Aitkin, MN
Recent Aitkin public meeting topics include resolutions & ordinances, permits & licensing, water & utilities, contracts & procurement, planning & zoning, public safety.
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We have no upcoming meetings on file for Aitkin. The most recent record we hold is from Mon Aug 3, 2026. Newer meetings may not have been published to the official portal yet, or may not have been collected by us yet — this is a statement about our record, not about whether the board or council has met.
Recent meetings
Mon Aug 3, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves new liquor store clerk hire and AFSCME negotiation
The Aitkin City Council approved the consent agenda, hired a new liquor store clerk, authorized negotiations with AFSCME for a limited-duration training assignment, and scheduled a special meeting for election canvassing. No public hearings or old business were conducted.
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable, special event permits, and IRRRB resolution (all aye)
- Approved employment offer to Heather Thomsen as Liquor Store Clerk at Grade SS5, Step 1 (all aye)
- Authorized negotiation with AFSCME for limited-duration assignment of Amy Dotzler (all aye)
- Called special meeting on 11/9/2026 for election canvassing (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
August 3, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Julie Miller, Justin Cartie, Chris Dotzler
MEMBERS ABSENT: Council Member Jason Henke
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, City Clerk Samantha Sass, Terry
Betley
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Correction under Consent Agenda:
‘© PFA Loan added for Fund 330 under City EFT Payments
Addition under New Business:
e Tree Board Update
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Chris Dotzler, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢ Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 7/20/2026
e Accounts Payable (with correction)
o City
o Liquor Store
Special Event Permit; Pumpkin Patch — Event 10/4/26
Special Event Permit; Aitkin County Friends of the Arts BrewFest — Event 9/12/26
Aitkin County Friends of the Arts — Temporary Liquor License 9/12/2026
Special Event Permit; #1YouWe Ripple Effect — Event 8/27/26
e Resolution No. 2026-08-03A COA to Make App & Accept Funds from IRRRB
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Justin Cartie, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
e None.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
* The Bike & Walk Audit had a great turnout last week. The next step in the consulting process, is for the
community to comple …
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Mon Jul 20, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council awards $278,714 sewer lining contract to Visu-Sewer
The council awarded the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Lining Project to Visu-Sewer for $278,714, which was $150,000 below the engineer's estimate. They also approved a Planned Unit Development for a three-unit residential building at 321 4th St NW, denied a parking sign request from Northern Pines Mental Health Center, and approved several other items including a pay request, a zoning ordinance amendment, and a special event permit.
- Awarded sewer lining project to Visu-Sewer for $278,714 (all aye)
- Approved PUD for Life Tyme Properties at 321 4th St NW (all aye)
- Denied Northern Pines Mental Health Center parking sign request (all aye)
- Approved Water Storage Improvements Pay Request No. 11 for $110,295 (all aye)
- Accepted liquor store clerk resignation and authorized posting vacancy (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 421 amending zoning for larger signs in Urban Residential District (all aye)
- Approved Special Event Permit for Toolin Tour Ride at Moose Lodge (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda including grants and permits (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
July 20, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Julie Miller, Justin Cartie, Jason Henke,
Chris Dotzler
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Kat Robb, David & Michelle Jorgensen, Tami Jacobs, Kory
O'Neil, Fire Chief Brian Pisarek
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Addition under New Business:
¢ Special Event Permit —- Toolin Tour Ride
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Chris Dotzler, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢ Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 7/6/2026
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
Financial Reports as of: 6/30/2026
Gambling Permit; NWTF Aitkin Gobblers Chapter; Event 9/26/26
Gambling Permit; Delta Waterfowl; Event 8/14/2026
26.06.16 PUC Minutes
Fire Department — Awarded Compeer Financial Grant
e Storefront & Signage Improvement Grant — Smokey Jake’s BBQ
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Justin Cartie, seconded by Jason Henke. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
e None.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
e None.
OLD BUSINESS
« None.
