Mendota sales, gaming strong in 2024

Mendota enjoyed a strong first quarter in retail sales receipts and could reach a record year in gaming revenue by the end of 2024.

On Monday, City Clerk Emily McConville updated the Mendota City Council on the latest revenue figures. Based on her figures, the city’s share of retail sales taxes through March 31 came to about $388,000. That’s the second-highest total on record (behind the first quarter of 2023) and was buoyed by a record February.

On the gaming side, the city collected a share of more than $106,000 thanks to record gaming from February through May. The city came within striking distance of a record in January.

New police chief in place

Additionally, the council completed the installation of Tyler Kent as Mendota’s interim chief of police.

Kent was previously tabbed as acting chief after the retirement of Greg Kellen. On Monday, the City Council voted by unanimous acclamation to affirm Kent’s appointment.

“I’m eager to get started,” Kent said.

In other matters, the council:

• donated $7,500 to the fireworks celebration at Lake Mendota, made at the request of the Mendota Area Chamber of Commerce.
• adopted a resolution seeking street closures for the Mendota Sweet Corn Festival.
• donated $6,000 to Mendota Area Senior Services.