Watertown public meetings in 2025

City Council Meetings

The City Council will conduct a Truth in Taxation public hearing to discuss the 2026 budget and levy. The body will also consider several 2026 contracts with Carver County for policing and prosecution services.

• 2026 Truth In Taxation Public Hearing, Budget, and Levy (Resolutions 2025-58, 2025-59, 2025-60)
• 2026 Carver County Sheriff Policing Contract
• 2026 Carver County Attorney Prosecution Contract
• Downtown Parking Lot Mill and Overlay Project Pay App No. 2
• Crow River Liquors temporary short-term signage request

The council approved the 2026 Comprehensive Improvement Plan, the city budget, and the final levies, each by a 5‑0 vote. It also recognized longtime resident Denny Butcher, approved a police contract with Carver County Sheriff’s Office, and authorized a prosecution contract with the Carver County Attorney’s Office. Additional actions included a temporary signage permit, a City Hall closure on Dec. 18, and setting the first 2026 work session date.

• Approved Resolution 2025-58, the 2026 Comprehensive Improvement Plan (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-59, the 2026 city budget (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-60, the 2026 final levies (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-61, recognizing Denny Butcher (5-0)
• Approved the 2026 police contract with Carver County Sheriff’s Office (5-0)
• Authorized the 2026 prosecution contract with Carver County Attorney’s Office (5-0)
• Approved temporary signage permit for Crow River Liquors with conditions (5-0)
• Approved closure of City Hall at 12:00 PM on Dec. 18 for staff holiday event (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The City Council is holding a work session to discuss the 2026 Work Plan. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion of City Council 2026 Work Plan

The Watertown City Council met on Dec. 9, 2025 for a work session. Council members and staff discussed follow‑up on the City Center Park/Veterans Memorial and reviewed items for the 2026 work plan. No motions were voted on, and no approvals, denials, or tablings were recorded.

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging will meet to elect its leadership for the coming term. Members will also discuss health professional outreach and set priority topics for 2026.

• Voting for Chair and Vice Chair
• Discussion of Coffee With A Health Professional
• Prioritizing 2026 discussion topics
• Recap of Senior Dinner
• Review of Calendar of Events

The Watertown Commission on Aging elected new leadership, approving Richard Dailing as Chair and Katelyn Roiland as Vice‑Chair. The agenda and the November 5, 2025 minutes were approved unanimously. The next “Coffee with a Health Professional” event was scheduled for February 7, 2026. The meeting was adjourned at 4:25 p.m.

• Appointed Richard Dailing as Commission Chair, replacing Chris Boerner (8‑0)
• Appointed Katelyn Roiland as Vice‑Chair (8‑0)
• Approved agenda as presented (8‑0)
• Approved minutes of 11‑5‑25 (8‑0)
• Scheduled Coffee with a Health Professional for Feb 7 2026
• Adjourned meeting at 4:25 p.m. (8‑0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will consider a consent agenda that includes several license renewals and a surplus equipment declaration. New business items include certification of delinquent tax charges, awarding a stormwater pond maintenance contract, and two development actions: a site plan and conditional use permit for 709 Jefferson Avenue and a subzone change for the Industrial Park. The council will also discuss a request to support Carver County LRIP funding for County State‑Aid Highway 27 improvements and a pay application for the sanitary sewer extension.

• Resolution 2025-55 – Approving 709 Jefferson Avenue site plan and conditional use permit
• Resolution 2025-56 – Approving Industrial Park subzone change
• Resolution 2025-54 – Supporting Carver County LRIP funding request for CSAH 27 improvements
• Resolution 2025-53 – 2026 waste hauler licenses
• Resolution 2025-50 – 2026 2 AM liquor license for Riverside

The Watertown City Council approved several items, including a conditional use permit for cannabis cultivation at 709 Jefferson Avenue. It also approved a subzone change for the industrial park, awarded a $22,950 stormwater pond maintenance contract, and certified delinquent utility charges. Additional actions included adopting the agenda, consent agenda, authorizing an employment offer for the Deputy Clerk Treasurer, and approving the claims roster.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-49 certifying delinquent utility charges (5-0)
• Awarded stormwater pond maintenance project to Schneider Excavating & Grading, Inc. for $22,950.00 (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-55 allowing cannabis cultivation at 709 Jefferson Avenue (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-56 changing industrial park subzone from B to C (5-0)
• Authorized employment offer to Kelly Wynn for Deputy Clerk Treasurer position at $72,737.00 (5-0)
• Approved claims roster as presented (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council will hold a work session to discuss an e-bike policy and a service project named for William Mandt. The meeting is scheduled for November 25, 2025.

• Presentation: William Mandt Service Project
• Discussion: E-Bike policy
• Work Session: City Council
• Location: 309 Lewis Avenue South, Watertown, MN 55388

The council heard a presentation on damage caused by e‑bikes in Wildflower Park. Members discussed the difference between e‑bikes and e‑moto bikes and how state law defines them. The council agreed that information about the rules and possible fines should be shared with parents.

