Litchfield public meetings in 2021

City Council

The City Council discussed the proposed 2022 property tax levy, which features a 4.8% increase following realized savings. The meeting also included a first reading of an ordinance to amend liquor regulations regarding brew pubs and catering.

• Proposed 2022 property tax levy increase of 4.8%
• First reading of Ordinance No. 810 regarding brew pubs, catering, and charitable liquor awards
• Discussion of 2022 budget including a planning/zoning intern and maintenance worker
• Review of 2021 public utility un-collectibles
• Approval of water treatment chemical quotes from Hawkins, Inc.

The Litchfield City Council approved a consent agenda that included a second reading of Ordinance No. 810, which replaces the city's liquor regulations to allow brew pubs, catering events, and liquor awards for charitable purposes. The council also authorized a lease agreement with the State of Minnesota for Civic Arena space at $200 per month, approved new five-year solid waste franchise agreements with Waste Management and West Central Sanitation, and reappointed two members to the Heritage Preservation Commission. A work session on capital improvement planning was tabled to January 3, 2022.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 810 updating liquor regulations (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including claims of $155,074.84 (unanimous)
• Authorized lease with State of Minnesota for Civic Arena at $200/month (unanimous)
• Approved 5-year solid waste agreements with Waste Management and West Central Sanitation (unanimous)
• Reappointed Rick Beecroft and Holly Flemming to Heritage Preservation Commission (unanimous)
• Tabled CIP work session to January 3, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved part-time hires for Liquor Store and Arena (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council met to adopt the 2022 operating and debt service budgets. The council certified a total property tax levy of $3,117,400, representing a 4.8% increase over the previous year.

• Certified 2022 property tax levy of $3,117,400
• Adoption of 2022 General Fund budget of $6,167,895
• Approval of 3% wage rate increases for two employee contracts
• Addition of a street maintenance worker and a planning intern to the general fund
• Resolution to adopt various utility and debt service funds including Water, Electric, and Sewer

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold two public hearings: one to consider amending the liquor ordinance to allow brew pubs, catering, and charitable liquor awards, and another to certify the 2022 property tax levy and adopt 2022 budgets. The council will also consider consent agenda items including permits, chemical quotes, and routine payments, plus an ARPA supplemental distribution and a joint powers agreement with the BCA.

• Public hearing to amend liquor ordinance (Resolution 21-12-253)
• Certify 2022 property tax levy and adopt 2022 budgets (Resolutions 21-12-243 to 21-12-246)
• Lawful gambling permits for Meeker County Pheasants Forever and Litchfield Area Mentorship Program (Resolutions 21-12-248, 21-12-250)
• Approve 2022 water and wastewater chemical quotes (Resolutions 21-12-241, 21-12-242)
• ARPA supplemental distribution (Resolution 21-12-249)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on amending the liquor ordinance and consider several resolutions, including a variance request for 510 West Ripley Street and the Schilling Addition final plat. The consent agenda includes routine approvals such as minutes, financial reports, claims, and licenses. The meeting also covers an airport grant agreement, a financial management plan, and requests from the Litchfield Downtown Council.

• Public hearing on amending liquor ordinance (Resolution No. 21-11-231)
• Variance request by Dave Welker for Juan and Rosa Perez at 510 West Ripley Street (Resolution No. 21-11-233)
• Schilling Addition final plat request by Gregg Schilling (Resolution No. 21-11-234)
• Airport maintenance and operation grant agreement (Resolution No. 21-11-229)
• Lawful gambling permits for Litchfield Area Mentorship Program and Meeker County Ducks Unlimited

The Litchfield City Council held a public hearing on amending the liquor ordinance to allow brew pubs, catering, and charitable liquor awards, but continued it to the next meeting for further review. The Council approved the consent agenda, including payments and licenses, and passed resolutions for a variance, a final plat, an airport grant, staff development, and a downtown grant application. It also authorized selling city-owned properties on East Nelson Street.

• Continued public hearing on liquor ordinance amendments to next meeting (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $182,581.05 in bills and $232,892.12 payment for Phase 2 Generation Improvements (all aye, Kotelnicki abstained)
• Granted variance to Juan and Rosa Perez for garage at 510 W. Ripley St. (unanimous)
• Approved final plat for Schilling Addition (unanimous)
• Authorized execution of MnDOT Airport Maintenance and Operation Grant Contract (unanimous)
• Approved staff development sessions with Tracy Bowe (unanimous)
• Authorized grant application by Litchfield Downtown Council for alley benches and picnic tables (all aye, Kotelnicki and Allen abstained)
• Authorized sale process for city-owned properties at 212, 216, 222 East Nelson St. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a variance request for a garage addition at 510 West Ripley Street, and will review the final plat for the Schilling Addition, an 18-lot residential subdivision. The commission will also review recent council actions on a sign permit and a site plan approval.

• Variance request by Dave Welker for Juan and Rosa Perez at 510 West Ripley Street to reduce side yard setback from 10 feet to 4 feet 8 inches for a 28x28 garage addition
• Final plat request by Gregg Schilling for Schilling Addition, proposing 18 lots and 1 outlot, with future duplexes and apartment buildings
• Park dedication fee of $3,370 cash in lieu of park dedication for Schilling Addition
• Review of council action: special sign permit granted to Jeffrey and Candice Woods at 1163 West Pleasure Drive
• Review of council action: site plan approval granted to Sara Jo Pollock at 815 North Sibley Avenue

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a variance for a garage addition at 510 West Ripley Street and the final plat for the Schilling Addition, both subject to conditions. The variance allows reduced side yard setback, and the plat includes a minimum tree size condition and a recommendation for the City Council to work with the developer on sidewalk and bike path.

• Approved variance for garage addition at 510 West Ripley Street (all aye)
• Approved final plat for Schilling Addition (all aye)
• Added condition for minimum tree size of 2.5 caliper inches to final plat
• Recommended City Council work with developer on sidewalk and bike path

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed assessments for the TH12 sanitary sewer and watermain improvements, consider awarding G.O. Refunding Bonds, and review a certificate of appropriateness application. The agenda also includes routine consent items and updates on high school traffic, Central Park holiday lights, and a dog park fence.

• Public hearing on TH12 Sanitary Sewer & Watermain Improvements proposed assessments (Resolution No. 21-11-222)
• Awarding sale of G.O. Refunding Bonds, Series 2021A
• Certificate of Appropriateness application for 241 North Sibley Avenue (Resolution No. 21-11-223)
• Employment offer via Resolution No. 21-11-221
• Claims totaling $167,275.48 for payment

The Litchfield City Council approved the issuance and sale of $7,355,000 in General Obligation Refunding Bonds, Series 2021A, to refund outstanding 2013A and 2014A bonds, with the purchase awarded to North Securities, Inc. The council also adopted special assessments for the TH 12 sanitary sewer and watermain improvements, approved a consent agenda including part-time employment offers, and denied a Certificate of Appropriateness for 241 North Sibley Ave. Other actions included approving Central Park holiday lighting up to $2,700, authorizing rebidding of dog park fencing in 2022, and directing the mayor to conduct fact-finding regarding G.A.R. Hall agreement concerns.

