Presnell hired as city auditor

After serving as the interim auditor for the past three months, Andrew Presnell has earned the permanent gig.

The New Rockford City Commission officially voted to hire Presnell as the permanent city auditor during a special meeting on Friday, Dec. 11. His starting salary is $55,000 per year.

The decision was made due to his "exemplary job performance" over the past few months, president Stu Richter noted.

"I think it's the perfect move," commissioner Jim Belquist added. "You deserve it. Absolutely."

Commissioners also reviewed employee evaluations and passed a motion to give all staff 3 percent raises effective January 1. Employees will also receive Chamber bucks as Christmas gifts, as they have in the past.

Two other topics were on the short agenda. First, the commission approved a Renaissance Zone application for the construction of the James River Dentistry office. Once the application is also approved by the state, the building owners will receive property and income tax incentives. The program has been in place since 2008.

Commissioners also approved the payment schedule for the concrete crushing activities recently completed by RTS. They will pay 50 percent of the cost now, and 25 percent each in the first and second quarters of 2024.

The commission's next meeting is set for Tuesday, Jan. 2 at 7 p.m., one day later than usual due to the holiday.