This conference will now be recorded >> council meeting for October 13, 2025. All are present. We'll do the pledge of >> allegiance. To the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it
stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> [clears throat] >> All right. Any additions to the agenda? I see that budget's not on here.
Oh, there it is. Never mind. Yes, sir. >> Yes. Sorry. On the bottom. I move to approve the agenda. Second. >> All in favor? >> Consent agenda items. >> Move to accept the consent agenda items.
>> Second. All >> in favor? >> I. [clears throat] >> All right. We have public comment. Is there anybody that's not on for request of presentation would like to speak at this time? This would be the time to do so.
If not, we'll start with Brenda. As we all know, Brenda, 320 South Broadway. I was at a previous council meeting um about this about my water damage in my basement and um I have been denied. the claim has been denied that
it was because of four inches of rain. Um, I guess I just want to let you know that it's never happened in the six years we've lived there. And if you think it's okay for the construction company, this is my house, this is my street, this is my pipe normally, if you
think it's okay for them to cut that, put this ujint on it, which you can see here, it's cut. They cut it and they placed it back to within three feet of my house. So obviously our sump pump is
going to work, but it's just going to keep recirculating recirculating the water with 6 in or excuse me 4 in of rain that night. My claim has been denied and closed by the lead Minnesota cities. Um, I feel that somebody I mean
with Tony leaving there's not a lot of oversee on this project and I feel that you know this JJD hasn't done a lot of all good things down on the end of that street and Janda would know because she drives down there but otherwise um and I
just feel like JJD is responsible for this. Does nobody have to take responsibility for why would you cut my sump pump to the street? I was told they didn't want water to get out on the gravel. Okay, where in the hell was it supposed to go? It's go gone there all
the other times and now they're fixing that. I know. But in the meantime, it goes back to my house to put the water back into my basement. Um, it was over $30,000 worth of damage out of my own pocket. I am in a financial hardship and
I had my cash to pay for my assessment. Well, I no longer do and I don't want it assessed on my taxes. I plan to pay it upfront and I am asking for the city of New Richland to drop my assessment of $10,31.80
since they're not standing behind the company that they hired that caused the damage. And I mean, this is common sense right here. I mean, would any of you want that cut to your house and turned back to your house and have that and say, "Oh, it's just because we had 4 in
of rain." So, I'm asking about my assessment. >> Larry, >> can I just say [laughter] Larry 314 South Broadway? Uh earlier this winter, I don't know what you want, but I brought a petition here in front
of the council. I got 17 signatures on that the uh petition about some discrepancies we felt were in the calculations of Houston and I haven't heard back from anybody. Nobody from the on the petitioners have
heard back. I just feel like there's 17 names on that and since we brought a petition with 17 names at some time somebody deserves a communication back a response back on our petition. So if there's a response you guys give us back
or I'm looking for some kind of response. >> So you're asking about when we have the Houston study done of what to do going forward with the water redirect. Is that >> no the petition is the calculation in Houston I found problems in the
calculation Houston engineering if you go back and read that petition they're calculations of the capacity vote correct >> okay >> so that should have been taken back to them and they should give an answer to that [clears throat] so there's 17 signatures on residents of town here I
feel somehow we deserve a reply back from somebody on our petition >> I don't know if I've heard anything I with Tony being not here. >> There is there is some uh uh there's some other things that we're
working on currently. We've been meeting with the county and we are scoping out a new project but all the further I can go with that currently because it's not set in stone. We've met
with uh Mr. Dr. Christopherson. Um, and what else? >> City manager. >> Yeah, the city manager. The city the person that >> the city administrator administrator city manager >> county administrator and we worked with
uh the uh can't think of his name on top of my head. He's a ditch. >> Chris. Yeah. So, >> we are looking at uh options. We actually have it's in uh Mr. Lewis's hands right now and he's got to come
back with uh what the final cost is going to be. It's pretty much in Lika County's hands now. >> Mr. Lewis is >> uh Joel Lewis for Houston engineering. >> Okay. >> Why don't we get a hold of Houston Engineering and have them contact Larry
with a response to us? >> I was just going to say >> you just send me a written. I would prefer written anything. Yep. >> So, um because >> that calculations they got there is going to affect whatever projects they
got going on. Even though it's going to be a different project, we still that whatever how they calculated that, we still feel air there and they're using wrong calculations on their error. They're going to try to get the water out of town. >> Yeah. >> It's not going to flow through town.
>> So, I've been in a couple meetings. I know there's another one coming up. I would assume >> I think November we got one coming up. So, >> so because we're waiting for general notice to get back some financials what the jobs going to cost and cuz we got a
grant of like 66,000 or something that currently uh being invested into Houston engineering. [clears throat] So steps are moving forward to eliminate hopefully the water through town.
But the grant is has to be done through the county, not through the city level. So that's why it's a joint task force. Yeah, there is work being done, but like I said, we met last month after Tony left, uh, Heather joined the meeting
and, you know, we, like I said, we're just waiting for Joe Lewis to put a plan together and obviously there's a lot of hoops that we're have to jump through with the DNR and everything. So,
I'm I'm hoping we can have a better answer here in the next few months. >> So, if you go solid with town, there won't be Well, you still have a little bit of coming through town, but everything coming
downream will go through around south of town instead of coming through. >> Yeah. Absolutely. >> And then they're the plan to shut the culvert underneath the school >> so it doesn't direct in. They'll tie in with the one that's going south to town
and connect out a mile and a half. >> And then we just have our little runoffs from when we get 4 inches of rain or whatever it may be in an hour that will just run into our creek. Everything from the east side should be
directed around if everything goes as planned. I'm hoping. I've spent some time with these guys. So, we're we're staying on them. They're actually doing a very good job. The county administrator, too, and Chris
Howard and Doug and um >> can't remember her name because she's a she's a commissioner, too. She was there as well. [clears throat] >> So, between Heather, myself, and Jo, we've all been at these meetings
virtually um to discuss things and get things moving. Um I think some of the talks was too is eventually needing to have letters from community members on what how the floods over the years have affected them. We're just trying to work on getting forms ready so we can have
them ready for community members to fill that out and you know they have pictures or they had family members that were in a nursing home and it was affected. We had to evacuate all those types of things. So because we need that for the grant to see the hardship of what's happened over the years with the
community, how they've been affected. >> Okay. >> Does that help answer? >> Yeah. Now, >> if you got a plan, if you're kind of banning that one and go to a new plan where you don't have that water come through town, it doesn't matter what the
calculations were. >> Thank you. >> Bruce, [laughter] Bruce Meer, I'm representing uh my family for 2163rd [clears throat] Street Northeast. Uh we had the water shut off due to the property being
vacant. We had it turned back on and there was a faucet out back that was on and it ran for 51 hours and 26,000 gallons. Fortunately, it didn't go in my basement, but somewhere along the line when we shut
the water off and check to see if there was no water and then turned it back on and check to see that the water was coming out. So, I don't think we should pay for the water bill. >> It was a pause on your property though, correct? Yes. >> Leaked.
>> No, I didn't leak. It was wide open. >> Wide open. >> Yes. >> So, you're saying one of the city maintenance guys turn that faucet on? >> Well, I can't say 100%. >> No. So, the water was shut off after she was out of the house and they needed the water turned back on to get some
cleaning and stuff done to get the house prepared to sell. So, the guys went and turned the water back on to the property >> at the curb stop. >> At the curb stop. >> Yeah. And then in that I mean yeah they just go to the front of the property and
turn it on and then it went over a weekend or something. Um it sounds like an outdoor faucet the like the hose faucet or something if I'm correct Bruce. Correct. >> I think um was on on the property. So unfortunately
I mean that it's nothing that like the maintenance guys would see just because they just turn on the water at the curb stop. Um, so yeah, but it ran for like 72 hours. >> Add a check add a line to the checklist. Walk around the property and look and see if there's anything else.
>> No, that's your property. It's not the city when you turn on. That's what I'm saying. >> Well, I've had water turned off and turned back on. They came in on or property. Were you at the property when they >> because
usually anything that's on the building or anything that it should be I mean I can see them asking if you were there to make sure it turned on and it was it came on but ultimately it would be the property owners to make sure all deposits are closed or on after they
turn that valve because we're only liable up to that curb stop. >> So you never check to see if there's water to the the house after it's shut off. Um, we I don't No, I mean I don't that would be up to the the property owner
too. >> And that's something >> he does not check to see if there's if the water's turned off. >> I don't what >> I guess I don't know what their process is on if they have a checklist. All I know is I mean
>> if they're requested to turn off or turn on. The water would be on when we had left the faucet on. The faucet would have ran until they shut it off. >> It went to ram when it turned back on. >> Who what the question is is who actually
turned it on at the you know opened it up at the very beginning that do you know who turned that faucet on? Was it when you shut off the water? That's the question. Like, >> yeah, that's my question is that if that faucet would have been left on and shut
the water off would have been different, but we wouldn't have left a it was a wide open hose. It wasn't one that had an end on it or anything like that. It was wide open hose, >> right? But there's still a faucet shut off valve where you turn it on off, which that would be part of property.
