The council’s primary focus was on the street assessment process, with a presentation from Shannon Sweeney of David Drown Associates. The council is considering a shift to certifying assessments before construction begins, a departure from the traditional post-completion certification. This change aims to mitigate financial risks associated with inflation-driven cost increases that have impacted project budgets over the last two decades. By holding assessment hearings earlier, the council hopes to better understand potential appeals and funding implications before committing to large expenditures.

Property owners would have a 30-day window to file appeals after the assessment hearing, allowing the council to gauge the likelihood of these appeals before awarding construction contracts. While some council members expressed concerns about the unknown final costs of projects, the early hearings offer a strategic advantage in understanding the funding landscape and managing appeals.

The council also tackled the practicalities of this new approach, including the role of the county in the assessment process. Shannon clarified that while the county assesses property values, the local government determines specific dollar amounts for street improvements. Concerns about addressing property owner grievances post-assessment were discussed, with assurances that issues could be addressed through the city administrator or the engineer on-site. The council is considering whether to wait for the 30-day appeals process before awarding contracts or to proceed based on initial feedback.

In related discussions, the council addressed the frequency of city council meetings. A resolution aimed to reduce the number of meetings was deemed appropriate by the city attorney, with the assurance that council members would continue to receive the same compensation despite the reduced meeting schedule.

The council then turned its attention to the emergency services, approving a $168 reimbursement to Laura Backman, a paramedic, for her Advanced Cardiac Life Support course. The funding approval was part of a broader discussion on staffing challenges, particularly during daytime hours. The emergency services crew reported difficulties in filling shifts, with a noted shortage in available hours. Plans to improve staffing included outreach to potential recruits and the development of programs for local high school students interested in medical fields. The council also approved a bid for a new fire truck from Hyman Fire Equipment at $224,600, with delivery expected in 12 to 15 months. The new truck is intended to serve as a brush and emergency response vehicle, addressing current design limitations that restrict personnel accommodation.

The police department’s report highlighted an increase in call volume, attributed to a change in building check recording methods. Staffing challenges were again a concern, exacerbated by an officer’s resignation. The department proposed hiring a part-time officer for up to 200 hours annually to maintain staffing flexibility. The council also approved a $1,000 budget for new uniforms and equipment, alongside a new taser training initiative to certify officers as instructors.

In community engagement news, the council is planning the 50th Anniversary celebration set for July 19th, coinciding with Farm and City Days. The event will feature a morning kiddie parade and various entertainment acts. Nursing Home Week is also scheduled for May, with themed activities to engage staff and residents. Efforts to enhance entertainment options for these events were discussed, with suggestions for additional acts.

The council addressed several city maintenance issues, including the replacement of a control box for the water system deemed obsolete. Eric, a city maintenance representative, reported on the successful replacement of a refrigerator affected by flooding and the need for a new computer and a window replacement at the Crow’s Nest. The council approved expenditures for these items.

In financial matters, the council reviewed the garbage and recycling contract, receiving bids from Waste Management and Thompson Sanitation. A proposal to extend the contract with Thompson Sanitation from three to five years at a 1.5% annual adjustment rate was approved, given the competitive bid difference. Other financial discussions included maintenance fees for the water tower and the purchase of a server rack for the door video system.