The most notable event at the meeting was the council’s decision to approve the redevelopment of a former bowling alley property into 14 townhome units. The project, presented by Larry Remen, requested $1.8 million in tax increment financing to support the overall project cost of approximately $18 million. The development authority had previously reviewed and approved the plan, and the city council was tasked with holding a public hearing. During the hearing, no audience members raised questions or concerns, leading to a swift approval of the resolution for redevelopment project number 45 and the associated tax increment financing plan.

The council also focused on the expansion of a coffee shop on Westlake Drive. Owned by Tim and Kurles Westbrook, the proposal aimed to enlarge the shop from 238 square feet to over 900 square feet. This expansion required a variance for nine additional parking spaces. The planning commission had recommended approval, allowing the required spaces to be provided within 400 feet on fairgrounds property. Brent Bigger from the fair board supported the recommendation, emphasizing the collaborative effort to facilitate the shop’s expansion. The council approved both the expansion permit and the parking variance.

In the realm of public amenities, Kim Ber from the Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center presented a detailed recap of the summer recreation program. The programs attracted between 50 and 60 children weekly, with activities like the “Happy Bats” program for young children and a robust T-ball program surpassing participation estimates. The adult softball league saw increased interest, with 32 men’s teams and six women’s teams participating in the tournament. The introduction of a seven-on-seven flag football program catered to older children. The council expressed appreciation for Ber’s successful implementation of these programs.

A variance request for a property on Shorewood Drive was another key topic. The Community Development Committee reviewed the request and unanimously recommended approval due to the lot’s narrow width. The council approved the variance, allowing for the necessary five-foot side yard setbacks. Additionally, the council considered a request to rezone properties on Willow Street East from two-family residential to multifamily residence.

In financial matters, the council discussed the 2026 rates for the American Legion Campground, approving an increase in short and long-term fees by $50 and a $3 increase for daily rates. The council also reviewed the American Legion Campground’s annual financial statement, finding no issues.

The proposed five-year capital improvement plan was presented by city engineer John Pratt, who highlighted its focus on projects like street rehabilitation and water tower maintenance. Notably, Rossman Avenue was prioritized for 2026 due to ongoing infrastructure issues. The public hearing for the plan concluded without audience comments, and the council adopted the plan.

Public hearings were also conducted for various assessments, including those for the Southwood Shores Estate street and utility improvement project and the control of diseased and dead trees. The council approved resolutions for each.

The meeting concluded with updates on public works projects, including the nearing completion of the Forest Street project and the substantial completion of the Southwood Shore Estates project. The planning for future projects, such as the North Side utility and street reconstruction, was also addressed.