Melrose City Council Approves New Police Officer, Pickleball Court, and Fire Hall Equipment

MELROSE — February 26, 2026 — Melrose City Council approves new police officer hire and executive search process after city administrator resigns. The council, presided over by Mayor Joe Finken, voted unanimously on more than a dozen items at its February 26 meeting, including a conditional offer to Kylie Forsseer as a new police officer at step one of the wage scale and the hire of reserve officer Caden Swanson. City Administrator Connor announced his resignation effective April 3, with Police Chief Craig Mous designated as the interim point of contact pending a permanent hire; the council and Public Utilities Commission are set to interview executive search consultant Pat Melvin of David Drown and Associates at a joint March 9 meeting. The council also approved a 2026-2027 workers' compensation premium of $72,439 through the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust, a 29 percent increase attributed to a shift in the city's claims experience modifier, and authorized construction of a second pickleball court at Black River Park, new playground equipment for Railroad West Park, and workout room upgrades at the fire hall totaling $13,003.31 for equipment from REP plus flooring from Hennon Floor Covering, both under budget.