On August 26, 2024, Police Chief Brent Baloun submitted his letter of resignation to the city of Becker.  On Tuesday, September 3, 2024, the City Council regretfully accepted that resignation letter.  In his letter, Police Chief Baloun announced that he would be retiring from the Becker Police Department on December 31 of this year, allowing administration enough time to find and hire a new Chief of Police. 

Baloun also wrote a brief overview of his 32 years in law enforcement.  His career began in Crosby, MN in April of 1992, while also working PT in the city of Deerwood.  He left to become an officer with the St. Cloud Police Dept.  He was appointed Chief of Police for the city of Becker in September of 2006. 

Of his time as Police Chief, Baloun wrote, “When I was hired in Becker, I promised to change the department culture and how it conducted business and worked with the community.  I have worked tirelessly to advance technology, credibility, and the professionalism of this department as we conduct day-to-day business.  Despite the very public issues that have faced law enforcement, the staff of this police department has remained committed and dedicated to our community. I can’t thank them enough for their hard work, commitment and efforts over the years.”

Baloun thanked the council and city administrators, but personally thanked Mayor Tracy Bertram for her “continued support and guidance during her time on the city council.”  Baloun wrote, “I have been offered Police Chief positions in two other large communities over the years, but Mayor Bertram’s words of wisdom and support are what kept me here.  She has been a phenomenal Mayor to work with!”

Baloun is looking forward to spending more time with his family and acknowledged the sacrifices his family has made throughout the years– missed birthdays, an anniversary, missed opportunities to travel and sporting events.  He then ended his letter by thanking the community of Becker.  “I leave you with deep gratitude as it has been an amazing journey and career serving as a law enforcement officer and leader.”

MN Post Board Audit Report

The council unanimously accepted the results of the MN Board of Police Officers Standards and Training audit performed on August 13, 2024.  Chief Baloun announced that the BPD had passed.  All licensed peace officers have received the mandatory required training as required by MN statute and all peace officers have or will receive training in Emergency Vehicle Operations/Vehicle Pursuit.   

2025 Preliminary Levy

Finance Director Mark Ebenstiener presented preliminary levies for 2025 to the Council.  

The state requests that all jurisdictions certify proposed levies by September 30, 2024.  The levy presented at the meeting can only be lowered once it is presented to the state and comes as a result of multiple budget meeting that began in the spring.  To view the full 2025 Preliminary Levy presentation, those interested can download the agenda for the September 3 meeting of the city council available online at https://www.ci.becker.mn.us/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_09032024-425.  

The preliminary levy was approved by the council.  A public Truth in Taxation hearing is scheduled for December 3, 2024 at 6 pm. 

Annexation of Clear Lake Twp. land

On August 12, 2024, the city received a petition to annex 120 acres of unplatted land in Clear Lake Township into the city of Becker.  The land is owned by Ross Imholte and is located near the SW corner of Becker.  The statute that allows for the annexation requires a 90-day objection period, which was waved by the Clear Lake Township Board on August 20 in a resolution that was passed.  An ordinance was passed by the council on Tuesday and will be submitted to the Municipal Boundary Adjustment Unit of the Office of Administrative Hearings, the MN Secretary of State, the Sherburne County Auditor, and Clear Lake Township.  The ordinance will go into effect upon final approval by the Office of Administrative Hearings. 

Anniversary Dates of City Employees

Mayor Bertram recognized several September anniversaries of employment for the city of Becker.  Police Chief Baloun has been with the city for 18 years and Lt. Chris Lindblom for 11.  Troy Dawson celebrates his first year, Rhonda Klien, five, and Sarah Shafer six years.  Part-time employees Charles Degrio (13 yrs.) and Gary Kalla (six yrs.) were recognized as well.