The council’s foremost issue was the emerald ash borer infestation, which has led to a rapid increase in dead and dying ash trees throughout the city. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the council discussed a proposal to amend the 2024 budget to allocate additional funds for tree removal. This proposal includes an interfund loan of $200,000 for 2024 and an additional $320,000 for 2025, with an overall estimation of needing approximately $800,000 by 2027 to remove the remaining 2,900 ash trees.

The discussion revealed that while the city has been proactive in addressing the issue, the pace of tree failures has accelerated, necessitating this increased financial commitment. The council also discussed the importance of treating healthy ash trees and replacing those that are removed, although the immediate focus will be on removal until the bulk of the dead trees has been addressed.

Inquiries were made about the protocol for residents to report dead or dying ash trees on their properties. The updated phone tree system now allows residents to call and report their trees, which will be entered into the city’s reporting system. The council acknowledged the challenges posed by weather conditions over the years, affecting the pace of tree removal efforts. The city forester was commended for his work in managing this issue.

Another topic was the adoption of an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) policy, necessitated by a compliance issue raised during the city’s recent audit. The new policy requires the city to have a formal procedure for electronic payments and designate an authority for these transactions, which will be the finance director. Starting in October, a list of all electronic transactions will be provided to the council as part of the consent agenda. The policy aims to ensure proper oversight of electronic payments and was passed unanimously after some discussion about the rationale behind focusing solely on EFT expenditures.

The council also addressed the need to waive municipal consent for a state project aimed at improving Highway 10 by adding a third lane in each direction. This decision was made to expedite the project, with the council noting that they had already discussed it thoroughly during a work session. The city’s share of the project is estimated to be around $325,000, primarily for relocating utilities. The motion to waive municipal consent was passed without opposition.

The council reviewed a change order related to the purchase of community development and business licensing software. The current software provider will no longer support the existing platform, prompting the search for alternatives. The new recommendation included the BSNA software provider, which integrates better with the city’s financial systems and reduces operational redundancies. The total project cost is $224,000, with a timeline of approximately 14 months for implementation. The council expressed appreciation for the research and efforts put into finding a suitable solution.

Another discussion point was a memorandum of understanding with the Anoka-Hennepin School District for school resource officer services. The agreement includes assigning officers to various schools and teaching the DARE program. This agreement, consistent with previous years but with minor language updates, was supported for its positive impact on community relationships and was approved by the council.

The council also introduced an ordinance to amend city code section 5-500, concerning prohibited practices for solicitors. This ordinance aims to address numerous complaints about aggressive, often unlicensed solicitors. The proposed changes would prohibit certain practices deemed public nuisances or involving false or misleading statements. The council emphasized the importance of residents reporting violations and the need for solicitors to display their licenses prominently.

During the Open Mic portion of the meeting, no members of the public were present to address the council. The council also highlighted upcoming community events, such as the Farmers Market and the “Love of My Pet” fair at Riverview Park, and discussed early voting logistics, encouraging residents to participate.