La Crescent public meetings in 2024

City Council

The Council will hold a public hearing on the 2025 General Fund budget and levy, then consider several routine annual items including the 2025 fee schedule, service agreements, and license renewals. They will also review the Explore La Crosse annual report, a proposal for audit services, and a revised cannabis map. Action will be taken on returning excess tax increment funds and granting gambling and liquor licenses.

• 2025 General Fund budget/levy public hearing
• Proposal to provide audit services
• 2025 fee schedule
• Return excess tax increment funds
• Revised cannabis map

The City Council unanimously adopted the 2025 General Fund budget and a final property tax levy totaling $3,886,178, which includes $2,608,988 for general purposes, $196,290 for library services, and $1,080,900 for debt service. The council also approved a three-year audit contract with Hancock & Robinson CPAs, adopted Ordinance 589 amending the 2025 fee schedule, and approved several 2025 service agreements and licenses. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Adopted 2025 General Fund budget (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution 12-24-45 setting 2025 property tax levy at $3,886,178 (4-0)
• Approved three-year audit services contract with Hancock & Robinson CPAs (4-0)
• Adopted Ordinance 589 amending 2025 fee schedule (4-0)
• Approved 2025 service agreements with WHKS & Co., Wieser Law Office, Jason Ludwigson, and Prologue Planning Group (4-0 each)
• Approved return of $150,000 in excess Gundersen TIF funds to Houston County (4-0)
• Approved 2025 license renewal for Bagniefski Heating & Air Conditioning (4-0)
• Approved gambling permit for Ability Building Center, Inc. raffle on May 3, 2025 (4-0)

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Root River Trail Exploratory Committee is meeting to discuss funding sources and grant statuses for trail extensions. The body is reviewing a grant deadline for the section from Wagon Wheel Trail to S. 14th Street and the status of a Joint Powers Agreement.

• MnDOT IIJA Transportation Technical Assistance Grant status for City to Miller’s Corners
• MnDOT Transportation Alternatives Grant for Wagon Wheel Trail to S. 14th Street (Jan 10, 2025 deadline)
• Status of Draft Joint Powers Agreement
• MnDNR funding source update for Sather Property
• Review of survey parcels and NRCS easements

Heart Safe Committee

The La Crescent Heart Safe Committee is meeting to discuss responsible parties for checking AEDs, updating inventory and placement locations, funding and grant updates for new AEDs, training and talk updates, business promotion materials like window clings and cards, the committee budget, and year 1 and year 2 plans. The agenda consists of discussion items with no specific decisions or dollar amounts noted.

• Assigning responsibility for checking AEDs and replacing expired batteries/pads
• Updating AED inventory and discussing locations for additional units
• Reviewing funding and grant updates for AEDs
• Business promotion: window clings and printing more cards
• Year 1 and Year 2 planning

The Heart Safe Committee met on December 9, 2024, and reviewed the status of AED checks, noting that fire department staff have been performing them. They confirmed that new pads for the ice arena AED have been installed. The committee discussed creating a map of the 27 AEDs in La Crescent for a newsletter and planned public awareness activities, including videography and a walk. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and planning-focused.

• Confirmed AED checks are being performed by fire department staff
• Confirmed new pads for ice arena AED have been completed
• Discussed creating a map of 27 AEDs for newsletter (ask WHKS)
• Planned public awareness activities: videography and a walk
• Scheduled next meeting for late February or early March

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a street vacation. The body is also considering several grant resolutions and amendments to the cannabis and zoning ordinances.

• Public hearing on street vacation
• Cannabis ordinance and zoning ordinance text amendments
• Small Cities Development Grant contract
• Safe Routes to School Grant resolution
• Pine Creek CPL Project grant awards

The La Crescent City Council adopted Ordinance 587 regulating cannabis businesses and Ordinance 588 amending the zoning ordinance to allow cannabis retail in commercial districts, both by 4-1 votes with Member Jostad dissenting. The council also denied a street vacation request after the applicant withdrew, and approved multiple grant agreements and expenditures, including a $600,000 CDBG grant for the Walnut Street corridor project.

• Adopted Ordinance 587 regulating cannabis businesses (4-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 588 amending zoning for cannabis businesses (4-1)
• Denied street vacation request due to applicant withdrawal and lack of agreement on dog park access (5-0)
• Approved resolution authorizing MnDOT Transportation Alternatives grant application (5-0)
• Approved resolution authorizing MnDOT Active Transportation grant application (5-0)
• Authorized $600,000 CDBG grant agreement and $33,500 city match for Walnut Street corridor (5-0)
• Approved $10,000 Taylor Family Farms Foundation grant and $15,707 city funds for fire equipment (5-0)
• Approved $40,000 ARMER radio grant with $2,105.26 match and $2,500 for batteries (5-0)

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The Natural Resources Advisory Group will approve minutes from October, discuss updates on the Conservation Partners Legacy Grant forestry mowing project at Stoney Point, and review draft Trail Maintenance Guidelines for La Crescent woodland parks. The committee will also hear status reports on prairie restoration signage, the tree ordinance, SHIP grant entrance signs, and other old business. New member Cindy Wright will be welcomed.

