During last week’s Big Lake City Council meeting, council approved a liquor license for the new owners of Russell’s.

Long time Big Lake iconic restaurant Russell’s on the Lake closed its doors this week. The property has been purchased by gentlemen who wish to convert the restaurant into a Willy McCoy’s. They applied for a liquor license which will become effective in March. Until that time, the new owners will be undergoing a remodeling project. 

Police Dept. Donations

In honor of the Christmas season, several donations were made to the BLPD. American Legion Post 147 donated $1,500 to the department canine unit. Big Lake Women of Today donated $1,000 for the department to distribute to those who are in need. Finally, the Wednesday Morning Women’s Bowling League donated $100 to be used towards unbudgeted needs. 

Acting Chief Sam Olson expressed his gratitude to these groups for their donations.

Department Reports

Chief Seth Hansen of the Big Lake Fire Dept. gave the department report for the months of October and November. The department responded to 73 calls in the area, including three building fires, one arson, and two grass fires.

A former BLFD firefighter Aaron Bidle passed away recently. He served with the BLFD for 10 years and was currently serving at another fire department.

Acting Chief Olson of the Police Department reported that DWIs and narcotic arrests were up, but calls overall were down. He reminded the audience that winter parking rules are in effect, and vehicles need to be off the streets by midnight. 

Olson welcomed a new officer, Kyle Rossberg, to the department. Another officer will be welcomed in January.

In Other Business,the Council:

• Made their annual review of the fee schedule;

• Made a final review of the 2022 budget;

• Held a public hearing regarding the Storm Water Prevention Plan;

• Added Lake Ridge Dr. to the streets improvement plan, which was meant to have been included before but was left out due to an oversight.