Interim City Administrator Michelle Marotzke reviewed steps in the process to provide a referendum on the November ballot at the city council’s July 6 meeting.
The Pool Committee has been meeting regularly with consultants from Burbach Aquatics about the city’s pool. They have analyzed possible locations for a pool. The committee recommends moving the pool project to referendum. The committee prefers the provision of a simple swimming pool.
The city council unanimously approved a motion to accept a recommendation from the Park Board authorizing Marotzke to work with Taft Law to prepare a ballot question. The cost of the ballot preparation should not exceed $2,000.
Once the ballot question is prepared it will come before the city council for consideration at the council’s July 20 meeting. The ballot question needs to be provided to the county by August 11.
Other Business in Brief
•Two bids were considered for the annual 2026 and 2027 audits. The audit firm Cohn Reznick provided the low bid which was accepted in the amount of $25,000 for 2026 and $27,000 for 2027. The city has used this firm in the past.
•City Attorney Joe O’Koren had recommended the hire of an impartial hearing officer needed for an appeal case regarding a dangerous dog. Marotzke recommended the hire of Wieser Law Office at a cost not to exceed $10,000. Mayor Kurt Reicks said we need to be prepared if the case moves forward. The hire was approved as recommended.
•City hall improvements are needed. Two quotes were provided for the replacement of four doors and some windows, door controls/security, and carpet. Preston Public Utilities had not yet considered the quotes; PPU is responsible for 25% of the cost of improvements. Marotzke explained the quotes for doors/windows and door controls will go together. The low quote for doors/windows and controls would cost the city over $35,000 (75% of the total cost). The cost including the carpet replacement would be over $43,000. If the projects go forward, funds may need to come out of capital reserves.
Councilman Jon Wood wanted to have more information about the products to be used and associated warranties. Councilman Steve Hall said the priority should be windows/doors. No action was taken this day allowing time to get more information about the products and warranties.
•The process to hire a PPU general manager/Public Works director is moving forward. Five of twelve applicants were selected to be interviewed. Two candidates were selected to be interviewed again. The PPU will hold a special meeting on July 20 to determine the final candidate. If that candidate excepts the position, an employment agreement will be negotiated. It could be considered by the city council at its August 3 meeting.
•Marotzke reported that the city is responsible for maintenance of the retention ponds. MnDOT is fine with changing the pond near the school to a dry pond if it does not alter flow into the right of way. Stantec will advise on any next steps.
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