The Austin City Council will vote on the preparation, adoption and publication of an ordinance raising the legal age to purchase tobacco products and devices from 18 to 21 during its next regular meeting.

The change in the age limit is in response to growing concern surrounding e-cigarettes and vaping among students in the Austin Public Schools District. The Austin Area Drug Task Force is in support of the measure.

The Albert Lea City Council passed a similar law earlier this week.

The council will also consider approving a request authorizing the city to be the fiscal agent for the 2019 Governor’s Pheasant Opener. The 2019 GPO will be held in October in Austin.

Public Works Director Steven Lang will discuss snow removal procedures during the council’s work session following the meeting. Due to this year’s record snowfall, Public Works Department staff has had multiple discussions on snow removal procedures and the snow ordinance.

Administrative Services Director Tom Dankert will continue discussing the 2020 budget, focusing on streets and highways during the work session.

The council’s next regular meeting will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 1, in the City Council Chambers located in the basement of City Hall. The work session will take place in the conference room across the hall immediately following the meeting.

For a complete agenda, visit www.ci.austin.mn.us/city-council.