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Nowthen City Council meeting, January 9, 2024

City Council

Tuesday, January 9, 2024 · 5:30 PM

This meeting on the city's website ↗

Agenda

Not on file

What was on the agenda.

Packet

Open PDF ↗

The supporting materials the board reviewed.

Minutes

Open PDF ↗

The official record of what happened.

One-line summary

Council approved consent items, hired Cindy Nash as contracted city planner, authorized work on a Fire Chief job description, approved a Ramsey road-project JPA and Comcast cable-franchise waiver, continued personnel-policy and compensation decisions, and approved an amended resource trade with Nowthen Alliance Church.

What was on the agenda

27 items as recorded in the packet and minutes, each with a short summary of what was at issue.

  1. 1Call to Order

    Call to Order; Pledge of Allegiance; Roll Call; Approve Agenda.

    Agenda approved as amended.

    • agenda approval
    Approved
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)1. Call to Order · Pledge of Allegiance · Roll Call · Approve Agendap. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  2. 2aWork Session: Finalize Personnel Policy Updates Phase 1

    Finalize Personnel Policy Updates Phase 1.

    Personnel policy action was moved to the February meeting.

    • personnel policy
    Continued
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)2. Work Session a. Finalize Personnel Policy Updates Phase 1p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)*Move 10B1 to February meeting, previous work sessions are available online

  3. 3Public Forum

    Public forum for residents to address City governmental topics.

    No one spoke.

    • public forum
    No action
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)3. Public Forum The public forum is intended to afford the public an opportunity to address concerns to the City Council.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)## 3. PUBLIC FORUM None

  4. 4aApprove December 12 and December 14, 2023 minutes

    Approval of City Council Meeting Minutes December 12, 2023 and Work Session Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023.

    Council approved the amended consent agenda, including acceptance of the $1,127 LMC Insurance Trust dividend, the responsible-authority appointment, annual appointments and official designations, and support for the 2024 Heritage Festival. The treasurer's report was removed, and the December 14 work session minutes were pulled for correction and return in February.

    Pulled from consent; staff was directed to correct the December 14 work session minutes and bring them back in February.

    • minutes approval
    Continued
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)a. Approval of City Council Meeting Minutes December 12, 2023 and Work Session Meeting Minutes December 14, 2023.p. 7Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)4a) December 14th, Work Session Meeting minutes - Deputy Clerk to clarify "page 1, Funeral leave and discussion that the Administrator is under contract, therefore, certain contracted aspects remain untouched by any changes in this policy, such as PTO." Staff directed to make correction and bring back meeting minutes f…

  5. 4bApprove claims and Treasurer's Report

    Approval of Claims December 8, 2023 - January 5, 2024 and Treasurer's Report.

    Council approved the amended consent agenda, including acceptance of the $1,127 LMC Insurance Trust dividend, the responsible-authority appointment, annual appointments and official designations, and support for the 2024 Heritage Festival. The treasurer's report was removed, and the December 14 work session minutes were pulled for correction and return in February.

    Consent agenda was approved as amended; the treasurer's report was removed to be sent later.

    • claims
    • treasurer report
    Consent calendar
    p. 15Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Claims & Treasurer Report to follow Nowthen City Office 8188 199th Ave. NW Nowthen MN, 55330 (763)-441-1347 <figure> CITY OF NOWTHEN </figure> Council Meeting Location: Historic Townhall 19800 Nowthen Blvd NW Nowthen MN, 55330 ## RESOLUTIONp. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)*Remove Treasurer's report, it will be sent to council later this week.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  6. 4cAccept LMC Insurance Trust dividend

    Approval of Resolution accepting a dividend from the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust.

    Council approved the amended consent agenda, including acceptance of the $1,127 LMC Insurance Trust dividend, the responsible-authority appointment, annual appointments and official designations, and support for the 2024 Heritage Festival. The treasurer's report was removed, and the December 14 work session minutes were pulled for correction and return in February.

    Approved as part of the consent agenda.

    • insurance dividend
    Consent calendar
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)c. Approval of Resolution 2024-XX Accepting a Dividend of $1,127.00 from the League of MN Cities Insurance Trust.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  7. 4dDesignate responsible authority for 2024

    Designate the City Administrator as the city's responsible authority for 2024.

    Council approved the amended consent agenda, including acceptance of the $1,127 LMC Insurance Trust dividend, the responsible-authority appointment, annual appointments and official designations, and support for the 2024 Heritage Festival. The treasurer's report was removed, and the December 14 work session minutes were pulled for correction and return in February.

    Approved as part of the consent agenda.

    • data practices
    Consent calendar
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)d. Approval of Resolution 2024-XX Designating the City Administrator as the city's responsible authority for 2024.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  8. 4e2024 annual appointments and official designations

    Establish City Council annual appointments and official appointments to commissions, committees, local government authorities, and official designations for 2024.

