Votes at a glance: HRA levy, Broadway Ridge grant, ordinance and claims approved

At its Sept. 22 meeting the Albert Lea City Council approved several formal actions beyond the preliminary budget vote.

HRA levy: The council approved the HRA levy for 2026 after staff noted Minnesota statute caps the HRA levy at 0.0185% of estimated market value (staff cited the statutory limit and the maximum amount for the current tax base). The HRA requested $266,000 for redevelopment; staff noted the statutory maximum for 2026 would be about $309,067. The motion to adopt the HRA levy was moved by Councilor Baker, seconded by Councilor Anderson and passed on a roll-call vote with Councilor Holland the sole no vote (5–1).

Broadway Ridge façade grant: Council approved a matching façade grant for 212 South Broadway LLC (Robert and Angie Hoffman) for a rubber roof project. Staff recommended and the council authorized up to a 50% match, not to exceed $21,050, for eligible work completed.

Human Rights Commission ordinance (first reading): Council approved a first reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 2 (Boards, Commissions and Authorities) to change the Human Rights Commission’s role from investigatory to advisory, noting that discrimination investigations are handled by the state. The first reading passed on a motion and voice vote.

Consent agenda and claims: The consent agenda (minutes, permits and several routine resolutions) was approved by voice vote. Council later approved claims over $25,000, including payments for lead service line replacement, asbestos removal, vehicle purchases, arena refrigeration work and the city’s workers’ compensation insurance premium.

Procedural note: Several items carried by voice vote; roll-call votes were recorded for the preliminary budget adoption and the HRA levy.