, but I really wanted to   hammer home uh uh the importance of um uh of this  project and the help that the city needs because   [1:04:56] uh um if uh we do not receive any help from the  state and the majority of this project is because   [1:05:03] of mandates that are being put down by the state.  uh if the city doesn't get help from the state in   paying for this, it would [ __ ] our community,  not only the residents and the sewer rates uh that   [1:05:13] would uh skyrocket, but also our businesses that  rely especially on our uh heavy water and sewer   [1:05:20] users. So, um I I think the legislators at least  that I spoke with, it seemed like they were very   [1:05:26] receptive to it, but um um we'll all see how that  goes when it uh when the vote goes down in St.   [1:05:32] Paul. But, um uh cross your fingers. Um I attended  also last week uh the CBB uh board meeting uh   [1:05:40] where um the new executive director uh uh was  announced. So Conrad Hawinson is now the new uh   [1:05:48] executive director there at the CBB. I think he's  going to do a a fantastic job. Uh there was also   [1:05:54] uh some uh conversation at that uh meeting as well  and I know we talked a little bit about it when it   [1:06:01] comes to uh permits and licenses with rentals and  the Airbnbs, but uh that's something that the city   [1:06:08] uh doesn't pursue right now is um a lodging tax  on those Airbnbs. um and they're becoming more   [1:06:15] and more popular and um uh the CVB, you know, I  think a lot of those board members were asking,   [1:06:22] you know, could that be another uh source of  revenue for them as far as lodging tax goes?   [1:06:28] Uh because right now the CBB is is funded through  revenue through a lodging tax that basically just   [1:06:34] goes on the u the motel and towns. So, um, so  that may be something that we as a city want to,   [1:06:42] uh, to look into. Uh, other than that, um, this  week, uh, no park and wreck board meeting, uh,   [1:06:51] is it the Aldi's grand opening this week? Yeah.  So, I'll be there at that. I think that's is that,   uh, Thursday, Thursday, Thursday morning. So, so  I'll be there to to get all my fresh fruit and   [1:07:02] and everything else. So, exciting exciting time in  Albertly. That's it, your honor. All right, thank   [1:07:07] you. Um, I started a couple weeks off with the  Alita project review and then, uh, Saturday the 1,   [1:07:13] attended the Rubies Pantry, which they brought  back after about a year and a half hiatus. Uh, we   [1:07:19] were out at the, uh, Freeborn County Fairgrounds  and had over 300 people out there. So, it was uh,   [1:07:24] well received and uh, enjoy doing that. That was  the first time that I'd been part of that uh,   [1:07:29] endeavor. So, uh, they do a nice job. Um along  with councelor Christensen, I attended on Monday   [1:07:36] the 3 the respectful conversations group and as  she mentioned it was a full house and I think   [1:07:41] uh most of the tables there had a nice evening of  chatting and uh staying civil so that was good. Um   [1:07:48] on the 4th I had a city hall tour uh and we had a  bunch of homeschoolers come in and so Carla took   [1:07:55] them through the building and then they came in  and we had them sit up here and we asked them for   a bunch of questions and kind of told them how  city works and all that type of information and   [1:08:04] uh they were a very impressive group. They had  some great questions and uh so we had a good   time with that. Uh and then right after that I  did a video uh with Kathy Melikowski and a group   [1:08:15] why Albert Lee. Uh so we're telling the story  of why Albertly and getting that video out to   to people. On Wednesday the 5th, we had the Alita  board meeting and uh again talking about some of   [1:08:25] the projects going on and different things that  we're doing. Uh as Councelor Baker mentioned,   uh Eliza Dunbower uh from DDA uh will be meeting  with us here uh Wednesday uh to start going   [1:08:36] through what we're looking for in a new executive  director. Uh what what types of things does the   city need to see? This is a very very important  position. So we've got a lot of work to do on   [1:08:45] that. We've got to keep this momentum going  on what we've been doing here over the past   several years. And then on the fifth, Councelor  Holland, you couldn't have said it much better.   [1:08:54] Very eloquent with the House Bonding Committee,  and I think uh you summed it up very well. I think   [1:08:59] we had a great meeting with them. The state  has got to come through and help us with some   of this because it's the state's mandate that's  costing half of this money. Around $40 million,   [1:09:09] I believe, is because of the phosphorus mandate.  Um, so we're looking to the state for some bonding   [1:09:14] help and we'll keep continue to talk with the  legislators, but I do feel as you do, uh, that   [1:09:20] we were received pretty well, uh, on Wednesday  night when they were here. And then on Thursday,   I went to St. John's on Luther Place and I gave a  presentation to a number of senior citizens. They   [1:09:29] want to know what's going on in the city. So  I had an hour session with them. We had a good   time. And uh, that was at Luther Blaze. And then  on Friday, I went to St. John's Eagle View and uh   [1:09:39] we had about 60 to 80 people at that one. It was  a nice crowd and uh spent an hour a little better   [1:09:45] with them also. A lot of great questions, a lot of  interaction and and saw a lot of people that have   been important part of this community for many  many many years. And so anyway, had a great time   [1:09:54] out there. Uh I think we'll be doing the other  nursing homes sometime here over the next couple   months, but uh just getting out and and spreading  the story on what's going on in Albert Lee. And   [1:10:03] then on Friday also I went down uh to the fire  hall and uh listened in on a little bit of the   [1:10:09] community health alliance. Uh the chief lashes  there introduced me and had a chat with them for   [1:10:15] a while and good group and it sounds like some  real uh good things going on uh with that group.   [1:10:20] So good to see. Um Friday evening I attended the  Hollandale uh fall uh dinner up at the Christian   [1:10:27] school up there. And then on Saturday afternoon,  I got to attend the 90th birthday party uh for   [1:10:34] Pastor Milt Ost. And if anybody's been around  Albert Lee for any time at all, you know Pastor   [1:10:39] O. He has been a uh just a real champion of things  going on in Albert Lee and for many, many years.   [1:10:45] I would run into him working with a number of  groups. So, he's looking good and congratulations   [1:10:51] to him for 90 uh for his 90th birthday and for  all the service that uh that he provided uh to our   [1:10:57] community over many many years. And then last um  tomorrow is Veterans Day, honoring all who served   [1:11:04] in observance of Veterans Day. City offices,  recreation, library, and transfer station will   [1:11:10] be closed. So, get out, thank a veteran tomorrow.  They gave uh their service to this country. Uh so   [1:11:18] the freedoms that we have today are because of  the their service. So uh we appreciate that and   [1:11:24] um there will be a service at uh I believe it  starts about 10 to 11 at the courthouse and then   [1:11:30] they're moving up to the American Legion uh for  dinner after that. So if you can partake in any   of those events, uh please do so. And again, like  I said, thank a veteran, put the green light out,   [1:11:40] uh do those kind of things. With that, we'll turn  it over to item 10, city manager report. Thank   [1:11:46] you, honor. Um last uh meeting I was absent. I was  at the ICMA international conference in Tampa. Uh   [1:11:53] there were many things that uh I I learned I felt  were very valuable. Uh certain things that have   [1:11:59] uh I think um not that really necessarily ignite  a a fire or sparked imagination but definitely   [1:12:06] some things that helped um guides uh some of  the items that I'm I'm I'm working towards.   [1:12:13] And uh one very in particular thing that I I  thought was very important as we look towards   our strategic plan and wrapping that up was  a comment and that is the the future is not   [1:12:23] a place we're going to visit but it's a place  we create. Uh and I think that that is is very   [1:12:28] poignant to what we're trying to do here and  what we've been working at here in Albert Lee.   [1:12:34] uh whether it's through what we're going to  produce in our strategic plan or even some of the   uh items that we were taking care of here today  tonight. Um so I'm very excited about some of   [1:12:45] the changes coming up as as uh we had done in the  workshop some of the changes about uh it some of   the things that we're making to try to create uh  more streamlined better communication less siloing   [1:12:55] of of information or access. Uh I've met with  county to go over our uh law enforcement center   [1:13:02] uh agreement and basically that shared space and  the rental agreement there. Um let's see. We are   [1:13:09] I'm hoping to have more on housing coming up or  the next uh next uh meeting or two uh where the   [1:13:15] city might be participating in another way  in which we will fill some vacant lots. Um   [1:13:22] uh let's see. I'm very uh also very excited  about some of the things that Alita is doing   right now and how we are working with Alita  on everything from uh development out into   [1:13:32] the industrial park to other uh potential areas  of redevelopment and uh the mayor and I met with   [1:13:39] uh members of the uh Shell Rock River Wershed  District and uh discussing uh matters as it   [1:13:46] relates to the sales tax and the continuation of  that and what that may go towards. uh there's a   [1:13:51] there's more projects than there are funding,  but uh some decisions will have to be made and   and uh so we're trying to uh uh figure that  out. And then just personally, I would like to   [1:14:02] um in case I not able to do it tomorrow, I'd like  to thank a few veterans that are are my family   [1:14:08] here. Uh Shauna and her son Phoenix uh and my  cousin Neil and my cousin Eric. All right. Thank   [1:14:16] you. Thank you. Item 11 is approval of claims.  A is a resolution approving claims and one is a   [1:14:22] presentation of claims over 25,000. City manager.  Thank you, honor. We have $57,97.90 to Platinum   [1:14:31] Plumbing Solutions LLC. We have $65,159.79  to Municipal Pipe Tool. We have $123,7819 [1:14:43] Inbuilt LLC. This is for City Arena Marian Ross  Theater. We have $125,820 to Inbuilt LLC. This   [1:14:51] is for the Arena Lobby and Aquatic Center. We  have $215,119.32 to ser uh Southeast Service   [1:15:00] Cooperative. This is our health insurance  program for and it's approximately 87%   [1:15:05] employer and 13% employee contribution. 87 or  excuse me $837,925.50 to Inbuilt LLC. This is   [1:15:14] for the wastewater treatment plant facility  solar field. And then we have 1,627,5747 [1:15:22] cents. Inbuilt LLC recreational facilities  project arena refrigeration system. Councel   [1:15:29] move to approve your motion by councelor  Baker. Is there a second? Second, second   by councelor Anderson. Any further discussion?  All in favor of the motion signify by saying I.   [1:15:38] I. Oppose. Nay. Motion carries. Item 12,  adjournment. Move to adjourn your honor.   [1:15:44] Motion by councelor Holland. Is there a second?  A second. Second by councelor Van Beek. All   in favor of the motion signify by saying I. I.  Close. Nay. Motion carries. Meeting adjourned.