Litchfield public meetings in 2023

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider several significant items, including the comprehensive plan, Terraceview Townhomes, a Mediacom franchise agreement, and a downtown council request. They will also review routine consent agenda items such as licenses, claims, and financial reports, and make appointments to the Library Board and Heritage Preservation Commission.

• Resolution No. 23-12-211: Mediacom franchise agreement
• Terraceview Townhomes project discussion
• Comprehensive plan review
• Appointments to Library Board (3 terms) and Heritage Preservation Commission
• Cigarette licenses for 2024 and lawful gambling permit for Meeker County Ducks Unlimited

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is holding a budget hearing and voting on resolutions to certify the 2024 property tax levy of $3,482,008 and adopt the 2024 budgets for all operating, debt service, and revolving/dedicated funds. The budget keeps services unchanged, introduces a new surface water fund, and includes rate increases for electric and wastewater utilities.

• Certify 2024 property tax levy of $3,482,008 (Resolution 23-12-199)
• Adopt 2024 operating budgets: General $6.85M, Electric $13.74M, Sewer $4.32M (Resolution 23-12-200)
• Adopt 2024 debt service budgets for 11 bond and loan funds (Resolution 23-12-201)
• Adopt 2024 revolving/dedicated funds including Capital Equipment Revolving $715,563 (Resolution 23-12-202)
• New surface water fund with $216,367 budget; electric rate increase effective September 2023

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing to certify the 2024 property tax levy and adopt the 2024 budgets for operating, debt service, and revolving funds. The council will also consider several routine items on the consent agenda, including approving 2023 utility un-collectibles, employment offers, chemical quotes, and lawful gambling permits. Additionally, the council will discuss a downtown grant, a Meeker County cannabis ordinance, and a local road improvement program.

• Public hearing and certification of 2024 property tax levy (Resolution 23-12-199)
• Adoption of 2024 budgets for operating funds (Resolution 23-12-200)
• Adoption of 2024 budgets for debt service and permanent improvement revolving (Resolution 23-12-201)
• Adoption of 2024 budgets for revolving/dedicated funds (Resolution 23-12-202)
• Discussion of downtown grant, including professional services and façade grant

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold its regular meeting on November 20, 2023. They will consider a conditional use permit for Beau Munsell at 516 Miller Avenue South, a preliminary and final plat for Sparboe Addition at 102 Gorman Ave. North, and discuss a downtown grant application. The agenda also includes routine consent items and updates on the LARC project and a community sign.

• Conditional Use Permit request by Beau Munsell at 516 Miller Avenue South (Resolution No. 23-11-190)
• Preliminary & Final Plat for Sparboe Addition at 102 Gorman Ave. North (Resolution No. 23-11-191)
• Downtown Grant: professional services update and Downtown Council request
• Community Sign discussion
• Shady's restaurant discussion (lease or sale of golf course restaurant)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a conditional use permit to move a 2006 manufactured home to 516 S Miller Ave and on a preliminary/final plat for the Sparboe Addition. They will also discuss billboard code provisions, an update on the Future Land Use Plan, and a concept review at 520 E US Hwy 12. Staff recommends approving the structure move but denying the garage waiver.

• Conditional use permit for Beau Munsell to move a 2006 manufactured home to 516 S Miller Ave, with a request to waive the garage requirement
• Preliminary and final plat for Sparboe Addition at 102 N Gorman Ave, 104 N Gorman Ave, 818 E 2nd St, and 902 E 2nd St
• Discussion of billboard code provisions and existing nonconforming billboards
• Concept review by Steve Knisley at 520 E US Hwy 12
• Review of council action: site plan review granted to First District Association at 101 S Swift Ave

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing to consider a special assessment for property nuisance abatement. The meeting also includes a review of the Heritage Preservation Commission's recommendation for a certificate of appropriateness at 136 N Marshall Ave. Additionally, the Council will discuss updates on the Downtown Grant and strategic planning.

• Public hearing on Resolution No. 23-11-186 regarding special assessment for property nuisance abatement
• Heritage Preservation Commission recommendation for Certificate of Appropriateness at 136 N Marshall Ave (Resolution No. 23-11-184)
• Discussion of Downtown Grant professional services and Downtown Council request
• Review of LARC update memo
• Approval of Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project Resolution No. 23-11-185

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission discussed a $2 million DEED grant for local projects and reviewed the status of the GAR Hall National Landmark designation. The Commission also reviewed masonry project details for the Litchfield Opera House at 136 N. Marshall Avenue.

• Masonry project approval for 136 N. Marshall Avenue
• Discussion of $2M DEED grant for local properties
• GAR Hall National Landmark status update
• Administrative approval of COA for 236 N. Sibley Ave
• 2024 CLG Grant discussion

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider a site plan review request from First District Association for a building addition at 101 S Swift Ave. The project involves demolishing most of Plant 1 and constructing a new 15,700 SF addition to house raw milk processing equipment. The commission will also review council actions, including a granted variance and a site plan approval.