• Welcome new member Cindy Wright
• Review of Conservation Partners Legacy Grant forestry mowing update at Stoney Point
• Review and planning for Trail Maintenance Guidelines (draft included)
• Prairie restoration signage near pedestrian bridge
• Tree ordinance status nearing completion

Planning Commission

The December 3, 2024, regular Planning Commission meeting has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for January 7, 2025.

• Meeting canceled

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will review a consent agenda including minutes and bills payable, then consider several action items. These include a body worn camera audit, 2025 marketing agreements, and authorizing expenditures for a grinder pump, ice arena, and computers. A memorandum of agreement for Wieser Park and license renewals are also on the agenda.

• Body Worn Camera Audit
• 2025 Marketing/Promotional Agreements
• Authorize Expenditure – Ice Arena
• Authorize Expenditure – Grinder Pump
• Wieser Park – Memorandum of Agreement

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Root River Trail Exploratory Committee will discuss the status of two MnDOT grants: a technical assistance grant for the City to Miller's Corners segment and a resubmittal of a Transportation Alternatives Grant from Wagnon Wheel Trail to S. 14th Street, with a January 10, 2025 deadline. They will also review the MnDNR early acquisition process and funding for land acquisition on the Sather property, along with survey parcel legal information.

• Draft Joint Powers Agreement status update
• City of La Crescent – MnDOT IIJA Technical Assistance Grant – City to Miller's Corners status
• City of La Crescent – MnDOT Transportation Alternatives Grant from Wagnon Wheel Trail to S. 14th Street – resubmittal deadline January 10, 2025
• MnDNR Early Acquisition Process and funding source for Sather Property land acquisition
• Review of survey parcels legal information

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The committee reviewed the status of several transportation grants and land acquisition processes for the Root River Trail extension. Discussions focused on coordination with MnDOT and MnDNR regarding right-of-way and property easements.

• Proposed resubmittal of MnDOT Transportation Alternatives Grant for a project from Wagon Wheel Trail to S. 14th Street by January 10, 2025
• Status update on MnDOT IIJA Transportation Technical Assistance Grant for the route from City to Miller’s Corners
• Review of MnDNR Early Acquisition Process and funding for the Sather Property corridor
• Renewal of City of La Crescent memberships in Rails to Trails Conservancy, Parks and Trails Council of Minnesota, and Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota
• Report on the Federal Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP) Planning and Design Grant submitted June 16, 2024

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on the 2025-2029 Street Reconstruction Plan and consider a resolution to adopt it. The council will also review the 2025 General Fund Budget, discuss cannabis regulations, and consider a petition to vacate a street. Other items include authorizing capital expenditures and a fire relief association contribution.

• Public hearing on 2025-2029 Street Reconstruction Plan
• Resolution to adopt the Street Reconstruction Plan
• Petition to vacate street – call for public hearing
• Review of cannabis regulations
• 2025 General Fund Budget Review

Heart Safe Committee

The Heart Safe Committee is meeting to determine responsibility for AED maintenance and review current equipment inventory. The body will also discuss funding, training, and business promotion efforts.

• Assignment of party responsible for checking AEDs and replacing batteries/pads
• Review of AED inventory and placement of new units
• Updates on grant-funding for AEDs
• Business promotion via window clings and cards
• Review of budget and Year 1 and Year 2 plans

City Council

The City Council will consider several items including a MnDOT landscape partnership and expenditures for grinder tanks. The body will also review cannabis regulations and personnel committee recommendations.

• Resolution for MnDOT landscape partnership project
• Authorization of expenditure for grinder tanks
• Review of cannabis regulations
• Personnel committee recommendations
• Canadian Pacific Holiday Train request

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The committee will discuss the Forest Habitat Restoration project at Stoney Point and review a proposed Tree Ordinance. The group is also evaluating future projects for CPL Expedited Funding.

• Review of Forest Habitat Restoration project at Stoney Point with Ku-Le Region Forestry
• Discussion of proposed Tree Ordinance regulating city tree care and planting standards
• Review of $5,000 SHIP grant for park entrance signs
• Discussion of future projects for CPL Expedited Funding
• Status updates on dog park, trail maintenance guidelines, and prairie restoration signs

City Council

The City Council will consider an ordinance prohibiting camping in public places and review the 2025 budget. The meeting includes discussions on transit agreements and a Small Cities Grant Program resolution.

• Ordinance prohibiting camping in public places
• 2025 Budget review
• Resolution for Small Cities Grant Program policies
• 2025 MnDOT Transit Grant Agreement
• 2025 MTU Transit Operating and Vehicle Lease Agreements

Heart Safe Committee

The La Crescent Heart Safe Committee will meet on October 7, 2024, to review AED maintenance responsibilities, update inventory and placement, discuss grant funding, coordinate training, and finalize promotional materials. The committee will also review the budget and outline plans for the next two years.

• Assignment of responsibility for checking AEDs and replacing expired batteries/pads
• Update inventory of AEDs and discussion of additional placement locations
• Grant funding updates for AEDs
• Business promotion materials – window clings and printing more cards
• Review of Year 1 and Year 2 plans

GreenStep Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss various environmental grants, including solar and stormwater projects. The body will also review recruitment for new members and receive updates on the 2025 MnDOT Landscape Partnership Project.

