Fergus Falls public meetings in 2023

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains general city information, including a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, which funds an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council decisions or discussion items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission voted to support the Historic Tax Credit Growth and Opportunity Act, with comments on updating dates and studying insurance issues. They also discussed goals for 2024, including completing the Downtown Historic District Study and pursuing local designations to maintain CLG status. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from September 6, 2023, and notes from November 1, 2023 (motion passed)
• Voted to support the Historic Tax Credit Growth and Opportunity Act with comments on dates and insurance (motion passed)

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council decisions or discussions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by Minnesota Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

Council

The council adopted a resolution extending the Pebble Lake Golf Course lease for one year and forming a subcommittee to negotiate terms, with an RFP process to begin in July 2024. The council also approved a $67.9 million budget and an $8.147 million levy for 2024, representing a 6.75% tax levy increase. A consent agenda was approved, including a $743,459 lighting quote for DeLagoon softball fields and various 2024 licenses.

• Adopted Resolution #207-2023 extending Pebble Lake Golf Course lease for one year, forming a subcommittee to negotiate terms, and initiating an RFP process in July 2024 (vote carried)
• Adopted Resolution #208-2023 approving consent agenda items, including minutes, 2024 licenses, and a $743,459 lighting quote for DeLagoon softball fields (vote carried)
• Adopted Resolution #210-2023 approving the 2024 levy of $8,147,000 (vote carried)
• Adopted Resolution #211-2023 approving the 2024 budget of $67,889,149 (vote carried)
• Adopted resolution authorizing payments and claims of $863,663.60 (vote carried)

December 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved a $20,000 donation from the Porter Family Fund to establish a technology fund for future webpage and other tech upgrades. The board also approved the second reading of a Privacy and Confidentiality Policy with grammar modifications, and voted to file the November financial report for audit.

• Approved $20,000 Porter Family Fund donation for technology fund (motion by Sharon Hintze, seconded by Pete Wasberg)
• Approved Privacy and Confidentiality Policy with grammar modifications (motion by Pete Wasberg, seconded by Amber Leopold)
• Approved filing November 2023 financial report for audit (motion by Matt Lape, seconded by Pete Wasberg)
• Approved agenda as presented

2023 Charter Commission Annual Report

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Charter Commission's annual report meeting. The agenda contains only standard city website navigation and a notice about the new 0.5% sales tax, with no specific items for discussion or decision. The meeting appears to be procedural, with no listed action items.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, funding outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended accepting a $743,459 quote from Musco Sports Lighting to replace lights at four softball fields in DeLagoon Park, funded by voter-approved sales tax. Staff also reported the Bigwood Event Center is seeing increased bookings and a lower-than-projected operating loss for 2023. No formal council action was taken on the event center or street closure suggestions.

• Recommended accepting $743,459 Musco Sports Lighting quote for DeLagoon softball field lights (motion by Fish, second by Rufer, carried)
• Discussed Bigwood Event Center operations; no action taken
• Noted 50 events already booked for 2024 at Bigwood Event Center
• Staff asked to consider gating Washington Avenue and closing South Union for public use; no action taken

Committee of the Whole

The provided document contains website navigation and information regarding a 0.5% sales tax for DeLagoon Park projects, but it does not list any discussion items or decisions for the Committee of the Whole meeting.

Council

The Fergus Falls City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on the implementation of a 0.5% sales and use tax, which was approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and improvements to DeLagoon Park. The tax takes effect October 1, 2023, and the agenda includes updates on these projects.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Funds for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council authorize the Mayor and City Administrator to execute an ingress/egress easement agreement for a driveway at 3809 Pebble Shores Drive that crosses city property. The committee also recommended the council provide a resolution of support for a Local Road Improvement Program grant for a roundabout at Fir and Friberg Avenue and authorize its submission to MnDOT. A public comment period was held on a Community Energy Transition Grant application for workforce housing at the former lumber site, but no decision was made on that item.

• Recommended council authorize Mayor and City Administrator to execute driveway easement agreement for 3809 Pebble Shores Drive (motion by Fish, second by Hicks; carried)
• Recommended council provide resolution of support for Local Road Improvement Program grant for roundabout at Fir and Friberg Avenue and authorize grant submission to MnDOT (motion by Rufer, second by Rachels; carried)

Committee of the Whole

The provided text consists of website navigation links and information regarding a 0.5% sales and use tax approved by voters in 2022. There are no meeting topics, proposals, or decisions listed for the Committee of the Whole.

Council

The provided text is the city website's navigation and a notice about a 0.5% sales tax, not the actual council meeting agenda for November 6, 2023. No agenda items, decisions, or discussions are listed. The meeting appears to be procedural or the agenda content is missing from this extract.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series
• Tax revenues fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

Council

The council voted unanimously to postpone any action on franchise fees and to proceed with first readings of three franchise agreements with Otter Tail Power, Great Plains Natural Gas, and Lake Region Electric Cooperative. The council also voted to have the Personnel Committee review an error in a utility bill flyer that inaccurately stated the council was implementing a franchise fee. Additionally, the council directed staff to issue an RFP for Pebble Lake Golf Course operations and authorized submission of a Community Energy Transition Grant for workforce housing.

• Postponed action on franchise fees and proceeded with first readings of three franchise agreements (Ordinances 44, 45, 46, Eighth Series) — motion carried with no opposition.
• Referred review of utility bill flyer error to Personnel Committee to determine accountability and prevent future errors — motion carried with no opposition.
• Adopted Ordinance 51, Eighth Series, extending the THC moratorium — roll call vote.
• Approved payments and claims totaling $2,573,763.23 — Resolution adopted.
• Directed staff to issue an RFP for golf course operations at Pebble Lake Golf Course — motion carried.
• Authorized submission of a Community Energy Transition Grant for workforce housing and directed staff to negotiate on the property — Resolution #198-2023 adopted.

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission met but lacked a quorum, so no official decisions could be made. Members discussed the State Historic Preservation Conference and began planning for 2024 membership replacements. The annual report to SHPO has been submitted.

• No quorum present; no actions taken
• Discussed 2024 membership: seeking three new members to replace resigning/term-limited members
• Annual HPC Report to SHPO submitted

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council approve $88,000 for 16 new police radios, approved updated library policies, and recommended decorative fencing for the Downtown Riverfront Project Phase II. They also authorized a letter of intent for a Transportation Alternatives Grant and discussed landfill expansion and economic development tools.

• Recommended approval of $88,000 for 16 police radios (motion carried)
• Recommended approval of updated library policies (motion carried)
• Recommended approval of decorative fencing for Downtown Riverfront Project Phase II (motion carried, 5-2)
• Recommended authorization of partial release of permanent utility easement at 1010 Frontier Drive (motion carried)
• Authorized staff to submit letter of intent for Transportation Alternatives Grant (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on November 1, 2023. However, the provided text contains only the city website's navigation menus and a notice about a new 0.5% sales tax, not the actual meeting agenda items. As a result, no specific decisions or discussions for this meeting can be reported.

• No agenda items are listed in the provided text.

Council

The Fergus Falls City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on various agenda items. A notable item is the implementation of a 0.5% sales and use tax that began October 1, 2023, which will fund the outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. The agenda also includes other routine business, but specific items are not detailed in the provided text.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, funding aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023, authorizing the tax
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

City Council

The council voted 6-1 to direct the City Attorney to draft updated franchise agreements and franchise fee ordinances with Otter Tail Power, Great Plains Natural Gas, and Lake Region Electric Cooperative. The fees, capped at $1,000 per business monthly, aim to fund street improvements without raising property taxes. Councilmember Kremeier opposed, citing concerns about business development and the fee burden on consumers. The council also approved a consent agenda including licenses, tort liability waiver, and a grant application for DeLagoon Park improvements.

