The Hokah, Minn., City Council met on Tuesday, September 6, at the Hokah Fire Station. Mayor Lee Tippery called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. and led those attending in the Pledge of Allegiance. City Clerk Lindsey Martell and Council members Cory Lorenz, Tom Bernsdorf, Mike Walsh and Jerry Martell were present.
The Consent Agenda consisting of the August meeting minutes, bills payable, consolidated balance sheet and requests for temporary one-day liquor permits for the Fireman’s Dance, October 20, and Lions Club raffle, October 21, plus a one-day gambling permit for the Lions Club raffle were approved by the council.
Library Report
There will be a Hokah Public Library board meeting on September 19 at 5:30 p.m. at the library.
Fire Department Report
Fire Chief Lance Ross reports no major issues at the department and noted that the department has a surplus of funds for the year and no City of Hokah funds will be needed. He updated the council on the need for a new printer in order to complete reports and other paperwork. The council approved expenditure of $329 for a new printer.
Lance also reported that the five-year ISO audit was recently completed. An officer from the ISO organization visited the fire department to review policies, procedures and equipment. No significant issues were reported. The fire department ISO rating is important as the rating is used by insurance companies in setting rates not only for municipalities but also rates for residents and businesses within a city.
The council complimented Lance for his work in securing various grants that significantly help the fire department fund the cost of acquiring new replacement equipment such as fire hoses and nozzles.
Police Department
Chief Robert Schuldt reported 63 service calls during August – an average month. He reports that the video camera issues in the squad car have been resolved. Chief Schuldt will be attending the annual State of Minnesota Fire Chief meeting. He notes that recent legislation will now require police departments to carry NARCAN opioid antidote in squad cars.
Water/Wastewater/City Engineer Update
City Engineer Eli Craig reports that the emergency generator has been repaired. Well #2 has been inspected and repair work completed. He reports that the city-owned tractor that is infrequently used has maintenance issues, including a coolant leak and hydraulic lift problems. He also notes that the tires are quite old and may need replacement. After a discussion it was proposed that given the limited use of the tractor that it is offered for sale through a sealed bid process with a minimum reserve price of $5,000. The council approved the sales process.
Streets/Maintenance
City Engineer Craig reports completing cold-patching of streets at various points in the city, as well as stump grinding. Repairs are needed at the approaches to the foot bridge at Como Creek. The council approved funding the needed repairs.
Recreation Report
There were no reports available at the council meeting; however Mayor Tippery complimented the recreation department leaders and staff for their excellent service throughout the summer.
New Business
The council approved submitting the 2024 City of Hokah budget plan to the State of Minnesota.
The council meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m. The next Hokah City Council meeting will be at 6 p.m., Tuesday October 3 at the Hokah Fire Station. The public is welcome.
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