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Lindstrom council was steered through its regular council session last week by Brian Norelius as acting mayor in the absence of Judy Chartrand, who participated on the Internet.

Council accepted the resignation of the municipal liquor store manager Matt Olson.  The council personnel committee of Greg Krueger and Norelius recommended hiring Scott Rickhoff to be manager for six months. It was also agreed the “interim” hire will be aided by a consultant who will “provide guidance” until a permanent hire is determined, explained City Administrator Dan Undem.

Council was assured costs associated with the duo at the helm of the store will not be budget-neutral, but council needs to invest in the operations to return the muni to profitability, city administrator Undem added.

Norelius commented that Rickhoff brings merchandising experience to transition the store into a “more dynamic’ place where people will want to buy products.  

There was a long overview of current ATV and UTV rules within the boundary of LIndstrom. No vote was taken.  Police Chief Schlumbohm explained there is a need to align Lindstrom rules with Chisago City all terrain use code so Lakes Area Police can consistently enforce within its service territory.  He added there haven’t been any “real tests” of the language in Chisago City’s code yet.

It was also pointed out the surrounding area of both cities is under county ATV use rules, which don’t necessarily dovetail with city rules.

The council was told the plans and specs for street improvements coming up will be collected and opened April 10 and the plan is to award projects April 16.

The package has an alternative for a portion of the downtown, calling for special paving behind the optical store. Depending on costs it could be stamped concrete or pavers in a plaza-type area.  Other streets slated for attention are Akerson, 295th and the lot on Park Street.  The pond at Neal and 295th will be cleaned out and revegetated with suitable wetland type plantings. 

Substantial completion for all is September 26, but projects are being staged to work around Karl Oskar Days and other events.

Flashing beacon crossings are coming to Maple Street and Park Street at Highway 8, and council OK’d an agreement with the state to be able to use the right-of-way and maintain the equipment. There is no solid date for installation as yet. 

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