• Directed City Attorney to draft franchise fee ordinances with three utilities (6-1)
• Approved consent agenda including licenses, tort liability waiver, and DeLagoon Park grant application
• Adopted Ordinance 50, Eighth Series, repealing City Code 31.25 and amending City Charter (6-1)
• Introduced Ordinance 51, Eighth Series, amending cannabis business moratorium (first reading)
• Approved payments and claims totaling $2,296,125.12
• Reconsidered and approved submitting 2024 Minnesota DEED Small Cities Development Grant instead of 2023

PA

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls City Council meeting on October 16, 2023. The provided text is mostly website navigation and a notice about a new 0.5% sales tax, not the actual agenda items. No specific decisions or discussions are listed in the source material.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series

Council

The provided text is the city website homepage, not the October 11, 2023 Council meeting agenda. It contains only a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, and general navigation links. No meeting items, votes, or decisions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

with Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on October 11, 2023. The agenda text provided contains only general city website information and a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax, but no specific meeting items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series
• Tax revenues fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

Meeting

The council recommended directing the City Attorney to draft a 5% franchise fee on utility customers to generate an estimated $1.3 million annually for street improvements. The fee would apply to Otter Tail Power, Great Plains Natural Gas, and Lake Region Electric Cooperative customers, with a $1,000 monthly cap for large users. The council also authorized applying for $210,000 in state funding for DeLagoon Park road repairs and received an update on the $5.2 million park improvement project.

• Recommended directing City Attorney to draft 5% franchise fee agreements with three utilities (carried)
• Authorized applying for $210,000 in state funding for DeLagoon Park access road patching (carried)
• Discussed $5.2 million DeLagoon Park improvements; no formal decision recorded

with Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on October 11, 2023. The provided text is mostly website navigation and boilerplate; no specific agenda items, decisions, or discussions are listed in the source document.

• No specific agenda items are listed in the provided text.

Council

The provided text is the Fergus Falls city website homepage, not the October 2, 2023 Council meeting agenda. It contains only navigation menus, contact information, and a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax. No meeting agenda items are present.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 to fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

Code of Conduct for Elected Officials

This agenda is largely procedural, announcing the start of a 0.5% sales and use tax on October 1, 2023, to fund the outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. The tax was approved by voters in 2022 and is administered by the Minnesota Department of Revenue. No other meeting items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Tax funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

October 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved two policies on second reading: a Record Retention policy and a Long Range Plans policy. The board also approved the September 2023 minutes and filed the September financial report for audit. No substantive decisions beyond routine approvals and policy adoptions were made.

• Approved Record Retention policy on second reading
• Approved Long Range Plans policy on second reading
• Approved September 2023 minutes
• Filed September 2023 financial report for audit

Committee of the Whole

The provided text is the city website's general navigation and a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax, not the actual agenda for the Committee of the Whole meeting. The agenda itself is not included, so no specific decisions or discussions can be reported.

• 0.5% sales and use tax begins October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax revenues fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements, approved by voters in 2022

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended extending the existing moratorium on cannabis sales to include edible THC products and establishing a council committee to advise on local cannabis regulation. They also recommended accepting a $138,820 engineering proposal for the Union Avenue Bridge rehabilitation, combining polling places for the 2024 primary elections, amending the city charter, adopting a code of conduct for elected officials, accepting a petition for street improvements on Shoreview Drive, and authorizing bid advertising for the Broadway resurfacing project.

• Recommended extending moratorium to edible THC products and forming a council committee (carried)
• Recommended accepting Olson & Nesvold Engineers proposal for Union Avenue Bridge rehab at $138,820 (carried)
• Recommended combining polling places for 2024 primary elections (carried)
• Recommended directing city attorney to amend Charter Sections 4.01 and 2.07 and repeal City Code 31.25 (carried)
• Recommended adopting Code of Conduct for Elected Officials (carried)
• Recommended accepting Shoreview Drive street improvement petition and ordering preliminary engineering report (carried)
• Recommended accepting Broadway resurfacing plans and authorizing bid advertising (carried)

City Council

The council awarded a $1,776,867.50 construction contract to C&L Excavating Inc. for the Stanton Avenue reconstruction project (City Project 5959) and adopted the final special assessment of $265,325.37. A Tax Increment Financing Development Agreement with FM Bank for demolition of the former Shopko building was approved on a 5-2 vote. The 2024 preliminary budget of $71,121,218 and preliminary levy of $8,300,000 were both adopted with one dissenting vote. A conditional use permit for hemp-derived THC sales at 1603 Pebble Lake Road was approved 6-1.

• Adopted final assessment for City Project 5959 (Stanton Avenue reconstruction) contingent on awarding construction contract
• Awarded $1,776,867.50 construction contract to C&L Excavating Inc. for Stanton Avenue reconstruction
• Approved TIF Development Agreement with FM Bank for Shopko demolition (5-2)
• Adopted 2024 fee schedule
• Approved 2024 preliminary budget of $71,121,218 (6-1)
• Approved 2024 preliminary levy of $8,300,000 (6-1)
• Set December 4, 2023 public hearing for 2024 budget and levy
• Approved conditional use permit for hemp-derived THC sales at 1603 Pebble Lake Road (6-1)

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a council meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax taking effect October 1, 2023, to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council actions, discussions, or agenda items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax begins October 1, 2023
• Tax funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on September 13, 2023. The provided text contains only the city website's navigation menus and a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax, not the actual agenda items. The meeting's specific decisions or discussions are not listed in this document.

• 0.5% sales and use tax begins October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax revenues fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements, approved by voters in 2022

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council approve an $8.3 million tax levy (8.76% increase), initiate the Junius Avenue reconstruction project, accept a $28,000 amendment for the airport weather system, and authorize a grant agreement for a pedestrian crossing. They also recommended a conditional use permit for hemp-derived THC sales at 1603 Pebble Lake Road and a TIF development agreement with FM Bank for the ShopKo demolition. The 2024 fee schedule and budget/levy placement on the September 18 agenda were also recommended.

• Recommended council accept SEH's $28,000 construction administration amendment for airport AWOS system (carried)
• Recommended council initiate Junius Avenue reconstruction project and accept $20,000 engineering proposal (carried)
• Recommended council authorize MnDOT grant agreement for Option 3 pedestrian crossing at Randolph (carried)
• Recommended council act on conditional use permit for Little Chief Outpost to sell hemp-derived THC products (carried)
• Recommended council approve TIF development agreement with FM Bank for ShopKo demolition (carried, Job opposed)
• Recommended council approve 2024 fee schedule (carried)
• Recommended council place 2024 preliminary budget and levy on September 18 agenda (carried)

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission discussed the Corliss House, which is listed for sale and deeded to a church, and the Honeycutt House, which is in tax forfeiture. No formal decisions were made; the chair will contact the realtor about the Corliss House, and members discussed potential grants for historic properties.