>> Correct. But I wouldn't leave a hose running when the water's on. No. So when they shut the water off, that valve would have been off. >> Unless it got turned off. It got turned
on at some point. >> Correct. >> But but I went to >> I went to turn on a uh house faucet that didn't have any water on. >> I mean, >> and I don't believe that there's anybody in the neighborhood that was running
around turning on faucets. Otherwise, we would have turned them all on. >> I know in past when we've had water made water that has been running, it's always we just made it where it was set up for you could make payments on it say 3
months or four months. >> I don't have a problem with paying the bill. I'll pay the bill, but it makes I thought there's checks and balance. one for a house that's running 51 hours or 72 hours with the water on full blast. 26,000 gallons makes no sense to me.
>> But we're the city is only able to go up to that curb stop. Everything after that is the homeowner's responsibility to make sure it's on or off. >> I believe it. Anybody else? >> [clears throat]
>> I'm just thinking about how we can stop something from like this happening again. Like I said, we have a checklist that when they shut the water off and or turn it on to walk around the house to make sure there isn't anything that's wrong. Why? Because we're doing due
diligence to helping the community >> from this happening in the future. >> Still, it's private property and there's no reason for them to walk around. >> It's no have a property owner or a representative there to check out. Now that >> we did have a representative there, but they didn't show up when they were
supposed to. So then that's when they came. >> We had to leave. We were told the water was [clears throat] going to be turned on. We had a representative there. They didn't show up. So I had to call again. I said, "Oh, oh, okay." So then we weren't there. Otherwise, that may have
been a different story. It's not. You say you're going to do something, you should do it. 26,000 gallons of water. You think I wanted to water the grass as much rain got? No. Three semi loads of water.
Go down that way. So, what we could do, I'm asking council here, um, because we know it was an outside spot, it did not go down to the treatment plant to get treated. It went straight to the ground. So, one of the things we could do is we could forgive
just the sewer part of it. That's 36615 because we didn't treat that water. It went to the ground. So, paying for just the water portion of it, but not the sewer part. >> Are you is that some other cases we've had it was a broken pipe inside where it
went down the drain and got treated. Here it is not. I know in the utility office I work in with SECA that is that way in the summer. We take an average because people are mowing, watering lawns, washing cars. >> Well, it's the same as if they have an
outside meter that gets credited >> back. >> I think that's reasonable. >> So, do you think that's reasonable if we do that? >> Okay. So, we on a motion to >> I'm making a motion to forgive the sewer portion of the >> 615 >> 36615
>> of the water bill at 216 Northeast Street. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> We should probably talk to the the streets department about >> We just have to make sure clarify what what >> what we need to do.
>> Yeah, it was a while ago. So I I don't want to even say anything wrong from what they told me. So I would talk >> We should investigate it a little bit. >> Yes, definitely talk to them. They were the ones there. So >> So instead of the 6:23 a.m., we're going to subtract off that 36:15 that morning.
>> So I have one question for you, Bruce. Uh what time were they how late were they at arriving from when they said they were going to be there to when they came? >> 3 hours. >> Really? They say like at 9 in the morning and they came at noon.
>> I know it was I think it was 11:00. They'd be there at right after lunch and it was like 3. >> I think it was actually the following day. >> Yeah. Do you I don't even remember what date that was. Okay.
>> Okay. All right. Department reports. >> Sorry. Sorry. Slack in here. Hang on. [clears throat] Okay. There you go. >> Not much.
>> Um, besides the radios, >> you guys got both pamphlets that we got. >> Let the county go switching to encrypted in order for us to communicate. We're going to have to get new radios. videos will work as of right now, but
[clears throat] um if they break then they're not going to be naked. There's no place no replacement parts for them. >> So yours will work with the if they switch the encrypted right now for for the time being. So, my thought, she
knows more about the radios than I do, but we got theirs this year and then next year get ours, which would be okay to make it during that time as long as we have our radio, our radios, right? We got right the ones portable ones that we have right now. We had 10 of them and
I'm like, we don't need 10. We only need four. So, I only quit for four um to have for us. But that's that's my thought to kind of help out with everything. But eventually we will have to have them
because the ones that we have work for right now, but they're not going to >> Is it just when they break or is it >> No, eventually they're not going to be able. >> Yeah. Um >> there's not a specified date, but I was
told most likely spring of next year. Yeah, >> I'm just thinking budget wise if we push it off until that time frame that would help our budget this year, wouldn't it? >> So like mine I know you could hers you probably can't [clears throat] because she's not going to be able to
communicate. Do you have any in your budget for this year that you can use them? >> That Tony said he was working on it when he left. So I don't know what he had going on with the whole thing. >> So you've been working >> I'll get on it. I have no idea what he had because he was talking to me about it before and
he's like, "We're going to do five radio." I'm like, "No, we only need four." So, when I went and I checked on the price, there's two different prices that I had there. One was 28, one was 22. And I think the 22 one would be just fine for us on the ambulance. What's the difference between the two?
>> Huh? What's the difference between the two that [clears throat] you >> um just the >> they have that I kind of glanced over but >> they're just the different styles where Yeah. [clears throat] >> Is there any benefit to keeping it the
same across the departments >> as long as we're able to just communicate with dispatch and hospitals and then our law enforcement, which we'd be able to do that because they usually come on our channel anyway. So, >> but is there any benefits of the ambulance having the same radios as PD
or is it just completely different? >> Usually ambulance, fire and law enforcement all have different radios or law enforcement, [clears throat] fire have the same or excuse me, ambulance and fire have the same and then law enforcement is different. >> Okay. Why
>> different channels that law enforcement gets? >> I can see. as opposed to ambulance and fire. >> Would there be any cost savings to have all of them on the same for ambulance and fire here in the Richmond?
>> I don't know if a bulk order is I I would have to ask. I don't know >> how long we got before that. We have to make a deadline. >> We knew this was coming. I know for years for our budget it's next month,
right? for our budget. It's next month to get it >> because we got to approve it in December. >> Yeah. Okay. >> Well, I think it'd be worthwhile to look at a bulk order and see if that would change any of the prices.
>> It's going to be >> It's probably not. I wouldn't think it'd be enough. >> We're probably not buying enough of them. >> What's the harm I'm looking for? >> Yeah, I agree. I agree. I know Tony was putting money away for eventually for the rig and stuff like
that. I mean, and we can right now our rig is our ambulance is okay where we could take that and kind of put towards it, but then we'll have to put back into where because eventually we're going to need a rig. We're going to need a new ambulance because it just break down,
you know, it's not but there is wiggle room in there and stuff. So, and with our payroll with the way we go with the north covering during the day, that helps out a lot because it keeps we still have that chunk there that's for the paper, but it's not going towards
it. So, there is some wiggle room on our on our end and everything like that, but I can sit down with anybody and talk to. >> Should we see what's in the if there's anything in the budget for it for this
year or decide from there? Yeah. plan for next year. >> So, we need to find out from the fire, too. >> Fire is probably going to need a lot more than us because they have to have one in every every rig and then they got to have them on themselves. So,
>> they don't all have radios. They all have >> they have a phones too now. >> Yeah. But if they go inside, I wonder if that's with the radio. >> Yeah. >> I don't know. I don't know how that'll work. Um >> well they've got money.
>> Yeah, they got money. >> It's kind of one of the necessities unfortunately. But um then the scheduling system that we use. Did you were you able to print that off at all >> or did I I have it attached? >> You have the email attached here. Um
>> so we use this all the time for our scheduling system and there's like cost or whatever. You can do multi-year and it'll be cheaper and we've been using it for I'd say about 10 years now and we haven't had an issue with it.
It's been a good source. Everybody can go in there and sign up. So those are what the budgets are that he gave us a plan and the costs for each year. So, we need to get that paid for so we can have keep continue to have it
because or else it's going to shut the cost on us. So, I'd let you guys choose which plan you want to go with. I mean, we could do the the three the three-year plan or or the fiveyear plan would probably be better. >> What are we doing currently? >> Huh?
>> What are we doing currently? >> I think we did year by year, >> I think. So, >> I don't can't remember cuz it was it was a um >> You know what? You might be right cuz Yeah, I Yeah, I think you're right. >> Yeah. So, I would I mean the five or
sevenyear plan would be either one of those would be great. You keep it going and then and just get the bill every year for that. The bigger the um plan, the cheaper it is, it looks like.
