One of the central topics of the meeting was the discussion about the future of the Link FM bus service. Originally established around 2014-2015 to connect the downtown areas of Fargo and Moorhead, this service was designed to alleviate congestion and parking issues by allowing residents to park at the Moorhead Center Mall and travel to downtown Fargo. However, over the years, ridership has declined. In 2020, the service was limited to specific high-attendance events, such as the downtown street fair and performances at the Blue Stem Amphitheater. Despite hopes for a post-pandemic revival, attendance has not returned to expected levels.

In 2022, service hours were reduced from 11:15 p.m. to 10:15 p.m. due to low demand during the later hours, which created issues for events that conclude after 10:15 p.m., such as the Trollwood Mainstage Musical. Compounding these issues is the ongoing construction around the Moorhead Center Mall, which has caused congestion and reduced available parking, further hindering Link FM’s operational effectiveness.

During the public hearing segment, no members of the public voiced opinions or concerns regarding the Link FM service. Council members questioned the extent of communication with event organizers about service reductions. The council was informed that discussions had taken place within the MAP Bus Coordination Committee, which includes various city leaders and representatives. Feedback from event organizers was generally understanding, with most being informed about the changes well in advance.

The potential for resuming services post-construction was also discussed, highlighting the need to reassess the previous arrangement of a convenient pickup point at the Moorhead Center Mall. The downtown street fair had previously experienced around 3,000 rides. The council highlighted ongoing planning for future events, with particular attention to transportation solutions to mitigate congestion.

Another focal point of the meeting was a presentation on emergency medical services by Tim Meyer, Senior Director of EMS Operations at Sanford Ambulance. Meyer provided an overview of ambulance activity in Moorhead for 2024, noting a slight increase in calls compared to previous years. The presentation emphasized the importance of effective triaging, as only about 7% of calls are emergencies, and many do not require transportation to a hospital. Meyer highlighted the significance of community training in CPR and the use of AEDs to enhance survival rates during emergencies, noting that while bystander CPR rates in Moorhead were slightly below the national average, the survival rate to hospital discharge was better.

The presentation also addressed the use of Narcan in overdose situations and the importance of bystander CPR. It was noted that while Narcan has no effect on individuals not overdosing on narcotics, its availability and use are critical in emergency situations. A council member raised concerns about the low survival rates in cardiac arrest cases, noting that 0% involved bystander AED usage, and only 10% of patients survived hospitalization.

Public comment during the meeting included concerns from residents about water meter replacements by Moorhead Public Service (MPS). Shane Busby expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of issues related to water meter replacements, questioning the use of unlicensed plumbers and stressing the importance of adhering to the Minnesota Plumbing Code. Rose Hansen shared her experience of abnormal water pressure and leaks following a water meter replacement, attributing these issues to the work done by MPS and the contractor. She expressed frustration with MPS’s response and highlighted the need for accountability and adherence to plumbing standards.

The council also recognized the contributions of Magdalia Cababayro, a nominee for the Moorhead Award, for her exceptional work at Community Action Partnership Lakes and Prairies, particularly in the Friends and Family Program. Cababayro was acknowledged for her advocacy for early childhood education and commitment to equity. Her recognition underscored the importance of community engagement and support for local initiatives.