• Council agreed to provide information to parents about e‑bike rules and penalties

Economic Development Authority

The Economic Development Authority will discuss the 2026 Irish Fine Arts Festival and options for downtown facades and murals. The body will also review the EDA fund balance history from 2020 to 2024.

• 2026 Irish Fine Arts Festival discussion
• EDA Fund Balance History 2020 - 2024 review
• Downtown facades and murals discussion

The Watertown Economic Development Authority adopted the agenda unanimously. It approved a $500.00 donation to the Watertown Area Fine Arts Council for the 2026 Irish Fine Arts Festival, also by a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned at 10:30 am.

• Adopted agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved $500.00 donation to Watertown Area Fine Arts Council for 2026 Irish Fine Arts Festival (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:30 am (motion carried)

Park & Recreation Commission

The Watertown Park & Recreation Commission will meet to discuss the Adopt-A-Park program and rank trail connection priorities. The body will also review a tennis court resurfacing project and a project tracker.

• Adopt-A-Park Program discussion
• Trail connection priority ranking
• Tennis court resurfacing project discussion
• Project tracker review

The Watertown Park & Recreation Commission approved the meeting agenda with a 5‑0 vote. The commission then adjourned the meeting, also by a 5‑0 vote. Other items such as Adopt‑A‑Park, trail priorities, and a tennis court resurfacing were discussed but no formal actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The commission adopted its agenda, approved a conditional use permit for Frost Leaf, LLC to operate a cannabis cultivation business at 709 Jefferson Ave SW, and recommended changing the remaining industrial park properties from subzone B to subzone C. All motions passed unanimously (4‑0). The meeting was adjourned at 7:34 p.m.

• Adopt agenda (4‑0)
• Approve recommendation for cannabis cultivation permit at 709 Jefferson Ave SW (4‑0)
• Recommend subzone change for remaining industrial park properties from B to C (4‑0)
• Adjourn meeting at 7:34 p.m. (4‑0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will consider several approvals, including the 2025 Mill and Overlay Project Pay Application No. 1 and Water Tower Pay Application No. 12. A request for approval of a Utility Billing Professional Services Agreement with CMG Advisors will be discussed. Council members will also discuss 2026 appointment requests and review the November 12, 2025 claims report.

• Approve 2025 Mill and Overlay Project Pay Application No. 1
• Approve Water Tower Pay Application No. 12
• Request approval of Utility Billing Professional Services Agreement – CMG Advisors
• 2026 City Council appointment discussion and requests
• Review November 12, 2025 claims

The council approved the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It authorized a professional services agreement with CMG Advisors for utility billing at up to $7,500. The claims roster was also approved. Council members discussed keeping 2026 appointments unchanged.

• Agenda approved (5-0)
• Consent agenda approved (5-0)
• Approved 2025 Mill and Overlay Project Pay Application No.1 (as part of consent agenda, 5-0)
• Approved Water Tower Pay Application No.12 (as part of consent agenda, 5-0)
• Authorized utility billing professional services agreement with CMG Advisors, not to exceed $7,500 (5-0)
• Claims roster approved (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council work session on November 12, 2025 includes a discussion of the 2026 budget and the city's capital improvement program. No specific decisions or votes are listed on the agenda. The meeting also contains standard procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and adjournment.

• 2026 Budget & Capital Improvement Program discussion (refer to ALL BUDGET AND CIP WORKSHOP.PDF)

The Watertown City Council held a work session on November 12, 2025. Administrative Services Director Michael Sommerfeld presented a budget summary and the council discussed the 2026 budget and capital improvement plan. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Commission on Aging

The Watertown Commission on Aging will hold a meeting to hear a presentation by Richard Schimmel and a transportation update from Richard Dailing. The agenda includes a Carver County update from an Arboretum meeting presented by Kara Cassidy and a discussion of an Xcel Energy donation led by Chris Boerner. The commission will also review old business items such as the Coffee With The Doctor event on Nov. 8 and planning for the 2025 Holiday Senior Dinner on Dec. 2.

• Presentation – Richard Schimmel
• Transportation discussion – Richard Dailing
• Carver County update from Arboretum meeting – Kara Cassidy
• Xcel Energy donation discussion – Chris Boerner
• Planning for 2025 Holiday Senior Dinner – Dec. 2

The Watertown Commission on Aging added item 4.F (Tracey Taylor – Community Ed Calendar) to the agenda and adopted it with a 9‑0 vote. The commission also approved the October 1, 2025 minutes by a 9‑0 vote and then adjourned the meeting with a 9‑0 vote.

