State Law reference— City council generally, Minn. Stat. § 412.191 et seq.

The fee to accompany a request for annexation shall be as established by resolution.

(Code 1978, § 29.02(d))

State Law reference— Annexation, Minn. Stat. § 414.031 et seq.

The fee to accompany a request for the city to vacate property shall be as established by resolution.

(Code 1978, § 29.02(e))

State Law reference— Vacating streets, Minn. Stat. § 412.851.

1. Definitions.
   As used in this chapter, the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings, unless the context clearly indicates that a different meaning is intended:
   Abandoned property shall mean personal property of any type the owner of which has failed to make satisfactory claim and proof of ownership within 60 days after notice has been provided as described in subsection (b).
   Finder is a person who locates unclaimed personal property belonging to someone else and gives the property to an officer.
   Officer shall mean any officer, agent or employee of the city acting within the scope of his or her employment.
   Unclaimed property shall mean personal property of any type where the owner or his or her whereabouts is unknown, or which is unclaimed for more than seven days.
2. Notice of official possession.
   1. Any officer having in his or her official possession unclaimed property and wishing to dispose of such property at a public auction or sale shall from time to time have the city clerk prepare and publish written notice containing the information required in subsection (b)(2).
   2. The written notice shall contain the following information:
      1. The name, designation and office address of the officer giving the notice;
      2. The description of the unclaimed property, individually or by lot, that has come into the possession of the officer since the issuance of the last notice;
      3. A demand that all owners of the property described in the notice make claim and proof of ownership satisfactory to the officer named in the notice within 60 days from the date of the notice;
      4. A statement that any of the unclaimed property not so claimed within the 60-day period shall be deemed to be abandoned, and that the same may be disposed by the city; and
      5. The date of the notice.
   3. The notice shall be published in a newspaper of general circulation in the city at least once, a copy of the notice shall be posted at the city hall, and a copy of the notice shall be mailed to the owner, if the owner's name and address is known.
   4. Nothing in this section shall prevent an officer from disposing of unclaimed property by a private sale through a nonprofit organization that has a significant mission of community service after the property has been in the possession of the municipality for a period of at least 120 days.
3. Claim and proof of ownership.
   1. Except as provided in subsection (d)(2), if unclaimed property remains in the possession of the officer without any person making satisfactory claim and proof of ownership for a period of 60 days from the date of the notice describing it, the personal property shall be deemed to be abandoned, and title to the property shall be deemed to be in the city by reason of abandonment by the owner and possession by the city.
4. Disposal.
   1. The city shall have the right to sell or otherwise dispose of abandoned property to the highest bidder at public auction or sale. Alternatively, the city may deliver abandoned property at no charge to any community, non-profit organization.
   2. In no event shall abandoned property be sold for less than the cost of advertising and selling. The city reserves the right to reject any and all bids. If abandoned property cannot be disposed of at an amount greater than the cost of advertising and selling, the city may destroy the property or otherwise dispose of it as it sees fit.

(Ord. No. 14-11-03, §§ .01—.04, 11-24-2014)

The salary of the mayor shall be $800.00 per month and each councilperson shall receive the sum of $600.00 per month as salary, effective January 1, 2009.

(Code 1978, § 9.01; Mo. of 5-12-2008)

State Law reference— Compensation of council, Minn. Stat. § 412.021, subd. 5.

1. The mayor and each councilperson may choose to purchase medical insurance coverage through the city's pool, but must pay all premiums, deductible, co-pays and all other expenses of such coverage.
2. The mayor and each councilperson shall also receive life insurance under the city's current group life insurance policy.
3. The mayor and each councilperson may, at their individual option, join Public Employer's Retirement Association (PERA) and pay the appropriate employee's share monthly, with the city paying the city's matching share.

(Code 1978, §§ 9.02—9.04; Ord. No. 06-10-06, § 1, 10-10-2006)

1. Applicants for city employment.
   1. Purpose. The purpose and intent of this section is to establish regulations that will allow law enforcement access to Minnesota's Computerized Criminal History information for specified noncriminal purposes of employment background checks for the positions described in subsection (b).
   2. Criminal history employment background investigations. The Grand Rapids Police Department is hereby required, as the exclusive entity within the city, to do a criminal history background investigation on the applicants for the following positions within the city, unless the city's hiring authority concludes that a background investigation is not needed.
2. Employment positions:
   1. All regular part-time or full-time employees of the City of Grand Rapids; and
   2. Other positions that work with children or vulnerable adults. Please note that the city will not obtain all of the criminal data authorized under the Child Protection Background Check Act (Minn. Stat. §§ 299C.61 and 299C.62) on positions working with children by using the city's police department to conduct background checks. The city must access those records by using the service provided by the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and paying the associated fee. (For more information contact the BCA or the League of Minnesota Cities.)
3. Data access authorized by police department. In conducting the criminal history background investigation in order to screen employment applicants, the police department is authorized to access data maintained in the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehensions Computerized Criminal History information system in accordance with BCA policy. Any data that is accessed and acquired shall be maintained at the police department under the care and custody of the chief law enforcement official or his or her designee. A summary of the results of the computerized criminal history data may be released by the police department to the hiring authority, including the city council, the city administrator, human resources director, or other city staff involved in the hiring process.
4. Written consent required. Before the investigation is undertaken, the applicant must authorize the police department by written consent to undertake the investigation. The written consent must fully comply with the provisions of Minn. Stat. ch. 13 regarding the collection, maintenance and use of the information. Except for the positions set forth in Minn. Stat. § 364.09, the city will not reject an applicant for employment on the basis of the applicant's prior conviction unless the crime is directly related to the position of employment sought and the conviction is for a felony, gross misdemeanor, or misdemeanor with a jail sentence. If the city rejects the applicant's request on this basis, the city shall notify the applicant in writing of the following:
   1. The grounds and reasons for the denial.
   2. The applicant complaint and grievance procedure set forth in Minn. Stat. § 364.06.
   3. The earliest date the applicant may reapply for employment.
   4. That all competent evidence of rehabilitation will be considered upon reapplication.

