The Caledonia City Council went into closed session during its regular meeting on June 23 to discuss offers related to the purchase of property, in accordance with MN §13D.05.
Following the closed session, City Clerk/Administration Jake Dickson announced that the council had discussed strategies for acquiring land from the school district for the North Warrior Avenue Extension and the potential purchase of Doering Estates Phase II.
Mayor Jeremy Leis called the meeting to order at 6 p.m., followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Council members present included Bob Klug, Amanda Ninneman, David Fitzpatrick, John Rauk and Mayor Leis.
The council unanimously approved the meeting agenda, the minutes from the June 9 regular city council meeting, and the consent agenda. The consent agenda included payment of bills and disbursement, along with the approval of an LG230 off-site gambling license for American Legion Post 249 to conduct bingo at the Houston County Fairground, 203 History Lane South in Caledonia, from August 14 through August 17.
Public Comment
During the public comment period, concerns were raised by Kathryn Lamb and Traci Knutson about the two-hour parking limit in downtown Caledonia, particularly along South Kingston Street and Grove Street. They cited a lack of enforcement and noted increased traffic due to new businesses in the area and new renters on the second floors of retail buildings.
Dickson said he will follow up with the police department, and Public Works/Zoning Director Casey Klug will evaluate the current placement of parking signage.
Department Updates
Klug reported that the sidewalk at Veterans Park has been completed, and his crews are preparing to lay sod. There is broken underground pumping at the ball fields, which will be dug up this week or next week.
Klug also met with Houston County DOT and the city engineer to begin discussions on County Road 5 South Winnebago project to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Demolition has begun at the old wastewater treatment plant.
Dickson shared several administrative updates starting with the pool and ball fields, noting recurring disciplinary issues similar to last year. He and the recreation manager are addressing them. He also announced that no THC licenses have been issued in Houston County or specifically in Caledonia, to his knowledge. The next license lottery is scheduled for July 22.
He further noted a ribbon cutting at Joyful Expressions, mentioned that EDA granted one business loan, and conversations with the city attorney about the local building codes.
New Business
The council took the following actions:
• Approved a land use permit for 106 Grove Street, owned by Tracey Knutson and Bryan Spier. Plans include construction of an 18’ x 25’ concrete patio on the adjacent empty lot, a 12’ x 12’ second story wood and composite deck for access only, and installation of a 63-quare-foot sign on the front of the building. The total estimated value of project is $26,000. Rauk asked when the container would be removed. It was confirmed that it will be removed 30 days after the patio is completed.
• The Roadway Design Services Agreement was tabled until the next meeting.
• Reviewed overtime reports for the pay period ending May 25.
There was no old business.
The meeting was adjourned shortly after the council returned from the closed session.