• Adopt agenda as amended to include 4.F. Tracey Taylor – Motion carried 9-0
• Approve October 1, 2025 minutes – Motion carried 9-0
• Adjourn meeting – Motion carried 9-0

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will approve minutes from recent meetings and consider several authorization requests. Items include accepting a grant to purchase grain‑bin rescue equipment, a PERA increase for the fire department for 2026, temporary 10‑minute parking signage for Crow River Liquors, use of a grant navigator, and plans for storm‑pond maintenance and a State Street topographic survey.

• Accept grant award and purchase grain bin rescue equipment
• Fire Department PERA increase for 2026 (Resolution 2025-47)
• Temporary 10‑minute parking signage for Crow River Liquors
• Utilize League of Minnesota Cities Grant Navigator (Resolution 2025-48)
• Prepare plans and specifications for storm pond maintenance

The council unanimously adopted the meeting agenda and consent agenda. It approved a resolution to raise the PERA benefit level for vested Watertown firefighters to $5,000 per year. The council also authorized a temporary parking sign for Crow River Liquors, a grant‑navigator application, storm‑pond maintenance planning, and a topographic survey for the State Street storm sewer project.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-47 to increase PERA benefit level for vested Watertown firefighters (5-0)
• Approved temporary 10‑minute parking sign permit for Crow River Liquors with conditions (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-48 to authorize staff to apply for League of Minnesota Cities Grant Navigator program (5-0)
• Approved authorization to prepare plans and specifications for 2025 storm pond maintenance project and to solicit quotes (5-0)
• Approved authorization for staff to conduct preliminary topographic survey for State Street storm sewer project (5-0)
• Approved claims roster as presented (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council work session will review a budget workshop document, consider a staff memo on a school resource officer, and discuss the scope of a Lewis Avenue LRIP grant application. No formal decisions are indicated; the items are for discussion.

• Budget Workshop – review of 2025 budget materials (10-28-25 BUDGET WORKSHOP.PDF)
• School Resource Officer Discussion – staff memo review (STAFF MEMO - SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICER DISCUSSION.PDF)
• Lewis Avenue LRIP Grant Application Scope Discussion – draft figures (LEWIS AVENUE FIGURE - DRAFT.PDF)

The council met for a work session on October 28, 2025. Presentations covered the 2026 preliminary budget, a possible cost‑share for a school resource officer, and the scope of a Lewis Avenue LRIP grant application. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will discuss a request for authorization of an infrastructure improvement capital bonding request. The agenda also includes a grant application for the Local Road Improvement Program, approval of Water Tower Pay Request No. 11, a step movement for Michael Sommerfeld, and a temporary liquor license for the Lions Club. Additionally, the council will vote on rescheduling the November 11th work session and regular meeting.

• Approve Water Tower Pay Request No. 11
• Approve Step Movement for Michael Sommerfeld
• Approve Lions Club Temporary Liquor License
• Request authorization for Local Road Improvement Program grant application
• Request authorization for Infrastructure Improvement Capital Bonding Request

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council work session will consider three staff‑memo items. Council members will discuss the William Mandt Service Project, a plaque and dedication ceremony for the City Hall flagpole, and a fire‑department lock‑box program for seniors. No decisions are noted in the agenda.

• William Mandt Service Project – discussion
• City Hall flagpole plaque and dedication ceremony – discussion
• Fire Department lock box program for seniors – discussion

The council reviewed a staff memo about a bronze plaque for the City Hall flagpole, estimating a cost of about $4,000 and considering partnership with the Legion and Lions Club. They also heard a request to create a reduced‑cost lockbox program for seniors, noting existing fire‑department lockboxes. No formal actions or votes were taken; further cost details and discussions are planned for future meetings.

Economic Development Authority

The Watertown Economic Development Authority will discuss several initiatives at its October 13 meeting. Items include a shop‑local billboard, a recap of Developer Day, an update on the Festival of Lights, the Boardwalk Facade Program, and the 2026 EDA property tax levy. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Shop Local Billboard Discussion
• Developer Day Recap
• Festival Of Lights Update & Discussion
• Boardwalk Facade Program Discussion
• 2026 EDA Property Tax Levy

The Economic Development Authority approved its agenda unanimously. It voted to split the cost of an eight‑week billboard with the Watertown Chamber of Commerce. The board also approved the 2026 EDA property tax levy. The meeting was adjourned at 2:20 p.m.

• Approved agenda (4‑0)
• Approved split cost for 8‑week billboard with Chamber (4‑0)
• Approved 2026 EDA Property Tax Levy (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging will meet to review old business and plan upcoming senior programming. The body will discuss a walkability study and two scheduled senior events.

• SHIP Grant - Watertown Walkability Study
• Senior Coffee Talk - Your Getting Older Now What?
• Senior Dinner on December 2, 2025

The Watertown Commission on Aging adopted the meeting agenda and approved the August 6, 2025 minutes, each with an 8‑0 vote. The SHIP Grant for the Watertown Walkability Study was tabled for a later date. No other formal actions were recorded.

