The regular December meeting of the Starbuck City Council focused on repairing the city’s water system. Nick Koos from Widseth Engineering updated the council on the status of the water treatment plant and towers. Following his presentation, Water and Sewer Superintendent Randy Peterson provided additional background and answered council members’ questions.

Koos highlighted the critical needs of the water system. “The water storage tank requires resealing as the seals have worn out over time and need refurbishment,” he explained. “Another priority is replacing the process-piping in the water treatment plant, which was constructed in 1994. The piping has corrosion and leaks, and the pumps and piping should be replaced soon.”

Council member Steve Gorder inquired about funding: “Are funds available for this project?”

Koos replied, “Currently, funding is available in low-interest loans.”

Gorder clarified the costs: “So, this estimate of $476,000—is that for both the treatment plant and the towers?”

“Yes,” Koos confirmed, “but they will likely need to be separate projects.”

Peterson explained the process for pumping water to the towers and shared plans for implementing the repairs. Council member Dane Christensen asked about project timing.

Koos noted that the availability of pumps might result in a 2-3 months lead time. At the same time, Peterson added, “The plant construction is indoors and can be completed anytime, though it would be ideal to start in early spring.” No action was taken at this time.

Chuck Peterson, representing Minnewaska Liquor, addressed the council about restrictions on THC product sales. Minnewaska Liquor was instructed earlier this fall to cease THC sales, citing a violation of Ordinance 113. In stating his case for selling THC products, Peterson explained, “State guidelines allow on- and off-sale establishments to sell THC products under 10 milligrams. Nearby cities like Glenwood, Morris, and Brooten have no such restrictions and do not charge extra licensing fees.”

City Clerk Joan Kerkvliet clarified, “Our city ordinance restricts Chuck, unlike Glenwood, which does not have an ordinance regarding THC products.” Peterson emphasized, “We’re losing business because of it.” The council approved a public hearing to review the ordinance in January 2025.

Starbuck Police Chief Mitch Johnsrud reported the ongoing efforts to address property blight. Five of the 75 identified properties have progressed to citations after owners failed to comply with cleanup notices. “We’ve done everything we can at this point. It’s now up to the council to decide on further action,” Johnsrud explained. He outlined options, including cleanup by the city, which would require inventorying and categorizing property for removal. The council tabled the issue until a special meeting on December 27.

After over 15 years of public service to the city of Starbuck, the council recognized the departing member, Gorder, for his years of service with a plaque of appreciation, many thanks, and well wishes. 

Brian Friedrichs from the Little Sauk American Legion in Long Prairie presented a request for approval to hold meat raffles at The Tavern. The proceeds from these raffles would benefit a youth boxing group. After some discussion, the council decided to table the request for further consideration.

The council also approved a bid from Glacial Lakes Recreation for dock floats to complete the replacement dock sections at the Hobo Park Marina. This project will finalize the entire north side and nearly the west end of the marina, providing updates to the facility.

In other marina updates, Peterson introduced the possibility of remodeling the bathrooms at Hobo Park to bring them up to date. The estimated cost for the project ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 for both bathrooms. The council voted to proceed with the remodeling project.

Additionally, the council approved appointments for the Planning and Zoning Committee. Michelle Knutson was named chair, and Brett Bower was appointed vice-chair for 2025. The council also approved Tom Asmus as planning and zoning commissioner, also serving a three-year term ending in January 2027.

Vicki Halvorson, Tracy Ogdahl, Kecia Noyes, and Lisa Shepersky spoke before the council raising concerns about maintenance at Hobo Park, citing issues such as rotting posts, peeling paint, insufficient gravel, faulty electrical meters, and poor restroom conditions. Shepersky shared an example of high electricity bills despite minimal usage and noted cleanliness issues, including a lack of supplies and uncleaned vomit in a restroom over a weekend. The council requested a detailed list of concerns with photos to be submitted to the city office for review.

In new business:

•Approved Resolution #2024-32 donation from the Villard Fire Department for Kids Safety Camp

•Approved Resolution #2024-33, the final 2024 tax levy payable in 2025.

•Approved Resolution #2024-34, the precinct and polling places designated for 2025.

•Approved liquor licenses for 2025:  Blair’s Pub & Grub, Water’s Edge, Minnewaska Liquor Starbuck VFW, Old Firehall Brewery, The Tavern and Casey’s for 3.2% licenses.

•Approved the 2025 budget.

•Approved Minnewaska Area School’s request to hold an election in the Starbuck Community Center on November 4, 2025.

•Discussed and approved Resolution #2024-35, the fee schedule for 2025.

The regular meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss the AFSCME union contract. Following the closed session, the council reconvened briefly before adjourning the meeting.