14:44A important topic during the meeting was the approval of a change order for the city’s wastewater treatment plant, involving an additional $258,800 expenditure. This change order marked the seventh adjustment in a series that has seen over $3 million in modifications—about 3% of the total project cost. Council members discussed the specifics of cost allocations, focusing on domestic and industrial splits. Despite the financial implications, the resolution was approved with unanimous support.

The council also deliberated on a proposed ordinance targeting the management of fats, oils, and grease in the city’s sewer collection system. This ordinance aims to prevent blockages by requiring food service establishments to regularly clean and monitor grease traps. Additionally, the ordinance includes a point of sale inspection mandate for sanitary sewer services, informing potential homeowners about sewer service viability prior to property transactions. Although the motion to prepare the ordinance passed, its adoption was postponed due to a lack of unanimous consent.

28:56City Administrator Craig provided insights into his recent testimony before the Minnesota Senate housing committee, representing the Coalition of Greater Minnesota Cities. He discussed legislative proposals concerning zoning preemption and the elimination of parking requirements for development projects, both of which he deemed harmful to rural cities. Craig highlighted the lack of local transparency in these legislative efforts, which remove public hearing requirements for development projects. He stressed the importance of local input and warned against state-imposed density requirements that fail to consider local conditions.

Craig’s presentation also addressed the challenges faced by rural areas, such as infrastructure costs, mortgage rates, and construction expenses, which complicate housing development. He argued that local governments are often unfairly blamed for the housing crisis, emphasizing that the majority of development costs are fundamental expenses. Council members engaged in a discussion about the need for local voices in the legislative process. They urged colleagues to reach out to state officials to maintain local control over housing decisions.

0:00Personnel changes were also a focal point, with the council recognizing Officer Jesse Betts’ promotion to Sergeant and the retirement of Sergeant Mike Tisher after nearly 20 years of service. Additionally, Randy Hoffner was honored for his near 29-year tenure with the Parks and Recreation Department.

In infrastructure developments, the council conducted public hearings for street improvements across several areas, including Sixth Street Northeast and 21st Avenue Southwest. Each project received unanimous approval. The meeting also included discussions on an amendment to the Austin Municipal Airport’s construction services contract, which detailed upcoming upgrades and compliance with environmental requirements.

14:44Other notable business included the approval of a budget adjustment, addressing carryover requests for unspent budget items from the previous year, totaling approximately $267,000. These funds are intended for playground equipment, pool assessments, and police warranties, among other needs.

28:56In a move signaling future changes within the council itself, Joyce announced her resignation, effective after her final meeting on April 21, 2025. Her announcement prompted expressions of gratitude from fellow council members, who acknowledged her contributions over her six-year tenure.