• Approved minutes from August 2, 2023 (unanimous)

Council

The Fergus Falls City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on agenda items, including the implementation of a 0.5% sales and use tax that begins October 1, 2023. The tax, approved by voters in 2022, will fund the outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. The agenda also includes other routine business items.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues to fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Projects include outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

September 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved four policies on second reading: Conflict of Interest, Cooperation with Other Libraries (with one correction), Copyright (with bottom section removed), and the MN Lib Trustee Handbook. The board also approved the agenda, August 2023 minutes, and filed the financial report for audit. The Friends of the Library reported a successful art auction and are seeking new members.

• Approved Conflict of Interest policy on second reading (Sarah motion, Pete second).
• Approved Cooperation with Other Libraries policy on second reading with one correction (Matt motion, Sharon second).
• Approved Copyright policy on second reading with bottom section removed (Amber motion, Sharon second).
• Approved MN Lib Trustee Handbook on second reading (Sarah motion, Pete second).
• Approved agenda as presented (Pete motion, Amber second).
• Approved August 2023 minutes as presented (Sharon motion, Matt second).
• Approved financial report for August 2023 to be filed for audit (Amber motion, Pete second).

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended council approval of a communications plan, a proclamation policy, and a council liaison to the newly formed Friends of the Airport. A motion to create a joint powers committee to study a highway extension failed 1-6. The committee also recommended accepting a $369,200 FAA grant for the airport master plan update.

• Approved communications plan (motion by Thompson, second by Hicks)
• Approved Proclamation Policy and Procedures (motion by Kvamme, second by Hicks)
• Nominated Anthony Hicks as council liaison to Friends of the Airport (motion by Fish, second by Job)
• Recommended installing a drop-off/pick-up zone at 901 N Cleveland Avenue (motion by Kvamme, second by Hicks)
• Denied motion to create a joint powers committee to study a highway extension (1-6; Kvamme in favor, Kremeier, Thompson, Rachels, Hicks, Fish, Job opposed)
• Recommended accepting FAA grant offer for airport master plan PI 9353 (motion by Fish, second by Rachels)

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on August 30, 2023. The provided text contains only the city website's standard navigation and boilerplate, with no specific agenda items listed. The meeting's substantive topics are not included in this document.

City Council

The council awarded the construction contract for the new Aquatics Center to Tradesmen Construction Inc. for $9,179,086, contingent on a change order to stay within the $10.8M budget. It also approved the HRA levy of 0.0185% of estimated taxable market value for 2024, and directed staff to draft ordinances allowing goats for vegetation management and establishing a vacant building registration program.

• Awarded $9,179,086 aquatics center contract to Tradesmen Construction Inc. (6-1, Kremeier opposed)
• Approved HRA levy of 0.0185% of estimated taxable market value for 2024 (5-2, Kremeier and Job opposed)
• Directed staff to draft ordinance allowing goats for vegetation management (6-1, Thompson opposed)
• Directed staff to establish a vacant building registration program (6-1, Kremeier opposed)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, licenses, surplus property sale, and final cost hearing for Stanton Avenue project
• Accepted project plans and authorized bidding for demolition of former wastewater treatment plant (PI 9502)
• Initiated Active Transportation Infrastructure Project (PI 5361) with $391,960 MnDOT grant
• Approved payments and claims totaling $1,270,811.39

Council

The Fergus Falls City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on various city business. A notable item is the upcoming 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, which will fund projects identified in Ordinance No. 39, including an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. The rest of the agenda appears to be procedural or routine city governance items.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, funding projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series
• Sales tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

PA

This agenda is largely procedural boilerplate, with no specific items listed for decision or discussion. The main substantive content is a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, which was approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective Oct. 1, 2023, administered by MN Dept. of Revenue
• Tax revenues to fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Projects include outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on August 16, 2023. The agenda text provided contains only website navigation and boilerplate information, with no specific agenda items listed. No decisions or discussions are detailed in the available text.

• No specific agenda items listed in the provided text

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council accept plans and authorize bidding for Phase I demolition of the old wastewater treatment plant, funded by the Sanitary Sewer Enterprise Fund. They also recommended initiating a grant-funded active transportation project, approving the HRA levy of 0.0185%, directing staff to research a goat ordinance for vegetation control, and drafting a vacant building registration ordinance.

• Recommended accepting plans and authorizing bids for Phase I demolition of old wastewater treatment plant (motion carried)
• Recommended initiating Public Improvement 5361 and authorizing MnDOT grant agreement for $391,960 (motion carried)
• Recommended approving HRA levy of 0.0185% of taxable market value for $240,000 operational funding (motion carried)
• Recommended directing staff to research goat ordinance for vegetation control and bring proposed ordinance to council (motion carried)
• Recommended directing staff to work with City Attorney to establish a vacant building registration ordinance (motion carried)

City Council

The council approved a $112,500 settlement agreement with Shenehon to resolve threatened litigation, adopted a resolution declaring a 2011 International truck surplus and authorizing purchase of a new 2023 Freightliner for $247,000 net, and authorized a $10,000 grant agreement for a downtown historic district study. They also directed the city attorney to draft an ordinance prohibiting public cannabis use and authorized staff to pursue a land sale or easement for a parcel near Meadow Hill Lane.

• Approved $112,500 settlement agreement with Shenehon (unanimous)
• Declared Unit #240 surplus and authorized $247,000 purchase of new roll-off truck (unanimous)
• Authorized $10,000 grant agreement with State Historic Preservation Office and Pigeon Consulting for downtown historic district study (unanimous)
• Directed city attorney to draft ordinance prohibiting public cannabis use (added to consent agenda)
• Authorized staff to pursue land sale or easement for parcel #71004500004000 near Meadow Hill Lane (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including licenses, appointments, and minutes (unanimous)
• Approved payments and claims totaling $2,264,250.85 (unanimous)

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax starting October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council decisions or discussions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Tax funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission voted to recommend approval of a contract with Pigeon Consulting and SHPO for an intensive downtown commercial district survey. The study area will focus on commercial properties, excluding industrial and transportation areas, to align with grant criteria. The recommendation will go to the City Council on August 7, 2023.

• Approved motion to recommend contract with Pigeon Consulting for downtown commercial district survey (passed)
• Approved motion to recommend contract with SHPO for the study (passed)

August 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved the 2024 budget proposal and accepted several policy revisions, including Conflict of Interest, Cooperation with Other Libraries, Copyright (first readings), and an official revision to Fines and Fees. The July financial report was filed for audit. No votes were recorded, but all motions carried.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved July 2023 minutes
• Filed July 2023 financial report for audit
• Accepted 2024 budget proposal
• Accepted Conflict of Interest policy (first reading)
• Accepted Cooperation with Other Libraries policy (first reading)
• Accepted Copyright policy (first reading)
• Accepted Fines and Fees policy (official revision)

PA

The Port Authority approved Resolution #2023-02 authorizing the issuance and sale of $2,015,000 in General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023A, for the Downtown Riverfront Phase II improvement project. The bonds were awarded to Robert W. Baird & Co., Inc. as the low bidder. The vote was unanimous (5-0) with two members absent. The 2024 budget will be reviewed in August, and the City received $4 million in state funds for the Dairy property project.

• Approved $2,015,000 General Obligation Bonds Series 2023A for Downtown Riverfront Phase II (5-0)
• Awarded bond sale to Robert W. Baird & Co., Inc. as low bidder
• Approved agenda and minutes from June 20, 2023

PA

The provided text is a city website homepage, not a meeting agenda. It contains general navigation links and a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, which was approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No specific agenda items, decisions, or discussions for the July 17, 2023 meeting are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by Minnesota Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues to fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

City Council

The council adopted an interim ordinance imposing a moratorium on cannabis businesses until the state's Office of Cannabis Management is operational. It also approved the sale of $2,015,000 in bonds for the Downtown Riverfront project and awarded a $253,442.50 mill and overlay contract to Mark Lee Asphalt & Paving. A change order for the Downtown Riverfront Phase II project was approved on a 5-3 vote.

