City of Brownton
Brownton City Council
Meeting Minutes
March 5, 2019
Mayor Schwarze called the meeting to order.
Resident, Cory Draeger, brought his sewer issues to the council that are potentially caused by the project contractor. The contractor will commence repairs this spring; responsibility will be determined at that time.
Ben Stabenow, Attorney with Gavin Law Office, introduced himself to council. Prosecution costs have increased from $2,500 to $12K in five years, also the case in other cities. Ken Janssen will head up prosecution cases, with Ben assisting. Two new attorneys will be hired to cover civil and real estate cases. The city continues to investigate the county legal team for prosecutions, Gavin hourly rate and requesting a cost cap for budgeting purposes.
Consent agenda was reviewed and approved.
John Rodeberg (SEH) presented the 2019 Feasibility Report. Topics of discussion included increasing bituminous thickness on First Avenue by the county shed, conditions under Fourth Street, and charging the assessment rate at 28%. Resolution was approved to accept the Feasibility Report and call for the public hearing on April 2, 7 p.m. at the Brownton Civic Center.
The city does have some sand bags, however, not enough if there is considerable flooding, we are checking with the county to determine if more bags are available for residents.
Public Works – Snow plowing/removal, pushing out intersections and clearing fire hydrants. Turbo went out on plow truck and the grader had throttle cable issues, together costing the city over $9K in repairs. Currently looking for a ‘snow pusher’ for the payloader.
Police chief – Not opposed to staying with Gavin for legal support, but concerned about experience level. Karl Koford was promoted to FT Brownton Police Officer; council approved his salary to $18/hour. Job descriptions, levels, and pay need will be reviewed for all city positions.
“White Sidewalls” back to the 50’s show is scheduled for Saturday, April 6 at the Brownton Civic Center. Council approved to waive the cost of the liquor license, waive the liquor ordinance and add PD staff to support the event.
Allowing ducks/chickens in the city limits was brought up in January and tabled until March. Council decided to stay with the existing no farm animal ordinance.
Norm Schwarze vacated his position on the Planning & Zoning Committee; replacements were endorsed.
Grocery store building – Order for Abatement was sent to the owner and reply was received; currently awaiting a court date.
Jason Buxcel, owner of Brownton Square Building asked about delinquent taxes previous to him owning it. Council recommended he rehash this with the county.
BABS liquor license was approved for their annual benefit on May 5.
Lions’ liquor license was approved for the annual Fish Fry on March 22.
RS Fiber continues to work on their financing issues.
Wind mill update – The new proposal is to replace it; whole new generator paid by MMPA; more to follow.
Upon motion, meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted by
Ella Kruse, City Clerk
(Published in The McLeod County Chronicle March 13, 2019)
Links:
[1] http://glencoenews.com/category/section/news/public-notices