Caledonia city staff recommended that the council approve Resolution 2024-05 in support of the Highway 44/76 roundabout at the regularly scheduled council meeting on July 8. The council unanimously approved the resolution.
According to the resolution, the city not only supports the project but “is responsible for 100% of all costs associated with the construction of North Kingston Street; a pro-rated cost share of project mobilization, field office, field laboratory, and traffic control; and 8% of the city’s cost share for North Kingston Street construction for construction engineering.”
Robert (Bob) Burns mentioned that he spoke with the county highway commission, and they indicated that there might be another round of funding possible. He asked Dickson about any updates regarding funds for the Warrior Drive extension. Dickson acknowledged the possibility of a second legislative session and noted that without a bonding bill, the likelihood of a second session seems plausible. However, he cautioned that the inclusion of LRIP (Local Roads Improvement Program) is not guaranteed in a second session. MnDOT suggested that the city actively lobby for a second session.
Burns expressed that since the city supports the roundabout, it would be sensible to divert traffic via Warrior Drive during construction of the roundabout. Dickson agreed that Warrior Drive is the optimal choice for a detour.
Mayor DeWayne (Tank) Schroeder called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. and led his colleagues and the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Council members present included Robert (Bob) Klug, Amanda Ninneman, Mayor DeWayne (Tank) Schroeder and Ryan Stenzel. David Fitzpatrick was not in attendance.
The council unanimously approved the June 24 minutes with one correction.
Before approving the consent agenda, member Klug asked what experience and training candidate Pal Taingping has for the part-time police officer position. City Clerk/Administrator Jake Dickson answered that the applicant has all the required training. Taingping is a Federal Reserve Officer in Owatonna, where he has been serving in that capacity for several years. Dickson explained that Taingping is looking for “street activity” since Federal Reserve Officers do not have arrest power. The council moved to approve the consent agenda including the city’s payments and disbursements, the employment agreement with the police chief, and the hiring of Taingping as a part-time police officer effective September 12.
Dickson reported that stormwater is a significant concern right now due to the recent heavy rains. Public Works is currently addressing five sinkholes.
Dickson mentioned two grants. The first is a marketing initiative for the city, which will fund professionals to promote Caledonia. Another grant that Dickson is excited about is one that will provide staffing for the chamber for a couple of years. Dickson believes that this will give the Chamber more influence in the community and greater independence, reducing its reliance on volunteers for Chamber activities.
Dickson also reported that the lead and copper inventory is going well and is due by October 16. He noted that there is not a pay application on the meeting agenda due to an error. It will be on the July 22 agenda. Dickson added that they will be reviewing past bills to ensure there are no errors.
Dickson proclaimed that this year’s legislative report is not nearly as exciting as last year’s report. This year, the city did not have any sponsored legislation. Legislation that will impact Caledonia includes election laws, the Emergency Medical Services Review Board was replaced by the Office of Emergency Medical Services, Earned Sick and Safe Time rules, and Paid Family Leave. Additionally, there are new guidelines for libraries regarding book bans, as well as updates in public safety measures, transportation funds, housing policies, and changes in cannabis regulations.
The council reviewed the overtime report for the pay period from June 10-23, 2024.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:36 p.m.
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