Renovations are in the works for Thorne Crest Retirement Community’s senior housing and assisted living center.

The Albert Lea City Council on Monday approved steps that allow for a new wellness center, a new 63-car indoor parking garage, an expanded parking lot and other upgrades.

There will be both interior and exterior remodeling, including the addition of a greenhouse and patio in the courtyard and the demolition of the existing convent building and all existing detached garages on the property, according to city documents.

Third Ward Councilor George Marin thanked the leaders of the facility for their service to the seniors in the community.

The nursing home, at 1201 Garfield Ave., has 81 independent living, assisted living and memory care units. It was converted from a school in 1973.

In other action, the City Council:

• Approved four amendments to the city’s charter.

The first amendment removes the requirement that the council must read resolutions in full before voting.

The second amendment states when ordinances will go into effect.

The amendment states that ordinances will take effect upon publication or no later than 30 days after adoption.

The third amendment follows the state date guidelines for the approval of the city’s annual budget.

The final amendment changes the notice the city must give when vacating a street. A road may now be vacated after 14 days of publication.

• Tabled a request from the Albert Lea Port Authority to rezone properties on Plaza Street from interstate development districts to limited industrial districts.

The changes were requested because the Port Authority is working with an excavation company on purchasing part of the property in the area.

• Approved an amendment to an ordinance regarding lodging tax for the city.

The modification states that no lodging tax has to be paid by lodgers staying for a continuous 30 days or more. The changes comply with state regulations.

• Approved the final plat for Summerdale Townhomes fourth addition.

• Authorized an agreement with the Albert Lea Grizzlies football team for use of city property near the old wastewater treatment plant along Albert Lea Lake for their games.

Under the agreement, the city will mow the area, and the Grizzlies would line the field for games. Wet weather has limited playing locations.

• Approved the consolidation of two lots near 501 Albert Lea St.

The owner plans to remove the homes on each of the lots and construct a single-family home in the center of the new lot.

• Approved a Broadway Ridge grant agreement with Robert and Angie Hoffman for funding of up to $2,500 for improvements to the rear entry of their building, when front-door access may be disrupted during the Broadway reconstruction.