>> Yeah, it's down by about $900,000 each year if you do the seven. >> [clears throat] >> When you when is the contract up where you need to have this decision? >> That's in the letter you said it's coming up. So in the emails back and forth it looks
like it's coming up here. >> I could remember what it was. >> Can you give us a idea? >> Pardon me. Can you give us an idea when it's going to be? >> I'll send him an email tonight and then I can shoot Heather a message and she can Well, she can be in the email and
then on >> if it's something that needs to be done. We >> we got to figure something out rather than waits and then whatever. >> We don't have anybody at all when I got to go back to paper. That would be fun.
[laughter] >> Yeah. If it's next month, if it's >> January, I mean, it gives us some time frame because I'm buying some radios and [clears throat] >> paying for this plan. You know, we have
to see what we all have and, you know, >> if we want to push something in next year or >> or even if you did the three-year plan, it' be fine, too. I mean, >> if we're going to do something, my honest opinion, we're going to do more than three years. >> I think so. because this is the what the
price is. I mean, the first three years on the seven-year plan is exactly the same. It goes up 20 >> $19 for the fourth year. So, >> that'd be fine. I mean, three years is fine, but I can I can send him an email tonight and then he'll get back to us
and she'll see it tomorrow and she can kind of shoot you guys a message out. >> I'm guessing it's getting close. I see the first email was sent in September 9th. >> Yeah. And then now we're getting the second email saying they haven't heard from us yet about it. So I'm guessing it's coming up close. >> Probably at the end of this year.
>> Well, we should maybe do something tonight. Otherwise, we have to wait till November, >> right? >> I would just suggest not going any more than the fiveyear just with how some of the stuff with ambulance is changing. >> Yeah. >> I mean, I'm with Josh. The five years still looks really good, but I wouldn't
go any longer than that >> without knowing exactly what we have for >> Yeah. >> budget lines we need to >> and time frames. >> Yeah. >> And what >> and people correct?
>> Yeah. >> Sit on the shelf for 5 years. That was my concern about the long. Not that I would ever see that day, but >> something got to think about. >> Yeah. Yeah.
>> All right. I'll make a motion to go with Aldtech. Uh the five-year plan first year is 1953. >> I'll second. >> All in favor? >> I
say I >> Okay. I didn't hear you. Any opposites? No, >> you're good. >> [clears throat] >> All right. Other than that, I'll still send him an email when he can get that sent over to you. So that way you can get that taken
care. >> Yep. Sounds good. >> Sarah, how many runs have you had this year so far? Do you know? >> Uh, we are at 120. >> Okay. >> I will say we are finally seeing some really good numbers coming into um what
did I say? Doubled if not tripled. We're getting payments coming in. I did just get the bill today from EMS. The runs are getting a lot higher on the bill. We're seeing some good numbers. It's getting better. It's improving. >> That's That's a plus.
>> So, that means more money coming. >> More money is coming in. Like I said, yeah, I after I talked with Janda, I'd say this month it was tripled in payments from what I normally see. So, we're getting there. It's still not a lot, but we are getting there. We're seeing a lot of improvement. Is that still that backlog of the ones that not?
>> I No, I doubt any of that's backlog. I still haven't had more. I do have my quarterly meeting with them next Wednesday. >> But we do have a backlog of stuff that hasn't been paid because we didn't >> because of the other company. >> Yes. A bunch more.
>> We could um but like I said, now we only have quarterly meetings. Um and yeah, I it's next Wednesday. I'm pretty positive. and then I'll get an update on how far they're getting or if we kind of have to cut our losses or what we're looking at, but we are getting
improvement in payments, which is amazing. So, >> that's good. >> Yep. I really enjoy working with them. They're a good company. >> Now, are they kind of doing this as a favor or are they charging us for each one they submit? Because I thought they were just kind of
they took it because they said they would help us on the stuff that was >> the backlogged stuff. Um, no. I don't think we're getting charged for that stuff. I I could be wrong, but I haven't seen anything different >> to say that if they don't. >> Yep.
>> Okay. >> And then we still have a group. So real quick, you keep track of the numbers through the daytime that we missed because you all working from the nursing home. from the nursing home. We
actually have a tally on our our um billing sheet that says uh care center calls and they they actually their billing company asks for it. >> So then we mark it and then they know what how many times you go to the care center, how many times you go to pra senior cages, how many times it's in Richland, outside Richland.
>> Yeah. >> Cool. >> So yeah, >> that kind of makes sense. You want to know where they're going. >> Yeah. >> Well, yeah, I'll have to reach out to him and ask them about that. So >> yeah. >> Thank you all. >> Thank you. Thank you, sir. Make a motion. Move. I make a motion to accept
the eminent support. I'll second. >> All in favor? >> I >> thank Okay. Um, >> fire. I think one call.
>> Um, nothing. It was pretty quiet. So, >> you want to get a hold of Josh? We're talking about radio. >> Yes. I have a note in here already to get a hold of them of what they're thinking. Yep. >> Make a motion accept. >> All in favor?
>> I >> police department. >> Okay. So, before we get to the reading discussion, um 108 calls for the month of September. Um
not a whole lot this month. Um, our new guy, uh, Johnson, he completed all mandatory training. Um, so he's currently going through the FTO process. Um, I think it'll be a quick study, which is
perfect. Um, purchased for a training in November. Um, okay. Radios. So, law enforcement's different than fire ambulance. While Sarah was talking, I was
multitasking talking to Chad Nigel and with ANC, our Ancom guy, he said all the radios are state bid, so there's no there's no there's no discount for that. >> Um
Chad said they have 20 now, but 22 radios would be ideal for them. Um, our radios, I don't know about ambulance or fire. My radios are from 2012. So, there's not been an update since my
[clears throat] squad radios are not included in this bid. However, I was told that those are current up to date. So we don't need to purchase those that has the same hardware
>> software that So um I did a thorough dive into my finances with Heather. Um, and between my state aid that I received at the beginning of
the year and the capital that Tony had put away, um, I should have 17,000. Um, >> no, 20,00. >> Give me a minute. Um, so I only have [clears throat] roughly that four >> 4,000.
>> Yeah. to make up which Heather and I were talking and there's enough wiggle room in my budget that would be able to provide that. >> How [clears throat] long are these supposed to last before we have to do this again? >> I would assume the same
>> 10 years, 12 years. >> That's my assumption. >> And we have that in the budget to squirrel away a little money every year for that. We should after looking at stuff >> in the next 10 years
>> any other questions. >> You would like a motion so you can purchase them now. Correct. >> Yes. Because they would be >> How long they take to get here? >> Well, depends on >> and we can supply demand. Yeah.
>> So, it could be a month, it could be 4 months, just depends. >> You're asking for that 4,000? >> No. >> Well, the whole ultimately Yeah, ultimately. Yeah. >> Yeah. >> I understand. Okay.
>> Have you had any hits on fulltime officer yet? >> Although I am trying to talk or you going full time. Same. Say what happens to the old radio? >> Where's he at? >> Can you sell that? >> I have not asked Gary. I don't think so
because >> other police radios one. >> Everybody else has upgraded. >> And you want to sell them to a public? >> No, definitely not. >> Do you know if with the old ones if there's some kind of recycling program?
Like what would you do with the old ones? Just curious. >> I could ask Gary. I don't know. >> Management Buffet. [laughter] Well, I'm just I'm just trying to think just more if there's a recycling way and you can get money for them. I don't know. >> I was just curious.
>> I don't know [applause] about the batteries. I don't know if those are different, but yeah. And >> worth looking into. >> Made sure to ask him if anything was transferable between the old and the new. And there's they said no.
>> Maybe the lanyard, >> the clip. [laughter] >> Maybe. I don't know. They're not even Bluetooth >> privy with the ones. Yeah. >> Oh, so these new ones would be Bluetooth as well.
>> Well, no. So, we have Bluetooth mics and they they have the option to come with one or the other. And so, our current Bluetooth mics would not be transferable to the new radios. >> Okay. >> Which I think is dumb, but that's my opinion. >> And that's in this bid, too.
>> Yeah. every That's everything. That's chargers, that's the charging port, that's the mics, that's extra. There's two extra batteries in there. Um, that's everything. >> I'll make a motion to approve the
purchase of the radios at 30,4413. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> Any opposed? And then hide and seek if you want to try your skills to hide from us. And
movie night November 1st. So for you. >> No, it's not. >> Oh crap. >> Okay. So you're going to get it. >> Well, you're going to hold it.
