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Kandiyohi council approves wage increases, equipment purchase and building services renewal
Summary
The council approved consent items, authorized purchase of a replacement street sweeper (not to exceed $10,000), renewed a two-year building services agreement with Willmar, accepted a 0% relief association interest rate with one abstention, approved a 4% wage increase for two staff members and authorized sick leave payout rules.
At its Oct. 20 meeting the Kandiyohi City Council approved routine consent items and several administrative actions affecting city operations and personnel.
The council approved the consent agenda, which included meeting minutes, the claims list and the September water report (fresh water pumped 794,000 gallons; wastewater pumped 1,302,000 gallons). Council Member Toby Giese moved to approve the consent agenda; Council Member Jeff Clark seconded and the motion carried.
Council Member Giese moved to authorize purchasing a replacement street sweeper for an amount not to exceed $10,000, including transportation and buyer's fee; Council Member Clark seconded and the motion carried. The council cited the age and condition of the existing equipment as the reason for replacement.
The council approved renewing a Building Services Agreement with the City of Willmar for Jan. 1, 2026 through Dec. 31, 2027 and authorized Mayor Jon Lindstrand and Clerk/Treasurer Julie Woltjer to sign the agreement.
On personnel and compensation, the council approved increasing council member wages to the Minnesota minimum wage rate, effective with payroll after Jan. 1, 2026, so future increases will track Minnesota minimum wage adjustments. Separately, the council approved a 4% wage increase for Public Works Supervisor Brandon Huls and Clerk/Treasurer Julie Woltjer, effective for payroll beginning Oct. 23, 2025. The council also authorized an annual payout of accrued sick time in excess of 520 hours, including the following year's front-loaded amount.
Matt Fuchs, treasurer of the Kandiyohi Fire Relief Association, told the council the association voted to keep its deferred relief association member interest rate at 0% for 2026. The council voted to accept that election; Council Member Giese abstained.
The council noted employee reviews were held after announcements and that closing that portion of the meeting for personnel review is authorized by Minnesota Statute 13D.05 Subdivision 3. The meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m.
