Litchfield public meetings in 2025

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider the proposed 2026 property tax levy and budgets during a public hearing. The agenda also includes authorizing payments for water and wastewater chemicals for 2026.

• Public hearing on 2026 property tax levy and budgets
• Authorize payments for water and wastewater chemicals for 2026
• Approve 2025 public utility un-collectibles
• Approve L ARC pay requests and drainage improvements
• Approve lawful gambling permits for Ducks Unlimited and Pheasants Forever

The council approved the consent agenda and authorized payments for the LARC project ($28,499.34) and the Commercial Street & Holcombe Avenue drainage improvements ($48,642.87). It granted lawful gambling permit exemptions to Meeker County Ducks Unlimited and Meeker County Pheasants Forever, approved the 2026 Visitors Bureau budget, and kept the Pioneerland Library System budget at $173,496 for 2026. The council also awarded a conditional $6,053,700 contract to WEG Transformers for power transformers and approved a $18,850 G.A.R. Hall building assessment proposal. All actions were adopted unanimously.

• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Authorized $28,499.34 LARC project payments (unanimous)
• Authorized $48,642.87 final payment for Commercial Street & Holcombe Ave drainage (unanimous)
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemptions for Meeker County Ducks Unlimited and Meeker County Pheasants Forever (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 budget for Litchfield Visitors Bureau (unanimous)
• Set Pioneerland Library System 2026 budget at $173,496 (unanimous)
• Awarded conditional $6,053,700 contract to WEG Transformers for power transformers (unanimous)
• Approved $18,850 G.A.R. Hall building assessment proposal to 4594 Design (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing to certify the 2025 property tax levy and adopt the 2026 operating, debt service, revolving and dedicated fund budgets (Resolutions 25-12-248 to 25-12-251). Other agenda items include approval of 2025 public utility un‑collectibles, chemical quotes for 2026 water and wastewater, a heritage preservation certificate for the G.A.R. Hall at 308 North Marshall Ave, and updates on the VA clinic and 5th Street speed limit.

• Public hearing and adoption of 2026 property tax levy and budgets (Res. 25-12-248‑251)
• Approve 2025 Public Utility Un‑Collectibles (Res. 25-12-253)
• Approve chemical quotes for 2026 water (Res. 25-12-254) and wastewater (Res. 25-12-255)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for G.A.R. Hall, 308 North Marshall Ave (Res. 25-12-252)
• Board of Appeal & Equalization Certification; VA clinic update; 5th Street speed limit update

The council certified the 2025 property tax levy and the 2026 levy totaling $4,052,020. It adopted the 2026 operating‑fund budgets. The council accepted quotes and bids for water and wastewater treatment chemicals, awarding both to Hawkins, Inc. The public hearing on the levy and budgets was closed with a 7‑0 vote.

• Approved 2025 public utility un‑collectibles (Resolution 25‑12‑253) – adopted
• Accepted water treatment chemical quotes, conditional award to Hawkins, Inc. (Resolution 25‑12‑254) – adopted
• Accepted wastewater treatment chemical bids, conditional award to Hawkins, Inc. (Resolution 25‑12‑255) – adopted
• Approved consent agenda (Resolution 25‑12‑256) – adopted; all members voted aye, two abstained
• Certified 2025 property tax levy and 2026 levy totaling $4,052,020 (Resolution 25‑12‑248) – adopted; all members voted aye
• Closed public hearing on 2026 property tax levy and budgets – motion passed 7‑0

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will adopt the FY 2026 operating, debt service, and revolving fund budgets. It will also certify the 2026 property tax levy totaling $4,052,020, including a $3,484,520 regular levy. The budget reflects a $575,822 increase in labor costs and a 3% rise in electric and sewer rates. These actions were considered at the budget hearing on December 1, 2025.

• Adopt 2026 General Fund budget: $7,399,693 in revenues and expenditures
• Certify 2026 property tax levy: total $4,052,020 (regular levy $3,484,520 plus special levies)
• Labor cost increase for 2026 estimated at $575,822
• Electric and sewer rates to increase 3% in 2026
• Adopt 2026 Capital Improvement Plan (2011B‑G.O.): $218,866 revenue, $211,442 disbursement

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing for the project at 308 N. Marshall Avenue, reviewing the application to repair doors and windows of the historic G.A.R. Hall and then vote to approve, defer, or deny it. The meeting also includes an update on the State Historic Building Grant and an administrative approval of a COA for 109‑113 N Sibley Avenue. No new business was proposed.

• Public hearing for 308 N. Marshall Ave – review and decision on G.A.R. Hall door and window repair project
• State Historic Building Grant update – discussion of grant usage and timelines
• Administrative approval of COA for 109 – 113 N Sibley Ave
• No new business items were introduced
• Announcement of next meeting on December 22, 2025

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved the meeting minutes by unanimous voice vote. The commission also voted unanimously that due process was followed for the application. Finally, the commission approved the property application as submitted, also by unanimous voice vote.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved due process compliance (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved property application (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The council approved the first reading of Ordinance No. 836 to raise sanitary sewer rates by 3.0 percent each year from 2026 through 2036. It also authorized equipment purchases under $25,000 for 2025‑2026 totaling $36,000 and approved lighting of a Maple tree in Central Park for $4,680 plus tax. Additional consent‑agenda items included payment of $413,170.40 for the Civic Arena floor replacement and approval of computer bills totaling $2,033,952.45.

• Ordinance No. 836: sanitary sewer rate increase of 3.0 % annually (2026‑2036)
• Equipment purchases under $25,000 for 2025‑2026, total $36,000
• Central Park Maple tree lighting approved for $4,680 plus tax
• Civic Arena Floor Replacement Project payment of $413,170.40
• Computer List of Bills authorized for $2,033,952.45

The council approved payments totaling $337,760.48 for the LARC project and a final payment of $26,392.54 for the airport terminal building rehabilitation. It gave a second reading to Ordinance No. 836, authorizing a sanitary sewer rate increase, and entered it into the city’s codified ordinances. The council also authorized the purchase of a T66 Bobcat for $57,950 and a John Deere 1025R tractor with attachments for $39,650. Additional actions included approving the consent agenda, the list of bills, and reaffirming a part‑time employment offer, all by unanimous roll‑call votes.

• Approved $337,760.48 LARC project payments (unanimous)
• Approved $26,392.54 final payment for airport terminal rehabilitation (unanimous)
• Second reading and adoption of Ordinance No. 836 sanitary sewer rate increase (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of T66 Bobcat for $57,950 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of John Deere 1025R tractor with attachments for $39,650 (unanimous)
• Approved the consent agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved the list of bills pulled from the consent agenda (unanimous)
• Reaffirmed part‑time employment offer for Kevin Stiegen (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council convened a workshop to review its goals, structure, and staff roles. Participants discussed best practices for collaboration, communication, and public input. The session also covered efficient meeting procedures such as agenda setting and decision making. No formal decisions or votes were taken.

• Introductions and review of goals and self‑assessment results
• Overview of government form, staff and council roles, and committee descriptions
• Discussion of best practices for collaboration, communication, and public input
• Discussion of efficient meeting practices: priority, agenda, and decision processes
• Wrap‑up and closing

The Litchfield City Council met on November 10, 2025 for a workshop on council and staff roles, responsibilities, and collaboration practices. Representatives from the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust presented an overview and the council discussed current committees and communication methods. No formal actions, approvals, or denials were recorded. Participants agreed to continue the discussion in January 2026.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a request for two variances to allow a detached garage addition. The commission will also review a recently approved site plan for a farmer's market shelter.

