Lake Crystal public meetings in 2022

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission will hold a special meeting to consider an employment agreement with the electric superintendent. The meeting is otherwise procedural, with a call to order, a close of the meeting, a reopen, and an adjournment.

• Consider employment agreement with electric superintendent

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission held a work session to interview Joel Collins for the Electric Superintendent position. Commissioners McCoy and Angrenstorff were present along with city staff.

• Interviewed Joel Collins for Electric Superintendent position
• Meeting was a work session, no votes or decisions recorded

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council approved a 50% cost-share for electricity costs of the Crystal Lake fountains, capped at $2,000 for 2023. They also appointed members to several committees and approved an ambulance travel request for an EMS leadership bootcamp. The council tabled discussion on joining a PFAS cost recovery program.

• Approved 50% electricity cost-sharing for Crystal Lake fountains, max $2,000, with Crystal Creek Citizens Group
• Approved ambulance travel request of $1,184 for EMS Leadership Bootcamp in Duluth, MN
• Appointed Dave Richards to Public Utilities Commission, Justin Munson to Planning and Zoning, Matt Doherty and Gretchen Alms to EDA, Gloria Williams to Cemetery Board
• Discussed eliminating Parks and Recreation Committee due to vacancies; no decision made
• Tabled PFAS Cost Recovery Program agreement with Napoli Shkolnik law firm

Meeting

The regular Parks & Recreation meeting scheduled for December 19, 2022 has been cancelled. The next meeting is set for January 16, 2023.

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission voted unanimously to repair the Cooper generator, spending up to $100,000 on new breakers, relays, wiring, protective gear, and custom fuel lines to extend its life 5–10 years. They also approved meeting minutes and a Conflict-of-Interest Policy, and tabled a decision on the Napoli Shkolnik PFA agreement pending further review. The commission closed the meeting to discuss hiring a new Electric Superintendent, with an interview scheduled for December 20.

• Approved Cooper generator repairs not to exceed $100,000
• Tabled decision on Napoli Shkolnik PFA Agreement
• Approved Conflict-of-Interest Policy
• Scheduled Electric Superintendent candidate interview for Dec. 20 at 2 p.m.

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved the November 14 meeting minutes, utility bills totaling $112,532.23, and the 2023 electric, water, and wastewater budgets. Staff reported on generator repairs, water tower cleaning quotes, a rate study expected in January, and the need for additional electric meters for new developments.

• Approved utility bills of $112,532.23
• Approved 2023 electric, water, and wastewater budgets
• Generator update: Marathon sending a new generator; no timeline yet
• Water tower cleaning: quotes being sought for exterior cleaning; estimated cost $8,000–$12,000
• Electric meters: need for about three more TRs for Lilly Lake Estates ($350 each) and others for Crystal Creek and Robinson Street

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council held a Truth in Taxation public hearing and approved the final 2023 budget and tax levy of $1,405,664. The tax rate drops from 63.33% to 61.19%, a 2.14% decrease, though individual bills may rise if property values increased. The council also approved a $150 fee for additional false-alarm fire calls, a variance for a pool setback, and accepted a $35,000 donation to the fire department.

• Approved Resolution 2239 certifying 2023 final budget and tax levy of $1,405,664
• Approved 2023 fee schedule charging $150 for additional false-alarm fire calls after first free call in 12 months
• Approved variance for Richard and Dawn Kottke to reduce pool setbacks to 5 feet on side and rear property lines
• Accepted $35,000 donation from Larry Brandenburg to Lake Crystal Fire Department for a 2015 Ram pickup
• Approved payment of bills totaling $118,905.20

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing and voted to recommend a variance for Richard Kottke to install a pool with reduced rear and side yard setbacks. No other new business was discussed. The meeting was adjourned after commission comments.

• Variance request by Richard Kottke for a pool with reduced rear and side yard setbacks (no access for heavy equipment noted)
• Commission voted unanimously to recommend granting the variance to the city council
• Two nuisance properties were identified for police follow-up
• Commissioner Josh Siebert will not seek reappointment

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council approved several action items including a tax increment financing resolution for an 80-acre annexed development by Kroubetz Properties, a police liaison agreement with schools through 2027, and a final payment of $51,259.31 for the Southwest Street project. The council also discussed a one-year extension of the garbage contract with LJP Waste Solutions and noted that the city was mistakenly invited to participate in the Redwood-Cottonwood Rivers Control Area.

