Paynesville public meetings in 2025

City Council

The City Council will discuss amendments to the sign ordinance and conditional use permits for housing in C-1 and C-2 districts. The body will also consider a payment estimate for the liquor store project and a lot split at 1106 Main St. W.

• Ordinance No. 59, 3 Series: Amending Sign Ordinance
• Ordinance No. 60, 3 Series: Amending Chapter 36 regarding CUP for housing in C-1 & C-2 Districts
• Liquor Store Payment Estimate No. 6 for Project One Construction
• Administrative Lot Split at 1106 Main St. W. (Arnold)
• Gambling permit for Lions Club of Paynesville bingo event on February 1, 2026

City Council

The council will open with reports and a public forum before moving to the consent agenda. Items on the consent agenda include approval of minutes from the November 10, 2025 and October 6, 2025 meetings and approval of payroll vouchers totaling $449,096.36. The council will consider a gambling permit for Koronis Ducks Unlimited to hold a raffle at the American Legion, 770 Diekmann Drive, on January 17, 2026. Additional items include discussion of the 2026 Budget, the 2026 Tax Levy, and the Highway 55 Bridge Reconstruction Project.

• Approve minutes from November 10, 2025 and October 6, 2025 meetings
• Approve payroll vouchers totaling $449,096.36
• Approve gambling permit for Koronis Ducks Unlimited raffle at 770 Diekmann Drive on Jan 17 2026
• Consider the 2026 Budget
• Consider the 2026 Tax Levy

The council approved the consent agenda, new hiring procedures, and designated surplus liquor‑store equipment for sale. It also adopted changes to cannabis licensing fees, issued 2026 cannabinoid licenses, and approved the MnDOT cooperative agreement for the Highway 55 bridge reconstruction with trail and lighting. Water and sewer rates were set, and 2026 donations to local organizations were authorized.

• Approved Consent Agenda items including minutes, vouchers, gambling permit, brew‑pub licenses, donation, liquor and tobacco licenses (unanimous)
• Approved new Hiring Procedures for full‑time positions (unanimous)
• Approved surplus liquor‑store equipment to be advertised and sold via sealed bids (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑39 amending license & fee schedule for cannabinoid and cannabis retail fees (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 cannabinoid licenses for City of Paynesville Municipal Off‑Sale Liquor and Kwik Trip #598 (unanimous)
• Approved MnDOT Cooperative Agreement 1060658 and Resolution 2025‑33 for Highway 55 bridge reconstruction, trail and lighting (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑36 setting water and sewer rates (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 donations: $6,000 Historical Society, $5,500 Green Roof Area Center, $6,750 Community Education, $1,500 Koronis Lake Association (unanimous)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider several items, including approval of a Minnesota Investment Fund loan of up to $325,000 to Louis Industries, Inc. The council will also review a payment estimate for the Glacial Lake Extension trail and a 2026 funding request from the Koronis Lake Association. Additional agenda items involve hiring seasonal snow removal operators and a full‑time public works water/wastewater technician.

• MIF Loan Agreement – up to $325,000 loan to Louis Industries, Inc.
• Trail – Glacial Lake Extension Payment Estimate No. 3 (page 28)
• 2026 Funding Request – Koronis Lake Association (page 32)
• Hiring of Part‑Time Seasonal Snow Removal Operators (public works)
• Hiring of Full‑Time Public Works Technician Water/Wastewater Operator(s)

The council approved the Minnesota Investment Fund loan agreement with Louis Industries, Inc. It also approved a $26,089.38 payment to Land Pride Construction for the Glacial Lakes trail extension. The council hired five part‑time seasonal snow removal operators and two full‑time water/wastewater technicians, placing a third candidate on an eligibility list. A motion to add $500 to each fireworks‑related organization failed unanimously.

• Approved Minnesota Investment Fund loan agreement with Louis Industries (unanimously carried)
• Approved Trail – Glacial Lakes Extension Payment Estimate No. 3, $26,089.38 to Land Pride Construction (unanimously carried)
• Approved hiring of five part‑time seasonal snow removal operators (unanimously carried)
• Approved hiring of Stephen Hurley (Grade 5, Step 1) and Shannon Roering (Grade 5, Step 3) as water/wastewater operators, and placed Jason Johnson on eligibility list (unanimously carried)
• Failed motion to add $500 to each organization from fireworks donation (unanimously failed)
• Approved Consent Agenda including October and September meeting minutes and payroll vouchers totaling $296,292.79 (unanimously carried)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will review and act on items on the consent agenda, including approval of meeting minutes, payroll vouchers, a part‑time public works retirement, and a fire‑truck purchase. Old business includes a spay/neuter cat program report and Safe Routes to School funding. New business items include a donation to the Fire Relief Association, the 2026 budget funding requests, public‑works generator repair, a locator purchase, a paid‑leave policy and union MOU, and a joint powers agreement for prosecution services. The council will also consider a parade permit and temporary street closures for the Joyful Jamboree event on November 29, 2025.

