BRITTON CITY COUNCIL: OKS BUDGET, TALKS GOLF CART RULES

    The Britton City Council met Monday night to address several key issues, including budget approvals, lease agreements, and new ordinances.
    The council passed both the current year’s supplemental budget and the fiscal budget for next year following their second readings. With the city coming in under budget, members approved a $2,500 contribution to the Prayer Rock Museum for next year.
    Discussions included the Event Center lease agreement with the Britton-Hecla School District. Previously set at $12,000 annually, the school proposed reducing the lease amount to $8,500. The council decided to counter with an offer of $10,000 and plans to include provisions for additional cleaning and damage responsibilities. The council also adjusted Event Center policies, implementing a $10 fee for youth events held for profit and reserving the right to prioritize higher-paying events.
    In ongoing discussions about a cell tower lease agreement, the council reviewed a proposal from Symphony, a company that manages cell tower leases. Symphony offered $487,755 to purchase and manage the city’s leases with Verizon, T-Mobile, and AT&T for a 99-year period. The council agreed to request a letter of intent but has not made a final decision.
    The council adopted Ordinance #613, which updates planning and zoning rules. The amendment requires individuals seeking a variance to locate and uncover property pins or have them set.
    The first reading of a proposed ordinance regulating golf cart use on city streets was approved. If passed, the ordinance will require operators to have a valid driver’s license, obtain a permit, and follow specific operating hours. The second reading is scheduled for the next meeting.
    Finance Officer Jennifer Athey updated the council on the Fair Labor Standards Act overtime rule, which was struck down by a federal judge. As a result, city employees Laken Werner and Sonya Lang will remain salaried rather than switching to hourly pay.
    The council approved $250 holiday bonuses for full-time city employees.
    A special meeting will be held Wednesday, Dec. 18, to discuss a transfer of funds from the general and sewer fund to the water fund. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Jan. 13.