The Chatfield city council met on April 24. Councilors Paul Novotny and Mike Urban were absent.
The Planning Commission held a public hearing on the adopted language to amend the zoning ordinance regarding parking requirements for multiple dwellings at an early April meeting. The recommended changes include one space for a one-bedroom apartment, one and a half spaces for a two-bedroom apartment, and two spaces for three or more bedrooms. The old language required one-and one-half spaces per unit.
The new language includes an alternate option if the requirements can’t be met. A statement of proof of parking will be required to show how off-street parking can work.
The city council authorized the city attorney to amend section 113-412, Parking Requirements, Multiple Dwellings, by ordinance as recommended by the Planning Commission.
Other business in brief
•Chris Giesen, EDA director, reviewed EDA activities during an annual report for 2022. He briefly pointed out some of the highlights including managing the Phase II renovation project at the Center for the Arts, renewal of a two-year Destination Marketing Organization agreement, an updated hotel market study, negotiated purchase of former People’s Energy Cooperative property on Twiford St., and the provision of assistance to current and prospective businesses.
•Two new homes were built in Chatfield in 2022.
•Steve Schlichter, wastewater treatment plant, said the facility and its staff were again awarded a Wastewater Treatment Facility Operational award in recognition of compliance with Minnesota Pollution Control Agency NPDES/SDS wastewater permit in 2022. Schlichter noted there are about 1600 wastewater treatment facilities in the state, of which, 248 were awarded this certificate.
•Schlichter pointed to the success of the 2020 energy conservation program which has allowed the facility to use 88% less water and 36% less electricity than was used in 2018.
•Richard Evans, who has been serving as a part-time officer, was hired as a full-time police officer.
•The Committee of the Whole met prior to the city council meeting. The future of the former People’s Energy Cooperative property, which is being used temporarily by public works until it can get into a long-term facility, was discussed. Giesen said they want to make sure the property benefits the community in the future.
•The second consideration of Ordinance 466, Fees, was approved, as was its publication.
•The citywide rummage sale begins on May 6.
•Approval was granted for Chatfield Western Days, Inc, to use parks and street closures for activities during the August 10-13 celebration.
•Approval was granted for the use of City Park on May 24 by Chatfield Ambulance Activities Association to celebrate EMS week.
•The next regular meeting of the city council will be held on May 8. A special meeting is scheduled for May 1.