• Adopted Ordinance 41 imposing a moratorium on cannabis businesses (roll call vote)
• Approved $253,442.50 mill and overlay contract to Mark Lee Asphalt & Paving (Resolution #136-2023)
• Approved $2,015,000 General Obligation Bonds for Downtown Riverfront project (Resolution #140-2023)
• Approved Change Order No. 2 for Downtown Riverfront Phase II, $71,994.11 (5-3 vote)
• Adopted Ordinance 40 vacating a portion of Oak Street (roll call vote)
• Adopted Ordinance 42 amending chicken ordinance to include quail (roll call vote)
• Approved consent agenda including licenses, grants, and appointments (Resolution #137-2023)
• Approved payments and claims totaling $2,269,368.17

Council

The provided text is the city website's general navigation and a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, not the actual council agenda. No specific meeting items, decisions, or discussions are listed. The agenda appears to be missing or was not included in the source.

• 0.5% sales and use tax begins October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

Committee of the Whole

This is a Committee of the Whole meeting for Fergus Falls, Minnesota, but the agenda text provided contains only website navigation and general city information, not specific agenda items. No decisions or discussions are listed for this meeting.

• No specific agenda items listed in the provided text

City Council

The council approved resolutions to accept plans and advertise bids for the aquatics center improvement project (PI 9504) and to approve a development agreement for the former flour mill building. A public hearing was held on vacating a portion of Oak Street right-of-way, and the council directed the city attorney to prepare an ordinance for that vacation. First readings were given to ordinances vacating Oak Street, imposing a moratorium on cannabis businesses, and amending city code to allow quail as poultry. The council also approved a fee schedule amendment adding a sound system rental fee, allowed the Farmers Market to place signage at the historical society site, and approved consent agenda items including a garbage truck purchase and parking restrictions.

• Approved Resolution #134-2023 accepting aquatics center plans and authorizing bid advertising
• Approved Resolution #135-2023 approving development agreement for former flour mill building
• Directed city attorney to prepare ordinance for Oak Street right-of-way vacation (public hearing held, no public comment)
• Introduced Ordinance 41, Eighth Series imposing moratorium on cannabis business operations (first reading)
• Introduced Ordinance 42, Eighth Series amending city code to allow quail as poultry (first reading)
• Approved addition of sound system rental fee to 2023 fee schedule
• Approved Farmers Market signage at Otter Tail County Historical Society site for the season
• Approved consent agenda including garbage truck purchase, parking restrictions, and license approvals

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax beginning October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council decisions or discussion items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series
• Funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

July 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board met on July 10, 2023, and approved the agenda, June minutes, and the June financial report for audit. No substantive policy changes were made; the board reviewed the proctoring policy and its own bylaws without amendments. The board also noted the approval of the 'Warren and Jannette Lowe Arts, Cultural, & Travel Collection' by the City Council.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved June 2023 minutes as presented
• Approved June 2023 financial report for audit

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council restrict parking on the north side of Stanton Avenue and designate diagonal parking on the south side from Vine to Union Avenue, adding four net parking spots. They also recommended accepting aquatics center plans and authorizing bid advertising, approving a development and purchase agreement for the flour mill redevelopment, amending the fee schedule for sound system rental, authorizing a new refuse truck purchase, directing the city attorney to draft code amendments to include quail under the chicken permit, approving the BCA Internet Crimes Against Children Joint Powers Agreement, and adopting a resolution of support for a mental health social worker position. Discussion on THC manufacturing amendments was continued to a work session.

• Recommended diagonal parking on south side of Stanton Avenue, restricted north side (motion carried)
• Recommended accepting aquatics center plans and authorizing bid advertising (motion carried)
• Recommended approving development and purchase agreement for flour mill redevelopment (motion carried)
• Recommended amending 2023 fee schedule to include $300 sound system rental fee (motion carried)
• Recommended authorizing purchase of 2024 Freightliner refuse truck for $287,112.80 after trade-in (motion carried)
• Recommended directing city attorney to draft code amendments to include quail under chicken permit (motion carried)
• Recommended approving and signing BCA Internet Crimes Against Children Joint Powers Agreement (motion carried)
• Recommended adopting resolution of support for Otter Tail County to establish mental health social worker position (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

This document is the Fergus Falls city website homepage, not the agenda for the Committee of the Whole meeting on June 28, 2023. It contains only general navigation links and a notice about a new 0.5% sales and use tax starting October 1, 2023. No meeting items, decisions, or discussions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax begins October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax revenues fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements, approved by voters in 2022

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission voted to enter into a contract with Pigeon Consulting to conduct a survey of downtown historic properties for a possible historic district designation. The contract terms, including survey boundaries, are still to be finalized with the city attorney and staff.

• Approved minutes from May 3, 2023 with corrections (motion passed)
• Approved contract with Pigeon Consulting for downtown historic district survey (motion passed)

PA

The Port Authority approved Resolution #2023-01 authorizing the competitive sale of $2,170,000 in General Obligation Bonds for Phase II of the Downtown Riverfront Improvement Project, which includes a river market, public arts space, and trails. The board also discussed a Dairy property update, including state bonding funds for trail and railroad crossing improvements, and potential changes to the Dairy RFP to remove the deadline.

• Approved Resolution #2023-01 for $2,170,000 General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023A, for Downtown Riverfront Project Phase II (motion carried)
• Discussed Dairy property transfer to City via purchase agreement (no formal action taken)
• Discussed updating Dairy RFP to remove deadline for developer responses (no formal action taken)

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended accepting plans and authorizing bids for two infrastructure projects: Stanton Avenue reconstruction ($1.94M) and the 2023 mill and overlay project ($276,700). A proposal to add bike lanes on Union Avenue was defeated 2-6. A contract with TrailSource for Ferber Park mountain bike trail expansion was recommended. The Sugar High hemp CUP application was withdrawn after the applicant cited delays; council directed staff to review the relevant city code.

• Recommended accepting plans and authorizing bids for City Project 5959 Stanton Avenue (Union to Broadway) (motion carried)
• Recommended accepting plans and authorizing bids for Public Improvement 5364, 2023 mill and overlay project (motion carried)
• Motion to evaluate bike lanes on Union Avenue defeated (2-6)
• Recommended authorizing contract with TrailSource for Ferber Park mountain bike trail expansion and skills area (motion carried)
• Motion to approve Sugar High CUP without conditions retracted after applicant withdrew application
• Directed staff to review City Code Chapter 154.038 (motion carried)

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on June 14, 2023. The agenda text provided contains only website navigation and general city information, with no specific agenda items listed. It appears to be procedural boilerplate rather than a substantive agenda.

• No specific agenda items provided in the source text

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax beginning October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council actions, discussions, or agenda items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Projects: outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

Council

The council approved a $939,600 contract with JLG Architects for design and construction administration of the $10.8 million aquatics center in Roosevelt Park, funded by a voter-approved local sales tax. A conditional use permit for hemp processing at 116 S Union Avenue was tabled for further discussion, with the 60-day deadline extended. The council also awarded a $1.66 million construction contract for Summit Avenue reconstruction and approved public art contracts for the downtown riverfront project.