• Approved $7,355,000 G.O. Refunding Bonds, Series 2021A sale to North Securities (unanimous)
• Adopted special assessments for TH 12 sewer/watermain improvements, 15-year term at 3.4% interest (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,240,353.43 in claims and part-time hires (unanimous)
• Denied Certificate of Appropriateness for 241 North Sibley Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Central Park tree and gazebo lighting up to $2,700 (unanimous)
• Authorized rebidding dog park fencing in spring 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved mayor fact-finding on G.A.R. Hall agreement concerns (Kotelnicki abstained)
• Adopted Post-Issuance Debt Compliance Policy (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a certificate of appropriateness application for 241 North Sibley Avenue, a contributing building in the Historic Commercial District. The commission will also receive information on a SWIF grant from MN Deed and 2022 CLG Grants. The agenda includes approval of the September 27, 2021 minutes, which detail approvals of multiple COA applications for downtown properties.

• Public hearing for 241 North Sibley Avenue COA application
• SWIF Grant from MN Deed – information only
• 2022 CLG Grants discussion
• Approval of September 27, 2021 minutes (includes $8,000 grant approvals for work on Sibley Ave properties)
• No old business or reports

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission denied the application for 241 N. Sibley Ave. because it lacked sufficient information and the previously requested structural engineer evaluation. The commission also discussed a SWIF grant for second-story housing and approved the chair attending a meeting for informational purposes only.

• Approved September 27, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Denied application for 241 N. Sibley Ave. due to insufficient information and missing structural engineer evaluation (unanimous)
• Approved Chair Kotelnicki attending SWIF meeting for information only (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will review routine consent items, including financial reports and claims, and consider Planning Commission recommendations for a special sign permit and site plan review. They will also discuss a liquor ordinance amendment and receive updates on Optimist Park and the Meeker County Housing Task Force.

• Special sign permit request at 1163 West Pleasure Drive (Resolution No. 21-10-209)
• Site plan review at 815 North Sibley Avenue (Resolution No. 21-10-210)
• Liquor ordinance amendment considerations
• Optimist Park update
• Meeker County Housing Task Force report

The Litchfield City Council approved a special sign permit for a subdivision entrance sign at 1163 West Pleasure Drive, granted site plan approval for a new building at 815 North Sibley Avenue, and approved concrete and press box improvements at Optimist Park. The council also set a public hearing for November 15, 2021, to consider amending the liquor ordinance to allow brew pub licensing, catering events, and charitable liquor awards. All votes were unanimous among present members.

• Approved special sign permit for Jeffrey and Candice Woods at 1163 West Pleasure Drive (unanimous)
• Granted site plan approval to SJP Properties LLC for 815 North Sibley Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Optimist Park concrete and press box improvements with $215,000 project budget (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Nov 15, 2021 on liquor ordinance amendments (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $302,672.93 in claims (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will consider two new business items: a special sign permit for a residential subdivision entrance sign at 1163 West Pleasure Drive, and a site plan review for a new 4,050-square-foot building to expand SJP Designs at 815 North Sibley Avenue. The commission will also review actions taken by the City Council on previously recommended variances and conditional use permits.

• Special sign permit request for a subdivision entrance sign at 1163 West Pleasure Drive
• Site plan review for a new 4,050 sq ft building for SJP Designs at 815 North Sibley Ave
• Review of Council actions: variance granted at 428 South Yale Ave, lot split and CUP at 403 East Ripley St, site plan and variances at 602 US Highway 12 East

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a site plan for a new building at 815 North Sibley Avenue to expand SJP Designs, subject to conditions including permits and utility plans. They also recommended approval of a special sign permit for a residential subdivision entrance sign at 1163 West Pleasure Drive, with a condition that the sign be kept in good repair. The meeting was adjourned at approximately 5:46 p.m.

• Recommended approval of site plan for new building at 815 North Sibley Avenue for SJP Designs expansion, subject to conditions (sign permit, adherence to plan, grading plan, impervious surface calculations, MnDOT permit for TH 12 access, utility plan, and owner obtaining permits).
• Recommended approval of special sign permit for residential subdivision entrance sign at 1163 West Pleasure Drive, subject to condition that the sign be kept in good repair.
• Approved minutes of the September 13, 2021, meeting.
• Noted that Commissioner Woods recused himself from the sign permit item.
• Scheduled next meeting for Monday, November 8, 2021, at 5:30 p.m.

City Council

The City Council will review a proposal for the sale of bonds and consider a property offer. The meeting also includes discussions on employment offers for police and accounting roles, as well as proposed cost assessments for TH 12 sanitary sewer and watermain work.

• Sale of bonds (Resolution No. 20-10-200)
• Proposed cost assessment for TH 12 sanitary sewer & watermain
• Employment offers for Accounting Technicians and a Police Officer
• Lawful gambling permit application for LDC Youth Hockey, Inc.
• Heritage Preservation Commission Certificate of Appropriateness applications

The Litchfield City Council approved a $7.91 million general obligation refunding bond sale to refinance 2013 and 2014 bonds, saving about $1.29 million. It also approved the $140,000 purchase of 419 Austin Avenue North for public works expansion, appointed three accounting technicians and a police officer, and authorized engaging Ehlers for Wellness/Recreation Center financing questions. The council granted six Certificates of Appropriateness for historic properties and approved a lawful gambling permit for Litchfield/Dassel-Cokato Youth Hockey.

• Approved $7,910,000 GO Refunding Bonds Series 2021A (unanimous)
• Approved $140,000 purchase of 419 Austin Avenue North (unanimous)
• Appointed Erin Dollerschell, John Sufka, Kristine Kuechle as Accounting Technicians (unanimous)
• Appointed Alex Donnay as Police Officer (unanimous)
• Authorized engaging Ehlers for Wellness/Rec Center financing questions (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Larry Ackerman for 213 N Sibley Ave (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Charles Burdick for 231 and 225 N Sibley Ave (unanimous)
• Approved $6,898,546.35 in claims for payment (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will conduct public hearings regarding applications for several properties on North Sibley Avenue. The meeting also includes updates on the GAR Hall nomination and bench photography projects.

• Public hearing for 213 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 231 North SIBLEY Avenue
• Public hearing for 225 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 205 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 201 North Sibley Avenue

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission approved six Certificates of Appropriateness for downtown facade work, all qualifying for the city's $8,000 grant. Approvals included 213, 231, 225, 205, 201 Sibley Ave N, and 308 Marshall Ave N, with conditions for 205 (door approval) and 308 (SHPO approval). The commission also accepted the GAR Hall National Register nomination and approved a $991.20 payment for bench research.

• Approved COA for 213 Sibley Ave N as submitted, qualifying for $8,000 grant
• Approved COA for 231 Sibley Ave N as submitted, qualifying for $8,000 grant
• Approved COA for 225 Sibley Ave N as submitted, qualifying for $8,000 grant
• Approved COA for 205 Sibley Ave N with condition to submit door make/model, qualifying for $8,000 grant
• Approved COA for 201 Sibley Ave N as submitted, qualifying for $8,000 grant
• Approved COA for 308 Marshall Ave N contingent on SHPO approval
• Accepted revised National Register nomination for GAR Hall and approved payment to Hoisington Preservation Consultants
• Approved payment of $991.20 to Hoisington Preservation for bench research

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider several land-use items, including variance and conditional use permit requests, a tax forfeiture property, and a citizen stop sign request. They will also discuss a Wellness/Recreation Center resolution and a tax abatement update. The agenda includes routine consent items and a proclamation for International Overdose Awareness Day.