• Solar on Public Buildings Grant application for a 30.07 kWh DC system at the Pool
• CPL Grant Stoney Point public outreach and education bids
• Adopt-a-Drain 2024 Report and recruitment efforts
• Clean Water Grant Application BWSR for 6th street rain garden
• Pollinator Pathways Grant Application

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting for October 1, 2024, has been canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2024.

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will review the proposed 2025 general fund budget and adopt a preliminary levy resolution. They will also set December 16, 2024, as the date for a public hearing on the final budget and levy.

• Review proposed 2025 general fund budget
• Adopt proposed 2025 preliminary levy resolution
• Set December 16, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. for public input on final budget and levy

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will hold a public hearing to consider a street reconstruction plan. They will also consider reimbursement resolutions, engineering agreements for Walnut, Oak, and Main Street projects, and a Safe Routes to School project. Additional items include a Small Cities Development Grant award, draft cannabis regulations, and an electric vehicle informational meeting.

• Public hearing for street reconstruction plan
• Engineering agreement for Walnut Street project
• Engineering agreement for Oak Street project
• Engineering agreement for preliminary planning of Main Street project
• Mn Small Cities Development Grant award

Park & Recreation Commission

The Commission will meet to review several infrastructure projects and planning grants. Community Development Director Larry Kirch will present updates on trail extensions and street improvements.

• Root River State Trail Extension review
• Bike/Pedestrian Bridge to Millers Corner
• Overlook Plaza Project
• South 6th Street Improvement Project
• USA Cycling Gravel National Championships

The La Crescent Park and Recreation Commission met on September 16, 2024, and approved the minutes from the July 29 meeting. Community Development Director Larry Kirch reviewed six projects, including the Root River State Trail Extension, a bike/pedestrian bridge connection, a federal grant application, the Overlook Plaza Project, a street improvement project, and the USA Cycling Gravel National Championships. The next meeting was set for November 18, 2024, with agenda items including signage and a counter at the bike/pedestrian bridge.

• Approved minutes of July 29, 2024 meeting as presented
• Set next meeting for November 18, 2024
• Agreed to include signage at Blue Lake Canoe/Kayak access and dog park on next agenda
• Agreed to include visual/digital counter at bike/pedestrian bridge on next agenda

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will discuss and potentially take action on several items including an ADA access audit/transition plan, authorizing expenditure for a water system evaluation, a solar RFP for the aquatic center, a lease agreement with Ready Bus Company, a fee schedule amendment, and a donation resolution. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes and bills payable.

• ADA Access Audit/Transition Plan
• Authorize expenditure for Water System Evaluation
• Solar RFP – Aquatic Center
• Lease Agreement – Ready Bus Company
• Fee Schedule Amendment

The La Crescent City Council unanimously approved the ADA Facility Audit and Transition Plan for parks and recreation, a $7,000 water reservoir evaluation contract with KLM Engineering, and a solar RFP for the Aquatic Center with Solar Connection. They also approved a one-year lease with Ready Bus Company, called a special meeting for September 26, 2024, declined to appeal a Public Utilities Commission decision on solar credits, adopted Ordinance No. 585 increasing the Police Reserve Assistance fee to $17.50 per hour, and accepted donations including $50,000 for Wieser Park.

• Approved ADA Facility Audit and Transition Plan (4-0)
• Approved $7,000 KLM Engineering reservoir evaluation (4-0)
• Approved Solar Connection as solar developer for Aquatic Center (4-0)
• Approved one-year lease with Ready Bus Company (4-0)
• Called special meeting for Sept 26, 2024 (4-0)
• Declined to appeal PUC solar credit decision (4-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 585 raising Police Reserve fee to $17.50/hr (4-0)
• Accepted donations including $50,000 for Wieser Park (4-0)

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting for September 3, 2024, has been canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for October 1, 2024.

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The committee will approve minutes from the previous meeting and then discuss status updates on multiple projects including pollinator gardens, canoe/kayak launch, forestry mowing outreach, and a Conservation Partners Legacy Grant. New business involves planning for trail maintenance next year. No major decisions are expected; most items are for discussion and review.

• Review of Conservation Partners Legacy Grant project update (City Council involvement)
• Status of Frank J. Kistler Memorial Park pollinator gardens and public feedback
• SHIP grant of $5,000 for replacement of park entrance signs
• Blue Lake Canoe/Kayak Project status
• Planning for trail maintenance next year

The Natural Resource Advisory Group approved minutes from the previous meeting and discussed multiple ongoing projects. The Conservation Partners Legacy Grant was recommended for approval at the September 23 council meeting. The Blue Lake Canoe/Kayak Project is nearly complete, and the dog park is expected to be fenced in September. No formal votes were taken on substantive items.

• Approved minutes from 7/10/2024 meeting
• Recommended approval of Conservation Partners Legacy Grant at September 23 council meeting
• Completed deed transfer for Conservation Easement at Eagle Bluff Park
• Scheduled trail sign installation in Eagle Bluff Park for week of September 30
• Anticipated dog park fencing week of September 9

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will meet to discuss several local ordinances and expenditures. Key items include a proposed ban on camping in public places and a review of the cannabis moratorium ordinance.

