The city council officially named October as manufacturing month in the city, in light of the importance of manufacturing on the Minnesota economy. City staff plans to use the city website and social media platforms to highlight: job opportunities in manufacturing; information on the importance of manufacturing and the impact manufacturing has on the city; and manufacturing businesses within the city.

Years of Service

The council recognized four employees for reaching milestone years of service. Those honored were: Sam Norlin, Police Department,10 years; Cathy Lindberg, Public Works Department, 20 Years; Troy Enebak, Public Works Department, 20 Years; and Sandy Petrowski, EDA Department, 25 Years.

Finance Department

Delinquent utility bill notices will be sent out shortly, with the public hearing for those contesting the delinquent bills will be held Nov. 10. The total amount owed to the city this year is $290,186, which finance director Deb Wegeleben said was the largest amount she’s seen during her time with the city, This was due to the city being unable to shut off water service during the pandemic. 

The Truth in Taxation meeting is set for Nov. 25 at 6 p.m. and all residents and property owners are encouraged to attend to ask questions and give comments on city taxes. 

Liquor Store

Lake Liquors had some updates, including new countertops at the registers and new ID readers.

Lisa Miller, assistant store manager, gave an update on the annual fundraiser the liquor store, in partnership with McPete’s and several area businesses, held to raise money for the Big Lake Fire Department. Miller got a little choked up as she thanked the various businesses for all their assistance in making the event a success and helping to raise so much money for the firefighters. (For the full story on the fundraiser, please see the Firefighter Special Section on page 7).

Streets & Fleet

Streets and Fleet reported cleaning out storm drains and bringing in the buoys from the Big Lake Beach swimming area. Fortunately, after inspecting the buoys, they were happy to report no discovery of zebra mussels. The city will consider whether they wish to participate in the county’s Adopt-a-Drain program.

During the administrator’s report, administrator Clay Wilfahrt noted that the city has recently created a new Facebook page dedicated exclusively to updates on streets projects and plans. This was created as a response to residents’ requests for increased transparency and communication in regards to street projects.