The council’s discussion on the Beach Farms land purchase underscored its potential impact on the city’s development plans. The land, which includes a mining area, will transfer mining rights to the city, enabling immediate income generation from the current agricultural tenant. Approximately 60 acres of the land are suitable for development, although some sections are affected by flood zones. The council noted the possibility of filling in mined-out pits with soil and water authority approval, which could convert these areas into usable land.

The financial implications of this purchase were thoroughly considered, with the council aiming to utilize matured CDs for initial payments. The structured five-year payment plan, at a 4% interest rate, alleviates immediate budget pressures, allowing the city to manage its financial resources effectively. Additionally, Dairland Power’s interest in acquiring two acres for a substation could provide further financial benefits to the city.

Following the land purchase decision, the council moved on to other matters, including personnel changes at City Hall due to upcoming retirements in 2026. Notably, the receptionist deputy clerk, Laurel Jacobs, and city clerk planning director, Cheryl Raider, will retire, prompting a personnel committee recommendation for a hiring timeline. Cassandra Jefferson, the community development coordinator, is expected to transition into the city clerk planning director role, with Cheryl Raider temporarily handling front desk duties while mentoring Jefferson.

The council also addressed staffing for the upcoming hockey and skating season at Metal Park, approving the hiring of several returning staff members and one new hire, Tyler Carrian. Additionally, the council approved the hiring of part-time snow plow drivers Troy Canigings and Parker Bird.

In further discussions, the council reviewed adjustments to the fire relief bylaws, approving an increase in benefits from $4,700 to $5,100 as proposed by the Steuart Fireman’s Relief Association. This amendment, while not directly impacting the city’s budget, required notification due to the city’s responsibility for potential financial shortfalls.

The council also approved liquor and tobacco license renewals for local establishments, including the American Legion Club, Two Brothers Bar and Grill, and Casey’s General Stores, among others. These approvals followed brief discussions and clarifications regarding licensing requirements for certain stores.

During the mayoral and staff reports, expressions of sympathy were extended to families of recently deceased community members, alongside celebrations of local milestones, such as a resident’s 90th birthday. Upcoming community events, including a Christmas gift drive and a Thanksgiving 5K, were highlighted, with reminders about enrolling in Code Red to avoid winter parking tickets.

The city administrator reported on recent budget adjustments, noting a $356,000 reduction in the levy for the upcoming year. Updates on grant applications were provided, including one for a library expansion and another related to 15th Avenue, signaling ongoing efforts to secure funding for community projects.

Public works updates included the status of leaf pickup operations, set to conclude due to the impending cold weather. Despite wet conditions, leaf collection was deemed feasible, yet preparations are underway for the transition to snow removal with forecasted snowstorms.

The library director shared details of a grant application for solar panels to support the library’s energy needs post-expansion, projecting annual savings of approximately $10,000. Other committee reports, such as those from the Economic Development and Housing committee and the transit advisory committee, provided updates on recent accomplishments and upcoming public meetings related to local infrastructure projects.