• Adopt agenda (8-0)
• Approve August 6, 2025 minutes (8-0)
• Table SHIP Grant – Watertown Walkability Study (postponed)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will vote on a request to authorize a 2025 preliminary tax levy to be collected in 2026. The council will also consider rezoning and site‑plan approvals for properties on Jefferson Avenue and Highway 25, as well as several permit requests including a street closure for a WACC Trick‑or‑Treat event, Everlight Solar peddlers permits, and a letter of credit reduction for The Cove Development. Additional items include a request to purchase a fire command vehicle replacement. The meeting will end with an open forum and review of September 23, 2025 claims.

• Approve street closure for WACC Trick‑or‑Treat event
• Approve Everlight Solar peddlers permits
• Approve letter of credit reduction for The Cove Development
• Request authorization for 2025 preliminary tax levy for collection in 2026 (Resolutions 2025‑40 & 2025‑41)
• Request authorization for rezoning of 309 Jefferson Ave (Ordinance #450) and site‑plan approval (Resolution 2025‑42)

The Watertown City Council adopted the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It approved a preliminary tax levy of $3,700,632 for 2026 (scenario two) with a 4‑1 vote and a $30,000 EDA levy unanimously. The council also approved several rezoning, site‑plan and conditional‑use actions and authorized a fire command vehicle purchase up to $83,222.24.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Adopted preliminary tax levy for 2026 scenario two ($3,700,632) (4-1)
• Approved $30,000 EDA levy for 2026 (5-0)
• Approved rezoning and site‑plan for 309 Jefferson Ave, amending subzone to B (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance #450 amending the city zoning code (5-0)
• Approved site‑plan and conditional‑use permit for 709 Jefferson Ave cannabis cultivation (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of fire command vehicle up to $83,222.24 (5-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Watertown Economic Development Authority will discuss details for an upcoming Developer Day. Items include the invitation list, venue and food menu, presentation content, and a city tour. The meeting is otherwise procedural with roll call and agenda adoption.

• Developer Day Discussion
• Invitation List & Invites
• Venue & Food Menu
• Presentation
• City Tour

Park & Recreation Commission

The Watertown Park & Recreation Commission will approve the minutes from meetings on May 21, June 18, and July 16, 2025. It will discuss the Adopt‑a‑Park sponsorship program, recent 311 service requests, plans for City Center Park, and maintenance of park signage. Staff will provide updates before the meeting adjourns.

• Approve May 21, 2025 park commission minutes
• Approve June 18, 2025 park commission minutes
• Approve July 16, 2025 park commission minutes
• Discuss Adopt‑a‑Park sponsorship program
• Discuss City Center Park

The commission unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from May 21, June 18, and July 16, 2025. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:03 p.m. with a 7‑0 vote. No other actions were formally decided.

• Approve agenda as presented (7‑0)
• Approve May 21, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Approve June 18, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Approve July 16, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Adjourn meeting at 8:03 p.m. (7‑0)

Planning Commission

The Watertown Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three development proposals. The agenda includes a rezoning request and site plan review for 309 Jefferson Avenue. It also includes conditional use permit requests and site plan reviews for 2910 Highway 25 and 709 Jefferson Avenue.

• Public hearing – 309 Jefferson Avenue – rezoning request and site plan review
• Public hearing – 2910 Highway 25 – conditional use permit request and site plan review
• Public hearing – 709 Jefferson Avenue – conditional use permit request and site plan review

The commission approved its agenda and the minutes from July 31 and August 14, 2025. It voted unanimously to recommend the City Council approve a conditional use permit for automobile sales at 2910 Highway 25 and another for a cannabis cultivation business at 709 Jefferson Avenue. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes from July 31 and August 14, 2025 (5-0)
• Recommended City Council approve conditional use permit for automobile sales at 2910 Highway 25 (5-0)
• Recommended City Council approve conditional use permit for cannabis cultivation at 709 Jefferson Avenue (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will consider several items, including the award of the 2025 sanitary sewer televising project and a procurement recommendation for a box culvert on County State‑Aid Highway 27. They will also discuss authorizations for a new flag pole at City Hall and a new mower purchase, as well as pay requests for the water tower and wastewater treatment plant.

• Award of 2025 Sanitary Sewer Televising Project
• CSAH 27 Box Culvert Procurement Recommendation
• City Hall Flag Pole Request for Authorization
• Mower Purchase Request for Authorization
• Water Tower Pay Request No. 10

The Watertown City Council approved an amended agenda and a consent agenda unanimously. It awarded the 2025 sanitary sewer televising project to Superior Sewer Services, authorized a box culvert for CSAH 27, and approved purchases of a city‑hall flag pole and a lawn mower. The council also terminated employee Kimberly Block effective immediately, including all owed pay.

