19:41The meeting’s primary focus was the resolution concerning the 30 Fourth Street reconstruction project. The bid was awarded to Border States Paving for $6,488,204.26, a figure surpassing the engineer’s estimate by over $1.5 million. The increase was attributed mainly to substantial concrete work, particularly the intricate phasing necessary for maintaining traffic flow and extensive bridge panel work south of Highway 10. Detailed cost breakdowns revealed Dilworth’s share at approximately $1.5 million, with federal funding covering the majority of construction costs. However, with federal funding just over $1.2 million, the local share was $561,056.

24:36Council members discussed the assessment calculations for property owners affected by the project, expressing concerns over the financial implications of the increased costs. Questions about contingencies and engineering costs were raised, with explanations provided that Moorhead city staff would take on some construction services, reducing costs for Dilworth. The conversation also touched on the procedural aspects of the project, emphasizing the interdependency between Dilworth and Moorhead. There was particular concern about whether Dilworth could proceed if Moorhead decided not to, given that Moorhead owns the project.

34:28The council unanimously passed the motion for resolution twenty-five twenty-eight, acknowledging the project’s significance and the benefits anticipated from the partnership with Moorhead. Beyond the road project, the council moved on to approve the final plat of Eastview Tenth Edition, linked to the Starlight pet motel, after a unanimous recommendation from the planning commission. The council coordinated with developers and reviewed access agreements and utility easements, emphasizing a state requirement for a turn lane at the facility’s entrance.

40:08Financial discussions were also prominent, with John Hagan from Eide Bailey presenting the 2024 audit report. The city received a “clean audit opinion,” consistent with previous years. However, three findings related to financial statement segregation of duties were noted, attributed to the city’s small finance staff. The audit also highlighted complexities due to evolving accounting standards, requiring the audit team’s assistance in preparing compliant financial statements. Cash and investment balances revealed consistent growth, with the general fund ending with a balance of roughly $5.7 million, an increase from the previous year.

50:46The city’s debt service and utility funds were scrutinized, showing a small operating loss for the water fund, offset by grant and investment income, while the sewer fund reported a slight operating income. The city’s bond rating, noted as double A plus, was attributed to financial stability and reserves. The finance officer discussed investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of optimizing returns while maintaining minimal risk. A significant investment in a firewall, yielding $80,000, was highlighted, alongside anticipated interest revenue influenced by fluctuating interest rates.

01:14:30The meeting also addressed amendments to city ordinances concerning recreational fires, adjusting portable fire pit distances to align with state guidelines, while permanent installation distances remained unchanged. This amendment was approved despite concerns about potential safety risks.

01:21:35The council addressed the ongoing situation with Ash Tree Park, situated on church-owned land. The church, responsible for maintenance without formal compensation, proposed leasing the property to the city. The council discussed potential resolutions to ensure the park’s upkeep and improvement, considering the church’s financial obligations.

01:33:02Highway 10’s three-lane model proposal also stirred discussion, with residents expressing concerns about traffic flow and safety. While the council’s influence on the highway layout is limited, there was a consensus on advocating for maintaining two lanes in both directions with a center turn lane, reflecting community preferences.