(Ord. No. 12-03-03, § 1, 3-26-2012)

Editor's note— Ord. No. 12-03-03, § 1, adopted May 26, 2012, did not specifically amend the Code; hence, inclusion herein as § 2-63 was at the editor's discretion.

Editor's note— Res. No. 14-127, adopted Dec. 15, 2014, repealed former Div. 2, §§ 2-161 and 2-162, which pertained to the police civil service commission.

Except as otherwise provided, fees payable to the city shall be payable at the time applications are filed with the zoning administrator or city clerk.

(Ord. No. 03-12-14, § 29.05, 12-8-2003)

Fees are not refundable unless application is withdrawn prior to referral to the planning commission if applicable. Building permit fees are not refundable except by council resolution.

(Ord. No. 03-12-14, § 29.06, 12-8-2003)

The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this division, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:

Area means the county or other locality from which labor for any project would normally be secured.

Hourly basic wage means the hourly wage paid to any employee.

Prevailing hours of labor means the hours of labor per day and per week worked within the area by a larger number of workers of the same class than are employed within the area for any other number of hours per day and per week.

Prevailing wage rate means the hourly basic rate of pay plus the contribution for health and welfare benefits, vacation benefits, pension benefits and any other economic benefit paid to the largest number of workers engaged in the same class of labor within the area. In no event shall the prevailing wage rate be deemed to be less than a reasonable and living wage.

Project means erecting, constructing, remodeling or repairing any public building or other public work financed in whole or part by city funds, or any funds that are administered by the city.

(Code 1978, § 57.02)

It is the purpose of this division to establish the prevailing wage rate as defined in Minn. Stat. § 177.42 as the minimum standard for wages and which established the hours and working conditions prevailing for the largest number of workers engaged in the same class of labor within the area as a minimum standard for contractors' employees which must be agreed to by any contractor before he may be awarded any contract for the furnishing of any labor or materials for projects as defined in this division.

(Code 1978, § 57.01)

1. Any contract which provides for a project within the meaning in section 2-111 shall contain a stipulation that no laborer or mechanic employed directly upon the project work site by the contractor or any subcontractor, agent or other person doing or contracting to do all or a part of the work of the project, shall be permitted or required to work more hours than the prevailing hours of labor unless such laborer or mechanic is paid for all hours in excess of the prevailing hours at a rate of at least 1½ times his hourly basic rate of pay; nor shall he be paid a lesser rate of wages than the prevailing wage in the same or most similar trade or occupation in the area.
2. This section shall not apply to wage rates and hours of employment of laborers or mechanics engaged in the processing or manufacture of materials or products or to the delivery thereof by or for commercial establishments which have a fixed place of business from which they regularly supply such processed or manufactured materials or products; except that this section shall apply to laborers or mechanics who deliver mineral aggregate such as sand, gravel or stone which is incorporated into the work under the contract by depositing the material substantially in place, directly or through spreaders from the transporting vehicle.
3. The prevailing wage rates, prevailing hour of labor and hourly basic rates of pay shall be set forth specifically in the contract.
4. The prevailing wage rates, prevailing hours of labor and hourly basic rates of pay for all trades and occupations required in any contemplated project shall be ascertained before the city asks for bids.
5. It is the duty of the city to enforce this section. To this end it may demand, and it shall be the duty of every contractor and subcontractor to furnish to the city copies of any or all payrolls, and the city may examine all records relating to wages paid laborers or mechanics on work to which this division applies.
6. This section shall not apply to a contract, or work under a contract, under which (a) the estimated total cost of completing the project is less than $25,000.00 and only one trade or occupation is required to complete it, or (b) the estimated total cost of completing the project is less than $50,000.00 and more than one trade or occupation is required to complete it.

(Code 1978, § 57.03)

For the purposes of determining the prevailing hours of labor and prevailing wage rates, the city shall determine such figures from the commissioner of labor and industry as are applicable to the county, or that part of the county in which the city is located.

