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Center City Council met April 7 for a regular meeting.  All members were present.

The meeting began with engineer Marcus Johnson discussing the engineering firm WSB who is overseeing the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail (Center City section).  Johnson had concern about the depth of grade over the city’s water and sewer lines. The plans show a grade of 12 feet above the lines, which Johnson said the weight of the grade is concerning.  Johnson said he has had conversations with WSB to let them know his concerns.  

Council then briefly discussed Hursh Ironworks and the potential move to Taylors Falls.  Council member Sally Swanson said there has not been any communication with Hursh nor Taylors Falls recently.  Council agreed to send a letter to Hursh reminding them of the city’s notice about operations.

Council then was told the city will receive preliminary overlay of the trail location so the city can start planning where items such as the trailhead structure, bike racks, art etc.

Talk then shifted to the failing holding pond behind the Bayview Apartments.  Council members Lloyd Vetter and Garrett Boulineau inspected the ponds prior to the meeting and noted the bank failure has gotten worse.  The city and the County have been trying to figure out whose responsibility it is to fix the pond.  The city recently put out a request for proposals as the original contract which is well over 20 years old now says the city is responsible for 88 percent of upkeep.  

The council agreed to more discussions with the County HRA EDA about amending the contract.

Council then passed a resolution approving a minor subdivision/land swap. This is  property that Marine Dock and Lift has agreed to swap with the city for the Swedish Immigrant Regional Trail head.  

Council next approved a donation to the Chisago County Senior Center for $300.

Council then approved a liquor license contingent upon the state’s approval for a new owner of Fiesta Cancun bar and restaurant.  

Engineer Johnson then told the council his company Bolton Menk is requesting the city to ask AT&T for a deposit from their escrow account.  The escrow is in place for costs to inspect the cell phone antennae  on the city water tower.  Council agreed to request $11,000 from AT&T unanimously.

Council agreed to hire Katie Tallarico back as summer help for the maintenance department effective May 1.

In the maintenance report, the city has begun pothole patching around the city. 

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