    Council approved the amended consent agenda, including acceptance of the $1,127 LMC Insurance Trust dividend, the responsible-authority appointment, annual appointments and official designations, and support for the 2024 Heritage Festival. The treasurer's report was removed, and the December 14 work session minutes were pulled for correction and return in February.

    Approved as part of the consent agenda.

    • annual appointments
    Consent calendar
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)e. Approval of Resolution 2024-XX establishing City Council Annual Appointments and Official Appointments to Commissions, Committees, Local Government Authorities and Official Designations for 2024.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  9. 4fCOLA and merit increases

    Authorize COLA and merit increases based upon Administrator Lehner completing reviews per the 2024 budget.

    Council did not approve the proposed COLA and merit increases at this meeting. Instead, after a lengthy discussion about COLA, merit pay, full-time and part-time employees, and comparable wages, Council directed staff to return with 2023 wages by individual, 2023 gross pay, a 3.5 percent multiplier, and Administrator Lehner's merit recommendations. The broader Phase 1 personnel policy update was also continued to February after attorney review.

    Pulled from consent; Council directed staff to bring wage and merit-increase information back for review.

    • COLA
    • merit increases
    • staff compensation
    Continued
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)f. Approval of Resolution 2024-XX authorizing COLA and Merit increases based upon Administrator Lehner completing reviews per the 2024 Budget.p. 10Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY MAYOR PILON SECONDED BY ALDERS TO HAVE STAFF PROVIDE A LISTING OF 2023 WAGES BY INDIVIDUAL, 2023 GROSS PAY, 3.5 MULTIPLIER ON THOSE WAGES, AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER FOR MERIT INCREASES. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  10. 4g2024 Heritage Festival support

    Approve a request from the Heritage Festival Volunteer Committee to waive rental fees, deposits, and associated costs related to the 2024 Heritage Festival, including financial and staff support.

    Council approved the amended consent agenda, including acceptance of the $1,127 LMC Insurance Trust dividend, the responsible-authority appointment, annual appointments and official designations, and support for the 2024 Heritage Festival. The treasurer's report was removed, and the December 14 work session minutes were pulled for correction and return in February.

    Approved as part of the consent agenda.

    • Heritage Festival
    Consent calendar
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)g. Approval of Resolution 2024-XX approving a Request from the Heritage Festival Volunteer Committee to Waive Rental Fees, Deposits and Associated Costs Related to the 2024 Heritage Festival to include Financial and Staff Support.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  11. 4hTrade resources with Nowthen Alliance Church

    Trade resources with Nowthen Alliance Church.

    Council approved trading resources with Nowthen Alliance Church: the City may use the church for 2024 elections, and the church may use Memorial Park facilities for specified Wednesday evening events. The resolution was amended to include a possible fourth election if needed, and Council noted the arrangement worked well as a community partnership.

    Pulled from consent and approved with an amendment to include a possible fourth election if necessary.

    • Nowthen Alliance Church
    • elections
    • park facilities
    Approved
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)h. Approve Resolution 2024-XX Trading resources with the Nowthen Alliance Church.p. 11Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER FLADEBO, SECONDED BREYEN TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TRADING RESOURCES WITH NOWTHEN ALLIANCE CHURCH FOR THE 2024 ELECTIONS TO SET UP DAY BEFORE 5:00 PM TO 10:00 PM, AND DAY OF 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM (or until election can be closed); MARCH 4 & 5, AUGUST 12 & 13, AND NOVEMBER 4 & 5 AND THE …

  12. 5Engineering

    Engineering department item.

    No engineering items were presented.

    • engineering
    No action
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)5. Engineeringp. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)## 5. ENGINEERING None

  13. 6Fire Department

    Fire Department report.

    The Fire Department and Sheriff's Office gave December reports. The fire report noted 12 incidents and no dollar loss from fires, while the Sheriff's report noted 123 calls for service. Both reports discussed the December 3 ice rescue near Garnett Street, and the mayor said the City would also like to recognize Deputy Chris Fjeld for heroism.

    The December Fire Department report was presented; no motion was recorded.

    • fire department
    • public safety
    Discussion only
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)6. Fire Departmentp. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)For the month of December 2023, the fire department responded to 12 incidents (9 less than the previous month) with an average response time of 12 minutes and 49 seconds (1 minute 40 second improvement from November).

  14. 7Sheriff's Department

    Sheriff's Department report.

    The Fire Department and Sheriff's Office gave December reports. The fire report noted 12 incidents and no dollar loss from fires, while the Sheriff's report noted 123 calls for service. Both reports discussed the December 3 ice rescue near Garnett Street, and the mayor said the City would also like to recognize Deputy Chris Fjeld for heroism.

    Chief Deputy Jacobson presented the Sheriff's report; no motion was recorded.