(Code 1978, § 57.04)

The prevailing hours of labor, the prevailing wage rates, and the hourly basic rates of pay and classification for all labor as certified by the city shall be specifically set forth in the proposals and contracts for each construction contract to which the city is a party, and shall be kept posted on the project by the employer in at least one conspicuous place for the information of the employees working on the project.

(Code 1978, § 57.05)

Any contractor, subcontractor or agent thereof who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor.

(Code 1978, § 57.06)

There is hereby created a Civic Center board, pursuant to authority given by Minnesota Statutes, and shall have the membership, responsibilities, and authority as set forth below.

(Ord. No. 16-03-03, § 2(5.01), 3-28-2016)

The Civic Center board shall be composed of five members, all as appointed by the City Council. Vacancies shall be filled for the unexpired portion of a departing member's term by action of the City Council; and shall not be personally interested in any contracts acted upon by the Civic Center board. The Civic Center board makeup shall be as follows:

• One Grand Rapdis Amateur Hockey Association Board Member
• One ISD 318 Representative
• One Star of the North Figure Skating Board Member
• One Member at Large (Does not need to be a resident of the city)
• One Member of the City Council
  

If an organization does not designate a member to the Civic Center Board, the City Council shall appoint another member at large. When the term ends for the extra Member at Large, the unrepresentedorganization shall have the opportunity to assign a member.

(Ord. No. 16-03-03, § 2(5.02), 3-28-2016)

The term of each board member shall be three years or until they no longer serve on their respective boards, whichever is shorter. Members shall serve until their successor is appointed and qualified. No member shall serve more than two successive terms or six consecutive years, whichever is longer, on the Civic Center Board. The city council reserves the right to waive this rule.

(Ord. No. 16-03-03, § 2(5.03), 3-28-2016)

All meetings of the board shall be held in conformance with Minnesota Statute 471.705, Open Meeting Law. The board shall hold regular quarterly meetings, at a time and place to be set by the board, and such special meetings as may be called as deemed necessary by the board chairperson or secretary. The board shall keep and preserve accurate minutes of each meeting of the board or any committee thereof and these minutes shall be kept on file in the City Clerk's office. The board shall adopt rules of conduct for its meetings and the transaction of its business. A majority shall constitute a quorum for taking action. Each member shall have one vote.

(Ord. No. 16-03-03, § 2(5.04), 3-28-2016)

The Civic Center Advisory Board shall annually elect a chairperson and a secretary from among its appointed members. They shall have the duties as implied by their titles.

(Ord. No. 16-03-03, § 2(5.05), 3-28-2016)

1. The objectives of the Civic Center Board shall be to:
   1. Oversee the orderly operation of the Civic Center and related facilities so as to generate good will and a positive image for the city, while accomplishing long and short-term goals as set by the board and the City Council; and
   2. Preserve and improve the physical assets of the Civic Center and related facilities by encouraging sound, progressive management practices.
2. In futhernce of these objectives, the Civic Center Board shall have such powers and duties as are set forth in this division to operate the Civic Center and related facilities, which powers and duties shall consist of the following:
   1. Prior to October 1st of each year, to adopt a recommended budget for the ensuing calendar year. The budget of finances shall be balanced. Such recommended budget shall be submitted not later than November 1st to the City Council for consideration. The City Council shall approve the budget after making such changes as the Council deems appropriate. The expenditure allowances in the budget as finally approved by the City Council shall control the year's spending. The Civic Center Board shall not expend nor incur any obligation to expend any funds whatsoever except as reflected fully in the final annual budget approved by the City Council, or as specifically approved by formal action of the City Council in advance of any commitment to expend particular funds, regardless of whether the funds are donations, grants, revenues or otherwise. The Civic Center Board shall not have the power to levy taxes or borrow money, and it shall not approve any claim or incur any obligation for expenditure unless the claim or obligation has been approved in advance by the City Council, including by way of line item approval of the annual budget, and there is unencumbered cash in the treasury to the credit of the Civic Center Board with which to pay the same.
   2. At the request of the Council or upon the Board's own initiative, to give input to the City Council regarding contracts between the City and the Civic Center concessionaire and regarding employment by the City of the Civic Center Manager and other personnel. The City Council shall receive the input of the Civic Center Board, and the City Council shall, if the Council deems appropriate, contract with a Civic Center Concessionaire and Civic Center Manager after the Council and Concessionaire and/or Manager have reached mutual agreement on contract terms.
      
   3. Supervise the Concessionaire and Manager in like manner as a City department head would be responsible to supervise his department. If the Civic Center Board believes the Concessionaire is not performing in accordance with the Concessionaire contract or in the best interests of the Civic Center or the City, or if the Board believes the Manager is similarly not performing properly, the Civic Center Board shall report the matter to the City Administrator, and the City Administrator shall determine the appropriate course of action. The City Administrator may also take action without the prior recommendation of the Civic Center Board if the City Administrator deems it necessary, consulting the City Council if the Administrator deems it appropriate.
      
   4. Make contracts, including contracts for the purchase of materials, supplies, equipment and services to the Civic Center and related facilities, provided any obligations for expenditures so incurred are consistent with the City Council approved budget or have been otherwise approved in advance by the City Council, and provided further the Civic Center Board shall not contract with the Concessionaire, Manger or other Civic Center personnel. The Board shall comply with statutory bidding requirements when making purchases.
      