• Resolution 2237: Consideration of Tax Increment Financing for Kroubetz Properties' 80-acre development
• Approved Police Liaison Program Agreement with Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial Schools through 2027
• Closeout of Southwest Street and Utilities Improvement Project with final payment of $51,259.31 to GM Contracting
• Consent agenda included $575,747.69 in bills, $40,400 in donations, and hiring of two firefighters
• Discussed one-year extension of garbage contract with LJP Waste Solutions to gauge fuel prices and CPI

Council

This is a workshop meeting, so no formal actions were taken. The council discussed two potential pay incentives to address ambulance staffing shortages and retention, and also considered the ambulance's future structure (city department, cooperative, or independent). For the fire department, the council discussed developing a joint powers agreement with the Rural Fire Association to formalize responsibilities and finances.

• Discussion of ambulance pay incentives: hourly run pay increase or longevity stipend
• Ambulance staffing: 17 active members, no paramedics, struggling with shortages and increased calls
• Fire department staffing: 27 active members, one retirement expected
• Discussion of formalizing fire department contract with Rural Fire Association (5 townships)
• No votes or decisions made; both items are informational for future council action

Meeting

The Lake Crystal EDA received a presentation on a housing action plan, reviewed a letter to property owners along Highway 60, and discussed a marketing commercial. No formal action was taken on these items.

• Housing Action Plan presented by Blue Earth County
• Letter to property owners along Highway 60 corridor about potential sale interest
• Discussion of a video marketing commercial for the city (no action taken)
• EDA Coordinator Stier announced her departure; interim replacement introduced
• City Administrator reported on hotel feasibility study and MIF fund status

Council

The regular Monday, November 7, 2022 City Council meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, November 21, 2022.

• Regular City Council meeting cancelled for November 7, 2022

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission held a work session to interview Jeremy Gonzalez for the Electric Superintendent position. The meeting was attended by Commissioners McCoy, Johnson, and Ahrenstorff, along with city staff and a representative from Heartland Energy. No other business was conducted.

• Interviewed Jeremy Gonzalez for Electric Superintendent position
• Meeting was a work session, not a regular business meeting
• No decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council approved a second reading of an ordinance allowing chickens within city limits, set a $75 permit fee, and awarded a $63,930 contract to Holtmeier Construction for sediment delta cleaning along the channel into Crystal Lake. The council also approved the Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Sidewalk Plan, and set a Truth in Taxation hearing for December 5, 2022.

• Ordinance 2022-04 allowing chickens-keeping, transporting, treatment and housing passed 4-1
• Resolution 2233 establishing a $75 chicken permit application fee
• Delta cleaning bid awarded to Holtmeier Construction for $63,930
• Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Sidewalk Plan approved
• Truth in Taxation public hearing set for December 5, 2022 at 7:30 p.m.

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority is meeting to discuss new business regarding industrial land for sale and the fall newsletter. The body will also review financial reports for EDA funds, the Minnesota Investment Fund, and the Small Cities Development Program.

• Discussion of industrial land for sale
• Review of fall newsletter
• Financial report on EDA Funds
• Financial report on Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF)
• Financial report on Small Cities Development Program (SCDP)

Meeting

The Utilities Commission approved a labor agreement for Local Union No. 160 and authorized utility bills totaling $341,792.56. The body also approved a new contract for Conservation Improvement Program services and a 2023 employee pay plan.

• Labor agreement for Local Union No. 160 effective Jan 1, 2023 – Dec 31, 2025
• Utility bills totaling $341,792.56
• Contract with Frontier Energy for CIP services ($3,500 setup fee, $800 monthly fee, $100 monthly software fee)
• Write-off of $662.67 in uncollectable debt with MN Department of Revenue Recapture
• Tantalus quote of $1,000.00 for reading current demand meters

Council

The City Council approved three-year contracts for the IBEW and Law Enforcement Labor Services, along with 2023 salary and pay schedules. The council also held a first reading of an ordinance to allow the keeping and housing of chickens.

• Approved 2023-2025 IBEW and Law Enforcement Labor Services contracts
• First reading of Ordinance 2022-03 to allow chicken-keeping
• Payment of bills totaling $143,320.11
• Approved $3,274 for fire department door lock project
• Approved insurance for 1980 Ford Tanker/Pumper at $56.47 per year

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing and voted to recommend an ordinance to the city council regarding the keeping of chickens. The commission also held informal discussions regarding fish houses and barking dogs.