• Variance request by Garmon Tipka at 428 South Yale Avenue (Resolution No. 21-9-192)
• Tax parcel and conditional use permit requests by Pete Balbo at 403 East Ripley St. (Resolutions No. 21-9-189 and 21-9-190)
• Site plan review and variance requests by Tim Scott at 602 US Highway 12 East (Resolution No. 21-9-191)
• Litchfield Airport Operation and Maintenance Grant Amendment
• Wellness/Recreation Center resolution (No. 21-9-194)

The Litchfield City Council approved the consent agenda, including minutes, claims of $195,391.97, and a lawful gambling permit for V.F.W. Post 2818. The council granted a variance for a deck at 428 South Yale Avenue, a tax parcel waiver and conditional use permit for Pete Balbo at 403 East Ripley Street, and site plan and variance approvals for a Scooter's Coffee kiosk at 602 East US Hwy 12. It also approved resolutions for a tax forfeit property sale, a fiberglass cow statue in Lions Shelter, an airport grant amendment, appointments to the Wellness/Recreation Committee, and Meeker County EDA assistance for a housing developer. A motion to discuss traffic safety issues in the middle/high school area was approved.

• Approved consent agenda including claims of $195,391.97 and gambling permit for V.F.W. Post 2818 (unanimous)
• Granted variance for deck at 428 South Yale Avenue (unanimous)
• Granted tax parcel waiver and conditional use permit for Pete Balbo at 403 East Ripley Street (unanimous)
• Granted site plan and variances for Scooter's Coffee kiosk at 602 East US Hwy 12 (unanimous)
• Approved tax forfeit property sale for Parcel #27-0503000 (unanimous)
• Approved fiberglass cow statue placement in Lions Shelter (unanimous)
• Approved airport grant amendment and Wellness/Recreation Committee appointments (unanimous)
• Approved Meeker County EDA assistance for housing developer (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three requests: a variance for a deck at 428 South Yale Avenue, a tax parcel split and conditional use permit for a structure move at 403 East Ripley Street, and site plan review with variances for a Scooter's Coffee at 602 US Highway 12 East. The commission will also review a previously granted tax parcel split at 324 W 3rd Street.

• Variance request by Garmon Tipka for a 6-foot side yard setback reduction to build an 8x25-foot deck at 428 South Yale Avenue; staff recommends a reduced 4-foot variance for a 6x25-foot deck.
• Tax parcel split and conditional use permit by Pete Balbo (BNB Rental Ventures, LLC) to move a 24x26-foot structure to a new parcel at 403 East Ripley Street to create a duplex.
• Site plan review and variance requests by Tim Scott for Scooter's Coffee at 602 US Highway 12 East, seeking reduced parking and increased signage.
• Review of council action: tax parcel split granted to Pappy Jammin LLC at 324 W 3rd Street.

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a variance for a deck at 428 S. Yale Ave., a conditional use and tax parcel split for a moved home at 403 E. Ripley St., and two variances plus site plan review for a drive-thru coffee facility at 602 E. Hwy 12. All votes were unanimous. The commission also approved the August 9, 2021, minutes with a correction.

• Approved minutes of August 9, 2021, with correction noting Commissioner Mathwig was absent.
• Recommended approval of variance for an 8' by 25' deck at 428 S. Yale Ave. (Garmon Tipka).
• Recommended approval of tax parcel split at 403 E. Ripley St. (Pete Balbo).
• Recommended approval of conditional use for moving a building to 403 E. Ripley St., subject to conditions.
• Recommended approval of site plan review and two variances for a drive-thru coffee facility at 602 E. Hwy 12 (Tim Scott).

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will set the 2022 preliminary levy and budget, schedule public hearings, and discuss several projects including the Optimist Park canopy, wellness/recreation center, financial management plan, and a Bobcat quote. The agenda also includes a proclamation honoring Anna Euerle as Princess Kay of the Milky Way and routine consent items.

• Set 2022 Preliminary Levy – Resolution No. 21-9-181
• Set 2022 Preliminary Budget – Resolution No. 21-9-182
• Set Public Hearing Dates – Resolution No. 21-9-183
• Discuss Optimist Park Canopy project
• Discuss Wellness/Recreation Center project

City Council

The City Council discussed various capital improvement projects, including updates to the CIP calendar and water meter upgrades. The meeting also addressed appointments for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and police department.

• Approved $225,000 for Optimist Park canopy and backstop projects
• Approved up to $35,000 for fencing, gates, and signage at a new dog park
• Approved Hoisington Preservation Consultants for historic bench and FAQ projects
• Appointed Brett Welker to fill a police officer vacancy
• Reviewed Litchfield Baseball Association's $62,000 commitment to park improvements

The Litchfield City Council approved several resolutions, including the preliminary 2021-2026 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and authorization to seek a cost estimate for a Financial Management Plan. They also approved a preliminary project delivery schedule for wastewater treatment facility improvements, a cooperative agreement for the Lake Ripley Outlet Bridge replacement, and a Quick-Start Capacity and Energy Purchase Agreement with SMMPA. Additionally, they approved salary adjustments for Fire/Rescue, a tax parcel split waiver for Pappy Jammin LLC, and appointed Marion Sechler to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority. All votes were unanimous among present members.

• Approved consent agenda including $210,928.63 in claims and part-time employment offer (unanimous)
• Granted waiver of subdivision regulations for tax parcel split at 324 W 3rd St (unanimous)
• Approved Fire/Rescue salary adjustments (unanimous)
• Approved cooperative agreement for Lake Ripley Outlet Bridge replacement (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary project delivery schedule for wastewater treatment improvements (unanimous)
• Approved Quick-Start Capacity and Energy Purchase Agreement with SMMPA (unanimous)
• Authorized notification to downtown property owners about structural concerns and façade grant (unanimous)
• Gave preliminary approval to 2021-2026 CIP and authorized seeking FMP cost estimate (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to consider a tax parcel split request by Pappy Jammin LLC at 324 W 3rd Street. The commission will also receive an update on joint discussions with the Heritage Preservation Commission. The meeting includes approval of the July 12, 2021 minutes and a review of a previously granted variance and special sign permit for Clark Equipment (Bobcat Company).

• Tax parcel split request by Pappy Jammin LLC at 324 W 3rd Street
• Condition: Tract A must be combined with 303 N Swift Ave after split
• Review of council action: variance and special sign permit granted to Clark Equipment at 519 Aspen Drive
• Update on HPC/PC joint meeting discussions

The Planning Commission approved a tax parcel split request by Pappy Jammin LLC for 324 W 3rd Street, with the condition that the newly created Tract A be combined with 303 N Swift Ave and documentation provided to City Hall. The commission also discussed compliance communication with the City Council and noted that a joint committee with the Heritage Preservation Commission has ceased meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved tax parcel split for Pappy Jammin LLC at 324 W 3rd St, subject to combining Tract A with 303 N Swift Ave (all present voted aye)
• Approved minutes of July 12, 2021 meeting (all present voted aye)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 2, 2021. The agenda includes consent items (minutes, claims, licenses, routine matters) and several business items: a police officer appointment, discussions on Optimist Park, a dog park, the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), and wellness/recreation matters. The council will also make appointments to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and Library Board.