• Approve minutes from the Oct 13 2025 City Council and related boards
• Approve payroll vouchers for 10/30/2025 with amounts $42,598.68, $5,655.84, $13,063.89, $2,557.91, $229.41, $11,340.42 (total $363,714.99) and for 10/28/2025 totaling $739,287.51
• Accept bid of $4,525.00 from Jason Knopik for a 1995 International Fire Truck
• Approve the Joyful Jamboree parade and temporary street closures on Nov 29 2025, 4:00‑7:00 p.m., affecting Maple St., MN St., Stearns Ave., and Mill St. W.
• Authorize Bolton & Menk, Inc. to proceed with Safe Routes to School design phase costing $78,700 (City CIP fund $34,800, School District $43,900)

The council unanimously approved the purchase of a Flexnet Light 2025 AMI reading system for $62,700. It also authorized Bolton & Menk, Inc. to begin the design phase of the Safe Routes to School project with $78,700. Additional items on the consent agenda—including vouchers totaling $739,287.51, a retirement, a fire‑truck bid, parade street closures, a fire‑relief donation, and a generator repair quote—were also approved.

• Approved Flexnet Light 2025 AMI system purchase $62,700 (unanimous)
• Approved design phase of Safe Routes to School project $78,700 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items and vouchers totaling $739,287.51 (unanimous)
• Approved Dave Schwandt’s retirement effective Dec 1 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted bid from Jason Knopik for 1994 International Fire Truck $4,525 (unanimous)
• Approved Paynesville Joyful Jamboree Parade street closures Nov 29 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of $300 Legion donation for Fire Relief Association (unanimous)
• Approved generator repair quote $2,213.34 (unanimous)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will vote on several agenda items, including the approval of a tax abatement and business subsidy agreement and related economic development loans for Louis Industries. The council will also act on consent agenda items such as meeting minutes, vouchers, appointments to the Airport Zoning Board, and the acceptance of sealed bids for surplus public‑works property. New business includes the purchase of a police squad car and front‑end loader tires and a MnDOT bridge reconstruction agreement.

• Approve Resolution 2025-34: Tax abatement and $300,000 city business subsidy (plus $300,000 county loan, $175,000 and $325,000 state loans) for Louis Industries
• Approve Resolution 2025-35: Economic Development Loan Agreement for Louis Industries
• Appoint Mike Flanders and Jim Schultz to the Airport Zoning Board (Roseville Township)
• Accept sealed bids for Public Works miscellaneous surplus property (e.g., Brad Mehlhop $20, Jennifer Welling $22.22, Kevin Ruprecht $20)
• Purchase of a Police Department 2023 Dodge Durango squad car

Council unanimously approved the consent agenda and appointed two members to the Airport Zoning Board. It also approved a tax abatement and business subsidy agreement for Louis Industries and an economic development loan to the same company. The city authorized a $58,030.49 purchase of a 2026 Ford Interceptor police squad car and a $23,000 state airport grant for an FBO hangar. Additional actions included buying front‑end loader tires, certifying delinquent utility bills, and approving other minor contracts.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimously)
• Appointed Mike Flanders and Jim Schultz to Airport Zoning Board (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025-34 tax abatement & business subsidy for Louis Industries (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025-35 economic development loan to Louis Industries (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025-32 state airport fund grant ($23,000) (unanimously)
• Approved purchase of 2026 Ford Interceptor police squad car for $58,030.49 and surplus of 2023 Dodge Durango (unanimously)
• Approved payment of $80,299.66 to Land Pride Construction for Glacial Lakes Trail extension (unanimously)
• Approved purchase of 4 front‑end loader tires from Regal Tire for $7,436.00 (unanimously)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of meeting minutes, a voucher package totaling $1,127,411.04, and several personnel changes. Old business includes a vote on the State of Minnesota Airports Fund Grant Agreement for an airport FBO hangar project and its accompanying resolution. New business items such as a fire relief benefit increase and public‑works equipment purchases will be discussed after the consent items.

• Approve the State of MN Airports Fund Grant Agreement and Resolution 2025‑31 for the Airport FBO Hangar project
• Approve vouchers totaling $1,127,411.04 for payroll and other expenses
• Accept the resignation of John Loven from the Public Works Board, effective immediately
• Appoint Jordan Spaulding to the Park & Tree Board, effective immediately
• Accept the resignation of Jason Ruhoff, Public Works Technician Water/Wastewater Operator III, effective Oct. 24, 2025

The council unanimously approved the State of Minnesota Airports Fund grant agreement and the related resolution for airport improvements. It also approved a resolution raising the fire relief association benefit to $3,000 per year. In zoning, the council amended the C‑1 district to require conditional use permits for multiple‑family, single‑ and two‑family dwellings, and row houses. Additional unanimous actions included authorizing the sale of Fire Truck #11 on MinnBid and approving the consent agenda items.