NEW BUSINESS
e Air Park Drive — Sewer Lining Bid Summary & Recommendation
co Six bids were received and opened on July 8, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. for the 2026 Sanitary Sewer
Lining Project. Visu-Sewer was the lowest bid at …
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🏢 Building at this address: 4 m tall
Tue Jul 7, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council awards roundabout rehab to R&R Landscaping for $7,050
The council approved a $7,050 contract with R&R Landscaping & Construction for the Minnesota Ave S roundabout rehabilitation, funded by a $2,100 MnDOT grant reimbursement and $4,950 from Account 102-43100-408. They also approved replacing a failed library HVAC unit for $18,100, retained the 2015 Jeep for municipal use, waived the $50 sign zoning fee, and approved a $417,345.76 wastewater pay application. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved $7,050 roundabout rehab contract with R&R Landscaping (unanimous)
- Approved $18,100 library HVAC replacement with Larson Plumbing & Heating (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 2026-07-06B retaining 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk for city use (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution 2026-07-06C waiving $50 sign zoning fee through 12/16/26 (unanimous)
- Approved Wastewater Treatment Facility Pay Application No. 8 for $417,345.76 (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including write-in vote counting resolution and event permits (unanimous)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
July 6, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Julie Miller, Justin Cartie
MEMBERS ABSENT: Council Members Jason Henke, Chris Dotzler
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Terry Betley, Tami Jacobs,
and one unknown member of the public.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Justin Cartie, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion carried
with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
e Minutes —- Regular Council Meeting 6/15/2026
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
e@ 26.05.19 PUC Minutes
© Resolution 2026-07-06A Governing Write-in- Vote Counting
e Gambling Permit; MN Deer Hunters Association; Event 8/29/26
e Special Event Permit; National Night Out — Event 8/4/26
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Julie Miller, seconded by Justin Cartie. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
¢ Proclamation — Declaring July 1, 2026 to be Minnesota Women of Today Founders Day in Aitkin.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
¢ City Council Filings open July 14" through July 28".
e The new Water Tower went online on June 22"4 and there have been 3 leaks. With the increase in
water pressure, water leaks will come to the surface and will find weak spots sooner.
OLD BUSINESS
e None.
NEW BUSINESS
e Roundabout Rehab Project
co The rou …
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Mon Jun 15, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves $7,350 geotechnical study for pedestrian bridge replacement
The Aitkin City Council approved a $7,350 geotechnical investigation for the City Park pedestrian bridge replacement, funded from the Park Capital Fund. They also authorized bids for the Air Park Drive sanitary sewer lining project and approved a temporary road closure for a re-roof project at the Depot Museum. The council approved the consent agenda, including a new street department hire and nine liquor license renewals, and closed the meeting for the annual review of the city administrator.
- Approved $7,350 geotechnical services quote from ITT for pedestrian bridge project (all aye)
- Authorized bids for Air Park Drive Sanitary Sewer Lining Project (all aye)
- Approved road closure for Stronghouse re-roof project at Depot Museum, 6/18-7/8/26 (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda including street department hire and 9 liquor license renewals (all aye)
- Approved Resolution No. 2026-06-15A after closed session (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
June 15, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Jason Henke, Julie Miller, Justin
Cartie, Chris Dotzler
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Fire Chief Brian Pisarek,
Phil Martin, Kat Robb
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Addition under New Business:
® Road Closure Request
e MnDOT Project Update
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Chris Dotzler, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
e Minutes ~ Regular Council Meeting 6/1/2026
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
e Financial Reports as of: 5/31/2026
© Temporary Liquor License: Moose Lodge 1060 — Riverboat Heritage Days: 7/31/26
e Street Department Hire
© 2026/2027 Liquor License Renewals (9)
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
© None,
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
e City Administrator Thompson has been in conversation with the school about logistics and
timelines with adding a bus pickup/drop off road at Rippleside Elementary’that would impact the
west side of the walking trail by Woock Field.
e The Tree Board held 2 Ash Tree Community Meetings last week that members of the public and
contractors attended. There is …
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Mon Jun 1, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves two conditional use permits for kennel and business
The Aitkin City Council approved two conditional use permits recommended by the Planning Commission: one for Northwood's K-9 Club on Air Park Drive and one for MTS LLC on Southgate Drive. The council also approved pay requests for water storage and wastewater treatment projects, and authorized a new hire for a confidential secretary position. No public hearings were held.