    • sheriff
    • public safety
    Discussion only
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)7. Sheriff's Departmentp. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Sheriff's deputies responded to 123 calls for service. Total for 2023 is 1,552 calls, which is 115 calls over the 2022 year total.

  15. 8Planning and Zoning

    Planning and Zoning.

    No Planning and Zoning items were presented.

    • planning and zoning
    No action
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)8. Planning and Zoningp. 4Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)## 8. PLANNING AND ZONING None

  16. 9aAdministrator Update: staff performance reviews

    Reviews in process - 2023 staff performance reviews to be completed by January 31, 2024.

    Administrator Lehner reported staff evaluations would be completed by the end of January.

    • performance reviews
    Discussion only
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)9. Administrator Update a. Reviews in process - 2023 staff performance reviews to be completed by January 31, 2024p. 4Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Administrator Lehner stated that all Performance Evaluations for staff will be completed by the end of January.

  17. 10A1Attorney Glaser process for uncompliant properties

    Attorney Glaser Process for Uncompliant Properties.

    Several old business items stayed open. The uncompliant-property process with Attorney Glaser still had no response, the ATV ordinance still needed a work session, the building official comparison was tabled until February, and fee schedule changes were also tabled until February.

    Administrator Lehner was directed to follow up, and Attorney Ruppe may send a letter if there is still no response.

    • uncompliant properties
    Continued
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)1. Attorney Glaser Process for Uncompliant Propertiesp. 4Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)1. Attorney Glaser process for uncompliant properties. Still no response and no billing. Administrator Lehner to follow up, if still no response, ask Attorney Ruppe to send him a letter to see if he still wants to work for the City of Nowthen.

  18. 10A2ATV Ordinance Update

    ATV Ordinance Update.

    Several old business items stayed open. The uncompliant-property process with Attorney Glaser still had no response, the ATV ordinance still needed a work session, the building official comparison was tabled until February, and fee schedule changes were also tabled until February.

    Still in process; a work session needs to be scheduled.

    • ATV ordinance
    Continued
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)2. ATV Ordinance Updatep. 4Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)2. ATV Ordinance Update - Still in process, need to schedule a work session to discuss and update.

  19. 10A3Building official, code enforcement and septic compliance contract

    Choose and approve the Mayor to execute a contract with building official, code enforcement and septic compliance official.

    Several old business items stayed open. The uncompliant-property process with Attorney Glaser still had no response, the ATV ordinance still needed a work session, the building official comparison was tabled until February, and fee schedule changes were also tabled until February.

    Tabled until the February meeting while comparisons continue.

    • building official
    Tabled
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)3. Choose and Approve the Mayor to execute a contract with building official, code enforcement and septic compliance official. - In Process address at February Meetingp. 4Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)3. Choose a Building Code Official - Still in process of comparison between Rum River Consultants and Safe Built (MnSpect). Table until February meeting.

  20. 10A4Fee Schedule Changes

    Fee Schedule Changes.

    Several old business items stayed open. The uncompliant-property process with Attorney Glaser still had no response, the ATV ordinance still needed a work session, the building official comparison was tabled until February, and fee schedule changes were also tabled until February.

    Tabled until the February meeting.

    • fee schedule
    Tabled
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)4. Fee Schedule Changes - In Process, Address at February Meetingp. 4Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)4. Fee Schedule Changes - In process, in addition to the permitting fees, Council Member Rainville mentioned there may be additional fees for the recycling center to be adjusted at a later date. Table the fee schedule discussion until February meeting.

  21. 10B1Personnel Policy Updates Phase 1

    Approve Personnel Policy Updates Phase 1 with any approved changes.

    Council did not approve the proposed COLA and merit increases at this meeting. Instead, after a lengthy discussion about COLA, merit pay, full-time and part-time employees, and comparable wages, Council directed staff to return with 2023 wages by individual, 2023 gross pay, a 3.5 percent multiplier, and Administrator Lehner's merit recommendations. The broader Phase 1 personnel policy update was also continued to February after attorney review.

    Moved to February after review with Attorney Ruppe.

    • personnel policy
    Continued
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)1. Approve Personnel Policy Updates Phase 1 with any approved changes.p. 4Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Administrator Lehner to review some topics with Attorney Ruppe and bring back with the final formatted policy for City Council approval at February meeting.

  22. 10B2City Planner

    Introduce new City Planner recommended by staff to fill the open planner position.

    Council approved Resolution 2024-06 authorizing a contract with Cindy Nash of Collaborative Planning LLC as the City's contracted planner effective January 10, 2024. Council discussed her experience, grant-writing background, keeping Nowthen rural, transition from the prior planner, and the contract terms.

    Resolution 2024-06 approved the contract with Cindy Nash from Collaborative Planning LLC.

