A major point of contention was the ongoing delay in the splash pad construction, which has faced nearly four months of setbacks. The issues are attributed not to the construction firm, Veta, but to the splash pad supplier, CRS. Detailed reports revealed numerous defects in the cement slab installation, including a lack of a non-slip surface and improper leveling, which led to water pooling and falling short of Minnesota Department of Health standards. The city is currently in a conflict resolution phase with CRS, demanding corrective action to either replace the slab or install a suitable rubber mat to rectify the uneven surfaces. The council voiced concerns about the additional costs incurred due to these delays, which they expect CRS to cover. Further complicating matters, other cities such as St. James are also facing difficulties with CRS, raising fears about the company’s financial stability and the potential impact should CRS file for bankruptcy.

Amidst the frustration over the splash pad, the council also tackled an urgent financial issue within the electric department. The council unanimously approved a proposal to increase electrical demand rates for commercial businesses from $6.50 to $12.92 for the remainder of the year. This adjustment seeks to address a $75,000 deficit, stemming from the city having the lowest demand rates in the region and the absence of rate hikes since 2017. Only twelve businesses, particularly those with high nocturnal energy usage, will be affected by this increase. The council acknowledged the necessity of this change to stabilize the department’s finances and prepare for future infrastructure costs.

Beyond local projects, the council received an update from a representative of the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities on legislative activities affecting local governments. The discussion noted the chaotic dynamics of the 2024 legislative session, with an evenly divided House causing delays in budget and bonding bill approvals. The coalition is lobbying to protect Local Government Aid (LGA) from proposed cuts, especially in light of the Senate Democrats’ unexpected $20 million reduction proposal. Despite these challenges, the coalition secured $773 million for various infrastructure projects, although local road and bridge funding remains a contentious issue.

The council also deliberated on the implications of a recent $176 million allocation from the Public Facilities Authority, intended for crucial services like water and local infrastructure. This funding allocation represents an improvement over prior years, and the increase in program funding caps was highlighted as essential amid rising project costs. Additionally, discussions on emergency medical services funding revealed a one-time $24 million allocation for 2024, with ongoing funding still uncertain.

In the realm of public safety, the council approved the hiring of part-time officer Nick Ericson to fill potential police department coverage gaps. This decision was part of a broader effort to restructure the department’s schedule to enhance supervisory coverage and improve officer work-life balance.

Other meeting highlights included updates on the city’s wastewater project, now requiring a new engineering firm to complete unfinished studies. The council is also navigating policy changes, such as the implementation of paid family medical leave by December, which will allow eligible employees substantial leave for personal and family care.