- Approved CUP for Northwood's K-9 Club (unanimous)
- Approved CUP for MTS LLC (unanimous)
- Approved Water Storage Improvements Pay Request No. 10 for $228,000 (unanimous)
- Approved WWTF Pay Application No. 7 for $191,031.85 (unanimous)
- Approved employment offer to Heather Yaunick as Confidential Secretary/Records Technician (unanimous)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
June 1, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Jason Henke, Julie Miller, Justin
Cartie, Chris Dotzler
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Tami Jacobs, Terry Betley, Police Chief Colter Riedel,
Jeff Hrdlichka, Stephanie Mollet
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Addition:
e Downtown Worm Infestation Discussion under New Business
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Justin Cartie, seconded by Julie Miller. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
e Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 5/18/2026
e Accounts Payable
o. City
o Liquor Store
Special Event Permit; Rosallini Duck Races — 8/1/26
Resolution No. 2026-06-01B Off-Site Gambling/Aitkin Quarterbacks -- Event: 10/26/26
26.04.21 PUC Minutes
Special Event Permit; MMFCU Riverboat Days Medallion Hunt — 7/27-7/3 1/26
© Special Event Permit; Paddle Your Glass Off — 6/13/26
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
e Thank you to the Chamber for a great Memorial Day Weekend.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
e City Council has been invited to Aitkin County’s Health & Human Services Public Ceremony on
Wednesday, June 10",
e Anemployment offer will be extended to Allan Seefeld for the Street Maintenan …
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Mon May 18, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves nuisance abatement order for 424 3rd Ave NE
The Aitkin City Council approved a resolution authorizing the city to seek court authority to clean up a nuisance property at 424 3rd Ave NE if the owner stops making progress. The council also approved a $1,500 contribution to a park beautification project, extended a job offer to a street department candidate, and accepted several consent agenda items including grant applications and a special event permit.
- Approved Resolution 2026-05-18A: Notice of Order to Abate Nuisance at 424 3rd Ave NE (unanimous)
- Approved up to $1,500 from park fund for APT Community Partnership beautification project (unanimous)
- Approved employment offer to Riley Backstrom for Street Department, Grade STA3 Step 3, contingent on background check, physical, drug/alcohol testing, and CDL with tanker endorsement (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable, financial reports, special event permit for Senior Day (9/12/2026), and IRRR grant applications for 201 Southgate Dr. and 321 4th St NW (unanimous)
- Approved agenda as amended to add Fire Department Report (unanimous)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
May 18, 2026 , 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Jason Henke, Julie Miller, Justin
Cartie, Chris Dotzler
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Fire Chief Brian Pisarek, Tami Jacobs, Kat Robb
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Addition:
e Fire Department Report under New Business
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Julie Miller, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢ Minutes -- Regular Council Meeting 5/4/2026
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
Financial Reports as of: 4/30/2026
Special Event Permit; Senior Day in Aitkin (Date Changed to 9/12/2026)
Resolution No. 2026-05-18C Authorizing App to IRRR & Accept Funds (201 Southgate Dr.)
© Resolution No. 2026-05-18D Authorizing App to IRRR & Accept Funds (321 4'" St NW)
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
¢ Proclamation: Buddy Poppy Days; Roberts-Glad VFW Post 1787
® Proclamation: Poppy Month; American Legion Post 86 and Auxiliary Unit 86
¢ Mayor Tibbitts attended the RAMS Budget Impacts of Iron Mining Trends and updated the council
on the meeting.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
e = The City of Aitkin Airport was awarded a $1.3 million grant for an Arri …
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Mon May 4, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves $279K water storage pay request and $346K wastewater payment
The Aitkin City Council approved multiple payments and grants, including a $279,110 pay request for water storage improvements and a $346,572.65 application for the wastewater treatment facility. They also accepted a MnDOT active transportation planning grant and a CEDA Rural Capacity Grant with $13,500 and technical assistance. A new liquor store clerk was hired, and the resignation of a police records technician was accepted.