• Site plan review for First District Association building addition at 101 S Swift Ave.
• Demolition of 17,728 SF of Plant 1 and construction of 15,700 SF addition
• Variance granted to John & Lesli Mueller at 408 North Gilman Ave. for garage setback reduction
• Site plan review granted for 323 West Deport Street (Miller Automotive)
• HPC meeting report and discussion of $2 million state grant for downtown businesses

City Council

The City Council approved two Certificates of Appropriateness for property renovations on North Sibley Avenue. The Council also approved the City Administrator's performance evaluation summary and authorized a payment for the Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project.

• Approved $16,150.00 payment for Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Litchfield Area Mentorship Program-Kinship
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for roof and door replacement at 208 North Sibley Avenue
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for brick repointing at 115 North Sibley Avenue
• Approved City Administrator performance evaluation summary
• Voted 4-0 to invite Lisa Graphenteen, Joe Egge, and Hannah Rybak to the next housing committee meeting

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on applications for 208 and 115 North Sibley Avenue, likely for Certificates of Appropriateness. The commission will also discuss a National Register nomination for GAR Hall, a state historic conference, and a grant related to Dean Urdahl. The agenda includes standard procedural items like minutes approval and announcements.

• Public hearing for 208 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 115 North Sibley Avenue
• Discussion of GAR Hall National Landmark Status
• Discussion of State Historic Conference
• Grant discussion involving Dean Urdahl

The commission approved two applications for properties on Sibley Avenue North. Members also discussed the administration of a $2M DEED grant and the status of the GAR Hall National Register Nomination.

• Approved application for 208 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved application for 115 Sibley Avenue North north façade, second story (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved meeting minutes as submitted (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider several business items, including a skate park request from Franklin Rech, the LARC joint powers agreement and design/development team selection, golf course lots, an interpreter, and the city administrator's performance evaluation. The consent agenda includes routine approvals such as minutes, financial reports, claims, and licenses.

• Skate park request by Franklin Rech
• LARC JPA and design/development team selection
• Golf course lots discussion
• Interpreter memo
• City administrator performance evaluation

The City Council approved the consent agenda and authorized administration to negotiate contract details with ICS and Wold Architects for the LARC. The Council also directed staff to research a proposed skate park and BMX pump track.

• Approved Consent Agenda including $224,248.94 in bills (Unanimous)
• Appointed Mayor Ron Dingmann and Assistant City Administrator Joyce Spreiter to Fire Relief Association Board of Trustees
• Authorized staff to research skate park/BMX pump track and report back by October (7-0)
• Authorized administration to negotiate contract details with ICS/Wold Architects for the LARC (Unanimous)
• Decided to find interpreter services for an individual at the upcoming HPC meeting (7-0)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold its regular meeting on August 7, 2023, with a consent agenda that includes second readings of Ordinance No. 818 (surface water system) and Ordinance No. 819 (electric rates), as well as several routine items. The council will also discuss the downtown alleyway, golf course lots, marijuana regulations, and cemetery maintenance and rates. A presentation from Zion Lutheran Church on LSS Meals is scheduled.

• Second reading of Ordinance No. 818 (surface water system) and Ordinance No. 819 (electric rates)
• Certificates of Appropriateness for 100, 208, and 230 Sibley Avenue North
• Discussion of downtown alleyway restoration
• Discussion of marijuana sales regulations
• Cemetery stone maintenance and rate review

The City Council adopted new electric rates and an ordinance amending the surface water system code. The council also approved several gambling permit exemptions and historic preservation certificates for properties on North Sibley Avenue.

• Approved Ordinance No. 819 establishing new electric rates (all present voted aye)
• Approved Ordinance No. 818 amending Surface Water System code (all present voted aye)
• Authorized $1,259,571.88 for payment of bills
• Approved $47,500 payment for Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Church of St. Philip (all present voted aye)
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for LDC Youth Hockey, Inc. (all present voted aye)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Michael Corcoran for 100 North Sibley Avenue (all present voted aye)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Linh Nguyen for 208 North Sibley Avenue (all present voted aye)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on applications for 100, 208, and 230 North Sibley Avenue, with possible approval, deferral, or denial. The June meeting lacked a quorum, so no business was conducted and hearings were rescheduled. The commission will also review an administratively approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 308 N. Marshall Ave.

• Public hearing for 100 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 208 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 230 North Sibley Avenue
• Administratively approved COA for 308 N. Marshall Ave
• Approval of June 26, 2023 minutes

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved three separate applications for property modifications on Sibley Avenue North. These included window installations, concrete work, and an awning design. One applicant was granted a six-month extension for specific items from a previous application.