• Amended agenda approved (5-0)
• Consent agenda approved (5-0)
• Awarded sanitary sewer televising project to Superior Sewer Services for $31,638 (5-0)
• Authorized acquisition and delivery of 4'x6' box culvert (estimated $20,000) for CSAH 27 (5-0)
• Approved purchase of city‑hall flag pole for $9,564.50 (5-0)
• Approved purchase of Hustler Hyperlink mower for $13,000 (5-0)
• Approved claims roster as presented (5-0)
• Terminated Kimberly Block effective immediately, including all owed pay (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council will hold a budget workshop to review the 2026 preliminary budget. The session is scheduled for September 9, 2025.

• Budget Workshop #2
• 2026 Preliminary Budget

The work session featured a presentation of the 2026 preliminary budget by Administrative Services Director Michael Sommerfeld. No motions, approvals, denials, or votes were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 6:14 p.m.

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council will discuss a final plat review for a residential addition and an ordinance regarding grass and weed maintenance. The body will also consider infrastructure payments and park railing replacements.

• Resolution 25-40: Cove At River Ridge 2nd Addition Final Plat Review
• Ordinance 448: Amending Chapter 26 - Article IV Grass And Weed Maintenance
• Rapid Waters Park Pedestrian Bridge Railing Replacement
• Sanitary Sewer Extension Pay Application No. 6
• Crow River Bank And Fishing Pier Project Pay Application No. 7 - Final

The council approved the final plat review for the second addition of The Cove at River Ridge, adding 25 lots and completing Driftwood and Sienna Drives (5‑0). It also approved several ordinances and project quotes, including a solid‑waste amendment, a grass‑maintenance code change, a new city‑hall flagpole, and direction on the state flag (all 5‑0). Additionally, the claims roster and a pedestrian bridge railing quote were approved (5‑0).

• Approved final plat review for 2nd addition of The Cove at River Ridge (25 lots) (5‑0)
• Approved quote for Rapid Waters Park pedestrian bridge railing replacement ($5,112.36) (5‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 448 to amend Chapter 26 on grass, weed, and brush maintenance (steep slopes ≥3:1) (5‑0)
• Directed staff to proceed with Option #1 for state flag usage (5‑0)
• Approved solicitation of quotes for a new 40‑foot City Hall flagpole (5‑0)
• Approved Ordinance 449 to amend Chapter 50 solid‑waste code, removing certain material restrictions and the city compost site (5‑0)
• Approved the claims roster as presented (5‑0)
• Approved the consent agenda (5‑0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council held a work session on August 26, 2025. Acting Mayor Deborah Everson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. and adjourned at 6:28 p.m. Administrative Services Director Michael Sommerfeld presented the first budget workshop for the 2026 fiscal year. No motions, votes, or formal actions were recorded.

Planning Commission

The commission adopted the agenda, approved a recommendation to the City Council for the final plat of the Cove at River Ridge 2nd Addition with a sidewalk extension, and adjourned the meeting. All motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Adopted agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved Planning Commission recommendation to City Council for Cove at River Ridge 2nd Addition final plat, including sidewalk extension (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda, then adopted Ordinance No. 447 to regulate cannabis business registration. The council also approved three land‑use resolutions for a cellular antenna, a subzone change on Jefferson Avenue, and a site‑plan amendment on Highway 25, hired Wyatt Tesch as utility operator, and created a personnel committee. All motions carried 4‑0.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance No. 447 regulating cannabis business registration (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-37 amending the conditional use permit for a cellular antenna at 700 Lewis Ave N (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-38 amending the subzone for 701‑709 Jefferson Ave SW (4-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-39 amending the site plan for 2910 Highway 25 (4-0)
• Approved hiring of Wyatt Tesch as Utility Operator I (4-0)
• Approved establishment of a personnel committee (4-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council work session on August 12, 2025 was attended by Mayor Mike Walters and councilmembers Jim Kasheimer, Kay Thul, and Fred McGuire. Residents from the Forest Hills development presented complaints about mowing, median condition, monument signs, and trees. No motions, votes, or formal decisions were recorded during the meeting.

Commission on Aging

The commission approved its agenda and the July 2 minutes unanimously. Richard Dailing was appointed Vice President with a 7‑0 vote. A motion to cancel the September Commission on Aging meeting passed 5‑2. The meeting was adjourned by a 7‑0 vote.

• Agenda approved (7-0)
• July 2 minutes approved (7-0)
• Richard Dailing appointed Vice President (7-0)
• September meeting canceled (5-2)
• Meeting adjourned (7-0)

Planning Commission

The commission adopted its agenda and approved the minutes from December 2024 and April 2025 meetings. It approved an amendment to AT&T's conditional use permit at 700 Lewis Avenue (6‑0). It also voted to move the entire building at 709 Jefferson Avenue SW to subzone C (5‑1). The meeting was adjourned (6‑0).

