Preliminary levy increase set at 5%

Extra chairs were needed to seat a fairly large group of high school seniors during the Sept. 15 meeting of the Waseca City Council; the high-schoolers were there to meet a requirement in their political science class.

 

The council adopted a preliminary tax levy at 5 percent; the final amount will be set in December after a “truth in taxation” session. The City of Waseca Economic Development Authority preliminary levy will be .01813 percent. The Truth in Taxation meetings for the 2027 budget are set for 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 1, and 7 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 15.

 

Waseca Public Safety Director Chief Kris Markeson provided information regarding laws and regulations that apply to e-scooters and e-bikes. The powered personal transportation devices have been increasing in popularity in 2025 and 2026. Markeson pointed out these types of transportation don’t require insurance, leaving property damage and medical bills to the victims. As of Tuesday, Sept. 15, e-scooters can be ridden by children 12 and up (anyone under 18 must wear a helmet) in bike lanes and on streets. E-bikes can be ridden by children 15 and up and require a helmet, in bike lanes and on city streets. E-motos, in Markeson’s words, “Are basically electric motorcycles,” which requires that the drivers must be at least 16, require a helmet, and must be licensed if they are driven on streets. Markeson stated that drivers of all e-transports are expected to follow all traffic signs and safety rules. He wanted the public to know police officers are doing what they can to watch out for everyone’s safety, but it’s up to the parents who have full access to the kids to make the rules of the road clear and give their kids guidance. One rider at a time, no doubling up. Waseca is deferring to Minnesota state laws for guidance. There have been three reported e-crashes in Waseca. Markeson stated he wants to see children out having fun safely; he is not trying to discourage outside play.

 

Chris Ziemer of the Economic Development Authority spoke about business opportunities in the Waseca area. He called attention to the former Cash Wise building and according to council member Schroeder, “Waseca is losing $17.4 million per year to neighboring grocery stores.” Mayor pro tem Christiansen also added, “Instead of just bringing in new stores, we also need to focus on the stores already established, and maybe find out what we can do to help.” Christiansen also signed two letters of interest to send to possible grocery stores or hotels looking for a location such as Waseca County.  

 

Councilman Ebertowski said the Loon Lake aerators are “basically just keeping the bullheads alive,” and introduced a successful motion that, since Waseca will no longer be aerating Loon Lake, the equipment be donated to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. The two units have a cash value of $2,000.

 

The council voted to begin the process of determining the city’s official newspaper. Any newspaper wishing to seek that designation should submit its proposal by noon on Friday, Nov. 20.

 

Jorge Pena Roriquez was approved for a 2026 liquor license for 100 North State Street in the Saloon Bistro Bar.

 

The council was reminded there are still ash trees in every park in Waseca, and they are in fact dying and will soon become a hazard. Some are still undergoing treatment in the hope of saving the large trees already there.  

 

Councilman Jeremy Conrath said, “I just want to thank our Finance/Human Resources Director Alicia Fischer, this is her last meeting with us. So thank you for your service to this city.” She received a round of applause.