    • city planner
    • Collaborative Planning
    Approved
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)2. Introduce new City Planner recommended by staff to fill the open planner position.p. 5Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024- 06 AUTHORIZING MAYOR PILON AND ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH CINDY NASH FROM COLLABRATIVE PLANNING LLC TO FILL THE ROLE OF CITY PLANNER EFFECTIVE JANUARY 10, 2024. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  23. 10B3Fire Chief job description and posting

    Approve Chief Schmidt and the personnel committee to create a job description and posting for a Fire Chief.

    Council approved Resolution 2024-07 authorizing the personnel committee, Administrator Lehner, and Fire Chief Schmidt to create a job description for the Nowthen Fire Department Chief position.

    Resolution 2024-07 approved creating a job description for the Fire Department Chief position.

    • fire chief recruitment
    Approved
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)3. Approve Chief Schmidt and the personnel committee to create a job description and posting for a Fire Chief.p. 6Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY RAINVILLE TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024- 07 AUTHORIZING THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE, ADMINSTRATOR LEHNER, AND FIRE CHIEF SCHMIDT TO CREATE A JOB DESCRIPTION FOR THE NOWTHEN FIRE DEPARTMENT CHIEF POSITION. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  24. 10B4Joint Powers Agreement with Ramsey for Road Improvement Project

    Joint Powers Agreement with Ramsey for Road Improvement Project.

    Council approved Resolution 2024-08 approving the joint powers agreement with Ramsey for the Rogers Lake Area road improvement project. The discussion noted that there was no exact cost yet, that a later public hearing would occur, and that Nowthen could decide whether to move forward based on affordability.

    Resolution 2024-08 approved the joint powers agreement.

    • Ramsey joint powers agreement
    • Rogers Lake Area road project
    Approved
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)4. Joint Powers Agreement with Ramsey for Road Improvement Project.p. 6Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-08 APPROVING THE JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT AS RECOMMENDED BY ATTORNEY RUPPE. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  25. 10B52024 Calendar

    2024 Calendar.

    Council reviewed the 2024 calendar, discussed whether employee anniversary dates could be listed, decided the August council meeting would move to August 20 because of the Primary Election, and noted the Planning and Zoning meeting would need rescheduling because of the Presidential Caucus.

    Council reviewed the calendar, asked staff to verify data-practices issues, discussed closing July 5, and changed the August council meeting date to August 20.

    • 2024 calendar
    Discussion only
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)5. 2024 Calendarp. 6Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)ACTION ITEM: Staff directed to follow up if employment anniversary dates published on the calendar is a data practices violation or public data. * Follow up. Per Attorney Ruppe, anniversary dates may be on city calendar.p. 6Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)The August city council meeting will need to be changed due the Primary Election. The date decided upon is the following Tuesday, August 20th.

  26. 10B6Comcast cable franchise waiver

    Added item regarding Comcast contract and regulating cable franchise agreement.

    Council added and approved Resolution 2024-09 waiving the City's right to regulate Comcast's cable franchise. The mayor reported Attorney Ruppe's view that the City has a Business Subsidy Agreement rather than a Franchise Agreement and should not put a franchise agreement in place if one is not needed.

    Resolution 2024-09 waived the right to regulate the cable franchise.

    • Comcast
    • cable franchise
    Approved
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)*Mayor Pilon added 10B6 - A document regarding the Comcast Contract regarding regulating cable franchise agreement.p. 7Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-09 WAIVING RIGHT TO REGULATE CABLE FRANCHISE. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  27. 11Adjourn

    Adjourn.

    Meeting adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

    • adjournment
    Approved
    p. 2Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)11. Adjournp. 11Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION TO ADJOURN BY COUNCIL MEMBER ALDERS AND FLADEBO. Meeting Adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

Motions and votes

9 motions on the record.

  • M1MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED.

    moved by Breyen, seconded by Fladebo

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M2MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED.

    moved by Breyen, seconded by Fladebo

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M3MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-06 AUTHORIZING MAYOR PILON AND ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH CINDY NASH FROM COLLABRATIVE PLANNING LLC TO FILL THE ROLE OF CITY PLANNER EFFECTIVE JANUARY 10, 2024.

    moved by Rainville, seconded by Alders

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 5Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024- 06 AUTHORIZING MAYOR PILON AND ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH CINDY NASH FROM COLLABRATIVE PLANNING LLC TO FILL THE ROLE OF CITY PLANNER EFFECTIVE JANUARY 10, 2024. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M4MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY RAINVILLE TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-07 AUTHORIZING THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE, ADMINSTRATOR LEHNER, AND FIRE CHIEF SCHMIDT TO CREATE A JOB DESCRIPTION FOR THE NOWTHEN FIRE DEPARTMENT CHIEF POSITION.

