The Clear Lake City Council met Monday evening, with the largest agenda item being the annual report from Sherburne County Attorney Kathleen Heaney.  Her office holds the prosecution contract for the city, with 48 cases brought through the court system in 2023.  Heaney noted a small decrease county-wide in misdemeanor cases last year.

She also provided updates on the new legislation hitting the books since last session, including fentanyl charging thresholds now matching those for heroin, as well as changes in marijuana prosecution due to the legalization law, extreme risk protection orders and the sign and release  protocol for people out on warrants.

A new case management system is in use and Heaney expects that to lead to some efficiencies in her office, while the election year will also lead to significant resources being channeled in that direction to get people any assistance they need.  She ended her presentation by highlighting her appreciation for working with Sheriff Brott and the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office, citing their terrific working relationship with that agency.

In other business, the council:

• Approved public safety aid funds being transferred to the CLFD;

• Approved a contract not to exceed $13,500 for Stantec to administer the city roof replacement and repair bids due to a requirement from the League of MN Cities Insurance Trust;

• Heard from Mayor Tim Goenner that employee reviews are still in process;

• Approved changing the March council meeting from the 4th to the 6th, at 7 p.m. to facilitate election set-up activities.