Columbus City Council Meeting July 23rd, 2025

Friday, August 15, 2025

Areas of Interest (5)

City Council questions excessively high fund balances (165% of operations) and demands more transparency in budget reporting.
LB Carlson auditor reports 'clean' opinion but notes lack of segregation of duties in city internal controls.
Sheriff's office reports rising mental health-related calls, highlighting the addition of an embedded clinical social worker.
Internal theft investigation ongoing at Running Aces Casino involving former employee and $8,700 in unauthorized credit card charges.
High-value theft of marine electronics (approx $8,000) from boat on Two Lane remains unsolved without leads.

Adopt the agenda

Passed5-0

Moved by Janet · Seconded by Jenny

Approve the consent agenda

Passed5-0

Moved by Janet · Seconded by Rob

I don't think I want to be three times over that.
— Janet

City FinanceReferring to the fund balance policy versus actual holdings.

In just the first half of 2025 in the city of Columbus, our deputies have responded to 16 mental health related calls.
— Jessica Slavic

Public SafetyHighlighting the volume of crisis-related police work.

Jim IikdenCPA

Presented the 2024 city audit results for LB Carlson.

1 quote

“I was able to issue what's called an unmodified opinion on the financial statements. It was the opinion you were looking for.”

Describing the 'clean' audit opinion issued to the city.

JanetCouncil Member

Led discussion on city fund balance concerns and budget transparency.

1 quote

“I think that's too big of a cushion to be sitting on.”

Questioning the excess fund balance levels during the audit presentation.

Jessica SlavicLieutenant

Presented Q2 police statistics and department updates.

1 quote

“Having this embedded social worker really just kind of enhances the services that we're already providing.”

Explaining the partnership with Anoka County Social Services.

Matthew BertinaDeputy

Provided detailed reports on specific theft cases and criminal investigations.

Renais Casino18200 block of Two LaneHoward Lake Drive9300 block of Howard Lake Drive167th LaneHoliday Gas StationWest Freeway Drive 15300 block

July 23rd, 2025, 6:00 p.m. - Regular City Council Meeting
August 5th, 2025 - Night to Unite
July 31st, 2025 - Lake Shop Open House
September 23rd, 2025, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. - Sheriff's Office Annual Open House