The council’s application for a Minnesota Public Facilities Authority (PFA) drinking water State Revolving Loan Fund took precedence during the meeting. The loan aims to fund significant improvements to the city’s water treatment facilities, with an estimated project cost of $14 million. The process requires the submission of an updated resolution for authorization, which is a preliminary step in securing the necessary funding. This resolution does not obligate the city to proceed with the project but is critical for moving forward. Council members discussed the implications of this substantial investment, although no objections were raised regarding the resolution proposal. The motion to approve the resolution was carried with a second.

In a notable community-oriented discussion, the Lions Club’s contact with a circus featuring live animals sparked both interest and logistical concerns. The club is considering hosting the circus, which includes lions and tigers, but the event’s feasibility depends on addressing several factors, such as water capacity, space for setup, and public safety. Council members expressed skepticism about hosting the circus, citing potential challenges with space and parking. There was a suggestion to consider locations near the school or a public park, with ideas to potentially block off roads for safety. The council acknowledged the event’s appeal, especially for children, and emphasized the importance of planning and coordination with law enforcement, public works, and the fire department. Despite the complexities, the council voiced its enthusiasm for the event and its willingness to collaborate with the Lions Club to ensure a successful and safe experience for the community.

The meeting also involved approving the sale of an outdated fire truck from the 1990s, which had not been used for emergency calls in years. The fire department proposed listing the truck for sale on the online auction platform Minbid, with a suggested minimum bid of approximately $10,000, based on similar vehicles. Council members agreed that selling the truck was a logical decision, especially given its maintenance costs and lack of use. A motion to proceed with the sale was unanimously approved.

Additionally, the council discussed the Cassad 27 pedestrian connectivity project, which has received Federal Transportation Alternatives funding for fiscal year 2026. A topographic survey, costing an estimated $220,000, is necessary for the project’s design phase, which will evaluate environmental impacts and right-of-way needs. The council noted that this cost might not be reimbursed through federal funds or local grants. A motion to approve the survey proposal was passed.

The council also explored options for enhancing local park maintenance, including the potential purchase of a grapple attachment for the city’s payloader. This equipment would improve efficiency in handling brush and allow for better resource utilization. Discussions involved comparing the grapple attachment’s cost-effectiveness against renting a drum mulcher and continuing to rent chippers. The council confirmed that budgetary allocations for capital outlay could support the purchase.

In another infrastructure-related topic, the purchase of a new tool cat for operational tasks was considered. The current tool cat, heavily used with over 2,000 logged hours, has shown signs of wear and tear. The dealer offered a trade-in value of about $37,000, reducing the new purchase cost to approximately $36,000. Concerns about the timing of the replacement were discussed, but a motion to approve the purchase was made and seconded.

Administrative updates included year-to-date expenditures and revenue reports, as well as a summary of the Highway 14 Corridor study. The study’s fifth technical advisory committee meeting has occurred, and a public open house is planned for April, inviting community input. Further collaboration with Blue Earth County commissioners is ongoing.

Lastly, the council addressed an electric vehicle grant awarded as part of a carbon reduction funding program. The grant aims to procure a utility electric vehicle for public works to enhance park maintenance efficiency. However, accessing the funds involves navigating a complex process, prompting collaboration with external partners to complete the necessary paperwork for approval.