A highlight of the meeting was the presentation of a life-saving award to EMT Ryan Lung. Chief Todd recognized Lung for his heroic actions on September 6, 2024, when he responded to an emergency involving a person hanging from a balcony after a fall. Lung’s swift intervention and successful CPR efforts saved the individual’s life, leading to a full recovery. The council applauded Lung’s bravery and dedication, and the victim’s family expressed their gratitude for his timely response.

Moving to fiscal matters, the council approved the 2025 budget for the Detroit Country Club, as presented by a representative named Tom. The club reported recent successes and profitability, citing significant reinvestment into its facilities and minimal increases in membership dues compared to similar establishments in the area. This financial prudence allowed the council to pass the budget without opposition.

The meeting also marked the swearing-in of Wendy Spry as a new council member. City Clerk Carrie administered the oath, and Spry pledged to support the Constitution and perform her duties impartially. Her formal introduction to the council was followed by the unanimous confirmation of Robert Strand as the new Deputy Chief of Police, nominated by the Civil Service Commission. Strand took the oath of office, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve and introducing his family to the council.

Further legislative actions included the Community Development Committee’s successful proposal to adopt ordinance number 531, which amended the zoning ordinance regarding annexation areas. This was followed by the adoption of ordinance number 532, addressing the rezoning of properties in the Southwood Shores estate area. Both ordinances were passed unanimously.

The council also tackled signage regulations, with ordinance number 533 allowing for increased signage on corner lots and properties facing multiple streets. The ordinance was adopted without opposition.

In infrastructure and environmental matters, the council discussed a joint session with County Commissioners to review updates on the West Lake Drive Phase Three project. The public works committee, led by Zeman, emphasized the importance of meeting the state’s financial reporting deadline of May 15. A preliminary engineering report for Southwood Shores Estates was authorized, with John Pratt tasked with delivering the report to the council in February.

Additionally, the council approved a resolution to apply for a grant from the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s carbon reduction program. Kelsey Clem detailed the application, which seeks to enhance lighting along Highway 10 by replacing decorative poles with LED lighting. The project, requiring a 20% city match, was deemed beneficial due to the 80% grant funding available.

Commercial interests were addressed with the approval of a dock license for J&K Marine, including a fee increase from $6,150 to $8,200. The motion passed unanimously, with assurance that the number of docks would remain unchanged. John Pratt’s city engineering report noted ongoing progress on the new water tower project, with completion targeted for early summer 2026. He assured the council that construction scheduling would accommodate school calendars, particularly the work around Forest Street.

The Finance Committee engaged in an informational discussion about leasing the old Public Works facility, though no decisions were made. The American Legion Campground rates for 2025 were tabled for further discussion in February, pending additional information on necessary improvements.

Public safety advancements included the approval of a new squad car purchase, with a Dodge Durango Pursuit vehicle recommended and approved. The liquor and gambling control committee granted a temporary on-sale liquor license to the Detroit Lakes JC’s for an upcoming event.

Appointments to various commissions and boards were confirmed, with all motions passing without objection. Although the Mayor intended to present a state of the city address, a sore throat postponed his remarks, which will be distributed to council members and made publicly available.