• Public hearing for variances at 501 S. Chandler Ave. to allow a 1,408 SF garage (exceeding 1,200 SF limit) and a height of 23.5 feet (exceeding the 18-foot home height)
• Review of approved site plan for First District Association at 21 West Depot Street for a farmer's market shelter and parking

The commission approved the minutes from the July 14, 2025 meeting (Asmus, Carlson, Woods voted aye; Barnes and Mueller abstained). A motion to table the variance request for 501 S. Chandler Ave. was carried (Asmus, Carlson, Woods, Mueller voted aye; Barnes voted nay). The commission noted that a site plan for 21 West Depot Street had been approved by the council.

• Approved July 14, 2025 minutes (Asmus, Carlson, Woods aye; Barnes, Mueller abstained)
• Tabled Jeremy Lehr variance request (Asmus, Carlson, Woods, Mueller aye; Barnes nay)
• Site plan for 21 West Depot Street approved

City Council

The council will vote on authorizing a sanitary sewer rate increase (Resolution No. 25‑11‑234). Other agenda items include a Civic Arena floor replacement project, an easement vacation ordinance (Ordinance No. 835), an official newspaper designation, and a lease agreement for LARC space with the State of Minnesota. Several routine consent‑agenda items such as financial reports and routine payments will also be approved.

• Authorize sanitary sewer rate increase – Resolution No. 25‑11‑234
• Civic Arena floor replacement project – Resolution No. 25‑11‑232
• Ordinance No. 835 (easement vacation) – Resolution No. 25‑11‑233
• Official newspaper designation – Resolution No. 25‑11‑236
• Lease agreement for LARC space with State of Minnesota – $600 monthly

The council adopted the first reading of Ordinance 836, establishing a 3.0% yearly increase in sanitary sewer rates starting Jan 1 2026 and a variable residential‑reduced rate. It approved payment for the Civic Arena floor replacement project and adopted Ordinance 835 (easement vacation) on second reading. The council also authorized equipment purchases under $25,000, a $4,680 tree‑lighting contract for Central Park, and a new LARC walking membership program. All actions were adopted by roll‑call vote.

• Approved Payment No. 6 and Change Order No. 1 for Civic Arena Floor Replacement ($413,170.40) – adopted
• Adopted Ordinance No. 835 (easement vacation) – second reading – adopted
• Approved 3% annual sanitary sewer rate increase (first reading of Ordinance 836) – all present voted aye
• Approved equipment purchases under $25,000 for 2025‑2026 (Resolution 25‑11‑238) – 3‑2 vote (aye: Mayor Dingmann, Larson, Carlson; nay: Kotelnicki, Powers)
• Approved Central Park tree lighting contract ($4,680 plus tax) – all present voted aye
• Approved LARC walking membership program ($50 fee, Nov‑Mar) – 3‑2 vote (aye: Mayor Dingmann, Larson, Carlson; nay: Kotelnicki, Powers)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The commission will discuss updates regarding the State Historic Building Grant and review an administratively approved Certificate of Appropriateness. The meeting follows a previous session where the body discussed the city's responsibility for grant payments.

• State Historic Building Grant update
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 109-113 N. Sibley Avenue
• Review of $2,025,000 State Historic Building Grant for facade rehabilitation
• Discussion of $5,377,800 conceptual construction budget for 28 facades

The Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes by voice vote. It also unanimously approved the Certificate of Appropriateness for 109–113 N Sibley Avenue by voice vote. No public hearings were held, and the next meeting is set for November 4, 2025.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved COA for 109–113 N Sibley Ave (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing regarding the vacation of a drainage and utility easement. The body will also consider a property purchase request for 1002 South Armstrong and a lease for the LARC with the State of Minnesota.

• Public hearing to consider vacating drainage and utility easement
• Property purchase request for 1002 South Armstrong
• LARC State of Minnesota Lease (Resolution No. 25-10-223)
• Housing Redevelopment Authority request for additional lots and grant resolutions
• G.A.R. Hall RFP and State Historic Building Grant

The council approved a $148,498.91 payment for the Johnson Drive and 260th Street improvement project. It adopted the first reading of Ordinance No. 835 to vacate part of a 20‑foot drainage and utility easement (6‑0). It authorized a lease of LARC space to the State of Minnesota with a monthly rent of $600 (6‑0). It approved the purchase of two lots from Ecumen for $40,000 and authorized staff to prepare a report on the 1002 South Armstrong property (both 6‑0).

• Approved Payment No. 2 for Johnson Drive and 260th Street improvements – $148,498.91
• Adopted first reading of Ordinance No. 835 to vacate part of a drainage and utility easement (6‑0)
• Authorized lease agreement for LARC space with State of Minnesota – $600 monthly rent (6‑0)
• Approved purchase of Lots 27‑2278000 and 22‑2279000 from Ecumen – $40,000 (6‑0)
• Authorized staff to prepare a report on 1002 South Armstrong property within 7 weeks (6‑0)
• Approved the Consent Agenda as presented (all present voted aye)

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to determine the philosophy and criteria for distributing grant funds. Members will review scoring guides and strategies to decide how to allocate dollars across properties.

• Discussion on grant distribution philosophy (broad distribution vs. maximum impact)
• Development of selection and scoring criteria for grant applicants
• Review of MN Department of Health Grant Score Sheet
• Review of Beaverton Oregon and Red Wing MSERP scoring criteria
• Review of current draft MN Contract with City of Litchfield

The City Council held a work session to discuss how to allocate roughly $6 million in grant requests for downtown property improvements. Members debated criteria, minimum and maximum award amounts, and eligible project types. The Council reached a consensus that every eligible applicant should receive some grant money provided the paperwork is completed. The City Administrator will draft a resolution on the process for the regular council meeting later that day.

• Agreed that all eligible applicants receive some grant funding if paperwork is completed
• City Administrator to prepare a resolution on grant distribution for the later council meeting

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will approve routine consent‑agenda items, including minutes, financial reports, claims and other payments. A timed public hearing will be conducted on the Swift Avenue and Ripley Street Improvement Project (Resolution No. 25‑10‑214). The council will also discuss updates on wastewater, the South Park Revitalization (including a pickleball court and shelter), the Light Up Litchfield initiative, and airport T‑hangar grant matters.

• Public hearing on Swift Ave. and Ripley St. Improvement Project – Resolution No. 25‑10‑214
• Water Treatment Facility Improvement Project payment – Resolution No. 25‑10‑211
• South Park Revitalization – pickleball court (Resolution No. 25‑10‑217) and shelter (Resolution No. 25‑10‑218)
• LARC State of Minnesota lease – Resolution No. 25‑10‑212
• Airport T‑Hangar grant resolutions – Resolution No. 25‑10‑209/25‑10‑210

The council approved payment of $373,265.96 for the 2022 water treatment facility improvement. It awarded the trunk sanitary sewer rehabilitation contract to CC Steel LLC of Fargo, ND after a bid process. The council also ordered the Swift Avenue and Ripley Street improvement project and designated Bolton & Menk, Inc. as the engineer. Additional actions included approving a lawful gambling permit for Church of St. Philip, a part‑time liquor position, and a dedicated fund for South Park revitalization.