• Recommendation for Ordinance No 2022-03 to allow chicken-keeping, transporting, treatment, and housing
• Discussion on fish house property rules and sleeping arrangements
• Discussion on dogs barking and running after pedestrians

Council

The City Council approved the 2023 Preliminary General Fund Budget and Tax Levy. The council also authorized the hiring of a new Administrative Assistant and the advertising of an Ambulance Assistant position. Additionally, the council approved double batting cages for Abbott Field involving tree removal and replacement.

• Approved 2023 Preliminary General Fund Budget and Tax Levy
• Approved $1,171.92 quote from Dave Carlson Electric for Brightness Selectable Lights
• Approved purchase of bodycams for $34,969
• Approved hiring Megan Hutchens as Administrative Assistant at $21.25/hr
• Approved advertising for an Ambulance Assistant position at $21/hr

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority is meeting to review new business regarding Connect Business Magazine and old business concerning the Pocket Park. The body will also receive staff and financial reports.

• Discussion of Connect Business Magazine
• Discussion of Pocket Park
• EDA Funds report: $81,762.72
• Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) report: $218,1932.77
• Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) report: $16,001.61

Council

The City Council approved several contracts and expenditures, including a watershed map installation. The body also discussed staffing shortages in the ambulance department and a new snow emergency enforcement plan.

• Approved Marston Park Art Installation/Lake Crystal Watershed Map for $4,750.00
• Payment of bills totaling $107,041.39
• Scheduled public comment meeting on bodycams for September 19, 2022
• Approved updated Building Official contract and rates with Darin Haslip
• Approved $500 for five Ambulance Department staff to attend MEMSA Conference

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed Ordinance 2022-03 regarding chicken-keeping, transporting, treatment, and housing. The commission directed the City Administrator to schedule a public hearing for this ordinance at the next meeting.

• Ordinance 2022-03: Amending Title IX, Chapter 90.04 regarding farm animals/chickens
• Public hearing scheduled for October 3, 2022, at 6:30 pm

Council

The City Council approved a zoning map amendment and several departmental expenditures. The council also authorized advertising for new staff positions and accepted the resignation of Larry Brandenburg from the Fire Department.

• Approved Ordinance 2022-02 to amend the Zoning Code: Zoning Map
• Approved $3,000 Workforce Development Agreement with Angela Grafstrom
• Approved $5,075.00 purchase of a PPV Fire Department Fan
• Approved sale of surplus Hurst Hydraulic Extrication tools
• Accepted $5,000 grant for Capital Improvement Plan from Heartland Power

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority discussed potential pocket park locations and digital marketing needs. The board also reviewed progress on the Crystal Gardens Subdivision Four project.

• Approved $4,500 of EDA funds for a hotel feasibility study with HospitalityMarketers
• Discussed potential downtown pocket park location with 2023 budget allocation
• Discussed Crystal Gardens Subdivision Four and pending cost estimates from Bolton and Menk
• EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance reported at $82,041.47 as of June 9, 2022

Meeting

The Commission approved utility bills totaling $543,605.98 and the purchase of Tantalus electric meters. Staff provided updates on wastewater plant upgrades, grant applications, and city staffing restructuring.

• Approved utility bills totaling $543,605.98
• Approved write off of $1,668.56 in uncollectable utility bills
• Approved purchase of 120 Tantalus electric meters for $12,000.00 plus $9,450.00 for modules
• Approved training attendance for Ethan Karel and Jackson Thate in St. Cloud
• Agreed to advertise for an electric superintendent and a journeyman lineman

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of a zoning map ordinance and a lot size variance for 222 LeClaire St to the City Council. The commission also reviewed a draft chicken ordinance for future updates.

• Ordinance 2022-02: Amendment to Title 15, Chapter 156.21 regarding the Zoning Map
• Variance request for 222 LeClaire St regarding a non-conforming lot size
• Review of draft Chicken Ordinance

Council

The City Council approved a police on-call contract with Blue Earth County and a variance for 222 LeClaire St. Staff discussed potential new office hires, software updates, and the formation of a Regional Safety Group.

• Approved on-call police contract with Blue Earth County
• Approved variance for 222 LeClaire St.
• Approved payment of bills totaling $89,800.12
• Approved write off of $670.00 from towing accounts
• Approved August 22 budget workshop at 6:00 p.m.

