The flood protection project for the wastewater treatment plant stands out as a crucial undertaking for the city. The initiative involves the construction of new levees and a sanitary sewer force main crossing of the Cedar River. The council reviewed a low bid from Yulen Brothers, amounting to $7,378,129.60, with additional alternates for river crossing techniques. Ultimately, they decided to award the base bid and the first alternate, bringing the total project cost to $7,885,568.23. Funding for this project will come from state grant dollars and local options sales tax. The initial phase is set to begin in fall 2025, with substantial work planned for summer 2026. The council expressed confidence in the project’s timeline and unanimously approved the resolution.

Another highlight from the meeting was the city’s proclamation honoring the Mora County Senior Center. Mayor Steve King read the proclamation, emphasizing the center’s vital role in supporting the community’s older adults. The mayor declared May 16, 2025, as “Mora County Senior Incorporated Day.” A representative from the center, Joan, expressed gratitude for the city’s continued support and invited council members to the center’s 50th anniversary celebration. The event promises various festivities, starting at 1 PM.

The council also discussed a funding request for the “Right Here Right Now” podcast, which aims to enhance community communication through weekly episodes. The total cost for producing 26 episodes was proposed at $1,560. Several council members shared their positive experiences with the podcast, leading to the resolution’s approval without objections.

In licensing matters, the council approved an off-sale liquor license for Austin Highway Liquor LLC and a gambling license application for the American Legion Post 91’s participation in the county fair in August 2025. Both resolutions passed smoothly, as all necessary documentation was confirmed to comply with city regulations.

The council further affirmed its participation in the Office of the State Auditor’s performance measurements program, which provides a financial incentive of approximately $4,000 to the city. Despite a low expected response rate for the associated survey, the council valued the additional funds for general operations, leading to unanimous support for the resolution.

In a separate motion, the council addressed the planning and zoning department’s authority to contract the removal of junk and/or legally stored vehicles at the Wakefield property on 503 8th Avenue Southeast. Although the motion carried, it did face one dissenting vote.

The council received updates from City Administrator Craig Clark, who noted that applications for the third ward council vacancy were due by May 13, 2025. Updates on the Oakland Avenue 1 Avenue project were also provided, with state approval granted to begin advertising the project. Bid openings for contractors are scheduled for May 29, 2025, after which the council will review and award the contract.

Council discussions continued with upcoming community events. An Arbor Day celebration at the Nature Center is set for May 10, 2025, featuring a tree giveaway supported by the Austin High School Go Green Club. The Taste of Nations event, organized by the Parenting Resource Center, is scheduled for May 17, 2025, at Banshell Park, promising enhanced accessibility following ADA improvements. Another event, the 4th Avenue Fest, is planned for June 4, 2025, at Horus Austin Park.

In another segment, the Port Authority meeting was highlighted, where discussions centered on the comprehensive plan’s economic development implications. A clean audit report was noted, and city staff anniversaries were recognized, including notable service milestones for employees Jeff McCormack and Marie Ree.