• Police officer appointment
• Optimist Park discussion
• Dog park discussion
• Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) review
• Appointments to HRA and Library Board

The Litchfield City Council approved a commitment to Optimist Park improvements totaling approximately $225,000, including a canopy and backstop, with the Litchfield Baseball Association contributing $62,000. The council also approved a dog park with fencing, gates, signage, and water service not to exceed $35,000, and appointed Brett Welker as a police officer. Several other routine items were approved, including consent agenda, part-time employment offers, and a library board appointment.

• Approved Optimist Park improvements (canopy and backstop) totaling ~$225,000 (unanimous)
• Approved dog park fencing, gates, signage, water service not to exceed $35,000 (unanimous)
• Appointed Brett Welker as police officer (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $992,165.23 in claims (unanimous)
• Approved part-time employment offers for Golf Course and Liquor Store (unanimous)
• Approved Hoisington Preservation Consultants proposal for history benches ($991.20) (unanimous)
• Approved Hoisington Preservation Consultants proposal for preservation FAQs ($6,218.00) (unanimous)
• Appointed Loriee Barnes to Library Board (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission is meeting to handle routine business: approving June minutes, reviewing bench photos and narratives, and selecting up to 15 topics for a frequently asked questions document. No public hearings or new business are scheduled.

• Approve minutes from June 28, 2021 meeting
• Discuss bench photos and narratives from Historic Context Report
• Select up to 15 topics for FAQ document
• Next meeting set for August 23, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved the June 25, 2021 minutes as submitted. Members completed a tally of bench photos and narratives from the Historic Context Report, and discussed a tally of Certificate of Appropriateness requests from 2018-2021. No new business or reports were presented.

• Approved June 25, 2021 minutes (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider a variance and special sign permit for Clark Equipment (Bobcat Company) at 519 Aspen Drive, discuss nuisance property enforcement, receive updates on wastewater treatment and the wellness/recreation center survey, and plan a CIP town hall meeting. The agenda also includes routine consent items like insurance renewals and licenses.

• Variance and special sign permit request by Clark Equipment, dba Bobcat Company at 519 Aspen Drive (Resolution No. 21-7-153)
• Business assistance request from Dave Tysk
• Nuisance property enforcement discussion
• Wastewater treatment update
• Wellness/Rec Center survey discussion

The Litchfield City Council established a committee to review a business assistance application from David Tysk, president of Litchfield Opportunity Zone, Inc., for two 30-unit apartment complexes. The committee will include three council members, county commissioners, and financial consultants, and will update cost calculations. The council also declared a property at 338-400 US Hwy 12 a nuisance, approved a variance and special sign permit for Clark Equipment at 519 Aspen Drive, and authorized a 2022 state capital budget request for wastewater infrastructure related to the First District expansion.

• Established a committee to review the Litchfield Opportunity Zone business assistance application (Resolution 21-7-156).
• Declared exterior storage at 338-400 US Hwy 12 a nuisance, ordering abatement within 30 days (Resolution 21-7-154).
• Granted a variance and special sign permit to Clark Equipment, dba Bobcat Company, at 519 Aspen Drive (Resolution 21-7-153).
• Authorized submission of a 2022 Capital Budget request to the State of Minnesota for wastewater infrastructure assistance (Resolution 21-7-157).
• Approved the Consent Agenda, including liquor liability insurance renewal ($3,240) and property/casualty/liability insurance renewal ($309,112 plus $17,915 umbrella) (Resolution 21-7-155).
• Approved placement of a Songs of Summer banner across Highway 12 (Resolution 21-7-158).
• Proclaimed August 3, 2021 as National Night Out in Litchfield; no formal action taken.
• Discussed the Wellness/Recreation Center survey and CIP Town Hall meeting; no formal action taken.

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission is meeting to hold a public hearing on a variance and special sign permit request from Clark Equipment (Bobcat Company) at 519 Aspen Drive, seeking to exceed signage size and height limits after a campus expansion. The commission will also discuss self-storage in commercial districts and receive an update on joint Historic Preservation Commission/Planning Commission discussions.

• Public hearing: Bobcat Company requests 4 variances for signage at 519 Aspen Drive (permanent sign 199 SF vs 100 SF max; height 27.5 ft vs 25 ft max; temporary 'Now Hiring' sign 300 SF vs 36 SF max; height 28 ft vs 5 ft max)
• Special Sign Permit request to allow temporary 'Now Hiring' sign to remain indefinitely
• Discussion on allowing self-storage in commercial districts
• Update on HPC/PC joint meeting discussions
• Review of council action: Conditional Use Permit granted to Troy & Rebecca Bruning at 831 Ames Avenue for moving a shed older than 10 years

The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a variance and special sign permit for Clark Equipment, dba Bobcat Company, at 519 Aspen Drive, with staff-recommended conditions. The request supports exterior signage for the expanded campus and a temporary hiring sign. The recommendation will go to the city council for final action.

• Approved the minutes of the June 14, 2021, meeting.
• Recommended approval of the variance and special sign permit for Bobcat Company at 519 Aspen Drive, with conditions.
• Discussed self-storage in commercial districts; no action taken, pending comprehensive plan review.
• Discussed code enforcement issues, including a property on East Highway 12 slated for possible abatement on July 19.
• Noted the next meeting is scheduled for August 9, 2021.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider several business items, including Central Community Transit, the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), an emergency declaration, a joint powers agreement for community education, and a variance for 428 S. Yale. The agenda also includes consent agenda items such as claims, licenses, and routine resolutions, as well as commission recommendations for certificates of appropriateness.

• Ordinance No. 809 – Resolution No. 21-7-143 (second reading)
• Lawful Gambling Permit – Kiwanis Club of Litchfield – Resolution No. 21-7-129
• 2021-2022 Airport Liability Insurance Renewal – Resolution No. 21-7-140
• 2021-2022 Workers Compensation Insurance Renewal – Resolution No. 21-7-141
• Variance for 428 S. Yale

The Litchfield City Council approved $17,500 in 2022 funding for the Central Community Transit bus program, with Council Member Mathwig abstaining due to a conflict of interest. The council also voted to remove the local COVID-19 emergency management declaration, effective immediately, and scheduled a July 26 open house for public feedback on the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). All other items on the consent agenda and commission recommendations were approved unanimously.

• Approved $17,500 for Central Community Transit 2022 funding (6-0-1, Mathwig abstained)
• Removed COVID-19 emergency management declaration (unanimous)
• Scheduled July 26 open house for CIP public review (unanimous)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 809 on grass/weed maintenance standards (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Greater Litchfield Opera House, 136 N. Marshall Ave. (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Sweet Escape, 226 Sibley Ave. North (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to Community Education Joint Powers Agreement with ISD 465 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $8,308,532.26 in bills, gambling permit, and insurance renewals (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on Certificate of Appropriateness applications for 226 North Sibley Avenue and 136 North Marshal Avenue, then vote to approve, defer, or deny each. The commission will also discuss a second CLG grant, an RFP for that grant, bench photos, HF560, and an HPC/Planning Commission appointment.

• Public hearing for 226 North Sibley Avenue (contributing property in Historic Commercial District)
• Public hearing for 136 North Marshal Avenue
• Discussion of second CLG grant approved by City Council
• RFP for second CLG grant
• Review of bench photos (continuing from #4)

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved two applications: one for 226 Sibley Ave N (bulkhead, transom, exterior lights, awning) and one for 136 Marshall Ave N (rain gutters), both qualifying for the city's facade grant. The commission also appointed Holly Flemming to the HPC/Planning Commission committee after Kevin Hovey resigned. No other substantive decisions were made; the CLG grant and bonding bill were discussed but not acted upon.

