Brooten studying additional water and sewer infrastructure improvements

The Brooten city council met in regular session on Monday this week while getting a look at proposed water and sewer improvements that could add infrastructure to the north and northeast corners of town and on the southwest corner.

The total projected cost is $7.347 million, and Bollig Engineering is assisting the city in pursuing federal funding of $2.5 million for the project. City officials have not endorsed the full scope of the project, but they are seeking cost figures to determine the best course forward.

The city council approved Resolution 2024-14 that provides for the issuance and sale of $714,000 of a temporary general obligation utility revenue note. These funds would cover project costs through the bidding process.

After two additional steps of review with the Environmental Protection Agency, additional project details will be reviewed by the council in lieu of a public hearing.

Also on Monday, the Brooten council approved a task order for Bollig totaling $873,000 for a lift station and drinking water project.

In his fire department report, Chief Mark Torkelson told the council about a 50/50 grant to cover costs for a new pump and hose on Grass Rig 1; Torkelson also had a new (used) rescue van parked on main street for council members to take a look at. This was delivered last week from Wisconsin.

"This van suits us very well," said Torkelson. "It's much more spacious and holds more of our equipment. It's one heck of a truck."

The council and Torkelson also briefly discussed the issue of having fire department members receive CDL license endorsement with a key point being how it could affect retention and recruitment for the department.