• Approved State of MN State Airports Fund Grant Agreement and Resolution 2025-31 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-30 to increase fire relief association benefit to $3,000 per year (unanimous)
• Amended C‑1 district zoning to make multiple‑family, single‑ and two‑family dwellings, and row houses conditional uses (unanimous)
• Authorized sale of Fire Truck #11 on MinnBid with website and Facebook notice (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda items A, B, and E, including minutes, $1,127,411.04 vouchers, and resignation of Jason Ruhoff (unanimous)
• Approved Payment Estimate No. 4 of $187,102.50 to Project One Construction, Inc. for Liquor Store work (unanimous)

City Council - Working Session

The Paynesville City Council working session will receive reports from the liquor store, fire department, police department, library, and public works. Topics include downtown revitalization projects such as storage facilities, housing, and a mural plan at 122 Washburne Ave. The council will also review public works items like tree trimming, stormwater drainage pond land acquisition, and the 2027 St. Project. Additional discussions cover AMPI expansion, housing incentives, the strategic plan, and a spay/neuter cat program.

• Fire Department report on roof repair, new building, and ladder truck
• Police Department update on nuisance properties and vehicle violations
• Downtown Revitalization discussion of storage facilities, housing, and 122 Washburne Ave mural plan
• Public Works report on tree trimming, downtown stormwater drainage pond land acquisition, and the 2027 St. Project
• AMPI Expansion discussion of BOD loading, ponds, and solar farm update

The October 6 working session was used for updates on the new liquor store, police nuisance ordinance, library funding, solar farm progress, housing development, strategic plan, public works projects, and other city matters. No motions were voted on, approved, denied, or tabled during the meeting. Council members noted items for future consideration or follow‑up.

City Council

The City Council will discuss a proposed airport fuel price increase and a conditional use permit for an apartment building in the C-1 Central Business District. The body is also deciding on new volunteer firefighter hires and a liquor store internet contract.

• Resolution 2025-29 to set airport fuel price at 22% above City cost per gallon
• Proposed conditional use permit for an apartment building in the C-1 Central Business District
• Hiring of Stephen Hurley and Jared Theis as Volunteer Firefighters
• 3-year internet contract with Vibrant Broadband for the new liquor store at $114.95 per month
• Temporary closure of James St. W. from River St. to Washburne Ave. on Oct. 25, 2025, for Trunk or Treat

The council unanimously approved a resolution to raise the airport fuel rate to 22% over the City’s cost. It also hired two volunteer firefighters, approved a temporary street closure for an event, and authorized a new overhead door for the public works garage. Additional unanimous actions included a broadband contract for the new liquor store, a special council working session, and acceptance of a liquor store clerk’s resignation.

• Approved airport fuel price increase to 22% over cost (unanimous)
• Approved hiring of volunteer firefighters Stephen Hurley and Jared Theis (unanimous)
• Approved temporary street closure on James St. W. for Oct 25 event (unanimous)
• Approved JP Evans Construction quote $4,524 and Buerman Garage Door quote $6,363.60 for overhead door replacement (unanimous)
• Approved Vibrant Broadband 3‑year internet contract $114.95/month for new liquor store (unanimous)
• Approved special City Council working session for Oct 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Liquor Store Clerk Maia Bahr effective Sep 13, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items including minutes and payroll vouchers (unanimous)

Joint Planning & Council

The Joint Planning Board and City Council will hold a public hearing to discuss changing the status of apartment buildings in the C-1 Central Business District. The body is considering moving apartments from a permitted use to a conditional use to set criteria for new developments.

• Public hearing regarding Zoning Ordinance Sec. 36-46 C-1 Central Business District apartment requirements
• Review of July 21, 2025 Planning Board meeting minutes
• Building permit reports for projects including 110 Spruce St and 350 Kiraln

The Joint Planning Board approved the July 21, 2025 Planning Board minutes unanimously. A motion to require a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for all housing in the C‑1 district failed because it lacked a second. The board then passed a recommendation, by a 3‑2 vote, that apartment buildings in the C‑1 district require a CUP, as suggested by the Downtown Street Improvement Committee. Staff will draft amendment language, work with the city attorney, and schedule another public hearing before any ordinance change.

• Approved July 21, 2025 Planning Board minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to require CUP for all housing failed (no second)
• Motion to recommend requiring CUP for apartment buildings in C‑1 passed 3‑2

City Council

The council will review a consent agenda that includes approval of meeting minutes, payroll vouchers totaling $850,688.14, the reinstatement of Firefighter Barry Gottwald, and a raffle permit for the Knights of Columbus. New business items include setting a public hearing for past‑due utility and snow‑removal bills, a surplus property disposition, an airport grant agreement, and the 2026 proposed budget with a preliminary property tax levy. An informational hearing on a potential Xcel Energy rate increase will also be noted, and a closed session will discuss an offer for real property at 114 James St. W., Parcel No. 70.39027.0000.

• Approve minutes from prior meetings (page 1)
• Approve payroll vouchers totaling $850,688.14 (page 2)
• Reinstate Firefighter Barry Gottwald (page 3)
• Approve Knights of Columbus raffle permit for Jan 25, 2026 at St. Louis Catholic Church Hall, 505 Burr St. (page 4)
• Consider 2026 proposed budget and preliminary property tax levy (page 49)

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, reinstated a firefighter, and authorized a raffle permit. It approved final payments for the Ampe Park shelter, construction projects, and a trail extension, and adopted the 2026 preliminary property tax levy of $1,577,729. Additional actions included setting a public hearing on past‑due utility bills, designating surplus public‑works equipment for sale, and scheduling a Truth in Taxation hearing and a closed‑session to discuss a real‑property offer.