- Approved 2025 audit presentation (all aye)
- Approved ProWest GIS proposal, one-time $19,220.95 plus $2,325 annual (all aye)
- Approved Water Storage Improvements Pay Request No. 9 for $279,110.00 (all aye)
- Approved WWTF Pay Application No. 6 for $346,572.65 (all aye)
- Approved Resolution 2026-05-04B accepting MnDOT Active Transportation Planning Assistance Grant (all aye)
- Approved Resolution 2026-05-04C accepting CEDA Rural Capacity Grant with $13,500 (all aye)
- Approved employment offer to Steve Loscheider as Liquor Store Clerk, contingent on background check (all aye)
- Accepted resignation of Police Department Records Technician, Employee #8 (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
May 4, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Jason Henke, Julie Miller, Justin
Cartie, Chris Dotzler
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Assistant Chief Drew
Boldt, Fire Chief Brian Pisarek, Accountant Stephanie Kinnamon, Ryan Kinnamon, Tami Jacobs, Mary
Reedy
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A.motion to approve the agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Chris Dotzler. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
~
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda: eee
¢ Minutes ~ Regular Council Meeting 4/20/2026 ao
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
© 26.03.17 PUC Minutes
e Resolution No. 2026-05-04A Accepting Donation to FD from the Class of 1963
e Special Event Permit — Dawson Strong Ride; 6/20/2026
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING MAYOR TIBBITTS
Acting Mayor of the City of Aitkin, Jason Henke, presented a proclamation recognizing Mayor Gary
Tibbitts as the Aitkin Chamber of Commerce 2026 Recipient of the Warren Potter Community Legacy
Award, The Aitkin Chamber of Commerce annually presents the Warren Potter Community Legacy Award
to honor individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, dedication, and a lasting impact on the
c …
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Mon Apr 20, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves $30K in loans for Aitkin Motor building repairs
The council approved two $15,000 loans for Aitkin Motor to replace exterior tin, and approved transferring local board of equalization duties to the county permanently. It also approved a zoning ordinance amendment, a special event permit, and accepted a liquor store resignation.
- Approved CBP loan of $15,000 for Aitkin Motor (all aye)
- Approved Store Front Loan of $15,000 for Aitkin Motor (all aye)
- Approved Resolution 2026-04-20A transferring Board of Equalization duties to Aitkin County, Option B permanent (all aye)
- Approved Ordinance 420 amending Chapter 152 zoning code (all aye)
- Approved special event permit for Moose Lodge/Sjaarda Benefit on 5/1/2026 (all aye)
- Accepted resignation of Liquor Store Employee #127 (all aye)
- Approved posting part-time liquor store clerk position (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda including election judges and Scotty Johnson Classic permit (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY !
April 20, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Jason Henke, Julie Miller, Justin
Cartie
MEMBERS ABSENT: Council Member Chris Dotzler
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Officer Daniel Merrill, Fire Chief Brian Pisarek,
City Clerk Samantha Sass, Tami Jacobs, Kat Robb, Terry Betley, Doug Fark, Peter Rollinger, Aitkin
County Assessor Mike Dangers, Attorney Joe Krueger (Virtual)
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Additions:
e Advanced Acquisition — Nuisance Abatement Discussion first under New Business
© Special Event Permit — Moose Lodge/Sjaarda Benefit; 5/1/2026
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Julie Miller, seconded by Jason Henke. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢ Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 4/7/2026
e Accounts Payable
o City ~
o Liquor Store
e Financial Reports as of 3/31/2026
e Resolution No. 2026-04-20B Approving 2026 Election Judges
e Special Event Permit — Scotty Johnson Classic; 5/8/2026 — 5/10/2026
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Justin Cartie, seconded by Jason Henke. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
® None,
MAYOR’S REPORT
e Proclamation — Declaring May 13, 2026 City of Aitkin Arbor Day.
e Mayor Tibbitts, alongside other Mayors in the State of Minnesota, will be signing a letter regarding
their gr …
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Tue Apr 7, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves $640K WWTF payment, $78.5K water storage pay request
The Aitkin City Council approved several payments and purchases, including a $640,303.16 wastewater treatment facility pay application and a $78,565 water storage improvements pay request. They also approved the purchase of a new zero-turn mower with bagger for $17,111.93, authorized disposal of an old mower, and passed two nuisance abatement resolutions. A conditional employment offer was withdrawn after the candidate accepted another position.
