East Grand Forks has joined a growing list of cities in passing a resolution urging Governor Tim Walz to call a special session for lawmakers to address a bonding bill and LGA funding.
The Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities has asked cities to endorse the action. The resolution notes that the Legislature failed to pass a tax bill during the regular session that would have increased the Local Government Aid appropriation despite the state having a budget surplus.
LGA funding contributes some $2.3 million dollars to the local budget.
Council member Clarence Vetter was one of two “NO” votes saying the legislature has a history of having to meet in special session and they should get their work done on time.
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Without discussion the East Grand Forks council approved an engineering agreement with BNSF rail to help create a Quiet Zone near Sacred Heart School.
Under the plan the railroad would hire a sub-contractor at an estimated cost of nearly $35,000 dollars which would be at the city’s expense. The consultant would provide engineering services to review the plans and prepare a detailed diagnostic review of crossing upgrades and enclosures.
Despite some concerns City Administrator David Murphy last week urged the council to move forward with the agreement noting the railroad typically does not promote Quiet Zones. Murphy says they view the study cost as a community responsibility.
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A committee comprised of East Grand Forks council members and staff will review the latest plans for an asphalt plant project on the edge of town.
The council granted R.J. Zavoral & Sons a special use permit back in May for the site near County Road 17 and west of Highway 2.
Since that time the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency announced the company exceeded air emission limits and failed to test equipment at two portable mix plants.
Council President Mark Olstad says the committee will simply review the project and report any findings back to the full council.
When the council approved the permit it attached nine conditions including that the plant be in substantial compliance with all City, State and Federal permits.
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