By Zech Sindt
The Ostrander City Council held its final meeting of 2024. Despite council member Lyn Massey-Mills’ absence, the meeting, held on December 5 at 6:30 p.m., saw a full agenda quickly tackled by the members present: Dan Hellerud, DJ Start, Vernon Thompson, Mayor Pam Kunert, and City Clerk Wendy Brincks.
People’s Services, City Maintenance, and the Fillmore County Sheriff’s Office had nothing to report, indicating a quiet and uneventful month in town.
Attention then shifted to the fire department. Although the fire chief, Jason Rice, was absent, the council addressed his request to ensure the department’s continued readiness. They approved the purchase of two new batteries for the department’s backup truck, each costing approximately $200. The council also demonstrated their appreciation for everyone who keeps the town running smoothly by approving payroll for the fire department, zoning officials, and the council members themselves.
The council moved on to budgetary matters. The 2025 levy was certified without any modifications, reflecting a stable and predictable financial outlook. However, residents will see a slight increase in their sewer bills, as last month the council approved an increase in the sewer base fee from $52.23 to $55.05. On a brighter note, the water base fee remains unchanged.
But the meeting wasn’t all numbers and budgets. Santa Claus himself will be visiting the community center on December 14 at 1 p.m. Children of all ages are welcome to visit, and to continue this heartwarming tradition that embodies the spirit of community and joy.
As 2024 draws to a close, the council prepared for the coming year. Meeting dates for 2025 were set. They will be held at 6:30 p.m. on the following dates, generally on the first Tuesday of every month: January 6, February 4, March 4, April 1, May 6, June 3, July 1, August 7, September 2, October 7, November 4, November 12, and December 2. Planning commission meetings are scheduled for 7 p.m. on April 1, July 1, and November 4. The council will notify residents of any special meetings that may arise.
The council scheduled a workshop for December 12 at 6:30 p.m. to address critical issues and plan for the future. The city truck, an ongoing topic for quite a few previous meetings, will once again be a topic of discussion, as will the town’s budget. One of the most important items on the workshop agenda is the review of bids for road work. Several streets have been identified for potential improvements, including Minnesota Street west of the church, Trinity Street, and Third Street on the north side of the nursing home. The council will evaluate the bids and prioritize projects based on the town’s needs and available resources.
Finally, City Clerk Brincks announced the sale of the old school property, generating considerable interest. Brincks says it will be turned into an 1,800-square-foot residence, with possible plans to Airbnb it in the future.
With Santa coming to town, plans for a new truck in progress, the old school property sold and plans for road improvements underway, Ostrander is set for a busy 2025. Residents are encouraged to attend the upcoming council meetings to stay informed and engaged in the town’s continued development.