Council approves light parade, wage increase at city liquor store and hiring terms for police candidate

The Roseau City Council approved several routine operational and community items at its Feb. 2 meeting.

Rebecca Lundgren, representing Roseau Civic and Commerce, requested permission to hold a Light Parade as part of the Winter Festival on Friday, Feb. 27. The requested route runs on Main Avenue South north to Second Street with a closure of the Main Avenue and Center Street intersection and a short gathering at the block between Center and Second streets. Citizens State Bank officers volunteered to assist with traffic control; Police Chief Marc Hodge and City Superintendent Gary Przekwas reported no concerns. Councilmember Pat Novacek moved, Brady Johnson seconded, and the council unanimously approved the parade with closures to begin at 5:30 p.m. for a 6:30 p.m. start.

Liquor Store Manager Niki Johnson reported January net revenue was misstated on the monthly sales report and corrected the figure to $21,780; customer counts and overall profit trends were favorable. Manager Johnson recommended increasing the assistant manager’s hourly pay $2.50 in lieu of benefits. Councilmember Amy Bassingthwaite moved, Brady Johnson seconded, and the council unanimously approved the $2.50/hr increase.

Police Chief Marc Hodge reported a background investigation under way for a candidate with three years’ experience from the Warroad Police Department and requested authority to offer $36.04/hr if the candidate clears checks. Councilmember Amy Bassingthwaite moved, Pat Novacek seconded, and the council unanimously approved offering $36.04/hr, which matches the current rate for officers with three years of experience.

Council directed the City Attorney to draft a press‑box policy after discussion of a request to use the press box for photography and public‑access considerations. The council adjourned with no further business.