• Approved application for 6 second-story windows at 100 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous)
• Approved 6-month extension for items 1, 2, 3, and 5 of the 1/31/2023 COA at 100 Sibley Avenue North
• Approved concrete work in the rear of 208 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous)
• Approved awning design only for 230 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes as submitted (unanimous)

City Council

The Council held a public hearing and approved the first reading of an ordinance to create a surface water utility to fund storm sewer projects. A first reading for new electric rates was also approved to cover rising wholesale power costs. The Council referred a downtown alleyway restoration project to the Finance Committee.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 818 for surface water utility (all present voted aye)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 819 for new electric rates (all present voted aye)
• Approved $16,150 payment for 2022 Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Meeker County Ducks Unlimited
• Referred downtown alleyway restoration options to Finance Committee (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including July 3 minutes and $83,263.64 in bills (all present voted aye)

City Council

The City Council approved a consent agenda including a $1.18M bill list and a final payment for generation improvements. They also renewed a four-year assessment services contract with Meeker County and approved a memorandum of understanding for police officers. A special closed meeting will be scheduled within two weeks to review a land purchase proposal from Litchfield Building Center.

• Approved Consent Agenda including $1,182,660.00 in bills (All present voted aye)
• Approved final payment of $50,694.00 for Phase 2 Generation Improvements (All present voted aye)
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Crow River Area Chapter-MDHA for Sept 30, 2023 (All present voted aye)
• Authorized special closed meeting within 2 weeks to discuss Litchfield Building Center purchase agreement (5-0)
• Approved 4-year assessment services contract renewal with Meeker County for 2024-2027 (All present voted aye)
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding with MN Teamsters Local No. 320 for police officers (All present voted aye)
• Tabled appointments to the Housing and Redevelopment Authority

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on June 26, 2023, for two Certificate of Appropriateness applications at 100 and 208 North Sibley Avenue. The commission will also discuss design guidelines. The agenda includes approval of the May 22, 2023, minutes, which detail actions on three other Sibley Avenue properties.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 100 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 208 North Sibley Avenue
• Discussion of Design Guidelines
• Approval of May 22, 2023, minutes (including denial of windows at 100 N. Sibley, approval of masonry at 115 N. Sibley, approval of concrete/door at 230 N. Sibley)
• Next meeting scheduled for July 24, 2023

The meeting was held without a quorum, and no official business was conducted. No actions were taken, and no minutes were approved.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold its regular meeting on June 20, 2023, addressing routine consent agenda items, including minutes, financial reports, claims, and licenses. The council will also consider a variance request, a site plan approval, and hear a presentation on the US Highway 12 resurfacing project. Several items are routine or procedural, but the variance and site plan are specific land-use decisions.

• Variance request by John and Lesli Mueller at 408 North Gilman Avenue (Resolution No. 23-6-108)
• Site plan approval by Miller Automotive (Turn & Burn LLC) at 323 West Depot Street (Resolution No. 23-6-109)
• Lawful gambling permits for Litchfield Baseball Association and Kiwanis Club (Resolutions No. 23-6-106 and 23-6-111)
• Liquor/3.2 percent malt liquor on-sale license renewals
• MnDOT presentation on US Highway 12 resurfacing project

The City Council voted to seek proposals from design/build firms for the rehabilitation of the library. The council also approved a site plan for an automotive shop expansion and granted residential setback variances. Additionally, the council authorized payments for a water treatment project and approved several gambling permits.

• Approved seeking design/build firm proposals for library rehab (6-0)
• Granted two setback variances for a garage at 408 North Gilman Avenue
• Approved site plan for Miller Automotive expansion at 323 West Depot Street
• Authorized $208,810.00 payment for 2022 Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project
• Approved lawful gambling permit for Litchfield Baseball Association for July 16, 2023
• Approved lawful gambling license exemption for Kiwanis Club for September 29, 2023
• Authorized payment of bills totaling $321,345.57
• Approved part-time employment offers for Parks, Golf Course, and Liquor Store departments

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a residential garage variance and a commercial site plan for Miller Automotive. Both recommendations include specific conditions for approval. The commission also reviewed a report regarding $2 million in state funding for downtown businesses.

• Recommended approval of variance for garage addition at 408 North Gilman Avenue with two conditions (All present voted aye)
• Recommended approval of site plan for Miller Automotive at 323 West Depot Street subject to three engineering conditions (All present voted aye)
• Approved May 8, 2023 meeting minutes (All present voted aye)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider several business items, including a proposal for housing and comprehensive plan updates, a food truck ordinance, an update on recreational marijuana, and an airport maintenance grant agreement. The agenda also includes routine consent items, presentations, and commission recommendations for certificates of appropriateness on Sibley Avenue properties.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for 100 Sibley Avenue North (Resolution No. 23-6-96)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 115 Sibley Avenue North (Resolution No. 23-6-97)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 230 Sibley Avenue North (Resolution No. 23-6-98)
• Airport Maintenance and Operation Grant Agreement (Resolution No. 23-6-100)
• Food truck ordinance discussion

The City Council adopted the Meeker County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan to maintain FEMA funding eligibility. The Council also authorized a TIF analysis for a Litchfield Opportunity Zone, Inc. housing development, provided the developer pays an escrow. A certificate of appropriateness for 100 North Sibley Avenue was denied.