• Approved application for 226 Sibley Ave N (bulkhead, transom, lights, awning) with paint colors, qualifying for facade grant (unanimous)
• Approved application for 136 Marshall Ave N (rain gutters), qualifying for facade grant (unanimous)
• Appointed Holly Flemming to HPC/Planning Commission committee (unanimous)
• Approved May 24, 2021 minutes as submitted (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to Chapter 91 (Health and Sanitation: Nuisances) and consider several routine items, including license renewals, a conditional use permit, and a noise variance request. The agenda also includes discussions on a dog park, street maintenance, water conservation, a lot purchase offer, and golf course considerations.

• Public hearing on amendments to Codified Ordinances Chapter 91: Health and Sanitation: Nuisances (Resolution No. 21-6-132)
• Conditional Use Permit for Troy & Rebecca Bruning at 831 Ames Avenue (Resolution No. 21-6-131)
• Muddy Cow Noise Ordinance Variance Request (Resolution No. 21-6-130)
• Liquor/3.2% Malt Liquor On-Sale License Renewals
• Lawful Gambling Permit for Kiwanis Club of Litchfield (Resolution No. 21-6-129)

The Litchfield City Council approved a $50,000 street maintenance/seal coating project for 5th Street and possibly North Armstrong Avenue, funded by the Infrastructure-Streets fund. It also approved a $125,000 offer for the property at 411 Austin Avenue North, funded by the Infrastructure-Public Works Facility Fund. The council granted a conditional use permit to Troy and Rebecca Bruning for a shed at 831 Ames Avenue, and approved a first reading of an ordinance amending nuisance standards for grass and weeds. Additionally, it authorized a $600 drone video of the golf course, approved a ranking of additional CIP projects, and gave preliminary approval to a CIP calendar for 2021-2026.

• Approved consent agenda including $208,444.87 in bills, liquor license renewals, and a lawful gambling permit for Kiwanis Club.
• Granted noise ordinance exemption to Muddy Cow for July 9-10, 2021 (Watercade).
• Adopted first reading of Ordinance No. 809 amending nuisance standards for grass and weeds.
• Granted conditional use permit to Troy & Rebecca Bruning for a shed at 831 Ames Avenue.
• Authorized staff to meet with Meeker County officials to discuss extraterritorial jurisdiction.
• Authorized staff and dog park committee to develop a plan and report back.
• Approved $50,000 street maintenance/seal coating project for 2021.
• Approved $125,000 offer for property at 411 Austin Avenue North.

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission recommended approval of a conditional use permit for Troy & Rebecca Bruning to move a shed built in 2004 onto property at 831 Ames Avenue where no principal structure exists. The commission also voted to recommend that the City Council explore options to reinstate the extraterritorial agreement with the county and address potential code violations. Additionally, the commission discussed the need for more staff resources for code enforcement and updating codes.

• Recommended approval of conditional use permit for Troy & Rebecca Bruning at 831 Ames Avenue to move a shed older than 10 years onto property with no principal structure (all present voted aye)
• Recommended that City Council explore options with the County to reinstate the extraterritorial agreement and have staff determine if code violations are occurring (all present voted aye)
• Approved minutes of the March 8, 2021 meeting (all present voted aye)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is receiving the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2020, prepared by Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing, PLLP. The audit resulted in unmodified opinions, indicating the statements are fairly presented. The report includes the city's financial position, changes in net position, and required supplementary information.

• Total net position increased by $6,268,804 in 2020
• General Fund unassigned fund balance was $1.5 million (27.44% of expenditures)
• Governmental funds combined ending fund balances were $10.3 million
• Audit reports on federal awards and Minnesota legal compliance included
• No findings or questioned costs listed in the schedule

City Council

The City Council is reviewing the independent audit of the city's 2020 financial statements. The audit found no significant difficulties or disagreements, and management corrected all material misstatements. The auditors recommend continued cross-training of office staff and taking advantage of postponed GASB implementation dates.

• Audit of financial statements for year ended December 31, 2020
• No new accounting policies adopted; no changes to existing policies
• All material misstatements corrected by management
• Recommendation to continue cross-training for office staff
• GASB Statement No. 95 postpones effective dates due to COVID-19

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider a consent agenda that includes routine items like claims, licenses, and resolutions, plus a presentation on the city audit. They will also review a Heritage Preservation Commission recommendation for a Certificate of Appropriateness at 126 Sibley Ave. North and discuss a second CLG grant. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major policy decisions listed.

• Audit presentation (Resolution No. 21-6-123)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 126 Sibley Ave. North (Resolution No. 21-6-125)
• Lawful gambling permits for Litchfield Dragon Goal Line Club and Church of St. Philip
• Accepting statutory tort liability limits (Resolution No. 21-6-119)
• Employment offer (Resolution No. 21-6-124)

The Litchfield City Council accepted the 2020 financial audit report, approved the consent agenda including payments and permits, and granted a Certificate of Appropriateness for property at 126 Sibley Avenue North. The council also authorized a second CLG grant application and approved the City Administrator's performance evaluation. All votes were unanimous among present members.

• Accepted 2020 City Financial Audit Report (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $732,681.03 in claims (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Koch Associates for 126 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous)
• Authorized second CLG grant application for $7,000 with $3,000 in-kind match (unanimous)
• Approved City Administrator Performance Evaluation Summary (unanimous)
• Approved lawful gambling permits for Litchfield Dragon Goal Line Club and Church of St. Philip (consent agenda)
• Approved part-time employment offers for golf course and liquor store positions (consent agenda)
• Accepted statutory tort liability limits of $1,500,000 (consent agenda)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a certificate of appropriateness application for 126 North Sibley Avenue, a contributing building in the historic commercial district. The commission will also discuss old business including the CLG bench grant and meeting procedures, and new business including a second CLG grant, a windshield survey by a structural engineer, and the city acting as fiscal agent for a possible second-story apartment grant.

• Public hearing for 126 North Sibley Avenue
• CLG Bench Grant and Acceptance
• Second CLG Grant
• Council Windshield Survey by structural engineer
• Council – City as fiscal agent for possible second story apartment grant

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a request to replace a door and two windows on a non-public facade at 126 Sibley Ave N, with the condition that the windows be plain double or triple pane double hung in wood, vinyl, or metal clad. The commission also accepted the CLG Grant contingent on notification and discussed a second CLG grant, a windshield survey, and a downtown housing appropriation.

• Approved door and window replacement at 126 Sibley Ave N with amended window specifications (unanimous)
• Accepted CLG Grant contingent on notification (unanimous)
• Approved April 26, 2021 minutes as submitted (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold its regular meeting on May 17, 2021, with a consent agenda covering routine items like minutes, claims, licenses, and an employment offer. The main business includes discussing a temporary street closure for the fire department, a dog park proposal, a cooperative agreement with MnDOT, code updates, requests from Downtown Council and Lions Shelter, a farmers market, snow removal equipment, and a capital improvement plan. The council will also hold a closed session for the city administrator's performance evaluation.