- Approved WWTF Pay Application No. 5 for $640,303.16 (unanimous)
- Approved Water Storage Improvements Pay Request No. 8 for $78,565.00 (unanimous)
- Approved purchase of 60" ZMaster 4000 mower with bagger for $17,111.93 and disposal of 2006 John Deere 757 at public sale (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution No. 2026-04-07C Notice of Order to Abate Nuisance at 711 2nd St NW (unanimous)
- Approved Resolution No. 2026-04-07D Notice of Order to Abate Nuisance at 517 2nd St NW (unanimous)
- Approved LMC Insurance Liability Coverage Waiver Form (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including special event permits, maintenance agreement, and pay scale step placement (unanimous)
- Conditional employment offer withdrawn; candidate accepted another position
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
April 7, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Chris Dotzler, Julie Miller
MEMBERS ABSENT: Council Members Jason Henke, Justin Cartie
ALSO PRESENT: Sireet Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Fire Chief Brian Pisarek, City Clerk
Samantha Sass, Mike Hills, Bob Cummings, Tami Jacobs
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
¢ Removal: Conditional Employment Offer
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Chris Dotzler, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
e Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 3/16/2026 (amended)
* Accounts Payable
o City — Addition: 2 payments for AutoSmith
o Liquor Store
Special Event Permit; Senior Day in Aitkin 6/13/26
2026-2027 Aitkin Co, Municipal Maintenance Agreement
Resolution No. 2026-04-07B Authorize App to Klobuchar & Smith FY27 CDS
Special Event Permit; Aitkin Chamber Riverboat Days (7/31/26-8/1/26) *(Road Closure Time
Amendment)
¢ MOA Teamsters (Supervisory) Pay Scale Step Placement
A motion to approve the consent agenda as amended was made by Julie Miller, seconded by Chris Dotzler. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
e Mayor Tibbitts and City Administrator Thompson attended an event at APT which announced their
expansion and opportunities for jobs in our area.
¢ Thank you to the Fi …
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Mon Mar 16, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves $144,255 purchase of two police squads
The Aitkin City Council approved the purchase of two 2026 Ford Explorer Police Interceptor squad vehicles for a total cost of $144,255.38, funded partly by selling two older vehicles for $7,500. The council also approved a resolution supporting a Small Cities Development Program grant application for sewer improvements, a special event permit for Riverboat Days, and a new Teamsters collective bargaining agreement.
- Approved purchase of two 2026 Ford Explorer Police Interceptors with outfitting for $144,255.38 (all aye)
- Authorized sale of Squad #181 and 2015 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk to Aitkin Motor Company for $7,500 (all aye)
- Approved Resolution No. 2026-03-16A supporting Small Cities Development Program grant application (all aye)
- Approved Special Event Permit for Aitkin Chamber Riverboat Days 7/31/26-8/1/26 (all aye)
- Approved Teamsters (Supervisory) 2026-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement (all aye)
- Approved MOA Teamsters Police Chief Wage Adjustment (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
March 16, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Chris Dotzler, Julie Miller, Justin Cartie
MEMBERS ABSENT: Council Member Jason Henke
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Kat Robb, Stephanie Mollet,
Phil Martin, Mike Hills
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
e Addition; MOA Teamsters Police Chief Wage Adjustment
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Chris Dotzler, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢* Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 3/2/2026
« Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
¢ Financial Reports as of: 2/28/2026
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Justin Cartie, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
© City of Aitkin 2026 Small Cities Development Program Application — Summary of Activities
o The City of Aitkin submitted a preliminary proposal for the 2026 SCDP in November 2025 and
has been invited to make a full application for a single purpose grant to provide funding for
public facilities improvements. If awarded the funds would be utilized to assist with
replacement of a siphon segment in the City’s sanitary sewer system, that runs underneath the
Ripple River. The project is expected to cost approximately $1,581,340 and the maximum grant
amount of $60 …
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Mon Mar 2, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves $11,071 Bobcat grader attachment, other purchases
The Aitkin City Council approved the purchase of a Bobcat 84-inch grader attachment for $11,071.09, replacing an outdated 1978 grader, and authorized the sale of the old grader at auction. They also approved a $153,620.76 pay application for the wastewater treatment facility, accepted $27,902.35 for timber sale, and authorized a funding application for a street project. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved Bobcat 84" Grader Attachment purchase for $11,071.09 (all aye)
- Authorized sale of 1978 Fiatallis FG65 grader at public auction (all aye)
- Approved WWTF Pay Application No. 4 for $153,620.76 (all aye)
- Approved Resolution 2026-03-02A accepting $27,902.35 timber sale payment (all aye)
- Approved Resolution 2026-03-02B authorizing FY 2027 Community Project Funding application for 3rd St NW (all aye)
- Approved AFSCME 2026-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
March 2, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Jason Henke, Julie Miller, Justin Cartie
MEMBERS ABSENT: Council Member Chris Dotzler
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Tami Jacobs
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
e Remove: Insurance Renewal, Agen Bob Cummings & Liability Coverage Waiver Form from New
Business
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Justin Cartie, seconded by Jason Henke. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
e Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 2/17/2026
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
e Gambling Permit; Knights of Columbus Bingo; Event 3/22/2026
© Temporary Liquor License: Aitkin Chamber ~ Paddle Your Glass Off 6/13/26
e Temporary Liquor License: Aitkin Chamber — Riverboat Heritage Days 7/31-8/1/26
¢ Temporary Liquor License: Aitkin Chamber — Fish House Parade 11/27/26
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
« Mediation with the Supervisory Group is scheduled for March 6, 2026.
