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City Council Agendas & Packets

Regular Meeting

East Grand Forks, MN · February 18, 2025

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Minutes

APPROVED MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF EAST GRAND FORKS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2025 – 5:00 PM CALL TO ORDER: The Council Meeting of the East Grand Forks City Council for Tuesday, February 18, 2025 was called to order by Council President Larson at 5:00 P.M. CALL OF ROLL: On a Call of Roll the following members of the East Grand Forks City Council were present: Council President Brian Larson, Council Vice-President Tim Riopelle, Council members Tami Schumacher, Ben Pokrzywinski, Dale Helms, Donald Casmey, and Karen Peterson. Staff Present: Karla Anderson, Finance Director; Jeff Boushee, Fire Chief; Maggie Brockling, Economic Development Director; Steve Emery, City Engineer; Ron Galstad, City Attorney; Michael Hedlund, Police Chief, Reid Huttunen, City Administrator; Jeremy King, Parks and Recreation Superintendent; Megan Nelson, City Clerk; and Jason Stordahl, Public Works Director. DETERMINATION OF A QUORUM: The Council President Determined a Quorum was present. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: OPEN FORUM: Council President Larson stated the open form was an opportunity for members of the public to address the City Council on items not on the current agenda and items requiring Council action maybe deferred to staff or Boards and Commissions for research and future Council Agendas if appropriate. He asked if anyone would like to address the City Council, please come up to the podium to do so. No one came forward. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. Consider approving the minutes of the “Council Meeting” for the East Grand Forks, Minnesota City Council of February 4, 2025. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER POKRZYWINSKI, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE, TO APPROVE THE MINUTES OF THE “COUNCIL MEETING” FOR THE EAST GRAND FORKS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL OF FEBRUARY 4, 2025. Voting Aye: Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, Helms, and Casmey. Voting Nay: None. SCHEDULED BID LETTINGS: NONE. City Council Meeting February 18, 2025 SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE CONSENT AGENDA: Items under the “Consent Agenda” will be adopted with one motion; however, council members may request individual items to be pulled from the consent agenda for discussion and action if they choose. 2. Consider approving the Special Event Application for the Grand Forks 10 event scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025 starting at 6:00am and will require the closure of the Sorlie Bridge for the start of the race for approximately 30 minutes and will be contingent upon MNDOT approval. 3. Consider approving the Special Event Application for the Red River Valley Catfish Club to hold the Scheels Boundary Battle Catfish Tournament on Saturday, June 28, 2025 contingent upon the Administration Office receiving insurance for the event. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PETERSON, TO APPROVE ITEMS TWO (2) AND THREE (3). Voting Aye: Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, Helms, and Casmey. Voting Nay: None. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS: 4. Regular meeting minutes of the Water, Light, Power, and Building Commission for January 15, 2025. COMMUNICATIONS: NONE OLD BUSINESS: NONE NEW BUSINESS: 5. Consider approving the two-year extension of the lease agreement between the City of East Grand Forks and the State of Minnesota for the use of office space in the Park Shop as a driver exam station through June 30, 2027. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER POKRZYWINSKI, TO APPROVE THE TWO-YEAR EXTENSION OF THE LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF EAST GRAND FORKS AND THE STATE OF MINNESOTA FOR THE USE OF OFFICE SPACE IN THE PARK SHOP AS A DRIVER EXAM STATION THROUGH JUNE 30, 2027. Voting Aye: Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, Helms, and Casmey. Voting Nay: None. 6. Consider approving the project plan for the Recreation Facility Improvement project which will be funded with the approved local sales and use tax for improvements to the Civic Center Sports Complex and the improvements to the VFW Memorial Arena. 2|Page City Council Meeting February 18, 2025 A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PETERSON, TO APPROVE THE PROJECT PLAN FOR THE RECREATION FACILITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT WHICH WILL BE FUNDED WITH THE APPROVED LOCAL SALES AND USE TAX FOR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE CIVIC CENTER SPORTS COMPLEX AND THE IMPROVEMENTS TO THE VFW MEMORIAL ARENA. Mr. Huttunen stated he had been preparing documents to submit to the Department of Revenue for the implementation of the local sales and use tax. He explained they requested minutes from when the Council approved the project plan, there were meetings where the plan was discussed but not formally approved, this would fulfill that request, and the information would be submitted. Voting Aye: Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, Helms, and Casmey. Voting Nay: None. CLAIMS: 7. Consider authorizing the City Administrator/Clerk-Treasurer to issue payment of recommended bills and payroll. