Trash pickup today. 
Discussions
- Mayor Lange discussed several incidents related to snow removal. These included concerns from residents about lawn damage caused by snowplows, the need for Public Works to reduce speed while plowing, and the identification of several roads that may require different snow removal approaches in the future.
- Discussion on the top 10 ordinances to put into the TRACS system was tabled to a later meeting.
- Council reviewed the water line issue at 204 Main Street and determined that the matter will be governed by the provisions of Title VI, Physical Environment, Chapter 3 – Utilities: Water System.
- Council reviewed the water line issue at 606 4th Street and determined that the matter will be governed by the provisions of Title VI, Physical Environment, Chapter 3 – Utilities: Water System.
- Discussion was held regarding the water shutoff at 305 8th Street. Public Works will look into accessing the duplex to evaluate the water line, as there is currently one shutoff serving two separate meters. It was also discussed that a letter may be sent to the property owner addressing responsibility for the utility bill in the event the tenant fails to keep the account current.
- Discussion was held concerning a part-time police officer. The former officer resigned effective Thursday evening, January 1, 2026. Council discussed reposting the original advertisement for the part-time officer position.
- Discussion was held regarding the North and South Park shelters. The Park Board will hold a meeting to discuss potential improvements and determine what actions should be taken. There was also discussion about obtaining measurements for a proposed sidewalk connecting the South Park shelter to the splash pad and continuing to the roadway leading to the new bathrooms. Additionally, repairs needed to the concrete on the existing walking path were noted and will be reviewed in conjunction with the other concrete project.
Motions
- The agenda and consent agenda as presented and/or as amended. As well as approving the council bills.Ayes: AllMover: N. LangeSeconder: G. Hamdorf
- Resolution #2026-01 adopting a social media policy.Ayes: AllMover: A. LangeSeconder: N. Lange
- Resolution #2026-02 appointing department committees.Ayes: AllMover: G. HamdorfSeconder: N. Lange
- Resolution #2026-04 amending FY25-26 budget.Ayes: AllMover: A. LangeSeconder: G. Hamdorf
- The snow removal bid the city received from JJJ Enterprises. There were no other bids. Next year the council will look at a change in the PW employees doing the sidewalk removal.Ayes: AllMover: A. LangeSeconder: K. Sander
- The agreement from Rob Fangmann in regard to the FY27 City Bridge Funding.Ayes: AllMover: N. LangeSeconder: A. Lange
- The 28E agreement with the FY27 City Bridge Funding with Rob Fangmann.Ayes: AllMover: N. LangeSeconder: A. Carlson
- Meeting adjourned at 6:25 PM.Ayes: AllMover: A. LangeSeconder: A. Carlson
Reports
- Public Works Director Nick Wichotoski reported that Jasan has passed the CDL permit test and is preparing for the next step in the process. Nick has submitted the necessary paperwork to be scheduled for the testing required to complete monthly DNR reporting. Meanwhile, Jasan is working on power washing the tanks and preparing them for painting during downtime.
- Library Director Ann Harms presented her report at City Hall; each council member received a copy.
- Mayor Lange reported Fire Department had 0 calls
- David Hintz reported that the EMS/Rescue Department responded to 7 calls. He also presented the council with the year-end report.
- Prior to the meeting, the council received a police report submitted by Police Chief Jeremy Stenda. On Thursday evening, January 1, 2026, Stenda resigned from his position with the city.
Other Minute Items
- Pledge of Allegiance was recited.
- Future Agenda Items and General Discussion
Discussion was held regarding future agenda items, including a proposal received from LL Pelling on today’s date. Gene reported that Dan Helm is scheduled to be on site later this month. Council discussed preparing the picnic tables at the park in anticipation of favorable weather conditions.
The issue of the dump truck lacking heat was discussed. It was reported that the matter is being addressed and that a new blower motor has been ordered.
Council discussed the condition of the shops and noted that they are in need of cleaning and organization, as they are currently unorganized and messy.
Discussion was held regarding the purchase of an air compressor and reel for the additional shop. Council agreed that each shop should be equipped with an air compressor and reel.
Council also discussed the old highway leaving town and noted that the shoulder may need to be updated or expanded.
Officials Present
- Derrick Lange, Mayor
- Alan Carlson, Councilman
- Austin Lange, Councilman
- Gene Hamdorf, Councilman
- Kasey Sander, Councilman
- Nick Lange, Councilman
- Heather Conrad, City Clerk