• Approved $373,265.96 payment for 2022 water treatment facility improvement (Resolution 25-10-211) – all present voted aye
• Awarded conditional contract to CC Steel LLC for trunk sanitary sewer rehabilitation (Resolution 25-10-222) – all present voted aye
• Ordered Swift Avenue & Ripley Street Improvement Project and designated Bolton & Menk, Inc. as engineer (Resolution 25-10-214) – all present voted aye
• Approved lawful gambling premise permit for Church of St. Philip at 1227 S. Sibley Avenue (Resolution 25-10-219) – all present voted aye
• Approved part‑time liquor position for Gavin Thiel (Resolution 25-10-216) – all present voted aye
• Approved dedicated fund and budget goals for South Park revitalization, project estimate $185,000 (Resolution 25-10-217) – all present voted aye
• Scheduled first reading of sanitary sewer rate increase for November 3, 2025 – 7 votes in favor, 0 against
• Approved consent agenda (Resolution 25-10-221) – all present voted aye

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will meet for a work session on October 6, 2025, to receive training from the League of Minnesota Cities regarding best practices. The session is scheduled to adjourn at 3:00 PM.

• League of MN Cities training session
• Work session scheduled to adjourn at 3:00 PM

The council met on October 6, 2025 for a best‑practices training workshop presented by League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust representatives. No substantive actions, approvals, or denials were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 3:00 p.m. by unanimous consent.

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on the application for a Certificate of Appropriateness at 225 N Sibley Avenue, with the commission able to approve, defer, or deny the request. The agenda also lists administratively approved Certificates of Appropriateness for 225 N Sibley Avenue and 237 N Sibley Avenue. In old business, the commission received an update on a State Historic Building Grant request totaling $2,000,025. No reports are scheduled and the next meeting is set for October 27 2025.

• Public hearing on Certificate of Appropriateness application for 225 N Sibley Ave (approve, defer, or deny)
• Administratively approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 225 N Sibley Ave
• Administratively approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 237 N Sibley Ave
• State Historic Building Grant update – request for $2,000,025
• Next meeting scheduled for Monday, October 27, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. in City Hall

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved the amended Certificate of Appropriateness to allow painting the bulkhead, windows, and signage area on the east facade of 225 N Sibley Avenue. The commission also approved the COAs for 225 N Sibley Avenue and 237 N Sibley Avenue as submitted. All motions passed unanimously by voice vote.

• Approved minutes of prior meeting (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved amended painting of bulkhead, windows, signage at 225 N Sibley Ave (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved COA for 225 N Sibley Ave as submitted (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved COA for 237 N Sibley Ave as submitted (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council meeting on Sept 15, 2025 will first approve a consent agenda that includes routine payments, the Johnson Drive & 260th Street Improvement Project, a LARC payment, and three lawful gambling permits. The council will receive a State Historic Building Grant update and discuss the Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant Agreement (Resolution No. 25-9-204) along with a hangar lease. Additional business items include a memo on the LARC floor sweeper, a nuisance‑property matter, a year‑in‑review presentation, and the city administrator’s performance evaluation.

• Johnson Drive & 260th Street Improvement Project – Resolution No. 25-9-200
• LARC Payment – Resolution No. 25-9-201
• Lawful Gambling Permits – Litchfield Area Mentorship Program, LDC Youth Hockey, VFW Post 2818 (Res 25-9-202, 25-9-203, 25-9-205)
• State Historic Building Grant update (Business item A)
• Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant Agreement – Resolution No. 25-9-204

The Litchfield City Council approved several financial payments, a state airport grant, a lease for a new hangar, and funding for historic building grant assessments. It also approved lawful gambling exemptions for three local organizations. A motion to buy an autonomous floor scrubber failed and was tabled.

• Approved $300,530.56 payment for Johnson Drive and 260th Street Improvements (unanimous)
• Approved $680,228.57 LARC project payments (unanimous)
• Approved lawful gambling permits for three exempt organizations (Litchfield Area Mentorship Program‑Kinship, LDC Youth Hockey, VFW Post 2818) (unanimous)
• Approved up to $20,000 for historic building grant condition assessments (unanimous)
• Approved Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant Agreement with MnDOT (unanimous)
• Approved hangar lease agreement for potential FBO services (unanimous)
• Motion to purchase autonomous floor scrubber ($79,792.80) failed; item tabled (3 aye, 3 nay)
• Approved consent agenda items including September 2, 2025 council minutes and $318,758.71 computer bills (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold its regular meeting on September 2, 2025, to decide on the 2026 preliminary levy and budget, approve routine payments including a $1,001,943.91 LARC project invoice list, and consider resolutions for sewer relocation and downtown façade grants. The meeting also includes a presentation on the Swift Avenue and Ripley Street reconstruction project.

• Approve $1,001,943.91 in LARC project payments (Kraft Mechanical LLC, Knife River Corporation, others)
• Set 2026 preliminary levy via Resolution 25-9-190
• Set 2026 preliminary budget via Resolution 25-9-191
• Approve Trunk Sanitary Sewer Relocation via Resolution 25-9-189 ($amount not specified)
• Receive State Historic Building Grant update and Downtown Historical Façade Grant request

The council approved an $8,000 matching grant for a downtown façade project, with the mayor and Council Member Carson voting nay. It also approved free use of a LARC community room for the Golden Age Card Club on Fridays, with Council Member Larson voting nay. Payments were authorized for the Civic Arena floor replacement ($73,131) and the final trunk sanitary sewer relocation ($7,169.51). Part‑time employment offers for several city departments were adopted.

• Approved $8,000 Downtown Façade Grant to Kaleb Lehmann (5 aye, 2 nay)
• Approved free LARC community room use for Golden Age Card Club (6 aye, 1 nay)
• Approved Payment No. 5 for Civic Arena Floor Replacement – $73,131 (7 aye)
• Approved Final Payment for Trunk Sanitary Sewer Relocation – $7,169.51 (7 aye)
• Approved Consent Agenda as presented (7 aye)
• Approved part‑time employment offers for Golf Course, Liquor, LARC, etc. (adopted)
• Approved City Council Minutes – August 1, 2025 (consent agenda)
• Approved Electronic and Wire Transfer Report (consent agenda)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will meet to review the minutes from the July 28 meeting and discuss a State Historic Building Grant. No new business or public hearings are scheduled for this session.

• Discussion of State Historic Building Grant

The commission approved the minutes of the August 25, 2025 meeting by unanimous voice vote. No public hearings, new business, or reports were presented. The commission also set the next meeting for September 22, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Scheduled next meeting for Sep 22, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will conduct a procedural meeting with no major decisions. They will approve routine financial reports, claims, and payments, including a $272,336.50 Civic Arena floor replacement payment. Three heritage preservation certificates of appropriateness are also on the agenda for properties at 19 E. Depot St., 136 N. Marshall Ave., and 217 N. Sibley Ave.

• Approve $272,336.50 payment for Civic Arena Floor Replacement Project
• Grant Certificate of Appropriateness for 19 E. Depot St. (Kaleb Lehmann)
• Grant Certificate of Appropriateness for 136 N. Marshall Ave. (Greater Litchfield Opera House Association)
• Grant Certificate of Appropriateness for 217 N. Sibley Ave. (CBTC, LLC)
• Approve routine claims list totaling $5,980,838.84

The council approved a resolution authorizing DGR to seek bids for transmission transformers needed for the incoming 115‑kV line upgrade, with estimated costs between $5 M and $8 M. It also approved LARC project payments totaling $1,001,943.91, part‑time employment offers, and authorization for Bolton & Menk to prepare FAA documentation for a possible airport‑property sale. Additional actions included adopting the consent agenda, committing to League of MN Cities training, and scheduling the City Administrator’s annual performance review for September 15, 2025.