    moved by Breyen, seconded by Rainville

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 6Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY RAINVILLE TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024- 07 AUTHORIZING THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE, ADMINSTRATOR LEHNER, AND FIRE CHIEF SCHMIDT TO CREATE A JOB DESCRIPTION FOR THE NOWTHEN FIRE DEPARTMENT CHIEF POSITION. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M5MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-08 APPROVING THE JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT AS RECOMMENDED BY ATTORNEY RUPPE.

    moved by Breyen, seconded by Alders

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 6Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-08 APPROVING THE JOINT POWERS AGREEMENT AS RECOMMENDED BY ATTORNEY RUPPE. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M6MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-09 WAIVING RIGHT TO REGULATE CABLE FRANCHISE.

    moved by Breyen, seconded by Fladebo

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 7Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECONDED BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-09 WAIVING RIGHT TO REGULATE CABLE FRANCHISE. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M8MOTION BY MAYOR PILON SECONDED BY ALDERS TO HAVE STAFF PROVIDE A LISTING OF 2023 WAGES BY INDIVIDUAL, 2023 GROSS PAY, 3.5 MULTIPLIER ON THOSE WAGES, AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER FOR MERIT INCREASES.

    moved by Pilon, seconded by Alders

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 10Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY MAYOR PILON LISTING 2023 WAGES BY INDIVIDUAL, 2023 GROSS PAY, 3.5 MULTIPLIER ON THOSE WAGES, AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER FOR MERIT INCREASES.p. 10Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY MAYOR PILON SECONDED BY ALDERS TO HAVE STAFF PROVIDE A LISTING OF 2023 WAGES BY INDIVIDUAL, 2023 GROSS PAY, 3.5 MULTIPLIER ON THOSE WAGES, AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER FOR MERIT INCREASES. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M9MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER FLADEBO, SECONDED BREYEN TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TRADING RESOURCES WITH NOWTHEN ALLIANCE CHURCH FOR THE 2024 ELECTIONS TO SET UP DAY BEFORE 5:00 PM TO 10:00 PM, AND DAY OF 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM (or until election can be closed); MARCH 4 & 5, AUGUST 12 & 13, AND NOVEMBER 4 & 5 AND THE MEMORIAL PARK FACILITIES 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. MAY 22, 29, JUNE 5, 12, 19, 26, JULY 10 AND 17TH. AS AMENDED INCLUDING A FOURTH ELECTION IF NECESSARY.

    moved by Fladebo, seconded by Breyen

    Passed
    • YPilon
    • YFladebo
    • YRainville
    • YBreyen
    • YAlders
    p. 11Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER FLADEBO, SECONDED BREYEN TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TRADING RESOURCES WITH NOWTHEN ALLIANCE CHURCH FOR THE 2024 ELECTIONS TO SET UP DAY BEFORE 5:00 PM TO 10:00 PM, AND DAY OF 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM (or until election can be closed); MARCH 4 & 5, AUGUST 12 & 13, AND NOVEMBER 4 & 5 AND THE …p. 11Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)VOTING ENSUED: 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Present: Mayor Pilon, Council Members Fladebo, Rainville, Breyen and Alders.

  • M10MOTION TO ADJOURN BY COUNCIL MEMBER ALDERS AND FLADEBO.

    moved by Alders, seconded by Fladebo

    Passed
    p. 11Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION TO ADJOURN BY COUNCIL MEMBER ALDERS AND FLADEBO. Meeting Adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

Dollar amounts in motions

Amounts named in or tied to a motion that passed, each shown with the motion. A motion can approve an amount, cap it, or remove it from a list, so read the motion text. These links are AI-extracted, and the minutes control.

  • City monetary contribution approved as part of 2024 Heritage Festival support.

    $3,000

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 30Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)2. $3,000 monetary contribution.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  • Proposed 3.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment; Council requested additional wage detail before approval.

    $4

    Motion MOTION BY MAYOR PILON SECONDED BY ALDERS TO HAVE STAFF PROVIDE A LISTING OF 2023 WAGES BY INDIVIDUAL, 2023 GROSS PAY, 3.5 MULTIPLIER ON THOSE WAGES, AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER FOR MERIT INCREASES. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 29Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Administrator Lehner has the authority to distribute the 3.5 % COLA increases and Merit increases to city staff when reviews are completed.p. 10Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY MAYOR PILON SECONDED BY ALDERS TO HAVE STAFF PROVIDE A LISTING OF 2023 WAGES BY INDIVIDUAL, 2023 GROSS PAY, 3.5 MULTIPLIER ON THOSE WAGES, AND RECOMMENDATIONS FROM ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER FOR MERIT INCREASES. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  • Hourly rate for Cindy Nash/Collaborative Planning under the city planner contract approved by Resolution 2024-06.