• Adopt agenda – motion carried 6‑0
• Approve December 12, 2024 minutes – motion carried 6‑0
• Approve April 10, 2025 minutes – motion carried 6‑0
• Approve AT&T antenna CUP amendment at 700 Lewis Avenue – motion carried 6‑0
• Recommend subzone change for 709 Jefferson Avenue SW building to subzone C – motion carried 5‑1 (Jim Rivord voted nay)
• Adjourn meeting – motion carried 6‑0

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council approved the purchase of a 3,000‑gallon brine tank (5‑0). It also authorized the city to solicit quotes for a 60" zero‑turn mower and for a replacement fire command vehicle (each 5‑0). A temporary 10‑minute parking sign permit was approved by a 4‑1 vote. The claims roster was adopted unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved purchase of 3,000‑gallon brine tank (5‑0)
• Authorized solicitation of quotes for a 60" zero‑turn mower (5‑0)
• Authorized solicitation of quotes for a replacement fire command vehicle (5‑0)
• Approved temporary 10‑minute parking sign permit (4‑1)
• Adopted claims roster as presented (5‑0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (5‑0)

Park & Recreation Commission

Commission members approved the agenda after a motion by Terry Gallagher and a second by Jack Lynch. Commissioners discussed numerous trail and sidewalk gaps but did not approve any specific projects. The meeting was adjourned at 8:11 p.m. by a unanimous motion.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:11 p.m. (7-0)

City Council Meetings

The council approved Resolution 2025-31 authorizing a change order to add a sump manhole and SAFL baffle to the 2025 Mill & Overlay contract, costing $36,244 with a $25,000 grant, leaving $11,244 for the city. The council also approved the Tour de Tonka special event, a street‑closure for filming, the Rails‑to‑Trails fireworks display, the amended agenda, the consent agenda, and the claims roster. All motions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Approved Resolution 2025-31 change order for Mill & Overlay project (5‑0)
• Approved Tour de Tonka 58‑mile bike ride special event (5‑0)
• Approved street‑closure request for Nail Centered Productions filming July 14‑17 (5‑0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-32 Rails‑to‑Trails fireworks display (5‑0)
• Amended agenda to add sinkhole discussion item 5A and fireworks item 5E (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (5‑0)
• Approved claims roster as presented (5‑0)

Commission on Aging

The commission approved its agenda and the June 4, 2025 minutes unanimously. It voted 7‑0 to recommend Tracey Taylor’s appointment to the City Council. The board decided the Rails‑to‑Trails food vendor idea cannot be done at this time. The meeting was adjourned 7‑0.

• Approved agenda (7-0)
• Approved June 4, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Recommended Tracey Taylor for City Council (7-0)
• Decided Rails-to-Trails food vendor not possible (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

City Council Meetings

The council adopted the meeting agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It accepted the 2024 financial audit and tabled a resolution on Rails to Trails street closures. Members approved a three‑year towing contract with R&V Service and authorized solicitation for a 3,000‑gallon dual‑wall salt‑brine storage tank. The claims roster was also approved.

• Adopt agenda as presented (motion carried 5-0)
• Adopt consent agenda as presented (motion carried 5-0)
• Accept 2024 financial audit (Resolution 2025-25) (motion carried 5-0)
• Table resolution for 2025 Rails to Trails street closures (motion carried 5-0)
• Approve 2025 towing contract with R&V Service and Towing, LLC (motion carried 5-0)
• Approve solicitation of quotes for 3,000‑gallon dual‑wall salt brine storage tank (motion carried 5-0)
• Approve claims roster (motion carried 5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council work session addressed the need for a social media policy and revisions to the city website and Facebook page. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded on these items.

Park & Recreation Commission

The commission assigned members to review specific trail sections (A1‑A5 to Terry Gallagher, A6‑A9 to Jack Lynch, A10‑A12 to Brad Kipp, B1‑B6 to Matt Renz, C1‑C4 to Amy Mandt). A motion to adjourn was moved by Amy Mandt, seconded by Terry Gallagher, and carried 5‑0. No other formal approvals or denials were recorded.

• Assign Terry Gallagher to review trails A1‑A5
• Assign Jack Lynch to review trails A6‑A9
• Assign Brad Kipp to review trails A10‑A12
• Assign Matt Renz to review trails B1‑B6
• Assign Amy Mandt to review trails C1‑C4
• Motion to adjourn carried 5‑0

City Council Meetings

The council adopted the agenda and consent agenda, approving items such as the appointment to the Commission on Aging. It authorized the purchase of a Bobcat T76 skid steer for $94,754.43. It also approved a temporary 10‑minute parking sign permit for Crow River Liquors on Lewis Avenue for July 4‑6. The claims roster was approved and the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m.