• Approved Consent Agenda (unanimous)
• Reinstated Barry Gottwald as Paynesville firefighter (unanimous)
• Approved Minnesota Lawful Gambling LG220 raffle permit for Knights of Columbus (unanimous)
• Approved final payment $54,814.29 to Voss Plumbing & Heating (unanimous)
• Approved Payment Estimate $260,870 to Project One Construction, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved Payment Estimate $245,440.10 to Land Pride Construction, LLC (unanimous)
• Adopted 2026 Preliminary Property Tax Levy of $1,577,729 (unanimous)
• Set Truth In Taxation public hearing for Dec 8, 2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will vote on several items, including approval of meeting minutes and vouchers totaling $258,138.97. Council members will also consider hiring three part‑time liquor store clerks at $18.39 per hour, closing City Hall on September 23, 2025 for an employee appreciation event, and approving the Airport Tee Hangar Lease for Hangar 11 at an annual fee of $2,100.

• Approve minutes from July 3, 2025 Park & Tree Board, July 14, 2025 City Council, and July 28, 2025 Public Works Board
• Approve vouchers totaling $258,138.97 for payroll and other expenses
• Hire Maia Bahr, Karen Froegel, and Wesley Ritt as part‑time liquor store clerks at $18.39 per hour
• Authorize closure of City Hall on September 23, 2025 from 3:00‑4:30 p.m. for the employee appreciation event
• Approve Airport Tee Hangar Lease for Hangar 11 with an annual lease fee of $2,100

The Paynesville City Council approved the consent agenda, a shared well agreement with AMPI, and an airport tee‑hangar lease. It hired three part‑time liquor‑store clerks and authorized the City Hall closure on September 23 for an employee appreciation event. The council also scheduled a closed session to discuss negotiations for purchasing the property at 114 James St.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes and vouchers) – unanimously carried
• Approved Shared Well Agreement & Well and Water Line Utility Easement with AMPI – unanimously carried
• Approved hiring of Maia Bahr, Karen Froegel, and Wesley Ritt as part‑time liquor‑store clerks at $18.39/hr – unanimously carried
• Approved closing City Hall on Sep 23, 2025, 3:00‑4:30 p.m. for employee appreciation event – unanimously carried
• Approved Airport Tee Hangar Lease with RMB, Bob Braun – unanimously carried
• Approved holding a closed session at the next council meeting to discuss purchase of 114 James St and authorized the City Administrator to begin negotiations – unanimously carried

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of meeting minutes, payroll vouchers totaling $712,012.01, and a gambling permit for the Paynesville Bulldog Booster Club. New business items include a $23,101 transfer from the Airport Capital Improvement Fund to the Airport Fund for the city's share of an FBO project, hiring a full‑time police officer, and a purchase of a variable frequency drive for the headworks building. The council will also hear a citation appeal and a proposal for downtown apartment development.

• Approve $23,101 transfer from the Airport Capital Improvement Fund to the Airport Fund for the FBO project (page 44)
• Hire a full‑time police officer (Welz) (page 43)
• Purchase of a variable frequency drive for the Public Works headworks building (price change) (page 13)
• Approve payroll vouchers totaling $712,012.01 (page 2)
• Approve gambling exempt permit for the Paynesville Bulldog Booster Club raffle at 795 Business 23 W on Sept. 19, 2025 (page 3)

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including minutes and vouchers totaling $712,012.01. They approved a $133,712.50 payment to Project One Construction, a $14,575 purchase of a variable frequency drive from Preferred Controls, and the partial release of real‑property declarations and easement agreement with AMPI. The council hired Cory Welz as a full‑time police officer at $33.13 per hour and transferred $23,101 from the Airport Capital Improvement Fund to the Airport Fund. Finally, the council unanimously approved a $300,000 EDAP loan for Louis Industries’ expansion project.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes, vouchers totalling $712,012.01) – unanimous
• Approved $133,712.50 payment to Project One Construction, Inc. – unanimous
• Approved purchase of VFD from Preferred Controls for $14,575 – unanimous
• Approved partial release of real‑property declarations and easement agreement with AMPI – unanimous
• Approved hiring of Cory Welz as full‑time police officer at $33.13 per hour – unanimous
• Approved transfer of $23,101 from Airport Capital Improvement Fund to Airport Fund – unanimous
• Approved $300,000 EDAP loan for Louis Industries expansion – unanimous

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of meeting minutes and payroll vouchers totaling $491,491.14. New business items include a $250,000 temporary transfer from the General Fund to the Liquor Capital Improvement Fund, a gambling permit for a raffle at 121 James St. West, and purchases of a variable frequency drive and a standby generator. Old business items such as an ordinance on mailboxes, a tax abatement for Louis Industries, and a liquor store bond will also be discussed. Public hearings on the Louis Industries tax abatement and the liquor store easement vacation are scheduled after the meeting.