• Authorized DGR to seek bids for transmission transformers (estimated $5M‑$8M) – all members present voted aye
• Approved LARC project payments totaling $1,001,943.91 – all members present voted aye
• Approved part‑time employment offers for Golf Course, Liquor, and other positions – all members present voted aye
• Authorized Bolton & Menk to complete FAA documentation for possible airport property sale, costs reimbursed by Hicks Trucking and Bus – all members present voted aye
• Adopted the consent agenda as presented – all members present voted aye
• Committed to League of MN Cities training opportunity – all members present voted aye
• Set City Administrator annual performance review for September 15, 2025 – all members present voted aye
• Approved sale‑related documentation for airport property (FAA consideration) – all members present voted aye

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to approve a temporary liquor license for the Songs of Summer Festival. The council will also consider a resolution approving a land appraisal for the sale of property to the First District Association (FDA).

• Temporary Off-Site Liquor License Application for Songs of Summer Festival
• Approval of land appraisal for 12.175 acres at 13xx Armstrong Avenue
• Proposed land sale to First District Association for a pretreatment facility
• Appraised market value of 13xx Armstrong Avenue estimated at $115,000

The Litchfield City Council adopted a resolution approving a temporary off‑site liquor license for the American Legion Nelson‑Horton Post #104's Songs of Summer event on August 15, 2025. The council also approved the land appraisal report for the property sold to the First District Association (FDA) to build a wastewater pretreatment facility. Both motions passed with all members present voting aye. The meeting was adjourned at 1:03 p.m.

• Approved temporary off‑site liquor license for Songs of Summer event (all present voted aye)
• Approved land appraisal report for property sold to FDA for wastewater pretreatment facility (all present voted aye)
• Adjourned meeting at 1:03 p.m. (motion carried)

City Council

The City Council will review wastewater rates and a sewer separation project. The body is also discussing rental rates, opening dates, and a youth hockey agreement for the Litchfield Area Recreation Facility (LARC).

• Certificate of Appropriateness for 19 East Depot St
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 136 Marshall Avenue North
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 217 Sibley Avenue North
• Civic Arena Floor Replacement Project payment (Resolution No. 25-8-169)
• Temporary street closure for American Legion Post 104

The council unanimously approved the Consent Agenda, including a $272,336.50 payment for the Civic Arena floor replacement project. It also adopted three Certificates of Appropriateness for properties at 19 East Depot Street, 136 North Marshall Avenue, and 217 North Sibley Avenue. The council authorized a CLG grant application and attendance for HPC members at the Preserve MN 2025 conference. Licenses and a temporary street closure request were approved as part of the agenda.

• Approved Consent Agenda (all present voted aye)
• Approved Payment No. 4 for Civic Arena Floor Replacement project $272,336.50 (all present voted aye)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Kaleb Lehmann for 19 East Depot Street (all present voted aye)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Greater Litchfield Opera House Association for 136 North Marshall Avenue (all present voted aye)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to CBTC, LLC for 217 North Sibley Avenue (all present voted aye)
• Authorized CLG grant application and attendance for HPC members at Preserve MN 2025 conference (all present voted aye)
• Approved sales on public property license to Litchfield Area Women of Today (all present voted aye)
• Approved temporary street closure request for American Legion Post 104 (all present voted aye)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Commission will conduct public hearings to decide on applications for three specific properties. The body will also discuss attendance at the PreserveMN 2025 conference in New Ulm.

• Public hearing for 19 E. Depot Street
• Public hearing for 136 N. Marshall Avenue
• Public hearing for 217 N. Sibley Avenue
• Administratively approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 215 Sibley Avenue North
• Discussion of PreserveMN 2025 conference attendance (September 10-12, 2025)

The Litchfield Heritage Preservation Commission approved three Certificate of Appropriateness applications—19 Depot Street East, 136 Marshall Avenue North (door repair), and 136 Marshall Avenue North (sign)—as submitted, each by unanimous voice vote. The commission also administratively approved a COA for 215 Sibley Avenue North by unanimous voice vote. All motions were passed without dissent.

• Approved 19 Depot Street East COA as submitted (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved 136 Marshall Avenue North door COA as submitted (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved 136 Marshall Avenue North sign COA as submitted (unanimous voice vote)
• Administratively approved 215 Sibley Avenue North COA as submitted (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved minutes of June 23, 2025 meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The City Council will consider a site plan review for the FDA and discuss the selection of an architect for a state historic building grant. The meeting also includes decisions on LARC appointments and infrastructure at the US HWY 12 and CR34 intersection.

• Site Plan Review Request by FDA at 21 West Depot Street (Resolution No. 25-7-159)
• US HWY 12 & CR34 Intersection (Resolution No. 25-7-163)
• Lawful Gambling Permit for Meeker County Ducks Unlimited (Resolution No. 25-7-162)
• Architect selection for State Historic Building Grant
• LARC Member Services Specialist appointment

The council approved Payment No. 18 of $151,050 for the 2022 water‑treatment facility improvement. It also approved $1,254,398.76 in multiple invoices for the LARC project. Additional actions included granting a lawful gambling exemption to Meeker County Ducks Unlimited, approving the site‑plan for a farmer’s market at 21 West Depot Street, appointing Jessica Weseman as LARC Member Service Specialist, selecting 4594 Design as the architect for the State Historic Building Grant, and moving forward with building‑owner applications (5‑0 vote).

• Approved $151,050 payment for 2022 water treatment facility improvement (unanimous)
• Approved $1,254,398.76 in payments for LARC project (unanimous)
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Meeker County Ducks Unlimited (unanimous)
• Approved site‑plan for farmer’s market at 21 West Depot Street (unanimous)
• Appointed Jessica Weseman as LARC Member Service Specialist (unanimous)
• Selected 4594 Design as project architect for State Historic Building Grant (unanimous)
• Approved building‑owner applications for State Historic Building Grant (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Litchfield Planning Commission will review a site plan for a new farmer’s market shelter at 21 West Depot Street and discuss a hospital expansion project that may require vacating portions of W Lockerbie Street and S Ramsey Avenue. The meeting will also include updates on previously approved developments.

• Site Plan Review for farmer’s market shelter at 21 West Depot Street
• Vacation of W Lockerbie St. & S Ramsey Ave. for Meeker Memorial Hospital expansion
• 28-unit apartment development approved at 1402 E. Ripley St. (Scott Rech, Stix & Brix, Inc.)

The commission approved the minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting. It then voted to recommend approval of the First District Association's site plan for a farmer’s market shelter at 21 West Depot Street, subject to four conditions. All four commissioners present voted aye. The next meeting was scheduled for August 11, 2025.

• Approved June 9, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Recommended approval of FDA farmer’s market shelter site plan, subject to conditions (4-0)
• Set next Planning Commission meeting for Aug 11, 2025

City Council

The City Council will review second readings for three ordinances and a certificate of appropriateness for 136 N. Marshall Ave. The body is also discussing LARC rates, community reinvestment projects, and an Airport Advisory Board applicant.

• Second readings of Ordinance No. 832, 833, and 834
• Payment for Civic Arena Floor Replacement Project (Resolution No. 25-7-152)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 136 N. Marshall Ave. (Resolution No. 25-7-151)
• Noise variance request for Muddy Cow (Resolution No. 25-7-147)
• Temporary street closure for Litchfield Baseball Association

The council approved payment for the Civic Arena floor replacement and authorized a $2,910,081.55 computer bill claim. It adopted Ordinances 832, 833, and 834 covering a property sale, zoning map amendment, and street vacating. The council also approved a noise variance for Muddy Cow and adopted membership and fee rates for the new LARC recreation facility.

• Approved Payment No. 3 for Civic Arena Floor Replacement project $166,250 (unanimous)
• Authorized payment of $2,910,081.55 for computer bills (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 832 authorizing sale of public property (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 833 amending zoning map boundaries (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 834 vacating portion of Lockerbie St and Ramsey Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Muddy Cow noise ordinance variance for July 11‑13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted LARC membership and fee rates (Resolution 25‑7‑155) (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda (Resolution 25‑7‑154) (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to review and take action on an application for the property at 136 North Marshall Avenue.

