A major highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Stacy Quiling from ERS and Associates, the municipal advisor, who reported on the results of the 2024 bond sale. The city issued $4.82 million in general obligation utility revenue bonds to fund upcoming sewer and water projects and to reimburse expenses from 2020 to 2023. Mound’s bond rating upgrade to AA+ by Standard and Poor’s was notably recognized. Quiling presented a plaque to the council, emphasizing that this improved rating is expected to lower interest rates for future bond issues. This achievement was attributed to a long-range financial management plan and potential changes to the reserve policy for the general fund discussed during the rating call. The council subsequently approved a resolution for the issuance and awarding of the bonds to the lowest responsible bidder, TD Ameritrade, at an interest rate of approximately 3.23%.

The discussion then turned to the replacement of the city’s holiday wreaths, a matter of community interest. Public Works Director Ryan Preach highlighted the need to replace the aging wreaths currently used from November to January. Safety concerns were raised due to the existing wreaths’ electric candles, which had caused two fires in the past two years. Two bids for full replacement were presented: $16,800 and $21,900. A new design without candles, reducing costs by nearly $10,000, was recommended.

The council deliberated on the type of lights to use for the new wreaths. A member expressed a strong preference for warm white lights over cool white lights, describing the latter as “uninviting” and more suited to a Halloween aesthetic. Another council member agreed, emphasizing that a consistent warm white would enhance the city’s appearance. The logistical considerations and potential costs of switching all downtown lights to warm white were discussed. It was noted that rewrapping existing lights had proven complicated. A motion was made to approve the quote from Display Sales for wreaths with warm white lights, receiving unanimous support from the council members present.

Safety concerns related to recent electrical issues were also addressed. A member inquired about reports from Excel Energy regarding fires caused by wiring problems during a storm. The council noted a lack of specific updates and proposed requesting a detailed report from Excel to address these safety issues, particularly given the city’s forested areas. Tree-related issues had previously been problematic, and the council expressed the importance of ensuring all necessary repairs were conducted adequately.

The meeting included council reports on various local matters. One member mentioned the passing of local business owner Patty Dods, recognizing her contributions to the community. Another member reported on a ribbon-cutting event for Mama’s Happy, a local business returning to Mound. Updates were also provided on the Dwayne 66 building project, with a building permit and a watershed permit in process. The hope was expressed that foundation work for the project could begin in the fall, signaling continued development in the area.

Additionally, the council discussed a demolition permit for a dentist’s office on Shoreline and Commerce. The permit had been approved, and demolition was scheduled for the following week, though no further plans for the site were mentioned. This information was shared to keep the council informed and prepared for public inquiries regarding the changes.