• Approved Resolution #118-2023 accepting JLG Architects' professional services proposal for the aquatics center in the amount of $939,600
• Tabled the conditional use permit for Sugar High LLC to allow hemp processing at 116 S Union Avenue; extended the 60-day deadline for continued discussion
• Approved Resolution #107-2023 awarding the construction contract for City Project 5960 to Joe Riley Construction in the amount of $1,657,886.32
• Approved Resolution #108-2023 approving public art agreements with Jeffrey Zachmann and Carl Zachmann for Phase II of the downtown riverfront project
• Approved Resolution #106-2023 adopting the final cost assessment for City Project 5960 (Summit Avenue reconstruction) contingent upon awarding the construction contract
• Approved Resolution #119-2023 approving Minnesota Session Laws for the local option sales tax to fund the aquatics center and DeLagoon improvements
• Approved Resolution #109-2023 consent agenda including minutes, licenses, and multiple resolutions (e.g., airport grant, vacation petition, fire department agreement)
• Approved Resolution authorizing payments and claims in the amount of $1,330,669.09

June 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved a Council Request for Action to create 'The Warren & Jannette Lowe Arts, Cultural, & Travel Collection' and passed a second reading of the Named Collection policy and Art Exhibit Contract. The board also approved the agenda, minutes, and financial report for May 2023. The Summer Reading Kickoff saw over 700 registrants, and the 2023 Annual Report was corrected to show program participation over 15,000.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes from previous meeting
• Approved financial report for May 2023 to be filed for audit
• Approved Council Request for Action to create 'The Warren & Jannette Lowe Arts, Cultural, & Travel Collection'
• Approved Named Collection policy/procedure (second reading)
• Approved Art Exhibit Contract (second reading)

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council amend the city's open forum policy to eliminate advance sign-up and limit speaker time. They also recommended accepting a State Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant of up to $70,606 per year for 2024-2025, authorizing a transfer of $75,000 in airport entitlement funds to Red Wing Regional Airport, and accepting a revised $939,600 professional services proposal from JLG Architects for the Aquatics Center project. Additionally, they recommended approving the Oak Street vacation petition with a public hearing set for July 3, 2023, initiating two street improvement projects, and renewing the Otter Tail County Fire Department mutual aid agreement.

• Recommended amending the open forum policy to eliminate advance sign-up and hold it during petitions and communications (motion by Hicks/Kvamme, carried).
• Recommended accepting the State of Minnesota Airport Maintenance and Operations Grant for FY2024-2025, 75% reimbursement up to $70,606 per year (motion by Fish/Kvamme, carried).
• Recommended authorizing the executed FAA Form 5100-110 to transfer $75,000 in airport entitlement funds to Red Wing Regional Airport (motion by Hicks/Rachels, carried).
• Recommended accepting the Oak Street vacation petition and setting a public hearing for July 3, 2023, at 5:30 pm (motion by Fish/Kremeier, carried).
• Recommended initiating PI 5364 (mill and overlay, budget $296,140) and PI 5365 (seal coat, budget $156,780) and ordering plans and specifications (motion by Kvamme/Hicks, carried).
• Recommended accepting JLG Architects' professional services proposal for the Aquatics Center at $939,600 (motion by Fish/Kvamme, carried).
• Recommended renewing the Otter Tail County Fire Department Joint Cooperative Agreement for mutual aid (motion by Rachels/Job, carried).

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on May 31, 2023. The agenda text provided contains only website navigation menus and general city information, with no specific agenda items listed. The meeting appears to be procedural or the agenda details are not included in this document.

• No specific agenda items listed in the provided text
• Agenda contains only boilerplate website navigation and city contact information

Council

The council held public hearings and approved property tax rebates for four homes under the housing tax rebate program. Three were approved unanimously or by wide margins, while a rebate for 3620 Pebble Hills Drive tied 4-4 and was adopted only after the mayor cast the deciding vote. The council also modified the program to cap eligible property values at $400,000.

• Approved property tax rebate for 1323 Lenore Way (unanimous)
• Approved property tax rebate for 1340 Lenore Way (unanimous)
• Approved property tax rebate for 3405 Pebble Hills Drive (5-3)
• Approved property tax rebate for 3620 Pebble Hills Drive (4-4, mayor broke tie)
• Adopted Resolution #104-2023 capping eligible property values at $400,000 for tax rebate program
• Adopted Resolution #89-2023 final cost assessments for 2022 sidewalk/driveway improvements
• Adopted Resolution #102-2023 initiating airport master plan update ($364,200, 90% federally funded)
• Adopted Resolution #103-2023 authorizing grant application for Lake Alice grit chambers

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on May 10, 2023. The provided text contains only the city website's navigation menu and general information, with no specific agenda items listed. The meeting appears to be scheduled, but no decisions or discussion topics are detailed in this document.

• No specific agenda items are listed in the provided text
• Agenda appears to be procedural boilerplate only
• No rezonings, contracts, ordinances, or fee changes are mentioned

Meeting

The Fergus Falls City Council voted 3-5 to deny a THC Edible Sales Product license to Lincoln Vapors after an appeal of the police department's denial. The police chief recommended denial based on controlled substance convictions and a failed compliance check. Council members who supported the license offered an amended motion for a probationary license, but it failed. The meeting was a special session to consider the appeal only.

• Denied THC Edible Sales Product license to Lincoln Vapors (3-5)
• Failed amended Resolution #88-2023 to grant probationary THC license (3-5)

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission approved a motion to submit a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a $10,000 CLG grant-funded survey of downtown historic properties, using a modified Option B map that expands the proposed district boundaries. The survey aims to determine eligibility for a possible downtown historic district designation. The commission also approved the February 1, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections and discussed Preservation Month activities.

• Approved RFP with modified Option B map for downtown historic district survey (unanimous)
• Approved February 1, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)

May 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved a revised Library Use Conduct Policy on second reading and reviewed a new Named Collection procedure for potential donors. The board also approved the financial report for April 2023 and the minutes from the previous meeting. No votes were recorded with tallies; all motions passed unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved April meeting minutes
• Approved financial report for April 2023 to be filed for audit
• Approved revised Library Use Conduct Policy (second reading)
• Approved FFPL Naming Rights and FFPL Donor Recognition documents (first reading)
• Approved Art Exhibit Contract with typos corrected

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council decisions or discussions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Tax funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Tax approved by voters in 2022
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023

Council

The council voted 6-2 to prohibit town hall meetings in the City Council Chambers unless a quorum of the council makes an exception, following concerns about misinformation and venue size. A resolution was adopted to set a May 15 hearing for amending the housing tax rebate program, including expanding eligibility to rental property rehab and first-time homebuyers. The council also approved a $727,647.92 claims payment resolution and accepted donations for fire department air monitors. Councilmember Kremeier declined to participate in mediation, but the resolution directing him and Thompson to participate passed 7-1.

• Approved Resolution #84-2023 consent agenda items including minutes, licenses, and sidewalk permit (unanimous)
• Accepted donations for fire department air monitors via Resolution #85-2023 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #86-2023 directing Kremeier and Thompson to participate in mediation (7-1)
• Approved Resolution of Accounts for $727,647.92 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution #87-2023 setting May 15 hearing for housing tax rebate program amendments (unanimous)
• Directed staff to explore financial assistance program for first-time homebuyers (unanimous)
• Voted 6-2 to restrict town hall meetings to Council Chambers only with quorum exception
• Introduced Ordinance 37, Eighth Series amending noise violation code (first reading)

COW

The council voted to accept $4,000 in donations for the fire department to purchase two Sensit air monitors for gas leak and hazmat calls, with $3,000 from an MDU Foundation grant and $1,000 from Green Plains. The council also directed staff to review the city's open forum policy and discussed changes to town hall meeting formats and a potential code of conduct for elected officials.