• Public hearing and action on application for 136 North Marshall Avenue

The commission approved the minutes from the May 27, 2025 meeting. It approved the opera house Certificate of Appropriateness, adopting items 1‑3 and removing item 4, as amended. Both actions passed unanimously by voice vote.

• Approved May 27, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved opera house COA amendment: include items 1‑3, remove item 4 (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding the sale of property and a street vacation. The body will also consider rezoning and variance requests for a project at 1402 E Ripley Street.

• Public hearing for the sale of property (Resolution No. 25-6-137)
• Public hearing for street vacation (Resolution No. 25-6-141)
• Rezoning, site plan review, and variance requests for Stix & Brix, Inc. at 1402 E Ripley Street
• Redevelopment proposal for 1975 E US Hwy 12 by Steve Knisley
• Payments for the Civic Arena Floor Replacement Project (Resolution No. 25-6-138)

The council approved the consent agenda, including $1,323,008.18 for the LARC project and $188,575.00 for the Civic Arena floor replacement. It held and closed public hearings, then adopted the first reading of Ordinance No. 832 to sell portions of PIDs 27-0001000 and 27-2466000 to the First District Association. The council also adopted the first reading of Ordinance No. 834 to vacate part of Lockerbie Street and Ramsey Avenue, and approved a variance and site‑plan for a 25‑unit apartment at 1402 East Ripley Street.

• Approved Consent Agenda (all members present voted aye)
• Approved LARC project payments totaling $1,323,008.18 (consent agenda)
• Approved Civic Arena Floor Replacement payment $188,575.00 (consent agenda)
• Closed public hearing on sale of property (7‑0)
• Adopted first reading of Ordinance No. 832 authorizing sale of public property (all aye)
• Closed public hearing on street vacation (7‑0)
• Adopted first reading of Ordinance No. 834 vacating portion of Lockerbie Street and Ramsey Avenue (all aye)
• Approved variance and site‑plan for 25‑unit apartment at 1402 East Ripley Street (adopted)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will discuss a request by Meeker Memorial Hospital to vacate portions of W Lockerbie St. and S Ramsey Ave. for a future expansion. The commission is also continuing a review of a proposed 28-unit apartment development.

• Meeker Memorial Hospital request to vacate 42,405 +/- square feet of W Lockerbie St. and S Ramsey Ave.
• Continuation of rezoning, site plan review, and variance requests for a 28-unit apartment development at 1402 E. Ripley St.
• Discussion regarding redevelopment at 1975 E US HWY 12 (Quonset hut site)
• Review of City Council action granting a variance for a detached garage at 408 N. Gilman Ave.

The commission approved the minutes of the May 12, 2025 meeting, with all members present voting aye. They voted to recommend approval of the rezoning, site plan review and variances for the 28‑unit apartment project at 1402 E. Ripley St., subject to staff‑listed conditions. The meeting also recorded that a variance reducing the corner side‑yard setback for a garage replacement at 408 N. Gilman Ave. had been granted by the city council. The next Planning Commission meeting was scheduled for July 14, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.

• Approved May 12, 2025 meeting minutes (all aye)
• Recommended approval of rezoning, site plan review and variances for 1402 E. Ripley St. (motion carried, all aye)
• Variance granted for 408 N. Gilman Ave. corner side yard setback reduction (as noted in council actions)
• Scheduled next Planning Commission meeting for July 14, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.

City Council

The City Council will consider awarding bids and LRIP funding for road work on Johnson Drive and 260th Street. The body will also review certificates of appropriateness for two properties on Sibley Ave North and discuss LARC operations.

• Awarding bids for Johnson Drive & 260th Street (Resolution No. 25-6-128)
• LRIP Funding for Johnson Drive & 260th Street (Resolution No. 25-6-129)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for CBTC, LLC at 217 Sibley Ave North
• Certificate of Appropriateness for Charles Burdick, CBAJ, LLC at 225 Sibley Ave North
• Lawful Gambling Permit for Church of St. Philip (Resolution No. 25-6-132)

The council approved a $1,500,000 Local Road Improvement Program grant for the Johnson Drive & 260th Street Improvement Project. It also awarded a conditional contract to Northern Lines Contracting for that project. In addition, the council approved a lawful gambling permit for the Church of St. Philip and granted Certificates of Appropriateness for properties at 217 and 225 North Sibley Avenue. All actions were adopted unanimously.

• Approved $1.5M LRIP grant for Johnson Drive & 260th St project (unanimous)
• Awarded conditional contract to Northern Lines Contracting for Johnson Drive & 260th St project (unanimous)
• Approved lawful gambling permit for Church of St. Philip (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 217 North Sibley Avenue (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness for 225 North Sibley Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Commission will conduct public hearings to review and take action on applications for properties located at 217 and 225 North Sibley Avenue. The body will also discuss the upcoming PreserveMN 2025 conference.

• Public hearing and action on application for 217 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing and action on application for 225 North Sibley Avenue
• Discussion of PreserveMN 2025 conference (September 10-12, 2025)

The commission approved the minutes from the April 28, 2025 meeting. It unanimously approved the paint application for 217 Sibley Avenue North, adding flat latex paint and allowing replacement of the transom vertical siding if needed. It also unanimously approved the window replacement application for 225 Sibley Avenue North, adding weather‑resistant material for infill and an option to align with the decorative band.

• Approved minutes of April 28, 2025 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved paint project for 217 Sibley Ave N, amended to include flat latex paint and possible transom siding replacement (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved window replacement project for 225 Sibley Ave N, amended to include weather‑resistant infill material and optional alignment with decorative band (unanimous voice vote)

City Council

The City Council is reviewing the management letter and audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024, provided by Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing, PLLP. The audit covers governmental activities, business-type activities, and major funds.

• Review of 2024 audited financial statements
• Management letter from Conway, Deuth & Schmiesing, PLLP
• Implementation of Governmental Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 100
• Evaluation of depreciation, pension, and uncollectible account estimates

City Council

The City Council will consider a wastewater land purchase from the FDA, including a waiver of subdivision review and setting a public hearing. The body will also review T-hangar bids and an architectural RFP.

• FDA wastewater land purchase: waiver of subdivision review and public hearing
• Variance request for 408 N Gilman Ave
• T-hangar bids
• Architectural RFP
• Lawful gambling permits for Kiwanis Club, Chamber of Commerce, and Baseball Association

The Litchfield City Council approved the consent agenda and accepted statutory tort liability limits. It adopted lawful gambling exemptions for the Kiwanis Club, the Litchfield Chamber of Commerce, and the Litchfield Baseball Association. The council granted a side‑yard setback variance for 408 North Gilman Avenue and appointed Owen Boerema as the LARC Facility Director. A motion to hold the Communication Manager/Assistant City Clerk position was also passed.

• Approved consent agenda (all present voted aye)
• Accepted statutory tort liability limits of $1,500,000 (all present voted aye)
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Kiwanis Club of Litchfield (adopted)
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Litchfield Chamber of Commerce (adopted)
• Approved lawful gambling permit exemption for Litchfield Baseball Association (adopted)
• Granted variance for 408 North Gilman Avenue (all present voted aye)
• Appointed Owen Boerema as LARC Facility Director (all present voted aye)
• Held on Communication Manager/Assistant City Clerk position (6‑0 vote)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two variance requests and a rezoning/site plan review. The major item is a proposal by Scott Rech of Stix & Brix, Inc. to rezone and develop a 28-unit apartment building at 1402 E. Ripley St., which also requires variances. A separate variance request from John and Lesli Mueller seeks to reduce the corner side yard setback for a garage replacement at 408 N. Gilman Ave. The commission will also review previous council actions, including an approved fence height variance.