• Temporary street closure request from Litchfield Fire Department
• Dog park discussion (memo included)
• Cooperative agreement with MnDOT
• Code updates (memo included)
• Closed session for city administrator performance evaluation

The Litchfield City Council approved the area west of the water treatment plant off CR11 as the dog park location, following public input on two potential sites. The council also approved several other items, including a temporary street closure for the Watercade softball tournament, a MnDOT agreement for a pedestrian beacon, and a new Farmers Market schedule. All votes were unanimous except for the Farmers Market hours, which passed 5-2, and two items with abstentions due to conflicts of interest.

• Approved dog park location west of water treatment plant off CR11 (unanimous)
• Approved temporary street closure of North Gilman Ave for Watercade tournament with modifications (unanimous)
• Authorized MnDOT Agreement No. 1046651 for Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacon (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for June 21 on grass/weed maintenance ordinance amendments (unanimous)
• Approved two donated downtown benches at 2nd/3rd & Marshall (3 abstentions)
• Approved $2,000 partnership with Lions Club for shelter glass replacement (1 abstention)
• Changed Farmers Market hours to 1-5 p.m. Thursdays, effective immediately (5-2)
• Authorized purchase of snow removal and mowing equipment for airport (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider three applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for properties on Sibley Ave North, along with a facade grant and a CLG grant opportunity. The council will also discuss several business items, including a dog park, farmers market, and a 3.2 off-sale liquor license application for Casey's.

• Certificate of Appropriateness applications for 205, 226, and 301 Sibley Ave North
• Discussion of a dog park and farmers market
• 3.2 off-sale liquor license application for Casey's
• Airport agricultural leases and bench policy
• Tree removal request

The Litchfield City Council approved a series of resolutions, including notifying downtown property owners about the facade grant program, selecting two potential dog park sites for public input, and relocating the farmers market to Central Park with a temporary street closure. The council also approved permits for carriage rides, a community festival liquor license, and airport agricultural leases, while denying a request to remove a non-diseased boulevard tree.

• Approved notification of Downtown Facade Grant availability and requirements (unanimous)
• Approved two dog park sites for further consideration: west of water treatment plant off CR11 and west of Street Department between 4th and 5th Streets (unanimous)
• Authorized farmers market relocation to Central Park with temporary closure of East 4th Street between Sibley and Marshall Avenues (unanimous)
• Authorized farmers market schedule: Thursdays 10 a.m.-2 p.m. starting May 13, 2021, with fee waiver (unanimous)
• Declared Songs of Summer a community festival for liquor licensing (6-1, Mathwig recused)
• Approved carriage ride permit for Erickson Acres Carriage Company, LLC (unanimous)
• Denied request for removal of non-diseased boulevard tree on South Sibley (unanimous)
• Approved airport agricultural leases with Willard Piepenburg and Wigen Seed Farms (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on applications for three properties on North Sibley Avenue (301, 226, and 205). The commission will also discuss old business including a facade grant, cemetery tour, and CLG grant, and new business including administratively approved certificates of appropriateness and a second CLG grant.

• Public hearing for 301 North Sibley Avenue (Robertson Block/Robertson Hospital)
• Public hearing for 226 North Sibley Avenue (Behren's Furniture and Mortuary)
• Public hearing for 205 North Sibley Avenue
• Discussion of facade grant (up to $10,000 per parcel, 1:1 match)
• Discussion of CLG grant and historic context report

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) for properties at 226, 301, and 205 Sibley Ave N, all unanimously. They also approved two administratively approved COAs for roof and glass work. The commission discussed the $8,000 facade grant, agreeing that COA-approved work should qualify for grant funds without tying to code violations, and tabled a decision on a second CLG grant until May.

• Approved COA for 226 Sibley Ave N (sign, windows, doors, graffiti removal) unanimously
• Approved COA for 301 Sibley Ave N (replace broken window) unanimously
• Approved COA for 205 Sibley Ave N (second-story door for roof access) unanimously
• Approved administratively approved COAs for 226 N Sibley (roof) and 301 N Sibley (glass) unanimously
• Tabled decision on second CLG grant until May meeting

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing for the Board of Review and consider several business items, including a city-wide clean-up program, a downtown façade grant, and downtown lights. The agenda also includes appointments to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority and routine consent items like permits and licenses.

• Public hearing for Board of Review at 5:30 p.m.
• City-wide clean-up program discussion
• Downtown façade grant memo and packet
• Downtown lights memo and packet
• Appointment to Housing and Redevelopment Authority (Larry Jensen, term until 5/1/2025)

The Litchfield City Council approved a new Downtown Façade Grant program offering up to $8,000 per parcel with a one-to-one match, capped at $80,000, funded through the Downtown/Heritage Preservation fund. The council also approved a letter to downtown property owners requiring resolution of code violations before grant eligibility. Additionally, the council approved a city-wide clean-up event for May 22, 2021, and approved hanging lights between downtown acorn lights for a two-year trial period.

• Approved Downtown Façade Grant program up to $8,000 per parcel with match, capped at $80,000 (unanimous)
• Approved notification letter to downtown property owners about grant availability and code violation requirements (unanimous)
• Authorized city-wide clean-up event for May 22, 2021, 8:00-10:30 a.m., $25/load base fee (unanimous)
• Approved downtown lighting between acorn lights, two-year trial, May-Oct 8 p.m.-midnight (unanimous)
• Reappointed Larry Jensen to Housing and Redevelopment Authority Board until 5/1/26 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including street vacation of South Geinitz Avenue (Ordinance 808) and lawful gambling permits (unanimous)
• Kept 2021 EMV unchanged for three Harmon Meadows parcels and one other parcel (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on a street vacation and consider several routine items, including licenses, permits, and a downtown façade grant. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items on the consent agenda.

• Public hearing on street vacation (Resolution No. 21-4-71)
• Liquor and tobacco license applications from Shady's No. 7, Inc.
• Gambling premise permit application
• Downtown façade grant (memo)
• Hydroseeder purchase (memo)

The Litchfield City Council approved the consent agenda, including payments totaling $7,153,528.40 and a $69,783.20 payment for Phase 2 Generation Improvements. It also approved a second reading of a zoning map amendment, a lawful gambling permit for the Litchfield Area Mentorship Program, and part-time employment offers. The council approved an on-sale and Sunday liquor license for Shady's No. 7, Inc., but denied its cigarette license application due to incomplete information. It also approved a lawful gambling premise permit for the Litchfield Golf Club, a downtown façade grant program with a cap of $80,000, and the purchase of a hydroseeder for $16,250.

• Approved consent agenda including claims totaling $7,153,528.40 and payment no. 12 for Phase 2 Generation Improvements ($69,783.20).
• Adopted second reading of Ordinance No. 807 amending the zoning map for R-3 Multi-Family District.
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Litchfield Area Mentorship Program - Kinship for June 25, 2021.
• Approved part-time employment offers for 2021 across multiple departments.
• Granted noise ordinance exemption for a private event at the Opera House on August 7, 2021.
• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 808 to vacate a portion of South Geinitz Avenue.
• Approved on-sale and Sunday liquor license for Shady's No. 7, Inc. at 405 West Pleasure Drive.
• Denied cigarette license application from Shady's No. 7, Inc. due to incomplete application.

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission is meeting to discuss old business including a facade grant and the CLG grant, and new business including a cemetery tour and the Mid-Minnesota Development Commission. No public hearings are scheduled. The agenda is largely procedural, with most items listed without details.

