Fifty Lakes Fire Chief Andy Hemphill announced to council that long time firefighter Bill Bright is retiring after 23 years. Council said Bright would be presented a certificate and a letter recognizing his years of service to the city.

Mayor Dick Schiller stated that the City Attorney has reviewed the organization of the fire and rescue and that the topic is ready for public hearing. Council unanimously motioned for a November date.

Council unanimously approved the purchase of a thermal imaging camera from the Emily Fire Department for $4500. In addition to the camera, council approved the purchase of four sets of new turnout gear and jackets for all fire and rescue personnel.

Hemphill reported a few calls for first responders and no service calls for the fire department during the month of September.

Planning & Zoning
Council approved a Metes & Bounds subdivision submitted by Eagle Properties LLC as it met all conditions approved by the Planning Commission.

City Planner Gordy Reller requested that council to allow him to permit for riprap. Council agreed to have the Planning Commission research the topic, create the process and bring back to the council for review.

Reller also informed council the county is considering not funding the Department of Soil & Water.

In other council action:
• Reviewed the proposed budget for 2010, but no action was taken, and unanimously approved Mathias C Justin LTD to perform the city audits through 2011.

• In a motion made in September, council agreed to donate $100 to the Over the Hills Gang ATV club pending legal advice. Following discussion and failed motion to hire the club to install two ATV signs, council agreed that a donation to the club is not a lawful expenditure based on information received from the League of Minnesota Cities and the State Auditor.

• Councilman Bob Miller commented that though the Parks Committee is currently at a stand still, he is still looking for residents who are interested in joining the committee. Resident Ken Hersey stated all benches and picnic tables were stained by the County Corrections Department. Council requested sending a letter to thank them for a job well done.