The Wastewater project, associated with resolution 2024-35, involves a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Winthrop, New Auburn, Gibbon, Lafayette, and two enterprises, DFA and Heartland Corn Products. Each entity contributed $25,000 towards engineering costs. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is optimistic about consolidating seven permits into one, potentially offering cost savings compared to individual systems. The council plans to advance the wastewater facility first, with the ReUse project to follow, financed entirely by the interested industries. The proposed ReUse facility is estimated to handle about 1.8 million gallons, with ongoing engineering work.

Next, the council reviewed the city’s budget, noting a 12% decrease in the operating budget, equivalent to a $185,000 reduction. Capital reserves saw an 11% decrease, or $22,000. Despite a $27,000 decline in total expenses, revenues decreased by 19%. The preliminary levy is projected at about 14%, with further adjustments planned before the finalization in December. Specific cost increases include $27,000 for work comp insurance and $36,000 for health insurance. Significant decreases were noted in various expenses, such as a $115,000 reduction in electric utilities due to city facility upgrades. The council emphasized ongoing savings from these improvements and discussed the levy compared to inflation rates since 2015, stressing fiscal responsibility.

The council also addressed the condition of the City Hall flat roof, which retains water and accumulates vegetation due to inadequate drainage. Estimates for either replacing the flat roof or installing a pitched roof will be sought, as water damage could become an issue if left unaddressed.

The social media policy, last updated in 2015, was another topic of discussion. Concerns were raised about moderating comments under current retention laws. The League of Minnesota Cities recommended disabling comments to avoid potential legal issues. The council agreed to refer the task of revising the policy to the administration committee.

Updates from the Economic Development Authority (EDA) revealed a successful grant application from the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation, awarding $20,000 to fund an economic development coordinator for Winthrop, Gibbon, and Fairfax. This grant aims to enhance economic development across the three communities. Further discussions on the grant are scheduled for September 17, 2024.

The council reviewed a bid from Topnotch Concrete for $33,38 for various city concrete repairs, including work at City Hall and the fire hall. The bid was under the budgeted amount of over $40,000, and the motion to approve the project was carried.

A resolution regarding the investment of approximately $2.4 million at a 12-month rate of 4.3% was addressed. The council acknowledged that declining prime rates would affect the investment fund if not moved. The motion to approve the transfer was passed without dissent.

The hiring of Brandon Brooks as a volunteer firefighter was discussed, with Brooks bringing credentials from another fire department. The motion to approve his hiring received unanimous support.

Regarding public works, curbing and gutter work on Second Street is scheduled to begin, with substantial completion expected by November 1st. Updates on the parking lot project will be provided after a construction meeting. Alleyway closures are due to new electrical pipe installations for the eventual undergrounding of overhead lines.

In parks and recreation, the splash pad construction is expected to go out to bid in October or November. The completion of park dugouts and ongoing utility work, including new electrical installations and light replacements, were noted. The lift station upgrades have resulted in a 30% reduction in energy usage.

The fire department announced an open house event on October 5th, and the ambulance service is organizing a class in Winthrop, requiring at least ten participants. Recent regulations now allow high school students to participate and test before turning 18, engaging youth in community service.

The library reported a return to regular hours, with ongoing programming for story time drawing significant attendance. The library secured multiple grants, including $500 for branded materials and additional support for mental health awareness activities. New books and donations enrich the library’s collection.

Law enforcement updates included traffic issues related to the Culver project, with 138 traffic-related incidents and 28 citations issued. Reports of DWIs, primarily involving controlled substances, were also noted.

The Planning Commission and Parks Committee have scheduled upcoming meetings, with the RS Fiber Joint Powers Board discussing the potential sale of RS Fiber to Highway Broadband and engaging legal services for representation.