>> There was a sculpture made for >> Oh, dear. break it right away. >> Um, really cool. We will look for a shelf for this. So, it's called the wall of fire. Um, and this was
made by a local resident. Um, he was an um, he is an aluminum sandcaster in the USA and an industrial baked on powder finished hammered look. So, this is available in gold, silver, and bronze,
all this stuff. So, he made this for the first responders of New Richland and donated it >> um for the community of New Richland with the cool thing. >> So, I just wanted to show her made her show you guys all this. Um
>> Oh, do the picture. National. >> So, >> we would like to find a really good durable shelf cuz it is very heavy and get your guys' opinions on where you would like this displayed if you >> I'm concerned about it going out there
with people renting and children. Not that I don't trust it, but um it's somewhere kind of in here or over by the flag or something um that we can display in here. >> Yeah. >> For everyone to see. So >> yeah, he hand carves all of that and
then he molds it. So that's all hand done. That's nothing about that is machine made. >> So >> pretty cool. >> Do a picture. >> Did this person said >> um so it's John Hatcher
>> in the community. So >> and he does not like being in public. [laughter] So he brought it to me and >> Cool. >> So that's for all the first responders in the city.
>> Very cool. >> So >> that's all I have. >> Make a motion to accept the PD report. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> I Good evening everybody. How about >> no more?
[laughter] >> Right. >> All right. So, at Gear Center, um September average census was 35.5. Um our annual average is 36.42. Our current census is 38. Has been for
about two weeks. uh we we're seeing improved numbers. Um September was a good month for referrals and moveins. We did have several people that returned home after therapy services provided and several that moved
uh in to receive therapy services. So it was kind of a wash through October or September into October. However, a lot of the people that came in uh in July all went home in August and nobody
replaced them. That was our problem. Um we continue to expand our reach as always uh to other centers uh within 100 miles. Uh our financials in August were not pretty. Uh our August revenue was
428,000. expenses were a little over 432,000. The expenses and we got to think in terms of people because people are 70% of our cost. uh
even though we didn't have uh you know we were down really six residents from that you know kind of an average of 38 um we still needed people to take care of and provide that quality care and then of course a lot of those
folks were agency staff that cost us a lot more. They don't provide the quality that our own staff has put, but they got to be there. Um, so the difference in that is a
negative $3,500. Uh, which kind of sad. Um, staffing wise, um, again with uh the Flint Healthcare, um, I told you we had a couple of candidates that had signed their letters of intent. Uh since then
we've had a couple more. Two of the candidates are here. They went through their uh orientation and they start floor work tomorrow. So we're looking forward to that. They live in Mano. >> Uh really liking the area so far.
>> However, they are originally from Kenya, so it's winter is going to be an interesting feat for them. [laughter] All right. like the way you think. Um, another candidate uh that accepted a
position will be here probably next week uh and possibly on the first part of November provided all their paperwork goes through. Um we are still using AHI uh advanced healthc care out of the
city's uh consulting but our bill is going to be less. I caught one of them loose this last month. Uh, so we should see a little bit of a savings there. And we do have a nurse that's going to start learning MDS's the end of the month. So
by middle of December, we will cut loose one more full-time consultant, which will save us $15,000 a month. >> What positions are we currently staffing with that AHI? >> AHI was um primarily [clears throat] MDS
for the last two years. Um, that was a full-time position >> and that's big money. >> U, the new gal uh is coming from another facility. Um, she's she's doing some of that work
there. So, I don't think it'll take the full 10 weeks of training. I think it'll only take probably four or five weeks. Uh, she seems pretty sharp and I think she's done a lot of the nursing and dietary stuff. now is just bringing on
how to open and adding on a couple other small departments to uh to get those things figured out. And I really think she'll fly through the training fast. So I'm pretty hopeful things will it'll be
a positive change. Uh and then the other one was for uh the director of nursing position and uh you know we we hired we brought her on in April and then uh Becky became the DO in
the end of May and I transitioned that person to being a policy and procedure. >> That was Dory. Dory. >> Yeah. and she was she transitioned into
the the policy and procedure thing. Uh wrote up nice policies and procedures, got everyone to wrap around that and understand that better. And then we also used her as a qualifier. So things went really well for a couple of months and
then she took a little time off. We gave her a little time off [laughter] so everything was good. Um, and then just to let the board know, I want everybody to understand that
[clears throat] staff, the staff at the nursing home, I mean, not just the nursing home, everywhere in the world, the staff at McDonald's complain about it. The staff at everyone's work complains about I don't get paid enough. Right? That is
everywhere. Doesn't matter how much you get paid, you think you should make more. Every single person on the planet thinks that. I don't care who you are. The staff at the nursing home, last year they got one increase. They
got a 3% increase on their annual uh review. This year they got the 3% increase on their annual review. Plus, I figured in a 2% increase in April, a midyear increase. And as it
stands right now, I just did another 2% increase. So, in the year of 2025, the staff at the nursing home, every single person will get or is getting a 7% increase throughout the year. Yes, it
seems like small potatoes. Why? >> Still 7%. >> It's better than a sharp stick in the eye. Um, I am trying to play catch-up because we've got a new law coming into effect uh January 1st that's going to change wages. I I am trying to get our
people a boost so that I know where they're at and I can try to because in uh in January staff are going to start making $19 an
hour basic greenhorn right out of junior out of high school. Yep. I'm going to be a dietary aid at at the nursing home and my starting pay is $19 an hour. Currently, it's $1250.
That is a huge increase. I'm trying to make up for some of that with my current staff so that when I bump them up, not everybody's going to get that kind of a bump because they can't afford that. But I
want to be able to get our people up so that when that new kid comes on January 3rd that the people that have already been there, the people that have skin in the game already are making that much more. So they need there needs to be wage gaps
and this current Minnesota administration doesn't understand that. So we are doing what doing our best trying to create those wage gaps for people for experience levels. So if anybody complains please, you know, just
you are aware. >> I appreciate looking into that and taking care of because you're going to lose if you don't. >> That's a fact. >> Unfortunately. >> Yeah. Yep. You're going to lose. That's a fact. Um some things around quality. Uh I wish Sarah would have stuck around.
We did use more education. Um, we had multiple nurses, ours and a couple of agency nurses needed CPR training that we did within the original ambulance crew. Sarah and Sarah Jill came in and provided training
for them. That was great. Um, it, you know, it's just the the booster training that they need. So, that was nice. Uh, we're also looking at phabbotomy training. If the guy newspapers there right, Mayo Clinic abandoned the city of
New Richland. I am very adamant about that. Um, we're trying to get that phbotomy training done because it's currently costing us $1,000 a week to have somebody come and draw blood. >> And I need my people to do that because
male won't do it anymore and that's killing us. Are you doing that training with just like RNs then or >> anybody? >> Anybody can do that. >> Awesome. >> But I got to figure out who's going to do the training. >> Not in our building, but who's going to
provide the training? Because Mayo Clinic was like, "Oh, you know what? We did that once. We're not doing it again. >> Are you for real?" >> That's awesome. >> Doing the training, having staff do that. You would take it down to the lab
for Mayo to test it for them or whichever hospital clinic they go to. >> Yep. >> So, looking into that, sorry, I might just be whatever. Um, is that something that you'd be looking into? Keep having something like that
available to anybody in the community, not just in the nursing home or >> be nice. Okay. >> Yes. >> Okay. >> Yep. >> That would be huge. Um, at at some point I would like, of course, my big dream is to make private rooms and then an
activity area around the southeast side of the building so we could have two more hall, add two more halls and a big activity area on the southeast side with windows and sunlight streaming in so that people could actually sit in sun rather than in the dark cave that we
have provided for them. Um, and then, uh, up in the front of the building where we currently have activities to be able to put a small clinic setting in there. So, people could come in, get shots, they come and get a blood drawn, [clears throat] possibly do virtual
doctor visits, and have a nurse on staff, you know, a couple days a week before that. I think that would be fant. And even expand therapy a little bit. That would be nice. But lots of
there's there's a lot of iron in that pot. Needs to get heated up. >> I'm not that windy yet. Working it. [laughter] Um so and some of our other stuff. Uh our grant money stuff. Sidewalks around
the building. They're about half done. Um >> that's also Peter isn't it? >> Yep. John Peter. Uh the one on the east side of the building is needed to be done, but that's not too big a deal. Uh security system on the outside of the
building, not inside the building, on the outside uh is complete. Uh so that was good. Uh carpet carpet to be replaced in the sitting areas has all been ordered so that we get the same color, the same lot number.
