An environmental assessment worksheet was completed by Avalon Estates as a part of the normal development process. Nothing of concern was found as a part of the study. The public was invited to make comments during a public hearing, and no one spoke other than one individual who made a comment regarding traffic.

The city decided not to pursue further environmental studies for the land. 

Open Forum

George Quinn spoke to request that the council and city staff provide citizens with the emergency response plan. He made this request after a recent tornado in Texas put several towns and cities into emergency situations. He wants to be certain that the city has a plan to respond to emergency situations in a timely manner to save lives. 

Police Department

Council hired a recruiter to search for police chief candidates.

A new officer, Christopher Thull, was hired onto the force.

The department is looking for donations to purchase a new K9 squad. There is currently one K9 serving with the department, Bruno. Anyone who is interested in donating may contact Officer Guy Chaffee at GChaffee@BigLakePolice.com.

The council discussed opening up for bids on a towing service. Bob’s Towing has provided service for many years and offers good service, but Ken Halverson in particular pushed to open up the bidding process for the sake of transparency.

Fire Department

Chief Seth Hansen gave the update for the department. He noted several new officers were sworn in and the department participated in a parade for a homecoming soldier. The department chili cookoff will be March 19 at Lupulin Brewing. 

Captain Brezinka retired from the department to spend more time with his family. Chief Hansen noted that the captain will be missed.