• Facade grant discussion
• CLG grant review (link to historic context report)
• Cemetery tour planning
• Mid-Minnesota Development Commission discussion

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a facade grant program of up to $10,000 per parcel for three years, retroactive to January 1, 2021, with a 1-to-1 match from property owners and conditions on taxes and utilities. The commission also discussed a cemetery tour and a downtown coordination effort, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved facade grant program up to $10,000 per parcel for three years, retroactive to 1/1/2021 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from February 22, 2021 (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider several planning and infrastructure items, including a tax parcel split, zoning change, and site plan review for a property at 1525 US Hwy 12 East, a preliminary plat for Gregg Schilling, a water supply plan, wellhead protection, and improvements to the US Highway 12 and County Road 34 intersection. The consent agenda includes routine approvals such as minutes, claims, licenses, and an employment offer.

• Tax parcel split, change of zoning, site plan review by Quad Hospitality, LLC at 1525 US Hwy 12 East (Resolutions 21-3-55/56/57)
• Preliminary plat request by Gregg Schilling at PID 27-2879010 (Resolution 21-3-58)
• Water supply plan and wellhead protection memos
• US Highway 12 & County Road 34 intersection memo
• Annual transfer (Resolution 21-3-61) and public works equipment

The Litchfield City Council approved a rezoning from B-4 to R-3 and the site plan for Villages East Phase 2, a multifamily development at 1525 US Hwy 12 East, along with a waiver of subdivision regulations for the tax parcel split. The council also approved a preliminary plat for Park Village Third Addition, adopted the updated Water Supply Plan, and authorized several purchases and transfers.

• Approved waiver of subdivision regulations for tax parcel split at 1525 US Hwy 12 East (unanimous)
• Granted change of zoning from B-4 to R-3 for Tract A at 1525 US Hwy 12 East (unanimous)
• Approved site plan for Villages East Phase 2 with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary plat for Park Village Third Addition with conditions (unanimous)
• Adopted Litchfield Water Supply Plan (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Wellhead Protection Plan Part I (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of 2019 Caterpillar CB24 Asphalt Compactor for $44,900 (unanimous)
• Approved permanent fund transfers as listed (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is reviewing a 2015-2020 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) that identifies over $58 million in potential projects, including watermain, sewer, storm sewer, street, and electrical upgrades. The agenda includes detailed project lists with costs and priorities, but no formal decisions are recorded in this agenda.

• Watermain improvements totaling $1,647,000, including Sibley Avenue and Pleasure Drive projects
• Sewer line replacement and rehabilitation projects totaling $2,793,000
• Storm sewer upgrades totaling $3,085,000, including East St. Paul Street and TH 12
• Generation Phase II electrical project at $13.2 million
• North Ramsey Street reconstruction at $1,579,200

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a request by Quad Hospitality LLC to split a parcel, rezone it from B-4 to R-3, and approve a site plan for a 12-unit multifamily development at 1525 US Hwy 12 East, and on a preliminary plat for the Schilling Addition. The commission will also elect officers and discuss a joint meeting with the Heritage Preservation Commission. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes and reviewing council actions.

• Public hearing: Quad Hospitality LLC requests lot split, zoning change (B-4 to R-3), and site plan review for a 12-unit apartment building at 1525 US Hwy 12 East
• Public hearing: Gregg Schilling requests preliminary plat approval for Schilling Addition, located east of Willmar Ave between West 8th and West 6th Street
• Election of chairperson, vice chairperson, and HPC representative
• Discussion of HPC/PC joint meeting
• Review of council action: Zion Lutheran Church's zoning change (R-1 to B-1) approved for commercial kitchen at 504 N Gilman Ave

The Litchfield Planning Commission recommended approval of a tax parcel split, zoning change from B-4 to R-3, and site plan for a multifamily housing development by Quad Hospitality, LLC at 1525 US Hwy 12 East, subject to conditions including additional parking, screening, and stormwater management. The commission also recommended approval of the preliminary plat for the Schilling Addition, subject to conditions including a $3,370 park dedication fee or land dedication. Both recommendations will go to the City Council for final action.

• Recommended approval of the waiver of subdivision regulations for a lot split at 1525 US Hwy 12 East (Quad Hospitality, LLC).
• Recommended approval of the change of zoning from B-4 to R-3 for the newly created parcel (Tract A) at 1525 US Hwy 12 East.
• Recommended approval of the site plan for the multifamily development, subject to 11 conditions including screening, tree planting, stormwater reduction, watermain extension, and 25 parking spaces.
• Recommended approval of the preliminary plat for Schilling Addition, subject to 9 conditions including a $3,370 park dedication fee or land dedication, tree planting, and a developer's agreement.
• Re-elected Shannon Asmus as Chairperson, Jeff Woods as Vice Chairperson, and Michael Flaata as HPC Representative.
• Noted that the next meeting is scheduled for April 12, 2021, at 5:30 p.m., but it is unknown if there will be agenda items.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will meet to discuss several business items, including a COVID-19 update, a police department vacancy and staffing, a Cemetery Road LRIP application, an update on the Songs of Summer event, and solid waste contracts. The agenda also includes consent agenda items such as claims, a resolution for Phase 2 Generation Improvements, and a second reading of Ordinance No. 806. The meeting is largely routine, with no major public hearings or high-impact decisions listed.

• Resolution No. 21-3-44: Phase 2 Generation Improvements payment
• Ordinance No. 806 second reading (zoning change for Zion Lutheran Church, 504 N Gilman Ave)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 130 Sibley Ave N (Resolution No. 21-3-45)
• Police Department vacancy and staffing discussion
• Solid waste contracts review

The Litchfield City Council approved the consent agenda, including payment of $2.31 million in bills and a $168,145.96 payment for Phase 2 Generation Improvements. It also passed the second reading of Ordinance No. 806, amending the zoning map for the B-1 Limited Business District. The council approved several resolutions, including a certificate of appropriateness for property at 130 North Sibley Ave., a lease agreement with Lutheran Social Services, and support for LRIP funding for road improvements. It also authorized electric infrastructure improvements for the Civic Arena and approved temporary placement of cows/calves on city property for a fundraiser.

• Approved consent agenda including $2,311,395.06 in bills and $168,145.96 payment for Phase 2 Generation Improvements (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 806, second reading, amending zoning map for B-1 Limited Business District (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Samuel D. Wood for 130 North Sibley Ave. with code compliance condition (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 Civic Arena Nutrition Site Lease Agreement with Lutheran Social Services (unanimous)
• Authorized establishing eligibility list for police officer and sergeant vacancies (unanimous)
• Authorized Personnel Committee to review Police Sergeant position and other supervisory options (unanimous)
• Supported LRIP funding application for road improvements on 620th Avenue and 250th Street (unanimous)
• Approved electric infrastructure improvements to south side of Civic Arena and warming house (unanimous with Mathwig abstaining)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for the property at 130 North Sibley Avenue (Koerner's Meats building), a contributing property to the Litchfield Commercial Historic District. The commission will also discuss old business including local designation efforts, a CLG grant for historic benches, and a PC/HPC committee report, plus new business on a cemetery tour.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 130 North Sibley Avenue
• Discussion of local designation with New Ulm and State Historic Preservation Office
• CLG grant for benches with samples attached
• PC/HPC committee report
• Cemetery tour discussion

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) for the property at 130 North Sibley Avenue, as submitted, and forwarded it to the Litchfield City Council for its March 1, 2021 meeting. The applicant, Sam Wood, requested adding a rear door replacement and ADA compliance to the COA, which the commission supported. No other substantive decisions were made; other agenda items were informational or deferred.

