The Public Works Building project dominated the meeting, as council members delved into the details of the upcoming public bidding process. With the architectural design nearing completion, the council was briefed on the procedures and legalities involved. The bidding, scheduled to open on February 26, has attracted significant interest, with 16 general contractors listed as plan holders. However, the council anticipates that fewer will submit final bids. Emphasizing transparency and fair competition, the architect explained that local contractors could join the plan holders list to bid through general contractors. The bidding documents, nearly finalized, include alternates for expanding the Public Works Building and options for a new City Hall and police department. The council was advised to review bids carefully, considering how the inclusion of specific project features, like floor heating, could impact overall costs. Concerns were raised about the legal requirements of the public bidding process. The discussion also clarified that contractors would have a 60-day window to hold their prices, giving the council ample time to deliberate over the bids.

In addition to the construction project, the council approved a $500 donation to Inspire Incorporated, following a presentation by Molly Jones. Inspire sought funds to support their participation in Giving Hearts Day. This marked the first time Inspire had approached the council for funding, and the motion to donate was passed unanimously after acknowledging the importance of community support.

The council also addressed the contentious topic of the city-owned liquor store. A resident had previously expressed a desire for the city to retain ownership, citing concerns over potential management changes if the store were sold to a grocery chain. Despite limited community feedback on the matter, the council decided to remove the liquor store discussion from future agendas unless new developments arose. The motion to cease these discussions was made and passed.

Mayor John Hintz presented committee appointments for 2026, opting to maintain the current assignments. The administrative clerk’s transition report highlighted the approval of a hot tub at the recreation center and updates on new police vehicles, now featuring consistent graphics. The council swiftly approved a crucial purchase of a transformer for public works, emphasizing its budgeted necessity regardless of future construction projects.