Council

The City Council approved estimates for bituminous street and alley improvements as well as street crack repair. The council also voted to repeal the city code regulating the sale of soft drinks and approved a grant application.

• Approved $89,229.60 estimate for Bituminous Street and Alley Improvements
• Approved $12,000 estimate for Street Crack Repair/Sealing
• Approved Ordinance 2022-03 repealing City Code Section 110.01 regarding soft drink sales
• Approved PSIG Grant Application to the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority
• Approved $51,033.11 in bill payments

Meeting

The commission will review minutes from the May 23 meeting and discuss dog park gate quotes. Staff reports from Street & Parks and the City Administrator are also scheduled.

• Dog Park Gate Quotes

Council

The City Council will hold a special meeting to discuss items with Aaron Smith of Greensmith Builders. No formal votes or ordinances are listed for this session.

• Information/Discussion: Aaron Smith, Greensmith Builders

Meeting

The City Council will hold a special meeting to conduct information and discussion items. The agenda includes a scheduled discussion with Aaron Smith of Greensmith Builders.

• Information/Discussion: Aaron Smith, Greensmith Builders

Meeting

The Public Utilities Commission will meet to discuss electric rates, capital improvement planning, and a class and compensation study. The body will also consider a solar approval letter for the school and generator repairs.

• DGR Electric Rate Study
• Capital Improvement Planning and Capital Financial Planning
• Approval Letter for the School regarding Solar
• Audit Engagement Letter through year end 2026
• Media Replacement Estimate for 2023 Budget

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission discussed drafting a new chicken ordinance based on other cities' samples. The commission also reviewed a revoked permit for a property on LeClaire St and discussed upcoming variance requests.

• Review of samples for a new chicken ordinance
• Revocation of permit for property on LeClaire St
• Discussion of upcoming rezoning for a new housing development
• Discussion of a variance request for a second accessory dwelling

Council

The City Council approved a 2.7% increase for LJP garbage and recycling rates and selected a list of comparable cities for a compensation study. The council also updated the mileage reimbursement rate to 62.5 cents per mile.

• Approved 2.7% increase for LJP garbage and recycling rates
• Updated mileage reimbursement rate to 62.5 cents per mile
• Accepted $2,300 CenterPoint Energy Community Safety Grant for ambulance power cot
• Accepted $1,935.00 MBFTE Fire Training Reimbursement Grant
• Approved $33,088 Fire Department extrication equipment invoice

Council

The City Council and Public Utilities Commission held a special meeting featuring a presentation from Kelly Dybdahl of Heartland Consumer Power District (HCPD). The discussion focused on available grants and programs for economic development, energy efficiency, and municipal benefits.

• Presentation on Heartland Consumer Power District (HCPD) programs and grants

Meeting

The City Council and Public Utilities Commission held a special meeting. Kelly Dybdahl of Heartland presented an overview of available programs, grants, and energy efficiency initiatives.

• Presentation from Kelly Dybdahl regarding Heartland Consumer Power District programs and grants

Council

The City Council approved a consent agenda including bill payments and a DNR grant. The council also adopted Resolution 2219 to accept several donations and approved a gambling permit for Lake Crystal Ducks Unlimited.

• Payment of bills totaling $106,574.25
• Acceptance of $4,978.87 DNR grant for wildland coveralls
• Resolution 2219 accepting donations totaling $32,770.00
• Gambling permit approval for Lake Crystal Ducks Unlimited
• Cemetery lot sale acceptance

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed a proposal to change zoning for new parcels on Electric Avenue. The body also discussed a potential AirBNB permit for 222 LeClair and pending building permits.

• Ordinance Amendment 2022-02: Proposed rezoning of Electric Avenue parcels from R-1 (Agricultural Residence) to R-2 (low to moderate density housing)
• Public hearing for Ordinance 2022-02 scheduled for July 5 at 6:30 pm
• Discussion regarding a permit for 222 LeClair to be used as an AirBNB
• Review of approved and pending building permits

Council

The City Council approved several financial resolutions including a $900 transfer to the Fire Equipment Fund and a $1,000 donation for ambulance services. The council also appointed Michael Windsberger to the Park & Rec Commission and authorized the write-off of uncollectable ambulance bills.

