Lake Crystal public meetings in 2023

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council met to review a single action item regarding a gaming permit. The council voted unanimously to approve the permit for upcoming events.

• Approved Duck’s Unlimited Gaming Permit for December and January 12th and 19th, 2024 events

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority approved an application from Sara Breitbarth, which now moves to the City Council for final approval. The board also discussed CEDA contract updates and individual priority meetings with the EDA Director.

• Approval of Sara Breitbarth's EDA application
• CEDA contract update regarding support for local businesses
• Discussion on reallocating and repurposing MIF funds

Meeting

The Commission approved the 2024 budget, the 2024 salary schedule, and utility bills totaling $342,627.64. Members also approved a service agreement with Northern States Power Company and a contract with Frontier Energy.

• Approved 2024 budget and 2024 Salary Schedule and Pay Plan
• Approved utility bills totaling $342,627.64
• Accepted $5,428.43 OSHA grant for safety equipment
• Approved $18,502.29 purchase of electric department safety equipment
• Approved service agreement with Northern States Power Company

Council

The City Council approved the 2024 final tax levy and general fund budget. The council also passed resolutions supporting the Lily Lake Trail project and agreed to maintain the facility.

• Approved Resolution 2328 for the 2024 Final Tax Levy and General Fund Budget
• Approved $351,310.42 pay request for Crystal Gardens Subdivision #7
• Approved 2024 fee schedule including an increase for Cigarette and Tobacco Sales Licenses from $40 to $100
• Passed resolutions of support and maintenance for the Lily Lake Trail Project
• Approved Public Recreational Facilities Use Agreement with LCWM ISD 2071

Meeting

The commission will discuss updates regarding the agreement between the school and the city. The meeting also includes a presentation on frisbee golf course samples by Forester Dylan Kotten.

• Update on agreement between School and the City
• Frisbee Golf Course Samples presentation
• Updates on Park and Rec Job Description

Council

The City Council approved updates to the city code regarding cannabinoid guidelines and floodplain management. The council also adopted the County Comprehensive Land Use Plan and designated the Lake Crystal Area Recreation Center as the official polling place.

• Passed Ordinance 2023-07 regarding Cannabinoid Guidelines
• Passed Ordinance 2023-08 revising Chapter 153 Floodplain Management
• Approved hiring four new ambulance staff members
• Approved payment of bills totaling $76,727.59
• Designated Lake Crystal Area Recreation Center as the City polling place

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority discussed potential clawback actions regarding the Ryan Property Services project on Main Street. The board also voted to recommend transferring MIF funds to Small Cities funds.

• Motion passed to write a letter of expectations to Christa Wolner regarding the Main Street project
• Unanimous motion passed to recommend transferring MIF funds to Small Cities funds
• Update on Rambush Estates occupancy and potential future TIF or Abatement funding requests
• Notice of rezoning for the former Collis property to commercial once sale is final
• Review of CEDA contract due by 11/22/2023

Meeting

The Commission approved utility bills totaling $1,105,803.11 and updates to the Personnel Manual regarding sick and safe time leave. Members also authorized a bid for media replacement and scheduled exterior water tower cleaning for 2024.

• Approved utility bills totaling $1,105,803.11
• Accepted Rubin Construction bid for media replacement at $126,200.00
• Approved Hartung Xoatings for 2024 water tower cleaning at $7,600.00
• Received HSP pump #5 from Ideal Services for $18,000.00
• Reported $90,661 spent on generator repairs, including $57,000 for the Cooper

Meeting

The commission will review recently issued permits and discuss the Blue Earth County Land Use Plan for potential recommendation of adoption. The meeting also includes an update on the Floodplain Ordinance.

• Update on Floodplain Ordinance
• Review of issued permits
• Review of Blue Earth County Land Use Plan for adoption recommendation
• Review of Greenstep Best Practices

Council

The City Council held first readings for ordinances regarding cannabinoid guidelines and floodplain management. The council also approved updates to the Personnel Manual and a resolution to support the Mankato Watershed project.