Evidently, that's a big deal. Um, and the tub room on the 200 hall, uh, is in progress. Uh, I think we need an electrician to actually get that done [laughter] and he's busy, but that's all I got. Any
questions for me? >> I was just thinking training. Have you checked with the school to see if they have a program where they could have students do training with that to come in as like a course for >> like No, like
>> all this school. No. >> Um because all of all of the training goes through mail. [clears throat] >> I did I did have a conversation last week with a couple of their marketing
people and I expressed my displeasure with the way they handled the exit from the city. I expressed the fact that they left us high and dry. I expressed the fact that they left our whole town high and dry
and now and she said, "Well, you know, but >> we're not building things are starting to dry up all over." And I said, "Yeah, I understand. You close another five clinics and then you're going to close they're working on shutting the doors in Albertly." I said,
"Talk to talk to them people at the top and say, you know what? Rural Americans need this healthcare, too." And I says, "We need it big time out here. If not, we'll go to Blue Earth. I know the guys over there. They love to expand.
We just step all over again." >> Do you have any comment to that? >> No, they did not. >> They're a little more nicer than diet. >> We're a little fish in the city. >> Exactly. >> Let me know if there's anything I can do to help in that process, too. I would
absolutely love to help that. >> That'd be great. >> Fantastic. >> Absolutely. Huge. >> I'll make a motion to accept the care center report. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> Thank you. >> Thanks, Bob. >> Can I just add to what he was talking
about for it's all these pay increases for all the work. Uh through the water, we're doing deal with the same problem. Um, [clears throat] we hired two new staff people and what
our original hiring base stuff was, you know, they're coming out of college with a four-year degree and what our base was, the city of Mano was offering 26 bucks an hour to drive a lawn more and our base was 20 bucks an hour after four
years of college. T we work with TSA for technical service on our engineers and 18 months ago they lost four engineers and 12 months ago they finally had to go and give them all $15,000 raises [snorts] just to get back
$15,000 raises at one shot just to maintain them. And we're looking at that in our industry too and we're evaluating just they can walk off and find jobs and not have a degree and still get paid for it. So, it's everybody's feel that
after. >> Okay, as you guys can see, Shella's not here. She's doing a fun waste project, gross thing. Um, hauling something, whatever she does with hauling grain. Um, so
look through this. Um, the only thing that I wanted to point out that she did tell me today, I believe we have like the purchasing power without bringing to you guys up to 2,000. Correct. But I wanted it on there
that she needs a heater for the lift gate. And um, she didn't get a chance to send me the quote, but it is 1,700, but I just wanted it out there for you guys. She says this. >> Was it two or one?
>> It used to be one, so I'm pretty sure it's up to two. >> Um, but just to have the transparency with you guys and with my position right now. I just wanted you guys to know about that. I told her to go ahead and email the person so that I can get everything. But she does need a heater
for the lift station and it is $1,700. Um, so I told I told her not to worry about it, but that I would mention that to you guys tonight as well. But it's no way of says or buts. She has to have that. So, um otherwise I think that's the only extra thing. We did have a
meeting um kind of with her higher ups at um like October 2nd or 3rd. Um and they look through all of her testing, her spreadsheets, all of her stuff. Uh she did she she's doing awesome.
Um, and we will need to, another thing that I know was kind of being looked at and reviewed was the people services contract. Um, I know Tony had brought it up a couple times this year, looking into different
things on that, but as of right now, I don't think we really have much of any choice and we're going to we're going to have to renew it. >> What kind of term do they want? >> What's that? >> What kind of term are they asking for? See, I can't remember if it's >> three or five.
>> I think it was three, but then weren't they pushing for five? >> I think they were pushing for five, but we should still be able to keep three. I do have I was able to do some digging and I found the contract in Tony's original email. Um, so I can I found
that today. I can send that out to I believe we have time. I will put it on November's but just a heads up that is coming up and I don't think we have any choice but to renew at this point. >> Is there a increase? >> Yeah, I mean there's definitely going to be an increase
>> cost of living type thing >> probably. Um usually this month or November I do get the notice from them about how much additional it is going to be increased. Like I think this last year it increased
by 1,500 a month I want to say. I want to say last year I was paying 12 something and this year it's like 14,000. >> I was going to say 1350. >> Yep. Yep. It's 14,000 like 125 right now. Um so we will definitely be having
an increase but um I will put that on next month. But I just wanted that out there for you guys that given the situation we're in, we're kind of stuck and not really going to have any choice but to renew that for next year. Um, [clears throat]
We would just have shell. >> Yeah, >> repeat thing for so long. >> Yeah, she wouldn't fight. So, any other questions on her report I can try to answer as best I can. >> Make a motion to accept the people's
service report. >> Second. >> All in favor? >> All right. >> Okay. and Eric. Um, five blue cards, zero shut offs, um, weekly maintenance out at the Legion
Field Park and everything. Um, I don't know if he put it on here, but I do know that they shut off the water out at Legion Field and at St. Olaf. Um, road project still in progress and they started with the water plant update
controls. Um, I guess the guy is supposed to be coming at the end of the month finally to do some work. Um, >> they can go back. The road project is a street project. >> Yeah, that's what he needs. Yeah. >> Uh, finished the playground equipment
and put down new mulch. Um, Al Brooks service the fire extinguishers. Yep. He went on here. They shut down everything else. They flushed hydrants September 10th. Um, they've been putting some work into the sweeper. Um, new tire and everything.
Um, I will be putting that out in the newsletters, but Eric said once the leaves are done falling is when we will be taking out the sweeper. So, just kind of probably November. Um, they had overhead door a spring broke out at the shop. Um, they put up
new signs for the EDA. Future projects, the Yulinda overlay, sweep up the leaves come November. >> Overlay going to be going, you know, >> that I don't know. I feel like they're in different spots. I can't keep I can't keep up with all the street projects. I
don't know. Um >> I ask them to send us an email. >> I absolutely will. >> Um as you guys can see, bathroom remodel is being done. It's looking great. Unfortunately, um they came about 2 weeks after they
told us that they would be here. So, we're a little bit behind, but everything will definitely be done before the end of the month when people are renting out the community room and for the big event here in Halloween. Um, working on the tree project out at
the lake. He did get a bid. So, this kind of goes with we had this meeting with the EDA as well. There is a um DNR grant, like tree grant. Um, so I had Eric get a bid on what it would cost to take all those dead trees down at St.
Olaf. um bid is for $7,000. He's got I think 25 trees marked out there right now. Matt Harrington knows a lot about this as well. Um but if we can I've been slowly filling it out. I'm teaching
myself how to fill out this grant. Um but if we can get this grant potentially basically getting rid of all those trees and everything could completely get paid for doing those. But um the only thing
is we will probably have to regardless of grant situation possibly make a decision on getting rid of these trees next month because Eric wants them cut down in the wintertime. >> They need to with all of that kind of stuff.
>> Um and it does look like it's a reimbursement program. So we would have to show receipts and stuff of what we paid for to get the work done and everything. And then we would I think it said like June or July next year is it when it got paid out or something like that. So, um we will probably I told him
he needs to come next month to speak about this and we'll put it on there and we'll need to make a voting on that. But I wanted you guys to know and basically that grant would cover all of that. >> I got a couple questions that >> I'm trying to be a good neighbor. My neighbor works for bar out of New
Service. >> Can they put a bid in on that also? I don't see why not. Okay. >> Then he had a question. I talked to him tonight. He said there's number one and number two marked on those trees. Does anybody know what the one and two signifies? >> No, Eric never explain. I guess I never
noticed that. I noticed X's on them, but I never noticed numbers. So, I'm assuming he probably has them numbered as far as which one he would rather go first. >> Can you if he had to pick so many? Email us. Okay. >> Absolutely. your neighbor just come up here and talk
to you guys. >> Yeah, as long as they provide me with the bid, I'm good with that. >> And then you're also going to have the CAD representative help you with that. Correct. Talked about that at EDA today. >> Yep. >> About them. So maybe they can
>> help [laughter and clears throat] you with that so you're not taking so much time. >> It's it's a learning curve. So I I appreciate anybody that can do grants because you don't want to screw that up and you want all the information >> and that's why we have the EDA Yep.
>> approve that CEDA person. So with that >> Yep. She did say she will help out with that. So that is great. >> And then just to I just want to clarify, you're still having the weekly meetings with the contractors just to kind of see where they're at in progression >> every Wednesday. >> Every Wednesday. >> Yep.
>> Okay. Make a motion to accept the streets and made it. I'll second that. >> All in favor? >> I I businessmber 2025 questions.
