Ada City Council Approves Fire Department Retirement Increase Amidst Financial and Infrastructure Deliberations
- Meeting Overview:
The Ada City Council recently convened to approve an increase in retirement benefits for the local fire department’s relief association, amidst discussions on fiscal challenges and infrastructure needs. The fire department’s representative presented a plan to raise retirement benefits from $1,700 to $1,900, the maximum allowed by the state. This adjustment required council approval before state submission. The council examined potential financial implications, particularly the risk of a deficit should market conditions worsen. The representative reassured the council that historically, the city would only cover a fraction of any shortfall, providing examples of past deficit management. After thorough discussion, the council approved the increase, with two members abstaining from the vote.
17:58In another financial matter, the council reviewed a troubling treasury report concerning the Deco Center. The report highlighted a contingency deficit totaling $122,489, factoring in outstanding and expected payments. Over $327,000 had been disbursed, with only $204,982 recuperated through insurance. projects still pending include hot tub installation and necessary window repairs. The council discussed the delays in scheduling, with Brianna working to finalize the hot tub project. A significant repair to the pool pack’s heating system could cost between $10,000 and $15,000, adding to financial strains.
03:14Equipment updates entailed the installation of new gear, requiring a temporary shutdown. Three pieces of equipment have yet to arrive, with plans to auction off the old items, including police and public works equipment, through Big Iron. The council also considered contacting the local fire department to address specific fire equipment that may not perform well at auction due to expiration and safety concerns.
23:54Attention then turned to the deteriorating condition of the city-owned liquor store. Notable issues include cracks and shifting bricks on a shared wall with Rodney McCollum, who requested city assistance in repairs. The estimated cost for the city’s portion is $5,500, with a total repair bill of $43,430. Council deliberations focused on the urgency of the situation, with some members advocating for immediate repairs to maintain good relations and avoid insurance complications. Financing options, including long-term capital sources, were explored, alongside the possibility of staging repairs over several years. However, the immediate need to address the wall issue was acknowledged.
32:35The council meeting also included discussions on neighborhood blight, a persistent concern exacerbated by issues within a local trailer park. The police department had issued 22 initial letters regarding blight before the community’s Cleanup Week, with further inspections planned. Despite previous cleanup efforts, problems such as debris and yard conditions persist. The council expressed frustration over the recurring issues and the inadequacy of enforcement measures and social services. The possibility of pursuing a civil suit against property owners was discussed as a potential solution for long-term compliance.
36:58A resident’s public comment highlighted dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of a specific property issue involving a camper deemed a health and environmental hazard. The resident called for clarity in complaint filing and resolution processes. Council members suggested consulting the county attorney and commissioners for assistance, acknowledging the need for more effective measures, such as emergency abatement.
51:36In legislative matters, the council passed the second reading of Ordinance 489, the dumpster ordinance, set for publication in the local paper. A donation of $450 was approved for the Cody Holpe Memorial Softball Tournament, maintaining the previous year’s amount. The council revisited and declined a donation request for the Adaborp West after-prom party, citing funds leaving the area.
54:52New business discussions included the scheduling of the “Kaleidoscope” community event, with members noting volunteer recruitment challenges. Committee updates noted no recent public works meeting due to a lack of items, while public safety discussions involved squad radio repairs and permit regulations for golf carts and ATVs. The Economic Development Authority reported no new applications but continued to address blight and property issues.
John Hintz
City Council Officials:
Scott Erickson, Mike Nelson, Scott Nordquist, Eric Ness, Casey Krieger, Shawn Roux, Wayne Kroshus
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
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Recording Published:
05/10/2025
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Duration:
56 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Norman County
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Towns:
Ada
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