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER POKRZYWINSKI, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CASMEY, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR/CLERK- TREASURER TO ISSUE PAYMENT OF RECOMMENDED BILLS AND PAYROLL. Voting Aye: Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, Helms, and Casmey. Voting Nay: None. COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS: Council Member Helms said the week before they had attended the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities event, they met with a lot of senators and representatives, it was the first time he had attended this event, it was quite an experience, and he learned a few things. He added he did not come back hopeful on many things because things were a mess at the State, it was still interesting because they understood the City’s issues, but he did not expect things to get done. Council Member Peterson said continuing with events taking place in the community, February 7th through the 9th the Blue Line Club along with the Parks and Recreation Department hosted the North/South Challenge hockey tournament. She explained the tournament brought 10 of the top 10 teams in the State to town which included teams from Edina, Minnetonka, Moorhead, Warroad, and Woodbury. She said over 210 hockey players competed over the three days of games, Minnetonka won the Peewee AA division championship for the second year in a row, Moorhead won the inaugural Bantum AA division Championship, and the East Grand Forks teams had great performances with Peewee AA team placing third and the Bantum AA team placed fourth. She added the Squirt division was done in a jamboree style and the East Grand Forks A team won three out of their four games. She informed the Council that Youth Hockey Hub sent a photographer to cover the event, and this event was also mentioned on the Midco broadcast of the UND hockey game because Zach Parise, Keith Ballard, and Devan Dubnyk, all former NHL players, coached one of the Edina Squirt teams. She added that all three were able to share their hockey experience with the East Grand Forks Squirt and Bantam teams, the Blue Line Club wanted to thank the community for their support of the event, and they were looking forward to hosting this event in the future. 3|Page City Council Meeting February 18, 2025 Council President Larson stated he would echo the sentiments of Council member Helms, it was a nice trip to St. Paul, there was a lot walking, and thanked Mr. Huttunen, Ms. Brockling, and Council member Helms for attending and talking about all the good things that were going on in the City. He also thanked Senator Johnson and Representative Gander for their time and support. Mr. Huttunen thanked the those that were able to go to St. Paul, it was a valuable trip for them because they were able to meet with 10 legislators over about 5 hours, and they participated in joint meetings with the City of Moorhead to meet with legislators that were on the House or Senate tax committee to discuss a possible increase in scope for the use or eligibility of the Border Cities Enterprise credits. He said Moorhead used theirs differently than the City, there were five border cities that were eligible to receive these funds, and they requested an additional appropriation to the fund that could be used by the cities on a per capita basis. He reminded the Council how the State budget forecast was projecting a deficit, and the other item was looking at what businesses were eligible or if that could be expanded because currently it focused on manufacturing or industrial type businesses. He said they asked about possibly adding health and human services along with hospitality or recreation experience businesses to be eligible for the funding to help make them more competitive compared to North Dakota. He added that seemed to be favorable, Moorhead was taking the lead on the bill, but the City would be there for support and it was something that could be moved forward. He stated they also requested to have the purchases for the upcoming recreation improvement projects to be exempt from sales tax on certain purchases, the bill would allow the City to be reimbursed for sales tax paid to the contractor, and help the funds go further on the projects. He said they also talked about local government aid increases but did not expect that due to the forecasted deficit and also requesting to keep the formula where it was so the City was not losing funding each year. He added they also brought up funding for the industrial park projects, it seemed to be favorable, because there was a need that was Statewide. He said it was a good trip and was glad he was able to go along. ADJOURN: A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CASMEY, TO ADJOURN THE FEBRUARY 18, 2025 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF THE EAST GRAND FORKS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL AT 5:14 P.M. Voting Aye: Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, Helms, and Casmey. Voting Nay: None. _______________________________________________ Megan Nelson, City Clerk 4|Page

