The most noteworthy event was the unanimous approval of a $10,000 donation from Perry and Carol Fails for Central Park. This generous contribution is part of a broader initiative aimed at enhancing the park’s facilities. The council expressed their gratitude for the donation, which will support a project estimated to cost around $200,000 for new playground equipment. The park committee has been proactive in fundraising and has already raised approximately $68,000. The council discussed leveraging the donation as part of a match for a federal grant, effectively reducing the city’s financial obligation to $100,000. The urgency of raising an additional $30,000 by the end of September was stressed, as this would allow the committee to secure a 50% discount on the playground equipment.

Discussions then shifted to the financial and operational aspects of the municipal swimming pool. The council reviewed the impact of recent price increases for pool parties and general admission fees. A council member noted that there was minimal backlash regarding the $1 increase in general admission, and the increase in morning swim fees did not draw complaints. Despite one scheduled annual pool party being canceled due to the price hike, attendees were generally willing to pay the new rates. The financial health of the pool operation appeared stable, with the concession budget generating $8,700, surpassing the initial budget of $7,500.

Updates on the performance of the city’s liquor store showed promising results, with July’s sales figures nearing $100,000. The council acknowledged that July is typically one of the busiest months for sales.

The meeting also highlighted the ongoing community fundraising efforts, such as the annual fire department fundraiser in partnership with Coors Light, which donates a portion of sales to the Minnesota Firefighters Association. The council expressed appreciation for the staff’s teamwork and dedication, especially considering the challenges faced in recent weeks.

Another topic was the performance and potential expansion of camping facilities at Swift Lake Park. Current revenue from camping was reported to be ahead of projections, with about $8,900 collected so far, compared to $6,000 from the previous year. There was optimistic speculation about reaching up to $15,000 by the end of the season, contingent on continued high occupancy rates. The council discussed the potential expansion of camping sites, particularly with anticipated construction projects in the area. One member suggested adding more camping spots, along with comprehensive utilities like sewer, water, and electricity to enhance the camping experience. The cost of relocating a picnic shelter to facilitate this expansion was mentioned to be approximately $3,500.

Employee vacancies were another point of discussion, with a labor position open until the end of the month and a review of applicants planned for after the Labor Day weekend. The council acknowledged the transition of a staff member to a cemetery supervisor position, which created a vacancy that is also being addressed.

The conversation included updates on the city’s solar farm, with inquiries about the energy generated for the community and its relationship with Excel Energy. A council member expressed interest in understanding the solar farm’s output and its integration into the city’s energy infrastructure. It was clarified that the energy generated is fed into Excel’s system, and the city pays a monthly fee for energy, amounting to roughly $8,000, which covers both the solar energy generated and the energy consumed from Excel.

Further, the council addressed hazardous properties, with a group of five or six members engaging with property owners to resolve issues. One specific case involved a property owner who does not reside in town but pays taxes. The council noted that resolving this issue would save the city approximately $1,500, which would otherwise be incurred if the city had to take action.

Upcoming budgetary considerations were also discussed, with a budget meeting scheduled for September 23. The council emphasized the importance of communication and collaboration among members, noting that several projects were in progress and needed to stay aligned and informed.