• First reading of Ordinance 2023-07 regarding Cannabinoid Guidelines
• First reading of Ordinance 2023-08 regarding Floodplain Management revisions
• Approval of Personnel Manual updates effective January 1, 2024
• Approval of $168,103.74 in bill payments
• Approval of GM Contracting Pay Request No. 3 for $312,577.24 for Crystal Gardens Subdivision #7

Council

The City Council voted to recommend that MnDOT maintain the existing crossing at Lakeview Road without an RCUT. The council also approved a new monthly lease for ambulance housing and a uniform program for the Streets Department.

• Voted to recommend MnDOT leave Lakeview Road crossing as is with no RCUT
• Approved $1,100 per month lease for ambulance house starting November 15, 2023
• Approved new Cintas uniform program for Streets Department effective January 1, 2024
• Approved payment of bills totaling $408,146.24
• Approved 2024 Ambulance Officers including Chief Mike Giles

Meeting

The Park and Recreation Commission reviews an ordinance on cannabinoid use in parks and discusses job descriptions for a new Parks Coordinator/Superintendent position.

• Review Ordinance on Use of Cannabinoids in the Parks
• Job Descriptions for Parks Coordinator/Superintendent Position

Meeting

The commission reviewed recently issued permits and discussed updates to the Floodplain Ordinance following DNR suggestions. Members also discussed potential zoning changes for Crystal Gardens and the status of city lighting evaluations.

• Review of updated Floodplain Ordinance including new city numbering
• Discussion regarding changing Crystal Gardens Zoning to R-3
• Review of permits issued since the previous meeting
• Update on city lighting evaluation and Greenstep requirements

Meeting

The Commission approved switching employee health insurance to the Public Insurance Program (PEIP) and increasing HSA contributions. They also authorized a $35,175.00 purchase of transformers from B&B Transformer. Additionally, staff discussed recent watermain repairs and upcoming generator maintenance.

• Approved utility bills totaling $411,414.11
• Increased HSA contribution from $1,900.00 to $3,000.00
• Approved $35,175.00 transformer purchase from B&B Transformer
• Approved $4,701.33 for Water-Wastewater and Electric department uniforms
• Reported approximately $20,000.00 cost for Hwy 60 watermain break repair

Council

The Council reviewed two intersection design options for the Highway 60 construction project at County Road 112 and Lakeview Road. Members also approved a prorated $27,720 agreement for the School Police Liaison Program.

• Approved updated School Police Liaison Program Agreement at a prorated cost of $27,720.00
• Approved payment of bills totaling $808,692.71
• Approved GM Payment Request No. 2 of $237,308.32 for Crystal Gardens Subdivision #7
• Approved $625.00 cemetery deed for Burial Lot No. 919, Section C, Space 8
• Reviewed Highway 60 construction intersection options; final decision deferred to October 16

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission will review permits, discuss lighting requests, and examine a floodplain amendment.

• Review of Floodplain Amendment
• Discussion on Lighting Requests

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority reviewed updates on local development projects and infrastructure. The board voted to recommend that the City Council deny requested zoning changes for specific plots in Crystal Gardens #7.

• Recommendation to deny R-2 to R-3 rezoning for Phase 1 plot 6 and Phase 2 plots 1 and 2 at Crystal Gardens #7
• Update on potential Public Service Building construction at Spring Street Properties
• Development planning for the roughly 26-acre Rambush Estates property
• Progress report on MN-60 construction plans set to begin in 2025
• Planned removal of gas tanks and lines at Collis site by September 30

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission discussed dark skies lighting and reviewed a variance request. The commission also voted to recommend a zoning change from R-2 to R-3 for parts of Crystal Gardens #7.