• Transfer of $900 from General Fund to Fire Equipment Fund
• Acceptance of $1,000 donation for ambulance service from Cambria Township
• Appointment of Michael Windsberger to Park & Rec Commission
• Write-off of uncollectable ambulance bills totaling $4,058.50
• Payment of bills totaling $100,989.50

Meeting

The commission will discuss several ongoing projects including the Emerald Ash Bore Plan and Crystal Waters Project. Staff reports from the Street & Parks and City Administrator departments are also scheduled.

• Emerald Ash Bore Plan discussion
• Crystal Waters Project discussion
• Paint the Town Grant discussion
• Abbott Field concession stand project update
• Ditch 56 Delta Removal Update

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority is meeting to review revolving loan fund guidelines and receive staff reports. The body will also review financial reports for EDA, MIF, and SCDP funds.

• Discussion of Revolving Loan Fund Guidelines
• EDA Funds: $82,134.98
• Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF): $217,918.68
• Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) Revolved Funds: $10,981.83

Council

The City Council approved the No Mow May initiative from May 1 to June 8 and passed a resolution regarding the Local Government Aid Formula. The council tabled a petition regarding keeping chickens within the city until the new City Administrator starts. The body also approved payments for bills totaling $457,476.59.

• Payment of bills totaling $457,476.59
• Approval of No Mow May from May 1 to June 8
• Resolution No. 2215 on Local Government Aid Formula Update
• Petition to allow property owners to keep chickens (tabled)
• Staff Development request for May 17

Meeting

The Public Utilities Commission held a workshop to review options for electric utility service contracts. Chairman McCoy reported ongoing meetings with BENCO Electric and Missouri River Energy Services regarding these options. The commission is also seeking an Electric Superintendent.

• Discussion of electric utility service contract options
• Ongoing meetings with BENCO Electric and Missouri River Energy Services
• Application received for the Electric Superintendent position

Council

The City Council approved several action items including property rezoning and updated fire department rates. The council also authorized the transfer of ARPA funds and the election of 2022 election judges.

• Rezoned two properties from Residential (R-1) to Limited Business (B-1)
• Approved Rural Rate changes for Lake Crystal Fire Dept.
• Approved Resolution No. 2214 regarding transfers of ARPA funds
• Approved updated bid for construction of Softball Shed at Abbott Field
• Approved payment of bills totaling $121,556.50

Meeting

The commission will discuss several forestry and infrastructure projects. Discussion items include the Emerald Ash Bore Plan, the Crystal Waters Project, and updates on the Abbott Field concession stand.

• Emerald Ash Bore Plan discussion
• Crystal Waters Project discussion
• Abbott Field concession stand project update
• Ditch 56 Delta Removal Update regarding easements
• Paint the Town Grant discussion

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council held a special meeting to consider one action item. The council voted to approve an employment agreement for City Administrator Angela Grafstrom.

• Approval of Employment Agreement for City Administrator Angela Grafstrom

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority discussed updates to business loan guidelines and newsletter distribution methods. The board approved the creation of an EDA Facebook page and authorized costs for Scenic Byway advertisement based on past spending.

• Approval of Lake Crystal EDA Facebook page
• Approval of Scenic Byway Advertisement costs
• EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance: $82,114.32
• MIF account balance: $217,862.83
• SCDP account balance: $10,980.78

Meeting

The Commission approved utility bills totaling $255,267.45 and a $3,304.01 repair quote for the Crysteel Lift Station. Staff provided updates on water main flushing, upcoming media filter upgrades, and new lead and copper rules.

• Approval of utility bills totaling $255,267.45
• Approval of $3,304.01 quote from Ferguson Waterworks for Crysteel Lift Station valve repairs
• Reduction of sewer charges at 111 Loraine Drive to $69.68 due to a toilet leak
• Presentation of Electric System Study Findings by DGR Engineering
• Tabled proposal for InControl Automation and Cybersecurity Service Plan

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of Ordinance No. 2022-01 regarding the city zoning map to the City Council. The commission also conducted a concept plan review for Crystal Gardens Subdivision VII, Phases I-V.

• Ordinance No. 2022-01: Amendment to Title 15, Chapter 156.21 regarding the Zoning Map
• Concept Plan Review: Crystal Gardens Subdivision VII, Phases I-V
• 12 building permits reviewed including plumbing, mechanical, and remodeling projects

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council met to address several municipal actions including zoning changes and personnel matters. The council approved a resolution for the Waste Water Facility Plan and waived the first reading of an ordinance to rezone two residential properties to limited business.