Agenda

AGENDA OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF EAST GRAND FORKS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18, 2025 – 5:00 PM CALL TO ORDER: CALL OF ROLL: DETERMINATION OF A QUORUM: PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: OPEN FORUM: “An opportunity for members of the public to address the City Council on items not on the current Agenda. Items requiring Council action maybe deferred to staff or Boards and Commissions for research and future Council Agendas if appropriate.” APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. Consider approving the minutes of the “Council Meeting” for the East Grand Forks, Minnesota City Council of February 4, 2025. SCHEDULED BID LETTINGS: NONE. SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE CONSENT AGENDA: Items under the “Consent Agenda” will be adopted with one motion; however, council members may request individual items to be pulled from the consent agenda for discussion and action if they choose. 2. Consider approving the Special Event Application for the Grand Forks 10 event scheduled to take place on Saturday, August 23, 2025 starting at 6:00am and will require the closure of the Sorlie Bridge for the start of the race for approximately 30 minutes and will be contingent upon MNDOT approval. 3. Consider approving the Special Event Application for the Red River Valley Catfish Club to hold the Scheels Boundary Battle Catfish Tournament on Saturday, June 28, 2025 contingent upon the Administration Office receiving insurance for the event. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS: 4. Regular meeting minutes of the Water, Light, Power, and Building Commission for January 15, 2025. COMMUNICATIONS: NONE Individuals with disabilities, language barriers or other needs who plan to attend the meeting and will need special accommodations should contact Nancy Ellis, ADA Coordinator at (218)-773-2208. Please contact us at least 48 hours before the meeting to give our staff adequate time to make arrangements. Also, materials can be provided in alternative formats for people with disabilities or with limited English proficiency (LEP) by contacting the ADA Coordinator (218)-773-2208 five (5) days prior to the meeting. 1 OLD BUSINESS: NONE NEW BUSINESS: 5. Consider approving the two-year extension of the lease agreement between the City of East Grand Forks and the State of Minnesota for the use of office space in the Park Shop as a driver exam station through June 30, 2027. 6. Consider approving the project plan for the Recreation Facility Improvement project which will be funded with the approved local sales and use tax for improvements to the Civic Center Sports Complex and the improvements to the VFW Memorial Arena. CLAIMS: 7. Consider authorizing the City Administrator/Clerk-Treasurer to issue payment of recommended bills and payroll. COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS: ADJOURN: Upcoming Meetings Work Session – Tuesday, February 25, 2025 – Training Room – 5:00 PM Council Meeting – Tuesday, March 4, 2025 – Council Chambers – 5:00 PM Work Session – Tuesday, March 11, 2024 – Training Room – 5:00 PM Council Meeting – Tuesday, March 18, 2025 – Council Chambers – 5:00 PM Individuals with disabilities, language barriers or other needs who plan to attend the meeting and will need special accommodations should contact Nancy Ellis, ADA Coordinator at (218)-773-2208. Please contact us at least 48 hours before the meeting to give our staff adequate time to make arrangements. Also, materials can be provided in alternative formats for people with disabilities or with limited English proficiency (LEP) by contacting the ADA Coordinator (218)-773-2208 five (5) days prior to the meeting. 2 #1 UNAPPROVED MINUTES OF THE CITY COUNCIL CITY OF EAST GRAND FORKS TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2025 – 5:00 PM CALL TO ORDER: The Council Meeting of the East Grand Forks City Council for Tuesday, February 4, 2025 was called to order by Council President Larson at 5:00 P.M. CALL OF ROLL: On a Call of Roll the following members of the East Grand Forks City Council were present: Mayor Mark Olstad, Council President Brian Larson, Council Vice-President Tim Riopelle, Council members Tami Schumacher, Ben Pokrzywinski, Dale Helms, Donald Casmey, and Karen Peterson. Staff Present: Karla Anderson, Finance Director; Jeff Boushee, Fire Chief; Maggie Brockling, Economic Development Director; Nancy Ellis, City Planner; Steve Emery, City Engineer; Ron Galstad, City Attorney; Michael Hedlund, Police Chief, Charlotte Helgeson, Library Director; Reid Huttunen, City Administrator; Jeremy King, Parks and Recreation Superintendent; Keith Mykleseth, Water and Light General Manager; Megan Nelson, City Clerk; and Jason Stordahl, Public Works Director. DETERMINATION OF A QUORUM: The Council President Determined a Quorum was present. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: OPEN FORUM: Council President Larson stated the open form was an opportunity for members of the public to address the City Council on items not on the current agenda and items requiring Council action maybe deferred to staff or Boards and Commissions for research and future Council Agendas if appropriate. He asked if anyone would like to address the City Council, please come up to the podium to do so. No one came forward. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: 1. Consider approving the minutes of the “Council Meeting” for the East Grand Forks, Minnesota City Council of January 21, 2025. 2. Consider approving the minutes of the “Work Session” for the East Grand Forks, Minnesota City Council of January 28, 2025. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, TO APPROVE ITEMS ONE (1) AND TWO (2). Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. 3 City Council Meeting February 4, 2025 SCHEDULED BID LETTINGS: NONE. SCHEDULED PUBLIC HEARINGS: NONE CONSENT AGENDA: Items under the “Consent Agenda” will be adopted with one motion; however, council members may request individual items to be pulled from the consent agenda for discussion and action if they choose. 3. Consider approving the Exempt Gambling Permit application for the Northern Lights Figure Skating Club to hold a raffle and bingo on April 17, 2025 at the Eagle Club located at 227 10th St NW East Grand Forks, MN 56721 and waive the 30 day waiting period. 4. Consider adopting Resolution No. 25-02-13 approving the following Board and Commission appointments as presented by the appropriate elected officials. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER PETERSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CASMEY, TO APPROVE ITEMS THREE (3) AND FOUR (4). Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF REPORTS OF OFFICERS, BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS: NONE COMMUNICATIONS: NONE OLD BUSINESS: NONE NEW BUSINESS: 5. Consider approving the update to the Parks and Recreation Commission bylaws changing the meetings from monthly to quarterly. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER POKRZYWINSKI, TO APPROVE THE UPDATE TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION BYLAWS CHANGING THE MEETINGS FROM MONTHLY TO QUARTERLY. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. 6. Consider adopting Resolution No. 25-02-14 supporting and approving the 2025 BUILD Grant application towards planning activities for the East Grand Forks-Grand Forks Bridge crossing project an authorize the City Administrator to submit the application. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER PETERSON, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SCHUMACHER, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 25-02-14 SUPPORTING AND 2|Page 4 City Council Meeting February 4, 2025 APPROVING THE 2025 BUILD GRANT APPLICATION TOWARDS PLANNING ACTIVITIES FOR THE EAST GRAND FORKS-GRAND FORKS BRIDGE CROSSING PROJECT AN AUTHORIZE THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR TO SUBMIT THE APPLICATION. Mr. Huttunen told the Council this resolution recognized the name change of the program from RAISE to BUILD. He stated some of the goals of the program were changed slightly so some adjustments were made. He added the application had been submitted by the deadline, the resolution would be submitted once it was signed, and they would know in June if the project was awarded grant funds. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. 7. Consider adopting Resolution No. 25-02-15 awarding the 2025 Annual Sewer Cleaning to Johnson Jet-Line Inc for a total of $103, 952.92 for Project Areas 1 and 2 and rejecting the alternate option. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 25-02-15 AWARDING THE 2025 ANNUAL SEWER CLEANING TO JOHNSON JET-LINE INC FOR A TOTAL OF $103, 952.92 FOR PROJECT AREAS 1 AND 2 AND REJECTING THE ALTERNATE OPTION. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. 8. Consider adopting Resolution No. 25-02-16 ordering improvement and preparation of plans and specifications for the 2025 City Project No. 3 for the Lift Station 13 Rehabilitation. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER CASMEY, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 25-02-16 ORDERING IMPROVEMENT AND PREPARATION OF PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS FOR THE 2025 CITY PROJECT NO. 3 FOR THE LIFT STATION 13 REHABILITATION. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. 9. Consider approving the Opinion of Council which will be filed with the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) along with the application for the City of East Grand Forks for federal transportation assistance. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CASMEY, TO APPROVE THE OPINION OF COUNCIL WHICH WILL BE FILED WITH THE FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION (FTA) ALONG WITH THE APPLICATION FOR THE CITY OF EAST GRAND FORKS FOR FEDERAL TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. 10. Consider adopting Resolution No. 25-02-17 authorizing the filing of applications with the Federal Transit Administration for federal transportation assistance. 3|Page 5 City Council Meeting February 4, 2025 A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER PETERSON, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 25-02-17 AUTHORIZING THE FILING OF APPLICATIONS WITH THE FEDERAL TRANSIT ADMINISTRATION FOR FEDERAL TRANSPORTATION ASSISTANCE. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. CLAIMS: 11. Consider adopting Resolution No. 25-02-18 authorizing the City of East Grand Forks to approve purchases from Border States Trophy the goods referenced in check number 43899 for a total of $80.00 whereas Council member Riopelle is personally interested financially in the contract. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER CASMEY, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, TO ADOPT RESOLUTION NO. 25-02-18 AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF EAST GRAND FORKS TO APPROVE PURCHASES FROM BORDER STATES TROPHY THE GOODS REFERENCED IN CHECK NUMBER 43899 FOR A TOTAL OF $80.00 WHEREAS COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE IS PERSONALLY INTERESTED FINANCIALLY IN THE CONTRACT. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. Abstain: Riopelle. 12. Consider authorizing the City Administrator/Clerk-Treasurer to issue payment of recommended bills and payroll. A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER RIOPELLE, TO AUTHORIZE THE CITY ADMINISTRATOR/CLERK- TREASURER TO ISSUE PAYMENT OF RECOMMENDED BILLS AND PAYROLL. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. COUNCIL/STAFF REPORTS: Mayor Olstad thanked everyone that had reached out giving condolences after the passing of his mother which was appreciated and he also said thanks for the plant that was given. Council Member Schumacher thanked the community for their support. She explained she had recently adopted four kids that were their foster kids, they had something like a shower, it was incredible, and they felt very supported. Council Member Helms said thank you to Council member Schumacher because it took a special kind of person to do those things. He added he was looking forward to going down to St. Paul and see what they could find out. 4|Page 6 City Council Meeting February 4, 2025 Council Member Peterson stated she had the opportunity to attend the Chamber’s annual meeting, it was a new experience for her, and the keynote speaker had an amazing message about he was able to take personal tragedy, from being a UND athlete to becoming a paraplegic, and with the help of the community he was able to create new life goals. She explained his experience helped him recognize the importance of community and home. She continued saying how important the message was for the sense of community and the importance of home because last week was the Midwestern synchronized skating competition which was held in Kalamazoo Michigan. She told the group the preliminary team placed second among 21 teams and based on their score they placed second in the nation. She added the open juvenile team placed seventh out of 18 teams which was also an amazing accomplishment. She stated what people may not recognized is that these teams came from a community of 9,000 people, they competed against teams from communities that were 10 times plus that size, and it was our community and home that made this happen. She thanked the East Grand Forks Parks and Recreation Department for offering the program, she thanked coaches many of whom grew up and graduated from East Grand Forks, she thanked the VFW for providing meeting space and meals for the Northern Star competition, and to Tom Barrett and Brian Enright for flipping pancakes. She also thanked Triangle Bussing for getting the skaters to the competitions safely, she thanked the parents, families, and community members who support the skaters, and she thanked the skaters for making their community and home proud. She said this was just one of the many examples of why they call East Grand Forks home. Mr. Huttunen thanked Council member Peterson for her comments. He told the Council they should have received an email from the Chamber about the Intergovermental Retreat that would be held on February 20th at the Spud Jr. He stated they would need to RSVP from that email, lunch was available, and this event was scheduled from 12pm to 4pm. He added that if anyone had issues to contact either himself or Ms. Nelson but try to RSVP through that link. He reminded everyone the following week would be Legislative Action Day with the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities, there were a few of them that would be traveling on Tuesday, they would be participating in meetings all day Wednesday, and traveling back on Thursday. He stated as of now there was a plan to hold a work session, but there was a possibility it could be canceled which would happen by the end of the week. He reminded everyone the strategic planning session would be following the meeting in the training room. ADJOURN: A MOTION WAS MADE BY COUNCIL MEMBER HELMS, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER CASMEY, TO ADJOURN THE FEBRUARY 4, 2025 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING OF THE EAST GRAND FORKS, MINNESOTA CITY COUNCIL AT 5:15 P.M. Voting Aye: Casmey, Larson, Peterson, Schumacher, Pokrzywinski, Riopelle, and Helms. Voting Nay: None. _______________________________________________ Megan Nelson, City Clerk 5|Page 7 #2 