• Ordinance to prohibit camping in public places
• Review of cannabis moratorium ordinance
• Expenditure for Ice Arena
• Lease agreement with Ready Bus Company
• Expenditure for AEDs

The La Crescent City Council approved several actions, including authorizing the city attorney to draft an ordinance prohibiting camping in city parks and rights-of-way, accepting a $72,364 bid to paint the Community Ice Arena, and approving in concept a one-year lease with Ready Bus Line. The council also accepted donations, authorized AED cabinet purchases, approved a fire department promotion, and accepted a retirement. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Authorized drafting ordinance prohibiting camping in city parks and rights-of-way (5-0)
• Accepted Rucker Painting bid for $72,364 to paint ice arena exterior (5-0)
• Approved in concept one-year lease with Ready Bus Line at $1,500/month (5-0)
• Accepted August donations totaling $2,260 (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of AED cabinets for Community Building and Wieser Park Pavilion (5-0)
• Approved promotion of Vernon D. Bridwell Jr. to Training/Safety Officer (5-0)
• Accepted Mark Abraham's retirement as Baseball Director (5-0)
• Directed attorney to draft regulatory cannabis ordinance for September 23 meeting (consensus)

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Root River Trail Extension Citizens Exploratory Committee discussed the status of a trail plan awaiting approval by the City of Hokah on September 3rd, reviewed survey parcel information, and received updates on federal grants for trail design and a MnDOT technical assistance grant. The committee also discussed drafting a joint powers agreement and La Crescent's membership in the Root River Trail Towns organization.

• City of Hokah considering approval of trail plan on September 3
• ATIIP Planning and Design Grant submitted for review
• MnDOT IIJA Technical Assistance Grant for Wagon Wheel Trail at Miller's Corner
• Review of survey parcels; Sather family trail reservation to be forwarded to DNR
• La Crescent membership in Root River Trail Towns to be considered by Hokah on Sept 3

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Root River Trail Exploratory Committee will discuss updates on the City of Hokah's approval of a trail plan, review survey parcel legal information, and consider grant applications including a MnDOT IIJA Technical Assistance Grant and a federal ATIIP Planning and Design Grant. The committee will also discuss drafting a Joint Powers Agreement and membership status for Hokah and the City of Houston.

• Trail Plan – City of Hokah Council approval status update
• Review of survey parcels legal information
• MnDOT IIJA Technical Assistance Grant for Wagon Wheel Trail at Miller’s Corner
• Federal Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP) Planning and Design Grant status
• Drafting of Joint Powers Agreement

City Council

The City Council will consider authorizing a street reconstruction plan and reviewing a cannabis moratorium ordinance. The meeting includes discussions on the USA Cycling Gravel National Championships and personnel committee recommendations.

• Authorization of street reconstruction plan preparation
• Review of cannabis moratorium ordinance
• USA Cycling Gravel National Championships
• Gambling permit application
• Parade request

The La Crescent City Council approved transferring youth baseball/softball programming to La Crescent Youth Ball and other recreation programs to La Crescent-Hokah Community Education, while retaining aquatic center staffing. It also hired Alyssa Sebo as Summer Recreation Director for 2025, approved Austin Johnson as Lead Worker at Pine Creek Golf Course, and authorized a $2,500 street reconstruction plan update. The council accepted a Planning Commission resignation, approved a gambling permit, accepted July donations, and approved a parade street closure.

• Approved consent agenda (4-0, mayor abstained)
• Authorized WHKS to update street pavement ratings and prepare five-year street reconstruction plan for $2,500 (5-0)
• Approved transfer of baseball/softball programming for ages 6-8 to La Crescent Youth Ball and T-ball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, golf to La Crescent-Hokah Community Education (5-0)
• Approved hiring Alyssa Sebo as Summer Recreation Director for 2025, with $5/hour pay increase effective July 29, 2024, $15,000 annual salary, and certification reimbursement (5-0)
• Approved hiring Austin Johnson as Lead Worker at Pine Creek Golf Course with 120-day probationary period (5-0)
• Accepted Ryan Stotts's resignation from Planning Commission effective immediately (5-0)
• Approved gambling permit for Surviving Valor, Inc. raffle at TimeOut Tavern on December 14, 2024 (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 08-24-27 accepting July 2024 donations totaling $1,525 (5-0)

Planning Commission

The August 6, 2024, regularly scheduled planning commission meeting has been cancelled. The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on September 3, 2024. No items were discussed or decided.

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park & Recreation Commission will discuss shifting most 2025 recreation programming to Lancer Youth Baseball/Softball (LYB) and Community Education, while the city would continue operating the Aquatic Center. The commission will also consider recommending City Council approval of an ADA Facility Audit for parks and facilities. Updates will be provided on a $166,116 Outdoor Recreation Grant for Wieser Park improvements, a SHIP grant for new park signs, and other projects.

