The council’s attention first turned towards a resolution concerning safety enhancements at the intersection of County Road 23 and Edgewood Street. The project, aimed at improving sightlines and pedestrian safety, involves relocating a storage shed and clearing underbrush to create a sight triangle for better visibility. In return, the city agreed to construct a three-sided vinyl fence for privacy, with the total cost estimated at approximately $10,000. The council unanimously approved the resolution, underscoring community safety as a priority. The cooperation of property owners Jimmy and Dana Williams was acknowledged, with a council member expressing gratitude for their involvement, stating it would “increase the level of safety there immensely.”

Following this, the council addressed the pressing water quality and capacity issues faced by Becker’s water system. The discussion centered on the proposed construction of a new $18 million water treatment plant, designed to manage contaminants such as nitrates and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been detected in some of the city’s wells. The plant would have a capacity of two million gallons per day, with provisions for future expansion to ensure long-term water security for the growing community.

A detailed feasibility study was reviewed, revealing concerns about the city’s current water quality, particularly the presence of nitrates, primarily attributed to agricultural runoff. The distribution system currently averages three parts per million of nitrates, well below the regulatory limit, but the potential for levels to rise was a concern. The conversation also highlighted PFAS contamination, with some wells showing detectable levels. The council considered various treatment options, with sand filtration proposed as a foundational pre-treatment method, and discussed the potential need for additional wells to meet future demand.

The council members emphasized the importance of timely decision-making, given the projected increase in water demand from 1.94 million gallons per day in 2028 to 2.73 million gallons per day by 2050. They acknowledged the challenges in securing funding for the treatment plant, with an application to the state drinking water revolving loan fund prioritized to enhance the city’s position for future grants or bonding opportunities.

In addition to water infrastructure, the council also deliberated on the selection of a consultant for a new housing study, recognizing the need for updated data in light of the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the housing market. Twelve proposals were received, with Redevelopment Resources recommended for their expertise and experience. The study’s budget was set at $30,000, and the council unanimously approved the selection, emphasizing the importance of understanding the current housing landscape and informing future development strategies.