A key topic during the meeting was the discussion initiated by a council member about a potential partnership for a municipal dispensary operation. The motion, which aimed to solicit written proposals from entities interested in profit-sharing and managing operations, was presented not as an application for a municipal license but as a preliminary step to evaluate potential partners. While the initial suggestion was to allow submissions until April 30, 2025, a shorter timeline of 30 days from the meeting date was recommended by staff to ensure timeliness. This proposal passed.

The meeting also addressed concerns from residents regarding the Beach Street and Oakdale reconstruction project. Several residents from the Meadow View Manor trailer court, including Wanda and Robin Boyd, voiced apprehensions about access during construction and the necessity of a new sidewalk on Beach Street. A resident highlighted the issue of speeding traffic, reaching alarming speeds, which prompted the council to suggest that narrowing the street might help calm traffic.

In addition to these discussions, the council deliberated on other infrastructure projects, including the 1712 Right and 10th Street reconstruction. Public input was solicited regarding improvements such as curb and gutter replacements. A public hearing during the meeting revealed concerns from a representative of Precision Tool Technologies about access during construction, leading to further council discussions on logistics and project timelines.

Another important matter was the proposed land transfer of a tax-forfeited property adjacent to Evergreen Landing. The property, largely within a floodway or flood fringe, had historically been associated with transient populations. With ordinance 1571 prohibiting camping on public property, the city staff recommended accepting the land transfer to better manage the site and mitigate risks. The council discussed potential liabilities and management plans, ultimately supporting the transfer to address ongoing issues more effectively.

The council also addressed a change in the development agreement with Country Manor Campus Brainerd LLC, which included a cost-sharing agreement with Crow Wing County for a turn lane installation. The resolution to call for a public hearing on issuing conduit debt for the Country Manor project was approved, emphasizing procedural steps rather than immediate financial commitments.

Other discussions during the meeting included the orderly annexation of Riverside Drive, aimed at requiring connections to municipal services when septic systems fail. This proposal sparked debate over whether newly annexed properties should be taxed at the rural service district rate. One council member expressed strong opposition, arguing that offering full city services should not coincide with lower tax rates. The matter was ultimately referred to the Planning and Finance Committee for further review.

The meeting concluded with staff reports and updates, including a commendation for the acquisition of a $1 million grant for a future project and discussions about upcoming Planning Commission meetings. The council also engaged in a closed session to discuss counteroffers related to temporary and permanent easements, highlighting ongoing efforts to address city development and infrastructure needs.