Police chief investigates rape case; accidents; disturbances

A series of crimes and investigations created a busy month for the Minneota Police Department.

Chief of Police Bill Bolt, in his report to the Minneota City Council said, “I was called on to investigate a forcible rape in Minneota,” said Chief Bolt.

One arrest was made in this case, he indicated. In addition, “We had five unprecedented motor vehicle collisions with none of them being on Highway 68,” said Chief Bolt.

In addition, tension has again risen at West View Apartments and the Tri-Minn Apartments resulting in several calls of domestic disturbances, a domestic assault, a fifth degree assault case involving multiple people and a violation of release conditions.

IN OTHER action the board:

•Agreed to a two and a half percent levy increase for the coming year. The levy is $519,274. The preliminary budget was revised but will remain at 2.5 percent. Last year, the council’s budget levy was 3.5 percent for a total of $506,610.

“If we go much lower than that, we’d be in trouble,” said Councilman Tim Koppien.

•Approved an ordinance to change the setback requirements on corner lots. The set-back for a front yard will be 25 feet from the lot line. The setback for the side-yard on the side adjacent to a city street will be 10 feet from the lot line.