The council discussed the Metropolitan Council Environmental Services’ draft facilities plan for the rehabilitation of the sewer interceptor, a part of the regional wastewater system. A public hearing was conducted to gather community input on the plan, which proposes phased improvements to address deteriorating infrastructure. The project targets sections of the interceptor found to be in poor condition, with a focus on phase two, scheduled for construction between 2025 and 2026. This segment, known as Interceptor number 4 NS 525, spans approximately 7,200 feet and is composed of 48-inch reinforced concrete pipes.

The presentation during the meeting detailed various rehabilitation methods considered for the project, including cured-in-place (CIP) lining, slip lining, and full replacement via open cut. CIP lining was recommended due to its effectiveness and minimal disruption to the community. This trenchless method involves installing a new liner within the existing pipe, creating a structurally independent conduit and minimizing the need for extensive excavation. The council emphasized the importance of maintaining the sewer system, which passes through sensitive areas such as parks, and the need for careful coordination with local agencies to ensure the project’s success.

Financial implications of the project were a point of discussion. The facility plan is essential for obtaining low-interest loans from the Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, which help finance eligible infrastructure projects without imposing special assessments on residents. Instead, the costs will be covered through municipal rates over a 20-year term. The project is expected to slightly increase the annual sewer cost for households by approximately 55 cents, shared collectively by the broader community.

Concerns were raised regarding the potential impact of phase three of the project, particularly where it intersects with a newly constructed trail through a wetland area. The council was reassured that any necessary reparations would be included in the project plans to restore the trail to its original condition. Additionally, previous use of CIP lining technology in similar projects was cited as successful, with an expected lifespan of at least 50 years, allowing the original infrastructure to remain intact while providing a durable lining.

The meeting also addressed concerns about odor issues experienced by residents during prior construction phases. It was suggested that public meetings would be held closer to the construction date to inform affected neighborhoods about the work and offer preventative measures to minimize unpleasant smells in homes.

In other business, the council unanimously approved a contract with Axon Enterprises Incorporated for a new body-worn camera system for the police department. The five-year contract, valued at $1,427,000, includes body-worn cameras, in-car video systems, tasers, and an interview room security system, along with unlimited digital evidence storage. The department’s previous system had become obsolete, and the upgrade aims to enhance safety for both officers and residents.

The council also voted on a budget amendment for a traffic study on Northdale Boulevard to improve vehicle and pedestrian safety. The study was not included in the initial 2024 budget, so the council decided to fund half of the required amount from the Riverdale fund, with the remainder covered by available budget resources.

Additionally, the council addressed insurance renewals for 2024-2025, maintaining limited cleanup and property damage protection for sewer backups. The renewal involved no changes to the existing policy, and the council opted into the policy each year as part of their statutory obligations.

The meeting concluded with discussions on community events, including the senior bazaar at the Civic Center, the Toys For Joy skate event, and the annual tree lighting scheduled for December 14. The mayor also highlighted a charity hockey game to support Operation Healing Heroes and praised the fire department’s successful fundraiser for the Patrick Shover fund, emphasizing the importance of heart screenings for young people.