• Adopted Meeker County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (All present voted aye)
• Approved engaging Ehlers for up to $8,000 for TIF analysis for Litchfield Opportunity Zone, Inc. (All present voted aye)
• Denied Certificate of Appropriateness for Michael Corcoran at 100 North Sibley Avenue (All present voted aye)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $1,431,975.60 in bills (All present voted aye)
• Approved part-time employment offers for Streets, Parks, Cemetery, Pro-Shop, and Golf Course positions

City Council

The City Council held a work session to receive updates on the wastewater facility planning options and the First District Association's (FDA) pretreatment planning process. Paul Saffert presented the current options being evaluated for the city's wastewater facility, while FDA provided a status report on their pre-engineering and design progress. The meeting included a brief question-and-answer period before adjourning.

• Wastewater facility planning update presented by Paul Saffert
• FDA pretreatment planning update presented by First District Association
• FDA report notes waste characterization and schematic design are complete
• FDA report states wastewater technology proposals were awarded to Veolia
• FDA report indicates preliminary design and laboratory testing are complete

The City Council conducted a work session to review wastewater facility planning and a proposed pretreatment facility for the First District Association (FDA). No formal actions were taken during the meeting.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is holding a work session to review the history and current status of wastewater facility planning. Topics include reduced phosphorus limits, biosolids management, maintenance needs, and FDA expansion. The discussion will cover treatment plant performance, MPCA expectations, and facility plan modeling.

• Reduced Phosphorous Limit
• Biosolids Management
• Maintenance Needs
• FDA Expansion
• Facility Plan Modeling

The City Council conducted a work session to review the history and current status of wastewater facility planning, including phosphorus limits and biosolids management. No formal actions were taken during the meeting.

• No formal action was taken

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on applications for three properties on North Sibley Avenue (100, 115, and 230) and review an administratively approved certificate of appropriateness for 219 N. Sibley Ave. The agenda includes standard procedural steps for each hearing, with possible actions to approve, defer, or deny.

• Public hearings for 100, 115, and 230 North Sibley Avenue
• Review of administratively approved COA for 219 N. Sibley Ave
• Approval of minutes from April 24, 2023 meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for June 26, 2023

The Commission approved masonry work at 115 Sibley Avenue North and concrete and door work at 230 Sibley Avenue North. An application for new windows at 100 Sibley Avenue North was denied due to insufficient information. The City Administrator administratively approved glass replacement at 219 North Sibley Ave.

• Approved April 24, 2023 minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Denied window application for 100 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved masonry work for 115 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved concrete work and new door for 230 Sibley Avenue North (unanimous voice vote)
• Administratively approved broken glass replacement at 219 North Sibley Ave

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider a conditional use permit request by Jose Lopez for property at 822 North Holcombe Avenue, along with a storm sewer ordinance and a LARC update. The consent agenda includes routine approvals of minutes, financial reports, claims, and a license for School of St. Philip. A work session is scheduled for May 30 to discuss wastewater improvements.

• Conditional Use Permit request by Jose Lopez – 822 North Holcombe Avenue (Resolution No. 23-5-92)
• Storm sewer ordinance discussion
• LARC update
• License for sales on public property – School of St. Philip
• Work session May 30 on wastewater improvements

The City Council approved a conditional use permit for a small-scale auto repair home occupation at 822 North Holcombe Avenue. The council also scheduled a public hearing for a proposed surface water utility ordinance and authorized a payment for water treatment facility improvements.

• Granted conditional use permit to Jose Lopez for auto repair home occupation at 822 North Holcombe Ave (All Aye)
• Scheduled public hearing for July 17, 2023, to consider adopting a Surface Water Utility Ordinance (All Aye)
• Approved Payment No. 6 for 2022 Litchfield Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project totaling $91,618.00 (All Aye)
• Committed to no tax impacts relating to construction of the LARC (All Aye)
• Approved Consent Agenda including bills for $120,696.02 and sales on public property license for Church of St. Philip (All Aye)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit request from Jose Lopez to operate an auto repair business out of a detached garage at 822 N Holcombe Ave. The business has been operating for about a year and needs the permit to comply with zoning rules, including garage use, square footage, and sign size. Staff recommends approval with conditions limiting hours, vehicle types, and storage. The commission will also review minutes from April 10 and note a granted tax parcel split for the VFW post.

• Conditional use permit for auto repair home occupation at 822 N Holcombe Ave
• Business operates in 648 SF detached garage; sign exceeds R-2 limit (7.6 SF vs 4 SF max)
• Staff recommends approval with 5 conditions: one vehicle at a time, passenger vehicles only, hours 8am-6pm Mon-Sat, no exterior storage, proper waste disposal
• Review of April 10, 2023 minutes
• Tax parcel split granted to Admiral Benson VFW Post 2818 at 312 S Davis Ave

The Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit for Jose Lopez to operate an auto repair business out of his detached garage at 822 N Holcombe Ave. The permit includes five conditions: one vehicle at a time, no client vehicle storage outside service hours, passenger vehicles only, hours 8 am to 6 pm Monday–Saturday, no Sunday operations, business contained within the building, and proper disposal of liquid waste. The vote was unanimous (7-0).

