At the October 9 meeting of the Chatfield City Council, Dan Jaquith described the purpose of the plan. He maintained that the city’s emergency services and local government are very prepared. They will respond professionally to protect lives and property. Efforts will be made to get utilities back on line as soon as possible after a disaster.
The plan is a guide for emergency operations in the case of a natural disaster or other major disaster that is a threat to public health and/or safety. There is a unified structure/command that includes the fire department, ambulance services, law enforcement, and the provision of city services.
Outside resources that will be available to assist are identified in the plan. Emergency services can also reach out to the private sector when needed. The updated plan was approved as presented.
Other business in brief
• The council approved an update to Fire Relief Bylaws. Brian Burkholder, treasurer of the Fire Relief Association, explained that the update was presented by Luke Thieke to the public services committee a few weeks ago. This update mostly makes the bylaws more clear and understandable.
• A pay estimate for the street and utility project on Industrial Dr. from Edge Contracting, Inc. totaled $141,012.17. Approval was given for a payment of $133,961.56, which allows for a retainage of $7,050.61.
• Burkholder reported that one of the three blowers at the treatment plant has broken down. He had received an estimate to rebuild the blower from Kaeser Compressors in the amount of $3,468 plus shipping and inspection fee. Kaeser quoted them the price for a new blower at $3,318 plus shipping. The council approved the purchase of a new blower at the price quoted.
• An agreement with Explore Minnesota Tourism was approved. The city agrees to distribute travel/tourism information at the Chatfield Tourism Welcome Center.
• Mayor Russ Smith reported on the Committee of the Whole meeting that was held before this meeting of the city council. This year’s budget was discussed; members are looking for ways to lower the preliminary budget. He said they are working to be as frugal as possible.
Possible changes to the city’s charter were then discussed. The Charter Commission was formed a year and a half ago. The commission has suggested a change in the structure of government to a council/manager plan. They favor a “city manager” type of government as opposed to a city clerk or city administrator. The city manager would be the chief administrative officer of the city under this governing structure.
• A resolution was approved establishing an absentee ballot board. Beth Carlson explained that absentee ballots will need to be checked by this board for the local election coming up on November 7.