• Recommended rezoning Block 1, Lot 6, and Block 2, Lot 1 and 2 of Crystal Gardens #7 from R-2 to R-3
• Approved a variance request contingent on the building having a gutter or drainage system
• Directed City Administrator to request a lighting inventory of city property from the electric department
• Reviewed August 7, 2023, meeting minutes for approval

Council

The City Council will conduct a work session focused on the 2024 budget. No other specific items are listed for discussion.

• Work session on 2024 Budget

Council

The Joint City Council-PUC will hold a work session to review and update the Capital Financial Plan. The session includes updates from Shannon Sweeney and David Drown Associates.

• Review and Update Capital Financial Plan

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Joint City Council-PUC will hold a work session to review and update the Capital Financial Plan with representatives from David Drown Associates.

• Review and update of the Capital Financial Plan

Council

The Lake Crystal Joint City Council-PUC will hold a work session regarding the Highway 60 Reconstruction Project. MnDOT Project Manager Peter Engelmeyer and his team will attend to discuss the project.

• Highway 60 Reconstruction Project presentation by MnDOT

Meeting

City Council and PUC will discuss the Hwy 60 Reconstruction Project with MnDOT.

• Public Works meeting on Hwy 60 Reconstruction Project

Council

The City Council approved the second reading of an ordinance to sell city property in Crystal Gardens #7. The council also authorized several expenditures for landscaping, equipment, and staff training.

• Approved Ordinance 2023-06 for the sale of lots in Crystal Gardens #7
• Approved $24,900 quote from OZZ Landscaping for MJ Courtyard
• Approved $7,920.32 for shop shelving from Tri State Surplus
• Approved $3,400 for a forklift man cage from United Rentals
• Approved $2,500 for ambulance department training

Meeting

The Park and Recreation Commission will discuss plans, quotes, and marketing for the MJ Courtyard. The meeting includes updates on field care agreements with local sports associations and budgeting for Collis Field repairs.

• MJ Courtyard plan, quotes, and marketing
• Abbott Field signage
• Agreements between Baseball Association, Softball Association, Community Ed and the City
• Updates on Frisbee Golf Course
• 2024 budgeting for Collis Field repairs

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority reviewed staff reports regarding local business developments, township annexation discussions, and the Highway 60 reconstruction. The board also discussed the progress of the MC Courtyard project and upcoming MIF fund transfers.

• First reading of Ordinance 2023-06 for the sale of City Property (Crystal Gardens #7)
• Discussion regarding Highway 60 reconstruction slated for 2025
• Review of artist renditions for the MC Courtyard project
• Update on transferring MIF funds to Small Cities Development Loans
• Discussion of CPR training costs ($95.00 per employee) for Little Lakers staff

Council

The City Council approved the issuance of bonds for Crystal Gardens #7 and the creation of a full-time Police Department Sergeant position effective January 1, 2024. The council also authorized several expenditures, including shelving for the city shop and early purchase of Christmas decorations.

• Approved Resolution 2318 for the issuance and sale of bonds for Crystal Gardens #7
• Created a new Police Sergeant position with an hourly salary range of $29.52-$43.10
• Approved Ordinance 2023-06 first reading for the sale of city property at Crystal Gardens #7
• Authorized $6,512.49 for shelving from Global Industrial
• Approved $6,771.00 purchase of Christmas decorations to save $934.00

Meeting

The Commission reviewed a proposal from Prokore for a building official position and examined permits issued since the previous meeting. Members also discussed Ordinance 2023-06 regarding lot sales in Crystal Gardens #7 and reviewed EDA-set lot prices.

• Review of building official proposal from Prokore
• Review of Ordinance 2023-06 for Crystal Gardens #7 lot sales
• Review of EDA-set lot prices
• Review of permits issued since July 10, 2023

Meeting

The Commission approved utility bills totaling $148,048.46 and a three-year generator support agreement with Zieglar Cat. Members also voted to update the Union Contract regarding overtime pay for hours worked beyond forty per week.