• Accepted $4,000 in donations for fire department air monitors (unanimous)
• Directed staff to review open forum policy (motion by Hicks/Rachels)

Committee of the Whole

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole meeting on April 26, 2023. The agenda text contains only website navigation and boilerplate information, with no specific items for discussion or decision listed. The meeting appears to be procedural in nature, with no concrete actions or proposals identified.

• No specific agenda items listed in the provided text

Council

The provided text is the city website's general navigation and boilerplate, not a meeting agenda. It contains no agenda items, resolutions, or discussion topics for the April 17, 2023, council meeting. The only notable content is a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax beginning October 1, 2023, which was approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

PA

The Fergus Falls Port Authority received a presentation from Greater Fergus Falls on developer trends and site needs, including a lack of move-in ready properties and infrastructure. The board decided to discuss special assessments on shovel-ready lots at a future meeting when more information is available. The meeting also included updates on a legislative funding request for the Dairy property and a process for contacting developers.

• Approved the agenda and minutes from March 20, 2023.
• Decided to discuss special assessments on shovel-ready sites at a future meeting with additional staff information.
• Heard an update on a $5.2 million state bonding request for city projects including the Dairy property.
• Noted a process for commissioners to contact developers using a standard set of questions.

City Council

The council approved Resolution #69-2023 creating TIF District 4-16 for FM Bank to demolish the former ShopKo building and build a new bank, with a total budget of $325,826 over seven years. The vote was 5-3, with council members Rufer, Thompson, Rachels, Fish and Kvamme in favor and Kremeier, Hicks and Job opposed. The council also adopted resolutions approving the final layout of a highway reconstruction project, ordering plans for a street and utility project on Stanton Avenue, and awarding a construction contract for the Union and Lincoln Avenue street improvement project to Mark Sand & Gravel for $1,950,424.01.

• Approved TIF District 4-16 for FM Bank redevelopment (5-3)
• Adopted Resolution #68-2023 approving final layout of S.P. 5601-35 highway reconstruction
• Adopted Resolution #70-2023 ordering plans for Stanton Avenue street and utility project
• Awarded PI 5314 construction contract to Mark Sand & Gravel for $1,950,424.01
• Adopted Resolution #82-2023 creating a Maintenance Operations Supervisor position at the community arena
• Approved Resolution #83-2023 Naming Rights Policy for Downtown Riverfront Phase II
• Adopted Ordinance 36, Eighth Series, vacating drainage and utility easement
• Approved consent agenda including licenses, appointments, loans, and opioid settlement participation

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council approve a new Maintenance Operations Supervisor position for the community arena, funded by a cost-sharing agreement with the school district and local hockey/skating groups, and approved a $240,259.80 upgrade to the city's AS400 computer system. They also recommended amending city code to allow construction in non-residential zones before 9 a.m. on Saturdays, and authorized participation in national opioid settlements. The city's application for an Active Transportation Infrastructure Grant was not awarded.

• Recommended code amendment to allow Saturday construction in non-residential zones (motion carried)
• Recommended approval of new Maintenance Operations Supervisor position at arena (motion carried)
• Recommended approval of $240,259.80 AS400 server upgrade (motion carried)
• Recommended approval of opioid settlement participation and MOA (motion carried)
• Recommended acceptance of plans and advertising of bids for City Project 5960 ($1,750,000 reconstruction) (motion carried)
• Recommended authorization of easement agreements for Downtown/Riverfront Phase II (motion carried)
• Recommended setting final cost hearing for May 15, 2023 for PI 6079 sidewalk/driveway projects (motion carried)

Council

The Fergus Falls City Council is meeting to discuss and decide on agenda items, including a 0.5% sales and use tax that begins October 1, 2023. Revenue from this tax will fund the outdoor aquatics facility and improvements to DeLagoon Park, as identified in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series. The tax was approved by voters in 2022.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Revenue funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022

April 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved the agenda, March minutes, and financial report for audit. They also conducted a first reading of a revised Library/Use Conduct Policy and approved policies to decommission digital media equipment and a patron assistance policy.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved March 2023 minutes
• Approved financial report for March 2023 to be filed for audit
• First reading of revised Library/Use Conduct Policy (moved and seconded)
• Approved policy to decommission Digital Media Equipment
• Approved policy to decommission Patron Assistance Policy

COW

The City Council Committee of the Whole recommended approving up to four part-time Community Service Officers for the police department, expanding the city's tuition reimbursement program to include them, adopting a police officer wellness plan, declaring three squad cars and office chairs as surplus, and gifting five acres of city land to Oak Grove Cemetery for expansion. All motions carried unanimously.

• Recommended hiring up to four part-time/temporary Community Service Officers (motion carried)
• Recommended including CSOs in the city's tuition reimbursement program (motion carried)
• Recommended adopting the Public Safety Officer Wellness Plan (motion carried)
• Recommended declaring three police squad cars and miscellaneous office chairs as surplus (motion carried)
• Recommended gifting five acres of city-owned land to Oak Grove Cemetery (motion carried)
• Council Member Rufer requested placing a code amendment on the April 12 agenda to allow contractors to start work before 9 am (discussed, no vote)

Committee of the Whole

This agenda contains only website navigation and boilerplate text, with no specific meeting items, decisions, or discussions listed. The only substantive content is a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax starting October 1, 2023, but that is not part of this meeting's agenda.

• No agenda items listed

PA

The Fergus Falls Port Authority met on March 20, 2023. The agenda and minutes from February 21, 2023 were approved. No proposals were received for the Dairy RFP by the March 3 closing date. The Port decided to remove the end date from the website, keep RFP materials available, and have staff contact two developers for outreach.

• Approved agenda and minutes from February 21, 2023
• No proposals received for Dairy RFP; end date removed from website, RFP materials remain available
• Staff directed to contact two developers for outreach on Dairy property

City Council

The council heard public testimony from Dr. Mike Mortenson alleging that a council member showed a photo of a Black woman candidate to constituents during the 2020 election to disparage her. Council Member Rufer questioned the purpose of the discussion, but the mayor allowed Mortenson to continue. No council action was taken on the allegations. The council also approved resolutions supporting a job creation fund application for SCR Solutions, reassigning a tax abatement agreement to NBH Fergus Falls, LLC, and authorizing a Bicycle Friendly Community application.

