The Blue Earth City Council Monday night expressed differing viewpoints toward a controversial tennis court proposal being considered near Blue Earth Area High School. The City is currently working in partnership with the Blue Earth Area School District in conducting a feasibility study that would allow the project to move forward.
City Administrator Mary Kennedy discussed possible funding alternatives being considered for the project including paying off the current bond being utilized for the local fitness center. Mayor Rick Scholtes informed the Council that he felt the project was very beneficial for the City of Blue Earth, while Council Member Glenn Gaylord expressed concern with certain risks which lie ahead. The current cost for the project is estimated at approximately $1 million.
The Council was also brought up to date on the status of a downtown building improvement project involving the Three Sisters Buildings. Earlier this year, the Council, in cooperation with the Blue Earth Economic Development Authority, granted an extension to a development agreement with Project 3 Sisters LLC allowing for certain improvements to be made, including painting of the south wall and installing new heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment. Under the agreement, the improvements were to be fully completed by September 30th.
The Council also authorized the renewal of the City’s Health Insurance Coverage Plan with Medica for the year 2022.
The Council adopted a resolution setting the City’s preliminary budget estimate for the year 2022 with the total budget amount being set at $1.8 million.
Two separate Mayoral Committee appointments were also made, Dan Ristau was appointed to serve on the City’s Economic Development Authority Board with newly appointed Council Representative Ann Hanna being named to serve on the Public Works, Airport and Tennis Court Committees.