• Discussion of LYB and Community Education taking over 2025 baseball, softball, t-ball, volleyball, basketball, tennis, golf programming
• Recommendation to City Council to approve ADA Facility Audit of Parks and Recreation Facilities
• $166,116 Outdoor Recreation Grant approved for Wieser Park improvements
• SHIP grant funding for new park entrance signs with updated city logo
• Request from soccer organization to install sponsor banner at Old Hickory Park

The Park and Recreation Commission recommended approving a plan to transfer recreation programming responsibilities to La Crescent Youth Ball and La Crescent-Hokah Community Education, covering sports like baseball, softball, t-ball, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and golf. The Commission also approved Community Education's pickleball program at Wieser Park, recommended the City Council adopt the ADA Facility Audit, and denied a banner request from a local soccer organization.

• Recommended approval of recreation programming transfer to La Crescent Youth Ball and La Crescent-Hokah Community Education
• Approved Community Education's pickleball program using Wieser Park courts
• Recommended City Council adopt the ADA Facility Audit of Parks and Recreation Facilities
• Denied soccer organization's banner request at Old Hickory Park
• Approved minutes of May 20, 2024 meeting

Heart Safe Committee

The La Crescent Heart Safe Committee will meet to discuss locations for Heart Safe Community street signs, update AED inventory and funding, review training and talks for La Crescent Live Events, and plan participation in Applefest Parade and business promotion. The committee will also review its budget.

• Location for Heart Safe Community street signs
• Update inventory and funding for AEDs
• Training and talk updates for La Crescent Live Events
• Applefest Parade planning
• Budget review

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will consider a Conservation Partners Legacy Grant agreement for the Stoney Point Property/Pine Creek Prairie, review a solar request for proposals and a Partners in Energy report, and discuss several event requests including the Apple Blossom Bicycle Tour and Applefest. The consent agenda includes approval of July 8 meeting minutes and bills payable through July 19. No public hearings or unfinished business are listed.

• Conservation Partners Legacy Grant agreement for Stoney Point Property/Pine Creek Prairie
• Solar request for proposals review
• Review of Partners in Energy report
• 2024 license application
• Apple Blossom Bicycle Tour request and Applefest requests

The La Crescent City Council unanimously approved a Conservation Partners Legacy Grant agreement with the Minnesota DNR for $40,700 to complete forestry restoration on the Stoney Point Property and inter-seed the Pine Creek Prairie. The council also authorized releasing a Request for Proposals for solar panels on the Aquatic Center, approved a gas installer license renewal, personnel changes, and event support requests. All votes were unanimous (5-0).

• Approved $40,700 Conservation Partners Legacy Grant agreement with MnDNR (5-0)
• Authorized release of RFP for solar panels on Aquatic Center (5-0)
• Approved 2024 gas installer license renewal for Canton Heating & Cooling (5-0)
• Removed Angie Boettcher's probationary status as City Clerk, moved to step 2 (5-0)
• Approved posting of Fire Department Training Officer position (5-0)
• Removed Colton Boettcher's probationary status as Groundskeeper (5-0)
• Approved Rotary Apple Blossom Bicycle Tour on Aug 10 with city support (5-0)
• Approved city assistance for 76th Annual Applefest (5-0)

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee is reviewing draft trail maintenance guidelines and discussing native prairie vegetation enhancement. The committee is also addressing upcoming sign installations for prairie restoration and park entrances.

• Review of draft Trail Maintenance Guidelines
• Native prairie vegetation establishment and enhancement guidelines
• Prairie restoration sign installs and seeding
• Eagles Bluff Park trail sign installation (Lions Project)
• SHIP grant park entrance signs

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The committee will discuss the status of the trail plan regarding City Council and County Board presentations. Members will also review the upcoming July 17th deadline for the Federal ATIIP grant application.

• Federal ATIIP Planning and Design Grant application due July 17th
• Drafting of a Joint Powers Agreement
• Review of survey parcel legal information
• Membership approval for La Crescent in Root River Trail Towns
• Membership status review for the City of Houston

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The committee discussed the status of the trail plan, which has been approved by La Crescent and Houston but awaits County Board approval on July 16th. A federal grant application for planning and design is due July 17th. The group also reviewed membership in the Root River Trail Towns organization.

• Federal ATIIP Planning and Design Grant application due July 17th
• La Crescent paid $300 for membership in Root River Trail Towns
• City Attorney drafting a Joint Powers Agreement by August
• County Board review of the trail plan scheduled for July 16th
• Work continues on segment using $30,000 MnDOT grant

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a cannabis moratorium ordinance. The council will also review grant projects for Stoney Point Park and Wieser Park.

• Public hearing on Cannabis Moratorium Ordinance
• Review of Stoney Point Park Habitat Plan and Legacy Grant Project
• Review of Outdoor Recreation Grant for Wieser Park
• Authorization to sell a used transit bus
• 2025 MnDOT Transit Application Resolution

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Citizens Exploratory Committee officially adopted the draft "Trail Plan" by a unanimous vote. Members discussed scheduling upcoming presentations to the La Crescent City Council and Houston County Board. A small group will also review legal descriptions for land purchased by the DNR.

• Unanimous adoption of the draft Trail Plan
• Presentation to La Crescent scheduled for June 24
• Presentations to Houston County scheduled for July 10 and July 17
• Review of legal descriptions for DNR-purchased WMA land

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The committee is meeting to finalize a draft 'Trail Plan' and review legal information for survey parcels. Members will also discuss the timing of presentations to city, town, and county boards.

