Moreland’s attorneys want indictment thrown out
A contested omnibus hearing was held yesterday morning for 56 year old Michael Moreland of Northfield. He was indicted last week on charges of criminal vehicular homicide in the death of 48 year old Kimberly Motzko. Motzko was walking her dogs along 80th street near Benton Avenue in Webster Township when she was struck by Moreland’s van last July. Moreland’s attorney David Hvistendahl said that the first part of the hearing was held in Waseca District court. His associate, Mary Hahn, argued the case. They challenged the document saying the “state didn’t articulate with any facts” how this could rise to the level of gross negligence. Just looking at the indictment itself, they believe it should be thrown out, however, if it is not there will be a second hearing which would be more detailed with witnesses. It must be held within 7 days of receipt of the Grand Jury transcript. Hvistendahl said that when a case is initiated by the Grand Jury, pretrial hearings have a tighter timeline. After an initial review of the police reports and further investigation, Hahn says they know through the state documents and their client that no alcohol or drugs were involved, Moreland was not speeding and there was no cell phone usage. Rice County attorney Paul Beaumaster requested the Grand Jury hear the case believing there was enough evidence against Moreland to be charged with the felony. A separate civil case has been filed against Moreland by Kimberly Motzko’s husband.
Council holds closed session to talk real estate
Council held a closed meeting this week to discuss real estate properties. One of which is the old Key property. The City has a tentative agreement with the Pitsavis family for a redevelopment project. Perkins transport at 1750 Riverview Drive wants to expand their business but the City owns some of that land which is contaminated. The biggest issue is how to proceed in a possible sale of the land to Perkins in regard to environmental cleanup. No decisions are made in a closed session, they only give direction to staff.
Term limits
Council voted on term limits. They were first brought up by Councilor Zweifel late last year. Exclusions to that include the Planning Commission and the Heritage Preservation Commission until changes to the LDC have been completed. This also does not include the EDA or the HRA. Council approved 5 to 1 the 2nd reading of the term limit resolution. Councilor DeLong voted against it. The resolution calls for 3 year term limits for 3 consecutive terms after which they must wait out a year before reapplying for the same board. The meeting is archived online at kymnradio.net.
Planning Commission talks LDC tonight
The Planning Commission meets tonight at 7 o’clock. They’re being asked to conduct a public hearing for the required Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for an expansion project at All Saints Episcopal Church. The permit must go to the City Council for final approval. They are also being asked to facilitate a public hearing on Land Development Code amendments and then forward those, along with their recommendations to the City Council on the adoption of the proposed amendments. The meeting will be streamed live online at kymnradio.net.
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