Chatfield’s New Year Business

The Chatfield City Council met on January 12 for its first meeting in 2026. Councilor Paul Novotny was absent.

Mayor John McBroom reviewed some of the highlights of 2025 including the street project, the replacement of retaining walls, the addition of some new homes and the opening of the coffee shop. In 2026 the city will bring in a new police chief after the retirement of Chief Shane Fox in the coming months. McBroom recognized several departments that have contributed to the betterment of our community.

Councilor Dave Frank was elected to serve as vice mayor. A list of mayoral appointments to the various committees, boards, commissions and economic development authority was approved. Councilor Mike Urban urged citizens to consider giving back to their community; there are some vacancies on a few of these committees. A summary listing the committees that each councilor is assigned to was provided. Fred Suhler Jr. will continue as general counsel and Lee Novotny will continue as the prosecuting attorney. The official newspaper is the Chatfield News. 

The annual budget and financial reference guide was presented for review. The 2026 annual distribution of the Financial, Management Policies, Accounting Procedures & Internal Controls was approved as presented. This is a framework used to build and sustain consistent operations.

Other Business in Brief

• A resolution was adopted accepting annual Chatfield Fire Department Fund Drive donations in the amount of $175.
• A resolution was adopted accepting Chatfield Ambulance Department Fund Drive donations in the amount of $450.
• A resolution was adopted accepting a Chatfield Public Library donation from Nancy Arnold in the amount of $100 to be used for capital purchases.
• The approval of annual liquor licenses and renewals for ten Chatfield businesses were approved.
• Councilor Mike Urban reported on the Public Works Committee. He said there have been a few sewer backups around town; the incidents and the current policy (no-fault sewer back-up and water main break policy) were reviewed. No action was taken this day.
• Urban reported on the Personnel/Budget Committee. The committee reviewed the monthly financial report; they also discussed the 2026 ABC Contract, city office hours, the updating of the personnel policy, the Schoenfelder Farms agricultural lease for 2026 and the Leave Sharing Policy. No actions were taken this day.
• City Administrator Michelle Peterson said we are looking forward to another great year, kicking it off with ChillFest on February 7 and 8.