• Finalizing Draft “Trail Plan”
• Reviewing Survey Parcels Legals Info
• Discussing presentation timing for local councils and county board
• Reviewing draft presentation slides
• Reviewing RRTE-CEC membership status for the City of Houston

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled planning commission meeting for June 4, 2024, has been canceled. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 2, 2024.

GreenStep Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss recruitment for new members and the 2024-25 GreenCorps and UMN summer intern positions. Members will review updates on solar, electric vehicle, and stormwater projects, as well as the Tree Ordinance.

• 2024 MnDOT Landscape Partnership Project
• CPL Grant Stoney Point public outreach and education
• Solar PV updates for Ice Arena, Pool, Wieser Park Shelter, and Pine Creek Golf Course
• Carbon Reduction Program Electric Vehicle(s) 2025-2026 funds update
• Tree Ordinance discussion

City Council

The La Crescent City Council is meeting to consider several items, including redevelopment agreements for the 31 South Walnut Street project, a public hearing on the Small Cities Development Program, and various requests for events like Applefest and a Father's Day cruise. They will also review future street improvement projects and an update on a city lot sale/lease agreement. The agenda includes routine consent items such as minutes and bills payable.

• Public hearing on Small Cities Development Program
• Deed redevelopment grant agreement for 31 South Walnut Street project
• Developers agreement for 31 South Walnut Street
• Review future street improvement projects
• Liquor license transfer

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The committee is reviewing a Conservation Partners Legacy Grant application to improve forest and prairie habitats through invasive species removal and tree planting. The meeting will also address new trail maintenance guidelines. Additional discussions include updates on local park projects and invasive species management.

• Review of $36,430 Conservation Partners Legacy Grant for habitat improvement
• Discussion of new Trail Maintenance Guidelines
• Update on signage needs for the Blue Lake canoe/kayak access dock
• Report on 18 volunteer hours completed for garlic mustard pulling
• Information regarding funding received for the Minnesota Driftless Hiking trail

Park & Recreation Commission

The Park & Recreation Commission will review a draft ADA facility audit for local parks with representatives from MSA. The meeting includes updates on the Blue Lake Canoe/Kayak access, the Dog Park project, and the 2024 summer recreation season. The commission will also address the Summer Recreation Director's resignation.

• Review of draft ADA Facility Audit of Parks and Recreation Facilities
• Update on Blue Lake Canoe/Kayak access and Dog Park project
• Review of Conservation Partners Legacy Grant project for Stoney Point and Horse Track Meadows
• Summer Recreation Director's resignation
• Review of bicycle/pedestrian bridge usage information

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda for routine items. They will discuss and potentially act on several items including the 2023 library annual report, a summer reading program request, school zone speed limits, personnel committee recommendations, a request to close an alley at 31 South Walnut Street, and a salt storage ordinance. The council will also consider agreements for a sand/salt storage facility with MnDOT, generator service, and tree service, as well as authorize capital expenditures and equipment sales.

• School zone speed limits
• Request to close alley at 31 South Walnut Street
• Salt storage ordinance
• Sand/salt storage facility agreement with MnDOT
• Service agreement for generators

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled planning commission meeting for May 7, 2024, has been canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for June 4, 2024.

Heart Safe Committee

The La Crescent Heart Safe Committee is meeting to discuss its Heart Safe Business Program, training updates, promotion of loaner AEDs, and a one-year plan. The agenda also includes reviewing a Call Push Shock card, banner, and yard sign, and signing up for 2024 community events.

• Review of Heart Safe Business Program
• Promotion of loaner AEDs
• Review of 1-year plan
• Call Push Shock card, banner, and yard sign
• 2024 event schedule sign-up (June 12, June 26, July 10, July 24, Aug 10, Neighbors Night Out Aug 6, Farmers Market Tuesdays from May 14)

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The committee will review March minutes and receive updates on the dog park and Wagon Wheel sign. New business includes discussions regarding invasive species and a memorial planting at Pine Creek prairie. Members will also discuss how to address public requests for changes to city natural spaces.

• Dog Park update
• Wagon Wheel sign update
• Invasive Terrestrial Species List discussion
• Memorial planting at Pine Creek prairie
• Discussion on addressing public requests for natural space changes

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will hold a regular meeting on April 22, 2024, at 5:00 PM. They will consider a consent agenda, a public hearing for the Board of Appeal and Equalization, and several items including a conditional use permit, a purchase agreement amendment, a redevelopment grant for 31 South Walnut Street, a public art grant application, a lease agreement, cannabis regulations, a bicycle tour, a small cities grant hearing, a gambling permit, and a wildlife proclamation.

• Conditional use permit application (Planning Commission minutes)
• Amend purchase agreement for city lot
• Deed redevelopment grant agreement for 31 South Walnut Street project
• SMIF - Bremmer public art and placemaking grant application
• Review local control options regarding cannabis regulations

City Council

The City Council will review several project agreements including the Pine Creek Project and a bicycle/pedestrian bridge. The meeting also includes discussions on personnel recommendations, license renewals, and park lighting upgrades.