• Adopted agenda as presented (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items, including commission appointment (4-0)
• Approved purchase of Bobcat T76 skid steer for $94,754.43 (4-0)
• Approved temporary sign permit for Crow River Liquors, July 4‑6, with conditions (4-0)
• Approved claims roster (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:25 p.m. (4-0)

City Council Worksession

The council met on June 10, 2025 to discuss recent emergency private water line repairs and to receive an update on the city compost site. City Administrator Dan Tolsma and Public Services Lead Mike Loehrs provided the information. No motions were adopted, voted on, or deferred. The meeting was adjourned at 6:27 p.m.

Economic Development Authority

The Authority voted to adjourn the June 9, 2025 meeting at 1:52 p.m. with a 4‑0 vote. No other decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Commission on Aging

The Commission on Aging appointed Susan Kantorowicz as a member by an 8‑1 vote. The board also set the Senior Dinner for December 9, 2025 with a unanimous 9‑0 vote. The meeting was adjourned until July 2, 2025 by a 9‑0 vote. Earlier motions to adopt the agenda and approve prior minutes passed unanimously.

• Adopt agenda (7-0)
• Approve April 2 and May 7, 2025 minutes (7-0)
• Recommend and appoint Susan Kantorowicz to the Commission (8-1)
• Set Senior Dinner date for December 9, 2025 (9-0)
• Adjourn meeting until July 2, 2025 (9-0)

City Council Meetings

The council adopted Resolution 2025‑23, rescinding a prior resolution and creating Tax Increment Financing District 2‑8 (5‑0). It approved a change order to extend the sanitary sewer extension project (5‑0), authorized a $36,244 addition of a sump manhole and saffle baffle to the 2025 Mill & Overlay contract (4‑1), and awarded the Pocket Park lighting upgrade to Xcel Energy (5‑0). All motions were carried with the recorded vote tallies.

• Adopted Resolution 2025‑23 to establish TIF District 2‑8 (5‑0)
• Approved change order for sanitary sewer extension project (5‑0)
• Authorized sump manhole and saffle baffle addition to Mill & Overlay contract ($36,244) (4‑1)
• Awarded Pocket Park lighting project to Xcel Energy (5‑0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5‑0)
• Approved claims roster as presented (5‑0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:47 p.m. (5‑0)

City Council Worksession

The council heard a presentation on illegal dumping at the city compost site. It then instructed staff to research the cost of installing a gate, a security camera system, and a possible entry control system. No vote tally was recorded.

• Directed staff to research cost of a gate, security cameras, and entry system for the compost site

Park & Recreation Commission

The commission approved its agenda and the April 16, 2025 minutes unanimously. It voted to recommend the Red Devils' security fence proposal for Highland Park to the city council. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda as presented (6-0)
• Approved April 16, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Recommended fence installation to council (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council unanimously adopted the meeting agenda and the consent agenda. It approved the 2025 Pavement Maintenance Project, a $146,448.60 street and trail repair effort, with a 5‑0 vote. The council also authorized $38,419 from the CIP fund to pay the remaining balance for the well drawdown gauge equipment, also by a 5‑0 vote. Additionally, the council approved the CLAMS roster with a 5‑0 vote.

• Adopt agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adopt consent agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approve 2025 Pavement Maintenance Project – $146,448.60 total cost (5-0)
• Authorize CIP funds to pay $38,419 outstanding balance for well drawdown gauges (5-0)
• Approve CLAMS roster as presented (5-0)
• Adjourn meeting at 7:33 p.m. (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The council discussed delinquent utility collections. It agreed to leave the existing ordinance as is for now. The council also agreed that future unpaid water bills will be assessed on residents' taxes in the fall.

• Ordinance on utility collections remains unchanged
• Future unpaid water bills to be assessed on residents' taxes in the fall

Commission on Aging

The Watertown Commission on Aging met on May 7, 2025 with six members present. The agenda was adopted by a 6‑0 vote. No other actions or decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Adopt agenda (6-0)

City Council Meetings

The Watertown City Council adopted the agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It authorized the purchase of a Trident T30SC floor scrubber and a Newstripe New Rider 1700 airless field sprayer for $10,750, approved an amendment to the 2023 property declaration, and authorized an employment offer to Matt Van Lith. The council also approved the claims roster and closed the meeting for a potential legal action before reopening it.

• Approved agenda as amended (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (5-0)
• Authorized purchase of Trident T30SC floor scrubber (5-0)
• Approved purchase of Newstripe New Rider 1700 paint sprayer for $10,750 (5-0)
• Authorized employment offer to Matt Van Lith (3-2)
• Approved first amendment to property declaration dated May 8, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved claims roster as presented (5-0)
• Closed meeting for potential legal action at 7:33 p.m. (5-0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council held a work session where City Attorney Jack Brooksbank presented code enforcement options. The council members listened to the discussion but did not vote on or adopt any actions. The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m.