    $126

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024-06 AUTHORIZING MAYOR PILON AND ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH CINDY NASH FROM COLLABRATIVE PLANNING LLC TO FILL THE ROLE OF CITY PLANNER EFFECTIVE JANUARY 10, 2024. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 68Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Billing Rate. The billing rate for Ms. Nash for 2024 is $126 per hour, invoiced in 1/4 hour increments.p. 5Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY ALDERS TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 2024- 06 AUTHORIZING MAYOR PILON AND ADMINISTRATOR LEHNER TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT WITH CINDY NASH FROM COLLABRATIVE PLANNING LLC TO FILL THE ROLE OF CITY PLANNER EFFECTIVE JANUARY 10, 2024. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  • Legal publication rate for the Anoka County UnionHerald and Star News "Elk River" as official newspaper.

    $11

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 26Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)The legal publication rate for the Anoka County UnionHerald and Star News "Elk River" as of January 1, 2024, will remain unchanged from the 2023 rate of 10.75 per column inch.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  • Flat fee for manually typeset public notices from the official newspaper.

    $20

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 26Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)If any documents need to be manually typeset, a $20 flat fee will be charged per public notice.p. 1Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

  • City Engineer reduced rate.

    $135

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)City Engineer (Reduced Rate) $135.00

  • Principal Engineer standard rate.

    $160

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Principal Engineer Standard Rate $160.00

  • Senior Project Manager / Lead Design Engineer rate.

    $145

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Senior Project Manager / Lead Design Engineer $145.00

  • Design Engineer / Project Manager low end of rate range.

    $105

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Design Engineer / Project Manager $105.00 - $134.00

  • Design Engineer / Project Manager high end of rate range.

    $134

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Design Engineer / Project Manager $105.00 - $134.00

  • Civil Technician low end of rate range.

    $90

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Civil Technician $90.00 - $118.00

  • Civil Technician high end of rate range; also listed as Senior Construction Observer rate.

    $118

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Civil Technician $90.00 - $118.00p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Senior Construction Observer $118.00

  • Principal Land Surveyor, P.L.S. rate.

    $150

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Principal Land Surveyor, P.L.S. $150.00

  • Survey Project Manager low end of rate range; also Survey Field Technician high end.

    $115

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Survey Project Manager $115.00 - $135.00p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Survey Field Technician $90.00 - $115.00

  • Senior Survey Field Technician rate; also Environmental Specialist rate.

    $124

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Senior Survey Field Technician $124.00p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Environmental Specialist $124.00

  • GPS/Robotic Total Station rate.

    $40

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)GPS/Robotic Total Station $40.00

  • Hydrographic Survey Equipment rate.

    $60

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Hydrographic Survey Equipment $60.00

  • Construction Observer low end of rate range; also Administrative Assistant high end.

    $85

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Construction Observer $85.00 - $112.00p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Administrative Assistant $70.00 - $85.00

  • Construction Observer high end of rate range.

    $112

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Construction Observer $85.00 - $112.00

  • Administrative Assistant low end of rate range.

    $70

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER BREYEN, SECOND BY FLADEBO TO APPROVE THE CONSENT AGENDA AS AMENDED. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 28Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)Administrative Assistant $70.00 - $85.00

  • Earlier polling-place memorandum stated a maximum cost for all three elections; the Jan. 9 action approved trading resources at no cost t…

    $400

    Motion MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER FLADEBO, SECONDED BREYEN TO APPROVE A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TRADING RESOURCES WITH NOWTHEN ALLIANCE CHURCH FOR THE 2024 ELECTIONS TO SET UP DAY BEFORE 5:00 PM TO 10:00 PM, AND DAY OF 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM (or until election can be closed); MARCH 4 & 5, AUGUST 12 & 13, AND NOVEMBER 4 & 5 AND THE MEMORIAL PARK FACILITIES 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. MAY 22, 29, JUNE 5, 12, 19, 26, JULY 10 AND 17TH. AS AMENDED INCLUDING A FOURTH ELECTION IF NECESSARY. Passed(5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.)
    p. 38Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)As discussed, the cost for all three of these elections will have a maximum cost of $400.00 per email dated 8-3-23.p. 41Meeting City Council Meeting — Agenda Packet (2024-01-09)City Council agrees to waive park rental fees for the dates listed above and accepts the Nowthen Alliance church for the 2024 elections at no cost to the city.p. 11Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)VOTING ENSUED: 5 AYES VIA ROLL CALL.

Prior history on this business

When someone referred back to earlier business, we found the matching prior discussion and tied it in here.

  • Ms. Nash introduced herself and stated how she has some experience in Nowthen in 2018 with a previous project.

    — Cindy Nash

    What this is about
    Cindy Nash recalled prior work in Nowthen in 2018, which may relate to a previous planning project.

    p. 5Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Ms. Nash introduced herself and stated how she has some experience in Nowthen in 2018 with a previous project.