• Approved Generator Support Agreement with Zieglar Cat at $6,949.83 per year for 3 years
• Approved utility bills totaling $148,048.46
• Updated Union Contract to provide 1.5x pay for hours worked over 40 in a week
• Approved participation in the Salvation Army Heat Share program
• Noted estimated filter media replacement cost increase from $150K to over $200K

Council

The City Council approved multiple repair quotes for the city shop and fire hall, including electrical and concrete work. The council also approved a joint services agreement with Greater Mankato Growth. Discussions regarding inspections and courtyard landscaping were tabled for future meetings.

• Approved GMG Joint Services Agreement with a 2024 fee of $6,223.80
• Approved Dave Carlson Electric quote for $9,500.00 in electrical updates
• Approved $10,500 for concrete removal and replacement at the City Shop
• Approved purchase of Uline Flammable Cabinets for $1,369.68
• Approved Mike’s Collision & Tire quotes for $6,900 (Fire Hall) and $8,200 (Cold Storage)

Meeting

The commission will review quotes for the MJ Courtyard Plan and discuss agreements between the City and local sports associations regarding field care and scheduling. The meeting also includes discussions on potential 2024 ball park repair budgets and a frisbee golf course.

• MJ Courtyard Plan and Quotes
• Agreements for baseball, softball, and community ed field care
• 2024 Ball Park Repairs budget discussion
• Frisbee Golf Course discussion

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council will hold a work session to review and update the city's Capital Financial Plan. The session includes participation from Shannon Sweeney and David Drown Associates.

• Review and update of Capital Financial Plan

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority reviewed progress on annexation discussions and provided an update on the Collis property extraction wells. Members also reached a consensus on proposed pricing for Crystal Gardens #7 plots.

• Proposed Crystal Gardens #7 single-family home plots priced between $28,000-$45,000
• Proposed 8-plex property price set at $75,000
• Lake Crystal's 2023 contribution to Greater Mankato Growth is $5,571
• Update on MPCA extraction wells and potential underground tank removal at Collis site
• Discussion of annexation by ordinance and potential property tax increases for landowners

Council

The City Council approved increases to customer and church refuse rates effective July 1, 2023. The council also accepted the resignation of Sara Fadness from the ambulance service and appointed Sara Leonard as a new EMT.

• Refuse rate increase of $1.31 for customers and $1.35 for churches
• Approval of $153,351.53 in bill payments
• Presentation of Crystal Gardens #7 Finance Plan by Northland Securities
• Discussion regarding potential land annexation from Lincoln and Garden City Townships
• Appointment of Sara Leonard as new EMT for Lake Crystal Ambulance Service

Meeting

The commission reviewed a final draft of the Dark Sky Ordinance but decided to table the item in favor of providing educational options. The committee also discussed fiberoptic locates, weeds at Crystal Gardens, and nuisance code enforcement.

• Decision to table Dark Sky Ordinance
• Review of permits issued to date
• Discussion regarding fiberoptic locates
• Discussion regarding weeds at Crystal Gardens
• Discussion regarding code enforcement of nuisances

Council

The City Council approved a three-year LJP agreement featuring a 5% annual increase and a $0.33 surcharge per garbage household. The Council also approved the 2022 audit and authorized the closure of City Hall for July 3, 2023.

• Approved LJP contract with a 5% annual increase and $0.33 per household surcharge
• Approved payment of bills totaling $228,256.97
• Approved the 2022 audit
• Authorized an interfund loan to the Highway 60 project via Resolution 2316
• Approved updates to the Social Media Policy Data Practices

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority discussed infrastructure for Crystal Gardens #7 and potential land annexation west of Lake Crystal. The board also reviewed the status of a lodging tax and noted that Project "Brick Oven" is no longer being pursued.