>> Nope. I don't this time. I don't either. Either >> I like that. >> Oh, I do. How come some of the words are smaller than the others? >> Because I Well, I can leave it blank or I can just put it in there what it is so that you don't have to ask the question
of what it is. So, saving all of us time. >> All right. >> You got a good explanation. >> Uh 2025 street and utility project number five. >> Yeah. What's there to talk about? I seen
the the uh sign thing for around the school >> now. Is that the signs that will be up there permanently after they're done or is that just during the >> That's tempor some of them will be up permanently but some of that's temporary signage as well. >> So that's where our change order form
comes into because that's the temporary signage. >> I agree with that. >> Not that I have to. >> I see your logic. I will make a motion to accept payment application number five
contractor estimate number five in the amount of 514,69924. >> I'll second. >> All in favor? >> I >> did you guys vote on the check register? >> No. >> Sorry. Make a motion to accept the check register. >> I'll second that.
>> All in favor? >> Thank you. And then yeah, this change order form, like I said, was just um having to put up all that temporary signage being everything was kind of pushed back a little and with um you
know, guiding into the parking lot and all that stuff. So, all right. Fund budget. I need a motion on that. >> I'll make a motion to accept change order form number two.
>> All in favor? [snorts] >> Yes. As I mentioned previously, I I think our nursing home expenses for the budget are a little bit high. We're looking at $195,000,
and I don't think it's that much for ECPM payments for a year, is it? Um, last year they were 14,000 a month, >> right? >> Oh, anotherund
$165,000 [clears throat] this year. I think we were six. >> Yeah, it's like Yeah. Yeah. Just shy of six. >> Oh, it changes year to year. I don't know what's going to be this year. >> Well, it's based on your fans, correct?
based on the beds, but it it's changed all three years I've been here. >> Mhm. >> It's changed twice since I've been here. >> Yeah. >> We have to wait for the state probably a new year. They'll probably have a new amount. >> Yes, sir. >> But I I just think >> based upon this year so far, we've only
paid 339 on this. This is old. This is probably >> June. So, >> are these June numbers year to date? Do you know >> what's that? >> Are these June numbers still year to date? Yeah, that's about six months.
>> I don't think it'll be 195. Mhm. >> Um, >> so what are you suggesting to lower that to a certain amount? >> I would I would go with about at least even at 10 or 12,000 a month. What be 12
would be what? 144. No. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. So I mean 2024 it was 90. Even before that it was 162, >> right? >> So it's kind of all over the damn board. >> Yeah, it's all over again. It's hard to [clears throat]
>> like I said we've had surpluses the last two years in our budget and >> so if we don't knock that down to like 170 I mean >> yeah 170 160 whatever. Just >> not a huge number but it's a number percentages that drop. Yeah, >> right.
>> Every little bit helps. And we do have some cash reserves. You know, worst comes to worse, if we really need it, we can >> tap into that even though I don't want to. Um, so it's really just a we pay it and then you reimburse us, right?
>> So really, it's not even an expense at all, >> you know, per se. So now when you were talking about the costs of upping wages, does that affect this budget? Anything? >> No. No. >> Talk about this.
>> This is general. >> On the maintenance side, on the expenses, there's a we have a bunch of things listed for maintenance. We got lawnmower, tractor. We don't have a tractor any longer, do we? No. >> Thought we got rid of that. Yeah, >> they got that.
skid steer. You >> got the IH tractor stuff. >> I don't think you need all those line items. I think you just they have it out for the water every year. >> I just haven't see it. I'm pretty sure
I don't think we have that anymore. [clears throat] You know, it's broken down line item by line item. I thought they could just combine them. >> [clears throat] >> It's called maintenance equipment maintenance or something. Would that help the budget any? Probably
not. It just the amounts again I think are a little bit >> Well, if you look at the tractor maintenance, you got two years of like 550 bucks and now we're budgeting in for three grand, >> right? >> You don't know what's going to happen. I
really When you say tractor, are you talking the one that's got four big wheels on it, not two big ones in the back and little ones in the front? >> Yeah, it's it's a smaller one. >> Okay. Then I'm picking a different tractor because they did get rid of that bigger one. [clears throat] We got the other >> John
Deere. Okay. >> Oh, sorry. [laughter] >> Again, we got to whittle when we can. I just, you know, >> I mean, that's $2,500 increase from where 2024 was, actually. And what we budgeted for this year, unless there was something that they were budgeting for
in that >> maintenance tires would they're not cheap. >> No, absolutely. >> Especially tractor 600 bucks. >> Yeah. You shouldn't have to replace the tire on a tractor unless it gets a cut
in it or 10 years. And tractors tires last a long time. Well, I know one of their one of their >> hard concrete's really hard. >> I will I just paid an invoice on one of their maintenance
vehic. So, >> um yeah, they're they're not cheap. So, I mean that definitely could be something that they looked at and just knew that it was coming up parks. What's the increase in
wages for parks department wages to maintain it? >> Let me see. Where did you find >> lifeguards? >> No. >> And I don't see
>> Okay. Where do you think we do have? >> Right. That's my point. >> We didn't have anybody that even could do it last year. So, do we even offer that? >> That's my thing. Do we want [sighs and gasps] >> What if they say they want to have them next year or get enough people
interested? We got to spend money we don't have. I mean, not say we don't have. >> Well, and some of it's going to be offset with the revenue that the swimming lessons cost because really swim lessons. >> How much is it? >> 5750, but we only paid 2170 last year.
And I'm guessing we didn't pay anything this year. >> We didn't have anything. We actually refunded all swimming lessons because >> So that's close to six grand right there. Yeah, >> because I think about a percentage is
about 12,000 I think is what if we cut $12,000 it's 1%. >> Oh half%. >> Mhm. >> If we cut all not >> right >> how much of >> as far as wages >> wages are up there.
>> Do you guys want my honest opinion? >> Yeah. as much as I really wanted and we had that meeting earlier this year and that I would try everything just given the whole situation that we're in now. Um, and going with the pay like how
everybody's explained, unless you guys are willing to even up the pay, we're not going to have any luck even this next summer. So, and I hate to say that, but I'm just being realistic here now. with what I
dealt with the last two years and trying to get staff and talking to staff. >> Those kids want to work more than just the amount we're offering too. >> Well, if we cut this down and there is talk to those kids. [laughter] >> If I find them, I'll let them know.
>> If we cut this cost price down right now and we have interest next year, where are we going to pick up the money from? >> You know what I mean? >> You mean for next summer, >> right? If there's interest next year, we don't have the money. >> Well, if we don't put a line in, we're
not going to really be even advertising for it, >> right? >> For next year, for the summer, it' have to be the following year if we had somebody interested to look for the 20 27 year then. >> I doubt we're going to have interest because in all honesty, almost everybody
ended up doing like the Y and stuff and they loved it. >> So, you said we're not going to have any interest? I highly doubt it for for this next summer 2026 summer and the people I've talked to >> doubt it. >> Okay. the amount of workload training
>> expenses and that >> I'm just thinking if if there is what are we going to do >> for the money out we don't have >> come back offering >> come back the next year >> and we can then look >> and and that would be a good idea if
there is interest then okay we work really hard on the program for the following year to make it really good >> I can understand it >> which I am all for but I don't want to waste anybody's time if it's not going to go anywhere this summer. >> I think people that are wanting to do
lifeguarding are gonna head to either Albert Lea >> in life there because they have better benefits and they have >> and they got a pool. >> Then let's drop that out. >> That would be a good way to I mean touch amenities for the community.
>> Are you changing these right now while we're talking? >> No. >> God, no. I'm not touching that right now. >> [laughter] >> Well, I was just thinking >> I already made one mistake today. I'm not doing it anymore. >> Just save it as a test. Then you don't have to worry about the earth. >> If we can get the permits and uh maybe
borrow the county's weed boat, make it more attractive, you know. >> Yeah, >> the weeds are a problem out there. But again, you have to deal with the DNR and deal with >> if I recall, it was a couple years until we could get that even because there's a
schedule. for a couple years. >> If we don't ask them, we aren't going to get on that. >> Didn't see their own now. >> The county did. >> It was a DNR before
the county. >> They bought that with some of the money. >> No. Okay. What's the next thing? Maybe we can hijack it and bring it down. >> We'll let you do it. >> Yeah, [laughter]
>> I was in the Navy. Let me tell you 250th birthday today, by the way. [clears throat] >> I was looking at ambulance uh uh revenue. Um, I think we got it at
estimated 157. Um, I hope it gets that or higher, but whereas expenses are at 200,000 projected. So, we're looking at a $43,000
>> in the red there. >> What are the runs compared to? Yeah, that's again it's last year. >> Well, that's because there's nobody here during the day. >> I know [clears throat]
it costs a lot. >> That that would be one of the things though I would like to look at the numbers. You know, how many how many care center residents did we miss out on? Because North Memorial is there all the time.