• Waived first reading of Ordinance No. 2022-01 rezoning parcels R09.12.05.180.001 and R09.12.05.179.015 from Residential to Limited Business
• Approved Resolution No. 2212 accepting the Waste Water Facility Plan
• Approved ending Cole Lund’s probationary period effective 5/31/2022
• Tabled bids for the Abbott Softball field concession building until April 18
• Approved payment of bills totaling $89,849.34

Meeting

The City Council and Utility Commission held a public hearing to discuss alternatives for the wastewater treatment plant, which is approaching hydraulic capacity. The body is evaluating whether to construct a new facility on a greenfield site or regionalize with Mankato.

• Greenfield mechanical treatment facility estimate: $20.0M - $24.5M
• Regionalizing with Mankato estimate: $12.9M - $15.9M
• Estimated monthly sewer connection increase: $45 (Mankato) to $67 (New facility)
• Funding sources: Clean Water Revolving Fund, Wastewater Infrastructure Funding, and Point Source Implementation Grant

Council

The City Council established an Ad Hoc committee to interview candidates for the open City Administrator position. The council also approved bills and specific street closures and alcohol permissions for the 'Cruz ‘IN Lake Crystal Roll In’s' events.

• Payment of bills totaling $60,111.78
• Closing of Humphrey Street in and around Marston Park for 'Cruz ‘IN Lake Crystal Roll In’s' on select dates from May to September
• Request to allow open bottles from Prince St. to Robinson St. during 'Cruz ‘IN Lake Crystal Roll In’s'
• Appointment of seven members to the Ad Hoc City Administrator Interview Committee
• Tabled review of LJP residential refuse rate increases due to fuel surcharges

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority approved a $25,000 revolving loan for Infusion Bakery Co. with an 8-year term at an interest rate of 1% above the current prime rate. The board also approved a Housing Development Concept plan and discussed potential grant applications for a Soofa Sign.

• $25,000 Revolving Loan Application for Infusion Bakery Co.
• Approval of the Housing Development Concept plan
• AARP Community Challenge grant application for a Soofa Sign

Council

The City Council approved several personnel actions and equipment purchases. These included hiring for the ambulance service, accepting a fire department resignation, and authorizing new turnout gear and a baseball field scoreboard.

• Approved purchase of 5 sets of fire turnout gear at approximately $3,000 per set
• Approved purchase and installation of a new baseball field scoreboard for approximately $9,885
• Approved hiring Carter Stulken, NREMT to the ambulance service
• Approved Mutual Aid and Back-Up Agreement between Lake Crystal Ambulance and Madelia Health EMS
• Approved position description and pay for Seasonal Maintenance Worker(s)

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved a motion to rezone 322 West Watonwan and abutting property from Residential (R2) to Limited Business (B1). The commission also directed staff to amend the zoning ordinance to allow private garages or storage facilities in Limited Business districts.

• Rezoning of 322 West Watonwan and abutting property to Limited Business (B1)
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance regarding private garages or storage in B1 districts
• Approval of February 7, 2022, meeting minutes
• Issuance of five building permits for plumbing, furnace, and mechanical work

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority reviewed a housing development concept plan for 21 acres of EDA-owned land. The board also discussed a 2022 Priority Plan and approved advertising for a business directory.

• Approval of Housing Development Concept plan for 21 acres of EDA land
• Approval to advertise the Business Directory via The Tribune, Google Form, and Facebook
• Discussion of the 2022 EDA Priority Plan draft
• Reported EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance of $82,682.22
• Reported MIF balance of $217,758.02 and SCDP balance of $11,024.80

Meeting

The Board of Zoning Adjustments held a public hearing regarding a request to exceed height restrictions for a private garage. The board voted to table a recommendation on the request.

• Public hearing for a variance to allow a 26-foot garage height at 322 West Watonwan Street, exceeding the 20-foot restriction

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council approved a design proposal for the Lily Lake Estates Trail and authorized emerald ash borer treatment. The council also accepted resignations from two ambulance department staff members and approved bills totaling $237,650.21.

