The Wells interim city administrator’s first day at work on Monday ended with attending his first City Council meeting.

Despite lasting only half an hour and only three of the five council members were in attendance, Brian Heck gave an update of his first day on the job.

“I’m getting my feet wet. Tomorrow I’ll get everything wet,” says Heck.

So far, the city has received seven applications for the city administrator’s position.

The opening was posted on the League of Minnesota Cities website on July 10, one day after Jeremy Germann submitted his resignation. Applications will be accepted through Aug. 15.

A three-member panel consisting of Councilwoman Ann Marie Schuster, Heck and a former city administrator will narrow the list of applicants for the full council to interview.

Heck says he’s busy meeting with the various department heads to discuss their upcoming budgets and projects.

“I’m just trying to get things figured out,” he says.

Council members approved an employment contract with Heck for up to six months.

The two-page agreement written by City Attorney David Frundt says the city will pay Heck $50 a hour, for 16 to 20 hours a week except in the event of an emergency.

In addition, Heck will be reimbursed for mileage at the IRS rate and other approved necessary and travel expenses.

The employment agreement may be extended by both parties and cancelled anytime with a seven-day notice.

In other business, the council approved paying the League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust $20,000. Councilwoman Ashley Seedorf asked what the payment was for.

“That’s the city’s half,” says Councilman Jay Corbin.

Last month, the League agreed to pay Janie Whim, former street department supervisor, $40,000 as part of a Separation Agreement and Release of Claims.

On a motion made by Councilman Jay Corbin, the council tabled a vote to do street and storm sewer repairs on Third Avenue Southwest.

A bid of $69,533 was submitted by Dulas Excavating Inc., of Wells.

“Unbelievable. These prices are outrageous. That’s a little crazy for one corner,” says Corbin.

“I can’t believe it is going to cost that much to do that little,” he adds.

Travis Winter of Bolton & Menk Inc. says he should be able to get another bid within the next week.

A special meeting has been set for tonight beginning at 5 p.m. at the Community Center to consider bids.