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Ruthton council approves bids, equipment purchases and two resolutions; tables garbage contract
Summary
At its May 4 meeting, Ruthton’s City Council approved several procurement contracts (street crack filling, a ball-diamond mower, tree work and restroom stalls), adopted two resolutions including one under Minn. Stat. 64A.50, and tabled a proposed garbage contract pending contractor agreement on pickup terms.
Ruthton Mayor Stan Townsend called the May 4, 2026, City Council meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. and the council moved through a series of procurement decisions, two formal resolutions and other routine business before adjourning at 8:40 p.m.
The council unanimously approved minutes from the April meeting and the April 9 Board of Review. Wastewater Supervisor Darrin Haroldson delivered his monthly report and answered council questions.
On procurement, council members accepted the low bid from Bertram Asphalt Company for crack filling on Harrison Street, Norway Street and Gilbertson Avenue for $8,028.90. The council also approved purchase of a Ferris IXS 2200 60-inch zero-turn mower for the ball diamond from Farmward Cooperative for $12,900.00. For removal of five ash trees at the southwest corner of Main Street and Leo Avenue, the council chose Lamote Tree Service at $3,750.00. Council members approved buying a rolling broom for the Public Works mower from Jim Haroldson for $3,500.00 and authorized purchase of bathroom stalls and accessories for the ball diamond restrooms for $6,205.00. The council approved the April bills; the clerk reported receipts of $96,272.83 and disbursements of $115,488.33.
The council adopted Resolution 2026-04, establishing a fire escrow account pursuant to Minnesota Statute 64A.50 so the city can be placed on the State’s Fire Debris Removal List. Council members recorded that placement on the list affects how insurance proceeds are withheld to ensure debris cleanup or rebuilding occurs. The council also unanimously approved Resolution 2026-05, expressing support for a state bonding request for infrastructure improvements.
A proposed three-year renewal with VanDyke Sanitation (first eight-yard dumpster $85 per week; each additional $68 per week) was discussed but tabled. Council members said they want contract language requiring the contractor to pick up only full dumpsters; if VanDyke Sanitation accepts that change the council will sign the contract, and if not they asked that Brad VanDyke attend the next meeting to discuss terms.
The council also approved an endorsement allowing Mayor Townsend to sign a letter from Crosslake Mayor Jackson Purfeerst asking for reform of Paid Family Medical Leave, citing impacts on cities and small businesses. Mayor Townsend made a proclamation declaring May 2026 as Poppy Month and urged citizens to wear the Memorial Poppy.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. with no recorded dissent on the votes reported.