• Public hearing on rezoning, site plan review, and variances for a 28-unit apartment development at 1402 E. Ripley St.
• Public hearing on variance to reduce corner side yard setback from 20 to 13.5 feet for garage replacement at 408 N. Gilman Ave.
• Review of council action granting variance to increase fence height at 711 Capwood Ave.
• Approval of minutes from April 14, 2025 meeting.

The commission approved the minutes from the April 14 meeting. It approved a variance for a garage replacement at 408 N. Gilman Ave., with conditions. It tabled the rezoning, site‑plan and variance requests for a 28‑unit development at 1402 E. Ripley St. to allow further plan revisions. The next meeting was scheduled for June 9, 2025, and a prior variance for a fence height increase at 711 Capwood Ave. was recorded as granted.

• Approved April 14, 2025 minutes (all aye)
• Approved variance for 408 N. Gilman Ave. garage replacement (all aye)
• Tabled rezoning, site‑plan review and variances for 1402 E. Ripley St. (all aye)
• Set next meeting for June 9, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
• Recorded grant of variance to Thomas & Deborah Holtz at 711 Capwood Ave.

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will interview applicants for the vacant Ward 5 council seat, discuss public works facility needs, and hold a closed session to review a law enforcement investigation. The council will also consider two certificates of appropriateness for properties on Sibley Avenue North.

• Interview applicants for Council Member Ward 5 vacancy
• Certificate of Appropriateness for Serenity Rentals & Events at 207 Sibley Ave North – Resolution 25-5-105
• Certificate of Appropriateness for Michael Niedzielski at 112 Sibley Ave North – Resolution 25-5-104
• Discussion of Public Work Facility Needs
• Closed session for Law Enforcement Investigation Review

The City Council appointed Bob Powers to the vacant Ward 5 council seat after a coin‑flip decision, with all members voting aye. The council also approved LARC project payments totaling $2,355,917.81 and a $213,750 payment for the Civic Arena floor replacement project. Certificates of Appropriateness were granted for properties at 207 North Sibley Avenue and 112 North Sibley Avenue. Part‑time employment offers were approved for the Golf Course and Liquor departments.

• Bob Powers appointed to Ward 5 council seat (unanimous after coin flip)
• Approved LARC project payments totaling $2,355,917.81
• Approved Civic Arena floor replacement payment of $213,750.00
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Serenity Rentals & Events, 207 N Sibley Ave (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Michael Niedzielski, 112 N Sibley Ave (unanimous)
• Approved part‑time employment offers for Golf Course (Josie Bjorkman) and Liquor (Erica Carlson) (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda items (unanimous)
• Approved City Council minutes for April 21, 2025 (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings for two properties at 207 and 112 North Sibley Avenue, discuss a State Historic Building Grant from a property owner meeting, and consider a Cemetery Tour Request. Minutes from the March 24 meeting will be approved.

• Public hearing for 207 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 112 North Sibley Avenue
• Discussion of State Historic Building Grant
• Cemetery Tour Request as new business

The commission approved the applications to add exterior doors at 112 Sibley Ave. North and 207 Sibley Ave. North, each passing unanimously by voice vote. The public hearing for 112 Sibley Ave. North continued after a 6‑yea, 1‑nay voice vote. Minutes from the March 24, 2025 meeting were also approved and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved minutes of March 24, 2025 meeting (motion carried)
• Continued public hearing for 112 Sibley Ave. North (voice vote 6 yay, 1 nay)
• Approved exterior door application at 112 Sibley Ave. North (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved exterior door application at 207 Sibley Ave. North (unanimous voice vote)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will hold a public hearing for the Board of Review, consider a variance request by Thomas & Deborah Holtz at 711 Capwood Avenue, and discuss multiple infrastructure items including 260th Street & Johnson Drive, the Airport T-Hangar, and the 5th & Gilman Intersection. The consent agenda includes routine approvals of minutes, claims, and temporary street closings. Details on business items are contained in the agenda packet.

• Public hearing for Board of Review (5:30 p.m.)
• Variance request by Thomas & Deborah Holtz at 711 Capwood Avenue (Resolution No. 25-4-95)
• Discussion on 260th Street & Johnson Drive project
• Discussion on Airport T-Hangar
• Discussion on 5th & Gilman Intersection

The council approved the consent agenda and authorized $1,464,905.36 in payments for the LARC project. It adopted a $20,000 zero‑interest deferred loan for the Housing and Redevelopment Authority to purchase land for low‑income housing. The council also voted to adjust the 2025 EMV for several Cedar Meadows parcels to $36,500 and to keep the 2025 EMV unchanged for two other parcels.

• Approved Consent Agenda (all present voted aye)
• Authorized LARC project payments totaling $1,464,905.36
• Approved $20,000 0% deferred loan to HRA for housing development (5‑0)
• Adjusted 2025 EMV for Cedar Meadows parcels to $36,500 (5‑0)
• Kept 2025 EMV unchanged for Parcel 27-2764000 (5‑0)
• Kept 2025 EMV unchanged for Parcel 27-2516000 (5‑0)
• Authorized payment of $279,995.25 for computer bills (claims)
• Approved Electronic and Wire Transfer Report (financial report)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a request to increase the height of six rear yard privacy fence panels. The commission will also receive updates on joint meeting discussions and a report from the Historic Preservation Commission.

• Public hearing for variance request at 711 Capwood Ave. to increase six fence panels from six to eight feet
• Review of City Council approval for setback reduction and building height increase at 101 S Swift Ave.

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the February 10, 2025 meeting. A public hearing was held for a variance request to increase rear‑yard privacy fence panels to eight feet at 711 Capwood Ave. Commissioners voted unanimously to recommend approval of that variance. No other business was acted upon.

• Approved February 10, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Recommended approval of fence height variance at 711 Capwood Ave (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will consider a resolution for the Ramsey Avenue/Weisel Street intersection project, approve new job descriptions for LARC Facility Director and Communication Manager/Assistant City Clerk, and adopt annual transfers and a fund balance policy. They will also discuss fiber-optic network extension and remote meeting access.

• Resolution No. 25-4-88: Ramsey Avenue/Weisel Street intersection
• Certificates of Appropriateness for 207 and 100 Sibley Ave North (Resolutions 25-4-84, 25-4-85)
• New job descriptions: LARC Facility Director and Communication Manager/Assistant City Clerk
• Annual Transfers Resolution No. 25-4-87 and Fund Balance Policy Resolution No. 25-4-86
• Fiber optic network extension memo and remote meeting access discussion

The Litchfield City Council adopted the consent agenda and approved lawful gambling exemptions for the Litchfield Baseball Association and the Litchfield Lions Club. It granted Certificates of Appropriateness for properties at 207 and 100 North Sibley Avenue. The council also approved stop signs at the Ramsey Avenue and Weisel Street intersection and authorized the creation of a LARC Facility Director position.

• Approved consent agenda (Resolution 25-4-89), unanimous vote
• Approved lawful gambling permit for Litchfield Baseball Association (Resolution 25-4-82)
• Approved lawful gambling permit for Litchfield Lions Club (Resolution 25-4-83)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Miguel Gonzalez for 207 North Sibley Avenue (Resolution 25-4-84), unanimous vote
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness (amended) to Mike Corcoran for 100 North Sibley Avenue (Resolution 25-4-85), unanimous vote
• Approved stop signs at Ramsey Avenue and Weisel Street intersection (Resolution 25-4-88), unanimous vote
• Approved LARC Facility Director position and job description (Resolution 25-4-90), unanimous vote

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Commission will hold public hearings to take action on applications for properties located at 207 North Sibley Avenue and 100 North Sibley Avenue. The body will also discuss the Maison Robert Preservation Foundation.