   5. Adopt rules governing the use by the public of Civic Center and related facilities over which the Civic Center Board has responsibility.
   6. Consistent with the annual budget approved by the City Council, recommend user fees and charges for the Civic Center and related facilities and ensure the proper collection of such fees from all users and the proper deposit of the fees as provided in this division.
   7. Oversee the proper ongoing security, upkeep, maintenance and improvement of Civic Center and related facilities.
   8. Develop and review with the City Council short and long-term plans and goals for the Civic Center and appropriate strategies to accomplish these goals.
   9. Report to the City Council on the activities of the Civic Center Board and the Civic Center with such frequency as the board deems appropriate and also upon request of the City Council.
   10. Request from the City Administrator such clerical and support assistance from any City Department or employee as the Board deems necessary. The City Administrator shall have discretion to direct such assistance, subject to direction and control from the City Council.
   11. Receive grants and donations, upon advance authorization from the City Council to do so.
       
       (Ord. No. 16-03-03, § 2(5.06), 3-28-2016)

For the purpose of financing the operations authorized by this division, there shall be established in the city accounts and treasure a special fund to be called the Civic Center Board fund. Into this fund shall be placed all revenues and from it shall be paid claims for all expenditures. All receipts belonging to the Civic Center Board shall be deposited Intact in a bank account to the credit of the funds, andno disbursement shall be made from this bank account except by check or unless a verifiedclaim order for services and commodities actually rendered or delivered has first been submitted to and approved for payment by the Civic Center Board. The accounting of the fund and the custody of the cash and bank checking account shall be in the hands of the City Treasurer. The City Treasurer shall make reports to the Civic Center Board at reasonable intervals as determined by the Civic Center Board. An audit of funds shall be made independently of or in conjunction with the funds of the city.

(Ord. No. 16-03-03, § 2(5.09), 3-28-2016)

There is created a golf course board for the city, which shall have the membership, powers and duties as set forth in this division.

(Code 1978, § 60.01)

The golf course board shall be composed of five members, all as appointed by the city council. Vacancies shall be filled for the unexpired portion of a departing member's term by action of the city council. Members of the golf course board, four of which must be members of the city or a resident of an area which is to be annexed into the city pursuant to a legally binding annexation agreement, and one of which may be a non-resident, nor in a to be annexed area as described above; and shall not be personally interested in any contracts acted upon by the golf course board.

(Code 1978, § 60.02; Ord. No. 09-01-01, 1-26-2009)

The term of each member of the golf course board shall be three years. Members shall serve until their successor is appointed and qualified. No member shall serve more than two successive terms or six consecutive years, whichever is longer, on the golf course board.

(Code 1978, § 60.03)

All meetings of the golf course board shall be held in conformance with Minn. Stat. § 471.705. The golf course board shall hold regular monthly meetings, at a time and place to be set by the board, and such special meetings as may be called from time to time by the board chairman or secretary. The golf course board shall keep and preserve accurate minutes of each meeting of the board or any of its committees. The golf course board shall adopt rules for the conduct of its meetings and the transaction of its business. A majority shall constitute a quorum for taking action. Each member shall have one vote.

(Code 1978, § 60.04)

The golf course board shall elect a chairman and a secretary from among its members, and they shall have duties as implied by their titles.

(Code 1978, § 60.05)

