A major topic at the meeting was the Safe Routes to School project, which aims to construct approximately a mile and a half of new sidewalks, primarily benefiting students commuting to schools. The project, stemming from a 2020 grant application and a sidewalk master plan developed in 2016, focuses on key areas such as Washington Avenue and Church Street, connecting schools like North Elementary and the Middle School. Initially estimated at $780,000, the project’s costs rose to approximately $949,000 due to inflation and rising construction expenses. Neelon Concrete submitted the lowest bid, prompting discussions on how to cover the funding gap.

Federal aid will cover 80% of the project costs, with the city responsible for the remaining 20%. The city plans to use $455,584 from prior grant dollars and an additional $33,000 from leftover federal aid from a previous project to meet the federal portion of $754,900. Concerns were raised about the local contribution, which totals $6,400 from city utility funds, and the potential implications for property taxes. The council also discussed enhancing student safety with rapid flashing rectangular beacons on Broadway Avenue.

Another item was the establishment of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District 1-27, aiding a housing project on the former library site on West Nassau Street. The developer, BRM Holdings LLC, requested TIF assistance to support the construction of housing units, 20% of which will be for individuals earning 50% or below the area median income. The TIF plan allows for capturing new property tax revenues for up to 14 years, capped at $384,600. Council discussions clarified that the city would not lose existing tax revenue, as the property had not contributed to taxes while vacant. The resolution passed unanimously.

The council also discussed amendments to the city code for authorizing temporary cannabis events, reflecting new state regulations. These events, inspired by public alcohol sales at festivals, would require separate licenses and adhere to outdoor location requirements per the Clean Air Act. Edible cannabis products could be consumed indoors, under less rules. While the ordinance currently doesn’t limit the number of cannabis licenses, the council may revisit this issue. Concerns about zoning laws were addressed, confirming that cannabis sales would be confined to retail-permitted areas, excluding residential neighborhoods.

Rivers Edge Hospital’s equipment purchases were also on the agenda. The council approved the acquisition of a 2020 wood chipper and a new ambulance, the latter to replace an aging model and support the hospital’s increasing service volume. The ambulance purchase, estimated at $379,950, will be funded by the hospital’s Capital Improvement Plan. The council also sanctioned the purchase of 53 IV pumps at $147,900, funded partially by a grant from the Minnesota Department of Health, which will integrate with electronic patient records to enhance safety.

Finally, the council addressed a resolution allowing leashed dogs and cats on certain city-owned properties. The debate included varying opinions on the resolution’s impact on public spaces. The resolution was approved with the majority support, emphasizing responsible pet ownership and maintaining leash requirements.