Tuesday’s city council meeting featured a heated discussion about Becker’s COVID-19 leave policy. 

As an incentive for city employees to be vaccinated, staff proposed creating a policy regarding sick leave. If a person contracts COVID-19 and does not have a vaccination, normal sick leave is used. If a person contracts COVID-19 who has been vaccinated, they are entitled to 80 hours (2 weeks) of special paid sick leave. This could also apply for caring for a family member.

Council Member Rick Hendrickson asked this item be removed from the consent agenda, as he had in issue with it. He thought it was an unfair policy, since there are many reasons why a person may choose to not be vaccinated and it is not the city’s business to judge that person’s choices. 

After some discussion, the rest of the council approved the policy, with Hendrickson voting against and Council Member Mike Doering not being present to cast a vote.

Council Reports

The council members reported on their various commissions and groups.

Hendrickson reported that the Economic Development Authority had a discussion on the housing market. The market is still hot at the moment, but is slowing down slightly, as it does in the fall.

Mayor Tracy Bertram reported that the Personnel Committee discussed hiring and recruitment, had some policy changes, and will soon hear a report on the compensation study.

Council Member Becky Olmsheid reported that the fire board would be “hiring” up to three new volunteer firefighters. Only three candidates showed interest in volunteering for the department, unfortunately. There will be an open house at the fire dept. Oct. 9. 

Ski Trail Grooming

After having success last year, the city once again asked the county to provide trail grooming services for the city. The county has equipment the city does not, and the city is in turn able to support the county as it applies for grants in this area. Council approved a 3-year contract.

In Other Business,the Board:

• Called for a public hearing at the next regular meeting regarding the fee schedule;

• Approved moving forward with the purchase of some land from R.D. Offutt, in order to make a city parcel larger for a business project.