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Karlstad City Council approves claims, reviews strong audit and addresses legal disputes

Krista Pietruszewski
nsnreporter@wiktel.com

The Karlstad City Council met on April 6 to approve routine claims for March and addressed a wide range of administrative, financial, and infrastructure matters affecting the city of Karlstad.

Diane Hayes from Northwest Community Action, Inc. was present to make a public disclosure. She wanted to acknowledge that Rob and Sarah Michelson applied for the Small Cities Rehabilitation Program. Because the program is administered by Northwest Minnesota Foundation and does not require council selection of recipients, the matter was disclosed for transparency. The council approved proceeding with the program, with Mickelson abstaining from voting due to a potential conflict of interest. The rehabilitation program, originally funded in 2023, was adjusted to focus on owner-occupied homes after difficulty securing single-family rental projects, a change approved by the state. Fifteen owner-occupied homes were allotted, but all four single-family rental slots remained unfilled. So, that money was transferred over to owner occupied projects.

The council then reviewed the city's 2025 audit. The auditor reported a positive financial position, noting the city's net position increased by approximately $2.1 million from 2024 to 2025, largely due to airport infrastructure funding. About 85 percent of the city's net position is invested in capital assets. The General Fund ended 2025 with a fund balance of approximately $566,000. While this represents about 18 percent of expenditures, excluding major capital outlays places reserves closer to 62 percent, within recommended levels. 

Attention then turned to airport construction. The council approved Change Order No. 3, totaling $396,613.37, to redirect unused grant funds toward additional construction with RJ Zavoral & Sons, Inc. rather than returning the money to the state. The amendment reallocates funds from multiple MnDOT grants to complete eligible project components, including an access gate to the Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS). Angela Holm, AIA with Bollig Engineering confirmed that remaining funds are capped and that no additional expenses are anticipated without new funding. 

Additional discussion included the possible return of flags to the council chambers and reinstating the Pledge of Allegiance at meetings. Staff were unable to locate previous flag stands, and replacement costs may be considered during the upcoming budget process.

Facility maintenance issues at the clinic and fitness center were reviewed, including ongoing roof leaks. A partial roof replacement estimate of approximately $100,000 was discussed, significantly less than a prior full replacement estimate. The council agreed to seek additional information on grant opportunities and potential cost savings before making a decision at a future meeting.

Property maintenance near the golf course was also addressed. The council approved a request from Jim Muckenhirn, a neighboring property owner to clear brush and plant low-maintenance vegetation along a disputed boundary area, with the understanding that no permanent structures would be installed.

The meeting concluded with the council voting to close a portion of the session to discuss threatened litigation under Minnesota statute 13D.05, subdivision 3b, which allows for attorney-client privileged discussions. Jeff Hanes advised the council regarding a notice of claim alleging slander of title, and the motion to enter a closed session was approved unanimously. 

Once reconvened with an open meeting, council members approved a motion related to the two vacant properties previously subject to city claims. The motion authorizes the city to pay $15,000 and withdraw affidavits that assert the city's claim on the properties through quitclaim deeds.

The properties are associated with Troy Peterson, who had previously entered into an agreement requiring development of the lots within a specified time frame. Under the approved motion, the city would release its affidavits and withdraw its claims on the two lots, returning the properties to their prior status, contingent upon Peterson's acceptance of the agreement. The $15,000 payment was described as reimbursement for attorney fees.

The motion was made by council member Ryan Anderson, seconded by Dale Nelson, and approved by voice vote, with two in opposition. The motion carried with a 3-2 vote. City officials noted that if the offer is not accepted, the matter would remain unresolved and could continue through legal channels.

East Grand Forks Campbell Library celebrates 25 years and the legacy of Charlotte Helgeson

When the Campbell Library first opened its doors in April 2001, it marked more than the debut of a new building—it symbolized a community moving forward after the devastating flood of 1997. Thousands turned out for that grand opening, eager to step into a space that represented resilience, renewal and a shared belief in the power of learning.

Now, 25 years later, the East Grand Forks Campbell Library is once again inviting the community to gather—this time to celebrate a milestone anniversary and honor the woman who helped shape its story from the very beginning.

On Friday, April 17, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., the library will host its 25th Anniversary Celebration, a full day of activities highlighting "25 years of learning, connection, and community." The event is open to the public and will take place at the library, 422 Fourth St. NW.

At the heart of the celebration is Charlotte Helgeson, who has served as library director for more than 32 years. For many in East Grand Forks, Helgeson has been more than a librarian—she has been a steady presence, a champion for literacy, and a welcoming face for generations of patrons.

Back in 2001, Helgeson stood at the center of the library's grand opening, reflecting on the journey from the cramped Nash Park warming house—where the library temporarily operated after the flood—to a spacious, modern facility built with the future in mind. At the time, she described the new library as "a home where it belongs," a sentiment that continues to resonate today.

Over the past quarter century, that "home" has become a cornerstone of the community, offering not only books but technology, programming and a gathering space for people of all ages.

The April 17 celebration will reflect that spirit. Activities begin at 9 a.m. and run throughout the day, including slideshow displays, a book fair with Abigail's Books and Gift Shop, and snacks provided by local restaurants. A quiet hour is scheduled for 11 a.m., followed by live music from Project: Constellation at noon.

Afternoon highlights include face painting from 3 to 5 p.m., a visit from special guest Lauren Emmons—author and illustrator of No Cats in the Library—for a 3:30 p.m. storytime, and a "Coozie Up Cart" available from 1 to 5 p.m.

Organizers are also inviting community members to take part behind the scenes. Volunteers are needed to greet guests, assist with refreshments and help with displays. Short shifts make it easy for people to contribute while still enjoying the festivities.

While the day will be filled with activities, it will also be a time for reflection. Just as the 2001 opening marked the beginning of a new chapter following the flood, this anniversary represents both a celebration of the past and a transition for the future, as Helgeson prepares for retirement.

Her impact is difficult to measure. Over three decades, she has helped guide the library through change, growth and evolving community needs—all while maintaining its role as a welcoming, inclusive space.

As East Grand Forks gathers once again inside the Campbell Library, the occasion echoes that first grand opening: a community coming together, not just to celebrate a building, but the people and purpose behind it.