    Related history

    The records I searched do not contain a prior 2018 Nowthen planning project involving Cindy Nash or Collaborative Planning. The matches found are from 2026, mainly showing Ms. Nash working with the city on current planning matters such as the Jay’s Services interim use permit materials in the March 10, 2026 packet and related February 2026 correspondence. So this appears to be a recollection that is not confirmed by the available search results. The records provided show her current 2026 involvement, but no formal 2018 discussion, project, decision, vote, or contract matching the prior work she referenced.

    • Mar 10, 2026<table> <tr> <th colspan="9">BURGLARIES</th> </tr> <tr> <th>Number</th> <th>Case Number</th> <th>Created On</th> <th>Off
    • Mar 10, 2026Cindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Gerald Bonine</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Sunday, Fe
    • Mar 10, 2026Page 4: [1] Formatted Cindy Nash - Collab Planning 12/16/2025 5:31:00 PM Left, Indent: Left: 0.5", Right: 0", Don't add
    • Mar 10, 2026Cindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Wendy Stament &gt;</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Thurs
    • Mar 10, 2026Cindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Jason Jones</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Thursday, Fe
  • Council Member Breyen stated he can't remember where he has seen it, but it is out there to have both COLA and Merit.

    — Council Member Breyen

    What this is about
    Council Member Breyen tried to recall where he had seen both COLA and merit pay discussed before.

    p. 7Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Council Member Breyen stated he can't remember where he has seen it, but it is out there to have both COLA and Merit.

    Related history

    The records I searched do not contain a prior discussion or decision matching Council Member Breyen’s recollection of both COLA and merit pay being discussed. The search results returned unrelated items, including Planning and Zoning Commission appointments, a state flag discussion, and other council business, but nothing about employee COLA or merit compensation.

    • Feb 10, 2026<figure> CITY OF NOWTHEN </figure> ## REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION <table> <tr> <th>Agenda Item:</th> <th>Department:</th>
    • May 12, 2026MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SWENSON, TO APPOINT MICHAEL HOIUM TO THE PLANNING AND ZON
    • Apr 14, 2026MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SWENSON, TO APPOINT MICHAEL HOIUM TO THE PLANNING AND ZON
    • Feb 10, 2026Council Member Mary Rainville informed the Council that due to a medical situation, she might need to excuse herself fro
    • Apr 14, 2026Council Member Breyen asked if there was a different category for the budget for this expense, rather than the contingen
  • When previous staff asked about it, it was discussed as a bonus.

    — Council Member Breyen

    What this is about
    The discussion referenced prior staff questions about merit or bonus pay.

    p. 7Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)When previous staff asked about it, it was discussed as a bonus.

    Related history

    The records I searched do not contain a prior discussion or decision matching Council Member Breyen’s recollection about staff questions on merit pay or bonus pay. The search results returned unrelated items, including land-use permit materials, Planning Commission procedures, and a state performance measurement survey item, but nothing about employee compensation, merit increases, or bonuses.

    • Apr 28, 2026system that records activity when motion is detected. A fenced outdoor courtyard is also available, providing a secure s
    • Mar 10, 202613\. The use shall comply with Minnesota Statutes if the property is enrolled in the Agricultural Preserve Program. St
    • Feb 24, 2026Jays Services - 8704 190th Ave NW February 11, 2026 13\. The use shall comply with Minnesota Statutes if the property is
    • Apr 14, 2026<figure> CITY OF NOWTHEN </figure> ## REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION <table> <tr> <th>Agenda</th> <th>Department:</th> <th>R
    • Mar 10, 202614\. The site access shall be from a paved publicly-accepted road unless access via a gravel publicly-accepted road is a
  • Last year, it was based the same way, it was all COLA, he used the % to adjust wages to try to get competitive and to do that, some employees had to "donate" and not receive the full 5% that was budgeted.

    — Administrator Lehner

    What this is about
    Administrator Lehner recalled how the prior year's COLA was used to adjust wages.

    p. 8Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Last year, it was based the same way, it was all COLA, he used the % to adjust wages to try to get competitive and to do that, some employees had to "donate" and not receive the full 5% that was budgeted.

    Related history

    The records searched do not contain a prior-year decision matching Administrator Lehner’s recollection that a 5% budgeted COLA was redistributed so some employees did not receive the full amount in order to make wage adjustments more competitive. The closest match is the April 14, 2026 meeting packet, where staff proposed formal step pay charts and wage increases to make the City more competitive as an employer. That packet describes proposed 3–5% step increases plus COLA each year, with employees receiving only COLA after reaching the top of their scale, and estimated that immediate implementation would cost $29,285.67 above what was budgeted for 2026. The search results show this related wage-structure discussion, but they do not show the prior year’s COLA allocation or a recorded vote on the specific 5% approach described.

