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The City of Wyoming hired a building inspector last week but accepted  a police officer resignation, and council  learned of 24-year firefighter JJ Hastings’ immediate retirement.  Wyoming is also looking for a skating rink warming house attendant for the coming season, which pays $15 to $17 an hour, so if you like fresh air, and can get along with youth, inquire at city hall.

The half-hour council meeting also saw action on the city cannabis ordinance language.  

The regulations will echo what is done with restricting access to and verifying compliance, regarding intoxicating beverages and tobacco, council was advised.  Minnesota cities that are providing their own zoning review and enforcement are adopting adult use retail sales cannabis laws in order to be ready for when the state issues licenses in early 2025.

Awarding of the quote for lawn care generated some discussion by council. 

The price tag was significantly more than the expiring agreement, as Council member Linda Nanko Yeager pointed out.

City Administrator Robb Linwood explained the 2025-2027 services are the same as they have been, the city still has 17 parks. But it was an accepted fact that the prior contract price was extra low compared to what was being paid by other municipalities' for private services. Linwood figured this was the equivalent to a price correction at $53,744 — and he reminded council the high price quote of five the city received was $105,000;  so even though Swenson’s Lawncare increased its bill Wyoming was still at a good price.  

The administrator said the tasks could be brought back in-house, but the city would also need to staff up and purchase and store equipment now provided by the professional lawn service — which is expensive.  Without a cost comparison at his fingertips, he estimated it is still more cost effective to contract out for the services.

The agreement was approved 5-0.

Council was excited for the tree lighting ceremony and officially acknowledged donations for the event, which is December 7 from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Railroad Park.  Xcel, Polaris, the Lions and Forest Lake High School contributed.

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