A major highlight of the meeting was the council’s approval of Resolution 2024-413044, which supports Marco Papovich’s proposal to establish Advanced Exhaust Solutions Incorporated within the Lonsdale Business Park. This project is poised to create between 120 and 150 jobs, contributing to the local economy. The planned facility will occupy a 12.63-acre site and feature a 15,600-square-foot manufacturing office building. Notably, the proposal received prior approval from the Planning and Zoning Commission, which emphasized its potential to diversify Lonsdale’s tax base.

This development is a substantial addition to the business park, which was designed to encourage industrial growth but has seen only three businesses establish operations since its inception in 2013-2014. The proposed facility will be larger than existing structures, with plans for parking and loading areas that adhere to city regulations. The council expressed optimism about the economic impact, emphasizing the project’s alignment with the city’s comprehensive plan for commercial industrial development.

Additionally, the council highlighted the importance of stormwater management, with plans for a drainage system to integrate with the city’s infrastructure. Although no tax abatements or financial incentives were offered, the estimated construction cost is around $33 million. The council commended city staff for their efforts in securing this development, which could serve as a catalyst for future economic vitality in Lonsdale.

In other business, the council approved ordinance 2024-328, which amends City Code Chapter 13.07 concerning fence regulations. The amendment, which underwent extensive review over several meetings, aims to streamline requirements and enhance clarity for both public and city staff. Key changes include updating the setback for public sidewalks and trails from two feet to three feet to facilitate maintenance operations. The ordinance also clarified fence types and removed outdated provisions, with no objections raised during the public hearings.

The council also approved a resolution accepting Metcon Construction’s bid of $1,152,000 for the city hall remodel project. This project is part of a broader $3.2 million initiative to improve city facilities, with substantial completion expected by April 1, 2025. The discussion also included comparisons between remodeling and new construction costs, with a contingency of at least 10% suggested for unforeseen expenses.

Employee compensation was another focal point, with the council considering a proposal from David Drone Associates to evaluate job descriptions and develop a new compensation plan. The proposal, amounting to $12,650, aims to ensure fair compensation in line with labor market standards. The council debated the timing of the study, particularly with upcoming elections, but recognized the importance of obtaining necessary data.

In staffing matters, the council approved a job description for a full-time accounting technician, a position last filled in 2009. The role is deemed essential due to new accounting software and the recent city audit. The council authorized advertising the position at $25.33 per hour, with funding sourced from enterprise funds and user fees.

The meeting also included updates on ongoing public works projects, such as the successful completion of the M Street water main extension and the final approval of payments for the project. The council was briefed on the Ash Street Northeast and 8th Avenue Southwest trail project, which had been completed efficiently, and plans for booster station rehabilitation were underway, with solutions found to expedite delayed equipment delivery.

Finally, the council addressed administrative scheduling, particularly concerning canvassing election results. A motion was passed to add a meeting on November 7th while maintaining canvassing for November 14th.