At the January 13 meeting, the Rushford Council reviewed other annual designations, appointments, fees, and other annual business. Much of it remains unchanged from 2024.
City Administrator Tony Chladek took the opportunity to reference the discussion regarding his position and work at the last council meeting.
“I want to take a step back and reflect on our progress together, on some of the challenges we’ve tackled, and get guidance on some of the priorities ahead that will shape our future,” he read from a prepared report. “While much of my focus has been on fulfilling the city’s economic development goals, I recognize the growing need to address internal operations and strengthen community connections.”
Chladek went on to note that quite a few committees utilize work sessions for in-depth topics, but the council does not. Citing a lack of feedback to his memos, he suggested the council find a way to talk collectively with the administrator about city priorities.
Some of the successes Chladek noted included the hiring of a real estate agent to sell the remaining lots in the Himlie Business Park, ending the contract with Community Economic Development Associates instead redirecting funds to other needs, repurposing the Revolving Flood Loan Program to promote housing initiatives, and launching or updating several programs. These include the Business Jump Start, Rushford Revitalization Program, Business Growth Program, and upcoming Micro-Grant modifications.The city also secured a $150,000 matching investment for a housing trust fund through a collaboration with Minnesota Housing Partnership.
Chladek also stressed the legislative advocacy by discussing partnerships built with the League of Minnesota Cities, Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, and Southeastern Minnesota League of Municipalities. He says these have “yielded significant wins, including increases in Local Government Aid, permanent funding from the state’s small cities assistance program for street maintenance, and a one-time $90,000 boost to EMT Fund.”
Chladek specifically asked the council for their feedback on his pursuit in four areas: ambulance services, staffing and organizational structure, financial stewardship, and strengthening public communications.
“I can hear one or two of you say this is what I want to do, but if I don’t hear from all of you saying this is what I want to do, it can be very confusing for an administrator,” he noted
Regarding ambulance service, he asked for confirmation in finding long-term service sustainability. The council noted several suggestions including Ambulance Director Joey Busse speaking to the council and being involved with meetings with townships and other cities covered by the service.
“It is an issue we need to keep on top of continually,” said Councilor Jim O’Donnell. “It’s all a process and it has to keep moving. You can’t let it get stagnant.”
“Daytime operation is a major problem. Finding people to fill that void is a problem. We might need to look at a more stable daytime position,” added Chladek. “This is an item that Democrats and Republicans support. We need to be sure we’re there and represented. Do we want to aggressively go after legislation?”
“Yes, but not to the detriment of our own plan. I don’t want all your time on that,” responded Councilor Sally Ryman.
“We need a clear vision of what you and Joey are working on,” added Mayor Terri Benson.
Chladek also spoke about ensuring professional continuity with staff, specifically reassessing the future of the city clerk/treasurer role to create sustainable workload. He would also like to collaborate with the union and department heads, through regular budget discussions and informal check-ins, to finalize plans, and confirmed that the timeline was amenable to the council.
Regarding financial stewardship, Chladek referenced MiEnergy’s Utility Study updates are due in May and suggested the city conduct a utility rate study to ensure long-term cost alignment and sustainability. The council agreed the timing presented a good opportunity for the city.
Lastly, to strengthen public communications Chladek suggested expanding the city’s website to include a central location for all codes and ordinances, online payments for bills, permits, and fees, and digital submission of forms. The council largely agreed that these would improve accessibility and transparency, but noted this item is not a higher priority than the others previously mentioned.
“We’ve made significant progress, but there’s more to do,” said Chladek. “Your clear direction and support will help ensure steady progress.”
In other news, there were a number of items approved in the consent agenda.
The Economic Development Authority (EDA) Jumpstart Loan details were condensed for those interested. There were also some program requirement changes including the EDA wanting to meet with business applicants.
“We want to make sure they’re applying for the right thing,” explained Ryman, and EDA member. “There are a lot of EDA programs and we want to make sure they’re getting what they really need from our programs.”
Robin Honken will serve on the Planning Commission. There remains one opening.
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