• CPL Grant Agreement – Pine Creek Project
• Engineering Agreement – Pine Creek Project
• MnDOT Agreement – Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge
• Wagon Wheel Project – Phase 3 Close Out
• Engineering Agreement – IIJA Planning Project

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Root River Trail Exploratory Committee is meeting to review and revise a draft trail plan memorandum of agreement. The body will discuss the timing for presentations to city councils and the county board, as well as community stakeholder engagement.

• Review and revision of the 'Trail Plan' Memorandum of Agreement
• Discussion on presentation timing for city councils and county board
• Review of membership status regarding the City of Houston

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for an athletic training center. The body will also appoint a Chair and Vice Chair and review job duties with the city attorney.

• Public hearing for PC-24-01-CUP: Five7/Eriah Hayes athletic training facility at 1214 Grandview Terrace
• Appointment of Commission Chair and Vice Chair
• Review of job duties and responsibilities with Attorney Skip Wieser
• Approval of November 7th, 2023 meeting minutes

City Council

The La Crescent City Council is holding its regular meeting with a consent agenda for routine items. The main items for consideration include authorizing a police department expenditure for tasers, a lead service line inventory from the MN Department of Health, an update on Well #3, and a beekeeping ordinance amendment. The council will also review an adopt-a-drain annual report, an insurance liability coverage waiver, a library request to use a city lot, bicycle/pedestrian commission appointments, and donation resolutions.

• Authorize expenditure for police department tasers
• MN Department of Health lead service line inventory
• Well #3 update
• Beekeeping ordinance amendment
• Library request for use of city lot

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The committee will review the status of a proposed tree ordinance and discuss options for Wagon Wheel signage. The agenda also includes updates on park board reviews and invasive species management.

• Status update on proposed tree ordinance
• Review of Val Green at Park Board March 18
• Options for Wagon Wheel Signage including maps and photos
• Discussion regarding invasive species such as Garlic Mustard

Park & Recreation Commission

The Commission will review a habitat plan for the Stoney Point area and discuss summer recreation programming, including lifeguard pay increases. Members will also receive updates on several park projects, such as Blue Lake access and the Dog Park. Additionally, the meeting includes reviews of trail extension plans and grant-funded stream improvements.

• Outdoor Recreation Grant application for new playground equipment and 3 pickleball courts at Wieser Park
• $500,000 DNR grant update for Pine Creek stream improvements
• Review of the draft Root River Trail Extension Plan
• Update on Blue Lake Canoe/Kayak access and the Dog Park project
• Discussion regarding lifeguard pay increases for the 2024 summer season

City Council

The City Council will review several grant applications, including the Small Cities Development Program. The agenda also includes requests for expenditures related to Eagle Scout projects and various city contracts.

• Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) grant application
• Expenditures for Riley Schuldt Eagle Scout canoe/kayak project
• Expenditures for Peyton Jerue Eagle Scout dog park project
• Outdoor Recreation Grant application
• IT contract with Morris Electronics

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Root River Trail Exploratory Committee is discussing the extension of the trail from Houston to La Crescent. Members are reviewing land ownership with the Minnesota DNR and discussing a draft trail plan memorandum of agreement.

• Review of corridor aerial photos and land ownership involving DNR, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and MnDOT
• Discussion of a $1,040,650 federal grant request for a multi-use path on S Chestnut to Hwy 16 and 14th Street and Kistler Court MHP that was not awarded
• MnDOT State Funded IIJA Technical Assistance Program scope for $30,000
• Review of the 2011 DNR Master Plan for the Root River Trail extension from Houston to La Crescent

Active Transportation Action Committee

The Active Transportation Action Committee (BPAC) is meeting to discuss updates to the 2017 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, city-wide and school zone speed limits, and Safe Routes to School (SRTS) activities. They will also review a bike fleet standard operating procedure and upcoming events like the Bike Rodeo and Bike to School Day.

• Review 2017 Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan and discuss development of a new plan
• Update on city-wide speed limits and school zone speed limits
• Review of SRTS funding applications to MnDOT (Fall 2023)
• Bike Rodeo on May 4, 2024
• Bike to School Day on May 8, 2024

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting for March 5, 2024, has been canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for April 2, 2024.

City Council

The La Crescent City Council is holding its regular meeting with a consent agenda for routine items. They will discuss a no-wake zone review, a recommendation for a dog park location, a potential agreement with La Crescent Animal Rescue, an update on Horse Track Meadows North, personnel committee recommendations, and a donation resolution. The meeting also includes reports from the police department and other committees.

• No wake zone review
• Park & Recreation Commission recommendation for dog park location
• La Crescent Animal Rescue agreement
• Horse Track Meadows North update
• 2023 Police Department year-end report

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The committee will hear a presentation on chloride levels in Blue Lake from the WDNR. Members will also review updates to the tree ordinance and the La Crescent Park Habitat Plan.

• Presentation on Blue Lake chloride levels by Jeremy King (WDNR)
• Review of tree ordinance changes
• Review of La Crescent Park Habitat Plan prepared by Val Green
• Dog park update

City Council

The La Crescent City Council will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda, a public hearing, and several items for consideration. Key actions include a police officer oath, a Heart Safe City designation, purchase agreements for Horse Track Meadows North and a city lot on Grandview Ct., and authorizing an initial customer meeting with USDA for city hall/library/police department planning. The council will also consider expenditures, an Arbor Day proclamation, an election judge resolution, and a call for a public hearing on the Community Development Block Grant plan.