1. The objectives of the golf course board shall be to:
   1. Promote participation in programs of Pokegama Golf Course and its related facilities by area residents and visitors;
   2. Oversee the orderly operation of Pokegama Golf Course and related facilities so as to generate good will and a positive image for the city, while accomplishing long and shortterm goals as set by the board and the city council; and
   3. Preserve and improve the physical assets of Pokegama Golf Course and related facilities by encouraging sound, progressive management practices.
2. In furtherance of these objectives, the golf course board shall have such powers and duties as are set forth in this division to operate the Pokegama Golf Course and related facilities, which powers and duties shall consist of the following:
   1. Prior to December 1 of each year, to adopt a recommended budget for the ensuing calendar year. The budget of finances shall be balanced. Such recommended budget shall be submitted not later than December 1 to the city council for consideration. The city council shall approve the budget after making such changes as the council deems appropriate. The expenditure allowances in the budget as finally approved by the city council shall control the year's spending. The golf course board shall not expend nor incur any obligation to expend any funds whatsoever except as reflected fully in the final annual budget approved by the city council, or as specifically approved by formal action of the city council in advance of any commitment to expend particular funds, regardless of whether the funds are donations, grants, revenues or otherwise. The golf course board shall not have the power to levy taxes or borrow money, and it shall not approve any claim or incur any obligation for expenditure unless the claim or obligation has been approved in advance by the city council, including by way of line item approval of the annual budget, and there is unencumbered cash in the treasury to the credit of the golf course board with which to pay the same.
   2. At the request of the council or upon the board's own initiative, to give input to the city council regarding contracts between the city and the golf course concessionaire and regarding employment by the city of a golf course manager and other personnel. The city council shall receive the input of the golf course board, and the city council shall, if the council deems appropriate, contract with a golf course concessionaire and golf course manager after the council and concessionaire and/or manager have reached mutual agreement on contract terms.
   3. Supervise the concessionaire and manager in like manner as a city department head would be responsible to supervise his department. If the golf course board believes the concessionaire is not performing in accordance with the concessionaire contract or in the best interests of the Pokegama Golf Course or the city, or if the board believes the manager is similarly not performing properly, the golf course board shall report the matter to the city administrator, and the city administrator shall determine the appropriate course of action. The city administrator may also take action without the prior recommendation of the golf course board if the city administrator deems it necessary, consulting with the city council if the administrator deems it appropriate.
   4. Make contracts, including contracts for the purchase of materials, supplies, equipment and services to the Pokegama Golf Course and related facilities, provided any obligations for expenditures so incurred are consistent with the city council approved budget or have been otherwise approved in advance by the city council, and provided further the golf course board shall not contract with the concessionaire, manager or other golf course personnel. The board shall comply with statutory bidding requirements when making purchases.
   5. Adopt rules governing the use by the public of Pokegama Golf Course and related facilities over which the golf course board has responsibility.
   6. Consistent with the annual budget approved by the city council, establish user fees and charges for the Pokegama Golf Course and related facilities and ensure the proper collection of such fees from all users and the proper deposit of the fees as provided in this division.
   7. Oversee the proper ongoing security, upkeep, maintenance and improvement of Pokegama Golf Course and related facilities.
   8. Develop and review with the city council short and longterm plans and goals for Pokegama Golf Course and appropriate strategies to accomplish these goals.
   9. Report to the city council on the activities of the golf course board and the Pokegama Golf Course with such frequency as the board deems appropriate and also upon request of the city council.
   10. Request from the city administrator such clerical and support assistance from any city department or employee as the board deems necessary. The city administrator shall have discretion to direct such assistance, subject to direction and control from the city council.
   11. Receive grants and donations, upon advance authorization from the city council to do so.
   12. Actively cooperate with a greens committee to be appointed by the city council upon nomination to the golf course board, which committee shall have members representing various user constituencies of Pokegama Golf Course. The greens committee shall be charged with the responsibility to make recommendations to the board regarding the operation of Pokegama Golf Course. Members of the greens committee need not be residents of the city.

(Code 1978, § 60.06)

For the purpose of financing the operations authorized by this division, there shall be established in the city accounts and treasury a special fund to be called the golf course fund. Into this fund shall be placed all revenues and from it shall be paid claims for all expenditures. All receipts belonging to the golf course board shall be deposited intact in a bank account to the credit of the fund, and no disbursement shall be made from this bank account except by check nor unless a verified claim for services and commodities actually rendered or delivered has first been submitted to and approved for payment by the golf course board. The accounting of the fund and the custody of the cash and bank checking account shall be in the hands of the city treasurer. The city treasurer shall make reports to the golf course board at reasonable intervals as determined by the golf course board. An audit of funds shall be made annually and such audit may be made independently of or in conjunction with any of the funds of the city.

(Code 1978, § 60.07)

Pursuant to Minn. Stat. ch. 347 (H.F. 2236), there is hereby created a Grand Rapids Central School Advisory Board, which will have the membership, powers and duties as set forth below.

(Ord. No. 13-02-02, 2-11-2013)

The board shall be composed of five members, at least one of whom shall be a member of the Itasca County Historical Society.

(Ord. No. 13-02-02, 2-11-2013)

The original seven members of the board shall be appointed by the Grand Rapids City Council. Subsequent appointments due to vacancies or expired terms shall be pursuant to nomination by the board, with ratification by the Grand Rapids City Council.

(Ord. No. 13-02-02, 2-11-2013)

The term of each member of the board shall be three years. A member may serve a maximum of three consecutive terms. Each member of the board shall have one vote.

(Ord. No. 13-02-02, 2-11-2013)

The board shall meet with such frequency as the board deems appropriate, but at least quarterly. Meetings of the board shall be open to the public.

(Ord. No. 13-02-02, 2-11-2013)

1. The group shall function as an advisory board of Central School. The powers and duties of the board will be to monitor the historical and architectural preservation of Central School.
2. The board shall designate a chair and vice-chair. The by-laws shall provide that each member of the board shall be entitled to one vote of equal weight to that of any other member.
3. The board shall keep and preserve accurate minutes of each meeting of the board or any committee thereof.
4. The board shall report to the city council quarterly, or more frequently as the board deems appropriate, on the activities of the board.
5. The board shall request, in writing to the city administrator, staff assistance from the appropriate departments of the City of Grand Rapids, on an as-needed basis.

(Ord. No. 13-02-02, 2-11-2013)

The exterior grounds of Central School shall be maintained as a city park by the appropriate city departments. The board and the city parks and recreation department shall coordinate plans for events at the exterior grounds. The city parks and recreation department shall have final authority to authorize and schedule usage of the exterior grounds.