8 9 10 #3 11 12 13 #4 Minutes of the regular meeting of the Water, Light, Power and Building Commission of the City of East Grand Forks, Minnesota held on January 15, 2025, at 8:00 am in the City Council Chambers. Present: Grinde, Rapacz, Riopelle Absent: Quirk Also present: Ron Galstad, Keith Mykleseth, Brian Johnson, Todd Grabanski, Steve Emery, Todd Forster, Brianna Feil, Jordan Midgarden, Corey Thompson, Karla Anderson, Dave Solarski It was moved by Commissioner Rapacz supported by Commissioner Riopelle to approve the minutes of the previous regular meeting held on January 2, 2025. Voting Aye: Grinde, Rapacz, Riopelle Voting Nay: None It was moved by Commissioner Rapacz supported by Commissioner Riopelle to authorize the Secretary to issue payment of the recommended bills and payroll in the amount of $1,576,162.27. Voting Aye: Grinde, Rapacz, Riopelle Voting Nay: None It was moved by Commissioner Rapacz supported by Commissioner Riopelle to approve the Plans and Specifications for the 2025 Electrical Equipment and Materials, advertise for bids and set bid opening date for February 12, 2025, at 2:00 pm. Voting Aye: Grinde, Rapacz, Riopelle Voting Nay: None It was moved by Commissioner Rapacz supported by Commissioner Riopelle to accept the letter of resignation effective January 31, 2025, from Dave Solarski, Assistant Line Foreman. Voting Aye: Grinde, Rapacz, Riopelle Voting Nay: None The Commission recognized Dave Solarski on his retirement and presented him with a plaque for his 30 years of dedicated service to the Water and Light Department. It was moved by Commissioner Riopelle supported by Commissioner Rapacz to approve the updated Sick Time Policy as presented. Voting Aye: Grinde, Rapacz, Riopelle Voting Nay: None It was moved by Commissioner Rapacz supported by Commissioner Riopelle to adjourn at 8:20 am to the next regular meeting on February 5, 2025, at 8:00 am to be held in the City Council Chambers. Voting Aye: Grinde, Rapacz, Riopelle Voting Nay: None Kristen Shipes Commission Secretary 14 AGENDA ITEM #_5______ Request for Council Action Date: 2/10/25 To: East Grand Forks City Council Mayor Mark Olstad, Council President Brian Larson, Council Vice-President Tim Riopelle, Council Members Tami Schumacher, Ben Pokrzywinski, Dale Helms, Donald Casmey, and Karen Peterson. Cc: File From: Administration & Parks & Recreation Departments RE: Minnesota Dept of Public Safety Utilizing Option to Renew Lease for Park Shop Space The State Department of Public Safety, Driver, and Vehicle Services currently leases space in the Park Shop that is located at 929 5th Ave NE. They use this space on Wednesdays to administer the written and road tests. The rent paid for the use of the building is $325 per quarter or $1300 yearly. The current lease agreement is set to expire on June 30, 2025 and under section 5.1, the State has the option to renew the lease one time for a two year period. On February 10th the City received the notice to renew the lease agreement for the same terms for two years at the same rental rate. The recommendation is to approve the renewal of the lease for another two-year period. Enclosures: Letter from the Department of Administration to renew the lease. Current lease agreement -1- 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 AGENDA ITEM #_6______ Request for Council Action Date: 2/12/25 To: East Grand Forks City Council Mayor Mark Olstad, Council President Brian Larson, Council Vice-President Tim Riopelle, Council Members Tami Schumacher, Ben Pokrzywinski, Dale Helms, Donald Casmey, and Karen Peterson. Cc: File From: Administration & Parks & Recreation Depts RE: Requesting Approval for Recreation Facility Improvement Plan Staff has been working on preparing the necessary documentation for submission to the Department of Revenue to start the implementation process of the local sales tax that was approved by citizens during the November 2024 General Election. Part of the necessary documentation includes approving the proposed project plan. Mr. King presented an overview of the plan at the September 24, 2024 work session. The slides from the presentation have been included in the packet. The recommendation is to approve the proposed project plan that includes spending approximately $4,745,000 at the Civic Center Arena, $2,000,000 for the ballfield, and $8,000,000 for the VFW Arena for a total of $14,745,000 in local sales and use tax funding for the projects as they are listed on pages seven, eight, and nine of the presentation. -1- 24 RE-INVEST IN our Re-Invest in OURCommunity COMMUNITY 25 TIMELINE - PROJECT PROCESS RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 26 SALES TAX – GENERAL OVERVIEW What is the City asking for? The City is asking residents if they approve of a Total Sales Tax Increase of 1% for up to 20 years for $14,745,000 to be used at the Civic Center Sports Complex and VFW Arena. What does a Yes Vote Mean? By voting yes on both ballot questions, you will be approving a 1% Total Sales Tax Increase for up to 20 years. Civic Center Sports Complex Measure Explanation: This measure will allow the City to finance the remodeling, upgrades, and additions to the Civic Center Sports Complex for 20 years or until $6,745,000 