One of the most notable discussions centered on a proposed amendment to the 2040 future land use map. This amendment supports the development of a market-rate apartment complex, aligning with the city’s comprehensive plan objectives to expand housing options and revitalize key corridors. The proposal, spearheaded by 38 Properties LLC, received a unanimous recommendation for approval from the Planning Commission following a public hearing with no opposing comments. The council approved the amendment via resolution 2535, underscoring its alignment with Becker’s long-term development strategy.

In conjunction with the future land use amendment, city staff presented a market study by Viewpoint Consulting Group, highlighting a demand for new rental housing. The study suggested that a residential-only approach would be more feasible than mixed-use development due to local economic conditions. This project fits within the Becker 2040 comprehensive plan’s objectives, including enhancing the First Street corridor and providing additional housing near existing services.

Following this, the council discussed the 2025 trail replacement project, focusing on replacing paved trails on Brenda Boulevard and Joseph Avenue. These trails, aged between 22 to 27 years, have exceeded their expected lifespan, presenting safety concerns due to transverse cracking and delaminating surfaces. The lowest bid for this project came from Hansen Paving, which will coordinate its efforts with ongoing golf course projects. Funding for the trail replacement is allocated in the 2025 parks and trail budget, and the project received support from the Parks and Recreation Committee. The council approved resolution 2537, authorizing the project to proceed.

The meeting also addressed the purchase of new playground equipment for Pleasant Valley Park. The existing structures, over two decades old, have failed recent inspections, presenting potential liability issues. The council set a budget of up to $165,000 for the new equipment, including provisions for engineered wood fibers. This upgrade maintains the park’s current layout and includes potential future expansions, such as extending the basketball court. The urgency to place orders was emphasized to ensure installation during the summer.

In addition to infrastructure improvements, the council reviewed committee reports, including updates from the Fire Relief Association and the recent hiring of three new firefighters, bringing the department to full staffing. The fire department’s active community outreach and engagement in local events were highlighted, alongside a new policy for escorting sports teams, reflecting high demand and logistical considerations.

The Park and Recreation Committee reported on plans for a new park on the east side of the river and trail replacements, while the Budget and Finance Committee discussed a grant opportunity for housing infrastructure and previewed the audit presentation. The audit, conducted by Justin Nilson from Abdo, resulted in a clean, unmodified opinion, confirming the city’s strong internal control environment and compliance with state statutes.

The council also addressed a minor subdivision proposal for the Danielson property and a supplemental letter agreement with SE for 2025 street improvements. The latter includes an inspector to oversee construction compliance, with a budget cap of $131,762. A preconstruction meeting is scheduled, with assurances to minimize disruptions during Freedom Days events.

Further, the council discussed the refurbishment of the domestic non-potable system’s pumps and control panel, essential for maintaining wastewater facility efficiency. The project, budgeted for $39,000, was approved under resolution 2538, with the bid coming in below the budgeted amount.

In personnel matters, the council unanimously approved extending a conditional job offer to a candidate for the new police chief position, pending standard assessments. This decision followed a thorough selection process, including interviews and leadership assessments.