The meeting began with the council addressing the Metro Rail Study, an initiative in collaboration with HDR, MetroCog, and BNSF. Two critical locations within Dilworth—34th Street and Main Street at 14th Street—were highlighted. At 34th Street, a bypass road construction beneath an existing bridge was proposed to ease traffic congestion, necessitating adjustments to stormwater retention ponds. Main Street’s crossing might be closed in favor of a new overpass at 14th Street, potentially integrating pedestrian and vehicle traffic with links to the Heartland Trail. The study’s representatives emphasized community involvement through public meetings and stakeholder discussions. The comprehensive evaluation of project costs and benefit-cost analysis was a focus of the council’s discussion.

The council then proceeded to a public improvement hearing for the 34th Street North Water Main Extension Project. This extensive project involves installing a 12-inch water main from the Aldi site to County Road 18, with a projected cost of $1,370,000. The funding strategy involved local assessments covering the entire project cost, with no city contribution. Deferred assessments were planned for undeveloped properties, with future development anticipated to absorb these costs. An agreement with RESCO, contributing an additional $25,000, was part of the funding discussion. Despite being a public hearing, no public comments were received, allowing for an efficient conclusion. The council approved a resolution to order the project’s improvement and prepare plans.

A shift in focus to zoning regulations saw the council discussing amendments to outdoor storage rules. The proposed changes aimed to clarify existing language and resolve inconsistencies, particularly regarding the storage of non-licensed vehicles and recreational trailers. A notable adjustment was defining a snowmobile on a trailer as a single unit, simplifying enforcement. The council considered non-residential storage areas, removing the requirement for them to be “totally” screened, promoting flexibility while maintaining necessary zoning compliance. The council acknowledged the need for tailored enforcement, addressing community concerns on a case-by-case basis.

The council also addressed the sale of a 20-year-old fire pumper truck, which was part of the acquisition plan for a new fire engine. The truck sale generated swift interest through a Minnesota firefighters’ Facebook page, leading to a successful transaction. The proceeds from this sale were allocated to the fire department’s fund balance, earmarked for the upcoming purchase of new equipment. This transaction exemplified efficient asset management by the city.

Financial matters were further discussed with adjustments to the preliminary levy for the 2026 city budget. The council reviewed the proposed levy, set just below 9%, comparing it to historical averages and other jurisdictions’ levies. The council expressed satisfaction with the financial strategy, noting the positive impact of interest revenue and potential reductions in costs like workers’ compensation.

In community updates, the council acknowledged a $1,000 donation from Kwik Trip for the Dilworth Police Department’s community outreach programs. The donation is allocated to initiatives like “Shop with a Cop,” reflecting community support and engagement. The council also praised the successful tree lighting event, attributing its success to collaborative efforts across city departments.