• Approve $250,000 transfer from General Fund to Liquor Capital Improvement Fund
• Approve payroll vouchers totaling $491,491.14
• Approve gambling exempt permit for Tri-County RBB Chapter of MN Deer Hunters Association raffle at 121 James St. West on Sep 12, 2025
• Review Ordinance No. 58, 3 Series – Mailboxes
• Consider purchase of Variable Frequency Drive for Headworks Building and standby generator for lift station

The council approved Resolution 2025‑25 granting a nine‑year property tax abatement for Louis Industries' expansion. It also approved the airshow and Backdraft Bash events, a temporary liquor license, several vouchers, a gambling permit, a mailbox ordinance, and a $1.815 M liquor store bond. All actions were carried unanimously.

• Approved airshow and related city services (unanimous)
• Approved Backdraft Bash and related city services (unanimous)
• Approved Temporary On‑Sale Liquor License T2025‑1 (unanimous)
• Approved vouchers totaling $491,491.14 (unanimous)
• Approved gambling permit for raffle at 121 James St. West (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance No. 58, 3rd Series on mailbox placement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑25 tax abatement for Louis Industries (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑26 liquor store bond $1,815,000 (unanimous)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider its consent agenda, including approval of meeting minutes and $971,992.05 in payroll and other vouchers. It will vote on a gambling permit for the Paynesville Historical Society to hold an excluded bingo event at 251 Ampe Drive on September 14, 2025. The council will act on the removal of Park & Tree Board member Mel Serna. New business includes discussion of a business subsidy for Louis Industries, a Lake Ave N roadway restoration, and an ordinance on mailboxes.

• Approve meeting minutes (VI‑A)
• Approve vouchers totaling $971,992.05 (VI‑B)
• Approve gambling permit for Paynesville Historical Society bingo at 251 Ampe Drive (VI‑C)
• Remove Mel Serna from the Park & Tree Board (VI‑D)
• Consider Louis Industries business subsidy (New Business – F)

The council unanimously approved the purchase of a city lot for $201,000 and the sale of a residential property for $22,000, and voted 4‑0 to engage a $1.6 million bond for the liquor‑store project along with a reimbursement resolution. It also approved a gambling permit, removed Mel Serna from the Park & Tree Board, adopted a $17,853 road‑repair contract for Lake Ave N, approved roofing contracts totaling $92,530, changed Motor Vehicle Department hours, and set a public hearing on a $300,000 business subsidy.

• Approved $1.6 M bond engagement for liquor‑store project (4‑0, Potter abstained)
• Approved reimbursement resolution for bond proceeds (passed, Potter abstained)
• Approved purchase of 410 Business 23 E for $201,000 (unanimous)
• Approved sale of 325 Kira Court for $22,000 (unanimous)
• Approved gambling permit for Paynesville Historical Society bingo event
• Approved removal of Mel Serna from Park & Tree Board (unanimous)
• Approved Lake Ave N roadway restoration bid $17,853 (unanimous)
• Approved roofing bids: City Hall $73,930, Public Restroom $13,480, Water Plant $5,120 (unanimous)

City Council

The council will vote on hiring Widseth as the library architect for $15,500, with the cost shared equally among the Friends of the Library, the Paynesville Area Foundation, and the city. Consent agenda items include approving meeting minutes, vouchers, and bids for a 2003 Ford F‑150 ($2,825) and a 2015 Ford F‑250 ($18,200). New business covers firefighter and election‑judge wage increases, an irrigation agreement, easement vacations, and a lot split at 890 South St.

• Library architect contract: $15,500 total, city share $5,166.66 (one‑third split)
• Accept bid for 2003 Ford F‑150 at $2,825
• Accept bid for 2015 Ford F‑250 at $18,200
• Firefighter wage increase (item on agenda)
• Administrative lot split – 890 South St.

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, payroll vouchers totaling $414,306.86, and the purchase of two Ford trucks. It also accepted the resignations of a part‑time liquor‑store clerk and Firefighter Jeremiah Denn. By a 4‑1 vote, the council hired Widseth as the library architect, costing $15,500 to be split equally among the Friends of the Library, the Paynesville Area Foundation, and the city.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved payroll vouchers totaling $414,306.86 (unanimous)
• Accepted bids for 2003 Ford F150 ($2,825) and 2015 Ford F250 ($18,200) (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Part‑Time Liquor Store Clerk Shaelyn Desm (unanimous)
• Approved resignation of Firefighter Jeremiah Denn (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Widseth as library architect for $15,500, split three ways (4‑1 vote)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will vote on the consent agenda items (minutes and vouchers totaling $197,113.67), approve the purchase agreement for 122 Washburne Ave at $35,000, and consider new business items including a Street Capital Improvement Program, snowplowing equipment, and a modification to the Paynesville EDA enabling resolution. A closed‑session meeting will be held to discuss offers on real property at 325 Kira Court and 410 Business 23 W.