« Interviews for the Street Department are scheduled for March 10, 2026.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
¢ City Administrator Jen Thompson and City Clerk Samantha Sass to attend City Day on the Hill on
March 11, 2026.
OLD BUSI …
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Tue Feb 17, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council adopts 5-year utility improvement plan and submits to MPCA
The Aitkin City Council approved a five-year capital improvement plan for utility projects, including sewer lining, siphon replacement, and street/utility work, and authorized its submittal to the MPCA. The council also approved a $314,000 grant for ash tree removal, a $6,200 liquor store flooring project, and several pay applications. All votes were unanimous.
- Adopted 5-Year Utility Improvement Facility Plan and authorized submittal to MPCA (unanimous)
- Approved $314,000 DNR ReLeaf grant for ash tree removal and implementation (unanimous)
- Approved $6,200 liquor store flooring resurface quote from Janssen Painting & Service, LLC (unanimous)
- Approved WWTF Pay Application No. 3 for $97,862.66 (unanimous)
- Approved Water Storage Improvements Pay Request No. 7 for $250,277.50 (unanimous)
- Approved lease with DPS for Friday driver exam site at Fieldhouse for $500/month (unanimous)
- Adopted SCDP Citizen Participation Plan and scheduled public hearing for March 16, 2026 (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable, financial reports, and special event permit (unanimous)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
February 17, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Chris Dotzler, Jason Henke, Julie Miller
MEMBERS ABSENT: Justin Cartie
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, City Clerk Samantha Sass, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Kat Robb,
Tami Jacobs, Troy Holcomb, Phil Martin
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Additions under New Business: Water Storage Improvements Pay Request No. 7
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Chris Dotzler. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢ Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 2/2/2026
e¢ Accounts Payable
°o. City
o Liquor Store
e Financial Reports as of: 1/31/2026
e Special Event Permit; STAY: Run, Walk & Rally 8/1/2026
¢ Resolution No. 2026-02-17C Renew MMCU CD -0846
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Julie Miller. The motion carried
with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e = Aitkin, MN 5-Yr CIP Utility Improvements Facility Plan
o Phil Martin with Bolton & Menk presented a five-year CIP for utility improvements. The plan
includes five projects consisting of Air Park Drive sewer lining project, Ripple River siphon
replacement project, Third St NW street and utility project, Second St NW and NE utility project
and Minnesota Ave. S utility project. Martil went over the existing conditions of eac …
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Mon Feb 2, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves consent agenda including generator contract renewal
The Aitkin City Council held a routine meeting with no public hearings or substantive new business. The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included minutes, accounts payable, a generator power systems contract renewal for October 2026 to September 2027, PUC minutes, and a resolution authorizing COA to apply for MPA funding on behalf of a property owner. No other decisions were made.
