The Whalan City Council gratefully received a $200 donation from the Root River Community Church during the November 10 council meeting held at the Whalan Town Hall.
Present at the meeting were Mayor David Hallum along with council members Thore E. Johnson, Sheila Higbe, Owen Lewis (via Zoom) and Kim Berekvam. City Clerk/Treasurer Teresa Grossell was also in attendance.
Councilmember Higbe made a comment at the beginning of the meeting, which was held the day before Veterans Day, thanking all of the veterans that have served and are currently serving.
The council approved the agenda with two additions under New Business, the Minutes from October 13 council meeting and the Treasurer’s Report as presented by Grossell.
Continued Business
Grossell provided the council with an update on liquor license regulations and other related ordinance updates. The Planning Commission has been going through the liquor license ordinance. Each month the council has been considering recommendations such as changes in verbiage.
The council discussed the City of Whalan Fee Schedule. The fee for an on-sale liquor license is $250 and the fee for a wine license is $125. Council members thought it was important to keep fees low as small business owners face a wide array of costs.
The city council once again reviewed the 2026 Draft Budget, making minor adjustments. The council will continue to review the draft budget until the December council meeting when the budget must be finalized.
New Business
Grossell presented councilmembers with a 2026 meeting date schedule for council meetings. There appears to be no conflicts with the dates listed. Council meetings will continue to be held on the second Monday of each month at 5 p.m.
Hallum informed the council that Whalan is putting together a float for the upcoming Legion Lights parade in Lanesboro on November 29. Anyone who wishes to be involved can contact the city office. There will be a lighting ceremony at 5 p.m. with the parade to follow.
The council approved to accept a donation from the Root River Community Church in the amount of $200. The council shared their appreciation for the donation.
In her update to the council, Grossell noted once again that there is a vacancy on the Planning Commission. In addition, three seats will have their terms ending, so depending on if those current members stay on the committee or not, other seats may become vacant soon. Anyone who is interested in joining the Planning Committee can contact the city office.
From November 24 through December 4, 2025, messages left on the city of Whalan voicemail will be taken care of after December 4.
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