The most pressing topic of the meeting was the community’s vocal opposition to Project Skyway, a development initiative that includes plans for data centers. Public sentiment was negative, with residents expressing apprehension about the long-term environmental effects. One speaker questioned the sustainability of the project, asking, “How well can you do any of those things if you can’t breathe air or drink water?” This remark encapsulated the community’s anxiety about potential health risks, such as asthma and cancer, linked to emissions and noise pollution from the proposed facilities.

Emma Smith, a registered nurse and member of Workers Strike Back, stressed the need for local government to prioritize environmental and community well-being over corporate interests. She criticized the council for permitting economic growth at the expense of natural resources, stating, “We absolutely do not consent to our home being exploited for unfettered economic growth.” Smith highlighted the potential strain on local water supplies and dismissed the idea of “green corporations,” calling for public ownership of energy corporations to prevent environmental degradation.

The council’s handling of communication related to Project Skyway also drew criticism. Several residents, including Amanda Nygard, voiced frustration over the lack of official information, noting that many learned about the project through informal means. Nygard shared that a petition against the project had quickly garnered 173 signatures. Concerns about transparency were echoed by other speakers, who collectively urged the council to adopt a more inclusive approach in considering the project.

In response to these concerns, the council discussed Resolution 25-42, which pertains to the adoption of the final Alternative Urban Areawide Review (AUR) for Project Skyway. A representative explained that the AUR serves as a planning tool, assessing environmental factors such as traffic, noise, and water resource impacts. The council confirmed that any future development must align with these guidelines. A motion to approve the resolution was passed.

Apart from Project Skyway, the council addressed several other issues. The preliminary budget for 2026 was discussed, with a proposed levy increase of 4.25%. This increase, attributed to factors such as staff salary adjustments and rising costs for emergency services, is lower than the previous year’s 5.5%. Health insurance premiums are expected to rise by 15%, contributing to an estimated total increase of $34,000 in the budget. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining existing services without major expenditures.

A notable aspect of the meeting was the approval of an updated business subsidy policy, which had not been amended since 2001. The revised policy clarifies the criteria and processes for business subsidies, emphasizing the need to increase the local tax base and create jobs. It includes a “pay as you go” approach for tax abatement or tax increment financing, reducing upfront costs for the city.

The council also approved a new liquor license for Los Reyes Kitchen, allowing the restaurant to serve intoxicating liquor, including on Sundays and until 2 a.m. This decision was met with enthusiasm, as the restaurant aims to complement its menu with alcoholic beverages rather than operate purely as a bar.

Infrastructure development was another key topic, with the council discussing the North Zumbro Sanitary Sewer District lobbying contract expense. The city is collaborating with neighboring communities to secure state funding for a joint sanitary sewer district. A previous state allocation of $10 million was obtained for land acquisition and engineering work, and the current lobbying effort seeks construction dollars. The council emphasized the importance of utilizing any federal funds effectively for infrastructure projects.

The meeting concluded with the council setting a public hearing for the 2026 street improvement project, estimated to cost just under $4 million. The project includes potential assessments for property owners and aims to address inflow and infiltration issues in the sanitary sewer system. A strategic partnership with Goodhue County was suggested to enhance infrastructure at a reduced cost.