Not if I am. >> So, not only are we missing the revenue, but >> but how do we address that in budget right now? >> How do we address that? >> We can't. Can we? >> I mean, we just hope. No, I mean you I think you have to plan for training
getting more people trained uh as EMTs or any another EMT and first responder because the first responder can drive >> and the EMT can take over in the back and then at least get the get somebody
planned to pick up three days a week. I was just going to say, but we don't have on a schedule. >> Done. I mean, she's been trying to do that for some time. Is there any way we could have an incentive for them to pick up more time on the schedule? >> We've done that. >> We've tried. >> We've done We've done where they got an
extra like $20 every time they pick up time. We've done all different sorts of different >> hours on there. I mean, there are a lot of people on there that they work on, >> right? >> Yeah. We have a lot of people that are on the ambulance, but >> what if we put them on a float in the
parade and say, "Hey, thank you." >> Yeah. >> Appreciation goes a long way. >> Yeah. Especially if they have their name somewhere. >> I mean, we can't address it on here. This, can we really? >> Not really.
>> Just kind of try to remain whatever we want. >> Don't touch it. [laughter] That's what I'm excited. >> Those are things that kind of glared out at me. So, fire department showed pretty sizable increase in their operating expenses
budget. Well, I see there's a big charge this year. We're over We're over budget. >> Well, I'm pretty sure that's for the >> truck.
They gave us the money, but then then we >> $6,500. >> How much? >> That ain't $6,500. That's like $200,000. Yeah. >> So, that ain't that. [clears throat] >> Well, that check was in there today for the chassis, too. So
>> yeah, that's 77 right there. >> Is there a dollar for training for the fire department? >> Is there what >> dollars spent for training for the fire department? >> That isn't required. >> I don't know. Under schooling, I think.
>> Yeah, it would be under your schooling. might be more for like new members and stuff like that contract with >> or if they have to um re up their >> Is there any way to drop that down that
>> Well, you got two openings and a whole bunch of people that are about ready to >> retire. So, if you want a full third >> No, I wouldn't touch it. >> Yeah. Yeah, there two openings and two or three that are probably
>> well over 20 years. >> If I remember right, this year building inspections, we just we didn't do the full amount, right? >> The new guy. >> Oh, no. For the building inspections of all of our buildings for them to go through and see if there's any >> roofing
with Schwickers. >> Yeah. Well, we got we got that we got the book in August. Um, I mean, they did their full-on inspections and what came out of it now is you would we would have to just look
at the book and their recommendations. It tells us how many years we have left. Everything um mostly everything looks good. I think it was some stuff out at the ball field. >> That was a question. >> Yeah. Um, but I mean we've got some
years before we really need to invest in re- roofing some of these. >> You're talking building permits. Can we increase the cost of ask people ask for a building permit? >> Pretty real. >> Yeah, we're already higher than most
>> compared to other places. >> That's what that I don't know. But I know Procore when we switched over to you're talking like actual like housing, right? Um when we switched over to Procord, they even said we're pretty highly priced. Um
so yeah, >> say that new house they had built on Seventh Street was like six grand just for the building. They built a house in Rochester. It's like 1500. >> I wonder why.
>> I have no idea. Why is there so low? >> Yeah. Strength in numbers basically. >> How about um >> charging more for liquor licenses? [laughter] >> I'm thinking revenue. [laughter] >> Then how about increasing water and
sewer charges? >> That's not That's not general fun. >> That's not right. Yeah, this $200, $300 water bill every month. I want more. >> I definitely think it's
>> awesome. >> I [laughter] think it's high enough right now. >> In my opinion, our water [clears throat] bill. I've never seen one so damn high in my entire life. >> You got to blame that on our past councils and mayors. >> Yeah. >> Because they didn't plan ahead when they
should have planned ahead 20 years ago. Our base charges here are cheaper than other cities and surrounding us though. >> Bases, >> the base charges and capital funding charges. >> Will that help this budget any to reduce
the levy [clears throat] increase those? >> Maybe that work or FMLA. >> Have we heard from insurance yet of what insurance rates? Um, so I just had to send
um basically an employee census to our people on Thursday last week. Um, and luckily given our numbers for any staff that
makes basically over like 3500 and up, we fall in this category to where we should potentially be able to do less than 0.44 even. >> That's for the >> you're talking for the medical. >> I'm just talking about regular insurance. What our premiums have we
>> technically? No. I had to reach out last week just to get some numbers for an additional employee. Um, but they haven't officially been released. >> Are they >> She said in November. I should get the spreadsheet on that.
>> Or wait, no, we're in October. At the end of this month, >> I should get the spreadsheet. >> So, I got kind of a ballpark. Um, because Oh, that's what it was for for the new administrator. Um, but she didn't have definitive. I think she said by the end of this week, we should
finally have that spreadsheet on what we're looking at now. >> Cuz once we get that, that's going to help us know cuz I know Tony kind of estimated high for that. >> 169 this year. >> Yeah. So hopefully that we come in where
we can drop that >> few thousand >> as well. But going with that too with that new thing that we got to do the f paid medical leave that's going to make a huge difference too if we
>> down from what it's going to cost we could be looking into like >> 32%. >> And then you have to split that between employer and employee too. So it that'll be good. >> We're all in that same boat. What would be your nightmare of dealing with that?
>> Um, >> talking about when we were he was talking about overlays and street repair, what do they have down for the next year? >> Um, a lot of their funds got taken away unfortunately and already
>> because I I mean I can have a few bumpy roads for a few years if the taxes is down below 9%. That's me just personally talking. >> Some of it's kicking the can, >> but we don't want pitchforks and nights
coming in here hollering at us for 10 13% tax increase. >> Capital fund request for maintenance street overlay 20 grand, seal coding 20 grand, and a new pickup 20 grand. Is it >> we push what if we push that pickup out?
How does that pick up in your estimation of saying can it last a couple more years? >> He said no. Last time last month that we we're already pushing it to start saving money to put aside. >> Correct. Now, will they get any money for that or they just sell it like we
sold the car before? >> Can they trade it in for >> It'll probably just go on auction again. >> And the cost of repairs on this old truck now? >> Yeah. here. >> If we push it out two years, we' be more
than what we get if we got >> more in there for you. >> You know what I'm saying? >> Got more in there for the benefits way >> cuz you're saying $20,000 that could bring us down quite a bit. You spend 5,000 on repairing. I don't know if that's just
>> you said you don't need the mobile radios, right? >> You didn't need the mobile radios, right? >> That's what he told me when I last talked to him. He's got five grand set aside in capital for two mobile radios for the police for next year
and four portable for 9,400. >> That's 1,400 or 14,000. >> If we're paying for it now, then that's not going to come out, >> right? >> We would need radio and capital. Well, I'm going to call him tomorrow.
>> 14 grand. >> And then he's got ambulance, too. >> Yeah. Her and I can look in that to that tomorrow then. >> Has the ambulance looked at any type of grants for those radios? >> She hasn't. >> I mean, it's too late for now. I'm presuming. She hasn't said anything. >> Okay.
>> I didn't know that they were looking into them either until yesterday. So, >> can you ask? They did get some money, but that all go for the new C. >> I believe so. Yes. >> Yeah, that was an over grand, right? >> That was that state funding money for
rural ambulances? >> I remember. Maybe you could check with is it Caitlyn from CNL instead of Kendra um to see if she knows of any types of grants for emergency radio type >> how many time how many days a week are
they coming >> only two >> two a month a month >> a month >> do we want to look into potentially I mean >> I think >> the return on investment for those people if they >> well right now we're contracted for 10 hours a month >> and it's pretty cheap
>> when's that contract Um, well, so there was I just had to pay the like the fourth quarter check and it was like 3,400 >> for >> a quarter. >> A quarter >> and we've done them for a year >> like the contract
for a year. >> Tony, we had it. >> Yeah, >> it's in one of the back. >> Yeah, it's in one of them. >> Okay. >> I think we should before we start thinking about increasing ours and they just >> get some ROI first. >> See what they >> Yes. >> how they're due first. But I know another
>> also Tyler is now taking classes because remember >> he's taking a program so he could start maybe asking questions once he gets here with them and start absorbing some of that to help. >> Yeah. Yeah. He starts November 15th, right? >> 13th
>> 13th. So >> So we have some potential things to trim. >> Yeah. some percent. >> Has anybody been telling in their head tallying in their head how much we've dropped so far? Like what we talking now? >> Nope.
>> I just remember writing down >> 30,000 from the nursing home and about 6,000 from >> from lifeards. >> Lifeguards. >> Would that drop it? >> And then if we're paying >> we can do 14 >> we're paying for radios now and we're not putting that into capital.
