In a notable highlight, Mayor Michele Hanson declared January 15, 2025, as Malta Day in Bayport, coinciding with the World Snow Sculpting Championship. This event, celebrated for bringing artists from around the world to Stillwater, featured a team from Malta. Hanson emphasized Bayport’s recognition of the Maltese team’s efforts as a fitting tribute to international camaraderie, stating, “it’s fitting and proper for the city of Bayport to honor and recognize the remarkable efforts of team MAA Mila Malia.” The proclamation was well-received, with Jason Howard from First State Bank and Trust expressing gratitude for the cultural acknowledgment and detailing plans to further welcome the Maltese team, including the potential display of Maltese flags around town.

The meeting also addressed environmental concerns, with Tori Christensen from Landbridge Ecological providing an update on the Barker’s Elps Park Woodland restoration project. The project, set to continue until 2027, aims to restore an oak savannah plant community by removing invasive species and implementing controlled burns. Christensen highlighted the project’s progress and addressed public concerns about tree removal, clarifying that native pines removed were not part of the desired plant community. The restoration effort, focusing on ecological balance and community safety, received positive feedback, highlighting its importance for both environmental stewardship and community enjoyment.

The council’s discussion on labor agreements was another major focus. A new labor agreement with the Minnesota Teamsters public and law enforcement employees union local 320 was presented, covering police officers from January 2025 to December 2027. The agreement included significant wage increases, enhancements to the tuition reimbursement program, and updates to the fitness incentive program. It also introduced a healthcare savings plan for officers. The council approved the agreement.

Further labor discussions centered on public works maintenance workers, where wage increases and a revised job skills incentive program were outlined. This initiative encourages educational advancement among employees. Adjustments to vacation accrual policies and holiday overtime pay were also approved.

The council then considered a resolution to support a Safe Routes to School infrastructure grant, aimed at improving pedestrian access to a new elementary school. The proposed sidewalk project along Fifth Avenue seeks to enhance safety and connectivity, with the grant covering construction costs. Despite the financial commitment required, the council showed strong support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of safe pedestrian routes for students.

Additional council business included appointments and scheduling for the upcoming year, addressing potential conflicts with holiday dates, and ensuring smooth operation of council meetings. Community engagement was a key theme, with council members reporting on various local events and initiatives, including the successful “border battle” event, which attracted over 500 attendees, and the ongoing Valley Community Center project.

Public safety updates highlighted increased call volumes for the fire department and community service recognition for police officers. Winter parking regulations were also discussed, with reminders about compliance to facilitate snow removal. Infrastructure projects, such as the marking of fiber optic cables and temporary road repairs, were reported, with plans for further development in the spring.