08:51Foremost among the topics was the continued struggle with the rehabilitation work at the Deco Center, where the installation of front doors has been notably problematic. The craftsmanship of the doors has been called into question, with misalignment and gaps under the doors leading to significant frustration. The city has withheld payment on the $30,000 owed to the contractor until these issues are resolved satisfactorily. A representative from the contractor is scheduled to meet with city officials to address these concerns. The council is considering inviting the contractor to a future meeting to discuss the ongoing problems directly.

05:01In conjunction with the Deco Center issues, the meeting also addressed a delayed hot tub installation, which is pending state approval. The hot tub has been delivered, but final approval for its positioning is required to meet safety regulations. Renovations in the center’s weight room have progressed, with drywall work completed and new equipment expected soon.

15:16In contrast, the Event Center has reported successful repairs by Dan Johnson Construction. The ceiling repairs have been completed, and a change order for additional work on the north wall, affected during an engineering inspection, was confirmed. This work is covered by insurance, alleviating the need for council approval of additional funds.

20:03The council also tackled financial matters, approving a series of payments related to construction and repairs. Plumbing issues, particularly with “Coke guns and drains,” have been resolved, with necessary plumbing lines replaced to enhance drainage and prevent mold accumulation. An insurance-covered payment of $62,942.25 was approved for ceiling or roof work, and a separate payment of $16,813 was also confirmed as covered by insurance. Despite these resolutions, the need for extensive post-construction cleaning was emphasized, given the “dusty dirty mess” left behind by the repairs.

29:45Another notable discussion centered around the termination of a contract with Midwest Inspections. The contract ended due to profitability concerns and distance, with the council expressing frustration over losing a thorough service provider. Efforts are underway to secure alternative inspection services, though the limited availability of qualified inspectors in the area poses a challenge. The importance of thorough inspections for compliance with building codes was echoed by council members, with considerations for potentially training an employee as an inspector.

36:55Alongside these operational challenges, the council deliberated on various community and budget-related topics. A proposal for advertising at the Norman County Raceway was considered, with discussions revolving around financial constraints and the potential reallocation of funds. Despite limited funds in the gambling fund, there was support for promoting local businesses through this advertisement, which includes logo placement and media mentions, at a cost of $1,750.

41:29Additionally, the council reviewed eight mowing bids for various locations, methodically approving each after discussions. Liquor license renewals were also addressed, with the council confirming no changes to the existing license for the liquor store on Main Street.

22:10The meeting also touched on community events, such as the “Week of the Young Child” and the “Kaleidoscope” event, with arrangements being made for council member attendance. However, financial constraints were evident in discussions about post-prom donation requests and the Cody Holti Memorial softball tournament, where decisions were deferred due to the city’s current negative financial position.

53:27In procedural matters, the Public Works Committee presented repair bills for a street sweeper and a transformer relocation, both within budget allocations. The Public Safety Committee discussed future training for the police department on active shooter scenarios, emphasizing the importance of preparedness, especially in government buildings.

56:47A late reimbursement request for a firefighter’s training conference stirred debate over procedural adherence, as council members emphasized the need for prior approval for substantial expenses. This discussion highlighted ongoing concerns about efficient expenditure approvals and communication.

01:02:13Lastly, updates from the Economic Development Authority (EDA) revealed that loan funds for local businesses are nearly depleted, though businesses are utilizing resources effectively. Community beautification projects were also outlined, with allocations for gravestone repairs and engineered mulch purchases.