The Starbuck City Council, aligned with several other municipalities across Minnesota, when the council voted to approve an ordinance temporarily halting the operation of a cannabis business within the town until January 1, 2025. Additionally, the council passed Resolution 2023-20, which enforces a ban on public use of cannabis. Those found in violation could face a petty misdemeanor charge and fined up to $300, or the maximum amount for a petty misdemeanor allowed by state law.

The issue of road dust was raised during the August council meeting by Starbuck resident Inga Mae Urke.  Urke pointed out the persistent problem of dust kicked up by the gravel road traffic, impacting the air quality. “I would like to see the council explore solutions such as tarring or applying calcium chloride to reduce the dust,” said Urke. The council told Urke that to consider tarring a road, a 25% agreement from those living on Depot Lane must first occur. However, the council expressed willingness to consider the expense of applying calcium chloride.

Mayor Gary Swenson updated the council on the Starbuck Marina Lighthouse project. “We just received a $10,000 donation for the lighthouse from Starbuck Telephone and we wish to thank them for their generosity. The city is looking into grants and is working with Widseth to look at possible suggestions that will reduce the cost of the lighthouse,” said Swenson. Gene Boul from Widseth presented the proposed lighthouse design at the July city council meeting. The current design features a catwalk for the public to enjoy lake views. The estimated cost for the lighthouse is $187,000, with additional fees for design, inspection, testing, and permits.

The council discussed the need to start planning for next year on how they want to move forward with the Starry Stonewort in the marina. A public meeting will be scheduled for September. The planning will include the Minnewaska Lake Association, Pope County Land and Resource Office, and possibly the DNR. “Our goal is to devise a plan agreeable to everyone,” said Swenson.

Starbuck Chief of Police Mitch Johnsrud gave his July report, stating there were 199 calls and that the last three events in Starbuck – Heritage Days, Car Show, and Dragon Boat Races went well.  

Preparations for the upcoming Night to Unite event were also outlined by Chief Johnsrud. Organized by The Glacial Lake Lodge 23 of the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP), the event is set for Saturday, September 16, from 2:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. The festivities will include a Deputy Owen Memorial Street Dance featuring music from The Sideliners and Blonde and the Bohunk. The event aims to raise funds to send Deputy Owen’s immediate family and law enforcement representatives to Washington, DC, for Police Week, where Deputy Owen’s name will be added to the Memorial Wall. In addition to the street dance, there will be raffles, a silent auction, and food trucks.

In new business the council:

•Accepted a donation from Dycast for the 2023 National Night Out.

•Accepted a $10,000 donation from Hanson Communications (Starbuck Telephone) for the new lighthouse in the Starbuck Marina.