• Crystal Gardens #7 lot sales following infrastructure completion on June 26, 2023
• Proposed land annexation west of Lake Crystal east of Poet
• Decision not to pursue lodging tax enforcement for VRBOs and independent rentals at this time
• Project "Brick Oven" is no longer being pursued
• EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance of $99,479.51

Meeting

The Commission approved hiring DGR Engineering for the Crystal Gardens #7 electrical plan and authorized a $20,000 transformer purchase for Powderwerks. The meeting also addressed utility bill approvals, staff holiday updates, and upcoming power outages.

• Approved $7,050 in additional bucket truck surcharges due to inflation
• Hired DGR Engineering for Crystal Gardens #7 electrical plan (estimated $6,500–$7,000)
• Approved purchase of a transformer and supplies for Powderwerks (estimated $20,000)
• Approved utility bills totaling $523,374.04
• Approved Juneteenth as an official staff holiday

Council

The City Council approved ordinances regarding a Mediacom franchise agreement, watering restrictions, and a lodging tax. The council also authorized several expenditures for police equipment, street improvements, and sidewalk construction.

• Approved Ordinance 23-03 (Mediacom Franchise Agreement), 23-04 (Watering Restrictions), and 23-05 (Lodging Tax)
• Approved $89,345.96 quote from Nielsen Blacktopping for street improvements
• Approved $17,352.85 purchase of Tasers from Axon Enterprises to be paid over 60 months
• Approved $17,850 city share for sidewalk construction on CSAH 9
• Approved increase in Police Department Supervision Contract to $15,000 per year

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed lighting ordinance examples to determine necessary language for Lake Crystal. City Administrator Grafstrom was directed to draft the ordinance for review at a future meeting.

• Direction to draft a Dark Sky Ordinance
• Review of permits issued to date
• Discussion regarding sidewalk and boulevard tree issue on Wes Griffiths

Council

The City Council approved a $14,633.92 lawn mower estimate from C&B LLC and authorized litigation to collect an outstanding $36,184.15 balance from Steve Wegman. The council also held first readings for several ordinances including ambulance, lodging tax, and watering restrictions.

• Approved $14,633.92 lawn mower estimate from C&B LLC
• Authorized litigation to collect $36,184.15 owed by Steve Wegman
• Approved first reading of Ambulance Ordinance
• Approved first reading of Mediacom Franchise Agreement Ordinance
• Approved first reading of Watering Restrictions ordinance

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority met to discuss various development projects and legal actions. The board approved proceeding with litigation against Steve Wegmans and extended a deadline for the 142 S Main property.

• Approved litigation against Steve Wegmans
• Extended claw back addendum deadline for 142 S Main by six months
• Voted to send updated Joint Powers agreement with REDI/GMG to City Council
• Reviewed hospitality feasibility study notes
• EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance reported at $73,738.77

Meeting

The Commission approved a $22,360.00 quote for breaker repairs at the power plant and established a maximum sewer fee of $76.64 for summer months. Members also reviewed personnel policy updates and directed two new ordinances to the City Council for approval.

• Approved $22,360.00 quote from L&S to repair and clean power plant breakers
• Established a maximum sewer fee of $76.64 or 6,000 gallons for May through September
• Approved utility bills totaling $353,785.46
• Approved $6,778.00 annual SCADA fee for water and wastewater systems
• Added a Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy to the personnel policy manual

Council

The City Council approved a $25,000 quote for city street patch and repair work. The Council also passed the first reading of an ambulance ordinance and approved new three-year pilot pay scales for the Ambulance Department.

• $25,000 quote from Bargen for city street patch and repair work
• Approval of first reading for Ambulance Ordinance
• Approval of 2023 Ambulance Department pay scales as a 3-year pilot project
• $1,134.00 for fire department travel to Fire Chef’s Conference in Duluth
• Approval of $71,511.59 in bill payments

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed examples of dark sky compliant lighting ordinances for future development. The committee also discussed a proposed 8-plex development by Greensmith Builders along County Road 9.

