One of the most topics was the ratification of new hires for line worker positions. The city had received ten applications, of which four candidates were interviewed. The council approved the hiring of John Simmons and Travis Donnelly. Donnelly’s employment is contingent upon passing a drug test, while Simmons will be placed on step two of the pay scale and Donnelly on step four. The motion passed unanimously, highlighting the strong applicant pool despite only four meeting the minimum qualifications of being full journeyman line workers.

The council also addressed resignations from community service officers John Uner and Tyler Heinan, effective September 4 and August 22, respectively. The council agreed to initiate the hiring process for one of the vacant positions. This decision was met with no opposition.

Another major agenda item was the reconsideration of the Minnesota state delegation agreement related to building inspection services. Previously, there were issues with delegation requests from the Department of Labor and Industry, leading the staff to recommend terminating Scott Sadusky’s contract. However, new information prompted the staff to propose continuing the contract, especially with the potential Country Manor project on the horizon. This project is expected to generate significant revenue, with estimates of a $20,000 building permit fee for the city and a potential $100,000 from permit fees. The motion to reinstate Sadusky’s contract and allow building official Desi to participate in relevant inspections was approved without opposition.

Adjustmentsttention was given to setting the 2025 wages for city administrators and non-union staff. A resolution was prepared to adjust wages by 2.25%, aligning with recently settled union contracts. The rationale was to ensure consistency across all employee compensation. The motion to adopt this wage resolution passed with agreement, emphasizing fair treatment for all employees.

The library’s 2025 levy request was also discussed. The proposed 2% increase would amount to approximately $3,000, representing a minimal impact on the current levy. The library board president’s letter was referenced, and staff provided context regarding the library’s funding structure, noting that half of the funds supported the building and the other half covered operational costs. While the increase would not cover all expenses, it would help maintain current operations. The proposed levy increase passed despite one dissenting vote.

The Economic Development Authority (EDA) commission’s 2025 levy request was another focal point. The maximum levy for the EDA was set at $214,600 based on the previous year’s estimated market value. The EDA’s budget showed revenues exceeding expenditures, with plans to allocate $20,000 toward facade grants in 2024. The EDA intends to revise its goals and strategies in an upcoming meeting, focusing on enhancing advertising efforts following the completion of its new website. There was no disagreement regarding the EDA’s plans.

The airport commission’s budget request for 2025 was another significant topic. The proposed increase of $78,920 would bring the total to $225,000. However, one council member pointed out that the county had not yet agreed to this increase, suggesting holding the city’s contribution at $150,000. Despite some support for the increased amount, the motion to set the airport levy at $150,000 passed as a compromise, addressing the city’s overall budget constraints.

An update was also provided on the potential transfer of airport ownership to the county. A recent meeting with city and county officials concluded that the county had no interest in altering the current ownership status of the airport. This prompted further dialogue among council members about the city’s operational responsibilities and the need to improve efficiency while addressing the airport’s operational needs.