• Purchase of 122 Washburne Ave – $35,000 purchase price
• Consent agenda vouchers – total $197,113.67
• Street Capital Improvement Program (CIP) – page 14
• Snowplowing equipment procurement – page 18
• Closed‑session discussion of offers on 325 Kira Court and 410 Business 23 W

The council unanimously approved the purchase of the property at 410 Business 23 W for $201,000, authorizing its use for storage of new snow‑plowing equipment. It also approved the purchase agreement for 122 Washburne Ave ($35,000), the revised Street Capital Improvement Plan, and authority to bid on snow‑plowing equipment up to $180,000. Additional unanimous actions included approving the EDA enabling resolution, applying for a MHFA housing grant, and finalizing sales of 325 Kira Court ($22,000) and other consent agenda items.

• Approved purchase of 410 Business 23 W for $201,000 (unanimously carried)
• Approved purchase agreement for 122 Washburne Ave for $35,000 (unanimously carried)
• Approved revised Street Capital Improvement Plan (unanimously carried)
• Granted authority to bid on snowplowing equipment up to $180,000 (unanimously carried)
• Approved Resolution 2025-17 modifying the EDA enabling resolution (unanimously carried)
• Approved application for MHFA Greater Minnesota Housing grant (unanimously carried)
• Approved sale of 325 Kira Court to Tom and Patti Cremers for $22,000 (unanimously carried)
• Approved consent agenda and related vouchers (unanimously carried)

All Boards Meeting

The City of Paynesville is convening an annual meeting for all city boards and a special City Council meeting. Each board and committee will discuss their yearly progress and present completed projects, proposed ideas, and concerns.

• Reports from Ad Hoc Downtown Street Improvement Committee
• Reports from Budget & Finance Board
• Reports from Joint Planning Board
• Reports from Public Works Board
• Reports from Airport Board & Airport Zoning Board

The council and boards presented updates on projects such as the new library land acquisition, downtown street project delay to 2029, airport FBO construction, 2026 budget work, fire rescue truck purchase, liquor store construction, park shelter availability, trail expansion, ordinance revisions, and various community programs. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 7:17 p.m.

Special Council

The council will approve its consent agenda, including meeting minutes and payroll vouchers totaling $209,941.39. It will adopt a new per‑diem resolution increasing member compensation. Old business items include a correction of a surplus 2015 Ford F250 with a minimum bid of $16,000 and discussion of the Comprehensive Plan update. New business items cover the MN Investment Fund and Job Creation Fund for Louis Industries and the hiring of a part‑time seasonal administrative assistant.

• Approve meeting minutes (Consent Agenda A)
• Approve payroll vouchers totaling $209,941.39 (Consent Agenda B)
• Adopt Resolution 2025‑14 raising council per diem to $75 for 2‑4‑hour meetings and $150 for longer meetings
• Award Airport FBO Hangar Project to Everstrong Construction for $793,034, contingent on federal funding
• Approve MN Investment Fund & Job Creation Fund application for Louis Industries expansion

The council approved the consent agenda and related payroll vouchers totaling $209,941.39. It adopted a new per‑diem and mileage reimbursement schedule for council members, effective going forward. The council also approved several operational actions, including declaring a 2015 Ford F250 surplus with a minimum bid of $18,000, awarding the airport FBO hangar bid to Everstrong Construction for $793,034, and moving forward with bids to update the Comprehensive Plan in the 2026 budget. Finally, the council unanimously approved the Investment Fund and Job Creation Fund resolutions supporting Louis Industries’ $9.3 million expansion project.

• Approved Consent Agenda and payroll vouchers totaling $209,941.39 (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025-14 setting council member per diem and mileage reimbursement effective forward (unanimously)
• Declared 2015 Ford F250 surplus; authorized advertisement with minimum bid $18,000 (unanimously)
• Awarded FBO Hangar Project bid to Everstrong Construction, Inc. for $793,034, contingent on federal funding (unanimously)
• Approved motion to seek bids and include $60,000‑$75,000 for Comprehensive Plan update in 2026 budget (unanimously)
• Approved Resolution 2025-15 (MIF application) and Resolution 2025-16 (JCF support) for Louis Industries expansion (unanimously)

Joint Council & EDAP Board

The City Council and EDAP Board are holding a special joint meeting. The council will enter a closed session to discuss making an offer on a specific parcel of real property.

• Discussion of real property offer for 122 Washburne Ave. (Parcel No. 70.39026.0000)

The council moved to a closed session to discuss an offer on the property at 122 Washburne Ave. After discussion, members voted to purchase the building for $35,000, with funds from the EDAP Fund and a closing deadline of June 30, 2025. The purchase motion passed 4‑1.

• Approved closed‑session discussion of 122 Washburne Ave. offer (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 122 Washburne Ave. building for $35,000 (4-1)

City Council

The City Council will consider several personnel hires, equipment purchases, and fee settings. The meeting includes closed sessions to discuss a real property offer and threatened litigation by Recovery Center, LLC.