• Approved $74,800 proposal from Bolton & Menk, Inc. (BMI) for preliminary design of Lily Lake Estates Trail
• Payment of bills totaling $237,650.21
• Approved quote from Rainbow Treecare Scientific Advancements for emerald ash borer treatment equipment and chemical
• Accepted resignations of EMT Jeremy Berhow and Emergency Medical Driver Richard McDonald
• Discussion of scheduling a WWTP Facility Plan public hearing for the first week in March

Council

The City Council and Utility Commission heard a presentation on alternatives to address hydraulic capacity and phosphorus limits at the wastewater treatment plant. The city must choose a preferred alternative before submitting the plan to the State of Minnesota.

• Proposed mechanical treatment facility on a greenfield site estimated at $20.0M - $24.5M
• Proposed regionalizing with Mankato estimated at $12.9M - $15.9M
• Estimated monthly sewer connection increases of $45 (Mankato) to $67 (New facility)

Meeting

The City Council held a public hearing to discuss alternatives for addressing the wastewater treatment plant's hydraulic capacity and phosphorus limits. Two primary options are being considered: constructing a new mechanical treatment facility on a greenfield site or regionalizing with Mankato. The city must select an alternative before submitting the plan to the State of Minnesota.

• Greenfield mechanical treatment facility estimated cost: $20.0M - $24.5M
• Regionalization with Mankato estimated cost: $12.9M - $15.9M
• Estimated monthly sewer connection increase: $45 (Mankato) to $67 (New facility)

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission met to discuss applications for the open Electric Utility Superintendent position. The commission found that neither of the two applicants met the minimum requirements.

• Decision to close the application process for the Electric Utility Superintendent position and reopen it after the February 8 meeting

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority and Planning and Zoning Commission discussed plat concepts for Crystal Gardens Subdivision #4, Outlot B. Members reached a consensus on a development layout including single-family, twin, and multi-unit townhomes. Staff will present an updated concept at the next Economic Development Authority meeting.

• Proposed development of Crystal Gardens Subdivision #4, Outlot B
• Proposed multi-unit townhomes along CSAH No. 9
• Discussion of potential street reconstructions on Watonwan Street and Lake Shore Drive
• Discussion of potential construction of a lift station for future phases

Council

The City Council approved increasing election judge pay to $12.00 per hour and finalized the City Administrator position description and recruitment profile. The council also reviewed updates regarding a sediment removal project, Abbott Field concession stand budgeting, and city staff COVID-19 guidelines.

• Increased election judge pay to $12.00 per hour
• Approved bills totaling $135,210.18
• $20,000 budgeted for Abbott Field concession stand addition
• Decision not to purchase a housing unit for the leaf machine, saving approximately $5,000
• Resolution No. 2205 authorizing Crystal/Loon Lake Recreation charitable gambling

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority and Planning & Zoning Commission are meeting to discuss plat concepts for Outlot B of the Crystal Gardens Subdivision #4.

• Discussion of plat concepts for Crystal Gardens Subdivision #4, Outlot B

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved utility bills, established leadership roles, and set a 2022 mileage reimbursement rate. The body also approved a cost-of-living wage increase for non-union employees and a salary range for the City Administrator search.

• Approved utility bills totaling $333,323.85
• Approved 1.25% cost-of-living wage increases for non-union employees on January 1 and July 1, 2022
• Approved City Administrator salary range of $75,000 - $100,900
• Approved write-off of two uncollectable accounts totaling $824.40
• Set 2022 mileage reimbursement rate at $.585 per mile

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission elected a new Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary for 2022. The body reviewed 20 building permits and discussed the Kroubetz Campers project and dog boarding regulations.

• Election of Paul Rynearson as Chair, Dave Richards as Vice Chair, and Mark Sanderson as Secretary
• Review of 20 building permits, including a new duplex at 501 Graphton Ct
• Discussion of Ordinance No. 2021-02 regarding traffic, which was delayed until a new City Administrator is appointed
• Discussion of Kroubetz Campers project and dog boarding regulations

Council

The City Council discussed the recruitment process for a new City Administrator and approved several administrative designations. The body also voted on equipment repairs, association contributions, and a trail connection project.

• Approved $8,497 quote to repair leaf vacuum
• Approved $3,900 contribution to Lake Crystal Fire Relief Association
• Payment of bills totaling $190,155.57
• Approved Lilly Lake Trail Connection on the east side of County Road 6
• Designated Minnstar Bank as official depository and The Lake Crystal Tribune as official newspaper