At the forefront of the meeting was the introduction of a substantial solar project by Eden Renewables, set to generate 10 megawatt AC and 15 megawatt DC, potentially powering approximately 2,000 homes in the Brainerd area. This project, strategically located just outside the city limits, promises to enhance Brainerd Public Utilities’ ability to meet clean energy mandates. Eden Renewables plans to collaborate with local pollinator groups and provide solar energy education for local schools, emphasizing biodiversity and community engagement. The 60-acre site will house single-axis tracker solar arrays.

During the meeting, the economic and environmental benefits of the solar project were discussed, highlighting the stability and insulation from energy market fluctuations it could provide. The funding structure was clarified, with Eden Renewables seeking external financing and Brainerd Public Utilities purchasing power from the project once operational. Concerns about potential costs to Brainerd Public Utilities were alleviated, with assurances that development costs would not fall on the utility, although operational expenses for purchasing power would exist. Discussions also covered a possible county moratorium on solar development, but it was confirmed that no such moratorium was in place, with an ordinance being considered instead. Eden Renewables expressed readiness to engage with county officials to shape a viable regulatory framework.

Parallel to the solar discussions, the council addressed upgrades to the wastewater treatment facility, necessary to meet impending regulatory standards. The plan includes transitioning from current treatment technologies to an activated sludge biological nutrient removal process, accommodating future nutrient limits. This transition is important for maintaining compliance with environmental regulations and ensuring operational efficiency. The proposed upgrades also involve enhancing bio solids management, with options considered for rehabilitation of existing digestors or a shift to a dewatering system. The dewatering method, which offers disposal flexibility and simpler processing, was favored due to its potential cost-effectiveness and adaptability.

A comprehensive presentation outlined the facility’s aging infrastructure and the need for substantial improvements to meet the EPA’s mandates. The estimated capital costs for these upgrades range from $25 million to $32 million, with a phased approach recommended to address immediate needs and future regulatory compliance. The potential impact on residents’ water bills was discussed, with projections indicating an increase from $36 to $54 monthly, though grant funding could mitigate these costs.

Further discussions included the lead service line replacement project, aligned with an EPA mandate to remove lead and galvanized water service lines by 2033. The city secured $2.66 million in funding from the Minnesota Department of Health for this initiative, targeting areas in southeast and northeast Brainerd. The council debated whether to integrate the replacement of 13 galvanized lines with an upcoming alley reconstruction project, ultimately deciding to proceed within the current budget and timeline. The project aims to maximize replacements while staying within funding thresholds, with thorough communication planned to inform homeowners of their options and responsibilities.

The meeting also covered the renewal of Brainerd Public Utilities’ large industrial power agreement with Just for Crypto. Legal counsel recommended formalizing a two-year extension to the contract, which was previously an automatic renewal, to clarify terms and prevent future confusion. The amendment was approved unanimously following clarification that the extension would not impose strict deadlines but rather ensure a continued power supply as long as contractual conditions were met.

The council addressed various policy reviews and amendments, including the unauthorized use of utility meters and a frozen water service lines policy.