• Police Officer Oath of Honor for Kaleb Peterson
• Heart Safe City designation
• Horse Track Meadows North purchase agreement and resolution
• Purchase agreement for city lot on Grandview Ct.
• Authorize initial customer meeting with USDA for city hall/library/police department planning

GreenStep Committee

The La Crescent GreenStep Committee is meeting to consider its November 2023 minutes, recruit new members, and discuss a utility franchise fee. They will also review the 2024 work plan, which includes developing a Climate Action Plan, and hear project updates on solar panels, grants, and other sustainability initiatives.

• Utility franchise fee discussion
• 2024 Work Plan including Climate Action Plan development
• Solar PV updates at Ice Arena, Pool, Wieser Park Shelter, and Pine Creek Golf Course
• ReLeaf Grant from MN DNR
• February 24th Dry Bluff Prairie Work Day

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting for February 6, 2024, has been canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for March 5, 2024.

Park & Recreation Commission

The Commission will review a suggested location for a new dog park on a City-owned parcel east of Chestnut Street. The project includes a potential $100,000.00 donation from a local foundation and may be named the DeLacy Dog Park. Members will also review upcoming 2024 summer recreation programming.

• Review of proposed dog park site east of Chestnut Street
• Potential $100,000.00 donation for dog park improvements
• Proposed naming of the facility as DeLacy Dog Park
• Review of 2024 summer recreation season and activities

City Council

The La Crescent City Council is holding a special meeting to review preliminary conceptual plans for new City Hall, Public Library, and Police Department facilities, including square footage comparisons. They will also review the 2022 and 2023 Five-Year Capital Improvement Plans, a Land Exchange Agreement with VSC Corporation, and USDA loan/grant opportunities for the proposed project. The meeting is informational and discussion-focused, with next steps to be considered.

• Review of preliminary conceptual plans for new City Hall/Public Library/Police Department facilities
• Review of 2022 and 2023 Five-Year Capital Improvement Plans
• Review of Land Exchange Agreement with VSC Corporation
• Review of USDA loan/grant opportunities for the proposed project

Sustainability/Natural Resources Committee

The Natural Resources Advisory Group will meet to discuss a tree ordinance and the removal of Siberian Elm, Buckthorn, and Round Leaf Bittersweet. The meeting also includes reviews of the ReLeaf Grant plantings and the La Crescent Park Habitat Plan.

• Tree ordinance discussion
• Removal of Siberian Elm, Buckthorn, and Round Leaf Bittersweet
• ReLeaf Grant MN NDR Spring 2024 Plantings
• Review of La Crescent Park Habitat Plan
• February 24th Dry Bluff Prairie Work Day at Eagles Bluff Park

Heart Safe Committee

The Heart Safe Committee is meeting to discuss promotional materials and the status of a loaner AED. The body is establishing a Year 1 plan and a 2024 calendar for CPR/AED trainings.

• Discussion of loaner AED update
• Planning for Year 1
• Scheduling CPR/AED trainings for 2024
• Review of promotional materials and logo
• Coordination with 2024 live events including Neighbors Night Out on August 6th

City Council

The La Crescent City Council is meeting to consider several routine and project-related items, including a request for proposals for Horse Track Meadows North, an amendment to the Crescent Hills sanitary sewer extension agreement, and an engineering agreement for an IIJS grant project. The agenda also includes consent items like minutes and bills payable, plus a public hearing (though no specific hearing is listed). Most items are for discussion or decision, with no major policy changes noted.

• Horse Track Meadows North – request for proposals
• Amendment to Crescent Hills sanitary sewer extension agreement
• Engineering agreement for IIJS grant project
• CPL grant for Pine Creek restoration project
• Authorize expenditure for 2024 tree planting project

Root River Trail Exploratory Committee

The Root River Trail Exploratory Committee is reviewing funding requests and planning for trail extensions. The body is discussing technical assistance from MnDOT and various grant applications for bike and pedestrian infrastructure.

• Federal Transportation Alternatives Grant request for $950,000 for a multi-use path on S Chestnut to Hwy 16 and 14th Street and Kistler Court MHP
• MnDOT State Funded IIJA Technical Assistance Program request for $30,000
• Bike-Ped grant applications for S 6th Street to Aquatic Center path and South Oak Street to S. 14th Street
• Funding applications for Walnut Street Streetscaping and the Great River-Walnut Street Byway Convergence
• Recruitment of new committee members from Houston County and the City of Houston

City Council

The La Crescent City Council is holding its regular meeting on January 8, 2024, with a consent agenda for routine items like minutes and bills. The main business includes annual appointments, reviews of council rules and policies, and several grant-related resolutions. The council will also consider expenditures for an emergency siren and police car upfitting, plus license renewals and a gambling permit.

• Authorize expenditure for emergency siren
• Authorize expenditure for police car upfitting
• Resolution for MnDEED redevelopment grant
• Resolution for Mighty Ducks grant
• 2024 license renewals and gambling permit application

Planning Commission

The regularly scheduled planning commission meeting for January 2, 2024, has been canceled. The next meeting is scheduled for February 6, 2024.