• Review of dark sky lighting ordinance samples with follow-up meeting scheduled for June
• Discussion of Greensmith Builders 8-plex proposal for Crystal Gardens #7
• Council acceptance of GM Contracting bid for $1,852,314.09 for Crystal Gardens #7
• Review of City Attorney recommendations regarding zoning covenants on new development

Council

The City Council approved amendments to the cemetery ordinance and updated personnel policy regarding severance language. The council also accepted a construction bid for the Crystal Gardens subdivision and discussed potential changes to ambulance pay and scheduling.

• Accepted $1,852,314.09 bid from GM Contracting Inc for Crystal Gardens Subdivision No 7
• Approved amendments to City Code Chapter 91 Cemetery
• Approved updated personnel policy regarding severance language and retirement payouts
• Approved 'No Mow' May initiative
• Approved payment of bills totaling $77,937.30

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority met to discuss the application process for repurposing Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) funds. The board also reviewed a revised REDI budget and received updates on city projects including tree development.

• Repurposing of Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) funds
• Review of revised REDI budget
• EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance of $73,738.77
• Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) balance of $218,464.92
• Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) balance of $16,009.11

Council

The City Council reviewed a first reading of cemetery code amendments and discussed potential reductions to PUC franchise fees. The council also approved the naming of a new park and updated the city's personnel handbook.

• Approved sexual harassment policy update for the Personnel Policy Handbook
• Approved naming the proposed park between Infusion Bakery and Ace Hardware 'Marcille Jensen Park'
• First reading of ordinance amendments to City Code Chapter 91 Cemetery
• Approved payment of bills totaling $131,507.50
• Approved $6,958.18 for Fire Department truck lights

Council

The City Council will hold a work session regarding the status and future of the ambulance service. Discussion includes whether the service should remain part of the city and the pay rates for personnel.

• Status of Ambulance Service: Part of the City or Not?
• Future of the Ambulance Service
• Rate of pay/status of Ambulance Personnel

Meeting

The Commission voted to terminate Joel Collins's probation effective March 24, 2023. The body also approved an agreement with IBEW to provide a journeyman/lineman for a six-month period and authorized the hiring of Lukas Smith and Tanner McDonald.

• Termination of Joel Collins's probation effective March 24, 2023
• Agreement with IBEW for a journeyman/lineman at approximately $78.00/hr
• Hiring of Lukas Smith and Tanner McDonald

Council

The City Council approved a new $150.00 ambulance response fee and authorized approximately $15,000.00 for new firefighter turnout gear. Additionally, the council appointed Daniel Gatluak Puot Well to two advisory commissions and approved a five-year plan for fire truck utilization.

• $150.00 ambulance service response fee implementation
• Approximately $15,000.00 purchase of five sets of new Turnout Gear
• Approval of Daniel Gatluak Puot Well to Cemetery Advisory Committee (2-year term)
• Approval of Daniel Gatluak Puot Well to Parks and Recreation Commission (2-year term)
• Payment of bills totaling $106,626.24

Meeting

The commission will discuss various community programs and park updates. Discussion items include Arbor Day, recycling, and upcoming Cub Scout activities.

• Arbor Day Celebration scheduled for 4/28/23
• Cub Scouts Day Camp in Robinson Park
• Cub Scouts Little Library
• Marcille Jensen Park discussion
• DNR Grant discussion

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority discussed repurposing Minnesota Investment Fund funds with a representative. The board also received an update on the ongoing Hospitality Feasibility Study.

• Discussion of repurposing Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) funds
• Update on Hospitality Feasibility Study by Greg Hanis
• EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance: $89,115.88
• Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) balance: $218,464.92
• Small Cities Development Program (SCDP) balance: $16,009.11

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Cemetery Commission met to discuss paving quotes and review proposed changes to the Cemetery Ordinance. The paving project was tabled pending quotes. The committee approved ordinance changes allowing above-ground burial of cremated remains and strengthening monument rules, recommending them to the city council after attorney review.