(Ord. No. 13-02-02, 2-11-2013)

1. A human rights commission is hereby established for the purpose of securing for all citizens freedom from discrimination:
   1. In employment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and age;
   2. In housing and real property because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and familial status;
   3. In public accommodations because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, and disability;
   4. In public services because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, sexual orientation, and status with regard to public assistance; and
   5. In education because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and age. Such discrimination threatens the rights and privileges of the inhabitants of this state and menaces the institutions and foundations of democracy.
2. It is also the purpose of the human rights commission to protect all persons from wholly unfounded charges of discrimination. Nothing in this section shall be interpreted as restricting the implementation of positive action programs to combat discrimination.
3. It is also the purpose of the human rights commission to secure for all citizens full participation in the affairs of the city by assisting the Minnesota Department of Human Rights in implementing state laws against discrimination and by advising the council in long-range programs to improve community relations in the city.
4. Members shall be appointed by the city council for indefinite terms. An administrative assistant who is a permanent city staff person shall, and the city attorney may, function as ex officio members of the commission. It is desirable that commission members be representative of the broad spectrum of the citizens of the city. Commission members should be willing to attend training sessions for the purpose of facilitating the discharge of their duties. Members shall serve without compensation.

(Ord. No. 04-05-09, § 1(1), 5-24-2004; Ord. No. 05-08-13, 8-8-2005)

1. Regular meetings of the human rights commission shall be scheduled on a quarterly basis to handle regular commission business and further efforts of information dissemination. Special meetings shall be held at the call of the chair. Such business meetings shall be open for public attendance. Minutes shall be kept of all commission proceedings. The administrative assistant shall be responsible for all minute and record-keeping duties. The commission shall adopt its own bylaws after approval by the city council.
2. No meeting shall be conducted by the commission without a quorum, being a majority of all members, being present. The concurring vote of a majority of the commissioners present shall be necessary for any action.

(Ord. No. 04-05-09, § 1(2, 3), 5-24-2004)

The human rights commission shall have the following purpose and duties and shall comply with the following:

1. To initiate, implement, and administer the policies and regulations of the city with respect to preventing and prohibiting all unfair discriminatory practices based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, and disability status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and age.
2. To assess the human relations and civil rights needs of the community and to advise the administration and the city council of the results of these assessments.
3. To cooperate with other groups and governmental agencies concerned with human rights.
4. The human rights commission will not participate in the investigation, nor opinion rendering of human rights violation complaints. It will simply refer such matters to the Minnesota Department of Human Service.
5. To take positive measures to disseminate the nondiscriminatory policies of the city with respect to all unfair discriminatory practices by conducting public information meetings.
6. To initiate data collection and evaluation activities that will identify minority and low-income concentrations within the city, and to prepare recommendations for submission to the planning commission and council that will contribute to lessening such concentrations, strengthen the fair housing policies of the city, and eliminate discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, sex national origin, disability, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, sexual orientation, and age.
7. The commission shall have the power to seek outside funding sources in addition to any resources supplied by the city to assist in its mission. All outside monies or grants received by the commission are subject to ordinance, as well as within the discretion of the city council to accept or reject.

(Ord. No. 04-05-09, § 1(4), 5-24-2004)

The duties of the city staff person designated as administrative assistant to the human rights commission by the mayor shall be:

1. To act as the authorized liaison representative of the commission, both with complainants and the public in general for dissemination of nondiscriminatory policies.
2. In consultation and cooperative with the city attorney, to interview and evaluate complainant charges of discriminatory acts, advise the complainant of his/her rights, procedures for redress, responsibilities of the commission and disposition alternatives in the case.
3. To take minutes and keep official records of all commission proceedings, and to function as correspondent for such communications with federal and state agencies as are directed by the commission.
4. To conduct, or arrange to have conducted, such socio-economic research as is authorized by the commission to enable the commissioners to function affirmatively and effectively in implementing the nondiscriminatory policies of the city.

(Ord. No. 04-05-09, § 1(5), 5-24-2004)

The human rights commission must establish a yearly budget for the city council's consideration and approval. This budget must be submitted in accordance with the regular city budgeting process on a yearly basis and it is to cover all expenses including but not limited to legal services, staffing, and all expenses related to publication or promotion of the commission's activities.

(Ord. No. 04-05-09, § 1(6), 5-24-2004)

There will from the adoption of the ordinance from which this division derives, until contrary act of the city council be a standing committee created by the city council and shall be know as the board of appeal and equalization, who shall be sworn according to law as such board, and meet at the city council room in said city each year as prescribed in Minn. Stat. § 274.01, and revise, amend and equalize the assessment on the roll of the county assessor. Such board of equalization is vested with all the powers which are or may be vested in county boards of equalization under the general laws of the state so far applicable, but shall not be restricted by any limitation in respect to reducing aggregate sum of real or personal property as returned by the assessors.

