The focal point of the meeting was the approval of resolutions related to the 2025 street utility improvement project, estimated at $2.9 million. Of this cost, slightly over $2.5 million will be borne by the city, while $458,000 will be assessed to property owners. The bidding process for the project had revealed eight bidders, with JJD Companies, a local entity, submitting the lowest responsible bid. City staff discussed the discretion they hold in assessing bids, emphasizing the importance of evaluating the qualifications and history of the bidders, despite generally needing to accept the lowest bid due to public funding considerations. Initial interactions with JJD Companies have been positive, although a thorough evaluation is ongoing.

Corey, a representative involved in the project, highlighted that current market trends show bids coming in 15 to 20% under engineers’ estimates due to federal contracting market volatility. The council unanimously approved resolutions to declare costs for assessment and order the preparation of proposals, as well as to schedule an assessment hearing for May 12th at 6 PM.

The meeting also covered an amendment to parking ordinances, spurred by collaboration with local schools. The proposed change seeks to regulate parking on the east side of Ash Avenue from 4th Street Southwest to Highway 30, prohibiting parking during school hours. Homeowners will be eligible for permits to park in front of their residences. The council initiated the amendment process, including a public hearing, to quickly address these parking issues.

Staffing challenges were a recurrent theme, notably in the ambulance and care center reports. The ambulance service is contending with staffing shortages, particularly during daytime hours, and is transitioning to a new billing company after issues with the previous one. Efforts to improve training and equipment were discussed, including the purchase of batteries for ambulance pagers. Meanwhile, the care center reported financial struggles, with a loss due to a lower census and high agency nurse use. The resignation of the director of nursing has prompted the temporary hiring of a contract nurse as the center seeks to rebuild its staff and improve operational efficiency.

In financial matters, the council reviewed the city’s check register and March financials, noting an unexpected timing of the Local Government Aid allocation. Concerns over postal delays impacting bill payments led to a proposal for automated payments for regular bills. Corrections in storm sewer district charges also resulted in refunds for overcharged properties.

A noteworthy item was the petition to detach agricultural land from the city limits, citing a lack of city service benefits. The Economic Development Authority supported referring this matter to planning and zoning for further consideration. Additionally, the council approved a $15,000 grant from CEDA for a business improvement program, aimed at supporting local businesses with minimal restrictions.

The meeting concluded with a closed session to evaluate the city administrator’s performance, resulting in a merit increase.