He's got that 1/3 too. >> But also, we might want to take some of that money that he's setting aside for radios for next year to go towards start thinking about when we have to redo squad cars, too. >> He's got 10 grand on squad, too. Okay. >> I'm still looking the squad cars could
be replaced. >> Our black one is getting there. They go in the shop plenty >> cuz I mean I'm okay with nickel and diamondist to a certain point to where if you're not spending 30 $40,000 but you're spending $10,000 and we can
stretch it out another year to me it's worth it. >> We don't have anything for street or seal coating next year. >> And that's what I'm worried about. >> Dangerous. Nothing. >> Very worried about that. >> Yeah. Cuz if there's cracks and then they start breaking up even more. I do
think if we can find some Yeah, we should be throwing some back in the streets. >> 13 took it away, >> Tony. >> That's to get it down to that 13. >> It was at 19 before that. >> Yeah, our streets are like in disarray.
>> I understand that >> those 10 hours from the person that helps us, >> and they look for street improvement, those >> Yep. They will look into stuff, but
there's just there's no guarantee. We can only give them so much to work on with the 10 hours that they are contracted per month. >> You know what I would do is I'd push them until they start squeaking. >> Get you want to get on the EDA, you can have my seat. >> I'm not talking about that part. I'm
just talking about that. You know, if they're going to help us, let's push them into working for EDA >> because I want to get our money's worth out of it. We're paying $3,400 per quarter. That's three months. That's $1,000 a month. >> They already did the one grant for us
when we first before we signed the [clears throat] >> 100 bucks, >> but there's also some with the infrastructure of things. Some of it they're talking about for the VA. So, there's certain things that they will work on that for us
>> going to legislation about it. That's all good. >> Yes. So, that's there's some of that, too. It's not just all sitting here writing grants all day long. >> I know that let's push them to use it as much as we can. >> They have a list of kind of what the EDA talked about today of what kind of a
wish list of things that we would like to see. >> So, if something comes up for our grant that they see, they can say, "Oh, Nitland needs this." and then reach out to Heather or then Tyler when he's here to say who do I need to talk to to get some stuff going of what you need for
this grant. >> That's what I was going to say because you you have to have a dollar figure and they need before you can say the grand because they ain't going to get it for nothing. >> How much of our squad cards cost in the past? How old are they normally? How many miles? >> Um
the white one, well I don't know what the past one was. Um, >> we got them both from the Twin Cities area. >> Well, the white one that we have now, we purchased from the sheriff's office and
that was 16 grand, I think, with 60,000. >> Yeah, I think you're right. Right around there. Something like that. Um, the black squad is a 2018 and that was purchased,
I think, through a bid site. That was before me, purchased before me. >> Um, and that currently has upper 120,000 on it. >> That's the one that has the panel that's popping off by the window, right?
And the chairs, the driver's seat chair is padding from the chairs coming out. >> So >> sitting on springs. >> Well, maybe. >> Yeah, that's that's goodly stuff. I
mean, like expensive expensive expensive fix versus, you know, $60,000 for a new vehicle. [clears throat] I don't know. Let me tell you this. I don't spend money to come in. >> Spend money to make stuff good though.
[laughter] >> Just the administrative wage 10 grand. >> Yeah, we have that. Anybody have any other questions on the budget right now that they're kind of seeing that they'd like to see lowered?
>> We're getting closer. >> What's next? >> All right. miscellaneous accept the general fund right now. >> I think >> I got I got one question. The fee
franchise fees we paid for electric and gas can be affect this. >> Yes. >> Can we raise those franchise fees or asked to have them raised?
Good question. That I don't know, but I can look into it. >> Let's do it. See if >> I'm not sure >> because I think they said we had 11,000 for this year or was it 25? I'm not sure if we could uh said raising fees could
yield to $3,000 more annual. I'll look through the fine print >> cuz if you never ask, you don't get >> Excel and Centerpoint have already raised their rates. Why you want to >> talk another dollar? >> That's what our franchise fees are.
They're a dollar a month, >> right? >> So why do you want to make it $2 a month? >> Just going to pass it on to the >> You are I agree. I agree. I don't like saying that, but how do we keep this budget down?
They're hard things to talk about. >> Just a couple of viewpoints though that I looked at in there. I mean, there were there were some of the costs that like, okay, it was $2,200 and 23 and might
have been $2,600 and 24. It we're not really sure exactly what he did uh or what what they made purchased on whatever it was in point. there's nothing there now. But um that you don't know what they purchased. If what they
purchased, say one year was for $2,500 was good enough to last for a couple of years. Maybe they don't have to purchase that much. And maybe the estimate of $5,000 is way off way off the ballpark.
So if you go in there and you really put the screws to it and say, "You know what? $2,500, add 10%. >> Add 5%. And go through the budget [clears throat] in that manner. Then you can really shrink that down and you can
really make it look good [clears throat] >> because a lot of them things were okay. >> It's it's our responsibility to have that done, but we don't know the dayto-day machinations of each department. So, we're going to have to
go back to the department heads to say, >> get back and do that again. >> What What's our whole goal here with hiring this new administrator? >> He's behind the eightball, too. >> And unfortunately, I have the disadvantage because I don't know. >> Yeah.
>> Plans that were talked about or any of that stuff either. I just know what I was hearing on. >> Yeah. So >> year after year the budget came to whoever was on the previous council and Owen had zero clue how the hell it was
developed. >> Correct. That was a big problem that should have been stopped years ago. or been questioned years ago. Now we're just getting into like I said with the new administrator
Green department head are going to have to help out to develop their budget and work with Tyler Heather, you know, all of us, you know, we have to figure out something. That way we can all wrap our head around it
and see where the money's going. What are we spending on necessary? you know what are we just buying just because we have the money there you know >> I agree now can can we say just as a guideline to ask them say look at your
budgets and say where can you do it so that it gives 5% less >> give them a guideline >> there's no >> no we got nothing >> well I would even look at those
uh each department and say give me a budget based on a 5% increase from what we spent this year and then look at each line item and then they need to give you a capital budget capital budget items anything over $3500.
That way you're saving for the capital budget items rather than trying to mash it all together and put it into one >> because like your all your radios, all the some of those big saving money for your ambulance and saving money for your quad
car and saving money that doesn't necessarily come out of that. That's that comes off the top after the month end is over >> and you say we got $400,000 left. Let's stick $50,000 into
a squad car and $50,000 into an ambulance and only $100,000 into a new truck and we can move those things around. But if you if the department managers can say this is what I spent
this year in 2025 and in 2026, I expect to spend that same amount and possibly 5% more >> or maybe up to 15% more depending on energy
cost. Right. >> Right. >> Stuff you can't control. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> Yep. >> Inflation's just been going so high. That's what's so hard right now. >> We did we did that on the golf course. I know it's getting off topic when I was on that board. We had tree funds. We had
to prepare all equipment that you buy. Kind of like what do squad cars and stuff >> and that way if something broke, you weren't going, "Oh, shoot." [laughter] >> Tyler won't be here for the next meeting will
>> cuz it's a couple days before that. No, [snorts] >> we come in December's meeting the first time to work on push. >> All right. Could be the administrator or Yeah. when I do the administrator.
>> Okay. I know this looks pretty empty, but I swear to you guys, I was really busy. This was just what I could remember off the top of my head. >> Um, so multiple projects with Bolton and Mink. Um, and then we also had meetings with the school to make sure that they were on with the changes that we had to
make that they were on the same page and good with everything. Started the bathroom remodel. Um, I did work with the EMS company to get the ambulance reenrolled for Medicare next year. Should be good to go on that for a whole
another year. Um, organized fall garage sales. I am also organizing the second annual Halloween decorating contest which I am having so much fun with that and I got even more people signed up for it. So that's really cool. Um I had an in-depth
meeting with Procore about our permits and how our system works just because I a lot of it wasn't making sense. I was still getting people contacting me here. Um we were having a little bit of an issue of their turnaround with customers. So, I kind of nipped that one
in the butt a little bit because they promised a quick turnaround and we weren't getting that. So, I had a big meeting with them about that. Um, I completed the documents for the 24 and 25 audit review for the care center. That was fun to learn. Um, flood
mitigation with Wasika County. And then I continued obviously all my deputy clerk duties. I know Shell is technically not a city employee, but it was her birthday on the 30th. Um, she was actually gone testing for her B
license, right, Tenise? That was when she was gone. >> She went testing for Yeah. No, she went testing for her level B license or however that works. Um, so and then employee anniversaries, Jordan Allen on
the ambulance for four years and Don Tangen on the 25th for four years. Like I said, I know there's a lot missing. Sorry I don't write down every single thing that I do, but I was busy. I promise. >> So that's about it.
>> Make a motion accept administrator's report. >> Second. >> All in favor? I >> anybody have any comments? >> That's it. >> Make a motion to second. >> All in favor? >> I
I [laughter] a suave, >> huh? >> Are you a suave? No, >> I