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 1, 10-14-08)

There shall be three members of board of appeal and equalization. The three members shall consist of at least one duly elected city council member and at least one lay member who is not such an elected officer. The lay member shall however be a resident of the City of Grand Rapids, or a resident of an area which is to be annexed into the City of Grand Rapids pursuant to a legally binding annexation agreement. Additionally, at least one of the three members shall be an appraiser, realtor or other person familiar with property valuations in the City of Grand Rapids (Minn. Stat. § 274.01, Subd. 2).

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 2, 10-14-08)

All board of appeal and equalization shall comply with Minn. Stat. § 274.014 requirements relative to meeting and training course requirements. The city will pay all costs associated with properly training said members.

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 3, 10-14-08)

Each board of appeal and equalization member shall serve for three-year terms. The city council desires staggered terms so that there is an overlapping of members. To achieve this end when the initial appointments are made; the first member shall be appointed for a one-year term, the second member shall be appointed for a two-year term, and the third member shall be appointed for a three-year term.

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 4, 10-14-08)

Such board of equalization may sit from day to day or adjourn from time to time as it shall deem proper, until it shall have been completed the equalization of such assessment. It shall complete such equalization on or before June 30 of every year, and with city council consent, shall have power to employ such clerk or clerks as shall be necessary to complete the revision of such assessment rolls within said time. Every person aggrieved by any assessment shall have the right to appear before such board and present the grievance for consideration. All meetings shall comply with the provisions of Minn. Stat. § 274.03.

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 5, 10-14-08)

It shall be the duty of the city attorney to be available to answer any questions of law that may arise during meetings of the board and to provide such other legal assistance as may be necessary. Whenever it appears upon the hearing of any such grievance that any property is listed or assessed at less than its true value, such undervaluation shall be called to the attention of the board and application made in behalf of the city for the correction of such undervaluation.

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 6, 10-14-08)

When the assessment rolls shall have been revised by the board of equalization, they shall be returned to the city council, who may confirm the same or return the same to said board for further revision, to be again reported to the city council. When the city council shall have confirmed the assessment the city clerk shall enclose therein a memorandum of such confirmation, and such rolls shall then be returned to the county auditor as other assessment rolls. In case said city council shall neglect to take final action on such rolls on or before the second Thursday after the first Tuesday of august of every year it shall be the duty of the city clerk to return them to the county auditor, with a certificate of the fact, and in such case the assessment rolls, as revised or equalized by such board, shall have the same validity as if confirmed by said city council.

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 7, 10-14-08)

All members of the board of equalization shall not be compensated for their service to the city.

(Ord. No. 08-10-09, § 8, 10-14-08)

There is created a police community advisory board, which shall have the membership, responsibilities, and authority as set forth in this division.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

The police community advisory board is established to enhance lines of communication between Grand Rapids residents, police department and city council. Together the advisory board and the police department will identify and focus on public safety issues and collaborate with community leaders, community organizations and stakeholders in developing solutions to multi-faceted community concerns. The board provides recommendations to the chief of police and city council as to how issues should be addressed.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

The police community advisory board shall be composed of thirteen members, reducing to nine members through attrition, with members being appointed by the city council. Vacancies shall be filled for the unexpired portion of a departing member's term when number of members is returned to a nine member board, by action of the city council. Members of the board shall exclude themselves from taking any action when personal business relationships are acted upon by this board. Members will be appointed according to city policy regarding residency requirements.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015; Ord. No. 16-04-04, 4-11-2016)

1. At the first meeting of each year, members of the commission shall select, by majority vote, a chair, vice chair, and secretary to serve until the end of that year and until a successor is chosen.
2. The chair shall:
   1. Set the agenda and preside at meetings of the board.
   2. Call additional meetings as needed.
   3. Assign duties to board members.
   4. Arrange meetings with other commissions, boards and organizations from the public, private and non-profit sectors as needed.
   5. Communicate with the city council and staff as needed.
   6. Provide overall leadership to the board in carrying out its purposes and responsibilities.
3. In the absence of or at the request of the chair, the duties of the chair shall be performed by the vice chair, and in the absence of both the chair and vice chair, by the secretary.
4. The secretary shall keep minutes and maintain permanent records of every meeting of the board, and shall submit minutes for approval at each successive meeting. The secretary shall serve as correspondent for the board. Copies of the minutes of all meetings shall be filed with the city clerk.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

The term of each police community advisory board member shall be three years. A member shall serve until his successor is appointed and qualified. The city council reserves the right to waive this rule. Upon initial creation of the police community advisory board the city council may appoint board members for terms other than three years for the purpose of staggering terms.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

All meetings of the police community advisory board shall be held in conformance with Minn. Stat. § 471.705. The board shall hold regular quarterly meetings at a time and place to be set by the board, and such special meetings as may be called as deemed necessary by the board chairperson or secretary. The board shall keep and preserve accurate minutes of each meeting of the board or any committee thereof and these minutes shall be kept on file in the city administrator's office. The board shall adopt bylaws/rules of conduct for its meetings and the transaction of its business. A majority shall constitute a quorum for taking action. Each member shall have one vote.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

The police community advisory board shall annually elect a chairperson, vice-chairperson and secretary from among its appointed members. They shall have the duties as implied by their titles.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

