Also in attendance were the following: Herman Lensing, Jim Schulz, Greg Boelter, Tom Blommel, Erin Rian, Tom and Linda Vink, Mark Middendorf, and Glen Meyer.

Staff persons on hand were Paul Hetland and Joel Dasher.

The Pledge of Allegiance was said by those in attendance.

Agenda

Goebel moved and Hennen seconded a motion approving the meeting agenda. Discussion offered. Motion carried.

Meeting Minutes

Humbert moved and Goebel seconded a motion to approve the October 27 and November 3, 2004 meeting minutes with the minor corrections as noted. Discussion offered. Motion carried.

Health Care Information

Erin Rian, Benefits Mgr. League of Minnesota Cities, gave an overhead presentation regarding controlling health care, handouts were also presented. Discussion on rising health care costs and a need to take some kind of action. Interested in saving money, but not worth minor savings. A discussion followed regarding the rising costs of health care for the City and maintaining the benefits to employees. Staff will be investigating options to save money for the City while maintaining employee benefits and commitments. It was also noted that the City does not provide a dental or eye plan.

Tom and Linda Vink were present to request action on a land property line issue. Further research was needed and no action was taken.

New Business

HEARING - Animal Ordinance 2004-06

Worms moved and Goebel seconded a motion to open the Animal Ordinance hearing at 8:25 P.M. Concerns were raised by members of the audience regarding how to enforce and who will enforce the ordinance. Staff responded that the same question applies to the current ordinance and the responsibilities lies with staff. Those present also raised concerns regarding a proposed six foot leash and muzzling clauses. It was clarified that muzzling only pertains to dangerous pets. In addition, Council stressed that a reasonable leash length must be properly addressed. Issues were also brought forward concerning leashing on the trail. One-time registration and an overall update to the ordinance were generally supported. Greg, Glen, and Tom volunteered to be a part of a non-official group to recommend a draft ordinance at a future point. It was announced by Joel Dasher that the group will meet on December 2, 2004 at 6:30 P.M.

HEARING - Nuisance Ordinance 2004-05

Worms opened the hearing at 9:25 PM. Humbert moved and Goebel seconded to table consideration of the ordinance for further review. Discussion offered. Motion carried.

HEARING - Land Delineation Request - Al Beste

Goebel moved and Humbert seconded a motion to hold the hearing for December 8, 2004. Discussion offered. Motion carried.

Report - Jim Schulz, SEH, City Engineer

Schulz gave a written and verbal report to Council. The written report is on file for review. City would not want to let go of all of the 11 acres. Regarding the banking of wetlands, all land that is banked could not be cut anymore. It was brought to Council's attention the estimated schedule for the Main Street public improvement. Goebel brought forward his concerns that storage should not be moved to the west end of the Industrial Park, that is - small lots should be near the farm site. He also conveyed the point that the land sold should be clearly stated that assessments may take place.

Welle Country Acres' grading plan was discussed. Back of the houses should be a reasonable grade when completed. Curbing on 3rd Ave SE will have the existing curb extended.

Hetland had a question about right-of-way issues regarding the Main Street project. His concern was regarding possible property lines and structures overlapping the right-of-way or other properties. Schulz stated the survey should be completed shortly and a report available by the upcoming meeting.

Report - Joel Dasher, Maintenance Worker

Dasher provided a written report which is on file for review. There was extensive discussion and review of the proposal regarding the Infield Sprinkler Project. A written packet was presented. Goebel moved and Humbert seconded a motion to pay for the water system proposal up to the valve for an amount of approximately $2000 and that the Freeport Softball and Recreation Club and the Public Works Director would work together to help coordinate the project and that billings would go to that organization. Discussion offered. Motion carried.

Dasher brought forward a proposed snow plowing policy. Discussion followed and revisions were made. Concerns were raised regarding whether the mayor was protected under our insurance policies for snow plowing. Hetland would check into it. No action was taken on the policy, but Council suggested making the revisions and reviewing it again at the next meeting.

Report - Paul Hetland, City Clerk/Treasurer

Hetland provided a written report which is on file for review.

At 11:55 P.M., Humbert moved and Hennen seconded a motion to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried.