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The North Branch City Council split 3-2 on approving the use of automated license plate readers and contracting with equipment and service provider Flock for $3,000 per camera for seven devices at various well-travelled routes.  Exact sites for the readers are still being worked out, council was advised.

The vote was the end result of multiple discussions, as council members gathered input from the public and also aired their own issues with privacy and access to data.  

The funds for the devices are out of 2023 public safety disbursements from the state, directed specifically for law enforcement and public safety needs. In response to Council member Jim Ibinger asking about staff shortfalls, Chief of Police Dan Meyer explained the dollar amount for the readers is probably nowhere near enough to fund a fulltime officer.  Mayor Kevin Schieber added his viewpoint is that the devices help make staff more efficient and alleviate pressure on shorthanded shifts, as wanted vehicles can be located with the readers.

Council member Jeff Goulet said he didn’t think the public “is ready for it.” 

There are automated license plate reader systems already active at the border in St. Croix Falls, WI, in Chisago County rural areas, and Wyoming-Chisago Lakes law enforcement territories.

Another North Branch priority that has received some state aid,  is the future bridge planned to cross Interstate 35 at 400th.  The legislature approved design plan funding, according to Representative Max Rymer, that can get the project to a stage where physical construction could proceed.  The city has had a request  for state financial assistance for a few years. 

In other matters:

Council adopted a revised version of the charitable gaming ordinance that now includes a 10 percent cut for the city from net proceeds of pulltabs, bingo, tipboards, and electronic games that are offered in city establishments.  The revision clarifies uses of the revenue so the city can apply funds to projects impacting parks and trails and athletic fields and complexes, and sites need not be owned by the city (ie:skating rink). The city can partner with an organization to utilize the gaming percentage too.

Fire department liaison Council member Robert Canada reported the fire ladder-truck is expected to be delivered June 25.

The city and county public health services are co-organizing a Chalk the Walk day to promote mental health.  The walkway at city hall will be available May 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for anybody to write positive messages in chalk. The two agencies will provide local resources and materials to people who seek information/advice on issues that may be impacting their psychological well being.  

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