• Approved conditional use permit for auto repair at 822 N Holcombe Ave (7-0)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is meeting to consider several business items, including a change order for the Hwy 12 project, bids for the Commercial Street storm sewer, a joint powers agreement for LARC, and a wastewater update. The agenda also includes consent agenda items, presentations from local organizations, and commission recommendations.

• Hwy 12 change order
• Commercial Street storm sewer – consider bids
• LARC joint powers agreement
• Future wastewater update
• Certificate of Appropriateness applications for 109, 113, and 222 North Sibley Avenue

The City Council approved two Certificates of Appropriateness for masonry restoration at 109 and 113 North Sibley Avenue. The Council also established a partnership with the Litchfield Lions Club for annual city-wide clean-ups and accepted a donation of two AED cabinets from the Litchfield Rotary.

• Approved $1,130,891.76 in claims for payment
• Adopted Resolution 23-5-82 to not waive monetary limits on municipal tort liability
• Approved employment offers for part-time positions in Liquor Store, Compost, Parks, Pro-Shop, and Golf Course
• Approved partnership with Litchfield Litchfield Lions Club for annual city-wide clean-up events
• Accepted donation of two AED Smart Monitored Cabinets for Gilman Avenue softball fields and South Park
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to OurTownStrong LLC for 109 North Sibley Avenue
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to OurTownStrong LLC for 113 North Sibley Avenue

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on Certificate of Appropriateness applications for 109, 113, and 222 North Sibley Avenue. The commission will also review the March 27, 2023, meeting minutes and receive an update on a bench project. A memo from the administrator notes that public notice for the 109 and 113 N. Sibley hearings was published only 5 days before the meeting, instead of the required 10 days, and offers the commission the option to table action if concerned.

• Public hearings for COA applications at 109, 113, and 222 North Sibley Avenue
• Administrator's memo: public notice for 109 & 113 N. Sibley was 5 days before hearing, not 10; options to table or proceed
• Approval of March 27, 2023, meeting minutes
• Old business: bench update
• Next meeting scheduled for May 22, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved three property applications on Sibley Avenue North with specific conditions regarding mortar and brickwork. The commission also decided to request that the city send notification letters to property owners regarding 2023 deadlines.

• Approved COA for 109 Sibley Ave North with conditions for repointing, mortar matching, and acid wash standards (Unanimous)
• Approved COA for 113 Sibley Avenue North with conditions for repointing, mortar matching, and acid wash standards (Unanimous)
• Approved COA for 222 Sibley Avenue North with condition for mortar testing on storefront and second story (Unanimous)
• Approved reviewing applications as submitted due to newspaper printing schedule changes (5-1)
• Decided to ask the city to send letters to property owners with 2023 COA, publication, meeting, and council action dates

City Council

The City Council is receiving the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2022, from Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing, PLLP. The independent auditor's report expresses an unmodified (clean) opinion on the financial statements. The management letter notes no significant difficulties, disagreements, or uncorrected misstatements, and recommends the City begin evaluating the impact of GASB Statement No. 96 on subscription-based IT arrangements.

• Clean audit opinion on 2022 financial statements
• No significant difficulties or disagreements with management
• All misstatements corrected by management
• GASB Statement No. 96 implementation recommended
• Elected officials listed with terms expiring January 1, 2023 and 2025

City Council

The City Council accepted the 2022 financial audit report and held a public hearing on property valuations, resulting in one valuation decrease and two remaining unchanged. The council also approved several consent agenda items, including a water treatment project payment and a gambling permit.

• Accepted 2022 City Financial Audit Report (unanimous)
• Approved $168,419.90 payment for 2022 Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project
• Approved off-site gambling permit for Litchfield Lions Club for June 12, 2023
• Approved part-time employment for Giovanni Alvarez (Liquor Store)
• Maintained 2023 EMV of $388,000 for Parcel No. 27-2946000 (unanimous)
• Decreased 2023 EMV from $101,300 to $79,700 for Parcel No. 27-8213000 (unanimous)
• Maintained 2023 EMV of $111,600 for Parcel No. 27-2946000 (unanimous)
• Authorized payment of bills totaling $107,318.74

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is reviewing a comprehensive update to the city's zoning ordinance (Chapter 154), which establishes regulations for land use, development, and administration. The agenda includes the full text of the proposed ordinance, covering zoning districts, permits, specific use standards, and general development standards. This is a major policy review that will shape future development and property use in the city.

