The most notable topic of the meeting was the approval of a new salary structure for city employees, as presented by a representative from David Drown Associates. The proposal was designed to ensure that city salaries are competitive with market rates and internally equitable. According to the presentation, the new structure involves 13 job grades, each with 10 steps, providing a salary range variation between 5% and 15% to prevent overlap. The adjustments promise an average minimum pay increase of 3.78% and a maximum of 14% above market rates.

The council engaged in discussions about the implications of the new pay structure, including concerns about potential pay cuts for employees currently earning above the proposed salary range. It was clarified that while no salaries would be reduced, those exceeding the new maximum would remain frozen until the range catches up. This approach was intended to ensure fairness and avoid penalizing existing employees.

Further deliberations touched on aligning the new salary structure with existing union contracts. The council expressed a commitment to achieving pay equity, while noting that current union agreements would remain unaffected until expiration. The process of ensuring compliance with pay equity legislation was also outlined, with assurances that any discrepancies will be addressed promptly.

In addition to the salary structure, the council approved amendments to Appendix D of the Bayport City Code of Ordinances fee schedule. Notable changes included a shift from a tiered to a flat fee of $50 for peddler solicitor licenses, irrespective of company size. This adjustment was made to streamline the fee process and ensure uniformity across applications.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Brett Doyle from Woodfire Wellness, who outlined plans to operate mobile sauna units in Lakeside Park. These units will feature traditional Finnish sauna stoves and be complemented by winter plunges in the St. Croix River. Doyle emphasized the safety measures in place, including staff presence during operating hours, and encouraged reservations to manage capacity.

Randy Gutsman and Mary Horic Binger shared details of the rebranded Soup and Shop event at St. Croix United Church, a community initiative aimed at addressing increased food assistance needs. Scheduled for the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the event will offer a soup lunch and host local vendors, with donations supporting a collaborative food sharing pantry.

Operational updates were provided by Fire Chief Eisinger, who reported a decrease in call volume for October and discussed ongoing training and fire prevention activities. The Toys for Tots program was announced by Fire Chief Jackson, with donation efforts underway to support local families during the holiday season.

Public Works Director Hansen outlined fall maintenance activities, including winterizing park facilities and addressing lead and galvanized water service lines in residential homes. The council was informed about an upcoming planning commission meeting to address land use applications, including a proposal for a retail cannabis business.