The council’s decision to approve an agreement with SEH for technical memos and funding assistance for the water tank replacement marked a step in addressing the city’s infrastructure needs. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to address infrastructure challenges, with discussions acknowledging the need for future planning for a wastewater treatment facility. However, the council deemed the water tank replacement more pressing at this time.

The comprehensive audit presentation by Kaylee Lentz from Smith Schafer provided an unmodified audit opinion. Lentz detailed the city’s financial status, highlighting a general property tax collection of $2,500,000 and an increase in taxable tax capacity to $2,900,000 due to rising property values. Despite the decertification of the Lone Stone TIF district, which previously contributed $123,000, the city’s local government aid revenues increased by $82,000, totaling $949,000 and forming 17.7% of the city’s total governmental revenues.

Expenditure updates revealed a decrease in general government expenses to $789,000, attributed to reduced planning and zoning costs. Public works expenses remained stable at $530,000, while park and recreation costs increased slightly due to new equipment purchases. Public safety expenditures rose to $1,200,000, reflecting increased wages in the ambulance and police sectors. Community development expenditures saw a significant rise to $679,000, influenced by changes in funding allocations.

The audit also covered fund balances, with the general fund’s unassigned balance at 67.7%, exceeding the policy range of 40-60%. Transfers from the general fund to the reserve fund were made to prepare for future significant expenses, such as ambulance purchases. The Chatfield Center for the Arts fund balance increased to $133,000, bolstered by city contributions rising to $90,000.

The council also deliberated on financial updates for the police and fire departments, noting that both are approximately 90% funded, a healthy position for their plans. The capital projects fund stands at $1,300,000, supported by transfers from the general fund, with expenditures including land acquisition for MnDOT property, squad cars, and alleyway overlays.

In other business, the council reviewed the Minnesota Energy Resource Franchise Agreement, which passed without opposition. Ordinance 478 regarding the media account franchise agreement was also introduced for first review, with further actions to be determined in future meetings.

The council revisited the utility fee waiver program for new single-family homes, unanimously deciding to continue the initiative. This program aims to encourage residential development and support community growth.

The meeting also addressed the public works department’s ongoing projects, including repairs to a snowplow damaged during sewer repair, with bids for repairs amounting to $717,100. Future planning discussions included the replacement of a water truck and equipment updates.

Additionally, discussions touched on the city’s engagement with regional builders about community development. Emphasis was placed on the importance of proactive communication with developers to align development efforts with the city’s needs and desires. Reports on the Metropolitan Transit Plan and local wrestling achievements were also acknowledged.