The primary highlight of the meeting was the council’s decision to approve the purchase of new playground equipment for Fireside Park. This initiative, stemming from the Park Advisory Commission’s discussions, involves a total expenditure of $71,700, slightly exceeding the initial budget of $70,000 to incorporate an ADA-compliant swing. The equipment will be procured from St. Cy Recreation, with the funding derived from the city’s gambling proceeds fund, which currently holds a balance of $154,000. The project aims to create a more inclusive park environment with seven distinct pieces of play equipment catering to children aged 2 to 12.

The Park Advisory Commission had reviewed ten proposals from six manufacturers before recommending St. Cy Recreation. Mike Basich, a representative from the company, was present at the meeting to address any queries. The installation process is expected to commence within four to five weeks, with the removal of old equipment facilitated by a volunteer group. Furthermore, Public Works will prepare the site for installation, contributing to overall savings.

Council members expressed enthusiasm for the project, with one member highlighting their personal connection to the park and appreciation for the ADA addition. This sentiment was echoed by another member who expressed personal gratitude for the ADA swing, emphasizing its importance to them.

The meeting also featured a report from Public Safety Director Neil Bower, who received commendation for recent media coverage highlighting the introduction of an EMS-only responder position. This new role, adapted from some firefighter positions, has garnered increased interest, with five new applicants since the media feature. Bower emphasized the requirement for applicants to reside within an eight-minute response radius to ensure effective emergency services.

In the realm of infrastructure, Commissioner Miska provided updates on ongoing projects, including plans for the I-35 and County State Highway 22 Corridor study. This initiative, set to begin within 45 days, aims to explore preferred alternatives for development, with an emphasis on securing federal and state funding. Additionally, Miska mentioned that Mr. Triplet would attend a future council meeting to gather feedback on infrastructure plans expected in the coming months.

The council also addressed the Chisago County Housing Study, conducted by Maxfield Research, which offers insights into the local housing market conditions. This study is anticipated to benefit potential developers and will be further discussed at an upcoming county-hosted breakfast event. While specifics on administration changes and interest rate impacts were not fully detailed, the study reportedly includes analysis on these trends and their implications for housing affordability.

In preparation for Arbor Day, the council proclaimed April 25, 2025, as the official date for celebrations, with a tree planting event scheduled for the following day. The city, having been a Tree City USA program member since 2020, plans to engage local youth groups such as the Cub Scouts and Girl Scouts in the festivities. The motion to recognize Arbor Day was approved unanimously.

The meeting concluded with council reports, where members shared their recent activities and engagements. The event, which lasted five days and ended with the discovery of the medallion in Swenson’s Park, was praised for encouraging community interaction and exploration of local parks.