The council’s most pressing item was the introduction of Ordinance 245, which proposes amendments to city code chapter 152 concerning storage containers. This ordinance seeks to address the growing presence of storage containers at several business premises within the city. The proposed amendment defines a storage container as “a container with strength suitable to withstand ship storage and handling,” typically large reusable steel boxes for intermodal shipments.

Key changes include allowing storage containers in agricultural and commercial industrial districts while prohibiting them in residential districts, the C1 General Commercial District, the C2 Central Business District, and the Public Institutional District, except for temporary use during construction or moving. The ordinance also specifies that storage containers must not be a principal use but rather an accessory use, limited to three containers per lot, and not rented or leased to third parties.

The council debated the necessity of the ordinance. One member queried whether there had been any complaints that prompted the change. Another member pointed out that if the Planning Commission saw no issue with the current situation, there might be no need to amend the ordinance. Concerns were also raised about the impact on the fire department’s use of training containers, which would be exempt from the new rules.

The council discussed the definition of “temporary use” for storage containers, particularly for moving pods, to avoid ambiguity. A member suggested adding a separate section for residential use to provide clarity. There was general agreement that while the proposed changes seemed reasonable, the definitions regarding temporary use needed to be more specific to prevent misuse.

A motion was made to refer the ordinance back to the Planning Commission for further review and refinement, which was seconded and carried without further discussion.

Another major agenda item was the proposed purchase of a new 2024 T66 compact track loader for the Public Works Department. The current skid loader, described as new with low hours, had a high trade-in value. The new track loader would perform better in soft and wet areas, such as mowing the compost site, without causing damage to trails and edges.

Public Works staff emphasized the importance of the skid loader for various tasks, including storm removal and park projects. The new T66 loader was deemed more efficient and economical, with extensive research and testing conducted to ensure its suitability. The funds for this purchase would come from the 435 fund, aligning with the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) schedule for equipment replacement. The council members discussed the operational status of the existing skid loader, the necessity of having the right equipment for the increased workload in Public Works, and the importance of maintaining trade-in value for future equipment. The vendor confirmed the loader’s availability.

The council unanimously approved the trade-in and purchase of the T66 compact track loader.

In other discussions, the council reviewed the proposed 2025 budget, noting adjustments in various revenue and expense categories. An increase in projected court fines revenue, from $2,000 to $2,500, was based on historical data. Anticipated revenue from tower antenna rent was adjusted upwards from $49,000 to $54,000.

Expense reductions included auditing services, decreased from $35,000 to $30,000, and engineering services, reduced from $25,000 to $20,000. The council discussed the potential for competitive bidding for these services. Other budget adjustments included a 40% reduction in phone service expenses through a renegotiation with Metronet and a reallocation of postage expenses from $1,000 to $250 by moving utility bill costs to water and sewer funds.

The council also deliberated on the 125th anniversary celebration for the fire department scheduled for 2025. Initial planning focused on securing a band and organizing family activities. Suggestions included making Shim Cor a one-way road to maximize parking, partnering with local businesses for additional parking, and using a shuttle service if needed. Security measures, such as perimeter fencing and wristband identification for alcohol sales, were also discussed.

Lastly, the council considered a new shed for the baseball club, measuring 12 by 20 feet, to be placed on city property. The shed’s design would match existing structures, and a rental agreement was proposed to outline terms and conditions clearly. The baseball club’s representative voiced concerns about the need for a tenant agreement to protect their rights.