• Public hearing for 207 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for 100 North Sibley Avenue
• Discussion regarding Maison Robert Preservation Foundation

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved the minutes from the February 24, 2025 meeting. It unanimously approved a sign application for 207 N. Sibley Avenue as submitted. It approved the exterior staircase application for 100 N. Sibley Avenue, adding a requirement that the owner submit paint color details before painting, with one commissioner voting no.

• Approved February 24, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved exterior sign at 207 N. Sibley Avenue as submitted (unanimous voice vote)
• Approved exterior staircase at 100 N. Sibley Avenue with amendment requiring paint details (passed; Gary voted no, all others aye)
• No action taken on Maison Robert Preservation Foundation request (no representative present)
• Reviewed legal terms (no formal decision recorded)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will consider resolutions to adopt new pay schedules for full-time, part-time, and Fire/Rescue employees. Also on the agenda are appointments to fill a Council Member Ward 5 vacancy and to the Planning Commission and Housing & Redevelopment Authority. Consent agenda items include project resolutions for LARC and the Library Exterior Improvement.

• Employee wage increases: Resolutions 25-3-70 (full-time), 25-3-71 (part-time), 25-3-72 (Fire/Rescue)
• Council Member Ward 5 vacancy appointment (memo included)
• Fire and Rescue Annual Report – Resolution No. 25-3-69
• LARC Project – Resolution No. 25-3-67
• Library Exterior Improvement Project – Resolution No. 25-3-68

The Litchfield City Council approved three-year pay schedules for non-contract, part-time, and fire/rescue employees, including COLA increases of 5% in 2025, 4% in 2026, and 4% in 2027 for non-contract staff. The council also authorized $857,790.61 in payments for the LARC project, approved a $20,000 consulting contract for LARC opening, and declared a vacancy for Ward 5 following a resignation. A proposal to extend fiber network to the LARC was tabled for more information.

• Approved 2025-2027 non-contract employee pay schedule with 5%/4%/4% COLA increases (unanimous)
• Approved 2025-2027 part-time employee pay schedule (unanimous)
• Approved 2025-2027 fire/rescue pay schedule: Fire $15/$17/$18, Rescue $16.50/$18.50/$19.50 (unanimous)
• Approved $857,790.61 in LARC project payments (unanimous)
• Approved $20,000 consulting contract with Holly Johnson/NIHCA for LARC opening (unanimous)
• Declared Ward 5 vacancy and set application deadline April 15, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved 4594 Design proposal for G.A.R. Hall window/door repair design (unanimous)
• Authorized advertising for wastewater operators (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will discuss airport T-hangars, pickleball court rehabilitation, and a brew pub license application. The body will also consider employee appointments and a Library Board appointment.

• Certificate of Appropriateness application for 100 Sibley Avenue North
• Certificate of Appropriateness application for 207 Sibley Avenue North
• Lawful Gambling Permit for Litchfield Area Mentorship Program – Kinship
• Pickleball court rehabilitation
• Brew pub license application

The Litchfield City Council approved several items, including authorizing bidding documents for a new 6-unit airport T-hangar, approving a $15,000 pickleball court rehabilitation bid, and granting a brew pub liquor license to Three Sons Seltzer LLC. The council also denied a certificate of appropriateness for a staircase at 100 North Sibley Avenue, granted one for a sign at 207 North Sibley Avenue, and made personnel and board appointments.

• Approved consent agenda including $909,278.38 in claims (unanimous)
• Denied Certificate of Appropriateness for Mike Corcoran at 100 N. Sibley Ave. (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Leah Mahlow for 207 N. Sibley Ave. (unanimous)
• Authorized preparation of bidding documents for Airport 6 Unit T-Hangar project (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 pickleball court color coat system bid from Upper Midwest Athletic Construction (unanimous)
• Approved on-sale and Sunday liquor license and brew pub off-sale license for Three Sons Seltzer LLC (unanimous)
• Appointed Hunter Ruschmeyer and Bryce Wendlandt as Junior Equipment Operators and Abby Shoutz as Administrative/Accounting Technician (unanimous)
• Appointed Thomas Cubbage to Library Board through 12/31/2027 (unanimous)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on certificates of appropriateness for two properties on North Sibley Avenue. They will also review an administratively approved certificate for Charles Burdick at 225 N. Sibley Ave. and discuss the MN Historical Society Annual Conference and other business.

• Public hearing for certificate of appropriateness at 100 North Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for certificate of appropriateness at 207 North Sibley Avenue
• Administratively approved certificate of appropriateness for Charles Burdick at 225 N. Sibley Ave.
• Discussion of MN Historical Society Annual Conference (September 10-12, 2025 in New Ulm)
• New History item (unspecified)

The Heritage Preservation Commission denied a certificate of appropriateness for a proposed exterior staircase at 100 N. Sibley Avenue because the application was incomplete, lacking details on materials and dimensions. The commission approved a sign application for 207 N. Sibley Avenue and an administratively approved COA for 225 N. Sibley Avenue.

• Denied COA for exterior staircase at 100 N. Sibley Avenue (Rick/Dave passed, Connie and Holly voted no)
• Approved COA for sign at 207 N. Sibley Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved administratively approved COA for 225 N. Sibley Avenue (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council will consider a Planning Commission recommendation for a site plan review and variance request from First District Association at 101 S Swift Avenue, involving a setback reduction and building height increase for a structure addition and silo installation. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, financial reports, claims totaling $22,509,529.73 (from prior meeting), and other routine matters. Business items include discussions on LARC resolutions, civic arena floor replacement, G.A.R. Hall, tennis courts rehab, golf course rates, tree replacement, and a law enforcement preliminary investigation.

• Site plan review and variance request by First District Association at 101 S Swift Avenue for setback reduction and height increase (Resolution No. 25-2-47)
• Consent agenda includes Airport Terminal Building Rehabilitation project (Resolution No. 25-2-48) and LARC pay requests (Resolution No. 25-2-46)
• Business items: LARC resolutions (No. 25-2-49 and 25-2-50), civic arena floor replacement, G.A.R. Hall, tennis courts rehab, golf course rates
• Tree replacement item with Resolution No. 25-2-51
• Law enforcement preliminary investigation discussion

The Litchfield City Council approved the base bid and alternate bid from Modern Mechanical Ice Systems for the Civic Arena Floor Replacement project, totaling $1,346,625. The council also approved several other contracts, including the G.A.R. Hall fire detection system replacement, tennis court rehabilitation, and 2025 golf course rates. Additionally, the council authorized a preliminary investigation into allegations against a police department employee, conducted in closed session.

• Approved $841,557.35 in claims and other payments (consent agenda)
• Approved $15,342.26 payment for Airport Terminal Building Rehabilitation (Resolution 25-2-48)
• Approved $346,870.41 in LARC project payments (Resolution 25-2-46)
• Granted site plan and variance approval for First District Association silo expansion at 101 S. Swift Ave (Resolution 25-2-47)
• Approved $1,140,910 base bid and $205,715 alternate for Civic Arena floor and dasher boards (Resolution 25-2-52)
• Approved $6,990 bid for G.A.R. Hall fire detection system replacement (Resolution 25-2-54)
• Approved $69,600 for tennis court rehabilitation (Resolution 25-2-53)
• Adopted 2025 golf course rates (Resolution 25-2-55), with Council Member Kotelnicki voting nay

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request for a property at 101 S. Swift Avenue. The body will also review updates from a joint meeting with the Historic Preservation Commission.

