The decision to accept and allocate the settlement funds came without contention. The city will receive $174,555.92 from 3M and $18,32.82 from DuPont, earmarked for initiatives aimed at maintaining and improving water quality. The council noted that joining the class action was a strategic move to benefit from the settlement rather than seeking individual litigation. The funds will be directed towards enhancing water quality, an ongoing priority for the city given the contamination concerns.

In addition to water quality improvements, the council focused on the 2026 street reconstruction project, a plan involving several streets in poor condition. The project will address essential infrastructure needs by replacing asphalt pavement, curbs, gutters, and water mains, alongside the installation of new sidewalks and storm sewer catch basins. Streets within the Northdale edition, including 89th Avenue and Kumquat Street, will be part of this extensive upgrade.

The project also incorporates stormwater management enhancements, with plans to add quality basins in Moore Park to address maintenance challenges. A public open house is scheduled for January to further discuss the reconstruction plans, with a public hearing on assessments slated for February 17. The project’s estimated cost is $13.7 million, with assessments covering approximately $1.1 million or 23% of the total cost. This figure reflects an increase in assessment rates, attributed to rising construction costs.

The sidewalk project on 110th Avenue, aimed at connecting Foley Boulevard with Moore Park, was another focal point. While the project has been part of planning maps for years, it has generated mixed reactions from residents concerned about property impacts. Council members acknowledged the challenges of adding sidewalks, particularly when existing driveways are affected, but emphasized the importance of pedestrian safety and community improvement.

The council also discussed the current condition of sewer infrastructure in the Northdale edition, noting issues with root intrusions and blockages in service connections. Residents were advised to consider sewer backup endorsements for their homeowner’s insurance and were encouraged to contact the city for service line inspections.

In other business, the council approved the purchase of new ice resurfacing equipment for the Rapids Ice Center. The existing Zamboni, in service for 17 years, will be replaced at a cost of $198,342.80. The old unit will be auctioned, with an estimated recovery of $30,000. Council members highlighted the ice center’s importance as a community resource and expressed support for the purchase, noting the facility’s high usage.

The council further addressed the 2026 compensation plan for unrepresented employees, approving a 3% cost-of-living increase and a 1% market adjustment effective January 1, 2026. This adjustment applies to both full-time and part-time employees. The approval was unanimous.

During the open mic segment, a local Muslim community representative expressed gratitude for the council’s work, especially in the wake of a recent terrorist attack in Sydney, Australia. He emphasized peace and unity, invoking teachings from the prophet Muhammad about the value of human life.

Community updates included a successful tree lighting ceremony, despite cold weather, and a “Shop with a Cop” event supported by local businesses. The council also discussed the transition of the Northstar commuter rail service to bus service, contingent on an upcoming Vikings-Packers game.