• Paving project tabled until Tibbetts provides quotes
• Ordinance changes approved to allow above-ground burial of cremated remains
• Rules on markers and monuments strengthened, including clarification on responsibility for damage
• Committee voted to recommend ordinance changes to city council upon review by Kennedy

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved pursuing a federal grant for a new South Substation, with a 50/50 match requirement. They also approved new utility billing software costing $85,200, adopted a new residential electric rate effective April 1, 2023, and discussed a potential Dark Sky lighting ordinance. A request for sewer bill forgiveness due to a water leak was denied.

• Approved pursuing a $1M federal grant for a new South Substation (50/50 match, $500K city share)
• Approved $85,200 Civic Systems software for fund accounting and utility billing (PUC pays $14,200/year 2023-2025)
• Adopted new Residential with Distributed Generation Service rates effective April 1, 2023
• Discussed drafting a Dark Sky Compliant Lighting ordinance with Planning and Zoning Commission
• Denied sewer bill forgiveness for 402 S Main Street due to a 4-month water leak

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council approved a preliminary and final plat for Crystal Gardens #7, Outlot B of Subdivision No. 4, along with resolutions for improvements and bid advertising. The council also approved a new tobacco license for a smoke shop at 122 S Main Street, increased ambulance fees, and purchased Civic Systems software for city hall. A request to share the cost of a lobbyist with the Public Utilities Commission was discussed but no motion was made.

• Approved Resolution 2306 for preliminary and final plat of Crystal Gardens #7, Outlot B of Subdivision No. 4
• Approved Resolution 2307 for improvements to Crystal Gardens #7, funded partly by leftover 2022 bonds
• Approved Resolution 2308 to advertise for bids for Crystal Gardens #7 improvements
• Approved tobacco license for James Rotert's smoke shop at 122 S Main Street
• Approved purchase of Civic Systems software for city hall at $14,200 per year (2023-2025) plus $6,259 annual support

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission approved the preliminary and final plats for the Crystal Gardens #7 subdivision, and selected street names including Daisy Street, Daisy Circle, and Ivy Lane. The commission also discussed zoning covenants for new developments and decided not to pursue a short-term rental ordinance at this time.

• Approved preliminary plat for Crystal Gardens #7
• Approved final plat for Crystal Gardens #7
• Chose street names: Daisy Street, Daisy Circle, and Ivy Lane
• Discussed zoning covenants for new developments, will get examples from city attorney
• Decided not to pursue a short-term rental ordinance due to lack of local VRBOs and enforcement concerns

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Economic Development Authority discussed a proposed Nature Energy biogas facility on county-controlled land east of POET, and a major expansion of Noel Collis's gas station/convenience store along the Hwy 60 corridor. A funding request from the MN River Valley Scenic Byway Alliance was unanimously denied. The meeting also covered a preliminary engineering report for Crystal Gardens Subdivision No. 7 and a postponed discussion on a Minnesota Investment Fund grant.

• Nature Energy biogas facility proposed on county land east of POET, north of Hwy 60
• Noel Collis gas station/convenience store expansion plans discussed with DOT regarding Hwy 60 realignment
• MN River Valley Scenic Byway Alliance funding request unanimously denied
• Crystal Gardens Subdivision No. 7 preliminary engineering report reviewed
• EDA Revolving Loan Fund balance: $117,964.30; MIF balance: $218,250.48; SCDP balance: $16,007.42

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Cemetery Commission discussed using a $53,000 donation to pave cemetery roads, reviewed burial rates and found them comparable to neighboring cities, and began work on updating the cemetery ordinance to allow above-ground burials of cremated remains in columbaria of up to 4 niches.

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council approved a feasibility report and set a public hearing for a $1.5 million improvement of Outlot B in Crystal Gardens Subdivision No. 4. The council also approved grant applications for street department safety upgrades and ash tree removal, introduced an ordinance allowing administrative lot splits, and accepted a $5,000 Heartland grant for a capital financial plan.