• Public hearing: Variance request by First District Association at 101 S. Swift Avenue for setback reduction and increased building height for a structure addition and silos

The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend City Council approval of a site plan review and two variances for First District Association's expansion at 101 S. Swift Avenue, including a building addition and 15 new silos. The recommendation includes conditions such as submitting detailed construction plans, maintaining drainage, and planting trees by June 1, 2026. The commission also strongly requested a master plan from FDA for future projects.

• Recommended approval of site plan and variances for FDA expansion (unanimous)
• Required detailed construction plans before construction
• Required Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
• Required verification of stormwater pipe conflicts
• Required four additional trees planted by June 1, 2026
• Requested FDA provide a master plan for future projects

City Council

The City Council will consider certificates of appropriateness for three properties and discuss fire department turnout gear. The body will also review LARC/Civic Arena bond proceeds and a facade grant.

• Certificate of Appropriateness for 3 E. 4th Street (Trinity Episcopal Church)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 242 N. Sibley Ave. (Litchfield Masonic Building Association)
• Certificate of Appropriateness for 113 N. Sibley Ave. (Sarah Smith)
• Fire Department turnout gear (Resolution No. 25-2-43)
• LARC/Civic Arena bond proceeds (Resolution No. 25-2-39)

The Litchfield City Council approved a grant agreement with New History for $2,025,000 in state funds to design and rehabilitate facades of buildings in the commercial historic district. The council also approved the consent agenda, including $22.5 million in claims, and authorized the purchase of fire department turnout gear for $120,630. Three certificates of appropriateness were granted for historic properties, and the matching facade grant program was put on hold until the audit is complete.

• Approved $2,025,000 facade grant agreement with New History (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $22,509,529.73 in claims (unanimous)
• Authorized $120,630 fire turnout gear purchase from Heiman Fire Equipment (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Trinity Episcopal Church for 3 E. 4th St. (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Litchfield Masonic Building Assoc. for 242 N. Sibley Ave. (unanimous)
• Granted Certificate of Appropriateness to Sarah Smith for 113 N. Sibley Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved fly and drive-in event at airport on Aug. 9, 2025 (5-0)
• Tabled matching facade grant until audit complete (4-1, Mayor Dingmann dissenting)

Heritage Preservation Commission

The Heritage Preservation Commission will hold public hearings for three properties: 3 E. 4th Street (Trinity Episcopal Church), 113 N. Sibley Avenue, and 242 N. Sibley Avenue, to consider certificates of appropriateness. Additionally, they will discuss 2025 application deadlines and a concept review for 207 N. Sibley Avenue.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 3 E. 4th Street (Trinity Episcopal Church)
• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 113 N. Sibley Avenue
• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness at 242 N. Sibley Avenue
• Concept review for 207 N. Sibley Avenue
• Discussion of 2025 Certificate of Appropriateness application deadlines

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness: for replacing bell tower siding at 3 East 4th Street, for a transom sign backing at 113 North Sibley Avenue (amended to backing only), and for replacing a wood staircase with a metal one at 242 North Sibley Avenue. The commission also voted to request the City reinstate the $8,000 grant for National Register properties retroactive to 01/01/2025. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved COA for bell tower siding replacement at 3 East 4th Street (unanimous)
• Approved COA for transom sign backing at 113 North Sibley Avenue, amended to backing only in black, brown, or dark green, attached in mortar (unanimous)
• Approved COA for metal staircase replacement and brick repair at 242 North Sibley Avenue (unanimous)
• Motion to request City reinstate $8,000 grant for National Register properties retroactive to 01/01/2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The Litchfield City Council will meet to approve consent agenda items including second reading of Ordinance 830, payments for airport terminal and library exterior projects, and a gambling permit for the Lions Club. Under business, they will vote on awarding General Obligation Bonds 2025A (Resolution 25-1-25), discuss a facade grant update, and consider tobacco license applications for two gas stations: 325 South Sibley Avenue (Marathon) and 639 East Highway 12 (Speedway Hwy 12). The Personnel Committee will report on union contracts and non-contract employee matters.

• Awarding GO Bonds 2025A (Resolution 25-1-25)
• Second reading of Ordinance No. 830 (Resolution 25-1-22)
• Façade Grant Update (memo discussion)
• Tobacco license applications for Marathon (325 S Sibley Ave) and Speedway Hwy 12 (639 E Hwy 12)
• Personnel Committee discussion on union contracts and non-contract employees

The Litchfield City Council approved the issuance and sale of $10,000,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2025A, to finance the Civic Arena rehabilitation and the Community Wellness/Recreation Center. The bonds were awarded to Piper Sandler & Co. for $10,495,608.05. The Council also approved three new labor agreements with police and public works unions, and authorized a wage study for non-contract employees.

• Approved $10M GO Bonds 2025A sale to Piper Sandler & Co. (7-0)
• Approved 2025-2027 police union contract with Teamsters Local 320 (7-0)
• Approved 2025-2027 labor agreements with Operating Engineers Local 70 for Streets/Wastewater and Public Utilities (7-0)
• Authorized wages research comparison for non-contract, fire/rescue, and part-time employees (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $849,608.06 in bills and various project payments (7-0)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 830 authorizing sale of 181 Gorman Ave N to Gregg Schilling (7-0)
• Approved tobacco licenses for One Love 325 Realty LLC and One Love 12 Realty LLC (7-0)
• Disbanded Façade Grant Committee (6-1, Kotelnicki nay)

City Council

The Litchfield Economic Development Authority will appoint officers for 2025 and vote on a resolution to call the remaining $125,000 of its Series 2007B lease revenue bonds for redemption on February 26, 2025. The board will also approve minutes from a 2015 meeting.

• Appointment of officers: President Ron Dingmann, Vice-President Malinda Larson, Secretary Joyce Spreiter, Treasurer John Sufka, Assistant Treasurer Katie Buhr
• Resolution 25-1-2 authorizing call of $125,000 in outstanding Lease Revenue Bonds, Series 2007B, at par plus accrued interest
• Approval of minutes from May 4, 2015 meeting

City Council

The City Council will conduct public hearings regarding property tax abatements and the sale of city property. The meeting also includes the installation of new council members and several annual appointments to city boards and commissions.

• Public hearing to consider property tax abatements (Resolution No. 25-1-10)
• Public hearing to consider sale of property (Resolution No. 25-1-8)
• Certificate of Appropriateness application for 134 North Sibley Ave.
• Lawful Gambling Permit for Meeker County Pheasants Forever
• Appointments for Library Board, Heritage Preservation Commission, HRA, and Police Commission

The Litchfield City Council approved a property tax abatement of up to $2 million over 15 years to finance the Civic Arena rehabilitation project, including floor, cooling pipes, and dasher board replacement. The council also approved a first reading for the sale of city-owned property at 181 Gorman Avenue North to Gregg Schilling for $12,500, and authorized IT service contracts with Marco. All votes were unanimous among the five members present.

• Approved property tax abatement up to $2M for Civic Arena rehabilitation (5-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance to sell 181 Gorman Avenue North to Gregg Schilling for $12,500 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,694,987.21 in bills and $338,557.20 payment for water treatment project (5-0)
• Adopted second reading of Ordinance No. 831 amending zoning for cannabis businesses (5-0)
• Approved Marco IT services proposals totaling $80,000+ (5-0)
• Approved plans and authorized bidding for Civic Arena floor replacement and new dasher boards (5-0)
• Authorized contracting monthly meetings with New History for facade grant program (5-0)
• Approved annual appointments and committee assignments for 2025 (5-0)