New assistant clerk hired

The New Richland City Council approved the hiring of Heather Christensen as the city’s new Assistant City Clerk during its second meeting of the month on Monday, March 25. The council also agreed to forgive the garbage portion of the over $6,000 water/sewer bill discussed at the last meeting and allow a payment plan for up to a year for the balance of the account.

 

Bob Johannsen presented the care center report, which stated that the average census for February was 33 - a slight improvement from months prior. However, the cost of agency staffing and low census resulted in a financial loss for the facility last month. It was noted that work with AHI has streamlined the center’s admission process, which should help improve the census.

 

Three CNAs have been hired, though the care center is still seeking full and part-time Certified Nurse Aides on days, evenings, overnights and every other weekend. Full and part time RN or LPN positions are also available. The care center report was approved.

 

Shell Johnson presented the PeopleService report, noting that wastewater going into the treatment plant last month was more than twice that of the month prior. The new garage door has been installed and is working well, and Johnson is preparing for the upcoming spring and summer seasons. The report was approved.

 

Eric Hendrickson presented the Water and Street report, which stated that 33 blue cards were issued in February resulting in zero shutoffs due to lack of payment. The council approved the donation of crushed asphalt to Riverview Golf Course at a cost of $450 along with the report.

 

In new business, the council approved the purchase of a squad radar at a cost of $3,550 as well as a maintenance agreement with Stryker for the ambulance’s Lifepack Defib and LUCAS devices at a cost of $3,144. 

 

City Administrator Tony Martens presented the administrator’s report, which was approved. The council also approved the adoption of Ordinance 24-01: An Ordinance Granting an Electric Franchise Agreement and Ordinance 24-02: A Franchise Fee Charging Ordinance. The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.