• Closed session regarding real property offer for 890 South St.
• Purchase of a Fire Department rescue truck
• Setting rental fees for Ampe Park Shelter
• Transfer or loan of funds to Fund 121 General Capital Improvement Fund for the Library Department
• Closed session regarding threatened litigation by Recovery Center, LLC

The council unanimously approved the purchase of a new rescue truck from Rosenbauer South Dakota LLC for $566,291, with tariff adjustments and a $4,139 early‑payment discount. It also approved the circus event on July 29, 2025 at 605 Lake Ave, waiving fees and authorizing no‑parking on Lake Ave. Additional consent‑agenda items—including prior minutes, payroll vouchers, board appointments, resignations, and a sewer installer license—were also approved unanimously.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimously)
• Approved payroll and other vouchers totaling $374,408.39 (unanimously)
• Appointed DJ Beckius to the Park & Tree Board (unanimously)
• Accepted resignation of Firefighter Barry Gottwald, effective May 5 (unanimously)
• Approved resignation of Part‑Time SRO Officer Christopher Hagstrom, effective June 30 (unanimously)
• Approved 2025 Sewer Installer License for Hickman Excavating Inc. (unanimously)
• Approved purchase of rescue truck for $566,291 plus tariffs minus $4,139 discount, funded from Large Equipment and Building Funds (unanimously)
• Approved circus at 605 Lake Ave on July 29, 2025, waived fees and authorized no‑parking from Main St to First St (passed, Potter abstained)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider approving meeting minutes and a $398,851.58 voucher package. It will vote on awarding the Glacial Lakes Trail Extension contract to Land Pride Construction for $515,478.60, pending a $500,000 Active Transportation Grant. The council will also award the liquor store construction contract to Project One Construction, Inc. for $1,064,530.00 and approve related quotes and a bond engagement with Northland Securities. A 2024 audit will be reviewed as new business.

• Approve minutes for multiple boards (Joint Planning, Library, Public Works, etc.)
• Approve vouchers totaling $398,851.58 for payroll and other expenses
• Award Glacial Lakes Trail Extension to Land Pride Construction for $515,478.60, contingent on a $500,000 grant
• Award liquor store construction to Project One Construction, Inc. for $1,064,530.00 and approve quotes and bond underwriter engagement
• Review the 2024 city audit

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including $398,851.58 in vouchers, and adopted the 2024 audit. It awarded the Glacial Lakes Trail Extension bid to Land Pride Construction for $515,478.60, contingent on a $500,000 grant. The council also approved the $1,064,530 bid for the new liquor store and authorized a $1,600,707 bond to finance the project.

• Approved consent agenda and $398,851.58 in vouchers (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 audit (unanimous)
• Awarded Glacial Lakes Trail Extension bid to Land Pride Construction for $515,478.60, contingent on $500,000 grant (unanimous)
• Awarded liquor store construction bid to Project One Construction, Inc. for $1,064,530.00 (4-0, Potter abstained)
• Approved bond engagement letter with Northland Securities for $1,600,707.00 (4-0, Potter abstained)

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider several consent‑agenda items, including approval of recent meeting minutes and a $405,943.10 set of vouchers. Council members will vote on a temporary street closure for the Farmers Market on Augusta Avenue, scheduled Saturdays from May 10 to October 18, 2025, 8 a.m.‑12 p.m. The council will also decide whether to accept a $5,000 Rural Feasibility Grant from Compeer Financial to fund a housing market study.

• Approve minutes from March 24, March 10, March 6, February 18, February 19, November 12, July 11, and March 11, 2025
• Approve vouchers totaling $405,943.10, including payroll and special run payments
• Authorize temporary street closure on Augusta Ave (James St. W. to AMPI vacated closure) for the Farmers Market, Saturdays May 10‑Oct 18, 2025, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.
• Accept $5,000 Rural Feasibility Grant from Compeer Financial for a housing market study
• Approve other consent‑agenda items such as the Concert In The Park Series and Parade Permit

The council approved its consent agenda, a temporary street closure on Augusta Ave., and accepted a $5,000 Rural Feasibility Grant. It hired firefighter Jennifer Meagher, authorized the sale of a 1994 fire truck, set fire‑training fees, and approved final payments for several public‑works projects. The council also authorized advertising bids for a $1 million Airport FBO Hangar project, approved a gambling premises permit, and approved purchase of an ADA library door opener.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimously carried)
• Approved temporary street closure on Augusta Ave. May 10–Oct 18 (unanimously carried)
• Accepted $5,000 Rural Feasibility Grant and sponsorship agreement (unanimously carried)
• Approved hiring of firefighter Jennifer Meagher, pending physical exam (unanimously carried)
• Approved surplus and sale of 1994 International Pumper Fire Truck via FTR (unanimously carried)
• Approved Resolution 2025-11 setting fire‑training fees ($500 minimum, $25/acre) (unanimously carried)
• Approved final payment estimates: $22,242.50 to Hydro Engineering; $14,339.43 to ASTECH Corp.; $7,105.44 to Struck & Irwin Paving (unanimously carried)
• Authorized advertisement for bids on Airport FBO Hangar Project (estimated $1,000,000) (unanimously carried)

City Council

The City Council will discuss authorizing the advertisement for bids for a new liquor store. The body is also reviewing a retirement agreement for Ron Mergen and various business licenses.

