Dispatch center remodel approved

During its June 21 meeting, the Waseca board of county commissioners approved $198,025 to update and redesign the dispatch center in the county sheriff’s office.

Sheriff Brad Milbraith told commissioners that the equipment currently in use dates from 2003 and receives round-the-clock use, so that some consoles require constant tinkering to remain functional. 

In addition, Milbraith reported that the system used to receive and transmit 911 messages is outdated and undersized, even though that system was updated about 5 years ago.

Although the redesign, which will include not only new electronic consoles, but also new carpeting, paint and counters, was not previously budgeted for 2022, there is sufficient funding in the 911 budget to cover nearly the entire cost.

Commissioners learned that the harvesting of weeds on Clear Lake in Waseca has been completed for the year; recent heat and other conditions have made it impractical to continue harvesting. Of the 100 acres permitted for harvesting, 75 were. 

A total of 230 tons (460,000 lbs) were removed from the lake. The board discussed allowing the weed harvester to be used on another body of water, but that requires a DNR permit as there is concern about the milfoil spread. 

Commissioners approved the short-term closure of Broadway Avenue in New Richland during the town’s Farm and City Days celebration. The closure allows both for a parade and for a July 23 street dance being sponsored by Finley’s Wings at Work.