- Approved agenda (unanimous)
- Approved consent agenda including accounts payable, generator contract renewal, and Resolution No. 2026-02-02A (unanimous)
- Adjourned at 6:05 pm (unanimous)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
February 2, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Chris Dotzler, Jason Henke, Justin
Cartie
MEMBERS ABSENT: Julie Miller
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, City Clerk Samantha Sass
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Chris Dotzler. The motion
carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢ Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 1/20/2026
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
Renewal — Generator Power Systems Contract October 2026 to September 2027
e 25.12.16 PUC Minutes
¢ Resolution No. 2026-02-02A Authorizing COA to Apply for MPA Funding on behalf of Property
Owner
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Justin Cartie. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
® None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
e None.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
e Reminder: Next City Council Meeting is on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
OLD BUSINESS
e Council Member Chris Dotzler requested a copy of upcoming Aitkin School Board meetings for
Council Members to attend.
* Mayor Gary Tibbitts asked for City Staff to reach out to Paul Peltier to come to a future City
Council Meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
e None.
PUBLIC WORKS
e None.
BUDGET COMMITTEE
© None.
PLANNING & ZONING
e None.
PARK COMMITTEE
e None.
LIBRARY COMMITTEE
e None.
AIRPORT COMMISSION
e None. …
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Tue Jan 20, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves $15,000 loan for Aitkin Commercial, LLC
The council approved a $15,000 Community Business Partnership loan to Aitkin Commercial, LLC for a capital equipment purchase, following the EDA's recommendation. The agenda was amended to remove a draft lease for further negotiation, and the consent agenda was approved. No other substantive decisions were made; several committee meetings were canceled or reported as drafts.
- Approved $15,000 CBP loan to Aitkin Commercial, LLC (all aye)
- Approved agenda as amended, removing Draft Lease PS0416 for further negotiation (all aye)
- Approved consent agenda including minutes, accounts payable, financial reports, 2026 meeting schedule, and MOA (all aye)
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
January 20, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Chris Dotzler, Jason Henke, Julie
Miller
MEMBERS ABSENT: Justin Cartie
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Tami Jacobs, Kat Robb, Amy Collins
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
e Remove: Draft Lease PS0416 (MN State Patrol / Aitkin’ PD) under New Business for further
negotiation.
A motion to approve the agenda as amended was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Chris Dotzler. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
¢ Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 1/5/2026
e Accounts Payable
o. City
o Liquor Store
e Financial Reports as of: 12/31/2025
© 2026 City Meeting Schedule (Updated to include Easter Holiday)
® MOA-—COA & AFSCME PFML
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Chris Dotzler, seconded by Jason Henke. The
motion carried with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
¢ None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
e None.
ADMINISTRATION REPORT
* Union Negotiations are still ongoing. Mediation with the Supervisory Group is scheduled for March
6, 2026 and still in conversation with the Administration group due to a cancellation.
¢ City Administrator Jen Thompson to attend the Economic Development Association of Minnesota
Conference on January 22 & 23, 2026.
OLD BUSINESS
e None.
NEW BUSINESS
¢ Community Business Partnership (CBP) Loan Application for Aitkin Commercial, …
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Mon Jan 5, 2026
Mayor Council
Council approves 2026 appointments to boards, committees, and professional services
The Aitkin City Council is approving the 2026 mayor appointments for city commissions, boards, and committees, as well as professional services, emergency management, official newspaper, and depositories. The agenda lists the members of each body and the firms or individuals retained for legal, audit, engineering, and financial services. No other business items are listed.
- Appointments to Planning Commission, Airport Commission, EDA, Public Utilities Commission, and other boards
- Retention of Ryan Brucker & Kalis, LTD as city attorney
- Retention of Clifton Larson Allen as auditor
- Retention of Bolton & Menk, Inc. as engineer and planning services
- Designation of Aitkin Independent Age as official newspaper
appointmentsboards-and-commissionsprofessional-servicescity-councilaitkin
📄 From the agenda
Extracted text of the official agenda document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
UPDATED 1/5/2026
Page 1 of 2
MAYOR APPOINTMENTS
Commission, Boards & Committees
2026
*Meetings are subject to change or cancellation at the direction of the Council, Board, and/or the Commission. A
meeting calendar is also posted on the City of Aitkin website www.ci.aitkin.mn.us.
