The Albert Lea City Council will meet Monday night, January 9th, at 7 o’clock in the Council Chambers of the Albert Lea City Center.
Tonight the council will revisit the Water Rates for 2012…at the last meeting, proposed water rates were approved, with the exception of increases for the top 2 heaviest users in the existing declining block rate structure. City staff has meet with both users, and they expressed concern with the total costs of water, sewer and taxes. The council will act on whether to approve a 10% increase, and identify a 5-year water rate plan in coming months.
New business includes the first reading of the Special Event Policy amendment to City Code, requiring any person or organization to obtain a permit from the City, after providing a detailed list of activities plans and services needed.
Councilors will also act on authorizing the Mayor and City Manager to enter into a Loan Agreement in the amount of $100,000 with SAR Manufacturing, being sold to new owners Kirk and Susan Knudtson. Terms would be 7 years at 4% interest. The Knudtsons have secured commitments from the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, Freeborn-Mower Cooperative Services, and Greater Jobs, Inc.
Also on the agenda, a resolution to name the newest sheet of ice, or red rink, after Carol Colstrup, as requested by the Albert Lea Fire Skating Association, to honor her 50-years teaching skating.
Interviews are being completed for the top two firms for the Fire Delivery Services Review. 9 firms submitted proposals to the City, which were studied by a committee consisting of 2 Fire Captains, 2 Fire Lieutenants, the Interim Fire Chief and City Manager.
And a resolution to accept the 2012 bids for Chemical, Fuel and Bituminous products will be acted on by the council. This year the low bidder is also being required to perform maintenance work on the equipment. The City Engineer recommends Hawkins Chemical.
The Albert Lea City Council meeting will be aired Monday night on 1450AM, K-A-T-E, beginning at 7pm.