• Approved minutes for January 25 and February 11, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved COA for 130 N. Sibley Ave. as submitted, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Confirmed due process was followed for the public hearing (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider a zoning change request from Zion Lutheran Church at 504 N Gilman Avenue, along with several other items including a COVID update, golf course matters, an SMMPA agreement, city-wide clean-up, and a street vacation. The agenda also includes presentations on the Songs of Summer Festival and Fire and Rescue annual reports, plus appointments to the Planning Commission.

• Change of Zoning Request by Zion Lutheran Church at 504 N Gilman Avenue (Resolution No. 21-2-33)
• Fire and Rescue Annual Reports (Resolution No. 21-2-35)
• Snow Removal Equipment Building payment (Resolution No. 2-2-34)
• 2020 DER Tariff Filing (Resolution No. 21-2-32)
• Planning Commission appointments (two terms until 3/1/2024)

The Litchfield City Council approved the consent agenda, including final payment for the snow removal equipment building and the 2020 DER tariff filing. It granted a zoning change for Zion Lutheran Church, approved 2021 fire and rescue service contracts, adopted golf course rates and fees, and approved a part-time pro-shop manager position. The council also approved a letter agreement with SMMPA on WAPA delivery costs and authorized seeking electric rate analysis proposals. A request from Songs of Summer Festival for relocation and electrical infrastructure was tabled for further review.

• Approved consent agenda including $81,879.73 in bills and $13,643.70 final payment for snow removal equipment building (unanimous)
• Granted zoning change from R-1 to B-1 for Zion Lutheran Church at 504 N Gilman Ave (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 Fire and Rescue Service contracts and billings (unanimous)
• Adopted 2021 golf course rates and fees (unanimous)
• Approved part-time golf course pro-shop manager position, budgeted $15,000-$20,000 (unanimous)
• Approved letter agreement with SMMPA on WAPA delivery costs (unanimous)
• Authorized seeking electric rate analysis proposals (unanimous)
• Tabled Songs of Summer Festival relocation and electrical infrastructure request (unanimous, Mathwig abstained)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request by Zion Lutheran Church to rezone 504 N Gilman Avenue from R-1 to B-1 to allow a commercial kitchen. The commission will also discuss potential ordinance amendments, departmental reviews, and a joint meeting with the Heritage Preservation Commission. Minutes from the December 14, 2020 meeting are up for approval.

• Zoning change request by Zion Lutheran Church at 504 N Gilman Avenue from R-1 to B-1 for a commercial kitchen
• Discussion of potential ordinance amendments
• Planning, zoning, building inspections, and code enforcement departmental review
• HPC/PC joint meeting discussion
• Review of council actions: two conditional use requests denied (Brenda Lindom at 321 N Swift Avenue; Keith Schulte at 518 E 1st Street)

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of a zoning change from R-1 to B-1 for Zion Lutheran Church at 504 N Gilman Avenue, allowing a commercial kitchen operated by Lutheran Social Services. The commission also discussed potential ordinance amendments, including park dedication fees and escrow accounts, but took no formal action. Additionally, they selected representatives for a departmental review and a joint HPC/PC meeting.

• Recommended approval of zoning change from R-1 to B-1 for Zion Lutheran Church (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 14, 2020 meeting (unanimous)
• Selected Commissioner Woods as representative for departmental review
• Selected Commissioners Asmus and Flaata as representatives for Mid-Minnesota Development meetings

City Council

The Litchfield City Council approved the purchase of 14 gas and 14 electric golf cars from Club Car for $183,750, funded through the Capital Equipment Revolving Fund. The council also approved a $2,900 allocation for bike racks, authorized a $10,000 CLG grant application for benches, and made a $100,000 counter-offer for property at 411 Austin Avenue North. All votes were unanimous, with two members abstaining on the bike rack resolution due to a conflict of interest.

• Approved $183,750 purchase of 14 gas and 14 electric golf cars from Club Car (unanimous)
• Approved $2,900 for 2 large and 1 small bike racks in Central Park (5-0, 2 abstentions)
• Authorized $10,000 CLG grant application for historic benches (unanimous)
• Offered $100,000 for property at 411 Austin Avenue North (unanimous)
• Approved $109,669 plow truck and $104,248 equipment purchase (unanimous)
• Approved $16,710 service body purchase (unanimous)
• Approved $1,489,851.09 payment for Phase 2 Generation Improvements (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,318,580.74 in bills (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a motion to apply for a $10,000 Certified Local Government (CLG) grant to fund educational historic benches. The commission also appointed Kevin Hovey to the PC/HPC work group and discussed but did not decide on extending the facade grant program. Downtown improvement proposals from the Litchfield Downtown Council were reviewed but referred back to the City Council as not under HPC jurisdiction.

• Approved motion to apply for $10,000 CLG grant for historic benches (unanimous)
• Appointed Kevin Hovey to PC/HPC work group (unanimous)
• Referred downtown improvement proposals to City Council (consensus)
• Approved November 23, 2020 minutes as submitted (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to handle routine consent items, including approving minutes, claims, and a second reading of an annexation ordinance. They will also receive updates on COVID-19, golf course discussions, and departmental reviews, and consider a local board of review and wellness/recreation center matters.

• Second reading of Ordinance No. 805 for annexation of unplatted land in Section 2, Township 119, Range 31
• Golf course discussions regarding membership allocation payments to Golf Club, Inc.
• COVID-19 update and potential related decisions
• Local Board of Review packet
• Planning/Zoning/Building Inspection/Code Enforcement departmental review

The Litchfield City Council approved a resolution supporting a 0.5% local sales tax for 20 years to fund a $10 million Community Wellness/Recreation Center, with revenue estimated at $6,599,993. The council also accepted a Rotary Club offer to fund a $16,000 shade canopy at Memorial Park, authorized an in-person 2021 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting, and contracted with Mid-Minnesota Development Commission to facilitate downtown planning discussions. No formal action was taken on golf course negotiations or a COVID-19 update.

• Adopted Resolution 21-1-20 supporting 0.5% sales tax for wellness center (unanimous)
• Accepted Rotary Club offer for $16,000 shade canopy at Memorial Park (unanimous, Mathwig abstained)
• Authorized in-person 2021 Local Board of Appeal and Equalization meeting (unanimous)
• Authorized Mid-Minnesota Development Commission to facilitate downtown planning discussions (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $228,231.65 in claims and annexation ordinance (unanimous)
• Established committee for planning/zoning department review (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is holding its first meeting of 2021, with a consent agenda covering routine approvals and resolutions. Key business includes a COVID-19 update with requests from youth hockey and Garland, an annexation resolution, annual appointments, and a downtown lighting request. The meeting also includes the installation of a new council member and committee reports.

• Resolution No. 21-1-10: Annexation of unplatted land (Section 2, Township 119, Range 31)
• Resolution No. 21-1-6: Phase 2 Generation Improvements payment
• Resolution No. 21-1-7: Snow Removal Equipment Building payment
• Resolution No. 21-1-11: Golf course discussions
• Downtown lighting request from Downtown Council