By Wanda Hanson
Meeting on the second floor of the community center, socially distancing, and wearing masks when necessary, the Houston City Council dealt with several changes brought about by COVID-19 Monday, July 13. Houston Hoedown has been cancelled, but the queen contest is being held. A request before the council for a small parade consisting of the queen, her court, and the rest of the contestants was granted. The queen and her court will be on the Hoedown float with the other six contestants following in vehicles in a small circular route through town which will take the parade past the nursing home. As councilman Tony Schultz commented, “We are trying to keep social distancing.” Volunteers will be watching the street intersections to ensure safety.
The CARES Act Funding consisting of just over $72,000 was discussed, noting that the expenditures must be necessary, unaccounted for in the current budget, and incurred between March 1, 2020, and November 15, 2020. City Clerk Michelle Quinn suggested installing half doors and sneeze guards to funnel visitors to the service window where staff could safely assist them.
Also suggested were a laptop computer, printer and laminator for Houston Nature Center. These items would save time and staff interactions since the center needs signage quite often; a laptop would also allow more options for work from home if needed. Another laptop was requested for finance, which would allow for uninterrupted communication with the finance director and could again offer work from home options if it became necessary.
Sneeze guards for in-person elections will also be requested. Other possible needs of the city could include updates for the ambulance equipment, and a possible refund of liquor licensing fees. Another possibility was additional technology for Public Works and the Police Department. Quinn commented, “If needs exist, submit them!” Any funds not used by November 15 will need to be sent back.
The Council approved a $1,000 proposal for assisting with the CARES Act money from CEDA (Community and Economic Development Associates). CEDA will research the needs of the community and suggest possible appropriate utilization of the CARES funds.
The community center will have a “soft opening,” allowing small groups such as the exercise group to use the building. It will request a document from users detailing how they will follow the COVID-19 restrictions.
The Nature Center lead, John Langheinrich was granted a wage increase to $14.50/hour. Langheinrich was commended for his initiative. He is looking into ways to increase interest and use of the center, including camping for visitors.
Probationary firefighters Nate Hahn, Matt Fitting, Brian Werner, and Andy Halvorson were reclassified as active members. Fire Chief Steve Skifton requested and received a fueling card for the fire department to allow for refueling rigs after normal business hours.
A carport located in the alley of Spruce Street needs to be moved. Police Chief Brett Hurley will “go down and ask her intentions.” Members of the council voiced their willingness to help move the carport. If it is not moved by winter’s snows, there will be a problem with snow removal in the alley.
Discussion was held about the property at 409 East Cedar. The property owner has a towing service and vehicles often exceed the 48-hour parking limit on city streets. According to the owner, he is often waiting for payments from customers. The property is not zoned for junk. Additionally, noise complaints are an on-going issue on the property. The city will be looking at the options for addressing the situation.
In other business, the MN Energy franchise agreement was granted, the contractor’s estimate (Zenke, Inc.) of $282,958.28 for the 2020 street and utilities improvements was approved, primary and general election judges were appointed, approved a purchase agreement with Brian Jon Ohland for a lot in the Prairie Meadows Addition, and accepted the quote ($6,448.78) from Kevin Larsen Construction for the repair of the new community center awning.
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