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Chisago City council approves shoreland variances, nuisance assessment, utility delinquency certification and EAB plan
Summary
At its Nov. 10 meeting the Chisago City Council unanimously approved two shoreland setback variances, certified a $149,343.44 pool of delinquent water and sewer accounts (subject to change) for collection via the 2026 tax roll, adopted an Emerald Ash Borer plan to pursue a Minnesota DNR grant, and approved a $500 firefighter pension benefit increase after PERA analysis.
The Chisago City Council on Nov. 10 approved a slate of land-use and administrative actions, including two shoreland setback variances, a $400 special assessment for a nuisance yard cleanup, certification of delinquent utility accounts to the 2026 tax roll, formal adoption of an Emerald Ash Borer plan to pursue DNR grant funding, and a $500 increase in the firefighter pension benefit level.
Shoreland variances: The council approved Resolution 25-11-04 for 10124 Kismet Isle, allowing a deck with a 56-foot setback from the Ordinary High Watermark (OHW) where 75 feet is required; the Board of Adjustments had recommended approval and both staff and the DNR hydrologist raised no objections. The council also approved Resolution 25-11-03 for 26387 N John Ave., permitting an addition and garage expansion with a 60-foot setback where 75 feet is required; staff reported the lot meets impervious-surface limits and the existing footprint dictates location.
Special assessment for grass mowing: Finance Director Cassie Gemuenden reported the city contracted Paradise Outdoor Services in 2025 and paid a $400 invoice to clean one property. The council adopted Resolution 25-11-01 certifying a one-time $400 special assessment on parcel 13.0006800 to be placed on the 2026 property tax roll, consistent with city ordinance for nuisance abatement.
Delinquent utility certification: Gemuenden explained the annual certification process for delinquent sewer and water accounts owing more than $300 or with no payments during the year. The amount currently eligible for certification was reported as $149,343.44, which includes a 10% penalty on the quarterly portion and an additional 5% penalty on the total certified amount; residents have until Dec. 1 to pay before the list must be finalized for the county tax roll. Council member Marie Rivers asked for an updated total at the December meeting. The council adopted Resolution 25-11-02 to certify eligible accounts for collection through the 2026 property tax process (all ayes).
Emerald Ash Borer plan and grant: Parks Superintendent Doris Zacho presented a non-matching Emerald Ash Borer relief grant application to the Minnesota DNR and a draft EAB management plan covering parks, boulevards and the broader community. The council adopted the EAB plan, clearing a procedural requirement that allows the city to pursue DNR grant funds.
Fire Relief Association pension increase: Jonathan Wrolstad, treasurer of the Chisago City Fire Relief Association, requested a $500 increase to the firefighter pension benefit level. A PERA worksheet provided to the council showed the fund would remain about 119% funded under the increase and indicated no city contribution would be required. The council approved Resolution 25-11-05 to adopt the requested pension benefit increase (all ayes).
All motions described at the Nov. 10 meeting passed by voice vote with council members recorded as "all ayes." The council discussed scheduling for December and January meetings and adjourned.
