One notable topics was the city’s financial burden in maintaining emergency medical services (EMS) and fire services. The council discussed the ongoing crisis in rural healthcare, which has resulted in significant expenses and shortfalls for Winthrop. The city has been absorbing the majority of EMS costs in the western half of Sibley County, but with many townships refusing to sign cost-sharing contracts, the financial strain has intensified. The ambulance service alone has sustained a loss of $220,000 in 2024, exacerbated by the high number of calls originating outside the city, for which there is no reimbursement. The fire service, despite a different financial structure, also confronts financial challenges, with township contributions insufficient to cover costs. The mayor emphasized the urgency for a new approach, potentially establishing a separate taxing district for EMS to create a more predictable financial environment.

The structural integrity of existing city buildings, particularly those used for emergency services, was another issue. The council discussed the deteriorating condition of the ambulance storage building and the old ambulance facility, which has been condemned due to structural issues. Estimated repair costs for these facilities range from $500,000 to $700,000. The need for a new building to support both fire and EMS operations was proposed, emphasizing the necessity for compliant and functional spaces, including a decontamination room as mandated by OSHA.

Funding for the proposed new building was a concern, with the council considering a USDA loan due to favorable terms, such as a longer repayment period and lower interest rates. The council also addressed the ongoing design flaw with a city structure, attributed to complications from hail damage, and discussed plans to reskin the old fire hall to ensure uniformity.

The council meeting also involved a debate over the city’s budget, particularly the funding of the police department and the potential exploration of outsourcing police services to the sheriff’s department. Some council members expressed frustration over perceptions that these discussions had been insufficient, reiterating their commitment to exploring all options.

Concerns about taxation and its impact on the community were also raised, with discussions about property tax increases and their broader implications on city and school district budgets. The council confirmed that detailed financial documents, including breakdowns of departmental expenditures, were accessible on the city’s website.

The meeting concluded with updates on various city projects and initiatives, including progress on public works goals, such as lighting projects and street maintenance, and the status of the splash pad project, which has received approval from the Minnesota Department of Health. The council also addressed equipment needs for the fire department and the potential financial implications of discontinuing services to townships.