By Tim Douglass

tdouglass@pctribune.com

Glenwood City Commissioners last week approved a resolution establishing a “spending plan” for funds available in the coronavirus local fiscal recovery fund established by the American Rescue Plan Act (ARM).

After approving that resolution, the commission accepted a bid from Digital Horizons and awarded a contract for the installation of infrastructure and technology equipment at city’s office building.  The work will include  video conferencing, hardware and software improvement and installing a security system.  The funding is allowed under the city’s local fiscal recovery fund, since it is used to adapt government operations by improving access and user experiences, it was stated at the regular commission meeting last Tuesday.

The commission also approved a resolution accepting a bid to remove and install  an aviation self-serve fueling terminal at the Glenwood Municipal Airport.  The work will be done by Westmor Industries, who was the low bidder at $22,158.  The money comes from the Minnesota Department of Transportation Grant agreement for airport improvements, according to the resolution.  The Glenwood Municipal Airport received $150,000 per year of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) entitlement funding to use toward justified and eligible projects at the airport.  The city currently has a FAA entitlement balance of $718,636.  With no project planned projects for 2024, airport communities have the option to transfer their entitlement dollars to another Minnesota community which may need additional FAA funding for a project.  By resolution, the city of Glenwood agreed to transfer its $150,000 funds to Staples for a T-hanger construction project.  Staples will pay back the $150,000 in 2028, according to the agreement.  

In other business, the commission:

•Waived the $150 fee for Chalet Rental for Glenwood Retirement Village.  The city typically waives rental fees for non-profit organizations if requested. GRV is planning a Foundation fundraiser that will include a walk/run/bike event to honor loved ones.

• Approved a $1,000 donation to the Minnewaska Lake Association.  The donation was included in the city’s budget, according to City Administrator Dave Iverson.  

•Approved a pay request for $1,577.44 to Short Elliot Hendrickson Inc. for the 2024 Glenwood Stormwater Utility evaluation.

•Approved June expenditures  of  $126,293. 92.

•Authorized the membership in the 4M Fund.  The membership was recommended to the city by the city’s auditors.   The city did not transfer any funds to the 4M Fund.