• Approved consent agenda including licenses, public hearing dates, budget adjustments, and donation of sound system (Resolution #49-2023 through #53-2023)
• Approved library policies as recommended by the Library Board (Resolution #54-2023)
• Authorized submission of Bicycle Friendly Community application (Resolution #55-2023)
• Adopted resolution of support for Job Creation Fund application for SCR Solutions Inc. (Resolution #56-2023)
• Approved reassignment of tax abatement agreement from Northstar Behavioral Health to NBH Fergus Falls, LLC (Resolution #57-2023)
• Authorized payments and claims totaling $1,213,945.86
• Approved amended minutes from March 6, 2023 council meeting
• Tabled no items; heard public testimony on council member conduct without formal action

Council

The provided text is the Fergus Falls city website's navigation and footer, not a council meeting agenda. It contains no agenda items, decisions, or discussion topics for the March 20, 2023 council meeting. The only substantive content is a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax starting October 1, 2023, to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

City Council

The council adopted a joint resolution for the annexation of approximately 160 acres contiguous to the city, as requested by owner PPTF, LLC. The agreement includes payments to the township and a 20-year restriction on city-initiated annexation of an adjacent ethanol plant. A preliminary hearing for a $2.289 million street and utility project was held but action tabled until April 3. The council also approved a resolution supporting historic tax credits and accepted a $78,000 DNR grant for Ferber Park trails.

• Approved joint resolution for annexation with Fergus Falls Township (unanimous)
• Tabled action on City Project 5960 street and utility project until April 3, 2023
• Approved consent agenda including licenses, grant fiscal host, and preliminary engineering report for Stanton Avenue project
• Approved layout and set public hearing for TH 210 reconstruction project for April 17
• Adopted resolution supporting historic tax credits (unanimous)
• Approved modification to Lake Region Healthcare bonds (unanimous)
• Accepted $78,000 MN DNR recreational trail grant for Ferber Park (unanimous)
• Approved payment of claims totaling $2,637,942.48, including $7,032.50 for independent investigation (vote carried)

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax beginning October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council actions, discussions, or agenda items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

March 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board approved the February 2023 financial report for audit and approved the February 2023 minutes with a spelling correction. The director reported that summer reading will start June 7 due to the school year extension, two new library aides were hired, and winter programming had over 500 participants. The board also received a $4,000 grant report for internet access and discussed a named materials collection for city approval.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved February 2023 minutes with spelling correction (unanimous)
• Approved February 2023 financial report filed for audit (unanimous)
• Second reading of revised Collection Development Policy moved and seconded

PA

The Port Authority heard an update on the Dairy RFP, which went live on February 1, 2023, and is scheduled to close on March 3, 2023. Staff reported that the RFP has been widely distributed and one question has been received. The board also discussed the City's strategic plan, which was approved by the City Council on February 6, 2023, and includes priorities relevant to the Port Authority such as improved communication and residential development. No formal decisions were made by the Port Authority at this meeting.

• Approved agenda and minutes from January 17, 2022 (motion by Thompson, second by Petersen, carried)

City Council

The council voted 5-3 to set a public hearing for a redevelopment TIF district for FM Bank's proposed demolition and renovation of the former Shopko site. The TIF would provide an estimated $300,000 in financing over 7 years. Councilmember Hicks opposed the TIF, citing other local financial institutions that did not require public assistance. The hearing is set for April 17, 2023.

• Adopted Resolution #39-2023 setting a public hearing for a redevelopment TIF district for FM Bank (5-3)
• Adopted Ordinance 31, Eighth Series, Stormwater Management (roll call vote)
• Approved consent agenda including multiple licenses, professional services contracts, and loans (Resolution #32-2023 through #38-2023)
• Adopted Resolution #40-2023 directing staff to prepare an agreement for Lake Alice water quality pilot project
• Approved payments and claims totaling $1,541,354.20 (reduced by $7,032.50 for Pemberton Law Firm invoice)
• Directed staff to release a call for artists for Phase II Downtown Riverfront Project public art

PA

The provided text is not a meeting agenda but a city website page. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No meeting items, decisions, or discussions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Projects: outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

COW

The council discussed and voted to recommend setting a public hearing for a proposed TIF district to support FM Bank's redevelopment of the former ShopKo building. The TIF would cover an estimated $286,000 in demolition costs. The motion carried 6-1, with Kremeier opposed.

• Recommended setting a public hearing for the proposed TIF district for April 17, 2023, at 5:30 pm (6-1, Kremeier opposed)
• Recommended council involvement in Lake Alice water quality pilot project and consent to submit aeration permit to Minnesota DNR (motion carried)
• Recommended accepting Bolton & Menk's professional services for DeLagoon Park improvements for $264,100 (motion carried)
• Recommended accepting Terracon's geotechnical services for DeLagoon Park for $19,250 (motion carried)
• Recommended accepting Preliminary Engineering Feasibility Report for CP 5960 and setting preliminary project hearing for March 6, 2023, at 5:30 pm (motion carried)

COW

This is the agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting on February 15, 2023. The provided text contains only website navigation and general city information, with no specific agenda items listed. The meeting appears to be procedural in nature, with no concrete decisions or discussions detailed.

City Council

The council approved a pay matrix increase for police patrol officers and sergeants to address recruitment and retention challenges, with a 2023 budget impact of $39,969.77 covered by a vacant patrol position. The council also adopted the city's strategic plan, authorized annexation proceedings for 162 acres near the ethanol plant if the township rejects the city's offer, and approved a historic district eligibility study application.

• Approved Resolution #30-2023 moving Police Patrol officers to C31 and Sergeants to C43 on the pay matrix, with a Memorandum of Understanding until the next contract.
• Adopted Resolution #29-2023 approving the city's Strategic Plan.
• Directed staff to work with attorney Chris Hood on annexation by ordinance for 162 acres if Fergus Falls Township rejects the city's offer by February 13.
• Adopted Resolution #31-2023 authorizing the Heritage Preservation Commission to apply for up to $10,000 for a historic district eligibility study.
• Approved Resolution #24-2023 accepting a $500 donation from Lake Region Electric Cooperative for the Fire Department.
• Approved Resolution #25-2023 declaring SummerFest, Over the River festival, and Shop, Move & Groove as 2023 Community Festivals.
• Approved Resolution #26-2023 authorizing a grant application to the MN DNR for two cross-country ski trail groomers.
• Approved Resolution #27-2023 authorizing the Fire Department to submit a grant for breathing apparatus and communication equipment.

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains no council business items, decisions, or discussions. The only substantive content is a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective Oct 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 to fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

Council

The provided text is a general city website page for Fergus Falls, Minnesota, not a meeting agenda. It contains navigation menus, contact information, and a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax beginning October 1, 2023, to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No specific council decisions or discussions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, per Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 to fund outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

Committee of the Whole

This document is a city website page, not the actual meeting agenda. It contains no items for the Committee of the Whole to decide or discuss. The only substantive content is a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax starting October 1, 2023, which was approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by Minnesota Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Projects include outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

February 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board held a regular meeting on February 13, 2023. The board approved the agenda, the January 2023 minutes (with a correction to the Friends of the Library Liaison Report), and the January 2023 financial report to be filed for audit. The City Administrator reviewed the Advisory Board Training Manual, and the Friends of the Library reported four new members and monthly bookstore income of $400–$600. The board completed a first reading of the revised Collection Development Policy and reviewed sections of the Board Handbook on library types.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved January 2023 minutes with correction to Friends of the Library Liaison Report (donation from Lee Krueger Memorial)
• Approved January 2023 financial report to be filed for audit

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission voted unanimously to ask the City Council for permission to apply for a Certified Local Government (CLG) grant not to exceed $10,000. The grant would fund a study of downtown historic properties to evaluate the feasibility of a historic district designation. The commission also formed a subcommittee to address the potential transfer of the Kirkbride/RTC property to the school district and voted to present a memorandum to the City Council on February 6 regarding HPC processes for historic properties.