Park & Recreation Commission

The commission approved its agenda (6-0) and the March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0). It then approved an open house at Highland Park on Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 p.m. to gather public feedback on the proposed fencing. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved agenda as presented (6-0)
• Approved March 19, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved open house on May 14 at Highland Park to solicit fence feedback (7-0)

Economic Development Authority

The Watertown Economic Development Authority adopted its agenda, amended its bylaws to set quarterly meetings, appointed new officers (President, Vice President, Treasurer), approved a $9,932.55 utility trunk fee waiver for Northern Exposure Roofing and Sheet Metal, and adjourned the meeting. All motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Adopt agenda (5-0)
• Amend bylaws to remove Assistant Treasurer, make the Administrative Services Director the Secretary, eliminate the annual meeting, and set regular meetings quarterly (5-0)
• Nominate Roxanne Wilmes as President (5-0)
• Nominate Wes Christ as Vice President (5-0)
• Nominate Cory Mitteness as Treasurer (5-0)
• Approve utility trunk fee waiver for $9,932.55 covering water, sewer and stormwater fees (5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The commission elected James Rivord as Chair and Elizabeth Schulze as Vice‑Chair (5‑0). It adopted the agenda (5‑0) and approved Jack Lynch’s appointment to the Planning Commission (5‑0). The commission then recommended the QT Environmental site‑plan amendment, allowing an automobile repair and restoration business, to the City Council with specific conditions (5‑0).

• Elected James Rivord as Commission Chair (5‑0)
• Elected Elizabeth Schulze as Vice‑Chair (5‑0)
• Adopted agenda as presented (5‑0)
• Approved Jack Lynch appointment to Planning Commission (5‑0)
• Recommended QT Environmental site‑plan amendment with conditions to City Council (5‑0)

City Council Worksession

The Watertown City Council met on April 8, 2025 for a work session. City Administrator Dan Tolsma presented an orientation and refresher training for council members, along with overviews of council bylaws, hazard mitigation, city code, major contracts, and staffing. No motions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 6:30 p.m.

City Council Meetings

The council adopted the meeting agenda and approved the consent agenda, which covered March 25 meeting minutes, WWTP payment applications, and a paint sprayer RFQ. They awarded the 2025 Mill and Overlay Project to Bituminous Roadways, Inc. for $436,220.40, voting 4-1. The council also approved the 2025 community programming grant disbursements unanimously. Additionally, the claims roster was approved and the meeting adjourned at 7:38 p.m.

• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (5-0)
• Awarded 2025 Mill and Overlay Project to Bituminous Roadways, Inc. for $436,220.40 (4-1)
• Approved 2025 community programming grant disbursements (5-0)
• Approved claims roster (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:38 p.m. (5-0)

Commission on Aging

The Watertown Commission on Aging adopted the meeting agenda with a 7‑0 vote. The commission also approved the March 5, 2025 minutes by a 7‑0 vote. After these actions, the meeting was adjourned.

• Adopt agenda (7-0 vote)
• Approve March 5, 2025 minutes (7-0 vote)
• Adjourn meeting (motion passed)

City Council Worksession

Mayor Walters announced that the council will pay $60 for meeting attendance. He also announced a new format for commissions to interview incoming commissioners themselves. The newly formed Public Safety Commission was introduced to the council.

• Set meeting pay rate to $60
• Change commission interview format to self‑interview
• Introduce newly formed Public Safety Commission

City Council Meetings

The council adopted an amendment to City Code Section 48‑16, permitting the zoning administrator to approve temporary 20‑minute parking signs for special events, with limits on duration and frequency. The council also approved a consulting agreement with DWK Clean Water Services, authorized solicitation of quotes for the 2025 pavement maintenance project, and adopted a resolution honoring retiring Utilities Superintendent Doug Kammerer. All motions were carried with the vote counts recorded in the minutes.

• Amended City Code Section 48‑16 to allow temporary parking signs (4-1)
• Accepted DWK Clean Water Services consulting agreement (5-0)
• Approved solicitation of quotes for 2025 pavement maintenance (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑13 honoring Doug Kammerer (5-0)
• Approved the claims roster (5-0)
• Motion to keep existing 20‑minute signs died (no second)
• Motion to add permanent 20‑minute signs failed (2-3)
• Adopted agenda and consent agenda (5-0 each)

Park & Recreation Commission

The commission approved the corrected minutes from November 20, 2024. Brad Kipp was elected Chair and Terry Gallagher Vice‑Chair for 2025. Commissioners also recommended Matthew Renz for the commission.

• Approved November 20, 2024 minutes (5‑0, 1 absent)
• Elected Brad Kipp as Chair (5‑0, 1 absent)
• Elected Terry Gallagher as Vice‑Chair (5‑0, 1 absent)
• Recommended Matthew Renz as commission applicant (5‑0, 1 absent)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:50 p.m. (5‑0, 1 absent)