• Resolution 2305: Receiving feasibility report and calling hearing on $1,548,000 improvement of Outlot B, Crystal Gardens Subdivision No. 4
• Approved application for OSHA grant up to $10,000 (50% match) for street department shop safety improvements
• Approved application for DNR EAB grant of $33,425 for removal and replacement of 15 ash trees
• Introduced Ordinance 2023-1 allowing administrative lot splits creating up to 3 lots
• Accepted $5,000 Heartland grant for capital financial plan with David Drown Associates

Meeting

The Planning and Zoning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously approved Ordinance 2023-2023, which allows administrative lot splits for parcels creating up to three lots, simplifying the process for property owners. They also reviewed preliminary plans for Crystal Gardens #7 and discussed access concerns for the Collis property related to the Highway 60 project, but no decisions were made on those items.

• Public hearing and unanimous approval of Ordinance 2023-01 allowing administrative lot splits
• Review of preliminary plat and schedule for Crystal Gardens #7; decision deferred to March 6 public hearing
• Discussion of Collis property site plans and access issues with Highway 60 project; no decision made

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council accepted a $268,052.18 donation from the Marcille C. Jensen estate, split equally among the city, cemetery, police, ambulance, and fire departments. They also approved a 3-year police liaison agreement with Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial Schools, a letter of understanding with the IBEW on compensatory time, and resolutions supporting Mankato's wastewater facility and ordering an improvement report for Crystal Gardens Subdivision. The council discussed a potential Nature Energy biogas development and a joint meeting with the school board on safety and bike paths.

• Accepted $268,052.18 donation from Marcille C. Jensen estate, split 20% each to city, cemetery, police, ambulance, fire departments
• Approved 3-year police liaison agreement with Lake Crystal Wellcome Memorial Schools with 5% annual increase
• Approved grant application for new ambulance radios
• Approved Resolution 2304 ordering improvement report for Outlot B of Crystal Gardens Subdivision No. 4
• Approved Resolution 2303 supporting Mankato Water Resource Recovery Facility bonding request

Meeting

The Economic Development Authority is meeting to discuss new business including a presentation from CEDA on Nature Energy and review of the Minnesota Investment Fund manual, as well as old business regarding a hotel/convenience store project and a hospitality feasibility study. Financial reports show EDA funds of $61,873.33, MIF funds of $218,359.60, and SCDP funds of $16,006.09.

• Nature Energy presentation by CEDA Regional Director Hillary Tweed
• Minnesota Investment Fund (MIF) Manual review
• Discussion on hotel/convenience store project with Noel Collis & Kroubetz Camper
• Hospitality Feasibility Study by Greg Hanis
• Petition for local improvements by Angela Grafstrom

Council

The Lake Crystal City Council will consider approving 2023 council assignments, city appointments, and designations; authorizing submission of the annual Pay Equity Report to the State of Minnesota; and a Letter of Understanding with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). Routine items include minutes, bill payments, and donation acceptance.

• Resolution 2242 Accepting Donations
• Approve 2023 Council Assignments, City Appointments and Designations
• Approval to Submit Pay Equity Report to the State of MN by 1/31/23
• Letter of Understanding IBEW

Meeting

The Lake Crystal Utilities Commission approved utility bills totaling $264,753.65, a Letter of Understanding with IBEW regarding overtime, and officer appointments for 2023. They also authorized the surplus and sale of old PLC and SCADA panel parts. The meeting was largely procedural, with updates on a generator repair and the hiring of a new electric superintendent.

• Approved utility bills totaling $264,753.65
• Approved Letter of Understanding with IBEW on overtime (Article 11.8)
• Appointed Dennis McCoy as Chair, Brad Ahrenstorff as Vice Chair, and Angela Grafstrom as Secretary
• Authorized surplus and sale of old PLC and SCADA panel parts
• Welcomed new Commissioner Dave Richards; thanked outgoing Commissioner Don Johnson