0:00A significant portion of the meeting revolved around resident Sharon Ball’s complaint about tree cutting during the Falls Bass Tournament. Ball questioned whether the council had approved the action and stated that the cutting was against city, state, and federal law. Public Works had been working in the park that day, but the vendor responsible for cutting the trees had not communicated with them. Ball expressed her frustration, emphasizing the need for consistent adherence to statutes and mentioning a financial loss due to the disruption of her business.

The city attorney clarified that the statute might not apply in this specific situation since the city could address the issue once observed, and the property owner would need to issue a citation.

The council also faced issues related to public safety raised by resident Nathan Myers. Myers highlighted that several sidewalks were obstructed by overgrown bushes and hedges, forcing pedestrians to walk in the street. He specifically mentioned three vehicles parked on sidewalks on 9th Avenue, which created unsafe conditions, especially for the elderly. The City Administrator assured that the Public Works Department would investigate the overgrown bushes and hedges, while the Police Department would handle enforcement regarding vehicles obstructing sidewalks.

17:31In other discussions, the council considered a taxi license application for TK Taxi LLC. Tracy Harmoning and her husband Kurt presented their plans to operate a local taxi service with two vehicles and a 50-mile radius. Tracy emphasized the need for another taxi service in the community. Despite some concerns about the availability of Lyft services, the council approved the taxi license application unanimously.

Another matter on the agenda was a request from ISD 361 for approval of the 2024 homecoming parade. The council also passed a resolution for an exempt permit for PCA Hunting and Raffle Contest Incorporated to conduct a raffle on November 11, 2024.

The council then addressed the issue of a building located on Street, which was in poor condition and vacant. The city attorney noted difficulties in contacting the current owners, who had abandoned the property after entering into a contract for deed. The council voted to proceed with the order for removal or repair of the building.

Towards the end of the meeting, the council went into a closed session to discuss allegations against an individual under the council’s authority. Upon returning, they announced the separation of employment for Steven Donabauer, effective immediately, and passed a motion to advertise for a mechanic position in the Public Works department.

During department reports, the police chief mentioned a recent power outage that had affected communications equipment, potentially causing damages that might need to be addressed with their insurance. The city administrator confirmed they would compile a list of any damaged items for insurance purposes.

In council member reports, a successful Labor Day picnic was noted, which served 1,500 plates of hot dogs. Additionally, discussions from an airport commission meeting regarding property annexation were recounted, with a suggestion for further clarification and coordination with involved parties to keep the process moving forward.