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*The board voted 4-1 to put another proposal for an aquatic park on the ballot in November. Members of the pool committee presented a new, scaled-back version of its plan, now costing $990,000, including bonding, to the council. Related story

The new aquatic park proposal - though called a special election -Êwill be on the general election ballot on Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Council members Dave Peschong, Jean Soine, and Dennis Zimmerman and Mayor Jeff Thompson voted for putting the aquatic park proposal on the ballot while council member Harlan Beek voted against it.

*The council approved annexing a 0.67-acre lot at 28664 Minnie Street to the city. The property is owned by Midwest Property Solutions, managed by Tom Jacoby, and the owners desire city water and sewer. The orderly annexation agreement, already approved by Paynesville Township, includes the city paying 250 percent of the base tax on the property to the township over five years or in one lump sum payment.

*The council rescinded a motion to accept a bid from Traut Wells of Waite Park to repair two city wells and approved accepting a bid from Thein Wells of Spicer. Originally, the city believed Traut Wells' bid was lower, but later discovered that their repair price was per well. The city thought their bid was $14,240.50 but it was actually $21,278. Therefore, Thein Wells' bid of $15,472.50 was the lowest.

*The council approved changing a city ordinance that clarifies obstructions on sidewalks. The old ordinance actually prohibited any obstruction, but police chief Kent Kortlever noticed that several downtown businesses were putting displays or tables on the sidewalk. The revised ordinance requires that a straight path, at least 42 inches wide, must be maintained. This complies with requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

*The council accepted the resignation of Danielle Lindner as data entry clerk for the police department. The city is seeking someone who can work 15-20 hours per week, up from 10 hours per week, for the position. Lindner plans to continue working until a replacement is found.

*The council set a variance hearing for Keith and Beatrice Ainsley, for Wednesday, Sept. 8, at 6:45 p.m. The Ainsleys discovered during a recent survey that part of their driveway and garage lie on their neighbor's property. A lot split is being done so the Ainsleys will own the property for their garage and driveway, but the garage will be two feet from the lot line, not five feet as required by a side setback, thus requiring a variance.

*The council approved renewing its contract with Alpha Video, which provides the cable channel with news, weather, and phone support for one year at a cost of $2,898.

*The council passed a resolution supporting the development of a Hazard Mitigation Plan by Stearns County. The plan, when finished, will be presented to the city council. *The council approved a gambling permit for the Crow River Trail Guards to have pulltabs at the Koronis Lanes. Gambling permits must be renewed every two years.

*The council approved holding a public hearing on Wednesday, Sept. 22, at 6:30 p.m. in order to pursue a Small Cities Development Grant.