Similar to the recent logo contest , Osakis City Council members agreed to present another design submission opportunity to the community at their monthly meeting Monday night, May 10.

The council is requesting design submissions for the water tower, and the winning artist will receive $100 in chamber of commerce bucks.

Submissions must include a maximum of two colors, and the selected design may not be an exact replica of the one implemented in town.

Besides changing the water tower design, council members discussed another item to refresh the city: clean-up week .

Mayor Dan Wessel said he’s seen the same tire for the last three years on his daily walking route, so this Wednesday, he plans to pick it up as part of the citywide effort .

Osakis residents may drop off garbage from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, May 15, in the liquor store parking lot. All proceeds go toward the Fourth of July fireworks display.

With a hopeful look toward summer, the council also approved three applications for special events: a VFW street dance, a missions fundraiser in front of Abundant Life Coffee and a Booyah feed at the Osakis Liquor Store.

Other items

• The council approved a break on the sewer water rate, so city residents can pay a flat fee from $21 to $29.50 between June and September.

• The city is still looking for another summer lifeguard to help share the load of daily hours from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. If there are times when one isn’t available, a sign is put out that warns beachgoers to swim at their own risk.

• Osakis Fire Chief Craig Dropik said that of the eight applicants finishing interviews and physical tests, two new firefighters will be joining the team May 24, and one will start June 30.

• Wessel suggested the council think about adding a mission statement, something it’s never had in the past. Council members will brainstorm ideas and select a phrase in the next few months.

• The council approved a master agreement, which allows the Osakis attorney with Thornton Law Office access to state court records for the purpose of criminal prosecution.

• The public comment period of the meeting was dominated by concerns around the enforcement of the city’s short term rental ordinance. Wessel assured those present at the meeting that the current regulations are being actively discussed so that the council can resolve the issue.

• The council unanimously agreed to enroll for funds through the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This program will reimburse the city for providing employees paid time off for COVID-19 testing, and caring for themselves or a sick family member. The funds will be effective through the end of September.

• The council approved the mayor’s suggestion for a two-member personnel committee. This creates a middle liaison to deal with smaller items and compile recommendations for the council to approve.