The council’s decision to authorize Northland Recreation for the playground equipment at Community Park was a focal point of the meeting. Administrator Linehan introduced the proposal and highlighted the urgency of finalizing the purchase before potential price hikes in January. A thorough selection process had been conducted, involving seven vendors, and Northland Recreation emerged as the top choice due to its design and cost-effectiveness. The Park and Recreation Commission had already vetted and recommended the vendor, and the City Council had previously expressed support during a workshop.

The playground project includes plans for construction to start in the summer, although the vendor will not manage fence installation, which will require a separate contractor. The council expressed enthusiasm for the project, with references to design features and a pending grant application that could affect the choice of surface materials. Council members emphasized the importance of securing all necessary approvals to avoid delays.

Another agenda item was the council’s approval of an application for federal funding through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. This proposal, presented by Community Development Coordinator Hannah Lynch, aims to install four electric vehicle charging stations at City Hall, consisting of three regular and one ADA-compliant station. Opt4EV, the firm responsible for the application, will handle installation, maintenance, and electricity costs. In return, Opt4EV will pay the city $400 monthly for using its property.

The council acknowledged the significance of this initiative, especially given Falcon Heights’ designation as an EV-ready city and the absence of public charging stations except those at the university. The technology behind the charging stations is designed to prevent stress on the city’s power infrastructure, and the chargers will deliver 150 kilowatts, compatible with both CCS and NACS standards. The proposal supports the city’s goals to expand EV infrastructure, and the council unanimously passed the motion to apply for the grant, noting the looming application deadline in early January.

In addition to these major initiatives, the council amended the 2025 fee schedule ordinance, which included changes to water and sewer rates, recycling rates, re-inspection fees, and credit card convenience fees. The proposed increase in the sanitary sewer fee to $38.50 per quarter and an adjustment in the storm drainage fee were discussed, alongside a rise in recycling rates due to a new recycling services agreement. Re-inspection fees for building and fire inspections will double from $50 to $100. Concerns were raised about rising credit card fees, impacting smaller transactions, and the city’s search for a new vendor to mitigate these costs.

The council also discussed community engagement initiatives, such as efforts by the International Institute to settle refugee families, with City Hall serving as a drop-off site for essential donations. Council Member Leahy reported on the Community Engagement Commission’s activities, including Human Rights Day events and outreach to apartment residents. The council addressed snow removal policies in light of recent snowfall and provided updates on community ice rinks, facing challenges with a new liner causing cracks.