    • Feb 10, 2026## CITY & GOVERNMENT CLIENTS - CONTACT INFORMATION <table> <tr> <th>Public Sector Client</th> <th>Prosecution Services</
    • May 12, 2026#### General Employees Plan Benefits General Employees Plan requires three years of service to vest. Benefits are based
    • Apr 14, 2026# TITLE OF ISSUE: Approval of Resolution 2026-XX Accepting the Proposed Step Charts and Increasing Employee Wages BACKGR
    • May 12, 2026##### GENERAL FUND EXPENDITURES General fund expenditures are up 8% or $35,000 over last year. All departments are under
    • Apr 14, 2026steps, because most of what I read and also observed in other cities' steps were 3-5% step increases plus COLA each year
  • Council member Breyen responded there was a COLA increase in the budget of 6%, at the work session It was broken apart to give some COLA and some merit to provide the administrator some flexibility with distribution.

    — Council Member Breyen

    What this is about
    Council Member Breyen recalled that the COLA and merit split had been discussed during budgeting.

    p. 9Meeting City Council Meeting — Minutes (2024-01-09)Council member Breyen responded there was a COLA increase in the budget of 6%, at the work session It was broken apart to give some COLA and some merit to provide the administrator some flexibility with distribution.

    Related history

    The records I searched do not contain a prior budget discussion or decision matching Council Member Breyen’s recollection about a 6% COLA being split between COLA and merit pay to give the administrator flexibility. The only budget-related matches in these results concern an unrelated plaque expense discussed at the March 10, 2026 meeting, where Council Member Breyen asked what budget category should cover that expense. No COLA, merit-pay split, work session discussion, or related vote appears in the search results provided.

    • Feb 10, 2026<figure> CITY OF NOWTHEN </figure> ## REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION <table> <tr> <th>Agenda Item:</th> <th>Department:</th>
    • May 12, 2026MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SWENSON, TO APPOINT MICHAEL HOIUM TO THE PLANNING AND ZON
    • Apr 14, 2026MOTION BY COUNCIL MEMBER RAINVILLE, SECONDED BY COUNCIL MEMBER SWENSON, TO APPOINT MICHAEL HOIUM TO THE PLANNING AND ZON
    • Feb 10, 2026Council Member Mary Rainville informed the Council that due to a medical situation, she might need to excuse herself fro
    • Apr 14, 2026Council Member Breyen asked if there was a different category for the budget for this expense, rather than the contingen

Where this came up before

  1. Mar 10, 2026
    City Meeting

    <table> <tr> <th colspan="9">BURGLARIES</th> </tr> <tr> <th>Number</th> <th>Case Number</th> <th>Created On</th> <th>Officer Involvement</th> <th rowspan="2">Violation 609.582.4(a) Burglary - 4

    Doc<table> <tr> <th colspan="9">BURGLARIES</th> </tr> <tr> <th>Number</th> <th>Case Number</th> <th>Created On</th> <th>Officer Involvement</th> <th rowspan="2">Violation 609.582.4(a) Burglary - 4
  2. Mar 10, 2026
    City Meeting

    Cindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Gerald Bonine</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Sunday, February 22, 2026 2:33 PM</td> </tr> <tr> <td>To:</td> <td>Cindy Nash - C

    DocCindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Gerald Bonine</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Sunday, February 22, 2026 2:33 PM</td> </tr> <tr> <td>To:</td> <td>Cindy Nash - C
  3. Mar 10, 2026
    City Meeting

    Page 4: [1] Formatted Cindy Nash - Collab Planning 12/16/2025 5:31:00 PM Left, Indent: Left: 0.5", Right: 0", Don't add space between paragraphs of the same style, Line spacing: single, No bul

    DocPage 4: [1] Formatted Cindy Nash - Collab Planning 12/16/2025 5:31:00 PM Left, Indent: Left: 0.5", Right: 0", Don't add space between paragraphs of the same style, Line spacing: single, No bul
  4. Mar 10, 2026
    City Meeting

    Cindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Wendy Stament &gt;</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Thursday, February 19, 2026 9:47 AM</td> </tr> <tr> <td>To:</td> <td>Cindy N

    DocCindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Wendy Stament &gt;</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Thursday, February 19, 2026 9:47 AM</td> </tr> <tr> <td>To:</td> <td>Cindy N
  5. Mar 10, 2026
    City Meeting

    Cindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Jason Jones</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Thursday, February 12, 2026 9:07 AM</td> </tr> <tr> <td>To:</td> <td>Cindy Nash - C

    DocCindy Nash - Collab Planning <table> <tr> <td>From:</td> <td>Jason Jones</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Sent:</td> <td>Thursday, February 12, 2026 9:07 AM</td> </tr> <tr> <td>To:</td> <td>Cindy Nash - C

Sources

Documents and recordings archived for this meeting, when available.

The summary on this page is AI-extracted and may need correction. The PDFs and the meeting recording are the official record. What do the trust labels mean?