A major item on the agenda was the resolution declaring the costs to be assessed for the ongoing road project. The project, which is currently on hold for the winter, was outlined with projected construction costs totaling approximately $1,558,189.88 and an overall city project cost estimated at $2,057,053.54. The assessment rate was set at 24% of the assessable costs, constituting 17.8% of the total project expenses. Notably, components like water infrastructure and street width beyond 36 feet are excluded from the assessments, providing some financial relief to property owners.

Concerns were raised about issues on Peter Avenue, where incorrect materials had been used, potentially affecting residents who had resealed their driveways. It was emphasized that a punch list would be created to identify damaged curbs and other problems resulting from the winter freeze-thaw cycle. The council discussed the possibility of reimbursing residents for any additional costs incurred due to these errors. Ultimately, the motion to approve the resolution passed unanimously, with plans to proceed to the final assessment hearing. Residents will receive detailed information about assessment costs per parcel before the hearing to ensure transparency.

In tandem with these proceedings, the council addressed a resolution to change the regular meeting time from 7 PM to 6 PM. To accommodate a council member’s scheduling conflict, they agreed to hold public hearings at 7 PM after the regular meeting. The new meeting schedule will commence on December 9, 2024, with the public hearing for the time change set for November 12, 2024. The resolution passed unanimously.

The meeting also covered a variety of other topics, including the approval of a building permit for a new concession stand and ticket booth for the school district, as well as a temporary accessory structure permit for a winter carport. Both applications were approved, with one council member abstaining due to a conflict of interest.

Additionally, the council approved a gambling permit for Hel Field Raffles at the Pier Legion ballpark and authorized the placement of collection jars for the Honor Society’s annual toy drive. The toy drive initiative, which raised over $2,700 last year, will place collection jars in local businesses from November 25 to December 9, with toys distributed on December 17.

In financial matters, the council reviewed the treasurer’s report for September, showing an ending balance of $3,831,101.45, and the claims report amounting to $1,177,532. Concerns were raised about understanding the overall financial picture, leading to suggestions for clearer presentation of ongoing loan payments related to road projects.

Among other topics, the council approved a solar application for a property on Avenue Northwest and authorized the purchase of a used fairway mower for the golf course at a negotiated price of $26,000. Discussions about the golf course also included maintenance updates, such as the completion of fertilization and seeding, adjustments to the irrigation system, and addressing washouts on cart paths.

A proposed increase in seasonal campground rates from $2,150 to $2,300 was approved, eliminating the inclusion of a punch card previously part of the fees. The council also discussed plans for an air fan system upgrade at the golf course clubhouse, though no specific costs have been determined.