• Adoption of new zoning ordinance (Chapter 154) covering all zoning districts and uses
• Regulations for conditional use permits, variances, and zoning map amendments
• Standards for home occupations, bed and breakfast inns, and temporary family health care dwellings
• Rules for signs, fences, parking, and landscaping
• Creation of planned unit development overlay districts

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a tax parcel split at 312 S Davis Ave. The commission also elected its leadership for the term. The meeting included a review of City Council actions regarding signage permits and zoning amendments.

• Approved March 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Elected Commissioner Asmus as Chairperson
• Elected Commissioner Woods as Vice Chairperson
• Elected Commissioner Barnes as HPC Representative
• Recommended approval of tax parcel split for Admiral Benson VFW Post 2818 at 312 S Davis Ave

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on Part II of the Well Head Protection Plan and receive updates on utility rates. The consent agenda includes approving minutes, financial reports, claims, a lawful gambling permit for the Litchfield Dragon Goal Line Club, and the second reading of Ordinance No. 817. The council will also acknowledge presentations from the G.A.R. Hall and Golf Club Inc., and consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for a property at 100 Sibley Ave N.

• Public hearing on Well Head Protection Plan – Part II
• Utility rate update
• Ordinance No. 817 – Second Reading (Resolution No. 23-4-70)
• Lawful Gambling Permit for Litchfield Dragon Goal Line Club (Resolution No. 23-4-69)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 100 Sibley Ave N (Resolution No. 23-4-71)

The City Council approved a new Zoning Ordinance and the updated Wellhead Protection Plan Part 2. The council also accepted a verbal intent from Shady's to purchase the golf course restaurant building.

• Approved Ordinance No. 817 rescinding and replacing the Zoning Ordinance in its entirety
• Approved updated Wellhead Protection Plan Part 2
• Approved lawful gambling permit for Litchfield Dragon Goal Line Club for Oct 18, 2023
• Approved 3.2 Percent Malt Liquor On-Sale license for Litchfield Baseball Association
• Denied Certificate of Appropriateness for Michael Corcoran at 100 North Sibley Avenue
• Accepted verbal intent from Shady's to purchase the Golf Course restaurant building (6-0)
• Authorized payment of bills totaling $1,060,757.01
• Scheduled utility rate review for May 1, 2023 work session

City Council

The Litchfield City Council is reviewing a 10-year amendment to its Wellhead Protection Plan, which outlines strategies to protect the city's drinking water wells from contamination. The plan covers data on soils, water resources, land use, and potential contaminant sources, and sets goals and action plans for the next decade. This is a formal review of a technical document, not a decision on specific projects.

• Amendment covers 2023-2033 wellhead protection strategies
• DWSMA covers 3,455.2 acres, 1,676 parcels, serving 6,786 residents
• Aquifer vulnerability rated high, moderate, and low across the DWSMA
• Plan includes management for Inner Wellhead Management Zone, stormwater, tanks, and feedlots
• Public hearing held March 20, 2023; plan submitted to MDH for final review

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a certificate of appropriateness application for 100 North Sibley Avenue, a contributing building in the Historic Commercial District. The applicant proposes adding two exterior second-story staircases and repairing windows. The commission will also review open meeting law guidelines and approve minutes from the February 27, 2023 meeting.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 100 North Sibley Avenue
• Proposed two exterior second-story staircases and window repairs at 100 N. Sibley Ave.
• Review of Open Meeting Law guidelines
• Approval of February 27, 2023 meeting minutes

The Heritage Preservation Commission denied a Certificate of Appropriateness application for a covered staircase and steel siding modifications due to insufficient information. The commission requested a new application with detailed elevations, materials, and a code review.

• Approved February 27, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Denied application for 100 Sibley Ave North in concept (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will meet to consider several routine and business items, including consent agenda approvals, equipment purchases, and conditional use permits for the school district. The agenda also includes presentations on the LARC, fire and rescue annual reports, and lawful gambling, along with potential zoning code amendments.

• Conditional use permits for Independent School District 465 at 100 W Pleasure Drive and 901 N Gilman Ave.
• Zoning code amendments (Resolution No. 23-3-64).
• Equipment purchases: crack seal melter, Caterpillar wheel loader, Reelmaster, Bobcat mini excavator (Resolutions 23-3-57 to 23-3-60).
• LARC resolution (No. 23-3-65) and Fire and Rescue annual reports (No. 23-3-61).
• Consent agenda includes claims and 2022 Water Treatment Facility Imp Project payment (Resolution No. 23-3-56).

The City Council reaffirmed its partnership with Litchfield Public Schools by supporting a May 9 bond referendum to fund the school's portion of the Litchfield Area Recreation Center. The council also approved several pieces of heavy equipment and granted conditional use permits for school district signage.