• Authorization to advertise for bids for new liquor store plans and specifications
• Retirement agreement for Ron Mergen including health insurance payments up to $1,300 per month
• Refuse licenses for West Central Sanitation, LRS of Minnesota LLC, Tom Kramer, Inc., B & C Cleanup, and Waste Management of MN ($150 fee)
• Beer licenses for Kwik Trip Inc., Koronis Lanes, and Paynesville Baseball Club Inc. ($125 fee)
• Closed session to discuss a real property offer for 120 Business 23 E

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included minutes, vouchers, refuse and beer licenses, and a decision not to waive municipal tort liability limits. It also approved the Liquor Store plans and specifications and authorized advertising for bids. A retirement agreement with Ron Mergen and a $14,212 housing study contract with Bolton & Menk were approved. Finally, the council unanimously approved the purchase and sale agreement for the property at 120 Business 23 E.

• Approved consent agenda (minutes, vouchers, licenses, tort liability) – unanimous
• Approved Liquor Store Plans & Specifications and authorized advertisement for bids – unanimous
• Approved Retirement Agreement with Ron Mergen – unanimous
• Approved Housing Study contract with Bolton & Menk, $14,212 from EDAP fund – unanimous
• Approved purchase and sale agreement for lot at 120 Business 23 E (Resolution 2025-10) – unanimous
• Authorized closed‑session discussion of the 120 Business 23 E property offer – unanimous

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider approving payroll vouchers totaling $227,007.08 and permits for local raffles. The meeting includes reports from department heads and a public forum.

• Approval of payroll vouchers totaling $227,007.08
• Gambling permit for Paynesville Baseball Club raffle at Paynesville Baseball Stadium
• Gambling permit for Paynesville Chamber of Commerce raffle
• Ordinance No. 57, 3 Series regarding Brew Pub Off-Sale License
• Purchase of 2025 Chevrolet 1500 Pickup & Surplus 2003 Ford F150 Pickup

City Council Retreat

The City Council will meet for a retreat to receive department reports on 2026 and 2027 budget items, projects, and goals. Members will discuss several long-term planning topics including downtown development and the future of the library and liquor store.

• Department reports on 2026 and 2027 large purchase and budget items
• Discussion on downtown vision and development
• Discussion on the future of the liquor store and library
• Review of the strategic plan and 2024 goals
• Discussion on annexation and sober homes

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will meet to approve meeting minutes, pay vouchers totaling $197,268.38, and accept a resignation from the Park & Tree Board. The council will also consider a gambling permit for a raffle.

• Approve vouchers totaling $197,268.38
• Accept resignation of Park & Tree Board member John Wimmer
• Approve gambling permit for Koronis Ducks Unlimited raffle
• Consider ordinance adding language for brew pub off-sale license
• Public hearing notice for city re-zoning

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider approving vouchers totaling $267,492.15, a final payment for the Lake Ave. Riverbank Restoration Project, and a license for a sewer installer. The meeting also includes discussions on hiring seasonal workers and a special working session.

• Approve vouchers totaling $267,492.15
• Approve final payment of $65,903.00 for Lake Ave. Riverbank Restoration Project
• Approve 2025 Sewer Installer License for Mark David Plumbing, LLC
• Transfer $6,750 from Airport CIP to Airport Fund
• Approve Airport Tee Hangar Lease Agreement with Timothy Schrier

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will vote on approving payroll vouchers totaling $262,726.74, appointing new Fire Department officers, and accepting a $3,000 donation from the American Legion. The meeting also includes discussions on hiring additional firefighters and setting a date for an annual meeting of all city boards.

• Approval of vouchers totaling $262,726.74
• Appointment of new Fire Department officers
• Acceptance of $3,000 donation from Paynesville American Legion
• Hiring process for up to 2 volunteer firefighters
• Setting date for Annual Meeting of all city boards

City Council

The Paynesville City Council will consider several items on its consent agenda, including approval of meeting minutes and payroll vouchers totaling $354,635.50. The council will also act on a gambling exempt permit for the Lions Club to hold a bingo event at Queen Bee's Bar & Grill on February 16, 2025. Additional items include a payment estimate for the Ampe Park Shelter and discussion of an airport hangar lease.

• Approve minutes from multiple prior meetings
• Approve payroll vouchers totaling $354,635.50
• Approve Lions Club gambling permit for bingo at 121 James St. W.
• Review Ampe Park Shelter payment estimate No. 3 (Voss)
• Review Airport Hangar for FBO lease

Special Council

The City Council is meeting to address a misinterpretation of state law regarding Earned Sick and Safe Time (ESST). The body will consider rescinding a December 23, 2024, motion that separated ESST hours from Paid Time Off (PTO).

• Motion to rescind the December 23, 2024, decision to provide full-time employees 48 additional ESST hours beyond PTO
• Oaths of office

Council Working Session-Orientation

The Paynesville City Council working session on January 6, 2025 includes routine items such as call to order, consent agenda, and old business. The only new business item is a council orientation. The agenda is informational and may be changed before the meeting.

• Council Orientation (new business)