The Washington Ballpark project was a key focus, with the council accepting a bid from Bristling Construction for the phase one construction. This phase includes building a grandstand, dugouts, and a concession stand. The financial outlook for phase one was deemed favorable, although the costs were higher than anticipated. The council discussed the timeline, with construction expected to begin in late 2026 and completion by the end of the next construction season. However, the field’s usability remains uncertain as phase two may require extensive work, potentially delaying its availability into 2027.

The council also unanimously approved a joint powers agreement with Lake View Township, restoring subdivision authority to the city and dissolving a previously ineffective joint planning board. This resolution followed a year of negotiations and represents a compromise between the city and township, allowing for more streamlined planning and development processes.

Financially, the council tackled the upcoming 2026 budget, beginning with a presentation on property tax valuations. The discussion included details about the homestead exclusion process and its implications for local taxpayers. Despite a decrease in local government aid by $100,000, the proposed tax levy for 2026 reflects a 6.46% increase from the prior year, set at $9,260,561. This increase aims to cover various expenses, including a grant for library improvements and personnel changes in the police department. Transfers from enterprise funds, particularly the electric utility and liquor fund, were highlighted as key contributions to the general fund.

The council also addressed infrastructure improvements, approving a preliminary engineering report for street and utility upgrades on Rossman Avenue due to repeated water main issues. The project, estimated at $1.5 million, will involve comprehensive reconstruction to align infrastructure lifespans. Property owners will be assessed for part of the cost, with estimates ranging from $16,500 to $23,000 depending on lot size.

Moreover, the council considered enhancements to the local road improvement program, applying for a grant to fund multi-use trail improvements along West Lake Drive. This application seeks approximately $730,000, with the city’s share being around $130,000, intending to extend the trail network without imposing additional burdens on Becker County.

Public safety and community engagement initiatives were also on the agenda. The council approved a temporary liquor license for the Propel DL Committee to serve alcohol on the beach over three weekends, accompanied by a fee waiver in exchange for community event sponsorship. Additionally, two new police officers, Tristan Kav and Anthony Hug, were sworn in, committing to serve with compassion and uphold the law.

In other developments, the council approved an architect agreement with JLG Architects for the pavilion and city beach project, as well as resolutions for year-end fund transfers and adjustments to the 2026 fee schedule, particularly aligning cannabis-related penalties with administrative fees.