The council session opened with a critical analysis of item R from the consent agenda, focusing on a call to action from the League of Cities. This item urged municipalities to communicate with legislators about impending legislation that could challenge local zoning control, mainly concerning housing density regulations. The proposed state legislation poses a threat to the city’s ability to manage residential zoning by allowing high-density developments in areas earmarked for single-family residences. Council member John Rowan expressed concerns about the potential impact on neighborhood quality, stressing the importance of preserving local zoning authority.

The debate extended to implications for building codes, with considerations on how the legislation could ban interim ordinances related to aesthetic requirements and remove minimum parking space mandates. These changes sparked a broader discussion on balancing local governance with state regulations. The council noted the recurrent nature of this issue and reaffirmed its stance against similar legislative attempts in the past. The motion to approve item R, reflecting their collective opposition to the legislation, passed unanimously.

Following the zoning discussion, the council transitioned to resolving various infrastructure projects. Resolution 2025-079, which involved approving plans and specifications for a comprehensive concrete project, was passed. This project addresses various municipal needs, with the bidding process set for mid-April.

Next, the council deliberated on resolution 2025-080, focusing on residential street overlay and sidewalk improvements. Adjustments to the project scope removed sidewalk construction on 25th Avenue, resulting in an estimated cost of $1.15 million. Construction is slated to begin in late spring. The resolution received approval without opposition.

Resolution 2025-081 highlighted the municipal state aid street overlay project on Hellet Avenue, funded through municipal state aid. The proposed timeline aligns with other infrastructure projects, and the resolution was approved following a motion.

Additionally, resolution 2025-082 concerned the reconstruction of Third Avenue Southwest, with a projected cost of just under $1.5 million. This comprehensive proposal includes new roadway, curb, and utility enhancements. The council approved the resolution.

The meeting also addressed financial strategies concerning water revenue. An update on a water revenue bond outlined a total of approximately $6.98 million structured over a 20-year period. Northland Securities provided an overview of the financing process, emphasizing the cost of borrowing would be covered by the bond proceeds, negating the need for additional water revenue sources.

Concerns about potential market volatility and material costs, notably ductile iron tariffs, were raised. The council considered a resolution to call for a bond sale scheduled for later in April. Additionally, participation in the State of Minnesota Credit Enhancement Program was approved, expected to save the city approximately $80,000 over the bond’s lifespan. The council also approved a municipal advisory agreement with Northland Securities for bond-related activities.

A significant infrastructure project regarding the Straight River water main crossing was discussed. The project aims to replace a 20-inch water main beneath the Pacific railroad. Initial bids were rejected due to errors and budget overruns. After rebidding, Icon LLC, the apparent low bidder, requested to withdraw due to a mistake. The council, opting to avoid further delays, approved a resolution to award the contract to the second lowest bidder, deeming Icon’s bid as nonresponsive.