Gimple also raised alarms about a Capstone LLC report on the fire department, which she claimed revealed troubling findings: 84% of firefighters reported feeling bullied and there was a lack of an emergency management plan. She questioned the qualifications of the fire department’s leadership and the culture within the organization, citing a derogatory remark made by the fire chief. The Mayor addressed her concerns, agreeing to table the payment for the report until it could be presented in the next meeting.

In addition to the fire department concerns, the council scrutinized the approval of bills amounting to $1.6 million, with particular attention on a $10,000 charge for the Capstone LLC report. Delinquent utility accounts were also contentious, with a council member questioning the concentration of delinquencies in areas like Aspen and the Biking Preserve. The council showed commitment to addressing potential systemic issues affecting payment compliance.

The council’s focus shifted to a conditional use permit application from North Country Concrete for exterior storage on a vacant parcel. The proposal involved establishing a storage area with a privacy fence and landscaping. Despite the parcel’s zoning as light industrial, concerns arose over compliance with zoning codes, as typically, exterior storage requires a principal building on the same lot. The Planning Commission recommended approval with additional conditions, and the council debated the necessity of screening to mitigate impacts on residential neighbors.

Attention then turned to the Community Development Department’s final plat request for the Viking Meadows golf course redevelopment. The proposed project involves multiple phases, starting with 47 single-family units. City staff reported extensive reviews to ensure compliance with engineering and landscaping requirements. Although the council was encouraged to approve the final plat, it was contingent on resolving outstanding conditions identified by the city engineer.

The council also addressed recruitment and retention challenges within local government. They discussed strategies to attract students to government roles. Additionally, the council explored the city’s software needs following the departure of a key staff member, considering Civic Plus as a potential vendor for permit software.

A significant motion regarding the fire department’s security was passed, limiting access codes to active firefighters and restricting the 911 app’s availability. This move stemmed from concerns about security and liability, particularly regarding unauthorized access to sensitive information. Public safety personnel, including law enforcement, retained access under an added amendment.

Finally, the review process for the city administrator was discussed, with an emphasis on ensuring anonymity and fairness. The council considered involving the city attorney to handle the compilation of feedback from staff, noting the importance of transparency in the process.