CITY COUNCIL
• Gary Tibbitts, Mayor
• Jason Henke, Council Member (Acting Mayor)
• Julie Miller, Council Member
• Chris Dotzler, Council Member
• Justin Cartie, Council Member
Meet: 1st and 3rd Monday of each month
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Public Library – 110 1st Ave NE
PLANNING COMMISSION
• Gary Tibbitts, Mayor (Chair)
• Trevor Betley
• Mike Hills
• Steve Loscheider
• Mark Jeffers
• David Ashton
Meet: 3rd Wednesday of each month
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Public Library – 110 1st Ave NE
AIRPORT COMMISSION
• Mark Wedel, Aitkin Co. Commissioner (Chair)
• Justin Cartie, Council Member
• John Welle, Aitkin Co. Engineer
• Mike Arnold
• Wallace Frelander
• Jen Thompson, Airport Manager/City Administrator
Meet: 4th Thursday of each month
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location: Public Library – 110 1st Ave NE
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (EDA)
• Mark Wedel, Aitkin Co. Commissioner (Chair)
• Jen Thompson, City Administrator
• Julie Miller, City Council Member
• Jason Henke, City Council Member
• Theresa Smude, Aitkin Co. HRA
• Ed Anderson, Aitkin Co. HRA
Meet: 3rd Thursday, Quarterly
(Jan., April, July, & Oct.)
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location: Public Library – 110 1st Ave NE
A …
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Mon Jan 5, 2026
Council
✓ Decided: Council approves police and public works labor agreements
The Aitkin City Council approved several items, including engineering services for a sewer lining project, a fee schedule update, and multiple labor agreements reached in closed session. All votes were unanimous.
- Approved Bolton & Menk engineering proposal for Air Park Dr. sewer lining ($55,680)
- Approved ORD 419 amending Chapter 33 fee schedule
- Approved WWTF Pay Application No. 2 ($226,827.19)
- Approved updates to Personnel Policy (added Easter Holiday and PMFL)
- Approved MOA LELS Police Officers Wage Adjustment
- Approved LELS 2026-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement
- Approved Teamsters 346 (Public Works) 2026-2028 Tentative Agreement
- Approved consent agenda including special event and gambling permits
📄 From the minutes
Extracted text of the official minutes document (automated extraction — may contain OCR/formatting errors).
AITKIN CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
REGULAR MEETING
AITKIN PUBLIC LIBRARY
January 5, 2026 6:00 p.m.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Mayor Gary Tibbitts, Council Members Chris Dotzler, Jason Henke, Julie Miller, Justin
Cartie
MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
ALSO PRESENT: Street Supervisor Lon Nicko, Police Chief Colter Riedel, Fire Chief Brian Pisarek, Tami
Jacobs, Linda Way
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
A motion to approve the agenda was made by Chris Dotzler, seconded by Justin Cartie. The motion carried with all
voting aye.
CONSENT AGENDA
The following items were included in the consent agenda:
e Minutes — Regular Council Meeting 12/15/2025
e Accounts Payable
o City
o Liquor Store
Resolution No. 2026-01-05A Authorize Payment Prior to City Council Approval
Resolution No. 2026-01-05B Authorize EFT for FY 2026
Renewal Madden Galanter Hansen, PLLC; 2026 Labor Attorney
Annual Update: Data Access Policy for Members of the Public
Annual Update: Data Access Policy for Data Subjects
Special Event Permit; Aitkin Chamber Winterwonderama 2/21/26
Mayor Tibbitts FAA — Letter of Support
e Gambling Permit; Aitkin County Pheasants Forever; Event 3/28/26
A motion to approve the consent agenda was made by Jason Henke, seconded by Justin Cartie. The motion carried
with all voting aye.
PUBLIC HEARING
e None.
MAYOR’S REPORT
2026 Mayor Appointments
o Appointments will remain the same in 2026.
A motion to approve the 2026 Mayor Appointments was made by Julie Miller, seconded by Chris Dotzler. The motion
carried …
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💰 Federal awards (top 1 by amount)
Largest recent federal contract/grant awards to recipients in this city (2023–present), via USAspending.gov.
| $277,426 | S & R REINFORCING INC Department of Agriculture · GAOA REPLACE DEFICIENT TRAIL BRIDGE. |
Source: USAspending.gov (U.S. Treasury) — federal awards only, not city budgets.