• Approved motion to ask City Council for permission to apply for CLG grant up to $10,000 for downtown historic district study (unanimous)
• Approved motion to have Chair Schuelke and Gordon Hydukovich present a memorandum to City Council on February 6 regarding HPC processes for historic properties (passed)

Council

The provided text is a city website page for Fergus Falls, Minnesota, not a meeting agenda. It contains general navigation links, contact information, and a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, which was approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No specific council meeting items, decisions, or discussions are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax beginning October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council actions, discussions, or agenda items are included.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023, administered by MN Department of Revenue
• Tax revenues fund projects in Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series (adopted July 9, 2023)
• Voter-approved in 2022 for outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements

PA

The Port Authority voted to move forward with a live Request for Proposals (RFP) for the Dairy project, with a submission period from February 1, 2023 to March 3, 2023. Officers were elected for 2023: Leonard as President, Thompson as Vice President, Hicks as Secretary, and Schoeneck as Assistant Treasurer. The board also received a preliminary engineering report on the Norgren property but took no action on it.

• Approved agenda and December 19, 2022 minutes (motion carried)
• Elected Leonard as President (6-0)
• Elected Thompson as Vice President (6-0)
• Elected Hicks as Secretary (6-0)
• Elected Schoeneck as Assistant Treasurer (6-0)
• Approved Dairy RFP submission period February 1 to March 3, 2023 (motion carried)
• Received Norgren property preliminary engineering report; no action taken

City Council

The council approved Resolution #20-2023 initiating the Fir and Friberg Avenue roundabout improvement project and accepting Otter Tail County's agreement, after a 4-4 tie was broken by the mayor. The council also adopted the city's 2023 legislative priorities, approved a lobbyist contract renewal with Joel Carlson at $43,420 per year, and approved four months of interest-only loan payments for Outstate Brewing Company. A discussion on roads and potential franchise fees was held, with a work session scheduled for April.

• Approved Resolution #9-2023 consent agenda including licenses, budget adjustments, golf course rates, and a bicycle playground grant
• Adopted Ordinance 34, Eighth Series, Shoreline Management by roll call vote
• Approved Resolution #15-2023 accepting JLG Architect's $681,820 professional services proposal for the Aquatics Center design
• Approved Resolution #16-2023 approving a petition of membership to the Charter Commission
• Approved Resolution #17-2023 renewing lobbyist contract with Joel Carlson at $43,420 per year
• Approved Resolution #18-2023 adopting the city's 2023 legislative priorities
• Approved Resolution #19-2023 authorizing staff to retain Baker Tilly for FM Bank TIF analysis
• Approved Resolution #20-2023 initiating Fir and Friberg roundabout project (5-4 with mayor's tie-breaking vote)

COW

The Committee of the Whole recommended the council authorize staff to retain Baker Tilly for a TIF analysis requested by FM Bank, which plans to demolish the former Shopko building and redevelop the site. The council also recommended approving 2023 Pebble Lake Golf Course rates with a 10% increase, authorizing the state/federal delegating process agreement, and pursuing Option 2 for the Union and Lincoln Street improvement project. Additionally, they recommended initiating the Fir and Friberg roundabout project and accepting JLG Architects' proposal for the Aquatic Center design. A discussion on modifying the Housing Tax Rebate Program was tabled for further staff review.

• Recommended authorizing staff to retain Baker Tilly for FM Bank TIF analysis (motion carried)
• Recommended approving 2023 Pebble Lake Golf Course rates with 10% increase (motion carried)
• Recommended authorizing staff to execute State/Federal Delegating Contracting Process Agreement No. 1052055 (motion carried)
• Recommended pursuing Option 2 for PI 5314 Union and Lincoln Street resurfacing project (motion carried)
• Recommended initiating PI 5362 Fir and Friberg roundabout project (motion carried, 5-2; Hicks and Kremeier opposed)
• Recommended accepting JLG Architects' proposal for Aquatic Center design development, final design, and construction administration for $681,820 (motion carried)
• Recommended directing staff to research council and mayoral salaries with comparable cities (motion carried)

COW

This agenda for the Fergus Falls Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting on January 11, 2023, contains only boilerplate navigation and city website information. No specific agenda items, resolutions, or discussion topics are listed, so the meeting appears to be procedural only.

HPC

The Heritage Preservation Commission elected Tom Hintgen as Vice Chair and reappointed Chris Schuelke as Chair, eliminating the secretary position. The commission discussed pursuing a grant for a downtown historic district study and formed a subcommittee on the Kirkbride school redevelopment project, with further discussion scheduled for February.

• Elected Tom Hintgen as Vice Chair, eliminated secretary position (unanimous)
• Reappointed Chris Schuelke as Chair (unanimous)
• Approved meeting schedule: first Wednesday of month at noon in Council Chambers (unanimous)
• Approved November 2, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled subcommittee formation on Kirkbride school redevelopment to February agenda

Council

The provided text is a city website page, not a meeting agenda. It contains a notice about a 0.5% sales and use tax beginning October 1, 2023, approved by voters in 2022 to fund an outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements. No council decisions or discussion items are listed.

• 0.5% sales and use tax effective October 1, 2023
• Tax approved by voters in 2022
• Funds outdoor aquatics facility and DeLagoon Park improvements
• Ordinance No. 39, Eighth Series adopted July 9, 2023

City Council

The outgoing council approved a $5.2 million bonding request to the Minnesota State Legislature for Phase 2 of the Downtown Riverfront Project, including rail crossings, trails, and Old Smokey upgrades. The new council was then sworn in and selected Scott Kvamme as Acting Mayor. A $500 THC product sales license fee was also adopted.

• Approved $5.2M state bonding request for Downtown Riverfront Phase 2 (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 35 regulating THC product sales (roll call vote)
• Added $500 license fee for THC product sales (motion carried)
• Opted out of Otter Tail County THC moratorium (Resolution #7-2023 adopted)
• Approved consent agenda including licenses, depositories, and travel policy (Resolution #2-2023)
• Authorized payments and claims of $596,584.46 (adopted)
• Swore in new council members Laura Job, Scott Kvamme, Al Kremeier, Scott Rachels
• Elected Scott Kvamme as 2023 Acting Mayor (4-3 vote)

City Council

The outgoing council approved a $5.2 million bonding request to the Minnesota State Legislature for Phase 2 of the Downtown Riverfront Project, including rail crossings, trails, and Old Smokey upgrades. The new council was then sworn in and elected Scott Kvamme as Acting Mayor. A $500 license fee for THC product sales was also adopted.

• Approved $5.2M state bonding request for Downtown Riverfront Phase 2 (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 35, THC Product Sales (roll call vote)
• Added $500 license fee for THC product sales (motion carried)
• Opted out of Otter Tail County THC moratorium via Resolution #7-2023 (adopted)
• Approved Resolution of Accounts for $596,584.46 (adopted)
• Swore in new council members Laura Job, Scott Kvamme, Al Kremeier, Scott Rachels
• Elected Scott Kvamme as 2023 Acting Mayor (4-3 vote)
• Approved Mayor's council appointments for 2023 boards and committees

January 2023

The Fergus Falls Public Library Board held a procedural meeting, electing Sharon Hintgen as President, Matt Lape as Vice President, and Amber Leopold as Secretary. The board approved the agenda, December minutes, and the December financial report for audit. No substantive policy decisions or funding approvals were made.

• Elected Sharon Hintgen as President, Matt Lape as Vice President, Amber Leopold as Secretary
• Approved the agenda as presented
• Approved December minutes as presented
• Approved December financial report to be filed for audit