Kiana Johnson, Executive Directors of O’Brien County Economic Development (OCEDC) updated the Archer Council about the activities of OCEDC and the relationship between the organization and the city. Mayor Nathan Mueller is Archer’s representative. Johnson provided an overview of the Revolving Loan Fund performance and its impact on both the city specifically and the county overall. The Value Added Ag committee was highlighted as well as the tourism committee. The tourism committee has met with considerable success and acclaim during 2023. Other notable activity by OCEDC by way of attracting people to O’Brien County was the creative use of social media. Working with employers in O’Brien County, Johnson has capitalized on partnerships with employers and with schools in O’Brien County and the surrounding area by developing a career day and adding scholarships and changing the panel discussion for high school students.
Cell phone data used to determine how many people on what day from outside of Archer actually visit or pass through Archer during 2022.
A meeting between Archer Council representatives, Archer Library board reps and Primghar library board reps did not get scheduled. Annee Carlson is on the Archer payroll at least until October.
City Clerk Sandy Fritz reported to the council that the city cannot insure the former community building. The insurance companies have determined that the City does not have an insurable interest. The city will have to work to terminate the lease with Brad Puhrmann. The attorney for Puhrmann reportedly has not been responsive to Archer City Attorney Micah Schreurs.
Council agreed to join the Archer Reformed Church Block Party by adding 3 games and have delivered and picked up at a total cost of up to $500.
The ambulance contract had been budgeted originally to be with Sheldon only. It was learned in July that the contract is to be with Sheldon, Sanborn and Primghar. The budget will be amended to $3000 to cover Archer’s costs for the 28E to provide ambulance service to the community.
Nomination papers for certain elected officials are now available. Current officials up for reelection this year in Archer are Mayor Nathan Mueller, Steven Meyer and Aimee Mueller. Candidates have until Thursday September 21 to return all required nomination papers.
The crosswalk signs have only partially arrived. The tracking will be checked.