• Supported Litchfield Public Schools' decision to hold a May 9 bond referendum for the LARC (All Aye)
• Approved 2023 Fire and Rescue Service contracts and billings (All Aye)
• Denied pursuing 10% gaming funds from local entities/organizations (7-0)
• Granted Conditional Use Permit for dynamic sign at 100 West Pleasure Drive (All Aye)
• Granted Conditional Use Permit for dynamic sign at 901 North Gilman Avenue (All Aye)
• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 817 to replace Zoning Ordinance (All Aye)
• Authorized purchase of Crafco Super Shot 125 Diesel Crack Seal Melter for $71,515.05 (All Aye)
• Authorized purchase of Caterpillar 938M Wheel Loader for $209,171.85 less trade-in (All Aye)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will hold public hearings on conditional use permits for electronic graphic display signs at two school properties, and will discuss zoning ordinance amendments. The commission will also review previously granted variances and waivers.

• Conditional use permit for electronic sign at 100 W Pleasure Drive (Lake Ripley Elementary)
• Conditional use permit for electronic sign at 901 N Gilman Ave
• Discussion of zoning ordinance amendments
• Review of granted variance at 908 N Sibley Ave (six-foot side yard setback reduction)
• Review of granted variance and lot line adjustment at 315 and 323 W Depot Street

The Planning Commission recommended approval for two electronic signs for Independent School District 465 and proposed the adoption of amended Zoning Ordinances. All recommendations were passed by the members present.

• Recommended approval of electronic sign at 100 W Pleasure Drive subject to six conditions (All aye)
• Recommended approval of electronic sign at 901 N Gilman Avenue subject to five conditions (All aye)
• Recommended approval of zoning ordinance amendments (All aye)
• Approved minutes from November 14, 2022 meeting (All aye)
• Approved minutes from December 12, 2022 meeting (All aye)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider several business items, including a tobacco license application, funding the LARC gap, a congressional funding request, a golf course proshop, and Juneteenth holiday observation. The agenda also includes routine consent items and a Heritage Preservation Commission recommendation.

• Tobacco license application discussion
• Funding the LARC gap (memo)
• Congressional funding request – Resolution No. 23-3-50
• Golf course proshop (memo)
• Juneteenth holiday observation (packet)

The City Council approved a tobacco license for Litchfield Tobacco and Vape and authorized a $8M federal funding request for wastewater treatment improvements. Other actions included appointing a golf pro shop associate and recognizing Juneteenth as a city holiday.

• Approved tobacco license for Fady Qumsya/DBA Litchfield Tobacco and Vape (5-2)
• Authorized $8M Congressionally Directed Spending request for wastewater treatment plant project (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for Michael Corcoran at 100 North Sibley Avenue (unanimous)
• Appointed Kennedy Penk as Pro Shop Associate at $24.00/hour (unanimous)
• Approved recognizing Juneteenth as a holiday beginning June 19, 2023 (unanimous)
• Reappointed Mike Flaata and Jeff Woods to the Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved $5,866.44 payment for 2022 Street Overlay Improvements (unanimous)
• Approved gambling permits for Meeker County Ducks Unlimited and Litchfield Baseball Association (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for the property at 100 North Sibley Avenue, a contributing building in the Historic Commercial District. The commission will review the application, hear from the applicant and public, and vote to approve, defer, or deny. They will also discuss the CLG Grant for a GIS map of the historic district.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 100 N. Sibley Ave.
• Discussion of CLG Grant for GIS map of the historic district
• Approval of January 23, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review of property history and condition for 100 N. Sibley Ave.

City Council

The City Council tabled a tobacco license application pending a federal background search and authorized a review of the current tobacco ordinance. The Council also approved funding for library furniture and a partnership for a new park dock.

• Tabled tobacco license application for Litchfield Tobacco and Vape Inc. pending federal search
• Authorized administration to seek recommendations from Public Health Law Center on tobacco ordinance and potential moratorium
• Approved updated tobacco license application draft (7-0)
• Approved $15,389.82 for library community room furniture
• Authorized partnership with Litchfield Lions for $10,110.36 dock purchase, including a $5,000 donation from the Lions
• Approved 2023 Golf Course rates and fees
• Appointed Aaron Norris and Quinten Czech to Mechanic positions
• Appointed Kyle Olson to Maintenance Worker position

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold its regular meeting on February 6, 2023, with a consent agenda covering routine items like minutes, claims, and permits. The main business includes a housing study presentation, a wastewater treatment plant update, and several appointments, including a council member-at-large and library board positions. The council will also consider a tobacco license application, a commercial storm sewer project, and sergeant appointments.

• Housing study presentation
• Wastewater treatment plant update
• Council member-at-large appointment
• Tobacco license application
• Commercial storm sewer project

The City Council filled a vacancy for Council Member-at-Large and appointed several members to the Housing Task Force and Library Board. The council also authorized funding for downtown benches and Music in the Park, and approved the purchase of 14 golf carts.

