Council to vote on agreement for channel restoration

City News October 23, 2026

The Albert Lea City Council will vote at its meeting Monday on a joint powers agreement with the Shell Rock River Watershed District for restoring the channel between Fountain and Albert Lea lakes.
The watershed district has received $5.9 million in state funding, from the Lessard-Sams Outdoor Heritage Council and Legislative-Citizens Commission on Minnesota Resources, for the project, designed to:

• Improve stream health and wildlife habitat by stabilizing eroding streambanks
• Restore natural channel features
• Support fish and other aquatic life by adding rocks, woody debris and vegetation
• Improve recreational opportunities by adding pedestrian access for fishing, canoeing and kayaking

As part of the project, the watershed district and city are evaluating replacement of the dam, installed in 1911, on Fountain Lake. The city also needs to replace the sanitary sewer in the project area. The Joint Powers Agreement outlines responsibilities for both the watershed district and the city:

• The watershed district will provide the grant funding
• The city will pay for the sanitary sewer
• Both parties will need to go back to their respective boards for approval of any additional funding

Also Monday, the council will vote on accepting a donation of a forensic workstation, valued at $5,600, to the Albert Lea Police Department. Our Rescue, a nonprofit group dedicated to combating exploitation of children and sex trafficking, would provide a computer, software and secure evidence storage at no cost to city taxpayers. This equipment would enhance the police department’s capabilities to extract and analyze electronic evidence, helping to protect victims and prosecute offenders.

To learn more and provide input:

• Attend the council’s Oct. 26 work session at 5:30 p.m. and/or the 7 p.m. regular meeting on the top floor of City Hall, 221 E. Clark St.
• Contact your city councilor
• Read the agenda packet

Watch the meeting online