plus the costs of collecting and administering the tax is collected, whichever comes first. This measure will allow for renovations to the existing Civic Center, along with the addition of a new, multi-use turf ballfield. VFW Arena Measure Explanation: This measure will allow the City to finance the reconstruction and upgrades of the VFW Memorial Arena for 20 years or until $8,000,000 plus the costs of collecting and administering the tax is collected, whichever comes first. This measure will allow for upgrades and enhancements at the VFW Arena. RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 27 WHY USE A LOCAL SALES TAX? What is Sales Tax? A sales tax is a one-time charge applied at the point of purchase on all eligible goods and services in East Grand Forks. This tax is collected from both local residents and visitors, helping to fund community projects. Sharing the Cost! Research shows that through local sales taxes, non-residents can pay between 30-50% of project costs, reducing the financial burden on our local community. Successful Past Use: In 2016, the City implemented a 1% Local Option Sales Tax to fund the renovation of the Sherlock Park Swimming Pool. With 70% voter approval, this tax raised an average of $85,000 per month. These funds repaid the project’s low-interest loan, and the pool renovation was fully funded by June 2020. The tax was retired upon project completion. RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 28 WHY REINVEST IN RECREATION FACILITIES? • By supporting local youth recreation programs in your community, you are helping kids develop many important life skills. These skills include teamwork, confidence, leadership, and discipline while helping instill a healthy lifestyle among the youth in our community! • Community pride is often closely tied to local sports teams and athletes who represent the community on state, collegiate, or professional stages. The success and achievements of youth athletes contribute to a sense of civic pride, uniting residents in their support for local sports endeavors! • Ice arena youth event visitors generated $2.1 million of economic activity during Winter 2021-2022. This included $574,410 of income for county residents, while supporting 40 jobs. Industries that benefited from these visitors include hotels, restaurants, bars, repair/maintenance construction, real estate, and management of companies. RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 29 PROJECT GOALS • Transform participant and user experience and performance through upgraded facility amenities. • Improved functionality and building flexibility that promotes expanded recreation offerings for the entire community. • Improved building operating efficiency. • Improved safety and access for all participants and spectators. RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 30 PROJECT BUDGET RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 31 CIVIC CENTER SITE RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 32 VFW ARENA SITE RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 33 VFW ARENA SITE – BEFORE & AFTER EXAMPLE RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 34 CIVIC CENTER - ENHANCEMENT PLAN – PHASE 1 RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 35 CIVIC CENTER - ENHANCEMENT PLAN – PHASE 2 RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 36 IF THE SALES TAX PASSES: Design and Planning (November-March): Architects and engineers work on detailed designs and construction plans. Bidding and Contractor Selection (March-April): If a formal bidding process is required, it typically takes a couple of months to solicit, review, and award bids. Contractors are selected, and contracts are signed. Preparation Phase (April-May): Pre-construction tasks, such as site surveys, ordering materials, and setting up logistics, are handled during this period. Final permit approvals, if needed, are secured. Construction Starts (June-July): With all preparations in place, construction can begin. Initial work may focus on areas that don't impact existing bookings, but significant construction could limit facility availability by late spring. RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 37 IF THE SALES TAX DOESN’T PASS OR ONLY ONE SITE PASSES: 3 Projects that must be addressed in the next 3 – 5 years • VFW Arena R22 ice plant refrigeration system and ice floor - $2,660,908 • Civic Center Ice floor - $1,319,336 • VFW Roof - $1,194,237 Total - $5,174,481 RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 38 FUNDING: Options Available to Fund These Projects • Property Taxes – Property taxes are collected annually, based on the current market value of properties owned by local homeowners and businesses. Only those who own or rent property within the city limits are subject to these taxes. • Building Maintenance Fund – These are funds collected annually from the Water & Light Department, specifically designated for building maintenance purposes. • City Reserves – Utilize the City’s financial reserves by spending down available funds. RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 39 RE-INVEST IN OUR COMMUNITY 40 #7 41 42

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