Pierz City Council Approves Fire Department Pension Increase and Addresses Key Staffing Changes
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent Pierz City Council meeting, members approved a $100 increase in the fire department’s retirement benefits and addressed the resignation of the park complex superintendent, among other significant agenda items. The council also discussed planning and zoning permits, employee handbook changes, and infrastructure projects, reflecting ongoing efforts to balance community needs and fiscal responsibility.
03:28This increase aims to maintain competitive benefits in comparison to similar departments.
39:27A point of discussion was the resignation of the park complex superintendent. The council expressed deep regret over the departure, acknowledging the superintendent’s valuable contributions to the golf course and city maintenance. Despite efforts to retain him, the council accepted the resignation, effective May 9th, and subsequently approved a motion to post the vacant position, offering a salary range of $55,000 to $75,000. Members voiced appreciation for his service and recognized the challenge of retaining skilled workers within the city.
35:44In other business, the council addressed multiple planning and zoning permits, approving requests for concrete work, temporary structures, and new construction. These included a concrete permit for Premium Concrete, a new construction permit for a grain bin by Midwest Processors LLC, and several others. The approvals reflect the city’s ongoing development and support for local businesses and institutions.
08:29The council also focused on employee welfare through changes to the employee handbook. Notable adjustments included combining Paid Time Off (PTO) and Emergency Sick Leave (ESST) into a single bank, introducing a carryover policy based on years of service, and proposing an annual PTO payout of up to 40 hours. Compensation hours were discussed, with a proposal to reduce the maximum from 240 to 120 hours, allowing full-time employees to accrue up to eight hours per pay period. These changes aim to simplify compensation processes while upholding fiscal responsibility.
26:49Infrastructure projects were another key focus. The council approved a motion for crack sealing, involving an $8,000 expenditure, and discussed bids for timber removal and concrete curbing at Lion’s Park. After considering several options, the council chose Clint Poster’s bid, aligning with existing curbing styles. Additionally, preparations for winter and a city cleanup day were announced, alongside plans for road repairs using spray injection patching.
14:44The clubhouse and park board provided updates on tournament pricing, new hires, and a parking lot extension project. The council authorized the bid process for the parking lot extension and discussed safety measures, such as installing a net and caution sign. A successful revenue weekend was reported, highlighting the clubhouse’s operational effectiveness. Plans for park enhancements, including new play equipment and facility improvements, were also shared.
06:06Furthermore, the council addressed a new school agreement with the city golf course, streamlining payment structures for high school golfers and cross-country runners. This arrangement is intended to support both the school and the golf course, which has experienced decreased participation. The agreement received unanimous approval.
John Perleberg
City Council Officials:
Gary Berg, Don Bujalski, Lynn Egan, Kaye Stangl (City Treasurer), Sarah Fyten (City Clerk)
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/14/2025
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Recording Published:
04/14/2025
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Duration:
43 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Morrison County
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Towns:
Pierz
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