The council prioritized the Wilmer Connect project, which is poised to transform the city’s broadband capabilities. Operations Director Kyle Box introduced this initiative, highlighting its evolution from a singular focus on the industrial park to a broader ambition of providing enhanced broadband access citywide. Box detailed the project’s timeline, with construction set for the first half of 2026 and completion targeted for July 1, 2027. He emphasized the importance of establishing partnerships with industry leaders to ensure reliable service through city-owned infrastructure.

The project has already garnered 596 pre-orders, with expected conversion rates aligning with industry standards at 80%. The council discussed outreach efforts, which include mailers and participation in community events, to increase signups and ensure broad community engagement.

Financial discussions revealed a projected cost of just under $7.8 million for phase one, covering trunk lines and the network operation center. The council weighed the project’s financial implications, particularly concerning the city’s bonding capacity. There was a focus on using general obligation tax abatement bonds to finance the project, which would not affect the general obligation capacity for street projects but could limit future endeavors. The anticipated debt service post-construction is projected at just under $700,000 annually, with principal payments deferred for the first three years to allow revenue generation.

Council members expressed concerns about the project’s financial viability and the need to generate sufficient revenue to avoid impacting property taxes. It was noted that approximately 4,000 clients are needed to cover payments before any profits can be realized, with a targeted 40% take rate across the city’s parcels. The financial model anticipates that 60% of generated revenue would return to the city.

Discussions also addressed market competition, with current providers like Spectrum adjusting their pricing in response to the new municipal network. The council referenced successful models in other Minnesota cities. The conversation revealed a mix of optimism and caution among council members regarding the city’s strategic direction in this initiative.

In addition to the fiber optic project, the council unanimously approved a resolution to certify unpaid utility charges totaling $14,816.17 for 16 properties as liens against real property.

The council also considered and approved a request from Jimmy P’s LLC for an on-sale intoxicating liquor license and Sunday liquor license. The application met all city requirements, including a successful background check and certificate of occupancy. The establishment is set to operate as a restaurant, fulfilling the necessary criteria for the liquor license.

Lastly, discussions turned to scheduling a special city council meeting to review health insurance contracts. The council agreed to convene on Thursday morning to finalize these contracts in time for open enrollment.