• Appointed Malinda Larson to Council Member-at-Large
• Approved $3,500 funding for Music in the Park 2023
• Authorized purchase of 10 downtown benches at $1,200 each
• Authorized purchase of 14 used golf carts at $3,500 each
• Approved plans and bidding for Commercial Street and Holcombe Avenue Storm Sewer Improvements
• Appointed Travis Ruecker and Brian Massingham as police sergeants
• Appointed 8 members to the Housing Task Force
• Tabled tobacco license application for Litchfield Tobacco and Vape, Inc. (7-0)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing a housing market analysis that projects demand for 515 housing units in Litchfield from 2022 to 2030, including 90 ownership, 150 rental, and 275 senior units. The report recommends building about 350 units over the next five years, including single-family homes, townhomes, market-rate apartments, and senior housing. The council is discussing these findings and potential next steps.

• Projected demand for 515 housing units (90 ownership, 150 rental, 275 senior) by 2030
• Recommendation for 80-85 market-rate apartment units with rents $950-$1,400
• Recommendation for 50-55 market-rate 55+ rental units
• Recommendation for 115-135 independent, assisted living, and memory care units
• Recommendation for new subdivision with up to 18 lots for homes starting at $325,000

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will meet to approve minutes from November 28, 2022, and discuss old business, including GIS mapping of the historic district. No public hearings or new business are scheduled. The meeting is largely procedural with one substantive discussion item.

• Discussion of GIS mapping for the Central Historic District (CHD)
• Approval of minutes from November 28, 2022 meeting
• No public hearings scheduled
• Next meeting set for February 27, 2023

The Commission approved the November 28, 2022, meeting minutes. Members discussed the use of a GIS map for the Certified Local Government (CLG) grant, including potential layers for inventory and design guidelines. The Commission directed Chair Darlene Kotelnicki to apply for the 2023 CLG Grant.

• Approved November 28, 2022, minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Directed Darlene Kotelnicki to apply for the 2023 CLG Grant for a GIS map of the CHD (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a continued public hearing to consider adopting a sales tax ordinance, which was postponed from the January 3 meeting due to weather. The council will also consider several routine consent agenda items, including permits, a tariff filing, and payments, as well as business items such as a liquor license application, a civic arena lease, and updates on housing, LARC, ARPA, and administrative matters.

• Continued public hearing on sales tax ordinance (Resolution No. 23-1-7)
• Lawful gambling permits for Litchfield Area Mentorship Program – Kinship and Litchfield Lions Club (Resolutions 23-1-14, 23-1-15)
• 2022 DER Tariff Filing (Resolution 23-1-17)
• Liquor license application consideration – Half Bushel Brewery
• Civic arena lease consideration

The City Council advanced a sales tax ordinance for a community wellness/recreation center to first reading. The council also approved funding for housing task force services, stadium seating, and the purchase of trees using ARPA funds.

• Approved first reading of Ordinance No. 816 (Sales Tax Ordinance) (All present voted aye)
• Approved $43,270 upfront financing for Optimist Park stadium seating (All present voted aye)
• Approved WSB proposal for Housing Task Force coordination not to exceed $10,000 (All present voted aye)
• Approved 9-member makeup for Housing Task Force (5-0)
• Approved on-sale liquor license for Half Bushel Brewing, LLC (All present voted aye)
• Approved one-year Civic Arena license agreement with ISD No. 465 (All present voted aye)
• Approved purchase of 178 trees up to $20,000 using ARPA funds (All present voted aye except Council Member Kotelnicki)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $275,452.52 in bills and $22,773.59 for Water Treatment Facility project (All present voted aye)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing on adopting a sales tax ordinance, declare a vacancy for the Council Member-at-Large position, and make annual appointments to boards and commissions. The meeting also includes routine consent agenda items such as approving minutes, financial reports, claims, and a lawful gambling permit.

• Public hearing on sales tax ordinance (Resolution No. 23-1-7)
• Declaring vacancy for Council Member-at-Large and establishing timeline (Resolutions No. 23-1-8, 23-1-9)
• Annual appointments to boards and commissions (Resolution No. 23-1-4)
• Appointments to Library Board and Police Civil Service Commission
• Authorize 2023 official signatures and interest rate for city invoices (Resolutions No. 23-1-1, 23-1-2)

The City Council administered oaths to newly elected members and declared a vacancy for the Council Member-at-Large position. The council approved several administrative resolutions, including annual appointments and a gambling permit. A public hearing on a sales tax ordinance was continued to January 17, 2023.

• Declared Council Member-at-Large vacancy (unanimous)
• Established application deadline of Jan 25, 2023 for Council Member-at-Large (unanimous)
• Approved $11,358,021.06 in claims for payment (unanimous)
• Approved lawful gambling permit for Songs of Summer Festival (unanimous)
• Set 2023 interest rate for overdue city invoices at 10.5% (unanimous)
• Approved annual appointments for City Attorney, Official Newspaper, City Engineer, and Weed Inspector (unanimous)
• Directed City Administrator to develop RFP for cemetery consulting services (7-0)
• Appointed Gary Barnes to Library Board and re-appointed Jared Culbertson and Brian S. Danielson to Police Civil Service Commission (unanimous)