1. The police community advisory board shall have the responsibility to advise the city council and police chief in matters pertaining to police service in the city. These include:
   1. Enhancement of police community relations;
   2. Community perspective and recommendations concerning procedures, programs, use of technology and the effectiveness of police service;
   3. Promoting public awareness of the city's police services and programs;
   4. Conduct meetings to solicit public input regarding police services and programs;
   5. Review significant community issues and make recommendations;
   6. Encourage individuals and community groups to assist the police department in the implementation of police programs and services;
   7. Assist the police department in the budget process through review, program evaluation and priority recommendation;
   8. Review and make recommendations concerning other matters as may be referred to the board, from time to time, via the police chief, city administrator, mayor and city council.
   9. Communicate at least annually the work of the board to the city council.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

For the transaction of business at any meeting of the board, a quorum consisting of at least one-half of all members shall be required.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

A city staff member shall act as liaison to the board, provide staff support, and help get recommendations for the commission on the agenda for consideration by the city council when necessary.

(Ord. No. 15-02-02, 2-9-2015)

The City of Grand Rapids hereby establishes an arts and culture commission to advise the city council on the development of arts and cultural activities, organizations and facilities in Grand Rapids.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)

The purpose of the commission shall be to assist Grand Rapids in becoming a community in which arts and cultural activities:

1. Are recognized as vital components of community life that are worthy of investment and support from the public, private and non-profit sectors;
2. Are valued and promoted for their economic benefits and development potential, especially in the downtown;
3. Represent an integral part of Grand Rapids' educational mission and programs for young people; and
4. Cooperate with other community organizations to enhance the public perception of Grand Rapids' identity and quality of life in the community itself, the surrounding region, and beyond.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)

The commission shall be advisory to the city council and its responsibilities shall include the following:

1. Develop and periodically update and recommend to the council a mission, public agenda and strategic plan for arts and culture in Grand Rapids;
2. Provide leadership for completing the comprehensive plan sections regarding civic arts and culture goals and planning, and providing input for plan revisions;
3. Leverage individual, corporate, foundation and city funding for arts and cultural activities;
4. Facilitate collaboration and joint planning among public and private agencies involved with related issues such as economic development, tourism and arts education;
5. Provide support in the planning, acquisition and/or development of land and facilities by the city as needed to support Grand Rapids' arts and cultural activities and organizations, and the development of affordable studio space and housing for individual artists;
6. Upon request of the city council, develop and advocate design standards for city facilities, public areas, and private development, which represent a coherent image of Grand Rapids as a place of unique aesthetic, architectural and cultural identity;
7. Plan and advocate funding for the installation of public art in Grand Rapids that enhances the city's appearance and artistic appeal; and
8. Foster inclusive and cross-cultural activities to help build community as Grand Rapids continues to become more diverse.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)

1. The commission shall initially consist of seven volunteer members, who shall serve without financial compensation. The commission may be expanded to up to nine members at any time by resolution of the council.
2. Members shall be appointed by the mayor, with the approval of the city council. Members may be removed at the direction of the mayor and council.
3. Members shall be appointed from each of the following sectors of the community, if possible:
   1. Arts and cultural organizations;
   2. Itasca Community College;
   3. Local schools;
   4. Business community;
   5. Independent artists; and
   6. Community at large.
4. Members shall serve for three-year terms, except that in the first year of its existence, three members shall be appointed to serve for three years, two members shall be appointed to serve for two years, and two members shall be appointed to serve for one year. Terms shall begin on January 1 and end on December 31, provided that a member shall continue to serve until a successor is appointed. An appointment to fill a mid-term vacancy shall be made by the mayor for the duration of the term.
5. Members who serve two successive terms, not including a partial term due to appointment to fill a vacancy, shall be ineligible for reappointment for one year following the completion of their second term.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)

1. At the first meeting of each year, members of the commission shall select, by majority vote, a chair, vice chair, and secretary to serve until the end of that year and until a successor is chosen.
2. The chair shall:
   1. Set the agenda and preside at meetings of the commission;
   2. Call additional meetings as needed;
   3. Assign duties to commission members;
   4. Arrange meetings with other commissions, boards and organizations from the public, private and non-profit sectors as needed;
   5. Communicate with the city council and staff as needed; and
   6. Provide overall leadership to the commission in carrying out its purposes and responsibilities.
3. In the absence of or at the request of the chair, the duties of the chair shall be performed by the vice chair, and in the absence of both the chair and vice chair, by the secretary.
4. The secretary shall keep minutes and maintain permanent records of every meeting of the commission, and shall submit minutes for approval at each successive meeting. The secretary shall serve as correspondent for the commission. Copies of the minutes of all meetings shall be filed with the city clerk.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)

The commission shall meet at least monthly and as otherwise determined by the chair. A regular meeting may be cancelled by the chair or a majority of the commission.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)

For the transaction of business at any meeting of the commission, a quorum consisting of at least one-half of all members shall be required.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)

A city staff member shall act as liaison to the commission, provide staff support, and help get recommendations for the commission on the agenda for consideration by the city council when necessary.

(Ord. No. 13-02-04, 2-25-2013)