One of a notable topics discussed was the proposed change to the hiring process for key city positions. A council member raised a concern about the confidentiality of candidate selections. This proposal aims to protect candidate privacy and ensure they are informed before public announcements. The council members responded favorably to this idea, leading to a motion to approve the updated hiring procedure. The motion received unanimous support.

Another major focus was on the Pierz golf course, where several updates and changes were discussed. The council reviewed positive feedback from recent tournaments, including the Rise and Health tournament, and presented plans for upcoming events such as a football tournament and a themed Halloween tournament. To align the golf course’s pricing with rising operational costs, a motion was made to increase camping rates by $5 for weekdays and a similar amount for weekends and holidays. Seasonal camping rates were also proposed to increase by $100, bringing the new rate to $2,577. The proposal was met with general agreement despite a slight preference for higher rates from one attendee. The motion passed unanimously.

Additionally, the council discussed the payment schedule for seasonal campers, proposing to move the second payment deadline from May to March. This adjustment, intended to improve the management of seasonal spots, was accepted without the need for a formal motion.

Further updates about the golf course included plans for dirt work by Al Hohisel for a new shelter donated by the Vernigs, set to begin in the fall. The council expressed gratitude to Robert Bell for his design contributions and discussed reshaping specific fairways by removing birch trees to enhance playability. A long-term strategy for tree planting was also mentioned, focusing on introducing hybrid poplars and seeking donations for hardwood species.

Addressing operational challenges, the council discussed an issue with the main pump house’s malfunctioning foot valve. While efforts to repair it were ongoing, a complete replacement was deemed likely. The council pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available. With cooler temperatures approaching, plans for applying broadleaf herbicide were highlighted.

The meeting also included updates from public works on recent city improvements. The successful Oktoberfest event was noted, along with routine maintenance activities such as shrub trimming and grass care at local parks. Plans to install a new light pole in a playground area for enhanced winter safety were discussed, alongside the addition of parking lot lights at the fire hall and city hall for improved visibility.

In the administrative domain, the city administrator provided an update on reimbursement processes and highlighted the upcoming focus on preliminary budget approvals and truth in taxation settings. A notable administrative achievement was the submission of long-standing outstanding checks totaling $1,960.89 to the state as unclaimed property, addressing auditor concerns about the city’s financial records.