The most prominent item on the council’s agenda was the resolution adopting the Active Transportation Plan for Cannon Falls, an initiative designed to improve the walkability and bikeability of the city. This plan intends to enhance safe routes for residents, including children and individuals accessing local amenities such as schools and parks. The proposal, presented by a council member, emphasized the need for improvements in infrastructure, including better signage and striping, to facilitate navigation for both residents and visitors.

The engagement process for the plan was extensive, incorporating surveys and audits with community members of various ages. The council member presenting the plan highlighted that current commuting by biking was almost nonexistent, with very few residents walking or using public transit. This plan aims to address such issues by identifying key areas for improvement, such as increasing the number of bike lanes and improving connectivity throughout the city.

Discussions also touched on the potential utility costs associated with maintaining new infrastructure and challenges like plowing during winter. Some council members expressed reservations about extensive bike lanes, citing concerns similar to those seen in neighboring communities. However, the plan was viewed as a framework for future development rather than a checklist of immediate projects. The council acknowledged the necessity of safe routes, particularly near schools, and recognized the community’s input as crucial in identifying unsafe areas.

In related discussions, the council addressed a delayed infrastructure project slated to begin in the spring, which had previously been postponed due to a lack of response from District 6. Temporary measures such as striping or stanchions may be implemented to test proposed changes, with data from these initiatives potentially supporting future grant applications. Concerns were raised about coordinating the project with a mill and overlay project on Highways 20 and 17, particularly regarding the integration of new developments with existing infrastructure.

Further deliberations revealed that some project plans had been revised to align with other ongoing town works, such as ADA ramp installations. The conversation underscored the importance of balancing aesthetics and practical considerations. The council ultimately approved the project with a cautious approach, emphasizing the need for continued community involvement and awareness of cost implications.

Another point of focus during the meeting was the approval of grants for wayfinding signage, which passed with a vote of 5 to 1. The discussion centered on the necessity of updating park and trail signage to enhance visibility and welcome the over 100,000 visitors to the community annually. Concerns were raised about the $6,000 cost for signs, with some questioning whether repainting existing signs could suffice. However, it was explained that the signs required complete reconditioning due to disrepair. The grant would cover the installation costs, with labor provided by Public Works as an in-kind contribution.

The meeting also briefly addressed updates from various city departments. A new subdivision concept for Hardwood Estates was mentioned, alongside plans for a strategic planning meeting involving the Economic Development Authority, the chamber, and the school board. The meeting, scheduled for the end of the month, would not be public but aims to ensure transparency regarding its outcomes.

In public works-related updates, it was noted that a brush pile had been successfully burned, although it continued to smolder, causing some smoke in the area. Interest was expressed by a council member in touring the waste plant, inviting others to join to gain a better understanding of the city’s infrastructure.

Updates from local emergency services included the revival of an educational partnership with St. Olaf College to recruit students into healthcare roles. The partnership aims to provide practical experience to students and hopes to retain them as future employees. In addition, ongoing training efforts for EMTs were highlighted, with 18 students enrolled from various local fire departments. Recent training sessions and progress on a grant for new radios were also noted.

The Chief of Police provided updates on highway patrols during cold weather to assist motorists in distress and shared flood forecasting updates from the National Weather Service.